Politics of Pleasure Ch 5

Chapter 5

Harry had snuck out again. For whatever reason he hadn’t checked the common room like he normally did. She had been worried about how Harry would take the student rumor mill and reaction to the letter. The letter had been good; even Lavender had been surprised about the professional way that the Prophet had handled the publishing of the letter itself. Up in the dorm Lavender and Parvati had offered a rundown of the gossip. Sentiment seemed to lean more towards confusion but there was an undercurrent of anger.

Hermione had been concerned that someone had had a reaction like Ron. She had snuck back down into the common room to do some work while waiting to see if Harry left. He came down and she almost called out but the look on his face wasn’t one of anxiety. He seemed happy almost. Hermione hesitated, though it was mere moments after the closing of portrait before she bolted after him. She had thought she was too late but caught him dipping into a hallway off the staircase. Trying to stay as silent as possible she followed him, however after a turn or two he was gone. She searched a couple of hallways, retraced her path and found him after a few minutes.

It was a feminine moan that caught her attention. Hermione approached the door after a whispered unlocking spell she peeked inside. Hermione’s breath hitched as she watched Daphne laid back on a desk and Harry between her legs. Harry’s hands roamed and squeezed Daphnee’s flesh. Daphne was extremely vocal under Harry’s ministrations. Hermione’s eyes remained glued to the scene infront of her. She felt the blush spread across her entire body, and flares of desire flurried through her. She wasn’t sure when it happened but her thighs had started to rub against one another and she became very aware of how horny she was. Hermione had to stifle her own moan when she finally saw Harry’s cock. Daphne bobbing on it was hot and sent all sorts of feelings through her body.

Hermione shook herself out of the stupor as Daphne began to climb up into Harry’s lap. Hermione moved away from the door and fled away from the hallway. Shame flared through her. She had spied on her friend and watched an intimate moment. She had gotten aroused by it. Hermione closed her eyes as she tried to tamp down on the arousal racing through her entire body. Though this process raised another question in her mind; shame gave way as she started to wonder why hadn’t Harry told her anything. She had reached the bottom of the staircase, knowing Harry would need to come back through that area. She was done being in the dark.

***

Harry led Hermione to a nearby classroom. One that he knew to be abandoned and typically not checked by any professors up for a late night patrol. He didn’t really look at Hermione, though he knew that she was frustrated. The one glance he risked as she walked in told him she was more frustrated than angry which wouldn’t make this conversation any easier to have. She didn’t know what was going on and he wasn’t really sure what had triggered this, but the fact that she wouldn’t meet his eyes when he did glance at her suggested that she had seen at least a piece of his encounter with Daphne. Harry chose a couple of chairs for them to sit across from one another. There was a blush on Hermione’s face and she refused to meet his gaze.

“So what did you see?” Harry asked.

Hermione seemed to shrink in on herself and refused to even look at him, “Enough.” She whispered.

Harry nodded, “Is that what you want to talk about?”

Hermione seemed to nod but still wouldn’t look at him, “Why didn’t you tell me?”

“I’ve wanted to.” That did get a reaction from Hermione; her eyes snapped to his and he continued before she could respond, “It shouldn’t be that surprising. You are my closest friend.”

Hermione’s mouth seemed to open as she processed, “But. Then. Why?”

Harry leaned back a bit, “Do you remember those House meetings that McGonagall called during our first year? What she said about magic?”

Hermione’s brow had furrowed as she rifled through those memories, “Trust your magic.” Her eyes closed as she started to go through memories and see if anything more triggered. “I don’t get it.” She finally admitted.

Harry’s hand rubbed the back of his neck, “I don’t know how…” He paused for a second, “Maybe another way. Dobby.”

The excitable elf popped into the room, “Oh noes. Great Harry Potter must not be out. Yous needs to be in bed.”

“Dobby wait.” There was a firmness to Harry’s voice. Dobby hesitated and his hands started to grab for his ears, “Hermione and I will be ok. I just need you to answer a question for me. We won’t get caught.”

“If great Harry Potter says so.”

“How many sources of magic are there in this room? Not counting the castle.”

“Just you and the Great Harry’s Hermie.” Dobby answered honestly.

Harry hoped Hermione didn’t catch the name change from Dobby, “Thank you Dobby. You can go.”

Dobby popped away leaving them alone in the room. Harry turned his attention to Hermione, whose brow was furrowed, eyes unfocused but flickering back and forth. Harry smiled at the familiar expression, she was processing something and attempting to understand it.

