Harry & Hermione
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Sytravious the Dark - Duel For The Elder Wand
Chapter 6 - Dark Storm Rising
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Chapter 5
Dark Storm Rising
Harry stood surrounded by the four death eaters. He was taking deep breaths in as sweat dripped from his forehead. His grip tightened on his wand and the muscled in his arm flexed as he stood ready for the next attack.
The first enemy charged screaming his curses at Harry as he pointed his wand wildly toward him.
"CRUCIO!" The masked man shouted.
Harry rolled forward just barely missing the curse as it flew over his shoulder. As he rolled back onto his feet as his wand pointed inched away from the death eater's face.
He focused the spell with all his energy in his mind. Reducto! The death eater was blasted backwards along with the other one who was running up behind him to attack Harry. Their bodies slammed against the wall with a sickening crack as they lay twisted and destroyed on the ground.
Harry immediately took several steps back in a defensive move as the last two death eaters split up to his left and right stalking him like a prey.
The first one attacked with such blinding speed That Harry barely had a moment to react. Without thinking he shouted out his spell.
"EXPULSO!" Harry yelled out loud as the death eater flew up into the air and exploded instantly with a loud BOOM!
A giant fire ball filled the room for a moment as smoke and debris filled the air. The wizard was no more.
Aberforth walked from out the shadows clapping his hands slowly as Harry lowered his wand trying to catch his breath.
"Bravo! Bravo Potter!" The old Professor shouted as he walked up to Harry. The last death eater stood still like a statue. Harry took in a deep breath and stood up straight. He was exhausted but still had energy to spare.
"You displayed great speed and judgment there. Very skillful indeed….However I'm afraid you seemed to have forgotten you are to use non verbal spells only from now on. That mistake was your last one aloud today." Aberforth said with a grin.
Harry let out a sigh. "I know, I'm sorry, I panicked. It won't happen again sir." Harry said desperately.
"Yes yes I know it won't." Aberforth said quietly with a serious face. With a quick wave of his wand he sent his spell at Harry.
At first Harry wasn't quite sure what the old man had done precisely until he tried to ask. He found he could not speak at all. His mouth didn't seem to be there anymore. As he felt around for it with his free hand sure enough he only felt smooth flesh where his lips use to be.
Harry glanced up at his professor with wide eyes. The man was crazy. He shook his head to display his disapproval.
Aberforth just smiled and pointed at the last death eater. He now disappeared into the shadows again. The death eater came back to life again suddenly and slowly circled around Harry.
Then the death eater started to remove his mask. A snake like face was revealed underneath. It had slits for a nose and the skin was very pale. The eyes were red in color. Harry was staring down Lord Voldemort.
Harry glared at him with anger and hate. The dark lord lifted his chin up slightly and tilted his head to the left cracking his neck. He then started walking right at Harry as he pointed his wand with sparks shooting out of it.
Harry dodged quickly to his left and then rolled again to his right. He fired his attack as Voldemorts curse collided with his. The two spelled locked onto each other with a great bright shock wave. The ground trembled slightly. They both pushed forward as their wands shook in their hands. The bright stream of electric light was shortened in length with each step forward.
"You must focus all your might and will into your wand Harry!" Aberforth's voice could be heard shouting over the battle. "Shut everything else out your mind! Show no fear! Show no mercy!" He yelled at Harry.
Harry closed his eyes and focused all his magical energy into his wand and spell. He could feel his heart rate slow down to a calm rhythm. His hand slowly stopped shaking.
Harry opened his eyes and looked right into Voldemorts snake like stare. He took in a deep breath and released all his pain, anger, and emotions into his attack.
The stream of light from his wand grew into a huge golden flame and engulfed the dark lord. An explosion of magic surrounded his enemy and just like that the man was gone. The fight was over.
Harry fell back onto the ground and found he was able to open his mouth again. He sucked in huge gulps of air and stared up at the ceiling. His grip on his wand remained tightened. He would not let it go as he was taught. Never relax your grip for a second.
Aberforth walked up to him now offering his hand. Harry glanced up at him with content before allowing his professor to help him stand up. The room was transformed immediately into a comfortable den with fireplace and desks with chairs.
Harry had just finished his final training session of the week with Aberforth. They used the room of requirement as it provided them with the perfect terrain and mock enemies for the sessions.
"Was that last part really necessary?" Harry said with anger.
"Oh I believe it most certainly was!" Aberforth said back sternly. "You need to be ready for whatever enemy you might come across!"
"This is insane!" Harry said back raising his voice
"Nobody said this was going to be easy Harry. Your foes will use whatever they can to distract your mind. They will use your past against you. Search for any sign of weakness. You must be like an immovable force! Clear your mind and heart. Focus on the task in front of you always!" Professor Dumbledore lectured.
Harry thought on these words and nodded in agreement. "Your right sir, I'm sorry for yelling and all. I'll try harder." Harry said as he sat down.
