Harry Potter and the First Sage

C. Cowboy: Howdy, this is the first fic I’ve posted on this portkey.org, and I’m proud to say that this is going to be a special edition with scenes not included on the fanfiction.net version. That way if you’ve seen this on there, you’ll still be getting something new. Hope you like it, and make sure to review! I love feed back!

Disclaimer: Harry Potter and gang are owned by J K Rowling.

Classic Cowboy presents:

Harry Potter and the First Sage

Chapter 1: Like A Comet…

The sun shown bright through the window of Harry Potter and Ron Weasley, two sixth year students at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, causing the sixteen year old Harry to slowly flutter his eyes open. He blinked a few times before his eyes shot wide and he jumped out of bed, “BLOODY HELL!” He screamed dashing around the room.

He quickly threw his rob on and shot toward the door but came to a dead stop and stared down at himself realizing he threw his rob over his pajamas. After a few lines of curses Harry placed on a white dress shirt, slacks, and threw his tie around his neck as well as pulling his rob back on. “Ok now I’m ready! I’m so late…” he gasped as he dashed toward the door, but plowed into the wall full speed missing the open door way by a good two feet.

“Harry, what are you doing?” Ron asked blinking at his best friend laying flat on his back.

“What does it look like I’m doing?” Harry hissed pulling to his feet.

“Glasses help, Harry.” Ron smirked.

Harry looked dumbly at his friend, and then silently dove toward his bed table, put on his glasses, and shot toward the door.

“Where you going, Harry?” Ron asked fighting off laughter.

Harry stared at Ron with a look of pure amazement, “Ron, We are FORTY MINUTES LATE FOR CLASS, AND YOU WANT TO PLAY TWENTY QUESTIONS????”

“It’s Saturday, Harry.”

Harry stood there and stared at Ron as if he had just told him every last secret of the universe. “Oh.” Harry barely whispered as he slowly dragged himself back to bed.

Later that morning, Ron and the third in the threesome of friends, Hermione Granger, set in the stands of the Quidditch field while Harry flew through the air on his broomstick in practice with the team. Ron watched in awe as the players, including Harry, flew and played as a well-oiled machine. He then glanced over at his friend and sighed when he seen she had her nose in a very large book.

“Hermione, what are you doing?” Ron asked wide-eyed, “How can you read a book, when something as exciting as this is happening!”

Hermione cut her eyes up to Ron dully, “First Ron, this is just a practice, and mostly all they’re doing is running drills, oh so very exciting! Secondly, I am not reading, I am studying for the finals.”

“Herm!” Ron gasped, “It’s the first week of classes!”

“Never too early to start studying.” Hermione stated.

“Um, what ever you say.” Ron said turning his attention back to drills ignoring Hermione’s eyes rolling.

“HERMIONE! HARRY’S FALLING!” Ron gasped pointing into the air.

“WHAT?? HARRY!” Hermione panicked jumping to her feet.

“Got you!” Ron chuckled but was quickly silence when the heavy book came down on his head.

“Git.” Hermione growled going back to her textbook.

“Still…got you…” Ron whispered pulling himself back to his feet.

Hermione glared at him but shook it off running her hand through her long curly brown hair. She then ‘pretended to continue studying but was actually stealing glances at her best friend flying through the air.

After about two hours of practice, the session finally ended and the team landed and started to go their separate ways. Harry, as expected made a straight line to Ron and Hermione. “Hey, guys!” Harry said happily with his Firebolt broomstick thrown over his shoulder.

“Hi Harry!” Ron and Hermione responded happily walking up to meet him.

“Now, Harry,” Hermione started slyly, “I came to your silly practice, so now you have to come to mine. You come too, Ron.”

Hermione was quite proud of her after class activity, and surprised Harry and Ron especially to learn that their bookworm friend was graceful enough to make the Synchronized Levitation team, (synchronized swimming minus water).

“First of all, Mione, my practice is NOT silly, and second, I was planning on coming to watch you practice anyway.” Harry smirked crossing his arms over his chest.

The two just mock glared at each other in a small stare off, which Ron seemed to enjoy watching a little too much, when a voice behind them took them by surprise.

“Hey, Harry?” a girl’s voice said making the three turn. Harry then smiled dumbly at the sight of Cho Chang, a member of the Ravenclaw Quidditch team, and one of Harry’s crushes, walking toward them.

“Uh… Hi Cho.” Harry said/sighed as the older girl came to a stop before the 16-year-olds. Ron started to say hi too, but thought better of it when he heard Hermione growling lightly, which put him slightly in mind of Fluffy.

“Harry, you doing anything for the next couple of hours?” Cho asked with a smile.

“No, nothing at all.” Harry sighed with the same dumb smile.

“Uh oh…” Ron whispered slowly stepping out from between Harry, Cho, and the wide-eyed, red-faced Hermione.

“The Gryffindor and Ravenclaw teams are going to have a pre-game party,” Cho explained, “You coming Harry?”

“Ahuh, sure, I’d love to!” Harry said a little to happily, “Shall we go then?”

Cho smiled and nodded and the two left together, leaving Hermione and Ron standing there awestruck.

“He…just up and left us!” Hermione gasped angrily.

“A pretty girl would do that to a chap.” Ron said knowledgeably.

“ARE YOU SAYING I’M NOT PRETTY, RONALD WEASLEY???”

“Uh…uh…uh…” Ron stuttered back stepping as the unhappy Hermione stalked toward him, “Harry! Wait…”

“Oh no you don’t, Ron,” Hermione said evilly, “ONE OF YOU is coming with me to my practice, you may come peacefully or kicking and screaming, your pick.”

“Uh…I think I’ll chose peacefully…” Ron gulped.

“Very good, now come along, Ron.” Hermione said seemingly to drop her anger in a second.

“But what about Har…” Ron started.

“I SAID come along!”

Meanwhile, inside Hogswort, Professor Dumbledore made his way past Prof. Trelawney's room, when a scream from inside caught his attention. The old wizard rapidly moved into the room and found the professor laying on the floor with her eyes rolled back in her head, "Prof. Trelawney!" Dumbledore cried crouching down beside her, "Are you alright?"

"When the One Who Lived falls in flames like a comet, a great betrayal will take place, these will foreshadow the coming of a being as far above wizards as wizards are above muggles with the pure power of light, you will know him by a mark in the form of a 'X'." Prof. Trelawney sighed in a far off voice.

“Oh dear…” Dumbledore sighed.

Later, the party being held by the captains of both the Ravenclaws and Gryffindors teams was going strong, and everyone was having a very great time. The two teams were the only ones who actually threw parties together, nothing wrong with Hufflepuff, and Slytherin was obvious why, but there was much more of a relaxed feel when these two teams met.

“You having fun Harry?” Cho asked coming over to where Harry was seated. The party was nice, but Harry was having a strange feeling he was supposed to be somewhere else, but couldn’t figure exactly where.

“Too right, ‘Mione,” Harry said to Cho, “er I mean Cho,” He said quickly hoping he didn’t catch it.

“Harry,” Cho started leaning against the desk, “Why don’t you hang out with some of the other Quidditch players?”

“Wha?” Harry asked setting his butter beer down, “what do you mean?”

“Simple, Harry,” Cho said with a sigh, “I have nothing against Hermione, but … I don’t understand how you can be friends with her, you’ve nothing in common, you two.”

“Listen, carefully, Cho,” Harry said defensibly, his voice dripping with anger, “Hermione may not be the greatest flyer in the world, and she may not care as much about Quidditch as we do, but she’s still my best friend!”

“Harry … I …” Cho began realizing she’s pushed the wrong button.

“Now, if you’ll excuse me, I need to go get cleaned up before the game this evening,” Harry growled, “And don’t talk about who I decide to be friends with again.”

Cho watched Harry walk off, before looking down sadly. “Cho, you ok?” one of the Ravenclaws asked walking up.

“Yeah,” Cho sighed, “Just Harry reminded me of Cedric for a moment. He used to stand up for me like that …”

Later that evening, Harry finally left the party, and was making his way towards the commons. “Tonight’s the big game.” Harry said to himself, “I wonder though.” Harry sighed thinking back to the angry look on Hermione’s face, “Why did she get all angry when I said I was going to the party with Cho…uh oh…” His eyes then went wide in shock, “I forgot her practice! I promised I’d go…She’s going to turn me into a yak!”

Harry then looked around trying to come up with a plan of action, “Ok, first off, take a shower, I still smell sweaty from practice, then go find Hermione and say sorry and beg her not to hurt me! Perfect!”

He made his way into the boy’s shower and found that every shower was lacking soap. ‘Only one place left to look,’ Harry sighed with a gulp, Harry walked up to his dorm room, and removed his invisible cloak, “better take this just incase.”

“Where are you going?” Ron asked rolling over and eyeing Harry suspiciously.

“Uh…I just was going to take a shower, and uh…needed soap… going to have to get it from the girls shower…what are you doing in here in bed this early anyway??” Harry stammered nervously.

“TRYING to take a nap before the game. One of the levitators was missing today, so…” Ron said with a faint gulp, “Hermione ‘asked’ me to fill in.”

“Did you like it?” Harry asked trying to change the subject.

“Bloody hell no, those girls tried to bloody kill me!” Ron griped as he set up, “Where did you say you were going?”

“Um to sneak into the girls shower to borrow some soap.” Harry whispered turning a slightly pink.

“Wicked!” Ron said getting to his feet.

“And where are you going?” Harry asked fearing the answer.

“With you of course!” Ron said cheerfully.

“Ron, I’m just going for some soap!” Harry said stepping away from his best friend.

“Ahuh sure you are,” Ron smirked, “Bloody hell, why didn’t we think of this before!”

“Ron…” Harry blinked, “you’re starting to scare me.”

“Come on!” Ron said pulling Harry toward the door, “While all the cute girls are in there!”

“No! No way Ron,” Harry waving his hand in front of him, “You are not coming with me, I’m just going to find the nearest piece of soap and get out!”

Short while later,

“Have I mentioned I hate you dearly, Ron?” Harry whispered as he and Ron hid beneath the cloak and made their way into the shower. Harry looked around and sighed in relief that no girls were present. But was a bit disappointed, but heaven forbid Ron ever know he thought that.

Harry then led Ron into a large shower and grabbed a bar of soap for the side and before they could make it to the door of the shower the door came open. ‘Oh shit…’ Harry thought when he saw who it was, ‘Hermione…’

Harry turned and looked at Ron and watched him silently gulp then turned back and almost fainted dead away when as he watched her begin to undress. His mind screamed for him not to look but he was frozen still and his eyes stayed locked on Hermione’s every move.

Harry’s heart felt like it would jump out of his chest when the only thing covering Hermione was her long curly waist-length hair. Hermione turned on the shower and began to bath unknowing that she was being watched like a hawk.

Hermione turned around to rinse her long hair, and giving the boys a full frontal shot in the process, making both boys to inhale deeply. Amazing what a girl can hide under large sweaters. ‘She’s going to kill me. She’s going to kill me. She’s going to kill me.’ Harry repeated in his mind before going down and gaining a nosebleed from looking at her chest, ‘But I’ll die happy!’

Harry was in heaven, and despite knowing he shouldn’t, he was rather enjoying the show, but the moment was shattered as fear over took Harry. For he heard Ron absentmindedly let out a fox whistle at Hermione. Hermione’s head shot up quickly, and though she now had her back to them, they could see the shock on her face.

“Hello? Is someone there?” Hermione asked turning around and looking around the shower while covering herself with her arms and hands. She looked around and noticed something strange, the water on the floor was broken in the shape of four footprints in the corner. She scowled lightly and turned her back and made her way to the side. She slowly wrapped a towel around her body, and placed her arm in the showering water, and before either boy could respond she splashed water at them. The water hit the cloak and made it partially visible.

“Lets get out of here, Harry, we’re busted!” Ron whispered in a panic as the two quickly made their way toward the door.

Ron slipped on the water and knocked Harry over into the shower wall, knocking them both into the floor. They sighed in relief when they realized they cloak still covered them, and they both scrambled to their feet and they both shot out the door as fast as their legs can travel.

They ran all the way to their dorm room, they ran in, threw the wet cloak into the closet and sighed as they jumped to their bed. “I can NOT believe we DID THAT!” Harry laughed but slowly stopped and looked at Ron when he realized he wasn’t laughing. He blinked confusedly at the now white as a ghost Ron, “What’s the matter?”

“H-Harry?” Ron choked, “W-W-W-Where’s your glasses?”

Meanwhile, in the shower, Hermione stood in pure shock, her face crimson and in her white knuckled fist she gripped a pair of round-rimmed glasses.

Around twenty minutes later Ron and Harry set nervously in the Gryffindor commons. “Maybe…maybe she won’t be mad…” Ron said trying to calm them both down.

“Not bloody likely.” Harry croaked dreading coming face to face with his other best friend.

“Have to admit Harry, she did look nice.” Ron said trying to lighten the mood.

“This is not the time or the place, Ron.” Harry said as he pointed toward the door.

“Here we go…” Ron gulped as Hermione walked into the commons acting as if nothing had happened at all.

“Harry! Ron!” Hermione chirped happily, “How are you two this marvelous evening!”

“F-fine…” Harry and Ron stuttered in unison.

“Harry, may I ask you a question?” Hermione asked as she set on the couch across from Harry and Ron’s two chairs.

“Uh… of course, Mione…” Harry gulped, wishing he, instead, was facing Voldemort without a wand or any knowledge of spells.

“What has become of the invisible cloak? I KNOW you haven’t used it lately.” She asked with an innocent smile.

‘Oh shit…’ was all Harry could think at the time, “Uhh…I uh still um have it…why d-do you ask?” Harry stuttered and she seemed to smile even more.

“Well, you see, Harry,” She said with a frightening chuckle, “Someone snuck into my shower earlier using what appeared to be your cloak,” she then laughed lightly, “heaven forbid I would ever suspect you of doing SUCH A THING, I know you’d never stoop to such…perverted things.”

All the blood left Harry’s face as her smile faded into a glare. “Uh, well…I…I…Draco…yeah, Draco! He asked to borrow it about an hour ago, yeah that’s it, Draco borrowed it!” Harry said smiling proudly at his fast thinking.

“Is that a fact Harry?” Hermione asked with a raised eyebrow and a smirk.

“Ahuh…” was all Harry could get out.

“And I take it he borrowed your glasses as well?” Hermione asked with a glare.

‘Oh no…’ Harry whispered as the blood once again left his face.

“Face it, Harry Potter, I know it was you, how long were you in there watching me?” Hermione growled as she got up and placed her hands on both arms of the chair pinning him in.

“Uh…” Harry stuttered, thinking the best action would be to remain quiet.

“If you’re wondering how I know it was you, Mr. Potter, here.” She snapped placing his glasses on his face.

“I-I can explain…” Harry gasped as Hermione brought her face two inches from his face.

“I’m listening.” She whispered spitefully.

Harry then turned to Ron for help, and Ron looked at him like any best friend would do their friend in a situation as this, “HARRY, HOW COULD YOU??”

