Harry Potter and all related Characters belong to JK Rowling
Chapter 15 - Surprises of Every Kind
After breakfast on Friday Morning Harry, Hermione, Ron and Neville made their way down towards Hagrid's hut for Care of Magical Creatures. Thankfully Malfoy was absent although to their surprise and dismay Goyle and Millicent Bulstrode were both there as was Blaise Zabini, a tall dark haired boy with a pale pinched face and bulging eyes which gave him a slightly eerie look.
"That guy gives me the creeps," muttered Ron as they hurried past him. "I mean, those eyes…." And here he shuddered.
"I've seen worse," said Harry with a grim smile. Here Ron and Neville both shot him shot him uneasy grins whilst Hermione quickly took his hand and gave it a quick squeeze.
"Try not to think about him," she said quietly at which Harry nodded just as the door to Hagrid's hut swung open and the half-giant stepped out and smiled down at the assembled students.
"Morning," he growled.
"Morning Professor Hagrid," replied the students.
"Right," said Hagrid clapping his hands together. "Now I've got summa really special for yea to start this term with, really special! Now come on, this way!" And with that he lead them to a clearing on the edge of the forest where several logs had been arranged as seats whilst in the middle sat a large stone which Hagrid now sat down on.
"Right, grab a seat!" he boomed as the students hurried over to the logs.
"What do you reckon?" said Ron quietly and with a slight hint of nerves as he, Harry and Hermione sat down along with Neville on one on the logs.
"Just as long as it hasn't got fangs and claws," said Neville who sounded even more nervous than Ron.
"Relax you two," said Hermione. "I'm sure Hagrid's learned his lesson by now." But by the look in her eyes Harry could tell she too was still slightly anxious about what their half-giant friend had in store for them just as Hagrid stuck two fingers in his mouth and let out an ear-splitting whistle that caused a few of the students to jump.
At once there was a shrill cry in reply from the direction of the castle.
"And 'ere he comes," said Hagrid slapping his hands on his knees and the entire class turned to see what looked like a ball of flame heading towards them.
"Is that…?" started Harry, a grin tugging at his lips at the familiar sight of Professor Dumbledore's loyal companion.
"It is!" cried Hermione in delight. "Harry, its Fawkes!"
"Blimey," said Neville in amazement as he, Harry, Hermione and Ron watched as Fawkes circled the clearing above them. Behind them they could hear the excited chatter of their classmates who were also clearing impressed by Hagrid's choice.
"Isn't he beautiful?" said Susan Bones to Hannah Abbott, both of whom were sitting behind Harry and the others as Fawkes made one final orbit of the clearing before landing gracefully beside Hagrid to much ooh-ing and arr-ing from the students.
"Alright, alright," said Hagrid who seemed absolutely delighted by the reaction to the subject of his latest lesson. "Settle down all of yea."
Almost at once the students fell silent apart from the occasionally whispered comment that Hagrid chose to ignore.
"Right then," growled the Gamekeeper-cum-Professor cheerfully. "Now, this `ere for those of you who ain't met `im is Fawkes and Professor Dumbledore's kindly agreed to loan `im to us for today's lesson. Now I wan' yea to turn to the chapter `bout Phoenix and read it after which we'll `ave a little quiz and whilst we're doing that I'll call yea up and you can have a closer look at Fawkes."
The class now pulled out their books and started to read the chapter on the Phoenix whilst Hagrid would call the students up in small groups so they could take a closer look at Fawkes. For the entire lesson an excited buzz filled the air and Harry lost count of the number of times when he'd see a head pop up and look towards Fawkes before disappearing until finally after Harry, Hermione, Ron and Neville had return to their seat after their turn up front with Fawkes, Hagrid clapped his hands together causing everyone to turn towards him.
"Right then," growled Hagrid who now seemed to be positively ecstatic as to how this lesson had gone. "Now, before the bell, I want five fact `bout Phoenix and there's five `ouse points for each one!"
Almost every hand shot straight into the air with a few of those at the back jumping to their feet.
"Yes Ernie," said Hagrid with a nod.
"Aren't Phoenix real strong?" said the Hufflepuff lowering his hand as did several others as Harry and the others turned their gaze towards him.
"Aye, that's right," agreed Hagrid. "Can carry nearly twenty times their own body weight! Good lad Ernie, five point to `Ufflepuff." Ernie grinned broadly at this whilst Hagrid meanwhile turned and looked around the group again.
