Categories > Books > Harry Potter > Love Has No Age
Chapter 40:- Luck and LessonsA/N: The normal, Malehorntaildragon, your work make me continue at this pace, thanks.
**
Harry and the rest walked into the Great Hall for the start of their second day. Almost as soon as he was seated he saw Susan approach. She initially looked a bit warily at the two girls sitting either side of him but she pushed on. When she was standing next to him she pulled out a collection of notes and gave them to Harry. With a quick glance at the two girls she turned and almost fled from them. Harry watched her retreating with the notes still in his hand before turning back. Something about her appearance was different. He didn’t know what it was but it was something.
He saw the many questioning glances that the others were giving him but he didn’t want to answer them just yet. He looked down at the notes and quickly leafed through them. He saw that the previous day’s lesson had been fully written out in neat and clear handwriting with several sections highlighted. As he got deeper into the notes he saw great passages that had been written about each department with footnotes and other references for him to look up in the library.
“What is that Harry?” eventually asked Ron.
“Um…just some notes from yesterday.” He replied a little defensively.
“Didn’t you take your own?” asked Hermione accusingly, looking very closely at the notes in his hand.
“Yes.”
“Then why did Susan give you those?”
“Look Hermione, I was having trouble keeping up, and she said she wanted to help, alright? Even then I hadn’t expected all this though.” He said shaking his head slightly.
“I…I’m sorry.” replied Hermione taken slightly aback at Harry’s tone.
Harry didn’t know why he suddenly jumped but something about her questioning Susan touched something.
“It looks like she’s done your work for you.” whispered Ginny next to him. Harry felt a little guilty knowing that Ginny was right.
“I really didn’t ask her to do all this honest.”
“She just wanted to help?” Said Gabrielle from the other side suspecting that there was more within this gift that first met the eye.
“Well yes.”
Ginny looked closely and Gabrielle and felt her stomach drop. She had told herself all would be alright that she could share Harry with Gabrielle in fact she was starting to see that it could be fun, the three of them together. She would be the older girl like a sister and would be in control. Gabrielle was so nice and casual she would be able to share everything with her but Susan was different. Feeling more and more that she was losing the only thing she really wanted she looked imploringly at Gabrielle.
“It may not be like that Ginny.” whispered Gabrielle across Harry.
“Like what?” asked Harry.
“It’s a girl thing, nothing you need to worry about.” Quickly replied Gabrielle, understanding that Ginny didn’t need this to come out now and especially not to Harry, but she still felt her insides turn slightly as she withheld information from Harry.
“I think we need to talk to Susan about…” replied Harry not understanding the looks between the two girls, but suspected it was to do with Susan.
“Yes it would be sensible.” Agreed Gabrielle understanding that much could soon change.
“All right I’ll talk to her at the next lesson, we have to get together to study anyway.”
“When’s your next lesson?”
“Thursday I think.”
“OK.” replied Ginny tuning back to her breakfast and trying to settle her running emotions.
***
The uneasiness between Harry and Hermione only lasted until they reached the potions classroom. They were still in the dungeons but not as low down as they had previously been but it wasn’t that which caused the thawing it was the sight of Draco standing by the door looking like he owned the place.
“Ah Potter and his…friends. I’m surprised you passed, never mind I don’t suppose that you will this year and then you will be gone, for good.”
“Without Snape helping you you’ll be long gone before that would ever happen.” Replied Harry rising to the challenge.
“You wish, he wasn’t helping me in the exams.”
“No, but he’s helping you now in defence.”
“I don’t need his help.”
“We’ll see.” Replied Hermione turning Harry away before he could say anything more.
Draco laugh started too echoed around before the door opened and they were called in.
Harry was the first in almost pushed by Hermione, his hand was itching to pull his wand and attack Draco. The loss to him on the train still hurt and the way he was standing almost screamed a challenge.
“Harry my boy it’s so good to see you, please, please take a seat.” Greeted and jovial Slughorn indicating the front desk.
Not seeing a polite way out Harry led Hermione and Ron down to the front. As he sat down and started to pull his books out his nose detected very faint and conflicting smells. He looked up and saw that on the front desk there were three small cauldrons puffing away to themselves. His mind registered many different things but nothing strong and it started to cause him a headache. He closed his eyes for a second to calm his mind and found himself slipping into his magic.
When he opened his eyes he could see ripples of magic pouring out of the cauldrons. He looked at each one in turn. The first seemed to flow around the edge of the cauldron and then dissipate; the ripples of colour were hard to distinguish as they were mixed with the flames. The second seemed to be flowing waved of pink mist out of it. His mind was suddenly reminded that he had seen something similar at the Solicitors on the day he had gone there. The last had golden spirals which swirled upwards before breaking and falling back down back into the cauldron.
“Harry.” Inquired Ron seeing a blank look on his friend.
Harry lost his focus in an instant due to the sharp dig and the waves were instantly lost.
“Don’t you smell that?”
“What?”
“It smells like broom polish and…mops?” Said Ron in a dreamy voice.
Harry didn’t know what to say as he could hardly detect any smell at all but his eyes saw Hermione. Her face had changed almost instantly bright red at Ron’s words and her eyes were wide open. Before Harry could ask anything more Slughorn started to speak.
“Welcome one and all to NEWT potions. I am as you know Professor Slughorn and will be your teacher. This year your will learn to brew some of the more complex and wondrous potions you have ever known. To give you a little preview I have at the front brewed three of the more interesting potions. Each one affects the drinker in a very different way and none of their gifts can truly be replicated by magic. So a quick test let’s see who can identify them.”
Slughorn pointed to the first on the left of the table, Harry saw a well remembered brown sludge bubbling away to itself. The look and noise reminded him instantly of the second year. He looked briefly around and saw that Hermione’s had had shot into the air. He knew that both he and Ron knew exactly what that potion was and they could easily give an essay on its taste but both silently agreed to let Hermione take the credit as she was the one to brew it.”
“Yes then Miss Granger.”
“It’s Polyjuice potion it allow a wearer to change their appearance into anyone else’s.”
“Very good, anything else?”
“Unlike glamour charms or such like it has no counter charm and is almost undetectable but any normal means.”
“Do you know how it can be detected?” Asked Slughorn, Harry could see that his eyes almost bored into Hermione as the young witch started to impress him.
“The effects only last one hour and there is a faint trace of the potion found in the blood.”
“Is that all?”
“Well...the memory is not altered so if the drinker had only recently taken the potion their actions will appear clumsy and forgetful to all around.”
“Excellent answer 10 Points to Gryffindor.” The professor said jovially.
Hermione closed her mouth and looked at the Professor. She had also known the last identifying trait but he had stopped her, keeping that knowledge to herself she waited for the next question.
“Right then let’s see about this one.” He said pointing to the second one.
This was the one that Harry had seen the waves of pink from, remembering what Dumbledore had said to him he raised his hand in the air. He also saw that Hermione had her hand in the air as well.
“Mr Potter then, please tell us.”
“It’s...it’s a love potion. “ Harry heard a small laugh from behind but refused to turn.
“Anything else?”
“Um..um...” stammered Harry not knowing much more. Hermione’s hand was still raised and so Slughorn turned back to her.”
“Well Miss Granger.”
“It Amortentia the most powerful of all Love Potions.”
“Correct once again. Tell us what you know about it.”
