Harry Potter and The Footsteps Of Legends

Roman

Rating: PG13
Genres: Drama, Romance
Relationships: Harry & Hermione
Book: Harry & Hermione, Books 1 - 5
Published: 18/01/2006
Last Updated: 05/12/2006
Status: in_progress

Entering his sixth year at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry Harry Potter finds life changing with a strange new teacher, feelings he likes but can barely understand, and training for a battle where in the end he will either live or die and on which all of humanity depends.

Chapters

1. Prologue

2. Chapter One: Back To Grimmauld

3. Chapter Two: OWLs and Fistfights

4. Chapter Three: Bad Dreams

5. Chapter Four: Homecoming

6. Chapter Five: Professor Byron Federico Brodsky

7. Chapter Six: Private Studies

8. Chapter Seven: Fridays, Frightful Fridays

9. Chapter Eight: Wandless Wordless Magic

10. Chapter Nine: Sheathed Steel

11. Chapter Ten: Tryouts And Gifts

12. Chapter Eleven: Dumbledores Army

13. Chapter Twelve: Training

14. Chapter Thirteen: Breakout

15. Authors Note

16. Chapter Fourteen: Curiouser And Curiouser, Said Alice

17. Chapter Fifteen: Quidditch

18. Chapter Sixteen: In The Footsteps Of Legends

19. Chapter Seventeen: The Most Amazing Feeling

20. Chapter Eighteen: Things Just Keep Getting Weirder And Weird

21. Chapter Nineteen: Leaving For The Holidays

22. Chapter Twenty: Happy Christmas

23. Chapter Twenty One: Into Another Year

24. Chapter Twenty Two: Disaster Strikes

25. Chapter Twenty Three: Moving On

1. Prologue

Authors Forward.

As much as I love all of the Harry Potter books, Half Blood Prince just wasn't my cup of tea. I enjoyed it, I just seriously considered writing angry letters about the ships in it, but decided against that idea when I remembered that J.K. Rowling created this entire world for me to enjoy.

Anyway, I'm H/Hr all the way....mostly. So for this little tale of mine we're just going to pretend Book 6 didn't happen, therefore we're beginning right after Order of the Phoenix and the events at the ministry.

I hope you enjoy this, but if you don't that's okay. Thanks for reading, and to all those authors out there, thanks for writing.

Roman.

Disclaimer.

As much as it bugs me sometimes, the characters that you have met in the books, aren't my toys, I just play with them from time to time. Therefore all my love goes out to J.K. and her brilliant imagination - may you keep making money from these guys, because I most definately ain't.

HARRY POTTER AND THE FOOTSTEPS OF LEGENDS

PROLUGUE

~~~~~July 15th, 1996. Hogwarts.~~~~~

The unknown man paced from side to side in Headmaster Albus Dumbledores office. He had a rather average build for a man, tall and filled-out. He wore plain black robes, much like Professor Snapes, which only made him look paler than he really was. There were bags under his deep brown eyes from many years with little sleep and a few scars could be seen, most prominently one from his right ear to his adams apple. His face showed that he was too young to have the streak of grey through his head of neat black hair, but his dark eyes conveyed that too many years of stress, pain, and battle had made him look older than he really was.

His hands were buried in his pockets, his teeth were biting his lip and there was a deep look of concentration on his face; Professor Dumbledore knew from knowing the man for so long that this was a sign he was either attempting to solve a puzzle or making a decision of some sort. Due to the conversation they'd just had, Dumbledore went with the latter. He simply watched the man over his glasses and waited patiently for him to think.

Finally the man stopped pacing, took his hands out of his pockets and breathed a deep sigh. He slowly turned to Dumbledore, "You know I'll do anything just to be closer to her, to get to know her. And you know I'd do anything to for you, especially when you need help, you're like a father to me old man." He said with a thick accent tinged with British.

"So you will take the position?" Dumbledore inquired, full well knowing the answer already.

"Of course I will."

"The students have a lot to catch up on. Their teacher last year was dismal to say the least and it will be good to have you sulking around the castle once more."

"I don't sulk, Headmaster."

"You must know that you can't tell her who you really are, Byron." Dumbledore told him.

"Yes." The man grumbled, "My head understands it, but it's tearing my heart to shreds just knowing it."

"She doesn't know you exist yet and it will break her heart once she finds out."

"She could handle it. I've watched her from afar for so many years and I know that she is strong enough to cope with it." The man argued.

Dumbledore nodded sadly. "Yes she is quite strong, but this is something that could either make her stronger or destroy her."

"Then when can I tell her?"

"One day, Byron. There are a few things she must realize for herself first. Then when she is ready we will tell her." Dumbledore paused and let a smile grow on his face, "Have you been to see your mother?"

The man smiled also. "Not yet, once Fawkes arrived I apparated to Hogsmeade, and came straight to your office. But I'm sure she'll be ecstatic once I tell her my news."

"I will come with you. It has been a long time since I've seen my old friend as happy as I'm sure this will make her."

Dumbledore stood and walked out from behind his desk. Together they walked to the door, but the man put his hand on Dumbledores arm to stop him. "Do you think I made a mistake Professor?"

"In what, Byron?"

"All those years ago, after Clarice died. Do you think I made a mistake?"

Dumbledore thought over this for a moment then answered, "Did you do what you believed was right, Byron?"

"Yes, sir."

"Did you think long and hard over your decision?"

"Yes, sir."

"Did you do what you thought was best and safest for those you love?"

"Yes, sir."

"Do you regret it?"

In a much smaller voice and with his head lowered the man said, "Yes, sir. With all my heart every day."

"Then no, I do not think you made a mistake. Sometimes the decisions we make that affect others we regret, but since they are done with love and thought, then they are often for the best."

The man nodded and glumly followed Dumbledore out of his office and down the stairs into the halls of Hogwarts School for Witchcraft and Wizardry.

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2. Chapter One: Back To Grimmauld

CHAPTER ONE: BACK TO GRIMMAULD

~~~~~July 31st, 1996. Number 4, Privet Drive, Surrey.~~~~~

Harry Potter had only been at Privet Drive for a few weeks and already he thought he was going crazy. But even everything his uncle said and did, couldn't compare to what the nightmares were doing to him. Every night he'd see scenes from the Ministry, Ron with brains on him, Hermione falling to Dolohovs curse, and then finally and most painfully, Sirius going through the veil.

Harry missed his Godfather more than he'd ever missed anything before in his life. Sirius was gone forever and it was his fault.

No! You can't think like that. It was not your fault, it was Voldemort and his death eaters, a voice that sounded remarkably like Hermione said in his head.

He was also feeling guilty about the fact that his friends had been hurt because they followed him. Before Ron had the memory suppression charm put on him he was traumatized beyond belief, Nevilles nose and Ginnys ankle had healed without any problems, and Hermione was going to be alright.

Besides the images of Sirius, it was those of Hermione that bothered Harry the most. The death eaters didn't know how close they'd come to winning the day by taking her out of the fight. She was not only the most capable of the six, but Harry had thought she was dead and it had driven him to panic. He picked up the latest letter he'd recieved from Hermione and re-read it.

Dear Harry,

I don't know how you're holding up this summer, but we're all okay here at HQ. We've been working hard to make the house not so dark. I've been nagging Dumbledore everytime I see him as to when we can come and rescue you and he told me yesterday that you'll be coming back soon.

Harry, I know you don't want to talk about Sirius but when you're ready you know I'm here for you. And I don't want you feeling guilty about what happened, because it wasn't your fault, and if you go and close yourself off I will be very angry and I know you don't want me angry. I also know that you're guilty about us going with you, and I want you to stop that too. You didn't force us to go Harry, we wanted to. We went because we love you and we knew there was a good reason for going.

Anyway, I think Dumbledore just arrived so I'm going to go get on his case some more. I can't wait to see you, I miss you terribly and I know you need to be with us right now.

All my love,

Hermione.

Harry smiled and refolded the letter. She knew him so well that even without seeing him for weeks she knew what he was going through.

She's always been there for me, even when Ron wasn't. I knew that out of all of them, her, Ron, Neville, Ginny, and Luna, she'd be the one I'd never be able to convince to stay behind, she would have followed me anyway.He thought, and then with a smile, She knows me so much better than Ron does.

Harry picked up the letter from Ron and grinned. Hermione might be there for him, but Ron was able to take his mind off everything.

Hey Harry mate,

How's it going? Everythings good here, except Mum being on me about not helping out enough. Hermiones really worried about you, she and Mum have been on the warpath ever since you left and anyone with the power to get you out of there has been avoiding them as much as possible. But I reckon we'll all be better once we're back at school and back on the Quidditch pitch, hey mate. I think your ban will be lifted, since Umbridge was a nutter, and I reckon you might be named captain this year, how good will that be. Well, I gotta' get goin', Mums hollerin' out.

See ya soon,

Ron

He put his letters away and sat on his trunk in the middle of the room. He was all packed to go and was now just waiting on the Order to come and get him. He got lost in thoughts as he looked at the moon outside his bedroom window and was only snapped out of them when he heard a crash downstairs.

With a smile he left his bedroom and made his way through the dark house and down the stairs, his wand drawn just in case. Swinging the kitchen door open he hit the lightswitch and laughed at the scene in the kitchen. Tonks had obviously tripped over a chair and smashed one of Petunias good plates. Mad-Eye was eyeing Harry carefully to make sure it was actually him. Lupin grinned and began to make his way to Harry but was cut off when the final occupant in the kitchen launched herself on him.

"Oh, Harry, are you alright? Have they been treating you well?"

"Hermione, I can't breathe." Harry got out.

She disentangled herself from him and gave him a good look over, while he did the same. She looks good, he thought, not knowing she was having the exact same thoughts. Harry wondered how he'd never realized just how pretty she was before. But he'd changed since Sirius' death.

She should be bashing guys away with a stick. Where the hell did that come from? Stop it! She's your best friend you can't think about her like that.His mind argued with itself.

Harrys mind ramblings were interrupted by his Uncle Vernon bursting into the kitchen with a red face. "What the bloody hell is going on?!"

"We've come to get Harry." Lupin told him as calm as always.

"Bloody freaks in my house! I'll give you - - "

Harry looked at Vernon confused. His mouth was moving and his face was getting redder but no sound was coming out. He turned around and saw Hermione with her wand drawn, glaring at Vernon.

She looked back at Harry and blushed a little bit, "Sorry, I just wanted him to shut up."

Harry grinned at her in astonishment. "Don't be sorry, I've wanted to do that for years now."

"Alright, Potter, Granger, Tonks and Lupin will escort you to Mrs Figgs and from there we'll have you floo to Headquarters. I'll fix up this mess here."

Harry nodded and ran past Vernon and up the stairs with Hermione to get his things. He grabbed his trunk while she grabbed Hedwigs cage.

"I think you'll be impressed with Grimmauld." She told him.

"You guys have been working hard?"

"Mrs Weasley has been working hard. She wanted it finished by the time you got there."

"Remind me to thank her." Harry said as they made their way downstairs.

The four walked to Mrs Figgs with their wands in their hands, but they didn't need them, they got to the squibs house without a problem and flooed to Grimmauld straight away.

Harry was shocked by what he saw, not only the house but the large group of people that were gathered around. "Surprise!" They all yelled at the same time.

Harry smiled at them all and a tingle ran through him when Hermione whispered in his ear, "Happy Birthday, Harry." He once more berated himself about the non-friend like thoughts that ran through his mind when her breath hit his ear.

Ron stepped forward with a grin and gave Harry a manly hug. "Sorry I couldn't come get you but Mum wanted help with all this stuff."

"That's alright mate. It's good to see you again."

"Good to see you too."

"I'll be back in a minute Harry." Hermione told him and walked away.

Harry watched her leave with a thousand thoughts running through his head about his best friend. She really is beautiful, I bet her skin is so soft. Stop it, Harry! You need to quit doing that. Even if she wasn't your best friend you know you're not good enough for her.

Ginny didn't miss the look that Harry was giving Hermione, so while Harry made the rounds of greeting everyone and things like that, Ginny grabbed Hermione and took her up to their room. Hermione was confused as Ginny put a silencing charm on the room and locked the door.

"Why didn't you tell me?" Ginny said with a smile.

"Tell you what?"

"About you and Harry!"

Hermione was dumbstruck, "What about me and Harry? There's nothing going on, Ginny."

"Yeah right. Look if you're worried about me, I've told you about a hundred times that I don't like Harry like that anymore."

"Ginny, I honestly have no idea what you're talking about." Hermione sighed and sat down on her bed.

"Okay so there's nothing going on......yet. But you like him and he likes you, make something go on."

"I don't like Harry, and I'm certain that he doesn't like me."

Ginny just shook her head. "I know you like him and you need to admit it to yourself. Come on, even your ex's noticed it. Cho was always getting pissed off with Harry because of you, and I recall quite well that Viktor was also getting angry at you because of Harry."

Hermione was still staring at Ginny in disbelief, so Ginny tried a different tactic. "Don't tell me you didn't notice how good looking he is."

She thought it over for a moment and nodded, "Yeah, okay, so he is and I noticed, but that doesn't mean I like him."

"Hermione, what are you looking for in a guy?"

"Well," A look of concentration covered her face. "He'd have to be able to use his brain, I don't want a dope that can't think. He'd have to be caring for all people and creatures, especially house-elves. He'd be brave, and selfless, putting other peoples needs before his own. I'd want basically just a nice guy all round. It wouldn't hurt that he looked good either."

"Hermione, you just described Harry."

Hermione went to protest but Ginny cut her off, "He can use his brain, unlike my poor brother, I mean Harrys grades aren't that bad when he tries. He cares for everything, just think Dobby. He's definately brave. He's always putting other people before himself and he is basically a nice guy. Not to mention he's pretty hot."

Hermiones mind was going a mile a minute at Ginnys words. No, I can't like Harry, he's my friend, nothing more....isn't he? Ginny is right that he's the kind of guy that I'd want, but no, come on Hermione this is Harry we're talking about! I just can't like him, can I? And I'm certain he wouldn't be interested in me, I mean what guy would be - -.

Ginny stopped her train of thoughts. "Hermione don't think about this, well at least don't think too much. This isn't an essay or an assignment, so don't use your brain, put your heart into it."

Hermione shook her head in disbelief, looking as if she'd cry. "I can't like Harry like that, can I?"

Ginny sighed and sat down on the bed next to her, putting an arm around her shoulder. "You wouldn't be the first one, and you won't be the last, but you may be the only one with a chance."

"What do you mean?" Hermione croaked.

"I saw the way he was looking at you."

"When?"

"Just before we came up here. It wasn't the kind of look one normally gives their best friend. It was more a look they give someone they'd like more with."

"That's impossible."

"Look, why don't you just think about it for a while? Come on, we'll go down and enjoy the rest of the party."

Once they were back downstairs Hermione couldn't help but steal glances at Harry every now and then and was surprised to find him looking back at her a few times. For his part, Harry couldn't help himself, he felt drawn to just watching her.

"You got it bad, boy." Came a soft voice from behind him. Spinning around he saw Ginny smiling at him. "One of you better get your act together."

"What?"

"You and Hermione, you'd be great together."

Harry just shook his head and turned back to look at Hermione. Is it really that obvious? Bloody hell, what am I going to do? There's no way she can like me back. Damn, I'm crazy about my best friend, this isn't right. Who cares? I can't help the way I feel, I should at least admit it to myself.

"Do you want a tour?" Hermione asked as she came over to him.

"I'd love one." Harry smiled.

She put down her butterbeer and led him around the house. Instead of the dark, dank and downright creepy place Grimmauld Place had once been it was now much more like Gryffindor tower, decorated nicely in mainly red and gold, it was warm and welcoming.

"And this is your room. Ron said you wouldn't want Sirius' old room, but I thought you would. If you don't then we can always put you somewhere else." Hermione told him while opening the door to what used to be Sirius' room.

"No, I do want it."

They walked in together and Harry was slightly shocked at the changes. The room was painted in the Gryffindor covers, there was a fireplace in the closest part of the room with a bookshelf on each side of it and a very comfortable looking couch in front. At the far end of the room was a large walk-in wardrobe and a huge four-poster bed.

Harry walked over to the door in the room and found his own ensuite, with not only a shower but a tub as well. He smiled and turned back to Hermione. "This is perfect, thankyou."

"Thank Mrs Weasley, she did most of the work. I had hoped you'd like it."

The two sat down on the edge of the bed and sat in a comfortable silence while both thought. Should I tell her how I feel?Harry wondered. No, not yet, she doesn't need to know yet. Maybe I should tell her about the prophecy. I can tell she knows I'm keeping something from her. No, I can't tell her, not yet. It'll only worry her.

"How did the muggles treat you?" She asked causing him to look up.

"Oh, they were okay. Moodys threat really got Vernon, he barely said a word to me the whole time I was there and that suited me just fine."

"What about your Aunt and cousin?"

"Dudley was barely around, he was usually out with his cronies terrorizing small children and animals. And Aunt Petunia, well actually she was pretty good. When Vernon and Dudley wasn't home she'd make me a decent lunch and she'd always make sure that I was able to get to the table before they ate everything. I even saw her smile at me once.....I think."

"Well, that's good." There was another moment of silence but this time it was rather uncomfortable. "Maybe we should go back downstairs."

"Yeah." Harry said, not wanting to admit he was actually enjoying their alone time. He got up and followed her back into the sitting room where everyone was to enjoy the rest of the party.

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3. Chapter Two: OWLs and Fistfights

A/N: Chapter two and I still don't own them, damn! Anyhow, there's a little bit of Draco bashing in this chapter, but for all you ferret people, don't worry,he'll come good. A reviewer mentioned something about Kreacher and the portrait of Mrs. Black, and I must admit that I didn't even think of them since their unpleasantness is something I try to block from my memory. Let's just assume that the portrait was hack sawedoff the wall, trod on and then set alight. And as for Kreacher, I like to think the creepy little bugga got what he deserved. Another reviewer also mentioned Ginny and I'll agree that I feel the same way about her, she was cool before HBP when she attempted to sink this ship, so I write her as I would had none of that happened, she's a good character to play with and I liked her before book 6.

Enough of my 5am ramblings, on with the story!

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CHAPTER TWO: OWLS AND FIST FIGHTS

~~~~~August 1st, 1996. Grimmauld Place~~~~~

Albus Dumbledore arrived the next morning with a large smile on his face and three envelopes in his hand. Hermione walked out of the kitchen and into the living room to see the old wizard standing there. Neither of them said anything while Hermione looked from Dumbledores smile to the envelopes and back again about four or five times.

Then with a loud squeel she ran to him prepared to crash tackle him and wrestle the letters out of his hands. Dumbledore chuckled and simply held them out before she hurt him.

Her cry had attracted a few others in the house, Harry and Ron included. Dumbledore looked at their confused faces and simply said, "OWLs have arrived."

The two boys gathered around Hermione as she stared at the envelopes with shaky hands. Harry put his hands over hers and she was shocked to see both he and Ron behind her.

"Why don't we sit down?" Harry said gently. Hermione just nodded so he led her to the couch. Ron sat down in the chair across from them and waited patiently until Harry passed his envelope over.

"We'll open them together, okay?"

Very carefully and with a held breath the three opened them and pulled out the parchment inside. They flipped past the booklists and such and silently read over their results while Dumbledore, Ginny and Mrs Weasley watched.

"Well, at least I passed most things." Ron said with a small smile. He looked over at his mother, "I only failed Divination and History of Magic."

"Oh, Ron, that's much better than Fred and George, although, Bill, Percy and Charlie did - -"

"I know, Mum, much better than that."

"Alright, I'm proud of you, anyway, let me have those book lists." Mrs Weasley said, bustling over. Ron and Harry both passed their booklists to her but when Harry looked over he saw Hermione still staring at her OWLs. He picked up her booklist and passed it to Mrs Weasley.

Ron looked over at Harry, "Here, swap."

They switched and Harry read over Rons results. He hadn't gotten any O's but for Ron the results were pretty good. Ron grinned after reading Harrys results. "Bloody good mate, you only failed the same as I did. And you even got an O in Defense, knew you would though."

Harry was happy with his results, except potions. He only got an E and Professor Snape would only accept those with an O into his class, which Harry needed if he was to become an Auror.

He turned to Hermione and saw tears in her eyes. "Hermione?" She didn't move or look up, so he slid over closer to her and put one hand on her shoulder while he gently took her results out of her hand.

She looked up at him with the same expression on her face. He read over her results and a big smile formed on his face. He passed them over to Ron who jumped out of his seat and let out a big "Whoop!"

Ron settled and said, "Bloody hell, Hermione, eleven out of eleven Outstandings! Never again will I make fun of you for studying."

Neither Hermione nor Harry seemed to hear him as they were looking too intently at eachother. The small smile on her face was broken by her biting her lip. Harry grinned and nodded at her, "You did it." he said quietly. She nodded back and he wiped away the tear that ran down her face and took her into a big hug whispering, "All your hard work paid off, Mione."

He held her until Mrs Weasley announced that a trip to Diagon Alley would be in order and that they should all go and get ready and Dumbledore asked Harry if they could talk in private. Harry nodded and followed Dumbledore into the study.

"Sir, I'd like to apologize for my behaviour after the Ministry incident. I was angry but that's still no excuse." Harry immediately said once the door had been closed.

"Your apology is accepted Harry, as I hope you will do with mine."

"What are you apologizing for, Sir?" Harry asked, confused, as they both took a seat.

"It is my own mistakes that led to that night. I should've told you of the prophecy sooner, I should have taught you occlumency myself, and I shouldn't have distanced myself from you during the last school year."

"You were trying to protect me, Sir, and I appreciate that."

"Harry, I'd like to make a promise that I will no longer keep anything from you unless I would be breaking someone else's trust by doing so. You will no longer be kept in the dark, Harry. If there's something going on in the Order, you will be informed. That's why I can tell you now that there isn't much happening."

"What do you mean?"

"Our usual spies and eyes are doing their rounds, but there is no sign of Voldemort and has been very little death eater activity recently. Although we lost Sirius in the incident, it was more a victory for us then them."

"How so, Sir?"

"The actions of you and your friends prevented Tom from getting hold of the prophecy. It also forced him to come out in the open. Before that night nobody believed that he was back and he was using that to his advantage, now the Ministry is aware of his presence and can use their power to assist us."

"That's good, I suppose."

"Indeed. I also wanted to talk to you about the upcoming year. I understand you didn't get the Potions result you would have liked." Dumbledore asked with a smile Harry couldn't see.

"No, Sir. I only got an E and I need an O to become an auror."

"As slight repayment for all the mistakes I have made, perhaps I will have to talk to Professor Snape about accepting a few whom show promise into his class."

Harry grinned at his Headmaster, "Sir, you have no idea how much I would appreciate that."

"Of course, Harry, you'd have to do your best at all times."

"Yes, Sir."

"And I have something to ask of you. I would like you to continue with your occlumency."

Harry had a stricken look on his face, even though he knew how important it was. He still didn't see Dumbledore smile as the older wizard continued, "Of course since I am well aware of Professor Snape and your mutual dislike of eachother I would never dream of forcing either of you to spend more time together than necessary. Your new Defence Against The Arts teacher is well trained in Occlumency and Legilemency and therefore he will be teaching you and I will as well on occassion."

Harry breathed a sigh of relief and smiled. "Thankyou so much, Sir. Who is our new DADA teacher?"

"Do not worry, Harry, he is a good man whom I trust entirely. His name is Professor Brodsky and I have known him his entire life. I'm sure, if you'd like he would also be happy to give you extra Defence lessons as well."

"I would Sir. Since it's me versus Voldemort I think it best if I was to get as much training as possible."

"Good, good. There is also the matter of Sirius' will Harry. Shortly after you and Hermione rescued him in your third year he contacted me to change his will naming you as his only heir. This house and the Black fortune are all yours Harry."

"I'd rather him than his money." Harry whispered.

"I understand. I must ask if the Order be allowed to use the house as Headquarters."

"Of course, Sir." Harry responded without even needing to think.

"He loved you very much, Harry."

"I know and the feeling was mutual. Sir, may I ask you something about the prophecy? It's just that, well what is this power that I have that Voldemort doesn't?" Harry anxiously asked.

Dumbledore sighed and removed his glasses to rub his eyes. "I have thought about that since I first heard the prophecy Harry and I have come to no absolute certainies. I have theories however. I have been thinking for a long time about what you could possibly possess that Tom Riddle does not. He is a very powerful wizard as you are also capable of being, however that would simply put you on equal footing you would not surpass him. I thought about many other things and was only able to come to one conclusion, however I do not know for sure that it is correct."

"What is it?" Harry hastily asked.

"Love Harry. Love is one of the most powerful magics there is. It can give those who are weary strength, it can make those who are lost found. You have more love than you can possibly know and Tom Riddle has none. Those who will stand beside you when the time comes will do it because they love you, they love their families and they love their way of life. The death eaters will only be there in fear of their master and to fufill their thirst for power. I believe that is what will win it for us at the end of the day. There is also another reason I believe this, but as I told you before I cannot betray someone elses trust and I would be doing so if I revealed that information. As I said, I am not certain that my theory is correct, but I am rather confident." Dumbledore explained.

Harry thought about that for a moment. "So I shouldn't push anyone away?" He asked quietly.

"Certainly not, Harry. Pushing away those who care for you would be the worst thing you could do, although I doubt they would leave even if you told them to. In fact you should embrace love at any chance you get." Dumbledore told him with a look that said he knew who'd been on Harrys mind lately. "She's quite a girl, Harry."

Harry looked at him in complete shock. "I only just figured it out for myself, how is it that everyone knows already?"

"I am unsure how others know but I have been watching you closely since you first stepped foot into Hogwarts and I have seen the signs over the years. Do not fear she will be harmed Harry, the risk is there whether you two take the next step or not."

"Yes, Sir."

"Very well. I must be getting back to Hogwarts." The two stood and walked back to the door. "Do not forget what I said Harry, love is very important to you, you may just need it to survive so please don't push anyone away."

"I won't, thankyou, Sir."

They left the room and Dumbledore said his goodbyes and left while Harry ran upstairs to get ready to go to Diagon Alley.

~~~~~Diagon Alley~~~~~

Harry, Hermione, Ron, Ginny, Mrs Weasley, Tonks, Lupin and Mad-Eye all took the Knight Bus to the Leaky Cauldron and once in Diagon Alley Mrs Weasley and Mad-Eye took Ginny and Ron to get their things while Tonks and Lupin took Harry and Hermione to Gringotts. Hermione had her money exchanged and then the four went to Harrys vault.

Lupin and Tonks stayed in the carriage waiting for Harry and Hermione. Tentatively Harry entered the vault after the goblin had opened it, Hermione close behind. The pile of money had increased substantially since his last visit.

"My God, Harry. I knew you had a fair amount but this is a bit overboard."

"I was Sirius' heir, Dumbledore told me last night. Can you not tell Ron about this? You know how he is."

"Yeah, if he knew you had all of this he wouldn't be happy. What are these?" She asked as she made her way over to the shelves lining the walls.

"I don't know, they weren't there when I was last here." He said making her way over to the small boxes she was referring to.

One was a shoebox that Harry lifted the lid off to find it full of photos of his mother and father, Sirius, Remus and a few others. Flipping through a few though he noticed that where Pettigrew should have been he'd been taken out. He put the lid back on the box and went to the other, much smaller box. He gently lifted the lid back. Hermione gasped when she saw the beautiful ring inside of it.

Lupin had came in to see what the two were doing just as Harry had picked up the box. He walked up behind Harry and put his hand on his shoulder, "Your mothers engagement ring. Sirius was able to get it before Hagrid arrived."

Harry closed the lid and put it back on the shelf. He picked up the box of photos and put it under his arm while he filled a small bag with some money from his pile.

They left Gringotts and on Hermiones insistance they went straight to the bookstore. She immediately lost herself in the shelves of books while Harry went to the counter to give the attendant their lists. He then turned and caught up with Hermione while she was trailing down a stack with one finger running over the spines. He couldn't help but smile at the interest that burned in her eyes since he knew she could gladly read every book in the entire store.

She didn't even notice his approach and it wasn't until he grabbed her by the waist and made her jump a foot in the air that she knew he was there. Both tried to ignore the lightning that flashed through their bodies at the contact.

"Harry, don't do that! You scared the hell out of me!"

"Sorry, but you're so cute when you're surrounded by books."

"Shutup." She said then turned back to her books.

"Let me buy you one."

"What?"

"Let me buy you a book. Pick one that you want and let me buy it for you."

"Harry I have plenty of money you don't need to buy my books for me."

Harry just smiled, "But I want to."

"No."

"You know I'll buy you one anyway, this way you can pick which one you want. And besides what else am I supposed to do with all that money I've got."

"Give it to charity."

"Mione." Harry whined. "Please."

Hermione huffed and turned back to Harry attempting to glare at him but failing when she saw his puppy-dog eyes. How am I supposed to say no to those eyes?ran through her head. She smiled and shook her head, "Fine."

Harry got a huge grin and then followed her around the store simply watching her as she picked a book. Once she had one they returned to the counter to pay for their books.

"I should have known you'd be in here, Mudblood. You know it alls just can't stay away from the bookstores." A cold voice came from behind them.

They spun around, hands on their wands to see the sneering face of Draco Malfoy. Harry looked around for Tonks and Lupin but remembered that they stayed outside.

"No we can't Malfoy, but that's something you'll never experience since you know nothing." Hermione said back and Harry marveled at how she'd said it while staying completely calm.

"How dare you speak to me like that?!"

Harry couldn't believe that Malfoy still hadn't come off his high horse even though his father was in Azkaban and he was without his bodygaurds, Crabbe and Goyle.

"Are you just looking to get hit, Malfoy?" Harry asked in disbelief.

"Shut it Potter. You and your filthy - -" Malfoy never got a chance to complete that sentence as Harrys fist crashed into his nose.

"You finish that sentence and I'll kick your ass, Malfoy." Harry threatened as he towered over the fallen Malfoy.

Malfoy jumped up and ran at Harry tackling him to the ground and laying a punch to his jaw. Harry grabbed Malfoy by the throat and flipped him over to give himself the upper hand, his fist once more connecting with Malfoys face.

He barely heard Hermione saying, "I'm really sorry about this, Harry, but you both deserve it. Stupify!"

Lupin and Tonks burst through the door the moment after Hermione had stunned both the fighting boys. "What happened?" Lupin demanded.

"They got into a fight, I stunned them."

"You stunned Harry?" Tonks asked.

"It was for his own good. Can one of you take Malfoy outside, wake him and tell him to get lost?"

Lupin nodded and moved forward picking up the unconcious Malfoy by the scruff of the collar and dragged him outside the store.

"I didn't think you'd stun Harry." Tonks murmered as they both leaned down over him.

"Why not?"

"Well....I....nevermind."

Hermione turned to her, "Why not? Tonks?"

"It's just that I was talking to Ginny."

"And she told you I've got a thing for him."

"Yeah."

"If the guy you liked, oh let's say Moony," Hermione said with a knowing smirk causing Tonks to blush, "was going to get himself in an awful lot of trouble for almost beating someone to death and you weren't strong enough to pull him away, wouldn't you stun him?"

"Yeah, I suppose. How did you know about...you know?"

"That you were hot for Lupin? Please Tonks even I'm not that ignorant to things, actually I think the only one that is is Lupin himself." Hermione told her. "Ennervate. Why don't you just tell him?"

Harry slowly opened his eyes as the girls kept talking, "Why don't you just tell him?" Tonks countered.

"He has too much to worry about, he doesn't need me as well."

They helped Harry sit up and he blinked a few times and looked around. Hermione handed him his glasses, which had come off during the scuffle. Putting them on he asked, "What happened?"

"I stunned you."

"You stunned me? Why did you do that?"

"Because you were going to beat the hell out of Malfoy."

Harry groaned as he put a hand to his head, "He deserved it."

"You over-reacted, Harry, there was no reason to hit him."

"He called you a mudblood and he was about to say it again."

Hermione sighed, "He's been calling me a mudblood for years now Harry, I'm used to it."

"You shouldn't have to be used to it and maybe now he'll think twice before he opens his big mouth because I'm more than happy to close it for him." Harry fumed.

Hermione helped him off the ground and he leaned heavily on her as his head spun a bit. "I think we should just get everything else you guys need and head home." Tonks advised.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

4. Chapter Three: Bad Dreams

CHAPTER THREE: BAD DREAMS

~~~~~August 1st, 1996. Grimmauld Place.~~~~~

That night while Harry sat on his bed at Grimmauld sorting through his photos a light tapping on the door caught his attention. Who called for his late night visitor to enter and was pleasantly surprised when Hermione slipped through his door in her nightdress.

"Can I borrow Hedwig?" She asked as she made her way over to him.

"Of course. Who's the letter to?"

"Mum and Dad."

Hermione tied the letter to Hedwigs leg and gave her a pat before telling her where to go and opening the window. She then turned back to Harry and walked to the bed, sitting on the edge.

"Are these the pictures you found?"

"Yeah. I think Sirius went through them before he died and magically erased Pettigrew from them. Makes them look much better I guess. Help me out?"

Hermione smiled and moved further onto the bed. "Sure, what are you doing?"

"I bought a couple of photo albums today. I'm going through them to see which I want to keep and I'm going to give the rest to Remus."

"That's a nice thought, I'm sure Remus will appreciate it."

"I don't know how he does it." Harry said quietly.

Hermione looked at him, confused. "Does what?"

"He's lost his best friends. I don't know if I'd be able to handle it if I lost you and Ron."

Hermione reached out and took his hand. "I don't know either. It'd be hard. Why do you think I follow you on all your crazy adventures? So I can do what I can to make sure you come home safe. I imagine it's rather difficult for Remus, but you've given him a reason to live Harry."

"How so?"

"With your Mum and Dad and Sirius gone, I think Remus feels like he has to take care of you now, play the father."

"He doesn't have to, he shouldn't feel responsible for me."

"No, that's true he doesn't have to. But you didn't have to buy that book for me today, you wanted to. Just like Remus wants to be there for you, he loves you Harry."

"I know." Harry smiled. "And I love him too."

She squeezed his hand and then went back to flipping through the photos. Harry watched her with a smile for a minute longer then also went back to the pictures.

Hermione giggling made him look back up. He looked at her inquisitively and she responded through her giggles. "Can I keep this one?" She said turning the picture around to show a baby Harry naked in a tub with bubbles all over him, he had a big smile on his face as he played with the bubbles.

Harry turned red and whipped the photo out of her hands. "Oh, come on, Harry! Let me keep it, you were just too cute."

"I am, nor was I ever cute. This is just embarrassing." He leaned over and put the picture into his bedside drawer.

They went back to the photos and Harry started a light conversation. "So, how's your Mum and Dad?"

"They're fine. They've been busy at the dental surgery. Daddy didn't want me to come to Grimmauld so soon, he wanted me to stay at home and work in the office during the day but Mum and I talked him out of it."

"Why didn't you want to stay?"

"I would have liked to spend time with them, but working at the office in the surgery is just downright boring. And besides, I was worried about you and needed to make sure you were okay."

"You don't have to worry about me Hermione."

"I know, but it's part of what I do. I worry about you and Ron all the time, mainly you though since you always seem to get yourself hurt."

"And get those around me hurt." Harry murmured hoping she wouldn't hear.

She did. "Harry, I don't want you having thoughts like that."

"But Hermione, I got you hurt."

"Yeah, and I'd do it again without a second thought. Well, maybe I'd just stun Dolohov instead of silencing him, but what I'm saying is that I'd follow you to the Ministry again. And look, I'm alive and well."

"Did...did it scar?"

"Yeah, it did." Hermione said quietly as she unconsciously ran a hand over her chest. "But that doesn't matter. Look, Harry, we weren't ready for that fight, but we'll learn from our mistakes and we won't make them again."

Harry nodded and gave a smile. "Thanks Mione."

"Why do you only call me that when we're alone?"

"Call you what?"

"Mione."

"Do I? I'm sorry I didn't even realize I was doing it. I'll stop."

"No, I like it when you call me that."

"What if Ron called you that?" Harry asked with a bit of hope.

"Ron much prefers to call me Hermy. I hate it, it makes me sound like some kind of STD." Hermione shook her head.

Harry laughed. "Grawp also prefers to call you Hermy."

"Oh God, don't remind me of Grawp."

"Come on, he save our lives." Harry chuckled.

"And almost killed us himself in the process. I still have no idea what Hagrid was thinking."

Harry laughed then yawned. Hermione put the photos down, "It's getting late, I should go."

"Please don't." Harry said before he could stop himself. "Sorry, umm, go on, goodnight."

"Harry if you want me to stay then I will."

"No, it's okay. It's just.....never mind."

"Harry." Hermione said in a voice that told him he'd better tell her what was wrong.

"It's just the nightmares, they won't go away."

"Then I'll stay, but you need to get some sleep." She decided while putting the pictures away.

"You don't have to."

"Harry, I'm staying." She put the box of photos on the bedside table and stood up.

"Umm, I'll take the couch then."

"You'll do no such thing." Hermione frowned. "We're friends Harry, we can share a bed to help with each others nightmares without anything happening." She told him, not quite trusting the words herself.

Not wanting to let her in on his feelings he just nodded and prayed he'd be able to control himself. He watched as she slipped in between the sheets. Very slowly he did the same.

"You know you'll have a horrible night in here with me." He said, rolling over to look at her. "I wake up screaming and everything."

"That's alright, Harry. I'm just worried about what Mrs Weasley will say in the morning when I'm not in my room."

"Don't worry about it. It's my house and we can sleep where we want."

"Yeah, you can be the one to explain it to Mrs Weasley though, that we weren't doing anything except chasing away each others nightmares."

Both of them dozed off a few minutes later. Hermione awoke a few short hours after to Harrys movement and murmurings, "Hermione, wake up. Please, wake up Hermione. Come on, open your eyes."

She rolled over to see what he wanted when she noticed he was still asleep. She instinctively knew he was having a nightmare.

"Please don't let her be dead, please. Come on Hermione, wake up, don't do this to me."

Hermione leaned over him and started shaking him. "Harry. Harry! I'm right here, Harry, you need to wake up. Harry!"

His eyes flashed open quickly. Without his glasses and with it being dark he couldn't quite make her out. "Mione?"

"I'm right here Harry." She gently told him.

He reached up and touched her face to confirm that she actually was there. "You're alive." He almost cried, then wrapped his arms around her.

"Was it the Ministry?" She asked as she pulled away from him.

Harry reached over and put his glasses on and lit up a lamp. "Yeah. When Dolohov hit you with that curse. I'm sorry I woke you Hermione."

"It's alright Harry I was bound to wake on my own sooner or later."

"What do you mean?"

Realizing what she just said and not wanting to worry him anymore than he already was she said, "Nothing."

"No, it's something. You mentioned it before too, you said chasing away each others nightmares. Are you having them too?"

"I'm fine Harry."

"Hermione, please tell me. You've always been there for me, let me be here for you."

"Sometimes they're about the Ministry. On those nights I have trouble keeping the image of that purple flame coming towards me. Then there are others." She said, turning away from him.

"What are they about?" He asked, putting a hand on her shoulder.

"I don't know. I've been having them for years now. They're not quite nightmares, sometimes they're just dreams. I remember I used to have one or two a year and then when I got to Hogwarts it was more often. And just recently I'm having them at least once a week."

"What happens?"

"I'm not quite sure. When they are dreams it's all so peaceful and I get this feeling like it's just......I don't know, right. There's a man and a woman I see. But then in the nightmares I see the woman die. And then there's another with the man. He's looking down at me with tears streaming down his face. He looks so sad and I don't know why. But every time he says goodbye to me and I really don't want him to go. They're just so real, Harry that I don't know if they're actually dreams, or if they're memories of some sort. And then in the nightmares the woman dies and the man he...I don't know, seems broken."

"And you don't know who he is?"

"No, I've never seen him before except in the dreams. Or at least I can't remember seeing him."

He rubbed her shoulders, at a complete loss of what else to do. "Come on, why don't we see if we can get some more sleep?"

She nodded and they both laid down again. Before extinguishing the light Harry saw her wipe some tears away from her eyes and it broke his heart. When she rolled onto her side he moved behind her and wrapped his arms around her. She moved into his embrace, thankful that he was there for her.

Harry awoke first the next morning and just stayed still watching Hermione sleep. At some point during the night he'd rolled onto his back and she'd moved to rest her head on his shoulder.

She looks so peaceful when she's sleeping. He thought. And she fits into my arms so perfectly. I could stay like this forever, this moment is just right.

Very slowly Hermione stirred and her eyes fluttered open. She looked up to see Harry emerald eyes staring directly at her and a small smile on his face. He looked so content.

"Sleep well?" She asked.

"Yeah, only one nightmare. That's a new record for me. You?"

"I slept well too." She smiled and then rolled over to check the clock, seven a.m. "I should probably get back to my room."

He was sad to see her go, but he just smiled and nodded. Before getting up she kissed him on the cheek. "Thankyou, Harry."

"What for?"

"Chasing away my nightmares."

"Well, in that case, thankyou for chasing away mine."

Hermione reluctantly pulled herself out of the bed and after checking the hallway was clear, made her way to her and Ginnys room. She expected to find Ginny still asleep, but the younger girl was laying in her bed, perched up on an elbow with a smirk on her face.

"Well?" Ginny asked when Hermione came in.

"Well what?" Hermione played dumb.

"Last time I saw you you were off to see if you could borrow Hedwig from Harry. That was last night. I assume you never left Harrys room."

"You assume correctly, Ginny." Was all Hermione said as she crawled into her own bed.

"Come on tell me the details. You owe me!"

Hermione looked at her strangely, "How do I owe you?"

"Well since I'm not counting the fact that I was the one who made you realize you had much deeper feelings for Harry, I covered for you with Mum."

Hermiones eyes widened. Ginny smiled and explained, "She came in here about half an hour ago to wake us up and when she asked me where you were I said that you'd had trouble sleeping again so you'd gotten up early and were probably around somewhere, this house is so big she'd never know. I also told her that I'd heard Harry having trouble sleeping last night so it was probably best to let him sleep in."

Hermione released a sigh of relief, "Thankyou so much, Gin."

"See you owe me, now give me some details."

"There's nothing to tell Ginny. I went in, sent my letter with Hedwig and found Harry sorting through the photos he found yesterday. I helped him and we talked for a bit. Then when I saw he was tired I was about to leave when he asked me to stay. He's been having horrible nightmares and just needed someone to keep him company."

"He obviously wasn't the only one who needed company through the nightmares, how many times did you wake up screaming last night?" Ginny asked with genuine concern.

"None. He woke me up with one of his, but I didn't have any."

"Not one? Wow, Herms, you should sleep with Harry every night. You usually have four or five when you're in here. So that's all then? You guys didn't do anything that goes beyond that?"

"No, Gin." Hermione sighed.

"And you thought he wasn't interested in you."

"What do you mean? I just said we didn't do anything."

"Come on Hermione. Guys just don't let anyone hear their nightmares." When Hermione was still looking confused she went into greater detail. "They feel that having nightmares make them weak. They don't just let anyone know that they wake up screaming like a girl every night."

"That doesn't prove that he's interested, Ginny."

"No, it's not proof, but I'm right. He likes you just as much as you like him. Anyway, like I said the other day, just think about it a little, but be sure not to overthink it."

With that Ginny got out of her bed and left the room, leaving Hermione to her troubled thoughts.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

5. Chapter Four: Homecoming

CHAPTER FOUR: HOMECOMING

