*Faith*
Chapter 1 "Return to Hogwarts" - Edited Version
By: RogueBHS
Author Notes: Again I apologize for the delay. I'm trying to work on this as fast as possible, and the current semester of college classes I'm taking ends within a month, which should mean more writing time unless something else comes up. I may be returning to work on my other fan fictions (X-men based) later, but for now, those are still on hold. Any song I use in this fiction is posted at the end of the chapter, along with the artist's name and possibly the CD it can be found on if one exists. So keep an eye out for that.
And to those on Portkey: You're the best! I don't think I've ever gotten 15 reviews (or more) on a single chapter before. Sheesh! *jumps for joy* Its due to you that this thing is getting worked on as much as possible, so give yourselves a pat on the back! ;)
Notice: All metric values were calculated by Yahoo's Metric Converter. Any values that are wrong, I apologize ahead of time for. I will be posting the American equivalent in parenthesis at all times.
Main Characters: Harry Potter, Hermione Granger, Ron Weasley, Ginny Weasley, Draco Malfoy, Severus Snape, Albus Dumbledore, Sabine Kington (OC), Minerva McGonagall, Remus Lupin and others…like Voldemort for instance. ;)
Couples: Ron/Hermione, Ginny/Draco, Dumbledore/McGonagall (hinted mostly), Harry/Cho, Harry/Hermione, Lavender/Ron/Luna and others.
Full Plot Summary: Most would think that with the OWLs over and done with, and NEWTS not being taken until the next school year, that Harry Potter would have an easy 6th year. But when you add up the loss of his godfather, the weight of the prophecy, harder classes, girl trouble, and the ever looming threat of Voldemort and his followers…Not to mention a changing group of friends, Harry's 6th year may well be the hardest yet. Oh yes…did I mention being ladies man???? (*giggle*)
Chapter 1, "The Return to Hogwarts"
As dawn broke over the rooftops of Little Whinging, most huddled tighter under covers, desperate to keep the inevitable state of consciousness at bay for just a few more minutes at least. But in the house of Number Four, Privet Drive, one inhabitant scurried from his bed as his alarm clock went off. It took him perhaps half an hour to go through his morning toiletries, showering and shaving in particular, before he dug through his wardrobe, pulling on a pair of fresh jeans and a shirt. Scrambling down the stairs as quietly as possible, Harry Potter let out an internal whoop of glee, as today was September first…the day he returned to the Wizarding world and Hogwarts.
In a good mood, he pulled out the carton of eggs and grabbed the milk from the refrigerator, then grabbed a package of bacon from the freezer, throwing it into the microwave to thaw. It took him only a few minutes to get a mix ready for biscuits, and even shorter for a pan to be sizzling hot and ready for the bacon. So by the time that the other inhabitants were heading down the stairs, breakfast was nearly ready. He bustled around in much the same manner as he had seen Mrs. Weasley do, setting a cup of coffee, as well as the cream and sugar down in front of his uncle before carrying over the plates, warm from sitting on the stove-top.
When Aunt Petunia came in, handing the paper to her husband, she turned, expecting to have to bark an order at her nephew to hurry up with the breakfast, as Dudley was coming down, she was shocked to see him carrying a tray of hot biscuits and the pan with the bacon over to the table. So the breakfast hour continued smoothly, with the occasional comment from Vernon about the state of the world today. Harry, however, was so used to the comments about hooligans and such from his uncle that he was able to tune them out as he ate what even Ron would consider a decent sized breakfast, with no lecture from his guardians. When he had eaten his fill, Harry took his own plate, as well as his aunts to the kitchen, cleaning them before the order was even given. At the table, Petunia and Vernon shared a shocked look, but didn't complain about Harry's behavior.
After lightly scrubbing the bacon pan, since Dudley had all but licked it clean himself, Harry glanced over at his uncle who was still reading the morning paper. "Are you still planning on driving me to King's Cross Station, Uncle Vernon?"
Vernon's mustache twitched, and he glanced at Petunia, who gave him a pointed look. So, rather obviously against his will, Vernon Dursley glanced up at Harry. "I suppose I am, boy. But be ready in fifteen minutes, there's a special order we're supposed to send out at work today, and I want be at work to make sure its sent."
"Yes, Uncle Vernon, sir." And with a slight spring to his step, Harry took the stairs two at a time, leaving his relatives to wonder what on earth had caused this odd behavior.
