Chapter 32
Tactical Changes
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Lucius paced back and forth just outside the door to Voldemort's conference chamber waiting to enter, or rather, waiting to be called in. It would seem the Dark Lord was having another private meeting with his mystery guest, judging by how long he'd been waiting. As Lucius paced, he couldn't help but think of the irony of the fact; that he, 'Lucius Malfoy' was waiting to enter his own office. It was times like this when he had far too much time to think, that he questioned his decision to serve the Dark Lord. 'It will all be worth it once the war is over and our Lord hands out his rewards,' he thought. "Yes… It will be worth it," this time voicing his thoughts out loud.
Lucius was about to conjure a chair to sit in when the door to his office flashed blue. The blue glow quickly spread outward through the door frame and rippled along the walls in both directions before fading away. Voldemort had canceled his security charm on the chamber. "Lucius, enter," came the muffled voice of his master.
After a slight hesitation, Lucius entered and quickly closed the door. Dropping to one knee with his head bowed, he said, "My Lord," with as much dignity as possible, careful to keep his tone respectful. Showing too much pride or too little respect in the presence of the Dark Lord usually ended painfully.
Voldemort regarded Lucius for a moment; his lack of reverence having not gone unnoticed. However, at the moment he had more pressing matters to deal with; he'd remind Lucius of his shortcomings later.
"What news do you have from your son, Lucius?" Voldemort asked, as if daring him to show the least bit of arrogance.
This time it was Lucius's turn to notice the dangerous tone in his master's voice. He was no idiot, so Lucius schooled his response with as much humility as possible. "My Lord," he said smoothly and with another slight bow of the head, "reports have been… scarce and contain no new developments." Seeing that Voldemort was not pleased with his answer, he added quickly, "I'm not sure if he is being watched more carefully, or if he is simply being too cautious." Lucius paused to judge his master's response, then to try and appease him, he continued, "If it would please you, My Lord, I will send word to him to be more… forthcoming."
"See that you do, Lucius," Voldemort commanded. Leaning back in his chair, Voldemort sneered at the still kneeling wizard before him. His fear of what might come next was plain to see and Voldemort was tempted to accommodate him, but there was still more to discuss. "Has he made any mention of Potter being in a relationship with a witch?"
Lucius looked up surprised, "No, My Lord, but I can most certainly ask."
Voldemort nodded, "And, Lucius, you might remind young Draco of my interest in him… I'm still waiting his decision."
"Of course, My Lord. Christmas break may be a ways off yet, but it will afford me the time to ensure he makes the right choice."
Voldemort stood, "Very well, I shall wait until then but no longer. Now leave me, I have much to do."
"As you wish, My Lord," Lucius said, as he backed out of the room with his head bent.
~oOoOo~
A lot was happening and plans were progressing well, but Voldemort was still mildly disappointed. He had hoped to get some additional information concerning a report he had recently received; a freak chance encounter by one of his minions during the summer. His Death Eater had come across what appeared to be Potter and some young witch dueling, or maybe even fighting together against a couple of older wizards. Unfortunately, he was unable to stay long enough to see who the other wizards were, or even to judge how well they had fought without risking being caught. 'Who is this girl, and were they actually fighting, or were they… training? Yes, that would make more sense,' he thought. Voldemort returned to his desk and sat down, he had a lot to think about. Smiling, he wondered what the Minister of Magic would say if he knew that he had inadvertently helped him. With another source inside the castle, he hoped to get more news soon. Then depending on what he found out, he could narrow down his choices of action.
~oOoOo~
Hermione snuggled into Harry as he wrapped his arms around her. Sitting in their favorite spot on the couch in front of the fire, the common room was fairly quiet considering how early it was. Harry chuckled, and asked, "So, are we going to keep your birthday a secret for another year?"
After a moment of thought, Hermione nodded, never taking her head off Harry's shoulder. "Yes, I think so." She sighed softly, and then with a warm smile, added, "I like this… spending the day with my favorite person." Hermione snuggled in even closer. "No flashy parties interrupting the day. No one infringing on my alone time with you."
Harry kissed the top of her head, "Yeah… I like this too." Then turning his head slightly to look at her, "But still…"
"There'll be plenty of time for that in the future," Hermione said softly. With their schedules, life was hectic at best, adding a party just seemed like too much for now anyway. She looked down at her new charm bracelet and smiled. It was the first time Harry had ever given her something so personal. 'No,' she thought, 'I don't need any parties, I already have all that I want,' Hermione tilted her head up and gave Harry a soft kiss, 'and he's sitting here with me.'
~oOoOo~
The following day as Harry and Hermione were making their way to lunch, Dumbledore approached them in the hallway just outside the Great Hall. "Hello, Harry," he said with an easy smile, "I was wondering if I might have a quick word with you," and with an apologetic look to Hermione, he added, "in private, if Miss Granger would be so kind."
Harry turned to Hermione and gave her an almost unperceivable nod. Telling her he'd be all right. She in turn just arced a brow, and said, "I'll wait for you inside, Harry." Then said to their headmaster before leaving, "Professor."
"I'll see you in the Hall in a few," Harry called after her, as she walked away. Turning back to Dumbledore, Harry motioned to a small out cove nearby, and asked, "Will this be sufficient Sir?" Preferring not to have to go all the way up to the Headmaster's office.