~~~~~September 1st, 1996. Grimmauld Place.~~~~~

The few weeks before their return to Hogwarts found long days for the four students staying at Grimmauld Place. It mainly consisted of the four in the sitting room, Ginny reading a magazine, Hermione a book and the boys playing chess. Hermione and Harry had only shared a bed once more over the time past and both was still not going to admit their feelings, which was frustrating Ginny greatly.

She'd talked to both of them about it but neither was willing to take that next step. Ron of course was oblivious to the whole thing, but Ginny had a sinking feeling that he wouldn't be happy about it. As much as she loved her brother she knew that he wasn't right for Hermione, just by the way he looked at her. Ron would look at Hermione as if she was a prize and his to have and own, whereas the way Harry looked at her was much different. Ginny could see that when Harry looked at her, he wasn't just seeing her body like Ron did, he was seeing her heart and soul.

Ginny wanted to get them together but knew that Ron was going to be a problem for them. He'd always been jealous of Harry without thinking about things first and if Harry had got the girl too, Ginny knew Ron would be extremely pissed. But that didn't change the fact that Harry and Hermione belonged together.

Even with long, boring days, the morning of September first found three of the four racing around searching for things. Hermione was of course, already packed and ready to go and therefore was now in Harrys room helping him find his things, after just finishing packing Ginnys trunk.

"Oh, Harry, no wonder you can't ever fit everything in your trunk." She sighed as she started pulling things out to pack them neatly.

"Sorry, but I'm just not good with those things." He replied from under the bed where he was currently searching for a shoe.

Placing everything back in the trunk Hermione was quite pleased with the result, there was much more room. Harry came out with his shoe, the last thing he needed to find, and looked in astonishment at the trunk.

"How'd you manage that?" He asked while he handed her the shoe which she placed neatly in the trunk beside its twin then picked up his sweatshirt and started folding it.

"You need to do it neatly, don't just throw it all in there."

"What would I do without you?" He said, giving her a kiss on the cheek which caused her to blush.

Hermione turned her face down, lest he see the smile, and placed the shirt in the trunk while saying, "You would have been dead long ago."

The four, along with Tonks, Mad-Eye, Lupin and Mrs Weasley took two Ministry cars that Arthur had managed to aquire for the day to Kings Cross station. Since they were very close to missing the train they all bolted through the crowds to barely make it onto the platform on time. Hurriedly throwing their things on the train they quickly said good-bye to their escorts.

Lupin took Harry aside, "Harry, I want you to know that I'm here for you."

"I already knew that Remus."

"Well, while we were going through Sirius' things I found a certain mirror, I believe you have the other half."

Harry looked a little guilty when he said, "I broke it."

"No problem, you're a wizard Harry, a simple Mirror Reparo will fix it." Lupin grinned.

Harry hadn't even thought of that and smiled, "Thanks, Remus."

"Harry! Hurry or you'll miss the train." Mrs Weasley hollered.

Spurred on by impulse, Harry hugged Lupin. The werewolf looked to be on the verge of tears when he pulled away and smiled at Harry. "Keep in touch."

"I will." Harry called as he ran for the now departing train and jumped on. The four dragged their trunks to a compartment where they found Neville Longbottom and Luna Lovegood. Packing their stuff away Hermione announced that she, Ron and Ginny, who had been made a prefect, had to go and recieve their instructions from the Heads.

Harry sat down across from Neville and Luna once they left. Luna was reading her copy of the Quibbler upside down as usual so Harry turned to Neville.

"How's your Summer been, Neville?"

"Not bad. After all that stuff happened I thought my Gran would kill me, but instead she was so proud going on about how I was finally living up to my father and stuff. She even took me to get a new wand." Neville told him, pulling his new wand out.

"That's great, Neville. What about you, Luna?"

She put her paper down and looked at him with her dreamy expression. "Oh father and I had a wonderful time looking for the Crumple-Horned Snorkacks again. We tried Switzerland this time and were sure we saw one, but it was gone by the time we got our camera out."

"Bad luck, huh?"

Luna nodded and went back to her reading. Harry and Neville talked about all sorts of things, OWLs and quidditch and such until Hermione, Ron and Ginny returned to the carriage. Ginny sat in between Luna and Neville while Hermione took the seat in between Harry and Ron.

"How'd it go?" Harry asked.

"Fine." Hermione answered.

Ginny rolled her eyes and elaborated, "Cho's head girl and she kept shooting Hermione dirty looks."

"Why'd she keep shooting you dirty looks?" Neville asked.

"I have no idea."

Ginny repeated the act of rolling her eyes, "Because of Harry."

"What about me?"

"Don't you remember how jealous she kept getting everytime you'd mention Hermione last year? Not to mention what Hermione did to that friend of hers, Marietta or whatever her name is."

"I didn't do it to her, she did it to herself. If she hadn't of ran to that damn Umbridge then it wouldn't of happened. We told them the DA was a secret, they should have expected we'd take steps to ensure that. And nobody else may be able to remove it, but I can, and if she'd just apologize for being a dirty, rotten, snitch then I will."

"You're joking!" Harry exclaimed, looking at Hermione in wonder, "Is that bloody thing on her face still there?"

"Of course it is. You don't think I'd use a charm that can simply be removed do you?" As if he was insulting her just by suggesting it.

Harry just laughed and shook his head, muttering, "Unbelievable." Then louder, while he swung an arm over her shoulders, he said, "You know I think we've corrupted her, Ron."

Ron also put his arm around her shoulder. "Oh, we definitely have. I mean just look at what she did to Rita Skeeter."

"She also deserved it. That horrible woman going around spying on people and then twisting the facts." Hermione defended.

"Then of course there's leading Umbridge into a forest to be killed by a herd of centaurs." Harry added with a smile.

"She didn't get killed and what else was I supposed to do? Oh, just leave me alone. Wake me up when we're home."

Ron laughed and took his arm back, challenging Neville to a game of chess. Harry liked the way that Hermione also referred to Hogwarts as home. He also like the way she had layed her head on his shoulder to go to sleep. He moved his arm so it was around her waist to make her more comfortable. What he didn't like about the situation was the unusual look that Ron gave him.

Leaving the train at Hogsmeade station the six walked to the carriages but not before Harry, Ron and Hermione had said a quick hello to Hagrid who was calling for the first years.

"Oh, 'ello you lot."

"Hey Hagrid, how are you?"

"Not bad, 'Arry, not bad. How did yer all go on yer OWLs?"

They quickly went through their results to a very pleased Hagrid. He told them that he was proud of them, but he had to get the first years to the boats and that he'd see them soon.

On the way to the carriage Ron was oblivious to the look that crossed Harrys face when he saw the thestrals, but Hermione wasn't. She grabbed his hand and gave it a squeeze. "Try not to look at them."

He smiled at her and with their hands still held he helped her into the carriage after Ron had pushed himself in. "I hope you never see them." He said quietly.

She looked back and down from the doorway, squeezing his hand again. "Me too."

Upon entering the Great Hall of Hogwarts Harry basked in the overwhelming sense of happiness and peace that washed over him.

I'm finally home, he thought. They took their seat at the Gryffindor table, greeting a few other friends they hadn't seen in a while, but the room quietened down as McGonagall led a group of horrified first years down the hall.

"God, Mione, were we ever that young?" He whispered in her ear, close enough to send a shiver down her spine.

She shook it off and smiled at him, leaning in close. "We were younger Harry."

Up the front of the Hall Dumbledore witnessed the exchange with a smile. He turned his attention back to the Sorting Hat, which was for the second year in a row singing about the houses uniting against outside evil. The sorting proceeded without a glitch but Dumbledore made a note to ask the Sorting Hat later about the fact that while the other three houses had increased substantially, Slytherin had only received six or seven students.

Once the sorting was through and McGonagall had resumed her seat Dumbledore stood and silence filled the hall. He smiled at his students. "For those who are new, welcome. To those who are not, welcome back. There is much to be said, however this is not the time for it. Tuck in!"

With a wave of his arms, food covered the tables and the students happily started eating and catching up. Dumbledore resumed his seat. Professor Brodsky was beside him and he leaned over.

"Where is she? I can't see her!" He exclaimed quietly.

"She is here, Byron, do not fear." Dumbledore smiled.

McGonagall leaned over Dumbledore. "You need to have patience, Byron. You can't be obvious."

"I'm not going to be obvious. It's just that I haven't been this close to her in a very long time."

The feast went by merrily, with great food and friends reuniting. Luna had come over to the Gryffindor table since she didn't have any friends in her own house.

After the tables had been cleared Dumbledore stood once more. "We are back for another year and let us hope it is a good one. For first years and those who refuse to listen I will say once again that the Forbidden Forest is simply that, forbidden to all students. Mr Filch, our caretaker has requested that all of you make the time to stop by his office where a renewed list of prohibited items has been hung up, I believe they now include a number of items from the Weasley twins now legal store."

A small chuckle rang out, mostly from the Gryffindors. "Now I know you would all like to get a good nights sleep, but first I would like to introduce our new Defence Against The Dark Arts teacher. Now do not fear, this one is most competent." A laugh mixed with a sigh of relief was let out amongst the majority of students who remembered Umbridge all too well. "May I introduce Professor Byron F. Brodsky."

The man beside Dumbledore stood giving the students their first good look at him. Dumbledore continued speaking but Hermione didn't hear a word, she was too shocked, she just stared at their new teacher. His eyes were scanning the Gryffindor table intently and when they fell on her they stopped.

Hermione reached out for Harrys arms with shaky hands and shook it. He turned to her and was immediately worried by the look in her eyes. "What's wrong Hermione? What is it?"

"That's him, Harry. Our new professor, it's him."

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6. Chapter Five: Professor Byron Federico Brodsky

CHAPTER FIVE: PROFESSOR BYRON FEDERICO BRODSKY

~~~~~September 1st, 1996. Hogwarts.~~~~~

"Who, Hermione? Who is he?" Harry frantically asked.

She broke eye contact with the man and turned to Harry, leaning in with a worried look she whispered, "The man from my dreams."

"The one you told me about that first night at Grimmauld?" Hermione nodded. Harry turned back around to look at Professor Brodsky. He shook his head and turned back to Hermione. "Are you sure?"

"Harry I've been seeing that face since I was about five, okay? I think I'd recognise it."

"I just don't understand how he could be here."

"Neither can I!" She was really starting to panic. Everyone else in the Hall was getting up and leaving but Hermione was too frantic to notice. "Who is he? And why the hell has he been in my dreams?"

"Calm down, Mione, we'll find out. I promise. We're going to start with you going back to the common room with Ginny and calming down."

"What are you going to do?"

"I'm going to go and see Dumbledore and find out what he can tell me." Harry told her and then pretty much handed her to Ginny who was waiting near by. Ginny gave him a questioning look and Harry just said, "Don't even ask. Just get her back to the common room and make sure she keeps her cool."

Ginny nodded and led Hermione away while Harry headed to Dumbledores office. Once he got there it took him about five minutes just to geuss the password. He bolted up the steps and banged on Dumbledores door.

After hearing a soft "come in" Harry opened the door and strode in as fast as he could. Dumbledore looked up at him, curious. "Harry, what brings you here?"

"It's about the new Defence teacher, Sir."

"Professor Brodsky? What about him?"

"I need to know everything you know about him, Sir."

Dumbledore was completely confused by this, "Why on earth would that be, Harry?"

"Well, Sir, it's Hermione." Harry had started pacing so he missed Dumbledores shocked face and raised eyebrow. "It's these dreams that she's been having since she was little. Professor Brodsky was in them, Sir."

"Describe these dreams to me, Harry."

Harry went on and told Dumbledore everything that Hermione had told him about the unusual recurring dreams that she'd been having for years.

Dumbledore sighed, "Harry if I could tell you, I would, but I cannot."

"Why not?"

"Do you remember when I told you I would tell you anything?"

"Yes."

"So you remember that I also said I would tell you only when that was not betraying anothers trust?"

Harry realized what Dumbledore was saying and sat down heavily in the chair in front of the Headmaster. "Yes, Sir."

"Harry, I am glad that Hermione is not here with you right now as what I have just said will only pique her curiousity. You must go back tonight and tell her I knew nothing of interest. You musn't let her know that anything is happening."

"I'm not able to keep anything from her, Sir. She always knows." Harry admitted.

"I understand Harry, but this is something that has the potential to hurt her greatly if the timing is not right. And besides I haven't told you anything really."

"Okay, Sir. But both she and I know that something is going on, she will be told, won't she?"

"Eventually, I believe she will."

"Can you at least tell me some things that have nothing to do with her dreams so I can at least tell her something?"

Dumbledore smiled. "Of course, Harry. Professor Byron Federico Brodsky is younger than he looks but he has had some very difficult years. His father was a muggle from the Czech Republic and he spent the beginning of his life in his fathers country, his mother is a remarkable woman, a very fine witch who hailed from right here in Scotland. When he came of age his mother brought him to Hogwarts, I believe he was a sixth year when your parents first started, much like yourself he was a Gryffindor.

"He was also a prefect and Head Boy. That was actually how he met his wife, she was a Ravenclaw and Head Girl, although they didn't get along until years after they'd graduated. She died a while ago however. And as I have said to you before Harry, I trust him with my life, and since I have hired him, my students lives. There's not much else I can tell you Harry."

Harry stood and walked to the door. "Thankyou Sir." He called to Dumbledore before leaving his office. He slowly made his way back to Gryffindor tower, thinking over what to say to Hermione. She and the new Professor were connected in some way, but he couldn't tell her that.

Walking through the portrait hole he saw Hermione on the couch staring into the flames. The rest of the room was empty except for Ginny who sat across from Hermione. Ginny stood up and walked over to Harry, Hermione seemed to not notice neither Harrys entrance nor Ginnys movement.

"What is going on? She hasn't said a word since we got here."

Harry looked over at Hermione. "It's.....complicated Ginny. Hermiones been having these strange dreams for years now and sometimes they're pretty frightening. Something at the feast scared her."

"That new professor?"

"How'd you know?"

"I saw the blood drain out of her face when she saw him. I pay attention to the little details Harry, that's how I know that you two are crazy about eachother."

"Do you mind if I talk to her alone?" Harry asked.

"No I was going to go to bed when you got back anyway. Goodnight." Ginny said and then left up the stairs to the girls dormitories.

Harry looked over at Hermione again. He hated not being able to tell her what he knew. Slowly he made his way over to her and sat down beside her. Still she did not anknowledge his presence. Very gently he put an arm around her and turned her to face him. She seemed shocked to see him.

"Who is he Harry?" She asked.

"There's not much I can tell you Hermione." Harry said and then went on to give her all the information he knew. "Dumbledore trusts him, Mione, so we should be able to as well."

"None of this tells me why he's in my dreams!" Hermione said, frustrated she stood and started pacing. She rounded on Harry and the moment she looked in his eyes he knew that she knew. "You're not telling me something. What are you hiding from me?"

Harry ran his hand through his hair nervously, "Mione - -"

"Harry! What the hell is going on here? I know you aren't saying something, I can read you like a book."

When Harry looked into her eyes he saw that she was angry, frustrated and more than a little scared. "Dumbledore asked me not to say anything." He said softly.

"So there is something strange happening?"

"Yes. I don't know what it is though, he wouldn't tell me."

Hermione sighed and sat back down. "This is too weird." Harry put his arm around her again and she leaned into his embrace. Both sat silently, simply enjoying the gentle touch of the other.

"You should get some sleep, Mione."

"What so I can dream of our new Defence Against The Dark Arts teacher?"

"Umm, Mione - -" Harry started cheekily.

"Yeah, I know, that didn't sound right." Hermione broke a small smile.

"Come on." He said then stood and extended a hand. She took it and he helped her to stand, but didn't let go as he walked her to the girls stairs. Once there he softly kissed her on the forehead. "Sweet dreams, Mione."

"Goodnight, Harry." She turned up the stairs and with one last look back at him from the top she disappeared.

Harry was far too restless to get much sleep. His thoughts were filled with Hermione, the way her hair had looked in the firelight, how she had known so easily that he was not telling her everything, and mostly the look of worry that was in her eyes. This was a mystery that to be honest had them both a little weirded out. Who was this guy? And why was he in Hermiones dreams at night?

The next morning when Harry arrived at the Great Hall for breakfast, Hermione looked as if she'd had even less sleep than him. He sat down beside her and gave her arm a quick squeeze to show his understanding. She gave him an appreciative smile and turned back to her food, but not without stealing a glance up at the teachers table first.

"Did you dream much last night?" Harry asked quietly.

Hermione gave an exhausted sigh. "When I slept, which wasn't much. It's just that the dreams were much more detailed. I could see he was in so much pain when the woman died. And there were others there too, I'm pretty sure they were death eaters. He laid down her body and the pain seemed to fade to what I can only describe as determination and then when he looked at the death eaters it turned to cold fury." She explained.

"Then what happened?"

"I don't know, he stood up, literally shaking with anger. And then I woke up."

"That's it?"

"That's all I can remember. I wish I knew more Harry, this is really pissing me off."

Harry was momentarily shocked by her language, but he pulled himself together and gave her hand a squeeze under the table. "We'll know when the time is right, Mione, that's something else Dumbledore said."

She nodded her head in a painful agreement to wait. McGonagall came by a few minutes later to hand out their class timetable. She stopped when she got to Harry, Hermione and Ron who had sat down just minutes before.

"Oh, by the way, Mr Weasley, Mr Potter, I had great difficulty choosing between the two of you. So much in fact that I bent the rules a little and chose you both." McGonagall said.

Harry looked at her confused. "Chose us both for what, Professor?"

"Our quidditch team required a captain, and I have chosen the two of you as co-captains."

Both Harry and Rons jaws dropped. Hermione turned to them with a smile, "Congratulations!"

"Does this mean my quidditch ban has been lifted?" Harry asked McGonagall.

McGonagall visibly grimaced at the reminder of Umbridge. "Do you honestly think that the Headmaster and I would let anything that woman came up with remain?"

"No, Professor."

McGonagall gave them a brief smile, handed them their timetables, and moved on. Harry leaned over the table and gave Ron a handshake. Ron grinned and said, "Bloody hell! I thought for sure it would be you, but both of us is bloody awesome! We'll have to hold tryouts."

"Yeah, we'll sort all that out. So what's on the agenda today, Mione?"

She read over her timetable. "We've got all doubles today, first charms, then potions, transfiguration, and.....and Defence."

"Will you be alright?" Harry asked, ignoring Rons confused look.

"Yeah, yeah, I'll be fine." She quickly told him, but he knew she wasn't convinced herself. She turned to Ron and asked, "What are you doing while we do Potions?"

"Umm," He murmered while reading over his timetable, "Herbology."

"That's a good subject for you Ron. Come on, we should get to Charms." She told them then stood.

"You guys go, I'm gonna' squeeze in some more breakfast." Said Ron and then eagerly dug in.

Harry stood with Hermione and without even making a concious decision he picked up her bag as well as his own and slung them both over his shoulders, while Hermione gently warned Ron, "Just don't be late on the first day."

Harry and Hermione had a few minutes before class so they walked slowly to Professor Flitwick classroom. Harry reread his timetable and noticed something unusual.

"Hey, Mione, what's this?" He said showing her the timetable. A few lessons a week were marked 'Private Lessons'.

"I don't know. All my spare lessons are marked 'Spare'." She thought for a moment. "Hmm, perhaps you'll be recieving extra lessons."

"What for?"

"Well, trouble does seem to follow you Harry and Voldemort is trying to kill you every chance he gets, perhaps Dumbledore thought you need more training."

"Yeah, I geuss, I'll have to ask about it."

After a few moments of silent walking Hermione turned and talked to him.

"I can carry my own bag, Harry."

"I've got it. Really, Mione, I don't mind." He told her with a sincere smile when she gave him a strange glance.

"I'll be okay, Harry. And you've got too much to worry about already, without having me as well."

Harry stopped and grabbed her hand to stop her too. "Mione, I know that this has got you frustrated and angry, and I know also that you're a little scared about what it all might mean. You're not one of my worries, Mione. Anything I can do to make things easier for you, I'll do, whether you like it or not, because I care for you." Much more than you can imagine, he added in his mind only.

Tears were brimming on Hermiones eyes when she wrapped her arms around him. Harry rubbed her back while she whispered, "Thankyou Harry, you don't know how much this means to me."

He pulled back and wiped away a stray tear from her cheek, "Yeah, I do Mione. You're always there for me."

She nodded and took a deep breath. "Well, come on, we can't be late."

Charms, Potions and Transfiguration passed very slowly. For the first part of each lesson Professors Flitwick, Snape and McGonagall rambled on and on about how they were now NEWT students and their work load would increase, the topics would get tougher and stuff like that. The only difference in the lessons were the subject matter and the fact that Flitwick and McGonagall didn't make snide comments directed at Harry about how worthy he was of being in their class.

Harry once again carried Hermiones bag as they walked to the Defence Against The Dark Arts classroom. Once the class had assembled outside of the room to await their new teacher, Harry took Hermione away from the group.

"Are you sure you're - -"

Hermione cut him off, "I'll be fine, Harry." She sighed and took his hand. "Just don't leave my side."

"Never." Harry whispered quietly.

"I think I'll just try to ignore it. I'll listen to what he says and that, but I think I'll just pretend it's someone else teaching us."

"That sounds like a good plan, Mione. We'll face this when we know what it is. And I meant what I just said, I'll never leave your side." He told her.

She closed her eyes and squeezed his hand. Harry watched Professor Brodsky walk towards the door of his room.

With a wave of his wand the doors opened. "Go on in, class." He said, his accent sounded European to Harry, maybe a touch of British. Brodsky eyes glanced at Harry and Hermione, who still had her eyes closed, and Harry could have sworn he saw a flicker of surprise in the Professors eyes when Brodsky spotted their joined hands.

Harry was still pondering what this could mean when Hermione dropped his hand and followed the rest of the class inside. Brodsky watched her intently as she entered and then turned to Harry. He moved towards him and held out his hand.

"It is a pleasure to meet you Mr Potter."

Harry hesitantly shook his the older wizards hand. "It's good to meet you too, Sir."

The two entered the classroom and Harry took the seat to Hermiones right, since Ron was on her left. This suited Hermione fine, she felt safe with her boys on either side of her and it calmed her somewhat.

Professor Brodsky walked to the front of the room and turned to the class with what looked to be a forced smile. "Good afternoon class, I am Professor Brodsky. I will spare you the hour long speech about you being NEWT students now and all that as I am certain the teachers you've already had today have said quite enough. I will say this however, I do not accept anything below an E, therefore you must maintain that grade or you leave.

"I have read over your previous teachers notes and I must say that the woman is worthless." There were murmered agreements through the class. "You most definately need your wand for my class, as there will be little theory. You have probably noticed that there is more Defence Against The Dark Arts classes than any other classes. This is an attempt by Professor Dumbledore and myself to make up for Umbridges dismal failure.

"Now we'll get straight into it. Since I haven't much to go on, I would like you all to pair off as I would like to see what you already know."

The class stood and moved into pairs while Professor Brodsky waved his wand to transfigure the desks into mats. "Firstly, we'll do relatively basic spells. We'll start with stunners and shields. One partner will throw stunners while the other will sheild themselves. I will be observing so go for it."

Harry had paired with Hermione, while Ron had gone with Neville. He nominated himself to be the target since he wasn't sure that Hermione could hold a shield in her current state of mind. He did notice however that both her and Professor Brodsky seemed to both be trying really hard not to look at each other.

Harry was so wrapped up in his observations that he was barely able to mutter "Protego" before Hermiones "Stupefy!" hit him. He directed his attention back to her after blocking the spell.

"Pay attention, Harry." She told him.

Hermione threw stunner after stunner at him and he successfully sheilded them all. After Brodsky yelled, "Swap!" Harry moved closer to Hermione and asked, "Are you going to be able to hold a shield?"

"Harry I told you before that I'm fine."

Even after her reassurances Harry still made his spells as weak as he could and even missed on purpose a few times. By the time Professor Brodsky called for them to stop, both Ron and Neville had had to be enneverted a few times.

Brodsky turned to the class. "That's very good. You're all well trained in using both stunners and shields." They moved on to disarming spells and other basic defences, Brodsky observing how advanced the class was. And only a little while before the end of class Brodsky stopped them all and transfigured the desks back.

They all sat down while he spoke. "I see that you all have the basics covered. Some of you could use a little extra work, but that was very good. I understand from a reliable source that a few of you can perform the Patronus?" There were a few nodds. "Good. Next lesson that is what we will be starting on. You are all dismissed. Mr Potter, may I have a word?"

Hermione gave him a strange look before saying, "I'll wait outside for you." and leaving. Once the class was gone and the doors were closed, Harry moved back to the front of the room, in front of Professor Brodsky who sat at his desk.

"I understand that it was you who taught them how to do the Patroni." Brodsky started.

"Yes, Sir."

"This, Dumbledores Army, are you going to be continuing with it this year?"

Harry hadn't actually thought about that. "Well Sir, we started the DA because we didn't have a competent teacher. Now that we do, I don't think there is a need for it."

"You know as well as I do Mr Potter that there is indeed a need for it. Those students need to be as well prepared as possible for when the death eaters come for them and their families." Brodsky said darkly. "Of course it is your decision. If you choose to continue your Defence club then I will be quite supportive and help whenever needed, if you don't then that is fine."

"I'll need some time to think about it and see if the other students are still interested, Sir."

"That's all very well, Harry...may I call you Harry?"

"Of course, Sir."

"The reason I kept you back Harry is that the Headmaster has asked me to give you Occlumency lessons." Harry nodded at this. "I believe one lesson a week should suffice, I am much easier to learn from than Professor Snape is. When would you like them, I can easily adjust my schedule."

"Umm, well I found they were always tiring so I'd like to do them when I can get plenty of rest afterwards. Do you mind Friday nights?"

"Not at all. Friday nights after you've eaten, meet me here. I warn you though Potter, although I'm better than Severus, it will still be exhausting and disturbing. And we may be here for a couple of hours each night."

"I understand, Sir, is that all?"

"Not quite. You may have noticed on your timetable that you have lessons marked 'Private Studies' or something similar, where your classmates simply have theirs marked as 'Spare'."

"I was actually wondering about that, Sir."

"Professor Dumbledore has also asked me to teach you not only some very advanced magic, but also some hand-to-hand strategies and things like that. Those lessons marked 'Private Studies', you will meet me in the Room of Requirement and we will start. He hasn't told me why he believes you need this intense training, he said that it was your decision to make whether or not you told me. If you don't wish to tell me then that is fine, but it may help me to refine the perimeters of our work."

Harry looked around. "I will tell you on our first lesson, Sir, I don't wish to say anything here. And it'll be good to tell someone."

"Very well. Umm, by the way Harry....Miss Granger, can you......ah, never mind."

"Sir?"

"It's nothing. I expect we'll be seeing alot of eachother over the next year, Harry. You're dismissed."

"Thankyou, Professor." Harry said and then almost ran from the room. Outside he found Hermione and Ron waiting for him. They began walking to Gryffindor tower before anyone spoke.

"What took you so long?" Hermione asked.

"Well, first he asked if I was going to start up the DA again. I hadn't actually thought about it."

"Well, are you mate?"

"I don't know. Professor Brodsky reckons it would be a good idea, but we were only doing it because we didn't learn anything with Umbridge."

"I think it's a great idea. We do need all the experience we can get, especially with a war coming." Hermione expressed.

Harry cringed at the word 'war'. "Yeah, still I'll need to think about it."

"What else did he want?" Ron spoke.

"I have to restart my occlumency, but this time I'll be with him instead of Snape. Every Friday night after I've eaten I have to go to his office. And then he told me that those 'Private Studies' on my timetable were more meetings with him."

"What for?"

"He wants to teach me some extra advanced magic, since Voldemort keeps trying to kill me. He is also going to teach me some hand-to-hand combat." Harry explained.

There was silence for a minute until Hermione broke it. "Did you find out anything else about him?"

"No, I'm sorry Hermione."

"That's okay." Hermione mumbled as they entered the Gryffindor common room.

Ron had a confused look on his face, "What is this all about? You've both been acting weird."

"Harrys just been helping me out with something, Ron, it's nothing serious." Hermione told him, not really wanting to go into detail.

It seemed enough for Ron, since he nodded at her, shrugged at Harry and sat down. "When do you think we should hold try-outs, Harry?"

"We've got a bit of time, yet. I was thinking not this weekend, but next."

"Sounds good. Want a game of chess?"

"Nah, I think I'll follow Hermiones example and get todays homework out of the way."

Ron shook his head and then challenged a fourth year to a game, while Harry made his way over to the table Hermione had just sat down at. He pulled out his books and parchment.

"He did ask about you." He told her.

Hermione looked up, "What did he say?"

"Not much. He was going to ask a question about you but he changed his mind and shook it off by dismissing me." Harry explained.

"There's definitely something going on then. I mean if I know about him and he knows about me there has to be something happening."

"We'll find out eventually, Mione, I'm sure of it." Harry assured her.

She smiled her thanks and both returned to their homework, Hermione helping Harry when he needed it.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

7. Chapter Six: Private Studies

CHAPTER SIX: PRIVATE STUDIES

~~~~~September 4th, 1996. Hogwarts.~~~~~

Harrys first lesson of training with Professor Brodsky was on Wednesday. He bid goodbye to Ron and Hermione as they went to the common room for their spare lesson and made his way to the Room of Requirement. Once inside he noticed the room wasn't set up for any training whatsoever. Instead it was a replica of the Gryffindor common room.

"I thought we'd just talk today, Harry." Brodsky said, standing from the chair he was in. "There are many things we need to discuss."

Harry walked over and sat down in a chair opposite Brodsky had just sat back in. "I suppose you want to know Dumbledores reasons."

"You do not have to tell me if you don't want to Harry, it is your business."

"No, I want to tell you. I mean, it'll help you to help me and like I said on Monday, it would be good to tell someone and get it off my chest." Brodsky nodded for Harry to proceed. "Well Sir, it's about a prophecy."

"The same prophecy by chance that you and your friends attempted to retrieve from the Department of Mysteries?"

"How did you know about that?"

"The Headmaster told me. I know alot about you and your friends, Harry. But I had thought that the prophecy was smashed?" Brodsky asked and then waved his wand to summon two cups of hot chocolate that appeared.

Harry spoke as he accepted the glass Brodsky passed him, "Thankyou. Well the prophecy that was held at the Ministry was only a recording. I was able to hear the actual prophecy through the use of a pensieve. Professor Dumbledore was the one who heard the original prophecy and he showed me what it said."

When Harry paused, Brodsky sensed his unease, "Harry you do not have to tell me the contents."

But it didn't seem like Harry had heard him. "It says; The one with the power to vanquish the Dark Lord approaches...born to those who have thrice defied him, born as the seventh month dies...and the Dark Lord will mark him as his equal, but he will have power the Dark Lord knows not...and either must die at the hand of the other for neither can live while the other survives...the one with the power to vanquish the Dark Lord will be born as the seventh month dies."

The only sound for several minutes was the fire in front of them crackling. Then Brodsky sighed and whispered, "Such a heavy burden you are forced to carry."

"Those words have been burned on my memory since I first heard them."

"So you are the chosen one, Harry. I am sorry for this, such a bright young man who'll be forced to save us all. But I promise to do my best to have you as prepared as possible for this final confrontation." Brodsky swore.

Harry lifted his head to look at his professor. "Thankyou Sir, I appreciate it." Harry had found it strange that Brodsky had referred to him as 'the chosen one', but it wasn't so much the choice of words as it was the older wizards tone of voice when he said it that had made him curious. It was almost as if Brodsky had been waiting to meet 'the chosen one'.

Brodsky stood and walked about the room while he spoke. "It must be such a terrible thing to have the fate of the world on your young shoulders. This changes things. Harry I think we should meet for these lessons more than just the twice a week that has been scheduled. I don't wish to add more to your work load, but I feel it is necessary."

"I agree, Sir."

Brodsky walked back to his chair and sat down. "Good. Then perhaps in addition to the Wednesday and Friday morning lessons, Saturday and Monday nights." At Harrys nod he smiled slightly. "It's settled then. After you eat on those nights you will come here."

"Sounds good, Sir."

"Very well. Tell me, do you have any idea what this power is that Voldemort doesn't have?"

"The morning after the events at the Ministry Dumbledore had told me about a room in the Department of Mysteries. He said it contained a force that was more wonderful and more terrible than anything else."

"Ah, yes, I've heard of the room. It is said to be filled with some kind of emotion."

"Yeah. Dumbledore told me that it was what was in that room that I had lots of and Voldemort had none." Harry noticed that Brodsky didn't flinch at the name. "Then when I saw him before school started he told me it was love."

Brodsky didn't speak for a minute. Then, "Very well. That being the case we will focus on those emotions and see if we are able to direct them into your magic. But first we'll go over a short criteria of what you will be learning in these lessons. We will not only be studying advanced spells, charms and curses, but we will be working on your physical strength, your swordsmanship and wandless magic."