"Good to hear Potter. But don't get down about it. You are doing remarkably well for only your first month." Aberforth said with a smile. He was of course including the few weeks prior to school starting.
"Thanks…I guess." Harry said. He wasn't sure if Aberforth was serious or just trying to make him feel better. "Is that it then for today? I'm starving!"
Aberforth grunted in amusement. "Yes Harry I think we are done for now. Same time tomorrow. Come prepared!"
Harry mumbled his thanks and walked out the room of requirement making sure no one was around. Dinner had already started a few moments before. He made his way to the Gryffindor common room. As he walked in he found someone waiting for him on one of the couches. Ginny was sitting alone in the common room as she looked up at Harry.
"Hey Harry….How was your class tonight?" Ginny asked as she stood up. She had her hair back in a pony tail and had her white button up shirt on with her school slacks. Simple yet still attractive.
"It went as well as can be expected I guess…Why aren't you at dinner Ginny?" Harry said as he looked around. They were alone up here.
"Oh I was waiting for you. Can we talk a minute Harry? She said almost in a whisper. She seemed nervous and that was a bit out of character for the Ginny that Harry knew.
Harry looked around once more and shrugged his shoulders. He thought he knew what this was about and wasn't sure if he was ready or on the mood to have the talk that Ginny wanted.
"Sure Ginny that's fine. But I don't want to miss dinner. I still got to catch a shower and all so how bout you wait in my sitting room and I'll be out shortly?" Harry asked as he walked towards his room.
Ginny's eyes lit up at the mention of going into Harry's room so she quickly agreed and followed Harry into his sitting room area. He motioned for her to have a seat anywhere and he ran up into his room to shower.
As the water ran onto his sore muscles Harry thought about what he would say to Ginny. He knew he could easily patch things up between them. But he felt something in his heart pulling him back. Harry stared now into space as the water soaked his hair.
After the shower he dried himself off and threw on a black collared shirt and black slacks. He threw his school vest over this with the head boy badge. He looked in the mirror and swore under his breath at the sight of his hair.
After running some gel threw it and being satisfied with the spiky look he walked out into his sitting room. Ginny was sitting with her legs crossed and playing with her hair. She looked up as Harry entered and sat up.
"So what's up Ginny?" He asked as he sat across from her.
"Harry…. I just want to again apologize for what happened at the burrow. I didn't mean for you to see that. Hell I didn't even mean for it to happen either. I just felt so alone and I didn't have anyone to talk to until Michael came around." She said in a pleading way.
Harry just sat there staring at her as she talked. He didn't want to interrupt Ginny until she was finished.
"Harry I never planned on anything happening between us you have to believe me. I wasn't sure if you were ever coming back. It had been months that I didn't hear from you! Can you please forgive me and we can start over? I love you Harry…."
"You say you never planned on anything happening between you two? What exactly happened Ginny? Don't lie to me…." Harry said as he stared straight into her eyes.
Ginny hesitated as he eyes began to water. She looked away from Harry's stare and covered her mouth with her hands.
"Why does it matter now? It didn't mean anything and I don't even talk to him anymore since I saw you that day!" Ginny pleaded with him.
"What does it matter? Are you kidding me? It makes all the difference Ginny! Look me in the eye and tell me nothing happened between you besides what I saw…. Look at me Ginny." Harry whispered to her. His hands were shaking.
"I….I can't tell you that Harry…..It's complicated…" Ginny whispered back as she looked at him. A single tear came down her cheek.
Harry sat there looking at her. He couldn't form words. Images of her and Michael flooded his mind. He couldn't stand not knowing. He had to know what happened.
"Did you….? Did you sleep with him?" He asked as he clenched his jaw.
Ginny closed her eyes as another tear slipped down her face. She let out a long sigh.
"Kind of….Not really though…..Harry I'm so sorry! It was meaningless and happened so fast. We stopped before it got to serious….. Please Harry. Give me another chance?" Ginny said between sobs.
Harry stared into the fire as his eyes watered. He stood up abruptly and walked to his window and leaned on the sill. His mind was racing with anger and his heart was burning in his chest. The hot tears came down his face but he would not sob or cry out loud.
Ginny walked up behind him and placed her hand on his shoulder. Harry pulled away from her fast.
"I never meant to hurt you or hurt our relationship Harry. I told you the truth didn't I? I could have lied but I don't want secrets between us." Ginny continued as she pleaded her case.
"Get out please…" Harry whispered without turning around as he held up his hand.
"Harry please listen to me?" Ginny started to say.
"GET OUT…PLEASE!" Harry shouted as he turned around and glared at Ginny.
She jumped back in surprise scared from Harry's sudden outburst. Ginny began to sob now and turned around and walked out of the sitting room. The door closed silently after her. Only the fireplace with its crackling sounds could be heard in the room.
