Harry Potter and the Founders

koldude

Rating: PG13
Genres: Romance, Action & Adventure
Relationships: Harry & Hermione
Book: Harry & Hermione, Books 1 - 5
Published: 17/03/2005
Last Updated: 23/07/2005
Status: paused

***********PLEASE AUTHOR'S NOTE (a.k.a. Chapter 6) THIS STORY IS NOT FINISHED!!!! Set directly after OotP. Not much PG-13 stuff yet, but more is on the way. My first fic, so please R&R and be nice to me :) Please review, as it really provides me motivation for me to write more. SORRY FOR THE EXTREME DELAY IN UPLOADING! Please see my author's note for more info.

Chapters

1. Dreams and Revelations

2. Newfound Knowledge

3. Diagon Alley and Beyond

4. Reality and Illusions

5. Animagi in Action

6. AUTHOR'S NOTE: PLEASE READ!!!

1. Dreams and Revelations

A/N Hello all, this is my first fic that I have ever written, so please Read and Review nicely. If you must flame me, at least sign it with your name. I will not get angry at any of you, and I will not take it personally, unless you leave a flame review that is unsigned. By the way, obviously, I own none of the characters here, except for the ones I make up. I also own the plot.

Chapter 1: Dreams and Revelations

“Come to me, Wormtail. I have a job for you. You will succeed where my death-eaters could not at the ministry. You shall provide a means of killing Harry Potter.”

Harry awoke with a start. He had been having this dream for the last two weeks during the time in which he had been living with his aunt and uncle at Number 4, Privet Drive, in Surrey. Harry Potter was no ordinary person. His aunt and uncle knew this, and despised him because of it; but they did not say anything, not out of anger, but out of fear. They knew that if he told his friends from the train station, they would be here any minute to turn the Dursley's into frogs or something of the like. For Harry Potter was a wizard, and his friends were some of the greatest witches and wizards alive. His two best friends, Hermione Granger and Ronald Weasley, were the only thing that kept Harry from killing his aunt and uncle and cousin right now because of their atrocious behavior to him before he went to Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. However, he knew that if he did kill them, he would face a life sentence in the Wizard prison, Azkaban, and he would most likely be dead before he reached twenty years of age.

Harry was now sixteen, and he had no girlfriend. Whenever asked by his other friends at school, he just said he was still getting over Cho Chang, whom Harry had dated very briefly the previous year. Cho had rejected him in the middle of their date after Harry had said he wanted to go meet Hermione for something very important. Cho had misinterpreted this as being an indicator that he liked Hermione more than Cho and had then broken up with Harry on the spot, leaving Harry very confused and very embarrassed.

Now, Harry felt very empty and depressed, because not even one month ago, he had seen his godfather, Sirius Black, go through the veil at the Ministry of Magic and thus had lost practically any link he had to his parent's lives before they were killed. Remus Lupin, it was true, was still alive, but it was now a full moon, and because of his severe Lycanthropy, he was probably indisposed at this second.

With all these thoughts in his head, Harry moved towards the bathroom, intending to wash his face, and finish some of his homework before dawn as it was very unlikely he would be able to fall asleep again. After washing his face, Harry took out his Transfiguration textbook, his quill, and some parchment for the foot-long essay on Metamorphmagi and the advantages and disadvantages of being one. Harry looked up the metamorphmagi section, and read:

“Metamorphmagi are witches and wizards who are able to change their appearance at will. The metamorphmagus ability cannot be made. A witch or wizard must be born with the metamorphmagus ability. A metamorphmagus might, after some time, forget their natural appearance and this may result in a feeling of discontentment, so it is usually probable that metamorphmagi keep pictures of themselves in order to remember what they looked like before a transformation.”

Harry then began to write down his answer to the question when there was a tapping noise at his window. Hedwig had returned with Hermione's reply to his letter. Harry had written to Hermione, asking her whether or not they could meet up at the Burrow or Diagon Alley during the summer break. Hermione had written the following:

Dear Harry,

I believe that I can convince my parents to letting me go to The Burrow, but I thought that we all would be going to you-know-where now that it`s HQ for the Order and everything. I wrote to Ron to ask him what his plans are also so that we could all be together. I know you hated it last year when we kept you in the dark while Ron and I were at the HQ. So, see you soon, and don't do anything that would anger your uncle and aunt, Harry, because it's entirely their decision to let you go or not. All the Order can do is “persuade” them to let you go.

Love,

Hermione

Harry laughed out loud. Simply being alive in their house was enough to anger the Dursleys nowadays. Still laughing, he put his Transfiguration homework away in his trunk. Harry put Hermione's letter into a special box that he reserved for Hermione only. When Ron found out about it, he had asked in a pretend hurt voice why Harry didn't put his letters in a separate box too.

Harry felt an odd twinge in his gut whenever he heard or saw Hermione's name, but he had always denied it and convinced himself that it was nothing. However, a person couldn't be blind forever. Harry now realized that his feelings for Hermione were far beyond friendship. Harry loved Hermione. He hadn't realized it until he had nearly lost her in the Department of Mysteries last month. Harry felt as if his whole world had been slashed into pieces the second Dolohov hit Hermione with the curse. He didn't admit it to anyone, but he knew that if Hermione didn't love him back, he would surely commit suicide right that second.

Engrossed in his own feelings and thoughts about Hermione, Harry failed to realize that it was nine o' clock in the morning and that a ruffled, brown owl was tapping quite loudly on his window. Afraid the noise would awaken and anger Uncle Vernon, Harry quickly opened the window and allowed the owl, whom Harry knew was called Errol, into his room and to have some water from Hedwig's bowl. Attached to Errol's leg was a letter from none other than Ron Weasley. Ron's letter was rather lengthy, and looked as if it had been written in Ron's neatest handwriting.

Harry,

I don't know if she told you, but Hermione wrote to me, asking where we will be spending the summer holidays after you're picked up from the Dursley's. When I read that, I asked mum and she said that after you're picked up, we'll be going back to Hogwarts immediately, along with Professor McGonagall and everybody else that was with us in the Department of Mysteries. We'll have the entire castle to ourselves for a month! Won't it be great? We'll be able to play chess and not do homework in the luxury of Hogwarts. I wrote and told Hermione this as well. Dumbledore'll be contacting Neville and Luna tomorrow. I expect Hermione will be pleased too because she'll be able to use every stupid book in the library for her homework and everything. Dumbledore visited yesterday and gave me yours, mine, and Ginny's Hogwarts letters, so I sent them along with Errol. I haven't gathered up the guts to look at my O.W.L. results yet, but you can if you want. I know I probably did horribly, but still, as long as I don't have Trelawney again, I'll be fine. By the way, I hope they'll surprise you, but Tonks, Moody, and Lupin are coming to pick you up today at five, so we can leave for Hogwarts as soon as possible.

~Ron

Harry looked behind Ron's letter, and saw another letter with the Hogwarts seal on it. Harry opened it, and found his book list for next year, along with yet another envelope from Hogwarts and one from the Ministry. He looked at his book letter first.

Dear Mr. Potter,

We are pleased to inform you that your life-long quidditch ban put into effect by Professor Umbridge last year has been lifted, and you are now allowed back onto the Gryffindor Quidditch Team. We are also pleased to announce that you are the new Captain of the Gryffindor Quidditch Team and you should find your badge, along with another surprise, waiting for you in an enclosed envelope. The term starts on 1 September. We await your owl no later than 31 July. Please find enclosed a list of all necessary books and equipment.

Sincerely,

Minerva McGonagall

Minerva McGonagall

Deputy Headmistress of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry

Harry was elated with joy. He had not only been given his most favorite thing at Hogwarts back, (well, maybe second-most), but he had also been made Captain of the Quidditch Team. What could be better? Harry then opened the other envelope from Hogwarts and out fell three things, his Captain's badge, his book list, and yet another envelope. Putting those things aside, (he was quite annoyed with the envelope-inside-the-envelope concept), Harry picked up his letter from the Ministry, deciding to find out whether or not his dreams of being an Auror would be squashed or allowed to nurture for another two years. Inside the envelope, there was a letter which Harry opened and read.

Dear Mr. Potter,

We are pleased to inform you of your results from your Ordinary Wizarding Level Examinations. The grades are as follows: the highest possible grade is O, for Outstanding, E, for Exceeds Expectations, and A, for Average. These are the passing grades. The failing grades are as follows: P, for Poor, and D, for Dreadful.

Care of Magical Creatures

Written: E

Practical: E

Charms

Written: E

Practical: O

Defense Against the Dark Arts

Written: O+ (*)

Practical: O+ (*)

Divination

Written: A

Practical: D

History of Magic

Written: P

Potions

Written: E

Practical: E

Transfiguration

Written: E

Practical: O

(*) - Mr. Potter, we are extremely pleased to inform you that you are the second person ever to get the O+ grade on an Ordinary Wizarding Level while the other person who received it is no longer alive. Please note that your achieving this grade has made history. The only other person to receive this grade was none other than James Potter, your late father. However, even your father failed to achieve two O+ grades, and for that, Mr. Potter, you have made wizarding history. Congratulations! Please note that receiving this grade entitles you to attend any N.E.W.T. class you wish, and you will not be turned down for any reason. Again, congratulations, Mr. Potter.

During the course of reading this letter, Harry's heart had gone down, up, and up again. He had first thought that because of his inability to get an O in Potions, he would not be able to become an Auror. Then, he read about his O+ grades in Defense Against the Dark Arts, and then, he read about how because of his grade, he could indeed, take Potions at N. E.W.T. level, and be able to become an Auror. He now picked up his final Hogwarts letter and opened it. Out came, to Harry's utter disbelief, a Prefect badge and a letter from Professor McGonagall. He picked up McGonagall's letter and read it.

