Lunch was next and very welcome. After all the excitement and running, Harry had developed an appetite. Mr. and Mrs. Weasley suggested some relaxation after their big lunch because they would all be up late that night. It was a little mysterious and they wouldn't say why they would be up late, but quiet time out of the afternoon heat was just to Harry's liking. He was feeling sleepy after eating too much and Ron looked much the same.
Later in the afternoon everyone gathered in Mr. and Mrs. Weasley's room rather than the lobby, everyone except Bill. The only time Harry had seen Bill all day was when Bill had apparated to talk to his dad. Harry and Ron were still entertaining thoughts of riding some flying carpets and wondered what they'd all be doing for the rest of the day.
"Molly and I thought we could all take a tour of the Pyramids before evening. Fred and George, you're invited to come with us of course, but if you decide not to - be aware we'll all be having an evening meal under the Sphinx at eight-thirty."
"There's not a café under the Sphinx," said George.
"Quite right, it's a private affair and should be a very good meal. After that we're all invited to attend a nearby ceremony of some, er." Mr. Weasley gave a small cough. "Importance."
"That's when Harry will help the Order gain some allies," Hermione interjected looking pleased with herself.
"Actually dear, it's you. Harry may have some small part if you manage to pass a test of sorts."
Hermione had a delayed reaction of shock as it sunk in - Harry wasn't the one who would be winning allies for the Order.
"What? But isn't Harry? I mean - A test?"
"It's alright Hermione. There's nothing to get worked up about."
"A test? What kind of test? What do I study for? I - I." Hermione was looking more panic stricken by the second. "I don't know what to do." She was actually wringing her hands.
Fred and George outright snickered, Ron and Ginny were grinning and Harry was making contorted motions with his mouth, trying not to. It was priceless seeing Hermione, the girl who thought life revolved around studying for tests, panic at not being able to.
"It's not funny!" she snapped at them. "This is important. It's important for the Order." She turned back to Mr. and Mrs. Weasley and said pleadingly, "What do I have to do? I don't know what to study for."
Mrs. Weasley mustered all her motherly assurance and compassion. "Dumbledore thought you might be upset. But dear, there's nothing you can study for. It's not that kind of test. You either pass, or you don't."
Hermione looked like she was about to cry, she was so upset. It suddenly made Harry feel bad for her even if it was still funny. They all gave her reassurance that they would all be there for her. Whatever it was she had to do, whether she passed the test or not. It didn't seem to help a whole lot.
"Have you ever seen the pyramids before dear?" Hermione shook her head no. "Well then, it should be a pleasant learning experience. Come along everyone."
The Great Pyramids, ancient and showing the ravages of time, were still majestic and awe inspiring when standing at the foot of one. Hermione was obviously distracted and kept asking Mr. and Mrs. Weasley if there was anything she could do to prepare for her upcoming test. She had in fact, asked so many times they no longer responded with reassurance, only polite no's.
Fred and George showed up in time for the evening meal. They all took a wizarding entrance into the Sphinx and were led to an elaborately decorated underground chamber where they found Bill and Akila Thema waiting for them. Akila greeted them graciously and then gave her regrets for not being able to dine with them.
"I have much to attend to in preparation for this evening's ceremony and test of the candidate. It will be a long awaited event if she passes." Akila smiled as she looked around at everyone, her gaze lingering on Hermione before she bowed and left.
"You don't have stage fright do you?" Bill asked looking at Hermione as everyone sat down to eat.
"Could you please tell me what's going on? I thought we went to all this trouble to bring Harry to Egypt. And now I have to take some sort of test?"
"Sorry to keep you in the dark Hermione. You were the primary person we wanted to bring to Egypt. And Harry could still be needed even if you don't pass. The test is nothing more than finding out if you are Isis reincarnate."
"Isis? Reincarnate? I'm not Isis. I'm not an Egyptian goddess," Hermione protested looking flustered.
"No, of course you're not. But if you pass their test we will have steadfast and loyal allies. The Eyes of Isis is an ancient and secretive society. It's amazing that Dumbledore knew anything about it."
"What kind of test?" Hermione's pleading elicited chortles from the twins and more grins from the rest.
"That's what I've been going over with them all day. They didn't want to tell me at first but I insisted on knowing you would not be placed in any harm, so they finally agreed to tell me but only on condition that you are not told in advance."
Hermione groaned bringing on more chuckles that only made her glare before sulking.
"What will I have to do?" Harry asked.
"I can't tell you either. But I will say that it shouldn't be unpleasant. You and Hermione will get ready for the ceremony at eleven o'clock." Bill had a wry grin that made Harry feel uncomfortable.