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Later on at the train station, Harry sighed as he watched people go by, hurrying on their way to work or some such event. It was a good two hours until the train was scheduled to leave, and the barrier to platform nine and three quarters wasn't even open for students yet. That left him to wander the station aimlessly until at least an hour had passed. But with the way people, namely females, kept turning his direction as he walked through the station, he felt compelled to return to the area near platforms nine and ten to wait the lonely hour until he could board the Hogwarts Express.
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For the first time in her memory, Molly Weasley had managed to get her children to the King's Cross train station a full half an hour before the train was scheduled to leave. Not even when it had been just Bill whom attended Hogwarts had she managed such a feat, as the younger children had to be gotten ready as well so she could keep an eye on them. She had never been one for leaving the care of her children in the hands of others. But then again, there was a special motivation in all of them this morning it seemed. With none of them but Hermione having had physical contact with Harry all summer, they were anxious to ensure that he was as alright as his letters had made him sound.
Yet it seemed that he had yet to arrive at the station himself. She kept a look out for him, as did Ginny and Ron as they stood by her side. She couldn't help but worry over the boy, what with the way those horrid relatives of his treated him and all. In fact, Mrs. Weasley likely worried over Harry more than she did her own children at times. Perhaps it was this, as much as anything, that had caused the eldest Weasley boys, Bill and Charlie, to call Harry the "7th Weasley son." But it was true, really, and Molly wouldn't dream of denying it.
As Hermione stepped off of the Hogwarts Express, which she had just finished combing for Harry, Molly's eyes shifted to the girl, watching to see if Harry appeared just beyond her, but to no avail. Hermione's sad expression was as telling as the shake of her head. When the girl…correction, young lady, walked back towards the Weasleys, her eyes scanned the crowd again, and a soft sigh escaped her when she still found no sign of Harry.
But Ginny Weasley didn't care much about Harry Potter at the moment, as her eyes had landed on a very hot guy standing against a brick pillar on the platform, looking more than a little bored. The second Hermione was close enough, Ginny was pointing in the guy's direction, her own eyes already glued to him again. After all, the guy was the type made to drool over. From the tips of the spiked black hair to the toes of the black doc martin boots, he practically oozed a "devil-may-care" attitude, and the way he dressed only added to the charm of it. Tight blue jeans, an even tighter white long sleeved shirt, covered by a black short-sleeved t-shirt that bore a PUMA logo all to cover his leanly muscled frame. Then there was the black studded wrist band on the left wrist, and matching belt, plus the silver watch and black plastic bracelets that were common amongst muggles on the right wrist, not to mention the silver and black mirrored sunglasses of course. How could anyone not find him hot?
But with a start, both girls realized exactly who the guy they were so obviously drooling over was. For only Harry Potter had that lightning bolt scar on his forehead, after all. Excited, Ginny grabbed her mother's sleeve, pointing in Harry's direction, effectively getting Ron's attention as well. Hermione, however, tuned everything out the second she realized that Harry was in fact safe at the station. Her feet started carrying her towards him at a slow pace, wondering if he'd ever realize that she was there. As if in tune with her thoughts, Harry's head suddenly turned her way, and the second he saw her, a smile curved his lips. And seeing that smile, Hermione broke into a sudden run, ignoring the startled cries and shocked looks of those she pushed passed. It seemed to take forever for her to reach him, but in reality it was all of a few seconds, but it only took those few seconds for Harry to open his arms wide in anticipation of her arrival. The second she was in his arms, her own wrapped tightly around his neck in a hug, he swept her off her feet, twirling her around in circles that caused her to cry out in surprise and joy. When her feet hit the ground again, she stood there, silently looking up at the mirror version of herself in his sunglasses, a content smile playing over her lips.
The moment, however, was broken when Ron and Ginny came jogging up to them, Mrs. Weasley not far behind. After a bone crushing hug from the latter, Harry gave Ron a pat on the back, giving him a cheerier greeting than the red-head had expected, before pulling an unsurprised Ginny into a quick hug. The sunglasses slid off slowly, revealing the sparkling emerald eyes that they all loved, but unlike in the past, those eyes weren't masked by the reflective glare of his glasses.
Curious, Ginny smirked at him. "Loose your glasses, Harry?"
"No…" He smirked right back at her. "I got my eyes fixed the other day. Remus came by and took me out of the house, and we stopped in Diagon alley. So…Voila! No more glasses."
Ron looked at Harry, curious. "Remus came by eh? What'd he do that for, mate?"
Harry shrugged. "I wrote him before I left saying I wanted to talk to him in person before school started, so he picked me up yesterday. Forced me into buying new clothes with Tonks and him." At Ron's horrified expression, he laughed. "Wasn't that bad, really. First time in…ever, actually, that I've had new clothes of my own, so…" He trailed of the second he saw the dark expression upon Mrs. Weasley's face at the mention of his treatment by the Dursleys. "But besides that, I got to catch up on what's going on in the Wizarding world, too."
