Hey hey hey, this is the chapter you've been waiting for! It it is really long, took me forever to write!
RECAP <duh!>
"Hermione, you will get your wand back when we feel you have improved your attitude…"
She glanced at her wand sitting on the cold table top, and for the first time in her life, she considered the idea of using her wand against her own parents…
"Well look at who we have here girls, Quad B decided she wanted to try and fit in."
She had just single-handedly put them all down a peg or two; surely, she should feel some sense of triumph to strike her. But it didn't come. Nothing. She couldn't get a feeling of satisfactory when putting them down. Instead, she felt disgusted with herself. How could she stoop down to their level?
"And wouldn't it just be tragic if they somehow mistook your head for a lacrosse ball?"
"It was fine was it? Do you mind telling me why you were in that café, and not in the building?.."
"It's my fault, I…it wasn't my place to make you go. I just really wished you would have said something by now."
Instead, a nice hot shower sounded just fine, and maybe a hug from her mother. Everything would be all better.
Though he respected both of their dreams for him, Harry still had a few ideas of his own.
He got up from the table and went to start the dishes, humming an unfamiliar tune, still lost in thought.
Replacing it with the phony wand, she softly closed the drawer and crawled back to the door.
"I am quite impressed with your capability of magic. Clarence had told me how extraordinary you were with a wand, but I didn't expect this." He said good-naturedly, looking at Hermione
And better yet, the headmaster, Albus Dumbledore, was impressed. She was going to Hogwarts!
ON WITH THE BLOODY STORY!
Chapter 5: "Hermione Granger…" "WHAT?!"
"BEEP! BEEP! BEEP!" Harry groaned, stuffing his pillow over his head in hope to drown out the sound of his alarm clock. Not working. He blindly reached over, with the pillow still over his head, and hit the snooze button. He'd get up in nine more minutes. Harry knew he shouldn't dawdle, it was September First, and he really had to get a move on it for school; the scarlet train left at eleven 'o'clock on the dot. It was seven thirty-four. Still, the boy just curled up into a ball, throwing the covers over his head to block out the offensive light that was making its way into his room.
Just as he was about to drift off back to sleep, his alarm sounded for a second time. His nine minutes were up. With another groan, Harry kicked his cover off his bed and stared up and the ceiling. 'Time to get up', with that thought in mind, he headed for the shower.
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She had been up since five. Excitement coursed through her body as she showered, and dressed carefully. She couldn't keep the smile off her face, 'This was it.' She had been pacing her room for the last two hours, waiting for her parents to get up and dressed. Hermione tried to calm down, but thrill and anticipation still bubbled inside her. She should be tired; she hadn't slept very much last night, if any. Her restlessness had been with her every since her encounter with the headmaster. It was all coming together.
The board was set; everything ready to be put into motion. Her things were at Clarence's library, ready to be carted off to King's Cross Station. They were going to apparate. Clarence had told her there was some safe ground near the station perfect for apparating away from the Muggle eye. From there, they were going to walk the few blocks to the station for the eleven 'o'clock train.
Her parents should be up by now. Trying to appear to be calm and collective, she carefully made her way downstairs. It was the same scene she had walked in on many times before: her father sitting at the table, reading the paper while drinking his coffee, while his mother as at the stove making breakfast. It looked so normal and common to Hermione, but today, it was different. There wasn't the tension she had expected for some reason. Her parents look cheery and much like their day-to-day selves. She sat down at the table, saying a good morning greeting to her parents. Her mother set her plate down in front of her, just like she did every other morning.
"Good morning, Hermione. Did you sleep well?" Just a simple sentence from her mother made Hermione jump slightly. Sleep well? Did they know she tossed and turned all night? Did they know of her plans? Trying to calm the butterflies, she took a deep breath and looked at her parents ignorant faces. Everything seemed innocent enough.
"I slept fine, thank you. And this breakfast is delicious. Thanks." Hermione replied steadily, trying to appear interested in her toast and taking a bite. She was too excited to eat anything though.
Everything seemed to be going by normal; her parents didn't mention anything about magic or Hogwarts, which was a good thing. Hermione didn't know if she would be able to keep up this façade much longer, and if the subject were to be broached, she knew she might crack like an egg; lying never was a strong trait of hers. Fortunately, all they talked about was what was going on it the dentist office, and how yesterday's convention was. Hermione was grateful for the safe ground,
As the time to leave drew near, Hermione couldn't keep the butterflies under control. She would be leaving at ten 'o'clock, and it was now quarter-till. She glanced at her parents, still oblivious. Hermione gave them each a hug and kiss, telling them how much she loved them and appreciated all they have done for her.
Her parents looked surprised. Hermione often expressed her gratitude, but not quite like this.
"I'm going to the library, okay? I shouldn't be too long, I want to pick a up a few books for a bit of reading." Hermione said, getting something to drink out of the refrigerator so she wouldn't have to look at her parents. She half expected them to say the jig is up, and she was grounded. That she wouldn't leave this house until she was forty because she had lied to them.
"Alright, dear. Don't be too awful long." Her mother's voice responded, cheerily and unconcerned, unaware. With a sigh, and one last glance at her parents, she apparated to Clarence's library.
Ever since that little encounter at the Girls' Club, Hermione and her parents have gotten along quite nicely. They all came to a mutual agreement that it just wasn't the right time. That's one of the reasons why Hermione felt so bad about leaving, with them getting along so lovely right now. But at the same time, this was something she needed to do.
