The Legend of the Serpent's Tongue

Legend of the Serpent's Tongue

Chapter 26

To Have and to Hold from this Day Forward

Harry had to wait until after the New Year's Eve celebrations to approach Hermione for help in locating further information regarding the Protectorship. Hermione and Ron had been busy with Moody and Dumbledore discussing security measures and transportation needs for the guests. Therefore, Harry had decided to wait until after the winter recess had ended and the new term began to begin her search. She had also felt they would be less obvious with the bustle of activity going on around them by pretending to be working on Harry's various studies in Potions and Transfiguration.

Harry had finally been able to speak with Hermione two days into the new term. She had a free morning and decided it was time to try to find out what Dumbledore was keeping from her. Following breakfast, she made her way to the library on the pretext of looking up some more information on a specific potion. Unfortunately, Severus had overheard her and questioned why she did not just use his books.

"Harry, you know you have full access to my extensive library downstairs. Why not use one of my manuals?"

"Oh, I would rather not take them from your office. I think what I'm looking for can be found in Moste Potente Potions anyway. I figured I would just take it back up to my room. I don't like taking your book from the office. I always worry that I might spill something on it or something," she lied, trying to sound casual.

"I see," he sneered dismissing the subject with a wave of his hand.

Harry was relieved that he didn't bother to ask her what potion she wished to look up and immediately left the Great Hall in pursuit of Hermione who had already gone upstairs. Once she had gotten to the library she had to wait a few minutes while Hermione helped one of the fifth year students locate a book needed to review for his upcoming OWL exam. As soon as she was finished and checked the book out for the student Hermione turned to her friend.

"Harry, I'm glad to you came up. I need to speak with you about something."

"Can it wait till later, Hermione? I need you to help me first. I think Dumbledore has been keeping secrets again," Harry told her in hushed tones.

"I guess so..."Hermione faltered, "but I really need to speak with you today."

"Okay, I promise to see you after my last class before we go to dinner."

"All right, now what is this about Dumbledore?" she whispered.

"I think there is something he didn't tell me about the Protectorship."

"What? Why would you think so?"

"I overheard a conversation my parents were having during the ball. My dad seemed really upset about my not being told something and my mum was really unhappy about it."

"Do you have any idea what it could be? I read about it before the ceremony and everything you told me was just what I found out."

"Well there must be something else. Where did you find the information?"

"It's over here." She motioned for Harry to follow her into the stacks. "There is a whole section on it in these books," Hermione explained pulling various reference books from the shelves. She handed Harry copies of A History of Magic, Modern Magical History, and Olde and Forgotten Bewitchments and Charms. "These are the books I read."

"Right, let's just look over them again to make sure I understand everything." Harry didn't want Hermione to know she believed her friend had missed something. The library was quiet so Hermione had the time to help. She realized Harry was concerned so she happily sat down at one of the tables. Each of them took a different book and began the task of reviewing the information that Dumbledore had given Harry just prior to her seventh year at Hogwarts. Just as Harry heaved a deep sigh of disappointment Hermione jumped up.

"Harry, look at this. I only read the history books. How could I have been so stupid?!" Hermione berated herself in disgust.

"What did you find Hermione?"

"I never cross referenced with the bibliography. I should have looked up some of these law texts." She turned the book she had been reading around and Harry scanned the page. Only two books were listed but they immediately caught her attention. The titles inscribed were, Ancient Blood Magic, by Albus Dumbledore and Wizarding Laws and their Relevance: A Guide to Ancient Rituals Upheld by the Wizengamot and the Ministry of Magic, by Geoffrey S. Coffin Esq.

"Let's go then!" Harry felt a knot grow in her stomach. "We need to see what they say."

"Harry, I don't have either one of them here," Hermione said, disappointment showing on her face. "Dumbledore came down three days ago and took the one he authored. He said he wanted to see about updating some of the information."

"Now why don't I believe that?" Harry scowled. "What about the other one?"

"It isn't in our listed reference library but I could order it with the Headmaster's permission."

"No, don't let Albus know about this. Can we send for them if I give you the money? I don't want anyone to know about this yet. Especially if it turns out that I'm wrong about what I heard."

"That won't be a problem. The publishers are listed."

"Good. I will donate them to the library when we have finished with them."

"Thanks Harry. That would be wonderful."

"Do me a favor though, find out if Ron knows anything other than what we were told? His family is pureblood and he was raised with a lot of this stuff."

"I'll ask him but I really don't think he knows any more than we do. He isn't really into legal things or history."

"Just the same, he may know a bit more just from being raised in the magical world. Under no circumstances is he to ask his father or mother though. I think it would be best if this was just kept between us for now."

"Okay, I'll see what I can find out."

"Thanks Mione. I appreciate this. Now I have to get going. I have a second year Transfiguration class this afternoon with the Gryffindors and Hufflepuffs."

"I'll see you later, then. Don't forget I need to talk to you later too. It's kind of important."

"I won't forget."

"Then let's get together after dinner. Ron is on duty tonight so we can spend some time together instead of your having to come up after your last class."

"Sounds great," Harry called over her shoulder as she hurried off to her class.

Hermione sat down at her desk in the library and mulled over what Harry had just told her. She was also concerned with what she had been meaning to talk with Harry about later in the evening...

Harry entered the Great Hall for dinner following her last class of the day. It had been a grueling session of third year Potions with Ravenclaw and Slytherin. An argument had erupted during the class between two of the Slytherins and a Ravenclaw student. The Ravenclaw had challenged their judgment over the proper order of ingredients for the burn potion. One of the Slytherins had pulled his wand after the Ravenclaw had snidely criticized the Slytherin, telling him all the inbreeding had affected his brain. Harry had to jump in and stop what almost amounted to an all out duel. The students had both lost house points and were given a weeks worth of detention. Harry had also confiscated their wands for the rest of the class. Nonetheless, Harry was tired and looking forward to a quiet evening with her best friend.