"But I can't do wandless magic."

"You have the potential, Harry. By the time I am finished with you it will be second nature. Now, with your spellwork we will focus on defensive magic and duelling techniques. We will work on your physical strength in the muggle way."

"What does that involve, Sir?"

"We will do a number of other exercises to build up your strength. The build up in stamina you will gain will also help with your magic fighting. As I'm sure you know magic duelling can be quite draining, therefore the more strength you have the longer you'll be able to fight."

"Yes, Sir."

Professor Brodsky continued, "Now, your swordsmanship. Have you ever used a sword before, Harry?"

"Well, once Sir, in my second year. It was during another fight with Riddle in the Chamber of Secrets. Fawkes appeared and dropped the Sorting Hat and Gryffindors sword appeared in it. I used it to kill the basilisk that was in the Chamber."

Brodskys eyebrows were high. "I'd heard stories about that. That is the only time you've used a sword?"

"Yes, Sir."

"Then that will need some work."

"Can you use a sword, Sir?"

"I can, Harry. We will have to find which make of sword is most suited to you. And of course you're wandless magic will take a great deal of our time. We'll start with methods on focusing your concentration." Brodsky said and then mumbled almost incoherently. "Of course I'll have to ask that greasy little slimeball for some of his potions."

Harry tried to smother the smile that was on his face when he heard Brodskys words. Brodsky continued as if he didn't notice that Harry had heard what he'd said. "And I'm assuming by the words of the prophecy that you'll have to kill Voldemort."

Harrys face dropped at that. "Yes, Sir." He said quietly.

"I'm sorry, Harry. But you know it must be done. Voldemort must be destroyed and it seems you must be the one to do it."

"I know that, Sir, but..." Harry trailed off.

Brodsky turned to him seriously. "Harry I would like for us to be friends and in the company of friends one does not have to hold anything back. If there's something you want to say that you don't feel comfortable saying anywhere else, know that you can say anything to me without any consequences. I'm here to listen if need be, it will actually be good for your training."

"Well, Sir, it's just that...I can't kill, Professor. I can't become like them, it would destroy me to take a life."

"Try not to think about Voldemort as a life, Harry, there is little of him that's still human, if any at all."

"I know. I know that he's a monster, he's a murderer, he deserves to die, but I don't know if I can do it. I was told that to perform the killing curse you needed to really mean it and I don't know if I can do that."

"We will work on other methods then. I could teach you how to do it but I do not wish to desensitize you in such a way when you have already lost so much."

"I still don't know if I can become like them." Harry murmered softly.

"You won't be like them, Harry." At Harrys curious look Brodsky asked, "Harry, what are you fighting for?"

"What am I fighting for?"

"Yes. What is it you hope to achieve by destroying Voldemort?"

"Well....for peace and freedom for everyone. I want everyone to be able to enjoy their lives. I want to be able to enjoy mine finally."

"I saw that you care for Miss Granger deeply."

Harry looked at Brodsky sideways and remembering what Brodsky had said about Harry being able to talk about anything asked, "Why do I get the feeling that bothers you a little?"

Brodskys eyes shot to Harry. He cleared his throat obviously taken off gaurd and began "Well, I...umm - -"

"Never mind, Sir. Yes I do care for her deeply. Why?"

"Are you in love with her?"

"I think so. If not I know I'd like the chance to fall in love with her."

"I know that you probably have trouble with this, Harry, but allow yourself to imagine your future. What do you see?"

Harry closed his eyes and tried to do what he'd been told. Professor Brodsky had been correct in his assumption. Harry very rarely allowed himself to think of his future. In fact he hadn't done it since he'd learned of the prophecy.

Now that he was doing it, even he was a little shocked by what he saw. "I see me....and Hermione. We're happy. The only thing we've got to worry about is.....our kids......getting themselves into trouble. We have lunch with the entire Weasley family at the Burrow every Sunday and not one of us has a care in the world."

Harry opened his eyes and looked at Brodsky, who was wearing a blank expression. "Wow." Harry breathed.

"Indeed. Now Harry, do you think there's a chance in the slightest that that future you dream of will be possible if the Dark Lord lives?"

"No."

"And what do you think will happen to Miss Granger and the Weasleys if he defeats you?"

"They'll all die."

"If they're lucky." Brodsky murmured.

Harry looked at him incredulously. "What do you mean?"

"In the Dark Lords eyes they are worthless. He doesn't care what happens to them, but they did openly defy him and I imagine if you were to die they would still defy him. And he does care that his death eaters are happy. Think about those death eaters. They enjoy torturing people. And I have been unfortunate enough to meet several death eaters, men who enjoy other things."

Harry paled at the implications. Brodsky was right. Harry didn't have a choice. No matter what he had to kill Lord Voldemort, even if he died himself doing it, he had to kill Riddle.

"A very wise man once said, 'The needs of the many, outweigh the needs of the few, or the one.'" Brodsky said.

"Where have I heard that before?"

"Watch much science-fiction?"

"Not really, Sir, I don't get a chance to watch much television at all."

"Then don't worry. The point is, Harry, that sometimes to save millions of lives, one must be destroyed. Wouldn't you rather have everyone happy and carefree, enjoying the little pleasures in their lives; sleeping in a warm bed, waking up to the ones they love, watching their children grow. The alternative being hiding from the darkness, being tortured constantly, or having their greatest hope being allowed to simply die?"

"I understand, Sir." Harry told him with a determined voice.

"Good, my boy. As I said before, I am sorry for this burden Harry. Now we will wrap up our little chat. On Friday morning wear some workout clothes as we will be beginning on your physical training. Go and enjoy the rest of your spare time, your next lesson with me will not be as relaxing."

Both Brodsky and Harry stood. When Brodsky offered his hand Harry took it and said a grateful, "Thankyou, Professor."

Once Harry had left the room a calm, strong voice caused Brodsky to jump. "Very good, Byron. Getting Harry to realize what must be done, he must do, by making him think of the consequences."

Brodsky spun around to see Dumbledore calmly walking out of the shadows. "I had wondered why the room was already set up when I came in. I should have known you'd be here."

"Yes, you should have." Dumbledore said with a small smile. "Come, Byron, let us take a walk on this fine day."

Brodsky followed Dumbledore out of the Room of Requirement, down the stairs and through the entrance hall. Once out on the grounds, under the sunlight, Dumbledore spoke.

"I want to thank you, Byron, for taking the step to attempt to bond with Harry. He needs a strong male presence in his life right now, Remus isn't here and I do think I'm far too old to be it."

"He is a fine young man, Headmaster, with a terrible burden. I can see alot of his father in him, but I'm glad that he's got some of Lilys attributes."

"Indeed. What are your training plans?"

"Well, we are having four lessons a week now, and there are four subjects to cover, so I was thinking one a day. That way we can cover as much as possible in case we only have a short time to do so and Harry won't get bored too easily."

"Good, good."

Dumbledore watched silently as Brodsky pulled a crumpled packet of cigerettes out of his robe pocket, took out a single one and lit it with what looked like a very old lighter.

"Still smoking those filthy things, I see."

"They're about the only things keeping me sane these days. Things have got a lot tougher since I stopped with drinking. I never thought I'd miss the fire-whiskey so much."

"Addiction is a curse, Byron."

"I know." Brodsky said as he took a deep drag.

"I know it has been very hard for you since Clarices death, Byron, and I wanted to let you know that if you ever need to talk to someone who knows what you are going through, then you know where my office is. I am aware that your mother has been through it too and understands, but I thought if you ever needed to speak with another man then - -"

"I appreciate that, Headmaster, thankyou."

"Very well. I have some things to do, Byron. Enjoy your addiction, but please be careful to not let too many students see you, I would hate for you to have a bad influence on them."

Brodsky chuckled and turned to where Dumbledore had been standing moments before to find the place empty. He looked around but there wasn't a sign of the Headmaster. He chuckled some more mumbling, "I have to learn how to do that."

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8. Chapter Seven: Fridays, Frightful Fridays

A/N: Hey folks, another chapter and I still don't own them, not for lack of trying though. Thanks to all those who have reviewed, it's greatly appreciated and helps me out heaps. I've been getting alot of questions about who Brodsky is and I'm afraid you'll have to wait, terribly sorry about that. Now, I have no idea what the Room of Requirements limitations are, so for my story there are none, the room can do anything. Anyways, read on and I certainly hope you enjoy. Roman.

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CHAPTER SEVEN: FRIDAYS, FRIGHTFUL FRIDAYS

~~~~~September 6th, 1996. Hogwarts.~~~~~

When Brodsky had said that their lesson on Friday wouldn't be relaxing, it had been a grave understatement. But Harry didn't complain much as everything Harry did, Professor Brodsky did with him. He had walked into the Room of Requirement on time and saw that it wasn't a room anymore, it was a big open space, a large flat with a few trees and some treacherous looking hill a little away.

Harry walked in and looked around for his teacher. Spotting him sitting under a tree Harry made his way over. It was slightly unusual to see his professor out of his black robes and billowing cloak and in a white singlet and grey training pants. Harry saw that Brodsky was rather muscular and he could also see on the skin that wasn't covered that he had scars on his arms, shoulders and chest and knew that they probably didn't end there.

"Sit down, Harry, we need to warm up."

Brodsky went over various stretching routines with Harry for about fifteen minutes and then stood and instructed Harry to follow him. The hill that Harry had seen before became their track. They jogged up the steep and rocky path and then back down again, twice.

Once finished with that Harry had to lean against the tree they had warmed up under. He had thought he was fitter than this, but by the end of the jog he was puffed. Brodsky had broken a sweat, but didn't seem out of breath.

"We'll wait till you get your breath back."

Harry turned to him, still leaning on the tree. "Sir, if I might ask, where'd you get the scars?"

"They're battle scars, Harry. I've fought death eaters for some time now and on occassion they've gotten the better of me. Ready for a little more?"

When Harry nodded, Brodsky grinned, "Alright, drop and give me twenty." Harry just groaned.

By the time they had finished Harry was tired and a little sore. As he made his way back to the common room he was thankful he had a spare next so he could at least shower. Walking into Gryffindor tower Hermione looked up from her books as he entered. Slowly he made his way over to her.

"How was training?" She asked giving a sympathetic smile.

"I think it'll take some getting used to. I thought I was in better shape than I am."

Hermione just smiled, "Well Harry, it's not like you're that active. Quidditch helps to a point, but you need to do more."

"Look who's talking."

"For your information I am in wonderful shape."

Harry pushed away the non-platonic thoughts that strayed into his head at that comment. "What do you do?"

"Every summer when I'm with my parents I like to go for a jog twice a day, see if I can shake off those aurors that are constantly behind me. And while I'm here and I need time to think or just want to get out, I jog around the quidditch pitch a few times."

"Well, whenever you want company I'll be happy to jog with you."

"Thanks. But right now you need a shower." She gave a cheeky grin.

"Alright, but can I have a hug first." Harry teased back.

Hermione just slapped him on the arm and went back to her homework. Harry went upstairs to a nice cold shower and changed out of the training clothes he was wearing and back into his uniform. When he came back down Hermione was gone, but Ron was sitting in one of the couches.

Harry made his way over, "Hey mate."

"Hey, wanna' game?" He said, indicating towards the chessboard between them.

"Sure." Harry sat down and Ron arranged the board. "Where did Hermione go?"

"She had Ancient Runes. I don't know how she does so many subjects, she gets twice the amount of homework than we do. What's been up with her lately anyway? She seems a bit on edge."

Harry was surprised that Ron had even noticed this as he was usually too busy being focused on himself to see details like that. "She's just been pretty stressed out. She'll be fine once we get used to being back. We haven't really talked that much, have we?"

"No, but we'll talk now. So I've been thinking about quidditch and I reckon we should have a practice every Saturday afternoon, that way we should be ready for the games. You think we've got a chance at winning the cup?"

"Of course we do. As long as we beat Slytherin, I'm happy."

"What about beating Cho?" Ron asked with a smile.

Harry shook his head, "I don't really care. It'd be nice to win the cup but I don't care who we're against except Slytherin."

"What so you don't want at least a little payback for that tragic excuse for a relationship?"

"That part of me died with Sirius, Ron. I'm not looking for the popular, nice-looking, and in Cho's case, messed up girl. I'm looking for something a little more serious, something that will last."

"What do you mean?"

Harry rubbed his eyes and moved his knight out of the line of fire. "I'm looking for love, Ron. One girl for the rest of my life."

Ron looked at him as if he'd gone mad. "Are you serious?"

"Yep."

"You're insane. How can you want just one girl?"

"Don't you ever dream of getting married Ron?"

"Well, I don't dream of it, but I had supposed it'd happen one day."

"Well, that's one girl Ron, you marry her and your hers forever."

"Yeah, but wouldn't you rather play the field a little, you know, enjoy a few girls just for the fun of it first, go around the block a few times and then go looking for this love?"

Harry personally didn't like that idea in the slightest especially the 'enjoy a few girls just for the fun of it.' He was a normal sixteen year old guy, but he'd never actually known love before in his life and he believed that once you found it it should be treasured and never let go.

"No Ron, I wouldn't. If I find a girl right now and I know she's the one, then that's it for me."

"I still think you're insane." Said Ron as he led his queen in a massacre. "Anyway, got anyone in mind for this love of your life?"

"I do, actually."

"Who?"

Harry hesitated, "I'm not ready to say, mate."

"I'm your best friend, Harry! I have a right to know who I've gotta' put up with everytime I come see you."

Harry smiled, but he still didn't want to tell Ron. "I don't want to jinx it. When I'm ready to tell her and if she's interested, you'll be the first to know mate."

"So what do you think of Lavender? She's been giving me the eye all week."

Harry laughed. "Has she? Well you do what you want Ron. If you want to go out with Lavender then go out with her, but just remember that hell hath no fury like a woman scorned."

"I'll keep that in mind. She's coming to watch Parvati at the Quidditch tryouts, I think I'll ask her then."

"There's plenty of time to ask her before then. Who will be trying out do you know?"

"I know that Ginny is going for chaser since you're back as seeker. I think Neville and Seamus want to try out as beaters, other than that I'm not sure."

"We'll need alot of practice then. Hey, what do you think of the DA starting up again?"

"I think it's a good idea. We could all use a little more work on our defensive magic. And there has been a few people ask me around school whether or not you'd be starting the DA up again, and I know Herms had a few people ask her."

"I think I will start it up again. I'll open it for everyone."

"Everyone?"

"Okay maybe there are a few people that I shouldn't let in, but that's because we're learning to defend ourselves against them." Harry paused for a moment, thinking. "You know I'll need help, if you're interested in being a co-teacher."

"I'm not very good at that stuff mate, you should ask Hermione." Ron admitted.

"It can be the three of us mate. She's good with the smart stuff, I'm good with the practical, and you're good with the strategic stuff." As if proving a point, Rons queen took down Harrys king. "I'd like to work them with strategy a bit. If we'd been better prepared we wouldn't of screwed up so bad at the Ministry."

"We didn't do that bad, mate. We achieved in our goal to keep the prophecy from You-Know-Who and the death eaters."

"Yeah, but we had to be rescued."

"They didn't come because they knew we were in trouble, Harry, they came because we shouldn't have been there in the first place."

"And it cost us Sirius."

"Harry mate, try to look at things like this as I do, like a game of chess. The ultimate goal is to take down your opponents king, You-Know-Who getting the prophecy was their king, the prophecy was ours. We had to protect it, like the death eaters protected him. I hate to say this mate, but in every game of chess, just like in every war, sacrifices are made for the greater good."

"I know." Harry said softly. "Look mate, I've got alot of thinking to do, I'm going to go lay down."

Harry had dozed off and Ron woke him just before transfiguration. The two grabbed their bags, meeting Hermione just outside the portrait hole. They hurried to the classroom, Merlin forbid their Head of House get angry at them. They got there just as the rest of the class was walking in. They took a seat in the middle of the room and as per usual the boys flanked Hermione.

McGonagall walked around the class handing out marked essays. She would lean down and explain where they had gone wrong. When she got to the Trio she handed Harrys to him and said, "Good to see you've actually been listening to Miss Granger."

She moved to Hermione with pride in her eyes and a rare smile told her, "Perfect. Absolutely perfect once again."

Her face dropped a little when she got to Ron. She transfigured a spare desk into a chair and pulled it up beside him. To Harry, Hermione and Rons shock, she didn't reprimand him. Instead she very slowly and kindly began explaining his mistakes in a way that he could understand. When she got up and started adressing the class Ron turned to his friends.

"Is it just me or does she seem a bit off lately?"

"If you mean she's been really happy since school came back, then it's not your imagination. When I came here the other day for some advice on this essay she gave me a huge smile, invited me in, made me a cup of tea and we had a good long chat about quidditch." Harry whispered.

"I think it's great." Hermione told them. "Even I think she needed to loosen up."

Although it was weird to see McGonagall in such a cheery mood they made it through transfiguration and finished classes for the day. Back at the common room, Ron slumped in a couch, Harry across from him and Hermione perched on the arm.

"So what time do you start tonight?" Hermione asked Harry.

"After I eat I'm supposed to meet him in his classroom. I have to say I'm not looking forward to it."

"Look on the bright side mate, Dumbledore could've made you go back to Snape."

Harry smiled. "Yeah, Professor Brodsky is alright." He saw Hermione get uncomfortable at the mention of the professors name. "Why don't we go for a walk?"

"Nah, mate, I'm gonna' work on some quidditch strategies." Ron refused.

"Hermione?"

She thought for a moment and then smiled a little, "I think a walk would be nice."

As they walked out Harry looked back at Ron and once again saw the look in his eyes. It made Harry uneasy seeing his best friend look at he and Hermione like that, but Ron seemed to be shaking it off everytime he got it. They made their way to the lake, walking on it's banks until they reached the trees. Harry took her hand and led her into the foilage.

"Where are we going?" She asked.

"I don't know." Harry smiled.

They entered a very small clearing after walking for about five minutes. The water of the lake lapped up at the rocky bank. They sat down on the edge of the water. Neither had said much since leaving the common room but both were comfortable just being in each others company.

"The dreams have been occuring more often. And they're much more intense." Hermione broke the silence.

Harry turned from the lake to look at her, "Have you seen anything else?"

"Not much more, except a lot of blood."

"Blood?"

"Yes. They're getting more violent and my roommates aren't too happy about it. I keep waking up screaming and Lavander keeps throwing pillows at me."

Harry fidgeted a little while he spoke, "You know, Mione, if you want....I mean if you need to you can...you can come up to my room. We can put a silencing charm around us so we'll only wake eachother up, and we can put a sticking charm on the hangings so no one can find us together."

Hermione regarded him through tear-brimmed eyes. "Thankyou Harry." She told him. "It means alot to me knowing that you are there."

"I've told you time and time again, Mione, I'm always here, I'll never leave."

He put his arm around her and she leaned in to rest on him. Harry felt the tears soak through his robes and tightened his hold on her. She was too highly strung at the moment and needed to vent it.

"Oh, I'm sorry Harry, I just - -"

"It's okay Mione, let it out, I don't mind."

After she'd calmed down she moved out of his embrace and wiped her eyes. She whispered another "Thankyou." He took her hand and held it tightly.

"I'm going to restart the DA. Do you want to help?"

"You know I will, Harry. And I'm glad you decided to do it again, it's good for the students."

"We'll start by letting people know, spreading the word and that. I'm going to open it to everyone."

Hermione was startled by that. "Everyone? That's very mature of you Harry. I don't think many of the Slytherins will actually come, but it's good of you to give them the chance. I bet a couple even turn up."

"Well, not all of them can be bad, can they?"

"No, not all of them, but alot of them are death eaters in training. It'll be a sign of trust to some too, Harry. Those who don't want to be on the dark side will be able to see that you'll accept them no matter what house they're in. When is the first meeting?"

"I'll wait a week or two I think so everyone knows."

The two talked on end about the DA and what they'd like to accomplish with it. They moved onto other things like classes and homework and talked until the sun began to set. Harry helped Hermione to stand and didn't let go of her hand until they were just about at the Great Hall.

After dinner Harry slowly made his way to the DADA classroom. He wasn't that happy about having to do occlumency again, but after the events at the Ministry he knew that it was important, he didn't want to lose anyone else he loved like that.

Entering the room he saw it was fairly well lit, a nice contrast to the dungeons he'd had to do this in last year. Professor Brodsky was at his desking writing on some parchment. He looked up and smiled at Harry when the young man entered and motioned him in.

Brodsky stood and walked around to stand in front of Harry, then waved his wand to remove all of the desks. "Ready, Harry?"

"Not really, Sir, but I know I have to do this."

"Good. Alright, what did Professor Snape cover in your fifth year?"

"He said that occlumency was the magic that closed off the mind to intrusion and influence. He said to empty my mind and rid myself of all emotions and then he just kept trying over and over again."

"The vile creature." Brodsky muttered.

"You don't like him, Sir?"

"I don't trust him, Harry. You know he was once a death eater? Well, I'm not sure if a man like him can be reformed. I'm not the judge however, Dumbledore and the deities are. I also think he is horrible and unfair to the students, especially Gryffindors. I was a Gryffindor when I went to school here, so I of course think it's the best house. Anyway Harry, let's keep going. Occlumency can't be forced on you the way Snape attempted to do, it is much like the exercises we did today, your mind powers must gradually get stronger. Alright?"

"Yes, Sir."

"Good. Now the clearing your mind thing is good. But instead of completely clearing it I want you to think of a specific memory, much like you would with your patronus, a strong memory where you felt content and at ease. Focus on those feelings, the contentment mainly, being at peace within yourself. Close your eyes and do that now."

Harry closed his eyes and searched for a memory where he felt like he didn't have a care in the world. His mind came to the time just a few weeks ago on the morning after he and Hermione had first shared a bed. He remembered how peaceful and perfect that had been when he woke up and allowed those feelings to fill him up.

"Now open your eyes Harry, but keep that content feeling inside of you." Harry did as he was told and looked into his professors eyes. "Alright, how do you feel?"

"Peaceful."

"Good. Now when I try to force my mind into yours I want you to attempt to ignore the images that flash through your mind and keep your focus on the feelings and images of that one memory." Harry nodded in understanding. "Are you ready?"

"As ready as I'll ever be, Sir."

"I'm sorry, Harry. Legilemens."

Memories flashed through Harrys mind; He was six years old and Dudley had just broken his nose for getting a smudge on his new television....He was ten and his uncle was forcefully throwing him into his closet....A giant snake was trying to kill him....He screamed for his godfather after watching him fall through the veil....

'Focus, Harry. Focus on your peaceful memory.' Professor Brodskys voice whispered in his mind.

Harry tried to push the memory of Hermione asleep on his chest into his head, but it was so hard. More and more memories flashed through his mind; He watched Cedric Diggorys body fall....Ginny lay motionless on the floor in a dark, dank chamber.....An image of Professor Trelawny floating in a pensieve and speaking in an otherworldly voice......Hermione falling to a purple flame....

Harry opened his eyes and found himself on his knees in the classroom. He looked up to see Professor Brodsky breathing deeply, all of the blood drained from his face. The older wizard lowered his wand and his head and turned to his desk. Harry stood, also breathing deeply.

"Sir?" He asked, his voice raspy.

"Yes, Harry?"

"Are you okay?"

Brodsky paused for a minute before answering, "I'm fine Harry, just fine. Umm, I think we should stop for the night, I'm not feeling too well."

"Alright, Sir, I'll go then."

"Have a nice night, Harry."

Harry took one last look at Brodsky, he was still leaning on his desk with his back to him, breathing deeply. Harry turned and left the room. Once he was gone, Brodsky got a hold of himself and followed Harry out. He called to the young man.

Harry turned back, "Yes, Sir?"

"I'm terribly sorry about tonight, Harry but I want you to practice focusing on that memory when you go to bed each night."

"Yes, Sir."

"Thankyou. Now go on. I'll see you tomorrow night in the Room of Requirement." Harry began walking again and Brodsky turned from him and made his way to the stone gargoyle that wasn't far. Saying the password he rode the stairs to the top and knocked on the door. He entered once recieving permission. Inside Dumbledore and McGonagall were sipping tea and talking about lesson plans.

Dumbledore was shocked to see Brodsky enter, "Byron, shouldn't you be with Harry?"

"I don't know if I can continue teaching him occlumency, Headmaster, perhaps you should do it."

"And why is that?"

"Some of the things I saw in his mind, I....I don't ever want to see again."

"What did you see?" McGonagall spoke.

Brodsky hesitated, "Why didn't either of you tell me about what really happened at the Ministry? You told me she was injured but you never told me just how serious it could of been. That curse she was hit with....it could have easily killed her."

Dumbledore motioned for Brodsky to sit, which he did. "We told you it was serious. Yet you have seen for yourself that she is alive and well."

"But judging on where she was hit, if she hadn't of silenced Dolohov she would be dead! That curse...she...she could have died." Brodsky mumbled, his face getting paler and paler as he spoke.

McGonagall rested her hand on his. "She could have, Byron. They shouldn't have been there, but the occlumency will make sure they're never put in a position like that again."

Tears were welling in Brodskys eyes. "I could have lost her."

"Byron, you must continue to help Harry with the occlumency." Dumbledore said sternly and gently at the same time. "Minerva, perhaps you should help him to his quarters."

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9. Chapter Eight: Wandless Wordless Magic

CHAPTER EIGHT: WANDLESS WORDLESS MAGIC

~~~~~September 7th, 1996. Hogwarts~~~~~

Harry was thankful that it was a Saturday because weekends equaled sleep-ins. He hadn't been that tired when he returned from his occlumency lesson, but then again they hadn't done much. He had, however, been disturbed by his memories and that caused a constant stream of nightmares throughout the night.

Hermione hadn't come to his bed and he couldn't help but feel a bit sad. He was happy she'd had a rather peaceful night in that she didn't see fit to need his comfort, but he had wished she'd been there for when he woke up.

He used the extra hours the weekend supplied and caught up on some sleep. Finally rising at eleven a.m. he prepared for the day and made his way to the common room. The room was scattered with various Gryffindors, but Harry found Ron and Hermione over at a corner table.

"Mornin' Harry. I wanted to wake you sooner, but Herms told me to let you sleep."

"Well, I'm thankful for that." Harry said as he sat down.

"Goodmorning, Harry." Hermione smiled at him. "Rough night?" She asked, a look of concern flittering across her features.

"You could say that. After the occlumency last night all my memories seemed fresh, so they kept me up for most of the night."

"Well, you'll need to rest up today." Hermione told him.

"Why's that?"

Hermione held up a small tear of parchment. "This came for you about an hour ago, from Professor Brodsky."

Harry read the short note, "Harry, wandless, Prof. B. F. B."

"Not much detail," Ron said, looking around to see the note, "What's it mean?"

Harry started to explain, but Hermione beat him to it, "That at tonights lesson the Professor will be starting to teach Harry wandless magic."

"Bloody hell, can you really do that?" Ron exclaimed.

"Professor Brodsky says I have the potential."

"Well, you'll need all of your strength, Harry." Hermione said. "It's very difficult to perform wandless magic, and very draining. A simple stupefy without a wand can leave you weak if you don't have the stanima."

Hermione had been right. That night when Harry had entered the Room of Requirements Professor Brodsky had given him a strengthening potion and told him to discard his wand.

"Now this takes alot of effort Harry and not many wizards can do it, so don't be disappointed if it doesn't work. The strengthening potion should help, but we'll only be using that to begin with. As you get better then we'll use less and less until none is needed at all."

The levitating spell is one of the first and easiest things taught at Hogwarts, therefore they started there. Brodsky put a feather on a table across the room from Harry and then moved away.

"Like we did with occlumency Harry I want to start with focusing your mind. But this time don't think of a memory. I want you to close your eyes and dig for the magic that runs through your veins."

Harry closed his eyes. He completely and totally focused inwards, the rest of the world faded away. He couldn't see, smell, taste or touch anything. He cleared his mind of thoughts so that the only sound he could hear was the beating of his heart, the rushing of his blood. A picture of that heart swam into his head, and his minds eye focused on the blood; his mothers blood, his fathers blood.

He followed the blood as it made its journey through his circulatory system, crackling more and more with power as it went. After quite a bit of time Harry could literally feel the magical power inside of him. It enveloped him like a warm, familiar blanket, making Harry realize that it was familiar, it had always been there, he'd just never focused on it before.

"I can feel it." Harry said quietly.

"As can I." Professor Brodsky voice broke through his internal voyage. "Open your eyes, Harry."

The world came back into view as Harry did, and although the power he had just came into dissipated, he now could still feel the magic.

"Very good, Harry, very good indeed."

"What happened, Sir?"

"Harry have you ever noticed that if you're in a muggle populace, and a witch or wizard comes near you, you know instantly that they are a witch or wizard?"

Harry thought for a moment then nodded his head. "I do."

"Well, have you ever noticed that when Dumbledore walks into a room you also know instantly that he is very powerful?"

"Yes, Sir."

"I could feel your power increase as you focused, Harry. You most definitely have the potential to do wandless magic." Brodsky smiled at him. "Now, focus on your magic again, but keep your eyes open and split your attention to focus on the feather."

Harry did so, feeling the magic crackle in his veins and watching the feather so intently he thought it would spontaneously combust.

"Now will it to move Harry. Use your will to put that feather into the air. Send that magic at the feather and levitate it."

Harry did so, willing the feather with everything he had just to get a little into the air.

"Keep focused, Harry, and now say the incantation."

"Wingardium Leviosa." Harry muttered, but nothing happened. A little more forcefully, "Wingardium Leviosa."

Five minutes passed with Harry focusing, willing and incantating, but still nothing happened. Once or twice Harry thought about quitting right then and there but quickly thought of Voldemort and how he'd need every advantage. Plus, Professor Brodsky wasn't asking him to stop so he wasn't about to give up.

After another fifteen full minutes, Harry quickly closed his eyes and refocused on the magic inside of him. Opening them he also focused on the feather. He almost shouted "Wingardium Leviosa!"

If one had been watching closely, as Brodsky was, it would have seemed that the feather had a breath of wind flow over it, the barbs waving slightly.

Harry however was too far away to see it. He kept repeating the incantation all the while allowing the magic to fill him, while his mind shouted, Move you damn feather! Float!Harry had no idea why his body was beginning to feel drained, but with each whisper that passed over the feather, Brodsky knew why.

Harry was at it non-stop for forty-five minutes and was about to give up when he thought he'd give it one last shot. He allowed his magic to surround him and fill him as his mind screamed at the feather, louder and louder. Then with one more "Wingardium Leviosa!" the feather gave the slightest of jumps off the table.

The young wizard grinned and allowed himself to drop into a chair that materialised behind him, he was utterly exhausted. Brodsky stood from the seat in the shadows he'd claimed and moved towards Harry, also wearing a smile.

"Well done, Harry."

"Well done? It took long enough just to get it to move the tiniest little bit." Harry groaned, but the smile never left his face.

"You weren't paying attention Harry. If you'd been at my vantage point you would have seen with each incantation, the feather moved in the slightest, more and more each time."

"It did?" Harry asked in wonder.

Brodsky nodded, "Yes. And you must remember, not only is this difficult to learn, it is something many are not capable of. Now, go and get a good nights rest, Harry. Mondays lesson will be much the same as this one, only with a wand."

"What will we be doing, Sir?" Harry asked as both of them headed for the door.

"Non-verbal spells. A quality always useful to have."

"Will I be able to do that, Sir?"

"It's not like wandless magic, Harry, any wizard or witch can do spells without an incantation if they practice enough." Brodsky explained.

After a very slow Sunday, one filled with sleep, laying around, playing chess, talking and catching up on some more sleep, Monday rolled around. Harry made it through charms alright, having a rather good laugh with Ron after Professor Flitwick almost fell off his stack of books.

Harry walked out of potions, miserable. Snape seemed slimier today and the room had been really hot due to a potion he was currently brewing so Hermione had loosened her tie and unbuttoned the top of her shirt.

Harry had been too busy chastising himself over the ungentlemanly thoughts that ran through his mind every time Hermione bent over her cauldron and he caught a glimpse of the bare skin on her chest, glistened slightly with sweat, that he'd mixed up his ingredients and almost blown up the room, much to Snapes anger, yet pleasure.

Snape had rattled on and on about how the Headmaster had made "a monstrous mistake" in giving special treatment to the "wonder-boy" and how Dumbledore would be hearing about this "idiots blunder."

"What were you thinking?" Hermione asked as they made their way to Defence.

Harry blushed a little and muttered, "You really don't want to know."

"You know that he's just looking for an excuse to kick you out of his class and if you get kicked out then I leave too."

"Why? As much as the greazy git hates it, you're still top of the class."

Hermione sighed, "Harry, do you really think I want to go down there alone? Or put up with him for neverending lessons without any backup?" She then smiled a cheeky little smile, "Besides, you leave, I become his main target."

Harry rolled his eyes and laughed. They met Ron outside of the Defense class and filed inside when Brodsky turned up. Every lesson for the past week they'd been working on their patroni and by now most of the class had managed it, so this lesson would be focused on getting those few who hadn't finished up so they could move on.

Both Hermione and Brodsky still seemed uneasy in eachothers presence, but only someone who knew Hermione as well as Harry did would be able to tell she wasn't fully okay, she was just dealing with it. She still wouldn't look at the Professor directly, but even if she did she would find that he wasn't looking at her directly. The mystery of the man was still frustrating and unnerving her more than she let on.

By the end of the lesson every sixth year whom took Defence Against The Dark Arts could conjure a patronus.

That night Harry and Hermione got to the Great Hall pretty early. They sat by themselves since Ron was already down one end of the table engaging in a very flirtatious conversation with Lavender Brown.

"So what are two going to be doing tonight?" Hermione asked.

Harry drowned the slices of roast he had in gravy and answered, "Non-verbal incantations. Professor Brodsky says that anyone can do it and it will probably be easier than the wandless."

"I'm sure you'll have no trouble with it. If a slimy death eater like...like Dol-Dolohov" Hermione stuttered and Harry saw the lingering pain flash in her eyes. "can do it, than I'm sure it'll be simple for you."

"Are you okay?" Harry asked, seizing her hand.

"I'm fine, Harry. It's just still..."

"An open wound." He finished, squeezing her hand tightly. "It's still an open wound for me too."

"Oh, Harry, I'm sorry. I didn't mean to remind you of Sirius."

Harry shook his head and looked into her eyes. "Not Sirius, although that still hurts too. But you." When Hermione looked confused he continued, "I thought you were dead, Mione, and if Neville hadn't of been there to keep his senses and check for a pulse then I would've given up right then and there.

"Mione, I knew that out of all of you that were going to follow me that night, no matter how much I tried to dissuade you guys, you'd be the one to come whether I liked it or not. If I'd had enough time I would've been able to get even Ron to stay back, but I knew you wouldn't. You've always stayed beside me, Mione, even when that great oaf down there wouldn't." Harry said gesturing down the table towards Ron.

Hermione smiled at Harry, "You're right, I would've followed no matter what you said."

"It's gotta' stop, Mione." Harry leaned close and told her softly with eyes as serious as a heart attack.

"What?"

"You can't keep following me into danger. You almost died at the Ministry."

Hermione shook her head and replied equally as serious, "But I didn't. Harry, you know I'll be following you no matter what."

Harry voice rose a bit as he spoke but he quietened down after a few people looked over. "No! Don't you know how close we came to losing completely that night, just because you were taken out of the fight. Not only were you the most capable of us, but when Dolohov hit you I panicked, Mione. When you fell and I thought you were dead I lost all capability of sensible thought."

"Harry, I - -"

"No, Hermione. I can't risk you, I can't take the chance of losing you. If I lost you then - -" He broke off as if realizing what he was saying.

"Then what, Harry?" Hermione asked.

Harry dropped his head and mumbled, "Then my life wouldn't be worth living."

Hermiones eyes widened and her mind raced. He can't possibly mean what he just said. I'm just his friend, I'm not that important to him; more than his parents, more than Sirius.

His head was still lowered so Hermione took hold of his chin and turned him to look her in the eyes. He was still holding his tears back but she could see them threatening to spill. "Don't say that, Harry. You know it wouldn't, you've got so much ahead of you. After this war is over and the good guys have won, and make no mistake we will win, then you can do so much. You can be an auror, or play professional quidditch, you'll get married and have children and your life will be wonderful."

"I wouldn't want to do any of it without you by my side."

She saw her own feelings in his eyes and realized that Ginny had been right all along, he felt the same way she did. They searched eachothers souls for a few long, heartpounding minutes, both discovering that their feelings were not only much stronger than the crush they initially thought it to be, but were returned by the other. The look they were giving eachother made electricity shiver through both their bodies.

"Well, this conversation seems much too serious." Ron broke them apart as he sat down across from them. "Thank Merlin I'm here to lighten things up."

They shared one last look and turned to Ron with smiles on their faces. "Have you asked Lavender out yet, mate?" Harry asked as they all ate.

"Not yet, we've just been flirtin' for a bit. I think I'll ask her to the first Hogsmeade weekend."

"Sounds good, mate. I gotta' get going."

He bid them goodbye and went to the Room of Requirement. It was set up much the same way it was on Saturday night, the feather and all.

"Welcome, Harry." Brodsky said. "Not much to it tonight. You don't need to focus as intently on your magic, this is all rather simple with practice. Draw your wand, point it at the feather and repeat the incantation in your mind, forcefully."

Harry pulled his wand out and held it in front of him. He used all of his power to will against the feather and his mind said, Wingardium Leviosa!

Nothing happened. "More force, Harry. Make it happen."

Wingardium Leviosa!Harry shouted in his head. It took three more attempts before the feather moved, giving a little jump in the air.

"Good, making it move is the first step, now make it float Harry."

It took a while before Harry was able to successfully hold the feather in the air and after a few moments it dropped back to the table.

"I want you to just keep at it Harry, you're doing great." Brodsky assured him.

Harry spent the rest of the lesson making the feather levitate, holding it in the air longer and longer each time. When Brodsky dismissed him he was thankful for his warm bed and what would hopefully be a good nights sleep.

