Harry Potter - Series Fan Fiction ❯ Harry Potter and the Dark Messanger ❯ Fire's Return, Yule Joy ( Chapter 6 )

Chapter 6 Fire's Return, Yule Joy

 

 

Unfortunately for Harry they had not been alone with school, Quidditch, Prefect duties, running, and basic teenage troubles for him to see her surprise. Monica did seem happier but wasn't acting like she use to even when Harry and the other Gryffindors had said happy birthday to her, some giving her gifts. The Slytherin Quidditch team had stomped on Hufflepuff gaining enough points to get them out of negative points though still in last. Harry would have a break as his next match wouldn't be until February against Hufflepuff also. The Twins had cut back on practice with it getting colder and the confidence that it was Hufflepuff what was the point of training? This caused some animosity between the two houses but never was as bad as Slytherin vs Gryffindor.

 

“You really shouldn't take them lightly they are a team so they must be the best from that house.” Monica commented, no one else listened.

 

“But its Hufflepuff, you don't understand since you haven't been here the past few decades.” The Gryffindor table laughed at the joke. It was getting colder every day and finally stared to snow. The blizzard arrived with force making it impossible to get to Hagrid's cabin for Care of Magical Creatures. Peeves was starting to become annoying making even the teachers angry with some of his pranks. Filch spent most of his time chasing Peeves around the castle. One day Peeves thought it would be funny to upset Moaning Myrtle and flood the bathroom. Another day he found it hilarious to open up all the windows letting the snow blow in. On Friday he did something that would change Devin forever, or the way people saw him and felt about him. Peeves kept denying it was him who let the Boggarts in which no one believed after all the things he had been doing.

 

Having let loose several Boggart the teachers were busy chasing them down and had canceled classes for the day. Walking around helping the teachers as a Prefect Harry was too busy to be with Hermione still not having the chance to be alone. It was getting closer to lunch and students were showing up in the Great Hall ready to eat so they could go back and play more exploding snap or chess or other activities. Harry was hungry also having walked all morning with no Boggart troubles. He got to the Great Hall hearing screams coming out of it. Running now he saw what looked like a dragon, no a spider, no now a large blue bird thing. It was a Boggart scaring everyone already there who were blocking Harry's way. He tried to get closer but the bodies of students were a wall he couldn't get through. He was almost ready to start stunning students when he heard dark laughter. “Oh a Boggart are you? Let's see how you deal with someone who has no fear.” Harry got up on a table and saw Devin walking towards what now looked like a giant slug. Devin got closer without his wand when the Boggart/Giant Slug changed into a small goblin looking thing. Devin picked it up and with one hand and broke its neck with a small pop pushing the head with his thumb to make sure it was dead. He tossed it into a near by garbage can and walked away. No one else was speaking, many holding their breaths.

 

Harry went from table to table running in between plates and food jumping off the last one and raced after Devin. Catching up he saw Devin was still laughing darkly, almost like Voldemort had last year scaring Harry. “Devin are you alright? What was that? It looked like a small goblin thingy.” Devin turned around.

 

“It was a Boggart Harry, didn't you know Peeves let some of them loose in Hogwarts?” He continued to laugh making Harry shiver.

 

“I know that but what did it turn into?” Devin stopped laughing looking at Harry.

 

“A Boggart, are you not listening Harry? It was a Boggart. Little things are weak when someone with no fear confronts them.” Harry realized what Devin was talking about.

 

“You mean since you don't fear anything, or don't let your emotions out, it couldn't change. That was what a Boggart looked like? Why did you kill it though? You didn't have to Devin.” Harry was concerned about this as Devin had just coldly, colder then the air outside, killed a living thing.

 

“I know I didn't but I did anyways. Damn things scare people, about the only thing worse then them are Dementors. Manipulating feelings people have, evil…” Devin turned around and walked away leaving Harry with some questions for Hermione and Monica, maybe Dumbledore if he had to.

 

 

 

Several days later he talked to Hermione about what Devin had done getting no answers. He finally went and followed Monica after a class watching her duck into an empty classroom. Following behind he saw Monica talking to Lavender, closely, almost right into her ear. Lavender was laughing when she saw Harry and pushed Monica away. “What are you doing Harry?” Her face was panic stricken as she ran out of the room. “Well Harry, what are you doing?” Monica had her hands on her hips.

 

“I wanted to talk to you about Devin. He did something that really scared me. Peeves let lose some Boggarts and one was in front of Devin…”

 

“And he killed it didn't he? He hates those damn things. He hates them because they scare people, emotions as you know Harry are what he fears most.” Harry understood what she meant, Devin was afraid of losing control and killing someone so a creature that scares someone would be evil to him.

 

“He also mentioned Dementors, I fear them to, its what a Boggart turns into if I get near one. But what do they do to him? The Boggart did nothing.” Monica smiled almost laughing making Harry uncomfortable.

 

“They don't do anything to him, hell, the one we saw didn't even know he was there. Bad for him though since Devin had learned a spell to get rid of them.”

 

“Expecto Patronus?”

 

“No Harry, those require happy moments to fill you which is something Devin can't let happen. What he did didn't scare them away it killed them.” Harry had no idea what kind of spell it would take to kill a Dementor but knew it couldn't be easy, or good. Thanking her for the talk he left her in the empty room wondering what her and Lavender had been talking about before he interrupted them with his questions.

 

It was November 13th, a Friday, but unlike the muggle world the wizards and witches made no note of it. Knowing Devin wasn't some cold blooded killer, just someone who feared a Boggart as much as he hated them made Harry feel better about Devin. Devin was his only real male friend after what happened with Ron, he had to forgive him or he would be stuck with someone like Neville. Neville wasn't bad but just wasn't someone he could consider a true best friend, not like Ron was or Devin was becoming to him.

 

Harry was having fun now knowing he could bring a friend to the Prefect bathroom and decided to take Devin there twice to try and become better friends. He was lucky no one interrupted him for he did feel out of place naked with Devin who was enjoying the bath while Harry showered after a morning run. Hermione had told him she had taken Monica with her almost every morning after running trying to find out why Monica still seemed different. Dressing and leaving for the Great Hall to eat breakfast Harry and Devin met up with Monica and Hermione. “Hey Devin, did you enjoy the Prefect bath? If the boys are anything like the girls it must have been cool.” Monica hugged her brother trying to sound happy. Hermione whispered to Harry.