“RON, YOU GIT, IF YOU HADN’T WHISTLED THEN…uh oh…” Harry caught himself and turned back to Hermione’s dark yet knowing gaze.

“I knew it! I knew you couldn’t whistle, Harry, and I did see two sets of footprints, so NOW I have both culprits!” Hermione said victoriously.

“I swear, Hermione, I was just after some soap, that’s all, I didn’t come in there for any perverse reason, I am so sorry for intruding on you! I swear to you on my parent’s grave I did not mean to intrude!” Harry begged for forgiveness.

Upon hearing him swear on his parent’s grave she knew he really was sorry and honestly didn’t mean to intrude, and she forgave him for it, but no need in letting him know that just yet.

“I CAN NOT BELIEVE YOU WOULD DO THIS, HARRY!!!” her face mere inches from his.

Her lecture was suddenly cut short when the door opened, and Draco Malfoy strolled in. “Well, Well, Well, looks like Mudblood’s got a boyfriend, and the famous Harry Patter at that!” Draco chuckled at the closeness between Harry and Hermione.

“How did you get in here?” Harry growled standing up when Hermione jumped out of his way.

“Just told the Fat Lady I wanted to wish you luck on tomorrow’s game, Potter.” Draco said with a smirk, “You’ll need all the luck you can get. And I can say with a girlfriend like Mudblood, you haven’t got much luck if any at all.”

“Stop calling her that, Malfoy.” Harry growled standing between Hermione and Draco.

“Or what, Potter, You haven’t got the guts to do a single thing.” Draco spat, “I knew you had low standards Potter, but…Mudblood?” His chuckling was cut short as he fell backwards into his two goons.

Hermione, Ron and the two Slytherins thugs stared wide-eyed, had the gentle Harry Potter just KO’ed Draco?

“I’ll…get you for that, Potter…” Draco said groggily as he stumbled out the door, “Watch your back.” He warned before he left.

Once Harry was sure he was gone he shook his fist rapidly, “Bloody hell that hurt!” he whimpered blowing on his red fist.

Hermione then walked up to him, and his mind shot back to what she was raving on earlier before Draco came in, “H-Hermione?” Harry stuttered but gasped as Hermione kissed him lightly on the cheek, “Thank you for standing up for me. I think I’ll go on to bed, you should too, you have a big game tomorrow, goodnight guys.” She walked away from the two dumbfounded boys, but stopped at the foot of the stairs to the girl’s dorm, “I…GUESS I forgive you.”

“There is a God.” Harry gasped falling back into the chair, “she didn’t kill us.”

Hermione threw herself down onto her bed, and sighed deeply. ‘Why did I let them off so easily for watching me in the shower?’ she asked herself, “Eh, I’ll make him pay for it…later.” She said before drifting off to sleep.

That evening, the Quidditch game between Ravenclaw and Gryffindor was well into the second half. Gryffindor was behind twenty points and was struggling to even keep a close contest. In the stands Hermione, Ron, and Hagrid watching the game with great interest, and a few rows behind them Draco set and watched Harry like a hawk.

“Oh bloody hell.” Hermione sighed when a Ravenclaw made another score, “Can’t Harry hurry up and catch that Snitch like he always does?” Hermione complained, getting into the game.

“Hey Harry!” Angelina, the new captain, called from her possition position; “You can get that snitch when ever you feel like it.”

“I’m working on it!” Harry sighed loudly soaring through the air on his Firebolt. He looked and spotted it and sighed loudly when he spotted Cho hot on its tail. “Oh no you don’t, Chang, it’s mine!” Harry exclaimed shooting after it as well.

Harry and Cho were neck and neck closing in on the flying ball. “You aren’t getting it this time, Harry!” Cho yelled.

“Try and stop me!” Harry retorted.

Everyone in the stands stood up, and Hermione climbed onto Hagrid’s shoulder, started to bounce repeating, ‘GET IT! GET IT! GET IT!” and Draco slowly brought his wand out from his pocket.

Harry finally shot a little ahead of Cho and his fingers were just inches away from the snitch. Draco narrowed his eyes and pointed his wand at Harry and softly whispered “Incendio.” Suddenly the back of Harry’s broom engulfed inflames and he began to slow down.

“Something’s wrong!” Ron gasped pointing toward the bright flames on the back of Harry’s broomsticks, while Hagrid and Hermione could only watch in terror.

“Not good. Not good. Not good.” Harry panicked as his broom shot at full speed toward a large wooden pole.

Dumbledore, from his box watched Harry fall leaving a smoke trail looking frighteningly a lot like a comet. "When the One Who Lived falls in flames like a comet, " he repeated part of Prof. Trelawney’s prophecy. “Oh dear, oh dear me.”

Harry looked up from his broom and could plainly see the pole just a few feet away and laid forward on the broom and closed his eyes tight. The broom hit the pole with such force it splintered it and the upper part of the pole, Harry’s broom, and Harry himself flew in three different directions. Harry fell a good twelve feet and hit the hard ground with a sickening thud that echoed through the now silent stands and field.

“Oh god…” Hermione whimpered but gasped and clinched to Hagrid as the half-giant leapt from his seat and ran at full speed to the fallen boy, “’ARRY! HOLD AN LAD, EM COMMIN’ FER YE!”

Once Hagrid was on ground level, Hermione jumped from his shoulders and shot toward her best friends, tears now streaming down her face. She finally reached him, and dropped to her knees beside his unmoving, facedown body. She gently placed her hands on his shoulders, scared to death to even try to move him. “H-Harry?” She whispered, through a sob. She finally took a deep breath and rolled him over and let out a loud gasp.

To Be Continued…

C. Cowboy: Here’s another chapter for ya, I think I got most if not all of the grammar mistakes this go around, but me and grammar never were that great of friends. Anyway keep the feed back coming, the more reviews I get the faster I put the chapters out! And Enjoy!

Chapter 2: What happened?

Later that evening, just outside Madam Pomfrey’s office inside Hogwarts, a small group was gathered waiting patiently for any word on the condition of Harry: Ginny Weasley set staring into space worriedly, while Ron paced in front of the door impatiently, and setting beside Ginny was a trembling, crying Hermione with Dumbledore setting beside her, rubbing her back soothingly.

“Do not fear, child.” Dumbledore whispered reassuringly, “Young Mr. Potter has made it through worse scraps then this.”

Hermione silently nodded, ‘No he hasn’t.’ She thought angrily, ‘He’s been in some tight situations, but I…I never seen him like that…he looked so pale and there was so much blood…’ Hermione couldn’t continue the thought as the memory sent her into more violent sobs.

The door finally came open and Madam Pomfrey stepped out with an unreadable expression. The teenagers watched her like a hawk, none of them brave enough to ask the question on all their minds, for fear of the answer. Dumbledore finally broke the silence, “How is the boy?”

She looked down sadly, “I’ve done all I can. He has received a major head trauma and has slipped into a light, I hope, coma. He could come out of it any minute or he might not wake up ever again. I am truly sorry.”

Each of them, even Dumbledore, looked like they had been hit with a hammer from the news. “C-Can…we see him?” Hermione choked out.

“Yes,” Madam Pomfrey nodded, “But be warned, he is a little worse for wear.”

“Mr. Weasley.” Dumbledore spoke softly, “You and Ms. Granger may go first, and you two are, I believe, the closest thing he would call ‘family’. And if you would like to spend extra time with him you are both excuse from class until he recovers, now this does not mean you can lay out of all your classes, but I believe he needs you both right now.”

Hermione and Ron nodded before following Madam Pomfrey to their best friend. She led them both into a small hospital-like room where Harry laid motionless, and the sight brought tears to both their eyes. “Oh Harry…” Hermione sobbed setting down at his bedside. His skin was the color of snow but had several bandages covering cuts and bruises, and his eyelids were closed and had a black tint and his lips a blue. His hair could not be seen because of the heavy bandages covering most of his head.

“Don’t worry, Hermione.” Ron said placing a hand on the girl’s trembling shoulder, “Harry’ll pull through.”

Hermione looked back and gave him a weak nod. “They don’t call him the ‘Boy-Who-Lived’ for nothing, you know.” Ron said with a faint chuckle, “I’ll go so Ginny or Prof. Dumbledore can come in. So you want to stay or come with me to get something to eat?”

“If you don’t mind I’d like to stay.” Ron gave a nod and turned and left.

Hermione watched him go before turning back to Harry. She gently took his lip hand in her own and gave it a slight squeeze, “Please come back to us, Harry.” She whispered sadly, “Please come back to me.”

Minutes turned to hours

Hours turned to days

And days turned to weeks

Three weeks had gone by and Harry had yet to show any signs of waking up, and Hermione had yet to show any sign of leaving his side. She was at his bedside constantly and Ron went to class, mostly to bring Hermione’s assignments to her and then he would remain with her and Harry the rest of his free time.

The sun had just begun to shine in the window three weeks to the day of Harry’s ‘accident’. Ron and Hermione had as usual spent the night at Harry’s bed side, Ron was lying in a reclining chair beside Harry’s bed, and Hermione was seating in a chair with her head resting on Harry’s bed while holding his hand. Hermione was sleeping peacefully when she felt a slight squeeze to her hand.

Hermione was resting some-what comfortably, when she heard a very familiar voice, “This is an unfamiliar ceiling …”

Her eyes blinked rapidly and she shot up and her eyes locked with a pair of weak green eyes. Hermione then screamed out in shock and joy, making Ron fall out of his chair, and making Madam Pomfrey come running.

“Harry’s awake!” Hermione chirped happily to Madam Pomfrey.

“What? Oh Dear, Mr. Potter, welcome back to the land of the living!” Pomfrey said checking Harry’s vitals, “How do you feel?”

“How… do I feel?” Harry half groaned half whispered, “Like one of Fluffy’s chew toys.”

“Understandable, considering you hit a large pole going at least sixty five kilometers per hour.” Pomfrey gripped, “I have said those high speed brooms shouldn’t be allowed in Quidditch, but no one bothers to listen to my advice!”

“Are you ok, Harry?” Hermione asked still not letting go of his hand, afraid if she did he would fall back into a coma if she were to let go.

“My head hurts, I feel stiff as a board, and I’m hungry,” Harry said hoarsely, “other then that, I’m marvelous.”

Ron started to say something but found himself being shoved out the door, “Hermione, what are you doing??” Ron complained as she shoved him out the door.

“Harry’s hungry so go and get some food.” Hermione ordered.

“But…”

“Harry. Hungry. Food. Now.” Hermione emphasized each word with a shove.

“Herm…” Ron started again only to get the door slammed in his face, “…ione. Ok, I’ll go get food, no, no it’s no trouble, your very much welcome, be back in a tick.” Ron muttered as he walked toward the cafeteria.

“Now then,” Hermione said turning back to Harry, “Is he ok, Madam Pomfrey?” Hermione asked worriedly.

“What happened?” Harry asked as Madam Pomfrey placed a fresh bandage around his forehead.

“Your broom caught fire and you went full speed into a pole,” Pomfrey said matter-of-factly.

“Oh. How long was I out?” Harry asked cringing as she tightened the wrap.

“Three weeks exactly,” Pomfrey stated emotionlessly, checking over his injuries.

“Whoa…” Harry gawked, “Three weeks?”

“Ms. Granger?” Pomfrey asked the girl who at this time was in her own little world starring at Harry. “Ms. Granger?” She repeated a little louder finally making her break her trance.

“Oh, do forgive me…” Hermione apologized.

“That just adds to my case, my dear, you must go and rest.” Pomfrey said in her rare moments of kindness, she then turned to Harry, “You see, Mr. Potter, this young lady here has not left your side since you were brought in, and that recliner and that chair she was in this morning is no substitute for a nice feather bed.”

“Hermione?” Harry asked looking surprised at her, “You…stayed with me this whole time?”

Hermione turned bright red, but turned away to hide it, “Um…yes…” She said sheepishly. She then shook her head, “I…I think I’ll go see what’s keeping Ron.”

Harry blinked for a second, “But he’s only been gone for a second.”

“I…uh…” Hermione stuttered, “Forgot to tell him I wanted something too, we’ll be back in a second, Harry, stay awake.” And before Harry could retort she was out the door.

“That was different.”

Hermione ran to catch up with Ron, mostly as an excuse to hide her blush that seemed to not want to go away.

“Haven’t you gotten the food yet, Ron?” Hermione complained when she finally spotted him outside the dinning room.

“I’m working on it, Harry ok?” Ron asked.

“Whatever.” She grunted walking past him.

“Um… ok, anything wrong.” Ron asked confused.

“You know what’s wrong, Weasley.” Hermione stated matter-of-factly.

“You’re not still sore about what happened three weeks ago with the shower, are you?” Ron asked taking a tray of food and a goblet of pumpkin juice. “I thought you said you forgave us!”

“No, Ron,” Hermione said taking a goblet for herself, “I said I forgive you … to Harry.”

“So you’re still angry with me then?” Ron asked the blood slowly creeping from his face.

“To right,” Hermione stated causing Ron to chuckle loudly. “What are you laughing about, Ron?” Hermione asked angrily.

“I get it.” Ron said with a wide grin.

“You get what?” Hermione asked narrowing her eyes but taking a drink from her pumpkin juice.

“Oh that the only reason you’re really mad at me is because I was with Harry when he watched you in the shower.” Ron stated knowingly.

“What the bloody hell are you going on about, Ron?” Hermione asked growing nervous.

“You dirty, dirty little girl,” Ron teased poking her arm. “It all makes sense, you let Harry off the hook with one apology, while with me, and supposedly your other best friend, you hold a grudge for three weeks. It all makes perfect sense. You liked Harry watching you,” Ron teased causing Hermione to cough and make pumpkin juice come out her nose.

“Ron!” Hermione whispered angrily, “Keep it down, we’re being looked at! And you are mistaken, completely mistaken! Honestly!”

The whole dinning room had grown quite quiet listening to the conversation concerning someone watching Hermione in the shower. “Just admit it, ‘Mione, if I wasn’t there who knows what school rules, and very social morals would have been broken that evening!”

Hermione’s face turned the color of Ron’s hair and her mouth moved up and down, like a goldfish, unable to form words.

“I knew it!” Ron yelled victoriously, “You like him! You like Har…” Hermione forcing her hand over his mouth silenced him.

“Shut it, you mindless Git!” Hermione growled. “And I do not like Har… you-know-who.” She said causing gasps from the ears listening to them, “NOT THAT YOU-KNOW-WHO!” She yelled at the room before turning back to Ron.

“Admit it, ‘Mione, if it wasn’t for me being there they’d be little Harry’s and Hermione’s on the way.” Ron unwisely teased.

“Get your bloody mind out of the gutter, Ronald!” Hermione yelled, jerking the tray away from him and pouring her remaining pumpkin juice on his head. “Maybe that will cool you off, pervert! And stop calling me ‘Mione’!”

Hermione and Ron walked back into Harry’s room and were surprised to find Angelina.

“I’m glad you’re alright,” Angelina said sincerely, standing beside his bed, “The whole team’s been worried about you.”

“Thanks,” Harry said shyly, “I look forward to getting back up there with you guys,” he then noticed a sense of worry in her eyes, “Is there something the matter?”