"Hermione, right on time. Wh-what's wrong, dear?" Clarence's voice was full of worry and concern at the young girl's tears. Hermione couldn't help it, this was a scary thing to be doing. Giving in to her mentor's embraces, she stopped the tears from falling. "Are you sure you want to do this, Hermione? If you're not ready…"
With a sniff, the young girl pulled away, wiping her eyes in the process. No, this is what she wanted; she couldn't stop now. It was too far in the game to quit. She had worked so hard, now it was going to pay off. "No! I-I'm ready. I know I am. Just a little emotional. I really hate lying to my parents like this, but they just don't understand. I want to do this. I need to." She stated desperately, looking at Clarence in the eyes, searching for support. And it was there. Clarence was behind her one hundred fifty percent.
With a smile, Clarence said a phrase that was music to her ears, "Are you ready to go to Hogwarts, Hermione?"
Managing a small smile herself, Hermione responded, "I'm ready."
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Are you ready?
Are you ready?
For what's to come
Oh, I say are you ready?
Are you ready?
For what's to come
Ten, nine, eight,
Seven six, five
Four, three, two
One
Count down to the change
That's soon to come
You're life has just begun
"Are You Ready" CREED
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He had his trunk packed. He was ready for his upcoming year. His guitar case sat by his trunk at the door, ready to be taken out to the car. Hedwig, his snowy owl, was perched in her cage, ready for the long ride. Harry had a duffle bag in his hand, going around the room, picking up miscellaneous items for his term at school: a few decks of cards, couple Quidditch magazines, his camera, his cds and CD player with headphones, one of his many sketchbooks, and other things of the sort. With one last glance around the room and the other room attached, he zipped the bag, tossed it over his shoulder, carefully grabbed his owl's cage, and started down the steps.
00
"Now you owl us if you need anything at all, dear. And behave yourself! You're Head Boy now," His mother beamed at him, them her face turned into a warning look, "That means you have to set an example for the younger students, Harry James." His mother's voice was accusing, and Harry hated when she called him that.
"Don't worry, Mum, I always set an example. Have I ever failed you guys? Harry asked innocently, looking between his mother and father.
"You set an example, alright, boy." There was that dangerous tone again. Harry let out a dramatic sigh.
"It's as if you don't trust me! I'm affronted!" Harry said in a mock hurtful tone, his hands going to his chest.
"Get one the train, Harry, before your mother goes into hysterics again." His father's amused voice commented.
"Uuhhh, please let's not go there again." At the house, his mother was crying, saying she couldn't believe how big her baby was getting. It made Harry just roll his eyes. With a few more last goodbyes, and James ruffling Harry's already incredibly messy hair, Harry finally made his way onto Platform 9 ¾. Harry couldn't hold back a grin when he caught sight of the scarlet engine that would take him to his last year at Hogwarts.
It was sad, really. Hogwarts was so amazing, Harry couldn't picture not coming back here next September. It was depressing really. But he could think about that later. Right now, he needed to find a compartment and get settled. Then find Ron and Draco. With that thought in mind, Harry made his way to the train through the crowded platform. The noise was really loud, and Harry had to push his way through a few huddles of friends that were reuniting. A few people called out to him, asking how his summer was and about the upcoming year. Finally he managed to get this things on the train, all tucked away in the shelves for his trunk, and his guitar case sitting on one of the seats. Leaving the compartment, Harry searched for his two best friends.
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"Now all you need to do, is walk straight at the brick wall, trust me, there's not need to be scared." Clarence's voice was reassuring, but Hermione was still nervous.
"Will you be coming with me?" Her voice was small, and Hermione cursed herself for not being as confident as
she hoped she would. Clarence looked at her, with a small, motherly grin on her face.
"Would you like me to, Hermione?" Her voice was soft. Hermione met her gaze, and shook her head.
"I think it's best if I do this alone."
"I think so, too." She answered sincerely, a somewhat sad smile gracing her lips.
Hermione stood there, this seemed surreal. In a few minutes, she would pass into the magical world. She would be on her own. Hermione looked up at her mentor, her friend. Clarence had been there for her, had taken her in and taught her everything she knew. Not just about magic either, even helped her with her day-to-day muggle life as well. She felt tears sting her eyes. How could she ever repay her for everything Clarence had done for her? They held each other's gaze, and Hermione knew Clarence understood her silence.
"I-I don't know how to ever say thank-you. Everything you've done for me, what can I do to repay you? You've been such a great teacher and more importantly, a best friend…What can I do?" Hermione's voice was full of emotion. Tears slowly slide down her cheeks, as she gazed at the amazing woman that helped her so much.
The woman gave her a watery smile through her own tears, and said in a soft voice, "Never quit. Hermione, you have so much potential, promise me you will live up to it. Things are going to be tough, Hermione, but you need to stand up and face it. Show everyone what a strong person you are. And don't settle for just being well. Hermione I want you to be extraordinary. I know you can do this. Please just reach your potential! If you do that, then consider us even." Hermione's throat was too tight to speak, so she could just nod. Clarence understood. With one last hug and look , Hermione started for the wall between Platforms nine and ten, pushing a trolly that was carrying her trunk and owl.
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And you took up for me
When everyone was downin' me
You always did understand
You gave me strength to go on
"A Song For Mama" BOYS II MEN
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The wall was coming closer, but Hermione wasn't afraid. Instead of the half expected crash, Hermione didn't stop, she just kept going. The butterflies in her stomach still thrashed around madly as she met the magical world on the other side. A large, scarlet train was what her eyes met first. A sigh overhead read The Hogwarts Express, and then under that, Platform
9 ¾. Then she heard the noise. People calling out to others, parents saying their last goodbyes. There were people everywhere, and Hermione couldn't help the nervous smile that graced her face and she pushed her trolly towards the train. An instructor helped her aboard and she searched for a compartment.