"Padma, you got one for us?"
"Their tears can heal wounds and injuries," said Padma with conviction.
"Very good Padma," said Hagrid as a few more hands went down. "Yea, that a very good one to know. Can even cleanse poison from a wound. Five points to Ravenclaw. Alright, let's `ave another one, Blaise?"
Harry and the others all turned to the Slytherin who lowered his hand before speaking.
"They are practically indestructible," he said in a voice that sent a chill run down Harry's spine and made Ron flinch. Hagrid too appeared flustered.
"Yeah…yeah, they are," he growled as he wrung his hands together nervously. "Not even an Arvada Kedavra is guaranteed to kill a Phoenix, five points for Slytherin." He now took a calming breath and then looked around.
"'Ermione," he said slowly still looking a little nervous. "You got one for us?"
"The cry can confuse some creatures and calm others," replied Hermione at which Hagrid nodded.
"Very good `Ermione, yes. I'll be showing yea that next week, that's five for Gryffindor. Alright, I reckons we got time for one more. Yes Susan?"
"Don't their tail feathers make good wand cores," replied Susan Bones from opposite Harry.
"Yup, that's right, well done Susan," said Hagrid just as the bell went and the students started to gather their bags. "Well that's five more to `Ufflepuff. Now, `omework."
***
"Homework!" moaned Ron as the sixth years made their way back up to the castle passing a bunch of terrified looking third years on their way towards Hagrid's. "Since when has Hagrid set homework!"
"Since this is a N.E.W.T. course," replied Hermione firmly. "Honestly Ron, ten inches on the Phoenix isn't going to kill you and it's not as if you're exactly swamped with work either are you?"
For a moment Ron looked liked he was going to argue but then sighed.
"No," he admitted grudgingly.
"Besides," continued Hermione looking firmly at Ron and causing him to swallow before turning her look to first to Neville and then finally to Harry. "You three have got a free period now, you could go to the library and get started on it before Charms."
Despite sounding like a suggestion the three boys all knew from experience that to ignore it would bring the wrath of Hermione upon them and that was a prospect none of them, especially Harry, relished. Even more so in Harry's case now that he and Hermione were a couple.
"And think about it," Hermione continued, her gaze locked with Harry. "If you do it now you'll have more time for, eh, extra curricular activates!"
"Eh?" replied Harry in confusion until he suddenly saw the look in Hermione's eyes. The one that made his flesh tingle and feel the sudden urge for a cold shower. "Oh, yeah, right!" He replied grinning broadly and received a beaming smile in return whilst Ron and Neville exchanged knowing smirks.
"See you in Charms then," said Hermione still smiling brightly before turning and quickly made her up the stairs before disappearing down the corridor leading to the Arithmancy classroom.
"Come on then," said Harry adjusting his schoolbag. "Let's go."
"And you reckon Luna's got me wrapped around her little finger!" chuckled Ron as he and Neville fell into step with Harry.
"Well what's your excuse?" snorted Harry. "You don't have to come to the Library with me!"
"Yeah well," said Ron quickly. "I have no desire to have my ears abused or gain any extra appendages!"
"Well then Ron," said Neville with a chuckle. "It looks like Luna isn't the only girl who can wrap you around their finger."
With that both he and Harry burst into laughter whilst Ron stopped dead and stared after them for a moment before a look of dismayed realization crossed his face.
"Oh shit!"
***
On arriving at Charms an hour later Harry, Ron and Neville were met with a curious sight. Two of the smaller bookcases had been shifted to one end of the classroom and a large quantity of cushions had been stacked in front of them. The tables meanwhile had been stacked up against the walls with the chairs set up in two lines either side of the classroom.
"Looks like Flitwick's gonna show us something pretty big today!" said Harry as he and the other two sat down near the door.
"Must be pretty dangerous if we need all that protection," said Ron with a slight frown which then turned into a grimace. "Oh bloody hell, look whose just turned up."
Harry and Neville now turned their gaze in the same direction as Ron's in time to see Malfoy, Pansy Parkinson, Millicent Bulstrode and Crabbe walk in followed a moment later by a scowling Hermione who on seeing the boys made a direct beeline for them.
"Everything alright `Mione?" asked Harry as she sat down between him and Neville.
"Fine," she sighed. "Just Malfoy and his goons being their usual idiotic selves!" She now turned and seeing the frown crossing his face gave him a quick reassuring smile. "Don't worry, it's nothing I couldn't handle!"
