CHAPTER FOURTEEN
Phoenicreo
Harry was in such an odd state from what Professor Slughorn said, he didn't even notice he and Hermione leaving the Professor's office until they were already on the fourth floor, passing the library.
Harry couldn't describe the sensation he felt while in Slughorn's office. It wasn't Dumbledore's potions book, it was his mother's. He held the potions book closely to himself now as they approached Evander, who as usual, was quite chipper despite the lack of enthusiasm clearly placed on the two student's faces. Moonlight from the open windows lit the corridor dimly and allowed Harry to see the painting's face.
`Hello there you two! Oh my, are you alright?' he said, realizing they where not up for a cheerful conversation.
`We're fine Evander. Broomsticks and Books' Hermione replied shortly. Earlier in the week, they decided to change the password. They came back to the tower on the Monday earlier that week to find a second year Hufflepuff already inside. He told the two of them that he was delivering a message from one of the prefects, however Harry still reamed on him, as well as the prefect. Both of them told everyone at their first meeting of the year, that prefects should not give out the East Tower password to regular students. So, they changed it, keeping in fashion with the last one and naming something each of them loves, and sticking them together. Of course, Harry loved Quidditch, and with loving Quidditch, comes loving Broomsticks. With Hermione it was much the same with Quills and Books.
Evander glanced at the two of them looking concerned, then bowed his head. The portrait swung open, and the two entered quietly. Once in the common room, Harry slumped himself in his seat in front of the fire, which was crackling quietly, still clutching the potions book close to his chest. Hermione slowly came from around the side, and knelt next to the chair, looking at Harry. Harry looked at her, and tried desperately not to let his emotions show. She gave him a warm smile, and Harry gave a weak grin in response, his eyes overpowering his will, and watering, however not allowing tears to escape.
This was his mother's potions book. She wrote in it, created potions. Harry wondered if she ever thought that one day, a potion she started working on would be the one that Harry would use against Voldemort. The leather notebook was worn, but Harry just couldn't get over the fact that it was actually his mother's.
He could picture his mother, at Godric's Hollow, sitting at the desk in the sitting room, parchment and scrolls strune about. A single candle sat on the desk, casting a subtle light, and a fire burned peacefully in the hearth. She would be sitting proper in the chair, writing in the notebook he now held so close.
Since the visit to Godric's Hollow, Harry came to treasure the items that once belonged to his parents. He still wore his mother's locket around his neck all the time, it currently lying under his Hogwarts uniform. His father's cloak sat in his trunk, always ready for the next adventure, for it was an invaluable item that helped Harry countless times. Now, he held this book, his mother's potions notebook. He was learning so much about them in such a short time, and seeing these possessions and the Hollow allowed him to feel closer to them than any other time he could remember.
`It's OK Harry' Hermione whispered gently to him, reaching out and placing her hand on Harry's arm. Her hand was small, and Harry gazed at it for a moment, then looked at Hermione, who gave him a soft smile and a gentle squeeze on his arm.
Harry looked at her, and found her expression was full of warmth and understanding. Harry knew Hermione was there for him, even now when he tried desperately to hide his feelings and remain strong. He knew she was telling him it was OK to let his emotions show. He lowered his glance, and found his eyes drawn again to the notebook, and Hermione's hand which was still placed on his forearm.
It was all too much. He kept everything inside of him since Dumbledore's funeral. Of course, he did have a tough time when he returned to Privet Drive, but he was by himself then, no one saw him. He felt almost obligated to never show fear or weakness now, especially in front of Ron or Hermione. But this night, so much occurred, and it seemed that his mind was just too overwhelmed at keeping it all under control. As he continued to gaze at the book and Hermione's hand, Harry could not stop a tear from trickling down his cheek, slowly carving a path down his face.
From one tear, many started flowing. He closed his eyes, and began to sob quietly, his free hand rising to his forehead, trying to hide his tears from Hermione. A part of him was screaming to not be there in the room. He could feel the wantingness to get up and run as fast as possible, far away from Hermione and the common room. To be by himself with his pain, and just be alone so no one could know what he was feeling, or how he was acting. Harry however stayed routed in his seat. He had run away like that all his life, and for once wanted someone to be there to comfort him. Staring at Hermione's hand made him realize that she was that someone, a person that could see Harry at his weakest and help him. Hermione stared for a moment while he cried, then acted.
In one gradual but fluid motion, she reached over, and embraced Harry in comforting hug. Harry let go of his barriers, his fears, and allowed the pain and worries to make its way out. He slowly let go of his mother's notebook, which fell steadily onto his lap, and his forehead, and moved his arms around Hermione's small form, placing the side of his face into her inviting shoulder. Hermione moved slightly, and sat down on the arm of the couch, still holding onto Harry.
Harry cried quietly, his breaths taken in light gasps, his water logged eyes staring into the tiny flame incased in the fireplace. So much had built up in Harry's head, and now that he started crying, everything started pouring out, much like a river breaking free of a dam. The loss of Dumbledore, the feeling of emptiness, and the worry of what was to come; all sped through Harry's mind, along with many other things, as his tears streamed down his cheeks and dampened Hermione's robes.
Hermione said nothing, and simply held Harry there, allowing him to vent and being the literal shoulder to cry on. As his tears began to slow, Harry let out a sniffle, gave Hermione a featherlike squeeze, and closed his eyes, mentally thanking her for being there and not judging him on his actions.
Harry let go, as did Hermione, and he leaned back in the chair, wiping his cheeks clean. Hermione continued to sit on the arm of the chair for a moment, to allow Harry to recover himself.
Harry felt slightly ashamed with himself now, allowing his emotional barriers down like that in front of Hermione. He looked up at her and was surprised to see her beaming at him.
