Harry Potter and the Last Prophecy
Previous Version Titled 'Waltzing of Hearts'
Version for 6th Year, following Order of the Phoenix
Author: Webmaster Pikachu (pikacenter@hotmail.com)
Notes:
This fanfiction, like all 6th year fanfictions, contains spoilers from the 5th book. Be sure to
read Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix before reading this fiction if you wish to prevent spoiling the book. It
isn't that expensive. :)
Also note that this will end up being a full-fledged story, just as long as JK Rowling's books. I am shooting for around 150,000 words in an attempt to write something worthy of keeping the rabid fans from going crazy.
Thanks to E. C. R. Potter. Harry's birthdate and the dementor problem have been fixed.
Chapter 1: Unexpected Events
The sun rose quietly over the horizon, and its first rays fell upon the face of a sleeping boy. It was none other then Harry Potter, resting in his small bedroom at Number 4 Privet Drive. His head was resting on a dirty pillow, and it could be clearly seen that tears had recently fallen on it, washing away the dirt in various places. The sheets of the bed were in disarray, the overlaying dirty quilt completely on the dirty floor. Dust hung in the air, making the rays of the sun viewable from the side as they might be coming down from a cloud.
The warm light danced upon Harry's eyes, and he slowly opened them. Sitting up, he glanced around his room. His trunk rest in the far corner, opened and with various books lying around its base. On his desk were a few pieces of parchment. One was a message from Ron, another from Hermione. The last, however, Harry had not seen as of yet. Staring at it, he felt for his glasses on his nightstand, and scrambled half-blinded to the old desk.
'Harry Potter' it read across the front in a fine hand. Breaking the wax seal, Harry opened the message.
Dear Harry,
It is already a month into summer break for you, but I wanted to offer a reminder for a few important things.
Voldemort is still loose upon our world, and it is absolutely imperative you remain at the Dursley's. Last year I believe I mentioned it to you how it was all so important, and I'm sure you still understand. You are the key to the dispute ahead of us, and you must be kept well and safe. Hogwarts may be one of the safest places in the wizarding world, but for you your safest place is at Number 4.
The loss of Sirius was a terrible blow to us, but do not let it dampen you for to long. Keep your mind sharp and strong, it is your most valuable asset, and it will keep you and your friends alive in times of danger.
On a lighter note, I have reversed the decision to prevent you from playing Quidditch. When you return I am sure your team members will be glad to have you back, if you decide to play. I know that recently you have been having a hard time, and it has been stressful, I know. It is your decision.
Fred and George Weasley have decided they would rather invest their time in their new enterprise, and that is perfectly acceptable. I always knew they were smart. They are doing a good job, and seem to have made a name for themselves. Upon my return I was fortunate enough to be saved a glance at their swamp magic. Quite impressive, If I do say so myself.
If there is anything you need, please ask without hesitation.
Sincerely,
Albus Dumbledore
Harry set the letter down on his desk. He had yet to ask himself whether or not he wanted to continue Quidditch. The answer should be simple, he thought. He loved Quidditch, it was in his blood to play. But his mind could not work fully it seemed, for he sighed in exasperation. It had been like this all summer… confused and lost within himself.
Uncle Vernon and Aunt Petunia, along with their human piggy Dudley, offered Harry no consolation. He rarely talked to them, although thanks to the events that took place the previous summer, they were leaving him alone. Aunt Petunia even went so far as to stop Uncle Vernon from fussing Harry about. Harry was still incredibly thankful for that Howler that came last year.
Boredom was Harry's only real enemy that summer. He didn't like to let his mind drift off to that perilous evening in the Department of Mysteries, and the best way he found to avoid that was his summer studies. Naturally he went straight for the Defense Against the Dark Arts books, which weren't even assigned to be used for homework. It didn't matter… It was a responsibility now. Not for the teachers anymore, but for himself, and for Dumbledore's Army, which Dumbledore encouraged whole-heartedly. Students should learn how to properly defend themselves in a time of war, Dumbledore mused. Harry agreed with this. Hermione had taught him many things in his fourth year, and the truth was that many of them had saved his life.
Now, nearly a month later, Harry had finished his studies. Boredom was now a serious threat, and he had sent a desperate message to Hermione, asking her to send a nice thick Defense Against the Dark Arts book for a birthday present…
Harry jumped with a start, and glanced over at the dusty calendar on his wall, smudging away the grime. It was indeed the 31st of July. His birthday. Harry glanced back at Dumbledore's letter, and sure enough at the bottom it read 'P.S. Happy Birthday Harry, someone will be visiting you shortly'.