“Oh, nothing serious,” Angelina said with a faint blush, “Just not doing too well in History of Magic.”

“Why don’t you ask Hermione to help you sometime,” Harry said with a smile, “She the smartest witch I’ve ever met, and even though she’s a year behind you, I’m sure she can and would be happy to help you.”

“Speak of the devil.” Angelina said turning to see the blushing Hermione and the drenched Ron.

“What happened to you, Ron?” Harry asked as Hermione placed his tray on his lap.

“Uh…” Ron started but after receiving a glare from Hermione, “nothing important, don’t worry about it.”

“Well, I guess I’ll leave you to your meal, take care, my friend.” Angelina said and nodded good-bye to Hermione and Ron and walked out.

“So…” Harry said taking a bite from his sandwich, “I know that was a spell that hit my broom. There’s no other explanation, willing to bet it was Malfoy too.”

“I was Draco.” Hermione said like it was old news.

“Pardon?” Harry asked blinking.

“It was Draco, they were witnesses.” Ron said in the same way as Hermione.

“Yes, Draco is finally getting what’s coming to him!” Harry cheered happily.

“What are you talking about, Harry?” Hermione asked confused.

“Malfoy was expelled for what he did…wasn’t he?” Harry asked slightly confused on how he could do what he did and still be allowed at school.

“No,” Hermione said as if she didn’t know what Harry was talking about, “It’s not like he tried to kill you.”

Harry set up quickly and looked at Hermione and then at Ron in complete shock, “THAT’S EXACTLY WHAT HE BLOODY TRIED TO DO!”

“Harry, lay back and rest, you should calm down.” Hermione said gently pushing him back down.

“Calm down? Calm down!” Harry yelled angrily, “how the bloody hell did he get away with THIS??”

“It’s not like he really did anything really wrong.” Ron said with a smile, “He publicly apologized, and said he honestly didn’t mean to cause you any harm. In fact he said he would come and visit you later today!”

“Thanks but no thanks.” Harry said looking at Ron in disbelief, “and I think I do need some more rest, thank you.”

“If you say so, Harry, I’ll talk to you later.” Ron said as he turned and walked out the door.

Harry then turned toward Hermione, and she looked at him slightly confused.

“Hermione,” Harry said sounding uncharacteristically distant, “I said I needed some rest.”

“Oh.” She whispered sadly, “Ok. I guess…I’ll come back and check on you later today. Bye, Harry.” She said her eyes showing moisture around the rims of her eyes, but whipped around and left him alone.

“Wonder what’s bugging him?” Ron asked Hermione who was walking slightly ahead of him, “Oh, right, not speaking to me, probably bed wedgey, if you ask me.”

A week later, Harry finally was released from Madam Pomfrey’s care, but still had to wear a bandage around his forehead.

Harry still didn’t full understand how Draco got off the hook but he wasn’t about to give up trying to figure out how. He and Ron walked down the halls toward their class when a voice behind them,

“Looks like Scar-head finally got came back. I missed you.” Draco said with a smirk, “Well, not really, I was just being polite.”

“You couldn’t be polite if your life depended on it.” Harry snapped.

Draco looked taken back for a moment but quickly gathered himself, “Is that a challenge, Potter?”

Harry answered by pulling out his wand.

“So be it, Potter.” Draco said pulling out his own wand, “You just got out of the hospital, I really hate to put you back in.”

“Big talk, Draco.” Harry smirked holding his wand out before him.

“I tell you what, Potter, seeing as you’ve been out of practice for the last few weeks; I’ll let you have the first shot.” Draco said boastfully.

“Your funeral, Draco!” Harry said as he waved his wand at Draco, and stood for a moment, blinked, and waved it again.

Waved it several more time and audibly spoke every spell he knew, but nothing happened. He began to shake the wand wildly and then remember the situation. He gulped loudly and slowly looked up toward Draco fearfully.

Draco smiled at Harry and pointed his wand right at Harry, “my turn…Flipendo!”

That same moment, Hermione was walking on the outside of the school to save time getting to class when she heard a window crash and someone screaming above her.

“Wha…UMPH!” She cried when something heavy landed on top of her forcing her on her back.

Harry’s slowly pulled himself to his hands and knees, still not opening his eyes; “At least…I landed on something really soft.” Harry moaned and opened his eyes and his whole body turned crimson when he realized he was straddling Hermione.

“Harry, what, in Merlin’s name, are you doing?” Hermione asked surprised.

“I’m so sorry, oh Merlin, I am so very sorry, oh Hermione, I’m sorry, I uh I better go and um I really need to talk to Prof. Dumbledore!” Harry stuttered as the two pulled themselves to their feet and he dashed toward Dumbledore’s office leaving.

“What’s going on?” Hermione asked as Harry dashed away.

Later that evening in Dumbledore’s office, Harry set before, Prof. Dumbledore, Prof. Snape, Prof. McGonagall, and Madam Pomfrey. “It seems Mr. Potter here has sustained damage to the part of the brain that gives him the ability to sense and use magical energies.” Madam Pomfrey explained.

“Is there any way to cure the boy?” Prof. Dumbledore asked looking sadly at the shocked and fearful Harry.

Madam Pomfrey looked around the room and settling on Harry’s eyes and the look she gave him made his heart drop to his shoes. “I’m sorry, I am afraid Mr. Potter is now nothing more then a Muggle. I can do nothing to help him.” She sighed sadly as tears formed in Harry’s teenaged eyes. He was just almost a year and a half away, almost a year and a half from becoming a full-fledged wizard. Now it was all taken from him in an instant.

“Please…” Harry fought off a sob, “Please don’t say that. Please tell me there’s something you can do, I can do!” He begged tears running down his face.

“I’m terribly sorry, Mr. Potter, I truly am.” Pomfrey sighed.

“Seeing as Mr. Potter no longer has the gift of magic,” Snape said emotionlessly as if the heartbroken teen wasn’t in his presence anymore, “I feel he should be removed from Hogwarts posthaste.”

“I don’t…” Dumbledore started but was interrupted by Snape again.

“You know I do not feel as though the school should be aloud to dismiss Potter after all,” He said bringing a shocked look from everyone in the room, “He himself has saved this school on countless occasions selflessly. So perhaps the decision of the staff could be considered bias. If I may make a suggestion perhaps we can allow the students to decide Harry Potter’s fate.”

Dumbledore nodded at this, “Yes, I feel that is the right thing to do. Mr. Potter,” He said turning his attention to the upset teenager, “Go back to your dormitory; the voting will take in a school assembly in the morning. Do try not to worry about it, there is always hope.”

Harry nodded sadly and turned to go, “Goodnight.” He then sadly made his way to the Gryffindor commons and found Hermione and Ron waiting for him.

“Harry, what’s the matter?” Hermione asked seeing his tearstained face.

Harry slowly walked over and set down between the two and told them what he was told in Dumbledore’s office.

“Oh Harry.” Hermione sighed sadly her own eyes rimming with tears.

“I…don’t know Harry, maybe you leaving isn’t such a bad idea.” Ron said looking as though he was in deep thought.

“RON! HOW COULD YOU SAY THAT?” Hermione cried out in shock.

“Well, after Draco sent him out that window, it almost got him and you hurt. What if that happens again?” Ron said trying to show them his point, “I’m just saying…It isn’t safe here if Harry can’t defend himself, and if Draco can easily harm him, what about You-Know-Who?”

“I’ll…er…we’ll protect him! Draco and Voldemort will have to…” She said blushing lightly at the first but cut short when Harry abruptly stood and walked silently toward the dorm rooms. “Harry?”

Harry made his way to his bed, lay down and curled up into a ball. “Why?” he asked no one in particular before crying himself to sleep.

The next morning, the school assembled in the dinning hall at their respected tables, they all were chatting, wondering what this was all about, except Harry, who was looking nervous and sick, and Ron and Hermione who were setting on either side of Harry and watching their friend sadly. Then suddenly Prof. Dumbledore clapped his hands to draw attention to him. “May I have your attention?” Dumbledore requested as Hermione silently took Harry’s hand and gave it a gentle squeeze. Harry looked over at her sadly, and she mouthed ‘It’ll be all right’.

Dumbledore sadly informed the school of Harry’s condition, which earned many shocked looks and gasps and chuckles from the Slytherin table. “We have decided that the School Faculty could be considered bias on the grounds of Harry Potter’s fame and also the numbers of time he has saved this school from certain doom, we have determined that the best course of action would all you, Harry Potter’s piers, Harry Potter’s Friends decide weather or not he is to be aloud to remain here at Hogwarts with his hindered magical ability.” Dumbledore then looked down at the trembling Harry, “Mr. Potter would you be as so kind to leave the room while we conduct the vote?” Harry gave a weak nod and got up to leave.

Before he could leave the table Hermione got up and gave him a tight hug, “What ever happens, you can always count on me to be there for you, Harry, always.” Hermione whispered in his ear.

“Thanks, ‘Mione.” Harry whispered back then walking out the door of the dinning hall.

Harry stood out there for a moment, but the tension got to him quickly. “Forgive me, Prof. Dumbledore, I have to know,” Harry said as he pulled out his invisible cloak from his bag. Harry slowly made his way into the dinning hall, being extra careful not to be spotted by Dumbledore, who was the only one Harry knew who could see through the invisible cloak. Harry finally found a good spot beside a pillar where he could plainly see the whole room.

“Now, Students,” Dumbledore announce, “Let us begin the voting.” He then looked around the room and took a deep breath, “All those in favor of Harry Potter being dismissed permanently from Hogwarts School of Wizards and Witchcraft, please stand up.”

TO BE CONTINUED….

Chapter 3: Only a thought away …

Harry stood out there for a moment, but the tension got to him quickly. “Forgive me, Prof. Dumbledore, I have to know.” Harry said as he pulled out his invisible cloak from his bag. Harry slowly made his way into the dinning hall, being extra careful not to be spotted by Dumbledore, who was the only one Harry knew who could see through the invisible cloak. Harry finally found a good spot beside a pillar where he could plainly see the whole room.

“Now, Students.” Dumbledore announce, “Let us begin the voting.” He then looked around the room and took a deep breath, “All those in favor of Harry Potter being dismissed permanently from Hogwarts School of Wizards and Witchcraft, please stand up.”

Hermione looked around the room, and was not surprised for an instant when Draco jumped to his feet first followed by the entire Slytherin table. She was expecting all of them to vote for Harry’s dismissal, but she really didn’t expect anyone else to vote against him.

“Wha?” She gasped when Cho Change stood up from the Ravenclaw table followed by everyone seated at her table. “No… oh Harry…” Hermione gasped when the Hufflepuff table slowly all stood up. “This can’t be happening…” Hermione sighed and saw Dumbledore had a similar expression on his face.

When she thought it couldn’t get any worse, the completely unthinkable happened. First Lavender Brown stood to her feet. Then reluctantly Dennis and Colin Creevey stood up sadly. Then Ginny, Ron’s little sister, then Parvati Patil and Neville Longbottom all the way to the only ones in the room seated were the Professors and Ron and Hermione. Then if Hermione thought it couldn’t get worse, it did.

“Ron how can everyone betray Harry like…Ron?” Hermione started but her jaw dropped as she watched Ron seemingly proudly stand to his feet, “Ron…how … how could you…”

“It’s for his own good,” Ron whispered sadly, “everyone else sees it, why don’t you? Stand up, ‘Mione.”

“I’ll never do that to him, Ron, never,” Hermione forcefully said crossing her arms and setting firmly in her seat.

Dumbledore looked around the room, at the staring students and was at a loss for words. “A great betrayal will take place.” He muttered sadly. Yet another part of Trelawney’s prophecy has come true. “Ok…you may be seated,” Dumbledore said, trying futilely to hide his disappointment. “Ok, those in favor of Harry staying at Hogwarts, please stand up, please.”

After everyone set down, Hermione proudly stood up and scowled at everyone around her. “What’s wrong with you, Mudblood?” Draco laughed, “A muggle doesn’t belong here.”

“Shut up, Malfoy!” Hermione screamed, her face contorting in rage and hurt, “All of you! How could you, after everything Harry’s done, how many of you wouldn’t be alive today if it wasn’t for Harry Potter?” Hermione asked angrily looking around the room, “Collin, Dennis, you looked up to him as a hero, was it Harry you worshiped or was it just his name, his power?” She asked causing the Creeveys to drop their heads in shame, she then looked at all the members of Gryffindor’s Quidditch team, “And you, if this is any way a team is supposed to work together I don’t want anything to do with a ‘team’.” She then spun around at Ron who was trying to calm her and make her set back down, “Ron, you…. you’re supposed to be Harry’s best friend! Harry loves you like a brother, how could you do this to him? How could you?”

“Save it, Hermione,” Harry’s hurt and sad voice said from the shadows before he removed his cloak, “I know where I’m not wanted.” He said giving Ron a stern glare before walking out the door.

“Harry! Wait!” Hermione yelled and started to follow him.

Ron stood up and grabbed her wrist. “Herm, no, let him go. It’s for the best.”

Hermione came around and in one fluid motion brought her hand across Ron’s face in a smack that echoed through out almost the entire school. Ron stumbled back and on to the floor. He looked back up holding his sore cheek and his shocked eyes locked with Hermione’s contempt-filled eyes. She then spun around and shot out the door Harry exited through.

Hermione made a beeline for the Gryffindor boys’ dormitory, cursed the moving stair cases for slowing her down, when she finally got there, Hagrid was holding Harry’s trunk and Hedwig’s cage while Harry continued to pack his suitcase. Harry looked up at her for a moment then tossed her the invisible cloak, “here, you can have this.” Harry said a slight tremble in his voice.

“Don’t go,” Hermione said barely above a whisper.

“Why should I stay?” Harry asked anger in his voice. “You’re the only one who seems to want me here. So what’s the point in the matter?”

“Don’t go,” She repeated just a little louder, “I don’t want you to go.”

“Something I learned the hard way, Hermione,” Harry said slamming his suitcase, “We don’t always get what we want.”

“Harry…I…I haven’t read about this happening before, but I’ll keep reading and studying, I’m bound to find a way to help you sooner or later, so please don’t go.” Hermione begged tears rimming her eyes.

“No one else seems to care,” Harry said emotionlessly walking up beside Hagrid with his back still to her, “why do you care?”

“Why do I care?” Hermione asked almost sounding angry, “Why do I CARE? Do you want to know why I care about you? I’M IN LOVE WITH YOU, HARRY POTTER! T-That’s why, that’s why I care.” She half yelled half sobbed causing Harry to drop his suitcase and stand still as a statue.

“Ah should ne herd dat.” Hagrid said turning his back his face turning blood red.

“W-What?” Harry asked slowly turning around with a look of utter shock on his face.

“Ah tink ah’ll leave ya two ‘lone.” Hagrid said taking Harry’s trunk and Hedwig with him.