 

“She told me that if I asked her one more time what was wrong she would do something. I don't know what Necronism is but it can't be good.” Grabbing his hand she walked with him ready to eat after running. When the four got near the table they saw a bundle of red hair not belonging to The Twins.

 

“Ginny!” Monica left the group and ran into Ginny's arms hugging her, jumping up and down like she had with Harry after she won the Keeper spot on the Quidditch team.

 

“So that's what it was, Monica missed her friend.” Harry commented to Hermione, thinking of how he missed Ron. After greeting the rest they sat down waiting to eat. Dumbledore got up clapping his hands to close the doors to the Great Hall.

 

“As some know another student has returned! We are glad to welcome back Virginia Weasly, or as you probably know her Ginny. She is back to full health and ready to study hard I'm sure.” The students clapped at the return of Ginny, like always Slytherin did not participate whatever everyone else was celebrating. “Now if you like let's eat so we have the energy for classes.” People did eat even if it was to get energy for classes. Harry wondered why Cho hadn't had the same announcement and decided to ask her when he got the chance. Looking over at Ginny he saw her smiling between eating and talking sometimes when she was eating. Harry wrote a note and quickly passed it to Hermione.

 

Wait after breakfast; we need to get her alone to ask her if she is alright, and to find out if she will do something again.

 

Hermione tucked the note away and nodded so Harry could see that she understood. Breakfast was over soon after and students started to leave. Hermione grabbed Ginny's robe and held her back. “Stay here Ginny, you know why.” She did as she was told waiting for everyone else to leave. Finally the last person, Professor Sprout, left leaving Ginny alone with Harry and Hermione. “Sorry about that Ginny it's just we want to talk to you.” Hermione let Ginny sit down.

 

“I'm sorry, both of you, I can't believe I let that happen.” She started to cry holding her head in her hands.

 

“We forgive you Ginny, right Harry?” He nodded.

 

“You were under the Imperius Curse nothing you did was your fault.” Hermione put her arm around Ginny trying to comfort her.

 

“Not the first time and I could have fought it off but I wanted you dead, both of you. I'm sorry I was so weak and hateful, you wouldn't have hurt Ron if there was another way.” Harry sat on the other side wrapping his arm around with Hermione.

 

“You are right Ginny, we wouldn't have...” He thought about the Pensieve and how Hermione had wanted him to see it, see Ron. “Ginny I think Hermione has something to show you when you want to.” Hermione agreed and went to go get the Pensieve from Dumbledore.

 

“I'm so sorry I hurt her Harry, she was screaming in her sleep, I put that spell on her to make her suffer. Wait, I didn't do it, he did.” Harry raised an eyebrow.

 

“He? So you know who did it?” Ginny shook her head.

 

“No I'm assuming it was a man, I don't think a woman could be so evil.” Harry held her as they waited for Hermione. Ginny was starting to feel better, her eyes drying up when Hermione returned with the Pensieve but no Dumbledore.

 

“He didn't want to see it again.” Hermione said before Harry could ask. “Ginny do you have your wand?” Ginny took it out. “Ok put your wand to your head then motion it towards the Pensieve.” Ginny did this with no hesitation. Waiting for Ginny's return from the Pensieve Harry started to wonder if it was a good idea.

 

“Honey, do you really think we should show her what Ron did? I threw up watching it horrified by what he did.” Hermione patted his arm.

 

“It's ok she needs to see why we attacked him, and that it wasn't really him, like you noticed.” Harry shook his head still feeling uneasy about what Ginny was seeing her brother do.

 

“Alright but do we have to make her watch the whole thing?” Hermione nodded. “Ok but be ready to deal with her, I was a mess.” They waited for the memory to end, for Ginny to return. Close to 20 minutes later Ginny came back out crying with a mess on her robes having done what Harry had done. Hermione used her wand and cleaned up the mess while Ginny kept crying. “Please be ok Ginny, it was disgusting but you saw his eyes right? It wasn't Ron, not really. We don't blame him for that, or you for attacking us, we love you two.” Harry let Ginny cry into his chest feeling the tears make his shirt wet quickly with some snot as her nose ran. “It's ok Ginny; if you want we could write a note to Dumbledore excusing you from class. You need to rest after seeing that, I did.” Harry looked at Hermione as she ran off with the Pensieve and to get the note from Dumbledore. “It's going to be ok, shhh.” He tried to comfort Ginny, thinking about how McGonagall had talked to him when he had gotten back.

 

 

 

Things were going back to normal at Hogwarts, classes to be taken, Quidditch practice to do, Prefect meetings to attend, Harry had forgotten about Hermione's surprise. It was the last day of November when during dinner Dumbledore got up to speak again. “Well well well, we are entering the last month of this year as you all know. Last year meant a Yule Ball for 4th year students and up. While that had gone smoothly it was held for the Triwizard Tournament and not for the students. So I thought if you like we could have a Yule Ball this year for the 3rd year students and up. Now so the 1st and 2nd year students are not left out I thought a party could be held in each of their Common Rooms so everyone could have a good time.” People started to applaud at the idea and some already had dates in mind while others had plans to make. “It will be held on the 20th and I ask you all not to let this distract you from your classes but have fun when it gets here!” Less applause then last time as people began to eat with thoughts and ideas running in their head.

 

That night he went to bed rather late working on the Potions essay the same night he was told to do it instead of waiting till the last moment. Hermione gave him a kiss for it before finishing hers and going to bed. Harry lay in bed thinking about Hermione, the Yule Ball, how nice it would be to get that close again. Expecting dreams of Hermione Harry nearly woke when he saw the smaller version of him from behind that turned into a girl when it turned around. “Who are you? Why do you have my Mother's eyes?” Harry reached out but like all of the other dreams he couldn't reach her. “Who are you and why do you have my Mother's eyes…” The dream faded as no others came for the rest of the night.

 

The next morning Harry was in the Prefect bathroom bringing Devin who seemed more relaxed after every time. Harry had seen Devin meditate in the Common Room and was getting curious at what some of the humming Devin was doing was about. “It's a muggle song, relaxes me, as does this warm water. I try always to be relaxed since it doesn't require emotions.” Harry nodded and went back to his shower listening to Devin. The door opened and Harry quickly grabbed a towel.

 

“What the hell is this? You aren't a Prefect how did you get in here?!” It was Michael, the Head Boy.