Dear Mr. Potter,

I hope you have already read your O.W.L. results as they mean that you can, indeed, take Potions, N.E.W.T. Also, Professor Dumbledore has chosen you as the sixth-year boy Gryffindor prefect along with Ms. Patil as the sixth year girl Gryffindor prefect. You are now considered full prefects and you are given the same privileges as all other prefects. Along with this, you will be receiving Animagus training from me, along with Mr. Weasley, and Ms. Granger. Also, you will additionally be taking Occlumency and Legilimency classes from Professor Dumbledore and finally, you will be taking extra classes with Professor Snape for advanced Potions, delving almost irretrievably into Dark Art potions. Also, you will be taking Dark Arts classes with Professor Dumbledore, in order to prepare you for upcoming responsibilities. Only Professors Dumbledore, Snape, and myself, know about your extra lessons. Mr. Weasley and Ms. Granger only know about Animagus lessons, and they will not know of any of your other extra lessons. Do not, without consent of myself or Professor Dumbledore, enlighten Mr. Weasley or Ms. Granger about these extra lessons. All will be revealed in time. We will see you soon, Mr. Potter.

Minerva McGonagall

Minerva McGonagall

Harry was so confused, and yet, so excited. It was as if all his dreams had suddenly come true. But he was angered slightly that he would have to keep yet another thing a secret from Hermione and Ron. He hated keeping secrets from them for two reasons. One, was that it was nearly impossible to lie to Hermione, which was intensified by the fact that he loved her. The other reason was that if he kept all this inside, he was sure to explode. And what about quidditch? With all of his extra-curricular activities, how was he going to fit quidditch into his schedule?

Anyway, he would find out soon enough because, suddenly, Harry heard three loud popping noises and before he knew what was happening, he found himself looking up into the faces of Nymphadora Tonks, Remus Lupin, and Alastor Moody. They all greeted each other after assuring the fact that Harry was not some imposter under the influence of Lord Voldemort. After this, they offered to wait outside, while he tidied his room up a bit. They said that they had cast a null-magic charm on the house so Harry could use magic to tidy up. Grateful for the chance to do something useful without hard labor, Harry announced to the room at large, “Scourgify,” which cleaned every single spec off the walls, as well as cleaning all his clothes. Satisfied with his handiwork, he spoke, “Pack,” which put all of his clothes, books, parchment, quills, and broomstick, into his trunk, which locked itself with a quick “Collo Portis.”

Harry then stepped outside of the room, and told Moody, Lupin, and Tonks he was ready to leave. Lupin then said, “We'll be traveling by Portkey to The Burrow, and we will floo from there to you-know-where. Okay?”

“Fine,” said Harry, glad to finally be rid of the house for another year.

“On three. One…..Two…..Three,” Lupin said, as they all felt a familiar tug behind the navel.

Thud. Harry's trunk landed on the kitchen of The Burrow and the sound echoed eerily in the empty house.

“Okay, Harry. Here is some Floo Powder,” said Lupin, as he gave some of the powder to Harry, “Now remember, if you turn up in the wrong place, use Hedwig to contact us at once. Good luck.”

Harry took his wand and said, “Incendio,” which lit the Burrow fire. Harry then threw the floo powder into the fire, and said in a clear voice, “Number Twelve, Grimmauld Place.”

When Harry appeared in the middle of his late godfather's kitchen, his vision was obscured when his glasses were knocked to the ground, due to Hermione hugging him so hard that he didn't know what hit him, literally.

“C'mon, Hermione, let him breathe. He can't even see because you've knocked his glasses off. Here you go mate,” said Ron, as he handed Harry back his glasses.

“Thanks for the welcome, Hermione, what's the big hug for?” questioned Harry.

“Erm…It's for finally letting yourself realize that you aren't responsible for Sirius's death,” said Hermione timidly, and in a shaky voice. Almost as if she made it up off the top of her head.

“How could you know that when you had only seen me for a split second?” questioned Harry.

“Well, okay Harry. I'll tell you,” said Hermione, with trepidation. “Ron, can Harry and I talk in private for a moment, please?” said Hermione.

“Sure,” said Ron, giving Harry the thumbs-up behind Hermione's back.

After Ron left, Hermione did the unbelievable. She kissed Harry. And not just a kiss on the cheeks, which she usually gave Harry, but a real, full-fledged kiss. Harry was in heaven. Hermione, the girl of his dreams was kissing him. But, why?

Hermione must have realized that Harry was thinking about something else because she broke the kiss, looking fearfully up at Harry's face.

“Did you like that? I mean, of course not. You probably don't even feel that way about me, so I'm probably just wasting my time. But Harry, I just wanted to say this one thing, whether you reject me or not, I love you. I have loved you since last year, and I always will,” spoke Hermione in a hushed, fast voice.

Harry's mind took a minute to register what Hermione had just said. She had said that she loved him. She loved Harry Potter, not The Boy Who Lived. He quickly made up his mind, and said, “Hermione, I love you too. I have loved you for such a long time, that I hardly know when my feelings towards you became more than just friendship. But I do know this: I will always love you. Hermione, will you be my girlfriend?”

“Oh Harry, yes, of course I will,” and with that, Hermione kissed Harry again. This was no longer a chaste kiss, however. Both Hermione and Harry had admitted that they loved each other, and that they were going to be together. However, knowing that they were both minors, Harry stopped the kiss before it was too late, because he knew, and it shocked him, that if Hermione had decided to go on, he couldn't have stopped himself. Suddenly, he became scared. He voiced his question to Hermione.

“How are we going to tell Ron about us?” said Harry.

“I already told him. He says he knew it was going to happen sometime, and he's glad that we finally stopped being stupid and blind to true love right in front of our eyes. And besides, he and Luna are an item,” said Hermione, with relief.

“WHAT! Ron and Luna Lovegood? You've got to be kidding me,” shouted Harry in surprise.

“I know, but Luna and Ron got together right after the train ride back home. Luna only lives about five minutes away from the Burrow, and Mr. Weasley and Mr. Lovegood have been good friends for a while now. One day, they met up, and they've only just started their relationship. I'm really happy for them,” said Hermione.

“I suppose I will be too after I get over the shock of Ron and Luna being an item,” said Harry.

“Well, let's get back upstairs with the others. Dobby came here from Hogwarts so he'll take your trunk and Hedwig up to your room with Ron,” said Hermione.

“Okay,” said Harry.

As Hermione and Harry were walking up the stairs, they met an odd sight. Ron and Luna were snogging themselves senseless while sitting on the troll's leg umbrella stand, which was in danger of falling over, with their combined weight and their constant shifting of positions.

“Hem, hem,” said Harry, with a good interpretation of Dolores Umbridge. Ron and Luna sprang apart, both looking wildly around for the source of their discomfort. Realizing it was Harry, Ron lunged at him playfully.

“What'd you have to do that for? You scared me half to death! Anyway, I see you two have finally stopped being the world's biggest idiots, and realized what you have. Practically everyone in the entire school knew it was going to happen. I am going to be rich. I bet Seamus, Dean, and Neville you two'd be an item by the time we got back to school,” said Ron.

“Really?! That many people know?” said Harry, in a disbelieving voice.

“Yeah! You two were the talk of the school for the last two years, what with Rita Skeeter, and everything! Anyway, you better get upstairs, Mum and Dad have a surprise party for you, Harry,” said Ron.

“What for? And why will you not be coming with us?” questioned Harry.

Ron now lowered his head. “They are reading Sirius's will now. We have already heard it, but we will be up in minute. Mum wanted me to go get something.” Harry told Ron, “It is not a problem, Ron. I am over Sirius's death, and I realize that it isn't my fault. Thanks for caring enough about me to listen to it again.”

“No problem, Harry,” said Ron.

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2. Newfound Knowledge

A/N Hello all, this is my first fic that I have ever written, so please Read and Review nicely. If you must flame me, at least sign it with your name. I will not get angry at any of you, and I will not take it personally, unless you leave a flame review that is unsigned. By the way, obviously, I own none of the characters here, except for the ones I make up. I also own the plot.

Chapter 2: Newfound Knowledge

Harry, Ron, Hermione, and Luna all walked upstairs into the enormous Black Family living room. Among the people present were the Weasley's, Dumbledore, Lupin, and Moody. There were a few other people whom Harry assumed to be new recruits for the Order.

“Hello, Harry,” Dumbledore said, “we are reading Sirius's will right now. Please sit down, so we can begin.”

Harry, Hermione, Ron, and Luna all sat down in the mahogany chairs lined up in neat rows.

“Now, let's begin,” said Dumbledore, “I, Sirius Black, the last remaining male directly descending from the ancient sorcerer, William Alexander Black, hereby establish that the following is in accordance with my wishes, and wizarding law, and shall, therefore, not be read until such a time that my death can be verified. Firstly, I wish to leave to my last remaining friend and marauder, Remus Lupin, my entire collection of potion ingredients, and books. To my godson, Harry James Potter, I leave the entire Black Family Fortune, totaling approximately 12.7 Billion galleons, and the deeds to my family house located at Number 12, Grimmauld Place, London, and give him the entire ownership of all items located in that place of residence, not previously mentioned. To the Order of the Phoenix, I grant the permission for them to use Number 12, Grimmauld Place, London, in any way deemed reasonable by my godson, Harry James Potter. To Albus Percival Wulfric Brian Dumbledore, I entreat you to `give Harry assistance'. I assume you know of what I speak, as it was in the letter I left for you when I escaped from Azkaban.

Sirius William Black

Sirius William Black”

The moment Dumbledore finished speaking, Harry looked around at everyone assembled there and realized that they were all staring at Dumbledore, surprised.

“Hey Ron, how come everyone's so surprised?” asked Harry.

“Because no one heard that last bit about Sirius giving Dumbledore a letter. He just stopped after he read about you getting the house and the Black Family Fortune,” said Ron, with a slight hint of jealousy.

“Listen, Ron. I need to talk to you and your parents right now,” said Harry in a small, hurried voice. “This has to end now and I will not sit by and let your parents suffer.”

“Um, okay, Harry,” said Ron. “Mum, Dad, can Harry and I talk to you for a moment outside?”

“Of course dear,” said Mrs. Weasley.

As the group stepped outside, Harry noticed Hermione had a look of discontentment on her face.

“Hermione, can you come too?” said Harry.

Immediately, Hermione's face lit up with excitement.

“Sure, Harry,” said Hermione.