Hermione didn't eat much and merely poked at her food even with everyone's encouragement -that everything would be just fine. Then again, maybe Fred and George animating a student and teacher didn't help.
"I can't believe it. You've gotten less than a perfect score young lady. What's your excuse?" said Fred imitating McGonagall.
"I didn't know what to study for," whined George in a high-pitched voice.
Mrs. Weasley scolded the two as Hermione glared but they laughed it off.
"Come on Hermione. Where's your sense of humor?"
"Yeah, we know you'll do fine. Dumbledore wouldn't have sent you all this way if he wasn't fairly confident you could pass this test."
"Quite true, I have the utmost confidence in Miss Granger."
The room echoed with "Dumbledore!" and "Headmaster!" ending with Harry saying "Fawkes!".
Dumbledore looked magnificent with his long white beard complementing the color of his dark purple robes, and black velvet pointed hat decorated with a smattering of gold stars. Fawkes with his red and gold plumage rested on his shoulder as Dumbledore's clear blue eyes twinkled fiercely over half-moon glasses. Most people would have thought Fawkes to be far too large and heavy to rest on someone's shoulder but Harry knew that a phoenix was far lighter than it looked. Fawkes gave out a single beautiful note as if in response to Harry.
"Yes Fawkes, you're glad to see Harry and everyone else." Dumbledore stroked Fawkes head as he looked toward Bill. "It would appear I'm in time for the ceremony?"
"Yes, it'll start in an hour. Harry and Hermione should get ready soon and I would be glad to give you an update.
▪
Harry found himself putting on a black robe with a black belt getting ready for what he didn't know. The robe was the darkest color of black he had ever seen and he wondered what material it was made of, soft and silky. He left his dressing room only to find Hermione already outside her dressing room staring at the floor. She was wearing a simple but brilliantly white short sleeve robe with white cloth belt. She looked deep in thought but turned toward Harry and smiled.
"Wow, you look nice."
"I was going to say the same about you."
Hermione's smile faded a bit.
"What do you suppose I have to do?"
"It doesn't matter. I'll be nearby."
"Are you two ready? Ah, yes, good. Let me look you over." Mrs. Weasley made Harry turn around for her. She magicked a brush, tried to tame his unruly hair to no avail, and gave up quickly. She then turned her attention to Hermione.
"Hmmm let's see. I think we'll change your hair style just a bit." A gold ribbon shot out the end of her wand and tied itself around Hermione's long curly hair. Mrs. Weasley waved and twisted her wand moving Hermione's hair around from the back and forward over her left shoulder.
"And a small change to your gown as well." The right shoulder of Hermione's robe moved up and disappeared exposing her entire right shoulder, low enough in back to expose her scar, the place where she had been stabbed, a reminder of the horrible attack that nearly killed her. Hermione looked self-conscious.
"Mrs. Weasley, my scar, it shows."
"It'll be fine dear, trust me."
Mrs. Weasley led them down numerous flights of stone steps into a corridor lit by flickering torches. Harry noted the air was cooler and more comfortable this deep underground. He also noted a roped off side corridor with a bewitched sign flashing Forbidden floating overhead. He bet the rope was enchanted to make sure no one went down that particular corridor. Onward they went, Mrs. Weasley in the lead, with Hermione at his side they followed. Soon Harry could hear the murmur of what sounded like a large crowd. The closer they got the more distinguishable conversations became.
"She is just a young girl and not even Egyptian. She cannot possibly be our Isis."
"Read the ancient text again. It says the powers of Ast will be reborn in time of need."
"Look, it's her."
Harry and Hermione stepped into a vast underground room over twenty meters in height. The room was as crowded as it was large. To the far end opposite them was a raised stone floor and steps leading up to it. Akila Thema was standing in the middle of the raised floor. Behind her loomed a wall full of hieroglyphics and a very large still image of an Egyptian woman in the center wearing white robes trimmed in gold. It was the eyes of the woman that caught Harry's attention. The eyes were a solid steel grey as he had seen Hermione's on several occasions. The image of the woman held out a wand in her left hand and some strange looking object in her right. It looked like an upside down cross with a tear shaped handle. Harry did a double take looking at the shape of the object and then Hermione's scar. They looked very much alike. It was uncanny.
Harry could feel apprehension creeping up inside him and a glance at Hermione told him it was far worse for her. Mrs. Weasley leaned in close enough to be heard over the crowd.
"Harry you'll stand beside Dumbledore at the foot of the steps to the left and I'll be with the rest not far behind. Hermione you'll go on up the steps and stand beside Akila Thema facing the crowd. "
Hermione opened her mouth but nothing came out. She just closed her mouth and nodded instead.
