The Power of Nomrah

Chapter 13
The Gala

The sun peeked into the large auburn colored room. Hermione Granger smiled as the heat hit her cheek. Scrunching herself into the nearest pillow, she opened her eyes. She silently rolled over onto her side to face the person sleeping quietly next to her; Harry Potter. He slept soundly, and it made Hermione think.

What did last night mean? She knew there had been a connection between them, which she just couldn’t have ignored. She knew that their relationship would go nowhere beyond friendship…but after all, she was human. Feelings flooded to her heart then back to her brain once again. Harry had Patricia, and that was it. He had to protect her and be with her. Hermione was just some fling he would “have” every now and again. That’s all he meant to her.

Hermione was so caught up in her thoughts, that she didn’t even notice Harry’s eyes peer awake. He had been watching her face, yet her eyes where now in frustration. He only guessed what she was thinking, and knowing Hermione Granger, he knew it wasn’t “what’s for breakfast”. She was the type of woman that worried about everything, and he knew that she was thinking about “them”.

Harry wondered why she would put so much effort into their relationship. She god well knew that he loved her without comparison. As soon as the Patricia situation was fixed he would be hers forever…that is if she wanted him then. He hated hurting her like this…but it was the only way. Harry smiled as her eyes switched back and forth in her head. He slowly drew his hand up to her face and slid away a stray hair that was now covering one of her eyes; she flinched.

“Good morning sunshine,” he said slowly; still transfixed on the woman in front of him.

Hermione smiled and instantly felt better, she liked waking up next to him. The feeling of being complete flooded her heart. She knew that she shouldn’t feel this way; especially now with everything going on. She suddenly remembered, she had meant to show him what she had found at her abode last night, but was caught up in “other things”. She suddenly shot out of the bed, not realizing that she was naked. Reaching for her cloak, she grabbed out a small piece of parchment; the same piece that was left on her back doorstop the night before.

Hermione glanced at it one last time, and then turned around to see Harry in great worry perched on his elbows. Now realizing she was in the nude grabbed for her cloak and quickly swung it around her, covering herself. Feeling out of place, she paced the room, then silently stepped over to Harry’s night stand; him watching her the whole time. She quickly set down the piece of parchment on the furniture and walked quickly back to a stance position, still ignoring eye contact.

“This was left on my doorstep last night, I also found some information on “the Power of Nomrah”. Hermione grabbed for her pants, still talking. I was in Diagon Alley the other night, and I picked up a book labeled “Unforgivable Curses”. I was interested, so I read through it. I was shocked when I found the Power of Nomrah in there. The author; Miranda Gershak also stated that Patricia had been cursed with this spell. I didn’t understand how she could even know this information…so I bought the book. It’s at my place, if you need to look at it.

Hermione watched as Harry’s face went from worry to shock from her news. She started to pace, then suddenly frowned and quickly threw on her muggle pants. She started to leave when Harry rushed over to her; naked himself. Hermione couldn’t help but feel his “member” pressing against her abdomen. He was smiling, which was shocking Hermione.

“How can you be so keen, this is serious? Miranda Gershak could be in on it.” Hermione yelled her eyes in frustration.

Harry ignored her, and without hesitation, grabbed her arms and planted a mouth watering kiss upon her lips.

~~

Ron had awoke the next morning with a monstrous headache, that didn’t seem to quit. He had tried magical medicine, and then with frustration decided to get out the Midol. He had heard muggles talking about it in the street one day and decided to pick some up. When he had transpired this medicine he had felt lighter and more upbeat. His headaches seemed to go away magically, yet it wasn’t magic…it was muggle medicine.

He understood why so many women choose this; he wondered how many males had used this as a headache clearer. Sighing to himself, he grabbed his copper looking cloak and pulled it on. Grabbing a cup of tea, he headed outside to his veranda; he needed some fresh air. Trying not to think of why Hermione didn’t come with him last night, he sipped his drink slowly. He tried to think of other subjects that didn’t get him worked up. He realized that Hermione probably wasn’t’ too pleased with him, especially how he had acted the night before with her and Melissa, but women will be women.

Melissa…he wondered what she was doing this very moment. Ron suspected that she wasn’t going to be happy with him either, especially how he had left her in the dead of night, to head off to Harry’s. This certainly won’t be good hen he saw her the next day. He was to see her today, but he didn’t really feel like going in. Work, had seemed lately to be a place to get stressed, and that was certainly not what Ron and his headache needed.

The whole Patricia thing was wearing the whole office down, and The General, was getting on everyone’s cases harder than usual. They were on strict alert and getting to the cure of Patricia’s curse was on heavy s; as; all the time. But, that’s what happened when you worked in an office such as that. There were crises and it was Ron and Harry’s jobs to make sure these “curse” didn’t spread onto the magical community.

Ron sipped his tea one last time and stepped into his place of leisure. He realized that it was his “duty” to help the Ministry. So without hesitation he walked into his bedroom, followed by his bathroom and stepped into the shower, his mind set on going into work.


~~

Silence faded as a group of dark mysteriously looking wizards headed to the pit of the ballroom; Ginny watching with great intent. They had been there for over an hour, and not a single thing at the party was making Ginny want to stay. She was disgusted with the lot of them.

The whole group of horrible beings were either conversing with other evil wizards like themselves, or they were treating others poorly, mostly…from what Ginny could tell, where muggles; the poor individuals that had to suffer horrible pains, just so wizards could have a laugh. It was a disgusting site.