Mrs. Weasley's expression didn't change, and she gave him a pointed look. "Those relatives didn't mistreat you did they, Harry?"
There was a definite edge to her tone that he could tell wasn't directed at him, and so Harry gave her a smile. "Na. It was a pretty easy summer, all things considered. I got to do just about whatever I wanted, and well…Dudley kept getting into things he shouldn't, and rather eh…paid me for my silence so to speak. Bought me all sorts of muggle stuff that wasn't all that expensive. Granted I would have kept quiet anyways, but he didn't realize it, and I enjoyed the stuff, so I just let him do it."
Hermione gave him a startled look. "What kind of muggle stuff did he get you?"
"Cd's, a portable CD player…simple stuff like that. Granted the CD player was one he had almost broken before, but oh well. All the blob had to do was go running to mommy and daddy, tell them he lost it and he had a new one the next day." Harry rolled his eyes. "Spoiled brat."
"Well, well, well, Potty and gang are reunited at last."
At the familiar drawl, Harry turned, a smirk fixed on his lips as he eyed Draco Malfoy. "Speaking of spoiled brats…here's one now, guys. What a coincidence, don't you agree, Ron?"
Ron only snickered behind his hand as he nodded, greatly enjoying the angry flush that was filling Draco's face.
"Spoiled brat, am I, Potter? I suppose it takes one to know one, now doesn't it?"
Unable to help it, Harry burst into laughter, startling those in the area as he doubled over, still laughing. It took him a few seconds to compose himself, but when he did, he straightened slowly, and looked Draco straight in the eye, a suddenly cool mask of indifference covering the laughing smile that had been there only moments before. "Malfoy, if I'm a spoiled bloody effing brat, then I don't suppose they've invented a word for what you are, yet." He paused, then slowly stalked towards the now silent and no longer smiling Draco Malfoy. "If sleeping in a cupboard for ten bloody years, having almost none of the traditional comforts a human is allowed is what you'd called 'spoiled,' then Malfoy, you need to highly reevaluate your vocabulary. Because last I checked, 'spoiled' meant expecting to have your every whim overindulged. And the only bloody person I see around here who gets that treatment is you, Ferret-Boy. So why don't you sod off, eh? Get over the fact that daddy dearest is in prison, and be thankful you've got a father."
With those parting words, Harry pushed past the now statuesque Draco, and bounded up the steps to the train, leaving a good-sized crowd to stare after him. It only took 3 seconds, however, for Hermione to snap out of her daze, and run after him, afraid of what might be going on in that head of his. The rest of the crowd slowly came to as she pushed by, following the path made by her green eyed best friend, but leaving her boyfriend standing on the platform next to his shell-shocked mother.
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It took Hermione less than a minute to find Harry situated in a compartment at the rear of the train, and even less for her to drop into the seat next to him, pulling the surprised boy into a fierce hug. But slowly, his own arms wrapped around her, as the still raw wound of Sirius' death seeped its seemingly never ending grief yet again. No words were spoken, but tears were shed on both parts for very similar reasons. The sound of people outside the door of the compartment didn't register to either of them any more than the sound of the door sliding open did. However, it was rather hard to miss the enraged growl of a certain red headed young man as he looked down at his girlfriend who was wrapped in the arms of his so called best friend. The tears didn't register to his mind until Harry turned, wiping at them with one hand while the other arm stayed protectively around Hermione.
Slowly, Ron's anger dissipated as he realized that there was nothing romantic going on between the two, and he gave an apologetic half-smile in their direction as he slid the compartment door closed behind him. Dropping into the seat across from them, he turned his attention outside of the window, where he could still see his mum, waving at him from the platform. Giving her an almost embarrassed wave, he turned his eyes back to Harry and Hermione, who now sat a more respectful distance from each other. It took every thing he had to not let jealousy boil up again when he noticed Hermione's hand held in Harry's, but remembering his friend's outburst, Ron pushed the jealousy aside. Now wasn't the time for petty things like that, and for once he respected the fact that there was just something between the other two of the trio that just went far beyond words.
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Roughly an hour into the train ride to Hogwarts, Harry looked up from a Defense book, casting a brief smile at Ron and Hermione as they reentered the compartment, finally returning from their rounds as the 6th year prefects for Gryffindor. Ginny and Luna weren't far behind, and slid rather gratefully into the seats that were still reserved for them by Neville and Harry. Obviously, while they both deserved their own prefect positions, it was a bit more work than either had expected…not that they would back down from the challenge of course. Harry's eyes glanced at Hermione when he felt her own gaze upon him for longer than few moments, an eyebrow raising in silent question.
