Harry Potter Harry Potter and Childish Things

[zerohour]

Shorter than I wanted, but I think I covered what needed to be covered. Lemme know what you guys think.

-------- ----------- ------------ ---------- ------------

Hogwarts at night was different. The prefects were out to get him and deduct points, instead of helping him find his class. The teachers were nowhere to be found. And of course, it was dark. While that didn't sound all that scary, Harry knew well that the dark had things that man should be afraid of.

After all, Harry knew first hand what went bump in the night.

Still, despite all of the drawbacks, Harry was excited. This was the first opportunity to see what Hogwarts was really like. The day to day actions of walking to classes, the Great Hall, and the common room barely scratched the surface of what was in Hogwarts, and Harry fully intended to see exactly what the castle had to offer.

Besides, if there was anything dangerous, Rx was more than capable of handling it.

ôSo, where do you want to go first?ö Harry asked.

ôLET'S FIND SOMETHING TO EAT.ö

ôI don't think they sere food this late.ö

ôTHERE'S GOT TO BE A KITCHEN AROUND HERE SOMEWHERE, RIGHT? OR DOES FOOD JUST MAGICALLY APPEAR?ö

ôWell, this is a school for wizards...ö

ôYEAH, BUT IT HAS TO COME FROM SOMEWHERE, DOESN'T IT?ö

ôI don't know...ö Harry said, before his stomach growled, followed closely by a roar from Rex's.

Rex grinned as Harry sighed, ôAlright, let's see if we can find anything.ö

--- --- --- --- ---

The duo began their quest, but lacking any defined direction to start in, they ended up wandering aimlessly. Fortunately, that suited them just fine, and spent the time talking.

ôSO, DID YOU WRITE TO ANNIE YET?ö

ôNo, I haven't had a chance yet. Besides, I wanted to go to all my classes first, so I can tell her about them.ö

ôI GUESS THAT MAKES SENSE. YOU GONNA SIGN I WITH A KISS?ö

ôWhy would I do that?ö

ôAREN'T BOYS AND GIRLS SUPPOSED TO DO THAT? I ALWAYS SEE THEM DO THAT WHEN YOUR AUNT WATCHES THE TV.ö

ôThat's when you're grownup. Kids don't do that sort of thing.ö

ôARE YOU SURE? I SAW SOME OF THE KIDS AT YOUR OLD SCHOOL DOING IT.ö

ôWhen?ö

ôWHEN THERE WAS SNOW EVERYWHERE. THEY WERE BIG RED AND PINK LETTERS IN the SHAPE OF HEARTS.ö

ôThat's Valentine's Day. It doesn't count.ö

ôWHATEVER...ö

ôHey, things are different when you're older Rex. Rex?ö Harry turned to face his companion, wondering why he hadn;t replied, to see Rex hesitating on the other side of the arch they had just passed under.

ôLET'S GET OUT OF HERE HARRY. I DON'T LIKE THIS ROOM...ö Rex whined.

ôWhy, you nervous?ö Harry teased, ôIs big bad Rex scared of an empty room?ö

ôYEAH.ö the fact that Rex would admit that put Harry on edge. If Rex was nervous, he should be outright terrified.

Still, they had been in more obviously dangerous situations, so Harry pressed on, with Rex reluctantly following.

ôHi.ö

Harry started, and spun around to confront the speaker. He was surprised to see a little girl who couldn't be much older than eight.

ôWho are you?ö

ôMy name's Haldis, who are you?ö

ôI'm Harry.ö

ôDo you want to be my friend?ö

Harry was about to reply, but was interrupted, as Rex snarled at the girl. Surprisingly, instead of screaming, she giggled.

ôAren't you a strange creature. Who are you?ö

ôNONE OF YOUR BUSINESS!!!ö

ôRex! Don't be rude.ö Harry said, only to be cut off by giggling once again.

ôWell, it seems your friend doesn't like me, so I'm going somewhere else.ö she said, before walking, almost dancing, away.

ôWait!ö Harry said, trying to catch up to her.

ôDon't worry Harry, I'm sure we can play some other time!ö

ôWait!ö Harry cried, as she ran around a corner, but by the time he reached it, she had disappeared, leaving only the sound of her laughter.

ôYou didn't have to be so rude Rex.ö

ôI DIDN'T LIKE HER. THERE WAS SOMETHING...OFF ABOUT HER...ö

ôWas it the same thing that made you melt Snape's face?ö

ô...MAYBE...ö

ôYou have to stop killing people you don't like Rex. If you keep doing that, I'll get in trouble. Remember what happened when you didn't like the Ice Cream Man?ö

ôYEAH...ö

ôWe don't want that to happen again, do we?ö

ôNO...ö

ôGood.ö

Further conversation was cut off as Harry stomach growled, accompanied by a bellowing roar from Rex's. Harry. At least, had the decency to blush, though Rex didn't seem to care.