Dumbledore smiled and gestured to the tiny niche, relieved that Harry wasn't angry with him and seemed to be receptive. "Thank you, Harry, I won't keep you long, I promise." Dumbledore's happy persona shifted to a more concerned one, "Harry," he began uneasily, "I wanted to explain to you my reasons for overriding Professor McGonagall's decision to make you a prefect."
Harry raised a brow, it had been so long that he didn't think Dumbledore was ever going to bring it up. But wanting to hear his reasons, Harry nodded and said, "Okay, Sir… why did you?"
"Well you see, Harry, It has not gone unnoticed by me how much harder you are working on your studies. Something that I am very happy to see by the way." Dumbledore paused and peered over his glasses trying to gauge how Harry accepted his praise, hoping to lighten the mood. Seeing no discernable change, he continued on cautiously, "Now, add in the fact that you have added Ancient Runes, plus Quidditch and you have quite a workload." Again Dumbledore paused while trying to judge how Harry was receiving his explanation. "So you see, Harry, I… well I just thought it might be too much."
Wanting to see his reaction, Harry just nodded in understanding then said plainly, "I don't plan to play Quidditch this year," It was now Harry who judged Dumbledore.
Dumbledore's eyebrows rose slightly, "Really? I did not know you were giving up playing the game, I know you love to fly."
"You would have, if you'd bothered to talk to Professor McGonagall… or myself first," Harry said tersely.
"Harry…" Dumbledore cautioned.
Harry was growing irritated and it probably showed on his face despite his attempt to keep his tone respectful. After taking a second to cool down, he went on, "I do love to play Quidditch, but as you've noticed, I've decided to make my studies a higher priority. Considering recent events, I feel there are more important things to do with my time.
Dumbledore conceded the point, "Well, Harry, if you don't want to waste your time doing things that will not help you in the future, then…"
Harry cut across him, "Professor, please do not, put words in my mouth. And for the record, I do not believe prefect duties would have been a waste of time. Hermione is one of Hogwarts brightest students, she certainly could have benefited from having more free time, yet I didn't see you taking her prefect badge away." Harry paused to collect his thoughts, "Sir, you are one of the most intelligent persons I know… Merlin, you seemed to know practically everything. So why do you expect me to believe, that it never crossed your mind to ask me how I felt about being a prefect. Don't you think I would have felt proud and honored to have been chosen? And don't you think I would have enjoyed sharing those duties with Hermione?"
Dumbledore sat still and just stared at Harry as his words sank in.
Harry looked down for a second and sighed, then locking eyes with Dumbledore again he continued more firmly, "You may have meant well, but that's not how I took it. I hate being left out of the decision-making process… especially when it concerns me. It makes me feel used… and manipulated. I don't see you treating other students the way you treat me, or at least it's not apparent." Harry took a long breath and let it out slowly, "So, why me, Sir?"
"Because, Harry, you are different. Voldemort and You…" Dumbledore stopped suddenly, as if only now remembering just who he was talking to. "Harry, I was only trying to help," He started again, this time more slowly, "It is as you said, with 'recent events,' things have become more complicated." Dumbledore turned slightly and stared off down the hall lost in thought for a moment. "There are events in play, and…" Dumbledore hesitated as he briefly considered telling Harry more, then thought better of it, deciding now was not a good time. Returning his gaze to Harry, he simply said, "There is just more going on than you know, Harry."
Harry nodded sadly, "I'm quite sure there is."
Dumbledore eyed Harry curiously, wondering just what he meant by that.
"Sir, while it bothers me that you didn't think I could handle the extra work, what gets me more, is that you didn't think I would have been smart enough to know. That I'm not mature enough to recognize when I am becoming overwhelmed, and ask for advice, or for help." Now it was Harry turn to stare down the hall for a moment. Nodding his head as he put his thoughts in order, Harry started again more softly, "Professor, as odd as this may sound; I know… there is a lot, I don't know. Things from the past, things going on in the background." Harry stared straight into Dumbledore's eye and added, "Things about me, things that no one wants to talk about."
Dumbledore gave a long sigh, "Harry, it is… so very complicated."
"Sir, why do you think I'm working so hard?" It was a rhetorical question, and Dumbledore knew it. "Because I know it's complicated." Harry sat up a little taller, "I'm trying to learn as much as I can about anything that will help us. For now, that's mostly just the groundwork, ah… a foundation of sorts. I can't study, or prepare for anything more specific, because… well, I don't know what that may be." Harry blew out a breath, "Perhaps knowing that you can understand why I am so frustrated."
Dumbledore could understand that, and he easily acknowledged that again he had not given Harry enough credit. However, he thought, if this was how worked up Harry was going to get just knowing a Dark Lord was after him, then how would he react to the knowledge of the prophecy. How would he react, knowing the lives of thousands rested on his shoulders? The lives of his friends and loved ones. No, he most certainly didn't think Harry was ready to know that. "Harry, you must trust me…"
"Trust you, Sir, lately, that been a little hard to do." Harry shook his head, "Not to mention, it even harder when you don't trust me."
"Harry, first of all, I do trust you, completely. I am… only trying to un-complicate your life, at least for now anyway, so you can concentrate on what is important."
"Hard to do, Sir, when you don't really know what's important."
"In time, Harry, all I ask is patience," Dumbledore pleaded, "let me help you by taking some of the load off."
Harry stood and his look told of his resolve, "Patience I have, Professor, it's the time I'm lacking. I think for the time being, I might be better off without your help."