Harry stood there fuming by his window. He couldn't believe it. She slept with Michael? That mother fucker had some nerve Harry thought. A kiss maybe he could have handled but this was too much. He cursed himself for feeling guilty about Hermione. He had only dipped his quill but Ginny had spilled the whole pot of ink.
Harry Grabbed his chair by the desk and slammed it against the wall shattering it into splinted pieces. He then threw everything off the surface of his desk as he leaned against it shaking in anger.
"FUCK!" He shouted out loud.
A loud growl from his stomach brought him back to his senses. He had to eat something before he fainted. Harry waited a few more moments to compose himself before stepping out his room. He instinctively looked around the common room for Ginny. She was nowhere around. Harry shook his head in disgust and pushed the portrait open as he made his way down to dinner.
The great hall was filled with students from all houses eating and talking about their days. Luna sat with Dean and the rest of the group including Ron and Hermione. Ginny sat off to the side of Ron very quietly barely touching her food.
Harry walked into the hall and sat beside Dean and across from Hermione. He didn't say a word as he started eating his food quietly. Hermione looked back and forth amongst the other friends before talking to Harry.
"Hard day with Professor Dumbledore Harry?" She asked him as he ate.
"Yea actually it was almost impossible but that's not the worst part about my night surprisingly…" Harry said as he glared at Ginny.
"What's wrong mate?" Ron asked as he gulped down some pumpkin juice. "You look pissed of something terrible."
Ginny's face got slightly red as she nervously looked up at Harry. He met her stare and contemplated what he would say to his friends. He wanted to scream at her and shout to everyone how she just ripped his heart apart. But a part of him still cared for her he hated to admit. He couldn't humiliate her even now.
"Nothing serious Ron. Just had to duel an image of Voldemort today. It got to me a little. But I'm feeling better now that I'm eating. I was famished." Harry said as he looked away from Ginny.
"Oh Harry that's terrible! Why would Dumbledore put you threw that?" Hermione said upset.
"It's not that serious, It was just an image of him I wasn't in serious danger per say. Besides I need to be ready for anything. I'm ok Hermione really." Harry said smiling now.
Hermione shook her head as she bite into her apple. "Just be careful will you? It would be nice if you lived long enough to see graduation." Hermione said in between bites.
"Yes ma'am" Harry said as he saluted Hermione and winked. He continued to eat his dinner quietly without looking or talking to Ginny the rest of the night. This hardly went unnoticed but no one dared ask either of them what happened.
A few weeks earlier...
The streets of Hogsmeade were empty. The hour was late. A man moves from tree to tree quietly and unseen. His black robes keep him hidden in the shadows. When he was sure not even a bird was in sight he dashed from the tree line and headed straight for the outer gates of the Shrieking Shack.
The man is tall and slender. His shoulder length hair is as black as the night itself. He scanned the area with his slanted eyes for prying bystanders as he ran swiftly toward his goal.
He stared at the rumored haunted building in the darkness. It looked a dreadful place to meet. How appropriate he thought with a grin. With one more glance over his shoulder he jumped the iron fence outside and dashed silently to the entrance. This was the tricky part. He recalled the chant he was suppose to say that his master had taught him only a few nights earlier.
The house was supposed to be guarded against breaking in for as long as anyone could remember. But his master promised he would be granted entrance this night. Without hesitation he mumbled his spell and sure enough the door slowly opened with a spine chilling creek.
As he walked quietly into the foyer the door slammed shut behind him causing him to jump. He cursed under his breath and headed down the hallway towards a door with light shining underneath it. That's when he noticed his sister standing guard in the shadows of the hall. She emerged towards him with a smile.
Her long jet black hair reached down past her waist and flowed as if it had life of its own. She was a tall woman and beautiful compared to most. She wore a long black leather trench coat over her skin tight pants and collared shirt. She had an olive complexion and slanted eyes.
"I'm glad to see you made it finally brother, I was beginning to worry." Raven said as she hugged her brother firmly.
"I had to be sure I wasn't seen Raven. The last thing we need is curious neighbors calling in authorities to this location." Fang said as he hugged his sister back. "You look pleased with yourself this evening? I assume he is in good spirits?" Fang asked as he glanced at the unopened door down the hall.
"And why wouldn't he be? He has been by my side all day…" His sister said with a grin as she led him down the hall to meet their master.
"What ever you do on your own private time is none of my concern Raven. Spare me the details." Fang mumbled under his breath as they got closer.
As she pushed the door open for him the light poured out into the hallway and into Fang's eyes. He squinted as he adjusted to the brighter room. It was a wider space and a den of sorts. On the far end stood a young man as tall as he with slightly longer dark brown hair. He was poking the fire around with the poker as he turned to see who walked in.
He had piercing blue eyes like ice and an overgrown 5 o clock shadow that was almost a beard now. He was Caucasian and in exquisite shape. He wore a black suit with a dark purple tie. Had he walked the halls of Hogwarts every girl would notice immediately. However there gleamed a sinister look in his eye that would cause anyone to second guess approaching him. The mark of Grindelwald hung from his neck over his tie and reflected the fire light.