ôLET'S GO BACK TO FINDING THE KITCHEN.ö

ôSounds good to me.ö

--- --- --- --- ---

It seemed like hours before Rex caught the scent of something cooking, but that was most likely due to their mutual hunger. Rex led them deeper into the depths of the castle, before coming to a stop in from of a sizable painting of a fruit bowl.

ôIs this it?ö

ôIT'S WHERE THE SMELL IS COMING FROM.ö

ôHow do we get in?ö

ôTRY TOUCHING THE PEAR. IT'S GLOWING FUNNY.ö

Harry did as Rex requested, but nothing happened, ôI don't think that's it.ö

ôTRY RUBBING IT. IF THAT DOESN'T WORK, I'LL JUST RIP IT OPEN.ö

Fortunately for the painting, rubbing it seemed to work, and the pear giggled, before swinging open. Once it was open, even Harry could smell the delicious aromas wafting from within.

ôHello sirs!ö Out of nowhere, a swarm of tiny, childlike creatures appeared.

ôUm... hi?ö Harry wasn't sure how to react, especially since they didn't seem concerned about Rex.

ôIf yous is coming to the kitchen, sirs must be hungry! What can we get sirs?ö

ôEr... could I have a sandwich?ö

ôOf course! And for you sir?ö

ôHM... BRING ME A HUMAN CHILD.ö

ôSir?ö

ôDON'T WORRY, I'M NOT GOING TO EAT THEM, JUST THEIR NIGHTMARES.ö

ôWell...ö

ôTHEY'LL BE FINE. NOTHING A LITTLE THERAPY WON'T FIX.ö

ô...if sir is sure.ö

A pair of elves vanished, reappearing moments later with a blearly child between them.

ôPERFECT...ö Harry did his best to ignore the terrified moaning of Rex's meal., and enjoy his sandwich.Sadly, their feast was interrupted, by the faint giggling of the pair, and the slowly opening door.

ôQuick Rex, hide!ö Harry hissed. The elves moved far quicker than he expected, shoving the shivering child under the table. Somehow, Rex managed to transform before the door swung completely open, and a pair of red heads strode into the room. They seemed a bit surprised to see Harry, but that was quickly replaced by identical mischevious expressions, as they took up positions beside him.

ôMy my my... it seems one of the ickle firsties found their way into the kitchenö

ôIndeed, brother dearest. Most impressive.ö

ôEven we didn't find the kitchens until our third week.ö

ôJudging by how much food the elves were bringing, I'd say he was hungry.ö

ôHunger is a powerful motivator. Perhaps that's what helped him find the kitchens.ö

ôIf that were the case, then Ronniekins would have been here on the first night.ö

ôHe does love his food.ö

ôThough given his manners, he could have problem later in life.ö

ôNo one likes a pig.ö

ôUm, excuse me?ö Harry interjected, tired of twisting back and forth to keep up, causing the twins to face him.

ôSpeaking of manners, it was rather rude of us to ignore our compatriot.ö The twin on the left said, before stepping in fron of Harry.

ôYes brother mine, it was.ö said the twin on the right, following his brother's lead.

As one, the twins grinned, before launching into synchronized speech,ôAllow us to introduce ourselves. Our reputation echoes through the halls of Hogwarts. Slytherins cower at the mention of our names, Ravenclaws bow before out pranking genius, Hufflepuffs laugh uncontrollably at our jokes, Gryffindors worship the ground we walk on, beautiful women swoon I our presence, and teachers shudder when they have to teach our classes. We are... the irrepressible Weasley Twins!ö Miniature fireworks filled the air, and the duo took a bow.

ôI'm Fred, the bad twin.ö

ôI'm George, the evil twin.ö

ôAnd just who do we have the pleasure of meeting on this fine evening?ö

ôI'm... Harry. Harry Potter.ö

Their grins grew wider, as they began circling him, sizing him up ôSeems the hero of the wizarding world has a mischevious streak, wouldn't you say, brother mine?ö

ôI would indeed. What is the world coming to when the paragon of light sneaks out after curfew to steal a bit of food?ö

ôA sad state indeed. It's our duty to show him the path of righteousness!ö

ôUnfortunately, it'll be difficult, since our idea of right and wrong is a bit off, according to dear old mum.ö

ôWell, we'll do the best we can, won't we Fred?ö one twin, apparently George, said, braking from the disorienting circling to talk to the elves, ôJust a sandwich or two tonight gents. We need to stay light and limber for our first pranks of the year.ö

ôIndeed brother dearest. Best we get a move on before it gets too late.ö

ôSorry mate, but we'll have to cut this conversation short. How about we meet here again next week, when we have a bit more time on our hands?ö

ôUh...sounds good?ö Harry responded uncertainly, still off kilter about the entire encounter.

ôWonderful! See you next week Harry!ö
ôAre they gone?ö Rex asked.

