Chapter 31
The Making of an Army
.
The rain had ended a few days ago, and with the sun now out it looked as though it was going to be another nice autumn day. Dumbledore sat at his desk working on a proposal to give to the Minister later today. If accepted, it meant that Sirius Black would be one step closer to being a free wizard. Just as he was setting it aside, there was a knock at his door. "Come in," he called.
Severus Snape was not in a very good mood; that is to say, he was in a worse mood than normal for him. After a full day of classes, he had been called away for a meeting with the Dark Lord, only to come back and spend half the night starting on a potion. Stepping into Dumbledore's office, he looked every bit as tired and irritable as he felt.
"Severus, please come in, and have a seat you look exhausted."
"Thank you, Headmaster. It has been a trying last couple of days." After sitting down, he accepted a cup of tea and took a sip, before starting his report. "The Dark Lord has asked me to brew a series of complex potions for him; which I started last night."
"Any idea to what end?"
"Unfortunately, no. There are many possibilities for their use. Anything from simple mind control, to enhancing Legilimency.
"I see," Dumbledore said, as he stroked his beard, "so the potions could be for anyone."
"Exactly," Snape said. His voice was dull from fatigue. The information could prove to be important, but without more details, it wasn't yet useful.
"Perhaps we'll learn more later," Dumbledore suggested, "Anything else?"
Severus nodded slowly, "Narcissa confirmed for me last night, that the Dark Lord has been seeing someone privately in his chambers."
"But she has no idea who, or for what reason?"
"No, the person comes, and goes by a secret passageway."
"Do you think there is a connection to the potions?" Dumbledore asked curiously.
"Impossible to tell. As you know, like you, the Dark Lord works on many levels at the same time."
Dumbledore nodded, "Yes, you are right of course. Well, for now, all we can do is keep our eyes open, and hope he reveals some more to us soon."
~oOoOo~
As Neville sat and worked out the theories on a series of third-year spells, he'd never been more grateful to Harry and Hermione. He had learned more in one hour with them, than in the last three classes with Umbridge.
Draco was also unhappy with the way things were going in Defense class. He sat in the back working on the same theories as Neville, wondering just whose side his professor was really on. He had listened to her rhetoric on the first day of class like everybody else. About how the Ministry didn't want a bunch of ill-prepared school children running around thinking they could fight. About how theory was far more important than the practical. "Just because He-Who-Shall-Not-Be-Named is back, is no reason to panic, and change the proper way things should be done." Draco had almost laughed out loud when she had said that. Then after shaking his head slightly, he had thought, 'The hell it wasn't.' Because if his mother was right about a war coming, it wouldn't matter whose side you were on, you'd better know how to fight. So, at this point, he really didn't care if she was helping the Ministry, the Dark Lord, or was just being stupid. What bothered him was, he wanted to learn something, not just sit here and waste time. When Umbridge started putting another remedial assignment on the board for next week, Draco's patience finally snapped.
"Professor!" he called rather annoyed.
"Raise your hand, Mr. Malfoy."
Draco looked around with irritation, he didn't see how that would make a difference now. Trying not to lose his temper, he raised his hand.
"Yes Mr. Malfoy," Umbridge answered sweetly.
"Can't we just take a test on this material, and move on," he asked.
"To what purpose Mr. Malfoy?"
Draco sighed dramatically, "Well, at the rate we're going, we won't even be through the third year by winter break. I mean even the slowest dunderheads are getting bored."
Growing angry, Umbridge narrowed her eyes, "We've been over this before Mr. Malfoy. You cannot build a house, without a foundation."
"But we already know all this. We're just wasting time!"
"Would you like me to explain it to you in greater detail… in detention?" She snapped. "The Minister himself has asked me to make sure you know the basics before moving on."
Draco knew he was losing his patience and should just say no, yet he was tempted to say something else. But before he could answer, Potter spoke up, surprising him.
"He's right Professor. You yourself said, He was back. We should be preparing for that, like learning to defend ourselves. Almost anything else but what we're doing has got to be more useful."
Knowing who Draco's father was, she was willing to give him a little lee-way on his outburst. Potter, however, was a different story. "Mr. Potter, by now you should know not to interrupt, and especially without raising your hand. Furthermore, I simply will not tolerate such blatant disrespect in my own classroom. Now stand and give me an apology."
Harry bristled for a second, then slowly stood. After regaining his composer, he said, "I apologize for interrupting Professor."
"And for your disrespect…"
Harry eyed her for a moment while deciding if he should just let it go. A second later, his decision made, Harry stood a little taller, "I did not mean to be disrespectful," just as Umbridge started to smirk, he added, "but I stand by what I said."
Umbridge's temper flared, "You will admit that you were wrong Mr. Potter… Immediately!"
Harry continued standing, but said nothing, silently defying her.
Umbridge didn't have time for detentions, she had other places to be, but she could not let this go unpunished. She'd give him one more chance. "You will show me the proper respect, Mr. Potter. Now admit you were wrong and apologize immediately, we have work to do."
Harry shared a quick look with Hermione. He knew she wanted him to just let it go. And she knew he wouldn't. "You cannot demand respect ma'am, it has to be earned."