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10. Chapter Nine: Sheathed Steel

CHAPTER NINE: SHEATHED STEEL

~~~~~September 11th, 1996. Hogwarts.~~~~~

On Wednesday morning Harry recieved a note at breakfast from Professor Brodsky telling him to meet him in his office for their lesson instead of the Room of Requirement. It was their first lesson with swords and Harry knew that it'd be his weak point. Magic he could do, had been doing for the past five and a bit years. The physical training was simple enough, just hard. But working with a sword was an art and Harry wasn't sure he'd be able to pull it off.

Harry said goodbye to his friends and went to the Defence Against The Dark Arts classroom. He entered to find Professor Brodsky leaning over a trunk, the likes of which Harry was sure he'd seen before.

"Ah, goodmorning Harry. Come on in." Brodsky said and then waved Harry over to the trunk. It was open and when Harry looked inside he remembered where he'd seen one before. Barty Crouch Jr. had kept Mad-Eye Moodys body in one when he was posing as him during Harrys fourth year.

They were storage spaces that had magically been enhanced to contain rooms inside instead of little spaces.

"Well, come on then." Brodsky jumped down into the compartment that was open and into the room below. Harry followed shortly after.

Down in there the room was much bigger than Harry had thought it could be. Mostly it was large and empty with blue mats across the floor. It was the walls that caught Harrys interest. They were lined with countless weapons; all sorts of blades were stacked on one wall, axes, spears on another, all sorts of firearms across from the swords, and the last wall was covered in different bows and arrows.

"This is my private collection, Harry. You should consider yourself lucky, I don't let many people see it, they're some of my most prized possessions." Brodsky told him.

"Wow." Harry breathed as he moved towards the guns.

"There'll be plenty of time for me to show you them all another day, Harry, but right now we're on a time limit, don't want you to be late to your next class."

Brodsky steered him over to the blade wall. "Now we need to figure out which type of sword is best suited to you Harry. Now," Brodsky grabbed him by the shoulders and looked him up and down, "Probably shouldn't have to rely too much on physical strength, but we'll see."

The professor turned to his swords and daggers and carefully picked up a sword that was about sixty centermetres long. It was double-edged with a V-point tip and barely had a gaurd. Brodsky handed it to Harry and he felt it was rather heavy.

"That is a gladius, Harry, they were used by Roman Legionaries back in the day."

Harry swung it a bit but found it very blocky and difficult to manouvre. Brodsky stopped him and took the sword back, placing it in its spot.

"No, we need something that requires strength yet...." Brodsky trailed off, searching the lines of blades again. "The katana requires grace, no not a katana. The xiphos is versatile but it doesn't seem right." Brodsky mumbled to himself.

He stopped in front of one and smiled. "Yes, I should have known." He picked it up off the shelf and Harry saw which one he was referring to. Its blade was straight and long, but not much wider than the long hilt it had, unlike most of the other swords he saw.

Brodsky walked over to Harry and handed it to him. "The hand-and-a-half sword, also known as a bastard sword. It can be weilded in one hand or two, it's versatile and powerful, but can be capable of finesse and speed on the battlefield. And its weight makes it difficult to gaurd against."

When Harry swung this sword he found that it was relatively easy to move with. Brodsky smiled, "Yes, that's it. It is funny that it is the same make of sword that Godric Gryffindor himself used."

"How's that funny, Sir?"

"Well, he fought Salazar Slytherin and it is funny that you should be suited to the same kind of sword as you will be battling Slytherins heir. Come now, Harry."

Brodsky took the sword from Harry and put it back on the wall. Then he grabbed hold of Harrys shoulder and used his wand to pull them out of the trunk. They walked to the Room of Requirement and when they entered it was set up much as the room in the trunk had been.

There were no extra weapons only a few swords that Harry noticed once they got closer were wooden.

Brodsky picked one up and threw it to Harry who caught it easily. "The Japanese call them bokkens Harry, training swords. Only ours are a little different, that is the exact shape and weight as the hand-and-a-half you were just holding. Now this will be difficult Harry, but I know you can master the sword."

They spent an hour and a half with Professor Brodsky showing Harry all the basics of swordfighting using the training sword. It was hard work so when Harry made his way back to the common room and sat down in one of the chairs near the fireplace he couldn't help but rub his aching shoulders.

Two smaller, softer hands came up behind him and continued the work, massaging the knots that were already forming.

"Hard work?" Hermione asked quietly.

Harry gave a half-groan/half-sigh before answering. "It was alright at the beginning when he was just showing me proper movements and that, but at the end he picked up another training sword and we battled a bit. He's an awful lot stronger than me. I'd manage to block his strikes but he'd push down on me saying that he was holding back, but a real opponent won't."

"You poor baby, all this extra work." Harry cracked his first smile since getting to the common room. He loved it when Hermione was in a teasing mood. "Come on, let's go to our spot at the lake."

"Our spot?" Harry asked with a grin.

"Well, I don't think anyone else really knows about it, so now it's our spot."

"Don't you have arithmancy?"

"Not meaning to be cocky or anything Harry but let's face it, I could take my NEWTs right now and still pass with flying colours, I think I deserve to skive off for one class."

Harry was slightly shocked but stood with a smile and took her hand, "You certainly do deserve a break, even if it is only a small one."

They walked down to the lake and sat in the same spot they had the last time they were there. Hermione leaned in and rested her head on his shoulder.

"You know," Harry started, feeling very nervous, "We haven't actually talked about what happened at breakfast on Monday night."

"You felt it too, then? I thought it was just me."

"That feeling like a live wire made contact with every part of my body at once? Yeah, I felt it. What do you suppose it meant?"

"I don't know. But whatever it was I like it." She looked up at him and saw the smile on his face. Very slowly he leaned in, unable to stop his eyes from flashing down to her lips. She could feel his breath on her face as they got closer. They were only centermetres away - -

"Fang! Get back 'ere!" Hagrids voice made them both close their eyes and sigh at their misfortune. Hermione dropped her head back to Harrys shoulder while he turned in the direction of the sound to see a huge dog bounding their way.

Fang gave Harry a big lick up the face before laying himself down and resting his head on Harrys lap. Hagrid walked into the clearing and smiled at them.

"Oh if I only 'ad me camera!" Hagrid grinned, "You two an' Fang!"

"Hey Hagrid, pull up a stump." Harry smiled, motioning to the fallen tree not far behind them.

Hagrid sat himself down. "Shouldn't yeh be in class?"

"I've got a spare and Hermiones waggin' it." Harry explained.

"I'm not wagging it, I'm simply taking a small break."

Hagrid just smiled, "That's alright, Hermione, yeh work too hard anyway. Hows yeh extra training been with Brodsky, 'Arry?"

"Not that bad, actually. It's hard work, but it could be worse."

"That it could. He's a good man, Brodsky."

Hermione looked up from Harrys shoulder, "What can you tell us about him, Hagrid?"

"Oh, he went to school 'ere years ago. Glad to say he was a friend of mine too, much like yer lot are. He's the same age as Lucius Malfoy, but those two were alot like you and Draco, 'Arry, hated each other more than anything. I think he tutored yeh Mum when she was in first an second, and he and yeh Dad played quidditch together.

"He graduated second in his class, his wife came in first, o'couse they weren't married then." Hagrid gave a little laugh, "Matter o'fact they barely tolerated each other. Then years later they met up and fell in love got married, I was at the weddin', beautiful ceremony. They had a little baby not much later, woulda been about yer age, but...."

"But what, Hagrid? What happened to his family?"

"Death eaters." Hagrid told them darkly, "Not long before you stopped You-Know-Who, 'Arry, they went after him and his family. Killed Clarice and their baby, near killed him too, but he got away, not before takin most of 'em down though. He came 'ere fer a while.....then he just disappeared for a long time, I dunno where he went but I heard that after You-Know-Who disappeared he was huntin' down the remainin' death eaters he could find."

"That's tragic." Hermione said softly.

"Aye, tis. But Dumbledore asked him to come back to help 'Arry out, and he put his sword down and picked his wand back up."

"His sword?" Harry asked.

"That was the story, he wouldn't use magic to kill the death eaters, he'd use a sword, wanted ter see 'em bleed like they'd done to his family."

Silence rang out for a long while until Harry broke it, "Well, at least we can be sure he's on our side."

"Course he is. Well, I best be gettin' off. Come on, Fang!" Fang didn't move.

Harry laughed, "It's alright, Hagrid, we'll bring him up when we go back."

"Right then, be good Fang, I'll see yers around."

"Bye Hagrid."

Once Hagrid had left the clearing, Harry turned to Hermione with a smile, "Now where were we?" But judging by the look on her face the moment was gone. "Is it about Brodsky?"

"Yes. Maybe that's what I'm seeing in my dreams, the night his family died. But why am I seeing it?"

"I wish I could tell you, Mione, I hate seeing you like this. And I keep thinking if this is only the beginning of our sixth year, I'm not sure I want the rest to come."

"I know. It's just so frustrating!" Hermione cried and then stood and walked so her feet were just out of the waters reach.

Harry had to move Fangs huge head off his lap before he could stand. He moved behind her and wrapped his arms around her waist, pulling her into him.

"We'll get through this, Mione, just like we got through everything else."

"I just wish I knew. I hate not knowing something, I need to be able to understand everything and this is something that I just can't figure out."

"It'll be okay, I promise. We'll know eventually and then we can work our way through it."

"Thanks, Harry."

Time flew by as they just stood looking out over the lake, wrapped up in eachother. Hermione came to her senses first and told Harry they needed to get back. She turned in his arms and kissed him on the cheek then moved out of the clearing leading Fang. Harry had to shake off the feeling of her lips on his skin before he was able to follow.

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11. Chapter Ten: Tryouts And Gifts

CHAPTER TEN: TRYOUTS AND GIFTS

~~~~~September 14th, 1996~~~~~

Harry and Ron stood outside the changing rooms at the Quidditch pitch looking out over the assembled Gryffindors. They would all be trying out for a spot on the quidditch team and neither Ron nor Harry looked hopeful about the group assembled.

Ginny and Parvati stood together towards the side of the pack with Dean, Neville and Seamus. A group of five third years and six fifth years were the mentioned pack, and the Creevey brothers were also there taking turns in looking excited and looking like they'd be sick.

Hermione and Lavender strolled from the direction of the castle towards Harry and Ron, both stiffling giggles at the beaten looks on the boys faces.

"Looks good." Hermione smiled. The comment only earnt her glares.

"Don't worry too much about it, I'm sure with enough training any one of them would be alright." Lavender told them trying to brighten the mood.

Harry looked at Ron and sighed. "I suppose we should do this, mate."

Ron just let out a large breath and nodded. Hermione and Lavender sat on the bench outside the changing rooms and watched the pair drag their feet over to the group of hopefuls.

"Alright!" Harry got their attention. "We've got a seeker and a keeper so if you're not a chaser or a beater you might as well leave."

Nobody moved so Ron picked it up. "Righ then, we'll be doing beaters first so all you chasers go over and wait by Hermione and Lavender."

Seven from the pack, along with Ginny, Parvati, the Creevey brothers and Dean headed off the field. Ron saw that all those trying for beater already had a bat so he opened the box and got ready to release the bludgers.

Before he did Harry told the group, "To the air. We just want you guys to bat them around a bit first."

The beaters and Harry mounted their brooms and took off while Ron released the bludgers and followed. Ron and Harry flew around the lot, having to dodge a few bludgers, and observed their beaters.

One of the fourth years was pretty good, but most of them were either having trouble on their brooms or with their aim. Neville and Seamus were just down-right impressive. Since the Ministry battle Nevilles self confidence had improved greatly, he was rarely scared of anything anymore. The other day he didn't even back down from Snape when the older wizard upped him.

Neville and Seamus seemed to have an unspoken understanding of eachothers actions in the air, and they were working brilliantly together. Harry pointed this out to Ron.

"Yeah, they are doing pretty well. We'll probably give it to them, but we at least need to give the others a chance." Ron replied and then went to holler out for everyone to stop.

The group did so and made their way to were Harry and Ron were hovering. Ron explained the next part of their tryout; they would have to knock the bludger through the centre hoop to see how their aim was.

Once again Neville and Seamus were obviously the best of the lot, although they could still use a bit of work with their aim. Harry and Ron got everyone on the ground and told them that they were done but were more than welcome to watch the chasers.

The choice for chasers was obvious as well, especially after Dennis Creevey successfully knocked his own brother off his broom while attempting to pass the quaffle, and one of the third years very nearly collided with a stand.

Harry and Ron dismissed everyone and walked back up to the castle just behind Hermione, Lavender and Ginny.

"What do you think, mate?"

Ron didn't even think before answering, "I thought it was pretty obvious. Neville and Seamus as beaters, Gin, Parvati and Dean as chasers."

"My choice as well. You think we got a chance?"

"With training we could probably get ourselves that cup. And with the good mood McGonagalls been in lately then winning the cup might be just enough to help me pass transfiguration."

Harry laughed, "Just enough, mate. So I'll put the sign up announcing the team in the common room, when do you want to train?"

"Let's go every Saturday afternoon, unless it's a Hogsmeade weekend."

"Good. I'll also put up a sign about the DA too, although I'll put that up outside the Great Hall so that everyone can see it."

"When will that be?"

"Wednesday nights. So what did you get Hermione?"

"For what?"

Harry just shook his head, "It's her birthday next week, Ron, you clown."

"Oh, I forgot. I dunno what I'll get her, I'll owl Mum I think and ask her to send some sweets or something."

"I know! You could set up the party. Sneak in the butterbeer and get the food from the kitchens. We'll make it a surprise. You think you could do that."

"No worries at all." Ron told him with a grin. "What are you getting her?"

"I have no idea."

Harry pondered what he'd get Hermione for her birthday all the way to the common room and came to the conclusion that he'd never figure it out. With a sudden burst of inspiration he ran up to his room and emptied out his trunk. There at the bottom were fragments of a mirror.

"Mirror Reparo." He muttered and watched the pieces put themselves back together. He smiled and picked it up. "Remus Lupin."

Nothing happened for a few seconds but then Remus' smiling face appeared on the mirror where Harry had just been looking at his own.

"Harry! I thought you'd forgotten about me. It's good to see you." Lupin grinned.

"It's good to see you too, Moony. I need some help."

"Anything."

Harry got on his bed and made himself comfortable before speaking. "Well, Hermiones birthday is next week and I don't know what to get her and I don't have a chance to get her anything."

"You want me to get her something and owl it to you?"

"That would be great, but I have no idea what."

Remus' brow furrowed and he concentrated. "Well...." He started and then turned back to Harry with a smile. "Tell me how much she really means to you Harry."

A small smile came across Harrys face, he blushed a little and cast his eyes downward, "I care for her more than anything Remus."

"You're in love with her." It wasn't a question.

When Harry looked back at Remus he saw the werewolf was grinning. "Yeah, I am. I let myself look towards my future the other day, Remus, and she was there. I always knew if I lived then she'd be in my life, but what I saw was more than that, she wasn't just my friend, Remus, she was my wife."

Remus was slightly shocked at this, but knew that Harry was just like James, therefore he would only ever give his heart away once. "I'm happy for you, Harry. And I pray to whatever god or deity will listen that you get to marry that girl. Now, as to her birthday present....tell me, Harry, does she know how you feel?"

"I'm pretty sure she does. Why?"

"Well, if she doesn't know then you don't want to get her something too intimate, but since she knows I think you should get her something special, jewellery or something like that. I'll go to Diagon Alley tomorrow and have a look around, and if nothing strikes me then I'll check out some muggle stores. When I think I've found something, I'll contact you, how does that sound?"

"That sounds great. Thankyou so much, Moony."

"There is something I want to give Hermione, but I'll need your permission."

Harry nodded so Remus went on to explain. By the time Remus stopped speaking Harry was smiling brightly, "I think that would be wonderful, Remus and it would mean alot to Hermione, I know that."

"Good. I'll talk to you soon."

"How do I cut the connection?" Harry asked.

"Just say your own name and it'll go back to being a mirror."

"Alright, thanks Remus. Harry Potter."

Harry watched as the picture of Remus faded to black and then his own face reappeared in the mirror. He slipped it into his pocket, now intent to always carry it, and went back down to the common room.

Ron was gone but Hermione was still there sitting in front of the fireplace ready a very thick book, this was a sight that always made him smile. Her unquenchable thirst for knowledge was one of the things Harry loved the most about her; how something unknown could light up her face when she learnt it, or seemingly impossible puzzles could click her mind over like nothing else.

She didn't need to look up to know that he'd just sat in front of her, they knew eachother too well for that. She finished her paragraph before finally looking over at him. He had a dreamy expression on his face while he was watching her.

"Harry, it's kind of creepy when you stare at me."

Harry just smiled lazilly. "You're so cute when you're reading. I can practically hear the cogs clicking in your mind and I think it's beautiful."

Hermione blushed slightly and went back to her book, splitting her attention between Harry and the words on the page. "Are you training with the professor tonight?"

"Yeah, wandless magic again. It's definately the hardest of them."

She looked up slightly and spoke with a smile. "You'll get the hang of it."

"You've always believed in me. I don't know what I did to deserve you Hermione, but I'll try to keep doing it."

Hermione closed her book and reached over to take his hand. "You're doing it Harry, just by being you. You're a good man, Harry, you're caring, kind, brave, and I must say rather sexy when you fly. You're going to have hard times and you're going to come out of it scarred, but stronger. You'll do great things, Harry."

Harry smiled a little and sqeezed her hand, then asked a question that had popped into his mind ever since he had imagined his future with Brodsky that night. "Mione, do you think I'll make a good father some day?"

Hermione just smiled, "You'll be a wonderful father Harry, of that I'm certain."

"But I don't know what a fathers supposed to be like, I've never had one. All I know is what I saw at the Dursleys."

"And that's why I know you'll be a great father." Hermione said and went into further detail at Harrys confused look. "Harry, you saw what not to do as a father. You'll never be anything like them. You want your children to grow up in a happy, safe and loving home. I don't even know what you're worried about, you'll be amazing."

She moved back and opened her book, once more splitting her attention. Harry felt a few happy tears work their way to his eyes. "And you'll be a wonderful mother." He muttered.

"Sorry?" She asked, hearing his mutter but not its content.

Harry bit down on his courage and spoke louder and clearer. "And you'll be a wonderful mother, Mione."

Looking into his eyes she saw what he didn't say. Once more the electric feeling filled them as they stared at eachothers souls, time slowing around them. It was only Ron returning to the common room that broke them.

"I've told McGonagall the team and our training plan. She not so subtly told me that she very much wanted the Quidditch cup back in her office." He announced, completely oblivious to what he had just interupted.

"She happy with the team?" Harry asked after tearing his eyes off Hermione who'd gone back to her book.

"She seemed happy enough, wants us to train hard though. She dismissed me saying that she was going to make a very large bet with Snape."

Harry laughed at this. "It's good she's got faith in us then. Now all we gotta' do is win."

The nineteenth of September rolled around quicker than Harry had thought. He checked his pocket every few seconds to make sure he had Hermiones present with him, since he was carrying it all day to make sure he didn't forget.

Harry had been nominated to keep Hermione busy while Ron, Ginny and a few others set up the common room for a party. So that Thursday after classes, he caught up with her while she was going back to Gryffindor Tower after she'd finished Ancient Runes.

"Hermione!" She turned and smiled at him. "Hey, come for a visit with Hagrid?"

"Sure."

They walked out onto the grounds and down towards Hagrids hut. The half-giant was sitting outside on the stairs.

"'Ello, yeh two!" Hagrid greeted happily. "I hear someone turned sixteen today."

Hermione smiled and then moved into his embrace when he held out his arms. When she moved back he withdrew a rectangular wooden box, with intricate flower carvings on it and a dark polish. Hagrid handed it to her and when she pulled the lid back she saw a mirror on the inside of the lid. It was a jewelery box.

"Made that for yeh meself. Happy Birthday." Hagrid told her.

With tears in her eyes Hermione launched herself on him for another huge hug. "Oh, Hagrid. Thankyou so much. It's beautiful!"

Hagrid smiled when she pulled away again, "Well, yeh only turn sixteen once, don't ya. Special day it tis."

"Thankyou again, Hagrid." Hermione said, wiping a tear away.

Harry smiled and put an arm around her. "I think she likes it Hagrid."

"Like is an understatement. I can't believe you made it, it's just too precious."

"No trouble at all. Rather enjoyed doin' it actually."

They talked with Hagrid for a good while before saying goodbye to him. Harry led her through the trees to their spot by the lake. They both enjoyed this little place they'd found. As far as they knew, noone else knew about it, and the trees offered quite a bit of privacy.

Just like they had the last time they were there, Hermione stood at the shore and Harry wrapped his arms around her from behind. She leaned into his embrace and sighed. The sun would start going down soon and they'd have to return to Gryffindor Tower, but for right now she was content to just feel his arms around her. They stayed silent for a long time.

"What are we doing, Harry?" Hermione asked, a hint of worry in her voice.

"What do you mean?"

"This, us, if there even is an us."

"There is definitely an us, Mione. There's something here that neither of us completely understand yet, something powerful. You know how I feel about you and I know how you feel about me, but I guess we're just waiting for the right moment. Like the other day right here, it was the right moment, but we were interrupted. We'll get there, Mione."

She didn't say anything just dug herself deeper into his embrace, so Harry changed the subject. "Would you like your present now?" Harry whispered in her ear, causing a shiver to run down her spine.

"I was starting to think you'd forgotten." She smiled.

Harry grinned and reached into his robes. "Never." He held a small, long box in front of her.

Hermione didn't bother to take it out of his hold, she simply, yet slowly, opened the lid. A soft gasp escaped her mouth when she looked inside. She reached out, but didn't lift the white gold necklace inside. Instead she ran a finger along the chain and around silver the heart pendant which held a black and white wizard picture of the two of them in it.

Harry took it upon himself to remove the necklace from the box. With one hand holding the chain he slipped the box back into his robe pocket. He then undid the chain and slipped it around her neck, brushing her hair to one side and marvelling at how soft it is.

Once it was clasped back up he turned her around. The heart was sitting right above her highest buttoned button.

"Beautiful." He said, looking into her eyes and not just referring to the necklace.

Hermione looked down at it and smiled. "Yes, it is. Thankyou Harry, I love it."

"I'm glad you do."

He again moved in closer and both their hearts started pounding. As his lips got nearer to hers, her eyes slipped closed and 'This is the right moment'ran through his mind. Once more they were on the brink of intimacy and were disturbed. A ruffling of wings made Hermione open her eyes and sigh when she saw Hedwig land on Harrys shoulder.

Harry rested his head on hers as he took a few deep breaths and then smiled at her, both so frustrated by their bad luck that it was funny.

Eventually Harry reached out to Hedwigs extended leg and took the note. Reading over it quickly he put it in his pocket and took her hand, leading her away.

"What was that?" She asked.

"Rons birthday present is ready."

"Is ready? What is it?"

"You'll see." Harry told her with a smile.

They made their way back to Hogwarts and into Gryffindor Tower. The Fat Lady smiled at them as she opened the portrait hole. Hermione almost jumped a foot in the air when just about every Gryffindor as well as a few Ravenclaws shouted, "Happy Birthday!"

Ron stepped forward with a grin. Hermione looked at him amazed, "You did all this?"

He nodded and she gave him a hug which made him go red. "Happy Birthday, Herms. This is my gift to you."

"It's wonderful, Ron."

They settled into the party that stepped up a beat when a charmed c.d. player was turned on. People kept coming up to wish Hermione a happy birthday. After she'd done most of the rounds Harry took her over to a quiet corner.

He'd raced up to his room to grab Remus' present and had waited for a time to give it to her. He handed her the package which was wrapped in plain brown paper, "This is from Remus. It was left in his possession years ago and he wanted you to have it, and I agree."

Hermione was very curious but she still was careful when she undid the wrapping. It was a leather-bound notebook. Still being careful Hermione opened the cover and gasped when she read the first page.

Property of Lily Evans-Potter

It was obvious that the Potter had been added on later. Hermione looked up at Harry with tears in her eyes.

He just smiled gently, "It was my mothers research notes. All of her magic experiments and things like that."

"Harry, I can't - -"

"No, Hermione, you can. Remus said that it belonged to the smartest witch of his time and now it should belong to the smartest witch of my time. My Mum would have wanted you to have it, Mione, both Lupin and I think that. And we want you to have it."

The tears were pouring down her face now. Harry wrapped his arms around her and held her for a while. When she pulled back she was smiling.

"Harry you have no idea how much this means to me. From everything I've heard your mother was...brillaint. And I know how much her memory means to you. This is so....Merlin I don't even have the words for it."

"You two had some things in common, then."

"What?"

Harry almost lost himself in her eyes again. "Both brillaint. Both mean the world to me."

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A/N: I'm sorry it wasn't as quickly as normal guys, but I did warn you, life is getting hectic at the moment. I'm getting married and I thought all I had to do was show up, but my girls got other ideas. Anyway, tell me what you think about this chapter too as I wasn't too sure if I got the flow of it the way I wanted it, but you guys are the judge, so let me know.

12. Chapter Eleven: Dumbledores Army

A/N: I'm really sorry for the wait, folks, feel free to hex me I probably deserve it. But hey! The invitations are out and plans are well on the way so that's some good news. Hope you enjoy this. And only leave a review if you want to, I love them, but I don't mind. Thanks, Roman.

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CHAPTER ELEVEN: DUMBLEDORES ARMY

~~~~~September 25th, 1996~~~~~

Harry found himself rather tired as he prepared for the first DA meeting of the new school year. It wasn't a surprise that he'd been pretty exhausted lately. Monday nights he had advanced magic training, still perfecting non-verbal spells; Wednesday mornings he had training with the sword, and now the DA at night; Fridays were the worst with physical training in the morning and occlumency at night; And then there were quidditch practice Saturday arvos with training in wandless magic at night. All of this on top of regular classes and the homework that came with them.

Hermione and Ron were the first to arrive and Hermione hung up a peice of parchment on the cork board that had appeared so people could write their names on it. At six-thirty exactly people started filing into the Room of Requirement. Harry was shocked at how many were actually turning up, so many in fact that the room had to expand itself.

The majority of Gryffindors had turned up, first years right through to seventh. There were quite alot of Hufflepuffs and Ravenclaws as well. And Harry noted with some shock that four Slytherins also came in, two looked like first years but the others were older. He nudged Hermione and pointed them out.

She just smiled and said, "I told you a couple would turn up."

When it looked as if everyone who was coming entered Harry stood up on the raised platform and began. "Welcome to the Defense Association, a.k.a. Dumbledores Army. Here we are going to expand on what is taught in Defense Against The Dark Arts and get a little more practice of our defensive skills.

"With the times being as they are then we all need as much practice in being able to defend ourselves. We didn't expect so many people to arrive so give us a minute to congregate for a moment."

Harry jumped off the platform and talked to Hermione and Ron. "What do you think we should start with? I was just going to show them a few spells, but there's so many here."

A voice from behind Harry made him jump about a foot. "Well, perhaps we should start with where you lot left off last year."

Brodsky and Dumbledore had slipped in quietly. Dumbledore smiled, "We wanted to see if we could help."

"That'd be great." Harry grinned, "Umm, what did you mean 'where we left off'?"

"You should start with the events of the Ministry. You kids weren't ready and it cost you, these kids need to be ready should something like that happen to them. You all need to learn from your mistakes." Brodsky explained.

"So we should show them what happened at the Ministry?"

"Yes, Harry." Dumbledore spoke, "We are able to show them if we can just copy the memory from you."

Harry nodded so Dumbledore stepped forward. He put his wand to Harrys head and then closed his eyes for a minute before pulling out the memory. Instead of putting it in a pensieve like Harry thought he would, Dumbledore held it for a few moments, eyes still closed his lips muttering something. He then opened his eyes and turned to a wall that had morphed all the bookshelves that were lining it into just a blank white wall. He literally threw the memory at the wall and the entire wall changed from its blank white to grey.

"What was that, Headmaster?" Hermione asked.

"I just modified Harrys memory slightly so we are looking at it not from his point of view but in third person. Harry, if you would?"

Harry jumped back up on the platform and everyone silenced. "Right, we're going to start off by showing you all what happened at the Ministry of Magic when Hermione, Ron, Neville, Luna, Ginny and myself went there the night that the Ministry admitted Lord Voldemorts return." He ignored all of the usual cringes and continued. "We weren't prepared for that battle, but we'll learn from our mistakes."

The room changed again. The mats on the floor turned into chairs and beanbags and everyone made themselves comfortable as the lights all darkened. Harry sat next to Hermione on a couch right up the back.

"Are you sure you want to see this?" He whispered.

"We all screwed up that night, Harry. I need to learn from my mistakes as well."

"Come on Mione, you were better prepared than any of us."

"Are you sure you want to see this?"

Harry thought for a moment about what he'd see, mainly Sirius' death, "I've seen it all before over and over again and right now I'm more worried about you." Hermione just shook him off as the screen in front of them flickered to life.

It started when they first entered the empty atrium and Harry noted that it was more like a muggle film instead of a memory, it even had colour and sound.

***Harry led them down the hallway and to the lifts. They travelled down on the noisy elevators and into the torch lit corridor.***

In the Room of Requirement Harry watched himself stop and try to suggest that some stay behind and they all refused.

***They all entered the circular rotating room and then go on to try the doors until they found the glittering room. Harry opened the door and found the place that they were looking for, a room full of nothing but towering shelves with small orbs. They all crept forward looking for row ninety-seven.

"He might be..." The Harry on the screen whispered. "Or maybe..."

"Harry?"

"What?" His tone was rather vicious.

"I...I don't think Sirius is here."

They watched Harry search for any sign of Sirius or a struggle. There was nothing at all. "Harry?" Ron was the next one to speak. Ron had found the prophecy.

"Harry, I don't think you should touch it."***

The Harry up the back instinctively moved closer to Hermione on the couch. He should've known after all of their years together to listen to her. Looking back, if he had of listened to her when she told him it was a trap, then Sirius would be alive, and if he had of listened to her when she told him not to touch the prophecy then the death eaters wouldn't have known they were there.

But Harry cursed himself again for not listening to Hermione as he watched himself pick up the prophecy off the shelf and almost immediately realize that Hermione had been right on both counts.

***"Very good, Potter. Now turn around, nice and slowly, and give that to me." Lucius Malfoy drawled as the six found themselves surrounded by death eaters.***

Harry felt proud as he watched his group. ***Surrounded by death eaters they all stood defiantly and without hesitation followed his lead and raised their wands. Harry and Malfoy talked for a while, the only plan Harry had was to keep them talking until something else came to them.***

Harry watched the shelves explode and watched as his hand grabbed a hold of Hermiones robes and dragged her away. He smiled slightly as he realized that he could of reached for any of them, but he'd grabbed hold of her as if his own sub-conscious was trying to tell him something.

Looking around at the rest of the DA Harry saw that they were all sitting in rapt silence as they watched the events unfold, a few girls letting out the occasional gasp or something.

***They ran through the ministry, having the occasional quick duel with a death eater or two. They watched in silent horror as the death eaters head transformed back to babyhood.***

Harry let out a little laugh along with a few others, Rons being the loudest, despite the situation they were watching.

***Hermione seized Harrys arm and told him, "You can't hurt a baby!"***

Hermione poked him in the ribs and whispered, "Shutup."

"Well, come on, Mione."

They turned back to the screen just in time to see it. What they had both been dreading to see. Gasps of horror were heard throughout the room when the others watched it. Most of the school knew she had been hurt, but didn't know it was serious.

***A slashing movement from Dolohov and a purple flame passed right across Hermiones chest. She looked down at her chest then up at Harry and gave a little "Oh!" surprised at what had happened, then fell to the floor.

"Hermione!" Harry yelled as he fell to his knees beside her.***

Harry looked over at Hermione to see her face pale in the light of the screen. She was swallowing hard and refused to look at the screen even when she heard Harrys begging.

***"Hermione. Hermione, wake up..."***

Harry didn't focus on the rest of the Ministry battle. He kept watching Hermione intently. She still wouldn't look up as the Order came to the rescue, the prophecy smashed and Sirius died. She wouldn't even watch the duel between Voldemort and Dumbledore.

"Are you okay?" He asked quietly.

Hermione didn't answer, just turned to him with her tears and buried her head in his warm shoulder. He held her tightly as the final events of that night came through.

When it was finished she moved away from him. She hadn't cried, but had come damn near close. Hermione wasn't the only one to have tears in her eyes after the viewing, quite a few girls had let their tears flow at the tragic events of the night.

Harry returned to the class and with Ron, Brodsky and Dumbledores help they went through all the screw-ups they had made that night; Going in unprepared, not having enough information, etc.

At the end of the session Harry stayed behind a bit while he and Dumbledore talked quickly about what lessons he'd be holding. He watched Hermione walk out of the room and she gave him an I'll-see-you-later look.

After Dumbledore departed Harry opted to stay for a few more minutes, trying to gather his strength to be strong for Hermione tonight. It was only after the door closed behind the Headmaster that Harry realized he wasn't alone in the room.

"Hi Harry." Cho Chang announced from behind him.

Harry spun around to see she was too close for comfort. "Ah, hi Cho."

"We haven't had much time to talk this year, have we?" She smiled saucily.

"No, I suppose we haven't. What did you want to talk about?"

"Us." She said with a grin. "I know things didn't go too well with us last year, Harry, but well, over the summer I did alot of thinking and alot of grieving, and I'm ready to move on from Cedric. And I...well, I'd like another shot if you'd give it to me." She blushed a little after she said this.

"What? You mean, us? Going out again?" Harry asked in shock.

"Yeah. It'll be alot better this time, I promise. I'm over losing Cedric, Harry."

Harry sighed and shook his head. "I'm sorry Cho, but I don't think it'd work out."

"What?" She asked, completely caught off gaurd by this. "You don't want to give it another go? You don't even want to try?"

"What you saw tonight changed me, Cho. I came out of the Ministry a different person and I'm not the same guy I was when I wanted to be with you. That part of me died with Sirius. I'm sorry, I'm just looking for something more."

"Something more than me?" Harry knew she didn't mean it the way that she said it; like a stuck up bitch.

"I'm looking for love, Cho."

"Well, give it some time Harry, you may just find it with me."

Harry shook his head. "I might, but I'm looking for something deeper. I'm looking for my soulmate, Cho, and I already know who it is and it's not you."

Cho looked at him as if she'd known this all along for a long moment and then with a resigned sigh she dropped her gaze and said, "Hermione Granger."

"How'd you know?"

"I can see it everytime you look at her, Harry, even when we were dating I could. There was always something in your eyes that you only got with her, like you knew she'd be with you for the rest of your life. I can see now that noone else ever stood a chance with you."

"Cho, Hermione and I haven't exactly sorted out anything yet, so - -"

She cut him off with a small smile, "It's okay, Harry, your secrets safe with me."

Harry smiled in appreciation and walked her out of the Room of Requirement. They parted ways as they went to their seperate towers. Harry found the common room completely empty when he walked in, not even Hermione was waiting by the fire as she usually did, so he just went to bed.

It was a little after midnight that he was awoken by another presence in his bed. The extra weight had moved in beside him and closed the bed hangings.

"Harry?" Hermione whispered.

"Yeah, Mione?"

"Does your offer still hold?"

He took her in his arms and took out his wand from under his pillow, placing a silencing charm around them so his roommates wouldn't hear and he stuck his bed hangings with another charm so nobody could rip them open and find the two together.

He slid up behind her and gently brushed away the tears that were silently spilling from her eyes. Even in the darkness and not even looking at her face he knew she was crying. 'Soulmate,' the word repeated itself in his mind over and over as he held her as if his life depended on it.

"Go to sleep, Love. I'll chase away your nightmares." He whispered in her ear.

"I don't know if I can, Harry, everytime I close my eyes I see him and the purple flame. I don't know if I can sleep."

"I won't let anything happen to you, Mione. I'll take care of you. Just close your eyes and know that I'll be right here when you wake up."

"You promise?"

"I promise, Mione. I've told you a thousand times, I'll never leave your side. You're stuck with me now."

Hermione giggled tiredly, "I don't mind so much. How is it you can focus on my pain when you just saw Sirius die again."

"I've already grieved for him, Hermione, and I know that he'd want me to try and help you, rather than grieve all over again. He'd understand. And you need me right now, and when you need me there's nothing that could keep me from you."

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13. Chapter Twelve: Training

CHAPTER TWELVE: TRAINING

~~~~~3rd October, 1996. Grimmauld Place.~~~~~

Albus Dumbledore walked into the sitting room at Grimmauld Place to find all he'd asked to arrive there. Mad-Eye, Lupin and Brodsky were congregated next to the fire, while McGonagall, Molly Weasley, Tonks and Snape were sitting on the couches.

He smiled at them all and took a seat next to McGonagall. "First off, Byron, how is Harrys training proceeding?"

"Very well, Headmaster. He has mastered non-verbal spells and we are moving onto enchantments. He is adequate with a sword and improves with each lesson. The wandless magic is taking a bit more time, but he has the potential to master it. And as for occlumency," Brodsky said with a pointed look at Snape, "He is progressing very well and it shouldn't be too long before he can close his mind from attack without a thought."

"Good, good." Dumbledore said, not missing the eye-contact exchange between Brodsky and Snape. "Alright, what we are here to discuss is whether or not we should begin training the others as well."

"What others, Headmaster?" Snape asked.

"The other five that went with Harry to the Ministry."

There was a bit of mumbling around the room until Mad-Eye spoke. "I don't know if they're all ready yet, Dumbledore. The youngest Weasley, Longbottom, and Lovegood, I think need alot more time. Young Ron could do with a bit more too. Grangers ready, though."

Tonks agreed, "Hermiones definitely ready. Actually I think she should have been started when Harry was."

"I think that we should start them all up." Lupin put in. "If they're not ready then the training will make them ready. I do suggest they train in different fields though, more suited to their abilities."

Mrs Weasley huffed, "I don't see why we need to be training them, anyway. They're too young! They shouldn't be preparing for war at their age."