“We are the source of magic.” Hermione muttered, “And magic is a part of us. But it’s also ambient and found in concentration throughout the world.”

Harry smiled as he pulled on the ambient magic in the room, little balls of light dancing about. Hermione’s gaze shifted as she watched the balls dance around the room. Harry released his pull on the ambient magic and the orbs of light faded before turning into little sparks that fell to the ground.

“Us being the source of magic lets us interact and control the ambient magic around us.” Hermione concluded.

Harry shrugged his eyes turning towards the moonlit window, “That’s beyond me.” Hermione stared at him and wondered if he understood how difficult that little trick he just did was. He continued before she could question him, “Magic reflects and reacts to intention.”

“The pull of the Dark Arts.” Hermione muttered.

“So maybe it can help us intuit whats best for us. Guide us?”

“You’re suggesting a consciousness to magic?” Hermione gaped.

“Maybe. I don’t know. Sirius mentioned family magics and traditions. But it was more like…” Harry paused, “When I was younger I ended up on the roof of the school cause I wanted to escape from Dudley. Second year I knew I needed to go after the Basilisk. After the world cup…” Harry trailed off again, his gaze returned and met hers. “I wanted to tell you. Everything.” There was a humorless laugh, “I think I need to talk to you soon. But there Is just a small hesitation.”

“Don’t you trust me?”

“More than anyone.” The earnest honesty in his answer surprised her, “Its people around us I don’t necessarily trust.”

There was a pause between the two. Harry was lost in the multitude of thoughts and issues running through his mind. Hermione was reeling from that revelation. She leaned forward and grabbed his hand.

“Harry, what happened? Where did you go after the world cup?”

His shoulders seemed to slump even more; a feat she didn’t really think was possible, “Please don’t. Don’t ask me. I don’t want to lie to you.”

Hermione nodded and a memory spilled forth. Her voice barely a whisper, “Sometimes the less we know the better we protect our friends.” She felt Harry tense, “Something my father told me after something with a friend of his.”

Hermione’s resolve settled in her stomach, “I won’t ask tonight, but you can’t keep pushing this Harry. Its already getting to be too much.”

Harry nodded, “I know. I have… not an idea but a potential though I’m not sure how its going to work.”

Hermione scoffed, “You never know how its going to work you just jump into it and things magically work out.” Harry smiled at that and his eyes met hers. The relief was evident to see, “So Daphne.” Hermione was Happy to see a blush spread across his face, she wasn’t the only one embarrassed by catching him in a moment. “No details but how did it start?”

The blush started to go away but never really disappeared, “Second year. Remember when I got paired with her in potions? Well Snape couldn’t fail Daphne so she kinda took pity on me and helped. It sort of morphed into other classes where she would be cordial. And it just kinda built over second and third year.”

“To the point of…” Hermione trailed off, a blush spreading across her face.

“End of third year things escalated to more than just being cordial. Really have Tracey to thank for it but…” Harry trailed off.

“I can’t believe you are dating a Slytherin.”

“Not dating.” Harry muttered before he could stop himself.

Hermione’s eyes widened and she sputtered some incoherent words for a moment, “Harry Potter!”

Harry’s hands immediately shot up, “Sorry. Look its complicated and I can’t really… It’s not my…” He let out a large sigh, “Its another one of those things I can’t talk about yet.”

Hermione’s eyebrows shot up, “I don’t think I understand how it could be.” Harry shrugged but didn’t respond so Hermione mulled it over, “Still you ‘not dating’ a Slytherin. Never would’ve thought.”

Harry didn’t respond, his eyes were half closed in what Hermione recognized as a mode of thinking, “Arithmancy. She said she was having difficulty with arithmancy.”

Hermione’s brow furrowed, “Daphne’s one of the top students in that class.”

“Huh, I’m sure she mentioned having difficulty with the subject. Perhaps the two of you could study together.” Harry smirked

Hermione’s mouth opened as she realized what he was saying, “Perhaps I will.”

****

There was an air of anticipation throughout the Great Hall, rearranged for tonight. Officials for the tournament sat up at the front table with the Headmasters. All other professors and accompanying staff sat at another row of tables at the front of the Hall. The Goblet stood secure on its pedestal, flames alight, capturing attention of all in the hall. Excited murmurs and talking occurred throughout dinner. Speculation about who would be picked remained rampant, the Weasley twins seemed to have some sort of pool going with probably half the students. Harry was surprised at how calm he felt with the whole thing.