The noise of the crowd became calm, yielding barely audible whispers. All eyes seemed to be upon them, especially Hermione. The crowd parted before them and they strolled forward. Harry heard audible comments of "The Ankh" with some pointing at Hermione's scar.
Harry took his place beside Dumbledore who patted Harry's shoulder reassuringly. Harry wondered where Fawkes had gone.
Akila Thema talked to Hermione, but Harry couldn't hear what she said. Whatever it was it seemed to make Hermione relax.
"Hermione will be given an amulet to wear for this particular ceremony," Dumbledore explained. The amulet contains a very powerful and deadly poison. It poses no harm to Hermione but I think you know what the result will be."
Akila Thema motioned to the crowd and silence ensued.
"I am Akila Thema, high priestess to the Eyes of Isis. Before us is Hermione Granger offering herself as candidate to be tested. The first test is to wear the amulet of Isis." Akila Thema placed the silver amulet around Hermione's neck. Hermione faced the crowd, her eyes solid steel grey. A low murmur went through the crowd and all fell silent.
"The next test is the test of death." Four clay jars, large enough for a man to hide in, were levitated and set in front of Hermione. "Choose the one that does not hold death."
Hermione looked from one jar to the next.
"Then I choose none, for they all hold death."
Excitement rippled through the crowd as four huge cobras rose up out of the jars.
It was too much for Harry, he stepped forward and hissed Parseltongue. "You will not harm her. Return to your jars."
The snakes turned to Harry in unison and then complied by lowering themselves back into the large clay jars.
"No harm would have been allowed the candidate Harry Potter, but your assistance is not unwelcome."
Another wave rippled through the crowd and Harry distinctly heard what some said.
"Harry Potter? Here?"
"It has to be him. He spoke Parseltongue. Amazing, I've never seen anyone do it."
Dumbledore coaxed Harry back to his side.
"Our last test is the Riddle of Isis. Solve this riddle and be accepted as our beloved Isis." Akila Thema motioned to the large wall behind them with the still image of Isis surrounded by hieroglyphs and strange symbols.
Harry thought, 'Now this is something Hermione can apply herself to'. And he was right, Hermione gave it her full attention ignoring everything else - except. Somehow, it struck Harry that she was distracted in some strange way.
Hermione pulled out her wand from her robe and tapped a symbol saying some enchantment as she did so. All the symbols on the wall glowed, shimmered, and then changed. Hermione walked to the other end of the wall and tapped another symbol. Again all the symbols glowed, but this time they began moving. Purposefully she walked to a center spot in front of the wall and began using her wand like a conductor's baton magically tapping various symbols all over the wall. The more she tapped the faster things moved. Harry thought he would develop motion sickness if it continued much longer. But Hermione switched her wand to her left hand, walked straight at the wall and pushed with her right hand. Everything on the wall except the image of Isis went suddenly black. The image of Isis glowed brilliantly and the symbol of the Ankh moved forward and became real. Hermione grasped the Ankh and turned to face the crowd.
"She has passed the test. Let us recite the incantation passed on to us - the Eyes of Isis."
They began to recite in unison, the torches grew dim as the Ankh Hermione held onto shined brilliantly. Hermione's wand, however, was doing the opposite. It looked as if it was sucking in the light around it, dark and ominous. The group incantation ended and Hermione released her grip on the Ankh, which floated back to the wall and reverted to its original image. The torches illuminated the chamber and the crowd cheered chanting "Isis! Isis!" giving an overall hissing sound that made Harry feel woozy. Akila Thema came forward putting her hand on Hermione's shoulder and all became quiet again.
"We, the Eyes of Isis, do pledge our allegiance to the Order of the Phoenix as our lady Ast bids us. Do you so ask of us?"
"I do."
"So be it." Akila Thema removed the amulet and Hermione's eyes immediately went to their normal chocolate brown. "Please join your friends at this time." Akila Thema addressed the crowd reminding them of their duties and their oaths, reciting their history and as she said certain phrases they all responded in unison.
"Hermione you were brilliant," Harry said with enthusiasm. "That was amazing how you solved that riddle."
"My studies of Ancient Runes really came in handy but - ," her voice lowered for Harry and Dumbledore to hear. "I had help. There was a ghost pointing out to me what I needed to do. She looked like the picture of Isis on the wall."
"I could hardly be more proud Miss Granger. Passed without having to study," Dumbledore said with a wink.
"Well done Hermione," said an old man.
"Yes, well done Hermione," said an old woman next to him.
Harry did a double take. "Captain?"
"Yes, I was once a captain in my youth. Which came in handy bringing you two to Egypt."
"Mr. Flamel, I didn't recognize you on the ship. Honestly I didn't," Hermione apologized.
