The Apparition Incident, Ch. 1: Licence to Thrive

HARRY POTTER'S AMIGOS:

RON WEASLEY:

LICENCE TO THRIVE:

*!*!*

Harry Potter had realized that the Tri Wizard Tournament trophy cup had been a portkey, even during the few seconds while he and Cedric Diggory were still in transit, although he hadn't a clue as to where they were going, or for what purpose. They quickly arrived at their destination, somewhat dazed, still surprised from their unexpected trip. Harry was also still in pain from his twisted ankle, which pain increased sharply as his weight settled back upon it. The pain notwithstanding, Harry's attention was immediately brought into sharp focus as he heard a cold, cruel, empty voice say "Kill the spare".

Time seemed to stop for Harry. *What was going on?* he wondered. He then saw, as though in extreme slow motion, a mousy little man brandishing a wand, pointing it at Cedric. Harry heard a curse performed. A banned curse, he realized! Then it sunk in; Criacitus! He then saw, or perhaps just sensed, the beginnings of the spell emerging from the man's wand. A man he now recognized as Wormtail, and, knowing that much, he also realized that Voldemort had to be close by.

Harry glanced over at Cedric, who was holding his own wand, but hadn't yet recovered from the surprise of their unexpected trip. Harry made a decision; his mother's love had saved him once before, so he truly felt that it would do so again; he absolutely counted on it, in fact, since it meant certain death for Cedric if he did nothing! It wasn't really a conscious decision for him, as, in reality, only a few seconds had passed since their arrival; but Harry didn't have a lot of options, especially seeing as how the curse had already crossed half the distance between them.

Harry threw himself in front of Cedric, grabbing him tight by his robes, barely before the spell made contact. Knowing that there would also be the tangible physical force (inherent in all of the stronger spells), Harry had angled his dive in such a manner that, when the spell hit him, it's force would propel himself and Diggory back against the Tri Wizard Cup they'd dropped, reactivating it, and returning them to their point of departure.

Cedric, only beginning to realize what was happening, sensed Harry's grip and automatically wrapped his free arm tightly around the smaller boy. He then tossed away his wand and grabbed the tournament cup as they fell against it, knowing that the trip could be disastrous for them if they broke contact with a portkey during transit.

*!*!*

Harry's plan had worked! The boys were back on the grounds of Hogwarts. Cedric was still somewhat dazed from two very unexpected and sudden portkey trips, as well as the much too close death spell (which, although fortunately not lethal to him, had done quite severe damage to the arm he had wrapped around Harry, as well as to Harry himself!), but he had realized that something decidedly odd had happened, even as he also realized that Harry was in a very bad way, far worse off than just a painful turned ankle!

Harry had just collapsed upon their return. Cedric had unconsciously lowered him to the ground, as best as he was able. Harry just lay there, sprawled face down on the grass of the Quidditch field, unmoving. Cedric then tried to rouse him as he realized what was happening, becoming emotionally stricken at the horrible appearance of Harry's back! His shock from his own badly injured arm was, as yet, overwhelming his body's ability to feel pain.

"Harry?" Cedric queried, with a careful shake to the boy's shoulder, using his good arm. There was no response at all, not even a moan. "HARRY?" He cried out more urgently, rolling Harry over, very carefully, to try to see what was wrong. He wasn't even sure if Harry might still be breathing at this point!

The spell blast had hit them square on the arm with which Cedric had gripped Harry; this, and the love of his mother, may have been what saved Harry's life, as, although he was just barely breathing, there was an extremely large and apparently deep burn over most of Harry's back, his robes having been completely seared away, from the neck almost all the way to his knees!

Harry's glasses and wand had somehow completed the return trip, but lay unheeded on the grass. Wormtail had wanted to do more than just kill Harry! He wanted to make Harry suffer, as payment for his part in exposing Wormtail's involvement with Lord Voldemort.

"HERE! OVER HERE!" The crowd of searchers had now spotted the two boys, and had begun moving in their direction. Fortunately, Professor Dumbledore, several other professors, and the Tri Wizard Tournament Officials had also seen them and reached them first, from another direction, blocking and beginning to disperse the crowd.

"What has happened?" inquired Dumbledore, the deepest concern etched upon his face for the two boys. Cedric knew that Dumbledore was equally concerned for him, although the professor's ministrations were primarily focused upon Harry. While Professor Dumbledore performed a cursory examination of Harry, and Madame Pomfrey took care of Cedric, there in the field, the other professors and tournament officials continued to disperse the very large crowd from the three schools. Stretchers were provided for, although Cedric refused his, and the group made an urgent trip to the school's infirmary.

While Madame Pomfrey took over ministering to Harry, and virtually all of the school's best wizards also examined him to ascertain by what manner he had been cursed, and which curative spells and potions would be most effective, Professor Dumbledore had taken Cedric aside to query him about the matter.

Cedric, although he had been dazed by the unexpected and sudden portkey trips, had been aware enough to give a full accounting of what had transpired after he and Harry had both grabbed the tournament cup, including a description of their surroundings, and also the denouement of the Tri Wizard Tournament, at least from the point where he and Harry had teamed up, after Viktor Krum had attacked Cedric with the impedimentia spell.

Madame Pomfrey stepped over to them after she and the professors had finished their examinations, and she had cleaned Harry up and got him changed into his pyjamas, which Dobby had delivered to her, along with his casual robe. "Well," she said, somewhat distressed, "by every test and examination we can perform, he's not dead; unfortunately, he isn't alive, either."

Dumbledore nodded, concerned. As a group, his fellow professors at Hogwarts were all fully capable in the healing arts. While they had been able to ascertain Harry's condition, what the muggles refer to as a 'coma', their best combined healing enchantments had been unable to bring him around, although they'd had no difficulty at all taking care of the broken ankle, severe burns, bruisings and lacerations he, and Cedric, had received in the course of the tournament, and their surprise roundabout.

Dumbledore had made a decision. Harry would be remaining at Hogwarts for the summer under his own, and Madame Pomfrey's, personal care, with additional help from the usual summer staff, and whomever else the professor felt necessary. Dumbledore certainly could not send Harry back to the Dursleys in this condition.