ôI...think so...ö Harry replied, ôAre you ready to go?ö

ôSure.ö Rex answered, reverting to his true form. ôSORRY GUYS, IöLL HAVE TO COME BACK FOR THAT SOME OTHER TIME.ö

ôIs sir certain?ö One of the elves asked.

ôYEAH, JUST PUT HIM BACK IN HIS BED OR SOMETHING. YOU CAN ALWAYS GRAB HIM AGAIN NEXT TIME.ö


--- --- --- --- ---

Their appetites sated, Harry and Rex continued to wander through Hogwarts, not paying any particular attention to where they were, or what time it was. It wasn't until they noticed the lightening windows that they realized that they had been up almost the entire night.

ôWhat do you think Rex? One last room before we head back?ö

ôSURE.ö

The door they selected didn't stand out from any of the others they had seen, probably even duller. The interesting part was the hallway it concealed, rather than the standard layout of a simple rectangle, the hallway spiraled, with the floor rotating to the wall, ceiling, wall, and the floor again. There was only one response.

ôHow do you think they got the carpet to stay put?ö

ôPROBABLY USED GLUE OR SOMETHING.ö

ôI guess that make sense,ö Harry said, idly tossing a rock through the doorway. Harry watched in amazement as the rock he threw down the hallway followed the spiral, before finally landing on the wall.

ôWicked.ö

ôHARRY, I THINK WE SHOULD LEAVE THAT ALONE FOR NOW.ö

ôWhat?! But look how cool it is! Did you see that rock I threw?ö

ôBUT IT'S ALMOST DAWN. WE HAVE TO GET BACK TO YOUR ROOM.ö

ôWhat, really?! We've been up all night?!ö

ôLOOKS LIKE IT.ö Rex replied, gesturing down the lightening corridor.

Harry glanced back and forth, clearly torn. This room was by far the most amazing thing they had found so far, but

ôCOME ON HARRY, THE ROOM WILL BE THERE NEXT TIME.ö

ôAre you sure? The stairs and doors move around,s o why not the rooms? We might never find this room again!ö Harry argued, ôBesides, it's Saturday! We can sleep the whole day!ö

ôBUT WON'T YOUR ROOMMATES NOTICE?ö

ôWell...ö Harry hesitated, before sighing in defeat, ôfine... but if we can't find it, it's your fault!ö

ôMY FAULT?! I'M NOT STOPPING YOU FROM GOING IN!ö

ôYeah, but if you didn't tell me what time it was-ö

ôJUST BECAUSE I KNOW WHAT TIME IT IS DOESN'T MAKE IT MY FAULT!!!ö

ôYes it does!ö Harry retorted, and the two of them headed back to the dormitories, bickering all the way.

--- --- --- --- ---

Unfortunately, getting back to the dormitories wasn't as easy as Harry hoped. It was his first week at Hogwarts, and he hadn't quit figured out where everything was. The fact that they had been wandering around all night only compounded the problem.

ôLET'S GO THIS WAY.ö

ôRex, I'm pretty sure that isn't the way back. I don't think we even came down this corridor.ö

ôTRUST ME, IT'S A SHORTCUT.ö

ôAlright, if you say so...ö Harry replied, before trying the door. ô...It's locked.ö

ôARE YOU SURE?ö

ôYeah. Pretty sure.ö

ôNO PROBLEM.ö

ôNo problem? Why, do you have the key?ö Harry asked.

Rex didn't reply with words, instead raising his fist. Harry had the good sense to move out of the way before Rex smashed the door.

ôGive me a little warning next time Rex!ö Harry shouted at his partner, clearly annoyed with Rex's method of unlocking doors.

ôWHAT, IT'S OPEN, RIGHT?ö

ôYeah, but you completely smashed it! What if we were being chased and needed to close it behind us?ö

ôI COULD CRUSH ANYTHING THAT CHASES AFTER US.ö

ôThat's not the point!ö

ôWHATEVER. YOU'RE JUST JEALOUS.ö

Harry stared at Rex in disbelief, ôFine, I'm jealous I can't smash doors like you can.ö

ôI KNEW IT!ö Rex crowed.

ôYes, you did, now let's get going before anyone wakes up.ö

ôI THINK WE'RE A LITTLE TO LATE FOR THAT.ö

ôWhat do you mean?ö

ôLOOK.ö Rex raised one of his massive claws, pointing across the room at the snarling beast Harry had somehow missed.

Harry stared in shock. Sure, he had seen more than his share of strange things, Rex was living proof of that, but this was something different. This was something straight out of legend.

Greek mythology was supposed to be just that, right?

Regardless, Harry was face to faces with a three headed dog, just like the guardian of the underworld.

The dog, not being nearly as surprised as Harry, roared, bounding across the room to attack the intruders. Unfortunately for the dog, it chose to go for Harry first.