Once outside the living room, Harry turned to face the Weasley's, Ron, and Hermione, all of whom seemed overly anxious.

“Okay, here's the deal. But before I tell you what it is, you must all swear that you will accept it, no matter what. Understood?” said Harry in a businesslike tone.

“We swear,” said everyone in unison.

“Good. Okay, now listen carefully. Mr. and Mrs. Weasley, this was mainly directed towards you. Tomorrow, we are going to go to Diagon Alley, to buy Hermione's and Ron's school supplies. While we are there, I will personally be depositing precisely 1 Million galleons into each of your vaults. That means that Ron and Hermione will also be getting 1 Million galleons, as well. You are such nice people and I can't stand it to see you suffer any longer. Now remember what you swore. You have to agree.”

After a few moments of shocked silence, Mrs. Weasley burst into tears and hugged Harry very forcefully.

“Oh, Harry. Thank you so much. You don't know how much this means to both myself and Arthur. We owe you something…something big,” said Mrs. Weasley, tears dripping slowly from her eyes. However, Harry shook his head.

“No, Mrs. Weasley. You two have done so much for me that I could not possibly ask you to do anything else. You deserve this much, at least,” said Harry.

“Oh, Harry, thank you. Now we'll leave you three alone. Again, thank you Harry,” said Mrs. Weasley, as Mr. Weasley and herself made their way to the kitchen, where everyone was apparently congregating for a small dinner.

As soon as the Weasley's left, Hermione threw herself onto Harry, hugging him.

“Oh Harry, what you did…it was just so good. You are a wonderful person, Harry,” said Hermione as she kissed Harry lightly on the lips.

“Ugh. Get a room you two,” said Ron in a mock-disgusted tone, but he was shaking with suppressed mirth.

Harry drew his wand, and tried hard not to laugh at the look of terror on Ron's face.

“Careful, Ron. This house has had a null-magic ward placed on it, so I can use magic without the Ministry finding out. Anymore wisecracks and you'll find yourself wishing you had just shut your mouth,” said Harry, who just burst out laughing after finishing his empty threat.

Ron's face immediately became the color of his hair, and upon finding out Harry was just joking, he playfully threw a pillow he had taken from the living room at Harry. Harry ducked just in time, and immediately ran up to his old room he had shared with Ron the year before and snatched two larger pillows, one for Hermione, and one for himself. Then they started a huge pillow fight, which was broken up nearly thirty minutes later when Mrs. Weasley came upstairs to check what all the commotion was about.

They all came downstairs with their faces flushed, and ate the wonderful three-course meal Mrs. Weasley had cooked, insisting to Dobby that she wanted to cook alone. Dobby had succumbed to her will and had set the table. After eating Harry had just gotten up to put his plate away when Dumbledore looked at him importantly, piercing him with his twinkling eyes. His eyes then darted to the door and he left. Harry, perplexed, put his plate away and went outside to see if Dumbledore was still there, which he was. He motioned for him to follow him upstairs, after pressing his finger to his lips to silence any questions he had. Once they were upstairs, Dumbledore removed the finger from his lips, and said, “Harry, you must listen carefully, there is a traitor in the Order. I do not know who to trust. You must be very careful as to whom you tell the Order's more confidential secrets, as we do not know who the spy is, or if there is only one spy. I know for a fact that Mad Eye, Tonks, and Lupin are not the spy because I used Legilimency and found no evidence of the Imperius Curse being used. Everyone else, I have no idea. I seriously doubt that it is Ron or Hermione because they do not know of the information that was leaked. I am telling you this so that you can help me find out who it is. I will not tell you who I think it is, though I believe I know who it is, until I know for sure that it is indeed that person. In the meantime, Harry, I feel that we can start your Occlumency and Legilimency training immediately. If I feel that you have progressed enough, we will start with your Dark Arts lessons. Tonight, however, I feel that it is late, and you should get some rest, as you are apparently going to Diagon Alley tomorrow. Remember Harry, be careful what you tell others. Should you feel it necessary to tell Mr. Weasley or Miss Granger of what I have told you, feel free to do so. However, be conscious of the fact that if the spy becomes aware that they are being hunted out, it will be disastrous for the Order. Goodnight, Harry.”

And with that, Dumbledore exited the room and proceeded to leave through the front door. As the door closed behind him, Harry was thinking only one thing: What the bloody hell was all that about?!

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3. Diagon Alley and Beyond

A/N: There are some confusing parts in this chapter, because I originally had Harry's thoughts in quotes, also. Therefore, I have put al of Harry's thoughts in italics, so you don't get confused.

Chapter 3: Diagon Alley and Beyond

The next day dawned early and Harry, especially, was up very early due to the fact that Hedwig had pecked him half-to-death at six in the morning. There was an overly small owl, not unlike Pig, zooming around the room, which did not sit very well with Hedwig. Harry had spent half the night calming her down long enough to catch the owl and read the letter. Surprisingly Ron didn't even move in his sleep while all of this was happening. The letter read:

Dear Harry,

Meet me in my office tomorrow morning (actually, it might be this morning) after Professor McGonagall dismisses you. Do not bring anyone along. I will send a fake letter to you at that time so that you may convince your friends you truly cannot bring anyone with you. This is of utmost importance.

Albus Dumbledore.

Harry read the letter over and over again. Why the bloody hell was Dumbledore sending him this at two in the morning?! Harry decided to put the letter away in his case for safekeeping. Since he couldn't go back to sleep, he packed his trunk and made sure he had everything he needed. He mentally checked off the entire list:

Firebolt, that's at Hogwarts, so check. Books, check. Clothes, check. Money, oops, I'll have to make another withdrawal tomorrow, so check. Wand, check. Hermione's letter case, check. Hedwig's treats, check. Hedwig's cage, check. Hedwig, check. Trunk, check. Alright, everything's set. Now just to wait for everyone else to get up.

Not a moment later, Mrs. Weasley knocked on the door, “GET UP, YOU TWO. TIME FOR YOU TO GET READY.”

Ron, being the heavy sleeper that he is, was suddenly startled. Realizing that it was still dark outside, he yelled at his mom, “BLOODY HELL, MUM! IT'S NOT EVEN DAWN YET!” He regretted his decision in voicing that thought a moment later when Mrs. Weasley burst the door open and dragged Ron's mattress onto the floor. “RONALD WEASLEY! YOU WILL NOT USE SUCH LANGUAGE IN FRONT OF ME!” And with that Mrs. Weasley waved her wand at him causing cold spurts of water to land on his head, effectively erasing his grogginess. “Damnit,” said Ron. “I hate when she does that. Anyway, what the bloody hell are we up this early for? It's not like we're going anywhere besides Diagon Alley and then to Hogwarts, isn't it?”

“I dunno, mate. I just couldn't sleep,” said Harry, conscious of the fact that if Ron knew the real reason why he was up so early. It would take a lot of convincing on Harry's part to make him stay in the common room during his “meeting” with Dumbledore.

Ron got dressed and made sure he had all of his books in his trunk. “Alright mate. Ready to go down. I reckon the girls will probably still be in there rooms seeing how they take forever `getting ready,'” said Ron, sarcastically. Harry, Ron, and Neville, who had slept in the room next to theirs, went down to breakfast together. By this time the sun was rising, casting a red glow over the horizon. Ron sat down immediately and started eating as if he had never touched food in his life. Neville and Harry, after seeing Ron's keenness on the food, lost their appetites.

“You go on, mate. I'm not that hungry after all,” said Harry.

“Yea,” said Neville, whose face looked slightly green.

Mrs. Weasley walked into the kitchen with the girls, all of whom looked like it was perfectly normal to eat breakfast at the crack of dawn. Mrs. Weasley then spoke to the group, “ I'll go wake up Professor McGonagall, shall I?”

“WHAT!! You wake us up at three in the morning, telling us we need to get ready, and when we're ready you wake up our supervisor three hours later!” exploded Ron.

“She's your teacher, Ronald. Honestly, if you must know, she's not getting nearly enough sleep these days, what with Dumbledore assigning her endless jobs from the Order. And on top of that, she has to worry about what a prat you'll be in her class the entire year,” fumed Mrs. Weasley. She spoke Dumbledore's name with suppressed rage and looked livid. Even Ron knew when not to push Mrs. Weasley.

Mrs. Weasley then exited the room. The moment she left the girls all let out audible sighs of relief. “Thank God she's out of here. Now I can get some real quality sleep. She woke us up at two in the morning!” said Ginny.

Luna said, “Well, Ronald, it seems you have quite an appetite.”

Everyone in the room laughed out loud except for Ron, who blushed crimson, and Luna, whose face looked unfazed by the spontaneous outburst of laughter at her comment. “You can laugh but I know that people who don't eat as much as they want to attract large armies of swatterflies,” said Luna.

Hermione was saved the trouble of asking what swatterflies were when Luna spoke, “Swatterflies are extremely oversized mosquitoes who sucked the magical energy from a witch or wizard. When faced with a muggle, it simply drains blood like a normal mosquito.”

After this comment the entire room went quiet. Half of the people were pondering asking Luna is she had ever seen a swatterfly. The other half were too tired or, in Ron's case, too occupied with other things. After a few minutes of awkward silence, Mrs. Weasley reentered the room accompanied by Professor McGonagall, who was dressed in a rather shabby black cloak and her hair tied up in a tight bun. “We will have to finish all of our shopping early so that we are not noticed by too many people. That is why we are all up at six in the morning. Professor Dumbledore has requested the shopkeepers of Flourish and Blott's, the Apothecary, and Madame Malkin's Robe shop to set up early so that we may be done with our shopping by seven. We will then portkey directly to Hogwarts. Professor Dumbledore has set up the wards to maximum protection so we must wait for him to come down onto the grounds and lower the wards. If you do not wait for him, however, the wards would kill you. So I suggest you do not make rash decisions,” said Professor McGonagall, who at this comment looked hard at Harry. Harry shook his head in agreement, as well as everyone else. “Very well. Now that we are all fed, shall we head to Diagon Alley? We will use another portkey, as the fires in this manor have been taken off the Floo Network, for privacy of the Order. Everyone gather your things, I shall reduce them in size so that we will not all have a trunk to carry,” said Professor McGonagall. She then cast the Reduction Charm on each of the trunks, along with Hedwig's, Pig's, and Crookshanks's cages. Mrs. Weasley would ship Crookshanks to Hogwarts the next day because Crookshanks was afraid of dark places and dawn had yet to approach.