Umbridge was ready to start casting curses at him. He was so infuriating, standing there, all calm and smug. She would show him why he shouldn't disrespect his betters. Her plans would have to wait. "Detention, Mr. Potter, tonight, seven o'clock."
Harry nodded once, and then sat back down.
Throughout the whole confrontation, Draco held his tongue. Sitting tensely, he watched Harry with growing interest.
~oOoOo~
They were barely out the door when Hermione started, "Honestly Harry, not even two weeks back and you manage to get a detention."
"It's Friday, that's two weeks."
"You know what I meant, so don't get flippant Harry. And for your information, Sunday is the end of the week." Hermione said tersely, getting upset that Harry wasn't taking this seriously.
Harry pulled her to a stop and gave her his best lop-sided smile, "Have I told you how beautiful you look when you're mad at me?"
Hermione flashed him a fake smile and shook her head, "Nice try, Casanova. And I'm not mad at you, I just don't think this is funny. She's not worth it."
"No, but our right to express our opinions are," Harry said, turning serious. "But, you're right about one thing, it will be a huge waste of time." Harry took her hand and tried to ease her concerns, "I'm sorry, please don't be upset with me, I'll try and keep my mouth shut from now on when I'm around her." After a sigh adds, "Your right, she not worth it."
"Oh, Harry, I could never get upset with you for defending yourself, or for sticking up for what you believe in. All I'm asking is that you pick your battles more carefully."
"It just that she so… infuriating…aggh," Harry closed his eyes and took a deep breath to calm down.
Hermione shook her head while smiling softly at him, "Feeling better, Harry?"
Harry nodded, "Yeah," and then whispered, "thanks," in her ear as he pulled her into his arms.
A moment later, with their little dispute over, Harry and Hermione resumed their walk towards the Great Hall for lunch, hand in hand. Neville had been walking a short ways back waiting for a chance to talk with them. He'd never seen them have a full-blown fight, and on the rare occasion they had an argument, they always managed to work it out quickly, just by talking about it. He liked the way neither could stay mad at the other for any length of time. They were honest and open with each other and always listened to what the other had to say. He was using their example as a guide for his own relationship with Luna, and so far, it was working beautify.
Catching up with them, he started walking next to Harry, then with a smirk said, "That class is nothing but a bad job, ay Harry?"
"Don't wind him up again, Neville," Hermione said in a serious tone, but wearing a hint of a smile.
Neville laughed, "Right, sorry. By the way, did you notice how Malfoy was looking at you, Harry?"
Harry shook his head, "All I could see was pink."
Hermione smiled at her boyfriend's play on words, then leaned forward to talk around Harry, "What kind of look."
Neville shrugged, "I don't know… it was weird, like he was confused or something."
Hermione glanced up at Harry and saw him raise a brow. He was probably thinking the same thing, 'What's up with Malfoy?'
~oOoOo~
Luna sat at the Gryffindor table as if it were a common occurrence for someone to sit at a house table other than their own. When Professor McGonagall walked by on her way to the head table, Luna looked up, "Hello Professor," she said brightly.
McGonagall paused and looked down with a quirked brow, "Good afternoon, Miss Lovegood." Knowing the girl's unusual nature, and the fact that what she was doing wasn't against the rules, she didn't give it any more thought and continued on her way.
Entering the Hall, Neville smiled when he spotted Luna waiting for him and hurried over. Harry and Hermione followed at a little more leisurely pace and sat down opposite them.
"Hope I didn't keep you waiting too long," Neville said as he gave Luna a peck on the cheek.
"You didn't keep me waiting at all, I was working on my class work."
"Good."
"So, Luna, nobody gave you any trouble for sitting here did they?" Harry asked.
"No everyone was quite accepting. But I do think your table has a rather bad Nargle infestation today, judging by the looks on people's faces," Luna said sincerely.
Neville nodded in understanding, "That happens here more than you think."
Harry shared a look with Hermione. It would seem that Neville was beginning to understand Luna better, and probably better than anyone else.
"So, Harry, how was DADA?" asked Luna as if she already knew but wanted Harry to tell her anyway.
At Neville pained look, Harry laughed, "Not so good. We are reviewing third-year spells… nothing new I'm afraid."
Hermione nudged him, "And…"
"And I got a detention."
"I see," Luna said with a nod, and then in a softer voice finished "well ours wasn't any better, and that scares me too." Then looking at Hermione, she added, "And I'm sure he had a good reason for getting detention, he wouldn't waste his time for nothing."
Hermione decided not to comment and changed the subject. "I think maybe it's time for our next meeting."
~oOoOo~
Hermione had been sitting in her favorite spot, a little table tucked away in a corner of the common room. While she waited for Harry to return from detention, she worked on a charms assignment that was due the following week. Her mind drifted back and forth between the various spell interactions of the charm, and how Harry might be coping. Hermione had been so deep in thought, that when Harry returned at what most would consider a rather early hour after serving detention, she had failed to notice.
Harry stepped through the portrait hole and looked around. Spotting Hermione he smiled. She was sitting in her chair, legs crossed, and back straight. In front of her spewed across the table lay books, parchment, and a bottle of ink. In her hand, a long, beautiful quill dutifully transferring thought to parchment. Her lips pressed thin, and her eyes sharp and focused. This was his Hermione; in her element, and at her best.