"I know," sighed Harry quietly. "It's…well, I'm your boyfriend now. Every time Malfoy gives you any lip I should be there to knock him on his arrogant backside!"
Hermione now turned to him and the scowl on her face turned to a wry smile.
"I know you would!" she said softly. "After all, you're my knight in shining armour! And don't worry about Malfoy! I have a good feeling you're get your chance to knock him on his arse sooner or later!"
Before Harry could reply there was a loud squeaky cough from the front of the class and he turned to see Professor Flitwick climbing onto his stack of books.
"Good morning class," squeaked the tiny Professor. "Welcome to N.E.W.T. level Charms. Today we're going to be covering advanced summoning charms. These are particularly useful when dealing with heavier objects, as `Accio' may not be powerful enough. Now, as you can see we'll be trying them out in a while but for now could you please turn to page two-hundred and forty-one in your textbooks."
***
"Are you sure you don't need to go to the Hospital Wing Ron?" said Hermione, her voice laced with concerned as the trio made their way to the Great Hall for lunch after the Charms lesson. "That was a nasty looking blow you took!"
"Hermione, I'm fine!" replied an exasperated Ron. "Don't worry about it! I've had nasty bumps from Quidditch practice!"
"Well, if you're sure," replied Hermione although she still didn't look totally convinced.
"'Mione, this is Ron we're talking about!" said Harry quickly. "You remember Ron? The one with the skull harder than most known metals! Besides, it's his own fault he got hit. If he'd ducked quicker instead of gaping at the bludger as it came at him it wouldn't have come close to hitting him!"
"Oh, thanks a lot mate!" grunted Ron, albeit with a wry grin whilst Hermione giggled softly as they reached the Great Hall where they took their places at the Gryffindor table. "Ah, Toad In The Hole!"
"Great," said Harry eagerly. "Hey Seamus, pass the mash!"
"Sure thing Harry," said the young Irishman hand over the bowl. "Hey Nev, push the gravy over here would yea?"
Harry and the others were just finishing their first course however when Professor Gringle came up to them.
"Harry, I was wondering if you, Hermione and Ron would stop by my Office before this afternoon's lessons start. I'd like a word about DA."
Harry exchanged quick looks with Hermione and Ron before turning back to Gringle.
"Okay Professor, we'll be straight up after dessert," Harry promised.
"Don't rush on my account," said Gringle cheerfully before turning and heading towards the door.
"What do you think that was about?" asked Neville curiously.
"Dunno," said Harry before turning and looking towards the puddings which had magical replaced the first course. "Oh great, push the blackberry tart over here would you Dean?"
***
Ten minutes later having had pudding the trio made their way quickly to Gringle's Office where the Professor ushered them in. Harry quickly saw why Gringle hadn't asked Neville, Ginny or Luna to come as the Office was crammed with trunks and there was barely room for them.
"Right, grab a seat where you can find one," said Gringle with a grin. "I apologise for the mess, the truth is I've been out the country for a few years and haven't got anywhere to stay at the moment.
"Don't you have any family Sir?" asked Hermione at which Gringle shook his head sadly.
"Alas no Hermione, Voldermort saw to that!"
"Oh…I'm…I'm sorry," squeaked Hermione. "I…I didn't mean to…"
"It's alright Hermione," said Gringle with a soft reassuring smile as he shoved a couple of large tomes off the edge of his desk and sat down. "You didn't know." He now shoved his spectacles so they rested on his forehead. "Alright, now how about you tell me what you taught last term and we'll go from there Okay?"
"Right," agreed Harry and he and the others quickly ran through what the DA had learned the previous term. When Harry mentioned the Patronus charm however Gringle leaned forward with a look of amazement on his face.
"You taught them the Patronus?"
"Yes Sir," replied Harry with a nod. Here Gringle gave a low whistle.
"That's pretty advanced stuff."
"Yeah, I know," said Harry. "And only a few were able to do it. And even then most of them couldn't conjure a corporeal Patronus. Hermione was best," he added causing Hermione to blush whilst Ron sniggered. Gringle just grinned.
"Well, I have to say I'm impressed," said the DADA teacher before thinking thoughtfully. "Now, what to do this term?" He rose from his seat and crossed over to a bookshelf and began running his fingers along the spines before giving a small chuckle.
"Ah yes, this'll do nicely to start with," he said pulling the book off the shelf before turning and tossing it towards Harry. However, as the book sailed through the air it opened up halfway and began to flap softly like a bird before Harry caught it and read the front cover.