While Harry's uncle, aunt and cousin would probably be thrilled that "that horrid boy had finally got what he so richly deserved," as they felt of Harry, and often spared no effort to make him aware of such, they might also find reason to try to cause grief for Hogwarts, and for the magical community in general. Albus Dumbledore had never borne any ill will toward anyone, with the possible exception of Lord Voldemort, and felt his decision was in everyone's best interests, even if the school's interests just happened to take precedence.

Those of the magical community could easily thwart and frustrate any and all attempts which any trouble seeking muggles might make for them, such was the power of even an individual wizard; but, as it was not in Professor Dumbledore's nature to intentionally cause grief for anyone, even for such as the Dursleys, he felt it best just to apprise them that Harry had made 'other plans' for this summer, with Dumbledore's permission and complete support. He was absolutely certain they'd have no objections! If, in the eventuality Harry should come around anytime soon, other arrangements could then be made, and carried out.

*!*!*

Harry had no clue as to where he was or what, exactly, had happened to him, although he was certain, relieved and gratified that he had accomplished his desire in saving Cedric Diggory's life; but at what cost to himself? After a moment of panic, he realized it didn't matter at all; he was absolutely certain that he would do the same thing again, for any of his fellows students (although there was at least one about whom he had reservations) in a heartbeat, if it ever came to that; which it probably would, he realized, at some point in his dealings with Voldemort!

Not knowing what else to do, he began musing about his situation and looking around to find out where he was, although there wasn't much that he hadn't expected to see, as he appeared to still be on the Hogwart's grounds. He nearly jumped out of his skin, though, when he heard his name called out unexpectedly, after having wandered about the grounds for some undetermined period of time!

Still smarting, both emotionally and physically, from his most recent attack by Lord Voldemort's lackey, as well as from other things which had recently begun wearying his mind, Harry spun about quite angrily, his wand at the ready; and then his heart virtually exploded with joy... at the sight of his parents, standing a short distance away! He kept his wits, though only just, and hesitated, not knowing if it was really them, or if this was some trick of Voldemort's, some trap, to cause him yet further grief.

He could tell that his parents both ached to hold him, and their love and concern for him was very evident in their faces. "Take your time, son," James said, hugging Lily, both of them crying, beaming with pride at Harry. "Take whatever time you need, son. We've waited thirteen years, and we'll continue to wait, however long it may take, until you're satisfied that it's really us." James seemed to be holding Lily back from running to their son.

Harry was in a quandary, unsure what to do. He maintained his defensive posture, closing his eyes tightly, trying to think his way through to the best course of action. Slowly, all of Harry's tribulations parted, as before him stood one of the few men whom Harry could look to as a father; the one in whom he most trusted. "It's all right, Harry," Professor Dumbledore told him, or so he thought and felt. "Voldemort has no power here. Your body is still safe at Hogwarts, and these are, indeed, your parents."

"My body?" Harry queried, startled; but the thought quickly fled as the professor almost immediately disappeared from before him, and he opened his eyes; or so he thought, as he still couldn't see! This was primarily because tears were flooding his eyes uncontrollably. Harry suddenly found himself wracked by sobs of joy, as all his fears, doubts, anger, aches and pains flooded away and he felt himself collapsing, with almost desperate relief, into the arms of the parents about whom he's heard so many good things, yet whom he'd previously never been able to know, due to a cruel twist of fate. They all hugged as though, were it possible, their very lives depended upon it!

*!*!*

"Mom. Dad. Can we talk for a minute?" Ron Weasley asked his parents one morning several weeks prior to the beginning of his fifth year at Hogwarts. Remarkably, they were the only three of his large family at home this day, an opportunity Ron felt to seize, as something had been bothering him quite intensely ever since... well... all summer in fact, and he didn't think he'd get another such opportunity alone with his parents like this anytime soon.

Notwithstanding the fact that Harry was known to be still breathing, and was being tended to at Hogwarts on an hourly basis by Madame Pomfrey, who was virtually the best healer in the wizarding world, along with her most excellent summer staff, Harry's was an unusual predicament (weren't they all, whenever he was concerned?), and the entire Weasley clan were all getting used to the fact, slowly and reluctantly, that they just might possibly never see their young friend alive again. It was at the end of last term when Harry had been taken down by some rather vicious dark wizardry, that even the combined healing potions and spells of the entire Hogwarts' faculty could not completely counter.

Arthur Weasley exchanged a surprised and slightly worried glance with his wife, Molly, at their son's query. While Ron was yet a bit undisciplined, he was doing at least as well as they had expected at school and, although unconsciously, Ron and his younger sister, Ginny, were acting as a slight bit of a steadying influence on their older brothers, the pranksters Weasley, Fred and George.

"Sure, son. Have a seat." Arthur invited Ron, gesturing to one of the couches, while escorting his wife to the other, so that they, and Ron, sat facing each other. "What's wrong?"

"HUH? Wrong?" Ron looked up, a bit surprised by his dad's question. "Nothing's really wrong, dad," Ron began.

"It's just that something's really been bothering me ever since...ever since... last term. I don't know why, but I really, really need to get to Hogwarts a couple of weeks early this year."

His parents breathed a quiet sigh of relief.

"OK," Molly said hesitantly. "And?"

"Well, I know there won't be a Hogwarts' Express to catch that far in advance; and I know neither of you can take the time for the trip. The only viable option I see at this point is to broom it, trunk and all. I know it won't be easy, but I've really, really, got to be there; it's been gnawing at me practically the entire summer! It's about a nine hour trip by train, so I'll leave early in the morning on Sunday, August sixteenth, take my time, and plan on arriving by Monday morning, just in case."

"With your permission, I'll owl Professor Dumbledore and let him know about this. I've also been owling Hermione all summer. She has the same feelings, and has already made arrangements with her parents to arrive two weeks early, as well."

His parents were back to being worried. "Let me make sure I understand this, son," said Arthur. "You're going to be at Hogwarts, virtually alone, with a girlfriend, for two full weeks?"

Ron looked surprised, and momentarily pleased, at that prospect. "In all truth, dad, and mom, something like that had never occurred to either one of us." Ron looked thoughtful for a moment. "I've kept all the letters that Hermione and I have exchanged this summer, and I believe she has, too, so that should give you some proof that we weren't planning any kind of romantic rendezvous."