Harry made his way over and quietly sat down opposite her at the table. When she looked up suddenly, clearly surprised, Harry said, "Sorry, am I bothering you?"
Hermione relaxed immediately, "No, of course not. I'm just a little surprised to see you back so soon is all."
Harry shrugged. He was kind of surprised himself at how short his detention had been, but he sure wasn't about to look a gift horse in the mouth. "Yeah…" Then looking down at her work, he asked, "What's all this?"
"Our Charms assignment."
Harry's brow inched upwards, "The one due tomorrow?"
Hermione shook her slightly with a smile, "Don't be silly, this is next weeks."
Harry chuckled, "Riggght, what was I thinking; Hermione Granger waiting until the last minute to finish an assignment, not going to happen."
"That's right mister," Hermione said with a smirk while pointing a finger at him. Then raising a brow in question, she asked, "And what about yours, is it ready?"
Harry nodded, "Yeah… well, the one that due tomorrow is anyway."
Hermione glanced down at Harry's hand. He'd been rubbing it subconsciously since he had sat down. "Harry, are you alright?" She asked with a pointed look to his hand.
Harry gave her a little smile, "Yeah, I'm fine; got a bit of a cramp is all. Umbridge had me writing lines non-stop, 'I will show respect,' over and over."
Hermione reached over and gently took his hand in hers. She examined the palm and then turned it over to check the back. Even though his hand was rough and calloused, she looked it over with care, like a mother looking for a wound on her child. Harry sat patiently and allowed her to fuss over him. She smiled inwardly, knowing she was the only one he gave that right too. Satisfied it was just cramped, Hermione spread his hand out flat, palm up in the two of hers. She gently started massaging it with her thumbs. When Harry hissed, she eased up, "Am I hurting you?"
"No. That actually feels good," Harry answered as he slowly closed his eyes.
Her classwork now forgotten, she continued her simple treatment. "Why do you suppose Umbridge let you go so early, not that I'm complaining mind you. But it's clear she doesn't like you, I would have thought she'd make you write lines till you were practically crippled."
Harry opened his eyes; Hermione's tone had taken on a sharp edge. Although she hadn't said it outright, He knew she didn't trust the witch. He didn't either. With his other hand, he wrapped the two of hers in his, and stared into her eyes, a moment later he whispered, "Thanks." When she smiled, he gave their joined hands a tiny squeeze, "When she dismissed me, I was a little surprised too. I think she was in as big a hurry to leave as I was."
"Well, she's rubbish in the classroom, so I doubt it was so she could prepare for tomorrow's lessons," Hermione said with a smirk.
"Yeah, no kidding," Harry said with a cheeky smile of his own.
~oOoOo~
As they neared The Room of Requirement, Hermione hesitated. Coming down from the showers after their morning run, Ginny had caught her eye and had given her an enthusiastic thumbs up for the meeting. Knowing what she had probably meant, Hermione was now worried she had made a mistake.
"Alright, Hermione?" Harry asked, after noticing her distress.
Hermione slowed to a stop. After nodding her head yes, she started chewing on her bottom lip as she thought of how to begin.
Harry raised a brow, something was up, "Hermione, what's going on?"
Hermione closed her eyes for a second and then sighed, "Harry…"
"Yes…"
"Well, you see… ah… well, it's just that there might be a couple of extra people waiting for you in there."
Harry glanced at the door, then returned his gaze to Hermione, "First, shouldn't that be 'us,' and why would there be…"
Hermione sighed, she might as well start at the beginning. "Friday night, before I fell asleep; I was thinking about the meeting… and I thought…" Hermione was so nervous, she started to wring her hands. "Oh, Harry, yesterday I asked Ginny and Luna to quietly ask around to see if anyone else might want a little help. It was kind of a spur of the moment thing, I really didn't think anyone would be all that interested; at least not at first. But now, after giving it more thought…" She looked up at Harry and pleaded with her eyes for him to understand. "I'm sorry Harry, I should have run it by you first. I messed up."
Harry thought about it for a second. He knew she would never do anything on purpose to deceive him. Seeing how worried she was, he smiled and pulled her into a hug, "Hey, it's okay. You were just being you. You are always thinking about helping others, and I'm happy to help too." Harry laughed, "Besides, who would want to take lessons from a couple of fifth-years."
In his arms, she calmed down. She loved that he could do that to her. Glad he wasn't mad, she said, "Thanks for understanding." Then gestured to the door, "Shall we?"
"Sure," Harry chuckled, then he pulled open the door for Hermione and followed her through. He'd only taken one step before he had bumped into her from behind. She had come to an abrupt stop. Looking around, he quickly joined Hermione in gaping at the gathered crowd.
The original six friends from their first meeting were there, all wearing huge smiles. However, in addition to them, there were five more from Gryffindor; Lavender, the Creevey brothers, Parvati, and to their surprise, Dean Thomas. But the newcomers weren't limited to their own house. Besides Luna from Ravenclaw, there was also; Terry Boot, Padma, Cho Chang, and a friend of hers they didn't recognize. Lastly, there was; Susan and Hannah, plus a boy named Ernie Macmillan. After a quick head count, their little group now had eighteen people in it, not counting Harry or Hermione.
Harry turned and looked at Hermione surprised, and mouthed, 'A couple?'