Before they left Mrs. Weasley gave Ginny the key to their Gringotts vault and said, “Here is the key to our vault at Gringotts, Ginny. Make sure you don't lose it!”

Harry, Ron, Hermione, Luna, Ginny, Neville, and Professor McGonagall all placed one finger on the tattered muggle newspaper that Professor McGonagall was holding out to them. After a countdown from ten, Harry experienced the familiar jerk behind his navel that he had come to associate with portkey travel. In a blend of howling wind and whirling color, Harry and the others landed rather unsteadily in the middle of a deserted Diagon Alley. Gringotts stood tall and tilted, breaking the monotony of the one-story shops that lined the street towards it. Harry and the others went inside Gringotts and found that only the head goblin and two assistant goblins were on duty. Professor McGonagall presented the head goblin with a list of the vaults that they would be visiting. Harry, however, had not told her about depositing some of his fortune with Hermione, Ron, and the Weasley's. Slightly hesitating he stepped towards the head goblin and said, “I would like to create an account for the minors, Hermione Granger and Ronald Weasley. Once those are created, I would like to transfer the sum of one million galleons each to those vaults and to the vault in the name of Mr. and Mrs. Arthur Weasley.” The head goblin looked affronted at the sudden formality coming from the boy who stood before him. Why, not even five years ago, he had stood here, accompanied by the half-giant Rubeus Hagrid, looking like the world was a huge dragon leering at him. This time however he let his emotions drain from his face. He nodded, took out the necessary paperwork and said, “Are Miss Granger and Mr. Weasley here, presently?”

“Yes, they are,” said Harry. He pointed out Ron and Hermione from the rest. The head goblin nodded again.

“Very well. Would you, Miss Granger, come here and sign this form stating that you are aware of the bank's policies towards accounts and the security measures we take to ensure your money remains in your possession. Should there be a successful robbery and your vault is robbed, you will receive the amount that was taken from you back, as you are insured,” stated the head goblin in slightly bored tones. He had obviously done this one too many times already. Hermione stepped forward and signed her name on the parchment, which instantly copied itself ten times. One copy was sent to Hermione's vault for safekeeping, one copy was given to Hermione, and the rest were all taken to the filing cabinets. After this process was completed, Hermione stepped back, amazed at the amount of thoroughness with which the goblins did their job. After the head goblin gave Hermione her vault key, he requested that Ron come forward.

“Please come here and sign this form, stating that you are aware of the bank's policies towards accounts and the security measures we take to ensure your money remains in your possession. Should there be a successful robbery and your vault is robbed, you will receive the amount that was taken from you back, as you are insured,” repeating what he had said to Hermione. Ron also signed the form and the same procedure occurred. Finally the head goblin spoke again, “Mr. Potter, please come forward. Your vault number please?”

“687,” said Harry.

“Very well. Your current balance is in the order of twenty billion, eight hundred million, two thousand and forty-two galleons. After this transaction, your balance will become twenty billion, seven hundred ninety-seven million, two thousand and forty-two galleons. Is this acceptable?” said the head goblin with slight surprise at Harry's enormous bank balance.

Harry, who felt even more ashamed of his amassed weight, decided to up the anty a little bit. “Make that ten million galleons to each of those three vaults, please.” When he looked around, Ron was dumbstruck and Hermione looked very happy. Harry had a gut feeling that she wasn't happy for her own personal gains. Mrs. Weasley, had she been there, probably would of tried to stop Harry, given him a beating for abusing his promise, and insist that he take the gold back. However, thankfully, Mrs. Weasley wasn't there at the moment and could do nothing to stop Harry now.

The head goblin nodded and took out another piece of parchment. He threw the old ones away. As it went into the rubbish bin, it was magically disintegrated in a flash of smoke. The head goblin said, “Very well. Again, your current balance is in the order of twenty billion, eight hundred million, two thousand, and forty-two galleons. After this transaction, your balance will become twenty billion, seven hundred seventy million, two thousand, and forty-two galleons. Is this acceptable?”

“Yes,” said Harry. He felt slightly better at the fact that he was giving the people who loved him some worldly pleasure. However, deep inside his heart, he knew that no amount of gold was worth what Ron, Hermione, and the Weasley's had given him and would keep on giving him. At least now they know that their sacrifice for me wasn't in vain. Though they probably didn't expect anything in return. Still, they deserve the best and I will give them the best.

“Very well, Mr. Potter. Please sign here.”

Harry stepped forward and signed his name on the parchment. The parchment instantly made nine copies of itself.

“Here is your copy,” said the head goblin, as the other nine copies sped off to their destinations. “Very well. Now that we have sorted all that mess out, Miss Granger your vault number is 1080. Mr. Weasley your vault number is 1081. Rednick, here, will take you down to your vaults.”

Rednick bowed before them and led the way to the carts. As there were seven people, Rednick led them into a large cart placed close to the entrance to the vaults. “Please step in. We will be visiting six vaults today. Is that correct?”

“Yes, that is correct,” said Harry as he handed Rednick the keys to all the vaults. They would be visiting: Neville's, The Weasley's, Harry's, Hermione's, Ron's, and Luna's.

The cart first stopped at Neville's vault, number 589. Neville scooped up about two fistfuls of galleons and closed the vault. Rednick then gave Neville back his vault key. The cart's next stop was at Harry's vault. When they opened the door, Harry realized they must have enlarged it because the back wall was barely visible from the twenty one piles of galleons, which Harry assumed to each be 1 billion galleons. Harry quickly scooped up about three handfuls of galleons and closed the door. After they got back into the cart, Rednick gave Harry back his vault key. They came to Luna's vault, number 723 next. Luna just took a handful of galleons and a handful of sickles. Luna also got her key back after leaving her vault. After Luna's vault they went to the Weasley's vault, number 819. Ginny couldn't conceal her glee at the mountain of galleons in her family's vault. She scooped up three handfuls of galleons and left. Rednick then proceeded to give her back her key. Finally they arrived at Hermione's vault. Once opened Hermione let out a squeak of glee and placed three handfuls of galleons into a purple bag that she had gotten for Christmas last year. After leaving Hermione's vault, they walked next door to Ron's vault. Ron gaped at the amount of galleons he had which were his own. He thanked Harry again and scooped up about three handfuls of galleons. Repeating the procedure, Rednick gave Hermione and Ron back their keys and they all got into the cart for the trip back to the surface. Once back at the front desk, Harry spoke up, “Mr. Head Goblin, is there any way in which I can authorize payments from my vault without providing the vault number?”

“Yes. We call it the check notes system. It was derived from the muggle use of little paper slips as payment for items they didn't have enough cash for at the moment. We changed it so that all you have to do is take your `check book' and tap it with your wand while saying the amount of money you wish the check to be worth. You then speak the incantation, Approvus checkus, and the gold will automatically be transferred to the store's vault. If it is a check to an individual, then you must state their full name when you state the amount the check is worth. We have check books available for two knuts, if you'd like one, Mr. Potter,” said the head goblin.

Harry pulled out two knuts and placed them on the head goblin's desk. “Yes, I would like to buy one,” said Harry. The head goblin took the knuts and gave Harry what looked like a muggle checkbook.

The moment it touched Harry's hand, it shrank to the size of Harry's fist.

After Harry's purchase the group left Gringotts and went outside. Once outside they found that the time was six twenty. They decided to head to Flourish and Blott's first. Harry, Hermione, Ron, Luna, Neville, and Ginny all bought the necessary books they would need for the coming year. After exiting Flourish and Blott's, Harry and Ron decided that they needed new Hogwarts robes because Ron had had a huge growth spurt and stood at the height of six feet, four inches. Harry, not far behind him, at a height of six feet one inches, also noticed that his robes were a bit too small. Harry and Ron then left for Madame Malkin's Robe Shop for All Occasions. Once inside, Madame Malkin fitted them both in the span of a minute and they walked out of the door with their merchandise in a small red bag. They hurried to find the others at the Apothecary. Harry needed to replenish his Potion's ingredients because he, along with Hermione, would be the only Gryffindor sixth years in Professor Snape's N.E.W.T. level Potions class. Ron had gotten an A in both the written and practical examinations for Potions so he didn't qualify for N.E.W.T. Potions. However, he had confided in Harry that even if he had, by some lucky chance, qualified for Snape's class, he would have dropped it anyway. He didn't dare say that in front of Hermione because she seemed to think that all Hogwarts teachers were saints of some sort and were above such petty things as prejudice. While Hermione and Harry filled up their potion stocks, the others waited patiently outside the shop for them to finish. Once they were done at the Apothecary, the group was ready to leave for Hogwarts. The time was six forty five so they lounged around for about ten minutes before Professor McGonagall held out the newspaper again and they were whisked away to Hogwarts in a rush of howling wind and swirling color.

Once they arrived at Hogwarts, the group waited patiently for approximately two minutes before Professor Dumbledore came out onto the grounds and lowered the wards around the school. When the group was inside the grounds, Professor Dumbledore raised the wards back to their lethal state. Professor McGonagall then took the group into the Entrance Hall and pulled off her hat. “While you are here, you are not to wander past the grounds. That means no Hogsmeade visits. You will stay in your respective house Dormitories. Luna, however, will be moved to Gryffindor Tower until the term starts in two weeks. The password is Animagus Gryffin. The entire castle is at your hands so I suggest you make good use of it. You all have unrestricted access to the Restricted Section of the Library and Madame Pince has been notified so you may ask her to get whichever books you need from the Library. Other than that you are free to go. Mr. Potter, please stay behind,” said Professor McGonagall.

The rest of the group eyed Harry suspiciously but said nothing. Harry said, “I'll meet you all upstairs.”