“It has the most unique aroma around as it changes to whatever is the most desirable to the person at that time. It is banned in most wedding ceremonies and many families apply for a test before a proposal is said to be accepted. Currently it is also one of the very few potions that cannot be immunised against.”
“Meaning?”
“Everyone Muggle or Magical is affected by it.”
“Correct another 10 points, my, my you are good. Well the last one...anybody?”
Harry looked at the last cauldron the one he had seen which was shooting golden stars into the air. Hermione’s hand was raised once more but this time much more slowly.
“Well is it to be a clean sweep then Miss Granger?”
“Is it Felix Felicis?”
“Yes well done 50 points for Gryffindor I think. You are a most remarkable young witch. So what is its more common name?” Slughorn said a familiar gleam to his eye.
“Luck potion.” Replied Hermione in a quiet voice.
“Yes luck potion, banned in all sporting events and any games of chance. This potion will give the drinker pure luck. It is one of the most powerful and most addictive potions ever devised. Three doses of this is enough to cause complete addiction, far too many people have turned either mad or have died of overdoses of this little gem. That is why to brew it you need a special licence and one of the major ingredients is a banned and is a controlled substance from the Ministry. “
“Have you ever taken it?”called a voice from the back.
“Well yes I have once and once only mind you.”
“What was it like?” asked Hermione in wonder.
“The most perfect day ever.” Replied Slughorn looking off into the distance obviously remembering the day.
“Well that’s what I’m offering as a small prize today. One hour of luck, that’s right one small drop enough for about one hour’s worth of luck. You can’t use it during any test or exam, I will be testing you, but outside of that you get a perfect hour. So how may you win this? Simple I want each of you to brew the Potion of Peace. Once when drunk renders the person completely at peace removing all the stress and worry in their minds. You have two hours; begin.”
Harry flipped through his book quickly to find the right page. It was the first time that a prize had been given out and it sounded wonderful. Quickly looking down the directions he saw his chances drop, it looked far more complex than anything he had tried before. Slowly pulling out his cauldron he started the fire underneath as he read the instructions once more. He glanced sideways and saw the Hermione was already cutting various roots and ingredients already. Focusing his mind he started his own work.
**
Harry continued to look between his potion and his watch seeing that he had only fifteen minutes left until the time was up. The class had been feverishly brewing their potions and surprisingly for Harry without Snape around he found it much easier to concentrate. He glanced quickly at the book and saw that if everything was perfect his potions should now be puffing pure white clouds of smoke at regular intervals.
As he looked back he saw that it was puffing away nicely but they weren’t exactly white, each of his clouds had a distinctive gray sheen to it.
He looked around the room to try and gage where he was and saw without surprise that Hermione’s was puffing away to itself. Her clouds weren’t perfect either but they were much better than his. He looked at Ron and saw that something was not going right for him because his wasn’t puffing it was belching a continuous stream of smoke which to Harry look decidedly blue.
Turning around he looked at the rest of the class and saw various different stages of the potion but none of them looked anywhere close to Hermione’s. The only other one that look close was Draco’s. His was puffing away but Harry really couldn’t tell the colour as it was obscured through the thick green steam coming from one of the boys in between. Turning back to his own he continued to time it, wondering how Hermione always did it but secretly pleased at his own success.
***
Draco’s face was frowning even harder now. He had tried and tried to get his perfect, the luck potion was like a gift from the god’s and he had to win it. If Snape was here it would have been easy but Slughorn was very different. He looked up a saw that his wasn’t bad but the mudblood’s was near perfect. Slightly cursing to himself he knew he would have to do something. He looked at what Millicent was brewing and saw that it was turning into black sludge, hers was a definite failure.
“Looks like you’re going to lose.”
“I know; what did I do wrong?” she asked looking at Draco.
“You missed adding the second set of root 30 minutes ago.”
“What...where. Why didn't you say anything?”
“It’s not my fault your stupid.”
“Stupid-”
“Yes now shut up I want you to do something.”
“Why should I?”
“Because if you don't I’ll make your day even worse, if that’s possible. Now just do it. When I give you a nod explode you potion.”
“What!”
“Just do it, it’s useless and you know it but I need everyone to look at you.” Replied Draco his eyes flashing dangerously.
“B...B...but.”
“It will probably be the only time that boy’s will want to look at you so enjoy it. NOW get ready.”
“O...O...ok.” stammered the reply from a clearly frightened Millicent.
Draco rummaged around in his bag and found the bottle he needed. He got up and walked to the front. He carefully stopped at the edge of Hermione’s desk. Being this close he could see that hers was much better than his own and even Potter’s didn’t look too bad.
“What’s the problem Mr Malfoy?” asked Slughorn as he walked up to him.
“It’s this sir.” Said Draco holding up his vial. “I think my essence of bow trunk has gone bad?”
“But you don't need...”
“I know but I just wanted to check, in case for next lesson or something. I know you could tell me if it alright Sir.”
Harry, Ron and Hermione all looked up at Draco as he was talking to Slughorn. They were all instantly suspicious as he was standing next to them but Harry was ready. His wand was on the desk and he let his hand rest upon it. Whatever Draco tried to do he would stop him.
Slughorn sniffed the vial contents.
“Are you sure that’s correct because it smells of something completely different.”
“Oh...I’ll have another look that might be it.” Replied Draco in his most silky of voices.
Harry watched closely as Draco turned and took a step back towards his own desk, but then it happened. Harry spun round with everyone else as a small explosion sounded at the back; Millicent’s cauldron seemed to crack and exploded showering her desk and the area in some black sticky mess. Slughorn instantly reacted and headed for the disaster area.
Harry turned back towards his own potion and starred at Draco. It seemed that the explosion had made him stop as well but he was now walking back to his own station. Harry got the sudden feeling that it had all been planned. Frantically he searched his desk to find what was wrong but couldn’t see anything. He looked at his own potion and saw that it was the same. He glanced over at Hermione’s and breathed a sigh of relief as he saw that it was puffing merrily as well, but then his face fell. As he watched he saw the clouds of steam from her potion start to gain colour. Puff after puff the clouds started to turn redder and redder.
He saw that Hermione had noticed the problem and was quickly looking at sniffing her own potions. He could see the look of concentration as she flipped through her book page after page.
“And that is time people. Please bottle a small sample for me and bring it to the front.” Called Slughorn from the back where he was still cleaning up the mess.
Harry did so and got into line next Hermione.
“What happened?” he whispered.
“I...I...don’t know. It suddenly changed.”
“I think Draco had something to do with it.”
“But I was watching.”
“Not when Millicent’s cauldron exploded.”
“But he wasn’t...there wasn’t....”
“I bet he slipped something into you’re cauldron.”
“Why that cheating....”
“What?” interrupted Ron.
“I think Draco’s sabotaged Hermione’s potions it was clearly the best.” Replied Harry.
“I’ll...I’ll....”
“No Ron just leave it, it doesn’t matter.” Said Hermione restraining her boyfriend.
“But you would have won. Harry was right yours looked perfect.”
“I don't need the luck potion.”
“But it looks like Draco does.” Interrupted Harry seeing the look of triumph on Draco’s face.
Each student handed their vial in and returned to their seats. They didn't have long to wait for the result to be announced and the loud cheering from the Slytherines in the room just made Harry and Ron feel even worse. They were going to have to get even just for Hermione’s sake at the very least. The class ended and Harry and the rest bundled all of their equipment back into their bags as quick as they could, not wanting to stay around anymore with the gloating Slytherins.