"Good evening, Harry," Dumbledore greeted her warmly as she took her seat. "I understand from Severus that you had a bit of a problem today in Potions?"

"Not really," Harry glared at Severus," although I'm starting to feel as if I'm teaching Defense Against the Dark Arts rather than Potions." She had informed both Severus and Remus about the detentions immediately following the incident since it was policy to inform the students Head of House.

Dumbledore's eyes twinkled merrily. "Now you know how it feels to be on the other side of the desk when the students have disagreements."

"Humph...are you insinuating that I used to have such outbursts as a student?"

"Frequently," Snape drawled. "It's a wonder you and Draco never hexed each other into oblivion."

"We never went that far," Harry smirked, "and never in your class. You were always too busy looking at me down your nose."

"It seems someone is in a bad mood tonight," Sirius laughed. He was sitting beside Remus who was busy picking at his food.

"I'm just tired is all," Harry sighed. Placing a piece of shepherd's pie on her plate she turned her attention to her other protectors. "How are you feeling Remus? You look paler than usual."

"Full moon tomorrow night Princess. I just need a good night's rest."

"Do you still have that muscle rub Severus made up for you?"

"Yes." He smiled wanly.

"Don't worry Love, I'll see that he takes a nice hot shower and give him a good rub down after dinner. He's already taken his potion." Sirius gently patted his friend on the shoulder.

"Will you both be going out tomorrow night?"

"Afraid not, Harry. The snow is still too deep but Prongs will be coming up to our rooms to keep us company."

"All right then, so long as Moony isn't all alone."

"As I recall you had wanted to do some additional potions with me tomorrow evening," Severus commented without looking up.

"You're right of course. I still am having trouble with the refinements you showed me for the Veritaserum."

"If you would prefer we could go over them tonight instead."

"No. Hermione and I will be spending the evening together. We have a bit of catching up to do and I could use a bit of relaxation." Harry glanced up to the other end of the table where Hermione was having an animated conversation with Neville and Arsinoe. She gathered it had something to do with the native plants from Mexico.

"Aren't you on hall duty tonight Harry?" Dumbledore questioned.

"No, I switched with Professor Sprout. She had an early class this morning and I didn't."

"It was good of you to do so." Dumbledore nodded his approval.

The rest of the meal was spent discussing minor issues and mundane trivia. Harry really was a bit tired. She figured it would be nice to have an evening without worries and would at least get some sleep afterwards. She was relaxing over a cup of coffee when Hermione signaled her and they went upstairs to Hermione's quarters. Hermione lit the fire while Harry curled up in one of the soft chairs.

"Will Ron be staying in here with you once you two are married?" Harry asked curiously while Hermione poured them each a glass of wine.

"Yes, at least until he finishes his duty here as an Auror," Hermione answered sitting down in the chair opposite the one Harry occupied. "Then we will need to find a place to live. Molly wanted us to stay with her for awhile at the Burrow but Ron nixed that almost immediately."

"Why not? It would give you both some time to save some money and look for a nice little house."

"That's what I told him but he said he would feel uncomfortable there."

"Uncomfortable? Hermione he grew up at the Burrow."

"Well...he said...he...um...would feel weird...doing it...with his folks in the same house." Hermione blushed profusely.

"You could use a silencing spell on the room," Harry giggled. "I'm sure with all those kids in the house Molly and Arthur did."

"I told him that but he just wants us to have our own place."

"I guess he has a point," Harry grinned, "after all how would you feel about having sex in your parents' house?"

"Probably about the same way he feels," Hermione agreed with a toss of her head.

The two girls sat quietly for a few minutes sipping their wine. Hermione shifted uncomfortably in her chair. She wasn't sure how to broach the subject she needed to discuss with Harry. Harry noticed that her friend seemed nervous about something and began to grow concerned.

"Hermione is something the matter?"

"Well...kind of. That's why I needed to talk with you."

"What is it? You know you're my best friend. You should be able to tell me anything."

"It's just...well...I've been talking with my folks about the wedding..." Her voice trailed off.

"What's wrong? Don't they want you to marry Ron?"

"Oh no, they really like Ron. It's about security."

"What about the security? I happen to know that Moody and Dumbledore have been working really hard on it."

"They have...but...my folks...they think it will be too much of a risk for you to be in the wedding party." Hermione's words came out in a rush.

"I see. How do you feel about it?"

"Harry...I really want you to be there...but they're my parents. I don't want them to worry any more than they have to. So I'm asking you as my friend if you will drop out."

Harry couldn't say anything. Hermione's words had stung her to the core. Her best friend was afraid that she posed a security risk. The same friend that had followed her into danger any number of times and helped rescue the younger students in the last battle with Voldemort. The same friend that had argued with her fiancé to have Harry as her Maid of Honor when Ron had wanted her to stand with him instead. The same friend Harry had fought to prevent from being expelled when she had succumbed to Voldemort's plans. She just stared at Hermione in disbelief.

"Harry...you can still come to the reception. It will be held here so you won't have any problems with anything happening."

Harry finally found her voice. "Does Ron agree with this decision?"

"He doesn't know. I thought we could just keep this between us and tell him it was your idea."

"I don't think he will accept that but since you feel I'm such a threat I'll do it. I know when I'm not wanted." Harry's voice was barely above a whisper and her fists were clenched with anger. She downed her wine in one gulp and stood up to leave.

"You'll still come to the reception though, won't you?"

"I'm sorry, Hermione. I'm afraid I'll be busy working on my spell to defeat the Dark Lord on that day," Harry replied over her shoulder as she fled the room, Hermione calling after her.

"Harry wait! Please don't be mad."

Harry ignored her and ran up the hall towards her own quarters fighting the tears stinging her eyes. Slamming the door, she flung herself on her bed sobbing uncontrollably...

"What the hell was that?" Sirius questioned looking at Remus. They had just heard the loud bang from the opposite hallway.