McGonagall shook her head at Mrs Weasley. "Molly, they need to be prepared. You-Know-Who won't wait until they're ready to attack. Potter has a part in this war, the biggest out of all of us, I'd say, and the rest, especially your son and Miss Granger, will be by his side whether we like it or not. Best we get them ready so we don't have another repeat of the Department Of Mysteries incident."

"Very well." Dumbledore interrupted before Molly started off again. "We will start them on advanced magic and other weapons."

"What do you mean by other weapons, Headmaster?"

"As Harry works with a hand-and-a-half sword, we must find what the others are most suited to, as a back-up when they don't have their wands. Perhaps some physical training would be good for them too."

"I agree." Brodsky said. "But we should have them all on different routines, since they are all different."

"I don't like the idea of them working with weapons." Molly said.

"With that, I agree." McGonagall put in. "They are two young to be fighting with weapons that kill so much easier than magic and so much more violently."

"They may not always have their wands." Snape replied.

Dumbledore turned to Mrs Weasley, "Molly, we won't do this without your blessing. But you must know that it is not me or any of us that will end this war, it will be them, for it is their destiny. They will be in the final battle no matter what we say, it is now our choice whether we get them ready for that confrontation or they go in with only the knowledge they are taught in class."

With tears in her eyes, Molly Weasley thought over it long and hard. The battle in her mind was waging between her common sense and the need to protect her children and those she loved as hers. Finally and reluctantly she nodded her agreement.

~~~~~October 7th, 1996. Hogwarts~~~~~

"What do you think he wants us for?" Ron asked.

He, Harry, Hermione and Neville were sitting around desks in the DADA room waiting for Professor Brodsky to return from his office.

"I think he made a mistake in asking me to stay behind." Neville said quietly, a bit of his old worries leaking through.

"Don't be ridiculous Neville." Hermione scolded, "He wouldn't of said your name if he didn't want you to stay behind with us, now would he?"

Neville was still unsure but nodded his head slowly anyway. The door to the room opened and Luna and Ginny walked in.

"What's going on?" Ginny asked as she perched up on a desk next to her brother.

"We don't know." Harry told them.

Professor Brodsky walked out of his office and gave a tight smile as he made his way towards them, "Good, you are all here."

With a flick of his wand he locked the door and put a silencing charm around the room. The six looked at each other oddly, not one of them missing the fact that they were the exact group that went to the Ministry.

"Are you all aware that Harry has been taking extra training with me?" They all nodded. "Good, now I am asking you all if the rest of you would like extra training."

They all looked at him curiously for a minute or so until Harry stood up. "No! I know what you're training me for, and I refuse to let you train them for that too."

Brodsky didn't miss Hermiones eye roll and almost smiled again, but turned to Harry instead. "Harry, do you honestly think that they won't be by your side when you face Voldemort?"

"I won't let them."

Hermione stood up. "You don't have a choice!" She told him with anger.

Harry spun on her and their friends all instinctively moved away from the pair, knowing that things could get very messy with the two of them arguing.

"I bloody well do have a choice! This is my fight, my war, and if I don't want you all there then I won't let you be there!"

"You need to get over yourself Harry Potter!" Everyone was shocked by her choice of words, even Harry, but she continued, "It may always be you versus Voldemort but that doesn't make it your war! It's not just your way of life on the line, it's not just the people you love who are in danger, this involves everyone in the wizarding world, everyone in the world if you want to look at it that way! And let's face it Harry, you're good, but you aren't good enough to take on his entire army of death eaters and then him on your own, not even Dumbledore would be able to do that!"

"I won't risk anyone else that I care about!" Harry yelled back.

Hermione rolled her eyes again. "Then we might as well give up right now! You need help Harry, we're going to help you, and like I said before, you don't have a bloody choice!"

Harry was about to retaliate when a calming voice spoke from the still-locked door. "She is right, Harry." Dumbledore strode in until he was standing in between Harry and Hermione in an attempt to stop anything from exploding.

Dumbledore turned to Harry with a small smile, "I told you after your birthday that you needed those you cared for more than ever, and that held the double meaning of you don't only need them for your power, but also to fight with you. And I very much doubt anyone in this room, and many outside of it, would let you go into this alone, because you would die, Harry."

"Anyway, Harry, I wasn't asking you if you would allow them to have extra training, for that is not your decision to make, I was asking them if they'd like extra training." Brodsky broke in.

"Then yes, Professor, I for one would appreciate extra training." Hermione said, still not removing her glare from Harrys.

"Me too." Ron told him, then turned to Harry, "I know you don't want it mate, but Herms is right."

"I'm in as well. This isn't just your war, Harry, you need to remember that you aren't the only one who lost someone to Vol-Voldemort and his death eaters." Neville said, saying the Dark Lords name for the first time.

Ginny jumped off her desk, "Well if they're all doing it, so am I."

Everyones eyes, except Hermiones who was still staring determinedly at Harry and Harrys who were staring right back at her, moved to Luna who was twirling a strand of her hair. "Oh, yes, me too." She said dreamily.

"Fine, get yourselves killed, I don't care!" Harry yelled his eyes drilling into Hermione, who still didn't back down.

She brushed past Dumbledore and moved closer to Harry, "The whole purpose of the extra training is to help us survive."

"You'd survive if you just stayed out of it! What's it matter now anyway?! You've all made your decision, so I don't give a damn! You'll all die and I won't give a damn, because I told you to stay out of it. It's My! Bloody! Fight!"

That was it for Hermione, Harrys stubbornness was pushing her too close to the edge. She tried to calm herself while he was speaking by closing her eyes and taking deep breaths, but she just couldn't.

Hermione, driven only by her determination to make Harry understand, opened her eyes to give him a look that would have made anyone else in the world back off, in fact even Dumbledore took a step away from her worried for his own well-being. Harry, however didn't notice the look as he was consumed by his own anger and neither had noticed small objects shaking, glass rattling, or the paper on Brodskys desk swirling. So the moment Harry finished his tirade, Hermione swung.

Crack! Hermiones fist connected with Harrys jaw hard enough to send him flying into the desk behind him and slide to the floor.

Harry looked up at her in disbelief as she stood over him and whispered harshly with more fury and emotion than anyone had ever heard used before, "We can't risk you either and that's why we'll be there, whether you like it or not."

Hermione turned on her heel and stormed out of the classroom. A moment of shock silenced everyone else until Ginny snapped out of it, grabbed Lunas wrist and the two ran after her. Ron moved and helped Harry off the ground. The magic that had been crackling throughout the room dissipated slowly and Brodsky started picking up his parchment.

"Well, mate, can't say you didn't deserve that." Ron said once Harry was standing again.

"I know." Harry groaned as he rubbed his aching jaw, thankful he could still talk. "I'm being an idiot."

Dumbledore was barely holding back a smile. "Well, I can't say much about Miss Grangers methods, but I am glad that she has made you see things differently Harry."

When Harry didn't say anything, nor make any kind of movement towards the door and instead stood there rubbing his sore jaw, Dumbledore prompted, "Perhaps you should go and apologize, Harry."

"What if she hits me again?"

Brodsky actually laughed, "Then you'll be helping her get her own anger out, son, and you should just take it. But I bet anything she's calmed down by now, enough to keep her fists by her side anyway."

Harry nodded and he and Ron left the DADA room. In the entrance hall they met up with Luna and Ginny.

"Are you okay?" Ginny asked.

"Yeah, I'm fine, where's Hermione?"

"We couldn't find her, perhaps she's been eaten by - -"

Harry didn't stay around to hear what non-existant creature of Lunas may have eaten Hermione. They might not know where she went, but Harry had an idea. He left the other three bewildered in the entrance hall as he ran full pelt in the direction of the lake.

When Harry reached the clearing he knew she could sense him there by the way she ever so slightly tilted her head in his direction. Crookshanks was there too, rubbing around her leg, looking for a scratch, obviously coming after sensing his Mistress in distress. Hermione didn't say anything as she absently rubbed the cat behind the ear, waiting for Harry to speak first. He didn't go and sit by her, opting to stand a little behind her instead.

"I'm sorry, Mione." He told her.

"Don't bullshit me, Harry. You may be able to fool other people, but I know you. I know you think that you're completely in the right about this. But you need to realize you're being a self-centred ass, and until you do I don't want to be near you."

Harrys anger rose again, "Self-centred? I don't like this because I care for all of you!"

Hermione stood and turned to him. "Because you care or because of your own self-pity that you go and drown yourself in every time something happens to one of us?"

"Stop it, Mione! We've had this argument before. I can't lose you, you bloody well know that! If I lost the others it would hurt like all hell but I'd be alright eventually, but if I lost you....well you know what would happen."

"And you think I'd be any better if I lost you?"

"You've got more ahead of you, Mione."

Hermione sighed and smiled a little as she moved closer to him, "And I wouldn't want to do it without you, it just wouldn't be worth it. Harry, you try and protect us because you're scared we'll get hurt, don't you think we're just doing the same thing? We don't want to lose you either, Harry, we love you too much to let you face it alone. Whether you like it or not, we'll be there with you."

"Well, I don't like it. But I'm well aware that you'll do this anyway."

They smiled at each other so Harry wrapped an arm around her shoulder and began to lead her back up to the castle. A mangy orange cat behind them.

"I'm sorry I hit you." Hermione told him softly. "You just made me so angry."

"I know, Mione and I'm sure I deserved it. Everyone else thinks I deserved it anyway, you think I deserved it, and who am I to argue with the smartest witch in the world."

"I'm not the smartest witch in the world."

"Are too, and don't even try to argue because I'll just block my ears."

~~~~~October 11th, 1996. Hogwarts.~~~~~

Harry and Hermione walked to the Room of Requirement together. They'd been paired up as training partners since they had the similar builds, besides the obvious, and were around the same height, Hermione only a little bit shorter. Luna and Ginny had been paired up, as had Neville and Ron.

The three groups would all be doing training at different times, and Tonks and Mad-Eye had been recruited as 'part-time Professors'. Tonks would take the girls, Mad-Eye would take the boys while Brodsky kept with Harry and Hermione.

Harry and Hermione would be the only ones learning wandless magic, since Brodsky believed they would be the only two with the ability to master it and Dumbledore agreed. But the others would still be doing advanced magic, non-verbal magic, physical training and they'd learn the art of a weapon that suited them.

The room was the same as it always was when they were doing physical training, a large paddock with hills and a few trees. Harry still marveled at just how magical this room was.

Brodsky was, as usual, already there. He was sitting under a tree in his normal training outfit, stretching. He smiled up at them when they approached and patted the ground beside him.

"Good morning, Harry, Miss Granger."

"Morning, Professor." Harry and Hermione greeted simultaneously.

Harry knew Hermione was still uncomfortable around the oldest wizard in the room and until everything came out he was going to do everything possible to make sure she was alright.

She kept up easily as they ran the wild hill behind Brodsky. She had told Harry she was in great shape, but he really had no idea. It had taken him weeks of running up this hill to be able to do it without almost dying, but looking over at her now, she was having no trouble at all.

Harry almost tripped after watching her and not where he was going, Hermione had just looked back at him with a cheeky smile. Not even the silky night gowns she had worn when they'd shared a bed, which had set his imagination wild, could compare to seeing her now. She had a tight, grey tank top on, with a short pair of black shorts.

His throat constricted as he trailed a little behind her. He couldn't think of anything sexier than seeing just how strong her muscles were as they worked, and the sweat glistening off her skin in the rooms unnatural sunlight.

When they stopped at the top of the hill so he could get his breath back he had to force himself to concentrate on anything but Hermione as she put her hands on her head and stretched. Harry had no idea how he was going to keep training with her if this was how he reacted.

"Right there, Harry?" Brodsky asked, hitting him on the back since he was leaned over with his hands on his knees. "You should stand up straight, son, you'll breathe easier."

Harry had to think of Snape dancing in a bikini for a full minute before he could stand straight and not have his reaction to Hermiones body show.

"Right then, back down." Brodsky announced and began his descent.

Harry and Hermione both paused at the top of the track. When Harry saw her knowing grin he moved in close and whispered, "Why do I get the feeling you know what you do to me?"

Hermione just smiled that 'I'm the smartest witch in the world and I know everything,wasn't that obvious?' smile and headed down the hill behind Brodsky, still keeping her distance from the professor though. Harry stood in shock for a moment with a stupid grin on his face, then laughed and shook his head, following them down the track.

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14. Chapter Thirteen: Breakout

Hello all, me again. Firstly, thanks to all who are not only reviewing this story, but the other one I have been posting as well, it means alot to me to get feedback from those who read them. This chapter doesn't have much action, sorry, but it's a little bit of plot movement. I'm just trying to keep the plot ball rolling. At the moment actually, I'm just putting the finishing touches on this story and beginning the ... *gasp* sequal. That's of course if you're not all too bored with my tale by then. I don't know how long it will be before each post though and I'm currently in the process of talkings with a beta to go over it all and make sure I'll keep you interested.

Oh and keep an eye out for the next chapter there'll be a bit more Brodsky curiousity, more questions will be asked then answered though. Sorry. Once again thanks for all the brilliant reviews, keep them coming guys, they're the reason I keep plodding along with this story.

Thanks, Roman.

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CHAPTER THIRTEEN: BREAKOUT

~~~~~October 16th, 1996. Hogwarts.~~~~~

Hermione was in awe of the weaponry held in Brodskys trunk. She knew the eras and empires most of them came from and was absolutely fascinated at how he had acquired them, but she didn't ask.

The two were still keeping their distance from eachother so much in fact that she wouldn't of had a clue even what colour his eyes were. In the dreams she never saw them, in the nightmares it was too dark, and since he'd been teaching she'd barely glanced at his face, she knew it well enough anyway.

She, Harry, Ron, Luna, Ginny, Neville as well as Brodsky, Mad-Eye and Tonks were now all in his trunk, and the room was so big it wasn't crowded. It was Hermiones first weaponry lesson, yet the others were all here as well so their teachers could decide what weapon suited them.

While the students browsed the weaponry, careful not to touch anything, Brodsky, Mad-Eye and Tonks stood in a corner talking.

"The girls wouldn't be much with a sword." Mad-Eye said. "Except maybe Granger, she may just have the finesse for one."

"She does." Was all Brodsky said as he kept a watchful eye on the younger witches and wizards whom were standing far too close to his prized possessions for his liking.

"I don't know about Hermione, but I doubt Luna and Gin would be much good with them." Tonks put-in.

"Well, what are their strengths?"

"They both have very good aim. We were working with a bit of target practice the other day and I picked up that Ginny has a good eye, and Luna, she may seem dreamy at all times, but she barely has to aim when she fires off a spell and it always hits the target." Tonks explained.

Brodsky thought for a short while, turning his full attention back to his peers. "Bows. They would do well with bows and arrows. They're also light, so they don't need much strength.

"What about the guns?" Tonks looked at him.

"No, I want to teach them the guns, but I want to wait until they are of age, they are far too dangerous to carry around at the moment. The rest of the weapons can be safely carried under a cloak, so we'll keep with them. What about Weasley and Longbottom?"

Mad-Eye turned to look at his students before speaking. "Both big guys. Strong, especially in the upper arms, I had 'em bench-pressing yesterday." He laughed a bit.

"Wait, how do you know?" Tonks asked Brodsky, "I mean, how is it that you can tell what kind of weapon suits them best?"

Brodsky thought for a moment, "I am a weapons expert. I've seen each in use and know what kind of person one needs to be to handle each. I don't know if that's enough explanation, but I can just tell. I geuss you could say I have an eye for these things."

"Fair enough." Tonks shrugged.

Nodding, Brodsky went on, "Now the boys. Strong in the upper arms, you say?" Mad-Eye nodded so Brodsky thought out loud, "Swords, then. Or maybe....." He trailed off as his eyes scanned over his collection.

Quickly he crossed the room to where his axes and spears were. He looked them all over for a long while. Then called, "Longbottom, come here."

Neville turned from where he was looking at the guns and made his way over to Brodsky. Brodsky just looked him up and down, grabbed his shoulders and gave his biceps a good squeeze. Then turned back to the shelf.

Very gently he picked up a short, double sided axe. He thrust it out in front of Neville who very carefully took it.

"Well, give it a swing boy." Brodsky instructed then stepped out of the weapons range.

Neville brought it down slowly and then back up again, side to side. He held it in one hand and both, feeling it and flipping it. It seemed good enough.

"How does it feel? Is it too heavy?" Brodsky asked.

"No, Sir. It feels fine."

"Good. Longbottom on the axe." Brodsky announced and then moved over to Ron. "Another big strong young man. You're a keeper, aren't you?"

Ron nodded and so Brodsky moved towards his blades. He muttered to himself as he ran a hand over each blade, looking back and forth between Ron and the swords. Finally he picked one up and handed it to Ron.

The swords was short, only about sixty centremeters long and double-edged with a v-shaped tip. Ron only swung it once before Brodsky took it back off him and placed it back on its stand. The next one he picked up was only single-edged with a heavy forward curving blade.

Ron swung a cleaving strike then turned back to look at Brodsky. "It doesn't feel right. What is it?"

"It's a kopis. And no, it doesn't seem like the right one for you, Mr. Weasley." Brodsky said, replacing the weapon in its spot.

A small smile appeared on the older wizards face as he moved a little to the left. He picked up the sword that had his eye and passed it to Ron.

"I believe this one will suit you perfectly."

Ron took it and turned it over in his hands. It was pretty heavy and the hilt had space for two hands, but Ron figured he could probably handle it with one hand. It was double-edged with a v-shaped tip, like the first one, but it was longer.

"This is better." Ron said with a grin.

Brodsky smiled back. "Indeed. That there is a spadone. It was used by knights during medieval times."

"Awesome." Ron whispered.

"Now, we have already decided that the girls would work with bows and arrows, except that is Miss Granger."

Harry instinctively moved closer to Hermione as she seemed to get uncomfortable. Brodsky didn't notice since he was moving to a different section of the swords. Gently he picked up a blade that Harry could only describe as beautiful.

He recognized the make from movies he'd been able to catch a glimpse of while at the Dursleys as the same sword that samurai used, a katana. It was curved with a single-edge and a chisel-like tip. The light seemed to reflect off the blade as Brodsky held it out. The gaurd was only a thin circle and the grip was made of a dark wood, intricate patterns, much like snowflakes, carved into it. Harry thought it beautiful.

"I believe you have enough grace, speed and finesse to use the Japanese katana. And if you'd like to learn how to handle a wakizashi as well, then I'd be happy to teach you. It is the short blade that usually goes with a katana, it's more for stabbing." Brodsky explained.

Hermione too thought the katana to be beautiful, so much in fact she was mesmerized by it. All she could do was stare at it while she took it out of Brodskys hands.

There was a long silence in the room until Tonks thankfully broke it. "Well, now that we know what weapons you'll all be using, we should probably get out of here, some of you have class."

This seemed to wake everyone up. Brodsky turned and looked at her, "Yes. You will only be using training weapons for now, so put them all back."

~~~~~October 19th, 1996. Hogwarts.~~~~~

Since it was a Saturday Harry, Ron and Hermione were pretty late getting to breakfast. Harry looked over at Hermione where she was next to him and noticed she barely touched her food, and hadn't even opened her Daily Prophet.

He moved in close and said quietly, "What's up?"

She seemed startled as she looked at him, then snapped out of it, took a deep breath and shook her head. "Nothing, I just drifted off for a moment."

"You've been like this for a while now Hermione. It's about that katana, isn't it?"

Hermione looked deep in thought for a moment before answering, "Yes. There was just something about it. When I saw it, I couldn't take my eyes off it, and the moment that it touched my hands it just felt.....right."

"We'll figure this all out in time, Mione. Don't worry about it now, okay." He told her with a smile.

She relaxed and smiled back. "Thanks, Harry. You always know how to make me feel better."

"Don't thank me, it's my job." He grinned.

She laughed a bit then reached over for the Prophet while Harry filled her glass. But her relaxation didn't last long. As soon as she unfolded the paper her face fell and all the blood drained out of it. Harry immediately knew something was wrong without even looking at her.

"My God." She whispered so softly that he wasn't sure if he heard it.

"What?" He turned to her worriedly.

She looked at him blankly and slowly handed him the paper. Harry took it out of her hands and scanned the front page, seeing instantly what had upset her.

'Death Eaters Escape' was the headline. Underneath was a picture of Lucius Malfoy, Antonin Dolohov and a few others.

'Ministry officials reported late last night that there was a mass breakout at Azkaban. All those who seemed to have escaped the prison were known Death Eaters, followers of He-Who-Shall-Not-Be-Named. Officials say they still don't know exactly how the convicts managed to get out.'

The article went on for the rest of the page, but Harry didn't need to read it. He'd figured they'd all get out sometime and that didn't worry him half as much as the effect this would have on Hermione did.

He absently passed the paper over to Ron who was looking at them with a question in his eyes and turned to Hermione. He grabbed her hand and was concerned at how cold it was.

"Mione?"

She turned to him, tears brimming on her eyes. "I'd hadn't been thinking about him much, Harry. I was too focused on Brodsky that I'd almost stopped having the nightmares about Dolohov."

Hermione was about to burst into tears so Harry stood her up saying, "Come on, we'll go to our special place for a while. Ron, I'm just gonna' take Hermione to calm down a bit."

Ron just nodded although he was still confused, he too had been expecting them to breakout of Azkaban. He was about to go with Harry and Hermione when Lavander just slided up into the seat next to him. So instead he turned away from his departing friends and smiled at her.

Down at their spot by the lake, Hermione didn't say a word as Harry sat her down and sat behind her, wrapping his arms around her and pulling her back to lean on him. Her eyes were unfocused and staring off over the lake.

"It'll be alright, Mione." Harry whispered in her ear. "I won't let him hurt you, I won't let anyone hurt you ever."

That relaxed her somewhat and she leaned further into his chest and closed her eyes. When she opened them they were focused again and a tear slid down her cheek.

"I don't even know why this is upsetting me so much." She said softly. "I knew that Azkaban wouldn't hold them for long. It's just....oh, I don't know."

"Mione, he nearly killed you. It's okay to be upset that the bastard is back on the streets. Just don't forget that he's a bad guy and the bad guys always end up worse off. We'll get him, Mione, and next time he won't be sent to a prison, he'll be sent to a morgue."

She smiled a little, "You're pretty good at that job of yours."

"Yeah, just call me Doctor Feel-Better." He laughed.

They were both silent for a long time until Hermione spoke. "The nightmares about him will be back now. I'll have to see it everynight again."

"You know you can come and sleep with me. We can once again chase away eachothers bad dreams."

"Thanks, Harry."

She closed her eyes again and competely relaxed in his arms until she fell asleep against him. Harry just smiled and enjoyed the moment holding her tight against him.

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15. Authors Note

Authors Note:

First off, my apologies to everyone who thought this was a chapter update. I'm afraid it's not, it's simply an authors note. Now as to why I'm writing an authors note and not updating the story; don't panic. I have recently started with a beta, the wonderful and talented Raven Dreams, my girl. And she is in the process of beta'ing the next chapter right now.

The long wait is, of course, my fault. I've been rather busy lately trying to get this wedding organized amongst far too many other things and therefore, I have been abusing my responsibilitiesas a writer. For this, I am terribly sorry, I actually don't think I can apologize enough.

What I would recommend to those who are really interested in this story, is to check out my live journal (roman-citizen.livejournal.com). I set it up just to keep you all updated on my progress with the Footsteps world, and with my other fanfics as well. And I am sure to update that as often as I can, as it only takes a moment, whereas updating the fic itself takes more time with all that reading through first to make sure it's perfect.

So that's what I'm telling you all, go to my live journal to know what's happening and I am again terribly sorry about the long wait, I'm a horrible person, I know.

Thanks a lot all, Roman.

16. Chapter Fourteen: Curiouser And Curiouser, Said Alice

CHAPTER FOURTEEN: CURIOUSER AND CURIOUSER, SAID ALICE

~~~~~October 23rd, 1996. Hogwarts.~~~~~

Harry and Hermione had stayed late after the DA meeting, just sitting in the comfortable Room of Requirement talking. She'd shared his bed every night since the Death Eaters had escaped Azkaban and each night the nightmares had woken her; each night he'd held her while she cried herself back to sleep.

"I do like the idea of splitting the younger and older students up into two separate groups," Hermione said as they shared a couch.

"We'd have to cut the lesson time down, but I think it'd be easier," Harry explained. "We could teach the younger students, say first through fourth years, earlier on a Wednesday night and then we could do the rest after that."

"Sounds like a plan to me." She yawned and checked her watch, "Oh, Harry, we're past curfew."

"Don't worry," he said with a small grin as he stood up. "I brought the invisibility cloak, just in case I needed to sneak you up to the Boys' dorms."

They slipped the cloak over themselves as they left the room and began their journey towards the Gryffindor Tower. A rustling just up ahead caused them to stop and quietly investigate; the scene that greeted them was rather interesting. Snape and Brodsky were standing in an abandoned corridor glaring at one another.

"I should kill you where you stand, Severus," Brodsky hissed.

"You could try, Byron, and you'd probably succeed, but you have nothing to hold against me."

Brodsky whirled on Snape and in one quick flash had him by the front of his robes. He pushed him so his back hit against a wall, hard.

"Nothing to hold against you? That's what you say! You were there that night; don't even try to deny it. I heard Malfoy call you by name."

Snape sneered, "I don't deny it. I was there. And if you remember correctly, I refused to kill her. Make no mistake; I was punished greatly for that."

"You did nothing to save her either, Severus. You refused your orders and let the others follow through with them. I don't give a damn how many times you were put under the Cruciatus! You have <i>no</i> idea of what true pain is."

Brodsky let Snape go with a final shove against the stone wall and began to walk away until Snape's call caused him to hesitate.

"She was my friend, Byron, one of the very few I ever had. It hurt me just as much to see her die, so I understand."

Brodsky seemed to calm himself a little and, with his back to Snape, anger still in his eyes, he spoke. His voice was barely above a whisper, yet it could be heard clearly, and painfully, as it rang throughout the corridor. "She was my wife, Severus. The only woman I have ever loved. You have no idea how much it hurt me."

Slowly he turned to Snape and continued, "When you lose the woman you love; when you are forced to watch as she is brutally murdered; when you feel an emptiness in your soul so deep you feel as though you may be on fire; when you know that you will never have that piece of your heart replaced; when you know never see her, hear her voice, or touch her face again; when you spend every waking moment of your life in pain, a pain so deep it almost consumes you; when you spend every sleeping moment dreaming of her, or having nightmares about the night she died; when you are forced to feel what I feel each day, knowing you'll feel it until the day you die, then, and only then, can you come to me and say that you understand."

Snape didn't say anything as he watched Brodsky silently walk away and fade into the shadows. Then he headed in the opposite direction, his cloak billowing behind him.

Harry and Hermione neither moved, nor spoke for a long time; Harry eventually took in a deep breath and released it slowly before he turned to Hermione. She had tears running silently down her face.

"'Mione?" Harry whispered.

Hermione didn't look at him, just said, "That poor man."

After another few seconds Harry grabbed her hand and tightened the cloak around them. "Come on, let's go."

They got back to common room to find it deserted so the two sat down together on a couch in front of the fire.

"I'm guessing Snape is one of the Death Eaters that you see in your dreams," Harry assumed.

After letting out a sigh, she confirmed, "Yeah, that's sure what they seemed to be talking about. He didn't kill Brodsky's wife though, he refused; that's pretty interesting."

"Yeah. I guess he's not quite as evil as we all assume him to be."

Hermione turned to him, "That's very mature of you to say, Harry."

"Yeah. But like Brodsky said: he didn't do anything to stop it. If he was all good he would've done something."

"If he was all good he wouldn't have been a Death Eater in the first place. Maybe he was scared to save her. He was probably terrified of Voldemort. If he'd interfered to that extent he'd probably be dead."

"True, but at least he would have redeemed himself."

After thinking for a moment Hermione said, "Maybe that's what he's trying to do now. He is apparently on our side, and it did look like he was trying to make some sort of apology to Brodsky. So maybe he'll still get his chance at redemption."

Harry broke the five minute silence that ensued with, "You know what Brodsky said?" Hermione nodded. "That's how I'd feel if I lost you."

Hermione was shocked for a long moment, "Harry, you can't possibly mean that."

"I do." He looked up into her eyes, "You have no idea how much you mean to me, do you? With everything that's happening you haven't been able to see just how important you are in my life. Hell, Hermione, I would have been dead long ago if it weren't for you. And recently, I've had these feelings towards you."

"I know, Harry. I've had them too."

"I'm just so scared that I'll lose you."

She took his hand, "Then we share the same fears. Come on, we should go to bed."

~~~~~October 26th, 1996. Hogsmeade.~~~~~~

Harry had always loved Hogsmeade around Halloween. The place seemed to come alive with magic. He and Hermione shared a carriage with Ron and Lavender, since he had finally asked her to go with him, but as soon as the carriage reached its destination the two couples went their separate ways, saying they'd meet up again at the Three Broomsticks.

Harry and Hermione walked through the streets peacefully, stopping in at a couple of shops to get some things, but they were mainly just enjoying each others company.

Deciding to go to the Three Broomsticks earlier than they'd scheduled with Ron and Lavender; the two headed in that direction. Not even the drawling voice that came from behind stopped them, as they ignored it and continued walking.

"Read the Prophet, Potter?" Draco Malfoy asked smugly; the Gryffindors could practically hear the smirk hanging off of his lips.

"Ignore him." Hermione whispered and the two kept going.

"By the way, Mudblood, Antonin says hello." Malfoy laughed along with Crabbe and Goyle.

Harry and Hermione stopped dead in their tracks and slowly turned to the Slytherins. With a fire in his eyes and through clenched teeth, Harry growled, "I will kill you, Malfoy."

Malfoy quickly pulled his wand, "Incendio!"

Hermione had already drawn her wand and quickly magicked a shield around Harry and herself before the ball of fire hit, while Harry pulled out his own and fired back, "Expelliarmus!"

Malfoy's wand now lay about ten meters behind him and as he turned he saw why Crabbe and Goyle hadn't drawn theirs. Ron and Lavender were behind the three Slytherins with their wands covering them.

Harry and Hermione walked closer to Malfoy and his apes, both their wands still trained on the ringleader.

"Don't come near us again, Malfoy, or, I swear, I'll make you regret it."

Malfoy just snarled and turned, pushing his way past Ron and Lavender with Crabbe and Goyle trailing behind him.

Ron grinned at his two best friends, wrapped his arm around Lavender, and started walking towards the Three Broomsticks, "I believe a butterbeer is in order."

The Three Broomsticks was quiet; a lot of adult wizards didn't visit Hogsmeade on weekends since it was more than likely filled with students. Hermione, Ron and Lavender went to a back booth while Harry went to the bar.

"Harry!" Rosmerta smiled as she walked up to him.

"Hello, Madame Rosmerta, how are you?"

"Just fine. What can I get you?"

"Four butterbeers, please."

She returned a moment later with the butterbeers in hand and put them on the bar in front of Harry. But as he was pulling money from his pocket she shook him off.

"Don't you dare, Potter. You know I don't take your money here."

"Please, Rosmerta, it's no trouble to me at all, I have more than enough."

Rosmerta just shook her head, "Then you can use that money for something else. Now go and enjoy your drinks."

She walked away before Harry had a chance to respond. Smiling, he took the drinks back to the table at which his friends were seated. Once there Hermione gave him a relieved look and he soon saw why; Ron and Lavender were flirting like there was no tomorrow; hanging all over each other.

"So, mate, we've got our first Quidditch match next weekend, you think the team is ready?" Harry asked.

Ron looked up from Lavender with a smile, "It's only against Hufflepuff, so I think we got a damn good chance. They shouldn't be that tough and we've never lost to them."

"Yeah, and the team seems to be working well together. Might be in a chance for the cup."

"I reckon. The only problem will be the Slytherins. But that's only because they'll be trying to murder us on the pitch."

While the boys talked about Quidditch the girls became bored, since neither really cared much for the sport.Lavender grabbed Hermione's hand, "Let's go."

"Where?" Hermione asked. Both Harry and Ron had turned to look at them.

"For a walk."

"Well, we'll come." Ron said and began to stand.

Lavender put a hand on his shoulder and pushed him back down. "Nope. You boys stay here. This is a girl walk."

"Girl walk?! What the hell is that?"

Lavender just smiled at him as she dragged Hermione outside of the pub. She linked arms with Hermione and led her off down the street.

"So, you and Ron seem cozy." Hermione smiled.

Lavender giggled a little, "He's just so cute and he really is a sweetheart. I was just so happy that he asked me to come here with him. Anyway, as much as I love talking about Ron, that's that's not the reason for this little stroll. What I want to discuss is you and Harry."

"Harry and I?"

"Something is obviously going on there."

"Lav, there's - -"

Lavender cut her off, "Hermione, we've shared a dorm for over five years now. I know you. And I've seen the way you two look at each other." Hermione didn't say anything, so Lavender probed a little more, "Herms, have I ever told one of your secrets?"

Sighing Hermione shook her head, "No, you haven't."

"Exactly. So, give me details."

"Lav, there really isn't much to tell." Lavender went to interrupt, but Hermione stopped her. "I mean it. There's definitely something there, and we've talked about it a little, but nothing of interest has happened."

"Maybe not of interest to you, but to me....what has happened?"

"We have these moments. Moments when it seems we're the only two people in the world and Merlin how I wish we could just stay in those moments, with no school, no teachers, no.....no training, no war, no bloody Voldemort. Things would be so much easier if we were normal."

"You and Harry will never be normal, Herms."

"I meant not of this worldâ€¦I wish we weren't magical."

"And I meant just you and Harry. No, none of us in the wizarding world are what you muggle-borns think are normal, but in the wizarding world you and Harry aren't normal. And neither of you ever will be."

"What do you mean?"

"Harry Potter: the boy who lived; the boy who has done the impossible time and time again. Hermione Granger: the smartest witch to ever walk through the doors of Hogwarts; the girl who knows more spells than Dumbledore himself. Can't you see it? You two are....oh, I don't know. You two are meant for greater things. Together, you're a force to be reckoned with. I wouldn't want to be You-Know-Who when Dumbledore has you pair trained and ready and you go after the evil bastard." Lavender explained.

"He doesn't want me to." Hermione said quietly.

"Who?"

"Harry. He doesn't want me to fight with him. He wants me as far away from danger as possible. It's actually what most of our fights are about. He tells me he can't lose me and I tell him I can't lose him either and that's why I'll be fighting with him and then we yell at each other. I don't understand how he thinks I could just stand on the sidelines. Since the day we met I've been willing to follow him through the gates of hell; I certainly won't be turning around when he needs me the most."

"You two really are quite a pair, you know?" Lavender laughed. "Come on, we should get back to those misfits."

"Yeah, best not to leave them alone for too long. Those two come up with some pretty insane ideas when they put their heads together."

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17. Chapter Fifteen: Quidditch

A/N: Firstly, thanks to all those who reviewed the last chapter, I'm glad that you enjoyed the small glimpse at Brodsky. I love how detailed you all are! This chapter is a little early because I was in the mood to give you all a treat. And of course, it is the readers I write for, so thank you all.

Okay, here's another chapter. This one isn't much and don't hate me because I'm a romantic and I have trouble writing the action scenes especially with things like quidditch - and really when writing the game, there isn't that much you can put in. But to a particular reviewer - Mike - here is your acknowledgment.

I do hope you enjoy however and as always, reviews are appreciated, but not mandatory. I like to know what you think, but if you don't feel like leaving one, that's fine with me.

Disclaimer: Thought I'd add another one of these just to keep you all in the loop - no, I still don't own the Harry Potter world, but I'm working on it! I don't make any money from it, I just do it for kicks and because H/Hr is the best ship ... the true ship.