Suddenly, there were loud voices from one of the corners. Ginny quickly looked over to the space where the noise seemed to be increasing. She noticed that Draco was doing the same. As the crowd separated she could see an opening in the wall. Thinking she could just sprint to that side of the wall and be gone, she remembered that she was forever attached to Draco Malfoy’s side. Sighing to herself, she watched as a bunch of wizards filled into the room from the dark entrance. They were carrying something heavy….something that was in a large dark box, but the crowds were now moving in so she couldn’t get a quick glance.

She started to feel her feet move, surprised and thinking she was now free from her binds to Malfoy, she realized that Malfoy was actually moving. Disappointed again, she frowned. She never would be free of this horrible imprisonment. She didn’t quite understand what she was even doing here. Was this her punishment…to watch innt mnt muggles get tortured? Malfoy sure had a sick mind of torture then. She looked over at him, and he seemed to be involved with another couple, who now looked quite familiar to her.

Interested she glanced, eyeing them with suspicion; and then it hit her. It was the Lestranges. She was shocked with horror. She had known these wizards to be imprisoned for a time when she was in school at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. They were cleared her seventh and final year at Hogwarts, but she never suspected them to turn back to the dark side. She had remembered the trial in which they were let free.

The Ministry had given them an ultimatum, rot in the Azkaban prison or help the ministry. They of course choose the easy way out and agreed to assist the Ministry of Magic. This wasn’t an “easy way out” though.

Knowing that there would be a panic stricken with the magical community; the Minister of Magic; Cornelius Fudge found a way to reinstate these “selected” wizards. They were each forced to drink a magical potion called rezyne, which would enter each wizard’s bloodstream forcing them to submit to the Ministry’s request. No one wizard could resist this potion.

Year by year these witches and wizards were given this draft. The potion was always inserted into the individuals, making sure that none of them would leave a stray. This potion seemed to of worked. After many years of study, some selected witches and wizards were even reinstated back into the magical community; with close-full ministry officials monitoring their every move.

Because of the circumstance, each wizard or witch was called back each year to reinstate their drug. As far as Ginny knew this had to of been working, most of these witches had respectable jobs and had even married while raising families. The drug seemed to be the life saver to all evil. Apparently it hadn’t of worked. Ginny eyed the two in front of her. She knew that something must have happened, for them to be able to be here.

She then saw something that almost made her faint; Claire Lestrange, who was talking quickly to Draco suddenly, turned around to great someone. When she turned back to Draco; Severus Snape was now standing before them.

Stunned still by who she glancing at; Ginny scowled. Never in her adult life had she imagined that Severus Snape would ever turn back over to the dark side. The sleekly black haired man in front of her noticed this animosity, because he then scowled back towards her, his eyes fixated on her. She looked back on him with disgust. He was a menacing man who needed to be put to death. Never in Ginny’s life had she hated anyone more than she did at this moment; not even Draco.

She had expected this from him, but Snape was a different story. To think that he had helped the Order with so much, then to come here and socialize with these…this…..vermon. It horrified Ginny without compare.

Draco noticed this shock from the lady to his right, which made his involvement with them even grander. He started talking loudly to them, as if nothing was amiss. He loved riling her up even more now. He could feel the hatred writhing in her, which gave him solitude. He watched as she pierced her lips at Severus, then suddenly looking away from him. It was too good to be true.

Ginny flinched, she was now terrified, she felt the need to shout into the air and throw herself onto Snape a bhim him into a bloody pulp; there was only one thing stopping her, and she didn’t want to know the consequences if she tried.

Trying to now focus her attention elsewhere, she glanced back over to the opening in the door. It was now empty, and the box that was being carried over before was now sitting in the middle of the room, while multiple of dark wizards guarded it. Ginny then heard a piercing noise that shook her eardrums. It seemed to be a pounding sort of noise, and then all of a sudden…she realized what it was.

It was the noisedrumdrums. They were coming from where they were standing. Draco started to walk forward, as Claire and Snape stepped backwards getting out of the way. Ginny looked back to where they were just standing…she could see a bunch of men in black robes walkiowaroward the middle of the arena, pounding on boards. There were six men. They were positioned in two rows; three men on each side. Then suddenly the noise stopped and a large voice rang out. She couldn’t see where the voice was coming from, just that it was speaking something; Ginny listened hard.

“Attention everyone….please raise your glasses as we present to you; Samantha White.” Ginny gasped. She noticed the woman as one of Harry Potter’s ex girlfriends.

The moment in where she watched the woman walk past her was too unbearable, she had actually known this woman. She had, had coffee with her in Diagon Alley. She had watched her and Harry have a relationship, and yet…she was now here with this lot. Ginny surely was having a day. First Snape… now her, was everyone evil? She continued to watch in disgust.

The woman walked down towards the middle of the arena, she was wearing a long silvery cloak that glistened as she walked. Her face was pierce and agile, everyone in the room seemed to be in awe by her presence. The woman rose her hands up into the air and spoke freely, silence then flooded the room.

Ginny could tell that the woman’s hands were lifted high above her head, and that they seemed to be twitching. Ginny glanced down at the crowd once more. Not a soul squeaked or made any inclination of sound. Then, without haste…the woman moved her hands down to her sides. Her words peered out into the crowd.

“Today, is the day we rejoice in our celebration” yelled White. She continued on her speech about liberation, and how becoming anew was to bring a better light into their world, a world of evil and retaliation.

Ginny had no clue what these words meant, all she knew was that it probably didn’t mean, becoming a better person. The woman had continued on this rampage, when something caught Ginny’s ear.