`Thank you Harry' she said amiably.
`For what?' Harry asked shakily, wondering why she would thank him after that. She placed her left hand on Harry's shoulder, and tilted her head downwards at him, looking at him thoughtfully.
`For opening up. It's not good for you to be bottling up everything like that. And don't say you haven't been, because I know you have' she explained. Harry smiled back at her for a moment, then glanced at his hands which he clasped on his lap.
`Thanks for understanding' Harry said quietly, looking up for a moment to see her smile again. He still didn't feel entirely glad about what he did, but he took solace in the fact that Hermione was probably right, and that she didn't ask any questions.
Hermione gave Harry's shoulder a squeeze, and stood, moving over and sitting down in the other chair. She still faced Harry, as he moved his eyes back towards the notebook. He opened the cover, and began to read through it.
The pages, as Harry flipped through slowly, were full of writing and his mother's work, at varying angles and sometimes including small diagrams. Potions that Harry couldn't even pronounce, let alone understand their uses sat within the confines of this little book. In some places, little descriptions would be scrolled, such as "for shrinking" or "invisibility". Hermione continued to look over Harry closely, as he flipped through the pages. At last, he came to the potion Hermione found earlier that night.
The top section was written by his mother. It ended just under halfway through the ingredients and directions, then someone else's dark printed writing began. Harry now remembered where he saw the writing before, in his Advance Potion-Making from the year before, which use to be Snape's.
`How long will it take to make this?' Harry asked, not looking up from the writing. His voice was raspy, as it was still recovering from the crying that ceased only a few minutes before.
`Seven weeks' Hermione replied. Harry tore his eyes from the book, and looked at her.
`Seven weeks?'
`Well, the potion says one week for the combined number of pieces a soul is in. Since you said you think it's in seven pieces, then seven weeks' said Hermione.
`Can you make it?'
`With Professor Slughorn's help, I can imagine so, yes' she reassured. Harry glanced at the notebook again, closed it, stood, and walked over to Hermione, giving it back.
`How soon can you start?' Harry asked. Hermione accepted the book, and placed it on her lap gently.
`Tomorrow.'
`Alright, if you can do that, I'll see if I can find out more about that book' Harry said, starting off towards his room. Hermione turned around in her chair, and gave quizzical look at Harry's back.
`How will you do that?' she asked. Harry stopped at the foot of the stairs, and looked at Hermione.
`Somehow I have a feeling the Pensieve will explain a few things' he answered determinately. Hermione nodded, and turned around in the chair. Harry started up the stairs, but stopped short, and came back down slowly.
`By the way' he said, Hermione turning back around to see him, `thanks again.'
`Anytime Harry' she replied, smiling again at him. Harry returned the smile, turned, and headed up the staircase and into bed.
The next day, Harry woke feeling tired. The previous night's events circled his mind all night. He experienced one of those nights where all he wanted was to fall asleep, however the more he tried, it never came. He laid in his room for a while in the morning, just staring at the ceiling of his four poster bed, the room pale and grey in appearance due to the overcast sky visible through the side of the window.
Harry closed his eyes, and exhaled slowly, allowing his chest to fall and stay empty for a few moments. He wanted to relax, however it was far from possible. The previous night's venting helped a bit, he could feel it, but it was more of the unknown of the future that troubled Harry than the past.
He opened his eyes again, drew a deep breath, and started his day. After showering and getting dressed, taking his time doing both, he came down to the common room to find Hermione looking over the potions book at the desk.
Harry paused at the bottom of his stairwell, and observed the scene. Hermione didn't notice Harry was there, and she continued to look over the notebook, her head inclined downwards showing the part in her hair. Harry was reminded of his mental picture of his mother at the Hollow writing. A smile crossed his face, and he took the last step, purposely allowing his foot to make a sound. She looked up at him, and a smiled grew on her face as well.
`Good morning Harry' she said brightly.
`Morning' he answered. She closed the book, and joined Harry towards the Great Hall. They both entered to find the house tables slightly less than half full. Sundays normally saw students entering leisurely, people taking advantage of the extra sleep available. Harry and Hermione both made their way to the Gryffindor table, and found Ron there talking to both Ginny and Luna, who was visiting from the Ravenclaw table.
`Morning guys' Harry said, dropping himself next to Luna. Hermione sat herself down next to Harry, placing the potions book carefully on her lap.
`Find anything yet?' Ron asked, taking a glance at the book on her lap. Hermione tucked herself closer to the table so the book was not visible.
`Later' Hermione replied, starting to get some toast. Ron stared at her for a moment, then shrugged his shoulders, and looked to Harry.
`I was thinking of going to see Hagrid today, do you want to come with?' he asked. Harry was struck with surprise. He hadn't gone to see Hagrid since being back at Hogwarts. He still planned on going into the Pensieve, however it made sense that he could do that, then visit Hagrid. Harry just hoped Hagrid would not be upset with the lack of visiting.
`Oh my, we haven't seen him since the start of term. I hope he's doing alright' Hermione said worriedly, as she spread jam on her toast.
`Definitely, we'll go see him this afternoon. I have to do some homework this morning, but we'll make the time to see him' Harry stated. They finished their breakfast quickly, Ginny and Luna talking about something called Tymshire Tizzles as they ate, and started their way back up to the East Tower before telling Ron about the potions book and the soul destroying potion.
'Honestly, when is that girl going to come back down to Earth?' Hermione expressed as her, Harry, and Ron walked up the stairs towards the East Tower.
'With Luna, I think you need to question if she was ever on Earth to begin with' Harry responded with a chuckle. The three friends passed the library, and entered the East Tower.
`Your mother made this?' Ron asked, looking stunned at the text while sitting in the East Tower common room. Harry nodded, and Ron glanced back at the book.