Ron's parents were relieved, and gratified, by his response to their reaction. Ron continued. "Add to that the fact that Professor Dumbledore and whatever summer staff the school maintains will be aware of our presence. Hermione has no idea why she needs to be there any more than I do; she only knows that it's also been bothering her all summer, as well. We hadn't really discussed any plans once we arrived. I just assumed we'd stay in our respective rooms, Gryffindor common room, and / or the library, if it's open, getting a head start on our schoolwork. Hermione doesn't really need to, of course, but that's what she usually does, and even though I'm doing OK, it certainly won't do me any harm at all to get a serious two week jump on the new term."

"I'll be fifteen shortly, and I was planning to actually start dating girls this year, at school dances and such. I never really considered Hermione as a girlfriend before, only as a friend, but now that you've brought it up, I may approach her about it, but only after school officially begins, if that's all right with you. What do you say?" Ron certainly hadn't intended to hurt his parents' feelings, but his comment that they 'brought up' the dating issue had stung them a bit, nonetheless.

Arthur and Molly studied Ron for a very long moment, then looked at each other and considered his request for a bit longer. They could tell by his face that he hadn't actually intended them any discomfort with his comment, and quashed those feelings, as parents often do.

"This is somewhat unusual, son," Arthur said, thinking things over for a moment. "
"If it was at the behest of the school, I wouldn't have a problem with it, but... we can't give you an answer right now. Ask us again... next weekend... after we've had time to talk it over between ourselves."

"Will do. Thanks Mom. Thanks Dad," said Ron, as he got up and headed up to his room at the very top of the Burrow, to have another go at the muggle hobby he'd also picked up at the summer's start, as a way to keep his mind off of Harry: an interesting workout regimen called 'martial arts'; and more specifically 'jeet kune do'.

Ron was fascinated by the way his martial arts sessions seemed to calm him, especially in light of Harry's... predicament. He also seemed to be somewhat more focused now, both in his studies and even in life in general, after having practiced various katas early every morning all summer long, out in the yard before everyone else woke up.

He felt that he would have a very pleasant surprise for his folks next year; and although he would not say anything to Hermione until he had a definite answer from his parents, he also knew that they would allow him to head out to school early with her, as they'd met her several times, and did know her, and her parents, and also knew that she, and Ron, were both quite trustworthy.

*!*!*

Harry spent with his parents what seemed like an eternity, pondering what Voldemort might have in mind, and how he might yet be stopped, and also learning things that he felt he probably wouldn't normally be learning at Hogwarts; and it certainly didn't hurt his feelings at all that he was getting to know his parents, although certainly not to the extent that an average child normally goes through. An odd, perplexing thought flashed through his mind *Why isn't anything I do normal? Or at least normal as I understand the concept,* though he didn't allow himself to dwell upon it, or allow it to bother him.

He also found himself growing increasingly concerned that he seemed to be in some mystical realm, because although days and nights continued to pass as as he expected, there seemed to be no need whatsoever for either food or sleep.

Harry was also experiencing the strangest feelings he'd ever had. His mind felt greatly expanded, and he felt as though he and his parents were devising strategies for the most complex and intense chess game that anyone had ever played, even very far and away above and beyond the one, excellently played by Ron, although it had almost killed him, when they were seeking the Philosopher's Stone back during first year.

The things Harry was learning were much more advanced, and the studying far more grueling and enduring, than any class, than any task, he'd faced thus far at Hogwarts', save only in his dealings with Voldemort; yet even while his brain ached from the strain, he was with his parents, Lily and James Potter, and Harry would endure any pain, any agony, any torture, to ensure that this time would never end (even though, way deep down in his soul, he knew that it eventually must, a thought which pained him grievously!) The only real downside of being here was, that he found himself becoming ever more concerned about all his friends at Hogwarts', and was beginning to miss them terribly!

*!*!*

It was August sixteenth, 8 AM. Ron's trunk was packed and secured to his Comet® broom. Ron was ready to leave. With a few choice magical charms from his parents, carrying his big trunk by broom wouldn't be either as awkward or as difficult as he had previously imagined. He kissed his mom goodbye, waved to his dad, and pushed off. He was grateful that his parents had given their permission for him to leave for the school early. He was really glad he'd factored so much extra time in for the trip; he hadn't actually considered just how lethargic his Comet® would be, carrying such a heavy and bulky load, notwithstanding the handful of charms his parents had performed, both to the broom, and to the trunk!

He rather suspected that his parents had relented because of his hard work. He had been studying quite regularly all summer, something he had not done before, but he also had not left his room, save for meals, bathroom breaks, and workouts, since their discussion of some weeks past. He'd done nothing but study, study, study, his Hogwarts lessons, or practice his martial arts katas; and his parents were duly impressed at his newfound level of commitment!

He was most amazed, himself, as he now was beginning to understand the joy of pure learning that Hermione had always seemed to inherently know, although it would be some time yet before he was up to her level as a student!

He was quite ecstatic to be out and about, though, inhaling deeply and enjoying the fresh air, after being a virtual prisoner to his lessons and katas these past few weeks. The discussion with his parents had now had sufficient time to really sink in, so he now had even greater reason to look forward to seeing Hermione again. They had owled several times since that discussion, and, truth be told, both were pleased at their new feelings toward each other. If only Harry hadn't...well....

*!*!*

Hermione's home was on the way to Hogwarts from the Burrow, so they had previously arranged that Ron would leave first and pick her up around eleven - noon. He'd actually made it by ten, even with the unexpected strain on his broom; and, fortunately for him, punctuality was another of Hermione's virtues, as she was all ready to go, even at that time.

She also had a good, well kept, older broom, and neither she nor Ron felt inclined to push themselves, or their brooms, any harder than necessary. Ron's Comet® wasn't actually physically overstressed, but it was considerably slower in accelerating and in climbing than Ron had expected prior to this trip. It was only about a nine hour trip by Hogwarts Express, so they felt that allowing themselves twenty hours to make the trip after leaving Hermione's should allow a very comfortable margin, even factoring in meals and rest stops; although they weren't under a strict schedule, per se, they both felt that they should get back to the school just as soon as was reasonably possible.