Feeling her cheeks get warm with the ensuing blush caused by Harry's questioning glance, Hermione turned her own eyes away, searching for the book she had set aside to go to the prefect meeting. She was extremely pleased to see him reading, but due to his seeming unwillingness to get into a real conversation with Ron around, she held her question on what had caused the change. As she took her book from Ginny, who had accidentally sat on it, Hermione gave Ron a small smile before burying her own nose in a book.
Ron rolled his eyes from his spot next to his girlfriend, and glanced over at Harry, frowning when he got the hint that Harry wasn't up for a game of chess or exploding snap. So his eyes moved to Neville who was looking out the window, seeming rather bored. And while Neville wasn't the best at chess, playing with him would certainly be better than a train ride without anything else to do.
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As the train pulled into the Hogsmeade station, Harry nudged Ginny awake from her short nap, flashing a brief smile before standing to tuck his book back into his trunk, not taking notice of the ever watchful eyes of Hermione. Neville had long since moved to the compartment where Dean and Seamus were seated in order to avoid being beaten to a pulp in chess by Ron, much to his displeasure. The Trio, plus two, headed out of their compartment and down onto the platform and into the lights of the station. Down a ways, Harry spotted Hagrid yelling for the first years who looked as terrified as any other batch Harry had seen. Smiling, Harry waved to his half-giant friend when Hagrid looked his way, unable to move any closer due to a sudden crowd of third years that had just stepped off of the train.
But Hagrid wasn't nearly as contained by the crowd, and plowed his way towards Harry, only to scoop that one into a fierce hug that had Harry fighting for air.
"Hagrid…Hagrid…can't…breathe…"
Slightly red faced in embarrassment, Hagrid laughed it off. "Sorry 'bout tha'. How ya been, 'Arry? Those relatives o' yours didn' give ya any trouble did they?"
Smiling, Harry cast a slight glance at Ron and Hermione as they fought their way to his side, both saying a quick greeting to Hagrid. "Na. Got to go on vacation actually…wasn't too bad. Best time spent with them I've ever had actually…" He laughed. "Didn't have to see them a lot though, so that might have something to do with it."
Hagrid's face split into a wide smile. "Glad ter hear it, 'Arry. I was hopin' them muggles wouldn't treat ya too bad. Not like ya can't handle yerself, or nothin, mind ya, but better ter not risk it all th' same eh?"
Fighting back more laughter, Harry nodded. "We've gotta go though, Hagrid. Don't want to miss the carriages. I'll come see you later this week though…weekend at the latest."
Hagrid nodded, half turning to push his way back towards the gathered first years. "I'll be lookin' forward to it, 'Arry…" His eyes moved to Ron and Hermione, as he added, "An' don' go thinkin' that you two can skive off on seein' me, ya hear? I'll wanna hear all about th' first week for th' three o' ya."
The trio didn't watch Hagrid's retreat to the first years for long, and instead turned, hurrying to jump into carriage that Ginny had reserved for them.
"Took you long enough!" she half way scolded as they climbed in, Harry taking the seat beside her when Ron claimed the spot at his girlfriend's side.
"Yeah, yeah, yeah." Harry grinned at her in the dull light of the thestral drawn carriage. "Just what you gonna do about it, Weaslette?" He teased, using the nickname that Draco had started using for her years ago, but from him, it was a term of endearment rather than an insult.
Ron glared at Harry when he heard the name, then turned, shocked, when Ginny only laughed.
"You've seen my bat-bogey hex in action, Potter…are you willing to be on the receiving end of it?"
"Idle threats, Gin…Idle threats. However…I do happen to know, thanks to a pair of your brothers, that you are very ticklish…And that, as they say, is not a threat, but a promise."
Ginny threw back her head in laughter, ignoring the amused yet shocked looks that she and Harry were receiving from her brother and Hermione. "Touché, Harry. Touché." After a brief pause, she glanced askance at him. "By the way…"
"Yes?"
"Remind me to kill Fred and George next time I see them."
This time, it was all four of the carriages passengers that were laughing, filling the night air with the sound.