"I didn't either," Harry said amazed.
"You weren't supposed to," he said grinning.
"Thank you, Mr. and Mrs. Flamel. Thank you both." Hermione beamed as she shook their hands.
"Now we get to the interesting part," said Mr. Flamel looking from Hermione to Harry.
"Er, what's that?" asked Harry
"What you and Miss Granger will do together, for the good of the Order," Dumbledore stated simply.
▪
Ginny was impressed. It had been quite a show but she was trying to hear what Dumbledore was telling Harry and Hermione. Whatever it was, it made them both blush furiously.
▪
"You want us to . . ." Harry started to say blinking his eyes in disbelief.
"In front of everyone?" asked Hermione stunned.
"Akila and I have agreed. It would be a worthy symbolic gesture of our allegiance. That is, if you are both willing."
Hermione looked at Harry and Harry looked at her. Brief, nervous smiles flickered on both their faces.
"Ah, sure, for the Order. Is it okay with you Hermione?" Harry's face felt hot and he wondered if it was as red as Hermione's.
"For the good of the Order? Certainly. Umm, how should we go about this?"
"Go back up the steps and face each other. Akila will be on the far right and I'll be on the far left. As for when, - you'll know when the time is right." Dumbledore looked pleased.
▪
"What's going on? Why are Harry and Hermione going back up there?" Ginny asked no one in particular, the sound of agitation in her voice.
"Yeah, I'd like to know too," said Ron with echoing sentiments.
"It's a symbolic gesture of allegiance. Harry representing the Order and Hermione representing the Eyes of Isis," Bill offered in explanation.
▪
Harry noted how small things around him were magnified; the sound of his and Hermione's footsteps, the sound of moving fabric each time he climbed a step, the gentle thump of his heart in his chest. He still felt warmth in his face. Dumbledore and the Order were certainly asking a lot of him and Hermione. Yet, part of him didn't mind at all.
He and Hermione reached a central spot and turned toward each other, uncertain when to do what they had been asked. Harry looked into brown eyes he knew he couldn't help but love. Maybe that was the reason he tried not to, afraid of what might be kindled if he did. Afraid of what he might have to do to stop Voldemort. Now, here he was, looking into her eyes, and wishing things were different. That he hadn't been born a marked wizard and there was no Voldemort. He pushed these thoughts aside and embraced the moment. He was so proud of her. She had passed the tests and had gained hundreds of allies for the Order. Her nervous smile, so charming, reminded him of his own nerves. He glanced over Hermione's shoulder and saw Fawkes on a perch next to Akila Thema. He wondered why Fawkes wasn't with Dumbledore who was supposed to be behind him. He didn't want to turn around to look and didn't want to glance at the expectant crowd. It was much easier to look at Hermione in front of him.
Akila Thema came forward and addressed the crowd.
"Eyes of Isis, our lady Ast and Harry Potter will give symbolic meaning to our allegiance with the Order of the Phoenix. They also offer themselves as wards of the living fire." A tumultuous gasp from the crowd echoed through the huge chamber. Akila waited and gradually all grew as still and silent as an empty room. "Let us prepare."
Harry mouthed the word, "Wards?". Hermione mouthed, "Living fire?". Both of them shrugged.
Akila Thema and the Eyes of Isis recited another incantation in unison. The torches grew dim and the ceiling above the large chamber blurred and suddenly vanished opening up to the night sky above, through the center of the ancient Sphinx. Harry and Hermione were bathed in silver-blue moonlight from the full moon directly overhead. Akila Thema opened a small box and placed a round disk inside suddenly filling the chamber with the voice of Cheryl Silvertone and the opening words of Call My Name.
"This is familiar," whispered Hermione. The mix of torch and moonlight did not hide the delight on her face.
They stood there listening, loosing themselves. At some point, Harry put out his hand and Hermione took it and they drew near to each other. There were no more thoughts as to where they were or to a crowd looking on. They were lost to their own world as they leaned closer and lips touched.
Small dancing flames appeared around them, illuminating them, making them seemingly glow with radiance. A Phoenix began to sing in the background, the music player having stopped moments earlier. Beautiful is the song of a phoenix that fills the listener with hope and joy. The dancing flames around Harry and Hermione began to respond in phoenix song of its own. A phoenix circled in flight above them, singing, glittering points of light drifted slowly down from its tail feathers intensifying the small flickering flames making them continuous, suddenly engulfing but not consuming. The flying phoenix overhead returned to its perch as multiple songs of phoenix combined, growing to a fevered pitch. The floor beneath the crowds feet vibrated, little tufts of dust fell from the walls surrounding the room. No one was alarmed, the song of the phoenix filled them and there was no fear as flames burst forth rolling over the crowd like a wave. The flames had the same warmth of flu flames but these were white flames that did not burn, instead of green. A tremendous column of yellow and red fire climbed hundreds of meters into the moonlit sky and spread large fiery wings yielding a single pristine note that filled the night air before quickly rescinding to the couple below. The ceiling became solid and the torches flickered brightly.