Hermione gave him a sheepish smile, "Who knew?" Accepting responsibility, Hermione walked further into the room. Addressing the group, she began a bit uneasily, "Umm… Ah… Hi everyone, ah… Well, I'm guessing you're all here because you heard Harry was…"
"We!"
Hermione jumped slightly at the sound of Harry's voice right behind her. He had followed her into the room and was now standing just off to her left, and slightly behind her. She wasn't used to talking to large groups but took confidence in Harry's presence. "… that wewere going to try and teach our friends how to defend themselves."
"Why you guys?" Terry asked skeptically.
"Well, it should be Professor Umbridge, shouldn't it. But she doesn't seem up to the job." Hermione answered, gaining more confidence as she went.
Hannah laughed, "That's an understatement."
Terry spoke up again, "No, I mean why you guys, what makes you think you can teach us something we don't already know. Heck, Fred and George are seventh-years, why not them?"
"Harry and I, have had a little extra training over the summer, and…" Hermione hesitated.
"And I'll tell you why them and not us," Fred interrupted. Since Terry had mentioned them by name, Fred thought he'd explain why. "My brother and I may not get top marks, but we defiantly know our way around a wand. Two weeks ago, we, that is, my brother and I, were wondering the same thing. So, as a demonstration, Hermione asked us both to go up against her in a mock fight. And by both, I mean the two of us together… at the same time! Little fifth year Hermione… against the two of us? Merlin, we thought she'd lost her mind. The fight didn't even last thirty seconds… and my brother and I were laying on the ground without our wands, wondering what had just happened."
"She tore us a new one she did," George added.
"But how is that possible, how could she be that much better with just a little extra training?" Ernie asked.
Harry stepped up next to Hermione and put his hand on her shoulder, "Because she's been training to fight, not duel… it's different."
"Still…"
"Look, casting spells for the professor in class is not the same as fighting," Neville said, jumping in. He was getting a little put out that people were questioning what Harry and Hermione were trying to do. "Harry is the only one in this room who has faced V-Voldemort and survived," He added tensely. It was the first time he'd actually said the Dark Lords name aloud, unfortunately, it was in a room full of students who weren't used to hearing it. The reaction was predictable, a couple of people shrieked while the rest managed to keep it to a shudder.
Luna smiled at her boyfriend, then said, "Three times now. And don't forget he was the Triwizard Champion last year."
Ginny spoke up, "He's faced a dragon and a chimera. After a short pause, she said more softly, "And before them, in second year he faced a Basilisk with only a sword. I know, because I was there." Turning to Harry she finished with a nod to him, "He saved my life."
"Bloody hell Harry, that story is really true?" Terry asked.
Feeling somewhat self-conscious with all the praise, Harry just nodded.
"It's true." Hermione said, "All of it."
Still feeling a bit uncomfortable, Harry ran his hand through his hair. "Some of that was luck, and I had loads of help." The last part he said while looking at Hermione.
"He's right," Hermione said evenly. Then turning to Harry, she went on, "But not all of it was luck. And most of the help you got was in the form of advice, you still had to apply it, usually by yourself. Say what you will, Harry, but the truth is, you're good at Defense Against the Dark Arts." Returning her gaze back to the group, she added, "And in fact, I'd wager better than most adult wizards."
"My aunt told me you can produce a corporeal Patronus Harry, can you show us?" Susan asked, curious as to its form.
Hoping to get things moving on, Harry stepped forward and raised his wand, a second later after gathering a happy thought, Harry called out, "Expecto Patronum." A brilliant white stag burst from his wand and galloped around the room causing several in the group to gasp. Sensing there was no treat, it came and stood next to Hermione.
Surprised, Hermione reached out and tried to touch it. As her hand passed through it, a brief surge of power and emotion exploded up her arm. The feeling was so intense, it forced her to close her eyes as a shudder rippled through her from head to toe, almost dropping her to her knees. The feeling faded with the Patronus a moment later and she opened her eyes. She turned and stared at Harry in awe. 'He must have been thinking of me when he cast that Patronus,' she thought. Because the feeling was both about, and for her at the same time. It had been so profoundly intense, pure and powerful… it defied description. Harry seemed to know what she had felt. He smiled and nodded his head ever so slightly as if to tell her; that it was all true, and he had meant every bit of it." Before her legs gave out, Hermione moved over to a chair and sat down. Harry followed and stood beside her.
The entire group had witnessed the whole thing, and while they hadn't felt anything, it had been quite obvious that something very special had just happened.
It was Luna who broke the long silence that followed, "Harry has always been gifted when it comes to the practical side of magic, especially in defense. And Hermione… well we all know she is incredibly gifted in theory and knowledge. She probably knows more spells already than some of our professors." Looking at everybody with wide eyes and a no-nonsense look, she said, "I think it should be quite obvious by now, that we could learn a lot from these two!"
Deciding to talk about the Patronus later, Parvati spoke up for the first time, and asked with genuine curiosity, "Do you really think learning a few extra spells will make a difference Harry?"