 

“He is with me, I thought he could use the bath to help relax. He needs it since he is uh, well, do you know?” Michael looked cross at Harry.

 

“You aren't suppose to give the password out Harry, this is a Prefect bathroom not a common one. What were you thinking?” Harry smiled remembering what Hermione told him.

 

“It says in the rules that I can't give the password out, it doesn't say anything about not letting friends in.” Michael wasn't pleased at Harry's response.

 

“How do you know that Harry?” Harry blushed this time telling the truth.

 

“Hermione told me...”

 

“So she's been letting a friend into the girl's Prefect bathroom? Well, as you said it doesn't say anything about not letting friends in. But what did you mean did I know? Know what?” Devin coughed to get their attention.

 

“He means I am a freak of nature who could wipe this school off the planet if I feel too much so if I am able to relax it will give Hogwarts a better chance of surviving.” Michael raised an eyebrow.

 

“Wait, like at the Great Hall before Professor Krats put that special Shield Charm on you?” Both nodded. “Oh, well, it isn't against the rules, but do you mind if I shower?” Neither of them minded leaving Michael to shower in peace after dressing getting ready for class. Harry was surprised at how much attention Devin was getting. The Slytherin table considered him the “American Barbarian” but even the women from that table were eyeing him. Devin kept turning the girls and women down even after some very beautiful, in Harry's opinion, women from 6th and even one from 7th year had asked Devin to the Yule Ball. Monica had been getting even more attention and really surprised him when she turned everyone down, like her Brother had.

 

“Why have you turned everyone down Monica? I understand some like the 3rd year, but Neville isn't that bad, neither is Seamus. That 6th year Ravenclaw bloke didn't look to bad, strictly from a Quidditch player to Quidditch player in looks. He can play well and isn't dumb like Crabbe or Goyle.” She laughed hard making Harry sometimes wonder what was wrong with her. Ever since Ginny had come back she had been extra happy and goofy.

 

“I don't want to go with anyone Harry, just one person.” She raised her eyebrows and licked her lips looking at Harry.

 

“Sorry Monica but you know me and Hermione are going.”

 

“Says who? You didn't ask her, as far as I'm concerned your open game not that it's you I'm thinking of Mr. Big Head.” Harry heard this and realized that he hadn't asked Hermione, he had just assumed. “Better go ask her or someone else just might.” Harry had the thought in his head wondering how to ask her, when to ask her, he hadn't planned on this. He waited for Hermione to get to potions deciding to ask Hermione so it would be official. When she walked in Harry saw the necklace was out over her clothes and not under like normal.

 

“Uh Honey you want to put that away?” She looked down and put it back in its usual place. “Wait Honey.” Harry took her out into the hall. “I was wondering if you'd like to go to the Yule Ball together. Sorry it took me so long but I assumed we were. Monica told me since I hadn't actually asked you I was considered open and I decided to ask you now.” Hermione's face went blank then into anger.

 

“Why the hell was she asking you? She knows we are together, the whole school does, what the bloody hell is her problem?!” Harry shook her by her shoulders.

 

“She wasn't asking me I think it was her way to make me ask you so we would be officially going together.”

 

“Oh, who did she decide to go with?” Harry shrugged his shoulders.

 

“I don't know, everyone and then some have asked her and she turned them all down. Same with Devin but Monica isn't like him, she can show emotions. She did say she had someone in mind and looked like she would tear them apart if they didn't ask soon.” Hermione giggled.

 

“I think I know who Harry. Monica talks about things when we are in the Prefects bathroom, boys being one of them.” Harry smiled at the thought of the two in the bathroom together like the first time she told him about it. She smacked him on the top of the head just like last time laughing knowing he didn't really mean it, neither did she. “We better go back before bell rings.” They went back into the room seconds before the bell did.

 

Poor Neville, no one would say yes. Ginny told him no, Monica said no, Patil, Lavender, and almost every other 5th year and 4th year girl in the other houses said no. Except of course Slytherin which Neville didn't even attempt to ask. Malfoy was having fun at Neville's expense. “So what are you going to do? Ask your hand to the dance you wanker?” Neville cowered back from Malfoy making Malfoy grin even more. “So your hand turned you down to? How sad for a Gryffindor to be turned down by his own House Mates.” Harry was getting mad, he didn't really consider Neville a good friend but he was a House Mate.

 

“Malfoy stop now before I take points off.” Malfoy sneered and kept going after Neville when Pansy Parkinson came up to watch Malfoy. “Oh I see you two made up, guess that Mariah girl will be looking for a date now.” Pansy turned to Malfoy punching him hard in the back.

 

“You bastard! I though you said there was nothing between you two!” Slapping him in the face she stalked off.

 

“Well then, language, fighting, I say that should be about 20 points.” Harry insulted Malfoy in a way that to Harry didn't break his “I'm a Man” speech.

 

“What the hell are you talking about Potter!” Harry told him to go away before he took more points off. “Fine you mud blood lover.” Malfoy stalked off much the same way Pansy had leaving the other Slytherin's baffled.

 

“Ten points again for language.” Costing Slytherin 30 points in one morning made Harry feel even better then he already had. Monica was trying to deal with all the attention she was getting from the boys. Devin had a couple of times made people leave her alone but he couldn't always be around. Harry was doing his Prefect duty, or sneaking out to get some food from the House Elves, when he saw Monica being hassled by some older Slytherin.

 

“Come on babe we could show you a real good time afterwards. We might not like Gryffindor but we do like our women.” The leader of the group grabbed Monica's arm trying to make her look at him.

 

“Well I think that deserves 50 points off.” They turned around and glared at Harry.

 

“Go away Scar Head, we just want to have some fun and so does she.” Harry saw one start to grope Monica.

 

“That's a100 points and if you don't stop I will have to force you to stop.” The leader laughed. “Little 5th year punk thinks he can tell us what to do? Guess what little boy, you may be Dumbledore's pet but he isn't here right now is he?” He motioned to his two friends to hold on to Monica while he “dealt” with Harry.