Harry and Hermione stepped back from each other, light headed. Oblivious to everything that had happened; they each whispered the word "Wow". However, they both quickly noticed how quiet it was and turned to the silent, stunned and gawking crowd. All at once, a deafening cheer rose up followed by chanting. The name "Isis! Isis!" roared and echoed throughout the chamber. Dumbledore and Akila came up beside Harry and Hermione respectively. Harry couldn't hear a word Dumbledore said because of all the chanting and cheering but it looked like Dumbledore said "Good job Harry". Akila Thema bowed deeply to Hermione and then bowed to Harry.
Dumbledore led them both down the steps toward the Weasley's. They all looked stunned but glad to receive them. The chanting changed to "Ast! Ast!". It became a chamber filled with a hissing sound and Harry became woozy again. This time he closed his eyes, rubbed his forehead and swayed briefly on his feet. When he opened his eyes everyone looked alarmed. Dumbledore took a position directly in front of him and looked directly into his eyes. The noise of the crowd was gone and he heard Dumbledore's voice clearly.
"Harry, did your scar hurt?"
"Yes, but only for a bit. It's gone now."
Dumbledore broke eye contact and immediately the sound of the crowd crushed in on him. Dumbledore relayed around to everyone that Harry was fine but that he and Hermione needed rest. Dumbledore stepped back up to tell Akila they would leave for the evening.
"Bill, what's that they're chanting about Hermione in Egyptian? 'Hermione Granger the girl who died?'"
"No dad, they're saying 'Hermione Granger, the girl who has seen death'."
"Where's Ginny? Has anyone seen Ginny?" asked Mrs. Weasley. Whether it was the tone of her voice, Harry wasn't sure, but there was a sudden undercurrent of concern.
Scant minutes went by that seemed like an hour before they were informed that an upset red haired girl had been seen leaving the chamber right after the fiery phoenix had been revealed. They also heard the barrier across the forbidden corridor had been breached, possibly by the white flames that rolled through the entire underground network below the Sphinx.
Dumbledore went with Mr. and Mrs. Weasley down the forbidden corridor and found her. They brought Ginny back wailing uncontrollably, clutching at her mother and father and something unseen around her neck. Ginny ran to Hermione when she saw her, clung to her and sobbed. When Ginny saw Harry she straightened, uttered "H-Harry . . ." and fainted. Mr. Weasley caught her before she hit the floor.
Dumbledore took charge of a controlled but hurried departure, requesting a large flying carpet. He instructed everyone to not move from his or her spot on the carpet and cast an invisibility spell over everyone, including the carpet.
They arrived at the Brass Lamp and entered their rooms via their respective balconies from the carpet. Ginny had regained consciousness on the way back and protested Bill requesting a Mediwizard at the front desk. By the time Ginny had been checked over and everyone was settled in it must have been past two in the morning.
Dumbledore recommended to Bill, Mr. and Mrs. Weasley that they consider cutting their two-week trip short to only a few more days. He said he only had a few more hours left to converse with Akila Thema before he had to head back to Hogwarts. He didn't want his absence to go noticed by anyone and with a pop he was gone.
"Do you suppose he can apparate all the way back?" mused Mr. Weasley.
"If anyone could, I think Dumbledore might. But he still couldn't apparate into Hogwarts," replied Bill.
▪
Sleepily Harry reached out for a hand he knew should be near him. Nothing but air met his grasp and he woke up. Ron wasn't in his bed across the room and Harry quickly realized it was well past morning, maybe close to noon. Then he remembered trying to reach out for Hermione's hand as he woke up and smiled at himself.
'I haven't done that since last year,' he thought recalling the time they spent recuperating in the Hogwarts Hospital wing. Then a more grim thought, 'I almost lost her'. He pushed the unbearable thought from his mind.
After finally getting up and around, he found a piece of parchment that read:
▪
Mr. Weasley and Mr. Weasley
Weasley's Wizard Wheezes
If you have managed to survive Mr. Usi's bodyguards, I would be most interested in purchasing fifty boxes of your canary crèmes. Please send a full list of all your wares.
I must also say I have never seen anything more humorous.
Humbly,
Paki Saa
▪
"They have all the luck," said Ron entering the room and seeing Harry read the letter.
"They do have a fair amount, but I tend to think they earn some of it. By the way, how's Ginny?"