"Julius Jenkison's Jovial Jinxes?" said Hermione curiously.
"Oh yes," said Gringle with a smile. "You'd be surprised how many of those make good defensive spells."
"Cool," said Ron looking over Harry's shoulder. Harry turned to him with a grin and then passed him the book.
"Here, you can read it whilst me and Hermione are in Potions."
"Cheers," said Ron and took the book from Harry and began flicking through it whilst Harry turned back to Gringle who was grinning himself.
"Learn them well Ron," he said with a chuckle. "You and Hermione will be helping Harry with the teaching."
Here Ron looked up sharply and blanched whilst Hermione's eyes widened. Gringle merely smiled.
"You two know almost as much as Harry, what you don't know he can teach you downstairs but I have a feeling he's going to need your help in DA."
"Well, if your sure," said Ron nervously but Hermione was now looking quite excited.
"You'll do fine," said Gringle. "Just one thing though, when we're at DA take off you're Prefect badges, the younger students won't feel so intimidated if you're just `regular' students, even if it's just for DA."
Ron and Hermione both nodded before Gringle turned back to Harry.
"Albus tells me he gave you a copy of your Grandfather's book."
"Yes Sir," said Harry with a nod.
"Alright, as well as Jovial Jinxes I want you to read the chapter on stunners. I know you've done `Stupefy' but there are some more advanced ones we could try so long as we're careful."
"Okay," said Harry as Gringle now turned to the clock on his Office wall and stood up.
"Well, I'd better let you and Hermione get off if you've got to get to Severus's classroom."
"Yes Sir," replied Harry as he, Hermione and Ron jumped up and grabbed their bags before heading for the door where Harry paused before turning back to Gringle.
"Professor, I was wondering…" Here Harry trailed off and bit his lip nervously.
"Go on Harry," said Gringle looking at him curiously. Harry briefly down at his feet then took a breath and looked up meeting the Professor's gaze.
"I was wondering if I could talk to you about my Grandparents at sometime?"
For a moment Harry wondered if he'd said something wrong as Gringle paled slightly.
"I mean, if you don't want to…." Harry added hastily but Gringle raised a hand and shook his head.
"No, no, I'm sorry Harry. I should have expected this," said the Professor with a sad smile. "Of course I'll tell you anything you want to know. But right now you'd better get to Potions."
"Yes Sir, thank you," said Harry with a grateful smile before turning and hurrying out leaving Gringle alone in his Office.
"I just wish I could tell you everything now my darling boy," sighed the Professor. "Soon though, I promise you that!"
***
Whilst Ron made his way to the Marauders Common Room, Harry and Hermione hurried down to Snape's dungeon and were just coming down the steps outside as the door opened and the Potions Master stepped out into the Corridor.
"Enter and stand at the back of the class," he drawled slowly as Harry and Hermione joined Neville in the cue.
"How did it go with Gringle?" asked Neville quietly as they shuffled into the Dungeon.
"Fine," said Harry with a grin. "He just wanted to make some suggestions as to what we could do."
"Cool," said Neville but quickly feel silent as Snape slammed the door and made his way to the front of the class.
"Some of you are here by merit," he drawled softly. "But there are some of you who are here because the WEA decided that my entry requirements were too…severe!"
Here his gaze fixed firmly on Neville who was standing beside Harry and who now gave an audible gulp. Snape now turned and briefly met Harry's gaze before turning and headed to his desk.
"I will call you out in pairs. That person will be your partner for the next two terms." He now looked up and there was a look of cold satisfaction on his face. "There will be NO switching of partners!"
Hermione, Harry and Neville exchanged looks, as did most of the other students apart from the four Slytherins. This couldn't be good.
"When I call out your names move to a bench quickly and quietly," said Snape coolly before looking down at his list again.
"Macmillan and Bulstrode." Ernie groaned loudly but made his way towards a bench beside Millicent Bulstrode who didn't look any happier at the pairing.
"Boot and Hopkins." Terry and Wayne shared a relieved look as they now made the way towards a bench whilst Snape continued to read from his list until after he'd paired up Susan Bones and Justin only Harry, Hermione, Neville, Blaise Zabini, Malfoy and Goldstein were left.
"Please don't let me get Malfoy," muttered Neville, a look of desperation crossing his face.
"Relax Nev," said Harry. "I've got a feeling Snape's gonna put you and me together."
"Really?" said Neville suddenly looking relieved.