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As voices drifted into the main hall, a pair of sharp green eyes watched the entry of the students carefully, vision only slightly heightened by the pair of square spectacles that the professor wore. The stern styling of her hair in its tight bun was accompanied by an equally stern frown, rather common on the face of Professor McGonagall. And perhaps it was her usually stern manner that kept most students from questioning her on the presence of the walking stick she had begun using since the latter part of the year before. One group, however, felt no such qualms about speaking ill of the professor's injury. Draco Malfoy's voice was heard over the rest as he stated to his goons, Crabbe and Goyle, that he was rather certain that the many stunners that had hit McGonagall the year before should have been a hint to her that it was past time to retire given the amount of injury they inflicted.
Yet before Professor McGonagall could respond, a silky voice came from the shadows behind her as the face of another Professor, Severus Snape, appeared suddenly.
"Mister Malfoy…You are aware that you're speaking ill of a Hogwarts professor, are you not?" There was no pause for a response from Draco. "A weeks detention, Malfoy. To be served in the dungeons with myself. One would think that with an upbringing such as yours, you'd have learned to respect your elders."
Draco's mouth sagged open in shock as he looked at the greasy-haired potions master, then dropped an extra bit when he took notice, like the rest of the students, that their professor had grown a goatee over the summer. The oddest part was that it actually added an air of refinement to Severus, something which most would have thought to be virtually impossible given his disposition. Yet Draco didn't think on this long, given the fact that Snape raised an eyebrow and asked if the details of his punishment were clear enough, or was he simply hoping to receive more time.
Frowning, Draco finally answered. "No, the details were clear, sir." He stressed the term purposely, almost sarcastically.
"Good. Then you'll begin them tomorrow evening after dinner, Mr. Malfoy." Snape's black eyes traveled over the assembled students. "Well…" The silky tone did nothing to hide the force behind the single word. "What are you waiting for? No doubt the first years are already across the lake…get yourselves seated." The second years and above all were jolted by being addressed, and there was a sudden rush of people trying to enter the Great Hall at the same time. Meanwhile, Professor McGonagall gave a brief nod in Snape's direction, a mild thanks for his handling the situation before she turned and headed to pick up the first year students from Hagrid's care.
Snape turned on his heel, and moved past the students entering the hall. Only a few steps had him at a hall you wouldn't normally notice unless you looked for it, and he turned, walking its length until he came to another door that he pushed open. The door opened to the area behind the staff table, and fell closed behind him as he slid easily into his own seat at the table. Filius Flitwick turned, greeting him in his usual chipper fashion, leaving Snape to wonder how on earth he ever survived these feasts.
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Draco Malfoy's POV -
As I slide into my spot between Crabbe and Goyle, I can't help but glance at the other tables in the hall. Potter and crew are seated together, as always, but instead of taking a seat by Potter as she normally does, the mud blood Granger is sitting by Weasley, seeming rather unhappy about the arrangement. But then again, the young Weaslette is seated by Pot-head, and that might have something to do with it. I've always thought that Granger and Potter had a thing for each other.
I turn half-heartedly in Pansy's direction as she starts telling me of all the latest gossip, including that apparently, Granger is dating Weasley. Shocked, I glance back to the Gryffindors. That would explain why Weasley looks so damn smug. He got something Potter didn't. Stupid greedy asshole. Not that I feel sorry for Potter, mind you. But Weasley's a greedy son of a witch (literally, HA!), and everyone knows it. He's always been jealous of Potter and myself for our wealth, never thinking of what it means to have that money. Oh, I wouldn't give up the money for much, don't misunderstand that. It comes in quite handy, I will admit. But the fame that comes with it? I could live without that as easily as I could live without my father or aunt. They're selfish, power-hungry idiots who don't realize what Moldy's done to them or their family. Nor do they really care, to be honest. And when I say Moldy, I mean Voldemort. That's a name that Blaise and I came up with a year or so ago for the SOB. He's not worth all that "Lord" crap he spews.
Surprised I don't wanna be a death eater like dear old dad? Don't be. I'd rather follow my own way than that of a half-dead ass who'd as soon feed you to his pet snake as he would kill a muggle, regardless of what you do for him. Serving him, I figure, is a one way ticket to death. If you please him, oh, he'll toy with you and let you live for a while. But whether by his hand or that of an Auror or even Pot-head, you'll end up dead. No bones about it. Granted standing up to him or my father isn't exactly a way to live, either. I'd rather take my chances with the old muggle-loving Dumbledore than Voldie any day. At least Dumbledore would actually try to protect me.
My musing about the war is cut short when I take notice of the first years heading in, looking scared and yet awed at the same time, per usual. Can't blame them. Hogwarts is pretty fascinating, but still…have to know how to mask your emotions. Its somewhat of a required skill around here. Show your emotions as plainly as Weasley over there, and you get picked on. It's a fact of life. I turn my eyes towards the front of the hall, glancing at Snape as I do so. I don't know why he's giving me a detention for trying to knock a Gryffindor off of their pedestal, but I guess I've got a week to find out.