The first rule about Monsters is never EVER attack their kid. It's the equivalent of attacking their mom, dad, brother, sister, son, daughter, and entire extended family, plus a few close friends. Rex's massive claws shot forward, wrapped around two of its burly necks, and hurled it across the room.

The dog struggled to its feet, before loosing a triad of howls at its attacker. Rex responded with a roar of his own, dwarfing the dog's in volume, and replacing saliva with dripping flames. Everything about Rex screamed that he was bigger, badder, and had no problem eating his opponent alive.

The dog, recognizing the superior force, whimpered, before curling up on the floor and covering its heads with its massive paws.

Harry allowed himself a moment to relax, before noticing that Rex remained posed for battle, ôCalm down Rex. He's not going to hurt us now.ö

ôYOU SURE?ö

ôYeah, he knows you'll beat him, with one claw behind your back.ö Harry affirmed, ôI don't think that this is a shortcut. Let's try somewhere else.ö

ôIN A MINUTE.ö

ôRex?ö Harry asked, noticing that Rex was still eying his cowed foe.

ôRex, you're not going to eat it, are you? Dumbledore warned us about this room, and I think he'll notice if his dog is missing.ö Harry said, hoping that his worst fears.

ôDON'T BE STUPID, HARRY. I'M NOT GOING TO EAT IT.ö Rex replied, causing Harry to sigh in relief.

ôI'M GOING TO RIDE IT.ö

ôYou're going to... what?!ö

Rex didn't reply, instead moving forward to begin training the cerberus.

ôWHO'S A GOOD DOGGIE? YOU ARE!!! YES YOU ARE!!!ö Harry flinched at the sound of Rex's booming voice using babyspeak, before quickly leaving the room. There were some horrors that the world was not meant to experience, and Rex acting cute was one of them.

------ ---------- ------------- --------- ---------

Let me know if you see any major typos. Also, let me know how the twsited hallway turned out.

 

[zerohour]

Not sure if this turned out the way I wanted. What do you guys think? Does it need some more work?, or is it fine as is?


Dear Annie,

So far, Hogwarts is basically the same as our school. Sure, we learn how to do magic instead of math and science, but most of the time it's still pretty boring. Heck, we still have History class, and it's even more boring here! I think that might be the reason it's taught by a ghost, so he doesn't bore himself to death.
Anyways, what have you been doing? Has anything interesting happened since I left to Hogwarts?
-Harry


ôWhat're you doing Harry?ö Ernie MacMillion asked, just as Harry finished his letter.

ôWriting to a friend.ö Harry replied, ôI promised her that I would write to her, and if I don't send this soon, she'll probably yell at me at Christmas. ö

ôOh. Well, once you're finished with that, make sure to come down for lunch.ö

ô'Course Ernie.ö Harry replied, before reviewing his letter. It was a good start, but he would have to do better if he was going to avoid Annabel's wrath come Christmas. Getting used to the magical world was difficult enough without Rex complicating things, but it had been nearly two months since he arrived at Hogwarts, and he still hadn't written her a single letter.

To be fair, keeping an eye on Rex was a full time job, especially since he developed a taste for student's nightmares. If Harry wasn't reigning him in at all times, Rex was likely to fill the Hospital Wing up with insane students. Compounding that issue was his House's work ethic. Harry found himself nearly forced into various study groups, or dragged along for social events, ranging from reading in the library to playing on the Quidditch field. Harry didn't dislike it. In fact, he even enjoyed it, but it did make doing other activities, like writing letters, substantially more difficult.

ôDo you think she'd believe me if I said you lost the mail?ö Harry asked Hedwig, who glared at him, hooted indignantly, and bit his finger.

ôOw! Sorry, you know I didn't mean it, right?ö Harry apologized, over Rex's laughter. Harry shot a glare at his hidden companion, and did his best to keep his annoyance in check. Rex in Hogwarts was a recipe for trouble. He was always sneaking off exploring, demand tribute from the house elves, or ôtrainingö his new pet, which consisted mainly of him roaring commands and the Cerberus meekly obeying. With all of the trouble Rex caused, it was a wonder Harry had any time for sleep!

Well, at least the Halloween feast was something to look forward to. Just one more class and a few more hours until it began, and if there was anythign Harry had learned during his time in the wizarding world, it was that wizards loved to go overboard.

--- --- --- --- ---

Harry's expectations were not disappointed. No surprise given how Halloween was the holiday most suited to a magical world. The Halloween Feast was a grand affair, on par with the Welcoming Feast. The various holiday themed decorations, along with a little assistance, created an atmosphere that truly embodied the spirit of the night. Unfortunately, the festive atmosphere was ruined, as a flustered Professor Quirrel burst into the Great Hall.

"Troll... in the dungeons... thought somebody ought to know..." Quirrel managed to say, with out stuttering, surprisingly, before collapsing. The Great Hall erupted into an uproar, before the teachers began to quell the panic.