Ron's mom, as usual, had made him a huge stack of sandwiches and related fixings, far more than he, himself, would need. He wasn't complaining this time, though, as it would provide a convenient excuse to stop along the journey for picnics with Hermione; and while neither of them had mischief on their minds at all, he found himself mentally kicking himself for not having considered asking her out sooner! In addition to her terrific personality and great mind, she was really quite a looker, too! She seemed to have similar ideas, as well, because she also had packed herself a lunch in a picnic basket sort of fashion.

The broom trip back to Hogwarts was uneventful, successful, and Ron and Hermione had enjoyed each other's company tremendously, even taking time to soak their feet in a rushing stream! Professor Dumbledore was, of course, expecting them, even though they'd done much better than they'd planned, arriving about midnight Sunday evening. This was only a few hours later than the train would have done, since they could travel in an almost perfectly straight line while the train's route was somewhat less direct.

Such was possible thanks to the wizarding world's equivalent of GPS. It was the same system / ability which many creatures, but the owls most especially, made use of to always deliver the WizardMail® quickly and accurately, no matter where in the world the recipient might be located! Ancient wizards had discovered a way to extract, safely, though not permanently, such abilities from the various creatures and to infuse them into various objects that people might carry and use guide themselves on trips such as this.

Ron and Hermione stowed their gear in their respective dormitory rooms, and both also passed on supper, having made stops for three substantial meals on the trip; really long trips by broom turned out not to be such a good idea, as they were both very saddle sore and awfully stiff legged; and they'd made the mistake of flying way too high a couple of times, learning just how cold the higher atmosphere could be!

Despite much discussion both during, as well as prior to, their journey, neither of them still had any idea as to why they felt so very strongly about returning to Hogwarts so much earlier than the other students! They then retired, because of the tedious trip, and because it was almost one AM when they finally got settled in and had relaxed enough to finally sleep.

*!*!*

Ron woke up suddenly the next morning, doubled over. He'd never, ever, experienced stomach pain like this in his life, even though, he suddenly realized, he wasn't the one actually experiencing the pain - it was only a reflection of someone else's suffering! *Incroyable!* Ron thought. He didn't even want to consider how terrible the other person must be feeling, as horribly as his own stomach ached! He knew he could help, though. He knew he had to help - or at least he had to try. What he didn't understand as yet, was who, or where!

He had literally fallen out of bed in his haste to find out who could be in such tremendous agony! He'd grabbed a handful of clothes from somewhere, as he rolled and stumbled his way out of his room and down the stairs. Some small part of him sensed that Hermione would meet him in the common room, and that she wouldn't be too concerned about his appearance, even as they both ran to help whomever it was, primarily because she was in the same state herself. It wasn't really a concern, though, as they were both, as usual, wearing pyjamas.

Ron had a mental flash that this person's pain was due to extremely severe stomach spasms caused by not having eaten anything in an exceedingly long time; although Ron wondered why anyone could, or would want to, do something like that to themselves; and for that matter, how was such a thing even possible? He hadn't realized that, whoever it was, they may not have had any choice in the matter;

Ron's mind was racing! *What would he do even if he found this person? Think, Ron, think!* He considered all the things he'd learned in school about how a human body works. *Solid food was definitely not the thing, at least to begin with; he'd need... He? He!* Ron was now certain it was a male. *He'd need something that would digest quickly and easily, and be very nourishing, as well.* Ron seized upon the solution! "Accio pumpkin juice," he commanded, summoning a jug of the juice from his basket, back upstairs in his dorm. He was hopping on one foot across the main hall of Gryffindor tower, while simultaneously pulling on a shoe.

Ron felt that he had pretty well narrowed down his list of prospects significantly, as the only person he knew who might have difficulty securing food was Sirius Black, whom he thought might still be living, if you could call it that, in a cave outside of Hogsmeade, and not very far away from Hogwarts; although... such a situation still didn't make much sense to some small part of Ron's psyche; but he couldn't spare the mental energy to try to sort it out right now.

Hermione and Ron fell and rolled down the steps on the way out of Gryffindor Tower, barely acknowledging the bruises as they pulled on the last of their street clothes over their pyjamas. They scrambled upright just long enough to reconnoiter and get their bearings, looking over the grounds.

"Over here!" shouted Hermione, turning and running around the far side of Gryffindor House in the direction of the school's main building. Ron and Hermione began running faster than they ever had before in their lives, so fast that even the summoned pumpkin juice was having trouble keeping up with them!

They again stopped, in the entrance hall of the main building, to catch their breath and decide what else to do. They looked at each other, and then spotted the door to the main ward of the infirmary, which, they knew, was where they needed to be, and they knew that it, too, was locked.

They both glanced at each other seemingly with the same thought. *Shouldn't Professor Dumbledore be here? And where was Madame Pomfrey?* If Hermione and Ron were aware of this problem with one of her patients, someone who must be a student, both of them would most certainly know about it, even though might be as far away as Hogsmeade!

There was no time for speculation now, though, as Ron whipped out his wand, jabbing it at the handles of the four-inch-thick oaken doors and shouting 'Alohomora!' as they ran forward. There didn't seem to be any response. He got to the doors first, and, grabbing the huge handles, turning them both ways, pulling and pushing for all he was worth.

"NOTHING!" he shouted to Hermione. "YOU GIVE IT A TRY!" he called again, as he ran across to the window, throwing it open to see if anyone else might have been on the grounds nearby.

"Anything?" Ron called back to Hermione, turning away from the window, while simultaneously catching the jug of pumpkin juice (which had finally caught up with them, shortcutting through the now open window) and setting it momentarily aside. He began advancing on the doors, performing a kata almost unconsciously, not waiting for an answer. "We seem to be on our own!" he finished.

"Nothing," she replied, wondering what he was playing at, yet, by the look on his face, knowing not to interrupt. "It's protected by a very strong charm!" she warned him.
*This will not be easy.* The thought flashed quickly across Ron's mind, but his focus on the kata drove that, as well as all other conscious thought, into oblivion. He'd been practicing all summer, and although he'd yet to attempt a board of any serious thickness, he knew that the stakes here were beyond measure, as whoever was in that room was actually dying of starvation, to such an extent that he had no power on his own to find food, or even to feed himself! Hermione was observing him somewhat askance, as, in all their summer correspondence, Ron had never mentioned his martial arts to her.