"It was Harry's door," the werewolf replied. His extra sharp hearing was enhanced even more with the full moon so close. "Something must have happened." He rose slowly from the bed. Sirius had been rubbing him down to help his aching bones as the transformation drew ever closer. "We should go and check it out."

"I'll go. You need to rest."

"No. If there is a problem with Voldemort even a werewolf can be helpful." He gave Sirius a lopsided grin.

"Only if they're not in the way of something silver," Sirius said, reminding Remus of when Lucius shot him with the silver bullet.

"Then I'll just have to rely on you to make sure of that Padfoot. Now let's go and see what is going on."

"Come on then. I can see there is no stopping you," Sirius remarked leading him from the room.

Remus stiffened when they reached Harry's door. She had been so upset she had forgotten to put a silencing charm on the room. Remus sharp hearing detected her muffled sobs.

"Padfoot, she's crying. Something must be wrong."

"You don't suppose Voldemort has hurt someone that she knows?"

"There's only one way to find out," Remus responded, rapping on her door. There was no answer so he knocked again.

"Go away, Hermione," Harry's called out shrilly. "We have nothing more to say to one another."

"Harry, it's us. Moony and Padfoot," Sirius proclaimed in response. "Can we come in?"

"Not now. I would rather be alone."

"Please, Harry. Has something happened with Voldemort?"

"No...Just please...leave me...alone."

"Sorry, Miss Wings," Sirius answered pushing open the door to her sitting room. "I want to know what you are so upset about."

"It's...none of...your...business. I'm fine...now just leave...the both of...you," she choked as they entered her bedroom.

"Princess, please tell us why you're crying. If you're hurting we are too." Remus sat down beside her on the bed and gently rubbed her back.

"We're your protectors Harry. If something has happened you should be able to tell us. If Voldemort has done something..."

"Sirius, I told...you it...is not...Voldemort. Please...just...let it...go."

"Princess whatever is troubling you we will find out eventually anyway. Why not just tell us now? Maybe we can help."

"Harry, please calm down and tell us." Sirius turned his puppy eyes on her. "Is someone hurt?"

"Only...me," she sobbed bitterly.

"It's not a young man is it?" Sirius growled sitting down beside her on the bed. "No one has tried to seduce you have they? Because if they..."

"No!" she exclaimed cutting him off. "You know I haven't gotten involved with anyone other that you, Moony, and Sev."

"Harry, has Severus done something to upset you?" Remus asked cautiously.

"No, he's his usual self these days. Romantic one minute and cold as ice the next." She looked at them with a bemused smile.

"Well at least you got a smile out of her," Sirius said tussling her hair. "Now as your godfather and your protector I demand to know what is so troubling so I can fix it."

"There is nothing to fix." Harry answered wistfully.

"Harry, at least tell us what has you so unhappy. You look worse than I do after the full moon." Remus winked as Sirius. 'Maybe if we try and coax it out of her she will be more responsive,' he thought to himself.

"Remus is right. Sometimes it helps to talk about what is bothering you," Sirius remarked cupping her chin. "Even if it's something we can't fix at least you may feel better."

Harry just sighed and stared off into space. "It's chilly in here," she said absently.

"That's easy enough to fix." Sirius pointed his wand at the fireplace. A moment later it was ablaze with warmth.

"Humph, I can do better than that," Remus scoffed. "Dobby," he called to the air, "could you get us all some hot chocolate?" Almost immediately a small tray appeared on the table beside her bed containing three cups of steaming hot cocoa topped with whipped cream.

"Thank you Dobby," Harry responded. The house elf appeared with a pop.

"Your very welcome, Miss Harry Potter." He bowed. "Dobby doesn't like to see you so unhappy. Dobby knows what Miss Hermione has done and Dobby thinks it is wrong!"

"That will be quiet enough, Dobby," Harry admonished. 'Damn he did that on purpose!' she considered.

"Dobby is sorry Miss Harry but Dobby is only looking out for you. You is a great and powerful witch and a good friend to Miss Hermione. Dobby is thinking that she should not treat you in such a fashion."

"Dobby, did Harry and Hermione have a fight?" Remus questioned studying his fingers nonchalantly. He could already see his nails beginning to get a bit longer. He would transform within the hour.

"Dobby cannot say, Professor. It is for Miss Harry to tell you what Dobby knows."

"Harry, you should listen to Dobby. Hermione is your friend and if you two have had an argument maybe we could at least help you to sort things out," Sirius remarked seriously. 'Damned Hermione, I never really liked her all that much. She's such a know it all. She never takes the time to consider how she will affect other people. Harry was right when she said Hermione had a lot to learn when it came to dealing with people,' he mused.

"You can go Dobby," Harry interrupted his thoughts.

"Yes Miss Harry. Is you very angry with Dobby?"

"No and don't go punishing yourself. You meant well."

The house elf smiled and disappeared with a loud pop. Harry merely sat staring into the fire and sipping her cocoa.

"So what did the two of you argue about?" Remus golden eyes met hers.

"We didn't really have an argument. Hermione just asked me to drop out of her wedding party is all." Harry could not meet their eyes.

"What!" They both gasped in unison.

"What do you mean she asked you to drop out?" Sirius ranted. "You don't just kick someone out of one of the most important days of your life without a reason!"

"Her parents think it will be too much of a security risk. They're afraid that my presence will trigger an attack by the Deatheaters if not Voldemort himself."

"Why those stupid arrogant Muggles," Sirius began, only to be interrupted by Remus unnaturally calm voice.

"Does Ron know about this?"

"No Moony, he doesn't. She asked me not to say anything."

"I see." Remus jaw was set and his eyes were those of an angry animal. A member of his pack had been hurt and he was going to do something about it. Turning abruptly he raced from the room with the unnatural speed of a werewolf.

"Shit!" Sirius swore aloud.