“I love you, Harry. I’m not sure when I fell for you, maybe I’ve always had these feelings.” Hermione whispered walking up to the stunned Harry, “But I noticed it fourth year, when you disappeared during your last task, I started thinking about what would happen if you didn’t come back, and … and I couldn’t imagine life without you. Whenever you’re with me, even if You-Know-Who was staring me in the face, if you were with me, I’d feel safe. No one makes me feel that way, no one. I should have told you earlier but I was so scared you’d freak out, and break all contact with me; I’d rather have your friendship then nothing at all. But now you’re talking about leaving, and I see no reason not to tell you how much I truly, honestly love you.”

“Hermione … I …” Harry stuttered, he really didn’t know what to say to her words. What Hermione did next made it unnecessary.

She stood up on her toes and kissed him. Not a kiss on the cheek. Not a gentle peck kiss on the lips. With her very soul: all her emotions, all her passion, with all her being, she kissed him.

After a moment, when the initial shock wore off, Harry returned the kiss with the same if not more passion and love. “Hermione,” Harry whispered breaking the kiss, “Mione, I feel the same …” Harry confessed softly, “But … but you know I haven’t any options.”

“You … you can have me … if it’ll make you stay … if you want … I’m yours …” Hermione whispered shyly, surprised at her words, but the desperation to make him stay surpassed any logic and shame. And it was true; she’d do anything to make him stay with her.

“No, Hermione,” Harry said as if he was arguing with himself mentally, “you don’t mean that, and I wouldn’t want it like that,” he then traced her jaw line, “I … I’m sure you’ll make a wizard extremely happy someday, Hermione. You deserve better then a muggle. The greatest witch in the world deserves the greatest wizard.”

“Harry … if … if you have to go, I’ll come with you. I’m a muggle-born anyway, so I’ll just go with you,” Hermione reasoned as a tear slid down her cheek, “Yes, we’ll go and stay with my parents, that way you won’t have to put up with those horrid Dursleys!”

“No Hermione,” Harry said forcefully, gripping her shoulders gently, “Hermione, you’re the best, the absolute greatest witch Hogwarts has ever seen, and ever will see. I won’t drag you down with me, no bloody way. I’m going to go and … and I’ll figure something out. Never know, maybe our paths will cross again someday …”

“Harry …” Hermione whimpered, mentally kicking herself for being a cry baby.

“Listen, Mione, I read a letter, Sirius gave it to me last summer,” Harry said looking away for a moment, “but it was from my mum, some how she must have known she wouldn’t be here to see me grow up, anyway she told me something in the letter … and it applies to our situation.”

Hermione nodded brokenheartedly, not saying a word.

“Hermione, will you ever forget me?” Harry asked causing her head to snap up, almost angrily.

“Harry, honestly,” Hermione gasped, “how … how do you think I could possibly forget you?”

Harry simply nodded and gave her a forced smile, “then as long as you remember … I’ll always be with you. No matter what, I’ll only be a thought away.”

“I … I’ll never ever forget you, Harry,” Hermione said not able to look him in the eye any longer without breaking down in sobs, “promise you’ll never forget me.”

“I promise, Mione,” Harry croaked out, mentally scolding his weakness, “goodbye …” he then turned and slowly (atleast to Hermione) walked out of the room with his suitcase closing the door behind him.

Hermione stood there, staring at the door letting everything sink in. once it finally did her legs quickly grew weak and she collapsed to her hands and knees in violent sobs.

Harry walked up beside the still blushing Hagrid. The half-giant looked down at the teen sadly, “Ready to go home, ‘arry?”

Harry let out a faint yet sad chuckle causing Hagrid to look at him confused, “Funny. I thought I was home, Hagrid. I guess I was wrong.”

Hagrid took Harry back to the Dursley’s and placed his trunk in the small cupboard under the stairs. Hagrid started to hand Harry Hedwig’s cage when Harry pushed it back. Both Hedwig and Hagrid looked at Harry confusedly “Give her to Hermione, tell her I want her to have her.” Harry then opened the door and rubbed Hedwig’s head making the snow owl chirp sadly, “Listen, Hedwig, I want you to keep an eye on Hermione for me, ok?”

Hedwig then chirped sadly as if to say ok and gently nibbled on Harry’s fingers one last time before Harry shut the door. “I’ll miss you too, Hedwig. Take care of yourself.”

“Well… ah guess tis is good be, ‘arry, ah’ll miss ye.” Hagrid said fighting back tears.

“I’ll miss you too.” Harry said hugging the giant, “Maybe we’ll meet again some time down the road.” Harry reassured his friend.

“Do ne worry, ‘arry.” Hagrid said with a smile and a wink, “Ah’ll look after ya gir’ friend.”

Harry blushed for a moment before shaking it off, “You better go before Uncle Vernon catches you here.” Harry said as Hagrid placed a hand on his shoulder, “It was ne right what they did to ye, and ah’ll make ser they know me feelins.”

“Thanks,” Harry said as the half giant turned to leave, “Goodbye, Hagrid.”

Harry watched his friend leave, then turned and headed toward the kitchen to make himself some tea. It was late and apparently the Dursleys were all asleep. He finished preparing his tea and went back to his little room under the stairs, seeing as the Dursleys used his bedroom as a storage room while he was away, it was physically impossible to make the room livable even if he still had the gift of magic, so he decided to stay in the old cupboard at least till morning. He set down on the way too small bed and a photograph caught his eye. It was from his fifth year, of Ron, Himself, and Hermione standing in between them. The magical picture showed them giggling and laughing and occasionally Hermione would kiss one of the two boys on the cheek.

Harry adjusted his bandage over his head, climbed into bed and fell asleep faster then he expected, with Hermione’s words and the feel of her lips on his fresh on his mind.

The next morning he walked into the kitchen and received shocked looks and gasps from the Dursleys.

“Boy, what are you doing here?” Uncle Vernon growled eyeing him suspiciously.

“He probably got in trouble and got kicked out.” Dudley chuckled, “Maybe even freaks think you’re a freak!”

“What happened?” Aunt Petunia asked in a near growl pointing toward his bandage around his forehead.

Harry then told them exactly what happened, and tried very hard not to cry in front of them of all people. Harry looked at Dudley and Uncle Vernon’s smirking faces then heard the one thing he didn’t expect.

“Oh my dear boy, I am so sorry.” Aunt Petunia said kindly, “Oh you must be hungry, here, eat up!” she said as she took Vernon and Dudley’s plates and combined them and placed it in front of Harry. “If you would like more, do let me know!”

Harry blinked a few times then looked at his aunt like she had grown a second head. “Dudley, Vernon, you go and clean out Harry’s room,” Petunia ordered.

“But…” Vernon and Dudley whimpered.

“I know you two are butts, that’s beside the bloody point, go now!” she ordered firmly.

They both glared at Harry, but got up and went to work.

“Uh…thanks…” Harry stuttered to his aunt who was smiling sweetly at him.

“Come along, son, I’ll draw you a hot bath.” Petunia said happily pulling Harry to his feet and dragging him toward the bathroom.

Harry watched in total shock as his aunt prepared him a bubble bath. “There you go, Harry, Sweetheart, I’ll leave you to it, and go and make sure your uncle and cousin are doing their job right, bloody fools, wish he didn’t say yes when I proposed marriage.” She sighed giving the shocked teenager a friendly wave.

Harry watched her leave then turned to the mirror on the wall. He slowly removed his bandage to avoid touching the sore cut on his forehead and gasped when he saw where he was cut. His forehead had a two and a half inch scar going right through the middle of his lightening bolt scar Voldemort gave him when he was a year old.

“Funny…” Harry said tracing it with his finger, “It…it looks like an ‘X’ now…”

To Be Continued…

C. Cowboy: sorry for the evil cliffhanger, and sorry to say, more is on the way, cliffies are my trademark I’m afraid, anyway … like it? Love it? Hate it? Give me some feedback and tell me what you think, and expect more soon!

Chapter 4: Draco’s Secret

A few days later …

Hermione slowly drug herself out of Prof. McGonagall’s class with the same depressed look she’s had since Harry left. “Hermione!” a voice called from behind her. She turned and watched Lavender run up to her, “Feeling any better?” She asked concernedly.

“No. I really don’t feel myself.” Hermione growled, “So you going to vote me out of school too?”

“Herm,” Lavender sighed sadly, “Harry had no business here anymore. He couldn’t use magic so there’s no way he could have passed any of his classes. Besides, he’s safer away from Malfoy, Snape, and You-Know-Who.”

Hermione sighed in frustration. Lavender had a point, Hermione would die to protect Harry, and she thought Ron would have too, but maybe their right. She wasn’t Harry shadow, She couldn’t be with him twenty-four seven to keep him safe. “Whatever,” Hermione sighed.

“So Herm,” Lavender said changing the subject, “How did you do on McGonagall’s test. A hundred as usual?”

“Twelve,” Hermione whispered making Lavender blink in confusion.

“Twelve? You …you failed … ANOTHER test …” Lavender asked in disbelief. “Hermione, that’s the fifth one this week!”

“Whatever,” Hermione said emotionlessly and started back walking toward the Gryffindor commons.

“Wait up!” Lavender cried running up behind her.

The girls walked into the Gryffindor commons and were surprised when they heard soft sobbing. They looked around and saw Ron scribbling on a parchment then wadding it up and throwing it into the fire.

“Ron?” Lavender asked making the red headed boy jump. “What are you doing?”

“Nothing!” Ron snapped rubbing his eyes.

“What’s the matter, Ron?” Hermione asked worriedly.

“Nothing’s the matter. Why would anything be the matter? I just stabbed the best friend I ever had in the back! No, nothing at all is the matter!” Ron said turning his back on the girls to hide his tears.

“Ron…” Lavender sighed worriedly, reaching toward him, only for him to brush her off. “Ron, aren’t you even a little bit hungry?” She asked trying to change the subject.

“No, you can go to lunch without me, thank you.” Ron said moving toward the boys’ dormitory.

“What’s with him?” Lavender asked concerned.

“Guilt,” Hermione stated turning toward the exit.

The two girls walked toward the dinning hall but Hermione took a turn toward the owlry.

“Hermione where are you going?” Lavender asked concerned for her other depressed friend.

“Just going to owl someone. Be down in a tic.” Hermione said as she made her way up the stairs. “Harry, if I find out those Dursleys touch a hair, I’ll hex them to the moon.”

not long later, back at the Dursleys, Harry was eating up the attention from his aunt, much to his uncle and cousin’s disapproval. He didn’t understand why she was acting so nice to him, but wasn’t going to jinx it by asking about it.

Harry was laying comfortably on the brand new feather bed his aunt had bought him and was watching his 40” television set which she also bought for him among other gifts. All these presents had to almost push Uncle Vernon to bankruptcy, but considering the years of hell he’s put him through, he couldn’t care a less.

Harry was resting peacefully, watching Big Brother when something hit the window hard and began to rapidly peck on it like a woodpecker. “What the?” Harry asked opening the window to let the hyper owl in his room. “Pig?” Harry asked watching the owl flutter around his head rapidly.

“Letter from Ron huh?” Harry said wrestling the letter off the struggling feathered ball of energy. Once he finally got it away, Pig perched on the bedpost and glared hatefully at Harry for ruffling his feathers. Harry looked at the angered bird then at the letter in his hand. Harry threw the letter into his trashcan and laid back down on his bed turning his attention back to the television.

His eyes slowly moved from the television to the trashcan and back again. Harry then gave off a loud growl, got up and pulled the letter out of the trash. “Might as well hear him out.” Harry said as he tore open the envelope.

Harry,

I know you probably don’t want anything to do with me anymore. But please understand: I didn’t do what I did to hurt you. I still consider you the best friend I’ve ever had and as much a brother to me as my real brothers. If that ‘duel’ with Draco never happened, I would have never voted for you to be forced to leave. Harry do you know what Draco could do to you, especially now he knows that you don’t have your power. I know I’ve said this before, but it’s true and you know it is. Heh If it wasn’t for this being such a serious situation I would find it funny; usually ‘Mione is the voice of reason in our little group. But, Harry, the last six years you’ve gone out of your way to make sure me and everyone else in Hogwarts never came to harm, I was just trying to return the favor.

I really miss you, Harry, It’s really not the same without you. And I’ve never seen Hermione this sad. I’ve started doing something I’ve never done before too, intense study. I have been looking for ways to give you your abilities back. I’m not going to stop till I find a way. I’ve even owled Sirius and told him about what has happened and he’s trying to find a way as well.

I wish I could say that I’m really doing this because I want my best friend back here and try to make things what they used to be, because I know that would be selfish and unrealistic. After what happened I don’t expect things to ever be the same between us and I really don’t blame you for no longer wishing to be my friend.

But the truth is, I’m doing this for Hermione. Harry, she’s not the same without you. She’s even failed a test apparently for the first time in her life and that’s scary. But I have to tell you… I followed her when you two spoke the day you left. And the reason I really want you to return is, well … I love her, Harry. And the day you left, when I heard what she told you, I knew she was yours and there was nothing I could do. I don’t care what you say Harry, but I know you feel the same about her. She needs you now more then ever, and I believe you need her just as much. You can make her happy, and that’s what I care about. I only wish she chose me instead, but I’d rather her choose you instead of someone like Malfoy. Hurry back, Harry.

Your Friend (I hope)

Ron

P.S. Please don’t hate me

Harry blinked a few times, and read it a few times. “Ron…” Harry sighed regretfully.

He then grabbed a piece of paper and scribbled a message on it and, with a great deal of work, placed it on Pig’s leg. “Now go back to Ron, ok.”

Pig chirped happily and shot toward the window and broke through the unopened part causing a sigh from Harry.

“Harry, dear?” Aunt Petunia asked walking into the bedroom. “Oh dear, what happened to the window?”

“Oh just some crazy bird.” Harry said with a faint blush.

Petunia shrugged it off, and placed a tray with a plate made up of a sandwich, tea, a variety of cookies, chips, and also accompanied by a large white rose for decoration (heaven knows why). “Here’s you snack dear. I’ll leave you to eat up,” she said kissing Harry on the forehead.

Harry watched her go with a perplexed look, “Just keeps scaring me more and more every day.” Harry then looked down at his sandwich and his mouth suddenly began to water. A six-inch sub less then an hour before dinner. If he didn’t slow down on his aunt’s food, he’d be bigger then Dudley in a couple of weeks. Then a familiar chirp drew his attention to the window.

“Hedwig!” Harry exclaimed happily. Hedwig happily soared into the room and landed on Harry’s shoulder and happily rubbed her face against the side of Harry’s head. “I missed you too.” Harry said scratching Hedwig’s head.

“Let me guess, message from Hermione?” Harry asked as he removed a parchment from Hedwig’s leg.

Hedwig chirped an affirmative as Harry opened the letter.

Harry,

I know it’s just been a few days since you left, but I miss you horribly. The whole school seems a bit darker without you around, and a bit more frightening. It makes me angry, only Ron and myself seem to be fazed by your absence. Don’t worry; I’ve been using your last bit of advice you gave me. When ever I start to miss you being here I think about the happy times we shared together, you me and Ron, and it’s like you’re still her with us, with me. I’m doing fine with classes and passing as usual, which shouldn’t surprise you. I’m also still looking for a way to give you the ability to perform magic again, but I’ve little luck so far.