As Hermione passed full compartment, she couldn't help but feel slightly sad. Friends were laughing and joking around; they were having so much fun. Trying to push the feeling out of her mind, she continued the long walk to the back of the train on through the corridor. There were compartments on each side, but if she saw anyone in there, she just passed it. Finally, Hermione an empty one near the back of the train. Sliding the door open, she stepped inside. There were two green bench seats, one on either side of the compartment. Lugging her trunk in, she took out her wand and levitated it into one of the many racks behind the leather seats. She put her owl cage the opposite seat then peered out the large glass window, and saw people hugging their families and saying goodbye. A twinge of jealously stirred in her stomach. With a small sigh, she settled down on one of the seats, and took out a small envelope from the book bag she had been carrying. It was to her parents. It was a note telling them where she had gone and why. She asked them not to worry or be angry with her. That is was something she had to do. Looking over at her golden-brown owl, Miguel, who sat perched in his cage, she gave him a smile.
"Hey, Miguel, want to go for a little trip?" She open his cage easily, and brought him out. He nibbled affectionately at her finger, before letting out a soft hoot. Hermione tied the letter to his foot, and stroked his feathers softly. "Take this to my parents, ok? We're going to a school, Hogwarts. You can find me there." She opened the window, and with one last hoot of approval, her owl took off out the window.
Hermione settled back into her seat and was content with watching out the window. When she heard the five-minute warning whistle, Hermione felt her stomach bubble with excitement. This was it. The noise started to die down as the train was about to take off.
She felt a sudden jerk, and heard a loud whistle. They were leaving. Scooting closer to the window, she watched at they picked up speed and left the station. Licking her lips slightly, Hermione couldn't help the giant smile that made its way onto her face. Tears of happiness threaten to fall, but she was able to keep them at bay. She reached into her book bag and took out her school robes. Clarence told her they would change on the train. Pulling down the blind on the window of the door, she started to change. Once she was done, Hermione stared out the window at the scenery. The sun was bright and the grass looked beautiful. A small stream running alongside the rails, and was reflecting the rays of the brilliant sunlight. This was it. It was really happening. She was on her way to Hogwarts.
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I don't know where I'm going
But, I sure know where I've been
Hanging on the promises
In songs of yesterday
An' I've made up my mind,
I ain't wasting no more time
But, here I go again
Here I go again
An' here I go again on my own
Goin' down the only road I've ever known,
Like a drifter I was born to walk alone
An' I've made up my mind
I ain't wasting no more time
"Here I Go Again" WHITESNAKE
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"…And get this. After Mum is yelling at them for like two bloody hours, Fred has the nerve to ask if this means they can't experiment on the cat anymore!" Ron says, trying hard to contain his laughter, but Harry and Draco were howling and he couldn't contain himself. He tried to continue, "Th-that's get her all riled up and it goes on fro another two hours! I swear, those two are such a riot."
"Yes." Draco agreed. "Your bother are such idiots…" He burst into laughter again.
Harry took a few gulps of air, then grinned. Ron's twin brothers, Fred and George, were a riot. They were the troublemaker of Hogwarts. This makes their second year out of school, and they were doing great on their own. They owned a joke shop, Weasleys' Wizard Wheezes. They had the best joke merchandise around, even better than Zonko's in Hogsmeade. The twins had been pulling pranks ever since they're first year and their last on Graduation Day. They were two-of-a-kind. Harry liked them both pretty well. The twins were always good for a nice laugh.
Shaking his head slightly with a grin still plastered on his face, Harry turned to glance outside the large window. The scenery had changed to open country. They still had a long way to go until they returned to school. Ron's voice broke into his musing.
"Exploding Snap?" Draco looked up and made a face. Harry and Ron just laughed. Last time they had played Exploding Snap, the cards decided to "explode," with a little help from Harry, when Draco had the whole deck in his hands, close to his face while checking to make sure none of the cards were missing from the last game. The end resulted in an extremely pissed Draco with his eyebrows singed off and black marks on his face. Of course, this had happened in Gryffindor Common Room and the whole room busted out laughing. Harry couldn't remember seeing his friend blush so much in his life. It was hilarious.
"Fine, but if one of you make the cards blow up in my face again, I will personally hunt both of you down and use a few burning and stinging charms myself on a couple well-chosen areas on your bodies! And believe me, E.D. will be the last thing on your guys' mind when you're 60 and senile by the time I'm through! No little blue pill will take care of what I will do to you." Draco's voice threatened. Harry and Ron tried to nod with serious faces, but Draco noticed Ron's freckled face start to turn red. Harry's too was turning a shade of scarlet. And before they could help it, the two friends felt like they were going to burst if they held it in any longer; they started howling with laughter, doubling over, amusement shone on their faces. Draco didn't think this was too funny, so he just rolled his eyes and shook his head, "I swear, you two can be so immature sometimes!"
Harry was able to get his chuckles under control and managed to respond, "Says the boy who decided to squirt honey mustard in that little kid's drink at Arby's because he called you a sore loser when you lost a game of rock-paper-scissors over who got the toilet next." Harry tried, and failed, to stifle the amusement in his voice. He pulled a solemn face, and tried to say in a dignified voice, "I know, Draco, in your exact words I quote 'I can't believe that little snobby fucker, who in the Hell does he think he is? I'll show that little punk what a sore loser is alright. I should teach him a lesson; let him know who he's dealing with.' But instead, you decided to squirt honey mustard in the poor kid's iced tea. Yes, I see how we lack in the immaturity department and you are our superior."