“All these long years, we…you, us have waited for the re-birth of a new beginning. A new world in which evil lives in you, and in everyone around us. This has been taken from us, though. There are healthy and happy muggles among us, in which we despise in the deepest parts of our so tho those who worshiped and cherished others. This will come to an end!!”

At the sound of this, everyone around her started to scream and yell in excitement. Ginny, however stood still, her face positioned in a way of disgust. Looking back at the woman, Ginny kept listening, for the woman began to speak again.

“There once was a man, who despised in these few, and worked his whole life trying to erase the filth; his name was Voldemort.”

This however seemed to be the icing on the cake. The whole building shook with yells and “hurrahs”. Ginny peered down on these people, like they were a piece of cow dung.

“Our master was a very powerful and evil wizard who despised all mudbloods. His rein was wondrous, until…that one pitiful night, when he was overthrown by Harry Potter.”

Ginny could now her scowls of resentment and hate.

“This was a sad day for all of us…. but not for long! He came back to us, full of power and a legacy to fulfill. He would not go without a fight; he would end all our suffering and end Harry Potter’s life. But…he was unsuccessful; he was overthrown by this disgusting filth, and had remained only a memory.

Now, there is a prophecy told that…the most powerful evil will come back to us; rejoin our league. This prophecy is told that the power of Voldemort will arise. When…. you ask when this prophecy to be fulfilled. That…. we do not know, although…it is near. I can fill the vibrations in his soul, lifting his powers to being.

In this prophecy there is a sacrifice, in which the power will transpire. A woman, who will regain all power of evil and take with them into Armageddon.”

Ginny pondered to herself, what in hells name was this sacrifice, and who was this woman. From what Ginny had just heard, it wasn’t her…because this woman had to be a “certain” type of girl. A chosen one, that would fulfill this “destiny” of theirs; Ginny was afraid to think of what they actually had in mind.

She pondered this for a moment, and then continued to listo who what was to occur next. The woman seemed to be explaining some sort of ritual, but it was hard to listen due to the whisperings of Draco in her ear.

“This is what I wanted to show you my love….what you will be apart of.” He said quietly, his breath hot against her ear; which gave her a small chill across her skin. She knew he was just trying to rile her nerves, and it was working. His soft tattering voice was getting under her skin; she scowled. She didn’t think getting worked up over Malfoy was going to help her situation in any way, but for some reason she could keep his words out of her head.

What did he mean by “what you will be apart of”, was this some type of empty threat? Or did it mean that she was really included in this escapade of total annihilation? Ginny didn’t want to think of what was to come; she didn’t have much time to ponder this. Draco was walking her toward the exit and through the way they had came in. Ginny seemed surprised by this, owning to the fact that this “meeting” didn’t seem to be over.

He was now walking faster than he had before, Ginny started to worry; what was this all about. Ginny looked over at the woman in the middle of the arena, and could tell that she noticed their attempt to vacant themselves from the room.

The woman gave a menacing glare, but had smiled back at them, when Draco had turned him int into the middle of the arena. He was now walking towards the lady. He was moving faster and faster. He looked back at Ginny, whose face was in utter shock; this pleased him. He loved having her not know what to expect. The expectation of surprise always made him fell in control when he was around others, and Ginny was playing her posn inn in this game of chess, spectacularly.

~~
Their footing was increasing with every step. She looked up and she could tell every face passing her, looking at her suspiciously. She didn’t know half of these people, and didn’t want to. The pace of their movement stopped, for they had reached almost the front of the room; bodies now closer together, she squeezed her way in. Her body wouldn’t stop, due to the magical binds she had towards Draco. She was now running into people so hard that her shoulders were now getting sore. Every time she would bump into one of them, they would look back at her like they wanted to hex her. Finally, after many shoulder bruises later, they reached the front of the room; now all eyes peering at them.

Draco walked slowly toward the woman in front of him; his feet now slowing to a walk. He looked at her…his eyes watching hers intently. His pace had given the impression that he had known her, Ginny thought. His attitude in his body language was quite strange to her. Never had she seen Draco act this way…at least from what she had seen thus far. She then watched Draco do something that surprised her. Draco stopped in front of Harry’s ex; he had started making out with her, with all of the evil community watching him.


~~

Hermione watched the world turn from upside down back to normal in that kiss he was giving her. She could feel all her insides go numb by the mere touch of his mouth upon hers. She didn’t know how to feel. She knew that if she kept kissing him, that it would turn out bad…yet if she left him, she would also feel horrible. She had to do something that would show him that he had other “people” to put his attention on. She had to stop acting selfish. Hermione wasn’t that girl, she couldn’t be that person… she just couldn’t; she broke free.

“No…Harry, this cannot happen,” Hermione said more firmly than she had expected.

“What!” Harry said yelling not understanding why she was acting this way. He knew how she felt, he had always deep down known, but had never had the realization in bringing it to the surface. He knew that they deserved to be together. It was to be the two of them…why was she acting as if she didn’t want the same things as he did.

“We…you and me,” she said pointing at the two of them. “This….what ever we have cannot be.” She said firmly using her hands for her body language.

“Why…it’s what we want…you and me, we are meant to have this,” Harry argued. Godddamit woman, Harry thought. Why was she being such a stick in the mud? He had always known her to be stubborn, but this was just bollocks. This relationship would work…he’d make it work, whether she agreed on the cause or not. He grabbed for her, but she broke free again.