"He's going to put Malfoy with me isn't he?" muttered Hermione grimly.
"Yeah, I reckon," Harry replied.
Snape however wasn't as predictable as they thought.
"Malfoy and Goldstein," he growled without looking up at which Harry, Hermione and Neville exchanged glances again before all three turned to the only other student without a partner.
Blaise Zabini.
"Oh my," whispered Hermione weakly, her hand seeking Harry's.
"Granger and Zabini!"
Most of the other students shot Hermione sympathetic looks as she made her way to join Zabini at a bench whilst Snape now looked up with a cold smile.
"And finally…Potter and Longbottom."
Harry and Neville now made their way towards the last available bench, the one right in front of Snape's desk, and sat down both looking straight at the Potions Master.
"Very well," said Snape softly before turning to the board and snapping his figures at which the words `Truth Potions' appeared on the board. "This term we will be dealing with truth potions, their brewing and antidotes." He now walked slowly around to the front of his desk and folded his hands in front of him. "Now, can someone tell me the name of a truth potion apart from Veritaserum?"
Harry glanced over his shoulder and was unsurprised to see Hermione's hand going up.
"Apart from Miss Granger," sneered Snape causing Hermione to flush red whilst Harry turned and glared at Snape.
"Anybody?" growled Snape as his eyes swept the classroom. "Yes, Mr Zabini?"
Harry turned his gaze back to where Hermione and Zabini were sitting to see the Slytherin now had his hand in the air.
"Unctuous Unction," he replied in his cold monotone voice at which Harry saw Hermione shudder. Snape however, unlike Hagrid, showed no signs of unsettled by the Slytherin, indeed, a cool smile now crossed his face.
"That is correct Mr Zabini, ten points to Slytherin."
Harry now turned quickly back to Snape who was now walking back behind his desk and then exchanged looks with Neville whilst several groans came from the other students.
"Silence!" barked Snape sharply, his glaring sweeping the dungeon. "Yes, Mr Zabini is right. The Unctuous Unction is a truth potion albeit a fairly clumsy one as you cannot directly ask for the information you wish to obtain but must hope that the person reveals what you want to know. However it does have one advantage, the antidote is one of the trickiest and most complicated potions. You will spend this first term creating this potion and then we will test it." Here his gaze met Harry's and his lips curled in a cruel smile. "Now, turn to page one hundred and sixty-two of you text books and read the first two chapters."
***
"Why do I have a bad feeling about this whole truth potion thing!" muttered Neville as he, Harry and Hermione left the Dungeon at the end of the lesson.
"You're not the only one," snorted Harry gloomily as he adjusted his bag. "Old yellow toothed bastard!"
"Harry!" said Hermione firmly casting a quickly look over her shoulder in case the Potions Master was following. "Don't say things like that! You don't know Snape will choose you!"
"Yeah right," snorted Harry. "Come on `Mione, this is Snape we're talking about. He'd like nothing more that to embarrass me! I can see it now, he feeds me that damn potion and I go and….well, you know!"
"Yes well," said Hermione flushing slightly. "We'll just have to make sure you do it correctly won't we?"
"Right," agreed Harry and allowed a small smile to cross his face as he turned to his girlfriend who smiled back.
"Excuse me," said a monotone voice from behind them and they turned to see Blaise Zabini standing there looking slightly impatient.
"Oh, sorry Blaise," said Hermione and quickly stepped out the way and allowed the Slytherin to hurry past them and in the direction of the library. As they watched him Hermione gave a small shudder.
"I don't know what it is but something about him gives me the creeps! I mean, whenever he speaks I feel a chill run down my spine!"
"You and me both," muttered Neville as the three friends continued up the stairs.
However, as they left the gloom of the dungeons for the warmth of the entrance hall their spirits lifted, after all, they wouldn't have to worry about Snape again until next Friday.
They quickly made their way to the DADA classroom which was empty, the only sound they could hear was music coming from Gringle's Office as they made they way towards the secret passage and in a few minutes stepped through Godric Gryffindor's portrait hole into the Marauders Common Room where they found Ron sitting in one of the comfy armchairs reading Julius Jenkison's Jovial Jinxes. He looked up on hearing the portrait hole opening and grinned.
"Hey Guys," he said cheerfully and then with a sarcastic tone added. "Good lesson?"
"Oh yeah," said Harry with a snort slumping onto the couch where Hermione joined him whilst Neville took one of the other chairs. "Snape announced he was resigning with immediate effect!"