 

“I think not Slytherin but you never know he does have his ways. Besides who needs him? You aren't even half the size of Voldemort and just last year I matched him in a duel. You should be no problem.” The Leader took a swing at Harry and missed as Harry dodged to the side and came up with a knee to the gut. “Well then that is 50 points.” Harry took his wand out and decided to see what one of the spells he had read about in his DADA book actually did. “Rikkil Motoyata!” Just like the book described a long silver rope came out of his wand hog tying the person it was put on. “Now let her go before I take more points off.” Harry was having fun with this, his Seeker agility, his running strength, and all he learned over the summer from reading had really paid off. The two boys left looked at the Leader not knowing what to do. “Come on you two, that is 10 points each, 10 more if you don't let go.” The one on the left pushed Monica into the other.

 

“Hold onto the bitch while I take care of this one.” He turned around taking his wand out. “Stupefy!” Harry rolled to the right coming up with his wand using another spell he had read in his DADA book.

 

“Dibol Pyris!” A fire ball came out hitting him in the chest. “Damn it should have thought about that one.” Harry noticed that the fire wasn't really burning his opponent who was currently on the floor rolling around like a maniac but had done what the book said it would do, make the person think they were on fire. Monica was shoved into the wall as the last of the Slytherin ran away leaving his friends behind. “Are you alright Monica? Want me to get Madam Pomfrey?” She stood up with the help of Harry.

 

“No I'm alright Harry. Thank you for saving me I would have hated hurting them seriously.” Harry couldn't hide the expression on his face. “Oh come on Harry if they had kept it up I would have probably sent them to St. Mungo's. I know quite a few spells that can be quite nasty.” She hugged Harry and kissed him quick on the cheek before leaving.

 

 

 

Peeves seemed to be acting up again as several creatures kept getting into Hogwarts. Peeves claimed his innocence every time but no one believed him except for Dumbledore. Harry wasn't all that sure himself since Dumbledore believed Peeves. “Honey do you think that we should ask The Twins about this? Peeves said he didn't do the last one, or the one before that, or even the Boggarts. Only ones I know who would think it is funny would be The Twins.”

 

“Maybe Harry, but the Goblin Minors, how did they get them? They aren't as dangerous as their bigger cousins but still, where did they get them?” Harry didn't know this and tried to think of who could.

 

“Snape? As much as I have tried to be nice to him this year I could see him doing it not trying to be funny.” Hermione shoved him.

 

“Oh come on the past four years everything was blamed on Snape by you and Ron.” She shut up when she said Ron not wanting to remember.

 

“Well that just means one of these times we will be right. He does have a Dark Mark and is a Death Eater. Maybe distracting us in school means something more.” Hermione was ready to throttle Harry.

 

“After all these years Harry I thought you would learn. He didn't let the troll loose, he didn't open the Chamber, he wasn't helping Voldemort, and Dumbledore trusts him.” Harry was about to give up waiting for another time to rant when the Owl Post arrived with really bad news.

 

On the cover read the headline Dementor Revolt, Prisoners flee, is Sirius Behind This? The Dementors and Death Eaters had fled Azkaban! “Oh no Harry they're blaming Sirius. Dumbledore said this might happen but the Ministry said the Dementors were loyal to the Ministry.” Reading the article more other students were shocked at the news and the gossip began. Harry was scared more for Hogwarts then himself, he could fight the Dementors, who else could?

 

“Honey I have a book on how to teach others offense and defense, the one I bought our first Hogsmeade trip. Maybe we should use it to teach some of the others since we are stuck with small creatures and how to fight them in DADA.” Which had started after the Boggart episode for Professor Krats had wanted to make sure the students knew what they were doing.

 

“Good idea Harry but who do we teach, and where?”

 

“The Gryffindor Common Room, and why not anyone who wants to learn? I think we should start off with the Expecto Patronus just in case the Dementors come here, or attack somewhere else during the Christmas break.” Hermione nodded writing a note and passed it to Ginny, who passed it to Monica, who passed it to the next student until it had gone all the way around. “What's that? What did it say?” Hermione showed him the note.

 

Anyone who wants to learn more about defending themselves sign here now. We will talk to you later after Dinner.

 

Monica

Devin

Ginny.....

 

The list contained 11 names from Gryffindor which made Harry realize that others might want to learn too and knew who they were. He walked over to Ravenclaw and asked Cho and Luna if they would like to join him and some other Gryffindors that night for some special lessons. “What is so special about them? And why are you only asking us girls?” Cho asked with a hint of eagerness.

 

“Nothing that you are thinking Cho.” Harry frowned at her and the thoughts she must have been having. “It's about the Dementors and all the other creatures out there. I want to teach those who I trust the spell to fight off Dementors which is why I am only asking you two for you are the only ones I know.” They agreed to meet him outside of the Common Room since they didn't know the password and Harry wasn't about to give it to them even if he did trust them. Walking back to the Gryffindor table Hermione did not look pleased. “What Honey? I just asked them if they would want to learn with the rest of us. I trust Luna and Cho and think even if they aren't in Gryffindor they need to know how to at least fight off those damn Dementors!” The last part said rather loud drawing attention to Harry as he sat down. “Sorry.” He muttered under his breath not really caring.

 

Harry was nervous now that he thought about it after dinner. He had read some of the basics in the book but now thought of what it would be like. He and Hermione waited for Cho and Luna while the others waited inside. Finally they showed up and covered their ears as Hermione gave the password to the Fat Lady. The ones who had signed the note were waiting, some eager and some not. Harry was glad to see Devin wanted to participate but Devin looked rather bored. “Well uh, now that the last two are here.” He motioned to Cho and Luna who sat next to Ginny. “We can begin. First let me tell you a few things that we will cover tonight.” The others listened as Harry spoke about simple spells like the disarming charm and the stunner charm. “But we will end it with the Expecto Patronus, a powerful advanced spell that will fight off Dementors. It requires a happy thought to power it. As we go through the other spells think about a happy thought, a very happy thought. The more you feel it the more powerful your Patronus will be. I used finding out I was a wizard for the first time to create a Patronus my third year. Now for some who were born wizards this isn't a big deal so find your own.” They began with “Expelliarmus”sending wands flying around the room and then students as a loud “Stupefy!” was heard by other students watching. After twenty minutes Harry decided it was time for the big spell. “Ok you know how to disarm and stun people. I know those are simple spells but last year I used the disarming spell on Voldemort,” gasps of both fear and disbelief filled the room. “And lived. So they are not useless in training. Now if you think you are ready step forward and try your best. I took several attempts to make my true Patronus, a stag, and don't expect anyone here to get it on a first or second or even a third try. Who wants to go first?” Harry wasn't doing to bad he thought, being a teacher was simple so far. Hermione stepped up first.