The best I can find is an old legend in ‘Ancient Myths of Magical England’ that says that there was a group of people who could use magic differently then Wizards and Witches, they didn’t use magic, but could literally merge with the magical fields around them and control and override spells and curses with their very thoughts. They were called ‘Mystics’. But it’s only a legend, and the ways of the Mystics could only be taught by Mystics and by powerful Wizards called ‘Sages’, but I fear none exist any longer.

Looks like a dead end, but I’ll never stop looking. I’ll find a way to bring you back, or go blind reading one.

I pray that horrid Aunt, Uncle, and cousin of yours is treating you fairly. If they are not, I do not care if I’m kicked out of Hogwarts, I’ll hex them with everything I know.

I hope to hear from you soon, and hopefully my next letter will have a way to bring you back.

Love,

Hermione

Harry sighed, a part of him wanted to go back to Hogwarts, but not for the other students, but only to be there for Ron and Hermione. If he got the ability to use magic again, he’d help protect the professors, Ron and especially Hermione, but the other students … he shook his head, bitter thoughts like this likely what caused Tom Riddle to become the raging psychopath, Lord Voldemort. And no way would Harry allow himself to become like him. Not a chance.

Harry set there and thought about how he could respond, but finally, after filling his trashcan with wadded up paper, he finally attached a note to Hedwig’s leg. “Ok take that to Hermione, on and take this to her too!” Harry said as he took the white rose from the tray and placed it in Hedwig’s mouth. “Thanks, old friend.” Harry said as the snow owl flew out the window.

“What’s all the ruckus up here?” Aunt Petunia asked walking back into the room, “Have you finished your snack yet, dear, would you like more?”

“N-No ma’am,” Harry stuttered looking up, “But may I ask you a question?”

“Of course, Harry.” Petunia said with a smile.

“Well, you and Uncle Vernon were always a bit cruel to me, why are you being so nice now?”

Petunia smiled and set down on his bed beside him. “Lets just say…we have a lot in common…”

Meanwhile, back at Hogwarts…

Ron set patiently waiting for Pig to return, looking out from the open window, when he spotted a figure in a dark cloak walking out toward the Forbidden Forest in a dark cloak. “What’s this?”

Ron then grabbed Harry’s invisible cloak Hermione loaned him and quickly made his way outside and followed the trail the figure traveled on.

Ron looked around the forest, when he finally heard voices. Despite his invisible cloak, Ron made sure not to risk being spotted by some other means, and maneuvered where he could see whom it was conversing.

“You summoned me, my master?” the cloaked figure asked to the other in the shadows with a familiar voice.

“Yes, how goes the operation?” the one in the shadows hissed.

“The only down side is Potter still lives, but he is of no threat anymore. He has lost all his powers,” The cloaked figure said removing his hood making Ron bite his knuckle to keep gasping out loud. ‘Draco!’ he thought angrily.

“What of Dumbledore?” the voice in the shadows asked.

“Thanks to the training you gave me, He’s like everyone else in the school, under my command and doesn’t even realize it! Even the ghosts and paintings do what I want.” Draco chuckled.

“Under MY command.” The voice hissed, “And everyone you say?”

“Well,” Draco said in deep thought, “It appears that Ron Weasley, the groundskeeper and the Mudblood girl appear to be able to fight it off. I do not understand it.”

“I expected as much. Loyalty is a strong thing, one of the few things stronger them most magic. But give them time, my apprentice, even loyalty can be broken eventually.”

“Weather they break or not, it matters little.” Draco boasted, “They are anything but a threat without Potter there holding their hands.”

‘Draco’s working with You-Know-Who?’ Ron thought as fear engulfed his body, ‘This is bad…’ Ron thought as he silently made his way back to the castle.

Once he made it to the Dormitory, he threw the cloak under his bed and pulled the sheets to his chest nervously. “I need to tell someone but…” Ron whispered to himself, “Draco said even Dumbledore was under his control…the only ones he said wasn’t was Hermione, me, and Hagrid, but that could change… who can I trust…” he then rolled over to face the window, “Harry…. hurry…”

TO BE CONTINUED…

C. Cowboy: Who was Draco talking to in the shadows? Was it Voldemort? Or was it someone else even deadlier? Is their any truth to the legend of the Mystics and Sages? More on the way! Now drop a review please and tell me what ya think so far.

Chapter 5: Petunia’s Past

“What’s all the ruckus up here?” Aunt Petunia asked walking back into the room, “Have you finished your snack yet, dear, would you like more?”

“N-No ma’am,” Harry stuttered looking up, “But may I ask you a question?”

“Of course, Harry.” Petunia said with a smile.

“Well, you and Uncle Vernon were always mean to me, why are you being so nice now?”

Petunia smiled and set down on his bed beside him. “Lets just say…we have a lot in common.”

“We…do?” Harry gulped starting to get a weird sick feeling in his stumach.

“Do you know why I despise those freaks that you call Wizards and Witches?” Aunt Petunia asked growling out the last part.

“Uh…no…” Harry said growing nervous.

“Well, you see, I went to Hogwarts as well, with your…mother.” Petunia growled.

“Wait…” Harry said looking up, “You’re a Muggle, only Wizards and Witches go to Hogwarts that would mean you…oh no…” Harry said dropping his face into his hands. It hit him fast and hard, but she still clarified it for him anyway.

“Yes, You’re not the only one who had an accident and was kicked out of that god awful school!” Aunt Petunia complained, then raising her bangs to show Harry a barely visible scar across her forehead, “Mine was a slightly different accident, wasn’t even an accident, you see I was so nice and so popular, everyone loved me, really they did! Then this one disgraceful Gryffindor walked up and shoved me down a flight of stairs! I never in my life was so outraged! And your mother and her pathetic boyfriend had the nerve to patronize me!”

“Umm, Aunt Petunia, what house were you in?” Harry asked already knowing the answer.

“Slytherin, dear,” She responded.

“Not surprised,” Harry grunted letting his face drop back into his hand.

“Anyway, Harry, dear, now you’re just like me!” Aunt Petunia chirped happily hugging the now sick looking teen, “And you’ll grow up just like me!”

“I feel sick…” Harry sighed his color leaving his face from the thought of growing up like a Dursley.

“Oh Harry dear, you don’t look so good, lay down and take a rest.” Petunia said sweetly, as Harry mechanically climbed into bed.

“I think I’ll do that, thanks, night.” Harry said in a monotone voice.

As Aunt Petunia turned off the light and shut the door her words came back to him, ‘Harry, dear, now you’re just like me! And you’ll grow up just like me!’

<Dream Sequence>

Harry could opened his eyes and saw himself standing outside Hogwarts, he saw Dumbledore and the professors standing out front of the entire student body, and Harry easily spotted a fearful Hermione with Ron standing before her protectively.

But before them was a mass of deatheaters, not a group but an army, and at the front was Wormtail himself.

“Leave here at once!” Dumbledore commanded looking down upon Wormtail.

“You really aren’t one to place orders, old man,” Wormtail said nodding as the students and teachers were led out before the deatheaters. “Drop your wand and surrender, and we may let the children go.”

Dumbledore looked down at the frightened children, and the professors with defeated looks upon their faces. “Very well,” Dumbledore sighed dropping his wand at his feet. “You have won, now let the children go.”

“Sorry, I am under orders to leave no survivors,” Wormtail said with a smirk, “Dreadfully sorry, old chap, Crucio.” Once he said the spell the deatheaters mimicked him and Dumbledore dropped to his knees crying in pain as he was hit with multiple Cruciatus spells.

“Now, kill the children, starting with those close to the Potter boy,” Wormtail ordered pointing his wand at Hermione, as the deatheaters aimed their wands at the lines of students.

Harry gasped as he heard them all shout “Avada Kedavra!”

“HERMIONE!!!” Harry cried, though no one could hear him, and in a second the Avada Kedavra blasts shot into the crowd of students and professors causing young and old to fall over instantly dead.

Harry saw Hermione’s tear and fear filled eyes just before Ron shoved her to the ground before being hit by the spell from Wormtail.

“RON!!!!” Hermione and Harry cried at the same time, though Hermione was the only one heard.

Hermione rolled Ron’s lifeless body over, and a sob escaped her lips, “Ron …” Hermione whispered before looking around to see she was the only one left.

“Do not fear, Mudblood,” A voice hissed causing Hermione to freeze.

“Oh Merlin … not this …” Harry begged as he saw the dark wizard he saw reborn his fifth year slowly stride toward

“S-Stay away!” Hermione stuttered stepping away from the dark wizard before stumbling over Ginny’s lifeless body.

Hermione drew her wand only to watch it fly out of her hand to Voldemort’s, “You won’t need this, and you have no need for fear, I won’t make it too painful.”

“You may kill me,” Hermione said forcing every ounce of bravery she had to the surface to glare into Voldemort’s blood red eyes, “But Harry will find a way to destroy you!”

“Crucio,” Voldemort said as he pointed his wand at the girl, making her fall to the ground screaming in pain.

“STOP IT!!” Harry cried jumping at Voldemort only to pass through him as if he was only air.

“Potter is just a muggle now,” Voldemort hissed at the girl lying on the ground writhing in pain, “Even lower now then you.”

“E-even as … a … muggle …” Hermione gasped out painfully, “He’s greater then … you’ll ever be …”

“Such faith …” Voldemort hissed, “I’ll be sure to allow him to join you soon.”

“Hermione sighed and closed her eyes when she saw Voldemort raise his wand again, and pointed it at her, “I love you, Harry …” She whispered one last time.

“Avada Kedavra,” Voldemort cried and the beam of magic passed through Harry’s body, which was futilely trying to shield Hermione. Harry growled at Voldemort’s pleased expression before slowly looking back down at Hermione, into her open lifeless, soulless eyes.

<End Dream Sequence>

“HERMIONE!!!!!” Harry gasped setting up in bed covered in sweat and breathing rapidly holding his slightly swollen scar. “I… I have to get my powers back…”

Meanwhile back at Hogwarts…

Hermione sat, staring out the common room’s window into the clear starlit night. She then sighed sadly and leaned back letting her eyes rest.

Hey Hermione!” Ron said running down into the crowded Commons room. He was actually surprised he caught her not reading. That was a first for him. “Hermione, We need to talk!”

“I’m listening.” Hermione sighed sounding depressed.

“Not with this many around, can we speak somewhere private?” Ron asked looking around at the many Gryffindors wondering around the commons before breakfast.

“No, no need to go anywhere else.” She said matter-of-factly standing to her feet. She looked around, took a deep breath then yelled at the top of her lungs, “VOLDEMORT!!!!”

The room fell deadly quiet for a split second before everyone except Ron and Hermione scattered in panic. Some shot up towards the dorms while others shot out through the exit. Once the dust settle only Ron and Hermione remained, with the trampled Neville dragging himself up the stairs to the boys’ dorms begging for help.

“Well now.” Hermione said once Neville made it around the bend, “You were saying?”

“I followed Draco late last night.” Ron said setting down nervously looking around.

“And?” Hermione asked seemingly hardly interested.

“He met someone, someone he called ‘his master’.” Ron whispered incase someone was listening.

“What? What did he say?” Hermione asked growing interested.

“He told who ever that was that the plan was going perfectly, that only you, Hagrid, and me, we’re the only ones not under his influence,” Ron said watching Hermione grow pale.

“You… you think it was You-Know-Who?” Hermione asked nervously.

“I don’t know,” Ron replied just as fearful.

“We…we need to tell Dumbledore!” Hermione said worriedly.

“No,” Ron said shaking his head, “He said Dumbledore was under his influence too. Everyone, every painting, and even the ghosts are under his control! And I think we’re partially controlled too!” Ron said.

“How else did everyone believe Draco didn’t mean to do what he did? Harry was right, that was completely unbelievable! And also how else did EVERYONE go and decide to get Harry out of Hogwarts was the best course of action?” Ron bellowed marching around.

“Excuse me, not everyone decided that,” Hermione said looking cross at Ron.

“So, now what do we do?” Ron asked plopping down in the chair across from Hermione.

“We could owl Sirius,” Hermione suggested, “Ask his advice?”

“No,” Ron sighed, “If we can’t trust, Dumbledore, and the paintings or Ghosts either, how can we trust the owls?”

Suddenly Pig, Hedwig, and a third owl flew in and landed on the couch rail. “Alright!” Ron cheered as he removed his messages from Pig and the other owl while Hermione removed her’s from Hedwig.

Ron quickly read over Harry’s first:

Ron,

I won’t lie to you, you really hurt me, but I guess you do have a point. That shot out the window did tickle a bit. You really surprised me what you said to me about Hermione. I’m sorry it worked out this way, and I think it would be best to tell you if she didn’t choose me I’d have liked her to be with you as well. I miss you both terribly and I thank you for looking for a way for me to get my magic back. I promise you, Ron, once I get back, I’ll make sure Hermione is happy and says that way. Until then keep an eye on her for me and be there for her. I doubt you’ll have a problem with that.

Harry

P.S. After everything we’ve been through together, you honestly think I could ever hate you? We’re brothers, Ron. Brothers can never hate one another.

Ron smiled contently and rubbed his eyes on his sleeve, making sure Hermione didn’t see the mixed joyful and saddened tears that threatened his eyes.

Hermione sighed and finally mustered the courage to read her letter from Harry.

Hermione,

I was really happy to hear from you, and I’ve missed you just as much. Don’t worry about the Dursleys, Aunt Petunia is acting really funny though, she’s being really, really nice to me, and making Uncle Vernon and Dudley wait on me hand and foot.

I’m pleased to hear you’re doing well in your classes, and I’d hate to think my absence would cause such a change as to cost you the points needed to be head girl next year, I know that you’ve wanted that position since you came to Hogwarts.

I’ve calmed down a lot, and though I miss you and Ron terrible I’m not sure I’d come back to Hogwarts even if I regained my magic abilities, Ron’s apologized and said he was just doing it to protect me, and I believe him, so please don’t be too hard on him about the subject. And even if we don’t find a way to regain my abilities, without the hard labor the Dursleys usually force me into when I’m here, the Muggle ways of life isn’t that bad, and you’ll come home on Christmas and Summer holidays, and I’ll be sure to come and visit you at your home then.

Whatever way it goes, please don’t forget me. Keep an eye on Ron, and neither of you do anything stupid. Write back soon.

Love,

Harry

“What did Harry say to you?” Ron asked at the tomato faced Hermione.

“N-Nothing! Except to make sure we don’t do anything stupid and his aunt is acting funny. Actually being nice to him for a change. I wonder why …” She said avoiding the more personal parts of the letter. “Who is that other one from?” Hermione asked looking at the other letter in his hand.

“Snuffles…” Ron responded reading it.

Hermione watched him read it and waited impatiently.

“Oh my god…” Ron gasped.

“What is it?” Hermione asked jumping to her feet.

“Oh my god…” he repeated a little louder.

“Ron!” Hermione yelled shaking him, “What does it say??”

“Oh my god…” Ron repeated yet again this time shakily from being shaken.

“Oh just let me read the bloody thing!” Hermione snapped jerking the letter from his hand.