"Padfoot, you have to stop him. Where is he going?" Harry worried, following Sirius to the door. "It's too close to his transformation. He'll never forgive himself if he hurts someone, potion or not!"

"I'll find him, Harry." Sirius immediately transformed. Picking up Remus sent he went racing after him.

"Oh hell," Harry shook her head. "I'm not going to sit here and wait!" A moment later a large Phoenix was flying through the corridor in pursuit of a large black dog.

Remus Lupin was seething. He could feel the fury of the wolf as he tore down the stairs to the main floor of the castle. Racing out the double doors his keen senses caught Ron Weasley's scent on the wind. The werewolf knew he was patrolling the grounds this evening. Running in the direction of the Quidditch Pitch he followed the scent, now intermingled with that of Tonks, towards where his sharp senses detected their presence. The two Aurors saw him running towards them and headed in Remus' direction, concern marking their features.

"Wotcher, Remus, what is going on?" Tonks asked breathlessly.

"I need to speak with Ron," he replied. The werewolf had not even broken into a sweat following his run from the castle.

"Has something happened to Hermione or Harry?" Ron demanded worriedly.

Before Remus could reply a loud bark came from behind him. This was followed by the shriek of a Phoenix in distress. All eyes turned in the direction of the castle. Padfoot was galloping swiftly in their direction with the scarlet bird following. They recognized the Phoenix as being too small for Fawkes and rightly assumed it was Harry. The two transformed as they reached the group.

"Remus, please stay out of this," Harry begged. "It has nothing to do with Ron."

"Miss Wings is right, Moony. This is something she needs to resolve with Hermione."

"I think Ron needs to be aware of what is going on," Remus replied coldly.

"Please, Remus, it's too close to the full moon. You're letting your anger get the better of you." Harry was growing distraught at the thought that he would transform and possibly lose control despite the Wolfsbane Potion. "At least let it wait until tomorrow."

"Harry, I am well aware that the moon will be up shortly. However, I feel this needs to be resolved now!"

"Will someone please tell us what in bloody hell is going on?" Tonks insisted eyeing the trio in front of her.

"Harry, mate, what is Remus going on about?"

"It's nothing, Ron. I was just upset about something and Remus felt the need to defend me." Harry looked at Remus imploringly.

"Harry, I'm your best friend. If it's something he feels I could help with then just tell me."

"No! It's just something between Hermione and me. We'll work it out."

"Moony, come on back inside. Prongs will be coming soon and he'll be wondering why we're not in our room." Sirius placed a gentle hand on his friend's shoulder.

"Very well, if that's what Harry wants," Remus agreed. He looked soberly at Harry.

"I do, Remus. It's better if you don't get involved. It will only make the situation worse."

"Then I only have one thing to say." Remus turned to Ron. "I'm sorry, Ron, but I will be unable to be a groomsman in your wedding. I know this is short notice but there are some rather extenuating circumstances."

"What? Why not?!" Ron gasped in confusion. However, Remus was already heading back towards the castle accompanied by Sirius and Harry.

"It seems to me that maybe Hermione knows what is going on," Tonks speculated. "Maybe you should ask her."

"I'm meeting her as soon as we get off duty in half an hour," Ron stated as they resumed their patrol. "Maybe something happened with Voldemort that Hermione doesn't want me to know."

"If it did I will expect you to report it immediately to either myself of Kingsley," Tonks advised. "It may have something to do with her parents. Remember what happened when you were in school."

"How can I forget? If it weren't for Harry she would have been expelled and her memory modified." Ron grimaced as he recalled how his fiancé had fallen victim to Voldemort's imperious curse, betraying Harry, causing her subsequent abduction during the Quidditch match with Slytherin...

Harry had returned to her room and prepared for bed as soon as she knew Remus had calmed down. Sirius stayed with him and they continued to discuss what had happened. Remus and Sirius were both angry with Hermione and felt that Harry's presence would actually be beneficial. They couldn't understand why Hermione would feel otherwise. Prongs arrived a short time later and agreed with them. James also felt that Harry needed to speak with someone who could look at the situation from another angle. Ironically enough he suggested that Severus, being a former Deatheater, might just be able to give Harry a better insight into Hermione's way of thinking. Sirius and Remus were amazed that James would even make such a suggestion but agreed with his reasoning. Once Remus transformed Sirius headed down to the dungeons and apprised Severus of the situation. He had no idea that at that same time Ron had gotten off duty and was on his way to speak with Hermione...

Hermione answered the familiar knock on her door with a smile. Ron greeted her with a brief kiss and made himself comfortable on the sofa. He couldn't help but notice that Hermione looked upset.

"Mione, what's the matter?" he inquired putting his arm around her shoulders affectionately.

"Nothing really," she answered sulkily, avoiding his eyes.

"Yes there is. I can tell. It wouldn't have anything to do with what happened to me earlier with Professor Lupin would it?"

"Professor Lupin? Whatever are you talking about? I haven't seen Remus since dinner." Hermione's stomach did a flip. 'I wonder if Harry saw him and told him what happened,' she pondered thoughtfully. 'It never occurred to me that she would speak to him about...'

"Mione, are you listening to me?" Ron interrupted her thoughts.

"I'm sorry, Ron, I was a bit distracted. What were you saying?"

"Remus came and found me on duty about an hour ago. He was really upset about something having to do with Harry. He dropped out of the wedding. Sirius and Harry dragged him off before we really had a chance to speak. All I got was that something had happened with you. It has nothing to do with Voldemort does it?" Ron studied her nervously. "Whatever it is you can tell me."

"Oh, Ron," Hermione sighed, "Harry and I had a bit of a tiff earlier this evening."

"Harry can be moody at times. What brought it on?"

"I'm afraid it was my fault," Hermione began uncertainly.

"Mione, you and Harry are best friends. She's going to be your Maid of Honor for Merlin's sake."

"No, Ron, she's not." Hermione twisted her hands nervously.