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CHAPTER FIFTEEN: QUIDDITCH

~~~~~November 2nd, 1996. Hogwarts.~~~~~

In the changing rooms at the Quidditch pitch of Hogwarts, Ron stood in front of the Gryffindor team. Harry just sat back and watched him go through plays for the chasers to remember. He liked to let his best mate have his chance to shine, and Quidditch and strategy were the two things at which Ron was actually knowledgeable.

"This game shouldn't be too tough. From what I've heard, the Hufflepuff team don't have a chance at the cup this year. Wedo. So just remember what we've been going through in practice, but leave the fancy stuff out, we don't want to give away all our tricks when we don't need to. Alright, let's get out there."

The team filed out of the changing rooms and listened as the Hufflepuff team was introduced by the new announcer."The Chaser line: Benson! Torel! And Cornell! Followed by beaters Henderson and Gregs! Chasing the little gold ball with wings will be Seeker, Billy Manger, and the captain of the team, defending the goals, Sandra Peters!"

The Gryffindor team took to their brooms and flew out into the stadium as their names were called, doing a lap for show.The entire team moved to the center of the field as Madame Hooch strolled out, levitating a large, wooden crate in front of her.

She looked up at the two teams with a stern glance. "This is to be a clean game!" She called and then opened the box. She released the Bludgers which shot up, almost knocking the Hufflepuff Seeker off his broom.

Both Seekers watched carefully as the Snitch was released, flying up in between them and straight up out of sight. The Quaffle was thrown straight up and the game was on, with the Seekers shooting up in the direction the Snitch had gone.

"Hufflepuff gets the Quaffle on the throw and Torel is blasting down the pitch! Passes to Benson who barely misses a Bludger fired by Longbottom! Back to Torel! To Cornell who slips it to Benson! Benson takes aim! Nice save by Gryffindor co-captain Ron Weasley."

Neither of the seekers had seen the snitch when they'd headed upwards, so they were now circling the pitch on opposite sides of each other. Harry's attention was split, partly on the game below, partly on the other Seeker, but mostly on his search for the snitch.

He vaguely heard the roar of the crowd as Gryffindor scored the first goal of the first game of the season. By the time Harry first saw a glint of gold Gryffindor was up, 40-10. He took off towards where the Snitch was hovering near the ground.

Glancing around briefly, he saw Manger take off after him. Almost as if the Snitch sensed the incoming Seekers, Manger still way behind Harry, it shot off. Harry and Manger chased it across the ground, almost so close they could run their feet on the grass, up and in front of the stands, but they both lost it as it headed to the sky and a bit of sun shone through the autumn clouds.

Once more they took to lapping the pitch on opposite sides of the field waiting for any glimpse of the Snitch.

Below the game continued. "Cornell's got the Quaffle! Passes to Torel! Oh! That had to hurt, nice shot by Finnegan! Patil picks it up on the drop! Zooms past Henderson who swings, but misses by a long shot! Long pass to Weasley! Who throws....It's in! Gryffindor 90-50!

"The Quaffle has been thrown back into the fray and picked up by Benson! Cuts through the two Gryffindor Beaters, passes to Torel who still seems a little shaky after that Bludger to the chest, but she's back on her broom and headed for the goal! Throws to Cornell! Intercepted by Thomas! Thomas buzzes through the line and flip-passes to Weasley!"

For the second time the Seekers chased the Snitch. Manger had seen it first, but Harry, being the better flyer and having a Firebolt quickly caught up. They flew past Ron, who was so focused on the Chasers he almost fell off his broom when he saw them headed towards him.

Cutting around, they traveled half of the pitch before shooting upwards into the clouds. The Snitch seemed to stop for a moment before dropping back down. Harry, who'd been flying vertically, turned himself over completely, cutting in front of Manger who stopped and turned.

They followed it back down to the pitch where it took a sharp turn and broke a path through the chasers, Hufflepuff currently in position. Harry followed, breaking up the V-formation Hufflepuff had made and making sure to 'accidentally' knock the Quaffle out of Benson's hands, straight into Ginny's waiting ones.

Harry glanced behind him to find Manger caught in the riot that was the chaser line and getting left behind. He turned back to the snitch, but Crack! a Bludger connected with the side of his head. Straightening himself to avoid the impending tailspin, he wiped the blood off of his face with the sleeve of his uniform and looked around for the snitch, but it was long gone and one look at Manger confirmed that he didn't know where it was either. So it was back to circling the pitch for the seekers.

"Thomas has the Quaffle, passes to Weasley, to Patil, back to Weasley! It's knocked out of Weasley's hands by Gregs's Bludger! That looked painful, but Weasley is still playing. The Hufflepuff chaser line is heading for the goal. It's with Torel, Benson, Torel, Cornell, to Benson, who throws...the King is reaching, damn! Missed it by millimeters."

Ron's fingertips had actually grazed the Quaffle as he reached to stop it from going through the left hoop. He cursed and retrieved it, throwing it to Dean.

"130-100, Gryffindor. Weasley in possession! Merlin! Henderson actually managed to hit his own team member, Torel, with a Bludger! That's one for the yearbook! Thomas has it, overhead throw to Patil! She swings around Cornell, passes to Weasley! Weasley goes for the shot, no, it was a trick! She's swung it back to Thomas who has put it through the center hoop! Gryffindor 140-100!"

It was another half an hour, and eighty points, before Harry saw the snitch again, hovering right above the Gryffindor stands. He was closer than Manger by a long-shot, since the other seeker was on the other side of the field. Harry leaned down on his broom and took off. The Snitch didn't even move as he approached. Harry glanced back and saw Manger way behind him with a dumbfounded look on his face.

He turned back to the snitch and saw it was still there, hovering right above the roaring Gryffindor crowd. He pushed himself further down on the broom and reached out. Gryffindor erupted as he wrapped his hand around the snitch.

"That's it! Game over! Gryffindor wins, 330-140! Harry Potter has caught the snitch! Gryffindor wins the first game of the season!" The announcer hollered, although it could barely be heard over the crowd.

Harry landed on the pitch in the middle of his teammates who were cheering along with everyone else. Ron walked up with a big smile and gave him a hard whack on the back.

"Nice going, mate!" Ron congratulated.

"Yes, it was very impressive," a soft voice said from behind them.

Both boys turned to see Hermione standing there with a smile on her face. She reached up and gave Ron a kiss on the cheek, then turned to Harry. The kiss on his cheek lingered a touch longer than it had on Ron and managed to double the size of the grin on his face.

She smiled at him, then took his arm in one of hers and Ron's in the other and started leading them away, "I believe a celebration is in order for such fine playing by Gryffindor's co-captains."

Ron grinned at her, "I love it when you think like that, Herms."

"But first I think you two need a shower." She pushed Ron through the door to the Gryffindor changing room. He smiled back and then trudged towards the showers.

She turned to Harry with a smile, "Good game, Harry."

He briefly looked around to make sure no one was near, but the teams were all in their changing rooms, and the rest of the crowd had headed back to the castle. He took her hand and looked into her eyes, "I only win when my lucky charm is in the crowd."

After a long moment of just staring at each other, Hermione looked away with a smile, "Go shower, Harry. I'll be in the common room, with everyone else."

He let go of her hand, kissed her on the cheek again and ran into the showers. Hermione smiled after him, shook her head and made her way back to the castle.

The party was already raging when Harry, Ron, and the rest of the team made their way through the portrait hole. The moment they walked in, every Gryffindor, and the few Ravenclaws that were inside cheered again.

Looking around Harry saw that there was food and plenty of butterbeer on one of the study tables and a muggle C.D. player had been enchanted and was blaring out tunes.

The party went for hours, well into the night until just about everyone had drifted off to bed. Harry and Hermione sat on the couch in front of the fire together. Harry watched as Dean and Seamus made their way up the stairs to bed.

Alone now, Harry put his arm around her and she moved into his embrace. She looked up at him with that smile that gave him butterflies.

"So, as I've been saying for years, professional Quidditch may just be in your future," she grinned cheekily.

"Nah, I don't think so."

Hermione looked at him, confused. "Why not? You love Quidditch, and you're certainly good enough."

"Too much travel." He tightened his arm around her and looked at her meaningfully, "It would take me away from my family. I'd have to spend too much time away from the people I love." He gently kissed her temple, "I'd hate that. It'd be as bad as when I have to go to the Dursleys'. You have no idea how bad it is without you around me."

"Remember, I don't see you for all that time either. It's hard for me, too. Although, Mum and Dad aren't anything like the Dursleys. And I actually enjoy spending time with them."

There was a long silence between them until Harry broke it, "I love you, you know?"

"I know. And I love you."

It was the first time Harry had ever heard those words said to him and for a brief instant he thought his heart had stopped. Tears almost fell from his eyes before he quickly blinked them away. He was sure his parents had told him they loved him, but he couldn't recall it as he had been far too young. It was unusual that at sixteen years old he couldn't remember anyone ever telling him he was loved, but he'd lived with the Dursleys most of his life. And besides, it was nice to hear it from Hermione.

"One day, when we've figured everything out, and we've gotten past our fears and all that, you think you'd want to......" He trailed off.

"What, Harry?" she asked as she looked back up at him.

Harry took a deep breath, "Maybe after we've sorted some things out, then you'd want to be my girlfriend?"

"When we're ready, I'd be happy to be your girlfriend, Harry."

"When will we be ready?"

Hermione thought for a moment then took a deep breath of her own, "We'll just know, Harry."

He nodded then went on with something else that had been troubling him, "You know, there might be some people who'd have a problem with us being together."

"Ron," was all Hermione said as she turned back to the fire. "He's our best friend, Harry. And it's not like we'll be cutting him out of our lives. He'll still be our best friend; he'll always be our best friend."

"It's not just that." Harry started, "I may be wrong, but I think he might like you a bit, in the way I like you, maybe not as intensely as I like you, but...."

"I know, but it doesn't matter. Harry, I want to be with you. I really do; I don't care what anyone else thinks. If Ron is upset, then we'll do our best to make him happy and we'll do anything to preserve the friendship, but, Harry, if it comes down to it....."

"I'll choose you," Harry finished for her. "I agree completely, 'Mione. What about your Mum and Dad?"

"What about them?"

"Do you think they'll have a problem with us being together?"

Hermione thought on that for a moment, "Mum, definitely not. She thinks the world of you. Dadâ€¦I don't know. He likes you, but he does still have that 'my little girl' complex, I don't think it would matter who my boyfriend was, Daddy still wouldn't be very happy."

Harry laughed, "I'm glad he at least likes me, that'll make the urge may get to cut me into little pieces less prominent."

Hermione giggled into his chest, "Daddy wouldn't want to cut you up into little pieces; he'd never hurt anyone."

"You keep telling yourself that, Love."

She turned serious again after a minute, "Harry, do you honestly think I give a damn what anyone else thinks about us having a relationshipâ€¦? Do you care?"

"No."

"Good, because I don't either." Hermione smiled, "I'm going to bed, Harry. Goodnight."

She got up and kissed him on the temple, then wandered up the Girls' Staircase only turning to smile when Harry called out, "Sleep well."

He watched her go with a small smile on his face before getting up and ascending his own stairs to bed as well.

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A/N: There you go, chapter fifteen over and done with. Thanks must go to my brilliant and talented beta, Raven Dreams, for her excellent work on this chapter and the last one. But any mistakes you may have picked up are completely my fault.

To know when chapter sixteen will be up, and a little about it, I recommend checking out my live journal, made only for readers of my fics - roman-citizen.livejournal.com/I keep it as updated as possible so that you can know what there is to know.

Next chapter - what a lot of you have been waiting for ... and I'm not talking about the mystery that is Brodsky.

18. Chapter Sixteen: In The Footsteps Of Legends

A/N: First off, let me apologize for the long wait.Excuses: First, this chapter needed to be great so it underwent a number of rewrites. Second, I've been dealing with some RL issues that have taken a lot of my time. Third, either my beta is in a serious condition in a hospital somewhere, or she's abandoned me. I actually go for the former as it simply isn't like her and I'm beginning to worry. Anyway, it's been a long wait, and for that I'm truly sorry, but I do hope it was worth it. Enjoy yourselves.

P.S. I still don't own what is familiar to you, but it is not from lack of trying on my part. The woman simply won't give away her toys! Oh and, hehehe, the second part of this chapter also includes one of the songs from the soundtrack for those of you who check out my journal. I highly recommend reading it while listening to Terri Clarks First To Fall (Another blasted thing I don't own)

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CHAPTER SIXTEEN: THE FOOTSTEPS OF LEGENDS

~~~~~November 8th, 1996. Hogwarts.~~~~~

It had started as a beautiful morning as Harry and Hermione made their way to the room of requirement for their physical training. And as much as Harry had enjoyed Hermiones tight training clothes, he didn't so much enjoy her giving him a swift ass kicking.

Brodsky had been showing them self-defense moves as well as a mixed up kind of martial arts and he'd told them to do a bit of non-contact sparring while he cooled down under the tree. The soft sparring had gotten progressively rougher, until they'd started a bit of contact mucking around.

Not realizing he was putting himself in danger he grabbed her in a headlock, while Professor Brodsky looked on laughing. It wasn't until her elbow connected with his stomach and knocked the wind out of him did he figure out the headlock was a bad move.

Hermione took advantage of the moment he released his grip, grabbed his arm and twisted it behind his back. She then knocked his feet out from under him, dropping him to the ground face-down in the dirt and pinned him with her knee on his lower back.

Grinning she leaned and whispered in his ear, "Nice try, Potter."

Brodsky was over leaning against a tree with a bottle of water, laughing heartily at Harrys expense and clapping for Hermione.

"Well done, Miss Granger!"

Hermione got off Harry and offered her hand to him. Reluctantly he took it and hauled himself to his feet, wiping the dust off his clothes.

Ignoring Brodskys laughing Harry asked, "Where did you learn to do that?"

"Back when I was still a normal girl, Daddy would take me with him to his self-defense classes. He'd go to all different types; tae kwon doe, kick boxing, judo, or any others he felt like he wanted to try. I went with him every week, it was our father/daughter time. I still go whenever I'm home."

"Sounds....fun, I guess."

"It was." Hermione grinned.

Brodsky walked up to them, "That will do today, you may both go. But perhaps you should stay Harry, it seems as if you need the extra training."

Harry shook his head at the professors teasing. Over the time they'd spent together the two had gotten pretty close, beginning to build the bond that Dumbledore had hoped for. Harry admired how the man whom like himself had had his family dieyet able to go on without those that meant so much to him. Harry didn't think he'd be able to do it. He couldn't remember loving or losing his parents, but he knew he wouldn't be able to deal with losing his wife and child the way Brodsky had.

He also appreciated all the work Byron Brodsky was putting in to help him prepare to defeat Voldemort, because if it wasn't for all his training he knew he wouldn't stand a chance against the evil wizard.

The three walked out of the room together and down through the halls of Hogwarts. They got the occasional odd glance at their outfits, but most people had grown accustomed to seeing them in sweats.

"So, wanna' go to our spot?" Harry asked Hermione as they walked, Brodsky just behind them.

"I'm not ditching again, Harry. I have to shower and get to class." Hermione said. "I'll see you later." She waved and raced up the stairs towards Gryffindor tower.

Brodsky moved up to stand beside Harry as the younger man watched Hermione leave. Harry seemed fixated on her and near jumped out of his skin when Brodsky put a hand on his shoulder.

"Daydreaming Harry?" The professor asked with a knowing smile. "Come, son, we'll take a walk in the fresh air."

"We were just outside in the room of requirement." Harry said as he let Brodsky lead him out of the ancient castle.

"Yes but that was an inside outside, the fresh air was just a simulation." He paused for a moment, a small grin forming on his lips."So Harry, 'our spot'?"

Harry turned a little red. "There's a place by the lake through the trees. No one else seems to know about it and it's private. We go there to spend time alone together."

"I believe I know the spot. You have to be lucky to find it actually. And you're right about the privacy, I took many a girl there during my Hogwarts days." Brodsky said with a wicked smile.

"I don't take Hermione there for that." Harry said quickly. "She means too much to me."

Sighing Brodsky looked down at him, "I know Harry. I've seen the way you look at the girl. You're in love with her. Does she know?"

"I think so. Well, I've told her, so yeah. But nothing has happened yet, but I don't care, I'd wait an eternity for her. She's my world."

"I understand completely, Harry. Just remember that a love like that; a love that you're willing to wait your entire life for, a woman that makes you feel like you could move mountains just by looking at her, a love that you'd do anything for; they only come around once. So you've only got one shot at it, don't do anything stupid."

Laughing a little Harry said, "I'll do my best, Sir."

"Does she know about the prophecy?"

Harry thought for a moment. "I haven't told her yet, if that's what you're asking. But Hermiones damn smart, she's probably figured it all out by now."

"Even so, you shouldn't keep things from her, especially not something like this. Not only does she deserve to know, but she will be your greatest asset in this. Think of it like a game of chess, Harry, you are the king and she is your queen, the most useful piece on the board."

"I know. But I don't want to worry her."

"She will worry anyway Harry, it's in her nature."

"Yeah, I suppose. I also wanted to say thank you, Sir, for all the training and well, everything."

Brodsky stopped walking and turned to him. He placed a hand on Harrys shoulder and looked him straight in the eyes. "You need it Harry. You now take the steps that many before you have taken, to prepare themselves for a battle of epic proportions. Do not feel ashamed that you had to be taught these things. Do you think Arthur and his knights didn't need lessons before they could wield their swords so skillfully? Do you think Merlin himself didn't have someone there to show and teach him magic? Do you think Godric Gryffindor was just born with the ability and knowledge that enabled him to defeat dark wizards and Salazar Slytherin? Know that you now walk in the footsteps of legends, Harry."

Harry nodded his head seriously and breathed deeply. Brodsky patted his shoulder and then returned to his walk.

Brodsky continued as he walked, "And I'd like you to note that none of those were able to do the great feats they achieved alone. They had strong men assisting them. It's also should be noted that they all were strong men with even stronger women supporting them, standing by their sides in their time of need. Arthur had Guinevere, mostly. Merlin had the Lady of the Lake. Godric had Rowena. During this difficult time you will have Hermione.

"And in a thousand years they will still be telling your story, Harry. They'll tell their children of how you used skill, knowledge and power to defeat an evil wizard whose name they'll probably forget in the shadow of yours. They'll say that you were flanked by your most trusted knight and friend, your brother in all ways that count, Ronald. And the woman you loved, whose knowledge will be a legend of its own, Hermione. And behind you three, with his hands on your shoulders, the greatest wizard to live since Merlin, Dumbledore. And on the outstretched field an army of light brought together by love, hope, friendship and loyalty. They'll tell of your greatness. They'll tell of your power. And the only story that will rival the battle itself will be that of your romance, of you and the young woman who holds your heart.

"The children told these stories will be awed by them, never forgetting. And they'll tell their children, who'll pass it to their children, and so on and so on. Your name will be remembered for all time, Harry, and your story will forever be told. You walk in the footsteps of legends, Harry Potter."

Looking at Harry again Brodsky noticed he was a little pale and had to laugh a little. "Don't let that frighten you, Harry, let it inspire you."

"Do you....do you really think I can do it?"

"Defeat Voldemort or sweep Miss Granger off her feet?" Brodsky joked, bringing some colour back to Harrys face.

"Both." Harry smiled.

"Well, I have no doubt of either. I know for certain that you will defeat the Dark Lord, for you have so much more to fight for than he, and those fighting with you have so much more to fight for than the death eaters. I also can tell that Miss Granger feels the same about you as you feel about her, so I don't believe she will reject your advances at all."

"She's my soul mate." Harry said softly.

"Indeed. So I advise you tell her everything. And be sure to never hurt her, she has a heart that many a man would kill and die for, and all you need to do is live for it."

~~~~~November 20th, 1996. Hogwarts.~~~~~

It took Harry almost two whole weeks to build up the courage to tell Hermione about the prophecy. They wrapped up the DA meeting that Wednesday and Harry asked her to stay behind with him, which she usually did anyway.

As soon as everyone but the two of them filed out of the room, it changed form. Gone were the mats and such, replaced by a comfortable couch and a roaring fire.

They sat down together on the one couch, close but not quite touching. Just by looking at him, Hermione knew that Harry was worried about something.

"What's wrong?" She said softly, reaching out and placing her hand over his, enjoying the electricity that coursed through her, and by the look he gave her, through him as well.

He turned his body to her with a serious expression and grabbed her hand. "There's something I've been keeping from you, something really important."

"I know. I could see it in your eyes since we came and got you from the Dursleys. I knew it was important, but figured you'd tell me when you were ready to, I wasn't going to push you."

"Thankyou for that. But I should have told you straight away, you deserve to know more than anyone. I just didn't want to worry you more than you normally are."

He looked as if he was about to say something but stopped, so Hermione said, "Harry, if you're not ready to tell me then don't."

"No, I want to more than anything, I'm just trying to figure out what to say. The prophecy we found at the ministry the night......." He had been about to say 'the night I got Sirius killed'. "The night Sirius died. The one that was smashed was only a copy of it. I know what you're going to say about this but it was made by Trelawny."

Hermione visibly bit back the comment that was on her tongue and Harry had to smile as he went on, "It was real, Mione, I know for sure. She made it to Dumbledore himself. He showed me what it said using the pensieve."

After a long time of his silence she prompted, "Go on."

"It wasn't good, Mione." He went on and told her the words he'd never forget as long as he'd live. She sat in silence for a few minutes, staring at the fire. "Mione, say something."

Sighing she turned back to him with tears in her eyes, "I should have known. I had a feeling you'd be the one....in the end. Dammit!"

Dropping his hand she stood from the couch and moved across the room, allowing the tears to flow freely down her face. Harry hurt to see her in pain, but let her be for the time being.

She gave a frustrated sigh, "Why can't fate just leave you the hell alone?! Why can't it leave us alone?! You've already lost so much! Oh Merlin Harry how I wish you were just a normal wizard, hell at this point I'd settle for you being a normal guy. I wish you had a mum and dad to go home to on the holidays, I wish you didn't have to keep getting in scuffles with bad guys and saving the world, I wish you didn't need severe training so you could kill a demented, evil, son of a bitch! Oh, how I wish we could just be us, just explore how we felt for each other without having to worry that the damn school will be attacked!"

Hermione had her back turned as she went on, so she didn't see Harry as he got up off the couch and moved behind her. He gently wrapped his arms around her waist and held her tightly to him, pulling her back against his chest.

"I wish all those things too, Love." He whispered in her ear. "But wishing won't make it happen. We just need to make the best of a bad situation, and get ready for whatever may come."

"I'll never leave your side Harry." She whispered back, turning in his arms to face him. "Voldemort himself can try and take me, but I'll never leave your side."

"That's what scares me the most." He led her back to the couch and sat as close as he could to her. He wiped away her tears and drowned himself in her eyes. "Knowing that you'll be there with me and that no matter what I say, you'll always be there with me. Just promise you won't get yourself killed, you know I couldn't live without you."

"You need to make the same promise, Harry, after all, you're the one he's after."

He smiled softly and kissed her on the forehead, "I promise I'll try at least."

"So do I." She paused. "So that's where you were. When I was in the infirmary I was groggy and all that but I still wondered where you were. Dumbledore took you straight to his office?"

"Yeah and he told me everything. I had wanted to be with you, make sure you were alright, but I was upset over Sirius and Dumbledore told me not to leave his office until after we'd spoken. I was so relieved when Madame Pomfrey said you were going to be alright. During the battle I was beside myself with worry, thank Merlin Neville was there since I didn't even think to check for a pulse and if he hadn't of told me you were still alive I wouldn't have been able to go on."

He looked a little sheepish as he took both her hands in his and asked, "Can I.....can I see it?"

She didn't need further explanation, she knew him well enough to know what he was referring to. Taking her hands back she let her hair fall over her face as she looked down and started to unbutton the top of her blouse.

Her black bra didn't cover much of it. Very gently Harry reached out and ran his hand slowly down the scarred skin on her chest. Hermione shuddered at his touch and looked up to see tears in his eyes as he looked at it sadly.

He lifted his eyes to hers, "I'm sorry." He whispered, his hand still on her scar.

"Don't you dare be sorry for this, Harry. We're both alive, we did alright, so in that aspect I'm happy to have it. I'd much rather have it than lose you."

Harrys hand moved up to her neck and his thumb gently stroked her jaw. "You know how much you mean to me. I don't ever want you to hurt again and I promise to do everything in my power to make sure of that. You're the reason I'll fight this battle and you're the reason I'll win. I love you, Mione, more than anything."

The tears were running down her face again, but there was a small smile on her lips. "And I love you."

With a smile of his own Harry leaned in towards her. This was it, their perfect moment. Gently their lips touched, though the feelings that rushed through their blood was anything but gentle. The kiss was tender and soft, full of promise.

Moving back a little, Harry looked right through her eyes and into her soul knowing he'd never feel like this with anyone else. He savored the moment for a second before moving in again. This kiss was much more passionate. They felt on fire as their mouths opened to one another and Harry felt his very bones shake as she moaned when his tongue entered her mouth.

As forceful as the kiss was, it wasn't lustful, but loving. He eased her back onto the couch so his body covered hers and the hand that wasn't still on her neck laced with hers. When oxygen became an issue they broke apart, breathing heavily.

Harry rested his forehead on hers and smiled as he looked in her eyes. He couldn't help but laugh a little when he thought of the couple of times they'd almost got that far. "I swear I was just waiting for someone to burst through that door and interrupt us again."

Hermione laughed too. "I'm so glad they didn't though."

"So am I. Come on then," He said, pulling himself off her and to his feet. "It's getting late, I'll walk you home."

She stopped him just before they reached the door and kissed him strongly again. "I just wanted to do that before we left."

He held her hand all the way back to the common room, both walking in comfortable silence and kissed her softly on the lips at the girls stairs.

"Goodnight, Harry." She whispered.

"Sleep well, Love." He said back then watched her climb the stairs. Before grinning and making his way to his own bed, certain there'd be no nightmares tonight.

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19. Chapter Seventeen: The Most Amazing Feeling

A/N: Not much to this chapter, a little drama and a little Brodsky. To attempt to make up for my long time departure I am posting this a little sooner than I would have normally. As always, thanks for all the great reviews folks, they are what keeps me going with this sagaeven when I feel I can't write one more word. Hope you enjoy this little filler.

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CHAPTER SEVENTEEN: THE MOST AMAZING FEELING

~~~~~November 24th, 1996. Hogwarts.~~~~~

It was a Sunday, therefore Harry had been lazing around the common room for most of the day. He had his feet propped up on Hermiones lap as he lay back on the couch with his eyes closed trying to catch some rest.There was a heavy tome resting on his shins, since Hermione was busy reading just for the sake of reading. And every now and then he'd smile a little when he felt her hand rub his leg absently.

The common room was empty and silent, since everyone was outside enjoying their day off. Harry and Hermione preferred to enjoy it in the warm common room, in front of the fire, alone and relaxing. They hadn't told anyone about their blossoming relationship yet, opting to keep it as quiet as possible, though they both thought Ginny had picked up on it immediately.

Then again Ginny had been acting strange lately, even Harry had noticed that. She'd been distant with everyone, including Hermione, which was extremely unusual since any time when the two girls had a problem they didn't want to share with anyone, they went to eachother. She'd been late toquidditch practice a few times and when asked where she was she just said 'busy' and changed the subject. Neither Harry nor Hermione could figure out what was going on with her.

The stillness of the quiet common room was broken by the portrait hole bursting open and a sobbing Lavender running through and up the girls stairs, almost tripping on several things along the way.

Hermione looked at Harry, closed her book and shifted his legs so she could get up, then followed Lavender up to the girls dorm. Harry sighed deeply, upset that his pleasant day resting silently with his girl was ruined. He only hoped she wouldn't be up there too long.

He looked around in time to see Ron walk through the portrait hole and wander over to him. Harry sat up, so Ron took Hermiones seat.

"You know Lavender just ran through hear in hysterics, right?" Harry started the conversation.

"Yep. I think I may have been the one to make her that way." Ron said casually.

Harry looked over at him, "What'd you do?"

"Broke up with her."

"Why?"

"Wanted a change, I guess. Nah, I'm not really sure. I just didn't feel like I wanted to be with her anymore. And there's this Ravenclaw girl I wouldn't mind gettin' to know." Ron smiled a little.

Harry looked at him with a furrowed brow, "Do you not even care how Lavender feels?"

"Course I do. But best I be honest with her, don't you think?"

"Yeah, I suppose. Good you tell her now and not leave it until she finds you snogging some blonde in a broom cupboard."

"I'd never do that! Well.....not to Lav I wouldn't, 'cause I liked her as a friend too. Anyway, she'll get over it. Herms up there with her?"

"Yeah."

"Good. Say, you wanna' go flying or something?"

"No thanks, mate. Today is my day of rest and relaxation and I plan on doing as little movement as possible. I'm not leaving this couch until I'm literally dragged away."

"I could try it." Offered Ron with a grin.

"I'll stun you if you do."

"Alright then, you just lay there and be lazy." Ron said as he stood up, "I'm going outside on this beautiful day."

"Beautiful day? It's freezing out there."

"Great isn't it? See ya' mate."

"Bye." Harry called.

It only took a few moments after Ron left and Harry made himself comfortable again that he was nodding off and only a second after that he was dead to the world.

Bleary eyes fluttered open and looked around. Straightening his glasses Harry caught sight of Hermione, right where she was before, rubbing his leg. He lifted his arm and looked at his watch, he'd been asleep for hours.

"Hey, Love, I hope I didn't wake you." Hermione said when she noticed he was awake.

"No. Hey, did I dream Lavender burst in here crying, and her and Ron broke up?"

Shaking her head Hermione responded, "No, you didn't. Did you talk to Ron?"

"Yeah. He said he just wasn't interested anymore so he called it off. What did Lav say?"

"Nothing for the first half hour, I couldn't understand a word through the blubbering so I told her to cry herself out and then tell me what happened."

"She told you what Ron told me?"

"That he broke up with her? Yes. He could've handled it better."

"Hey best it happen this way, then in time when her feelings are stronger."

"That's not what I meant. When he was breaking up with her, he didn't even try to soften the blow. He just said, 'Lav, I'm not interested in you that way anymore and I don't want to be with you.'"

"Ouch. I suppose he could've handled it better." Harry admitted.

"Promise when you get bored with me you'll break it to me easy."

Harry sat up and moved closer to her, looking around to see the room was empty. He closed her book and put it on the ground beside them then wrapped his arms around her waist, laying her back.

Placing a gentle kiss on her cheek, he said, "I'll never get bored with you."

"Come on, Harry, I'm not the most exciting person."

He just laughed and said, "You are to me. I learn something new everyday with you, because you're the smartest person in the world. You've got a wit so quick that no one can keep up. You're one of the funniest people I know. You are absolutely beautiful, might I add, and damn sexy in that work out gear."

Hermione was giggling by now, but Harry kept going, "You've got a big heart, you're loving and loyal. And I wouldn't want to do anything without you there with me, not only because it'd be too dangerous if you weren't there, but also because you make it that bit more exciting. I won't ever get bored with you, Mione. And I will stand by your side with all of my heart forever."

He kissed her firmly on the mouth and sighed when she instantly responded. Parting he rested his forehead on hers. "Don't you ever worry about me losing interest in you, because it simply isn't possible."

He kissed her softly again and moved back, helping her to sit up. Then he picked up her book and handed it back to her.

"You really are just the sweetest guy." She said as she opened her book.

"Yeah, I am." He grinned, relaxing back in the couch.

"You really should tell Ron, you know."

"What? About me and you?" Harry asked, looking up at her.

"No way! Well, not yet anyway. I meant about the prophecy. He really does deserve to know. But it's your decision if you don't."

"I know I should." Harry sighed, "But I like that he's in this oblivious little world at the moment, the only worries on his mind are girls and quidditch."

"He also has a brilliant strategic mind, Harry, he may be able to help out."

"I know. I will tell him, but I'll wait for the right time."

~~~~~November 29th, 1996. Hogwarts.~~~~~

Harry slumped in a chair in the Defense Against The Dark Arts room. The occlumency lesson were more than a little tiring. He looked up at Professor Brodsky standing in front of him."It is getting easier." Harry tiredly told him.

"Indeed. You are getting much better at blocking my attempts. Are you still using the same memory?" Brodsky inquired.

"Most of the time. I can't remember being more calm so I use it. I'm just worried it's not good enough, because it's taking so long."

"Learning occlumency is a long and difficult process, Harry. I will admit that you are doing better than I did when I first learned."

"I am?"

Brodsky sat down across from him, "Oh, yes, I couldn't find a memory. I couldn't think of a time when I was completely calm."

"Who taught you, Sir?"

"Professor Dumbledore, himself."

"Why did you learn in the first place?" Brodskys face darkened a little at Harrys question, so Harry quickly said, "Never mind, Sir."

"No, Harry, you deserve to know. It was a while ago. My family....was taken from me, Harry. I fought against Voldemort and his minions since his first rise. I'm a member of the Order, as you may already know."

"I figured you were."

"I was an auror and I locked away many of the Dark Lords death eaters. That, plus all the work I did for the Order made me a target. They came for me, came to my home. And that night my family was taken from me."

"I'm sorry, Sir."

"Don't be, Harry. I came to Dumbledore and that night I made a decision to walk away from my old life. He trained me in occlumency and Legilemency so that I'd be able to infiltrate certain circles and rip information from minds. Then I left."

Gently Harry asked, "Where'd you go?"

"Everywhere. I hunted down as many death eaters as I could find. I killed them, everyone I could. They didn't receive any second chances from me." He paused then met Harrys eyes, "I hope you don't feel less of me for that."

"No, Sir. I would probably do the same."

"I will say though, Harry, that I lost a part of myself with every life I took, but I don't regret it. There was very little of me left to lose anyway. Still, I am no longer the man I was before my wife died, before I lost my little girl."

"You had a daughter?" Harry asked.

That brought a small smile to Brodskys face, "Oh, yes. Quite the child she was. I was thankful she was the spitting image of her mother. And smart for her age, too. She was less than a year old and we could have complete conversations. Of course they were in a language I believe only children know, and I was mostly following hand signals."

Both of them laughed at that. Harry asked, "Were you scared of becoming a father?"

"Yes. My own father died shortly before I came to Hogwarts. He was never a loving man, except to my mother. When he was with my mother it was like he was a completely different man than when he was with me. He never showed affection or anything towards me, being a mans man.

"So when my wife told me she was pregnant I got horrified because I didn't know what it meant to be a good, loving father since I never had a close relationship with my own. But as soon as I held that little angel in my arms I knew it would be different. I knew I'd tell her everyday that I loved her. I never got to do that, however." He finished sadly.

There was a long silence between the two until Brodsky broke it, "I don't mean to pry, Harry, but I saw in your memories that you and Miss Granger have gotten much closer."

Harry blushed a little but there was a smile on his face, "Yeah, we did. But we want to keep it quiet for a while, we haven't told anyone, so...."

"My lips are sealed, Harry. So you told her everything then?"

"Yes, it worried her quite a bit, but she's okay now. You wouldn't believe how happy she makes me. I feel like I could do anything as long as she's holding my hand."

"You wouldn't believe how much I believe that." Brodsky smiled, "I've felt the same way before."

"It's the most amazing feeling I've ever known."

"And it'll be the most amazing feeling you ever do know. There's nothing you can compare it to, Harry. Just treat her well and do anything you can to hold onto her love. Now you should go and rest up."

The two stood and Brodsky walked Harry to the door with a hand on his shoulder. "Thankyou, Sir." Harry said sincerely before he left.

"It's been my pleasure, Harry."

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20. Chapter Eighteen: Things Just Keep Getting Weirder And Weird

A/N: Another chapter has arrived! This one will more than likely confirm a few suspicions out there and I really don't mind. I hope you all enjoy it, and if you're in the mood, leave me a review and let me know what you thought.

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CHAPTER EIGHTEEN: THINGS JUST KEEP GETTING WEIRDER

~~~~~December 5th, 1996.~~~~~

Harry, Hermione and Ron left there final lesson for the day, Transfiguration with the cheerful McGonagall, and headed outside into the snow for a walk. The three of them had spent so little time together since the school year started that it felt good to have the trio together again.

Her arms entwined with her boys Hermione kicked at a clump of snow and asked, "So, what are the Christmas plans?"

"I'm at the Burrow, the whole family will be there." Ron told them. "Even Charlie and Bill."

"What about Percy?" Harry asked.

During the previous year there had been a rift between Percy and the rest of the family when he chose to follow the lies of Cornelius Fudge and the Ministry instead of believing Harry and Dumbledore when they said that Voldemort returned.

"Mum invited him. They've been talking a bit, he apologized and everything, but there's still a bit of tension there." Ron explained. "Anyway, he'll probably be there. What are you two doing?"

"I talked to Remus the other day and he said that I'm going to Headquarters with him and Tonks." Harry said, "Your Mum wrote to me, Ron, asking if it'd be alright for the family to come there a day or two after Christmas, I told her that'd be great."

"Cool, we could have a second Christmas."

"Hermione? Are you going home?"

"I got a letter from Mum yesterday, her and Dad want me home. So I'll probably go." She didn't miss the slight look of disappointment on Harrys face. "But I may be able to convince them to let me come to you guys after Christmas."

Harry smiled at her, "That'd be nice. You should ask them to come too, there's plenty of room and that way they'll get to spend more time with you."

"Hey, I gotta' go." Ron said distractedly, then ran off.

Harry and Hermione watched him go with curious expressions. He walked a bit away to where a group of Ravenclaw fifth years were huddled. He touched one on the elbow, a pretty blonde girl, and she turned and smiled at him.

"Oh, so that must be the Ravenclaw he wouldn't mind getting to know." Harry said softly as he turned Hermione away and led her through the snow.

"What?" She looked at him with a raised eyebrow.

Harry smiled a little, "That day he broke up with Lavender, we were talking and he said something about a Ravenclaw he wouldn't mind getting to know, I'm guessing that's her."

He turned back and saw Ron and the girl walking in the opposite direction than he and Hermione, away from the group of girls.

"I'm sorry I won't get to spend Christmas with you." Hermione whispered.

"Don't worry about it Love, we've got a lifetime of Christmas' to spend together." Harry smiled at her, but didn't get a smile back.

She looked up at him a bit teary-eyed, "I hope so."

"You're worrying about the battle."

"I'm allowed to worry about something this important, Harry!" She cried. "I think it's just with all this training....it's making it seem much more real. Making me realize that this is going to happen, this must happen."

He stopped them walking and turned to her, "Yes, it must. But with the training, a little luck, and maybe some help from whoever is upstairs, we'll get through this, Mione."

She smiled a little and let him wipe away her tears, then once more linked her arm in his and continued their walk. Before they even knew where they were going they were just a little away from Hagrids hut.

"Fancy a visit?" Harry grinned.

"Why not? It's probably nice and warm in there anyway."

They walked up to the little old shack and Harry banged hard on the door. After a few moments it swung open and Hagrid grinned at them.

"'Ello! Come on in yer pair, 'bout time yer stopped by for a visit, specially since yeh'll be off fer Christmas soon."

He ushered them in and sat them down around the old wooden table in the center of the room, then leaned over and stoked the fire a bit more.

"How are you, Hagrid?" Hermione asked.

"Oh, can't complain. Bin' pretty good, actually. So where's ol' Ron?"

Harry laughed a little as he answered, "He's off chatting up some poor girl."

Hagrid laughed as well as he sat across from them, "Like Bill and Charlie he is. An' why aren't yer two off chattin' up folks of yer own?"

The look on Hagrids face told them he knew exactly why they weren't interested in anyone else and caused the two to blush.

"I thought so, I thought so." Hagrid grinned smugly. "Yers may be able to hide things from other people, but not me. I can see it in yer eyes."

"Hagrid - -" Harry started.

The half-giant waved him off, "Don't yers worry, I'll keep the secret till yers are ready ter tell evryone. What'd Ron say?"

"He...he doesn't know yet." Harry told him. "We didn't think he'd be too happy about it."

"Maybe not to start with, but he'll get over it. He's yer best mate, he won't stand in yer way." Hagrid said, nodding his head a bit.

Hagrid was about to go on, but the door swung open again and looking outside they saw that the snow had started coming down again. The tall shadow in the door turned out to be Professor Brodsky.

He looked up from shaking the snow off his and was surprised to see the two students in the little hut. "Hello, all."

"'Ello, Byron."

"Sorry, I'm late, Hagrid." Brodsky said as he walked over to the fire and put his hands in front of it, "I got caught up with a third year whom required my assistance."

"That's alright. Bit cold out there, is it?"

"Indeed it is." Brodsky answered as he moved to the kettle and began preparing a pot of tea. "What do you two have in mind for Christmas, Harry, Miss Granger?"