"She had us all worried last night, but she seems fine now. She said something down that forbidden corridor knocked her out and when she came to she thought we were all dead."
Harry remembered the odd look Ginny gave him before she fainted.
"So, Ginny's up?"
"She's been up since early this morning. Mum tried to get Ginny to rest, but she wouldn't have it." Ron gave a grimace of sorts. "She's been all lovey dovey to everyone. It's not like her. Well, it's not like her to be that way toward me."
Harry laughed, "Well, enjoy it while you can. She'll probably jinx you by the end of the day."
"Anyway, mum sent me to wake you up. Since you already are, let's go eat."
"Early for lunch isn't it?"
"No, it's nearly two."
▪
Harry and Ron found Fred and George in the lobby talking excitedly to Bill about landing several new accounts. In addition, how a particular account came about the day before. Harry gathered they had just told Bill about hiding in the giant snake's den, Bill was laughing.
"You two may not have had a personal accident, but I certainly would have," Bill laughed.
"That's not the best of it," said Fred.
"We ran into Mr. Usi again today."
"Thought we were had this time but it turns out he's one of us." Fred and George shook hands to give Bill the message.
"He is? So he was there last night?"
"Right you are."
"He said that any friends of," George looked around and quietly said, "Isis", then continued normally, "were friends of his."
"Even asked for a list of what we were selling."
"Harry!" the twins greeted him enthusiastically.
"Harry!" he heard from behind him. He turned and was hugged tightly by a lot of red hair. "I'm so glad to see you."
Harry patted her on the back. "I'm glad to see you too Ginny. You had us all worried about you last night."
Ginny stepped back, her bright brown eyes watering. "I'm sorry. I don't know what came over me."
"It's alright Ginny, I'm glad you're okay."
Harry felt a strong urge to hug Hermione who was standing behind Ginny and probably would have if not for Mr. and Mrs. Weasley ushering them into the Brass Lamp's dining room for lunch.
▪
Harry and Hermione were surprised to find out what had happened when they gave their symbolic gesture of allegiance. Both were adamant they were unaware of any fiery phoenix that went hundreds of meters in the night sky. The local muggles attributed the spectacle to some fancy fireworks.
▪
Later that evening Akila Thema came to see Hermione and talk about the Eyes of Isis. Somehow, Harry was glad it was Hermione's responsibility. He felt tired and turned in early, much to Ron's disappointment. Ron was keen on sneaking out and trying a flying carpet, one of the smaller racing kind. Harry promised they'd give it a go the next day.
▪
The next morning, still half asleep, Harry reached out to grasp a hand he knew should be there. He smiled sleepily but a soft laugh woke him up. Hermione was standing next to his bed, already dressed, holding his hand, and looking more than pleased.
"You're up early," he whispered, seeing Ron still asleep across the room.
"Ginny's still asleep too, Fred and George have already taken off. Bill's not here either, I'm not sure he even stayed here last night. When are you going to tell Ron about, you know . . ."
"Yeah, good idea," Harry grinned sleepily. There was a pause between them after which Hermione let go of his hand.
"I'll just wait outside the door for you to wake Ron so you can both get dressed."
Harry and Ron emerged a short time later with Ron grumbling about getting up so early.
"What are you going to show me?" Ron asked yawning.
"You have to keep this to yourself. Right now, Dumbledore and Hermione are the only ones who know. Remember those private les - ."
The door opened and Ginny came strolling in carrying three dark grey bundles.
"Ginny, I thought you were asleep," Hermione said surprised.
"Looks can be deceiving," she said with a grin. "I've got something for you three." She handed them each a silky cloth vest full of pockets. Harry reached into one pocket and pulled out a small bottle labeled 'Essence of Knotgrass smoke'.
"That can be mixed with other potions in the vest to get various results."
"This is a vest?" Ron asked incredulous. "It's as light as air, but it shouldn't be with all this stuff loaded in these pockets. And it looks like it's made of - ."
"I know, I know - spider web. But it's not. Well, not exactly."
"This is incredible Ginny," said Hermione as she looked through all the pockets. "These potions can be mixed with each other to create all kinds of things; sun block, short-term invisibility, sleeping potions, stimulants, healing herbs. It's brilliant how they can all interact to create so many different things. Here's a small bottle that says it has ten liters of water and is light as a feather. I assume it's been charmed to hold that much and weigh so little. Where did you get all this?"
"I could tell you I bought it, or I could tell you I made it. Or, I could just let you guess, which is what I'll do." Ron held his out as if he wanted Ginny to take it back. "You will take it, and you will wear it Ronald Bilius. This is not up for discussion. These are survival vests, we're at war, and Voldemort must not win." Ginny stomped on the floor with one foot and swore adding emphasis.