"Bloody hell, Mione, what happened with you two? Why did Harry drop out of the wedding?"

"Ron, you have to understand..."

"Understand...what is there to understand?"

"It's...my parents," she faltered trying to find the right words.

"Your parents, what have they got to do with this?"

"We...we've been talking...and well...we all agreed."

"Agreed?"

"Um...yes...Ron I love my mum and dad...and well...I just couldn't say no."

"Say no to what Hermione?" Ron asked in frustration. 'What the hell isn't she telling me?' He frowned to himself.

"They...they felt that...Harry...well they think she'll be an added security risk," Hermione blurted out. "And well...you know...it's my wedding...I don't want anything to go wrong," she finished in a rush. Ron was staring at her in disbelief.

"So...you told her you didn't want her there?" His ears were growing red with anger.

"No, no, no! I told her to drop out of the wedding party and just come to the reception here at Hogwarts!"

"You kicked her out of the wedding party?!"

"Well...no...I mean...yes...sort of."

"Hermione, how could you? Harry is our best friend. If it weren't for her you would have been expelled!"

"You think I don't know that? But..."

"There are no buts! Why wasn't I consulted about this?"

"You?" she asked in confusion. Ron was growing angrier by the minute.

"Yes, me. I love your parents too. However, do I have to remind you Hermione Jane Granger that this is my wedding too? I wanted Harry to stand up with me! You were the one who insisted she be the Maid of Honor instead," he fumed.

"I know, Ron. It's just that my parents are scared and this seemed like the easiest solution."

"Well I think it stinks! Harry has had little enough good in her life and she was really looking forward to this wedding. She didn't get to spend Christmas at the Burrow and this was the last thing we would have done together as a trio," Ron ranted getting up to pace furiously.

"Ron, calm down. I only did it for us."

"For us? There was no us involved. You didn't even ask me. For what it's worth to you Hermione I would feel safer with Harry there! She's as good as ten bloody Aurors put together. Voldemort would think twice about doing anything if he finds out she's at the ceremony. Do you think he's a fucking idiot? Harry would die before she let anything happen to either one of us!"

"Ron I..."

"Maybe there shouldn't be a wedding? Maybe I don't know you as well as I thought I did," he yelled irately. "To do something like this to our best friend and behind my back. I'll never forgive you, Hermione. Never! The wedding is off! You can keep the damned ring. Maybe it will remind you of what we all once stood for!" Ron stalked to the door.

"Ron wait!" Hermione called desperately, tears streaming down her cheeks. Her words fell on deaf ears as the door slammed shut behind him...

Harry was tossing and turning in bed when she heard a soft knock on her door.

"Damn," she muttered to herself, "what is going on now?" She flung back the blankets of her bed and padded softly to the door. "Who is it?" she questioned irately.

"Severus. May I come in?"

"Has something happened?" Harry questioned, opening the door for him to enter. "Has the Dark Lord done something? I haven't felt anything in my scar."

"No, there has been no problem with the Dark Lord," Severus remarked calmly. He seated himself on the settee and directed his wand towards the dying fire causing the embers to spring to life.

"Severus, I'm very tired and it's not like you to come up here unless something has happened," Harry said curling up in the opposite chair.

"I have just had a very interesting conversation with Black..."

"Oh great, does everyone always have to interfere in my life?" she cut him off in annoyance.

"I am merely here at the suggestion of your father. It was James' idea that I speak with you about the situation with Miss Granger," Severus told her bluntly.

"My father has no business butting in where he doesn't belong! Who told him anyway? Oh let me guess, it had to be Sirius and Remus."

"I see you are as astute as ever," he sneered. "Perhaps it would be best if I left since you seem so bent on being as stubborn as usual when it comes to your pride." He rose to go.

"I am not being stubborn. You have already gotten me out of bed so you may as well say whatever you came up here to say," Harry snapped.

"How kind of you to admit that I might have some insight into the situation," he smirked, dark eyes unreadable. 'Granger really hurt her feelings. What did the idiot girl think would happen, that Harry would just say fine?' Severus mused as he sat back down. He studied Harry intently for a few minutes as she stared defiantly into his unrelenting gaze. He arched his brow in amusement knowing she still refused to give in to his intimidation.

"Well? What do you have to tell me?" she demanded.

"Your stubborn Gryffindor pride becomes you."

"Sev," she blushed, "you did not come up here to discuss my pride."

"No, I came up here, as you so eloquently put it, to discuss Miss Granger and her ridiculous attitude. Your father felt that perhaps I could give you some insight into how she feels."

"I know how she feels damn it. She's scared. I am an empath you know!"

"Ah...but have you considered things from her point of view? She is a Muggle born after all and many of the guests at the wedding will be Muggles."

"I know that," Harry answered irately.

"Now consider how she must feel. She has to worry about them while at the same time a member of her wedding party is the prime target of the Dark Lord. Does she risk his making an appearance just to have her friend standing beside her? Or should she ask her friend not to be in the wedding."

"She should have enough confidence in her friend that she should understand her friend would never deliberately endanger her family. Plus the fact that she not only asked the same friend not to be in the wedding party but to forgo attending the actual ceremony," Harry answered beginning to shake with outrage.

Severus arched his brow with a frown. Black had neglected to tell him that little piece of information. He contemplated it for a moment and then continued smoothly.

"Logical, but then again that is how Miss Granger thinks. Everything is black and white. In her mind there is no gray."

"What do you mean?"

"Look at it this way. She wants you to share in her day but knows that the Dark Lord will stop at nothing to harm you. He would care nothing for her or her Muggle relatives. In addition to that fact he also wants her and Mr. Weasley out of the way. Not to mention that she has already betrayed you once while under the Imperious. So rather than subject anyone to the danger and assuaging any suspicion of the same thing occurring again, she simply believed it would be wiser if you weren't there. She never stopped to consider your feelings. Nor, as I was led to believe, did she take the trouble to speak with young Mr. Weasley. In her desire to please her parents and alleviate their fears she didn't take the time to look at the entire situation. In other words she ignored the gray areas having to do with either of your emotions."