Harry looked down for a second as he thought about his answer. After taking a deep breath, he started, "Look, it not about what spells you know, or don't know. It's about how well you know the ones you do, and even more importantly, how well you use them. It's knowing what spells to use and when. Sometimes it's knowing when to just turn and run." Seeing he wasn't quite getting through to everyone, he gave an example, "You all saw me produce a Patronus a moment ago, made it look easy, right? This is an empty room except for us… it should be easy. But what if there had been a real live dementor in here, would it be as easy? What if there were hundreds of them, wouldn't it make more sense to just get out of here?" Harry held out his hands to the side, "Look, I'm not saying I know everything, or that I always get it right." Harry gestured to Hermione, "That's why we trained all summer. That's why we practice, to get better. We'll train in here, for what's out there… It won't be easy, but it will make a difference."
"So, I gather this won't be like a regular… class?" Terry wanted to know.
"No," Harry said seriously. "Like Neville said, the classroom is great for learning theory, and the basics. But we need to go beyond that. In class, you learn a spell, say… Diffindo, a simple cutting charm. It's not necessarily a combat spell, but it can certainly be used as one. In class, you learn the incantation, and the wand movement, then move on. You might use it to cut a piece of rope or something. It's easy, because there's no pressure. But what if your life depended on it… could you cast it on the run? Could you cast it while someone was trying to kill you? What about casting it on another wizard, and watching the blood spray from a limb that you just cleaved off? That… that's the difference, and it's huge." Harry walked up and stood right in front of everybody, and lowered his voice, "When you are in a fight, it's not like demonstrating for a professor. And it's certainly not like a duel. There is no honor, no glory. The other guy has no respect for you. There are no rules. You fight to win…or you die. It's chaos and confusion all rolled into one enormous nightmare."
"Was it like that in the cemetery Harry?" Fred Asked.
Harry glanced at Cho before pinning Fred was his stare. He wanted to say, 'Yes, that and so much more. More pain. More blood… more guilt,' but he couldn't, not now. Not with the memories still so fresh. His brief look at Cho had told him that she had felt the same. "That was a terrible night, it was the worst night of my life that I can remember, and one that I'm not ready to talk about yet, so please, for now, let it be."
Knowing how Harry felt about that night, Hermione wanted to change the subject, "Yes well…"
Feeling stronger again, Hermione stood back up, "Umbridge won't teach us, and for some reason, Dumbledore isn't helping. So, I say we teach ourselves. We'll train to defend ourselves against Death Eaters the best we can. With Voldemort being back, what could be more important?" Hermione looked sideways at Harry. He had taken her seat and was staring straight ahead, eyes unfocused, obviously remembering that horrible night.
"I agree," yelled Ernie, "Harry, Hermione, I don't know about the rest of this lot, but I think you're right, this is important, and I for one will be grateful to learn whatever you can teach me."
Hermione reached down and gave Harry's shoulder a squeeze, "It will get better Harry," Hermione said softly, "But this is why we need you. You're the only one in this room who truly knows what it is like to fight for his, or someone else's life."
Her hand was still resting on his shoulder. Harry reached up and put his on top of hers, "I know… I know." Standing up, he raised his head, "Right, well let's get on with it."
Around the room, people were talking quickly, and many were nodding their head in agreement with the importance of what lie ahead.
Looking around the room at the large crowd; a crowd that she was now sure would grow larger still in the following weeks, she made a snap decision. Getting everyone's attention again, Hermione called out, "Okay, so that our plan if you want to join us, now we just need to work a few things out. However… before we go any further, you need to take an oath by signing a list, a membership list."
"What kind of oath," asked Marietta Edgecombe, the girl who had come with Cho.
Hermione eyed the girl for a second before answering, "A secrecy and simple loyalty oath, nothing complicated. Nothing that might cause you to lose your magic or anything."
"You want us to swear a loyalty oath to you and Harry?" Terry asked hotly.
"No!" Harry said quickly, catching on to Hermione's line of thought, "not to us, but to each other. To the group, and to the light side."
"It's just a precaution, in case someone decides to join, only to use what we teach them against the rest of us," Hermione added.
"Do you think making a list is a good idea though, what if someone finds it?" Lavender wanted to know.
Harry smiled, "Do you really think Hermione would be that careless with something so important?"
"No, I guess not."
"Look, the point is," Hermione continued, "I'm not sure how the professors will respond to us doing this. I think we can all agree, Umbridge wouldn't be too happy about it."
"Do you think we'll get into a lot of trouble if we're caught?" Hannah asked.
Hermione scrunched her brow for a moment in thought, "I don't know of any rules that say we can't form a 'club,' so no, I don't think so. However, some people might not consider this a club. I'll check with Professor McGonagall as soon as I can. I should have an answer by the next meeting."
"Why all the secrecy then?"
"Well, to keep Umbridge from interfering for one thing. But also, why should we let a potential enemy know what we're doing? I mean, the less they know the better… right?"
"So, no Slytherins then," Seamus laughed.
Harry joined him laughing, "I wouldn't think so, no. But then again, I didn't think any of you would want to be here either."
"So, let's see a show of hands," Hermione said with authority, "We all agree to keep this a secret; at least for now."
Everyone raised their hand. Hermione wanted to slip the next part in quickly while they were on a roll. "And since Harry will be doing the teaching, I think he should be the leader of the group as well. Raise your hand if you agree with me." This time everyone raised their hand, except for Harry. Hermione just smiled at him, "Good, both pass unanimously," turning to Harry, she said, "You don't get to vote on the last one."