"SO, WHAT DO YOU WANT TO DO???"

Harry frowned thoughtfully, "Well, you haven't driven anyone insane lately, and you've been letting me get some"

"YEAH. SCARING THOSE SNAKES ISN'T VERY ENTERTAINING."

"So how about you go have some fun with the troll?"

"REALLY?"

"If you promise to behave, then I'll let you go fight the troll."

His partner didn't reply, but cackled madly.

Harry's eyes widened, "Just don't let anyone else get hurt!" he muttered urgently. ôIf you do that then you can't eat dreams for a month!ö

"AW... ARE YOU SURE??? IT WORKED OUT ALRIGHT WITH SNAPE..."

"I'm serious."

"FINE..." Rex replied, sounding like a petulant child more than an eldritch horror it was. As Harry was dragged along to the Tower, his best friend wandered into the depth of Hogwarts in search of its prey.

--- --- --- --- ---

Hermione stared in horror, unable to believe that the Troll staring at her was there. As it raised its club to smash her, she couldn't to anything but watch in dumb horror.

The Troll roared, and she flinched, expecting the club to fall on her and crush the brains she was so proud of. When the expected agony followed shortly by death didn't happen, she opened her eyes, wondering why she was still alive.

She immediately wished she hadn't.

Something else was in the bathroom. Something far, far worse than the Troll. The fact that it was fighting the Troll did nothing to mitigate its nightmarish presence. For a brief moment, Hermione hoped that she could use the distraction to sneak by them and escape, but that hope was short lived.

It was obvious that the Troll was no match for this thing. Withing seconds, it was bleeding heavily from gashes all over its body. Consumed by rage, the Troll swung its club at the monster, only to scream in pain as the monster shrugged off the blow, and began to merrily consumed the proffered arm. Once it was finished with the arm, it continued its gruesome meal, accompanied by a symphony of screams as the Troll was eaten alive.

All too soon, its meal finished, and the creature turned to look at the paralyzed Hermione, and flashed a terrifying grin, filled with more teeth and fangs than it should be able to hold.

"HI."

Hermione managed an almost inaudible shriek, before collapsing unconscious.

--- --- --- --- ---

ôHEY HARRY.ö

Harry looked up from his book, relieved that Rex had waited until things had calmed down and everyone had gone to sleep. A few other times he hadn't been as lucky, leading to awkward and unorthodox deflections.

ôDid you have a good time?ö

ôOH YEAH.ö Rex grinned, before launching into a gruesome retelling of his conquest of the invading troll, complete with gestures and a poor imitation of th troll screaming like a little girl, which was further ruined by Rex's booming voice. Harry chuckled, returning to his book while Rex recounted his exploits, until a the story took an unexpected turn.

ôSO AFTER I ATE THE TROLL, I NOTICED THIS LITTLE GUY LYING ON THE FLOOR. SINCE YOU HAVE HEDWIG TO KEEP YOU COMPANY WHEN YOU CAN'T HANG out WITH ME, I GOT SOMETHING TO KEEP ME COMPANY!!!ö

Harry hesitated, knowing that he didn't want to know the answer, before asking the necessary question, ôWhat are you talking about?ö

Rex's grin grew wider, before he pulled the unconscious form of Hermione from behind his back. Harry stared in shocked silence, which Rex took to be an indication to continue.

ôI'M GONNA CALL HER MRS. SQUEAKERDOODLE, OR SQUEAKLES FOR SHORT.ö

ôY-you can't keep her as a pet!ö Harry spluttered.

ôWHY NOT? I ALREADY GOT HER A CAGE, AND I'LL FEED HER AND HUG HER AND LOVER HER FOREVER AND EVER.ö

ôShe's a human being!ö

ôAND I'M A MONSTER. I'M NOT SEEING A PROBLEM HERE.ö

As they argued back in forth, th girl in question began to regin consciousness. Needless to say, once she saw she was in the clutches of an eldritch abomination, she screamed.

ôSQUEAKLES!!! BE QUIET!!!ö Rex commanded, terrifying her into silence. ôSEE? SHE ALREADY LISTENS TO ME!ö

ôShe's listening to you because she thinks you're going to eat her!ö

ôTHAT'S NOT TRUE, IS IT SQUEAKLES?ö Rex said, turning to look at his new friend. Hermione remained silent, choosing instead to nod fearfully.

ôRex, put her down.ö

ôBUT HARRY...ö

ôPut. Her. Down.ö Harry commanded, sounding like a scolding parent.

Sighing in defeat, Rex set the terrified girl down, who immediately ran to hid behind Harry.

ôSee?ö

ôTHAT DOESN'T PROVE ANYTHING. SHE JUST WANTS TO GET TO KNOW YOU. YOU KNOW HOW PETS ARE WITH NEW PEOPLE.ö

ôRex, just go up to my room for now.ö

ôFINE...ö

The instant Rex vanished from sight. Hermione collapsed in relief, curling up in a ball and rocking herself back and forth. Internally, Harry sighed to himself. It was going to be an awkward night.