Harry, Hermione and Ron were stunned and stared at Ginny. Ron cringed at Voldemort's name but Harry and Hermione were genuinely impressed.
"Alright sis, don't get in such a twist about it. How's this supposed to be worn anyway?"
"That's better," she said sounding relieved. "The vest can be worn underneath anything you happen to be wearing. It will mold itself to the inside of any garment and you won't be able to tell its there. It will let air pass right through so you won't be any warmer or cooler, with or without it. If you want to change it to be worn inside of something else you pull on this short black cord." Ginny held up a vest and pointed out where it was. "It will let go and can be easily removed."
Harry and Ron pulled there robes up and over their heads leaving bare chests and baggy pants. They put on the vests and put their robes back on.
"That's amazing Ginny. I can't tell it's there."
"Harry's right Gin'. You've outdone yourself."
"I think I'll step into the other room to put this on," Hermione said leaving the room.
She came back in looking as impressed as Harry and Ron.
"Just inside the first pocket you can put an extra wand or a knife. It's interchangeable with either side depending on whether you are left or right handed, so it won't matter. The knives Hagrid gave you should fit just fine on either side of the vest."
"How did you know about that?" Harry asked.
"Oh, I think Ron may have mentioned it."
"Did I?"
"Must have, how else would I know?"
▪
Harry and Ron decided that Hermione and Ginny would join them for breakfast on the balcony. Harry and Ron found themselves losing interest and wanting to know less about the vests as Hermione wanted to know more. Ginny was more than willing to explain their use, but wouldn't say a word about who made them or where she bought them.
Harry watched the street below in abstract interest. The word "Isis" caught his attention. A man and woman were anxiously yelling up and down the street for Isis.
Hermione and Ginny's conversation had come to a stop. All four of them were leaning against the rail of the balcony listening.
"Are they saying Isis?" asked Hermione.
"Yes they are, but what is the woman carrying?"
"Is that a baby?" asked Ginny
Their pleading calls were heard clearly for the fist time.
"Isis, help us!"
"Mighty Isis save our daughter!"
"It could be a trap," Ginny said, squinting.
They watched the couple frantically calling for Isis. Every so often, they would approach a young woman asking if she was Isis and the girl would shake her head no. Their begging for help was drawing attention. Harry suddenly realized Hermione wasn't with them. Instinctively he took off heading for the front door of the Brass Lamp. 'Ginny could be right,' he thought. He found Hermione by the edge of the street looking in the direction of the couple with their baby, their voices sounding more distraught.
"Hermione, what are you doing? Ginny could be right."
"I just wanted to look. I'm not going to say anything."
Harry felt apprehensive as the couple started making their way toward their end of the street. The phrase 'curiosity killed the cat' was coming to mind.
"Hermione dear, I don't think you should -. Ginny put your wand away."
Harry found himself flanked by Ron, Ginny, Mr. and Mrs. Weasley. He wasn't sure if Ginny was being paranoid or not, but his hand reached toward his own wand as he stood behind Hermione.
The couple approached Hermione. Harry could see the panic in their faces, the look of parent's desperation and helplessness. They looked genuine, but his hand didn't move away from his wand.
"Are you Isis, young witch? Please help us. Our baby is dying."
Hermione said nothing. They approached closer and Harry could see a baby held in its mother's arms. The baby was pale, a deathly grey-blue.
"Can you help us?" They approached closer and suddenly both gasped and dropped to their knees. The woman held up her baby and gave a heart-wrenching plea with trembling arms.
"Oh, Isis please save our baby."
"Lady Ast," begged the man. "She is our only daughter, our only child. I am an alchemists and my wife is a potions master. We use many potions and poisons. It was an accident, I looked away for a scant second and she crawled into the workroom. I do not understand why the childproof barrier was not in place." The father choked on his next words. "The poison of the Great Desert Scorpion is killing my daughter, there is no known antidote. Please help us."
Hermione reached out and picked up the baby from her mother's arms. Harry heard Mrs. Weasley say, "Hermione don't" under her breath. Hermione turned to them, her eyes solid grey. She spoke with a shaking voice.
"T-This b-baby is d-dying. What - what do I do? I don't know what t-to do."
It was a hauntingly tragic image, Hermione with her eyes in that strange state holding a dying baby, the baby's parents behind her.
Harry looked around and saw an empty meeting room. He pointed to the room and looked at Mrs. Weasley. Mrs. Weasley nodded in agreement, but looked sick with grief.
Harry stepped in and Hermione stepped in with him. Ron may have started to come in with them too. Harry couldn't really tell. He only heard Mrs. Weasley say Ron's name and shake her head.