Dumbledore leaned back, surprise clearly written on his face. A moment later he schooled his expression and stood, "Harry, are you sure?"
Harry wasn't completely sure, he knew sooner or later he'd need Dumbledore's help again. But for now, what he was sure of, was that he was tired of being a pawn in Dumbledore's game of life. Squaring his shoulders, Harry said clearly, "I'm sure, Sir." Then gesturing towards the Great Hall, "If we're done here, Sir, I'd like to get something to eat before lunch is over."
Dumbledore nodded once and stepped aside. "Very well, Harry," was all he said. As he watched Harry walk away, he wondered for the umpteenth time if he was doing the right thing; both Minerva's and Hermione's words about trust and secrets from a meeting not too long ago ringing in his ears. Perhaps, he thought, he should tell Harry about the nature of his scar and how it connected him to Voldemort. Maybe then he would understand why he could not divulge his secrets to him, lest they find their way back to Tom. As Dumbledore started for the Great Hall himself, he pondered the idea of teaching Harry Occlumency.
~oOoOo~
While Harry was busy with Dumbledore, Hermione took the opportunity to talk with Professor Flitwick. "Good afternoon, Professor, do you have a moment?" She asked as she approached the head table.
Professor Flitwick looked up and smiled, "Of course, Miss Granger, what can I do for you?"
"Thank you, Sir," Hermione said returning his smile, "I've read both of the books that you and Professor Lupin gave me on Gringotts and the Goblin Nation, and I have a few questions. Would it be possible to come by your office sometime this weekend?"
Flitwick was always happy to discuss that part of his heritage, especially with a wizard. "Certainly, how about just after lunch?" He answered excitedly.
Getting caught up in his enthusiasm, Hermione beamed, "Thank you, Sir, I'll be there." Then remembering something else, asked, "Oh, and Sir, I know the language is terribly difficult to learn, but do you think you could at least teach me a few phrases?"
"Humm, yes it quite difficult, especially for humans," Flitwick smiled and leaned forward, then in a gentle voice said, "but I hear you are a quick learner, so we'll give it a try."
Hermione bowed her head slightly, as she had already learned from her reading, was polite practice, then thanked her professor again and left for her own table, leaving behind a bemused teacher.
~oOoOo~
As Harry slid onto the bench next to Hermione, he smiled. She was already fixing him a plate. Leaning over, he gave her a peck on the cheek and whispered, "Thanks."
Hermione smiled back, "You're welcome."
Neville shared a smile with Luna, then asked Harry, "So, what'd Dumbledore want? Couldn't have been too bad… you're still in a good mood."
Harry laughed, "Oh, he just wanted to let me know why he didn't want me to be a prefect." At Hermione's raised brow, he went on, "Nothing we don't already know; said he was only trying to help keep my life… uncomplicated."
Neville cracked up, "And how's that working for you, Harry?"
Harry laughed again, "Exactly!" And then with a look, told Hermione he'd tell her more later if she wanted.
Luna smiled, she also knew that look.
Before anyone could say anything else, an angry Ginny plopped down next to Luna.
"Something wrong, sis? You look a bit miffed," Luna said with a grin.
Forgetting she was mad for a moment, Ginny smiled back. Ever since the twins had made Luna an honorary sister, they had both started calling each other 'sis'. She smiled because she liked having a sister, that, and she knew Luna was only trying to cheer her up.
"Well not with me," Ginny told Luna. Then turning to the rest of the group, she asked, "What, or should I say who… is normally responsible for pissing me off on a regular bases?"
"Ron," came the almost simultaneous reply from the other four.
Ginny put her hands up and nodded once, as if to say, right in one. Then to answer why, she ticked her head towards the far end of the table.
Everyone turned to look. There, sitting at the far end of the table sat Ron with his arm around Romilda Vane. They weren't putting on a show like he and Lavender used to do, but he was acting very possessive of her.
Hermione was the first to speak, "What is she up too?"
A confused Neville asked, "She…?"
Hermione turned back to the group, "I personally talked to Romilda. I told her what I thought Ron was up too. Not to mention, she's two years younger than Ron. So…"
"So, why did she ignore your advice, "Finished Luna."
Harry and Neville glanced around the Hall. Harry's eyes landed on a pair of laughing Ravenclaws, who were pointing at Ron. While Neville's had focused on Lavender. "Guys, take a look," he said, nodding towards her. Lavender was staring down at her plate, but it was obvious her mind was elsewhere. Even from a distance, they could all see how upset she was.
Hermione thought back to a recent conversation she'd had with her. "Poor dear," she said sadly.
~oOoOo~
The end of the week came quickly and with it, the next D.A. meeting. The first two meetings had been informal, but both Harry and Hermione realized that with the size of the new group they'd have to get more organized. Arriving early, they began to get things ready. The first of their students to arrive were the Weasleys.
"Hi guys," Hermione said brightly as they approached the table she had set up near the door. "If you still want to be part of the D.A., grab a coin and initial here, next to your name. Be sure to write the coin's number down as well. I'll explain more later."
Ginny rolled her eyes and said with a smile, "Like we'd quit the D.A." Bending over the table, Ginny took a coin and quickly added her initials to the list next to her name. Fred and George followed her example and then went over to talk with Harry, while Ginny stayed behind to help Hermione. By the time the meeting was ready to start, all but one from the last meeting had returned. The D.A was officially born.