“No…Harry” she cried…he wasn’t letting her go; it was hurting her more and more. She had to leave; it was the only way in mg evg everything better. She just wouldn’t stand in the way of him helping another…she didn’t want to be the cause of someone else’s pain…he would understand later. This was going to hurt him…she just knew it. But, inside she also knew that he would get over the pain he was or wasn’t feeling at the moment.

“Harry, we will never be…you have Patricia. Good bye Harry” she said arguing, and she ran out the door, leaving Harry to his disheveled feelings.

~~

Dispirited from the disgusted view, Ginny turned her head in the opposite direction. She didn’t know what he was doing, but it seemed inappropriate. She then laughed to herself. “This whole place was inappropriate” she thought. Unfortunately for her, this thought came out in a whisper than a thought.

“Excuse me she heard a voice say.” It was the voice of the woman whose lips had just parted from Draco’s face.

Ginny gulped, then took a brave step forward. “This whole place…it’s inappropriatou aou all disgust me. Torturing innocent muggles, just to make yourselves feel better….you are pathetic, all of you.” Ginny said loudly now not realizing her place, while looking at everyone around her.

Ginny just realized that this was a big mistake; she then received a fast punch in the face. The woman who she had once been friends with had just used physical abuse towards Ginny.

Now catching her grounding, Ginny smiled. “Well…..” Ginny said wiping her hand across her face. The whole buildings eyes were looking at her in complete rage; wands raised.

“Very impressed….nice fist, I can see that was your first time punching someone…you must you that fist of yours for “other” things. Draco…is she good?”

This definitely wasn’t’ the “smart” thing to do, but at least Ginny was enjoying herself now. The woman had an image across her face of pure fury. She waved Draco off, who was now looking at the two women with fear.

“Ah….I see Ms. Weasley. Very braf yof you, I never thought you would have been so….foolish.” Samantha said, now grimacing. They were now face to face.

“Wands down,” she called out. Ginny could see everyone slowly set their wands to their sides.

“Haven’t changed have you Sam, you still need a powerful man to make you look good…can’t do it by yourself?” Ginny asked with a mocking tone, suddenly feeling very sure of herself. She watched from behind Samantha that Draco wasn’t too far off.

She saw saw Samantha’s face turn ugly. Her eyes were now gleaming with anger. Samantha through her arm backward, and was about to hit Ginny, when Ginny’s arm caught Sam’s throwing arm, stopping her from hitting her.

“Oh…did I hit a nerve?” Ginny said mocking again. “I don’t think you wanna do that, Sam….you don’t want to get hurt do you?” Ginny said, now holding Sam’s arm in place.

“I think you are mistaken,” said Samantha…with a smug look.

Samantha then tried to hit her with the other arm, but Ginny caught the other arm and then twisted Samantha’s body into a circle, forcing Samantha to fall face first into the tile flooring.


~~

Hermione ran out onto the street, tears in her eyes. She didn’t want to hurt him, but it was the only way in which he could be free of her binds. She was not the priority…Patricia was, and acting the way she did last night was a huge mistake on her part. Sleeping wiarryarry was a mistake. She had to get passed it, she just had to. Unfortunately she would be seeing him tonight for Sirius’ ball. She would go alone. She had no one to take her and she didn’t feel that it would be healthy for her at this time. She strolled along the road down to her flat. She finally reached her place of residence and stepped in quietly. It was still quite early and didn’t want to wake up Pavarti, if she was even home.

Hermione never knew her schedule and didn’t want to ruin her sleep if she was indeed home. She was right, Pavarti was at home, but wasn’t sleeping. Hermione had only just steeped in through the door, when she noticed Pavarti sitting on the plush couch in the d rod room (the ceiling was filled with cloud apparitions).

She smiled and gave a small wave. “So, back? How was the trip.” Hermione asked now placing herself on the opposite couch.

She didn’t get an answer.

She looked at Pavarti, Pavarti was looking surprised. “What” Hermione asked, squinting her eyes in confusion.

“You had sex” Pavarti screamed with excitement.

“No…I didn’t,” Hermione screamed back with utter shock. How could she know..she couldn’t possibly know. Pavarti had never known this before, how could this time be any different.

“Yes you did…I can see it in your eyes, you’re beaming with excitement.” Pavarti said now excited herself.

“Oh come off it why don’t you. I did not have sex with anyone of the sort. You….you” Hermione said but had started to stutter, which definitely was giving herself away. She just couldn’t play it off any longer.

“Ha-ha!” yelled Pavarti, “I knew it! So…who is the lucky guy…or girl perhaps?” laughed Pavarti lifting her eyebrow up to a curious grin.

“Oh will you stop it,” Hermione said laughing. “Well I’m not going to tell you who he is.” Screamed Hermione who was very red in the face now.

“Well at least we know it’s a “he”.” Pavarti said now laughing again.

~~

Ginny couldn’t rival in her glory for long; a strong wizard had just seized her with his full body strength. At least she had enjoyed herself for the short-lived excitement of beating Samantha’s ass. The man from behind her was gripping harder waiting for Samantha to release herself from the two other wizards that were assisting her. Throwing her long burly hair behind her, Samantha gave a menacing glare towards Ginny. She noticed Samantha looked quite distressed. Samantha made her way over to Ginny who was standing only a few feet away. This didn’t seem safe, Ginny thought to herself. She suddenly felt very aware of her feet. If Samantha came any closer, Ginny could kick her….she pondered this for awhile but was distracted. Samantha was pacing around Ginny and eyeing her like a new luxury broom being sold. This made Ginny extremely uncomfortable. Samantha finally spoke.