How vague! Harry didn't know who in the world would be coming to visit him, but it was his birthday. Having a visitor for his birthday had only happened once before when Hagrid broke down the door on that stormy night. It was good news, as he had been longing to know of the happenings of the magical world. Grabbing some clean clothes, Harry rushed to the bathroom to take a shower.
Emerging from the bathroom, Harry noticed Dudley giving him a foul eye. Ignoring him, Harry returned to his room to deposit his dirty clothes. Noticing his wand on his nightstand, he picked it up and put it into his back pocket, covering the visible portion with his shirt. Harry much preferred the wizarding robes, but found it hard to wear such things in a Muggle world. Having just left the room, Dudley noticed the nearly indefinable shape in Harry's back pocket.
"Why do you have that bloody thing with you." Growled Dudley. He pointed at Harry with a shaking finger.
"I would tell you, but you would just stare at me in incomprehension. In any case, I'm getting a visitor today, and I know for a fact that they are allowed to use magic anywhere they want." Harry replied, looking unconcerned and making his way downstairs to eat a bit of breakfast. Dudley didn't quite know what to say, but followed Harry down the stairs.
"Who is coming? Better not be one of your freaky orange haired friends that blows up living rooms…" Dudley asked snidely.
"I don't know who is coming yet, but I'm warning you to stay out of it. Oh yes, if you want to get on their good side, say Happy Birthday and perhaps they will mind their wands." Harry answered, giving his voice a dark touch. Dudley squirmed behind him. It took a few minutes before Dudley realized it was Harry's birthday. Decided it was best to keep his mouth shut, Dudley said nothing and fell flat on the couch in the living room to watch the television. Harry found himself a couple eggs and some old bread and began to make breakfast, trying to ignore the crude insults from Dudley's cartoons. Each year he grew more and more distant from the Muggle world, and he found himself dreaming of a life after finishing at Hogwarts more and more often.
"Your up early boy. Dudley, turn on the morning news." Uncle Vernon said upon entering the kitchen, stopping Harry's daydreaming. Dudley moaned and switched the noisy television set to the news channel. Uncle Vernon started to prepare his morning coffee, giving Harry a mean stare.
"Someone is coming to visit me today. They didn't specify a time." Harry stated simply, not bothering to say 'Good morning' or such. Uncle Vernon gave a loud and quite audible disgruntled grunt.
"Who is this 'visitor', boy?" asked Uncle Vernon. Harry shrugged and said he didn't know, because in all reality had hadn't even the slightest clue who it might be. Noticing the hidden wand in Harry's pocket, Uncle Vernon scowled, but said nothing more.
Harry liked scaring everyone by hiding his wand in his back pocket. It at least kept the family off his back. Even pretending to reach for it was enough to shut the entire family up, seeing that Harry wasn't getting in trouble for using magic.
After eating breakfast, Harry cleaned off his dishes and was making his way upstairs when a knock was heard at the door. Without a moment of hesitation, like a spring suddenly given room to spring, Harry bolted to the door and opened it. The person standing before him was perhaps the least expected: Professor McGonagall, dressed in Muggle clothing and looking quite uncomfortable in it. In her hands were numerous presents.
"Good Morning, Mr. Potter. I'm guessing you read the Headmaster's letter already." She spoke in her usual hard voice. Harry felt like he was back at Hogwarts already.
"Good Morning Professor… uh… This is a surprise," spoke Harry, still a bit off guard. He glanced at the gifts in the Professor's arms.
"These are all for you, and I also have some news for you as well. Dumbledore would have loved to come, but he is of course still busy with the Order. Now, are you going to invite me in or just stand there?"
Harry stepped aside and let McGonagall in. Closing the door, he led her to the family room. Dudley had already hidden, and Uncle Vernon had disappeared upstairs to change into something more suitable for guests. Sitting down on one of the chairs, McGonagall set the gifts on the floor. Harry, deciding to calm down a bit, asked her if she wanted tea.
"I could do with some tea, thank you." She replied. Harry went about putting some water on the stove to boil, and returned to sit across from the Professor and her gifts.
"I realize it was quite a shock to see me, Harry, but someone had to come… I'd like to first say you did very well on your O.W.L.s. A little lacking in your potions skills, and the astronomy examination wasn't even graded, but otherwise you received outstanding marks, quite literally. I believe you really could become a fine Auror since you did so well." McGonagall stated, a hint of pride in her voice.
"Really?" Harry asked excitedly. McGonagall nodded.
"Oh yes, one of the Professors examining you said you had a natural talent for Defense Against the Dark Arts. All of them were very excited to see such a nice corporeal Patronus as well. That brings me to exactly what classes you wish to take in this coming year. For Defense Against the Dark Arts, you'll need all of the basic classes except for Divination and Herbology. Albus told me that he would recommend you taking Occlumency during one of these free class periods, but also told me to note that it should be you that gets to pick who teaches you. He does not want the same mistakes as last year to be repeated." She explained. Harry nodded, and noticing the boiling water on the stove, stood up to prepare McGonagall a cup of tea.