"Glad you could join us old friend." The wizard spoke with a soothing strong voice. "I'm sure you heard about my altercation at the old man's pub earlier. Careless on my part I admit but they fucking deserved it." He said with content.
"To think they thought they could just up and steal what is rightfully mine to claim! Pathetic… Lucky for them I didn't kill them all where they stood." The wizard said as he sat down and crossed his legs as he motioned for the siblings to join him.
Fang and Raven sat down casually by the fire across from their master. Raven smiled at him seductively as her brother listened attentively to his every word.
"However in hindsight I believe the assholes might be of perfect use to us. That's why I called you here tonight. We will find these incompetent wizards and set them loose on Potter. I am almost positive they will fail." He added as his friends looked worried.
"I need to gage his power before I make my move. Anyone who destroyed Voldemort must not be under estimated. That was Riddle's mistake I believe. I haven't for the life of me figured out what Potter's deal is but it won't matter. If the idiot wizards prevail it will make our job all the more easier." The young man said as he caught Raven smiling at him.
He grinned back and winked at her to her amusement. Her brother noticed the exchange and rolled his eyes. Wanting to return to the subject he interrupted their flirting.
"My lord if I may? Are you positive this is the same wand? The Death Stick itself? The wand your grandfather so brilliantly ruled with all those years ago?" Fang asked raising his eyebrow.
"Oh without a doubt it's the same wand! That bastard Riddle killed my grandfather trying to find it. And not shortly after he has a new wand as he attacks Hogwarts so bravely and foolishly? If I'm correct in my investigation he retrieved the wand from Albus Dumbledore's grave and wielded it until his death at the hands of Potter." The dark wizard explained to the siblings.
"How Potter achieved this is left to be discovered. Either he mastered the wand before Voldemort or he was skilled enough to defeat him on his own. I doubt the latter is true." He said with a grin.
"Either way Potter is the wands master now my love….How do we defeat him?" Raven asked as she sat forward looking into his eyes.
"Don't be foolish Raven. The wand is mighty and powerful. But the idea that it is unbeatable is false. My grandfather unfortunately proved this when he was bested by Dumbledore. A powerful and greater foe can still win. And I believe I am greater and more powerful that Potter with that wand or any other!" He said as he stood up. The fire behind him grew larger and the ground trembled.
"Oh that turns me on when you do that…." Raven said as she licked her lips.
"Can you please save it for later?" Fang said as he glared at his sister.
The blue eyed wizard stared at the woman and smiled. He then turned to her brother and with a more serious tone explained further.
"Listen, I understand you are skeptical about this but have faith old friend. Once I win the wand of my grandfather we can continue his dream! I will find the other Hallows and I will master their true power. Not immortality as so many dreamers believe. But a sinister magic more clever and ancient than anyone can fathom. The Peverell brothers didn't happen upon death on a river. That's a child's tale. They were magical geniuses' true masters of their craft. Also selfish with their knowledge and crafted these hallows to contain all their power." He said excitedly.
"What becoming the master of death means is anybody's guess. But I deeply believe it will render the master more powerful and terrible than any wizard anyone has ever seen or known. Even the Peverell brothers never combined their Hallows." He said to the siblings.
They stared at him with awe as he spoke. They couldn't help but have faith in their master. The things they had already witnessed him achieve and do were phenomenal. His time had arrived and they would follow him to the very end.
"What's the plan my lord?" Fang asked as he stood up.
"Like I said earlier….We set the wizards loose on Potter and then enjoy the show." He said as he smiled evilly.
"That would mean Azkaban…" Raven said with wide eyes.
"And your point is….?" The master said with a grin.
They all laughed now and continued plotting into the night.
Harry paced the quidditch pitch watching as the remaining students finished their tryouts. Ron had secured his keeper position easily enough and Ginny made the team again as well. Dean was competing now with a 5th year for one of the last spots. Harry studied both of their movements as Ron mumbled on about trying to sneak into Hogsmeade for a bottle of fire whiskey. Harry only half paid attention to him as Dean made an incredible score past the backup keeper.
"I think that settles it then!" Harry shouted up at the players. "You all did very well. I'll inform you privately on the final roster."
A group of girls who had been watching the tryouts giggled and waved at Harry now as he walked off the pitch. Romilda Vane was in the center of them all. She approached Harry with a smile on her face.
"Here comes the fan club" Ron said sarcastically as Harry rolled his eyes.
"Wonderful…..Where's my invisibility cloak when I need it." Harry whispered back to him.
"Hey Harry, You looked wonderful out there today." Romilda said as she played with her hair as walked along side Harry and Ron. "But you always seem to look hot to me."
"Err thanks Romilda…." Harry mumbled as he walked a little faster.
"So what are you doing later tonight? I need help with my defense against the dark arts project, I bet that's easy for you huh Harry?" She said as she winked at him.