“I assure you Ms. Weasley that you will want to see what is to come, if I beat you to a bloody pulp, then I will not get to see the shock upon your face afterwards.” The unmistakable sarcastic tone was hard to miss. The woman Ginny thought she knew was admiring Ginny’s position. She might of won her in a fist fight, but Samantha had all the control, and Ginny was going to be tortured to watch whatever was to come. Whether it be torturing another innocent muggle, or the slaughtering of herself; which from the look on Draco’s facial expressions, didn’t think that, that was going to happen yet.

He had said that she was going to “watch” what she would be involved innny nny was very skeptical of what this “group” actually had planned for her. She looked over at Malfoy who was now looking at her with such intent that it was starting to scare her. His menacing eyes penetrating on her body….she felt a sudden chill race up her back, the feeling was almost real, almost menacing. Suddenly, shed realized that she wasn’t imagining these feelings that they actually existed. The wizard from behind her was moving his hand up her shirt through her back.

Disgusted by this, Ginny used as much upper body strength she could muster and twisted herself around to face him.

“Like that do you,” she said to him (her voice louder than she intended). A few glances went toward her way. Draco and Samantha were now looking at her.

“Does it do it for you,” Ginny said softly now. She watched as the man in front of her (they were only inches away from each other) smiled broadly with a wicked smile. He looked like a man just getting ready to get laid. Excitement rising in his eyes.

Ginny just smiled, as she lowered her hand towards his crotch; still smiling.

“Well, then does this feel good too?” she said while yanking his penis forward making him cringe forward onto the ground. The man fell to the floor aching in pain. Ginny spat on him.

“That’ll teach you never to touch me.”


~~
Harry watched her leave as a gust of light peered in through the room from where the door was creaked open. His feelings swarming with anger, frustration…wantons to hold her. His angst was building up inside him; he didn’t know if he should run after her or drag himself back to reality and trust her judgment. Thoughts clouded his brain…he didn’t know how he had let this happen.

This was Hermione, he thought. The girl you were friends with all through school. The girl that had tormented you to study and who helped you with your charms skills; but this wasn’t the little girl that had grown to be his best friend. This was a woman who would never stop at succession. A woman who would stop at nothing to get things done.

His feelings towards Hermione had always remained mutual…unattached, but there were things inside him steering him in a different direction. A direction that was very new to him. It was true that lately his relationship had been “different” that his feelings for her, had suddenly been growing stronger. And yet, he still felt that they had that “friends connection”. The connection where it was okay to embrace one another, because it had meant nothing. She seemed to be acting these feelings, because she was acting stubborn and obstinate.

Harry was so confused of his “feelings” that he didn’t think it was safe to think about them. She had said that she didn’t want this type of relationship with him. She may have been acting rash at the time…but it was what she wanted, and he would give her what she wished for. A plutonic but friendly relationship.

That morning Harry set out to the Ministry to check on the status of Patricia Cornwall. She had thus been sent there last night, for unusual behavior, and Harry had nye received a notice nor message concerning her status. When he reached the headquarters of her location…the offices where in an uproar. Concerned, Harry sneaked in through the opposite gate and made his way to her whereabouts. When he reached the lower corridor, he turned abruptly to find about fifteen wizards gathered around a small bed; Harry suspected it to be Patricia’s.

When he made his way into the room, a wizard peered out of the huddle of doctors and waved Harry over. He followed agreeingly and noticed the sound of panic running through his voice.

“Mr. Potter…..we…had, and accident last night.” The man suddenly said, with much difficultly.

Worried, Harry acted fast. “What? What type of accident?” He wasn’t going to wait for an excuse; he ignored the boy and walked over to the bed, where Patricia was accompanying it.

She looked exhausted, yet at peace from where he stood. As he watched her sleep, a wizard near him told him of the past nights occurrences. Harry expected as much. The woman was in a mind of shock. The doctor standing next to Harry told him that the curse was somehow triggered, and that’s why she had acted the way she had. He told him about how her eyes breathed fire so to speak and how it had turned a man to dust instantaneously.

The department of wizards explained further of their tests had not proved to be a successful one, yet they announced her in stable condition.

“She will stay with us for a few more days…” Harry shook his head to their broad announcement.

He simply said “No” that she would stay with him, where it was safe. She was his responsibility. The General had put him in charge of her…not them. He would watch for signs of change and if anything was amiss he would bring her straight back.

The wizards in white cloaks tried to argue, but they had no choice. When an order was given by The General…it was set, no further questions were asked.

Within the next two hours, Harry had signed all the proper paperwork and had released Patricia of their care. He watched as she slept comely and peacefully. At about a quarter to four she was awake. Her eyes fluttered in and out of sleep. She opened her eyes to find Harry sleeping next to her. He looked tired.

“Harry….” She muttered. He stirred.

“Yesm….”he said, his eyes still shut.

Realizing where he was, Harry woke with a shudder. “Wha….oh, sorry Patricia.”

She looked at him, and a smile appeared on her face. He returned the smile while sitting himself up.

“How are you feeling…do you need anything?” Harry asked unaware of her mood.

“I’m fine, I actually feel energized.” I would fancy a walk out of here, if you don’t mind.” She said laughing joyfully.

Harry smiled and they left without further discussion.