Her eyes ran down the short letter before her eyes shot wide and began to fill with hopeful and happy tears, “Oh my god…”

Ron,

I think I know a way. By the time you get this, I’ll be on my way to get Harry. I’ll keep you informed.

Snuffles

To Be Continued…

C. Cowboy: What has Sirius have up his sleeve? Was Harry’s dream a premonition? Will Harry be able to stop Voldemort’s invasion of Hogwarts even if he gets the ability of Magic back? Find out soon ^_~

Chapter 6: The First Sage

It was after dark on Privet Drive, as a man in a long dark cloak made his way to the Dursley home. He finally made it to the door and knocked on the door. Dudley came to the door and looked at the cloaked figure.

“Father told me to tell you we paid at the office!” Dudley snapped and started to slam the door.

The man caught the door, “I’ve come to talk to Harry Potter. Is he in?”

“What if he is?” Dudley snapped as Uncle Vernon walked up behind him.

“Are you here to take the brat away?” Vernon asked hopefully.

“It’s a possibility.” The man grunted.

Dudley and Vernon then smiled brightly at the man and threw the door open, “Oh thank you so much sir, you do not know the torture my wife has put us through because of that little…” Vernon rambled.

“I get the idea.” The man said walking in and making a beeline toward Harry’s room.

The man walked into Harry’s room and spotted him unrestfully sleeping in his bed. He shut the door and pulled his cloak back as he walked to his bedside. “Wake up, Kiddo.” He said softly as he shook Harry’s shoulders.

Harry’s eyes shot open and he jumped up, “NO! I DON’T CARE IF YOU AND RON DO NAME YOU’RE FIRST BORN AFTER ME, DON’T MARRY HIM, HERMIONE!!!!!” Harry then blinked at the confusion on Sirius’ face, then registered that it was in fact Sirius

“Sirius? Sirius!” Harry cried out as he hugged his godfather tightly.

“Missed you too, Kiddo, but … what was that little outburst about Hermione about?” Sirius asked with a hint of sarcasm.

“N-nothing.. Just a silly dream,” Harry stuttered looking down shyly. “What are you doing here?”

“I don’t know if this will work or not, but … I think I might know how to get your magic back.” Sirius said setting down on Harry’s bed.

“What?” Harry asked hopefully, “how?”

“Harry, how do you think Wizards and Witches learned magic before Hogwarts?” Sirius asked looking at the teenager.

“I don’t know, I never thought about it.” Harry said after thinking for a moment, “Hermione said something in a letter about people called Mystics and Sages.”

“Not surprised really, Hermione really is a smart girl,” Sirius chuckled, “ Anyway, Harry, I heard this while I was in Azkaban, anyway, before there was schools for witchcraft and wizardry, Wizards and Witches were trained by people who could detect magical ability and teach them how to unlock their full potential, those where the Sages Hermione spoke of.” Sirius explained.

“So all we have to do is find a Sage, and he’ll be able to teach me to use magic again.” Harry asked getting slightly excited.

“I’m afraid it isn’t that easy, there hasn’t been a Sage in well over a thousand years.” Sirius sighed.

“So why bring this up?” Harry growled laying back in frustration.

“Well …What I heard in Azkaban,” Sirius started, noticeably avoiding eye contact with Harry, “There is a rumor that there’s still one living in the Scottish Highlands. Balthazzar I think was what they said he went by.”

“So…were’ going to be going on a hunch?” Harry asked cocking an eyebrow.

“No.” Sirius said with a smug look, “A well educated hunch! Ron owled me when you…left Hogwarts, and I jumped on this lead, and I think I found him. You willing to give it a shot?”

Harry took a look around, and the thought of his dream shot back in his head, “Yeah, but…I’m not one hundred percent sure I want to go back to Hogwarts.” Harry said sadly “I do for Hermione and Ron, but … after what they did …”

“I don’t blame you.” Sirius said placing a comforting hand on his Godson’s shoulder, “Come on, Kiddo, let’s see what we can do. Then we’ll go from there,”

Harry and Sirius then made their way to the fireplace, when a voice caught their attention. “Where do you think your going?”

Harry turned and walked up to his Aunt, “Aunt Petunia, I can’t thank you enough for showing me the kindness you have. But…I have to do this; I have to go back. I’m not too crazy about it, being kicked out like I was, but I have to. I’m going to regain my powers, and I’m going to go back to Hogwarts, weather they want me there or not. Not to show them that I’m better then them, but to show that I’m equal to them. Plus I miss my friends, I can’t shake the feeling they need me. But Aunt Petunia please understand, if I turned my back I would be no better then those that betrayed me,” Harry then kissed his shocked and disappointed Aunt on the cheek; “I’m doing this for me… and for you. Goodbye Aunt Petunia.”

Harry then nodded to Sirius and the two stepped into the portal Sirius magically created by Sirius’s Floo Powder.

“Where are we?” Harry asked looking around at the small cottage-like room.

“A small village in Scotland.” Sirius said heading toward the door. “I stayed here for a couple days while I looked up this Balthazzar.”

“So you know where he lives?” Harry asked following him out of the living area.

“Yeah but its late now, we’ll go pay him a visit in the morning.” Sirius said refusing to make eye contact.

“Why do I get the feeling you know something that you are not telling me?” Harry asked suspiciously.

“Get a good night’s rest, Harry,” Sirius said abruptly, “Tomorrow’s going to be a long day.”

Meanwhile at Hogwarts…

Hermione slowly snuck down the stairs from the dormitory. She looked around and made sure that no one was around before making her way out of the Commons room. She slowly and carefully made her way through the halls to the room guarded by fluffy. She pointed her wand at the door. “Alohomora.” Hermione whispered as the door lock clicked open. She looked around and spotted the gigantic three-headed dog lightly sleeping.

“Musica,” She whispered again pointing her wand at the harp in the corner of the room making it play lightly, thus making the dog fall into a deeper sleep.

She slowly made it through the newly revised traps, which even at Hermione’s worse, she could easily figure out a way around. Then she finally found what she was looking for, The Mirror of Erised.

She took a deep breath and looked into the mirror and smiled at what she saw. She could see herself but also a pair of arms wrapped around her waist and a face resting on her shoulder with unruly black hair, glasses over green eyes, and a small lightening bolt scar on his forehead.

“I miss you, Harry.” Hermione sighed as she watched him kiss her reflection on the cheek. She sighed loudly one more time before turning and leaving the mirror behind same as she has every night since Harry left Hogwarts and her.

Hermione slide back past the sleeping Fluffy, and slowly made her way through the dark empty third floor hall. The lonely quiet aloud her to unwillingly think back on times and adventures she’s had at Hogwarts with Ron and Harry.

She chuckled remember that the first thing she said to the boy who stole her heart was ‘have you seen a toad?’

She stopped for a moment and leaned up against the wall as a tear slid down her face. “Where are you, Harry?” She asked out loud not expecting an answer. “Why aren’t you here?”

“Don’t do it! Your training is not yet complete!” an old man scolded a man who looked almost exactly like Harry, though only a few years older.

“Yea, James,” a younger Sirius Black begged with a look of urgency on his face, “He’s already bloody near killed us both a week ago! If it wasn’t for Master Balthazzar we’d be dead right now!”

“Neither of you GET IT!!” James cried, “He’s coming after them TONIGHT! I don’t have time to finish this silly training!”

“If you face him now, before you become a Mystic,” the old man sighed, “You will surely parish, and your wife and child with you.”

“So you want me to just stay here and play your silly games, and let him kill Lily and Harry?”

“You don’t stand a chance, James listen to reason!” Sirius shot, “As long as Peter is around, Tom can’t even get close to your house. You know he’d never let anything happen to either of them. If you go, you’ll endanger Lil and the kiddo more!”

“I can’t risk losing them, Sirius, Master Balthazzar, I’m sorry,” James sighed, “If I’m going to die, I want to take that traitor down with me!”

James then summoned his broom and took the skies.

“Foolishness,” the old man shook his head sadly, “Utter foolishness…” he then watched as Sirius went after him as well. “Foolishness …”

The Next Morning, Scotland…

“Harry, time to wake up.” Sirius said shaking the teenager awake.

“Wha?” Harry asked reaching for his glasses, “What time is it?” He asked trying to shake off the sleepiness.

“Four in the morning,” Sirius said cheerily, “Come on, the Sage awaits!”

“Why so early?” Harry complained getting up and slowly starting to dress.

“He’s a morning person.” Sirius informed.

“How do you know that?” Harry asked narrowing his eyes to his Godfather.

“Uhh…” Sirius gawked turning slightly pale, “I’ll leave you to finish getting ready.”

Harry finally finished dressing and walked out to see Sirius acting quite nervous.

“Are you sure you don’t want to tell me something, Sirius?” Harry asked cocking an eyebrow.

“No…not…not at all.” Sirius mumbled refusing eye contact, “Come on, Balthazzar doesn’t live that far out of the village.”

They made their way out of the village and made their way across an open plain, and finally arrived at an old run down hut.

“A great Sage lives here?” Harry asked looking over the barely standing building in awe.

“Bout time you got here.” A slightly trembling voice came from inside the build, “Not very polite to keep an old man waiting.”

The door slowly slid open barely hanging on one hinge, and out walked what put Harry in mind of a walking mummy. He was a very elderly man, he stood hunched over at a little over three feet tall, his skin was an unhealthy pale, his eyes were slightly bugged out, and had a few strands of silver hair on his head and a small white mustache. He was dressed in an old faded brown robe and hobbled with a walking stick.

Harry blinked at the old man then looked toward Sirius then back at the old man again, “Um, are you a…well… a Sage?”

“You better believe it, Young man!” the old man chuckled, “It’s about time you did something right, Black.” He snapped swinging the cane at Sirius.

“Nice to see you again too, Balthazzar.” Sirius said sarcastically.

“Um you two know each other?” Harry asked completely confused.

“I studied under him with your father several years ago, Harry.” Sirius explained,

“Before you both ran away like a pair of fools! Thinking they can take on a powerful Wizard with only the lessons they learned from Hogwarts and a week and a half of REAL training,” Balthazzar stated glaring hatefully at Sirius, “If you can’t take the heat stay out of the burner, I always say.”

The old man then turned his attention to the shocked Harry, “So this is the Boy-Who-Lived.” Balthazzar mused as he walked around Harry sizing him up, “I’m not impressed. Oh look at me! I’m the Boy-who-lived! The only reason you lived, Hero, is pure and simple dumb luck!”

“I believe he has potential, Balthazzar…” Sirius started.

“I will be the judge of that.” Balthazzar snapped narrowing his wild eyes at the boy, “Yes… you do have potential, Hero, a lot actually. But no more then some others I’ve attempted to train. I have successfully trained the likes of Beowulf, Van Sickle, Merlin, Gryffindor, Hufflepuff, Ravenclaw, and Slytherin. I do not believe he will make it though the training, he has too much of his father in him.” Balthazzar said turning his back and walking toward the shack.

“You trained…Merlin…” Harry gasped. “And Gryffindor…and…what about my father…”

“Yes, yes, I trained them, but I have also attempted to train other who failed to complete the training.” Balthazzar explained turning back to him, “I see you being like the others, like your Godfather there, and your father, and Dumbledore, and Tom Riddle, they all tried to complete my lessons but all failed miserably.”

“I want to atleast try.” Harry said determinedly, “I want to be a wizard again.”

“Dear boy.” Balthazzar chuckled, “You will never be a wizard again, even if you complete my training completely. You see, Hero, you can never use Magic again.”

“What?” Harry asked his heart dropping.

“Let me explain what you are asking to get involved in.” Balthazzar said setting on an overturned bucket outside his shack, “I am not just a sage, I am the First of many sages, and I was the first to learn of total mastery of magic.”

Harry nodded in surprise but understanding.

“While most Sages merely teach the ways of Wizardry and Witchcraft, which is, like your former school under that blowhard Dumbledore, only breaking the surface of what is known of Magic. You have been taught the basics of magic, but those that are known as Wizard and Witches still depend on wands and spoken spells and incantations to use magic. Do you believe this is all there is to do with Magic?” Balthazzar asked the very attentive Harry.

“There’s more?” Harry asked trying to take it all in.

“There is so much more!” Balthazzar exclaimed, “Your Professor Dumbledore, even your friend, Hermione, who I have noted to become a wise and knowledgeable witch that will surpass the wisest of even the Sages with time, and the ‘all mighty Ministry of Magic haven’t the slightest grasp on the actual idea of true magic.”

“Wha…” Harry asked in shocked, “How do you know about Hermione?”

“I know everything about you, Hero.” Balthazzar stated with a smirk, “You’ve accomplished lots of wonderful things, but you do have a lot of potential that has not been tapped.”

“But if I can’t be a wizard…how can I use this…potential…” Harry pondered.

“My training, dear boy, does not teach you how to control magic, it teaches you to join with Magic itself.” Balthazzar smirked.

“What?” Harry asked even more confused.

“If you complete the training, you will be as above a Wizard, as Wizards are Muggles. You will even be above Dumbledore himself,” Balthazzar explained, “Completing this training will make you a Mystic.”

“A Mystic?” Harry asked, “I thought it was only a legend.”

“I presume the pretty Miss Granger has informed you of the history of Sages and Mystics. I will fill in the blanks.” Balthazzar said heading back into the shack, “After breakfast. That is…if you don’t give into your fear.”

“I’m not afraid.” Harry said walking behind him with Sirius.

“You will be.” Balthazzar chuckled walking in.

Around ten hours later, Sirius set watching Harry and Balthazzar stand face to face in a type of meditation.

“You must concentrate.” Balthazzar informed, “We’ve gone through this already but I’ll say it again, what have you got that you do not want to lose? What do you want to protect? What have you got that would kill you if you lost, and would fight off death itself to stay with?” the old Sage asked.

Harry sighed. He had been trying to do this for the last ten hours and the only thing he’s achieved was a slight head cold from staying out in the cool fall breeze for too long.

“Go through those you love in your mind, and concentrate on them and how it would hurt if you were to lose them. What would you do to keep them?” Balthazzar instructed.

Harry closed his eyes and concentrated and though his body was now giving off an eerie white glow, nothing else was happening. After a moment he set down roughly on the earth and growled loudly, “This isn’t working!”

“You must concentrate harder!” Balthazzar barked sticking his ugly face into Harry’s. “Get up and try again!”

“Yes, Professor Snape…” Harry mumbled standing back up and returning to the relaxed stance Balthazzar showed him and closed his eyes to concentrate.

“What was that?” Balthazzar growled narrowing his large eyes at the teenager.

“Not…” Harry started but ended in a yelp when Balthazzar popped him the side with his cane. “CONCENTRATE!”

Harry continued to try for about an hour but still got nowhere when he heard the sound of fluttering wings. Harry looked and watched Sirius’s owl flutter down and land on his Godfather’s shoulder. “What’s going…” Harry started but yelped again when he felt the cane go into his side again.

“CONCENTRATE!” Balthazzar barked but turned toward Sirius’s serious expression, and walked toward his former student.

“I got a letter from Harry’s friend, Ron.” Sirius said to his former teacher glancing over at Harry’s concerned face.