They nearly made it out of their seats when a voice stopped them.
“Miss Granger a moment if you please.”
Hermione looked at her friends before she got up but Harry and Ron followed her anyway.
“Yes sir.” Hermione said subdued.
Slughorn’s brow furrowed, as he held up a reddish filled potions vile. “Before Miss Bulstrode destroyed her cauldron wasn’t your potion the recommended colour with pure white smoke puffing up?” He asked inquisitively.
“Y-yes sir I believe it was.”
Slughorn nodded speculatively. “Did you add anything after the explosion?”
“No sir, I-I don’t know what happened it was fine before the explosion, but after-“
“It suddenly started changing.” The professor finished for her. His face turned ugly as his eyes flickered between Hermione, her vile, and where Draco still sat cleaning his station.
“I see,” He sighed and looked at the young witch sorrowfully. “I hadn’t quite realized the rivalry between the houses had gotten so ‘competitive’. I may owe you an apology Miss Granger, I shall be more vigilant throughout the year, and may automatically disqualify anybody who leaves their station without good reason.” He said solemnly.
“Thank you sir.”
“And I believe another 50 points to Gryffindor for being such good sports about everything.”
“Thank you sir!” Hermione said ecstatically.
Slughorn’s face became jovial once again, Harry noticed the familiar gleam in Slugorn’s eye’s as he examined his two friends. Harry felt his stomach roll and had to swallow the bile that was building in his throat. “Well I believe I’ve kept you long enough, allow me to write you a note excusing you from your next class. It wouldn’t do you have you loose all those points you earned so very hard now would it?” Before anybody could answer him he scratched out a note and handed it to Hermione. They were shuffled out the door and on their way before they even realized it.
**
The next couple of days were very much the same for Harry. Each class that he went to had the same start. Welcome, this is what you are going to study this year, it’s going to be hard and now a quick revision. The homework was also beginning to pile up, not as much as last year but certainly more than he had suspected. For most evenings he would be either reading or writing and so had yet to have another lesson with Gabrielle and Ginny. The two girls were still spending as much time near him but very little was said. Something about Hermione was causing this he was certain for every time she came close he could almost feel the difference in the people around him.
He watched as most nights Hermione and Ron did leave them on the own but not for very long. They always said it was for “rounds” but Harry was certain that much more was going on but for once Ron never said anything to him. Wednesday night was slightly different as the mood in the common room turned towards Quidditch as Katie had put a notice up about try-outs on Saturday morning, immediately after doing this she had approached Ron, Ginny and himself and apologised about them having to re-try but she thought it was the best. Harry really didn't mind, he was certain he was the best but if not so be it but Ron look almost frightened to have to perform once more in front of his house mates.
As Ron and Hermione left on their “rounds” Harry turned to the two girls who were in their normal places next to him.
“I’m seeing Susan tomorrow when shall we all get together?”
Ginny swallowed hard before replying, her heart was beating fast and she was suddenly feeling sick. She didn’t want to lose what she had with Harry yet it seemed that it was about to happen, with a voice tinged with sadness she replied.
“How about Saturday after Quidditch?”
Harry noticed Ginny’s voice and look questioningly at her, as he looked into her face he saw that she turned away. He didn't think it was in embarrassment there was something else there, he felt a sudden feeling that he might have done something wrong and so looked at Gabrielle. She to adverted her eyes, but Harry did manage to see something in them before she did. He was sure that she was upset over something.
“What...what did I say?” Asked Harry fearfully.
“No Harry it’s not you.” Quickly replied Ginny tuning back.
“Then what’s up with the pair of you, you both look....”
“It’s....it’s....” started to reply Ginny but she too looked at Gabrielle and saw that the young girl did look different. Something about her pierced her deeply, Gabrielle was not her normal self and it suddenly worried her.
“Gabrielle?” she asked.
Gabrielle looked up into Ginny’s face before turning towards Harry. She could not mention what was wrong, fearing that Harry would react but she saw that they had both sensed something was wrong.
“I’m alright; honestly I think I’m just a bit tired.” She lied “So it’s Saturday then?”
Harry looked at the girls once more before he eventually replied.
“Ok then I’ll tell her.” He waited for either of them to speak but they said nothing. He continued to wait and studied the two girls but they almost refused to look at him.
This continued until Hermione and Ron returned. As they climbed back in through the portrait it was like a signal to the two girls. Gabrielle was first as she gracefully rose to her feet and bade them good night. Harry found himself watching her all the way but his magic was telling him more. He wasn’t certain but something felt wrong and it was due to Gabrielle. He had the feeling that he wanted to get up and go to her yet he knew that he could not as she was now safely encased in the girl’s dormitory.
The feelings inside of him grew worse and worse, he closed his eyes to try and focus yet he felt his magic slip away every time. It was almost like something was pushing away his attempts to use his new magic, but then he was disturbed as Ginny too rose and said her goodnights before leaving him alone with his friends.
“They’ve left early.” commented Ron.
“Yeah.” Mused Harry still trying to understand his feelings for the pair.
**
Ginny was feeling the same as Harry yet more because Gabrielle wasn’t actively trying to keep them from her. Ginny didn’t know this but she knew her young friend was upset and she didn't think it was the same as her. She walked up the soft stairs towards the first year dorm. Still feeling the emotions she paused outside the door and listened. She didn’t want to barge in there but that was exactly what her magic was telling her to do.
As she listened she heard faint crying and her heart almost leapt from her body at the sound. Without conscious thought she had already turned the handle and was pushing open the door. She stepped in to see three beds in the room, two of them unoccupied and the third had Gabrielle sitting on it. Her back was facing Ginny but she would know her anywhere. As quietly as she could she crossed to the bed and looked at her friend. It was about the worse she had seen her; admittedly she still looked perfect but Ginny could see the few imperfections in her appearance. The hair wasn’t just right, her face had lost a little of its colour.
“Gabrielle?” she asked.
Gabrielle turned to face her and Ginny saw that there were tear marks on her face and her eyes looked a little red.
“Tell me what’s wrong.”
Gabrielle just shook her head.
“I can feel you; I know you’re upset even your perfect face isn’t normal.”
“S...s...s...sorry.” mumbled Gabrielle as she straightened herself up. Ginny had never really seen Gabrielle’s Veela magic do its work and she saw the colour return to the girls face, the tear marks disappeared and the hair fell back into its normal place with no other action from Gabrielle.
“I...was using too much magic on Harry.” said Gabrielle.
“What do you mean?”
“I was keeping him out. He’s powerful so it was hard. I...I...don’t want him to know but I used everything I had and my appearance slipped and...you found me.” Gabrielle replied her emotions making her voice waver ever so slightly.
Ginny held out her arms towards Gabrielle and waited she saw the look of confusion wash over Gabrielle and so said.
“You look like you need a hug.”
“I...I...do.” replied Gabrielle still fighting back her emotions.
“I know I’m not Harry but will I do?”
Gabrielle fell into Ginny arms and let them circle around her. She had been close to Harry for the past few days and her magic had been happy but everything else was going wrong. The lessons, school, students around her, it was getting worse and worse. She wanted desperately to cling to Harry and stay there but she could not.