 

“Well since I am the Co-Founder of this little group I think I should go first. Expecto Patronus!” She yelled as nothing came out.

 

“It's ok Hermione you just need a happier thought.” Hermione stood there going over happy thoughts, looked at Harry and had one.

 

“Expecto Patronus!” A large silver mist came out and started to take form. Seeing it Hermione broke her concentration and it disappeared.

 

“Very good Honey, I mean Hermione, who's next?” Several giggles came from Harry calling Hermione “Honey” but Ginny stepped forth. After her fourth attempt she was making progress but wasn't as good as Hermione. More students tried but only one had matched Hermione, Cho. It was Devin's turn who was rather displeased.

 

“Harry I won't do this and you know why. Besides I know of a spell that kills those damn things and not just scare them away. I've had fun with you kiddies, if I was your teacher you would know spells that would make Voldemort shake in terror.” He turned around and walked into his dorm. The others after practicing some more gave up and went to bed also.

 

Harry was about to go to bed after saying goodnight to Hermione when Monica stopped him. “Harry, sorry about my Brother, he got upset over something he saw earlier and I guess he let it out on you.” She hugged Harry making him uncomfortable.

 

“It's ok Monica, please let me go.” Monica smiled and kissed him quick on the cheek going to her dorm room. Harry rubbed his cheek with the sleeve of his robe now feeling bad about what had happened. He didn't ask for it or expect it but she did kiss him. “Wonder what Devin saw, maybe Monica was with the guy Hermione mentioned.” Thinking of Monica with someone else allowed him to clear his mind of what had just happened. He sat in bed reading the book he bought and saw some interesting things he would teach later. Farther along in Basic Techniques he saw a section on Occlumency and meditation. “Devin might like this part, seems simple enough and makes one calm, clear headed. Hmm, see page 335 under Mind Reading for more.” Harry was to tired to do so and sat the book down clearing his mind, relaxing, letting his mind empty out like the book said to.

 

After two more “classes” that week Hermione, Cho, Ginny, and Monica had mastered the Patronus. Several other students had joined and were trying their best to catch up sometimes practicing between actual classes and nights when Harry and Hermione weren't teaching. It was on Saturday when Harry saw Professor Krats talking to Monica and went over to ask Professor Krats for help with his next “class”. “Harry Monica was telling me how good of a teacher you've been at night. Not satisfied with my teaching?” Her face looked hurt making Harry glad he was about to ask for help and had a chance to explain.

 

“No it's not that Professor Krats you teach very well, a lot better then I ever could. It's just we have been going over animals and creatures not actual spells. With the Dementors loose I thought it would be best to teach those who wanted to learn how to defend themselves. But now that I have for the most part I need ideas on what to teach next and where to do it. The Gryffindor Common Room is getting too crowded to teach.” Her face changed almost with a shine in her eyes.

 

“Well if that's how it is I could help in class tomorrow. How about I dump the Vampire History and we go to Dementors? That should help with it. For where to teach your next `class' I can't let you use my room since you aren't really suppose to be doing what you are doing. All you really need though is more room right? Why not go outside for it? I've seen you and your friends talk to the large oaf who teaches Magical Creatures I'm sure he would find a place for you.” Harry didn't like the tone of her voice when she mentioned Hagrid.

 

“It's Hagrid for your information, not oaf. He is my friend and I don't like it when people talk like that about him if you know what I mean.” Her response made him even more angry.

 

“What Harry? He is part giant you know. I know Dumbledore trusts him but I still remember when I was young several half breeds attacked my school since they weren't allowed to go.” She paused thinking. “If you are friends with him then he can't be all bad, I will talk to him if you'd like.” Harry nodded. “Alright then Harry I need to get back to my office I was just talking to Monica about her `Problem'.”

 

“It's not a problem!” Monica turned around and walked away throwing her hands up in surrender.

 

“Sorry that you had to see that she's been angry since her Brother told me about her and someone else.” Harry thought he knew what she meant.

 

“Well I'm sure whoever he is your daughter trusts him and so should you.” Harry walked away leaving a confused Professor Krats.

 

“Boy?”

 

 

Only a few days were left until the 20th and the Yule Ball. Neville still didn't have a date, Devin and Monica turned everyone down, and something was strange with Ginny making Hermione concerned. “Maybe she is under the Imperius Curse again, should we tell Dumbledore?”

 

“I don't think so, she is probably nervous about the Yule Ball coming up. Do you know who asked her?” Hermione shook her head.

 

“Besides Neville who asked everyone she doesn't seem to be going with anyone.” Luna was striding over looking lost with Ginny next to her. When they got to Harry and Hermione Ginny looked embarrassed.

 

“Do you know where Neville is?” Harry pointed towards the table. “Trust me Luna he isn't going with anyone, ask him!” Luna went over making Harry sick as she swayed about making him feel like he was on a boat.

 

“She doesn't have a date? Go figure. What about you Ginny?” She didn't answer. “Come on Ginny who are you going with?” Hermione tried to get Ginny to tell her.

 

“Leave me alone I'm not going.”

 

“Oh.” Both said at the answer. “I guess you can keep Devin and Monica company since they aren't going either. That way they won't be stuck dealing with all the little Gryffindors.” Luna came back as Neville smiled going back to his food.

 

“He said yes, thank you Ginny.” Luna hugged Ginny then wandered off with her usual lost look on her face.

 

The last days passed slower then normal days or so everyone thought. The Yule Ball for the teens and the party back in the Common Rooms for the younger students was looked forward to greatly. Snape even was getting into the mood by not assigning homework on the 19th. Harry was nervous the closer they got to the Yule Ball. He and Hermione were a known couple but only a few people had seen them hold hands, after she had gotten back and was welcomed with a kiss, and was nervous remembering the last Yule Ball. “Honey do you know how to dance?” Hermione nodded.

 

“Harry it isn't that hard if it's someone you want to dance with. If you want I can lead until you get the hang of it.”

 

“Ok Honey but you might lead all night since I don't think dancing is something I could get good at.” He kissed her on the forehead. She looked at him concerned about something.

 

“Harry.”

 

“Yes?”

 

“Where did you put that sack you got from Monica?”

 

“It's in my room. I read the Necronomicon a little but got bored when it started to sound like a History of magic class. Nothing bad has happened because of it. You remember when I got that FireBolt? You turned it in to Professor McGonagall even though there was nothing wrong with it.” She blushed a little.