The dimming of the candles signaled that the choosing was about to begin. Most of the students quieted down though some low murmurs echoed throughout the hall. Harry felt Hermione’s hand reached down and grasp his own. She squeezed it and he felt the small smile grace his face. Dumbledore made his way down to the floor of the hall as the Goblet’s fire burned brighter and changed color. The first slip of parchment flew up into the air and floated down into Dumbledore’s outstretched hand.

“Victor Krum. Representing Durmstrang.” Dumbledore’s voice carried through the hall. The reaction from Durmstrang was a cacophony of support. Banging and hollering their support for the young man. Victor stood up and made his way to the indicated room where the champions were to go.

A second piece of parchment shot out of the goblet, “Representing Beauxbatons, Fleur Delacour.” The reaction was far more reserved. Clapping and polite nods from the Beauxbatons contingent with most of Hogwarts just staring at the beautiful young woman.

Everyone quieted down as the fire changed for a third time. “Cedric Diggory for Hogwarts.” Hufflepuff exploded in cheers with much of Hogwarts joining in. Cedric mostly well liked, or at least tolerated by the other houses.

Harry’s eyes remained locked on the Goblet. The flames had not died down as he might’ve expected or wanted. The flames burned brighter again and Harry felt Hermione’s hand tense in his. The Hall stood silent as all eyes were on the Goblet as the parchment shot out. Dumbledore stood dumbfounded for a second watching the parchment float down before grabbing it.

“Harry Potter.” Dumbledore’s voice was subdued.

Harry took a deep breath and he heard the sharp intake from Hermione next to him. He looked at her and slipped a small piece of parchment into her lap.

“Best join us Mr. Potter.” Professor McGonagall’s voice spoke up from behind.

Harry nodded and squeezed Hermione’s hand one last time before stepping up. He eyes glanced to one other person in the room. Daphne’s face was stoic, though he saw a worry echo in her eyes. He resisted the urge to make a face or try to reassure her. Harry followed McGonagall to where the other champions were waiting. The three Headmasters were conferring with officials under a silencing charm if the animated motions were any indication. Harry entered the room and took in the surprise on the other champions faces. The reporter and photographer were also in the room, trying to capture everything.

“Harry?” Cedric asked, “What are you doing here?”

“Do they want us back out?” Fleur spoke up, her voice soft.

“No Miss Delacour. Mr Potter’s name came out of the goblet. The Headmaster’s are conferring about what to do. Excuse me.” McGonagall left the room to try and figure out what was going on.

“Harry Potter?” The reporters voice spoke up, “I must get an interview with you. I’m the world would be so interested in hearing from you.”

The reporter stuck out her hand and gripped Harry’s shoulder and started to pull him away from everyone else.

“And you are?” Harry asked.

“Rita Skeeter. Thee reporter for the Daily Prophet. And the public would just love to hear about the life of the Boy-who-Lived.”

Harry shrugged but pulled away from Rita, “Perhaps but we can talk here.”

“We don’t want to bother anyone else though. They don’t need to go anywhere.” Rita purred, once again reaching for Harry.

Harry took a step back and found his back pressed against a wall. None of the others seemed interested in intervening as Rita advanced; a predatory smile on her face. Harry palmed his wand, though still hesitated. Mr. Fern had advised in keeping to the status quo as much as possible, at least until things could be figured out a bit more. Though Mr. Fern had been adamant in his distrust of the Prophet so Harry was finding himself in a situation not knowing what really needed to take priority.

The door to the room swung open and everyones eyes shifted towards it. Dumbledore swept in followed by the rest of the contingent. Karkaroff and Maxine swept towards their own students and stood beside them. Bagman, Crouch, Moody and Snape stood off to the side though Harry idly wondered where Professor Sprout was since Cedric was one of her students.

“Rita, I must thank you for coming, however your role has come to an end for the evening.” Dumbledore stated softly.

Rita straightened but did not move, “Come now Dumbledore the people want an interview with the Boy-who-Lived. They deserve to know about him.”

“Perhaps.” Dumbledore’s eyes twinkled, “But the time has come for the Champions to be given the information for the tasks and that is something that the press is not privy to.”

“Then explain it to them, I’ll interview Harry and be on my merry way.”