Ron guffawed and nodded, "Yeah, let's all hail the mighty and mature Draco Sebastian Malfoy, for his never-ending gestures mirroring his maturity and exceptional dignificationousness!" Ron stated dramatically, bowing his head and hands in praise.
Harry chortled at Ron's wording and gestures, "Come on, Ronnikins, you can do better than that, can't you? Seriously, is 'dignificationousness' even a word? What the hell does that even mean? If you're coming form the root word 'dignify," our good buddy Drakes here is anything but that!" The two friends started their laughter again at Draco's scowl, and Ron pretended to look affronted at Draco's middle-finger hand gesture, while Harry just gave flipped him two middle fingers back with a "Double Aces baby."
With another trademark eye roll, along with that Malfoy smirk, Draco gave a small chuckle. His friends were a riot. But he still needs to retaliate. "So, Weasley, is 'dignificationousness' even a word? If it is, it must be native to your home planet of Pluto or something, 'cause it sure all Hell ain't no English."
Harry gave a chuckle, "Funnily enough, Drakes, 'ain't no English' isn't exactly English either, buddy." Ron gave Draco a smirk, which Draco just ignored with a casual "whatever."
"Let me guess, mate, English just isn't your country?" Harry asked, looking at his friend, mirth evident on his face.
"And FYI, Draco, 'dignificationousness' just happens to be a word in my dictionary, the rest of the world just hasn't been able to fess up and admit their overflowing admiration for the Great Ron Weasley and His Words of Wisdom. I should be getting a memo from my old friend Newt Wibster. He wants me to give him a few words for that definition book of his. We're tight. His People are going to contact My People to make a few tweaks in the fine print of the agreement. I heard I'll be getting quite the settlement, and I'm not giving your ass any."
Draco's made a face, "You better not be doing or giving anything with my ass." Draco said in a mock fierce voice, giving Ron a pointed look.
Ron just rolled his eyes, "Oh you wish I'd give your ass a chance. But hey mat4e, if you want, I can give you and Harry over here a few minutes alone. I'm sure he has no objection to doing anything with your ass." Draco made another face, this time one that looked as if he was going to retch.
It was Harry's turn to give the eye roll, "Oh yeah, Ron, didn't you know? I just turned gay like five minutes ago. I just wondered what it'd be like, you know? And by the, it's Noah Webster, not Newt Wibster. And it's called a dictionary, not definition book, you idiot."
"Yeah, well, that's what I meant. I guess English just isn't my country either."
"Nope, but the next time your Pluto People decide to visit, maybe you could ask them about Their People getting in touch with Your People. You never know, they might be able to make some sense out of half the shit that comes out of that large hole in your face you constantly shove food into." Harry said, trying to look somber, but failing miserably in doing so. The three friends started laughing again, when the compartment door slides open.
"Anything off the trolly, dears?" A plump woman pushing a cart was peering at them. With a grin, the out some money and bought their favorite treats from the cartload.
Ron stuffed a Chocolate Frog in his mouth and grinned up at the old woman. "I love you so much, Trolly Witch, because without you, Yours Truly would die of starvation! I swear, if you were a little younger and I was older, I would marry you!" The woman just laughed and muttered something that sounded like, "These boys…they'll never grow up."
Chocolate Frogs, Pumpkin Pasties, Cauldron Cakes, and Bertie Bott's Every Flavor Beans littered the compartment, as the boys settled back into their seats and devoured the treats.
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I'd like to stay up late, spend hours on the phone
Hanging out with all my friends and never being at home
I'm impolite and I make fun of everyone
I'm immature but I will stay this way forever
'Til the day I die
I promise I won't change (change, change)
So you better give up
I don't wanna be told to grow up
And I don't wanna change
I just wanna have fun
I don't wanna be told to grow up
And I don't wanna change
So you better give up
'Cause I'm not gonna change
I don't wanna grow up
"Grow Up" SIMPLE PLAN
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The compartment door slide open. Hermione looked up. It was a girl with flaming red hair. She looked a little younger than herself. She hadn't changed into her robes yet, and Hermione noticed she was wearing a skirt that looked too short to be respectable. The girl had a few others on either side of her; they all looked as if they had been cut from the same piece of cloth.
The redhead stepped forward. "Who are you, I don't recall ever seeing you before?" Her voice wasn't friendly, more demanding. Hermione swallowed. "I asked you what your name was. What, are you deaf?" Her voice was irritated by now, and she didn't look remotely interested in Hermione.
Her name. Oh no. She was enjoying the peace and quiet, and this little redhead had to come and mess it up. Who knows what would happen once her surname got out? "Um…it's Hermione. And you wouldn't have seen me before because I'm new. I'm starting my Seventh Year. And you are?" She tried to sound nice, hoping her voice didn't betray her nervousness. The girl was inspecting her nails, then looked back at Hermione.
"Oh really! What school did you transfer from? Where there any hot guys there?" She sounded interested now.
"I was home schooled," Hermione replied, wishing this girl would just leave.
"Oh. So, it's Hermione? Hermione what?" She sounded disappointed. Back to looking at her nails again.
Hermione panicked. No, she couldn't say Granger. But she couldn't lie either. "Um…"
"What, you don't even know your last name?" Then another voice sounded from down the corridor. It sounded male.