 

“But this is different Harry, she said she got it from someone who was dead!”

 

“I know she did Honey but how likely is that? She is always talking to people who aren't there so for all you know she wanted to give me a present and didn't want to say it was from her.” Not thinking about what he said got him in trouble before and it did again.

 

“You are mine, you belong to me, if that bitch makes any moves on you in front of me I'll hurt her.” He tried to calm her down.

 

“It's nothing like that and you know it Honey. She is friends with you and me; she already has a boyfriend which apparently only Devin has seen.” It worked.

 

“Harry we need to go to bed, I need to be up so we can run and I can still have time to get ready.” She kissed him on the lips and went to her room.

 

After running Hermione took both Ginny and Monica to the Prefect bathroom. “Why aren't either of you going? I know you both were asked several times.” She was surprised to see that Ginny had done what Monica had taught her to do the first time she took Monica to the Prefect bathroom. “Now what's the point of doing that if you don't have a boyfriend? Not that Harry has seen it yet since we have been way to busy.” Two floors up Harry was showering with Devin back in a tub.

 

“So Devin I know why you aren't going to the Yule Ball but what are you going to do? I have some books if you want to read them.” Devin shook his head busy humming some tune. “Well at least you won't be alone, Ginny and Monica will be there. Why they said no to everyone I can't think of.” Harry heard a loud pop and then saw the tub overflow. “Devin stop that, what the hell happened?” Devin was boiling the water he was in as more flowed up over the tub.

 

“Sorry Harry I just don't want to talk about Gin...”

 

“Is that why you aren't going? She said no!?” Devin got out of the tub grabbing his clothes putting them on as he left without saying a word. Harry was starting to get worried as the day passed. He had his dress robes ready, had his hair medium length and slicked back, he even had Sirius send him dress shoes for the Yule Ball. He remembered how beautiful Hermione looked last year at the Yule Ball, how gorgeous she was when they went on their dates, and was hoping he wouldn't disappoint her. He had excuses over the summer with no good muggle clothes but he had no excuse not to look his best. He had bought some of the most expensive dress robes at the store and would be willing to pay more to make Hermione happy. He had brushed his teeth four times already and used mouth wash Neville had. He wanted to be perfect for Hermione, nothing else would do.

 

Hermione was starting to get worried as the day passed. She had her dress robes ready, her long hair bunched up into a fancy hair style Monica showed her in one of the muggle magazines. She wanted to look perfect for Harry and tried to look even better then last year at the Yule Ball when she went with Krum. She had no excuse not to be perfect for Harry as she had over the summer only having what her mother had handed down through the years. She had brushed her teeth to many times to count, had used breath mints Monica let her have, and was now trying to do something with her eyebrows. Monica helped pluck them following the instructions in another muggle magazine.

 

Other couples through out Hogwarts did the same preparation ceremony. The Common Rooms were already being set up with food and juice and even a Wizard Wireless Radio to play music for the ones to young to go to the Yule Ball. Only three people weren't caught up, except to help a friend, in all the excitement. Devin was already doing his meditation exercises in his room with the silver ball Harry had seen before. Monica helped Hermione prepare for Harry. Monica was glad for Hermione, she really seemed to love Harry. When they talked in the Prefect bathroom Hermione went on about how sweet Harry was, how he never tried to get her to do anything she didn't. Hermione blushed when talking about the time in the shower back at Harry's house. This was the first real friend Hermione had that was outside of the trio. Even better thought Hermione, Monica was like her, a girl.

 

 

 

In another part of the castle Ginny was helping a nervous Luna. “Luna you know he doesn't care how you look he is just glad a woman finally said yes. Well, wait, that didn't come out right.” Ginny was trying to get Luna to sit still and work on her hair.

 

“It's ok Ginny no one wanted Loony Lovegood but someone who was desperate. Harry probably would have asked if he wasn't with the Granger girl, only as a friend though. He is nice enough not to call me Loony unlike your brothers.” Luna was trying to read the magazine her dad makes, The Quibbler, not really caring about her looks. “Besides Ginny does it matter what I look like? I know I should be all giddy about this but I am really only doing this to show others I can be normal.” She was getting tired of being called “Loony Lovegood” and decided to be normal for an evening no matter how bad the Snorkacks got.

 

“It doesn't matter what they say you are a good friend Luna, why do you care what they say?”

 

“Because I am tired of all the shit they give me. You aren't in my Common Room; you don't have your things walk off when you need them. You aren't kept awake at night just so you feel like hell the next day. I want to stop that, I need it to stop.” Luna finally sat down to let Ginny fix her hair. “I know why this means so much to me Ginny, I was never embarrassed about me but now I have a chance to be normal. Before I never cared how others thought about me but then the Yule Ball was announced and no one asked me.” Ginny saw the frown on Luna's face.

 

“Well Neville would have asked but you were busy with something when he went to Ravenclaw table and asked everyone if any of them would like to go.”

 

“That's just it Ginny no one asked ME! Neville asked everyone because he had no choice, no one asked me because they had a choice.” Ginny was working on her hair trying to make her friend feel better.

 

“Why does this matter though? Who cares if they did or didn't ask you? You are pretty and smart and if they don't see that they are idiots. You said yourself Harry would have asked you if he wasn't with Hermione. He likes you because he knows you, I like you because I know you, Hermione likes you because she knows you, all the people who don't know you shouldn't make you mad or sad.”

 

“Easy for you Ginny, I saw the boys asking you, other Houses came over to ask you, they didn't know you so why did they ask you?” Ginny shrugged trying to be casual.

 

“Well Luna I don't know. My hips are to big my hair is always a mess…” Luna wasn't buying it.

 

“Stop that Ginny, you are perfect compared to me. No one calls you `Goofy Ginny' or `Weird Weasly'. Is it to much to ask to be looked at as a normal girl for once? Not to be Loony but normal? I did ask a couple guys but they laughed at me, I was going to give up but then you brought Neville over. Why are all the sweet men in Gryffindor? Harry, Neville, even Seamus is nice to me. There is that cute new guy in Gryffindor, Devin I think, I was going to ask him since he wasn't going with anyone but he would never say yes to me.” Ginny nearly laughed at this.