"I don't think I would like to continue Divination, but I would still like to take Herbology. Ron and Hermione are both in that class." Replied Harry, coming back with a steaming cup of English tea on a saucer. Handing it to McGonagall, he reseated himself.
"That can be arranged I'm sure. Oh yes, now that I think about it, Hermione said she's been studying Occlumency over the summer, and if you feel it so, she would be willing to work with you so that both of you can learn it. As you know, we don't have a class for it, but working with another student is perfectly acceptable. I can see how it might be advantageous as you will not be letting out memories to someone you find it hard to trust. Professor Snape was a bad match, I think." McGonagall took a sip of her tea. Uncle Vernon could be heard coming down the stairs. "Ah, finally I can meet your family. Have they been treating you well?"
Harry nodded. This summer had been fairly calm compared to the other summers. Uncle Vernon had reached the living room by now.
"Good Morning, Mr. Dursley. It is good to finally meet you. I was just talking to Harry about his plans for this coming school year." Greeted McGonagall. She didn't bother to stand.
"Ah, hello… What was your name again?" asked Mr. Dursley, a tad uneasy.
"Professor Minerva McGonagall, Hogwarts Deputy Headmistress and Teacher." She replied simply, and Uncle Vernon cringed at the sound of 'Hogwarts'. He took a seat at the opposite side of the room. "Anyways, as I was saying to Harry, he will be entering his sixth year, and his chosen profession was that of an Auror. His marks…"
"Auror what? Profession?" interrupted Uncle Vernon.
"An Auror is someone that helps to keep Dark, or evil, Arts in check. The magical world is a very dangerous place right now, and you probably are not aware of it, but Harry has already proven himself a formidable fighter against these evils. Aurors require an extensive knowledge of nearly everything magical and quick, strong minds." Explained McGonagall, a bit hastily.
"I see." Uncle Vernon said simply, but it was obvious he didn't fully understand. McGonagall took another sip of tea. She knew that Uncle Vernon didn't really care what happened at that 'freak' school and decided to change the subject to Harry's birthday.
"Now, Harry, I have brought all your presents and cakes from your friends at Hogwarts. I believe even Albus sent you something. Anyways, come and open them up already. I don't have much more time to spend here as I need to return to Hogwarts shortly to finish preparing my curriculum." McGonagall said, and Harry didn't hesitate to move to the ground to open his gifts.
Harry reached for the first gift, and looking at the small tag on it he knew it was from the Weasley's. Opening the package, he found a small green dragon. It was of course not real, but rather an enchanted replica breathing fake fire. The note attached said that Fred and George had come up with the enchantment themselves, while Ron and Ginny had crafted the actual model. It also mentioned the small war they both fought as they tried to create the dragon their own way. Ginny thought the dragon should have been a lovely shade of red, but Ron blatantly refused. In his mind, all dragons were green and black. In any case it was very realistic.
"Oh, very nice. Fred and George Weasley might be troublemakers, but they have a knack for this kind of magic, don't they?" thought McGonagall out loud. Harry nodded, setting the dragon on the floor.
"That thing better not burn a hole in my carpet, boy." Uncle Vernon growled, eyeing the mysterious green toy. Harry had nearly forgot he was there, but it didn't matter and he continued to ignore him.
"Rest assured, Mr. Dursley, it is rather harmless." McGonagall laughed lightly. Muggles were so easily made into entertainment, and Uncle Vernon was an excellent example.
Harry reached for the next gift, which had been wrapped in such a precise matter that he knew for a definite fact it had come from Hermione. Besides being perfect on the outside, it was also in the very recognizable shape of a book. Harry tore the wrapping paper off, which happened in quite a brutal fashion when compared to the patient wrapping process it had gone through days before.
The book was enormous, and its leather binding was thick and strong. Harry sensed that perhaps the book was actually quite old, and he carefully turned it on its side to read the title off of the binding.
"Everything You Ever Wanted to Know About Defense Against the Dark Arts in a Hundred Million Years by Elimay Thorton… Hermione picked a good one I think, Professor." Harry said, opening the book to glance at a few pages. The book was indeed long. The pages were thin and translucent, yellowing with age, and signs that magic had been used to keep the book small in size were readily apparent.
"Books don't have titles that long," mumbled Uncle Vernon, and both Harry and McGonagall suppressed a few giggles before ignoring him.