"Oh my God Harry, she's not much older than Miranda." The tears flowed down Hermione's cheeks. "I'm not a Mediwizard. There's nothing I can do. I don't know what to do," she sobbed.
He couldn't think of anything to comfort her. He knew she had a connection with death and could probably tell the baby was actually dying. He stood close to her, the baby between them. He looked down at the little face and hands of the child in Hermione's arms, so innocent. It was too much for him. This baby was going to die in her arms. The little girl was going to die right here in front of them both. It felt like an old wound was starting to open. Sirius was gone, killed in battle before his eyes, Cedric was murdered in front of him, and now he would see this little girl die. Worse was the thought of Hermione enduring it, he knew how she would somehow feel there was something she should have known to do. He leaned his head against Hermione's and lightly embraced her with the baby between them. The tears flowed. Any minute he expected to hear Hermione say, "She's gone". All he heard were the muffled voices of Mr. and Mrs. Weasley, on the other side of the door, trying to prepare the parents for the inevitable.
He felt the warmth from Hermione, his head leaned against hers, and he felt her rhythmic sobs as she cried almost silently. He felt his own chest fill and empty slowly with a mournful sigh.
A tiny sneeze made them both look down at a pair of small dark eyes. Gone was the pale color of death. The little girl gave a coo reaching into the air, both of her chubby little arms extended. Hermione lifted her up as she and Harry looked disbelieving into the tiny angelic face, small hands touching their faces.
"I didn't do anything Harry." Hermione looked at him in amazement, as tiny fingers tugged at her chin. The baby let out a sudden squeal of delight.
The parents burst into the room at the sound.
"Sagira!" said the mother reaching for her child. The baby began blissfully making happy baby noises. It looked like the woman wanted to say so much but all she got out was "Thank you". The father had sunk to a nearby chair in relief.
"We owe you everything Lady Ast."
"You don't' owe me anything.'
The couple left the Inn with their daughter, shouting praises of Isis in the street. A curious crowd was starting to gather outside the Brass Lamp.
"Hermione? What did you and Harry do?" Mr. Weasley asked.
"Neither one of us did anything. I don't know what happened." Hermione dried her cheeks. Harry removed his glasses and did the same. Only when Harry put his glasses back on did he realize there wasn't a dry eye amongst the lot of them. They were all convinced the baby was going to die. It looked that bad.
After Mr. Weasley cleaned his glasses, and Mrs. Weasley gave a short honk on her kerchief, Mr. Weasley took a quick look outside.
"That settles it. Everyone get your things we have to leave."
"I agree Arthur Weasley. You have not tried to hide your presence here but you have nevertheless been exposed. Yazid and Hasina are a respected alchemist and potions master. Their need was genuine, but the circumstances too coincidental. Healing of the child is in accordance to your abilities Lady Ast." Akila bowed to Hermione.
"I didn't do anything," stressed Hermione.
"You may not yet know how, but I believe you saved the child's life. You have done no wrong. I regret you cannot spend more time with us but we will keep in contact." Akila extended her hand to Hermione who took it and smiled. Akila then bowed to Mr. and Mrs. Weasley. "Please, you must make haste. Gather your things. Transportation will be arranged in a few minutes."
On the way up to their rooms, Mr. and Mrs. Weasley used messenger spells to contact, Bill, Fred and George. They told everyone to pack up and wait just inside the room in front of the balcony, and not to step out until someone arrived. Harry and Ron were packed and had their trunks beside them, ready to step out onto the balcony.
"So much for our vacation, sorry mate."
"It may have been short but it's been fun," replied Harry.
Two loud pops announced the arrival of Fred and George apparating in the room.
"Wha - ? Harry it's us. You can put that down now."
"Sweet Merlin you're fast Harry. But George is right, you can put that down mate."
"What's with you Harry? That's Fred and George."
"Humor me then. Go over and greet your brothers properly will you Ron." With raised eyebrows Ron went over and shook hands with Fred and George.
"It's them mate. What gives?"
"Sorry, I'm a bit on edge." Harry sheepishly put his wand away.
"No, quite right. I understand, really. We should have used the door considering what's been going on. Dad just told us."
"We popped in to get Bill's things, and our own. We're staying another two weeks."
"Bill is still doing work as a liaison for the Order. Should have most of it wrapped up in a week. The Society has given him a secure room to stay in and we're going to stay with him."
▪
A minute later a large flying carpet floated up just outside their balcony. Everyone was loaded up on one large carpet with their luggage to the back. The familiar Adofo, was seated on a spot to the front, his wand drawn. Abasi, his wand also drawn at the ready, was seated at the back of the carpet behind all their luggage.