Ginny felt a sudden flow of emotions that weren’t her own. It was hard to understand them as they flowed quickly and then they disappeared. But still she held Gabrielle close and was surprised that the girl wasn’t crying as she wanted too. Absently she marvelled at how Gabrielle felt to her hands even through the rough material of the robes she could feel the softness of the girl even in this state.
“Tell me about it.” she asked still holding Gabrielle.
“I can’t.”
“Yes you can. We’re in this together remember.”
“I...I...want to go back home.”
“To France?”
“No back to Grimauld Place, back to the summer. I want to get away from here, these people, this school, everything.” She replied a little exasperated.
“Why?”
“Its awful here.”
Ginny was surprised at this; she had always seen Hogwarts as some wonderful magical place. Yes there were dark sides to it and she had experienced some of the nastiest but it wasn’t that bad. The first week had been hard living away from her parents but Gabrielle had done that through the summer, so there must be something else?
“How come, are lessons still bad?” she probed.
Gabrielle nodded.
“Is that all?”
“No...It’s the students I can hear them...almost. I can sense what they are feeling, what they want to do. I just want to run and hide, I want to be with Harry...” but she faulted in saying anymore.
“I know we can’t. Well not yet anyway. He’s not ready for that, but he’s accepted us and the bonds, we’ll be together, you’ll just have to be patient”
“It’s just so bad when I’m walking about all I see are the boys strutting around. I can see it in their motions and their thoughts what they want to do, to me, with me and... I’m scared.”
“Scared?”
“Yes...for me....and.....Harry.”
“Harry?”
“He fought Draco on the train because of me. What will he do about the rest?”
Ginny had to smile at the words.
“Gabrielle... Gabrielle it’s not like that. Harry and Draco, let’s just say they would have fought anyway. It had nothing to do with you, he isn’t like that.”
“But...but...”
“Listen to what big sister is saying. Those two just don't like each other, the rest of the school is different. No Harry won’t jump up and attack the rest, he might have a word or two or get someone else to say something but he won’t get into trouble. If you don't tell him... or me, we can’t help you. You mean a lot to us and you shouldn’t be upset, we can work it out tell me what you need to help you and I’ll see what can be done.”
“But you’re not with me all of the time.”
“That doesn’t matter we can still help even from afar. Now do you feel better?”
“A bit...thanks.”
“I’m always available to give hugs, you just have give me the nod.”
“Ok...that would be nice...until.”
“Yes but we are working on that one aren’t we?”
Eventually Gabrielle pulled back out of Ginny’s arms. Her magic felt better but more important so did her mind, even for those brief minutes with Ginny here in her room the school had been blocked out and she could be just herself. Whilst touching Ginny she had felt her uncertainty and so decided to return the favour.
“I wouldn’t worry about Susan.”
“But...how?”
“The hug, we were touching I just made it easier for me to read you.”
“Oh.”
“Susan may be different to what you fear.”
“But she may not!”
“Yes but I don't think so. She is different, she has different needs.”
“But I will still have to share, I...I....”
“What do you really want?”
“Harry.”
“Then it doesn’t matter, you will see.”
“How?”
“Your magic, the bond. I felt the same but it changed because of you, you will still find your place and Susan hers. Just let it run its course.”
“But he might...she’s his age....”
“No... Just trust in your magic all will be ok I promise.”
“You sure?”
“Yes now go, I think I really do need some sleep now.”
Ginny got to her feet and looked and Gabrielle. She did look tired but looked far better than she did. Giving her a final smile she turned and departed. Closing the door behind her she waited but heard nothing. Feeling pleased at being able to help she ascended to her own dormitory and thought over everything Gabrielle had said.
**
Thursday was another busy day for Harry with lessons all day. It wouldn’t be long before he thought he would start to hate Thursdays and Tuesdays with lessons all day they were long and hard but at least he didn’t have Snape on either of those days. As the three of them went from class to class he marvelled at the speed the teachers were working at. For each of the classes it seemed that the Professors went into overdrive or something. Gone were all the lengthy time to practice or perfect spells, theory was thrown at them constantly and only occasionally interrupted with practice sessions and these seemed far too short for Harry but more than once a Professor told them that was the purpose of the free periods.
And so he was now standing outside his Law and Society class, he was early once more and the Slytherins were giving him the look but that was all, for once they were quiet. The approaching footsteps told him that Susan was coming and he braced himself for the comments once more but were surprised at the silence.
When she came to halt next to him he turned.
“Thanks Susan for the notes.”
“Did they help?” she asked. She wasn’t sure if they would have done but she had spent a lot of time on them. For her she found it suddenly very relaxing doing the notes for Harry it just felt right that she was doing the thing she had promised.
“Oh yes but I would have done it myself you know.”
“I know but I enjoyed it so what department did you choose?”
“Oh the Auror it’s really the only one I’ve been in and remember much about. How about you?”
“My Aunts of course it was just so easy I just had to be a bit careful not to overdo it.”
“Why?”
“I just want to pass and for you too as well. I don't want to be a star or anything just enough to pass will do me.”
“That sounds very laid back.”
Susan looked down at the ground before answering.
“No I just think there are more important things out there than these classes.”
“Yeah like Voldemort.” Replied Harry turning back to the now open door and walking in.
“No you.” She replied in a whisper before following him.
**
Harry felt that he had done much better at taking notes this time. He had managed to keep up for most of the class and only in the last thirty minutes had he found himself flagging. All the different law and acts went right over his head and he knew that he was going to have to read a number of different books to learn everything that had been said but he did feel more confident.
“That’s all for today. Please leave your homework on your desk and I will see you next Monday.” Said Dawlish-Brown as he turned and started to pack away his notes.
Harry got up and started to clear away his things making sure he left his essay on the desk. He waited for Susan to finish before turning to leave. He noticed that they were the last to leave but that didn't matter. As he got into the corridor Susan spoke up once more.
“Harry I’ll give you the notes tomorrow again...ok?”
Harry paused and looked at Susan seeing a slight blush creep into her cheeks, this small flash of colour brightened her face. It was almost the first time he had actually looked at her, her face was pretty and he could see the slight traces of make-up on it. He was sure that it wasn’t there on Monday and her hair looked different neater more styled as well. As he continued to look he could almost feel a pull in his magic as it wanted to reach out to her and explore.
“You don't have to; I did better this time, as I said before I have to learn this myself.” He quickly said as his magic started to flow.
“I know but I want to.”
“Ok then but don't spend too much time on it.”
“I won’t I promise.”
Harry gave her one of his smile. It was involuntary but he saw Susan shudder slightly. The two of them walked on still at a very slow pace. Nothing was said it was thought they were feeling each other out still. As the Grand Hall came into view it was then he remembered that he need to talk to her about the ribbons.
“Um...Susan we need to talk.”
“Talk?” said Susan a small trace of fear in her voice.
“Yes it’s about....something. I really can’t say here but could you meet me in the entrance on Saturday after my Quidditch tryout’s about lunch time?”
Susan’s heart leapt for joy and started to beat faster and faster. She had feared that Harry was going to brush her help away when he said he wanted to talk but this, this was different. He wanted to see her and at the weekend, her mind flowed down many different paths never coming to the same conclusion but she didn’t care, he wanted to see her at that was all that mattered. What happened then would be up to him but she would never say no to him, not too anything her body, her mind everything was prepared. He had saved her but there was something more to it than just that.