"Oh Gin, it's that hot Seventh Year, Brian, from Ravenclaw! He wants to see you!!!" One of the girls on the side of the redhead, jumped up and down. The girl, Ginny, looked excited too. Without another look at Hermione, she left, without bothering to close the door. With a sigh, Hermione slide it shut. That was close. She felt guilty. Why should she feel ashamed about her surname? Everyone was going to find out later anyway. Sliding back down into the seat, fresh waves of guilt rolling in her stomach. Clarence said not to be ashamed. Hermione now wished she would've had the guts to say, "My name is Hermione Granger," in a proud voice, not stumble over her first name and ignore the last!
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Hey, Mr. Hero
Walking a thin, fine line
Under the microscope of life
Remember your roots, my friend
They're right down below
'Cause heroes come and heroes go
"Are You Ready" CREED
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As the Hogwarts Express slowed, the butterflies in Hermione's stomach seemed to multiply again. She felt almost as if she was going to get ill. Five more minutes, the conductor had said. Five. Getting her things all put away in her trunk, she then sat on the edge of her seat.
The corridor was crowded. She opened her compartment door, and then closed it again. She waited until most people were off the train, before she finally joined the crowd in the corridor. People were pushing and shoving, trying to get out of the many exit doors. As she stepped down to the ground, Hermione tried to straighten her robes. But someone behind her pushed her out the way, making her fall flat on her face. She hurried to stand, not wanting to get stomped on. Darkness had fallen, and there were lanterns all around to give off light. A sign read Hogsmeade Station.
Boats. She was suppose to get on a boat with the First Years. Hermione spotted a lake, and after a few minutes off getting heaved and jostled, she made her way to a dock. An extremely large man was standing there, calling all First Years to come forth. Hermione made her way up with them.
"Whoa, Miss. You're gonna need to make your way over to the carriages. This for Firs' Years only." His voice was kind.
"I'm a new student." Hermione squeaked, looking up at the man. They said boats. What if he didn't let her on? What if he told her she was mad? Fear started to creep into her stomach, but was soon rushed out will a wave of relief when he put his hand on her shoulder in understanding and stirred her towards the boats.
"O', Sorry 'bout tha'. Me mistake. You're in the right place."
She stuck out among the smaller children, but she tried not to notice. They were all looking up at her, not knowing what to think. But when the boats came forth at their own accord, they changed their interest to the boats.
The lake was dark. Hermione couldn't make out much with just he lanterns. Suddenly, she heard "ooohhhh's" and "Aaahhhhh's" coming from the younger First Years. "What, you don't even know your last name?" The castle was dark and you couldn't make out the grounds. Lights were in the windows, making the castle look so welcoming. Hermione watched, transfixed, as they neared the castle.
The boats were entering a small chamber beside the castle. The boats bumped into a dock and they all filed out. The stonewalls were moist and had some moss growing on them. A large archway with two wooden doors stood atop the stone steps. An aging witch was standing in front of the doors leading them into the castle. She was thin and had her once chestnut but now slightly graying hair pulled back into a firm bun on the back of her narrow head. She was wearing emerald robes and looking at the newcomers behind square eyeglasses.
Hermione's first impression of this woman was that she was strict. She looked like someone that didn't put up with any nonsense. Her voice was firm as she spoke, "Welcome to Hogwarts. In a moment, you will pass through these doors and into Hogwarts. You will remain silent and stay two single file lines." With that, the doors opened on their own accord and they followed the woman through the doors.
Hermione was trying to take everything in. There was a slight chill in the air as they made their way down the torch-lit corridor. No one said a word as they stepped into a large chamber. The woman had stopped and was now staring at the new pupils again. In her firm voice, she continued her speech from before, "Welcome to Hogwarts. You will join start-of-term feast in the Great Hall shortly, after you have been sorted into your houses. The Sorting Ceremony is very significant, as is what house you will be sorted into. During your time at Hogwarts, your fellow housemate will be like your family. You will have class with members of your house, sleep in your house dormitories, and spend leisure time in your house Common Room.
"The four houses are: Gryffindor, Ravenclaw, Hufflepuff, and Slytherin. Every house has its one unique history and honor to uphold. Excellent witches and wizards have been produced by each of the four houses. House points will be gained and lost as the year progresses. Your accomplishments and success will earn you points, and your foolishness will lose points. At the end of the year, the house having the most points will be rewarded to House Cup, a great honor. Bear in mind your actions will reflect upon your house.
"Now I if you would quietly follow me, the Sorting Ceremony will begin." With that, the students made their way into another corridor and approached the Entrance Hall. Hermione thought it looked magnificent. The ceiling was high and the floor was made of marble. Designs decorated the floor and walls. Another set of large double doors stood across the Hall. Following the rest of the students into the Great Hall, Hermione's mouth fell open. It looked grand. Thousands of floating candles provided the lighting over four large tables, which is where the rest of the student were currently sitting, looking at the newcomers. Golden, shiny plates and goblets blanketed the tables. Another long table sat at the other end of the Great Hall, where the staff sat, facing the students. Hermione immediately recognized the wizard sitting in the center of the staff table as Albus Dumbledore. He was watching the students make their way down an aisle between two of the house tables where a four-legged stool sat with a black, pointed, wizard's hat on it.
Hermione's attention was drawn to the enchanted ceiling; she had read about it in Hogwarts, A History. The ceiling was enchanted to look like sky, and right now , it was a silky midnight blue with white, shining starts strewn across it. It looked breathtaking.