Harry walked to the front of the group and called for everyone's attention. With just a hint of nervousness, he started, "Hi guys, good to see you all back. Well, ah, we have a lot to do and I can't wait to get going, but first some club business." Harry beckoned Hermione over, "I'll let Hermione bring you up to date."
Hermione walked over and stood next to Harry, and after a quick head count and a double check of the list, she began, "Hi everyone. Is Marietta Edgecombe here somewhere? …No?" Hermione knew she wasn't, but she wanted the others to know as well. "It would seem we are one short from our last meeting," Hermione said sounding a little disappointed. Then brightening up, she went on, "However, for the rest of you, thank you for this," Hermione held up the parchment with all their names on it, the official club roster. "It means a lot to Harry and me that you trust us with this. And it should give you the same reassurance it gives us, that you'll never have to worry that what you learn here will ever be used against you by a fellow member." Hermione was happy to see everyone smiling back at her, most even nodding in agreement.
"Some of you were worried, that it could fall into the wrong hands," Hermione said with a smirk. "Rest assured that not going to happen. I've recently had a little help from an old Marauder friend of ours, who helped me with some very special charm work on it. Plus, I intend to keep it locked away safe and sound." Hermione touched her wand to the list and whispered something no one could hear. She then handed the parchment to Lavender. "Miss Brown, would you please read the list to us?"
Lavender took the list and looked down at it, then turned it over. Looking back up surprised, she announced, "It's blank!" Before handing it back.
"And that is but one of the security features now on the list. I hope you all are more at ease with it now," Hermione told everyone.
"Next, the gold coins, and no, they're not real galleons," Hermione laughed, "believe me, the Goblins would know the difference. Turning serious again, she went on, "They are a way to communicate." As people started looking more closely at them, Hermione explained, "By use of a protein charm, Harry or I can send a short message to them. They'll heat up enough to let you know when you receive one. Then, if you look at the coin you see a message for a few seconds and then it will fade away.
"Like what?" asked Colin.
"Well, for now just something like the time and date of the next meeting," Hermione started, "but we hope to make improvements later. Maybe add some more charms so they will be able to send messages both ways, that way, you could call for help if needed."
Having been bullied more than a few times by some Slytherins, Colin liked the sound of that and while nodding, said softly, "That would be nice."
"Lastly," Hermione said, "I talked to Professor McGonagall about the D.A." Everyone quieted down. "She said, that since it's open to anyone, she could sanction it as a club. The only real problem being, that we're keeping its existence a secret. Which by the way, she thought was a good idea." Hermione took a breath before continuing, "She agreed that a certain other professor would probably make things ugly if she were to find out about us, maybe even try and get the Ministry involved." Seeing the panicked looks on everyone's face, Hermione held up her hands and quickly reassured them, "Professor McGonagall promised, she would defend us and no one would get into trouble. However, if word got out it would only be a matter of time before we would probably be forced to stop. She suggested we continue keeping our 'club' a secret, but if found out, don't lie about its existence. She also asked, that if you feel you must talk to her about the D.A., then ask to speak to her in private." After waiting a few seconds to see if anyone had any questions, she finished, "If someone asks you about the D.A. or they are interested in joining, ask them to talk to us, but don't say any more than you have too." Then after a quick glance to Harry, to make sure she hadn't forgotten anything, she finished, "Well, that's all the news for now, so…"
That was Harry's clue and he jumped right in, "So, let's get to work." Harry waved for everyone to follow as he led them toward two long rows of brightly colored dots on the ground, one row was red, the other blue. They were spaced out about ten feet apart in each row. To the left and the right of each row, was a large target about thirty feet away, one for each dot. The space in the middle was open, so Harry and Hermione could walk up and down and offer help to those who needed it.
"Right, everyone get on a spot." Once everyone was settled, Harry began, "The objective of this lesson, is to learn speed and accuracy. It may seem simple at first, but believe me, it will get harder, much harder." Hermione smirked, knowing what was to come. "Now we will start with simple stinging hexes because they don't take much out of you. Your task is to hit the target five times in a row. Do that and the target will shrink a little, and oh, did I mention that it would be moving as well?" Harry couldn't help but laugh a little at some of the looks he was getting. "Okay, once you get started, Hermione and I will come around and help," then channeling a little of Professor Snape, Harry hollered, "Well, what are you waiting for?"
Neville thought he had gotten off to a pretty good start, within just a couple of minutes he had managed to score five hits in a row. However, not only did the target shrink a little, but it also started moving a little faster, and now Neville was finding it almost impossible to hit. Growing frustrated, Neville never saw Harry approach.
"Neville, you're doing fine. Now try and relax a bit. Anticipate were the target will be a half second after you fire and aim for that spot. Go slow and easy, speed will come later."
Neville went to turn around to thank Harry, but he was already helping some else.
After about twenty minutes, Harry had everyone stop and take a breather, "That was great you guys!"
"Remember, It takes time, so don't get discouraged," added Hermione.
"Okay, next… casting and shielding on the move," Harry announced. "For this, we'll need to pair up. Don't worry about who, because we'll change each lesson," Harry smiled, "now we have an odd number of people in our group, so one of you will end up working either with me or with Hermione. Alright, red against blue, and blue will attack first. When I call switch, blue will defend and red will attack…" Harry paused to make sure everyone was following. "Okay, attacker, here's what I want you to do. Start by facing away from your target. Then when ready, turn and fire one low powered stinging hex, then take two steps and fire a second. Then turn back around, wait for a second, and then do it again." Harry waited to see if anyone had a question before continuing. "Defenders, keep moving left and right, but don't go outside your circle. I want you to dodge the first hex and then shield the second, all while on the move." Harry and Hermione then gave them a quick demonstration to make sure everyone understood. Harry clapped his hands, "Alright, everyone on your spots… ready… go!"