When the group had filed away to Gryffindor Tower, Professors McGonagall and Dumbledore looked at him. “Harry, you will be taking Occlumency classes with Professor Dumbledore starting tonight after dinner. We have thought about it and realize that you may feel the need to tell someone else about these lessons. We have given you permission to tell Miss Granger and Mr. Weasley about these classes. Do not, however, tell anyone else. The animagus class for the three of you will start tomorrow, as you will need tonight to get settled back in at Hogwarts. Come to my office at eight tomorrow morning. You may go now, Harry,” said Professor McGonagall.

Harry left the two Professors and began walking up the marble steps to Gryffindor Tower. He was about to turn a corner through which he would be able to see the Fat Lady but he heard something in a door off to his right. Raising his wand he crept toward the door. Pushing on it slightly, he found it was locked. He muttered, “Alohomora.” The door's lock clicked open. He opened the door and the sight that met his eyes made him drop his wand and lose consciousness.

A/N: I know that was a bad cliffy, so please don't flame me for that. I wanted to post two chapters, but I merged them together, and got this as the end result. Please R&R.

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4. Reality and Illusions

Chapter 4: Reality and Illusions

A/N: Hi, sorry for the extreme delay in getting this chapter out. I had my final exams upon me, and I was unable to find time to write, but my exams end tomorrow, so I will be able to post chapters much more quickly now. However, I am also now a beta reader, so feel free to send me your fics, as well. My e-mail address is: manjanapp1@gmail.com

Harry was walking on the Hogwarts grounds, when he saw a disturbance in some of the bushes. As he got closer, more and more bushes started swaying in the wind. “Harry...Harry, wake up”

“But I am up!” yelled Harry.

Suddenly, Harry saw something massive rise up, out of the bushes, its claws ready to tear out his heart if he moved one more step. Harry stood there, paralyzed by fear, when suddenly he felt his body being jerked into consciousness.

~@~

As Harry opened his eyes, his vision was hazy; someone had obviously removed his glasses. As he tried to become familiar with his environment, he found that he was staring up into the ceiling of a classroom in Hogwarts. Slowly, he looked to his right and left, and saw that there were two scared faces looking intently at him. Slowly, his memory came back to him. He had seen what no person should ever see. He had caught Ginny and Neville with their pants down, literally. All their other clothes had lain in a pile on the floor, which lay unnoticed at their intense love making session. After seeing the scene, he had blacked out but not before he had seen the horrified pale faces of Neville and Ginny looking around at him.

“Harry, are you okay?” asked Neville tentatively.

“Yeah, I am fine. I just…” Harry trailed off, leaving an awkward silence in the wake of his comment.

“You just fainted, Harry. You've been out for five minutes. We would have gone to Pomfrey or McGonagall, but we thought it might be best if we set a few things straight, first. First of all Harry, I know this must sound awkward, but I have to ask; are you going to tell Ron?” said Ginny, again showing courage from out of nowhere to breach the wall of silence that had built up around the three.

Harry thought, Hell, if Ron knew, then he'd probably kill Neville. But if I don't tell Ron, and he finds out, then he's going to kill me, then Neville. But, I guess…aw damn, where is Hermione when you need her. She'd know what to do. Well, this might work out bad for me in the end, but I guess I'll let them decide whether or not I should tell Ron. “You guys are my friends. I would never do anything that I thought might damage our friendship, but I am stumped as to whether I should tell Ron. I won't tell Ron, but I really think you should tell Ron. It may be too early for him to know, but I think the sooner he knows and understands that nothing he says will make you two break up, the better for all of us. But one thing first, I never, never want to see what I saw again, or I think I might go into permanent shock,” said Harry, surprising even himself with his insight into Neville and Ginny's relationship. He had a nagging suspicion that there was something else to his sudden spurt of understanding and knowledge. Something else to ask Hermione about, thought Harry.

Ginny looked immensely relieved at his words and straightened up, along with Harry and Neville. Once Harry had gotten up and brushed the soot that had accumulated on the backside of his robes, Ginny reached into her pockets and retrieved Harry's glasses. She held them out to Harry, who thanked her and left the room. Ginny and Neville stayed behind; Harry didn't need to ask why. As he was closing the door, he silently uttered a locking and silencing charm on the door, so no one else could walk in on what he had walked into.

Harry made his way to the Fat Lady and uttered the password. Upon hearing the correct phrase, the Fat Lady let Harry enter the Gryffindor Common Room. Harry walked into the spacious room, which sported a fireplace, scarlet carpet, and similarly colored sofas, chairs, and tables. Currently, the room only had one occupant: Hermione Granger. Hermione was reading her N.E.W.T. Potions text, Mixtures and Concoctions for the Overly Smart by Miranda James. Her eyes were taking in the extremely tiny print of the book, streaking past each line of the book so fast that her eyes appeared blurred. She was so preoccupied that she didn't even notice Harry creeping up slowly behind her. Harry suddenly seized the book out of her hands and forced her to turn around. Hermione, whose face had initially looked utterly startled, now looked angry, but there was an unmistakable look of humor in her eyes, which was detectable for only a second before she emptied her face of emotions. However, Harry still caught the glimmer in her eyes before it faded away. Now, Harry was fighting to maintain control of his emotions. He wanted to pretend to take offense at the rant Hermione would soon be sending his way, though Harry knew it to be half-hearted.

“HARRY JAMES POTTER! You just scared the living hell out of me! I need to study for this term, and so do you! I can't believe you are just going to take N.E.W.T. Potions and not study! I mean, Professor Snape is going to be even harder on you than normal this year,” yelled Hermione, her face turning a slight shade of red, a sure sign that something wasn't right. However, one very disturbing thought crossed his mind. Hermione's never called Snape a professor when she's angry. In fact, I don't remember a time when she has ever called Snape a Professor out of his earshot since third year. Something is odd here. She usually never fails to criticize Snape when she can. What happened last year must have done something to her. During his musings Harry noticed that the fireplace seemed to flicker more than was natural. This normally wouldn't be perceived by anyone, but Harry's natural seeker skills gave him the ability to see the slight repetition in the flames. This was something he had also noticed last year when Sirius was almost caught by Umbridge. The fire had gone in a repeating pattern, almost as if it were going around something in the fireplace. Harry became suspicious and stood up to put some water on the fire. Hermione stopped him before he could pull out his wand.

“Don't put out the fire, Harry. It is a bit chilly in here,” said Hermione. Harry however, ignored her, and said `Acquais' while pointing his wand at the fire. Immediately, the world around Harry started spinning. After a few minutes, Harry found himself looking at Albus Dumbledore, who was smiling at him. Behind Dumbledore stood Hermione, Ron, Ginny, Neville, and Luna, all of who were smiling at him. Before he had even opened his mouth to ask what was going on, Dumbledore spoke up.

“I believe, Harry, that you have passed your first test with `flying colors' as Muggles often say. When you entered the Gryffindor Common Room, you saw what you thought was Hermione. In fact, it was a mere magical illusion. The spell I used is known as the Illusion Curse. It lulls the victim into a false reality, which is not very unlike the Imperious Curse. It is part of a group of four curses called the Edward Skinner Curses. Edward Skinner, who was born and raised in London during the Black Plague, created these curses. You will remember that London at that time was a place of terror, and many people died of madness before the plague had ever reached them. His belief that mental pain was more significant and damaging than physical pain was what inspired Edward to create the Four Curses. His intentions at the time were malevolent, but they hold attributes that today's wizards can use to great effectiveness. I believe it is one of the curses you will be reading about in your Defense Against the Dark Arts class this year. I performed the curse on you when Professor McGonagall was talking to you. I regret, however, that the incident with Mr. Longbottom and Miss Weasley was no illusion. I intended the curse to trigger the moment you walked into your common -“

“What incident?” interrogated Ron. His eyes were full of suspicion.

“That, Mr. Weasley, is between Mr. Longbottom and Miss Weasley, and I will not betray their trust and tell you what happened. I assume that they will tell you in due time,” said Dumbledore calmly, breaking Ron's resolve as if it were a twig.

Ron stepped down and glared suspiciously at Ginny, who was conveniently not looking at him. Meanwhile, McGonagall dismissed the six students back to their common room. Once she thought it was safe to speak openly, she looked to Dumbledore, who was looking in the direction of the recently departed students. “Do you think they are ready, Dumbledore? They are just teenagers, after all. I mean, why does this war have to take away their childhood?” said McGonagall.

“I believe Harry, Hermione, and Neville are completely ready. Ron is not ready yet because he doesn't realize the extents of Voldemort's power, but I think that when given the choice, he will stand unwaveringly at Harry's side. They have a friendship that is very close, and I doubt anything will tear the two of them apart. Ginny, however, is the one party I am not completely sure about. I think that she despises Voldemort as much as any one else, but I think that she has the ability to be persuaded to come to our side. Hopefully her relationship with Neville will allow this to occur,” said Dumbledore, in a troubled voice.

“Very well, Albus. Let us hope you are correct in that assumption,” said McGonagall.

~@~

“Anyway, Harry, you should really study for Potions. Snape is going to do anything he can to get you out of his class,” said Hermione, looking up from her Charms textbook. The group had returned to the common room, and Ron and Luna had left to do some `studying' in the library. Ginny had asked Neville to help her with her Herbology essay. Hermione had immediately engrossed herself with her Charms textbook, and Harry had just simply sat there, admiring the landscape of the Hogwarts Grounds. When Hermione spoke, Harry looked up into her eyes, seeing that manic glint of her willpower inside them. Realizing that she wasn't going to stop nagging him to study, Harry walked upstairs to his room and picked up his bag. He filled it with his Charms, Potions, Defense Against the Dark Arts, and Transfiguration textbooks, and headed back down to the Common Room. Once he got downstairs, he realized that Neville and Ginny had left. Putting his bag down at the table opposite Hermione, Harry took out his Potions textbook and started to read. Hermione, satisfied with his work ethic, continued her reading. A short time later, Ron, Luna, Ginny, and Neville reentered the room, and also took out their textbooks and started to study. They studied their different classes until lunchtime, when they went down to the Great Hall. There was just one table, at which Professors McGonagall, Dumbledore, and Sprout were sitting, chatting idly. When the students entered the hall, Dumbledore conjured enough chairs for them all, and they proceeded to eat a five-course lunch, in which three of the courses remained untouched by all.