Hermione was looking uncomfortable being in such a small space with Brodsky so Harry answered, "Well, Hermione is going home to her parents and I'm going to Grimmauld Place."

"I'll probably see you there, Harry, since I'll more than likely be dropping in a few times."

Hagrid had noticed that Hermione had gone quiet. When Brodsky sat down with the tea he watched as the two avoided eachothers eyes. He saw Harry attempt to act as some kind of mediator between the two. At first he thought the two must have had some kind of falling out, but an inkling at the back of his mind came forward full force.

He looked at Hermione intently, then looked over at Brodsky. His old friend had aged far too many years since that horrible night. It had been Hagrid who had found him at the Hogwarts gates all those years ago.

***~~~~~October 6th, 1981. Hogwarts.~~~~~***

It was a beautiful night, though no stars could be seen. The rain had been pouring for two straight days now and that had given Hogwarts that wet grass smell that Hagrid loved so much. Pulling his massive coat off the hook it hung on, Hagrid used his umbrella to perform a very handy spell he had picked up to make the coat water-proof.

Slipping it over his shoulders the half-giant walked out of his cabin and into the rain. The water pouring on him was hard enough to feel, but gentle enough so as not to bother him. With his old lamp and his trusty hound Bones beside him, Hagrid was set for his nightly walk of the grounds.

Everything seemed normal tonight, as it usually did. Even the Dark Lord wasn't foolish enough to attack Hogwarts yet, especially not since Albus Dumbledore was Headmaster.

He wasn't far from the gates he passed every night when he heard it, a crack of apparation. Knowing that no one could apparate while on Hogwarts grounds, he knew it must have been outside of the gates.

Pointing his umbrella in front of him, Hagrid carefully made his way towards the large, old, steel gates. Only one crack wouldn't be an attack, even he could take one person, let alone the Professors inside the castle, but best he be safe.

"Help!" A voice familiar to Hagrid cried out into the darkness.

The sound was coming from the direct opposite side of the gates. Quickly Hagrid ran towards them shining his lamp in that direction. Before he opened the gates up, he looked on the other side to see who it was.

The form was kneeling in the ground, one hand holding him up while the other was holding a large bundle of something.

"Identify yerself?" Hagrid told whomever it was.

Brodsky looked up at his old friend, "Hagrid, please, I must see Dumbledore, it's urgent."

"Byron?"

Hagrid was shocked to see him, especially in his current condition. There was blood mixed with water running down his face from a cut on his forehead, he was dripping wet so he'd obviously forgot to put on any water-proofing charm, he had a gash from his just under his ear to the center of his throat that had blood pouring out of it and he looked as if he'd collapse right then and there.

Hagrids shock didn't stop him from opening the gates any faster than possible. He carefully knelt down beside Brodsky.

"Can yer walk?"

"I think so."

Hagrid thought he must of been wounded somewhere else too and the large puddle of blood that was mixing in with the mud on the ground only proved that. Brodsky was losing alot of blood and he was losing it very fast.

Hagrid carefully helped him to his feet. "Why don't yer let me carry what yer holdin'?"

"No." Brodsky said, leaning heavily on Hagrid as they slowly made their way to the castle. "I can't. I won't let go."

It was a pretty slow trip to the ancient fortress, the rain got heavier and heavier as they went, Hagrid was practically carrying Brodsky most of the way as with every step he got weaker and weaker. Once they were in the light given off by the castle Hagrid looked back and saw a trail of blood.

They entered the entrance hall of the castle and Hagrid went to steer Brodsky towards the infirmary. "No, Hagrid, my friend, I must see Dumbledore, this is far too important."

"Yer canna' tell Dumbledore what yer need ter if yer die on the way there." Hagrid argued.

"This is more urgent than my life, Hagrid."

"What is going on?" A young mans voice broke in.

Hagrid looked over to see the schools head boy, Charlie Weasley. "Charlie, I need yer to go an' get Dumbledore an' McGonagall, quickly." Charlie nodded and ran off as fast as he could. "We're goin' to the infirmary."

"No, Hagrid! I must see Dumbledore!"

"Yer'll see him, he's on his way."

"Hagrid, this is urgent, my life means nothing now."

"Yer goin' to the infirmary an' tha's that!" Hagrid ordered, dragging him in the direction of the hospital wing.

"No! I won't allow you to take me there, Hagrid! I won't walk anywhere unless it's to Dumbledores office."

If the situation wasn't so serious Hagrid may have laughed. "Walk, eh? I suppose, yer feet may touch the ground a few times."

Hagrid physically lifted Brodsky off the ground and headed for the infirmary. Once there he hollered out for Madame Pomfrey who came rushing in almost immediately.

"What has happened?" The medi-witch asked in a hurry as she directed Hagrid towards a bed.

"I dunno. He's hurt pretty bad, lost alot of blood."

They lay him down on the bed, but when they attempted to take whatever it was he was carrying off him he responded with energy that a man in his condition shouldn't have.

"No! Not until I see Dumbledore!"

As if his words were a calling Dumbledore walked through the large doors, McGonagall close behind.

"Hagrid?" The Headmaster inquired.

But Hagrid never got the chance to explain as McGonagall had seen the patient. "Byron? Oh my Lord, what has happened?"

"Dumbledore, I must speak with you immediately."

Everyone in the room could hear the seriousness in the statement. Whatever had happened, whatever Brodsky had to say to Dumbledore was more important than his own life, the man didn't care if he died as long as he told the Headmaster what he needed to.

Very slowly Dumbledore nodded. "Hagrid, Poppy, leave us a moment."

Pomfrey looked as if she were about to argue but Hagrid took her arm and walked her away from the scene. Dumbledore and McGonagall moved closer to Brodsky and Dumbledore used his wand to draw up a privacy screen around the three.

Hagrid waited patiently as he heard the hushed voices from behind the screen. The only distinguishable sounds were a few uncontrollable cries from McGonagall and when Brodsky screamed, "They killed her!"

After what seemed like an eternity the screen was removed. McGonagall walked straight to Pomfrey, white as a ghost, and now holding whatever it was that Brodsky had been holding, which to Hagrid looked like a pile of rags. Obviously something important was wrapped up in them.

"Poppy, please...." McGonagall started, tears in her eyes.

"I'll do everything I can, Minerva." The other witch swore and then ran over to her patient and got straight to work.

McGonagall gave Hagrid an appreciative look, to which he nodded at and then left the infirmary. Dumbledore was whispering to Brodsky for a minute longer before walking back to Hagrid.

He simply motioned for Hagrid to follow him out of the hospital wing. "Thankyou, Hagrid, for forcing him to come to the infirmary."

"He lost so much blood, Professor. There's a trail of it leadin' right back to the gates."

"There is nothing that you nor I can do for him at the moment, Hagrid, Poppy will treat him if she can."

"What happened, Sir?"

"The death eaters attacked. His family is dead." Dumbledore stated gravely, his eyes shining in their sadness. "He may survive this night, Hagrid, but I don't know if he can survive tomorrow when he wakes."

"Damn Riddle!" Hagrid cursed. "Why? Why is he doin' these things, Professor? He wasn't that bad when he was 'ere. Sure, he was a bit weird and sneaky, but....."

Dumbledore simply shook his head, patted Hagrid on the shoulder, stating, "Not all wizards are good, Hagrid. We will never understand the nature of evil and that is what makes us the side of light, Hagrid." Then he walked away.

Hagrid pondered the words for a few moments before going back inside the infirmary and quietly taking a seat far away from where Madame Pomfrey was struggling to keep his friend alive.

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Hagrid went over this memory like he had so many times before. Then very suddenly, as it hit Hagrid like a ton of bricks, he stood, knocking the table and spilling tea everywhere. Three sets of curious eyes looked up at him.

"Yer two..." He said pointing at Harry and Hermione, "Yers should get goin' before the snow gets heavy."

"Perhaps I should leave too then." Brodsky stood as did Harry and Hermione.

"No." Hagrid told him, "I gotta' talk ter yer 'bout somethin'."

"Very well. Harry, I shall see you tomorrow night then."

"Goodbye Professor, we'll see you later Hagrid."

Harry and Hermione left the hut and from outside, although the wind was blowing hard, they heard Hagrids voice boom, but all they could make out was, "Why the ruddy hell - -".

Exchanging a look, they ran towards the castle. As soon as they entered the ancient building they shook the snow off themselves and looked at eachother.

"Was it my imagination," Hermione began, "or did we just hear Hagrid yell?"

"I'm pretty sure that's what it was."

The two headed for the staircases, "We've never heard Hagrid yell. Hagrid doesn't yell. What do you think made him angry?"

"I wouldn't know. Nothing happened that could've done it, nothing we were saying....."

"This is just getting weirder and weirder." Hermione muttered.

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21. Chapter Nineteen: Leaving For The Holidays

A/N: Sorry for the delay folks! But here it is ...

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CHAPTER NINETEEN: LEAVING FOR THE HOLIDAYS

~~~~~December 11th, 1996. Hogwarts.~~~~~

Harry quickly blocked a strike coming for his head. Hermione was a natural with a sword, he wasn't and right now if the swords hadn't of been made of wood, he would be very dead, or at least lacking a few body parts. Either way there'd be bruises to show from this battle.

Brodsky stood to the side watching the two make use of the skills he had been teaching them. The physical training had probably been the best thing to help them with their swordsmanship.

Their physical strength was already increasing and also their endurance; they'd been dueling now for almost half an hour and although the sweat was pouring off them, they showed no signs of giving up. Their martial arts training was being heavily relied upon as well, as could be told by the way they moved around eachother, dodging and rolling.

Yet Harry had failed at every attempt to get the upper hand on her. She certainly did excel with a katana in her grip. But then again,Brodsky thought with a small smile, The girl excels at every task put upon her.

"How are they doing?" A feminine burr came from behind him.

He turned to see McGonagall standing there, her usual stern mask over her face, but in her eyes he could see the emotion she held within.

"They are both progressing nicely. Harry is a bit behind her in this particular field, she's a natural, but he's ahead with wandless magic, much to her frustration."

"She's a girl who strives for perfection." McGonagall said as she came to stand beside him and the two turned half their attention on the battle.

"Indeed and she usually gets it." He said, closing his eyes and smiling.

McGonagall looked at him with a sad face, "Reminding you of someone, perhaps?"

"Clarice." He said simply, referring to his late wife. "She was much the same during our Hogwarts days, always had to be the best."

"Hermione reminds me an awful lot of myself actually. I was like that too." McGonagall told him, watching Hermione.

"You still are, old woman." Brodsky laughed.

After a brief moment of eye contact, including a mock-glare that, even though fake, had put terror into the hearts of many students over the years, they turned to the excitement before them just in time to see Harry make one last desperate attempt at winning the duel.

Hermione had seen it coming, she twisted to her left just as he was coming, placing her next to him on his right and swung the bokken. It impacted his chest hard enough to knock him backwards with a loud grunt.

He'd only been holding his wooden sword in one hand and his grip hadn't been that tight. From the shock of her move, and both impacts he went through, first her weapon hitting him, then landing solidly on his back, he lost hold of his training sword.

In the blink of an eye Hermiones was pointed at his throat. He looked up at her, both breathing deeply, and gave her a painful smile. Some of her hair had came out from the knot it had been in and was now plastered around her face and she was smiling smugly at him.

"I let you beat me, you know." He chuckled, his smile broadening.

She raised an eyebrow as her smile turned into a grin, "And why would you do that, Potter?"

"'Cause you're damn hot when you win."

Cocking her head she asked, she tried to hide her smile saying, "And I'm not normally?"

"I didn't say that, Love."

Hermione laughed as she casually flung her bokken to her other hand and offered the one previously holding it to him. Harry didn't miss a beat as he took the hand and pulled her down, flipping her over and straddling her, holding her hands above her head.

"You haven't won yet." He cheekily smiled.

Hermione looked up into his eyes. Harry saw the evil glint in them and the smile she gave and immediately regretted his decision. He was about to jump off her and forfeit when he received a sharp knee to the groin.

Every hold he had on her loosened as he groaned in pain and Hermione, who had always been good at taking advantage of a moment, did so. She wrapped her legs around him, and flipped him onto his back, then used the wooden sword she still had in her hand and held it across his throat.

Harry had a rather pained expression on his face as he managed to get out, "I thought you wanted children some day."

"Sorry about that, Love, but you were being so cheeky I just had to do something about it."

He managed a little laugh as he looked up at her, "I'll remember that the next time you're being cheeky."

A throat cleared behind them, cutting short their playful banter, and both turned to see Brodsky and their Head of House standing there with amused expressions.

The two slowly got up and made their way over to their professors, Harry limping a bit and leaning heavily on Hermione. "That shot was a bit low, Love."

Hermione laughed, "What and that last attempt to drive a wooden stake through my heart wasn't?"

"You were kicking my arse, I was desperate."

"Well done, both of you." Brodsky said as the room changed form from their normal training room, the same one used for the DA, to a large windy field with two long couches and an armchair around them. "Although I'm sorry Harry, I must proclaim Miss Granger the victor."

Harry and Hermione practically collapsed into the chair and simultaneously leaned back and closed their eyes, enjoying the cool wind on their skin. Brodsky sat across from them while McGonagall took the armchair.

"I was quite impressed with the both of you." McGonagall commented and the two students looked up at her. "You both seem to be doing very well, although I wish this all weren't necessary."

"So do we, Professor." Hermione told her.

"Did you need us for something Professor McGonagall?" Harry asked.

"Oh, no, I just came by to see how things were progressing."

Brodsky spoke, "The two are doing brilliantly. In fact, after speaking with Mad-Eye and Tonks I can say that they are far ahead of the others, even with the extra lessons added on their schedule. They will be able to do silent magic with ease very shortly I am sure, and with a few more months of training they will be masters of the blade, though Miss Granger will probably accomplish that task a little quicker."

"A few months?" McGonagall repeated and then went on gravely, "I just hope we have that much time."

"Do you know something Professor?" Hermione asked, leaning forward and allowing Harry to rub the heel of his palm into her back, loosening it up a bit.

McGonagall looked at the younger witch who really did remind her of herself, "Unfortunately, no. The Order is working hard on gathering intelligence, but You-Know-Who seems to be keeping to himself."

"Which usually means he's planning something." Harry said darkly.

"Do not worry yourselves with it at the moment." Brodsky remarked. "What is to come, will come. We will do our best to prevent anything that may happen, but if we cannot then we will deal with it when it occurs. Both of you go shower and rest for your next class."

Harry and Hermione nodded and stood, walking for the exit. McGonagall turned to Brodsky, "Do you really think they will be ready in time, Byron?"

"Those two, prepared or not, I have no doubt they will face it with the best of their abilities, and most likely succeed. It is the others I am not as sure of, but I do not know them as well. Harry and Hermione, however, they will stand in front of whatever is to come and if they do not beat it away, they will die trying."

McGonagall looked on the verge of tears as he spoke those words, "Then best we make sure they can beat it away." She paused and there was silence between the two until she spoke up again, "They're too young." She said, her voice barely above a whisper. "They shouldn't have to do this, any of it. They should be focused on school, their friends, and each other, not on a damn war."

Brodsky looked up at her with eyes that had seen far too much in his fourty-two years. "It is their destiny."

~~~~~December 20th, 1996. Hogwarts Express.~~~~~

The trio sat in a compartment on the train with Luna, Ginny and Neville. The six chatted comfortably for most of the trip, talking about their plans for the holidays, quidditch, and quietly, their training.

They were only about twenty minutes from the station when Ginny excused herself. Harry didn't know where she would be going so close to the end of their trip but didn't give it much of a thought. Hermione grabbed Ron and started dragging him to the door.

"We have to patrol." She stated, then gave a quick look to Harry that told him everything he needed to know.

He waited a full five minutes before also excusing himself. After searching around for a while, he ran into Hermione fairly far from their compartment.

"Let's go find a place to talk." She said, grabbing his sleeve and leading him down the corridor in search for an empty compartment.

"Where's Ron?" He asked.

"I'll give you three guesses." She smiled back at him.

Harry laughed a little, "He found a Ravenclaw compartment?"

"Yep, not that I minded getting rid of him. Gives me some alone time with you before we don't get to see each other for weeks."

"What's that girls name anyway?"

"Lana Hart, fifth year Ravenclaw."

"Do you know her?"

"She's a prefect. I don't know her, but I know of her, she's supposed to be pretty smart." Hermione responded.

"Then what's she doing flirting with Ron?" Harry asked with a chuckle.

"He's older, not that bad looking, fairly popular, plays quidditch - -" Hermione listed, most of her attention focused on her search.

Harry cut her off, "Hey!"

She grinned back at him then stopped suddenly when they heard a cry from the compartment just in front of them, "For Merlins sake, Gin, just let it go!"

Harry and Hermione looked at each other with knit brows. "That's Malfoys voice." Harry said angrily then started for the compartment door while reaching for his wand.

"Wait." Hermione grabbed his hand and pulled him back.

"He might be hurting her!"

"I don't think so, Harry, he just called her 'Gin'."

They moved closer to the compartment that the voices were coming from to listen to the conversation. Harry had his wand drawn just in case.

"Why can't you just let it go?" Malfoy asked, with none of his usual sneer.

"Because I'm your friend, your only real friend and I worry about you. He's a right bastard, Draco and it frustrates me that I can't do anything to help you!"

There was a brief pause of silence before Malfoy sighed loudly, "I know Ginny. I'm sorry I yelled, it's just that this is the way it is. There's nothing we can do about it right now anyway, so don't worry, please. I can't bear knowing that your Christmas is ruined because you're too busy worrying about me."

Ginny scoffed, "Don't lie to me, I know it goes straight to your head that I'll be thinking about you, you prat."

For the first time since they'd known him, Harry and Hermione heard Malfoy give a genuine laugh, "Yeah, your right it does."

"Just promise you'll write to me." Ginny asked softly.

"You know I will. Now go back to your loser friends and stop bloody worrying about me."

Harry and Hermione shared a look, then Hermione turned back and watched two Hufflepuffs exit one cabin and go into another. She grabbed Harrys sleeve and back-peddled him towards it, and had to physically push him inside.

"What the bloody hell is going on?!" Harry fumed, "He was being nice to her! Him! Nice to someone!"

"Calm down, Harry."

Hermione stuck her head out of the door. Ginny was walking their way with her head down. She hadn't noticed that they were in there as she got to the door so Hermione reached out and grabbed her by the collar of her shirt. Ginny gave a yelp as she was dragged inside the compartment.

Quickly Hermione shut the door and drew the blinds then whirled on the shocked Ginny. Repeating Harrys question from earlier she asked with much less venom, "What the bloody hell is going on?"

Ginny looked from the angry Harry to the curiously worried Hermione then said with a dejected sigh, "You heard us didn't you?"

"If by 'us' you mean you and that bloody ferret than yeah we bloody heard you!" Harry yelled.

"Harry." Hermione said with a warning look, "Calm down." She turned her attention back to Ginny, "Honestly Gin, it's none of our business - -"

"None of our business?!" Harry stared at her wide-eyed.

"No, Harry, it's none of our business." Hermione said back, the warning in her tone getting stronger and stronger. Harry was angry, but he wasn't angry enough to miss it so he threw his hands in the air and angrily sat down, lest she hit him again.

Hermione was talking to Ginny again, "But still, we'd like to know what is going on between you two."

Ginny sighed again and sat down across from Harry, looking down at her hands which were rubbing each other furiously. Hermione remained standing and carefully edged so she was between the two enough that should tempers rise too high she could defuse the situation before either exploded.

"We're friends." Ginny began.

"Since when?" Harry asked, the razor still in his voice.

"Just a little after his father broke out of Azkaban. He really isn't as bad as he seems, once you get to know him."

Harry scoffed and Hermione once more shot him a look, then asked, "How did it start?"

Ginny looked up at Hermione with sad eyes, "You know how you and I are the only ones who'll use Moaning Myrtle's bathroom?" Hermione nodded, "I found him in there, he was an absolute mess. Myrtle told me he'd been going in there alot to get away from everyone, just to cry.

"He doesn't want to be a death eater." Ginny said turning to look at Harry with serious eyes, "It's his father, he's being forced into it. We talked alot that day and I even got him to smile. After that he was pretty cruel to me for a while, I think he was embarrassed, but a little while later he came to me and apologized, said I was the first person to ever be that nice to him.

"We met up in Moaning Myrtle's bathroom all the time and just talked about everything. He's my friend, and I don't care what either of you say."

Hermione was about to speak when Harry stood and she unconsciously moved in front of Ginny. "You're friend?! He's a low, dirty, slimy, son of a bitch! How can you......Bloody hell, Ginny! This is Malfoy! The guy who's made our lives hell as much as he could! The guy who got Norbert sent away and tried to have Buckbeak killed! The guy who's father tried to murder us all!"

Ginny stood too, "He is not his father! And if you tell anyone I'll tell Ron that you two have been snogging behind his back every chance you get!"

"Both of you calm down!" Hermione interrupted. She turned to Harry, "It's none of our business who Ginny is friends with and we are not going to say anything to anyone!" Turning to Ginny, "Has he ever hurt you?" She asked, softer than when she'd spoken to Harry.

"No, no! He wouldn't, Herms!"

"If he ever does you are to tell me straight away, that's the only condition I ask for keeping your secret." Ginny nodded then hugged Hermione.

Hermione hugged her back then motioned with her head to the door. Ginny took the hint and quickly departed, not sparing a glance back, just happy to be getting out of there. Hermione turned back to Harry who was looking at her as if she'd gone mad.

"You're going to let this go on?" He asked.

"Yes. We can't control her, Harry, and as long as he isn't hurting her than I don't see a problem with it. And we won't be telling anyone."

"Fine." Harry grumpily agreed.

Hermione took his hand and smiled at him, using her spare hand to lift his chin so she could look him in the eyes, "Now, this train is slowing down which means we are about to part for a couple of weeks and I don't want to leave you without a proper goodbye and you being angry with me."

He smiled a little and leaned in to gently kiss her, "I could never stay angry at you for long. But if he hurts her, you better tell me so I can deal with him."

"No."

"No?"

"No, I won't be telling you."

"Why not?"

"Because one, I don't want you to go off and kill Malfoy, and two, I'd want to deal with him myself." She told him, and then before he could respond, pulled him in so that their lips met, saying her proper goodbye.

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22. Chapter Twenty: Happy Christmas

A/N: This one isn't much folks, just a little Christmas fluff. And as disgustingly romantic as the gifts are, they'll be important in the future, especially the rose. Sorry it's been so long in coming, but I've been a busy man lately. I have to ask you all to just ignore my live journal, I barely have time to update the story and I thought you'd appreciate a chapter more than an update over there. Also, as soon as I put this up, I'll go and answer some of the reviews from the last chapters. To my readers, thanks a lot for sticking with this story, we're nearly halfway through this novel, though we're a long from the end of the sequel, the end of the end. Thanks!

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CHAPTER TWENTY: HAPPY CHRISTMAS

~~~~~December 23rd, 1996. Grimmauld Place.~~~~~

Harry was smiling as he walked towards the kitchen of Grimmauld place. He'd just received another letter from Hermione. Before parting ways they'd promised to wait as long as possible before writing. Harry had broken first and sent a letter as soon as he'd gotten back to Grimmauld, and since then there'd been many flights back and forth for Hedwig; the owl was not happy.

Once inside the kitchen, Harry was so wrapped up in his thoughts of Hermione that he didn't even notice Lupin sitting at the table nursing a cup of tea, simply watching him. Harry had made his own cup of tea and sat down across from Lupin when he suddenly saw the older man.

"Remus, I didn't even realize you were there."

"I noticed that. Another letter from Hermione?"

Harry smiled, "Yeah." He dreamily told Remus.

Lupin chuckled, "My, you are your fathers son, Harry." Harry smiled up at him and Lupin went on. "James got so wrapped up in Lily when they first got together that he would have lost his head if it weren't screwed on. That enrapture never went away either, their whole time together he was like that."

"Was my Mum wrapped up in him too?"

"Oh, she was crazy about him, that's for sure. But like Hermione, she was able to focus on things."

"I never thought I'd miss her this much, it almost physically hurts not being able to touch her whenever I want."

Remus sat there with a smile, nodding his head, "I know what it's like to be in love, Harry. Will Hermione and her parents be joining us after Christmas?"

"Oh, yeah, I forgot to tell you. They'll be here two days after Christmas, her and her parents."

"Do you think you can wait that long?" Remus laughed.

Harry shook his head, "No, but I'll have to. When will the Weasleys be here?"

"The day before that."

"Will we be able to do some shopping soon? I haven't got everyone gifts yet."

Remus thought for a moment before saying, "We'll go tomorrow, you, Tonks and I. We'll go to Diagon Alley, I have to get a few things myself."

"Good then. I'm going to bed, Remus, goodnight."

"Goodnight, Harry. Sleep well."

Harry made his way back upstairs to his bedroom. After kicking off his shoes he threw himself down on his bed and reached over to his bedside table, grabbing the stack of letters from Hermione. He'd read and re-read the letters many times since their arrival, but he couldn't help himself from reading them over again before he went to sleep. He figured if she couldn't be here to help with his nightmares, he'd let her words calm him as much as possible.

Hermione was enjoying the time she was spending with her family. Her parents had closed their practice for the Christmas holidays and therefore had been doing many things together. She'd told her mother of the new relationship between herself and Harry and her mother was very happy about it.

She's over the moon about us, she thinks the absolute world of you, but we've both decided to give it a little time before telling Daddy, so he's completely oblivious to it all. Hermione wrote. He thinks I'm this happy because I'm back here with them.

Harry was glad that Hermiones mother was alright with them being together. There weren't many people who knew about them, but all those who did were happy for them, so that was a good start.

After reading the latest letter, the one he'd recieved that night, he extingished all of the light in the room and tried to get some sleep.

~~~~~December 25th, 1996. Grimmauld Place.~~~~~

Remus woke Harry gently on Christmas morning with a smile. He handed the young man his glasses saying, "Happy Christmas, Harry."

Harry smiled sleepily and sat up, "Happy Christmas, Remus."

"Sleep well?"

Harry pulled himself out of the bed and called back as he wandered toward his bathroom, "Not well, but it wasn't bad either."

"Well, breakfast is ready when you are, Harry."

Harry quickly washed and changed then headed downstairs. Remus and Tonks were laughing over their tea as Harry entered. Harry knew that they were an item, as much as they tried to hide it. It was the beginning of a new and unusual relationship.

The fact that it was Christmas day put a very cheerful mood through Grimmauld Place, but Harry was aching for Hermione. It would have been a much better day if she were here to share it with him.

He tried to keep her out of his mind for the most part and simply enjoy the small gathering of three around the far too big Christmas tree. But Hermione was brought full force back to his mind when Remus handed him the gift from her.

It was long and heavy. Very carefully Harry peeled back the wrapping to find a beautifully dark polished rectangular wooden box, a bit over a metre long. His name was inscribed on a peice of shiny metal that sat in the centre of the top, Harry James Potter.

Harry ran his hand along the top, it was so smooth. With an air of excitement Harry undid the latches on the side and lifted the lid back. There was a sheet of purple velvet covering whatever his gift was, but that didn't immediately catch his eye. What caught his eye was the plaque on the inside of the lid.

Harry, my hero,

May this help you fight and win

The battles that you face.

You'll never be far from my thoughts,

Nor my heart.

All my love,

Hermione.

The dedication brought tears to Harrys eyes and a grin to his face. He still couldn't believe she really did love him. As if he feared it might tear, Harry very gently lifted back the sheet of velvet. There, held in it's own velvet cocoon was the most beautiful weapon he'd ever seen in his life.

A bastard sword that was exactly his size gleamed back at him. The pure steel was magnificent and flawless. And his own name was encrusted down part of the blade in strong, bold letters. The hilt was a sight of its own. The guard was of the same metal as the blade and had runes carved along it, he'd have to ask Hermione the translation. The grip was wrapped in black leather. And the pommel was a lions head with rubies for eyes, the Gryffindor lion.

Harry didn't know what to say or do. He simply stared at the sword in absolute wonder. It was truly one of the most beautiful sights he'd ever seen.

"Remarkable." He heard Remus whisper from over his shoulder.

Harry looked back at him, startled. He'd completely forgotten his surrounding for a moment there. "It's beautiful isn't it?"

"That it is, Harry." When Harry went back to gawking at the blade, Remus laughed and said, "Well don't just stare at it all day, son, take it out and see how it feels."

Harry put the box down and lifted the sword from its home with ease. The grip felt good to hold onto and the blade swung naturally in his hands. The sword had truly been made for him.

"Lucky I chose my gift wisely then." A foreign voice sounded from behind them. "Merry Christmas to all."

Harry looked over at Brodsky with a grin, "Happy Christmas, Professor."

"I managed to get some information out of Miss Weasley before the holidays began and therefore was able to obtain a gift that was suitable."

He passed a long package to Harry. "Professor, you needn't of." Harry protested.

"Nonsense, Harry. After all the gruelling work I've been putting you through, it was the least I could do."

"But I didn't get you anything, Sir."

Brodsky laughed, "I had hoped you wouldn't. Christmas is about giving, not receiving, Harry. I'd prefer you use the small fortune you hold to do some good. How about you donate a little to charity and we'll call it even?"

Harry grinned, "I think that's a brilliant idea, Professor."

"Now open your gift. I must see if you like it."

Harry did as he was told. Inside the plain brown wrapping he found something made out of the same black leather that was wrapped around the grip of his sword. It was a sheath. Harry couldn't help but grin.

"It goes on your back." Brodsky explained. "Those of us in charge of your training felt it best that your weapons be concealed at all times. With the sword on your back it can easily be covered with a cloak."

"I think you'll find the new cloaks Tonks and I had made for you will cover it perfectly." Remus chimed in with a smile.

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Miles away Hermione was opening her gift from Harry. They had both gone all out now that they'd discovered their true feelings for each other. Hermione had gotten Ginny to ask Brodsky if he knew of a fine swordmaker and he'd provided a name that could be found in Hogsmeade.

She'd managed to get away from Harry one weekend and gone to see the man. He'd agreed happily to make the fine blade for Harry Potter. She'd specified what she wanted and he had come through with a magnificent weapon.

Hedwig had arrived this morning with a note and a heavily wrapped parcel. The note had simply read, Happy Christmas, my love. Wish we could be together, but know that I'm thinking of you, Harry.

Unwrapping many layers of protective wrapping Hermione found a cylinder, one side wood, one side glass. Inside of it swirled a single red rose. It much reminded her of the Beauty and the Beast tales her mother had told her.

It was the single most beautiful flower she'd ever seen in her life. So transfixed she was on the rose itself that she completely ignored the plaque at the bottom for a full five minutes as she watched the flower swirl slowly in its containment. Tears were in her eyes as she read the small poem at the bottom.

This flower stands as a symbol of my love

Forever in bloom, much like my feelings for you

And neither my love, nor this rose shall welt

As for all eternity I shall love you true

"Oh, Harry." She cried, her smile getting bigger, but wishing he were with her so she could hug him.

She was glad Hedwig was still there as she wrote a small note telling him how much she loved the gift and him and sent the snowy owl back to her master.

~~~~~December 26th, 1996.~~~~~

The arrival of the entire Weasley clan brought the quiet serenity of Grimmauld Place to an end and filled it with a jovial family spirit. Harry was happy to see Ron and knew now was the time to tell him about the prophecy.

So after his friend had settled in he took him into his bedroom and cast locking and silencing charms. Ron was immediately curious.

"What's goin' on, mate?"

Harry sighed and sat down on a couch. "There's something I've gotta' tell you mate and it isn't good news."

Harry once more went through the story of the prophecy; how the one smashed wasn't the only copy, how Dumbledore had heard it, and what it contained. Ron sat in silence for a long while after he'd finished.

The fire-haired boy looked up at his friend, "Bugger." He breathed. "That's what all the trainings for then? That's why You-Know-Who wants you dead?" Harry nodded. "Bloody hell, mate, I'm sorry."

"Don't be, Ron." Harry smiled in appreciation.

"Yeah, well, this is all bloody insane."

Harry laughed a little, "You don't have to tell me that mate."

Rons face took on a determined look, "Right then, we'll just keep training and pray that we can pull this off when the time comes."

"You don't have to Ron."

Ron laughed, "Bloody hell, Harry, haven't Herms and I proved to you yet that we'll be by your side no matter what? We'd walk through fire for you Harry, we're not about to stop now when you really bloody need us."

"That's the same thing Hermione said." Harry smiled.

"You told her already then?" Rons tone was a little different now.

Wanting to deflect unwanted questions Harry answered, "She knew something was up and you know what she's like."

That seemed enough for Ron since he laughed, "Sure do."

"I'm glad you're okay with this, Ron. As much as I don't want you guys involved in all of this, I really do need your support. I mean, all those encounters I've had I wouldn't of made it through without you and Hermione. Sometimes I don't know why you fools trust me."

"You're our friend, Harry, what more reason do we need. You gonna' tell the others?"

"I suppose I should, shouldn't I?"

"They have a right to know what they fought for that night. They have a right to know why we're so strongly behind you in this." Ron explained.

"I know, I just hate to worry them."

"They won't be worried, Harry." Ron said. "Ginny has probably already figured it out, Nevilles willing to back you up no matter what, and I don't think there's much that would worry Luna. Actually I have a feeling Hogwarts could crumble down around Luna and she wouldn't be worried."

Harry laughed, "Good point. So tell me, what's with this Ravenclaw girl?"

Ron grinned, "Her names Lana. She's a year younger than me and pretty good-lookin'. She's smart too, not Hermione smart, but smart....maybe Ginny smart. Oh, and she's crazy about me."

Harry laughed at the big head Ron had developed since girls started fawning over him. "So are you going out or what?"

"Not yet. But I'll probably ask her out once we get back to school. Take her to Hogsmeade or something."

Harry was hoping they were going out. It would be much easier to tell Ron about he and Hermione if he had a girlfriend to take his mind off it. Still he had a sinking feeling that no matter who Ron was dating or what was happening at the time, breaking their 'happy' news to Ron was going to be a total disaster.

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23. Chapter Twenty One: Into Another Year

A/N: This chapter is not much at all. A little bit of fill until the action picks up, which promises to be soon. I'm sorry for the long waits between updates, but I can't possibly say how much I appreciate people sticking with this fic, it really means a lot. And, just because I love my readers so, a next update will be soon. And when I say soon, I mean tomorrow or the next day. Soon. Thanks so much, enjoy!

CHAPTER TWENTY ONE: INTO ANOTHER YEAR

~~~~~January 15th, 1997. Hogwarts.~~~~~

The new year had started with both goods and bads. The bad was Harry telling Neville, Ginny and Luna about the prophecy. None of them were really surprised at the news. But they all hooked into their training with a new air of determination. If they were going to do this they were going to do it right and be sure they came out the victors.

The good news was Ron finally asking out Lana Hart. He'd made better on his word and hadn't waited until they returned to school to ask her out but had done it on the train ride back to Hogwarts. And once more Ron had entered an oblivious bliss, although he was taking his training more seriously than anyone save Harry and Hermione, his spare time was all for Lana.

Harry was wiping down the blade of his sword in the Room of Requirement when Hermione entered. He was so wrapped up in the weapon that he didn't even notice her walk in.

She leaned against a bookshelf and crossed her arms, watching him with a smile. "Should I leave you two alone?"

Harry looked up and grinned, "Sorry, Love, I didn't see you come in. I meant to ask you at Christmas but forgot, what do the runes carved on the guard mean?"

Hermione walked over and took the sword from his hand. "It says 'Drawn to ensure the light will never fade."

"It's beautiful, Love." Harry told her as he stared at her in wonder. "You are amazing."

Hermione blushed as Brodsky entered. He looked at the two and the sword between them. "It's a fine blade, Harry, but shall we see how it fares?"

With that he withdrew his own blade from his back, beneath his cloak. The two teens were rather shocked, but assumed that he pretty much always carried it and they'd never noticed before. Like Harry's it was a hand and a half sword. The blade had a black hue to it. The guard was like a pair of black birds wings, the grip a plainly ridged black, and the pommel was a cube shape.

Harry took his own sword and twirled it a little with a grin. Brodsky laughed and then lunged. Harry's weapon felt natural in his hand, like an extension of his body. The two blades clinked and clanked together. Harry knew Brodsky was going easy on him, but he was finding it much easier to work with the sword.

When the two finally stopped Brodsky smiled, "I guess it handles well, then."

"It certainly does, Professor."

Harry looked back at Hermione to see she had her hand over her heart, she stood and walked to them, "Don't bloody well do that again. Those are bloody real and could kill one of you." She walked off muttering something about 'stupid boys'.

Brodsky smiled down at Harry, "Go on, get a little break."

Harry grabbed his things and followed Hermione out of the Room of Requirement. He caught up with her on the stairs. "I'm sorry, Love."

"It's alright, Harry. But if you die just training.....well that would be bad."

Harry and Hermione had walked into the courtyard to find Ron and Lana snogging like there was no tomorrow, not even noticing that there were other people around them.

"Think it's love?" Harry asked with a grin.

"With Ron? No." Hermione answered seriously.

Harry didn't see that her attention wasn't focused on the happy couple but did pick up on her tone as they sat on a bench together. "What? You don't think Ron has the capability to fall in love?"

"I think he does. But I don't think he'll find it with all the girls he's after."

"Where do you think he'll find it then?" Harry asked, watching Ron and Lana and wondering if they'd ever come up for air.

"Same place we did." When Harry looked at her, a question in his eyes, she explained, "Right under his nose."

Then she pointed to a bench a fair bit away from them. There sat Luna Lovegood, watching the two lovebirds and looking rather depressed. For those who knew Luna, which Harry and Hermione did, to see her looking anything but dreamy was unsettling.

"She's had a thing for Ron since the moment she met him, you know?" Hermione asked sadly.

She felt bad for poor Luna, having to watch as Ron went through girlfriends. And she wondered if Ron would ever notice that she was not only perfect for him, but crazy about him.

"No, I didn't know that." Harry told her. "Do you think he'll ever notice?"

Hermione smiled a little and looked at him, "It took us over five years, she's only had one and a half."