`Wow. I mean, I wonder why Dumbledore had it, but it's great that we have it now. When are we getting started on it?' he asked.
`Today. You and Hermione have to go and ask Professor Slughorn for help, since some of the ingredients are impossible to get' Harry said. Ron looked up from the book.
`Where are you going?'
`Into the Pensieve' said Harry. Ron knew Harry had been worried about going in it. He stood up from the table, the book in his hand, gave Harry a pat on the back, grinning.
`Well, we'll get going then. Good luck mate' he said. Harry smiled back, and the couple exited through the portrait hole, leaving Harry alone in the sunlit room. Harry exhaled, and walked up the stairs to his room silently, coming back with the shimmering basin. He placed the rune-marked bowl on the table, and looked into it.
He saw himself in the reflection, and wondered which memory would be shown to him first. Had Dumbledore made a sort of play list that would show him certain memories in order? Harry figured to test it first, and placed the tip of his wand on the edge of the silver surface.
At once, and image formed in the centre of the bowl. Harry could make out Dumbledore, talking to a woman in the Headmaster's office. Harry took a deep breath, and plunged his face into the image.
Harry was falling only for a moment, then his feet hit the stone floor of the Headmaster's office. It was just as it was the year before, with the portraits hung about the room, the portrait of Dumbledore not on the wall, since the silver bearded man sat in the high-winged chair behind the desk. The sight of Dumbledore made Harry feel uneasy, his lack of presence in the current time becoming painfully obvious to him again. He took a deep breath and closed his eyes. He was ready to visit these memories, and see Dumbledore again, even if it was a non-existant version of him. He still missed the old man terribly, but he had to remember, he was gone.
Harry opened his eyes, and moved around to see the face of the maroon haired woman to whom Professor Dumbledore was talking to. As her face came into view, Harry's heart skipped a beat as he noticed her eyes. They were the same he saw in the mirror every day.
`Thank you for seeing me Albus' Lily said kindly. Dumbledore lowered his head in a slow nod, and looked back at Harry's mother. Harry looked at her, and saw the locket that now hung around his neck. He grasped the same one that was around his neck, and found himself smiling lightly at his mother. It looked beautiful on her.
`It was not a problem. How is young Harry doing?' he asked. Harry understood now this must have taken place after he was born, but before his parents were murdered.
`Harry is doing great. Of course, James has more experience catching a snitch than changing a diaper, but I'm sure he'll get a hang of it' she chuckled. Dumbledore smiled, and leaned forward, placing his arms on the desk, the silver objects still littered across its top. Harry smiled at his mother's comment as well.
`Always a Marauder. Now, what is it you wish to discuss?' Dumbledore asked. Lily moved in her chair, and sat right on the edge.
`It's about my potion' she said quietly.
`What about it?' the Headmaster asked.
`I'm stuck on one part. I've added the Ridgeback tooth, the third fang-molar for potency, but I need more background in the dark arts for the next section of the potion' she explained. Dumbledore leaned back in his chair, and placed the tips of his fingers to his chin, his blue eyes squinting in thought.
`I believe I know someone who could help' he said after a few moments. The memory swirled around Harry for a moment. He started becoming dizzy, but luckily the room slowed down. As the memory finally stood still, he found himself still in the Headmaster's office, however now a third person was in the room, standing close to the side of the Headmaster's desk.
It was Snape. He looked very much as he did in the future, with the exception of fewer lines on his face, and his skin tone, which was not as pale. His back robe and greasy black hair had not changed, and his dark eyes still made Harry clench his teeth in anger.
`Lily, you remember Severus?' Dumbledore asked. Lily looked at Snape with a look of mingled disgust, however nodded after a few moments. Snape in the mean time, glared at Lily, his face emotionless.
`Yes, however I still do not trust him Albus' she stated openly, her right hand moving slowly to the pocket on her dark brown cloak. Snape's eyes locked on her hand, however, he looked away quickly.
`I know you don't, however he can help us in this situation. Severus, I need you to work on this potion' Dumbledore said, motioning to the potions book which sat on the desk before him. Snape snatched the book up rudely, and glanced at the half written page.
`What is the purpose of this potion?' he asked, his eyes moving away from the page to Dumbledore.
`It is a soul destroying potion' Dumbledore answered, making it sound like he was being asked what flavour tea he wanted. Snape's eyes grew wide for a moment on Dumbledore, then back to the potion.
`Well, I must point out' Snape said, giving Lily a sinister grin, `that there are already some mistakes here. However' he continued, now looking back at Dumbledore not reacting to Lily's astonished look at the comment, `I will look into it.' Dumbledore raised from his seat slowly, as Lily did quickly, her hand still in her pocket.
`Thank you Severus. If you could please start right away with that' Dumbledore said. Severus bowed his head slightly, then left the room, again not acknowledging Lily. Once he was out of the room, and the door closed, Lily turned back to Dumbledore.
`Albus, you must know someone else who could help, anyone but him?' she said, allowing her dislike for Snape to enter her tone.
`He is best suited for it. Besides, he knows something that will help us. Do not worry Lily' he said, coming around the desk and placing a comforting hand on her shoulder, her expression however not changing, `the book will be returned, and it will be you who will brew the potion. I will get back to you when he is finished. In the mean time, stay hidden, and keep an eye out for anything.'
`Alright, just keep an eye on him Albus. I know you trust him, however I do not, and that is my potions book. Oh, before I forget, here, in case you need to contact us' she said, giving Dumbledore a piece of paper. Dumbledore opened it up, and Harry looked at the rough edged, small writing.
James, Lily, and Harry Potter are located at Godric's Hollow
`I'm going down to Hagrid's Hut to give it to him too, since he's expected for tea tonight' she said.