 

“Luna he isn't going because he doesn't want to. A lot of girls asked him and he said no to all of them. It would be nice for him if he went but he is so, unfriendly isn't the word, I don't know. He doesn't like people, I think that describes him. Except for his sister he seems closed off to the world. Harry has tried to make friends with him and even got him to go running in the morning, but that is about the only time I see Devin smile. He is cute though now that you mention it.” Ginny added some cream to Luna's hair to make it shine and keep it straight. Luna was trying to feel better about herself, she had always been happy being Luna, but when no one asked her she cried in her bed hating herself.

 

“Yes he is, why does he act like that though? You are friends with Monica has she told you about him?” Ginny nodded.

 

“He has a problem with his feelings. He has some abilities that make him vulnerable to hurting people. Monica said he wasn't that bad until his friend died. He blamed himself for it and his emotions took over. She said that was why their mother came over here, get away from his past. But he still isn't back to normal to her, almost as though his soul left him.” Ginny shuddered at the thought of Dementor victims being soulless.

 

“So his feelings make him lose control? Is that why he shuts everyone out so they can't get close to him? His friend died making him lose control so now he makes sure no one is his friend, how sad.” Ginny pulled hard on Luna's hair getting a tangle out of it.

 

“I guess. Monica talks to me a lot when she isn't with Hermione or out running. She is really nice, Hermione has taken her to the girls Prefect bathroom to try and make friends with her, last time they took me to.” Luna hit Ginny's leg when her hair was pulled to hard for comfort. She wanted to keep talking about Devin but everything she had heard so far made her feel worse for him and decided to change the subject.

 

“His sister is nice, she says `hi' to me when she sees me, and she doesn't call me Loony. I don't like how she looks at me though, makes me nervous, she doesn't look at me like a friend would. She is still a nice person though, why did she turn everyone down?” Ginny finished with Luna's hair.

 

“Can you keep a secret?” Luna nodded. “The reason she's not going is...” She whispered to make sure no one else could hear.

 

 

 

Harry went into his room trying not to disturb Devin who had been meditating for close to five hours now. He got the sack with the gold, the book, and the two rings. The last item was what he was after wanting to give one to Hermione and one for himself as a couple thing Monica told him about. Harry didn't know why but Monica was always dropping hints which Harry usually followed, like actually asking Hermione to the Yule Ball and not just assuming she was going with him. Security was extra tough with all of the other ghosts keeping an eye on Peeves as some parents showed up as chaperones. Some parents had even objected to it at first saying that with You-Know-Who back he might attack when everyone's guard was down. Not that they could say it anymore with Tonks, Remus, Mad Eye Moody, the Teachers, and several parents there to keep an eye out for any Death Eaters. Just to be safe Harry had his wand taped to the side of his leg in case anyone was dumb enough to attack Hogwarts when Dumbledore was there. Less than an hour until the Yule Ball, the electricity in the air, the mood filled the castle with energy.

 

Couples were meeting in the Common Room where Harry sat in a chair waiting for Hermione to come down from the girls' dormitory. Neville left to meet with Luna in front of the Ravenclaw Common Room entrance while others had already left with their dates. Harry was more nervous then ever becoming worse with every second. He had worried so much it made him worry he was worrying to much making him worry even more. There was only one cure for this vicious cycle and he had just seen it walking down the stairs. “Harry!” Hermione went a little quicker though not much still not use to high heels. Harry gazed at her legs wondering how hard it would be to dance in those shoes even if they made her legs look better then ever.

 

“Honey you look beautiful! Let me help you with that.” Harry reached his hand out to help her down the last few stairs since he couldn't actually enter the stairway due to the ban on boys in the girls' dorm room. Before Hermione knew what Harry had done she felt a weight on her finger.

 

“Harry you didn't buy me more jewelry did you?” She looked at the ring, large gold band with a strange looking stone that was changing colors before her eyes. Harry lifted his hand that had the other ring that was going from a pure red to half red and half blue. “Wow Harry when did you get these? When you bought my Pendant?” Harry shook his head.

 

“No they came from the pouch, since there were two I thought maybe we could wear one each, like a couple.” Monica told him what to say but he decided his own words would be better. “I love you Hermione, all the gold in the world, both Galleons and jewelry isn't enough to show how much I love you, please keep it.” Her ring was now like his, half red, half blue, she kissed it feeling the warmth come off it then kissed Harry.

 

“Ok Harry but no more gifts alright? I won't have any place to put more on if you keep doing this.” Harry held her hand thinking about the book that should come in on the 25th for her.

 

“Ok Honey, no more Jewelry.” Walking towards the Great Hall with others Harry was ready, all the nerves and fears had gone.

 

The Great Hall was as magnificent if not better then last year. The room seemed to be bigger to give room for the couples, chaperones, and tables full of food and drinks. Harry was dancing with Hermione looking around at the other couples smiling and dancing. Neville had given up on leading and let Luna guide him around the room, Dean and Seamus had the Patil Twins, and something Harry saw made him laugh. “What Harry? What's so funny?” Harry pointed to a Draco Malfoy sitting alone, no date, as Crabbe and Goyle were dancing with their dates.

 

“I see Malfoy must have made Pansy mad and the girl he was cheating on her with. He got what he deserved that Pig.” Hermione went back to Harry's chest feeling the warmth as he held her.

 

“This is perfect Harry, I love you, thank you.” Harry smiled to himself as he breathed in the scent of Hermione, her scent of roses and fruits in her hair, moving down to kiss her on the neck he could smell perfume.

 

“I did everything I could for you Hermione and still didn't do enough to deserve you.” He whispered in her ear as they started to move over to a table to get something to drink and sit after dancing for almost an hour.

 

Having a break from dancing Harry and Hermione relaxed watching the others commenting on different dresses and robes. “I wish Devin and Monica and Ginny were here, why they told everyone down doesn't make sense. Sure this is nice but look at Neville and Luna, they just got together because no one else would say yes and they are having a great time.” Hermione chuckled drawing attention from someone behind them. “Mr. Potter and the Mud Blood, how disgraceful you were given the honor of being Prefects.” Harry turned around and saw Lucius Malfoy.

 

“Better then your son who is here alone being treated like a leper.” Lucius Malfoy Sneered rubbing the pocket that held his wand.

 

“Be careful Mr. Potter or I may have an accident.” Harry wasn't going to let Lucius Malfoy intimidate him.