"Maybe we can study in your room?" Romilda said with a whisper in his ear.
Harry blushed and tried to search for an excuse not to help her. Ron's dumbass already abandoned Harry and headed to the locker rooms.
"Uh I don't think so I have this thing I have to go do tonight you see and I probably won't be in my room until late." Harry said as he glared at Ron's disappeared form into the locker room.
"Oh that's ok I can wait up for you if you want." She replied quickly as she tugged on his neck tie.
"That won't be necessary Romilda, Harry will be tied up with me for awhile but I hear Slughorn's office is open until 9pm so I'm sure you will make do." Hermione said as she walked up to them from behind.
Harry hadn't even noticed her sneak up and smiled widely as he saw her. Thank god for Hermione he thought. She was wearing her skirt with the Gryffindor vest and a white shirt underneath.
"Oh…. Ok then I guess. Thanks a lot Hermione!" Romilda said as she rolled her eyes and walked away.
"Damn I owe you big time!" Harry said once she was out of ear shot. "That girl is going to rape me one day…" Harry said with a laugh.
"Eww gross let's hope not." Hermione said smiling. "Well since I said you would be tied up with me I can't make us out to be liars so why don't you come with me to check on the closets. McGonagall complained about couples snogging in them so we get to flush them out. Fun stuff huh?" She said as she walked towards the castle.
"Oh it will be a riot I'm sure." Harry said as he followed Hermione.
They ended up only find two couples and after a quick lecture they sent them on their way. Harry actually didn't enjoy being head boy that much but Hermione seemed to tag along with him on most jobs so it had its perks. They walked now toward the Common room slowly both not wanting to rush to end their time alone.
"So what's up with you and Ginny? You two don't seem to be talking at all anymore." Hermione finally said ending the silence.
"I don't have anything to say anymore. It's best that way. If you don't have anything nice to say…." Harry answered.
"Don't say anything at all I know. Wow that's harsh. Did I miss something?" She asked as they walked down the hall.
"I think we all missed something but I'm sure Michael didn't miss a thing." Harry said with contempt.
"Do I even want to ask?" Hermione whispered.
"I don't want to answer so yeah don't ask….. What about you and Ron? I haven't noticed any touchy feely stuff between you two lately. Everything ok?" He said changing the subject from Ginny.
"I don't know, Ron is more concerned with other things right now. Almost downright grumpy and rude at times. We don't even kiss anymore. I think he has grown bored with me. And I know he hasn't let up on that Whiskey yet either. Have you talked to him?" Hermione asked as she stopped walking and looked up at Harry.
"I tried here and there but he won't have any of it. Doesn't seem to think he has a problem yet." Harry said with a frown. "I wouldn't be a good friend if I told you to give up and move on…So I'll say to give him a chance." He added.
"Hmmm I think I know what you mean by that Harry. What is going on with our love lives? Now that we finally have the time to slow down and focus on relationships it all falls apart." She said with a sigh.
"Maybe during all the excitement these past few years we sort of rushed into them? I don't know I just think if I could go back and do it all over again I might have chosen differently…." Harry said looking away and up the stairs.
"And what choice would you have made?" She said quietly
"I don't know, probably someone who understood me best. Someone I could trust. You know have that connection with?" He looked at her now with an intense stare.
"Oh really? Probably don't know anyone like that huh?" Hermione said as she looked back up at him.
"Maybe I do but I don't think it's an option for me either way. Those stars never lined up for me….. Anyway let's get up to the common room. I have to shower and change out these clothes." Harry quickly said.
Hermione let out a loud sigh and followed Harry up the stairs. These awkward moments were becoming more frequent and dangerous she knew. But somehow she looked forward to every single one. As long as it remained innocent it would be fine. Right?
"Harry I couldn't help but over hear you and Aberforth talking about your non verbal spells. I guess you are having some trouble?" Hermione asked as they approached the portrait.
"Oh you heard that huh? I guess you can say I'm struggling but I'll get it down one of these days. Why?" he asked.
"Well I think I can help you with that. Somehow I think you might be more receptive to my coaching that his." Hermione laughed.
"And what do you propose to do to help me?" Harry said raising a brow.
"Well we can have small lessons at night before bed. I'll just stick around after the group leaves the sitting room." She said with a cheerful smile. Hermione was referring to the study group she helped form in Harry's sitting room. Ron, Dean, Ginny and a couple other seventh years attended every night.
"I can't say I enjoy extra study time but if you think it will help then sure Hermione. You can stick around a bit longer." Harry said. His stomach went into knots as he said this. Hermione staying in his room alone with him late at night? Warning! Warning! Abort Abort! Was what he heard in his head. But he still found himself nodding in agreement to her suggestion.