`I see . . . well, keep safe' Dumbledore said. Lily smiled, and went to the door. `And Lily' Dumbledore added, Lily turning back, `Happy Halloween.' Lily smiled, turned, and exited the room. The room shimmered again, and once it stopped, Harry found Dumbledore sitting in his chair behind his desk, writing on parchment quietly.
Harry was wondering what would happen, when the flame in the fireplace erupted all of a sudden. It seemed to Harry that Dumbledore was not expecting someone to Floo in at such a time. Harry was even more surprised by the face that appeared in the fireplace. It was Hagrid, although he looked terrible, with soot and ash covering his face.
`Hagrid, what is it?' Dumbledore asked hurriedly, getting up from the chair and crouching down next to the hearth. Hagrid gave a cough, and turned around for a moment before responding.
`Potters . . . attacked . . . . Lily and James `er . . .'er . . .` he panted, unable to utter the word. He was winded, as if he just finished a marathon. Dumbledore moved closer to the fire.
`Harry, is Harry alive?' Dumbledore asked, sounding almost demanding. Hagrid nodded, and Dumbledore lowered his glance for a moment, and looked slightly relieved at the news.
`Hagrid, take Harry and bring him back to Hogwarts. Keep him safe, make sure Poppy gets a look at him. This is very important Hagrid' he pressed. Hagrid nodded, and left the flame. Dumbledore in the mean time, stood, and started off at a very fast pace to the doorway. Harry hurried along behind him, as he passed through the corridors of the school.
Harry could tell that he was headed towards Professor McGonagall's office. He came to the door, and knocked. Hurried steps could be heard, and the door opened to show Professor McGonagall. She looked quite tired, and was in a sleeping-cloak and her hair was down, which made her look even sleepier.
`Albus, what is the matter?' she asked, sounding and looking worried. Dumbledore did not wait for an invitation, and entered her office, McGonagall quickly locking the door behind her. Harry walked in quickly enough to be in the room.
`I have just heard word from Hagrid, Godic's Hollow has been attacked' he stated. McGonagall placed her hands to her mouth, and walked quickly towards Dumbledore.
`By who? And what of the Potters?' she asked quietly. Dumbledore paced to the window, and looked out towards the grounds, as Professor McGonagall looked on, still looking terrified by the news.
`By Lord Voldemort, of that I am certain. Young Harry, Hagrid tells me, is alive, however James and Lily may be dead. I am worried that Lord Voldemort may still attack. I must travel to Godric's Hollow right away to understand the situation fully' Dumbledore said, turning around and facing McGonagall.
`What can I do Albus?' she quaked. Dumbledore started his way out, and turned at the door.
`You must protect Hogwarts for the time. Hagrid is bringing Harry here for Poppy to see him, and keep him safe' he answered. McGonagall nodded lightly, and Dumbledore exited the room, Harry quick to follow.
Dumbledore passed through the Entrance Chamber, and into the grounds. The night was cool, and overcast, the grass wet with moisture. He reached the gates of the school, and walked out of the wards. Harry was surrounded by mist for a second, before he found himself in front of a burning building, Dumbledore next to him.
It was Godric's Hollow, and it was on fire, every room set ablaze, looking like the house would soon fall into itself. Harry looked up, and saw the menacing Dark Mark floating above the house. Dumbledore looked around, as did Harry, and found that Hagrid must have already left with Harry.
`Phoenicreo!' Dumbledore yelled. A red bolt of flame flew from his wand, and erupted in the middle of the mark. The Dark Mark vanished in a huge mound of fire, which swarmed to form a huge fiery phoenix, its head inclined upwards and wings spread apart, giving it a look of power and might. The sight made the hairs on Harry's neck stand up, and gave him goosebumps.
At once, four people Apparated nearby, their wands pointed in different directions. After they all turned and saw the house, one of the people approached Dumbledore, looking very distressed.
`No . . . NO! Dumbledore, what happened?' the man asked, running to Dumbledore. Harry recongnized the voice, and moved around to see the man was Remus Lupin. He was quite younger, not nearly as many grey hairs as he had now, and his face was not as weathered. At the moment however, he looked horrified at the scene in front of him.
`Voldemort has attacked Godric's Hollow' Dumbledore answered, the evidence for it clearly visible in front of him. Lupin ran a short distance towards the burning house, the phoenix still lording over the flames that leaped off the house. He stopped short, and looked back at Dumbledore, walking quickly.
`Are James and Lily . . . ` he asked, unable to finish.
`They are dead. Harry is alive though. Hagrid saved him, and is keeping him safe' he said. The other three Order members walked forwards, one wearing a violet top hat, who Harry remembered was Dedalus Diggle, a stately looking woman Harry noticed as Emmeline Vance, who was now dead in the future, and Sturgis Podmore. They moved towards the house, and quickly extinguished the flames that were engulfing the house. Once all the flames were doused, Dumbledore moved to the front door, and stopped the others from entering.
`I need you to keep an eye for trouble, and obliviate any muggle's memories when they come near' he ordered. The four looked inside the house for a moment, but nodded none the less. Lupin looked like he was going to faint, and be sick at the same. Dumbledore tried to give him confidence.
`It will be alright Remus. They are gone, but their son lives. There will be time to morn their loss, but it is not now' he said. Remus wiped his watery eyes, gave a sniff, and solemnly nodded his head. Dumbledore placed a comforting hand on his shoulder, turned, and entered the house.
The walls, floor, and furniture were black from the fire. As Dumbledore step inwards in the dark house, Harry's eyes were drawn to a figure at the bottom of the stairs, lying motionless.