"Quite a gift, not many of those books were put into print. It took months just to create one of them. They are very complete, I hear. Excellent choice, I'm guessing you asked for it?" McGonagall asked, obviously pleased with the gift.
"I was becoming bored over the summer, and I finished my homework and everything already, so I asked Hermione for a nice book on Defense Against the Dark Arts, since I want to become an Auror." Harry replied.
"You finished your summer studies already? Wasn't it only a couple years ago you came up to me with an excuse for why you hadn't finished your Transfiguration paper? Oh well, it is good news. Perhaps you could spend some extra time with your friends this summer instead of concentrating on catching up. Ah, that reminds me, I forgot completely. Your coming with me as soon as we're done here. Professor Dumbledore wants to bring you to Hogwarts early so you can prepare to continue with your Dumbledore's Army group. I don't think you were aware of it last year, but Albus just loved the idea. The fact that all your members received outstanding marks on their Defense Against the Dark Arts O.W.L.s only made it better. He knew you wouldn't mind coming early." McGonagall added, only to end up glaring at Uncle Vernon. The fact that Harry hated being at Number 4 Privet Drive was basic knowledge for everyone that knew him, but the truth remained that Harry was safest in the little box that the Dursley's called home.
It took Harry a moment to comprehend the sudden change of events, but when he came back to his senses, Uncle Vernon was already grinning and McGonagall was sitting patiently, taking a sip of her tea.
"Really? Do you mean it? I can go to Hogwarts.. I will be at Hogwarts… today?" Harry replied, obviously still caught severely off guard. McGonagall nodded.
"Yes Mr. Potter, it's true. Now lets finish opening your birthday presents and pack your things up. Ron and Hermione are probably already at the station and we don't want to keep them waiting," McGonagall looked at the clock on the wall and noticed the time. Seeing they were already going to be late. "Ah, we're running late. Hurry and go pack, I'll take your remaining gifts to the station and you can open them when we're all on board."
Harry would have liked to expressed further surprise at the fact that Ron and Hermione were coming with him, but sensing the sudden urge to be ready for the coming passage, he dashed upstairs without a further word. He noticed Dudley on the stairs, presumably trying to listen in to their conversation. At the sight of Harry, Dudley dashed off to his room and closed the door.
Throwing all his books and clothes into his trunk, which had been unloaded not even five weeks ago, Harry glanced around the room. Noticing his completed assignments on his old desk, he grabbed them and the letters, his quills and bottles of ink, tossing the whole lot into the great trunk, which expanded magically within to accommodate all the things Harry would need for another year of school. Seeing he had all the little things, he closed the lid and snapped the fasteners shut.
Hedwig was busying cleaning herself in her cage, which Harry promptly closed. He grabbed his broom and the cage and brought them downstairs. Setting them in the hall, Harry was preparing to race back upstairs when McGonagall, with her wand out, stopped him with a light smile.
"Locomotor Trunk!" she commanded, flicking her wand. Upstairs, Harry could hear his trunk rumbling along, nudging his door open, and sailing down the stairs to his feet. Uncle Vernon didn't look happy at all, seeing this 'new devilry' in his house, but said nothing.
"We are running later then I thought. We will have to use a portkey I think." McGonagall stated with a bit of an air of urgency. She set her now empty teacup on the floor. "Portus!" she cried.
"Ok Harry, grab hold of your broom and Hedwig's cage. I have your trunk, so no need to worry. Now touch the teacup," McGonagall instructed. Harry did so, and she reached down at the same time. Uncle Vernon was scowling about how they had cursed his teacup, but he suddenly stopped short. Moments later, Harry and McGonagall were standing on Platform 9 ¾, the gleaming red Hogwarts Express before them.
Since, as far as Harry knew, only four people would be traveling to Hogwarts, the train had only an engine, a car, and then a caboose at the end. The Platform itself was oddly quiet, and he and McGonagall were the only ones around. Even the ticket takers and janitors were gone.
"Your friends are waiting Harry, let's put your things on so you can be on your way. We are very late indeed it seems, I don't even see the Weasley's or Granger's parents. Hurry onboard, I'll take care of your things." McGonagall instructed. She took up her wand and sent all of Harry's things into the storage compartment of the single car, shooing Harry along at the same time.
Just as Harry approached the steps to go aboard the train, Mrs. Weasley, followed closely by a huffing Ginny, stepped off.
"But Mum, I want to go!" Ginny was begging, but at noticing Harry she abruptly stopped and looked down at the platform embarrassed.
"Harry dear, its good to see you! You were giving us quite the scare, you should have been here fifteen minutes ago! Oh well, hurry along. I'll see you again when its time to get school supplies." Mrs. Weasley gave Harry a big hug and pushed him onto the steps leading into the car. Harry glanced back at Ginny, who was staring up at him. He felt bad about leaving Ginny behind, and looked up at McGonagall.