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The Sorting Hat's Song -
The entire hall was quieted by McGonagall as she set a ragged old hat down upon the three-legged stool that now was in place upon the raised platform where the staff table was. First years looked on in curiosity and fear, while the older students were a mix of amusement, boredom and curiosity of their own, waiting for whatever was to happen next. And after the hat's warning the previous year, even the staff seemed to be holding its breath.
Finally, the old hat came to life; a rip near the brim served as its mouth, while the wrinkles near its pointed top seemed to take on an eye-like shape. Then, without warning, it broke into its song.
Like the year before, the hat warned of the penalties of Hogwart's houses being at war, rather pointedly naming Slytherin and Gryffindor in particular. The entire hall remained silent as the hat ended its song, then broke into whispers, some wondering if the separation of the Hogwarts houses really meant that much in the war against Voldemort. But the whispers died back down as McGonagall took the hat off of the stool and pulled a roll of parchment with the names of the first years from her robes. She called them off, one by one, as in the many years before, and waved them to the proper tables when they were finally sorted. The houses cheered when they received a new student, some smiling in welcome, while others gave a look of warning ((A/N: Draco & goons)).
The sorting finally ended a few minutes later, and at the head table, Professor Dumbledore stood up, his blue eyes looking out over the students for a moment. Finally, a smile broke out on his face, and he spoke. "There is a time for speeches and rules, but first, the feast!"
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Hermione's POV -
I can't help but look up at the head table for the umpteenth time tonight, wondering where the new Defense professor could be. Dumbledore never gave any hints over the summer as to who it might be, so naturally I'm praying its not another one like that…that…thing…that tried to teach us last year. I still don't understand why Dumbledore didn't just rehire Remus, but I suppose that he had his reasons. Like the whole bigotry thing against werewolves…if only people could understand that just because you're a certain race doesn't mean you're all bad. But oh well.
Speaking of Remus…
"Hey, Harry?"
Its obvious that Harry doesn't like being interrupted from the plate in front of him, which he's piled with food, but he raises his eyes anyway and tilts his head. "Yeah?"
"Did Remus mention who the new Defense professor was going to be? I mean, surely Dumbledore told him…"
Harry smiles, lifting his head further away from his plate now. "I asked him, but he said it was a big surprise. So I reckon its someone good, ya know? Though it wouldn't take much to be better than the creature we had last year." His smile turns to a smirk, and I can't help but smile at him as I nod in agreement. "Kinda funny, actually. Umbridge makes such a fuss over werewolves and stuff being evil and 'lesser creatures,' but she's worse than Remus or Hagrid by a long shot!"
Ron snorts into his plate, never lifting his head. "You can say that one again, mate." He shovels in another forkful of food, making me gag and turn away before he speaks, spraying food onto the table. "Downright evil she was."
Harry must have noticed my discomfort with Ron's table manners, as he smacks Ron's head at a rare moment when his ((Ron's)) mouth is empty. "Ron, you're grossing Hermione out! Me too, actually. Keep your food in your mouth would ya?"
Ron's face reddens slightly, and he smiles apologetically while swallowing his current mouthful. "Sorry…"
I nod at him, then glance up at the head table again, and back to Harry. "Did Remus say anything about the new professor at all aside from that it was going to be a surprise?"
My timing couldn't have been worse, as Harry had just taken a rather large bite of pumpkin pie, and he looked up at me, as if surprised that I was still talking. I waited patiently as he finished the bite, taking a sip of my pumpkin juice, but making sure to keep my eyes on him so he didn't try to not answer.
If I didn't know better, I'd swear he rolled his eyes as he finally swallowed and answered me. "No, he didn't give me any clues, Hermione. For all I know Snape could be teaching us or something."
I sigh, then nod. "I had to ask." With one last glance at the head table, this time focusing on Professor Dumbledore for a second, I finally turn back to my own desert…pumpkin pie. Here's hoping Dumbledore's sense of what makes a good Defense teacher is more in line with what he picked 3rd year…
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As the feast finally ended and plates cleared, Dumbledore stood up from his place at the head table again, his kind face a warm reminder that for now, they were safe and sound within the walls of the one place Voldemort would have to be crazy to try and overtake this early in the war. The room slowly fell silent as all eyes turned to the headmaster, waiting to see what announcements he had this year.