It was James, lying face down on the floor. The back of his dark red shirt was covered in ash and soot. Dumbledore slowly made his way to him, and knelt down, waving his wand over the body. James' body levitated off the ground, and turned over slowly to reveal his front. Harry's eyes welled up at the site.
He remembered seeing his father in the Mirror of Erised, looking so proud and lively. His face now looked lifeless and still, his blue eyes empty of any life and his skin pale. Dumbledore exhaled slowly, closed James' eyes forever, and placed James' wand on his chest. He flicked his wand, and Harry's father's body glowed gold for a moment, and the body vanished.
Dumbledore moved up the stairs, his wand still drawn, and moved towards Harry's bedroom, taking careful steps not to fall down a hole in the floor. A scared and disheveled rat scurried out of the hallway and down the steps at great speed as Dumbledore made his way towads Harry's room.
When he entered Harry's bedroom, Harry felt his heart fail as his eyes found Lily's body lying in front of the crib. The crib itself was partially destroyed, and a large blast mark plastered the wall behind it. Dumbledore made his way slowly to Lily, and crouched down and moved some hair out of her face, showing her green eyes now pale in comparison to the earlier memory. Harry was now crying, the sight of his mother like this tearing at his heart. Dumbledore gave what Harry could only call a sniff, and solemnly performed the same magic on Lily, vanishing her body in the same fashion. Once her body was gone, Harry stared at the space it just vacated, then wiped his eyes, as Dumbledore stood, and moved towards the crib.
Dumbledore then moved around the room, and stopped suddenly, his blue eyes stuck squarely on a section of the floor. There, on the floor not far from where Lily's body was, a white coloured wand lay on the floor.
Dumbledore very cautiously moved forwards, and performed numerous spells on the wand. Nothing happened, and he very carefully picked it up.
It was Voldemort's wand. Harry recognized it from the times he met Voldemort before. Dumbledore looked around the room, then back at the wand. He stared at it for a while, and Harry got the distinct impression that he was worried about something the wand might tell him. Slowly, Dumbledore pointed his wand at Voldemort's, and closed his eyes.
`Prior Incantato' he said quietly.
Voldemort's wand spewed a green light, which swarmed around in front of it. Dumbledore's eyes grew wide, as the green reflected in them. The green light swirled around in a circle for a moment, then made the distinct shape of a lightning bolt, just like the one on Harry's head.
Dumbledore grasped his own forehead for a moment, dropping Voldemort's wand in the process. His eyes squinted for a moment, before growing even larger again.
`No, he couldn't have' he whispered to himself, his expression blank. It made Harry feel uneasy to see him react in such a manner.
Harry heard a noise coming from outside, and when he turned back, he found Dumbledore already making his way out of the room, Voldemort's wand still lying on the floor. Harry moved quickly, and caught up to him just as he exited the house. A few muggles were walking down the road towards the house, still in their house coats.
`We'll take care of them Albus' Podmore reassured. Dumbledore nodded, and walked back into the house slowly, Lupin walking up the steps to follow.
`I have already vanished their bodies to where they will be buried. There is something however, that I wish for you to see' Dumbledore motioned Remus upstairs and he followed. Once they were in Harry's room, Dumbledore picked up Voldemort's wand, and showed it to Lupin.
`Is that?' Lupin asked, daring not to touch it. Dumbledore nodded.
`This, is the wand of Lord Voldemort. He has been destroyed' Dumbledore said. Lupin stared at the wand for a moment, then at Dumbledore, looking totally awestruck.
`Destroyed? How?' Lupin asked. Dumbledore paced the room, and stopped, just in front of the window.
`I believe' he started, himself still looking at the alien wand he held, `he killed James and Lily, and tried to murder Harry. Lily appears to have died trying to save Harry. That would have protected Harry with a very old magic . . . ` he trailed off, still pacing. Lupin took a step forward, his face showing his confusion at the situation.
`Old magic?' he asked. Dumbledore turned and nodded his head.
`Yes, an ancient kind of magic. The protection of love is a powerful thing. When he tried to murder Harry, the protection must have been enough to backfire the spell' he speculated. Lupin shook his head, and turned away.
`So Voldemort is dead?' Lupin asked, sounding disbelieving. Dumbledore stopped pacing, and approached the man.
`You know this is Voldemort's wand. It would only be here if he was gone. . .' Dumbledore trailed off again. Lupin in the mean time turned in the doorway.
`So what now?' Lupin asked, sounding exhausted. Dumbledore pocketed Yew wand, and placed a hand on Lupin's shoulder.
`We will tell the world what has happened, and we shall make sure Harry will be safe' he said solemnly. Lupin wiped a tear again from his eye, and started down the stairwell, Dumbledore following suite.
Harry suddenly started flying upwards in darkness, until his feet hit the carpeted floor of the common room. He staggered back a few steps, before regaining his balance. He looked out the window, and had to adjust his eyes to the sun beaming in through the windows.
Harry quietly walked over, and sat on one of the chairs. He had been in the Pensieve for a while, and had experienced a number of memories. All of them were from the night his parents died. He couldn't believe that his mother gave the book to Dumbledore the night she died. He wondered what this information Snape had that Dumbledore mentioned. Harry also had a wantingness to thank Hagrid for what he did the night his parents died.
The time in the Pensieve that troubled him the most, aside from seeing his parents as they lay dead in their own house, was the last spell cast by Voldemort's wand. Harry expected to see the green light like remembered, however the green forming his lightning bolt was unexpected. That, with the last words Voldemort said that still echoed in Harry's head, made him feel very disturbed. There was more to know about his scar than he believed. He looked at his watch, and noticed how long he actually spent in the Pensieve. It was past two in the afternoon.