Twenty minutes later and Harry called for another short break. Finally, the last exercise of the day had everyone trying to learn the Patronus Charm.
It was starting to get late, so Harry called for a stop one last time. He had everyone gather around a large table that the Hogwarts elves had put some snacks and drinks on. While the group was winding down, Harry and Hermione made their way around the table and talked to each one individually. They asked how they thought they had done and what they could do to improve next time. Their critiques were always positive and motivating.
After finishing with Padma, Hermione wanted to add something to the general review. Moving around to the head of the table and getting everyone's attention, she started, "I can't help but notice, that most of you look a little knackered." Focusing on Susan, she asked, "Miss Bones, how do you feel… tired?"
Susan reddened a little at being singled out, but answered truthfully, "Well, yeah. I mean, I don't normally use that much magic in such a short period of time. Plus Harry had us running around half the time as well."
Hermione nodded, then turned to Ginny, "Miss Weasley, you don't seem quite as drained… what about you, how do you feel?"
Ginny stood up a bit straighter when she realized what Hermione was getting at. Smiling, she said, "I did get a little winded a couple of times, but I'm fine now."
Hermione smiled, "And I can tell by the look on your face, that you know what I want to point out. Care to enlighten your friends?"
Ginny looked down and shook her head with a laugh, "I can't believe what I'm about to admit."
On the other side of the table, Terry chuckled, "Well this sounds like it ought to be good."
Ginny looked up at him, "Last year, I started working out with these two," she said as she pointed to a snickering Harry and Hermione. Then speaking to the rest of the table, she went on, "A couple of times a week I would join them for their morning exercises and then try to keep up as they ran all around Hogwarts. Mind you, I wasn't crazy enough to do it every day like them, but even the little I did… well, I can see now it really helped. Like they told me back then; it takes time, but it does work. I feel better. I can feel the difference." Turning to Susan, Ginny said, "I'm pretty sure that's why I'm not as spent as you." Then looking around with a smirk, she finished, "Harry and Hermione exercising; I used to call them crazy, now… I'd call them crazy like a fox!"
"So, do you want us all to start exercising now too?" Asked Ernie a little put out. This was turning into more work than he had thought it would be.
"No," said Harry quickly, "not if you don't want to."
"And if we do," asked Susan, "do we have to get up in the wee hours of the morning with you guys?"
Harry smiled, apparently, he and Hermione were developing quite a reputation with their early morning exercises. "No, that's just the time that works best for us. You can do it anytime you want, just avoid exercising right before bed, makes it hard to fall asleep after that."
Susan nodded, "What do you recommend we start with?"
Harry looked over to Hermione for a second, turning back, he said, "Why don't we save that for next time?
Again Susan nodded, "Okay, if you're sure it will help, I'll give it a try."
"Look, it should be pretty obvious that it does help," Hermione said taking over. "However, this is all volunteer… you don't have to do anything. You don't even have to stay in the D.A. if you don't want too." Hermione held out her hands to her side, gesturing to the group and the room in general. "Exercise will help not only your body but your mind and magic as well," Hermione paused for a second, then said softly, "We are at a disadvantage, we need all the help we can get." She glanced at Harry, before turning serious again, "You all saw how much harder it was to hit a moving target. The better shape you're in, the faster you can move and the longer you can keep moving!"
"And the more your boyfriend will appreciate your body!" Yelled George. Fred appeared thoughtful as he nodded his agreement next to his brother.
Hermione colored a bit, "Yes, well there's that too I suppose."
"That works both ways you know," shouted a smirking Ginny, "so shut it you wankers.
"Well that's just great; thank you, Ginny, for pointing that out," Neville said dishearteningly. Then after a quick side glance to Luna, he added unenthusiastically, "Guess I'll be getting up a bit earlier from now on." Neville could only smile back at her as she laughed.
"Harry, think you guys could throw in a little of that karate stuff?" Asked Seamus.
Harry laughed, "We'll see how things go, but yeah maybe."
"Well guys, that's it for today." Hermione said, then as people started to leave she called after them, "Keep your coins handy and watch for the next meeting."
With the room now empty, Hermione asked, "Well, what do you think Harry, is this going to work?"
Harry nodded, "Yeah, I think so." Then after taking Hermione in his arms, he added, "What am I saying, it was your idea… of course it going to work."
Hermione smiled up at Harry and gave him a quick peck on the lips, and whispered as her smile turned saucy, "You know, we don't have to be anywhere for at least a couple of hours."
"Is that so?" Harry said as he pulled her in for a longer kiss, settling them down on a couch that just appeared.
~oOoOo~
Only thirty minutes later, a soft pop interrupted what was quickly turning into a very steamy snogging session.
Dobby stood wringing his hands with a worried look on his face. When Harry finally turned to look at him, Dobby spoke, "Harry Potter sir, Dobby is most sorry to be bothering yous and yous too, Miss Grangy."
Harry sat up smiling apologetically to Hermione, "Well, we were probably starting to get a little carried away anyway."
Hermione just shrugged her shoulders, as far as she was concerned, things were just starting to get good.
Shifting his attention back to his smallest friend, Harry asked, "What's up, Dobby?"