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Harry was grinning with his friends as he made his way into the Great Hall. They were all looking forward to the start-of-term feast. The food from the train hadn't filled them up, and the feast was always magnificent. He made his way to the Gryffindor table and sat down, Ron and Draco on each side. The three boys were currently discussing the upcoming Quidditch season, as they were all on the house team. Ron was the Keeper, he had been since Oliver Wood graduated in their Fifth Year. Draco was a Chaser, also ever since Fifth Year. Harry was the Gryffindor Seeker ever since his first year at Hogwarts. He had been made Quidditch Captain in his Sixth Year. He was excited about this year. Right now, Gryffindor holds the Quidditch Cup; they had the last six years. Harry didn't intend on that changing this year.
The First Years were finally making their way into the Great Hall, led by Professor McGonagall. "Finally, it's about bloody well time! I'm starving!" Harry laughed at Ron's words.
"Ron, you're always starving!" Draco pointed out, s light smirk on his lips. Harry nodded in agreement, then with a grin still on his face, he turned to look at he new students. His eyes wondered over all of them, and then stopped dead on one he recognized. She wasn't a First Year. Harry knew that. She was at least seventeen. It was the same girl he met at the Ministry. The same girl he had wished good luck on her Apparation Test. The same girl that came out and hugged him. It was Hermione. The same girl that had almost-kissed him…
She looked nervous, but Harry could see a grin on her face. She was admiring the Enchanted Ceiling now. Harry watched her closely, not listening as Ron said something to him.
"Harry. Harry!" Ron gave him a slight shove to get him out of his trance.
"What?" Harry asked, still not breaking his gaze.
"Are you alright, mate?"
Harry finally turned to look at his friend. "I'm fine, what do you want?"
"What do you make of that tall girl? She sure is big for a First Year, don't you think?" Draco leaned in, looking at them with a puzzled expression as well.
Harry grinned slightly. "That's her." He whispered softly.
"Who?"
"That's Hermione."
"Hermione? Who'- wait that girl from the Ministry? The one that kissed you?!" Ron asked, his eyes wide.
Harry nodded, turning his gaze back to Hermione. She turned around now, looking over the students. Her eyes roamed over the Gryffindor table, and her gaze met Harry's. Harry grinned at her, watching her eyes widen slightly. Then a blush crept into her cheeks. 'She looks so cute!' Harry thought, as they continued to stare at each other. Harry gave a small wave, which she shyly returned. Maybe this year was going to be even better than he thought…
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It was him! It was the boy from the Ministry. Hermione couldn't believe it. This was embarrassing. Did he still remember her? 'Of course he does! He just waved to you!' taking a deep breath, she looked away and at the motionless hat sitting on the stool. Suddenly, the brim opened wide and it began to sing loud to the noiseless Great Hall:
Long ago when I was first anew
Hogwarts School was just starting to brew
Four friends are widely known
For starting this school of stone
Never another quartet could be found
For these were the best of friends
Disputes broke out
But quickly followed with amends
There was courageous Gryffindor
As too the clever Ravenclaw
Slytherin, ambitious and cunning
Hufflepuff, a forever-loyal friend
So fro many peaceful years
The four worked in harmony
Teaching young witches and wizards
All they knew
The bravest were picked by Gryffindor
For him to teach and train
While Slytherin preferred the
Shrewd and with ancestors absolute
The smartest went to Ravenclaw
She challenged their keen minds
And Hufflepuff took the loyal
And truest, teaching them magic of all kinds
So the founders taught accordingly
Dishing out their knowledge and know how
"But what would become of the sorting"
They asked, "In many years from now,
When we are dead and gone?"
Who else could choose so accurate
And here's where I fit in
For many years
I have crowned newest pupils
Sorting them their house
And yet have I been wrong
So step up and don't be shy
For there's nothing you can hide
I can see inside your head
But don't fear me
For I am just looking
And telling you in which house
You ought to be!
The hat finished and lay motionless again. The Great Hall erupted in applause. Once it died down a bit, a murmuring broke out, people asking each other about the new girl. Professor McGonagall came forward, "You will come forth when I call your name, I will place the Sorting Hat on your head, and you will be sorted into your house. Sylvia Ashworth." Hermione watched as a small girl with dark blonde hair stepped up to the professor. She looked so small. Nervously the girl sat down on the stool. Her eyes were wide and fearful. Professor McGonagall dropped the worn, black hat on the girl's head. It was too big, and covered over her nervous, blue eyes. The hat came to life again. It appeared to be thinking. Hermione watched, intrigued, as the brim of the hat opened wide again. She wondered briefly if it was going to sing again. But no, instead it yelled in a loud voice for the whole Great Hall to hear, "RAVENCLAW!"
One of the center tables erupted into applause. The girl grinned and hopped off the seat, making her way to the cheering table and took a place on a bench.
Hermione swallowed nervously, also biting her lip. The professor called out the next name and a sandy-haired boy came up to the stool, this time the Sorting Hat shouted Slytherin.
The Sorting continued, Hermione getting more nervous by the second. They were in the F's.
"Cline Fortinate"
"HUFFLEPUFF!"
"Jacob Fysfer"
"GRYFFINDOR!"
"Genevieve Garter"
"SLYTHERIN!"
Hermione noticed the hat spent different amounts of time of different newcomers. Sometimes it would shout out the house as soon as it was on the person's head; other times it would take a longer time, and Hermione could almost swear it looked as if the hat talked to some of them. Franklin Gooderson was just declared a Ravenclaw.
Professor McGonagall looked back down at the parchment she was using to read the names off. In a clear, ringing voice, she announced Hermione's name, "Hermione Granger!"
The Great Hall was already quiet, but at the sound of Professor McGonagall's voice, everyone went completely silent. The Ravenclaw table's greeting to Franklin was punctured at once. Everyone's eyes were on the small group of new students, trying to figure out which one it was. A murmuring took over the silence as the seconds pressed on. With a deep, nervous breath, Hermione stepped forward.