During the course of the two weeks, Harry found that he didn't have a problem with Potions at all. Harry was able to remember almost all of the ingredients and instructions by heart. He was doing most of this out of the company of Hermione, as well. Hermione had taken to spending most of her studying time in the Library, where there were even more books she could look in to find the exact definition of something in one of her textbooks. One day when Harry was writing his Potions essay, which was already two inches longer than required, Hermione entered the Common Room, looking for a spare quill. Harry hadn't noticed the disruption in the room, and had jumped out of his seat, his wand half drawn when he heard Hermione let out a squeal of delight.

“What are you so happy about?” asked Harry, still trying to calm himself from his fright.

“Oh, Harry, don't you realize that you have finally mastered Potions beyond the requirements of the class? This is wonderful. I always knew you had it in you, I knew Snape was the only one who was holding you back. Now look at you, you can probably pass your exams this year for potions right now!” said Hermione in an excited voice.

Harry sat down, and found out that to his amazement, he had mastered Potions, to an extent that would probably receive an `E' from Snape, who was one of the most strict graders Harry had ever met. Harry let out a laugh at this realization of this fact, and preceded to return the hug Hermione had given him. I just wish I could be making as much progress in Occlumency as in Potions.

-----~@~-----

FLASHBACK

`Now Harry, I want you to completely empty your mind of any emotion whatsoever. Think about nothing; let your mind wander aimlessly. I know it is hard. It is always hard in the beginning, but try your best Harry. It is imperative that you master Occlumency before Voldemort extracts the Prophecy's contents from your mind,' said Dumbledore. He had his wand out and was waiting patiently for Harry to complete his request. When Harry felt he was ready, he said, “Okay, Professor. Let's go.'

`Very well, Legilimens,' said Dumbledore, his wand pointed towards Harry's forehead. Streams of memories washed through Harry's mind. They were getting progressively less severe, and finally, Harry was finding neutral, unimportant memories flashing through his thoughts. As soon as these neutral memories started flashing past, Harry felt a surge of confidence, but Dumbledore chose that particular moment to remove the spell. Harry was, miraculously, still standing. He felt his legs about to give way, however, but he was still standing. Dumbledore was looking towards him, smiling. “That was an improvement, Harry. I imagine nothing of this sort occurred when you were training with Professor Snape?' said Dumbledore.

`No sir; I kept falling whenever he removed the spell. I guess I must be getting better,' said Harry. However when Harry said this, Dumbledore's smile vanished.

`I am afraid, Harry, that I am not such an accomplished Occlumens, or Legilimens as Severus Snape. No doubt he was using his full powers on your mind. Harry, every night, I want you to completely empty your mind of any thoughts or emotions. This is enough for today. You may leave now, Harry,' said Dumbledore.

END FLASHBACK

-----~@~-----

As Hermione finally let go of him, Harry took out their Animagus text given to them by Professor McGonagall. During the lessons with Professor McGonagall, Harry, Ron, and Hermione were all pretty sure which animal they would transform into. Harry would transfer into a lion, Ron would transform into an eagle, and Hermione would transform into a panther. The only reason they had still not attempted the actual transformation process was because of Professor Dumbledore's insistence that they each read and knew as much about their transformation as possible, and in order to do that, the three friends had spent the better part of a week researching and taking notes on each of the animals they would be transforming into. Hermione, of course, had gone to the library catalog and had checked out every single book that had either the word `panther' or the word `cats' in the title. And, surprisingly, she was finished with almost half of her research when Harry and Ron actually finished. Once Ron realized that he had finished something before Hermione, he spent a good twenty minutes rubbing it in, but stopped because of the glare he was receiving from his other two friends. Last night, Professor McGonagall had told the three of them that they would be doing the beginning steps of the transformation the next day. Therefore, Hermione had insisted to Ron and Harry that they review their notes on their transformations. Ron, who had gone to “study” with Luna, said that he would finish reviewing before they took their lesson, which would be taking place in the evening for some reason.

After having studied his notes as thoroughly as he wanted, Harry found he still had one hour left before dinner, and then, their Animagus lesson. Harry had no idea where Ron was, so he couldn't ask him for a game of chess. Therefore, he settled on thinking about the new spells he had learned in his Dark Arts class with Professor Dumbledore. Harry had now learnt two of the four Edward Skinner Curses, and he was due to learn the other two in his lesson next week. Harry's Dark Arts class was held in the Room of Requirement, where there was safety measures put in place that allowed him to practice Dark Arts spells without inflicting any damage to anyone. So far, he had learned that once a new Minister of Magic was chosen to replace Fudge, Professor Dumbledore would personally ensure that Harry would get the proper permits and licenses to perform the Edward Skinners and other Dark Arts spells that he would be learning. However, for the time being, Fudge was undergoing trial, and until he got convicted, no new Minister could be chosen. While reminiscing silently about his Dark Arts class, Harry looked at his watch and realized that dinner would start in a few minutes. Realizing that if Hermione didn't get up soon, he would have to force her to leave her notes, Harry said quietly to Hermione, “Dear, it's time for dinner. Put your notes away so we can leave.”

“Oh, is it really time? I wish I could have reviewed more, but I guess this will have to do. Okay, let's go,” said Hermione, while packing her bag up.

On the way to the Great Hall, Harry found Ron walking back from the Library looking like he was going to blow his head off. Harry quickly headed him off, and forced him to talk. Once he realized that Harry and Hermione weren't going to give up, Ron said in a disgruntled voice, “When I got to Library, I noticed that the Restricted Section door was ajar. I knew that the Restricted Section was supposed to be locked at all times, so I went to close the door when I saw Ginny and Neville doing... Well something that no guy should ever see happen to his sister. They were both into the moment, and they didn't realize that I saw them. So, I tried to stun Neville, but once I tried there must have been a ward there, or something, to stop the books from being damaged; I was thrown backwards into the Circulation Desk, where Madame Pince usually sits. The next thing I know, Ginny is standing over me, fully clothed, looking at me like I am Umbridge, or something, and Neville is standing behind her, trying to put his clothes back on. Then, Ginny starts yelling like I never knew she could. She just kept saying how I was invading her privacy and everything. Then, I got up and told her that I was in the Library and that they were the ones who were not supposed to be there, and how she never even told me what was going on with her and Neville. Then, I got up and left and met you two,” said Ron, each word serving to further scrunch up his face so that he looked positively loathing by the end of his speech. Harry and Hermione stood there, not knowing what to do. Realizing that they weren't going to do anything, Ron pushed past Harry and Hermione and proceeded to the Gryffindor Common Room.

When he left, Hermione spoke up, “I never knew about Ginny and Neville. Is that what you saw before you got to the Common Room that one day?”

“Yeah, I saw them. However, I will tell you up straight that I had no feelings for Ginny beyond friendship. So you needn't worry. I hope Ron gets over it soon because he better not be late for our Animagus lesson,” said Harry, looking back towards the route to Gryffindor Tower.

“Oh well. Nothing we can do now,” said Hermione. “Let's go to dinner.”

With that, Harry and Hermione walked down to the Great Hall, hand in hand.

After dinner, to which Ron didn't attend, Professor Dumbledore stood up. “I am pleased to announce that the trial of Cornelius Fudge, former Minister of Magic, was concluded this morning, and the new Minister was chosen. As Chief Warlock of the Wizengamot, I hereby announce to you, that none other than Kingsley Shacklebolt, new head of the Auror division, was nominated, and elected, for the office of Minister of Magic. As you all know, Mr. Shacklebolt is a trusted member of the Order of the Phoenix and can be trusted in any way. I am also pleased to announce that both Cornelius Fudge and Dolores Umbridge have been sacked from the Ministry of Magic, and Miss Umbridge is currently serving her twenty-year sentence in Azkaban for attempted use of an Unforgivable Curse on Harry Potter, reckless endangerment of Harry Potter, and for substantial physical harm she placed on many Hogwarts students. So, let us raise our goblets to the new Minister of Magic, Kingsley Shacklebolt!”

A/N: Hi, sorry again for the extreme delay in getting this chapter out. As stated above, my final exams were upon me, and I was unable to find time to write another chapter. Hope you like this chapter. Also, the idea for the Edward Skinner Curses was from Portkey author Woodrow M. who has written one of my favorite stories so far, “Harry Potter and the Maw” And for all of you who are copywrite obsesses, I have contacted Woodrow M., and NAPPA, and they have both given me permission to use the Edward Skinner Curses. Thanks to both of you! I hope to have the next chapter posted by May 20, as I am also beta reading as of now.

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5. Animagi in Action

A/N: Nothing much to say here, except that I own nothing, except the plot, and any additional characters, spells, settings, I may use that do not already exist in the world of Harry Potter, or those that are not copywrited. Please read the end author's note (or not, if you choose not to) to read my rant about HBP.

Chapter Five: Animagi In Action

After dinner, (Ron had come down in the end) Harry, Ron and Hermione entered the Staff Room accompanied by Professors McGonagall, Dumbledore, and Snape. Oddly enough, Snape was visibly more civil towards Harry during the class. Snape was not commenting on his work during the lesson, and merely acknowledged his presence; almost as if he was ignoring Harry.

Professors McGonagall and Dumbledore began to describe the effects of the potion that Professor Snape had made for them. The potion would make the drinker lightheaded and dizzy for approximately three hours, meaning that the trio would not likely be going to their dorms that night. After that, over the period of one hour, the changes would start, progressing at a rate proportional to the drinker's knowledge of their alternate form. After this, they would stay in the hospital wing, as the trio suspected, so that Madame Pomfrey could conduct tests to make sure the potion worked properly.