Hermione stepped forward and produced a long piece of parchment and a quill, and sat them down on a table. "By signing this, you give your oath of secrecy and loyalty to…" Hermione stopped as if she was having second thoughts. "I think we should have a name. We can't keep calling ourselves 'The club.'"
"How about, 'The Ministry are Morons Group,'" George offered.
While George had his brother's enthusiastic support, Hermione wasn't so keen on the name, "That's… descriptive, but let's see if there are any others before we chose."
Thanks to Ginny, ten minutes later the club had a name, "The Defense Association," or as they would call themselves, the "DA." A few more things were discussed; like when to meet, and how they'd communicate. An exasperated Hermione promised she'd plan around the Quidditch schedule and work on a covert way to get messages to each other. Agreeing to meet again sooner rather than later, the meeting broke up and everyone started to leave.
As the last person left the room, Hermione turned to find Harry deep in thought again, "Harry?"
"Are you sure we're doing the right thing here, Hermione?"
"Yes," Hermione answered softly, "they need to know how to defend themselves."
Harry pinned her in place with a sharp look, "What if it's not enough. What if they get in a fight and think they can…? What if… this," Harry gestured to the training room as he struggled for words, "…gets them killed?"
Hermione took a quick breath and steeled her look, "That could happen, Harry, but it could also happen even if we don't help them. But the more they know, the better their chances." Hermione knew Harry was worried about his friends getting hurt. And that if he trained them, and they still got hurt, or died, that he would blame himself for not doing a better job. She'd already seen it with her training. "Harry, I wish there was someone else who could do this. I wish we had a real Defense Against the Dark Arts teacher… but we don't." Hermione took hold of one of his hands, "They deserve a good teacher. One who will give them the best chance of coming through this alive." Giving his hand a squeeze, she finished, "And right now that's you. You're all we got."
Harry stared back for a moment, still unsettled, and uncertain, then slowly closed his eyes. Speaking so softly, Hermione had to lean forward a little to hear him. "You know… I can still smell it when I close my eyes. The smell of blood." Opening his eyes, he shook his head, "I don't think I'll ever forget that night."
Hermione pulled him into a gentle embrace, "Oh, Harry, I'm so sorry you had to experience that." Moving back a little so she could look into his eyes, she said, "As horrible as that was, use it, Harry. Use it to make you stronger. Use it, to help others."
Harry nodded slightly.
"Harry, you'll be good at this, I know you will. You'll be one of the best teachers they've ever had, I'm sure of it."
Harry smiled, and some of the tension left his face, "It still amazes me, how much faith you have in me." Harry smile fell a little, "I just don't want to let everyone down. I don't want to let you down."
"You won't," Hermione said quickly. A few seconds later, to help reassure him, she said simply, "Be honest with them, tell them you're worried if you feel you must. Just tell them the truth and do your best. After that… well, they deserve a chance to make up their own minds. It should be their decision."
~oOoOo~
After slipping into a pair of pajamas, Hermione sat down on the edge of her bed and surveyed the room. She had never been very close to any of the other girls in her dorm. Sally-Anne Perks and Eleanor Madley had hit it off right from the first year, and since then had stayed mostly to themselves. Eleanor had a younger sister named Laura, now a second-year Hufflepuff who she was quite protective of. Sally-Anne was a Muggle-born like herself, but she was very shy, almost painfully so. Other than that, Hermione didn't really know much about them and figured they probably knew as little about her or Harry, other than rumors of course. Hermione hadn't been surprised when neither had shown up for the meeting.
Lavender and Parvati may not have hit it off right from the start, but over the years, they had grown close. Besides being the Hogwarts gossip queens, they ate meals together, did school work together, and spent nearly all their free time together. They easily called each other their best friend. Since the Tournament, things had changed between them. Before Lavender started dating Ron, she and Parvati were practically inseparable. Then, while hanging on Ron's arm, Lavender all but ignored her best friend. At the same time, Parvati had grown more understanding and trusting of Harry. Those were probably some of the main reasons things were still cool between them now that Lavender was single again.
Focusing her attention on Lavender, Hermione couldn't help but notice how out of sorts she was. Being so different from her, Hermione had thought they would never be close. Maybe now, she could try and change that. Deciding to test the water, Hermione got up and moved over by Lavender, "May I?" she asked, gesturing to a spot on the bed next to her.
Lavender raised a brow in question, then said simply, "Sure."
"Thank you," Hermione said as she sat down. "I was glad to see you at the meeting this morning… Although to be honest, I was a little surprised." Hermione had figured that Lavender's opinion of both her and Harry had been poisoned, or at least soured by Ron while they had been together.
Lavender's eyes narrowed, she knew what Hermione was thinking, "You didn't expect to see me… because I used to date Ron!"
"Well… yes, I suppose…" Hermione said, softly. It was clear, that Lavender had more to say.
"Well, Ron wasn't there was he?"