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Yes, I'm the one who
The only one who
Would carry on this far
"Torn" CREED
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She tried to keep her head held high and show a nice, brisk walk. But she was nervous. She could feel sweat slowly slide down her forehead and down the side of her face. Her eyes seemed unfocused and the short walk seemed to never end. The Hall had grown completely silent when she stepped forward from the throng of new pupils.
She tried to swallow, but her throat was tight. It hurt. She didn't look around to anyone, never taking her eyes from the stool. Her destination. She felt as if her feet were too big and she might stumble any second. But she didn't. With another deep breath, she turned around and sat, facing her peers. The witch lowered the Sorting Hat onto her head, and before she knew it, the Great Hall disappeared and all Hermione saw was the black rim of inside the old hat.
"Ah…a Granger."
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Harry sighed as Franklin Gooderson practically skipped to the Ravenclaw table. He was getting hungry, and he wished this would hurry up. He also was keen on seeing what house Hermione would sorted into. He watched disinterestedly as his Transfiguration professor held up the parchment to call out the next name. His eyes wondered over the group again. Less than half to go.
"Hermione Granger." his professor's voice rang out. Harry's eyes widened. 'Hermione WHAT?' Silence, then a murmuring fell over the Hall. Harry watched as the seventeen-year-old girl stepped away from the crowd with his mouth agape. She walked, almost proudly to the stool. 'NO! NO! NO!' were Harry's only thoughts. 'Not a Granger. Not at Hogwarts. They were exiled. How could Hermione be a Granger?!?!' Harry's mind was reeling. He felt his friends' gazes on him. Looking at them, they both mirrored his own dumbfounded expression. Ron's eyebrows disappeared under his hairline and Draco looked speechless. 'Maybe they were remembering what happened at the Ministry' Harry thought. Then his eyes widened even more. The Ministry! 'Oh God! He had talked to her! He had wished her luck! They had shared a hug and even an almost-kiss!' With a Granger. No. He had been thinking this was going to be a great year, and with Hermione being here, he thought it might even be better. How wrong he had been!
He had been slightly attracted to this girl. A Granger. Harry tried to swallow, but his throat didn't seem to be working. Of course, the first girl he finds himself halfway-attracted t is off limits. Not only off limits, but far worse, she's a bloody GRANGER at that! He felt anger boil up inside him, though he didn't know why. She had lied to him. Why didn't she tell him her last name! He was a Potter, dammit. He shouldn't have ever even talked to her.
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"Let's see. You have a very brilliant mind, yes. Ravenclaw could help you with that. Also very ambitious. You have exceptional bravery, and a thirst to prove yourself. But what house would suit you best? Hhhmmmmmm. Difficult. You would do well in any house."
The hat's voice was whispering in her ear. Hermione tried to shut off her emotions and not let how nervous she was show.
"You are a very strong-willed person. ."
'I don't want to do just well' Hermione thought, remembering Clarence's words. 'I want…no I will be EXTRAORIDARY. I have to, for Clarence!'
The Sorting Hat must've heard her thoughts. "Extraordinary, huh? Not settling for anything less than you can be? That's a good attitude to have. Let's see, I shall put you in…
"GRYFFINDOR!"
Hermione let out a breath she hadn't realized she had been holding. She felt the Sorting Hat being lifted off her head. She wasn't met with applause. No, it was still dead silence. All eyes were on her. Hermione could feel her face flush with embarrassment. They didn't want her. Her own house wasn't going to welcome her. She tried to keep her head still held high as she made her way over to her house table. Stares. Everyone was staring. There was a soft applause, and Hermione saw it coming from the headmaster. The walk to the table was much like the one to the Sorting Hat. Awkward and silent.
Finally, she reached the table and sat on the end. No one was sitting within a four-plate diameter of her. Because she was a Granger. A Granger. Practically vermin to them. Swallowing hard, she was relieved when Professor McGonagall went on with the Sorting. 'Hopefully is will get the attention off me.' Hermione thought with an inward sigh.
But it didn't. Hermione was still receiving uneasy looks and a few downright glares. And not just from her fellow housemates either.
The rest of the Sorting went on quickly. Once the last student had been sorted into Slytherin, the headmaster stood up.
"Welcome back to another year at Hogwarts. I would like to welcome our new students, as well as our returning ones. I am glad you have all made it back and are in good health. As I am sure many of you are quite hungry, I will save my speech until after our delicious banquet. So please, tuck in!"
Hermione's eyes widened as food appeared suddenly on the wooden tables. Hermione looked around, and saw everyone dig in. Hermione smiled slightly; she was starving. Through all the excitement today, she hadn't eaten all that much. But now was a good time as any to make up for it. The food looked luscious. She began making a plate of food, trying to ignore all the looks she was getting on her lonely end of the table.
After all the food had been cleared, Dumbledore stood again for his speech. "I know this upcoming year will be a great one, as every year is. I just have a few start-of-term notices and then you can be on your way to your dormitories. First, I would like to tell the new students, and remind a few of our older ones too, that the Forbidden Forest is strictly out of bounds. Also, Quidditch trials will be held soon, please notify a team captain if you are interested in joining your house team. The House Cup is another thing to keep in mind. I encourage you all to be a positive force rather than a negative one with the house points. I'm sure I don't need to remind our Fifth and Seventh Years about the important tests they will be taking near the end of term. Lastly, I would like to announce this year's Head Boy and Girl, if you could just stand. We have Miss Susan Bones from Hufflepuff and Mr. Harry Potter from Gryffindor." An applause broke out, as a blushing Susan stood from her house table, and Harry stood from Gryffindor.