"Well, as we are now all fed and watered, there are a few announcements for this year. I'm sure most of you are wondering about the position of Defense Against the Dark Arts teacher, and given our past luck with them, I decided that a familiar face will take the position this year. After all, no one can say that I lack the skills necessary to teach the class." There was a buzz through the hall, excitement running through a good deal of the students at the idea of being taught by the best wizard of the age. "But as I do have the duties of Headmaster to fill as well, Remus Lupin and Nyphadora Tonks will be teaching in my stead as needed."
"Also, the rules of Hogwarts still remain the same, something a few of you could do to remember." His eyes lingered on the Trio for a moment, a smile still on his face before he continued. "As such, the Forbidden Forest, as its name suggests, is forbidden to all students. Those of you who are of a mind to buy items from Zonko's or Weasley Wizarding Wheezes will note that a good deal of those things, as well as others, are not to be used in the hallways. A full list of such items can be found on the door to our caretaker, Mr. Filch's, office." He glanced towards a side door in the great hall, then turned his eyes back to the students. "And now, we have a special guest who would like to speak to all of you before you retire to your dormitories for the night." His eyes turned back to the door. "Our new Minister of Magic, Mr. Amos Diggory."
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Amos Diggory's POV -
As I step out into the Great Hall again for the first time since the last Tri-Wizard Tournament a not quite two years ago, I can't help but take in the sights. Every student is watching me, and I know a good deal of them remember Cedric and know I'm his father. I can't help but wonder how many of them still refuse to believe that Vol…Voldemort is alive and the cause of Cedric's death. With any luck, the lack of belief won't be their downfall. Unfortunately, however, lady luck has a habit of turning to someone else when you want her aid the most.
Slowly, I move to in front of the head table, front and center. This is the first time I can remember seeing the room from this point of view, and its quite intimidating, let me tell you. But when I realize that, in some way, these young witches and wizards are really looking to me to lead them and keep them safe, that's all the courage I need.
"I'm sure that none of you were expecting a visit from me this early in the year, if at all, really. But as Minister, I feel its my duty to ensure your safety and happiness at Hogwarts isn't ruined by the state of affairs in the wizarding world. Yes, Voldemort is back, and quickly regaining his strength. Don't fool yourselves into thinking otherwise. Former Minister, Mr. Fudge, saw the dark lord with his own eyes, not even 5 months ago. My son, whom a good deal of you knew of here at Hogwarts was murdered by Voldemort just shy of two years ago. I've never believed otherwise."
I pause, taking in the expressions of the students. Most are shocked at my bluntness I'm sure, but its required in situations like this. My eyes fall to Harry Potter and his friends for a moment, and Harry gives a brief bow of his head in my direction in way of showing his respect, then meets my gaze directly, giving a smile of gratitude that surprises me. I'm not sure what I did to deserve the latter, but I still smile and nod once in return.
"But behind these walls, you are all safer than anywhere else I could send you. The professors here are all amazingly talented witches and wizards, as you would know personally from their classes, and have already sworn to protect every last student in this castle. What you may not realize, however, is the protections the castle itself provides. The founders imbued its walls and the grounds with ancient magics that none have ever managed to duplicate since. However, in the past, we've seen the limitations of both the professors and the castle tested. Which is why I am placing specialized guards here at Hogwarts. Some are Aurors, others are not…but all are people I would trust with my own life…and yours."
I turn as Dumbledore comes to stand beside me, and he gives me a warm smile that is full of pride and reminds me heartily of my own days as a student here. He knows my speech is finished, and looks out at the students for a moment himself.
"Thank you, Minister. However, despite our new Minister's confidence in Hogwart's and its professors, I do urge you all to exercise the utmost caution at all times. After all, it is better safe than sorry, as the muggles say."
Dumbledore gave another of his warm smiles, then dismissed the students, leaving them in the hands of the prefects.
I nod again, then after a brief goodbye to him and the students, I leave the great hall for the Headmaster's office.
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Gryffindor 6th Year Boys Dorms, After the Feast -
Harry doubled over in laughter as he watched Ron chase Dean around the dorms, trying to take back his much prized Chudley Cannon's hat. Seamus and Neville were both sitting on the ends of their own beds, watching the chase with interest, laughing and enjoying the spectacle. Finally, Ron snatched the hat from Dean's grip and tucked it back into his trunk, casting a glare at the boy over his shoulder, as Dean only laughed.
"Should've seen your face, Ron. Priceless!" Seamus jested, then slid off his bed, and imitated Ron as he danced around. "Oh, give me my hat back, Dean!…Not fair!…Come on!…ARGH!" Seamus laughed, his voice mocking Ron's slightly lower tone.