“And he said?” Balthazzar asked solemnly.

“Draco Malfoy’s up to something.” Sirius said looking over the letter. “Ron said he followed him and heard him talk to someone in the shadows, more then likely You-Know-Who, but apparently the person, who ever it is, gave him a power boost and a spell that put everyone under his control, everyone, including possibly Dumbledore, are being influenced by Malfoy. All except Ron, Old Hagrid, and Hermione.”

“The Convection Charm.” Balthazzar mused, “Does not completely control the mind, just the way the victim’s ways of thinking. Bends the persons will so that they think the way the spell caster wishes them to. Only someone with extremely strong convection toward something can keep it from affecting them. But you are mistaken, Tom Riddle is not who this Draco Malfoy follows. The Convection Charm requires a great deal of power, and there is no Draco Malfoy received the power from him. Riddle has not the power to do this.”

“If it’s not him…” Sirius sighed, “Then who? And who is stronger at the Dark Arts then the Dark Lord himself?”

Balthazzar chuckled, “This ‘Lord Voldemort’ is highly over rated, he uses the power of a wizard, and the power of a wizard pales in comparison to that of Sages and Mystics. Nonetheless, I feel that all those at Hogwarts are in… grave danger. Especially Mr. Weasley and Miss Granger.”

“Ron … Hermione …” Harry growled his voice seemingly strained with fear and anger, as images of his dream of Voldemort killing his friends reentered his mind, of Hermione’s lifeless eyes, “Hermione …” Then he could feel it. For one moment, Harry could feel the barrier in his mind, in his soul. The barrier that was inside all living things that kept them from letting themselves drown in the magical energies that flow through out the world. Then a moment later, he felt it shatter.

“He’s doing it…” Balthazzar gawked, “MY GOD, THE BOY’S DOING IT!” Balthazzar laughed and danced around proudly as Harry’s body trembled with power and suddenly his glasses shattered and flew in several different directions. Then the old sage heard a thunder clap in the distance and felt the earth start to tremble, “What is this …”

The skies began to darken with black storm clouds but strangely began to swirl above Harry’s location. And the ground trembled violently. “This … this hasn’t happened since … could he be a Light Mystic?” Balthazzar asked as the shaking increased throwing him to the ground.

Meanwhile at Hogwarts the school was in a panic as the castle shook violently. “EVERYONE REMAIN CALM!” Dumbledore ordered gripping the table, “EVERYONE, CLIMB UNDER YOUR TABLES, FOR SHELTER.”

“Albus, I thought Hogwarts was protected from earthquakes and overly violent storms?” Prof. McGonagall asked gripping Dumbledore’s arm.

“Yes, natural disasters shouldn’t reach this school,” the old headmaster explained, “but I fear this is anything but natural!”

Meanwhile under the Gryffindor table, Ron, Hermione, Ginny, and Lavender huddled together frightened senseless form the horrifying quake.

“Harry!” Hermione shrieked all of the sudden, gripping her chest.

“Hermione, what’s wrong?” Ron asked as the three eyed her worriedly.

“Something’s wrong, Harry’s in trouble, he’s hurting …” Hermione said blinking back tears, “He needs me … Harry … Something is happening to him, I can feel it!”

“I’m sorry Hermione,” Ron said trying to sound as sympathetic as possible, “But I think we should worry about our own bloody skin right about now, don’t you agree?”

Hermione nodded slight before looking away, ‘Harry … please, be careful …’

Balthazzar and Sirius could no longer look in Harry’s direction for the bright light he was giving off, but they could hear his painful screams. “What’s happening to him?” Sirius asked turning to his former teacher.

“Magic is flooding his body,” the old man explained, “It and he will become one… if the magic accepts him.”

“And if it doesn’t?” Sirius asked afraid of the answer.

“I have a bucket and a scooper in my hut.” Balthazzar said seriously.

Before either could say another word, they were both thrown through the air backwards, do to a magical shockwave that could have leveled the strongest fort. “HARRY!!!” Sirius cried jumping back to his feet and ran towards the large crater where Harry was standing.

He jumped into the large smoking crater, and came to a dead stop at what he saw in the center. “Harry?”

To Be Continued …

C. Cowboy: What happened to Harry? Did the magic accept him as a Mystic? If Draco isn’t working for You Know Who, then who is he working for? More is on the way! Coming next chapter, Draco tries to get Hermione and Ron out of the way, but will a certain someone stand in the way. Or is it all in Hermione’s mind? Also the return of my personal favorite … FLUFFY!!!!

Next Chapter: Hermione’s ‘Dream’

Chapter 7: Hermione’s ‘Dream’

Days turned to Weeks, and Weeks turned to months, and it was now December, and Hermione and Ron hadn’t heard anything from Harry and Sirius since Sirius said he was taking Harry to try to get his magic back. To say they were worried was an understatement. Hermione especially.

“Hermione, please.” Ron pleaded, “You have to eat!” Ron pleaded shoving a bowl of soup across to her in the dinning hall. “You don’t eat like you should, you think Harry would want you getting sick?”

Hermione grunted something barely above a whisper, that was more then likely a curse word directed toward Ron.

“Hermione, you can’t stay depressed forever,” Ron continued to coax, “It’s almost Christmas for crying out loud!”

“I’m scared, Ron.” Hermione finally whispered not looking up.

“What?” Ron asked growing concerned.

“I’m scared of a lot of things. Some Gryffindor I am,” She sighed.

“Tell me.” Ron said placing a hand over her’s.

“I’m scared for Harry, I … I can’t shake the feeling something terrible happened to him. What if I never see him every again?” She asked, tears beginning to form as they have on a daily basis since Harry left, “I’m also afraid of Draco and You-Know-Who. I know Prof. Dumbledore intimidates him, but he’s back at full power now, and it really wasn’t the Headmaster that’s defeated him all these times, it was Harry and…and he isn’t here anymore. Who’s going to help us if You Know Who comes again.”

“That’s all silly talk, Hermione.” Ron said reassuringly, “Number one, Harry’s fine, he’s with Sirius, and if I know Harry Potter, nothing will stop him from coming back to us, to you. Number two, What ever You-Know-Who and that jerk Malfoy’s planning, if Prof. Dumbledore can’t stop it, I know Harry will show up in the nick of time, just like he always does! You know Harry can’t help but play hero.”

“I don’t know…” Hermione sighed sadly.

“I do, now come on.” Ron said pulling her to her feet quickly, “We’re going to the Commons and you’re going to watch as I beat you with my uncanny Wizard Chess skills!”

“Witch’s Chess.” Hermione corrected with the closest thing to a smile she’s given in a weeks, “And you’re going to lose this time.”

“We’ll see!” Ron chuckled, as the two left the dinning hall, not aware of the eyes that were watching them.

Later that night, Draco shot out of Hogwarts toward the Forbidden Forest, “Master! Master!” He called out wildly.

“I am here, my apprentice.” A voice called from a nearby shadow.

“They know, Master! They know!” Draco panicked.

“Granger and Weasley?” the voice responded, “I am truly not surprised. The Mudblood’s attention to detail is the reason Potter has foiled Riddle’s plans even after he had regained his physical form.”

“What are we going to do?” Draco asked, “If they inform someone in the Ministry, your powers are not strong enough to take a full on battle against the whole Ministry of Magic!”

Draco then doubled over in pain, “Do NOT question my powers, Apprentice!” The voice growled, “You were nothing but a pathetic Mudblood meant to live a life of a Muggle before I dropped you on Malfoy’s doorstop all those years ago, and began your training to be my successor. Know your place, BOY, or else I will take away what I have given you and leave you back on the streets to fend for yourself!”

“F-Forgive me, Master.” Draco begged from his hands and knees.

“You are correct though, Apprentice.” The voice mused, “Those two could present a problem. Eliminate them. But make it ‘an accident’.”

“How would you like me to do it, Master?” Draco asked finally pulling himself to his feet.

“Use the dog.” The voice said sounding as though he was walking away.

That next evening was Hogwarts’ Christmas Dinner. The Dinning hall was filled with laughter and chatter of students excited to go home and visit their families for Christmas the following week. Everyone seemed happy, everyone except with little surprise Hermione. But even she couldn’t help but smile at Ron, he’d not admit it and neither would Lavender but they’ve been spending an awful lot of time together. Hermione then laughed loudly when Lavender looked up and noticed enchanted mistletoe floating in mid air over their heads and quickly laid one on him before he could get away.

Lavender broke it quickly leaving Ron completely brain fried. She lead him over to where Hermione was seated and helped him set down, seeing as he’s mind no longer had the ability to function enough to understand the concept of setting.

“Take it someone has a boyfriend now.” Hermione teased.

“I don’t know if it’s really that far yet.” Lavender responded trying to snap Ron out of his daze.

“DRACO!” Crabbe yelled running through the crowded dinning hall, “Where are you? Draco!”

Crabbe then ran on followed closely by Goyle.

“Hmm, I wonder where Malfoy is?” Lavender asked absentmindedly as she watched the two stooges run out into the hallway.

Hermione didn’t have a chance to even think of a worry when the two Slytherins came running back in faster then they went out, “Big dog…BIG, Big dog…BIG, BIG, BIG, Three-headed Dog… BIG, BIG, BIG, ANGRY, THREE-HEADED DOG!!!” They yelled, while running trying to find a place to hide.

“big … three-headed … FLUFFY!” Hermione screamed as the massive, black, three-headed dog Hagrid named Fluffy came bounding into the hall, foaming at the mouth.

“Fluffy?” Ron asked coming immediately out of his trance, “FLUFFY! RUN!!!” He yelled grabbing both Hermione and Lavender’s wrists and took off running away from the angry animal.

Hermione was struggling to keep up with Ron when she tripped and fell hard on the stone floor. Ron didn’t notice her fall till he was several feet away and spun around quickly to see Fluffy barring down on her.

Hermione rolled over on her back and watched the dog jump into the air and come straight toward her; She could have jumped out of the way probably but was completely frozen in fear. “Harry…” She whimpered/prayed, hoping for a miracle.

She closed her eyes tight and felt something hit and jerk her into the air. She thought it was Fluffy’s jaws, but why was there no pain? Was she dead? Weather she was or not, she was too scared to open her eyes to see. After a few moments she gathered the courage to open her eyes, and to her surprise she was being cradled in someone’s arms.

The guy looked about her age, though much, much taller, atleast 6’9”, he wasn’t massive but he was very well build, and was wearing strange form fitting dark brown robes. She looked up at his face. It was slightly boyish yet mature with well defined cheekbones and she noticed his unruly raven black hair, and almost glowing blue eyes, and a strange X shaped scar on his forehead.

She looked down and to her surprise he was standing on thin air atleast twenty feet in the air. She yelped and closed her eyes fearfully, “Are you ok?” he asked and to her surprise his worry-filled light blue eyes slowly changed to emerald green.

‘Those eyes… can it be?’ She though gazing into the deep green eyes, “Harry?” She asked nervously.

“Uhh…” He gawked not sure what to say, but Ron’s screams broke his thoughts, “Fluffy’s acting wired,” He said looking down at Fluffy chasing Ron and Lavender and ignoring everyone else, before going after him at neck break speed leaving Hermione’s stumach where they were floating.

“He seems to be just after you and Ron, ‘Mione.” He said absent-mindedly as he landed between the cowering Ron and Lavender the raging K9. “Bad Fluffy!” He cried setting Hermione down and gently pushing her behind him. “Stay behind me,” He ordered coolly, not looking back.

Fluffy then lunged at Hermione and the stranger stuck his arm out between them, which Fluffy forcefully took a bite out of. The young man jerked his arm away and took a step back cradling it.

“You shouldn’t have done that, pup,” He growled as his green eyes returned to the previous blue color. He then stretched out his good arm, and his opened hand began to glow, “Bad Fluffy! Bad!” He yelled as white light surrounded the massive dog and he started to float. “Go to sleep, Fluffy, You’ve had a long day.” He said casually and the dog’s six eyes began to get heavy.

“Now go back to your chamber like a good puppy, and I’ll have Hagrid send you a doggy treat later,” He said with a smirk as the dog slowly lowered to the ground. Once he was to the ground, Harry walked up to the massive dog and patted his middle head, “now move along, and don’t want to cause anymore trouble,”

Fluffy whimpered a moment before slowly walking back out the way he came. The Teenager turned back around to the fainted Ron and Lavender, and the wide-eyed Hermione letting his eyes fade back to their natural green. “Are they all right?” he asked looking down at the collapsed figures.

“Harry… it is you…” Hermione gasped staring into his deep green eyes.

“Hermione.” Harry sighed. He hadn’t planed on revealing himself like this. He still had a lot of training to do before he could officially return.

“You’re bleeding!” Hermione yelped grabbing his arm, and touching his wound gently.

“It’s just a scratch,” Harry said softly but jerked slightly when she touched a tender spot.

She looked up at him, then down at her now bloody fingers from touching his injury, “But…it’s bleeding. It needs to be taken care of.”

“I’ll be ok, I really have to go now,” He said turning to leave.

“No!” She yelled running around in front of him, “I want to know what happened! What happened? How did you … you change this much?” She asked looking him over again.

“I’ll explain soon enough, ‘Mione, but I really Have to go. I’m sorry,” Harry reasoned.

“I don’t want you to leave me again,” Hermione sighed looking down sadly.

I didn’t leave you the first time,” Harry said softly, while stroking her cheek.

“Harry…” Hermione sighed leaning into his hand, as a tear ran down her cheek.

“Hermione…” Harry said bending down so his face was just barely an inch from her’s, “Don’t forget what I told you before I left, all you have to do is remember, and I’ll be with you.”

“Harry … I …” Hermione whispered before Harry bent down and gently placed his lips on hers.

Hermione was in heaven, she brought her hands to rest on his chest and kissed him back with every ounce of passion in her body. She held the kiss until something made her jump high into the air, “Hermione, what the bloody hell are you doing???” She spun around and saw that Ron as well as everyone else in the dinning hall was staring at her like a circus freak.

“W-what?” She asked nervously, “Where’d Harry go?” she asked looking around at the countless wide eyes.

“Hermione, uh Harry wasn’t here, you’ve been snogging with the bloody wall for the last five minutes.” Lavender choked out worriedly.

“Yes he was! He…he saved me and Ron and you and everyone else from Fluffy!” Hermione snapped getting a worried look from Ron.

“Hermione, that didn’t happen…” Ron said walking up, “I miss him too, but this is outrageous. Let me take you and let you see Madam Pomfrey.” Ron then walked up and took Hermione’s arm gently and led her out of the Dinning hall.

“I know what I saw!” Hermione said working her hands together, she glanced down and gasped when she saw the blood still on her hands from where she touched Harry’s injured arm.

She was about to comment on it when a voice called from behind them, “RON! HERMIONE!”

They looked behind them and spotted Percy running up to them.

“What are you doing here, Bro?” Ron asked looking up at his older brother.