“Of course I’ll look forward to it.” She replied hoping beyond all hope that her fantasy and dreams were really coming true.
**
Harry and the rest walked into the Great Hall for the start of their second day. Almost as soon as he was seated he saw Susan approach. She initially looked a bit warily at the two girls sitting either side of him but she pushed on. When she was standing next to him she pulled out a collection of notes and gave them to Harry. With a quick glance at the two girls she turned and almost fled from them. Harry watched her retreating with the notes still in his hand before turning back. Something about her appearance was different. He didn’t know what it was but it was something.
He saw the many questioning glances that the others were giving him but he didn’t want to answer them just yet. He looked down at the notes and quickly leafed through them. He saw that the previous day’s lesson had been fully written out in neat and clear handwriting with several sections highlighted. As he got deeper into the notes he saw great passages that had been written about each department with footnotes and other references for him to look up in the library.
“What is that Harry?” eventually asked Ron.
“Um…just some notes from yesterday.” He replied a little defensively.
“Didn’t you take your own?” asked Hermione accusingly, looking very closely at the notes in his hand.
“Yes.”
“Then why did Susan give you those?”
“Look Hermione, I was having trouble keeping up, and she said she wanted to help, alright? Even then I hadn’t expected all this though.” He said shaking his head slightly.
“I…I’m sorry.” replied Hermione taken slightly aback at Harry’s tone.
Harry didn’t know why he suddenly jumped but something about her questioning Susan touched something.
“It looks like she’s done your work for you.” whispered Ginny next to him. Harry felt a little guilty knowing that Ginny was right.
“I really didn’t ask her to do all this honest.”
“She just wanted to help?” Said Gabrielle from the other side suspecting that there was more within this gift that first met the eye.
“Well yes.”
Ginny looked closely and Gabrielle and felt her stomach drop. She had told herself all would be alright that she could share Harry with Gabrielle in fact she was starting to see that it could be fun, the three of them together. She would be the older girl like a sister and would be in control. Gabrielle was so nice and casual she would be able to share everything with her but Susan was different. Feeling more and more that she was losing the only thing she really wanted she looked imploringly at Gabrielle.
“It may not be like that Ginny.” whispered Gabrielle across Harry.
“Like what?” asked Harry.
“It’s a girl thing, nothing you need to worry about.” Quickly replied Gabrielle, understanding that Ginny didn’t need this to come out now and especially not to Harry, but she still felt her insides turn slightly as she withheld information from Harry.
“I think we need to talk to Susan about…” replied Harry not understanding the looks between the two girls, but suspected it was to do with Susan.
“Yes it would be sensible.” Agreed Gabrielle understanding that much could soon change.
“All right I’ll talk to her at the next lesson, we have to get together to study anyway.”
“When’s your next lesson?”
“Thursday I think.”
“OK.” replied Ginny tuning back to her breakfast and trying to settle her running emotions.
***
The uneasiness between Harry and Hermione only lasted until they reached the potions classroom. They were still in the dungeons but not as low down as they had previously been but it wasn’t that which caused the thawing it was the sight of Draco standing by the door looking like he owned the place.
“Ah Potter and his…friends. I’m surprised you passed, never mind I don’t suppose that you will this year and then you will be gone, for good.”
“Without Snape helping you you’ll be long gone before that would ever happen.” Replied Harry rising to the challenge.
“You wish, he wasn’t helping me in the exams.”
“No, but he’s helping you now in defence.”
“I don’t need his help.”
“We’ll see.” Replied Hermione turning Harry away before he could say anything more.
Draco laugh started too echoed around before the door opened and they were called in.
Harry was the first in almost pushed by Hermione, his hand was itching to pull his wand and attack Draco. The loss to him on the train still hurt and the way he was standing almost screamed a challenge.
“Harry my boy it’s so good to see you, please, please take a seat.” Greeted and jovial Slughorn indicating the front desk.
Not seeing a polite way out Harry led Hermione and Ron down to the front. As he sat down and started to pull his books out his nose detected very faint and conflicting smells. He looked up and saw that on the front desk there were three small cauldrons puffing away to themselves. His mind registered many different things but nothing strong and it started to cause him a headache. He closed his eyes for a second to calm his mind and found himself slipping into his magic.
When he opened his eyes he could see ripples of magic pouring out of the cauldrons. He looked at each one in turn. The first seemed to flow around the edge of the cauldron and then dissipate; the ripples of colour were hard to distinguish as they were mixed with the flames. The second seemed to be flowing waved of pink mist out of it. His mind was suddenly reminded that he had seen something similar at the Solicitors on the day he had gone there. The last had golden spirals which swirled upwards before breaking and falling back down back into the cauldron.
“Harry.” Inquired Ron seeing a blank look on his friend.
Harry lost his focus in an instant due to the sharp dig and the waves were instantly lost.
“Don’t you smell that?”
“What?”
“It smells like broom polish and…mops?” Said Ron in a dreamy voice.
Harry didn’t know what to say as he could hardly detect any smell at all but his eyes saw Hermione. Her face had changed almost instantly bright red at Ron’s words and her eyes were wide open. Before Harry could ask anything more Slughorn started to speak.
“Welcome one and all to NEWT potions. I am as you know Professor Slughorn and will be your teacher. This year your will learn to brew some of the more complex and wondrous potions you have ever known. To give you a little preview I have at the front brewed three of the more interesting potions. Each one affects the drinker in a very different way and none of their gifts can truly be replicated by magic. So a quick test let’s see who can identify them.”
Slughorn pointed to the first on the left of the table, Harry saw a well remembered brown sludge bubbling away to itself. The look and noise reminded him instantly of the second year. He looked briefly around and saw that Hermione’s had had shot into the air. He knew that both he and Ron knew exactly what that potion was and they could easily give an essay on its taste but both silently agreed to let Hermione take the credit as she was the one to brew it.”
“Yes then Miss Granger.”
“It’s Polyjuice potion it allow a wearer to change their appearance into anyone else’s.”
“Very good, anything else?”
“Unlike glamour charms or such like it has no counter charm and is almost undetectable but any normal means.”
“Do you know how it can be detected?” Asked Slughorn, Harry could see that his eyes almost bored into Hermione as the young witch started to impress him.
“The effects only last one hour and there is a faint trace of the potion found in the blood.”
“Is that all?”
“Well...the memory is not altered so if the drinker had only recently taken the potion their actions will appear clumsy and forgetful to all around.”
“Excellent answer 10 Points to Gryffindor.” The professor said jovially.
Hermione closed her mouth and looked at the Professor. She had also known the last identifying trait but he had stopped her, keeping that knowledge to herself she waited for the next question.
“Right then let’s see about this one.” He said pointing to the second one.
This was the one that Harry had seen the waves of pink from, remembering what Dumbledore had said to him he raised his hand in the air. He also saw that Hermione had her hand in the air as well.
“Mr Potter then, please tell us.”
“It’s...it’s a love potion. “ Harry heard a small laugh from behind but refused to turn.
“Anything else?”
“Um..um...” stammered Harry not knowing much more. Hermione’s hand was still raised and so Slughorn turned back to her.”
“Well Miss Granger.”
“It Amortentia the most powerful of all Love Potions.”
“Correct once again. Tell us what you know about it.”
“It has the most unique aroma around as it changes to whatever is the most desirable to the person at that time. It is banned in most wedding ceremonies and many families apply for a test before a proposal is said to be accepted. Currently it is also one of the very few potions that cannot be immunised against.”