Hermione's jaw dropped. Did he say Harry Potter? Hermione looked to see who this Potter was, and her eyes widened. It was Harry! Harry from the Ministry! Similar thoughts were going through her mind as they did in Harry's earlier. 'Oh my God, I showed affection to a Potter!?!? I brushed lips with a POTTER!' Hermione had many thoughts swimming in her head as she watched Harry sit back down. He glanced her way and their gaze met. He was sitting near the middle of the table, but Hermione could still see the anger and loathing in his eyes. But she wouldn't be deterred. She had been expecting to meet a Potter here. She just wasn't expecting it to be Harry. He still held her gaze. His face unreadable. His amazing green eyes were trying to stare her down. She didn't turn away. She wasn't weak. She wasn't afraid. He didn't look happy at all. Hermione could tell this was a shock for him. It was for her as well, but she had a leg up this time. He hadn't been expecting a Granger to show up this year, but she had expected to meet a Potter. At least she wasn't completely shell shock like he was.
Hermione remembered her conversation in the library after "The Accident." She had told Clarence that with any luck, she would never see him again. But Clarence told her she would. Clarence knew who he was. The only question was, how? Why did Clarence recognize him? What was so special about this Harry Potter that Hermione didn't know?
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She's a rebel
She's a saint
She's salt of the earth
And she's dangerous
She's a rebel
Vigilante
Missing link on the brink
Of destruction
"She's A Rebel" GREENDAY
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He held her gaze. He wasn't going to back down. He could almost see the wheels turning n her head. 'Take that, Granger.' he thought, 'You get to be the shocked one for a second.' She wouldn't look away. Her cinnamon eyes were unreadable. The only thing Harry could see in them was determination. 'For what?' Harry mused. 'What could she possibly be so goddamned determined about?'
Everyone was beginning to exit the Great Hall. Dumbledore had got up and said a few more words, but Harry missed them. They were forced to look away from each other as more people were beginning to leave. With a sigh, Harry got up and made his way to the double doors, Ron and Draco close behind.
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Hermione wandered up the next set of stairs to the Seventh Year Girls' dormitories. Reading the names on the outside of each door. Finally, she found her name, along with five other girls. Hermione opened the door and was met with a few other girls. Hermione didn't know their names. They were all looking at her, well more like glaring.
Five beds were taken up, and a sixth, was completely bare. She guessed that one was hers, but none of her stuff was here. "Er…where are my things?"
A girl with dark hair reached over into her nightstand and took out a big, red marker. Making her way to the door, the girl opened it. Hermione watched as she made a big X through Hermione's name. "This isn't your dorm, it's upstairs. Your things are by the stairs, you can leave now." The girl stated nastily, crossing her arms in front of her chest.
Hermione was taken aback, and looked down the corridor. Yes, her things were by the next stairwell. Without another word, Hermione levitated her trunk and Miguel up the stairs.
It was darker up here and not as cozy. Opening the first door on her left, Hermione entered. The room looked like it hadn't been used in years. Setting her trunk down, and with a flick of her wand, candles appeared in midair. The room was dirty and everything was covered in dust. Licking her lips, Hermione went over to her bed. With another wave of her wand, she stripped the bedding and put on fresh sheets. Opening her trunk, she got out her violet and emerald quilt. She brought it to keep away more than just nightmares. Setting everything up for the next, Hermione tried to hum tunelessly so she wouldn't have to think. She wouldn't have to think about tomorrow. She wouldn't have to think about how unwelcoming the school had been. She wouldn't have to think about the look of utter loathing on everyone's face. As she continued getting out her book and using a few cleaning spells, her thoughts were still on tomorrow.
Stepping into the bathroom to brush her teeth, Hermione had to use a few cleaning spells in there as well. It would be alight staying up here all alone. It would be like her own room. Just hers. Tucking herself into bed, she looked around once more to the dingy walls and still dust-covered hardwood floor. It would take a little while, but she could get it all cleaned up. With that thought and dreading thoughts of tomorrow, she extinguished the candles. Only the moonlight through the faded curtains could be seen. Rolling onto her side, she tried to go to sleep.
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Harry was emerging from the bathroom and jumped onto his bed. It felt great being back at Hogwarts. He looked at his dorm mates. Ron and Draco were getting ready for bed, Neville was trying to button his pajama shirt, and Jeremy, who was lying on his bed, looked over at Harry.
"Hey, mate, what do you think of that Granger chick? Can you believe it?" Jeremy's voice was casual, and he changed positions so he was lying on his side, his head propped up on his elbow.
Harry shrugged. "I don't think anything of her." Harry lied. "I don't know why she's here, but she sure as hell doesn't belong."
Jeremy nodded, "Seriously, a Granger at Hogwarts! I wonder if she realizes just how hard it's going be on her here." he laughed. "The bitch won't know what hit her. She'll be back on the train by noon tomorrow."
Harry shrugged. Wanting to change the subject, Harry asked, "So, how was your guys' summer?" Pretty soon, they were all sharing what happened over the summer, but tomorrow was still in the back of all their minds. 'What is going to happen?' Harry wondered as he lay down on his stomach, resting his chin on his forearms. This was going to get interesting. What is the rest of the school going to have in store for this outsider?
Right, so what do you guys think? This is the chapter a lot of you have been waiting for. How do you think it went? PLEASE REVIEW. Oh, and did the sorting song suck? I dunno, I had no clue what to write for it. So review and until next time, ROCK ON PEACE OUT AND STAY RIGHTEOUS!