“Just got a letter from Harry for you two, and thought I’d deliver it personally.” Percy said happily as he handed Ron the letter. But kept one of his arms behind him strangely

Ron opened the letter and started reading it out loud,

Dear Ron and Hermione,

I have good news, I think I’ve finally found away to use magic again, but it’s going to take a lot of work to learn how to do it. Sirius received your letter a few months ago and I thought I’d suggest neither one of you stay over Christmas Holiday. I don’t know if Draco is working for Voldemort or someone else, but I am really worried about you. I hope to see you both soon, take care of each other.

Harry

P.S. Mione, don’t forget.

Hermione and Ron looked at each other and nodded. “See Hermione, he’s far off from here, there’s no way he could have came and saved us, and I think I’d remember being chased by that bloody three-headed hell hound!” Ron said sticking his chest out causing Hermione to roll her eyes and made Percy smirk unusually.

“Well, Mates, I better get back to work, be careful. Take care, Lil Ronniekins,” Percy said turning toward the exit.

“Bye, Percy!” Ron said as they both waved good-bye, “Now Hermione, lets go talk to Madam Pomfrey.”

Percy walked outside the gates of Hogwarts and looked around suspiciously before walking into the shadows.

“You took to much of a risk!” Balthazzar said walking up, “You still have much to learn!”

“I know.” Percy said as his eyes changed to light blue and his body started go glow white. Then in a flash of light Harry replaced Percy. “Take it was you who cleared their memory.” Harry asked looking toward the old sage who was eyeing him angrily.

“How’s your arm?” Sirius asked looking at Harry’s injury.

“Not as bad as it looks.” Harry said looking at the bloody mess on his arm.

“Let me see it.” Balthazzar snapped bringing a glowing hand to the teenager’s arm, and after a few moments the wound was completely healed. “If you would have waited a little longer, you could have done that on your own.”

“IF I WOULD HAVE WAITED A LITTLE LONGER,” Harry snapped, “Ron and Hermione wouldn’t be here anymore-”

“Nonsense, Dumbledore could have easily stopped the dog without your interference.” Balthazzar said matter-of-factly.

“Still…” Harry grumbled looking down as if in shame.

“I have to admit one thing, Hero.” Balthazzar said with a smirk, “That girl you saved is a real hottie, do you think she’d be interested in older men? Huh? Do ya?” Balthazzar asked excitedly.

“NO!” Harry snapped making both Sirius and Balthazzar step back, “Find your own girlfriend, you old pervert!”

“Hey!” Balthazzar yelped as if he was insulted, “who’s old?”

Harry rolled his eyes, “Lets just get back, so I can hurry and finish this training.”

To Be Continued…

C. Cowboy: so what do you think of the new Harry and his new abilities? More on the way!

Now for some responses:

I have to say I am impressed with Brandie and Krys; you two don’t let much slip by huh?

And Satoshi, there is a major reason for Draco to get a way with it, as stated in an earlier chapter, Draco is being trained by his ‘master’ in powerful dark arts, including the ability to make people think the way he wants them to. That’s why the professors let him off the hook, and why everyone (except Hermione) voted Harry out of Hogwarts. And for the Invisible cloak, it draws magical ability from itself so it requires no magic from it’s user, so Harry could infact use it as a muggle, (that’s the way I understand the blooming thing) but was he even truly a muggle at the time?

And Lala, as for Draco working for the dark lord, he might be, or he might be working for someone else. But the question is will he remain on the dark side, or will someone convince him to see the error in his ways?

And for everyone else, thanks so much for the reviews and I hope not to let you guys down!

Thanks! Now if ya please drop me a review and tell me if you like how it’s going or not! No flames please, but creative criticism is more then welcome!

Next Chapter: Harry’s training continues, and Hermione gets a new pet.

Chapter 8: Scar

‘Fifth year.’ Harry thought while running through a drill Balthazzar had set up, “Maybe the end of forth year. Yeah, that kiss on the cheek was what did it or maybe when she hugged me and told me I was a great wizard and that I was brave during our first year and I blew it. We’ll probably snog for a few months then she’ll get tired of me, and I’ll lose not only a girlfriend by my best friend too, Merlin I’ve blew it,” He thought out loud before yelping at Balthazzar’s cane hitting hard on his knee.

“CONCENTRATE!” Balthazzar barked before setting back to watch.

‘She probably hates me now.’ Harry thought as he continued through his exercises, ‘Wonderful, Potter, simply wonderful! Hey Hermione, I love you too, but I have to run like a coward because I haven’t a clue what the bloody heck I am, idiot!’ Harry scolded himself. ‘Friendship and bravery, I’m not even brave enough to face my own friends.’

“Ok enough of that! New practice!” Balthazzar said quickly causing Harry to look up from his thoughts just in time to see a Bludger coming at him before it plowed right between his eyes. Harry’s feet and head switched places before he hit the ground with a sickening thud.

Harry moaned while rubbing the apparent massive bruise on his forehead. “What was that?” He asked finally opening his eyes and jerking to see Balthazzar’s hideous face inches from his own. The old sage chuckle evilly.

“That’s what you get!” Balthazzar scolded, “If you would have been paying attention to the here and now, and not on that Hoochie Mama back at Hogwarts you would not be in this situation where you have just been knocked on your backside by a flying ball of all things, and being scolded by me for being a hormonal worry wart dumbass. You are foolish to think she belittles you enough to make you a simple month or two fling. Look back at your last few years, Hero. Look at your friendship and tell me where it can’t benefit going farther. And … and look at yourself now!” Balthazzar then smiled, “That bruise make you look a bit like me.”

“Oh God…” Harry gasped setting up, “DON’T SAY THAT!” he yelled as he relaxed and brought his hand to his face and slowly healed himself.

“Very good, Hero,” Balthazzar praised, “You are learning after all … I’m surprised.”

Harry pulled himself to his feet. “Ok let’s try that again.” He said his mind now fully on the ball trying to take his head off. Then a moment later the Bludger come flying toward him at the speed of a bullet, yet Harry easily dodged it. The Bludger made several more passes at other angles but Harry as before, dodged it with ease.

“Give me a challenge Balth… GA!” Harry exclaimed gripping his scare on his forehead, giving the Bludger a opening to hit him in the chest sending the air out of his lungs.

“Are you ok, Harry?” Sirius asked crouching down beside his godson.

Harry just pulled himself to a setting position, “Balthazzar, you said Voldemort wasn’t behind what’s going on?” Harry asked looking at the puzzled sage.

“Yes, that’s correct.” Balthazzar responded not understanding.

Harry then sighed worriedly, “Then I think we have another problem on our hands.”

Later, at Hogwarts…

“One more time, Ms. Granger.” Madam Pomfrey sighed looking down at Hermione reclining on a psychiatrist’s couch, “Why are you physically attracted to the stone walls of Hogwarts Castle?”

“HONESTLY!” Hermione cried trying not to yell, “Like I’ve told you for the last few weeks! I am NOT attracted to stones, or bricks, or any bloody thing else, I THOUGHT I was kissing HARRY!”

“As you’ve said,” Madam Pomfrey replied unemotionally, “but if Harry was there, why did no one else see him?”

“I don’t know.” Hermione grunted in frustration.

“OK, tell me about the three headed dog.” Pomfrey asked looking at a parchment.

“Fluffy is Hagrid’s watch dog, Prof. Dumbledore uses him to protect The Mirror of Erised.” Hermione explained.

“Ah yes, the mirror who can show a person’s deepest desire. Not many children know of that fairy tale these days.”

“It’s not a fairy tale, it’s here!” Hermione said growing angry as usual.

“Of course it is.” Madam Pomfrey said with a reassuring smile, which sickened Hermione, “as is your image of Harry being a all powerful being. As I’ve tried to explain, it is all merely a fantasy produced by your mind from grieving and missing your best friend. I’ve already made arrangements for you to take an early Christmas Holiday so you can have extra time to rest and recover. Go home and rest, Hermione. You could really use it.”

“Fine.” Hermione snapped setting up and stomping toward the exit.

As she walked out the door Ron, who had been waiting for her as usual, stepped up and tried to keep up, “How’d it go, Herm?” he asked before flinching from the glare.

“She’s sending me home early, because she thinks I’m nuts, Ron!” Hermione growled, “Honestly!”

“No one thinks your nuts… no one important anyway…” Ron said his voice braking off at the end, “But maybe you could use some extra rest, you know to help you…”

“I KNOW! I KNOW! Help me get over Harry, I’ve heard it bloody all!” She snapped stomping her foot, “I swear to Merlin and all things considered holy in this world, that once I find out who made me look like a bloody fool, I’ll bloody tear them limb from bloody limb, with my bloody bare hands!”

“Hermione…” Ron said soothingly, “Don’t you think that’s a bit much?” he asked with a smile, which quickly changed to a look of fear with an audible ‘eep’ when he saw the death glare to end all death glares on Hermione’s face, “Ok, shutting it now.”

“Go to class, Ron,” Hermione sighed, “I have to go start packing, I go home tomorrow.”

“I’ll see you…” Ron started as he turned toward her only to see her already storming off, “after class then… good day to you too.”

Hermione walked into the commons room and set down on the couch nearest to the fire with a sigh, “I’m not crazy!” She said out loud to no one in particular.

“Hey!” A hushed voice came from the stairs of the girl’s dormitory catching Hermione’s attention, “of course you’re not, Mione.”

“What?” Hermione asked looking in that direction, ‘what’s going on? Everyone should be in class. No one should be here.’ She thought looking toward the spiral staircase.

“Mione, come on!” the voice said again.

She slowly and timidly got up and walked up the steps toward the dormitories. Whoever was talking to her was just ahead because the door slammed just as she got to it. She worked her fingers over the doorknob a few seconds before finally opening the door and to her surprise there was no one there but on her bed was a small trunk which door seemed to have just been slammed.

“What’s going on here?” she asked walking over to her bed. Her cat, Crookshanks, jumped up on the bed and began to rub up against the trunk lovingly. ‘That’s weird.’ She thought observing her cat’s unusual behavior.

She slowly opened the lid to the trunk and to her surprised she found another cat. She picked it up in her arms and looked it over, he was a male, silky jet black short fur, and had very deep emerald green eyes, and also an unusual mark almost like a scar on his forehead in the shape of an X.

It mewed contently at her almost like it was overjoyed to see her. “Hello there,” Hermione coo petting him. She then set him down next to Crookshanks but started to reach for him when she recalled he was not fond of any other cats. She was shocked when she saw Crookshanks rub up against the cat almost like he has already known him. “What’s this?” she asked reaching into the trunk and pulling out a small note.

Dear Hermione,

Marry Christmas,

Love,

A Friend

P.S. Don’t forget

“Could … you be from … Harry?” Hermione asked picking the cat up before setting on the bed and setting the cat on her lap, “Harry, or whoever gave you to me, didn’t give me a name for you.” she brought her hand to her cheek in thought, “Black? Night? Emerald?” she asked getting a blank looks back in return, “Wait I know!” she said tracing the mark on his forehead,

“How do you like… Scar?” the cat answered with purrs as she scratched behind his ears.

Hermione giggled and hugged her new friend before setting him back down on her bed, “Ok you and Crookshanks don’t go anywhere while I finish packing.” She said getting up and moving toward her dresser, “Tomorrow I’ll show you where I live when I’m not here at Hogwarts!” She said excitedly, “but tonight… Usually I just sleep with Crookshanks, but I’m sure he won’t mind you sleeping with me too.”

THUNK

“Scar?” Hermione asked moving around to the edge of the bed where her new cat mysteriously simply fell off the side. “What’s wrong?” She asked picking up the prone feline and laying him on the bed and whipped the few drops of blood from his nose she guessed was from the fall. “Hmm, must be like those fainting goats.”

She pet him a few time before going back to packing cheered up more then anyone else has been able to since Harry left the school.

Meanwhile outside the window a pair of eyes watched the scene.

“Balthazzar, do you think he knows what he’s getting into?” Sirius asked worriedly.

“Can Dumbledore ever find decent tasting candy?” Balthazzar responded.

“Then shouldn’t we get him out of there?” Sirius asked watching Scar slowly regained consciousness.

“No.” Balthazzar responded smoothly, “This is part of his training. Besides, this could be entertaining.”

Not long later, Hermione finished packing her trunk, and threw herself back down on the bed, beside the recovering Scar. “I think I’ll go … just one more time …” Hermione said as Scar looked at her with confusion.

“You want to come with me, sweetheart?” Hermione asked, not noticing the dreamy look in the cat’s green eyes when she called him ‘sweetheart’.

She then smiled and picked the black cat up into her arms and started toward the commons room. “Everyone should be in the Dinning Hall,” Hermione mused, realizing it was Dinnertime. “We should be able to make it without anyone seeing us.”

Hermione, with Scar in her arms, made her way out of the Gryffindor tower and made her way toward the forbidden third floor of the school.

Hermione slowly eased into Fluffy’s chamber and to her shock, the dog was infact wide-awake. She tried to run, but was frozen in fear at the growling behemoth. Why she just waltzed into the chamber without casting a Musica charm first was beyond her. But there she was her fearful eyes meeting Fluffy’s six angry eyes.

Hermione closed her eyes tight waiting for the pain, but when it never came she slowly looked up to see Fluffy sniffing her worriedly. Then she let out a slight yelp when Fluffy cried out and dove into the far corner of the chamber, trembling and whimpering.

Hermione looked on at the cowering three-headed dog, cocking her head to the side trying to understand what exactly just happened, and failing to notice her now blue-eyed cat literally smiling at the fearful K9.

Hermione then carefully made her way down the small trapdoor and on through the traps and on to the Mirror’s chamber. “I’m sorry for having to drag you through all this, Scar,” Hermione apologized before walking into the chamber, “ I don’t know if I’ll get to see him over the holidays or not, and I … just had to see him one more time before I go home.”

Hermione then walked in and sat down before the mirror, “Harry?” she asked but her eyes slowly gave in to worry, “Harry? Where are you?” She had expected to see Harry in her arms, as she has seen this whole time. But instead she only saw her reflection setting before the mirror with Scar being held tight to her chest.

She set for a few more moments, before sighing and standing to her feet. “I … I wonder what this means …” she asked no one in particular before taking one last at the mirror and exiting the chamber.

Meanwhile, in a hidden temple in the very center of the Forbidden Forest

“You summoned me, my Lord?” Wormtail said walking into a dark chamber.

“Yes,” Lord Voldemort hissed, “Any word on the Potter child?”

“Last report he still is without the use of Magic. This is great news, Master! Without Potter’s there to forewarn Dumbledore, our army…er YOUR army is more then enough to take Hogwarts and then the world! And Potter will be easy pickings for you to destroy at your leisure!”

“I see no good news from this,” Voldemort snapped, “Where is the challenge? Where is the hunt? Harry Potter had the makings of a great wizard and was already a worthy advisory, the thoughts of facing him as a mere…MUGGLE… saddens me.”

“I am sorry, my Lord,” Wormtail apologized, “So when shall we make our attack?”

“You will lead the first attack upon the students’ return after the new year. Hogwarts will be mine.”

To Be Continued…

C. Cowboy: what ya think? Will Harry’s nightmare from earlier come true? Or has You-Know-Who bit off more then he can chew. Next Chapter: Nightmare’s End