~~

The tension in the room was so hot, that it could light a fire. Hermione stared back at Parvati, skeptical of what her next words should entail. Hermione was a very secret person and liked to keep her private life to herself (when it needed to be secretive). Parvati was a great loyal friend of hers, but the actual truth being explained to one of her good friends would just open up a huge can of worms, which Hermione just wasn’t ready to explain just yet…or yet ever. The relationship her and Harry had experienced was still very new to her, Hermione might of felt she wanted more from Harry, but the friendship end of the relationship was a greater feeling; a feeling of safety and unmistakable thoughts towards the other. There was no sexual tension, no ideas of infatuation with the best friend. The boundaries were limited and were never crossed.

Hermione needed a healthy relationship, where she could look at her lover and not worry that she was breaking the “friend code”. Breaking this code was never repaired after you crossed the line. It was true, they had “crossed the line”, but these feelings were mixed up in emotions. She needed to get passed this period in her life, and move on….to think of Harry as a friend and not as a lover.

“It’s no one…why do you insist that I have done anything of the sort?” Hermione remarked…laughing, trying to not keep her true feelings oblivious.

Parvati’s eyebrow rose, which gave her a look of suspiciousness. Parvati surely didn’t believe anything Hermione was saying. Hermione knew that Parvati would stop at nothing to get the truth out of her. Feeling extremely out of place, Hermione cleared her throat.

“Well, if you are done with the third degree…I would like to take a shower; I still need to look for a dress, and I prefer the shops in Hogsmeade. Sirius’ ball is tonight.”

Parvati took no heed that she was listening to a word that was coming out of Hermione’s mouth. That was until Hermione made a move to release herself from her chair.

“Well…if you say that you weren’t with anyone….I believe you.”

“Well thank you Par…”

“So…” Parvati said with a gust of confidence.

“So…? What are you playing at Patil?”

Parvati ignored Hermione’s questions.

“So…” she started again. “I will set you up, with this guy at…”

Hermione cut her off.

“What?”

“A guy….they usually have penis’. Well….some of them at least. Most of them do…but don’t worry, I’m pretty sure his got some kick in his jockey shorts…”

Hermione cut of Parvati’s blabbering.

“That’s not what I meant you goon.”

“Well how am I supposed to know? It’s not me that’s been stuck in a rut....for how long has it been?”

Hermione ignored her insult.

“That’s not the point; I don’t want to be set up with a good for nothing…”

Parvati cute Hermione off.

“How do you know that the guy I set you up with will be a good for nothing…whatever you were going to call him. It turns out that Timothy is a very nice looking man.”

“Timothy? Is that his real name?” Hermione was now laughing. “How old is this kid?” Hermione said ignoring Parvati’s malicious glares.

“He’s your age.”

“Oh really….when I was what age!”

“You wanker, he happens to be a very nice man…and….. he is going to be at Sirius’ party, so you better be pleasant to him!”

“PARVATI!! I did not ask to get hooked up! If I wanted a dating service I would have entered myself into the date a mate adds in the Diagon Alley.”

“Well…you really don’t have a choice now. He will be there, and you will be civil. He’s actually quite fond of you!”

This certainly wasn’t helping Hermione’s situation. She had no choice. Parvati had won this round. Hermione slouched back into her chair and a half and pouted, ignoring the triumphant grins from the evil woman sitting across from her.

~~

Harry noticed how vibrant Patricia was, and was pleased to see how upbeat she was acting. She didn’t seem exhausted or worn out…which was music to his nerves. During the day, many questions were asked from her. She had insisted that she didn’t know what was controlling her, nor did she know why she was doing those specific things. Patricia had explained that she had felt a terrible force clouding her judgment.

“When I have had episodes, I have not remembered what I have done…nor where I was. But…this time it was different. It was like…my mind had a motive, to destroy. I was still there, seeing those terrible things as they were played out. I couldn’t stop myself. My eyes…the pain was unbearable, searing pain embedded them. I have never felt such pain. When I woke this morning, the pain had drifted away, and I began to feel my body again.”

It was good to hear her speaking of the events, and that she was very open to discussion. It was true that he already knew these things…but it was positive that she could trust in him to help her. Trust was very important for them to find a cure, and if she trusted him, then it would be easier on their part.

The ministry was still trying to find the spot from where the curse was taken place, but was still having difficulty. Without knowing who conjured the curse, they were lost. The only way they would be able to discover a cure, was with the power Patricia possessed.

Around five that evening, Harry received an owl from Sirius; ripping the letter open, Harry quickly read through it.

Harry,

I am worried, I haven’t heard from you in awhile. I’m sure you arfe, fe, and things are well, but I would like to at least hear from you. I hope things are good.

Tonight is the ball, and I am hoping you can come. We are announcing a special event tonight, and would love for you to attend.

Owl me back with your answer ASAP.

Sirius

P.s. The festivities began at 7 p.m. sharp.

Harry re-read the letter one last time with a pain of quilt in his left side. Sirius had sent him an invitation almost three weeks ago, and he had yet to send a reply. He had been so caught up with the whole Patricia crisis that it had slipped his mind.

Before Harry sent back his reply….he walked over to Patricia who was reading the Daily Prophet on a nearby couch.

“Patricia…I need to discuss something with you.”

Patricia looked up alarmed. What could it be now? She had been asked so many questions in the past few days that she was getting tired of answering.

“Tonight, my godfather is having a gala and I am to attend. I know you might not be up to meeting the public at this crucial period. Do you think you would be up to it?”

Patricia smiled.

Finally something she wanted to do. She was tired of sitting around reading and doing things that she rather not.

“Of course I want to go, I have been so damn restless just sitting around. When does it start, I must get ready.” She didn’t wait for Harry’s reply. She simply walked out of the room, flipping her hands in the air with excitement. Harry smiled after her.