--- --- --- --- ---

By the time Hermione woke up from her catatonic state, Harry had managed to get the specific details about what exactly had happened from Rex. This helped immensely, as Hermione reaction was to say everything that had happen as quickly as possible, as if voicing the events would erase them from history. Harry managed to endure the onslaught of words, until she finally finished.

ôAre you alright?ö he asked.

ôAlright? Alright?! I've been attacked by a troll, watched it get eaten alive, and got kidnapped by a dinosaur, who wants to keep me as his pet! Do you THINK I'm alright?!ö Hermione yelled at the top of her lungs, directing all of her terror into indignant fury.

ôSorry! Sorry!ö

ôWhat WAS that thing anyways?ö she asked, her more inquisitive side making an appearance now that she had a chance to vent.

ôWell, it's kind of a long story...ö Harry said, trying to figure out how to explain just what Rex was to someone who had never encountered a monster before. With Annie, it had been easy, since she already had her own, but Hermione was just a normal girl. Sure, she was a witch, but apparently, monsters were something outside of the realm of wizardry. Fortunately, before Harry could get too caught up in trying to figure out the best way to explain it, Hermione shook him.

ôWell?ö

ôRex is... my partner. He's always around, and always willing to help me out, even if I sometimes don't want him to.ö Harry began, struggling to find the appropriate words.ôö

ôThat's all well and good, but what is he?ö

ôI honestly don't know.ö Harry responded, ôOne day he was just there, and that's all that really mattered.ö

ôThere must be some sort of book about it. Hogwarts has one of the most extensive libraries in the wizarding world, and something like him MUST have shown up sometime!ö

ôWell, I haven't seen any books about anything like him while I've been here.ö

ôHave you been looking?ö Hermione asked imperiously.

ôWell, no...ö

ôWell maybe if you put some effort into it, you would have found somehtign by now! You're a Hufflepuff, so you should act like it!ö

ôIt's just never really been a problem. Rex being around was more than enough. I never needed to know more than that.ö

ôWhat's the point of studying to be a wizard if you're not going to learn anything?ö she shouted, before standing up to leave.

ôCould you do me a favor? Please don't tell anyone about Rex.ö

ôAnd why would I do that? He big, and dangerous, and terrifying! How did you even get him into the school in the first place?ö

ôHe saved your life!ö

ôThat's all well and good,ö Hermione admitted, ôbut the fact remains that this is the sort of thing that the teachers need to know about. First thing in the morning, I'm going to Professor McGonagall.ö With that, Hermione all but stormed out of the tower, her previous fear replaced with righteous indignation at Harry's apparent disregard for the safety of the students.

Harry sat for a few minutes, before Rex wandered back into the room, curious about the sudden silence.

ôSO, WHAT HAPPENED HARRY?ö

ôShe's going to tell McGonagall about you tomorrow.ö

ôDON'T WORRY ABOUT IT HARRY. NO ONE BELIEVED SNAPE ABOUT ME. THEYöLL PROBABLY JUST PUT HER IN THE ST. MUMBO'S FOR A FEW WEEKS WHILE THEY REPAIR HER FRAGILE HUMAN MIND.ö

ôI know, but I don't want that to happen to her. I wish there was something we could to keep her out of the loony bin.ö

ôWELL, THERE'S NOT MUCH WE CAN DO ABOUT THAT NOW, BUT WHO KNOWS? MAYBE SHE'LL GET LUCKY.ö

ôYeah...maybe...ö

 

[crazyfoxdemon]

:blink: I can't believe this updated... and aww.. poor Hermione.. Why do I think she'll get a reputation as crazy when she persues this with the mad ferver she's known for?

 

[nixofcyzerra]

Is Rex... whispering in that segment?

 

[cgobyd]

Harry frowned thoughtfully, "Well, you haven't driven anyone insane lately, and you've been letting me get some"

I always knew Harry was a PIMP but don't you think he starting a bit early?

ôWhat's the point of studying to be a wizard if you're not going to learn anything?ö she shouted, before standing up to leave.

I actually agree with Hermes here. Sure maybe not her method but her thinking should be what most muggle-borns go into the Hogwarts thinking. i.e. OMG magic exists and I can use it!! I must learn!!

 

[zeebee1]

They are learning. They are learning the magic that has been taught for hundreds of years. Maybe she should stop and think that maybe that she should learn what the teachers want her to learn before she accidentally destroys the universe.

 

[zerohour]

@nix and cgobyd:

Thanks for pointing out errors. I've been busy and missed those things.


@zeebee1: She's eleven. Worrying about the destruction of the universe isn't really a concern.

@crazyfox: I'm debating if I'm going to make Hermione the new Loony, or if they're all going to think she killed and possibly ate the troll.