In a tiny part of Ron's mind it seemed to take forever (although it was only the time required for him to move across the six meter wide hallway) to complete the kata to the extent necessary to break through the door, but even that thought was obliviated as, eyes closed, he willed every nerve and fiber of his body through the massive door, although only his hand would actually penetrate.

He gasped in shocked surprise as he drove through the door, with a massively sickening crunch, but right near the lock, as he'd intended. He had unwittingly employed such enormous force that he almost felt as though he was being dragged right through the massive door, stopping only at the shoulder when his face impacted, leaving him with a bloody nose, a black eye, and a split lip. He ignored this, reaching around to unlock the unwieldy door while simultaneously calling back to Hermione "Grab the juice jug!" He flung the door open with all his remaining strength, looked around, then stopped dead in his tracks, for, in the bed at the far end of the room was...

"HARRY! YOU'RE ALIVE!" They both screamed with delight, looking at each other, tears suddenly streaming down their faces. In all the pain and rushing about, the fact that it might've been Harry had never even occurred to either of them!

If Harry had been aware of, or had reacted at all to, their delighted screams, he was completely incapable of showing any sign of it! He was curled into a fetal position, pulling his legs tight into his chest, bawling in agony at the excruciating pain in his stomach, even chewing on his pillow for some relief! He'd been in a coma for some 11 plus weeks, after all, and had given no indication at all to the hospital staff that he might be recovering any time soon!

Hermione and Ron were across the ward to Harry's bed, seemingly in less then a heartbeat. She had the jug open and had half filled the handy mug from Harry's bedside table. Ron had gotten behind Harry and lifted the still oblivious boy into a sitting position, which was difficult, to say the least. The movement exacerbated Harry's already excruciating pain even more so! They both winced, so terrible was the pain in his scream as they wrestled him into position as carefully as possible.

Ron held Harry tightly by the arms while Hermione raised the mug to his lips. Harry's eyes went wide with sheer, transcendent joy! He'd never, ever tasted anything so absolutely wonderful in all his life! After only a few swallows, though, Ron nodded, and Hermione reluctantly pulled the mug away from Harry, while Ron severely tightened his grip to keep him from attacking her!

With very good reason! The look on Harry's face was positively murderous as he glared at Hermione! He was still ravenously hungry, and these people, whoever they were, were torturing him, barely giving him anything! His hunger pangs were so severe as to cause him to be delirious and completely unaware of his surroundings.

Harry then screamed in agony again, and doubled over in extreme pain, still mostly from hunger, but also from the fact that, because he had been without food for such an unbelievably long time, that even such a small amount of juice, however nourishing, was causing him severe abdominal cramps! "BAAATHROOOOM!" he screamed, feeling the pumpkin juice literally flush right through him!

"Accio Robe!" Ron cried, reaching out to catch it. He then bowed his head and closed his eyes for just the briefest moment. This was immediately followed by what seemed like a mild thunderclap, though it occurred right there in the room with them.

Hermione had turned to run out the door to the nearest boy's room (along with them, she thought), but the noise had caused her to stop and to turn back toward Harry's bed, whereupon she was quite shocked to see that both of them were gone! Vanished! Nowhere to be seen, anywhere in the ward room! She was also beginning to become concerned over the way Ron was behaving, what with that weird dancing thing he was doing; and what this head bowing business about?

"OWWW, GAWRD, IT HURTS!" Hermione suddenly heard Harry's very painful and discomfited scream all the way from the main hospital boy's bathroom, about seventy five meters away from Harry's bedside, out off of the main hall of the infirmary. Her concern for Harry immediately driving her lesser concern for Ron's odd behavior right out of her conscious perception as she immediately tore through the ward toward the boy's room; especially since she was still in possession of the pumpkin juice!

Hermione knew something about apparating, of course, as she seemed to know almost everything there was to know, about almost everything magical. Such a thing was so far beyond any reasonable expectation, though, that she completely dismissed it as a possibility in this situation; yet she had no other explanation for the boy's sudden disappearance! In all her research, she had never come across anything concerning anyone with the ability to apparate, who had never completed the requisite training (which consisted of a year long class at Hogwarts'), and even less information about someone apparating with a 'passenger' (for lack of a better way to describe the situation)!

It was a somewhat surprising sight that greeted her when she arrived at the main boys' bathroom. Harry was, as she expected, on the throne in one of the stalls, shaking violently due to his severe cramps. What was most surprising, though, was that Ron also seemed to be in pain, holding his head, groaning loudly, and leaning heavily upon Harry's shoulder, and all of this transpiring in a bathroom stall barely large enough to accommodate both of them!

Thankfully, the stall door had opened outward, as Ron finally pushed and stumbled out away from Harry. Hermione, not sure what else to do, and torn with concern for the both of them, saw that Harry was on the 'throne', evacuating noisily, and was completely and unexpectedly covered by his wizard's robe, which he hadn't been wearing previously; although she was well aware that Ron had summoned it back in the ward room She offered him the juice jug and assisted him with another few swallows, which he accepted greedily, gleefully, moaning with relief and immense gratitude. His joy, at the food, certainly, but especially at seeing his friends again, was now registering upon his still very pallid face. He had finally gotten enough nourishment in him to have regained his wits, realize what was happening, and that he was with his two best friends.

Ron, meanwhile, was in serious pain himself, holding his head, groaning loudly, even dry heaving into one of the boy's room sinks.

"Drink this, Ron." came a familiar voice, along with a gentle hand on his shoulder. Ron reached, without thinking, for the proffered drink, barely able to see because of his pain, or to stand upright; and swallowed it all in a single gulp! "What is... OH... OH... WOW..." he groaned, the potion almost immediately working its magic upon his badly assaulted brain and senses. His entire body relaxing as he turned around and sank back to support himself upon one of the boy's room sinks.

"THANK YOU SO MUCH... Professor," Ron said, embarrassed, wincing, feeling guilty, awaiting an expected punishment, although he wasn't sure what for.