Here Neville and Hermione both chuckled whilst Ron gave a snort of his own.
"That bad huh?"
"Only way I reckon it could have been any worse is if Tom had made an appearance," said Harry pulling a hand through his hair. "How's your afternoon been?"
"Oh, very productive," said Ron, his grin widening considerably as he held up the book. "There are some great Jinxes in here! Here, this is my favourite." He now flicked to a page and handed the book to Harry.
"Ew!" cried Hermione from beside him, her nose wrinkling in disgust. "That's horrid!"
"The Wormtongue Jinx," read Harry. "Makes the Jinxee's tongue wriggle uncontrollably making it impossible for them to speak."
"Gross," said Neville as Harry handed him the book. "But very cool!"
"Yeah," said Ron who was still grinning just as the portrait hole opened again and Ginny and Luna walked in both smiling broadly.
"Hey guys," called Ginny as the girls made their way over to the others.
"Hello you two," said Hermione cheerfully. "Good lesson?"
"Yeah, it was," said Ginny with a grin as she sat down in the chair next to Neville's. "Hagrid's got us studying Diricawls."
"Diricawls?" said Neville looking up from the book, a look of surprise on his face. "Where did Hagrid get them from? Their not exactly common."
"No, their not," agreed Hermione with a slight frown. "Where do you think Hagrid got them?"
"I don't know where they came from but I could tell you who got `em for him," said Ron with a wry grin. "Dung! I heard him and Hagrid talking at Harry's party."
"Dung was there?" said Harry with a look of surprise. "I didn't see him."
"Well, he didn't actually come in," said Ron with a shrug. "Mum wouldn't let him through the door but I saw him talking with Hagrid through the kitchen window,"
"Dung?" replied Hermione weakly. "Oh dear, you don't…you don't think their stolen do you?"
"Hermione, do you honestly think Dung's daft enough to flog dodgy Diricawls to Hagrid right under Dumbledore's nose?" said Ginny with a chuckle.
"No, I suppose not," allowed Hermione albeit still looking slightly anxious.
"At worst Dung didn't pay any import charges on `em," said Ron. "Probably Portkeyed `em in instead of `aving brought by eagle post."
"Eagle post?" said Harry.
"Yeah, they use `em for really big packages," said Ron. "Costs a bloody fortune though!"
"Anyway," said Ginny jumping back to her feet and slipping off her robes so she was just in her school uniform. "Whose up for a bit of practice?"
"Yeah, why not," said Neville. Luna and Hermione both agreed and Harry was just getting up when Ron caught his arm.
"We'll catch up," said Ron quickly. "I just need a word with Harry. No Ginny, it's not Quidditch related!"
The other four shot them strange looks but acquiesced and left Ron and a puzzled looking Harry on the top floor as they headed to the pit.
"What's up?" asked Harry wondering himself what Ron wanted. Ron merely peeked a glance over the railings into the pit then turned back to Harry.
"What have you got her?"
"Huh?" said Harry looking confused causing Ron to roll his eyes before meeting Harry's puzzled gaze.
"I said," he said tapping Harry smartly on the forehead. "What…have…you…got…her?"
"What are you talking about?" said Harry, irritation rising in his voice. Ron merely gave him an exasperated look.
"What have you got `Mione for her birthday you pillock!"
"Oh," said Harry. "Why didn't you just say that?"
Ron glared at him for a second before muttering something about how he'd like to do something to Harry that sounded physically impossible.
"Alright, have you got that out your system?" asked Harry with a chuckle.
"Yeah, I guess," said Ron with a wry grin as he rubbed his neck. "So what have you got her?"
"Ah, now that's my secret isn't it?" said Harry with a grin.
"Dammit Harry!" groused Ron. "How are me and Ginny meant to get Hermione something if we don't know what book you've got her?"
"What makes you think I've got her a book?" said Harry with a curious expression.
"Well, you have haven't you?" said Ron with a surprised look.
"Not this time mate," replied Harry. "After all, she's my girlfriend now, somehow I didn't think a book was gonna cut it?"
"Right," said Ron slowly. "So…so what did you get her then?"
***
Hermione sighed as she made her way along the fourth floor corridor. As much as she enjoyed the responsibilities and privileges that came with being a Prefect right now she'd much rather be spending some time with her boyfriend.
Unfortunately however it was her and Ron's turn for patrol duty and now matter how much she wanted to be in the Common Room with Harry, Hermione wasn't one to shirk her responsibility.