Almost on cue, they were suddenly aware of a door slamming up the hall. A moment later, there was a sharp knock on Harry's door. Severus looked at Harry and she shrugged. Getting up she went to see who would be calling so late.

"Ron," she gasped opening the door, "what are you doing here at this hour?"

"I'm sorry, Harry. I don't mean to disturb you mate but I need to apologize for Hermione's behavior. What she did was bloody disgraceful," he scowled angrily.

"Well come on in. It's chilly in the hall and you are probably as tired as I am." Harry swung the door wider so that he could enter. Ron stopped short when he saw Professor Snape sitting on the settee.

"Oh, sorry, I didn't realize you had company Harry. I can talk to you later."

"Do not let my presence disturb you Mr. Weasley. I was just leaving." He nodded to the younger man. "I shall speak with you tomorrow, Harry, sleep well." Snape let himself out, black robes billowing behind him.

"Does he know what happened?" Ron questioned.

"Yes. Sirius and Remus told him. I didn't mean for this fiasco to happen Ron."

"It isn't your fault, Harry. I only stopped by to tell you the wedding is off anyway," he remarked flatly. Harry could feel the hurt and anger flowing off him.

"What! Why? Ron, what is going on?"

"I was so furious with Hermione that I broke the engagement. She had no business doing what she did without even asking me," he explained bitterly.

"Ron, answer me a question."

"What is it?"

"Do you love Hermione?"

"You know I do mate. She is just so bloody mental at times."

"And you are a stupid git! Ron, don't let this keep you and Hermione apart. We'll work it out. Hermione's scared Ron. You can't blame her for that. She didn't stop to consider how either one of us would feel."

"Then why didn't she come and talk to me first?" he asked, running his hands through his thick red hair. "She should know that we would have listened to her arguments."

"She also knew you would have been just as upset as you are now. We both know that she is an only child and has trouble making friends. She's more insecure than either of us realizes."

"Maybe you're right, Harry, but what can we do now?"

"It's late. Go up to bed and get some sleep. Give Hermione time to think. I'm sure she's as upset as we are, probably more so. In the morning go and bring her some flowers or candy and tell her you're sorry for acting like a prat. Then we'll all talk about this. Just don't ruin your lives over one little incident. Marriage is about compromise, Ron, and learning how to live together."

"Umm...I guess your right Harry. Mum and dad have had some real rows over the years but they really love one another."

"I know. Now let me get some rest. It's been a stressful day for all of us."

Okay but there's one more thing. Will you talk to Remus for me? If Hermione and I can get through this I really would like him to be in our wedding."

"I'll try, Ron, but he was madder than I have ever seen him."

"I know, mate, but I know he'll listen to you." Ron clapped her on the back. Her reasoning comforted him to some degree. He only hoped Hermione would forgive his angry outburst...

Ron and Hermione were back together and snogging like nothing had ever happened by the next afternoon. Hermione was reluctant to approach Harry but did so with Ron. She still asked Harry not to be in the wedding. However, this was a source of deep hurt for Harry. She agreed but explained that she would still be unable to attend the reception. She was used to being a persona non grata. It had certainly happened often enough while she was in school. The Granger's were relieved that Harry would no longer attend. Unfortunately, for Ron and Hermione, Molly Weasley was not. She was furious and immediately sent a howler to Mr. and Mrs. Granger. Ginny too, stood up for Harry, told Hermione she was nothing but a selfish bitch, and refused to speak with either one of them. Remus didn't help the situation any either. He still refused to be in the wedding and planned to spend the afternoon with Harry. Phaedra was utterly confused by the whole situation while Draco laughed and taunted Hermione on being the only cowardly Gryffindor he had ever seen. Luna and Neville remained silent but both thought the whole situation was ridiculous.

As the days wore on and Valentine's Day grew closer, Harry just stayed in her room when she wasn't teaching. Even Padfoot's presence could offer her no real solace. Finally, Dumbledore called her to his office. Harry was not surprised. She headed up to see him with a heavy heart. When she exited the moving stairs Dumbledore was waiting for her.

"Come in, Harry. Would you like some tea?" he asked. indicating she should sit in one of the chairs in front of his desk.

"No thank you, Headmaster." She sat down heavily unable to meet his eyes.

Dumbledore studied his young protégé soberly. She was pale and drawn and he suspected she was barely sleeping. She looked listless and he could tell she was unhappy. Dobby had informed him that she had barely been eating. Severus and Arsinoe had also been to see him. Harry had lost all interest in her tutoring sessions. She was merely running on automatic. In all trials she had faced the only time he had ever seen her feeling so isolated and alone had been when Sirius had fallen through the veil in the Department of Mysteries. Fawkes had also sensed her mood and perched on her shoulder. He sang softly but even this seemed to have no effect.

"Child, is there anything you wish to tell me?"

"No." Her response had been immediate and totally flat.

"Would you like to talk about it?" he asked gently ignoring her negative response.

"There's nothing to talk about. I have lost my friends." Harry had no tears left to cry and merely took a deep shuddering breath. "I have been and always will be alone."

"Harry, you have never been alone," Dumbledore soothed. Inwardly he was growing more worried. Harry was giving up. "Tell me what you are feeling."

"Anger." The word had fallen from her mouth before she could stop it. "I know now what caused Tom Riddle to go dark and a part of me doesn't blame him at all. "I can understand Hermione but I expected better from Ron."

"Mr. Weasley is caught in the middle. He is in love with Miss Granger and had to choose between his best friend and the woman he wants to spend the rest of his life with."

"At least he may have a life," Harry replied bitterly, finally meeting the Headmaster's eyes. He had never seen the coldness in Harry's eyes that he saw now. It chilled him to the bone.