The bitter tone in Lavender's voice was loud and clear. Hermione cringed a little. She wasn't sure if it was meant for her, or Ron, but thought it was probably for the both them. Even though she and Lavender had never been good friends, it wasn't because she disliked her, but rather because they had so little in common. And, dating Ron while he had been on poor terms with Harry hadn't helped. Whenever there had been a fight between the two boys, Lavender had always sided with Ron, not that Hermione really blamed her for sticking up for her boyfriend. Now with Ron out of the picture, Hermione was sure that Lavender was feeling rather friendless. Later, Hermione would also wonder, if Ron realized just what he had lost by leaving Lavender.
"No, he wasn't," Hermione finally answered.
After a tense few seconds, Lavender deflated a little. "Ron… He changed over the summer, he's… I tried to…" Lavender started, but then stopped when she remembered who she was talking to.
"Lavender, it's none of my business, and… well if you don't want to talk about it, I'll understand," Hermione said softly. Looking past her for a moment as she remembered the last term, Hermione smiled for a second, "You guys just looked so close at the end of last year is all, and… well, I couldn't help but wonder what happened?"
Lavender quickly turned away without saying a word. 'Whatever happened must have been painful,' Hermione thought, and she was beginning to think their conversation was over. Then just as suddenly as she had turned away, Lavender turned back, her face a mixture of anger and sadness.
"You want to know… You really want to know?" Lavender spat.
Hermione was taken back by the venom in her voice. She shook her head slightly. She had been concerned, and even a bit curious, but Hermione hadn't meant to upset her so badly. "I'm sorry, I shouldn't have brought it up. Like I said, it's none of my business, you don't…"
"He wanted me to sleep with him." Lavender interrupted suddenly. She had said it in a hard, angry, harsh whisper. As if saying it too loud would somehow make it her fault, but knew Hermione had heard her by her the sharp intake of breath.
Hermione's brows disappeared into her hairline. She had imagined several possibilities for their breakup, but none of them came remotely close to this.
Lavender crossed her arms and held them tightly in an effort to keep from shaking. Looking down, she added in a voice that was no longer angry, but full of sadness, "He said, either I sleep with him, or… or he'd find someone else."
Hermione scooted a little closer and put a hand gently on her knee, "Oh, Lavender, I'm sorry. That must have been terrible." Hermione shook her head, "What in the world has gotten into him?" Then sounding almost as sad as Lavender, she added, "That's not the Ron I know, and…" Hermione stopped suddenly as a thought occurred to her, "Lavender, please tell me you didn't…"
"No! Of course not," Lavender snapped. "I may not be as smart as you, Miss Smartest-Witch-of-Her-Age, but I do know boys." Calming down a little, Lavender explained, "Our relationship was doomed as soon as he asked. Say no; which I did," Lavender said sharply while glaring at Hermione, "and he dumps me… which he did. Say yes, and… and well he dumps me as soon as the next pretty bird come along."
Hermione looked away in disbelief, "I can't believe he'd do that," She said softly.
Lavenders anger fired up, "Oh, so I guess you don't believe me either then, even after all the things he said about you and Harry."
Hermione turned back quickly, "No, I mean of course I believe you, it's just… well, the Ron I used to know, he wouldn't… Oh, I'm just having a hard time seeing him like that."
Hermione had indeed heard some pretty callous remarks from Ron since the start of term, and so had Harry. They both were having a hard time believing he could say some of the things he had said. They'd been friends for so long, and now it looked like that friendship was in jeopardy. For now, they both preferred to remember the Ron from before the Tournament.
Hermione suddenly felt guilty. Maybe if she had tried harder, she and Harry might still be good friends with Ron. Maybe he'd be like the old Ron, and he and Lavender would still be together. Hermione sighed, she needed to talk with Harry about this; she wanted to know just where they all stood.
Lavender eyed Hermione. "Why'd you come over here, what do you really want?"
Hermione shook her head a couple of times defensively, "Nothing… really. You just kind of looked like you could use a friend."
"Ha, what a load of guff," Lavender barked, "you and I could never be friends." At Hermione's hurt look, Lavender continued more gently, "Look, Hermione, if that's true… well then, I appreciate the gesture, but you and I…" She shook her head with a small smile, "we see the world from two completely different angles."
Hermione was a little surprised by Lavenders insight, she had hoped they might become better friends, but nodded when she realized she was right. Disappointed by the turn of events, Hermione stood up, and with a sad smile said, "I suppose… but still, if you ever want to… you know, just talk…"
Lavender's smile didn't quite reach her eyes as she nodded back, "Yeah, sure…"
~oOoOo~
Dolores sat at her desk and took a deep breath, finally, things were ready to put into action. Behind her in a cabinet next to a cheap bottle of sherry sat a small vial with a very special potion in it. If things went well in the next hour or so, she'd be able to start administering it. She still needed a bit more help with the spells she was learning but was confident she'd be ready by the time they were needed.
A knock at her door broke her from her thoughts. "Come in," she called sweetly.
Sibyll Trelawney was somewhat of a loner in the castle. She knew most of the other professors didn't put much stock in the art of Divination, and so didn't take her very seriously. She normally spent most of her free time in her quarters, reading while enjoying a glass or two of wine. Earlier, Umbridge had asked her to come by after dinner… for a chat. Sibyll, found Dolores Umbridge to be quite pushy, and opinionated, qualities that possibly served her well in the Ministry, but not so here at Hogwarts. It seemed odd that she'd want to talk to someone like herself.