They had been so wrapped up in their concern for Harry that neither of them had been aware of Professor Dumbledore's inexplicable arrival.

"Harry?" Professor Dumbledore queried, excusing himself before Hermione as he stepped over to the stall door and offered another mug to the severely trembling boy. Harry looked at it rather distastefully, really, really hesitant to put down the pumpkin juice. *Why does every potion, especially the healing ones, always look and taste so horrible?* He thought briefly; but, as it was from Professor Dumbledore, he knew it would work as expected, so he bucked up his courage and drank it down in a gulp. *No doubt the best way!* He justified himself. His body was then immediately wracked by another wave of severe spasms, which, fortunately, disappeared almost as soon as they'd begun, thanks to the potion, leaving a very pale, shaking, and still starving Harry clamoring after the remainder of the pumpkin juice. There was not a more grateful boy on the planet at this moment than was Harry!

Welcome back, Harry," Dumbledore said, winking and positively beaming at him.

"Thank you, sir, very much," Harry mumbled quietly, and weakly, along with an apology. His mouth clamped tightly around the spout of the jug, which he had grabbed back from Hermione with extreme alacrity.

Professor Dumbledore turned to face Ron, putting both of his hands on Ron's shoulders. "Ronald Weasley... I am deeply..." he began.

Ron almost looked up at the professor, wincing, both eyes closed tight, dreading even a mild punishment from Dumbledore, feeling as though he had failed the professor terribly in some manner, although he didn't know what that might be.

"...impressed!"

Two completely astonished heads looked up, Harry nearly dropping the juice jug. Ron was a bit hesitant, though, not sure he'd heard correctly, and had opened one eye cautiously and quizzically. They all glanced from the professor to each other as though recovering from a stupefaction spell;

"Professor?" A puzzled Hermione was first to broach a question, although she was still very concerned about Harry and hadn't yet mentally shifted gears to the new discussion.

Dumbledore was still looking Ron right in the eye. Ron's face had been puzzled, but it was beginning to dawn upon him what had just happened.

"Yes... yes. You're beginning to understand now, aren't you, m'lad? Tell us all what you did just now, Ron?" Dumbledore asked, his entire face alight with joy at what he had just witnessed.

"I... I... I APPARATED!" cried Ron who was so astonished that he was gasping for breath, and was also beaming delightedly... especially since the professor didn't seem in the least upset!

"YES!" the professor replied with equal enthusiasm. "And?"

"Huh?" Ron looked momentarily blank, then brightening again: "WITH... WITH... I TOOK SOMEONE WITH ME!"

"YES! Again from Dumbledore. "and?"

Another momentarily blank look from Ron, then he glanced at Harry, and did a triple take, his eyes going wide with amazement as he looked over the tiny stall. "It's really very small, isn't it?"

Another resounding "YES, RON!" from the Professor. "An astoundingly tiny target, even for a practiced wizard! It could have ended up very nasty, indeed, Ron, but you targeted yourself and Harry without even the smallest mishap! Such fine targeting as this, and the requisite discipline and foresight required for such a tightly focused destination, is an extremely difficult thing, even for someone with years of experience! Please, continue!"

Ron started shaking his head. "There's more?" he squeaked, now totally dumbfounded!

"He got me, er... situated... properly?" Harry volunteered, a little embarrassed. "And dressed," he continued; he had finished off the jug of
pumpkin juice by this time and the cramps were almost forgotten as he, and they all, were beaming, and exulting in Ron's outstanding accomplishment.

"YES, Harry! Very Good! What is, finally, the single most astounding part of what you have achieved this day, Ron? Think hard!" asked the professor.

Ron cast his eyes about, his eyebrows knit in serious concentration. He was thinking very hard, but the answer to this one completely eluded him. He glanced at Hermione for help, whose eyes suddenly had gone wide as she gasped several times as the answer struck her.

"WE'RE AT HOGWARTS!" she cried, looking at Ron in absolute awe.
"YOU CAN'T APPARATE AT HOGWARTS! NOT IN! NOT OUT! NOT AT ALL!"

"YES!" replied Professor Dumbledore, most gleefully.

"HUH?!" Ron had very nearly slid off the sink in astonishment at that revelation! Three astounded, though completely blank, faces silently queried the professor for an explanation.

"If you would please check all the stalls and the entire restroom, and the windows and door, then come closer, I will explain." Dumbledore asked Ron and Hermione, pausing while they complied with his request.

Ron, Hermione and the Professor then gathered tight about the door of Harry's stall.

"This is for the three of you only!" the professor cautioned.
"There is just one possible way to apparate safely about the school grounds. Ron stumbled upon part of the answer in his desperation to help you, Harry; even though it wasn't a true 'emergency', there was still a critical need for the greatest possible speed. Just prior to apparating, Ron apologized to me."

That was unexpected, to say the least! Their faces were still incomprehensible, while the professor's was completely inscrutable.

"Well, that does answer at least one of my questions!" Hermione stated.

"Had he not at least done that much..." Dumbledore paused, casting a sidelong glance at Ron for emphasis. "...he would no longer
be with us," He finished gravely. This was not a joke; it was not to be taken lightly, not at all, not in any way, shape, or form; and it got their attention!

"Yes, of course!" Ron said, after swallowing hard a couple of times, realization that he had nearly just died slowly sinking in. He then went on. "There's really no other way to keep He Who Must Not Be Named, and his followers, from apparating all about the place, save to threaten them with the penultimate punishment if they were even to try! That explains the headache, too. Ouch!" Ron grimaced, rubbing his temples, remembering how terrible he had felt just after apparating with Harry.

"There is more," Professor Dumbledore continued. "The balance of the charm is that, again, in your heart, and with pure meaning and intent, you merely need ask my permission first, then apologize, and then request my forgiveness. If one does these things, in that order, one can safely apparate around the Hogwart's grounds."

"I would ask all of you never, ever to do so, unless it is a true and real emergency. Please. I cannot emphasize how important it is, not to make such information generally public. The charm itself is very secure, but it's general knowledge would still further endanger every student here. I know that none of you wishes that any more than do I."

Three heads nodded in silent agreement.