"Molly, Ginny can go if its acceptable with you. She can be of some help, I'm sure." Professor McGonagall coaxed. Mrs. Weasley, having no more objections, nodded.
"Ok dear, I suppose you can go. I'll send your things before nightfall. Now hurry aboard, everyone is waiting!" Mrs. Weasley said, pushing Ginny aboard as she did Harry. Ginny was ecstatic and hopped up to were Harry was, unable to proceed any further.
"Professor, are you coming with us?" Harry asked over the engine, which was billowing steam and smoke.
"Sorry Mr. Potter, but I have other things to attend to. I will meet all of you at Hogwarts in short time. Best be going now." She replied, and with that the train began to move. Harry and Ginny waved good-bye before Ginny started to push Harry in in her excitement to sit down.
"Hello mate! It seems like it was only a few weeks ago we said good-bye!" Ron greeted.
"Hello Harry!" exclaimed Hermione brightly, before turning back to Ron, "It was only a few weeks ago dummy. Nearly five to be exact."
Harry returned their greeting and took a seat on the opposite side of the compartment with Ginny. At his side were his opened and unopened birthday gifts.
"Quite a surprise wasn't it, Harry? Professor McGonagall at your door this early? Sent Fred spinning on his head when he opened up the door yesterday morning and seeing her. It was quite a sight." Ron explained. He glanced at the gifts at Harry's side. "Do you like the dragon?"
"It's a very good dragon Ron, and I would know, now wouldn't I?" Harry grinned, remembering the tournament a couple years ago. "How are those to brothers of yours doing anyways? I think Professor McGonagall mentioned they weren't going to be coming back."
"Nope, they are doing too well with their new business to want to come back anyways. Even Mum has given in and said they had a good business. Dad is thrilled with it." Ron replied.
"Did you like my present Harry?" Hermione interjected, eyeing Harry with hopeful eyes.
"Oh yes, I haven't had time to read anything yet, but it looks like a very nice book. Here, Ron. Look." Harry said, handing over the gigantic book to Ron. "Isn't it huge? Its great, I think it will help me become an Auror."
Ron looked at the enormous book for a few moments before opening the cover to peek inside. Noticing the never-ending super thin pages, he moaned.
"You got him this, Hermione? Harry, you actually wanted this? Have you gone mad? Hermione is going to make you read this, you know." Ron groaned, looking up at Harry with a weird eye.
"Well when it comes time to teach you counter-curses and the such, your going to be glad Harry knows what he's doing instead of turning your feet into rocks." Hermione puffed, shaking a finger at Ron. She took the gigantic book from him and handed it back to Harry. "Here, before he starts ripping pages out."
"I wouldn't do that!" Ron said defensively. He turned back to Harry abruptly and pointed at his last remaining unopened present. "Is that Hagrid's present? Well, open it already."
Harry reached for the last present. It was wrapped in crinkled brown paper like you might find on shopping bags, and around it was tied a piece of cord to hold it together. Harry had no idea what it could possibly be, and so without further ado he undid the knot. The paper fell away to reveal a small box. Harry opened the box, and inside was a small piece of parchment and a large golden key. Harry took the parchment and read what it said to everyone.
Dear Harry,
I was able to talk Dumbledore into giving you a classroom for Dumbledore's Army. This here's the key; the classroom is right next to Professor McGonagall's classroom. We're all proud of ya, and we know you enjoy it too. Keep up the good work.
Hagrid
"Oh, that's wonderful Harry! Our own classroom!" Hermione exclaimed, obviously giddy with excitement. "You know what this means, Harry? It means were official! We need a banner or something. A flag maybe! Yes, a flag, and a banner to hang on the door!"
"You think so?" Harry asked, smiling. He couldn't help but admire Hermione's sudden enthusiasm. "I like the idea, what do you think it should look like?"
"I don't know really, maybe we should ask everyone when school starts." Hermione suggested. Harry nodded, liking the idea.
"That sounds like a good idea." Harry said. He turned to glance out the window. They were crossing through the hills now, and the sun was still out, however their were dark clouds ahead and Harry knew they would be passing under them shortly. Hermione fidgeted slightly, as if she wanted to ask a favor, which she did.
"Umm, Harry? About the Occlumency lessons… I'm sure Professor McGonagall mentioned it, but… I want to learn about Occlumency as well because it's all interesting and everything. I know you weren't comfortable working with Snape, so I thought it might be better if I helped you instead." Hermione explained, obviously itching for a chance to learn something new.