It was these thoughts that ran through Sibyll head as she approached the door to Umbridge's personal quarters, and she found them unsettling. Was her inner eye trying to tell her something, she wondered, just before she knocked?
Stepping through into the room, Sibyll asked meekly, "You wanted to see me, Mrs. Umbridge?"
"Ah Sibyll, may I call you Sibyll?" After a shaky nod yes, Dolores continued, "Wonderful. Please come in so we can talk… oh, and do call me Dolores, won't you? Good." She was laying it on thick, and she knew it, but she needed this poor excuse for a witch to become her friend.
"You must be wondering why I called… err, asked you here," said Dolores.
Sibyll clutched at her scarf with both hands and nodded.
"It is kind of personal, but I find I just have to talk with someone about it before I get any more depressed." Dolores put on her best sad face and sighed dramatically. "I know my demeanor can be quite abrasive at times…"
Sibyll quickly shook her head, "No, it's not…"
Dolores held up her hand to stop docile witch, "Oh yes, it's true and I know it." Dolores sighed again, "I just can't help myself. I really don't mean anything by it." Then with a hopeful look, she asked, "You understand… don't you?"
Sibyll was amazed, Dolores Umbridge; secretary to the Minister himself… had come to her for help. She finally found her voice, "Oh, yes of course," feeling more confident by second, she added, "I knew you wanted to talk to me, but of course I waited until you were ready."
Dolores fought the urge to laugh, "Thank you. Well anyway, the others seem to avoid me because of it, and my position at the Ministry doesn't help, it probably makes them a bit jealous."
"Yes, I'm sure you're right."
"I knew you'd be the one person in the castle to understand," Dolores said with a smile. "And… well, I couldn't help but notice, that they treat you the same way."
"I teach a rather… simple subject," Sibyll offered weakly.
"I think not," Dolores said sharply, "personally I think your gift is terribly underappreciated, and so does the Ministry by the way."
Sibyll straighten up, "Really, the Ministry thinks that?"
"Oh yes," Dolores said matter-of-factly, "If it weren't for talented witches like yourself, the Hall of Prophecies would be empty now, wouldn't it?"
Shocked, all Sibyll could do was nod, "Yes… I suppose it would."
Come sit, let's talk awhile, "Dolores said while gesturing to a rather cozy looking armchair next to her desk. After Sibyll hesitantly lowered herself into the chair, Dolores smiled, "I do hope you like sherry, it's my favorite."
Sibyll nodded, "Yes, of course… Thank you."
"Splendid!" Dolores said, as she stood to fetch the drinks. While her back was turned to Sibyll, she added the required amount of potion to one of the glasses that she had poured. Returning to her seat, she offered her guest the potion laced glass of sherry. "To us, and a new friendship."
Sibyll was having a hard time believing this was all happening. She had of course spent time with some of the other professors; Minerva in particular, but even those visits were far and few between. And while normally there was an offer of biscuits and tea, no one had ever offered her wine before. Odd as it was, Sibyll found she rather liked the idea of having a friend, and not having to drink alone anymore. With a shy smile, she raised her glass, "To us."
For the next half hour, Dolores made small talk with Sibyll, while keeping an eye on her glass; it was important she drank it all. Finally, the slightly inebriated witch tipped her glass back and finished the last of her sherry. As she was setting her glass down on the desk, she never noticed Dolores subtly pulling her wand out.
Dolores moved her wand in a very complex pattern while whispering an equally complex incantation. It had taken her many long and often painful lessons to learn, and it was only the first of several she'd need in order to complete her mission.
By the time Sibyll realized what was happening, it was too late. Her surprised look faded, as her eyes rolled to the back of her head. Sibyll slumped in her chair as the highly modified version of the Imperius Course took hold.
Satisfied she had performed the course correctly, Dolores pulled a piece of parchment out of a desk drawer and tapped it with her wand, while whispering a password. As a set of instructions appeared on the parchment, she moved so she could stand next to Sibyll. While the helpless witch was in a state of altered consciousness, Dolores touched her wand to Sibyll's forehead and read the first set of instructions aloud. Over the next few days, the curse would slowly work on Sibyll's mind, preparing her for the next phase. The whole process had to be very subtle, she couldn't risk Sibyll suspecting anything. Due to the complex nature of what she was trying to accomplish, it would take several more friendly visits before she was finished. After finishing the last incantation of this set, Dolores lifted wand and quickly put it away.
Sibyll's head jerked up, and her eyes blinked open. Seeing Dolores standing so close, she flinched away.
"Sibyll dear, are you alright?" Dolores asked sweetly while reaching out to steady the confused witch. "Perhaps the sherry was a bit too much, you seemed to have dozed off for a moment my dear."
Sibyll blinked owlishly and shook her head to try and clear the cobwebs. When her vision finally cleared, she nodded slowly, "Yes, ah… perhaps you're right." Standing up cautiously, she tested her balance before turning for the door. "I think I should return to my quarters." Sherry had never affected her like that before, and it gave her pause. Stopping at the door she looked back at a smiling Dolores, 'Odd,' she thought. Then assuming she was just tired, she waved goodnight, "Thank you, Dolores, it was a pleasure."
Dolores waved back, "Good night, Sibyll." After the door closed, she chuckled and her smile grew, "The pleasure was all mine dear."