"Finally, the reason for the complete effectiveness of this charm is that, because of egocentricity, pride, aloofness, megalomania, and similar related negative personality traits, it is absolutely impossible for any follower of darkness to either ask permission, or to ask forgiveness, of anyone at all, much less of anyone whom they consider inferior to themselves. All of us, both wizard and muggle, are indeed fortunate that all dark practitioners are prideful and boastful beings who consider all good and right people to be weak and lesser beings than themselves."

Hermione, Ron, and Harry all nodded as one, understanding, and giving their assent and agreement to Professor Dumbledore's stipulations, finally agreeing vocally, as well.

"Thank you all, very, very much." He then turned his attention to Harry. "Harry, I expect you're still hungry enough to eat at least a couple of hippogriffs. Am I right?" Professor Dumbledore asked Harry, the usual twinkle having now returned his eyes.

"Oh yes sir! I'm very much that, and more!" Harry responded enthusiastically, even as his tortured stomach growled enthusiastically in agreement. The cramps may have gone, but his stomach was still empty; and demanding that something immediately be done to alleviate this completely untenable situation!

"Very well, then; let's go attend to brunch!" Dumbledore ushered Ron and Hermione out of the boy's bathroom so that Harry could clean up and join them momentarily. He did so with some difficulty, still being terribly weak from his many weeks of being comatose and grossly underfed. He certainly bore no ill will towards Madame Pomfrey or her staff, for he knew that they'd done their best to spoon-feed him with soups and broths every hour, twenty four / seven, all summer long. He would definitely let them know, though, that muggle medicine did have at least a few advantages over wizard healing, especially in this case!

He soon regretted refusing a stretcher, though, as it took them considerably longer than usual for him to walk from the infirmary all the way to the school's dining hall, and it was very painful.

*!*!*

The owl post arrived Monday morning at the Burrow. It was the usual stack, the notable exception being another letter from Hogwarts, specifically from Headmaster Dumbledore. This puzzled Molly Weasley, as all her children had previously received their expected letters.

*Another one?* she grumbled good naturedly. She hoped that there weren't any problems, as it was addressed to her and her husband who was at work. Molly opened it, and read:

Monday, 24 August

Arthur and Molly Weasley

The Burrow

Ottery St. Catchpole

England

My dear Arthur and Molly:

You and your family are cordially invited to the sorting ceremony, Monday evening, September first, this year, as an award is to be given to a member of the Weasley family to commemorate a most outstanding magical achievement! Please forgive the extreme short notice, as this is a matter of very recent occurrence. Please RSVP, owl post at your earliest. Please also be advised that Bill and Charley will be in attendance, as well. Warmest regards;

Albus Dumbledore,

Headmaster,

Hogwarts School of Wizardry and Witchcraft.

Molly was beside herself! She was thrilled! Who was it? Bill? Charley? She immediately cleaned herself up and Floo'ed over to the Ministry of Magic to deliver the wonderful news to her husband in person!

*!*!*

Professor Dumbledore met the Weasley family at the door to the great hall. "Welcome, my friends, welcome. I am very glad to see that the entire family is present." Those Weasleys who weren't attending Hogwarts had Apparated to a village nearby to the school, where they had been picked up by carriage, arriving about twenty minutes prior to all the children; the professor escorted them to seats flanking his own at the Professor's table, Arthur, Bill and Charley on Professor Dumbledore's left and Molly on his right. The other professors had all moved farther out along the table, as was customary to accommodate special guests.

Fred, George, Ron and Ginny had a few brief minutes to chat with the rest of the family, although no one in the family had a clue as to which Weasley was receiving the award, or for what achievement! They all quickly returned to their seats at the Gryffindor table as the new arrivals were ushered in by Professor McGonagall, signaling that the sorting ceremony was about to commence.

The entire Weasley family was on pins and needles as they sat through the sorting ceremony. Finally, the big moment arrived. The last new student was seated at his respective table, and Professor Dumbledore stood, causing the room to grow silent.

"Welcome, students, new and returning, to the Hogwarts School of Wizardry and Witchcraft," he began. "My apologies for this slight delay of our sumptuous repast, but we simply must take a moment to commemorate an achievement of one of our returning fifth years: Ronald Weasley, please step forward."

The entire Weasley clan was completely taken aback, gaping at Ron, and dumbfounded, albeit in a good way. Ron's jaw seemingly hit the table. He was gasping in so much shocked surprise that it took him a few moments to realize it was him, and another moment to galvanize himself into action, standing up and walking toward the professor! He was getting an award in front of the entire school!

"Ronald Weasley," Dumbledore began, reading from an elaborate parchment scroll. "After examination of all pertinent evidences of your achievement by the Ministry of Magic, Division of Licensing, it is my distinct pleasure to present you with..." He paused dramatically. "...This!"

He leaned across the table and handed Ron what appeared another ornate piece of parchment, this time fixed within a handsome, though ancient, frame of indescribable composition. Ron thought he knew what it might be, although he couldn't actually believe it himself, but the rest of the Weasleys, as well as the entire student body, were consumed with curiosity, all leaning toward him for a better view. Ron accepted it with shaking hand, and looked it over. His eyes popping in surprise, even though it was precisely as he had expected.

"Thank you, Professor! Thank you very much!" he said, beaming with pride and gratitude.
Professor Dumbledore was beaming back at him. "Why don't you let everyone in on the secret, Ron?" he inquired, teasingly.

Ron turned, first, to his family at the Professor's table, showing it to them all and telling them quietly what it was, then turned back to the assembled students. Holding it up high above his head so that everyone in the room could get the best view, he proudly proclaimed, shouting: "IT'S MY APPARATOR'S LICENSE!" to the assembled crowd, most of whom were stunned, knowing that Ron was still more than a year out from legal age to be a licensed Apparator.

The first years who came from magical families knew what to make of it (and were suitably impressed, when they discovered Ron's true age!), and (unfortunately, and sadly) virtually every student in Slytherin House was livid, especially a certain blond male fifth year who, like everyone else, wouldn't be receiving his restricted minor's apparating license for at least... another... full... year! There were only a relatively small number of Hogwarts students, sixth and seventh years from all the houses, who were of legal age, and also licensed, to Apparate, Fred & George Weasley among them.