"Great! Then it's settled. We can start tonight if you don't mind." She said as she muttered the password to the fat lady. Her heart beat just a little faster at her brave proposition. So far the two of them had managed to behave fine when alone other than that one day at Grimmauld place. Or was it two days? She didn't want to think of it now. Her mind told her maybe it wasn't a good idea but her heart was shouting its approval.
Harry smiled and agreed as they parted ways. Harry to his room and Hermione up to her dorm. Hermione glanced back over her shoulder at Harry as her hair playfully whipped over her back. She smiled so beautifully at him that he got goose bumps. Grinning back and blushing he almost stumbled into his door.
Harry was thinking about tonight and that incredible smile as he walked into his dorm. He wasn't paying much attention as the orange came flying at his head. The fruit smacked him right on the forehead.
"What the bloody hell!" Harry shouted as he rubbed his head.
"You must be ever diligent Potter! Be aware of your surrounding at all times!" Aberforth said as he tossed up another orange up into the air and caught it. He had been hiding off to the right by the fire place.
"What do you put in that pipe you smoke? …Seriously?" Harry asked as he picked up the other fruit. "How long have you been waiting in here for me?"
"Not long… nice set up you have here. If I had a room like this in my time. Oh boy watch out." Aberforth said as he walked around the sitting room.
"And that was when the dinosaurs roamed the planet still right?" Harry said with a grin.
"You should second guess the auror career and take up jokes Potter. Quite the comedian." Aberforth said as he wrinkled his eyes. "I may be old but I still got style. And a good curve ball at that!" He said as he chucked the second orange at Harry's head.
Harry dodged it this time. He chased after it and picked it up setting both fruits down on his desk.
"Is there something I can help you with Professor? Harry said as he watched Aberforth looking around.
The old wizard was staring intently at young Albus's portrait on the wall. The younger Dumbledore prefect nodded with a wink to his brother.
"Ah that seems like centuries ago now…." The professor said quietly with a sigh. He waved back at his brother sadly almost forgetting his surroundings.
"No Harry just checking in on you. A little drill so to speak. Hopefully you can dodge more than fruit when we are finished this year huh?" He said as he patted Harry's back and walked out the room.
"What a crazy old bat." Harry mumbled as he walked into his room.
Harry sat in the great hall eating his supper. He was early and sat alone as every now and then a few first and second years came up to him to say hello nervously. He was amused by this and treated them very kindly. Even promising one boy lessons in quidditch.
Harry's smile faded though as he saw Hermione walking into the hall looking very upset and even possibly angry. She shoved her way past a few students who backed off seeing her mood and made her way to Harry.
"I'm going to murder you friend Harry! I have had it up to here with his shit!" Hermione was saying loudly to Harry now. A few students who were sitting close by got up to move to another spot fearfully.
"Hermione! There are students here…. At least sit down and for god's sake lower your voice." Harry said as he grabbed Hermione's hand and pulled her into the seat next to him.
She sat down teary eyed and let out a loud sigh. Harry was upset to see her this way and was hoping nothing too bad happened to her. She was only just smiling at him not a few hours ago.
"What happened then?" Harry said as she calmed down. He still held her hand in his and pushed some hair back out her face as he did this.
"Ron… is filthy drunk in his dorm right now as we speak!" She hissed under her breath. "And to make it worse he has what I know are hickey's all over his neck. Dean tried to get me to believe they were just rashes from some accident in potions but I know for fact that he wasn't at his potions class today. No one has seen him since he left the quidditch patch." She said so fast Harry had to focus to keep up.
Harry remembered Ron mentioning going into Hogsmeade for fire whiskey. Was it possible he bumped into some other girl while over there?
"Hey listen Hermione I don't know what's going on with Ron. I will go up there personally and find out though and I promise I will have a more serious talk with him. As far as the hickey's I know you don't want to hear it but maybe it's not what it seems? Maybe?" Harry said as he smiled warmly at his friend.
"Harry I know Ron is your friend, but I also know you're just sticking up for him now and trying to make me feel better. Thank you for that. But I don't need you to talk to him and take a second look at his neck. I know what I saw…." She whispered.
"So what now?" Harry asked her while people were watching them curiously now. From anyone else's perspective they saw the two holding hands and whispering to each other affectionately. They looked just like a couple.
"I don't know what now but I don't want to see him or talk to him. When he sobers up and I'm ready he can try to explain himself. Until then I just need some space." Hermione said calmly now.
"Hmm fair enough. Damn what's up with our shitty luck with the Weasley's lately?" Harry joked trying to make her smile.
Hermione just shook her head and shrugged. Harry could tell she wanted to cry. He hugged her and put her head against his chest as she sobbed softly. Aberforth watched this exchange from his staff table as he cut into his meat. He smirked as he took a bite. He understood what was happening between the friends more than they probably did.
Harry and Hermione ate their supper together until Luna and the rest of the gang joined them. Ron of course never made it down that night.