Maybe both.

 

[Flamewolf]

beware of gaga granger, lest ye be her next victom

 

[zerohour]

Another rough chapter after... Over a year... damn. I gotta work on my pacing...








Dear Annie,

Rex has been making problems again, though that's not much of a surprise. He tried to 'adopt' one of the other students, and it seems to have gone... badly, to say the least. She went to tell the teachers, but I haven't seen her since. Granted, I don't have many classes with her, but still...

Anyways, how is Homer doing? I know he and Rex don't really get along too well, but Rex seems like he misses him a bit.

Hope you're doing well,

Harry


Harry sighed as he sent his letter. Hermione had been gone for a week, and no one seemed to know where she had disappeared to. None of the students seemed to really care, and the professors were all tight lipped about the subject. Rex, despite being the catalyst of the entire situation, was completely clueless, though that wasn't surprising at all.

Still, Harry couldn't help but feel that he bore at least some responsibility for what had happened, if only for bringing Rex with him to Hogwarts.

But what could he do? No one was saying anything, either out of ignorance or duty, so how would he find out what had happened? Ironically, the solution was the same as the problem.

Rex.

ôRex, do you know what happened to Hermione?ö

ôNOPE.ö

ôReally?ö Harry asked skeptically, ôYou seemed really interested in her before she disappeared. Are you sure you didn't kidnap her?ö

ôCOURSE I'M SURE. SHE'S PROBABLY AT THE DOCTOR OR SOMETHING WHILE THEY FIX HER BRAIN.ö

ôI checked the infirmiry, and she's not there. Now one is saying anything about what happened to her.ö

ôDON'T THEY HAVE A CONFIDENCY POLICY ABOUT THAT? BETWEEN DOCTORS AND PATIENTS?ö

ôYeah... but no one seems to know what happenedö



ôSO, I CAN DO ANYTHING TO FIGURE OUT WHAT HAPPENED?ö

Harry hesitated, ôNo. I remember what happens when I let you do that. Things tend to blow up.ö

ôBUT HOW WILL WE FIND SQUEAKLES?ö

ôCarefully. We'll do this very carefully.ö

ô..WE STILL GET TO BREAK THINGS, RIGHT?ö

ôYeah, if we have to, but I think it would be better to get some help on this.ö

ôFROM WHO?ö Rex inquired.

Harry's brow furrowed in thought, before he remembered a pair of troublemakers they had met a few months back. He hadn't seen them since, but maybe their offer to show him around still stood. The only issue was how to find them...

--- --- --- --- ---

Harry and Rex made their way to the kitchens, where they once again were loaded with more food than they could handle. Rex was offered up another hapless child, who thrashed and whimpered in their sleep as Rex greedily devoured their innermost fears.

As Rex feasted upon his victim, Harry idly munched on a sandwich, keeping his eyes on the entrance, waiting for the twins to appear. He didn't have to wait long. Roughlky half an hour later, he heard the faint giggling of the pear on the other side, and with a sharp look, directed Rex to take his more benign appearance.

The twins entered in the same overly dramatic manner as the first time, causing harry to grin.

ôWell well well, brother mine, if it isn't ickle potter.ö

ôIndeed it is, back where we first met for the first time in ages.ö the other twin responded, eying up the dimunitive first year.

ôSo what brings you here after your long absence, Harry dearest?ö

Harry drew in a breath, ôI need your help.ö

ôHelp?ö

ôHelp with what?ö

ôThere's a girl..ö Harry began, only to be cut off by the duo.

ôA bit early for interest in the fairer sex, wouldn't you say brother?ö one of the twins said, eying his counterpart.

ôIt's not like that!ö Harry protested, cutting off the thread before it could spiral out of control. ôIt's Hermione Granger. She's been missing for a week, and no one seems to know what happened to her, or if they do know, they're not saying anything.ö

ôStudent Teacher confidentiality.ö One of them said, to which the other nodded in agreement. ôProfessors are notoriously tight lipped when it comes to their students.ö

ôParticularly when they're in trouble.ö the other chimed in. ôWell, more trouble than usual.ö

ôOnly option in that situation is to get the information straight from the horse's mouth.ö

ôOr in this case, the teacher's files.ö

ôCan you help me?ö Harry asked dizzily, having difficulty keeping up with their rapid exchange.

As one, the twins grinned, ôA chance to corrupt the hero of the wizarding world? How can we refuse?ö

ôLet's just say that you owe us one, to be collect at a later time.ö

ôFine, but before we do anything else, there's something I need to know.ö Harry said in his most serious voice, ôWhich one of you is which?ö

At this, the twins only grinned.

--- --- --- --- ---

Harry followed Fred... or was it George? Up the tower, supposedly towards Professor McGonagall's office.