This alone had Harry nearly falling off the edge of his bed, gripping his sides in laughter. But a pillow to the head had him jerking upright, laughter stopped as he glared around the room to find the culprit. Ron stood there, another pillow in hand, grinning widely. "Teach you to laugh at me, mate!"
"Oh yeah?" Harry countered, and stood, grabbing his wand from his back pocket. With a flick, he banished the pillows from the other dorm beds towards Ron, and another flick had the pillows beating on Ron repeatedly as Harry started laughing again.
"Might as well give up, Ron!" Neville laughed. "Harry's downright evil with those hexes and stuff!"
"Well, you boys certainly seem to be enjoying yourselves…"
The feminine voice from the doorway had all activity stopping. The pillows Harry had been charming to hit Ron fell to the floor suddenly, as he lowered his wand and spun towards the door. And the other boys' laughter died as they turned, looking more than a little guilty as they spied Hermione standing there, hands on her hips, clad in a dressing gown that hung to her bare feet. But slowly, a smile formed on her lips, and she shook her head.
"Boys," she muttered, very much amused before turning to Harry. "I just came up to see if I could borrow Hedwig, Harry. Mum and dad wanted me to write them after I got here…I think they're getting a bit paranoid." The last bit was said with a hint of a laugh, and she glanced at Ron before looking back to Harry.
Smiling now, Harry gave a shrug of indifference. "You can use her if you want…Not like I send a lot of letters during the school term or anything." He gave a snort of amusement. "Sides…Hedwig seemed to have enjoyed her time at your house over the summer, bloody well got all broody and stuff being cooped up at Privet Drive. Not that I blame her of course. Anything's better than that place, just about."
Nodding, Hermione waved goodbye to the boys, flashing a smile at Harry and Ron as she left, closing the dormitory door behind her.
After a few moments, Dean glanced at Ron. "Bloody lucky, you are, Ron. That girl's gone and grown up on us…"
Ron's smile turned to a smug, very self-satisfied grin as he settled onto his bed. "Lucky is exactly the word I'd use, mate."
Rolling his eyes, Harry turned for his own bed, shedding his t-shirt in the process, as he had taken to sleeping shirtless over the summer. Too many nights of waking up with his shirts sweat-soaked and tangled around his body from nightmares had taught him it was better to just forget bothering with the article of clothing in the first place. But a wolf-whistle from Dean had Harry turning and glaring at him in mock anger while the other three took in the obvious change in their dorm-mate.
"Bloody hell, Harry…what'd you do this summer? Lift bricks or something?"
Harry laughed, blushing some at Neville's question, and shook his head as he climbed into bed. "Na. Just worked out a little. Cleared my head and stuff."
Ron raised an eyebrow, somewhat confused, before shaking his head. "Whatever you say, mate."
Seamus glanced at Harry. "You spend the summer at Hermione's or something, Harry?"
Frowning, he shook his head. "No….what makes you ask that, Seamus?"
"Your comment about your owl bein' at her place and all."
Harry laughed. "Oh…that. I spent the summer out of the country, so I sent Hedwig to Hermione's. She doesn't have an owl of her own, and Ron's owl drives Hedwig nuts, so it seemed the best choice."
Ron laughed. "Your owl's just stuck up, mate. Pig's pretty cool. Bloody noisy as hell, but better then Errol, that's for sure."
"Mate, anything's better than Errol. You had it right in second year…Bloody bird's a menace."
Seemingly bored with the current topic, Dean glanced at Ron. "What's it like dating Granger, eh, Ron? She all serious like normal or what?"
Knowing what Dean really wanted to know, Ron stretched out, then cast the same smug grin from before in his direction. "Bloody wildcat, mate…lemme tell ya…have to bribe her to keep her hands off of me…"
No one would later be able to say exactly what happened, but in the blink of an eye, Harry was off his dorm bed, had yanked Ron off of his, and slammed the red-head against the wall, Ron's feet hanging a good few inches off the ground. Green eyes narrowed dangerously, and Harry's voice took on a menacing tone "Talk about Hermione like that again in front of me, Ronald…she's not a bloody prize you bagged, so don't act like she is."
Still furious, Harry snatched his t-shirt from his trunk and slid into it as he walked out of the dorm room, slamming the door behind him. Shaking, Ron slid to the floor, startled by the display of strength from Harry. Slowly, his eyes moved to Dean, Seamus and Neville who were seemingly frozen in place, staring at the door. "What in the bloody hell got in to him?"
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A/N: Finished this chapter finally…oy the holidays are a pain. But I am working on this as much as I can…PROMISE!
Up next: First day of term - A Mess in Potions, and more…