Harry gave it some thought, and Hermione was right, he didn't like his memories flying everywhere, especially for Snape to see. If anything, his memories were mostly of his times with his friends Ron and Hermione, so there was nothing to worry about having them fly in front of Hermione.
"Ok. I think it might be better that way." Harry replied, and Hermione was excited once more. Ron was staring at the two, and at hearing Harry's reply, decided to speak up.
"Why do you need to learn Occlumency, Hermione? Wouldn't it be easier for Harry to just learn from a teacher that, it would give you more free time to make your little spew stockings or," but Ron was cut off mid-sentence by Hermione.
"It's not like I'm doing it for me. I shouldn't have to explain why I offered, but if I must…" Hermione let her voice fade away, but seeing that no one was going to stop her, continued. "If I must, well, I think Harry needs some extra help from both you and me Ron. Especially this year… V-Voldemort has returned, and Harry still has to go to school and deal with studies and lessons and all that. He already spends most of his time with us, why not make good use of it and use it to help him along instead of letting him go off to some teacher and have his whole life float before their eyes just because he's having a hard time going to bed with a clear mind? And it's S.P.E.W." she huffed, catching her breath when she finished.
"Your always spending all your time with lessons and studying, Hermione. Why can't you spend it having fun for once?" Ron countered, eyeing her.
"Don't try and be concerned about me, neither of us have any idea of what Harry has gone though these last several months, and you need to realize it isn't all fine and dandy anymore. Don't you remember what the Sorting Hat said last year? Stay united, and that's exactly what we have to do. Hogwarts isn't going to be the safe haven it once was anymore. I'm helping Harry because that's what I am good at. If you can't help him by being his friend, then…" but Hermione's turn to be cut off had arrived quite unexpectedly, and her angered voice fell to silence. Everyone felt it, a cold dread encroaching upon their minds. Harry fumbled for his wand.
"A dementor." Harry spat, and he jumped to the doorway defensively. Having encountered numerous dementors already, he was able to control his mind for longer periods of time, and decided it was best to check in the passageway. There was nothing there.
"I only think there is one," Harry said quietly, eyeing the hallway. Its grasp on him was weak, and he found he was able to think straight. Noticing that only Hermione had begun to reach for her wand, Harry added, "Ron, Ginny! Get your wands! You know how to cast Patronuses. Hermione and Ron, check the engine. Ginny, you come with me."
"I… can't… m-move!" cried Ginny, not being able to cope she was quickly succumbing to its dark powers. Her eyes began to roll in their sockets as her nightmares began to surface, and Harry remembered his own nightmares. A knot began to form in his stomach. He was sickened to see Ginny falling before her own disturbing dreams. Ron, who had stood with his own wand, was now collapsing onto he floor. The dementor… It was at the end of the hall now. A cold like that of a horrible dark blizzard of fear washed over them, and Harry's eyes began to close to the radiant world, and open to his darkest fears.
"No! This can't happen, not to me, not to my friends!" his mind cried out. "Open, my eyes, open!" Hermione had attempted to cast a Patronus, but she had no free positive thoughts, and only a silvery wisp emerged from her wand. As Harry forced his eyes opened, he saw what his own nightmares were made of as Hermione collapsed to floor: Three of the people closest to him, now writhing in their own agony on the floor.
The dementor was now only a couple dozen feet away, slowly gliding along. Slowly gliding along… Slowly… Their end…
"Noo!" Harry cried once more, and thinking about the last great Quidditch victory for the Gryffindor house, he called, "Expecto Patronum!" A flash of silvery mist came from his wand. Harry fell to the floor now. The dementor had approached to only thirteen feet away.
Harry's eyes fell upon the floor as a veil of darkness attempted to cover his free mind. Hermione, with a wand, was sprawled on the floor. Ron was likewise on Harry's other side, and both of their faces were contorted in misery. Their wands were lying on the floor near Harry. Hermione was trying to break through the cold grasp, mumbling incoherently… His friends had fallen… So easy to fall…
Using every last ounce of energy in himself, Harry cried for the last time "Expecto Patronum!" while thinking of all the good times he could possibly remember having spent with Ron and Hermione. A silvery stag suddenly appeared. It raced like lightning down the hallway, driving the horror from the magical train and out the window, where it quickly faded into the distance. Harry could feel the weight of the dementor abate, but found he had no energy to move, as it had all been drained away.
Nobody seemed to be present on the train besides their small group, but Harry noticed the sweets trolley at the end of the corridor. Remembering chocolate was a good remedy for the effects of the dementor, Harry pointed his wand towards the laden trolley.
"Locomotor Sweets Trolley," he called, nearly audible, as he waved his wand. The cart rolled forward, and Harry stopped it just before himself. Nearly asleep, Harry whispered, "Dimitto Chocolate Frog".