"Harry, you said that you knew why Tom went dark. What do you believe was the cause?"

"Loneliness and isolation. No one wanted him for himself. They only wanted his power. Therefore, he made the only intelligent choice he could make. He gave it to them. It was better than feeling the pain. That's why it makes him feel so good when he hurts others..." her voice trailed off to a whisper. Fawkes began to sing louder but seemed unable to comfort the distraught witch.

Dumbledore was growing even more disturbed. He sensed that Harry was at a crossroads. She was trying to determine whether to do the right thing or the easy thing. He had lost that battle with Tom many years ago. He did not want to lose Harry to the darkness too. Dumbledore knew she would be infinitely more powerful than the Dark Lord. Even he would be unable to stop her once she started down that path. What happened here in this office would determine her future.

"Child, you have every right to feel angry," he began carefully. "You have always been there for your friends. Indeed, you love them as if they were your own siblings. Unfortunately, siblings do not always see eye to eye."

"It hurts to know that they don't think of me the same way. I always thought they did."

"They do."

"Funny, I don't believe that. I don't believe that at all."

"Why?"

"They would never treat a blood relative so shabbily. The Weasley's are a close-knit family. Hermione is close with her parents too. I have no blood ties to either of them so therefore I am expendable. Remus is a werewolf, yet they were very unhappy when he refused to be in their wedding after Hermione asked me not to. They have more concern for his feelings than they do mine." Harry was so intent on what she was saying that she did not immediately realize that some of the Headmaster's gadgets were actually shaking on their shelves. Her hurt and anger were manifesting themselves in unintentional magic. She was losing control.

"Harry," he placed his wrinkled hand on top of hers, "what would you do if they suddenly came in here and apologized asking you to be a part of their ceremony?"

"I would say no. I wouldn't be able to believe they did so of their own choosing."

"Your empathy would tell you if they had or not," Dumbledore reasoned.

"Only if I was leaving it open to their emotions. I am quite adept at blocking the feelings of others."

"I know this. I want you to let down your guard and tell me what I am feeling right now."

Harry studied the Headmaster quizzically but did as he asked. Her lip twitched nervously.

"Headmaster, why are you so afraid of me?" she was genuinely puzzled.

"I am not afraid of you, Harry. I am afraid for you."

"I don't understand, Sir."

"You are letting yourself fall into the darkness and I don't know how to help you. You are being consumed by anger and hurt just as you tell me Tom was."

"I'm lost, Albus, and I can't find my way back. I'm not even sure if I want to."

"Harry, I want you to think about all the people in your life who love you and have stood behind you in the battle for the light then tell me what you feel."

Harry sat chewing her lip. She did as the Headmaster instructed. Images flashed through her mind. Ron and Hermione on the train going to Hogwarts with her for the first time. The troll in the girl's bathroom, the Philosopher's stone, Ginny taken into the chamber of secrets. Remus teaching her the Patronus charm, Sirius in the Shrieking Shack, Severus belittling her in Potions...on and on the memories came. Some were good, many were frightening, but all were with people she had come to love in one form or another. Yet, she still felt hollow inside. Something was missing.

"What do you feel now, Harry?" Dumbledore asked kindly.

"Like I'm on the outside looking in," she sighed. Harry hung her head miserably. "Why can't I have someone to love?"

"But you do, Harry. All those memories..." he ventured cautiously, "were they not of the people you care the most about?"

"Yes, but why do I feel so lost and alone? I need someone to tell me they care...no...I want someone to tell me they care. I want them to shout it to the wind..." her voice trailed off.

"Ah...your greatest fear Harry. Is it not to be alone?"

"Yes..."she whispered.

"Your anger is not about being asked to drop out of the wedding. Your anger is that you feel they have left you all alone. You wanted to be in the wedding because they are a part of you and you love them. You feel as if they are closing you off and going out of your life, leaving you all alone."

Harry didn't reply. She just sat listening to Fawkes sing, gently stroking his scarlet feathers. She was vaguely aware of a cup of the Headmaster's special hot cocoa appearing on the desk in front of her. When she looked up there were tears in her eyes. Harry had thought she couldn't cry any more.

"Why don't they care any more? Why can't they trust me to be there for them?"

"They do, Harry. Hermione is afraid but it is not just fear for her parents and Ron's family. It is her fear for you. Although, I dare say she does not yet realize this. If Voldemort comes it will be for you. In her own way she is trying to protect you."

Harry reached out for the cup in front of her. She was shaking and had to grip the cup with both hands to keep it from spilling. The cocoa was hot and the scalding liquid burned her throat causing her to close her eyes. She could feel the Headmaster gently probing her mind. She didn't try to stop him. She could feel his comforting thoughts as he gently charmed her exhausted mind and body to sleep. She was unaware of the gentle flick of his hand as he levitated her to his sofa, placing the blanket over her before sitting down at his desk to think...

"Come on, Mione, or we'll be late," Ron said as he quickened his pace towards Hogsmeade.

"Ron, we still have half an hour before the train comes in with my parents."

"I know, but we also have to pick up the robes and dresses." He clasped her hand excitedly. "I'm so glad you changed your mind. Harry will be so happy and I hope Remus will agree to be in the wedding after all."

"I just couldn't break her heart like that. It was wrong of me to even suggest she drop out. You were right, Ron. I love Harry as much as you do. She must have felt as if a brick wall had fallen down on her," Hermione admitted shamefaced.

Ron knew how hard it was for Hermione to admit when she was wrong about something but he knew better than to make an issue of it.

"What time do we have to pick up the robes and dresses again?" he asked even though he knew the answer.

"Right after lunch, Circe and Professor Snape will meet us in Hogsmeade with Phaedra and Ginny. I will pick up the dresses for Harry and Luna while you pick up the robes with Draco and your brother Charlie. He said he would meet you at the twins shop in Hogsmeade. Draco and Tonks are on duty in Hogsmeade already so they'll meet us there as well."