“Meaning?”
“Everyone Muggle or Magical is affected by it.”
“Correct another 10 points, my, my you are good. Well the last one...anybody?”
Harry looked at the last cauldron the one he had seen which was shooting golden stars into the air. Hermione’s hand was raised once more but this time much more slowly.
“Well is it to be a clean sweep then Miss Granger?”
“Is it Felix Felicis?”
“Yes well done 50 points for Gryffindor I think. You are a most remarkable young witch. So what is its more common name?” Slughorn said a familiar gleam to his eye.
“Luck potion.” Replied Hermione in a quiet voice.
“Yes luck potion, banned in all sporting events and any games of chance. This potion will give the drinker pure luck. It is one of the most powerful and most addictive potions ever devised. Three doses of this is enough to cause complete addiction, far too many people have turned either mad or have died of overdoses of this little gem. That is why to brew it you need a special licence and one of the major ingredients is a banned and is a controlled substance from the Ministry. “
“Have you ever taken it?”called a voice from the back.
“Well yes I have once and once only mind you.”
“What was it like?” asked Hermione in wonder.
“The most perfect day ever.” Replied Slughorn looking off into the distance obviously remembering the day.
“Well that’s what I’m offering as a small prize today. One hour of luck, that’s right one small drop enough for about one hour’s worth of luck. You can’t use it during any test or exam, I will be testing you, but outside of that you get a perfect hour. So how may you win this? Simple I want each of you to brew the Potion of Peace. Once when drunk renders the person completely at peace removing all the stress and worry in their minds. You have two hours; begin.”
Harry flipped through his book quickly to find the right page. It was the first time that a prize had been given out and it sounded wonderful. Quickly looking down the directions he saw his chances drop, it looked far more complex than anything he had tried before. Slowly pulling out his cauldron he started the fire underneath as he read the instructions once more. He glanced sideways and saw the Hermione was already cutting various roots and ingredients already. Focusing his mind he started his own work.
**
Harry continued to look between his potion and his watch seeing that he had only fifteen minutes left until the time was up. The class had been feverishly brewing their potions and surprisingly for Harry without Snape around he found it much easier to concentrate. He glanced quickly at the book and saw that if everything was perfect his potions should now be puffing pure white clouds of smoke at regular intervals.
As he looked back he saw that it was puffing away nicely but they weren’t exactly white, each of his clouds had a distinctive gray sheen to it.
He looked around the room to try and gage where he was and saw without surprise that Hermione’s was puffing away to itself. Her clouds weren’t perfect either but they were much better than his. He looked at Ron and saw that something was not going right for him because his wasn’t puffing it was belching a continuous stream of smoke which to Harry look decidedly blue.
Turning around he looked at the rest of the class and saw various different stages of the potion but none of them looked anywhere close to Hermione’s. The only other one that look close was Draco’s. His was puffing away but Harry really couldn’t tell the colour as it was obscured through the thick green steam coming from one of the boys in between. Turning back to his own he continued to time it, wondering how Hermione always did it but secretly pleased at his own success.
***
Draco’s face was frowning even harder now. He had tried and tried to get his perfect, the luck potion was like a gift from the god’s and he had to win it. If Snape was here it would have been easy but Slughorn was very different. He looked up a saw that his wasn’t bad but the mudblood’s was near perfect. Slightly cursing to himself he knew he would have to do something. He looked at what Millicent was brewing and saw that it was turning into black sludge, hers was a definite failure.
“Looks like you’re going to lose.”
“I know; what did I do wrong?” she asked looking at Draco.
“You missed adding the second set of root 30 minutes ago.”
“What...where. Why didn't you say anything?”
“It’s not my fault your stupid.”
“Stupid-”
“Yes now shut up I want you to do something.”
“Why should I?”
“Because if you don't I’ll make your day even worse, if that’s possible. Now just do it. When I give you a nod explode you potion.”
“What!”
“Just do it, it’s useless and you know it but I need everyone to look at you.” Replied Draco his eyes flashing dangerously.
“B...B...but.”
“It will probably be the only time that boy’s will want to look at you so enjoy it. NOW get ready.”
“O...O...ok.” stammered the reply from a clearly frightened Millicent.
Draco rummaged around in his bag and found the bottle he needed. He got up and walked to the front. He carefully stopped at the edge of Hermione’s desk. Being this close he could see that hers was much better than his own and even Potter’s didn’t look too bad.
“What’s the problem Mr Malfoy?” asked Slughorn as he walked up to him.
“It’s this sir.” Said Draco holding up his vial. “I think my essence of bow trunk has gone bad?”
“But you don't need...”
“I know but I just wanted to check, in case for next lesson or something. I know you could tell me if it alright Sir.”
Harry, Ron and Hermione all looked up at Draco as he was talking to Slughorn. They were all instantly suspicious as he was standing next to them but Harry was ready. His wand was on the desk and he let his hand rest upon it. Whatever Draco tried to do he would stop him.
Slughorn sniffed the vial contents.
“Are you sure that’s correct because it smells of something completely different.”
“Oh...I’ll have another look that might be it.” Replied Draco in his most silky of voices.
Harry watched closely as Draco turned and took a step back towards his own desk, but then it happened. Harry spun round with everyone else as a small explosion sounded at the back; Millicent’s cauldron seemed to crack and exploded showering her desk and the area in some black sticky mess. Slughorn instantly reacted and headed for the disaster area.
Harry turned back towards his own potion and starred at Draco. It seemed that the explosion had made him stop as well but he was now walking back to his own station. Harry got the sudden feeling that it had all been planned. Frantically he searched his desk to find what was wrong but couldn’t see anything. He looked at his own potion and saw that it was the same. He glanced over at Hermione’s and breathed a sigh of relief as he saw that it was puffing merrily as well, but then his face fell. As he watched he saw the clouds of steam from her potion start to gain colour. Puff after puff the clouds started to turn redder and redder.
He saw that Hermione had noticed the problem and was quickly looking at sniffing her own potions. He could see the look of concentration as she flipped through her book page after page.
“And that is time people. Please bottle a small sample for me and bring it to the front.” Called Slughorn from the back where he was still cleaning up the mess.
Harry did so and got into line next Hermione.
“What happened?” he whispered.
“I...I...don’t know. It suddenly changed.”
“I think Draco had something to do with it.”
“But I was watching.”
“Not when Millicent’s cauldron exploded.”
“But he wasn’t...there wasn’t....”
“I bet he slipped something into you’re cauldron.”
“Why that cheating....”
“What?” interrupted Ron.
“I think Draco’s sabotaged Hermione’s potions it was clearly the best.” Replied Harry.
“I’ll...I’ll....”
“No Ron just leave it, it doesn’t matter.” Said Hermione restraining her boyfriend.
“But you would have won. Harry was right yours looked perfect.”
“I don't need the luck potion.”
“But it looks like Draco does.” Interrupted Harry seeing the look of triumph on Draco’s face.
Each student handed their vial in and returned to their seats. They didn't have long to wait for the result to be announced and the loud cheering from the Slytherines in the room just made Harry and Ron feel even worse. They were going to have to get even just for Hermione’s sake at the very least. The class ended and Harry and the rest bundled all of their equipment back into their bags as quick as they could, not wanting to stay around anymore with the gloating Slytherins.