Ron attempted to return to his seat, but Dumbledore stopped him. "First, Ron, I think you might want to examine that license a bit more closely, before you hang it in your dormitory." Surprised, Ron scrutinized it, front, then back, then front again... and almost collapsed right there on the spot!

"ADULT!" He exulted, turning back and beaming at Professor Dumbledore! "IT SAYS ADULT!"

"Congratulations again, Ron!" said the professor, leaning slightly forward across the table to heartily shake Ron's hand. "The Ministry of Magic, Licensing Division, was most definitely impressed with your foresight, your self control, and your discipline, during your recent Apparition," he informed Ron quietly.

"They saw no need for you to go through the usual pre adult stages of licensing. You have all the complete Apparating privileges of any adult wizard! The only constraints you are required to observe are those that all other adult wizards are also required to observe; other than that, no limitations."

Ron was gazing at the professor in rapt attention!

"Allow me also emphasize, though, that you speedily obtain an Apparator's manual, and to read it thoroughly, in order to familiarize yourself with the appropriate laws and regulations, since you have not yet taken the Apparators' class; and also that you will still be required to take such class when it is offered next year. Do we have an understanding, Ron?"

"Yes Sir! Most definitely, Sir!" Ron, responded enthusiastically. He then grinned even more broadly (was such even possible?) and promptly took even Professor Dumbledore completely by surprise as he pulled the latest Apparator's manual out of a pocket of his robe!

"Very well done, Ron!" The professors' grin now rivaled Ron's own! "One final thing, please. I suggest that you and your family adjourn to the main hall for a bit, as there are some people out there who have some business with... the youngest licensed Apparator in wizarding history!"

Ron was gasping in surprise at this point, hyperventilating, almost crying, his knees quaking so badly he wasn't sure he'd even make it back to Gryffindor table, much less all the way out to the main hall!

At this point, most of the room were on their feet cheering and applauding Ron. whose parents were positively glowing. Ron knew that he was now right up there, in his parent's estimation, with Charley, Bill and Percy, perhaps possibly (albeit unlikely) even more so!

Hermione was there at the banquet, exulting with Ron in his accomplishment; but, by prior arrangement, a certain Harry Potter would be celebrating somewhat more quietly with Ron, Hermione, the Weasleys, their housemates, and, perhaps, Professors McGonagall and Dumbledore, in the Gryffindor common room later in the evening. This was Ron's time to bask in the spotlight, and Harry wasn't about to do anything to rob one of his best friends of his own moment of glory!

The Ministry of Magic had already been apprised of Harry's recovery, though, since it had occurred now almost two weeks previous, as had all the returning Professors, yesterday. The general student body, along with the older Weasleys, were finding out at this very moment, via an announcement from Professor Dumbledore. The plan was that Harry would just show up for classes with the rest of the students tomorrow as usual.

For now, Harry would just sit and wait for Ron, Hermione, and the Weasleys, who would probably be delayed, as the reporters and photographers from the Daily Prophet would be keeping very busy the 'youngest licensed Apparator in wizarding history' for a good while yet, he suspected. That, and after two weeks, he was only finally beginning to feel completely recovered from his severe hunger ordeal.

It had been several days before Harry had been able to stop trying to gorge himself every minute, much less at every meal. He felt almost incapable of escaping the desperate memories and feelings of being so incredibly, unbelievably, hungry! He had thought, at least for the first few days, that he might never recover! Had Madame Pomfrey not kept him under a very tight rein during his recovery, Harry wasn't completely sure that he might almost look as bad as his grossly overweight cousin Dudley right now. He shivered and cringed at the very thought! Thank the Lord that it was all behind him, finally!

Harry was indeed proud of Ron, and of his accomplishment, because it was incredible; there was no other word to describe it; and Harry would not do anything at all to trivialize, jeopardize, or otherwise detract from, Ron's outstanding achievement, not even accidentally (the way things had been going for him since he'd been attending Hogwarts', he was a little afraid that he'd steal Ron's thunder just by showing up, and he refused to countenance even the possibility of such a thing happening)!

Harry knew though, that he'd be a liar if he wasn't experiencing a slight twinge of jealousy, as it would be over year yet before he, himself, would qualify for his own Apparators' license, and it would, most likely, just be the regular limited minor's permit. Harry's small twinge of friendly jealousy, though, was nothing whatsoever compared to...

*!*!*

...Draco Malfoy had lost all interest in supper, and had, during the raucous cheering, unobtrusively slunk back to his own common room, deep in the Slytherin dungeons. He was now quite beside himself with rage!

"HOW DARE HE!" Draco screamed, at everyone, and at no one, completely disconsolate in his wrath. "How dare that miserable Weasley get an Apparator's license! At his age! When father hears about this, by Gawrd, heads would be sure to roll over there at the Ministry of Magic! Who did those people over there think they were? What could someone like Weasley possibly have done to convince them that he was capable of something so... so... completely... AAARRRGGGHHH!" Draco roared mightily. He was no longer able even to articulate his feelings, he was so completely consumed with jealousy, rage and frustration over his perceived slight at the hands of 'that worthless Weasley!'

Crabbe and Goyle were with Draco, as was usual for them, and to say that they were exulting in his seemingly unending outburst and excruciating frustration would be understating the fact, at the very least!

An owl was, even at this present moment, en route to the Malfoys' ancient and fabulous South London estate, bearing the disturbing (to Draco, at least!) news. Draco was absolutely convinced that his father, Lucius Malfoy, would be so incredibly, unbelievably, absolutely, furious, that HIS son had been upstaged by a... a... poor, stupid, WEASLEY, of all people, that they'd need yet another owl for any reply Draco's father might send him.

*How many had they gone through by now?* the thought flashed unbidden somewhere in the depths of Draco's mind, as he was again unable to find suitable words to describe his now even more utterly despised fellow student. *What did it matter? They were dirty and disgusting creatures!* He continued his mental rantings. *Necessary, certainly, but disgusting nonetheless!* The fact that it was Draco, himself, who had killed all those owls, and not his father, was something that Draco refused to admit, or to even acknowledge.

*!*!*