 

“What is that Lucius? Threatening a Prefect? A real big man aren't you attacking someone half your age who doesn't have his wand? I see your wife didn't show up, did she realize that she could do better like a slug or something less slimy then you?” Lucius grabbed his wand waiting for another chaperone to turn around before he struck.

 

“Dumbledore's pet is brave thinking he is safe when you are anything but safe.”

 

“What the hell are you doing?” Harry turned around seeing Devin dressed in as casual of clothes that Devin owned.

 

“Who are you boy?”

 

“Put your wand away or I will do to you what I did to your son.” Lucius laughed.

 

“Oh you mean you will attack me with my back turned?” Lucius started raising his wand.

 

“Stop!” Lucius Malfoy's wand snapped in half as Devin held his hand out. “Now go away before I go find your son and use him for target practice for my rage.” Devin smiled evilly, a hint of darkness in his words.

 

“Boy I have more to do then mess with some kids now if I can leave you be.” Lucius stalked off as fast as he could with people in his way knocking over some students. Harry turned to Devin.

 

“What are you doing here? I thought you were meditating for the night.” Devin's face went back to normal, the evil leaving it.

 

“I was when I was interrupted by Monica and her… I don't want to talk about it. I just had to get away before I hurt them.” Devin sat in the back farthest away from the dance floor letting Harry and Hermione go back to being a happy couple. The night was starting to slow down with couples going back to their Common Rooms for what everyone assumed would be a few hours of Snogging before taking the Hogwarts Express the next morning home. Harry and Hermione kept dancing swaying farther and more wild as the floor became empty of other students. “Harry if you don't mind could you stay out of the dorm room for the night?” Dean and Parvati were holding hands with a look in their eyes.

 

“I guess, did you tell Seamus and Neville and…” He almost said Ron but Ron wasn't here.

 

“Seamus is with Padma back in her Common Room and Neville said he wouldn't mind going back to Ravenclaw Common Room with Luna for awhile. Thanks bud.” Dean and Parvati ran off leaving Hermione and Harry alone.

 

“Want to go? We are the few left and I wouldn't mind getting back so we can sleep, it's almost one in the morning.” Hermione nodded and they went back to the Gryffindor Common Room slowly with Hermione still having trouble with the high heels.

 

The Common Room was a mess after the 1st year and 2nd year party added on by the others coming back from the Yule Ball. Hermione said she needed to change into something more comfortable. Harry wished he could change out of his dress robes but had told Dean he would stay out of the dorm room. Hermione came down in a long t shirt and pajama pants, like the ones she wore back at #4 Privet Drive. “You still look beautiful Honey.” She said nothing, her face was blank. “What's wrong Honey? What happened?” He hugged her hoping she was ok, feeling her arms and back looking for bumps or scratches.

 

“I saw what Devin saw.” She sat down on the couch pushing wrappers and cups off.

 

“What did he see? What did you see?” Hermione laid down.

 

“All the times I was alone with her, all the times we were together like that, I can't believe…” Hermione was mumbling as Harry lay down next to her.

 

“It's ok Honey I'm here.” He had no idea if she was ok but it seemed he should say it. “Go to sleep Honey it will be better tomorrow.” He still had no idea was just saying what he felt he should say as he wrapped his arms around her falling asleep. Harry heard screaming, a girl screaming, but not Hermione. He was back in the cave with the girl that had his dad's hair but his eyes. “Who are you? Tell me!” He didn't know how it happened but he was able to move closer something that had never happened before.

 

“Help me, stop him from hurting me; I don't want to be his heir.” The girl was crying when Harry sat next to her on the ground wrapping an arm around her. This was the first time he had been able to get close to her, to touch her.

 

“Who are you? Why do you look like me?” The girl looked up at him.

 

“Brother.”

 

Harry awoke suddenly knocking Hermione off the couch waking her up also. “What was that for Harry?” She pushed Harry in a foul mood not liking to be woken up before the sun was up.

 

“Sorry Hermione it's just this dream I had, sorry.” Hermione went back to the couch snuggling up against Harry.

 

“Was it a nightmare?” She felt Harry's chest move up and down, he was breathing hard.

 

“No Honey, I don't think it was. It was just a dream I've been having, this dream since Voldemort came back, and it only comes once or twice a week though. It's nothing go back to sleep.” Harry held her kissing the back of her neck letting her warmth comfort him as he fell asleep. Waking up again Harry had only Hermione in the Common Room. Everyone else was busy getting ready to leave on the Hogwarts express. Monica and Ginny avoided Hermione and Devin making Harry nervous trying to figure out why. Dean and Parvati came down from the dorm room holding hands, buttons on Parvati's sleep gown done wrong.

 

“Thanks Buddy for staying out. If you wanna change you can now. Should have let you get out of those dress robes before me and Parvati got in there.” Both giggled as Harry went into his room seeing Deans bed looked like a mess.

 

“I don't want to know, I don't need to know, I don't even want to think about it. At least he got over Ginny quickly.” He changed into casual clothes hungry and ready for breakfast. Hermione was already in the Great Hall at the Gryffindor table. Seeing her Harry started to rub his ring with his thumb thinking about her.

 

“I love you Harry, don't leave me. I know Voldemort is back and he wants you dead, don't let him.” The voice sounded like Hermione but she hadn't opened her mouth. “I won't leave you Hermione, as long as you are waiting for me I will come back.” He hadn't said it but Hermione heard it. She walked over talking softly. “Did you hear that? I heard you.” Harry nodded hugging her.

 

“I won't leave you as long as you'll have me.” They went back to the table trying not to cry at how much they loved each other and the thought of not having the other there for them.

 

The Hogwarts Express left Hogwarts with a full load. Harry and Hermione said bye to Devin, Hermione left as Harry said bye to Ginny and Monica who were also acting strange. “Are you sure you don't want to say bye to Hermione?” Both girls blushed.

 

“No, she's seen enough of us to last for awhile.” Harry shrugged waving bye and went back towards the castle. He got into the Gryffindor Tower and saw Hermione on the couch laid out rubbing the ring again.

 

“Hermione why didn't you want to say bye to Monica and Ginny? What the hell happened last night?”

 

“I don't want to talk about it, if they wanted people to know they would have said something.” Harry didn't understand but if Hermione didn't want to talk about it he would let it go.

 

“Fine, so who else is stuck with us?” Hermione slowly smiled.

 

“No one.” Harry couldn't believe it; he would be alone with Hermione until January 1st.