A box flew open on the trolley, and a chocolate frog began to squirm in the air, unable to move thanks to Harry's charm. Noticing Hermione was beginning to move, he sent it straight into her mouth before promptly passing out.
No one moved, save for Hermione, who was shivering. A few minutes passed, and the chocolate frog in Hermione's mouth began to melt. A partially dissolved leg popped out, and began to squirm down the passageway. Hermione, with her eyes still closed, tasted the chocolate and swallowed. It was a few moments before she could open her eyes, but slowly the remedy took effect. Her eyes opened, and she sat up, only to let out a muffled scream with the shock of seeing all her friends on the floor.
Ron and Ginny were shivering now; coming too after the effects of the dementor began to fade away. Connecting the chocolate in her mouth with her recovery, and remembering that chocolate was the best remedy for the effects of a dementor, Hermione scrambled to her shaky legs and grabbed several boxes of chocolate frogs off of the trolley.
"One moment," she whispered to herself as she hastily pulled out a frog from its box, sticking it into Ginny's mouth knowing she had felt the most of it. Forcing Ginny's mouth closed, she grabbed another frog from its box and crawled over to Ron, plopping the squirming chocolate into his mouth and forcing it closed as well. Hermione was reaching for another frog for Harry, when she noticed he wasn't shivering.
"Harry?" she whispered, shaking his left shoulder slightly. Seeing that he continued to remain motionless, Hermione crept around him to look at his face. Noticing he was breathing normally, she put a hand to his forehead, and found it not cold to the touch, but instead a warm and more normal temperature.
"He must have worn himself out fighting the dementor," Hermione thought out loud. Ginny stirred behind her, and Hermione turned out to face to her.
"Ginny, are you going to be ok?" Hermione asked. Ginny, looking nearly sick with the sight of Harry on the floor, didn't reply. It took Hermione a few moments to figure out why Ginny wasn't saying anything.
"Harry will be ok, he's just tired. It looks like Ron is coming to." Hermione noted, watching Ron's eye flutter open. He began to sit up, but fell back on the floor.
"Ron? Can you hear me? What's wrong?" Hermione asked, now directing her attention to Ron. He rolled over on his back with a hand over his stomach.
"Ugh! My stomach…" he moaned. It seemed to Hermione that the dementor had made him sick, which was very possible. "I think I need a window." He added.
Hermione didn't pause for a second, and she helped Ron up. They went down to the end of the hallway towards the engine and disappeared around the corner to open a window for Ron, who by now was looking sickly all over.
Ginny crept over to Harry, still fast asleep, and began to move him into the compartment where they had been enjoying their train ride. Well, at least attempting to enjoy their train ride, Ginny thought. Just as Harry's feet were inside, Hermione emerged from around the corner, Ron close behind. They made their way to the compartment, with Ron taking the handle of the sweets trolley.
"Ron! Don't be greedy!" scolded Hermione, but Ron didn't seem to hear her. She glanced towards Ginny and Harry, and went to help lift him onto the seats.
"Hermione, is there some kind of spell that can wake him up? He probably could sleep, but… we're not very good when it comes to dementors… If another," Ginny was saying, but Hermione stopped her.
"Yes, you have a point. We need to all be awake. A dementor on the Hogwarts Express at this time? Who ever sent it must have known when we were leaving, and I know for a fact that it was kept secret. The only people that would know are either teachers or possibly Order members." Hermione picked her wand up from outside the compartment and called, "Novo nervus expergefacio!"
A jet of blue-green light shot from Hermione's wand, and upon reaching Harry it dissipated and fell like fairy dust on him. He instantly began to stir.
"What?" asked Ron and Ginny at the same time.
"It's an energy renewal and awakening charm… They don't teach it until Year 7, but I picked it up out of Harry's new book before I sent it to him. It's very hard to do, but I think you should learn it." Hermione explained, "Do I always have to tutor you for everything?" she mumbled to herself.
Harry opened his eyes, rubbing them with his clammy hands, only to find all his friends looking at him. The sweets trolley was stationed right next to Ron, and he had taken the liberty to engorge himself with Berty Bott's Every Flavor Beans. Ginny was standing next to Hermione at the edge of Harry's makeshift bed.
"You feel sick at all Harry?" Hermione asked, concern edging into her voice.
"Thanks for the spell Hermione, I don't think I know that one… I don't feel sick, still tired though. Magic couldn't give me back all my energy, but oh well. Now that I'm awake, I think I'll have a chocolate frog." Harry finished quietly, smiling a bit. Ron moved to get a frog for Harry, but Ginny picked one up before he had even decided to move his arm. Unwrapping it, she gave the magical confection to Harry. "Thanks Ginny," he said, nearly whispering, as he slowly began to eat to the frog.