"Madam Pomfrey ask Dobby to find Miss Grangy, said to tell yous that she would like you to come to the infirmary if yous is not in class."
Now Hermione sat up, "Is someone hurt, Dobby," she asked quickly.
"Dobby not know, Miss."
Now Dobby looked even more worried, not knowing the answer.
Hermione put his mind to rest. "That's okay, Dobby, and thank you for coming to get me. Would you please return and tell Madam Pomfrey I'll be right there?"
Dobby finally smiled, "Of course, Miss, right away." And a half second later popped away.
As Hermione started for the door, Harry jumped up and followed after her. Without stopping she glanced over her shoulder and gave Harry a questioning look.
Harry smiled, "Thought I'd tag along, maybe see you do some healing stuff… on someone other than me for a change," he finished with a chuckle.
~oOoOo~
"Ah, Miss Granger, thanks for coming so quickly. And, Mr. Potter, nice to see you walking in here under your own power." Pomfrey quirked.
Harry smiled, "Yes, ma'am, much better this way." With all the times, especially lately, he'd spent under her administrations, Harry knew that under her stern disposition lay not only a dedicated healer but a very caring individual as well.
"Miss Granger, remember our last lesson on skeletal examination and diagnostics?" Pomfrey asked, returning to business.
"Yes, ma'am," Hermione answered simply.
Gesturing to a screened off bed, Pomfrey said, "Miss Bell broke her arm earlier during Quidditch practice and had kindly consented to allowing you, Miss Granger, to practice healing her… under my close supervision of course."
Harry followed along as they started towards the bed. Pomfrey stopped and turned back to Harry, "Mr. Potter?" Clearly wanting to know why he was tagging along.
Harry pulled up short under her sharp eye. While Hermione looked amused, the school's healer did not. He momentarily considered just bidding them both a good day and taking his leave. He knew that she took the care and privacy of her charge very seriously and that she was pushing the limits here by helping Hermione. Harry also knew, that one of the reasons both Hermione and Pomfrey were doing all this was to help him should he ever need it. However, Harry realized all too painfully, that it could very easily be Hermione that needed him.
Harry tone turned serious. "Madam, first, thank you for all that you are doing to help Hermione. I know I'll never learn as much as her, but considering what may lay ahead," Harry said as he glanced at Hermione, "I'd be stupid not to at least learn a little of this myself."
Madam Pomfrey closed her eyes and pinched the bridge of her nose. Teaching Hermione was one thing, adding Harry would need some thought. "Mr. Potter, as I told Miss Granger not all that long ago, healing requires a very dedicated individual. Considering all that you…"
"Madam," Harry interrupted, "I don't want to be a healer, I just want to learn some basics like maybe, first aid, until you know… help can arrive."
"I understand, Mr. Potter, but sometimes a little knowledge is more dangerous than none."
"Then teach me my limitations as well," Harry pleaded.
Pomfrey eyed Harry for another moment, then relented, "Very well, Mr. Potter, you may observe Miss Granger as long as Miss Bell has no objections. As to future lessons, I'll have to give that some more thought."
Thirty minutes later, Harry, Hermione, and Katie left the infirmary. Hermione had correctly diagnosed the break as being clean and simple, and Pomfrey had allowed her to use a bone knitting charm to heal it. Both Harry and Katie had been impressed with her skill.
Katie flexed her arm, "Not bad, Hermione. I'll admit, I was a tad nervous at first."
Hermione laughed, "So was I, but anyway thanks, it really helps to practice on a real patient."
Harry nodded his thanks too, "Yeah, and thanks for letting me watch."
Katie shrugged, "As long as you're learning something, I don't mind… and so long as no clothes have to come off," she added with a smirk.
Harry turned to her with a serious look, "Why, Miss Bell, you would deprive me of a learning experience?"
Katie stopped and pointed to Hermione, "I'll just let Hermione teach you all those lessons."
Harry laughed, "Yeah, I like that idea better anyway."
Hermione smiled but didn't say anything. The only indication she had been paying attention being the slight blush she wore. Then hoping to turn the conversation to something less personal, she asked, "Harry, what exactly do you hope to learn?"
Harry thought for a moment before answering, then ventured, "Oh, I don't know, maybe how to heal simple cuts and broken bones. Or maybe just something to ease the pain until help arrives, you know?" Harry looked at Hermione, "Obviously nothing complicated… like healing a nasty curse or anything like that."
Hermione nodded, she could see his point, "Yeah…"
~oOoOo~
Voldemort set the note down on his desk as he considered its contents. It was the latest report about what was happening inside Hogwarts. It had said that Dumbledore seemed to be away from the school more than usual, and that his primary plan was only a little behind schedule, but otherwise was progressing as expected. It was, however, the last part that gave him pause.
Voldemort got up and started pacing, "And now I hear rumors of the boy dating the mudblood," he said to no one, "and that they are trying to form some kind of army." Voldemort laughed at that. 'If Dumbledore's pathetic little 'Order' is no match for me, then anything Potter could come up with would be nothing more than a mild nuisance,' he thought.
Taking out loud again he continued, "However," Voldemort stopped pacing and closed his eyes for a moment as he remembered the wording from the prophecy; "The power he knows not…" A minute later, he slowly opened his eyes and nodded, "Yes… a serious relationship with the girl … that could be a problem," he further mused.