Dumbledore’s eyes hardened, “Do not test Rita. You will not like the results.”

Something flashed over Rita’s face and Harry watched her leave with the photographer. Though her exit did nothing for the tension.

Fleur immediately turned to Maxine, “Why is this little boy here with us?”

Victor immediately followed up, “Does Hogwarts get two champions?”

“Cedric is the champion. I want no part in this blasted tournament.” Harry spoke up.

“Unfortunately Harry it appears you don’t have a choice.” Dumbledore responded. Harry shrugged as a way to signal that he was there and Dumbledore continued when Harry didn’t speak up, “Though it seems that letter was a profound forethought Harry.”

“Surely you’re not suggesting that the letter was authentic. It was probably just another ploy set up by Potter.” Snape sneered.

“It is clear that this young man cheated his way. I will be submitting an official complaint to the ICW over this.”

“Now Karkaroff I did speak to Mr. Cuffe and he assured me that the letter was authentic.” Dumbledore started. Snape moved to respond but Dumbledore held up his hand, “Regardless it does not matter, young Harry will need to participate right Bartemius?”

The answer was gruff and short, “The rules of the Goblet are clear. The boy must compete or risk losing his magic.”

“Wait. No one said anything about losing my magic.” Cedric started.

“Participate in the challenges and your magic will be fine. Besides you were all warned that it would be dangerous.” Crouch responded, “Don’t be surprised that the consequences are severe.”

Harry looked at the faces of the other champions. The reality had begun to set in and Harry saw it echoed on their faces.

“Perhaps it is time to give them the information they need?” Dumbledore prompted.

Bagman stepped forward, “Yes, how exciting. Four Champions. Now for the first Task you will need all of your wits about as you. The Task will test your courage in the face of dangers unknown and need to have the daring to accomplish what is needed. Now we will see you all for the Weighing of the Wands in some time but off you go to prepare.”

*****

Hermione watched Harry get escorted to the room for the Champions by Professor McGonagall. The rest of the hall burst into a dull roar as soon as Harry disappeared. The Headmasters and tournament organizers were all collected in a group, having some sort of discussion. Most of the students kind of took that as their cue to leave. The twins were planning some sort of party and getting the rest of the Quidditch team to participate. Hermione glanced at Ron but his eyes were glued to the door where the champions disappeared behind. She thought about saying something but chose not to as she felt the piece of parchment in her hand.

Hermione meandered through the hallway, searching for a empty classroom. Thankfully most students seemed to be going back to their dormitories and for the evening. She slipped into a empty classroom and saw that the parchment was folded up and sealed with wax. Hermione studied the seal, a simple pot with a stylized “P” on it. Hermione’s breath hitched as she realized it was the Potter Family seal. She flipped it over and saw a small note.

“Dobby.” She muttered as a reflex.

The excitable little elf popped in front of her, “What cans Dobby dos for Great Harry Potters Hermie?”

“Harry wants you to take this letter to a Mr. Fern.”

“Dobby’s can do that.”

“Thank you Dobby.” Hermione thanked him.

Dobby seemed to stand a little taller before taking the letter and popping away. Hermione stared at the spot the little elf had been for a few moments before realizing he wouldn’t come back. She hadn’t asked and she was sure Dobby had completed the task set before him. As she got up she began to wonder who Mr. Fern was, though she abruptly stopped as another thought took over. Harry wasn’t the only one that could send a letter.

Hermione shifted her direction to a classroom that was regularly used. She would be able to find the necessary parchment and quill to pen a quick letter. It was only a few more minutes before she found herself making her way to the owlery. Hermione thought about using one of the school birds but spotted Hedwig sitting high up in the building.

“Hedwig.” Hermione called out. The owl heard the call and swooped down, landing on the outstretched arm of the young woman. “Will you carry a letter to Director Bones for me?” Hedwig paused for a second before holding out a leg in acceptance. Hermione attached the letter, took Hedwig out and watched the owl fly away into the night. As Hermione started to walk back she very nearly collided with Daphne Greengrass. There were a few short words but neither stopped to truly acknowledge the other. Hermione did look back and Harry’s words flitted through her mind. Something that she still needed to consider.

A/N: Thank you for reading. Chapter 6 won the poll so that will be up next. Work has slowed down a bit so I hope to have within the next week. I have to decide how I want to frame two fairly important scenes.

Thanks for reading.
- Shadow