They nearly made it out of their seats when a voice stopped them.
“Miss Granger a moment if you please.”
Hermione looked at her friends before she got up but Harry and Ron followed her anyway.
“Yes sir.” Hermione said subdued.
Slughorn’s brow furrowed, as he held up a reddish filled potions vile. “Before Miss Bulstrode destroyed her cauldron wasn’t your potion the recommended colour with pure white smoke puffing up?” He asked inquisitively.
“Y-yes sir I believe it was.”
Slughorn nodded speculatively. “Did you add anything after the explosion?”
“No sir, I-I don’t know what happened it was fine before the explosion, but after-“
“It suddenly started changing.” The professor finished for her. His face turned ugly as his eyes flickered between Hermione, her vile, and where Draco still sat cleaning his station.
“I see,” He sighed and looked at the young witch sorrowfully. “I hadn’t quite realized the rivalry between the houses had gotten so ‘competitive’. I may owe you an apology Miss Granger, I shall be more vigilant throughout the year, and may automatically disqualify anybody who leaves their station without good reason.” He said solemnly.
“Thank you sir.”
“And I believe another 50 points to Gryffindor for being such good sports about everything.”
“Thank you sir!” Hermione said ecstatically.
Slughorn’s face became jovial once again, Harry noticed the familiar gleam in Slugorn’s eye’s as he examined his two friends. Harry felt his stomach roll and had to swallow the bile that was building in his throat. “Well I believe I’ve kept you long enough, allow me to write you a note excusing you from your next class. It wouldn’t do you have you loose all those points you earned so very hard now would it?” Before anybody could answer him he scratched out a note and handed it to Hermione. They were shuffled out the door and on their way before they even realized it.
**
The next couple of days were very much the same for Harry. Each class that he went to had the same start. Welcome, this is what you are going to study this year, it’s going to be hard and now a quick revision. The homework was also beginning to pile up, not as much as last year but certainly more than he had suspected. For most evenings he would be either reading or writing and so had yet to have another lesson with Gabrielle and Ginny. The two girls were still spending as much time near him but very little was said. Something about Hermione was causing this he was certain for every time she came close he could almost feel the difference in the people around him.
He watched as most nights Hermione and Ron did leave them on the own but not for very long. They always said it was for “rounds” but Harry was certain that much more was going on but for once Ron never said anything to him. Wednesday night was slightly different as the mood in the common room turned towards Quidditch as Katie had put a notice up about try-outs on Saturday morning, immediately after doing this she had approached Ron, Ginny and himself and apologised about them having to re-try but she thought it was the best. Harry really didn't mind, he was certain he was the best but if not so be it but Ron look almost frightened to have to perform once more in front of his house mates.
As Ron and Hermione left on their “rounds” Harry turned to the two girls who were in their normal places next to him.
“I’m seeing Susan tomorrow when shall we all get together?”
Ginny swallowed hard before replying, her heart was beating fast and she was suddenly feeling sick. She didn’t want to lose what she had with Harry yet it seemed that it was about to happen, with a voice tinged with sadness she replied.
“How about Saturday after Quidditch?”
Harry noticed Ginny’s voice and look questioningly at her, as he looked into her face he saw that she turned away. He didn't think it was in embarrassment there was something else there, he felt a sudden feeling that he might have done something wrong and so looked at Gabrielle. She to adverted her eyes, but Harry did manage to see something in them before she did. He was sure that she was upset over something.
“What...what did I say?” Asked Harry fearfully.
“No Harry it’s not you.” Quickly replied Ginny tuning back.
“Then what’s up with the pair of you, you both look....”
“It’s....it’s....” started to reply Ginny but she too looked at Gabrielle and saw that the young girl did look different. Something about her pierced her deeply, Gabrielle was not her normal self and it suddenly worried her.
“Gabrielle?” she asked.
Gabrielle looked up into Ginny’s face before turning towards Harry. She could not mention what was wrong, fearing that Harry would react but she saw that they had both sensed something was wrong.
“I’m alright; honestly I think I’m just a bit tired.” She lied “So it’s Saturday then?”
Harry looked at the girls once more before he eventually replied.
“Ok then I’ll tell her.” He waited for either of them to speak but they said nothing. He continued to wait and studied the two girls but they almost refused to look at him.
This continued until Hermione and Ron returned. As they climbed back in through the portrait it was like a signal to the two girls. Gabrielle was first as she gracefully rose to her feet and bade them good night. Harry found himself watching her all the way but his magic was telling him more. He wasn’t certain but something felt wrong and it was due to Gabrielle. He had the feeling that he wanted to get up and go to her yet he knew that he could not as she was now safely encased in the girl’s dormitory.
The feelings inside of him grew worse and worse, he closed his eyes to try and focus yet he felt his magic slip away every time. It was almost like something was pushing away his attempts to use his new magic, but then he was disturbed as Ginny too rose and said her goodnights before leaving him alone with his friends.
“They’ve left early.” commented Ron.
“Yeah.” Mused Harry still trying to understand his feelings for the pair.
**
Ginny was feeling the same as Harry yet more because Gabrielle wasn’t actively trying to keep them from her. Ginny didn’t know this but she knew her young friend was upset and she didn't think it was the same as her. She walked up the soft stairs towards the first year dorm. Still feeling the emotions she paused outside the door and listened. She didn’t want to barge in there but that was exactly what her magic was telling her to do.
As she listened she heard faint crying and her heart almost leapt from her body at the sound. Without conscious thought she had already turned the handle and was pushing open the door. She stepped in to see three beds in the room, two of them unoccupied and the third had Gabrielle sitting on it. Her back was facing Ginny but she would know her anywhere. As quietly as she could she crossed to the bed and looked at her friend. It was about the worse she had seen her; admittedly she still looked perfect but Ginny could see the few imperfections in her appearance. The hair wasn’t just right, her face had lost a little of its colour.
“Gabrielle?” she asked.
Gabrielle turned to face her and Ginny saw that there were tear marks on her face and her eyes looked a little red.
“Tell me what’s wrong.”
Gabrielle just shook her head.
“I can feel you; I know you’re upset even your perfect face isn’t normal.”
“S...s...s...sorry.” mumbled Gabrielle as she straightened herself up. Ginny had never really seen Gabrielle’s Veela magic do its work and she saw the colour return to the girls face, the tear marks disappeared and the hair fell back into its normal place with no other action from Gabrielle.
“I...was using too much magic on Harry.” said Gabrielle.
“What do you mean?”
“I was keeping him out. He’s powerful so it was hard. I...I...don’t want him to know but I used everything I had and my appearance slipped and...you found me.” Gabrielle replied her emotions making her voice waver ever so slightly.
Ginny held out her arms towards Gabrielle and waited she saw the look of confusion wash over Gabrielle and so said.
“You look like you need a hug.”
“I...I...do.” replied Gabrielle still fighting back her emotions.
“I know I’m not Harry but will I do?”
Gabrielle fell into Ginny arms and let them circle around her. She had been close to Harry for the past few days and her magic had been happy but everything else was going wrong. The lessons, school, students around her, it was getting worse and worse. She wanted desperately to cling to Harry and stay there but she could not.