“After tonight, we shall meet twice a week until we can be sure each of you can master your animagi forms well. All right, then. Professor Snape, if you would please produce the potion,” said Dumbledore, as Snape moved swiftly from his corner in the room to Professor Dumbledore's side, and back “Ah, yes… Harry, Hermione, Ronald; if you would please step forward, you may begin.” The trio moved nervously up to Professor Dumbledore with Hermione in the lead. They each took a goblet of the potion, and took them up to the Hospital Wing. Once there, they drank the potions and all of them almost instantaneously became unconscious.

The next morning, all three of the young wizards and witch were nursing monstrous headaches. They had woken up at the end of the initial three-hour period with a feeling of nauseous, similar to the sensation created by Polyjuice Potion. Over the course of the next hour, Hermione, Harry, and Ron each achieved their animagus form. Hermione, obviously, had been the first to transform back into her human form and felt dizzy and fell straight to sleep immediately afterward. The others followed as well. When they were fully asleep, Madame Pomfrey conducted her examination of all three students and found nothing wrong. Madame Pomfrey then sent an owl in the morning to the headmaster, explaining all of this, including the time it took for each student to transform to and from their animal forms. The headmaster, however, had left that night on Order business, and had not arrived yet. Meanwhile, the trio in the Hospital Wing was conversing about their experience the night before. Although it was unspoken, all felt that if they had a choice, they would never take the potion again. Ron even felt that Professor Snape might have made their potions especially more distasteful.

“Do either of you feel like we are essentially two different people, now that we have all transformed?” asked Hermione with her usual air of inquiry about her. Harry and Ron did feel that way, but couldn't find ways to express it, so they simply nodded.

“Well, I don't know about you, but I think that we should all go to the library for a spot more research on the aftermath of the animagus transformation,” said Hermione, fully knowing that Professor Dumbledore had explained it only last night but couldn't exactly remember what the Professor said, merely the fact that he had explained it. She thought that maybe one of the others might have remembered, but then realized that it was Ron and Harry. They would have absorbed nothing of the previous night's talks if at all possible.

“Hermione, please! We've done enough bloody studying. Why don't we just talk to Dumbledore or McGonagall. Actually, come to think of it, they explained it to us last night. They said…er, well they said that…er. Blimey, I can't remember a single thing. Can you, Harry?” asked Ron.

“Well, I don't remember either, so what are we doing in here-“ said Harry.

“-you are in here because I need to make sure you are not going to spontaneously combust, or anything like that. And by the way, Professors McGonagall and Dumbledore aren't here right now. They're off on Order business somewhere, I expect. Well, while I have you, drink this potion; it should eliminate most of the dizziness and lightheadedness you probably have,” said Madame Pomfrey. The explanation being satisfactory, the trio drank the potion and felt perfectly fine within five minutes, when Albus Dumbledore came bursting through the Hospital Wing door, accompanied by the rest of the students and teachers, except for Professors Snape and McGonagall. Dumbledore's angry demeanor suggested something great was amiss.

“Listen, all of you. Professor Snape has been compromised. He was found out to be a spy by Tom yesterday, and was forced to set up a trap for me last night. I managed to escape, but Professor McGonagall was taken hostage. Tom has made no demands, suggesting that he does not wish to hold our two professors hostage; an even graver danger. I want all of you to remain here tonight, no going out on the grounds, and no going anywhere after hours. The castle is no longer completely safe, because Professor McGonagall is exempt from the school wards, as is Professor Snape, and if either of them is a victim of the Imperius Curse, we may not be able to trust them. If you see either of them, summon Fawkes by using these Order of the Phoenix medallions.” Here, Dumbledore passed out golden medallions with the symbol of the phoenix emblazoned on the front, “Fawkes will take you immediately to me, and you can report the sighting. I repeat, do not, under any circumstances, attempt to approach the professors. We must consider them as enemies for the time being. Harry, if you would please come with me, along with Ronald and Hermione, if you please,” said Dumbledore. Confused by this turn of events, as everyone was, the trio followed Dumbledore out of the Hospital Wing and down a side corridor, where Dumbledore turned to face them.

“I know that you have all just recently become animagi and are still a little new to being animagi, but I need your help if we are to rescue the Professors. I cannot ask anyone else to come with us, as they are needed to protect the castle if Tom comes. Also, most of the Order are currently undercover in the Ministry, and I cannot request them to come, lest I compromise our mission. Here is what we must do,” said Dumbledore, conjuring up a table and four chairs for them to sit at. After this, Dumbledore conjured what appeared to be a muggle hologram, except in three dimensions, of a run down building in the middle of a forest.

“This is where the Professors are being kept. It is an old outpost that was acquired by Tom's family, and he has, no doubt, put up wards around the place. However, it is very unlikely that Tom will be there right now. He is probably very angry at the fact that he failed to capture me last night, so there will be minimal security at the outpost, allowing for us to swiftly take out the opposition, giving Tom less time to counter attack us. The three of you will transform and form a perimeter around the back and the sides. Harry, I recommend you take the back. Meanwhile, I will conjure up holograms like this one, of other Order members, to distract the Death Eaters inside, and force them to flee, where you will be waiting for them. Should you feel the need to transform back into a human to use your wand, do so, but use the greatest discretion, as no one knows you are animagi, and to reveal this to Tom would defeat the purpose of making you animagi. As none of you know how to apparate, we must go by portkey into the wards. Remember, this is a quick operation; if Tom appears, do not engage him, tell me and I will hold him off until we can secure the professors. If we do get separated, keep the portkey to use, and don't wait for me; I will find some way of getting away, understood?” asked Dumbledore. After seeing a furtive nod from the three faces, he looked at his pocket watch.

“Almost time to go; three…two…one” said Dumbledore, as at the conclusion of his words, all four of them felt the familiar jerk behind their navels.

“Wormtail, send for Bella and Rabastam; they have work to do,” said Tom Riddle, in a very decisive tone of voice.

“Yes, master; immediately,” said Peter Pettigrew, bowing out of the room as he went.

As the three wizards and one witch arrived at their destination, they split up. Hermione transformed immediately, the Black Panther jogging silently to her post, while her two friends arrived at their posts, transforming as they went. The lion looked fierce and agitated, concentrating on the rear door of the outpost. The eagle on the opposite side of the panther, was perched vigilantly on a small branch, overlooking the side windows. Meanwhile, Dumbledore conjured up about ten other Order members, and had them march with him to the front door. Once there, he made sure everyone was in position, and knocked on the door. There was no answer, except for hurried mutterings inside the outpost, and then, silence. Then, without warning, the door exploded, sending Dumbledore and the other “Order members” sprawling back. Harry immediately took guard at the back door, and soon enough, three wizards in black robes stepped out the back door. They were momentarily stunned to find a lion in the middle of the forests of England, but then they took out their wands, preparing to stun Harry, when Harry leaped forward, tackled them to the ground, and after making sure they were unconscious, transformed back into his human state. Harry then stunned and wrapped the Death Eaters in magical rope. He then went around the perimeter of the house, looking to see if Ron or Hermione needed any help. Ron had rounded up two Death Eaters, and had transformed back into his human form, while Hermione had not had the chance to attack any Death Eaters, and had transformed back. The three of them ran out to the front, where Dumbledore was unconscious, with Bellatrix Lestrange standing over him, wand drawn. Without a moments hesitation, Harry whipped out his wand, and cried “Forca”, sending a bolt of orange energy straight at Bellatrix's unsuspecting back. The force of the curse sent her flying into a tree.

“Ron, Hermione, get the professors. I'll revive Dumbledore and make sure no more Death Eaters are coming,” said Harry, his wand sweeping the area. Not looking back at Ron and Hermione, whom he knew must have gone in for the teachers, Harry rushed forward to Dumbledore, and said, “Enervate”. Dumbledore did not stir. For once, danger truly crept into Harry's system, beyond the adrenaline rush that had given him the strength to perform the Energy Curse. Perhaps the reviving charm worked only on magical inflicted ailments. Yes, that would be why Dumbledore wasn't waking up. Momentarily, Ron and Hermione exited the outpost, both levitating unconscious professors behind them.

“Let's go, Harry,” said Hermione. Harry produced the teakettle, which was the portkey, and carefully made sure everyone had a finger touching the outpost, until Harry had an idea. Before putting his own finger on the kettle, Harry took out his wand and said “Exploda Maximus”. Instantaneously, the outpost exploded with pieces of wood flying everywhere, but not on the group of wizards and witches huddled near the portkey, due to the shield charm Harry produced to protect them. Then, without explanation, he said, “Conjurus, Conjurus, Conjurus, Conjurus, Conjurus,” which produced five people who looked suspiciously like Snape, McGonagall, Hermione, Ron, and Harry, each with severe burn marks. Harry then levitated the five “corpses” to different places around the outpost.

“So Voldemort won't think we survived the explosion,” said Harry, offering only that little piece of explanation before putting his own finger upon the portkey, which transported them back to the Hogwarts Hospital Wing.

After they arrived in the middle of the Hospital Wing, Madame Pomfrey immediately levitated the three professors into separate stretchers, and set up her medical wards, which showed that the two imprisoned professors were in much worse shape than Professor Dumbledore, who still looked deathly pale.

“What happened to Professor Dumbledore?” asked Harry.

“Oh, he'll be fine. Just had a small head trauma, so he should be up and about in half an hour, which will allow his blood to circulate properly. Don't you worry now, he'll be just fine,” assured Madame Pomfrey. Harry felt a wave of relief wash over him. Everyone would be fine and he'd helped make sure it happened that way. However, he needed to tell Dumbledore what he had done, in order to fool Voldemort. He most undoubtedly would be at the outpost by now, looking through the wreckage. Harry, however, was becoming increasingly more worried that he would not be able to stop Voldemort's plans forever, and the thought of the prophecy loomed evermore upon his conscious. Harry knew he had to tell Ron and Hermione, and he knew he had to tell them soon. Harry knew that he had friends, and he knew Voldemort only had followers. There was a difference, Harry knew, and he was going to use that advantage until the end.

By the time Dumbledore had recovered, it was nearly ten in the night and most everyone in the castle, except for Madame Pomfrey and Harry, were up still. Harry had told Ron and Hermione to go to bed, and that he had to tell Dumbledore something. Dumbledore woke up to a dimly lit Hospital Wing, with Harry Potter sitting at his bedside. Dumbledore took his time, surveying the environment, searching for any signs of treachery. After finding none, he turned to Harry, eyes twinkling.