Harry finished first and headed to his room to clean up for the study session. He was thinking of stopping to check on Ron on the way. As he rounded up the stairs however he was startled by a loud popping sound and a big cloud of smoke appeared in front of him suddenly. A shape of a man started to emerge quickly from the smoke.
Harry whipped out his wand ready to attack the intruder. He stood pointing his wand and ready to dodge an attack. Aberforth was about to throw his orange when he saw Harry ready for him. He slowly lowered his fruit looking disappointed.
"Hmmm I though the way dinner went I would have you for sure Harry. Well done boy." The Professor said and he pocketed the fruit.
"Yea thanks….The way dinner went?" Harry asked as he lowered his wand.
"Well you don't think the whole hall didn't notice you and Miss Granger's public display of affection earlier? None of my business anyway… Isn't she your pal Ron's girlfriend?" Aberforth asked as he walked with Harry up the stairs.
"Are we really about to talk about this? Yes she is Ron's girlfriend but she was upset so I did what any friend would right? Not my fault if everyone is nosey." Harry said as he walked quickly towards his common room.
"Right right of course. Just asking is all; I wouldn't want any distractions with your training you understand? Speaking of which I was thinking we would take a field trip next time. Perhaps train somewhere off the grounds. I have a bad feeling we might damage the castle….." Aberforth mumbled as he knocked on the wall of the hall as if testing it for durability.
"Oh great what have you been planning this time?" Harry asked skeptically.
"Oh nothing of consequence my dear boy. Don't you worry about that now. Run along to do whatever it is you students do after hours. And potter…..? Behave!" Aberforth said with a grin as he walked away disappearing around a corner.
About an hour later Harry sat on the floor of his sitting room in front of his fireplace. Hermione was lying on the couch across from him with her leg propped up as she studied her double potions book.
Dean and the few other students in their group were discussing some transfiguration project. Ginny showed up late. After a look from Hermione Harry had let her come in without making a fuss. Ron was still missing.
Harry was flying threw his defense against the dark arts paper. His studying with Aberforth had him way ahead of the whole class. He had already completed all his papers for the term and was working ahead. Hermione would either be impressed or jealous he thought with a grin.
He looked up at her now. She was biting her lower lip and playing with her quill as she concentrated on whatever she was reading. Her hair was resting over her shoulders. Harry's eyes traveled lower and his stomach did back flips as he took in the sight in front of him.
Hermione was wearing her skirt but it must have slowly slid its way up her thigh after she propped up her leg. Harry could see her white panties as the clung to her lower half and ass. He could almost make out the design on the front. Maybe it was a heart or something.
He quickly looked around the room. No one was paying them any mind as they all focused on their school work. He stared back at Hermione sitting in that sexy position. She started shaking her leg up and down out of nervous habit. Her thigh and bottom started to giggle slightly. Harry felt himself come to life as he was immediately aroused.
Trying not to stare he looked back down at his books. But only a few seconds later he looked back up at the perfect image of her bare thighs and panty clad privates. Harry was in a full day dream when he realized he must have been staring for at least minutes. He focused back on his surroundings.
Hermione was staring right at him! Not a quick glance but she must have been looking right at him staring at her crotch for lord knows how long! Harry froze and locked eyes with her. He didn't dare say anything or try to look away. What he would have gave for a distraction now.
Hermione kept looking into his eyes not saying a word. Her mood was impossible to figure out. She didn't look mad but she wasn't smiling either. Harry was getting confused as he watched her staring at him.
Finally Hermione half smiled and went back to reading her book. She didn't change her position at all. Harry's heart beat started to slow down as no scene was made. Did she not realize what he was looking at? She must have…
Dean stood up with a yawn causing Harry to snap out of it and Hermione crossed her legs.
"That does it for me guys, I can't look at another word or I'll go blind. That or die of boredom." Dean said as he collected his books. The rest of the group started doing the same as they took turns yawning and stretching out their limbs.
Everyone said goodnight to Harry as they filed out his room. Ginny was the last to leave when she looked back and saw Hermione still sitting on the couch.
"Aren't you coming?" She asked curiously as she looked back and forth between her and Harry.
Harry ignored her comment as he walked into his bedroom pretending to be using the bathroom. He didn't want to talk to Ginny much less explain anything to her.
"Yes I'll be up in a short while Ginny. I promised Harry to go over some techniques for his classes with Professor Dumbledore." Hermione said with an innocent smile.
"You won't be to long right? I mean I don't think girls are allowed in here alone this late anyway…" Ginny said as she stared at Hermione nervously.
"I'm a prefect and Harry is head boy. We are permitted to have private meetings actually. And I'm not in his room. I'm in the sitting room. Thanks for the concern though buddy. See you soon ok?" Hermione replied still smiling.
Ginny stood there staring at her for a few moments before finally turning and walking out the room. Hermione let out a sigh of relief. For a minute there she thought the girl would never budge. Hermione stood up and walked to Harry's bedroom door.
"You can come out now. I think she is gone." She whispered.