~~

Hermione spent the afternoon in Hogsmeade with Parvati looking for a dress for the evening’s activities. Hermione didn’t expect to impress anyone of the opposite sex, nor did she want to. The only reason she was going was for Sabrina and Sirius. She cared deeply for them, and would make an appearance for them. Not for any males that happened to be there.

Seamus was planning on taking Parvati so, knowing Parvati she just “had” to get a new gown. Hermione always thought this funny of her, but knew it was directly in character of Parvati. Being a model, Parvati had very expensive tastes. It was a good thing that Seamus was well off, because if they weren’t Parvati would spend their lot on just shoes.

Hermione was just hoping from everyone being there, that she would run into Ginny. Hermione and Ginny were very close, yet had not been able to get together in almost a month. Ginny was supposedly away on a work trip, and would be back for the ball. This was probably the only thing keeping her from actually going. Hermione didn’t expect to see Harry there, and wasn’t going to hold her breath. She had made her feelings completely clear, and knew Harry would respect them.

Harry was supposed to be watching Patricia anyhow…and knew that in her condition…would not be at Sirius’s party.

Coming back to reality, Hermione looked through amounts of dresses, and noticed a very pretty lavender dress cloak. It was draped in satin. Hermione held it up to reveal the sides. There were slits revealing where legs would be shown. Hermione had never seen something so gorgeous. She sure couldn’t see her wearing something so daring. Where was the harm in just trying it on…its not like she would buy it. Hermione passed Parvati who was eyeing a lovely auburn dress. When she asked the clerk for a dressing room, the lady looked at her once, and instantly appeared a room. Hermione entered the room, which was vastly spacious. There was a large bathroom among several hangers, stools, and mirrors that encircled the dressing room revealing a million replicas of herself staring back.

When she undressed herself, the mirror spoke. “Looking good missy.” Hermione ignored it and continued to undress leaving her knickers on. She slipped on the cloak and was instantly amazed. The gown was magically sewn. As soon as the fabric touched her skin it fit snug, perfectly around her torso. Her chest lay bare to the world. Hermione figured she would wear a whit shirt to conceal herself, if she did in fact purchase the item. Hermione was so busy admiring herself that she didn’t notice the yelling of her name. Suddenly, there was a large knock on front door to the dressing room. Hermione slowly made a crack with the door, peering through it carefully. She realized that it was only Parvati.

Making sure everything was intact, Hermione opened the door. Parvati (who was caring multiple amounts of gowns, cloaks, and shoes) was thunderstruck.

“Hermione…you…you, look amazing! That cloak fits you like a glove, and….look at those legs!”

At this however, Hermione tried to hide her bareness. She wasn’t used to wearing something so…daring.

“I don’t know Parvati, it’s really out there. It’s not me.” Hermione was very skeptical.

Parvati simply shook her head in disagreement.

“Honey, you wear that thing, and the men won’t be able to walk for a week!”

Hermione laughed at this. Parvati always knew how to make Hermione feel better about herself.

She was going to just bite the bullet, so she waited for Parvati to make her decision. When she had, Hermione purchased one of the most extravagant (in other words “sultry”) dresses she had ever purchased.


~~

Harry ran his long fingers through his hair. Making sure he looked presentable, he looked at himself in his mirror. Ignoring the whisles and hoorah’s from the mirror, Harry made adjustments in his cloak. When he felt he couldn’t make it look any better, he headed out into the living room.

Patricia still wasn’t ready, and Harry figured he would give her another ten to fifteen minutes. When he felt that they couldn’t wait any longer…he knocked on her door.

“Patricia, I think its time to go”

He heard a muffled “okay”.

Within seconds she had opened the door, looking extravagant. She was wearing a silvery cloak that showed pressed against her chest, revealing her bosom. Harry sighed and smiled.

“Shall we,” he said holding out his arm inviting her to accompany him.

She gladly took it, and they apparated to Sirius’.

~~

When they got back from Hogsmeade, Parvati instantly headed up to the shower dragon, Hermione however didn’t need as much time as Parvati so she read a book and waited. It was still a couple more s uns until they “had” to leave, and Hermione wasn’t going to push the inevitable.

Hermione ran her fingers though her hair, ignoring the comments from her mirror. She looked rather erotic, but wasn’t going to admit it to anyone. She tried not to fuss with her hair as much. She had put some magical cleansing in it, and that was it. It had made her hair shine. Since Hogwarts she didn’t have to fuss with the frizzyness, for the curls had grown into long straight hair, which was gladly valued.

Slipping her shoes on…she announced that she was ready. It was moments such as these she appreciated that she wasn’t high maintenance.

Parvati however, was another story; Seamus had already been there for over a half an hour and she still wasn’t’ ready. It wasn’t until Seamus announced that he would be leaving without her that she appeared, looked extremely beautiful in a cashmere cloak.

“I’m here, I’m here…don’t get your knickers in a twist.”

“Only if you do it for me” he muttered…Hermione cringed.

With everyone accounted for, they apparated to their destination.


~~

The ballroom was lighted with millions of candles and fluorescent firelight shown on the floor giving the room an ominous glow. It was beautiful. Harry watched as Sirius and Samantha greeted quests as they walked into the Great double doors. When they appeared, Sirius gave Harry a warming hug.

“I’m glad you could make it son. I was worried for a little bit that you wouldn’t be able to attend.”

“Life has been crazy…” Harry said motioning to Patricia.

Sirius, si nod nodded and directed Harry into the living room. There was already a ton of people joined in the middle of the dancing room. The ballroom was accompanied by many wizards and witches, whom Harry remembered meeting one time or the other.