“Hello, Harry. What are you doing here? All I remember was the door exploding, sending me back about twenty yards, and then I lost consciousness,” spoke Dumbledore, with his usual mildly inquisitive air about him.

“The door exploded, sending you flying. Then, the three of us heard it, but had to take care of about three Death Eaters escaping, each. After that, we came to the front and found you unconscious with Bellatrix Lestrange standing over you with her wand drawn. I had no choice but to use the Energy Curse on Bellatrix, which knocked her unconscious as well, and then I told Ron and Hermione to get the professors. I tried to revive you, but I couldn't. Then, I exploded the outpost, and conjured dismembered bodies of Ron, Hermione, Professor Snape, Professor McGonagall, and myself and placed them randomly around the outpost. After that, we used the portkey to get here, and then, Madame Pomfrey healed you, and now, you woke up,” said Harry, slightly out of breath.

“I see, well the diversion at the outpost will no doubt prove useful, if only to anger Tom even more, and I would not have thought you would do that, but no matter. Very well, I must ask Kingsley to expedite your Edward Skinner license. You will not be penalized, do not worry. Did either of your friends see you perform the Curse?” Dumbledore said.

“Yes, they both did. I did not have time to explain, or hide it from them,” said Harry, ashamed.

“Then, I suggest that you go look for them and explain about your dark arts class with me. Do not give them any details, however, simply say that these lessons have just started, and that you will not perform it on anyone who does not warrant it badly,” said Dumbledore, sagely.

“Yes, sir. With your permission, I will leave now,” said Harry.

“Go, Harry, make sure your friends understand, and I am not just talking about the dark arts class, I am talking about something bigger,” said Dumbledore. Harry knew what he was referring to. Dumbledore wanted Harry to tell Ron and Hermione about the prophecy. It made sense to do it, too, but it didn't make it any easier for Harry.

By the time he had gotten back to the Gryffindor Common Room, it was nearly five thirty in the morning. Realizing that neither Ron nor Hermione would be up at this ungodly hour, he went to bed, fully intending to wake up early the next day, to talk to his two best friends about the Prophecy that would govern the ending of the War between the forces of good, and the forces of Lord Voldemort, last Heir of Salazar Slytherin.

However, by the time he had fully awoken, still feeling extremely groggy, he glanced at the clock hanging on the far wall of the dormitory. It was one o'clock in the afternoon! He had overslept and found that no one was still in the dormitory. Harry, not feeling particularly hungry, trudged to the showers, and took a long, hot shower, which woke him up (especially when someone came in to use the toilet, and flushed, which gave Harry tons of cold water). After getting dressed, Harry went down towards the Great Hall to find Hermione and Ron, but found that the Great Hall was emptying, and that his two best friends were already heading out to the lake, along with Luna, whose arm was linked around Ron's, her head resting on his shoulder. Harry hurried to catch up with them.

“Hermione, Ron, wait for me,” Harry said as he exited the Entrance Hall via the front doors. Hermione stopped, turned around, and waved at Harry to catch up. Once he reached them, Hermione said, “Why were you sleeping so late? I thought you told us you'd be up by midnight, but Ron and I both waited until two, until we called it a night, and went up to bed.”

“Well, one of the reasons I was waiting for Dumbledore was because I had to tell him something about yesterday,” said Harry.

“What was so important that you needed to sacrifice your sleep, and startle the poor old man the second he recovers from his injury, which must have been humiliating, in itself?” said Hermione, in a rush.

Before answering, Harry looked around the courtyard to make sure no one was listening. Ginny and Neville were playing with the Giant Squid, and weren't paying the slightest attention to the only other four student inhabitants of Hogwarts. “You remember the curse I hit Bellatrix Lestrange with?” said Harry, looking at Ron and Hermione. Luna was confused by what they were talking about, but was being unusually perceptive, and stayed quiet; content to listen to the conversation that was engrossing her Ronald, and his other two best friends. Meanwhile, Hermione and Ron both nodded their heads, confirming the question that was asked of them. “Well, that curse was an Edward Skinner Curse. It was the Energy Curse, but I don't have a license for it, so I wasn't technically supposed to perform it, but I had no choice. Dumbledore should have been able to get my license by now, but he hasn't, so I had to tell him that, so that he could get the proper paperwork at the Ministry expedited,” said Harry. The nods of comprehension from both Ron and Hermione came slowly now. Hermione then asked the question Harry didn't care to answer.

“But where did you learn the Energy Curse, or the other three curses, for that matter?” said Hermione.

“I have been taking a lot of extra classes with the professors, as you might have guessed. Those classes are why I have been away from the Common Room so often. Anyway, one of my classes is with Dumbledore on Offensive and Defensive Dark Arts spells and curses. In that class, he has been teaching me curses, which are borderline Unforgivable, but he first taught me how to control my magical power, so that I can monitor how much power is in each of my spells. Also, he told me right up front that these curses and spells are to be used only in emergency situations against Voldemort, or his forces, and he said that if I disobeyed him, I would be expelled, pending trial by the Ministry of Magic. That is where I have been learning the Edward Skinners along with some other dueling spells and strategies. I have been meeting Dumbledore in the Room of Requirement three times a week ever since we got here. I wanted to tell you guys, I really did. However, Dumbledore made me promise that I would tell no one of the extra classes I have been taking,” said Harry, taking time to weigh each phrase, putting emphasis on the fact that he had been unable to tell his two most trusted and best friends.

“What other classes have you been taking that we don't know about? Or are you not allowed to tell?” said Hermione, scathingly.

“Don't you dare lecture me about keeping secrets, Hermione!” shouted Harry. By now, the attention of Neville and Ginny was no longer on the Giant Squid. “Remember the Time Turner in third year, remember being at Order Headquarters last summer! What about all that, huh?” shouted Harry.

Without answering, Hermione broke into tears at Harry's comment, and ran off towards the castle, leaving a seething and angry Harry behind. Harry was still looking off in the direction Hermione had left in, when he received a sharp pain on the back of his head.

“OW! Damn, Ron, what the bloody hell was that for?!” said Harry, finding Ron's hand rearing back for another swipe at his head, the front this time.

“For being a bloody prat!” yelled Ron, matching Harry's tone of voice only moments before.

“What?!! What's that supposed to mean?” said Harry, still rubbing the spot on the back of his head. Ron now lowered his hand.

“I mean that she was only looking after you, mate. She was trying to tell you that keeping secrets hurts a hell of a lot more than not. I mean, she was worried sick about you this morning, saying there was something you weren't telling her. Of course, she thought it was because there might be another person you were seeing, besides her. But that's not true, is it? Even I thought that you weren't that thick. If it's true, than I am going to make sure you don't do much of anything for a long, long time,” said Ron, his temper waning slightly towards the middle of his speech, but rising by the end.

“Of course that isn't true. I would never do anything like that. I love her, Ron. I am not some cheap bloke who thinks he's god's gift to women. I would do anything for her, and I thought she knew that,” said Harry, in a pained voice. He really hadn't considered what his extra training had done emotionally to Hermione. He was new at this boyfriend stuff, so he hadn't figured that being away from her for long periods of time would not hurt her. Apparently, it had.

“Well, you're doing a bloody bad show of it. You were hurting her like crazy, mate. Every time you didn't study with her, she was hurt; you could see it in her eyes. She was close to tears. I thought even you knew that,” said Ron. Suddenly, Luna spoke up. No one had noticed, but a few moments after Hermione had entered the castle, Luna's eyes had gone glassy, and she was staring off into space. Now, she snapped out of it, and yelled, “She's going to try and kill herself. STOP HER, HARRY!!! SHE'S IN THE KITCHEN!!!!!!” Luna then promptly fainted to the ground. Before Ron could think, he heard Ginny's voice yell, “ I'll take care of Luna with Neville; GO GET HERMIONE!”

Without even thinking, Harry and Ron tore off to the castle, with Ron with a slight lead on Harry. They raced to the kitchen, but Harry tripped. Scrambling to get up, Harry told Ron, “GO, I'll catch up.” Ron nodded, and kept on running, with Harry only twenty yards behind Ron. When they reached the portrait of the bowl of fruit, containing the entrance to the kitchens, Ron tickled the pear frantically, and dashed in, yelling for Dobby to tell him where Hermione was. The portrait closed before Harry got there, and as he tickled the pear, something went wrong with the portrait, and it wouldn't open. Panicking, Harry pointed his hand towards the portrait, practically screaming, “Alohomora!”. The portrait would not budge. Before he could take out his wand and try again, Harry heard a loud, piercing scream from inside, which horrifyingly, was in Hermione's voice.

A/N: Sorry again for the extreme lateness, however, this is just due to my laziness. Feel free to flame me for it. If you hate what I did to Hermione, don't flame me too much! I am currently writing the next chapter, and hope I will be able to update once a month, as my own beta reading load has reached an enormous amount. When I post the next chapter, I might be changing the title of the story, as the plot bunny has mutated into something I feel is entirely different. If you guys think this story is worth continuing and possibly re-writing, please say so in your review. If not, then say so also. Here starteth the rant on Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince:

Hello, everyone. If you read this and are offended, then please accept my deepest apologies, and please realize that this was not my intent. HBP was a complete disaster. No question about this fact. HBP was, in my opinion, very poorly written, with many, many Out of Character characters. Also, the ships in that book were utterly appalling, not just as a H/Hr shipper, but also as a reader of romance fiction. The ships were not thought out, and were unworthy of JKR's name (although most people believe that JKR did indeed write the book, and that it was not merely a random, 652 page fanfiction). Here endeth the rant on Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince.

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6. AUTHOR'S NOTE: PLEASE READ!!!

Author's Note

Hello, all. If you would like to see the re-written version of this story, the new title will be `The Rage of Harry Potter'. The old chapters will still be under this title, but any new chapters will not be posted here. This will be rated `R'. Hope to see you there.

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