Voldemort had been told that even though she was a mudblood, she was quite intelligent and capable for her age. He smiled, knowing your enemy was one of the reasons he had risen to power so fast, and Voldemort had spies everywhere feeding him that information.
"Yes… she would make a good lieutenant for Potter," he said to himself, "and if he develops feelings for her…" Voldemort knew that strong emotions played a part in the ability of a wizard to cast powerful spells or even to cast them at all, the Cruciatus being a good example. And even if Potter didn't feel that way about her, she could still be of use in other ways. Several different blood rituals to boost power came to mind. No matter what, if any part she played in helping him, Voldemort didn't consider him to be a direct threat. But that didn't mean he, or they, couldn't cause a lot of other problems for him though.
Voldemort sat back down and continued to review his plans. Getting to Potter, especially while he was at school was problematic at best. "But the girl…" Voldemort said, as his thin, pale lips curled up into a leer. The more he thought about it, the more he was convinced it was a better idea. It would strike even harder at Potter. 'Yes,' he thought, 'the plan could still be modified and the original used as a backup.' Voldemort laughed, the plan was getting better all the time.
"That old fool of a headmaster won't consider her of any real value," Voldemort laughed, as he continued talking to his favorite audience; himself, "Dumbledore will underestimate her importance. When my plans are realized, not only will Potter lose his lieutenant, but possibly that; which like so many others fall victim to… the love of another." Voldemort spat, "Love…" One had to be a fool to put any faith in that particular emotion, it always depended on another, and that other would always let you down. No… he, Lord Voldemort, preferred much more reliable emotions like hate, and anger. As far as he was concerned, they were far more powerful anyway. Voldemort then started work on a contingency plan, in case the first and its backup failed, he wasn't stupid enough to put all faith in a single idea, even one of his own.
~oOoOo~
The following Saturday while out for their run, Hermione stopped them on the far side of the lake. She'd been waiting for a time like this when they were completely alone and now seemed as good as it was going to get for a while. "Harry, let's take a break here for a few minutes, there's something I want to try."
Harry motioned to a rock a couple of feet away where they could sit and said with a raised brow, "Okaaay." All the while wondering what was up.
Hermione smiled, she knew that look, but it would have to wait. "Harry, can I see your wand?"
Harry other brow join the first in disappearing into his hair as he managed a choked, "What?
Hermione pointed to his wand that was currently sitting securely in his wand holster on his forearm. With a tiny smile, she shook her head and mumbled, "Boys…"
Mildly surprised and maybe a bit disappointed, Harry handed her his wand, "Oh, sure."
After taking his wand, Hermione looked around until she spotted what she was looking for. Using Harry wand, Hermione levitated a large rock off the ground for a few seconds before letting fall. Hermione glanced at the wand for a second as if studying it, then returned her focus back to the rock. Raising the wand again, she called out, "Reducto." The effect was impressive, she'd blown the rock to pieces.
Harry was surprised, but before he could ask any questions, Hermione handed him her wand. "Give it a go, Harry."
It felt strange holding someone else's wand, yet at the same time… it somehow felt familiar. After a brief search, Harry found another large rock and performed the same two spells on it that Hermione had done. The results were also the same. Harry stood looking down at the wand in his hand as if to make sure it wasn't really his, while at the same time wondering how it could work so well for him. "Hermione, how did you know, and… and more importantly, how can this be?"
"Remember at the end of the fourth task last year, when Hagrid picked us up in his boat." After a nod from Harry, Hermione went on, "I used your wand to dry us, remember? That's when I noticed how natural your wand felt to me and I've been meaning to test out a theory for a while now."
"Okay, so what do think is going on?" Harry asked.
"Well, I've only had a little free time to read about it, but what I do know, is that it's very rare," Hermione started, "However, now that I know they work for both of us, I'll look into it some more. If our wands are truly interchangeable, between us anyway, that could be a huge advantage someday."
"Yeah," Harry said nodding his head, "I can see that. One of us could be hurt, and the other without a wand… or something."
Hermione beamed, glad that Harry saw the advantage too, "Exactly."
~oOoOo~
Dolores was not happy. She was going to have to start over, almost from scratch. A change in plans he had said. "More work for me was what it really meant," Dolores grumbled. Sometimes she wished, she could just settle for a simpler life. The only bright spot in the changes was the fact that it meant the little brat Potter and his intolerable mudblood would suffer. That, plus it was Friday, the week was almost over and she wouldn't have to put up with any more ungrateful or impudent children. 'Merlin, I hate children,' she thought with a frown.
Dolores thoughts returned to her new task. She was already behind, and with the new workload, she'd really have to hurry things along. 'Maybe I can figure out a few shortcuts,' she thought. As she walked she was so caught up in her own little world, she didn't notice the large the group of students as they approached from the other direction until they started to pass by. Besides their number, she found it odd that it was a mixed group from three different houses. They all seemed terribly excited about something, although they curbed that enthusiasm as they came nearer.
With her curiosity piqued, Dolores stopped and watched closely as the group walked past. She tried to listen to their comments, but they were now speaking in hushed whispers. She managed to catch what sounded like someone talking about a better shield charm.
Were they talking about defense against the dark arts, she wondered. She had overheard part a conversation that had sounded like a rumor, hearsay really, about some students getting together to practice defense, but at the time thought nothing more of. She had considered it just some imaginative gossip. After all, children had such vivid imaginations, it was a miracle they tell fantasy from reality.