Sabrina walked over to Harry, and hugged him from behind, giving him a jolt of surprise. Harry simply smiled and patted her hand.

“Sabrina…how are you doing?” Harry said turning around to give her a proper hug.

“I am doing well. The kids are good…how’s Ron and Hermione?”

Harry simply nodded “they are okay.”

Harry soon left his godfather and his wife to their hostess duties and walked with Patricia to the food area. Patricia had mentioned being hungry, so Harry had her sit in a chair while he grabbed some food.

When he walked back over to her, something caught his eye that almost made him drop the food. It was Hermione. She had just arrived with Parvati and Seamus. Sirius was hugging her and she was smiling….. and…..that outfit! She was gorgeous. He couldn’t keep his eyes off of her. He tried to peer his eyes away, but was unsuccessful. He slowly gave the food to Patricia. When she noticed who he was looking at, she stood up, took the plate from out of his hands and walked him in the direction of her.

Coming back to reality, he looked at Patricia, who was dragging him….towards…Hermione.

“Wha…what are you doing.”

“We are going to dance,” she said in a demanding way.

When they passed, Hermione looked up…shock upon her face.

Patricia ignored this however, and brought Harry onto the floor grabbing his waist. Harry pulled himself back into the present. He watched Patricia. She was dancing very seductively and was rubbing up on him. Harry tried to ignore Patricia but was unable. Patricia obviously wanted to win, and was going to do anything to get her trophy. Harry fed hed his attention on Patricia, as a slow song came on. Harry took her by the waist and held her close to his torso. Suddenly, he noticed Hermione was being dragged out onto the dancing floor now. She was accompanied by a man Harry had never seen. If it wasn’t the anger that was rising in Harry’s cheeks, he would have noticed that the man was good looking. But Harry’s feelings towards anyone who touched Hermione that way…was pure hate.

Hermione glanced over, he was watching her, and his arms wrapped around….her. There was a horrible feeling in the pit of Hermione’s stomach. She felt ill, yet knew it was only jealousy. She hated how he was dancing with her. Two can play this game she thought. She peered into the eyes of the man who was holding her. She had no clue who the guy was, only that Parvati had pushed her onto him, and next thing she new she was on the dance floor. Hermione looked over one more time. Patricia was looking at her now, the look of “look who I landed.” Harry was now looking into Patricia’s eyes, and for a split second, she thought he wanted her. The gleam and lust in his eyes was too unmistakable. She looked back at her partner. He was smiling at her, and he laid his hands on her lower back…massaging her.

Harry saw this, and for a split second it seemed to him that Hermione was enjoying it. Why was he fucking feeling this way? He was supposed to let her go. That’s what she wanted. She just wanted to be friends. Friends are what she would have.

Hermione looked over. Harry was now not looking into Patricia’s eyes. He was now not dancing with Patricia, he was now not looking at “her” anymore; But, was now making out with Patricia Cornwall.

A trickle of pain shot through Hermione’s heart. She stopped dancing. Harry looked over at her; his lips stattaattached to Patricia. She had tears in her eyes, and Harry felt a sudden jolt of pain as she ran out of the ball room crying.

He let go of Patricia, leaving her in the middle of the floor. He searched everywhere. She was no where to be found. He ran outside, she was gone. He suddenly knew where she was, and he apparated right away.

Harry had knocked so hard on Hermione’s front door that the walls shook with anger. She opened the door, flustered with confusion upon her rosy cheeks. His face poured out to her. He looked completely livid, yet his eyes were soft. He watched as she eyed him carefully.
“Why do you have to act so damn noble,” he said this, yet didn’t think it was the proper introduction to the conversation.
“Excuse me,” she said accordingly. “You were the one that wanted to be with her…you were the one that said that you needed to take care of her. You…” she said pointing her forefinger at his chest “were the one who always wanted to do the right thing….well, there you have it. You have the right thing…you have what you want. You have a duty…remember.” she was getting very angry. Heat rising to her cheeks, which were already blood stained red.
“Don’t talk to me about what is right and wrong, Hermione” Harry was now standing stiff, fists clenched. “You left me…remember” he said this in a mocking tone that only made the fire in her eyes revile with anger.
“Left…left, there was nothing to leave. You already had a duty to her…you wanted her. It was your “job” (she said this quoting him) to take care of her. Well you know what. It wasn’t your duty, because deep down Harry, you wanted her all along. I saw how you were acting with her at the ball tonight. You were kissing her! You wanted her…I….I…was just a moment of passion.” she said this with such disgust that it made Harry cringe with anger.
“A moment of passion…how can you say such a vile thing. You were what I have always wanted. I never knew what I wanted until recently. It has always been you Hermione. The only reason I was doing that was because I thought that’s what you wanted. I wanted to see if you really meant what you said this morning. I knew it wasn’t. I just wanted to find out for sure.” his voice was lowering…but he watched as Hermione shook her head in protest.
“I have never been what you have wanted Harry….you, do not want me, it’s Patricia you have w…” but she couldn’t finish her sentence.
Harry had flung himself onto her, crushing their bodies together making them one. He was wrapping his arms around her head and waist making it hard for her them to breathe. Hard kissing escaped them. He pressed his warm lips to her and she could suddenly feel hot passion riling in her. She kissed back and was suddenly roaming her hands upon. She roamed her nails and dug them into his back making him kiss her harder. He wanted her…now and couldn’t think of anything else he wanted to do. He threw her legs around him and walked her slowly back into her bedroom.