Harry walked out his room and sat down on the couch Hermione was just sitting in. It smelled of her strawberry lotion. He was thankful that she so gracefully handled Ginny. He was thinking of tossing her out if it were up to him.
"All right Harry I can't stay long being that we took so long studying. It is getting late. So I was thinking we could practice a few silent spells. I can't use magic so freely in Hogwarts but you of course can. So how about you try harmless spells until they become second nature?" Hermione said as she sat next to Harry.
"Sounds fun" Harry said smiling. He was still thinking of Hermione's panties earlier.
"Harry I said harmless spells. Be nice to me." Hermione said laughing softly.
"I promise I won't hurt you." Harry whispered as he pointed his wand and concentrated.
Hermione swallowed hard as she stood there waiting for Harry's spell.
'Mobilicorpus.' Harry said in his mind. Hermione immediately levitated up in the air and floated towards Harry quickly. A little too fast actually. Harry dropped his wand and caught her mid air as they both fell harmlessly to the ground.
"Nice one Harry. Let's try to stay on our feet tough ok?" Hermione laughed as she lay on top of him. Harry laughed as well and he let her full weight rest on him. Her body felt soft yet firm as well.
"I don't know I kind of like it down here actually. Comfortable don't you think?" He said with a grin.
Hermione playfully slapped his chest as she tried to sit up. She ended up straddling him on the floor before she realized it. Harry felt himself get aroused at the feel of her pelvic pushing against his. Hermione couldn't help but feel the change as it happened right against her privates between her legs.
She let out a surprised gasp and she covered her mouth with one hand and held back her own natural reaction to the sensations she felt. Harry held back a moan and tried to readjust himself to get out the awkward position.
"Sorry" He said.
"Sorry" Hermione said at the same time.
They laughed at this and Hermione stood up and offered her hand to Harry. He took it clumsily as he accidentally pulled her right back on top of him. They started laughing harder now to the point of tears. Hermione just lay there on top of him as Harry closed his eyes laughing.
"You are a klutz today Harry" Hermione finally said once she composed herself.
"No no I'm not. I was actually dodging fruit quite successfully earlier." Harry said as he looked up into her eyes still laughing,
"You were what? What kind of nonsense do you get into when I'm not around?" She said as she looked back down into his eyes smiling.
"Never mind it's a long story…." Harry replied. Her hair hung down almost over his face as she lay on top of him smiling.
They stopped laughing and just watched each other's faces. She looked so beautiful right now. Harry pushed her hair back behind her ear and played with her ear lobe a little.
Hermione closed her eyes at his touch and bite her lower lip. She opened them again and gave Harry the saddest look.
"I'm sorry" Harry said quickly. "I was just fixing your hair it was….."
Harry's dorm door opened quickly as the person walked in loudly. Hermione quickly jumped up and Harry did the same. They ended up tangled up into each other on the floor.
Hagrid stomped into the room looking around for Harry. His footsteps were loud like soft thunder.
"Hey Harry? Ginny said some girls might be visiting boy's dormitories. Can you give me a hand…?" Hagrid started to say as he saw the pair on the floor together. "Oh excuse me. I didn't mean to interrupt your company. Hermione is that you?" the half giant asked as he squinted.
"Yes Hagrid" Harry said as he stood up and helped Hermione up as well. "We were practicing levitated spells when I accidentally knocked Hermione right into me." He laughed.
"What's this about girls in boy's dorms now?" Harry asked.
Hagrid looked back and forth between them before shaking his head into focus. "Oh right I need you to do a quick sweep of the dorms. Make sure everyone is in their proper beds. Hermione I'm glad you're here. Why don't you check on the girls?" Hagrid asked with a smile.
"I got to look after Gawp myself tonight. He has been bothering the centaurs lately. It's a full time job being an older brother." Hagrid added with a cheerful laugh.
"Sure no problem Hagrid." Harry said as he looked at Hermione. She looked back at him shaking her head.
Hagrid thanked them and left the room.
"That little bitch!" Hermione said as soon as they were alone. "I can't believe she told on us like that. It's not like anything was going on in here." Hermione said upset.
"Well at least we don't have to search very far to find the culprit in the boy's dorm." Harry said looking at Hermione.
They both laughed now as Hermione collected her books.
"Goodnight Harry. Next time try to keep me off you." She said winking at him.
"I'll try but no promises." Harry answered as he headed to his bedroom.
"Harry?" Hermione said smiling with her hands on her hips.
"All right fine. I'm joking. Talk to you tomorrow." He said smiling.
"Uh huh sure….. Sweet dreams. And thanks for making me feel better earlier." She said as she walked towards the dorm door. Harry was walking up the small steps to his room. "And try not to stare so hard next time we are studying. Someone is bound to catch you one day." She added quickly.
Harry nearly tripped on the last step as he caught himself on the door frame. He turned around quickly to see his dorm door closing softly. He was alone.
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