Harry quickly snatched up his coat, and bolted out the door, and down the stairwell, making his way to Hagrid's Hut as fast as possible. He wondered why Hermione and Ron had not come to get him, however he wondered then, how can you tell someone is in a Pensieve? He didn't bother trying to understand it, and instead straightened his coat, and knocked on Hagrid's door. Harry heard some rather heavy steps, followed by the large door creaking open to show the bearded resident.
`Harry, was beginin' to wonder if yeh forgot me' he boomed, motioning Harry in. Harry entered, and his brow furrowed as he looked around and found the hut, aside from himself, Hagrid, and Fang, empty. Harry turned as Hagrid closed the door.
`Have Hermione and Ron come?' Harry asked. Hagrid looked at Harry funnily for a moment, then moved over to the stove, and put a pot of water on for tea.
`No, they haven't bin here yet. I understand and all, you bein' Head Boy. Yer parents woulda bin proud of yeh' he expressed warmly. Harry stopped wondering about Hermione and Ron, and instead smiled at Hagrid's comments.
`Thanks Hagrid. You got your hut rebuilt, looks great' he commented. Harry went ahead and asked how things were going for Hagrid, and found out his classes were small this year, but the lessons themselves he was getting used to. They sat and talked for a while about how things where going, both with the Order, and everything else. Harry then mentioned his excursion to the Pensieve, just as Hagrid was pouring the tea.
`I saw Dumbledore's memories of the night my parents died' Harry said. Hagrid slipped slightly with the tea set, however managed to regain his balance. He came, and sat back down across from Harry.
`I see. How are yeh doin' with that?' he asked quietly, sounding concerned. Harry looked at the massive man, and remembered seeing him in the memory, protecting him when he was a baby. Harry smiled.
`Thank you Hagrid for what you did, protecting me like that' he professed to Hagrid. Hagrid smiled, and Harry could see his eyes watering slightly.
`Well, I could relate to yeh. You were an orphan, yer parents dead like that. I had to make sure yeh survived ' he voiced, a sniffle escaping. He gave his eyes a wipe, and gave another sniffle.
`What happened?' Harry asked. Hagrid had a sip of tea, then pat Fang.
'Well, I got to yer parents house, an' it was on fire and such. I went in, found yer mum and dad . . . dead' he said, as he gave a sniffle, and Harry noticed his eyes beginning to water at the memories.
'Went to yer crib, an' found yeh there, cryin', but alive. I Flooed Dumbledore, great man Dumbledore, and he told me to bring yeh back here. Came outta the house, and Sirius was there, with his motorbike' he said, Harry's heart panging at the mention of his godfather. 'Told 'em what happened, and he said I could take his bike, sayin' "he had ter find someone". Didn' know at the time what he meant' Hagrid said, staring off for a moment.
'What happened when you got back to Hogwarts?' Harry asked. Hagrid looked back, and continued.
'I gotcha back here, an' Poppy hand a look at yer. Other than yer scar, yeh was alright. After I put yeh down here and yeh fell asleep, Dumbledore sent me an owl tellin' me ter bring yeh to yer Aunt's house that night. Kept yeh safe here, then brought yeh to Privet Drive, and we left yeh there. I didn' want teh, but Dumbledore said we had teh' he explained. They talked a little more of things, and soon enough, Harry was finished his tea, and stood, Hagrid doing the same.
`Well, it's about supper time, I should go. Thanks again Hagrid' Harry said, while exited the hut a few moments later. Harry walked to the Entrance Chamber, only to find Hermione standing next to the door of the Great Hall, looking up the stairwell.
`Hermione, where were you? I thought we were going to Hagrid's? And where's Ron?' Harry asked as he approached her. She closed the gap half way, and they stood in the middle of the Entrance Chamber, a few students passing by.
`Ronald is already inside eating. We went ahead and started the potion. Ron wasn't paying enough attention and almost ruined it, but I was able to fix the problem. The potion has already started brewing, and is sitting in my room for the time being. It took longer than I initially thought it would, and by time I was done mixing it, and stirring it the required three hundred and six times, it was already supper time. Ron came down around the two hundredth stir because he was hungry' she explained, not sounding that entirely pleased.
`So why are you waiting out here?' Harry questioned.
`Waiting to see where you were. I went to the tower, but you weren't there, so I assumed you went to Hagrid's' she said, walking slowly towards one of the stairwells. Harry walked along with her, but stopped as she stepped on the first stair.
`Hermione, I'm kind of hungry, I was going to-"
`Could we eat in the tower? I wanted to ask you about something, if you don't mind' she inquired. Harry could tell something was troubling her, and nodded, starting up the stairwell as well. Harry talked about his time with Hagrid, and they entered the East Tower common room together.
`Dobby? Winky?' Hermione said quietly. Immediately, two cracks resonated in the room, and their creators appeared in front of the two heads, bowing deeply, their noses almost touching the carpet.
`Oh, Harry Potter sir! Such an honour to see you alive and well! Miss Granger too! Dobby and Winky have prepared supper for Hogwart's most excellent Heads!' Dobby expounded happily. He gave a snap of his fingers, and the study table moved into the center of the common room, and was draped with a white table cloth, one chair sitting on each side. Harry and Hermione thanked Dobby and Winky, and took a seat.
`You're looking much better now Winky' Hermione commented. The house-elf, who was actually looking better than the last time Harry saw her, bowed to the comment. She had finally stopped crying, and seemed to have lost the habit with the butterbeer. She now wore a light blue dress, which Harry pictured more on a doll than a house-elf.
`Misses is too kind. I is sorry for my actions before. I was a bad house elf. Now I is all better, thanks to Dobby' she motioned, Dobby giving her a smile. Hermione and Harry looked at each other and laughed at the notion of "elf love", but where happy they were doing well. Dobby snapped his fingers again, and food appeared on the table. Harry and Hermione thanked Dobby and Winky, and the two house elves left.