Harry laughed as he gazed into her eyes, "Well then, they've got plenty of time."

"That's just it but, they might not have plenty of time."

Harry saw that now familiar cloud pass over her eyes. She was thinking about the upcoming battle again and they weren't very pleasant thoughts.

"Mione, stop right now." He gently demanded. "We've been through this before, in fact we go through this all the time. Stop with those thoughts, Love, please. We're going to do our best to beat them."

"Or die trying to." Hermione added darkly.

"What are you two talking about?" Ron's voice interrupted. He and Lana were standing in front of them.

Hermione let go of Harry's hands and turned, but didn't look up at them as she answered, "People squandering their time."

Ron raised an eyebrow at Harry who just sighed, "End of the world Hermione has just made an appearance."

"Well this is a rare moment." Ron said sarcastically. He addressed Lana as he spoke his next words, "Best enjoy this while it lasts, it doesn't happen often."

"Oh, shove it, Ronald!" Hermione cried before standing up and storming away.

"And it's just upgraded to angry Hermione." Harry muttered. "Much easier to deal with."

"How's that mate?" Ron asked as Harry stood.

"Well, I can handle it when she's yelling or throwing things at me or trying to hex me, but when she gets that look in her eyes like we're all going to die in an hour, I'm at a complete loss of what to do." Harry explained.

"Best we go after her then?" Lana asked quietly. She was nervous when she was around Ron's best friends, one of which was the smartest and probably most powerful witch to ever come to Hogwarts and the other was the Boy Who Lived. Her boyfriend had pretty intimidating friends, although neither tried to be.

"Nah." Harry was saying. He smiled and patted Lana on the arm. "You two enjoy the rest of your day, I'll go after her."

Harry walked off in the same direction as Hermione had. Ron turned to Lana, "He's better at dealing with Hermione's moods than I am."

"Well of course he would be." Lana laughed.

Ron turned to her with a furrowed brow, "What's that mean?"

"Just that he knows her....you know, more intimately than you do."

Ron was lost in his confusion, "What the bloody hell are you on about?"

"They've been an item for years now, haven't they? Everyone at school is convinced they have been together for ages." She explained.

Suddenly Ron burst out laughing, "I don't think so, Lana. They're my two best friends and if they were fooling around behind my back I'd know about it."

Ron had no idea how wrong he was, but he didn't believe the rumours that were flying around. Well, he thought, Gossips bound to happen with us three being so close and this being such a small castle.

Harry followed Hermione's direction back into the castle. He'd lost her by a long shot, but took a stab at where she might be, if only he had his map. He headed towards the Room of Requirement. Once there he saw a door with no handle. Sighing he banged on it hard with his fist.

"Mione! I know you're in there! Let me in!" He yelled, hoping it was loud enough.

After a few moments a handle materialized on the door. He quickly entered to find Hermione sitting under the tree they usually stretched under in the field they normally worked out in. He silently moved and sat beside her.

Without a word she moved into him and he wrapped his arms around her. It was a long time before either of them spoke, Hermione breaking the silence.

"I'm just so scared Harry. I'm horrified they'll attack tomorrow and one of us will die and we won't get the chance to......" She broke off, tears brimming in her chocolate eyes.

"To what, Mione? What won't we get the chance to do?" He urged her to go on.

She looked up at him with a small smile, "To have the kind of love that legends are made of."

He smiled too and brushed some stray hair behind her ear, "We already do, Love."

She moved forward and touched her lips to his so gently it was like a feather passing over them. Her eyes flicked up to his and she jumped him. She pinned him against the ground and her lips hungrily took his.

Heart-rates increasing, breath shortening, and tongues dueling Harry grinned as he flipped her over. He smiled down at her whispering, "By the Gods you are beautiful."

A faint blush rose on her cheeks and she looked away for a moment smiling. Harry took advantage of her turned head and kissed his way down the side of her neck, starting just below her ear.

As he went, so did the big warm clothes they were wearing in the cold outside. Their bodies and the fake sun providing enough heat so they weren't needed.

Hermione took in a sharp breath at the contact and closed her eyes to enjoy it. By the time Harry tasted the salt on her throat his emotions were raging. Lust and desire battling with love and respect.

The latter winning out, only just, he pulled away and rolled off her and onto his back. "Merlin, Mione I want to be a gentleman, but do you have any idea what you do to me?"

Hermione had almost cried out at the loss of contact. She looked sideways at him, smirking a little, "I have some idea."

Then suddenly she was straddling him, grinding a little to let him know she knew exactly what she did to him.

Harry groaned and sat up, pressing his chest against hers. "I don't know if we're ready." He managed to get out, that one question very difficult.

Hermione giggled and said, "I think your little friend may disagree."

Harry smiled and blushed, "Don't you worry about him, I've got many ways to make him go away. What I'm worried about is whether you disagree."

Harry himself was split in two over the decision. Part of him wanted to wait, wanted their first time to be special and all that, not a moment of lust. There was also the fact that he was more than a little nervous about it.

Then the other half of him, the part that was making himself noticed at the moment, wanted to take her right then and there without a second thought as to if they were ready or the consequences such an action could have.

Hermione bit her lip as she thought, a habit that Harry found irresistible. "God, Mione, don't do that, not now." He groaned.

"What?" She asked.

"That biting your lip thing turns me on more than you'll ever know."

She looked at him as if he'd gone mad for a moment, then cracked up laughing. "Really?" She asked through her humour.

Harry rolled his eyes but couldn't help smiling, "Yes, really, my Love. It's you in your natural thoughtful state and sometimes I find it remarkably beautiful, others remarkably sexy. This is one of those times it's sexy."

She giggled, "You are the sweetest guy sometimes, Harry."

"Yeah, I know. Now get off me so I can make our little friend go away."

She laughed again as she moved off him. "How exactly do you do that?"

"Snape dancing with a fireman's pole in nothing but a bikini usually does it for me every time." Harry told her.

She grimaced as the image raced through her mind and then burst out laughing once more. This time she couldn't make the giggles stop and after a few minutes of concentration Harry's problem was gone and he found himself joining in.

A rug and some pillows materialized beneath the two as they lay there laughing for a good long while. Snuggling up even as tears of mirth came from Hermione's eyes.

"I'm not going to be able to look at him without laughing now." Hermione told Harry as they settled somewhat.

He wrapped his arm around her, "Now you know why I'm always containing a laugh at the greasy git."

Hermione looked up at him after a few moments, "Thank you." She told him sincerely.

He pulled her closer to him, "I think we both need some time, Mione."

She leaned up on her elbows and looked down at him with a sincere smile, "You really are the sweetest guy sometimes."

Harry didn't say anything, instead opting to kiss her gently and pull her into him. The two basked in the magic replicated warmth of the sun until both were napping quietly. Neither woke from their content snooze until Ginny came in to help with the junior DA members and found the two of them like that.

~~~~~January 16th, 1997. Hogwarts.~~~~~

Harry sat down at the Gryffindor table across from Ron at lunch time. Hermione had gone to the library to read and study. He'd offered to go with her but she told him to go and eat instead.

Harry and Ron casually chatted over their food, talking mostly about the upcoming Quidditch match. Once that topic was finished they moved on to talking about Lana and Harry nearly choked on his food at something Ron told him about while laughing.

"You'll never believe what she said yesterday." Ron started. "She said that most of the school reckon you and Hermione have had a thing going on for years."

Swallowing the food he almost spat up Harry mumbled quietly, "Well not for years."

"What was that mate?" Ron asked and Harry shook him off. "Anyway, isn't that the funniest thing you've ever heard?"

This was it, time to tell Ron the truth and hope he wouldn't kill anyone. Being in such a public place probably wasn't best, but Harry had no choice. Ron needed to know now. Hermione was lucky she was in the library.

"Ron, look, I gotta' tell you something." Harry began.

Ron looked at him expectantly, no clue as to what Harry was about to say. Harry was just about to spit it out when Neville walked up to the two.

"Hey Harry. Come on, Ron, we got training."

Ron nodded, "Sorry, Harry, I gotta' go."

Harry just nodded and watched his best friend walk out of the Great Hall. He was thankful Neville had arrived when he did and saved him from what was to be a most unpleasant conversation. But then he was also upset that he didn't get to tell Ron. He wanted to include his best friend in his happiness, and he hated keeping things from him.

"Hey, Harry." Ginny said as she took Rons recently vacated seat.

"Hey Gin."

"You have that look about you like you want something heavy to drop on top of you." Ginny smiled.

Harry sighed, "It's about Ron. I don't like keeping this from him. I want to tell him, but I don't want him to hate me or Hermione."

"I don't think he'll hate either of you. He'll be angry, and only get angrier the longer you keep it from him. You guys should tell him ... and soon."

"I know. How's the Ferret going?"

"He's been a bit on edge recently." Ginny said, her face dropping a little. "His fathers been writing him every week asking for updates and he's having a lot of trouble telling him stuff without actually telling him anything."

"Yeah, right." Harry snorted.

Ginny sighed, "Harry, I know that you are reluctant to trust him, but you trust me right?"

"Yes, Ginny I trust you."

"Then trust me when I say that I trust him. He's not who you think he is Harry."

Ginny's eyes were imploring Harry to believe her. He thought for a moment, "I'll tell you Ginny, it'll be hard for me to ever trust him, he'd have to do something pretty special. But if you say that he's okay, then alright. Just know I'll be keeping an eye on him."

She smiled, "Thank you, Harry. It means a lot to me."

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24. Chapter Twenty Two: Disaster Strikes

A/N: Well, here's the promised chapter. Might be a little bit before the next one though. I wish I had the time to reply to all the reviews I got, but at the moment I don't. I'll get to them soon though, and I'll just say here: Thank you all so much. Each and every one is appreciated. If you've been paying attention, you can probably tell what this chapter is about just from the title, but even if you can't, I hope you enjoy it. Thanks for the support guys. Until next time!

CHAPTER TWENTY TWO: DISASTER STRIKES

~~~~~January 22nd, 1997. Hogwarts.~~~~~

Harry watched the last of the DA senior class walk out of the Room of Requirement. They were all doing so well that he was extremely proud of not only his students but himself as well. Hermione shut the door after the last one left and turned back to smile at him.

Instantly the room morphed into the cozy room they were used to. He watched her walk towards him with a smile.

"I think a good old snogging session is in order after all that hard work." Harry grinned as he took her in his arms.

"Oh, do you, Mr Potter?" Hermione smiled up at him.

"That I do, Miss Granger."

The kiss started slowly and got deeper as that now familiar electricity ran through them. Harry tightened his hold around her and her hands gripped the front of his clothes. The two were wrapped up in each other and didn't notice the door opening.

"What the bloody hell?!"

The cry tore them apart and both turned to see Ron staring at them, his mouth open, his eyes wide and his brow furrowed. His face was slowly turning the colour of his hair and it looked as if he'd stopped breathing.

"Ron!" They called simultaneously, a feeling of dread building in their stomachs.

"You two...." He started pointing. "What the.....bloody snogging." He stammered.

"Ron, we can explain." Harry began and slowly moved toward his friend.

"Explain? There's not much to bloody well explain is there?! It's bloody true! The two of you have been shackin' up behind my back!"

"We wanted to tell you, Ron." Hermione informed him.

"Bloody hell." Ron murmured and ran his hands through his hair. "I can't bloody believe this."

Harry was only about a meter from Ron, deciding to keep a little distance between the two. "Ron, mate....."

"Don't call me 'mate' Harry. I can't believe you would do this to me! You're supposed to be my best friend!"

"We haven't done anything wrong, Ron." Harry tried to explain.

"Haven't done anything wrong?! You already get bloody everything, Harry, but I thought it was alright because she was going to be mine. She was supposed to be mine, Harry. And now you've come in and taken her from me!" Ron roared.

Harry stole a glance back to Hermione and saw the fire build in her eyes, he didn't think she'd appreciate being talked about like a possession. He saw his two best friends and knew there was nothing he could do to stop the explosion that was about to take place.

Hermione pushed past Harry, "Yours?! I'm not an object, Ron, I'm a person. And I am no ones to have. I'm not yours and I'm not Harry's! But I do love him!"

That was like a slap in the face for Ron. "Fine. Bugger the both of you. Neither of you have the right to call yourselves my friend." He told them, his voice quivering a little and deathly quiet.

With those final words he walked out of the Room of Requirement and left the two standing in a shocked silence.

Harry saw the tears slide down Hermione's cheeks and cursed Ron for causing her pain, even though he knew they probably deserved it, they should have told him straight away. He walked up behind her, wrapping his arms around her and holding her tight.

Her silent tears turned into full on sobs, so he turned her around and sat them on a couch that appeared behind them, sitting her on his lap and letting her cry. His own tears were hard to keep at bay, the fear of losing his best mate overwhelming.

"What are we going to do, Harry?" Hermione cried.

"I don't know, Love. Maybe we'll just give him some space and then try and talk to him."

"He hates us. He'll never speak to either of us ever again." The sobs got harder as she spoke.

Harry rubbed circles on her back, "He doesn't hate us, Mione. He's just shocked, angry and upset. He needs some time. And if he won't speak to us then we'll make him." He paused for a moment then lifted her chin, "Just remember I love you."

"How could I forget? I love you too, Harry."

~~~~~January 25th, 1997. Hogsmeade.~~~~~

Ron had avoided both Harry and Hermione for three full days. He'd walk away from them whenever one approached him, he would completely ignore Harry when they were in their dorm, and he shot them dirty glances while they were in the Great Hall.

They were giving him time, however. Both wanted to speak to him, but they knew he needed space away from them to deal with things.

After Ron had walked in on them, news of their relationship had spread quickly around Hogwarts. Although, as Lana had told Ron, people already thought they were together. So now they weren't hiding it from anyone.

The two walked through Hogsmeade hand in hand. The only unusual event that had occurred was when they ran into Draco Malfoy. He was alone and he simply nodded at the two and kept walking.

"Guess Ginny talked to him." Hermione muttered.

"It's so weird to see him being civil." Harry said back.

They spent the day in the normal way during a Hogsmeade weekend, visiting shops and spending most of the time at the Three Broomsticks attempting to get Madame Rosmerta to take some money.

She kept refusing so with a resigned sigh Harry made his way back to their table with their butterbeers. The two sat and talked quietly in their corner of the wizard bar. Harry looked up to see Brodsky enter.

The older man smiled as he sat at the bar and Rosmerta walked up to him. Harry had never seen Brodsky smile the way he was smiling at Rosmerta. And Rosmerta was most definitely flirting with Brodsky. Harry hoped something would come from this. Passing through the mystery of the man, Harry was becoming very fond of Brodsky, but knew he was miserable. Maybe a little romance in the older wizards life would make him smile a bit more.

With his own hidden smile he turned his attention back to Hermione who was talking about NEWTs. Harry had to grin at the enthusiasm in her tone.

"They'll be really difficult, but I honestly can't wait." She looked up at him, "What?"

"Nothing, Love. I just enjoy your excitement when you speak about learning."

Hermione blushed a little, but smiled all the same, "Well, I enjoy learning."

"I know. That's part of what makes me love you so much. I can't think of anything more beautiful then when you're in the library surrounded by stacks and stacks of books, biting that poor bottom lip of yours, your eyes alight with knowledge."

Her blush grew deeper as she asked, "Are you just teasing me now?"

He reached out and took her hand, "I'm as serious as a heart attack, Mione. I honestly can't think of anything more beautiful."

After a few more butterbeers and gentle conversation the two decided to return to Hogwarts. They agreed upon walking to enjoy the rest of a nice day.

They were just out of Hogsmeade when they ran into Ron and Lana. Ron saw them and tried to storm away but Lana held his hand tightly and kept her feet glued to the ground. Harry and Hermione cautiously approached.

"Ron...." Harry began softly.

"Don't speak to me, Potter." Ron spat.

Harry looked at him with disbelief, "Since when do you call me 'Potter'?"

"Since you betrayed me." Ron pulled himself out of Lana's grip and went to walk away.

Harry's call stopped him, "You're hurting us, Ron! Stop being a stubborn fool and talk this through with us!"

Ron turned back to him, "I'm not a stubborn fool, Harry, I've just been treated like one." He looked at Lana, "You can either come with me or stay with them, I don't care."

She hesitated for a moment and Ron shook his head and took off. Lana looked at Harry and Hermione with sad eyes, "I'm so sorry. I've tried to talk to him about it, but he really is being stubborn. He's just not the same person without you two."

After those rushed comments Lana ran after Ron. Harry and Hermione sadly watched them both walk away. They had feared this right from the beginning, they were losing Ron.

"He'll come around." A voice spoke from behind them.

They spun to see Ginny and Malfoy standing there together. Malfoy was looking at his feet, while Ginny watched her retreating brother. Harry and Hermione moved closer to them.

"Malfoy." Harry greeted as pleasantly as he could.

Draco glanced up, "Potter."

There was still a lot of tension between them so Ginny broke in, "Don't worry about Ron too much. As soon as he realizes that he's being a git, he'll come good."

Hermione snorted, "When has Ron ever realized he was being a git?"

Ginny laughed, "It's rare, but it has happened and it will happen this time. Like Lana said, he's not the same person without you two. And you two aren't the same without him."

Malfoy muttered something and Harry, thinking he was making a smart-arsed comment asked a bit angrily, "What was that, Malfoy?"

Malfoy sighed, he couldn't believe he was about to say what he was. "A tripod can't stand if it loses a leg. You need each other."

Both Harry and Hermione were taken back by the comment, but Ginny just smiled at Draco. "That's a perfect way to put it. Well, we'll excuse the two of you."

With a final smile at them she took Malfoy's arm and led him away. Harry and Hermione stood there dumbfounded for a moment.

"That was actually nice what he just said." Hermione muttered in shock. "It looks as if Ginny has had a positive effect on him."

Harry shook himself out of the slight daze Malfoy's words had put him in and grabbed Hermione's hand. "Anyway, we were going back to the castle."

~~~~~January 30th, 1997. Hogwarts.~~~~~

"You really need to sort this thing out with Ron, Harry." Neville said as he caught up to Harry in one of the halls of the ancient castle.

"We're giving him some space." Harry explained. "He'll be alright, he's got Lana."

"No he doesn't." Neville said quietly.

Harry stopped them walking, "What do you mean?"

Neville sighed, "He got real angry yesterday and went off about how Hermione was supposed to be his and all that right in front of Lana. She dropped him like a sack of potatoes."

Harry closed his eyes and breathed deeply. "Bloody hell." He muttered.

"He's having so much trouble concentrating while we're training, Mad-Eyes threatening to whip him unless he sorts himself out. And well, you saw him at quidditch practice, he couldn't even stop one goal. And I noticed you weren't on top of your game either."

"I don't know what to do, Neville. He won't listen to either me or Hermione."

Neville got a thoughtful look on his face then smiled as a light bulb seemed to go off in his head, "Don't worry, I think you all may sort it out soon enough."

"What Neville? What are you planning?"

"Never mind. I've gotta' go, I need to see Professor Brodsky." With that Neville bolted away, leaving a very confused and worried Harry in his wake.

~~~~~January 31st, 1997. Hogwarts.~~~~~

Harry made his way to the DADA room for his usual Friday night occlumency lesson. He wasn't looking forward to it at all. He'd been so preoccupied recently that he'd completely forgotten to practice what he'd been taught and he knew Brodsky wouldn't be too happy about that.

The room was dark when he walked in and at first he thought it was empty. He wondered for a moment where Professor Brodsky could be until a familiar presence made itself known.

"What the hell are you doing here?" Ron asked from where he'd been sitting at one of the desks.

Both of them clicked a moment too late as they ran to the door just as it slammed shut. They tried to open it with no success and not even magic was working.

"Neville!" Harry realized with a yell.

"It's for your own good!" Neville's voice rang out from the other side of the sealed door.

Ron banged on the door, making every effort to knock it down for a good five minutes as Harry, figuring this wasn't so bad, sat down.

When Ron stopped his pounding Harry asked, "How'd they get you here?"

Ron sat on the opposite side of the room, "Professor Brodsky told me he wanted to discuss my essay results, told me to wait for him. You?"

"Occlumency lesson."

"We were bloody well set up!" Ron stated the obvious grumpily.

The two sat in silence for a long while until Harry finally broke it, "We really do need to talk, Ron." His friend stayed silent so Harry continued, "We didn't mean to hurt you."

Ron just snorted, making no effort to reply. It was over an hour later that either of them spoke again, both passing the time silently.

Ron broke the stillness of the room, "Why, Harry? Why'd you take her from me?"

Harry sat up from where he'd lay across a couple of desks and sighed, "She was never yours, Ron."

"She could've been." Ron mumbled.

"Yeah, she could've been, but both you and I know it never would've worked out between the two of you. It would've ruined the friendship."

"What and you think you and her will never split up?"

Harry answered without even having to think about it, "No, we won't."

"Why not?" Ron asked, his voice softening a touch.

"Because I love her more than anyone ever could, Ron, and I plan on spending the rest of my life with her."

"I could have loved her like that, Harry." Ron argued.

"That's just it, Ron, you couldn't have." He paused a moment as he gathered his thoughts. "You see her as an object, Ron. As a prize for one of us to win. I see her as a beautiful girl who I'm madly in love with. You may think you could love her the way I do, but you couldn't. You'd never treat her the way I do, the way she deserves to be treated. And pretty soon you'd realize that you don't love her like that. You think of her more like a sister, Ron, whether you know it or not." Harry explained.

Ron was silent at Harry's words and through the darkness Harry could make out the thoughtful look on his face. Harry lay back on his desk and it was another hour of silence before Ron spoke again.

"You get everything." He said quietly and Harry wasn't sure whether he was speaking to him or himself, "You've got the money, the fame, the purpose in life. And now you get the girl too."

Harry sat up again and looked over at his best friend, "Do you know how quickly I'd give up the money, the fame, the damn destiny! Just to have parents to go home to on the holidays, or a godfather. Merlin, Ron, you still don't get it. You may think I'm lucky because I've got tonnes of gold, because everyone knows my name. But do you know how many times I've wished I could have your life?"

Ron snorted, "My life? You'd be pathetic."

"No, I'd be lucky. You take your family for granted, Ron. You don't know how you'd feel if they weren't there. To me, you're the luckiest guy in the world." There was another long pause. "Hermione gives me a touch of normalcy, Ron. When I'm with her I don't have to be the orphan, the Boy-Who-Lived, the guy who has the entire fate of the bloody world on his shoulders! I can just be me, just Harry. I get that feeling with you too, Ron. You're my best friend. Hell, you're more than that, you're my brother, but I won't let you get in the way of what Hermione and I could have. I love you so much Ron and I want you to always be in my life, to always be my brother, but she's my future. And if you make me choose, I'll choose her."

"You really love her, don't you?" Ron asked quietly.

"More than you can imagine." Harry answered, equally as quiet.

Ron was silent a bit longer, but Harry could hear the emotion in his voice when he finally did speak, "Just give me some more time, Harry."

"You have all the time you want, Ron. Just remember what I said, you're my brother and my best friend and I don't want to lose you."

Ron and Harry were still forced to spend the night in the Defense room. They transfigured desks into mattresses and slept there. Come morning Neville and Brodsky let them out.

Before the two parted ways Ron grabbed Harry's shoulder, "Just give me some more time." He repeated.

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25. Chapter Twenty Three: Moving On

A/N: Right, well, if any of you are still interested, here's the next chapter of this fic. I know many thought it abandoned, but the truth is I've just had a lot going on in my life at the moment. Too much, and my writing has, unfortunately, taken a back seat to more important things. I want to thank you all for your support though, it really means a lot to me.

CHAPTER TWENTY THREE: MOVING ON

~~~~~February 15th, 1997. Hogwarts.~~~~~

Hermione had been heartened to hear of Harry and Ron's conversation in the DADA room. She hoped that they'd work things out as soon as possible. The two had complied with Ron's wishes and given him some more space and time.

Valentines Day had been a Friday so that weekend had been declared a Hogsmeade weekend. With everyone going into the small village, Harry and Hermione opted to stay in the peace and quiet of Gryffindor Tower for the day after the holiday of love.

They lay about together, enjoying the comfortable silence as they both quietly read. Harry flipped through a Defense Against The Dark Arts book Brodsky had given him while Hermione re-read his mothers research notes.

She'd already read the small diary about a dozen times but she couldn't stop herself from reading it over and over. It made her feel connected to Harry's mother and she was also learning a lot from it. Hermione had realized quite quickly that Lily Potter had truly been a brilliant woman and she felt honoured to be compared to her by so many people.

"Find anything interesting?" Harry asked lazily as he closed his own book and looked up from where his head lay in her lap.

Hermione's brow was furrowed and she was biting her lip, "Did you ever read this, Harry?"

"No." He answered.

"There's some stuff here at the end. It must of been after she found out about the prophecy and they went into hiding. She was searching for ways to protect you. I might be able to build off some of this." Hermione muttered the last part almost to herself. "She really was quite brilliant."

"And you being able to work with her research just proves how brilliant you also are, my love."

Hermione closed the diary and looked down at him with a smile. She unconsciously brushed the hair off his forehead to reveal the scar she hated so much.

"Stop feeding my ego." She said cheekily.

"Why? You feed mine all the time." Harry grinned back.

"And now the both of you have heads so big you can barely fit through doors." A third voice filled the solitude of the common room.

Ron was watching them with a small smile. Both jumped apart and stood in front of him, almost holding their breaths to hear what he had to say.

He looked down at his feet, embarrassed. "I don't want to be left out. I don't want to miss out on how happy I know you make each other and I certainly don't want to miss out on the adventures we'll have. I was a git. And I'm sorry for getting angry at you both. Forgive me?"

Hermione looked ready to burst into tears as she launched herself onto Ron. Harry smiled at the scene and answered, "Yeah, we forgive you mate."

Ron pulled Hermione away from him a little, but kept hold of the embrace. "I was wrong, Herms. I love you like a sister, nothing more. But if this dick ever hurts you, you tell me so I can beat the crap out of him, as a brother is entitled to do."

Hermione had tears pouring down her face as she grinned and hugged him again. Harry laughed, "Hell, mate, if I ever hurt her, I'll tell you myself." He paused as he moved closer.

As Ron and Hermione parted, Ron vowed, "If I ever act like that again, one of you hex me. I really am sorry."

"I'll do it." Hermione offered straight away with a smile.

"I'm happy for you both." Ron admitted as they all sat down. "I know you two are perfect for each other. Just wish I'd realized it sooner. I do wish you had told me straight away and I'm still a bit upset at both of you and myself that you didn't, I mean if I weren't such a wanker you would have."

"No, Ron. You deserved to know straight away and we didn't tell you, we should have and we're sorry too." Harry told him.

"Yeah, well, it may take me some time to get used to seeing you two hanging all over each other being all sick and that - -"

"Sick?" Hermione interrupted.

"Yeah, well," Ron began to explain, "You're my brother and sister, it just isn't right."

They all laughed at that then Harry said, "That does sound kind of twisted. But you'll get used to it."

"I'm sorry about you and Lana." Hermione told Ron. "She seemed great for you."

"Nah, never would've worked." Ron waved it off. "She was too intimidated around you two. And if I'm gonna' be with a girl then she'd better be comfortable around my best friends."

Harry and Hermione exchanged a glance. "Intimidated around us? We tried our best to make her feel welcome." Hermione said, not quite understanding why the girl would be intimidated.

"Yeah, I know, but still ... I have to find myself a girl who doesn't care that one of you is the Boy-Who-Lived and the other is the brightest witch of her age. Someone not easily intimidated." Harry and Hermione exchanged another glance with a small, knowing smile. Ron looked at them with a raised eyebrow, "What?"

"Well, mate, there's someone out there that is perfect for you, and isn't easily ... anything I guess." Harry answered.

"Yeah and who would that be?"

Hermione giggled a little, "If we told you you'd miss out on the fun of working it out on your own."

Ron probed a little more but the two wouldn't tell him. They sat and talked the way they had always able to, with the last bit of tension dropping away as they chatted into the afternoon. Everything was the way it was supposed to be.

~~~~~~February 22nd, 1997. Hogwarts.~~~~~

The five Gryffindors and Luna, who was an honourary lion by now, sat under a tree down near the lake. Harry leaned against the tree, with Hermione in front of him using him as a cushion, reading his mothers notes again. Occasionally he would read over her shoulder but he was mainly focused on his conversation with Neville and Ron who both straddled a bench, a chess board between them.

Luna and Ginny lay on the cold grass reading from text books. It was their OWL year and they were both starting to study hard for the big exams. Hermione was their main help, pointing out which chapters of which books to pay close attention to and such.

The snow had just cleared, leaving the grass wet and green. Nearing the end of winter it was still very cool and therefore they were all rugged up, but the sun had decided to make an appearance and they figured they'd take advantage of it.

Harry was warmer than the others since Hermione's back was pressed against his chest. He took in her scent; the vanilla of her hair, the brazil nut from the body wash he knew she used and the smell of parchment her robes picked up from spending so much time in the library.

He nuzzled into her neck, taking his focus off the quidditch talk and whispering, "Why do you love to read that so much?"

Hermione kept her eyes focused on the page of Lily's handwriting she was absorbed in as she answered, "Like I told you before your mother was brilliant. She understood the arithmancy of magic so well. And besides, reading this, it makes me feel ... I don't know, connected to her or something like that. It makes me feel close to her." Hermione admitted quietly.

"She would've loved you." Harry smiled. "Remus said you're a lot like her. You two would have gotten along so well."

Hermione turned a little so she could look at him, "I would've loved her too. I would've enjoyed getting to know her."

Harry laughed sadly, "I can just see it. I'd take you home for Christmas or something and you and Mum would go off on an in-depth discussion of ancient runes or arithmetic progression or something and just leave me and Dad watching the both of you with dumbfounded looks on our faces, not understanding a word of what you were saying."

Hermione's eyes were sad as she smiled at him, "I'm sorry, Love."

He squeezed her tightly, "Don't be, Mione." He whispered then kiss her cheek. "She sure would've loved you. They both would have."

"I didn't know you knew that there was such a thing as arithmetic progression." Hermione teased, trying to lighten the mood.

Harry laughed a genuine chuckle, "I know the words, I have no idea what they mean though."

Hermione gave him the dictionary meaning as she turned back to Lily's notes, "A sequence of terms in which each, except the first, differs from the preceding one by a constant quantity, as two, four, six, eight."

"I still don't understand what it means, my little human textbook." Harry teased.

She gave him a quick whack around the side of the head and then both went back to what they were previously doing.

"I still don't like Bulgaria's chances this year." Ron was saying. "They haven't had the best season. It's not that Krum hasn't been flying as good as he always has, it's the rest of the team, they're almost bloody hopeless."

"Yeah, but if any seeker can get them to the World Cup it'll be him." Neville argued.

"I still maintain that he's a git." When there was responses from both Neville and Ginny, Ron defended his position. "Come on, he was Harry's enemy during the Triwizard Tournament!"

"That doesn't mean we should hate him, Ron." Harry smiled. "In fact, I actually liked Krum, he was a nice guy."

Hermione, being in the teasing mood smothered her grin and exchanged a look with Ginny as she said, "I quite liked Krum too."

Ginny and Neville broke out laughing. Luna smiled but kept her dreamy look. Ron's eyes widened and he looked at her with an unusual look before realize that she was joking around and started laughing himself.

Harry turned her so he could look at her with a grin, "You did, did you?" He chuckled.

She smiled back at him with a loving gaze, "Oh, yes. I found the time we spent together rather pleasurable."

Harry's mouth opened wide and his eyebrows shot to his hairline as he laughed. In a quick movement he spun her completely, pinned her to the ground and tickled her.

"Vicky, eh?" Harry laughed. "He was pleasurable, was he?"

Hermione could only think of one way to stop his tickling. She grabbed his hair and pulled his lips down upon her own. Harry's fingers immediately stopped and slid down to her waist.

"Bloody hell, get a room!" Ron interrupted. When the two pulled apart and smiled up at their friend he rolled his eyes and shook his head. "You know, I'm fine with you two being together now, but that don't mean you can do it in front of me."

"Well isn't this the most revolting scene. The Boy-Who'll-Die, his mudblood and their pathetic sidekicks."

All six of the friends looked around to see Pansy Parkinson flanked by Crabbe and Goyle. Ron and Neville stood immediately, hands on their wands, ready to fight. Ginny, Harry and Hermione were on their feet in a matter of seconds as well. Luna just looked up at the three Slytherin completely unphased.

Pansy seemed rather insulted by Luna's indifference. "Oh Loony, didn't you know you should stand in the presence of your superiors?"

Ron moved and stood in between Luna who suddenly burst out laughing saying, "Superiors! I get it, that's funny." Parkinson was looking toward Luna as if she'd gone completely mad, which she may well have done long ago.

"Bugger off, Parkinson." Ron growled.

Pansy had been so shocked by Luna's outburst that she'd missed the five Gryffindors draw their wands. Ron's was pointed at Goyle's head, Ginny and Neville had theirs covering Crabbe, but what made up Pansy's mind for her was Harry and Hermione's wands pointed directly at her chest, both tips glowing already.

With one parting shot at Hermione, "Enjoy him while he's alive, mudblood." Parkinson turned on her heel and stormed off, Crabbe and Goyle scurrying after her.

A thousand words were shared between Hermione and Harry as their eyes met. Harry knew by the fire blazing in her eyes that Hermione was thinking, I'll kill her one day. And Hermione could tell by the soft, yet full-stop look in Harry's eyes that he was telling her to just ignore the bitch.

"That was brilliant Luna." Ron grinned as he held out his hand and helped Luna to stand.

Luna blushed a little, "Thank you Ronald. Tonks has been working on diversionary tactics with Ginny and I."

Ginny was standing quietly, a worried look in her eyes. Hermione was first to notice this, "Gin? What's wrong?"

She looked up at Hermione, a little horror in her eyes, "Draco." She whispered. It only took Hermione a second to figure out what she was on about, but the rest needed an explanation. "Crabbe and Goyle don't just follow Pansy around. Something has happened. Draco could be hurt."

Harry, Luna and Hermione were the only two that knew about Draco and Ginny being friends. Neville looked on confused while Ron let rage glaze his eyes.

"Draco?!" He roared. "Since when do we call Malfoy 'Draco'?! And what the hell do we care that he could be hurt?!"

"He's my friend, Ron." Ginny quickly explained, then ran off.

Harry looked at Hermione who immediately understood, nodded and ran off after Ginny. Ron watched them go, his mouth gaping open, his eyebrows low.

"What the hell is going on?" He asked with disbelief.

"We'll help look." Luna said and grabbed Neville by the sleeve, dragging him towards the castle.

Ron turned to Harry, "Do you know what just happened?"

"Malfoy and Ginny are friends, Ron."

"Friends?! Friends with a Malfoy? That's impossible."

"No, it's not. They really are friends, Ron. They've been meeting each other for ages now and talking, getting to know each other. And I have to say, she's changed him for the better, Ron."

"You knew about this? Bloody hell, Harry, what else have you been keeping from me?"

Harry sighed, "Hermione and I caught them talking on the train home for Christmas. I was just as angry as you are now, Ron. Hermione promised Ginny that we wouldn't say anything and I had to uphold that."

"This is crazy. He's a bloody bastard, Harry! He's an evil wanker who's had all his fun at our expense!"

"I know, Ron. We made Ginny promise that if he ever hurt her she'd tell us straight away and he hasn't hurt her. I don't trust him as far as I can throw him, and I can't even pick him up, but I trust Ginny and I trust that she can handle him."

Ron thought about things for a long while and then sighed loudly, "I don't trust him either, Harry. Bloody hell! This is just getting ridiculous!"

"Come on." Harry said then began to lead Ron towards the dark forest.

"Where are we going?"

"Well they all went to the castle to look for Malfoy, but if I were a Slytherin who found out that my so called evil leader was really a good guy and I bashed the hell out of him, I wouldn't leave him in the castle, I'd leave him somewhere no one could find him." Harry explained.

"So we're actually going to look for the git?"

"If he really is on our side Ron, we need to help him, otherwise we'd be just as bad as the people who've hurt him. And besides if he's dead you can't beat him up for being friends with your sister."

Ron smiled a little, "Good enough reason for me."

They ran into the Forbidden Forest searching for any signs of recent movement. They were fairly deep inside when they started calling for Malfoy. Probably not the best idea. An arrow flew through the air, barely missing Harry's head as it soared by and into a tree.

In an instant they were surrounded by five centaurs. Harry leaned back to Ron, "Let me do the talking, Hermione and I didn't make the best impression on them when we were here last, they're very touchy."

"What are you doing here?" One asked angrily.

"We didn't wish to trespass in your forest, but we're looking for a ... friend. He's probably hurt and in danger. We simply want to retrieve him and leave."

"You are looking for the pale wizard?" Another at Harry's right asked.

Harry slowly turned to him, "Yes. Do you know where he is?"

"We found him. He is badly injured."

Harry thought it best to talk to this one as he seemed calmer than the others and he was the only one not pointing an armed bow at them. "Would you mind showing us where he is? So we can take him and leave."

After a moment of exchanged glances amongst the centaurs, the calm one nodded. "We will. But you must swear to leave with him immediately."

"We swear."

Harry and Ron nervously followed the calm one through the trees. He led them to another circle of centaurs, surrounding a very pale, blood-stained Draco Malfoy.

"We saw them bring him in here." The calm one told Harry. "They did not look very pleasant."

"They're not." Harry said as he knelt down by Malfoy and felt for a pulse. He certainly looked dead, but there was a weak, slow beating in his neck.

Harry nodded to Ron who drew his wand slowly and levitated Malfoy. Harry turned to the calm one, "They were Death Eaters in training. They'll soon be followers of the Dark Lord." Harry told him.

The calm one looked at Harry as if he was sizing him up. After a long moment he spoke, "The stars have not yet decided your fate, Harry Potter." Harry thought he should say something but opted to stay silent. "Take your friend back to the castle, our forest is not safe for your kind."

Harry nodded. "Thank you for your help." And then followed Ron who was levitating the unconscious Malfoy in front of him.

They got out of the forest and headed quickly for the castle, taking Malfoy directly to the infirmary where Madame Pomfrey immediately began working her magic to heal him.

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