As they continued by, she noticed one had a slight limp. "Excuse me, young man, but are you hurt?" She asked with concern while pointing to his leg. When the group stopped as a whole, Dolores raised a brow, but before she could ask why everyone thought it their business, the boy in question answered.
"Oh this," he said, looking down at his leg for a second, "no, not at all. Bumped it on my desk leaving class earlier is all." He knew she wasn't actually worried about him and that she was just fishing for information.
"I see. Well, you should be more careful," Dolores stated, not really believing him. Then looking up, she eyed the rest of the students and smirked. They were afraid of her, 'As they should be,' she thought. "Well, don't just stand around blocking the halls, off with you. And straighten those uniforms… quietly."
Dolores watched them till they rounded the corner, then slowly resumed her own walk. As she turned and headed down the corridor that led to her personal chambers, Dolores couldn't help but think maybe she had dismissed that earlier rumor too easily. Maybe there was some truth in it after all. She'd keep an eye out, because this would definitely be something the Minister would want to know about.
~oOoOo~
The middle of the month came and went, Halloween was just two weeks away. Coming in from their morning run, Harry and Hermione along with Luna and a sweaty looking Neville were met by Daphne Greengrass just inside the door that led back to the lake.
"Mr. Potter, Miss Granger, I was hoping I could have a word with you both… in private," the last part said with a nervous glance towards Neville and Luna.
One look at Hermione, and Harry could tell she didn't have any ideas about what she might want either. Daphne was alone and she didn't appear to be looking for a fight, so turning to Luna and Neville, he said, "Do you mind guys, we'll catch up with you later."
"Sure, Harry, see you at breakfast." Neville gave Daphne a long look before ticking his head down the hall, silently asking Luna to follow.
Daphne's brow inched up a bit at the protectiveness of his friends. Something she desperately wished she had. Motioning forward, towards an unused classroom, she asked, "Do you mind if we speak in there?" After a nod from Harry, she nervously glanced up and down the hall before leading them inside. Once inside she turned around and both brows shot up, surprise clearly written on her face. Both Harry and Hermione had their wands out. Harry's was focused on her as if she might suddenly change into a dragon or something, while Hermione cautiously moved around the room scanning it for danger. Finding her voice she said, "Not very trusting?" It was part question, part statement.
"Would you be?" Hermione asked, not bothering to look at her as she continued examining the room.
"No…" Daphne said sadly, "I guess not."
Harry considered himself pretty good at reading people. Daphne's tone and her body language all seemed to say she was scared. Slipping his wand back into its holster, he added in a softer tone, "Trying times, Miss Greengrass, as I'm sure you know… and I've been played for a fool more than once, something I hope not to repeat."
Hermione, who was standing a ways back as if expecting a trap, asked, "You wanted to talk?"
Daphne smiled, these two would have made great Slytherins. "There has been some whispered conversations in my common room about… a club. A club run by you two."
"Harry and I are involved in many things," Hermione said simply.
Daphne nodded, "They say, that you two are teaching others how to defend themselves, how to fight… how to really fight. And they say, you are doing a brilliant job of it."
"Why do you ask?" Again Hermione spoke in a flat tone, giving nothing away.
Daphne studied the two for a second. Hermione had been doing all the talking, leaving Harry to observe. It was cleaver and, the smart thing to do. Since the Triwizard Tournament last year, Daphne had been paying attention to these two; even more so lately. They weren't your normal Hogwarts students. They weren't normal Gryffindors either. Somehow, they were… more. At this point she knew it would be impossible to fool them with some lame excuse, so she decided to just be honest with them. "I want to join."
Harry finally spoke up, "That would be difficult."
"Because I'm Slytherin," Daphne said hotly, "I guess your club is not as open-minded as I thought."
Harry smiled, "I meant… difficult for you. I can't imagine that going over very well back in your common room."
Daphne suddenly felt stupid. She had been defensive and expecting rejection, and had lashed out without thinking. "Sorry, and you're right, it will be, but I'll find a way to deal with it."
Hermione moved over and sat on the edge of one of the desks, "Why put yourself through that, do you really need to learn defense that badly?"
Daphne took a long deep breath and then looked Hermione straight in the eye as she answered. "We all know he's back and there's a war coming. In the last one, my family stayed neutral, but I don't think that'll be possible this time. And to be honest, I'm not sure I want that anyway. Neutrality sounds a lot like cowardice to me." After a quick glance at Harry, she turned back to Hermione and went on, "I have a little sister…"
Hermione nodded, "Astoria."
"Yes," Daphne said with a short-lived smile before continuing. "I have heard of the horrors that, He-Who-Must-Not-Be-Named, and his followers have done. It's not just Muggle-borns and blood traitors he likes to torment. He'll remember my family from the last war. I don't want to think about what he'll do to us… to my little sister."
"There's an oath," Hermione said earnestly.
Daphne smiled, "I should have known. How serious is it?"
"How serious are you?" Harry asked.
"Very…"
"Well then, no problem," Harry said with a smile.
"I assume you would like to keep your training a secret, at least as long as possible?" Hermione asked, getting down to business.
"Yes, that would be ideal."
"And what about Astoria, do you want her involved as well?" Harry wanted to know.
Daphne nodded yes, "If it is possible yes."
Hermione stood up, "Okay, let us work on this. I'll get back to you personally as soon as possible."
Daphne stood also and started for the door, then stopped and turned around, "Thank you," she said softly, as a single tear of relief rolled down her cheek.