Hermione let out a sigh of relief and sat down near Ron. Ginny, taking advantage of the situation, sat down just above Harry's head. He moved to sit up, but Ginny stopped him.
"You should lay down, you still need some rest." Ginny said, and Hermione gave an approving look. Harry looked up at Ginny, feeling her warm hand on his shoulder. Having her along was a good idea, he thought.
"Ok," he surrendered. His mind was nearly clear now, and he didn't really want to move anyways, he figured. Some nice rest…
"Ron and Hermione, this train isn't safe anymore. As soon as you feel up to it, I think it would be a good idea to inspect every inch of it. Go together when you feel ready. Ginny can stay with me I suppose, she hasn't learned quite as many spells as you two have. Sorry Ginny, but I don't want our youngest to get into trouble." Harry said, almost instructing. He gave Ginny a small smile, wanting to make sure she didn't feel bad about being the youngest or anything weird. The fact of the matter was simply that Ginny had less experience then Ron and Hermione, and unnecessary risks should be avoided. Ginny looked at him, and she understood perfectly.
"Ok, I'll stay Harry." Ginny said.
"…and we'll go. Come on Ron, stop eating sweets." Hermione added, her eyes speaking a different message. She tugged Ron away from the trolley. Harry had a good point, but she still felt uneasy leaving him alone with Ginny. If something else were to happen… would she be able to help Harry?
Hermione, dragging Ron behind, left the compartment. Ron picked up his wand off the floor, and they headed for the engine. While the train was operated solely on magic, Hermione thought it best to check out the engine room. The sound of their footsteps faded as they opened and closed the car door.
"Thanks for convincing Professor McGonagall to let me come Harry. There was nothing for me at home to do with everyone gone. I probably would have gone mad." Ginny explained, thankfully. "You think your going to be ok?"
"Yes, I'll be fine. Oh, and you deserve to come anyways. You're a member of Dumbledore's Army, and your part of our group now. Really, Ron should have let you in long ago… I don't see why he had to push you out." Harry replied.
"He's being Ron. Oh well, I figure." Ginny closed her eyes. Finally, she could begin to payback Harry for everything that he had done for her. It was good to finally be able to give. But she didn't seem to feel like she had in her early years, when she couldn't stop eyeing Harry. It was different now… Her role was that of a friend… No, that wasn't right... Something deeper, but something not so deep as to consume her life. The right word escaped her thoughts as the dark foreboding clouds covered the daylight outside. Rain began to follow soon after.
It was near ten minutes time when Ron and Hermione returned. They were noticeably damp with rain, but glad to report they hadn't found anything suspicious.
"I think we'll go check the caboose. Ron, come on. You can finish your chocolate frog later." Hermione decided, just as Ron took a bite out of another frog. She glanced at Harry, and then Ginny, and seeing they were fine, started to leave.
"But it'l hop 'way," mumbled Ron, who at the same time was trying to eat part of the chocolate. Hermione sighed, and grabbing his arm, yanked him along without saying anything else.
"You make things so difficult Ron, it's as if you like being yelled at." Hermione said loudly from down the corridor. Ron could be heard saying something in reply, but they were to far away for Harry or Ginny to understand.
The rain intensified, and by the time Ron and Hermione were back, they were in the middle of a particularly bad thunderstorm. Every one save for Harry got the chills.
"How long before Hogwarts, do you think?" asked Harry. He was staring out into the cold darkness as another bolt of lightning struck the ground.
"An hour, maybe two." Hermione replied, looking out the windows to the dark sky as well. It seemed as if the dementor has taken their happiness when it was chased away. Hermione could find nothing within herself to lighten the room. Ron was munching away on candy, slowly. It seemed as if he was trying to make himself busy so he wouldn't have to think about the recent events.
"This is going to be a tough year," Harry stated solemnly. His mind floated along the black plains of thought, and he began to remember the events of last year. His temper, Umbridge, Sirius… Oh how he wished that summer that Sirius would come back, but he already knew he never would. Through nights of agony he had come to accept that Sirius was gone, forever. His only true family was gone now… Harry opened his eyes. Hermione was staring directly at him. She could see all the pain in Harry, pouring from his eyes. Harry could see empathy in Hermione's. They stared at each other for what seemed like an eternity, and neither Ron nor Ginny noticed in the cold silent darkness.
Hermione wanted to say something, but couldn't find the willpower within herself to speak up. It was as if Harry had suffered so much she had no right to say anything.
Harry's eyes burned from becoming dry for staring so long, and he closed them. Hermione closed hers, and they joined Ron and Ginny in a restless, uneasy sleep.
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