"It's a shame Neville had to work and Remus still doesn't know that Harry will be in the wedding," Ron commented. "It's a good thing I didn't cancel his robes. Do you really think he will still agree to be a groomsman?" He really liked the werewolf and felt badly that he had dropped out of the wedding.

"Of course. He was angry because I was acting like such an idiot. He is Harry's Protector after all. Her being upset so close to the full moon compounded the whole situation. His werewolf instincts reacted to his pack member's anguish," Hermione explained logically.

"Right, how come Luna couldn't come?"

"She had a Herbology test and didn't want to make it up. I really think she wanted to spend some secret time with Neville afterwards though." Hermione grinned knowingly at Ron who laughed back.

"I still can't believe that we will be married in just two more days." Ron beamed at Hermione as they crunched through the snow towards the village.

"Actually, it will be a bit of a relief. All this planning and arguing was really getting me down. I still feel bad and I hope Harry forgives me," Hermione stated growing anxious. "What if she thinks I only changed my mind to pacify everyone and don't really want her?"

"Mione, we're talking about Harry. She loves us both and she is an empath after all. She'll be able to feel that you're being sincere."

"You know, Ron, sometimes you are really pretty smart," she teased, her mood brightening once again. Picking up some snow, she playfully slipped it down the back of his robe and took off at a run towards the village, laughing as he chased after her up the road...

Dumbledore had been working for over two hours as Harry slept on the sofa in his office. He was worried, and Fawkes had perched himself on the old man's shoulder.

"Yes, Fawkes, our little Phoenix is at a crossroads," he muttered absently stroking the bird who trilled softly in his ear. "I fear she has been so deeply wounded that her anger will cloud her judgment." He looked over at the sleeping form with a sad smile. "I have done all that I can but if she succumbs to her anger..." he was interrupted as Harry moaned softly in her sleep. He looked up sharply, concerned that she may be dreaming. 'Could Tom have broken through her defenses?' he thought, blue eyes studying her with concern. She seemed to be getting more and more restless as another moan escaped her lips...

The dream had started out innocently enough. Harry could see her friends chatting excitedly about the wedding. At first, she had felt a stab of pain but then she realized they were talking about her. She was to be in the wedding after all! Hermione and Tonks were discussing how to surprise Harry with the news without making her feel that Hermione was only doing this to pacify all the objections and arguments. Her friend had felt guilty enough and didn't want Harry to think that this was simply a peace gesture. The small group of women was moving up the street towards the joke shop.

Professor Snape, a decidedly bored expression marking his pale features, accompanied them. He was holding his niece by the hand and had just signaled his sister, Circe, that he was taking the child over to Honeydukes. Harry knew Phaedra had probably coerced her uncle into getting her some candy.

"Ah...the child too," she muttered with a feeling of anticipation, "and the Mudblood. A cold thrill ran down her spine. It was then that she realized she was standing in an alleyway. This was no dream. She had linked with Voldemort in her sleep having forgotten to occlude her mind. He was as yet unaware of her presence. Glancing up the street she became aware of another group of people. Ron, Charlie, Draco and Mr. Granger were talking with the twins while they waited for the women. "This is my lucky day," Voldemort snorted. "I may not have the Potters but I have others she cares about." He motioned with his wand and she was aware that he had summoned some of his Deatheaters. Very subtly, he positioned them at either end of the street. He would stay in between. Looking towards Honeydukes a grotesque smile twisted his lips. "Soon, Severus...soon you will pay dearly for your betrayal. As will your uncle. The fool thinks I believed that charade about Justinian and will answer my summons when I call him later. But first I must secure my hostages." With a swift motion he stepped out into the street, wand drawn, as Snape emerged from the candy shop.

Severus had felt the mark on his arm burn. Even though he knew the summons was for others he was aware that the Dark Lord was nearby. He had told Phaedra to stay behind until he called. He drew his wand and stepped into the street.

"Severus, welcome to my party," Voldemort hissed, "nice of you to attend."

"Expelliarmus!" Snape shouted too late. Voldemort dodged and flicked his wand.

"Stupefy!" The Dark Lord grinned. The jet of red light passed to Snape's right, hitting Phaedra who had crept into the shadow of the doorway. Severus was momentarily distracted as he saw the child fall from the corner of his eye. It was all the Dark Lord needed. "Impedimenta!" Voldemort blasted Severus through the window of the shop. He knocked his head on the frame losing consciousness, falling with a sea of broken glass. Magical ropes shot from his wand as he quickly bound the child and her uncle. The Dark Lord then turned his attention to the group of people up the street. They were surrounded and putting up a major struggle.

Harry could see a jet of green light hit both Mr. and Mrs. Granger. Hermione screamed and dropped her wand running over to her dead parents. Draco was dueling with his father, while Tonks tripped trying to defend him against the Avadra Kedavra, taking the killing curse meant for him. Ron took a Cruciatus as he placed his body in front of Hermione. Ginny and Charlie were battling together against a group of four Deatheaters. She could hear Charlie yelling at her and Draco to apparate for help. They did so but not before Ginny took a cutting curse to the stomach. Charlie instinctively blocked a blast of fire, meant for the twins, and fell to the ground. Circe meanwhile saw the Dark Lord levitating her unconscious brother and child and fired off a curse in his direction. If fell short and Lucius stunned her in the back. Voldemort was laughing with psychotic glee. It was then that he stopped and cocked his head. His smile grew even wider. He had detected Harry's presence in his mind.

"Enjoying the show Potter?" he taunted as she struggled to remove herself. "You have twenty four hours to come to me with your parents and Justinian. I shall send a portkey. If you fail to come alone they will all die... very... very... slowly. Especially the little one..." His poisonous laughter rang in her ears.

"NO!" Harry woke with a scream just as Dumbledore moved to her side and Tiberius stormed into the office. His eyes were wide with horror. Somehow, he too knew something had happened...

19