Suddenly a loud crash from the far end of the corridor caused Hermione to jump and spin around as the sound of cackling now filled the air.
"Peeves!" she groaned. "Now what's he doing?"
What ever Peeves was up to it didn't sound good and as much as Hermione would have loved to just leave him to it she knew that wasn't an option. With another sigh she pulled her wand out and started down the corridor towards the sound of Peeves's cackling until she was stood outside the old Alchemy Lab where she was greeting by another loud crash.
`Sounds like he's wrecking the place,' thought Hermione gravely as she took a deep breath before reaching out and grasping the doorknob and yanking the door open.
The lab looked like it had been hit by a small explosion with desks and chairs overturned and in some cases broken whilst above it all whizzed Peeves cackling happily as he now bounced into a bookshelf which immediately came crashing to the ground breaking into several large pieces.
`Oh dear,' thought Hermione grimly as she braced herself. Filch is not going to be pleased when he sees this mess!' She now took a calming breath and stepped through the doorway into the classroom.
"Peeves!" she barked. "Stop this at once!"
Peeves stopped and turned in her direction, a malevolent grin on his face.
"Well, well, well," he sneered. "If it isn't Perfect Prefect Granger!"
"Shut up Peeves!" snapped Hermione. "Now get out of here or I'll call for Filch!"
"Shan't," roared Peeves and cart wheeled in the air. As he came round however Hermione realised he was holding something which he now hurled in her direction causing herself to throw herself to the floor as the glass jar smashed into the wall above her and showered her with glasses.
"Peeves!" she barked pulling herself up onto her knees, shaking with fury. "Right, you asked for this!" With that she raised her wand and aimed in straight at the poltergeist.
"Rictusempra!" a bolt of blue energy shot out of the end of Hermione's wand and straight towards Peeves who ducked the blast easily.
"Is that the best you've got Perfect Prefect?" rasped Peeves as he zipped around her head before diving behind the teacher's dais.
Hermione grimaced as she pulled herself to her feet. So, it was going to be like this was it? She now slowly edged forward, her knuckles white as she clutched her wand tightly.
`Why did I have to listen to Ron and agree to patrol separately?' she thought.
`Because it meant you could be done quicker and get back to see Harry sooner,' said a small voice in her head. Here Hermione allowed herself a small smile as she continued to make her way forward just as a suddenly blur shot upwards from behind the dais and straight into the air. Hermione's wand shot upwards straight away tracking the blur as best she could.
"Rictusempra!" she cried again and another blue bolt shot out towards the blur which resolved into the former of Peeves.
Holding a mirror!
"Oh no!" cried Hermione as the spell hit the mirror forcing Peeves back slightly but sending the actual spell flying back towards Hermione and hitting her in the stomach sending her flying backwards over several desks before she crashed to the ground amongst a tangle of chairs.
"Ha-ha!" crowed Peeves from above her and Hermione pushed herself unsteadily onto her hands and knees and gave her head a shake. "Peeves outsmarted the smart Mudblood! Peeves is the…."
"RICTUSEMPRA!" roared an all too familiar voice from somewhere behind Hermione before she heard Peeves howl and fall silent. Then the sound of someone moving quickly through the classroom before a pair of emerald eyes behind a pair of steel rimmed spectacles came into focus.
"'Mione?" said Harry kneeling down in front of her. "Are you Okay?"
"No!" muttered Hermione wincing slightly as she allowed Harry to help her too her feet. "What are you doing here?" she added looking at Harry in annoyance. "You weren't following me where you?"
"No," said Harry quickly before pulling back his sleeve to reveal his watch. "This thing started vibrating!"
"Oh, of course?" groaned Hermione suddenly feeling slightly guilty at accusing Harry of what surmounted to spying on her. "Sorry."
Just then Ron skidded into the doorway red faced and breathing hard and looked around.
"What the hell?" he murmured. "What happened here?"
"Him," said Harry with a nod in the direction of the floating form of Peeves. "He attacked Hermione!"
"Why that loathsome little shite!" snarled Ron before turning back to Harry and Hermione.
"Is she Okay?"
"Dunno," replied Harry. "Think we'd better get her to Pomfrey just to be sure."
"Harry, there's no need…" started Hermione but Ron stopped her.
"Yes there is," he said with a nod at Hermione. "You're bleeding."
As he said this Hermione became aware of something trickling down her forehead and reached up to feel a small gash on her temple.