'What happened to S.P.E.W.? I thought you didn't like having house elves do work like this?' Harry said, putting in a little bit of sarcasm into his voice.
'Dobby and Winky are alright because they're free. Dobby's even getting paid for being here, so there's no worries' she justified. Harry inwardly laughed, knowing how she was working around her own principles, just barely.
`So what did you want to talk about?' Harry asked as he started his supper.
`How you are doing' she replied. Harry stopped, and put down his cutlery. He was worried that since he opened up the night before, that Hermione would always think something was bothering him.
`I'm fine Hermione, really, I am' he reassured. Hermione shook her head.
`No, I mean, are you alright with the Pensieve? Did you go into it?' she asked hesitantly. Harry went ahead and told her the memories he experienced, and she seemed to wonder the same things Harry did, aside from the part about Voldemort's last spell. Harry neglected to tell her about the green light forming a lightning bolt.
`I wonder how Pettigrew got his wand then? And how the house was rebuilt to how it was?' she pondered.
`Yes, well, maybe the Pensieve will tell me more next time I go in, or maybe I can just ask Dumbledore's portrait' Harry commented, as he continued his supper. They continued quietly, until Hermione put her fork down, and gave a sigh.
`Is there something bothering you?' Harry asked. He felt, especially after the last night's events, that he should try to be there for Hermione now if she has a problem.
`Just Ron. I've tried to be patient with him, and I've tried numerous times to insinuate that I want him to act more mature, but I'm finding more and more that we are just too different' she said quietly. Harry felt like changing subjects. He was never one to like talking about relationships, and the prospect of discussing Ron and Hermione's didn't exactly fill him with joy. Still, he was both their friends, and if they needed help, he should try.
`Sometimes opposites attract' Harry mentioned. She laughed lightly at the comment, however dropped back into her sad state again quickly.
`An opposite is not what I want I think. I don't know . . . I'll keep trying for the next little while, but I'm not sure. Sometimes I wonder if I even want to stay together with him' she said, exposing Harry to her inner thoughts. She snapped out of her stare, and looked at Harry.
`Please don't tell Ron I said this Harry. It's not that I don't like him, it's just . . .'
`Complicated?' Harry offered, Hermione nodding, still looking at Harry for a reply to her request. `Don't worry, I won't tell Ron. I hope things work out though, which ever way they should' Harry added.
He had to admit, the idea of Hermione and Ron breaking up made him worried more about the trio's friendship than Ron's feelings. Plus there was a small part of him, the same part that couldn't get enough of that flowery scent, that was jumping up and down screaming with joy at the possibility of Ron and Hermione breaking up. Harry mentally beat that part of his brain into submission however, running through his reasons why he shouldn't feel that way. Hermione seemed to notice Harry's inner conflict.
`Are you alright Harry?' she asked. Harry came back to reality, and nodded vigorously, probably too much. Hermione still watched him worriedly as they finished their meal in light conversation.
Once they finished, Dobby and Winky reappeared, and vanished everything, bidding the two Heads goodnight. Hermione went ahead and read Dumbledore's notebook, while Harry sat at the desk and wrote down the things he saw in the memories. He made a note to put down the spell "Phoenicreo", and writing about the spell Voldemort's wand performed last. He closed his notebook and placed the usual wards on it, and locking it with his password. He stretched back, and glanced at his watch, noticing the time was past 11pm.
`I wonder where Ron is?' Harry asked the Room. Hermione stirred in her seat, and looked over.
`I don't know. We'll see him tomorrow anyways in class. Are you finished, there was a spell I wanted to show you here' she mentioned. Harry got up, and walked over to her seat, and leaned down to look at the notebook.
`It's a spell can dissolves the Dark Mark. Its incantation is-`
`Phoenicreo' Harry finished. She looked up at him stunned.
`Yes, how did you know?'
`Dumbledore used it over the Hollow to disappear the Mark the night my parents died' Harry explained. She simply nodded, and went back to the book.
`Yes, well, it also calls allies of you to your position. Sort of like the Dark Mark, but more voluntary' she explained. She looked back up at Harry, and smiled at him. Harry smiled back, and found himself actually staring at her, becoming slightly lost in her eyes. They looked at each other for a few moments, before Harry's mind came back to him.
`I should get to bed' he announced quickly, tearing his gaze away, Hermione doing the same.
`Yes, you're right, so should I. Goodnight Harry' she said quickly, as she took the notebook, and walked up her set of stairs. Harry grabbed his book, and found the part of him applauding the notion of Hermione and Ron breaking up doing it a little louder now.
*
On Halloween, Harry woke to a sunny autumn day. Harry always enjoyed the Halloween feast, with the thousands of jack-o-lanterns in the Great Hall, and the atmosphere of the whole day. He woke up, and started his day, walking down to the common room to find it empty. Harry assumed Hermione already made her way to breakfast, and exited alone.
It didn't take long for Harry to find Hermione however. She was in one of the hallways, having yet another heated discussion with Ron. Harry took notice at the number and volume of these discussions had increased in the last while.
`No Ron, I just want to have breakfast, and get to class. We have a test, and we can't waste anytime' she said, sounding thoroughly upset.
`Alright, fine' Ron answered unhappily. Harry came around the corner, and found the two at least three feet apart from each other.
`Hi guys' Harry said awkwardly. Hermione and Ron said hello quietly, and the three walked to the Great Hall for breakfast.
The day's lessons went fairly well. The test they had was in Transfiguration, and Harry thought he did alright. They had to show they could change a Niffler into a stuffed doll. Extra points were given for the doll's posture, and if the doll wasn't a Niffler itself, or Niffler looking. Harry made his Niffler, who continually made grabs for his neck because of his mother's locket, into a decent doll, though its dress was entirely black. Professor Fourmove was pleased none the less.