Ginny felt a sudden flow of emotions that weren’t her own. It was hard to understand them as they flowed quickly and then they disappeared. But still she held Gabrielle close and was surprised that the girl wasn’t crying as she wanted too. Absently she marvelled at how Gabrielle felt to her hands even through the rough material of the robes she could feel the softness of the girl even in this state.
“Tell me about it.” she asked still holding Gabrielle.
“I can’t.”
“Yes you can. We’re in this together remember.”
“I...I...want to go back home.”
“To France?”
“No back to Grimauld Place, back to the summer. I want to get away from here, these people, this school, everything.” She replied a little exasperated.
“Why?”
“Its awful here.”
Ginny was surprised at this; she had always seen Hogwarts as some wonderful magical place. Yes there were dark sides to it and she had experienced some of the nastiest but it wasn’t that bad. The first week had been hard living away from her parents but Gabrielle had done that through the summer, so there must be something else?
“How come, are lessons still bad?” she probed.
Gabrielle nodded.
“Is that all?”
“No...It’s the students I can hear them...almost. I can sense what they are feeling, what they want to do. I just want to run and hide, I want to be with Harry...” but she faulted in saying anymore.
“I know we can’t. Well not yet anyway. He’s not ready for that, but he’s accepted us and the bonds, we’ll be together, you’ll just have to be patient”
“It’s just so bad when I’m walking about all I see are the boys strutting around. I can see it in their motions and their thoughts what they want to do, to me, with me and... I’m scared.”
“Scared?”
“Yes...for me....and.....Harry.”
“Harry?”
“He fought Draco on the train because of me. What will he do about the rest?”
Ginny had to smile at the words.
“Gabrielle... Gabrielle it’s not like that. Harry and Draco, let’s just say they would have fought anyway. It had nothing to do with you, he isn’t like that.”
“But...but...”
“Listen to what big sister is saying. Those two just don't like each other, the rest of the school is different. No Harry won’t jump up and attack the rest, he might have a word or two or get someone else to say something but he won’t get into trouble. If you don't tell him... or me, we can’t help you. You mean a lot to us and you shouldn’t be upset, we can work it out tell me what you need to help you and I’ll see what can be done.”
“But you’re not with me all of the time.”
“That doesn’t matter we can still help even from afar. Now do you feel better?”
“A bit...thanks.”
“I’m always available to give hugs, you just have give me the nod.”
“Ok...that would be nice...until.”
“Yes but we are working on that one aren’t we?”
Eventually Gabrielle pulled back out of Ginny’s arms. Her magic felt better but more important so did her mind, even for those brief minutes with Ginny here in her room the school had been blocked out and she could be just herself. Whilst touching Ginny she had felt her uncertainty and so decided to return the favour.
“I wouldn’t worry about Susan.”
“But...how?”
“The hug, we were touching I just made it easier for me to read you.”
“Oh.”
“Susan may be different to what you fear.”
“But she may not!”
“Yes but I don't think so. She is different, she has different needs.”
“But I will still have to share, I...I....”
“What do you really want?”
“Harry.”
“Then it doesn’t matter, you will see.”
“How?”
“Your magic, the bond. I felt the same but it changed because of you, you will still find your place and Susan hers. Just let it run its course.”
“But he might...she’s his age....”
“No... Just trust in your magic all will be ok I promise.”
“You sure?”
“Yes now go, I think I really do need some sleep now.”
Ginny got to her feet and looked and Gabrielle. She did look tired but looked far better than she did. Giving her a final smile she turned and departed. Closing the door behind her she waited but heard nothing. Feeling pleased at being able to help she ascended to her own dormitory and thought over everything Gabrielle had said.
**
Thursday was another busy day for Harry with lessons all day. It wouldn’t be long before he thought he would start to hate Thursdays and Tuesdays with lessons all day they were long and hard but at least he didn’t have Snape on either of those days. As the three of them went from class to class he marvelled at the speed the teachers were working at. For each of the classes it seemed that the Professors went into overdrive or something. Gone were all the lengthy time to practice or perfect spells, theory was thrown at them constantly and only occasionally interrupted with practice sessions and these seemed far too short for Harry but more than once a Professor told them that was the purpose of the free periods.
And so he was now standing outside his Law and Society class, he was early once more and the Slytherins were giving him the look but that was all, for once they were quiet. The approaching footsteps told him that Susan was coming and he braced himself for the comments once more but were surprised at the silence.
When she came to halt next to him he turned.
“Thanks Susan for the notes.”
“Did they help?” she asked. She wasn’t sure if they would have done but she had spent a lot of time on them. For her she found it suddenly very relaxing doing the notes for Harry it just felt right that she was doing the thing she had promised.
“Oh yes but I would have done it myself you know.”
“I know but I enjoyed it so what department did you choose?”
“Oh the Auror it’s really the only one I’ve been in and remember much about. How about you?”
“My Aunts of course it was just so easy I just had to be a bit careful not to overdo it.”
“Why?”
“I just want to pass and for you too as well. I don't want to be a star or anything just enough to pass will do me.”
“That sounds very laid back.”
Susan looked down at the ground before answering.
“No I just think there are more important things out there than these classes.”
“Yeah like Voldemort.” Replied Harry turning back to the now open door and walking in.
“No you.” She replied in a whisper before following him.
**
Harry felt that he had done much better at taking notes this time. He had managed to keep up for most of the class and only in the last thirty minutes had he found himself flagging. All the different law and acts went right over his head and he knew that he was going to have to read a number of different books to learn everything that had been said but he did feel more confident.
“That’s all for today. Please leave your homework on your desk and I will see you next Monday.” Said Dawlish-Brown as he turned and started to pack away his notes.
Harry got up and started to clear away his things making sure he left his essay on the desk. He waited for Susan to finish before turning to leave. He noticed that they were the last to leave but that didn't matter. As he got into the corridor Susan spoke up once more.
“Harry I’ll give you the notes tomorrow again...ok?”
Harry paused and looked at Susan seeing a slight blush creep into her cheeks, this small flash of colour brightened her face. It was almost the first time he had actually looked at her, her face was pretty and he could see the slight traces of make-up on it. He was sure that it wasn’t there on Monday and her hair looked different neater more styled as well. As he continued to look he could almost feel a pull in his magic as it wanted to reach out to her and explore.
“You don't have to; I did better this time, as I said before I have to learn this myself.” He quickly said as his magic started to flow.
“I know but I want to.”
“Ok then but don't spend too much time on it.”
“I won’t I promise.”
Harry gave her one of his smile. It was involuntary but he saw Susan shudder slightly. The two of them walked on still at a very slow pace. Nothing was said it was thought they were feeling each other out still. As the Grand Hall came into view it was then he remembered that he need to talk to her about the ribbons.
“Um...Susan we need to talk.”
“Talk?” said Susan a small trace of fear in her voice.
“Yes it’s about....something. I really can’t say here but could you meet me in the entrance on Saturday after my Quidditch tryout’s about lunch time?”
Susan’s heart leapt for joy and started to beat faster and faster. She had feared that Harry was going to brush her help away when he said he wanted to talk but this, this was different. He wanted to see her and at the weekend, her mind flowed down many different paths never coming to the same conclusion but she didn’t care, he wanted to see her at that was all that mattered. What happened then would be up to him but she would never say no to him, not too anything her body, her mind everything was prepared. He had saved her but there was something more to it than just that.
“Of course I’ll look forward to it.” She replied hoping beyond all hope that her fantasy and dreams were really coming true.
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