"Oh," she murmured pulling her hand away and looking at her bloodied fingers.
"Well, that settles it," said Harry gravely. "You're going to Poppy."
"Well in that case I'd better take her," said Ron taking a step forward. "You'll have a helluva lot of explaining to do if you turn up with her Harry."
"Yeah, right," said Harry with a sheepish nod. "Good point Ron, but I'm coming to!"
"Wouldn't try to stop you!" chuckled Ron as he put an arm around Hermione who was now defiantly feeling a little woozy. "Come on `Mione."
The trio now made their way as quickly as possible towards the Hospital Wing with Harry bringing up the rear under his cloak until their reached the large door on which Ron banged loudly until Madam Pomfrey wrenched them open sharply.
"Mr Weasley! What is the….!" Started the nurse but then saw Hermione. "My goodness! What happened?"
"Peeves attacked her!" grunted Ron as the nurse moved aside to let them in."
"Peeves…attacked her?!" cried Madam Pomfrey, her face contorting with fury. "I told Dumbledore! I told him that horrid thing would attack and hurt someone sooner or later. Lay her over there Mr Weasley; I'm just going to get some things…and the Headmaster!" And with that she turned and hurried towards her Office.
"Oh-oh," snorted Ron as he steered Hermione to a bed and sat her on the edge of it. "Peeves is for it now!"
"Yeah," agreed Harry from under the cloak. "How you feeling `Mione?"
"A little groggy, but I'll live," replied Hermione. Ron meanwhile was suddenly looking guilty.
"Sorry `bout this `Mione," he sighed. "If we'd stuck together…"
"Ron," said Harry quietly. "Hermione agreed to patrol separately! It could just have easily be you that Peeves got!"
"Harry's right Ron," said Hermione giving Ron a lopsided grin as she took one of his hands in hers. "Don't blame yourself!"
"Thanks guys," said Ron looking relieved just as the door to Pomfrey's Office opened and the Matron stepped out followed by a grave looking Dumbledore.
"Here she is Headmaster, and look what that…that reprobate did to the poor girl!" snapped Poppy, her face white with fury.
"Yes Poppy, I can see it," said Dumbledore softly. "Would you please tend to her injury and then leave us so I may speak to Miss Granger and Mr Weasley."
The matron gave a curt nod before moving to Hermione's side and producing a pot of ointment which she now applied a small measure of onto the gash on Hermione's forehead causing Hermione to hiss in pain.
"It'll sting for a bit but come Morning it'll be all healed," said the Matron before turning to Dumbledore.
"Mark my words Albus, we were luck it was just a gash this time! Next time it could be a lot more serious!" And with that she turned and stormed back to her Office.
Dumbledore remained silent for several moments taking in Hermione and Ron (who were the only two he could actually see although Harry had a sneaky suspicion the Headmaster knew he was there) before sitting on the bed opposite.
"Tell me everything."
Hermione began recounting the events of the evening but when she mentioned that Peeves had called her a Mudblood, Ron jumped to his feet, his face red with rage whilst under his cloak Harry's hands clenched into fists and even Dumbledore looked angry.
"It would seem Mr Weasley," said the Headmaster when Hermione had finished (missing out the fact that it was actually Harry and not Ron who'd been first to her aid). "That you arrived at just the right time!"
"Eh, yeah, I guess so," agreed Ron sheepishly whilst Dumbledore rose to his feet.
"Indeed," said Dumbledore before a wry smile. "Now, why don't you escort Miss Granger back to Gryffindor Tower, I imaging Mr Potter must be getting worried!" And at this he turned and looked straight at Harry who, despite being under the cloak, felt his cheeks go warm.
"Yeah, right," said Ron helping Hermione up. "What about Peeves?"
"I shall deal with Peeves," said Dumbledore firmly. "This time he has stepped over the mark!" And with that the Headmaster turned and strode purposefully towards the door at which he paused and turned back to the trio with a thoughtful smile.
"Oh yes, one more thing," said Dumbledore, the twinkle in his eyes visible even from across the room. "I believe Mr Weasley that your actions merit some reward, take fifty points for Gryffindor." And with that he was gone leaving three stunned before very happy Gryffindors alone in the Hospital Wing.
There you go, another chapter down. The next one will see a couple of twists (I will give you a clue, my use of Blaise Zabini is an important part of the story) but that's not gonna be out until after I've finished HP:HBP so don't expect it for a while!
Cheers!
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