When Harry exited, he found Hermione and Ron having yet another row. Harry never saw them have two in one day, and he could tell this one was more heated than the last.
`It doesn't matter Ron! This is our last year, and every test counts!' Hermione argued. Ron sighed and rolled his eyes.
`You worry too much about tests, really. You know you got perfect on it anyways' he said. Harry could tell she was about to start another angry reply, so he stepped in before she could start.
`Let's go to lunch, alright?' he put in, to break their fight. Hermione lowered he stance, and walked off towards the Great Hall by herself. Ron and Harry walked together farther behind.
`She honestly worries too much. I mean, she knows she got perfect' Ron commented. The two of them made their way to lunch, to find Hermione sitting next to Ginny, making sure not to leave space for Ron to sit on the same side of the table. As soon as Harry and Ron sat down, Hermione quickly grabbed up some food, and scuttled away out the door. Ron just shrugged his shoulders, and started eating.
`Aren't you going to talk to her?' Ginny asked Ron. Harry agreed with Ginny, however Ron shook his head.
`She'll be fine. Just needs to blow off some steam' he said, as he started at his Sheppard's pie. Harry knew it was more than just steam to be vented, however decided to let Ron do what he wished. This was what Hermione wanted to know about, whether Ron would be more grown up or not in his actions.
Harry didn't see Hermione for the rest of the afternoon. He had different lessons than her, and during his free period, he didn't find her in the common room, or the library. He settled to practicing his Occlumency and Legilimency training, and figured he would see her during supper time.
When Harry entered the Great Hall that night, with the usual yet always imaginative carved pumpkins hanging in the air above the four tables, the dim light emanating from within each one lighting the hall, he found neither Ron or Hermione were present. He spent the meal talking to Neville, Ginny, and the other Gryffindors, however his mind was beginning to worry if something was wrong. After the deserts were served, and the students made their way to their dormitories, Harry made his unaccompanied trip back to the East Tower. Just as he turned the corner, he found Evander's portrait just opening up, and Ron exiting.
Ron was fuming. Harry could see a mix of anger and sadness in his very red face, and tried to ask what was wrong, but was met with a hand wave that Harry understood to mean back off. Harry watched his friend pass by, and disappear down the stairwell.
Harry turned slowly back to the end of the hallway, and made his way quietly towards Evander's portrait, which had closed by itself.
`They had a fight, believe me, I could hear enough of it from out here. Sounded pretty bad too, you should go and see how Hermione is doing. Password?' Evander asked. Harry gave it, and the portrait opened. Harry made is way up the passage way, and found the common room lit only by the fireplace, a sobbing lump lay on the floor in front of it.
As Harry approached slowly, he realized it was Hermione. She was sitting in front of the fire, her head in her hands, crying profusely. Evander must have been right, the fight must have been huge to bring Ron to such a level of temperament, and Hermione to this. Harry, very carefully, moved around, making his steps audible so he would not scare her. Hermione looked up, and Harry's chest ached at what he saw.
Tears were pouring out of her eyes, and streaming down her cheeks. Her hair was disheveled and her hands were shaking as she continued to sob. Harry immediately knelt down, gave one look at her, and wrapped her in a warm hug.
She collapse into Harry, and pressed her arms tightly around him, burying her face into his shoulder. Harry rubbed her back, and let her cry, much like she had done earlier in the month. After a few moments, Harry decided to speak.
`Hermione, what happened?' he asked. He felt her grip loosen, and he parted himself from her, and looked at her. Her cheeks were wet, and her eyes bloodshot from the crying. Harry took out a handkerchief, and gave it to her to use.
`Ron wanted to have dinner up here' she started, pointing at the table, which Harry only now noticed was dressed much like before when he and Hermione ate in the common room. `We didn't talk that much really, just about school. It wasn't that good of a supper' she said. Harry still didn't understand how it got from there to here.
`But why are you so upset?' he asked. Hermione gave a sniffle, and wiped her eyes again.
`I took the afternoon to figure out what I wanted, and . . . ` she trailed off again, as tears began to well up in her eyes.
`and?' Harry asked.
`and I don't want Ron. We're just too different, and I just can't see it working out. We fight too much, surely you noticed that, and we have totally different priorities. So tonight' she continued, as tears fell from her eyes again, `I broke up with Ron' she confessed, as she began to cry again. Harry leaned in, and embraced her in another hug, his face stunned.
He was speechless, at least to some extent. He had a small feeling it would happen, but not this quickly. From the time he started seeing them in Grimmauld, he felt something was out of place. He figured to some degree, that it was only a matter of time until they broke up, realizing that they were too different for each other. Still, a part of him was not ready to have it happen so quickly.
`Oh Harry, I've messed up so badly' she whimpered. Harry tried to reassure her, however knew it would be hard to do, at least at this moment.
`You did what you thought was right. You said it yourself, you would give it a little bit of time, then decide, and that's what you did' he said somberly.
`But now Ron hates me, and I can imagine you do to' she said, as she moved away from the hug. Harry however moved her so he looked right at her.
`I don't hate you, and Ron doesn't either. He's upset, but he'll get over it' he said determinately. Hermione, her eyes water logged, still looked upset.
`And you?' she asked. Harry thought for a moment, then answered.
`I'm here for you' he assured warmly. Hermione gave her first smile that night, and they hugged each other again.
`Thank you Harry' she said from Harry's shoulder. Harry smiled, and gave her a squeeze.
`Anytime Hermione.'
Spell / Name Meanings -
Phoenicreo - L. phoenix: phoenix, creo: to create (Phoenicreo = to create a phoenix)
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