ôAnd here we are!ö

Harry stared in disbelief. He couldn't believe that Professor McGonagall's office was hidden behind a painting of flocking nymphs. The nymphs peered out at their audience, giggled lightly, and began preening before the appreciative twins and the bewildered Boy-Who-Lived.

ôEr.. let's get in before the lovely ladies decide to put on a show for our young friend.ö one of the twins said, shaking off

ôWhy does Professor McGonagall have a painting like that in front of her office?ö

ôHonestly, we don't know.ö

ôI like to think she playing a joke on everyone.ö

ôOr she wants to be left alone. No one would look for her office behind something like this.ö

ôMaybe she's a cougar.ö

ôWhat's a cougar?ö Harry asked, causing the exchange to abruptly stop.

ôAnyways, what was the password again?ö
ôSnape sucks slimy scrotums?ö

ôNope.ö

ôWell, let's just check with our most valuable possession.ö

ôWhat are you talking about?ö Harry asked as the twins hunched over, peering at something.

ôThat's not something for ickle firsties to know. Maybe when you grow up a bit, we'll show you.ö

ôTigress?ö one of the twins asked, as the laughter of the nymphs grew louder and the portrait swung outward.

ôWho would have thought of that? that?ö

--- --- --- --- ---

The inside of McGonagall's office wasn't all that different from her classroom, everything well organized, well maintained, and kept exactly where they belonged.

This did not mean it was easy to find for someone unfamiliar with her organization system.

So the trio searched through the large collection of files and folders, past assignments, past students, it seemed as if every single scrap of paper that had ever been used in Hogwarts was stored here somewhere. The three boys diligently dug through the piles of paperwork, slowly discerning the underlying pattern, moving ever closer to their goal.

Not to say there weren't some distractions...

ôWhile we're up here, do you think that Angelina would appreciate me bumping up a few of her grades? She's been griping about how that A on her paper is going to bring down her grade in Transfiguration.ö

ôShe'll probably just hit you for it. Just take care of your own grades, brother mine.ö

Finally, it seemed that they had finally found the right collection of files.


ôSo, who are we looking for again?ö

ôHermione Granger.ö

ôGranger... isn't that the name of the girl Ron's always complaining about?ö George inquired.

ôI do believe you're right. He has be suspiciously quiet about her lately... I guess we know why now. She hasn't been around to bother him.ö

ôAh, here we go... it seems that our Miss Granger is currently... oh my...ö

ôWhat is it?ö Haryr asked.

ôShe's been sent to St. Mungo's Psychiatrict Ward for treatment.ö

ôTreatment for what?ö

ôMental damage as a result of Dark Magic use...ö

ôDark Magic from a first year? That's nutters!ö

ôIt's what it says. And from what Ron said, she's scary smart. Smart enough to learn a few things she shouldn't.ö

As the Twins discussed their discovery, Harry's stomach sank a bit, realizing what had likely happened.

ôWe can't just leave her there we have to do something.ö Harry said decisively.

ôBreak into St. Mungo's are you mad?ö

ôWell, it would make for a rather exciting adventure brother dear. Save the damsel in distress is a classic tale.ö

ôBut a little girl like her? Where's the romance in that? Now Angelina or Alicia, sure... but a firstie?ö

ôYou guys have done enough. I can handle it from here.ö Harry spoke up.

ôOh? And just how do you think you'll manage that Mr. Potter?ö one of the twins asked.

ôYou've got your secrets, and I've got mine.ö Harry couldn't resist a smal;l smile at their dumbfounded expressions, ôMaybe some day we can share them all.ö

--- --- --- --- ---

ôAlright Rex, you know what you have to do, right?ö

ôPRETTY SURE, YEAH.ö

Harry sighed, ôTell me what you're going to do, so I know you're don't mess up.ö

ôCOME ON HARRY, YOU CAN TRUST ME, RIGHT?ö

ôOnly when I can see you, and only most of the time.ö ôHarry replied without missing a beat.ö

Rex sighed, ôI GO INTO THE HOSPITAL, FIND SQUEAKLES, and BRING HER BACK TO HER ROOM.ö

ôGood.ö

ôAND MAIM OR KILL ANYONE WHO GETS IN MY WAY.ö

ôNo. No. No.ö Harry reprimanded, smacking his friend lightly on the nose, ôYou just get her out of there. No maiming, no killing, nothing else.ö

ôWHERE'S THE FUN IN THAT?ö

ôThis isn't supposed to be fun. It's a mission. In and out. That's all.ö

ôALRIGHT, ALRIGHT...ö Rex growled.

ôIf you do this right, you can torment whoever you like when you get back.ö

ôREALLY?!ö Rex exclaimed, his tail thrashing wildly.

Harry grimaced, already regretting the offer, ôYeah. Sure.ö

ôSEE YOU IN A BIT HARRY!ö

--- --- --- --- ---
St. Mungo's Psychiatrict Ward
--- --- --- --- ---


Hermione thrashed against her bonds, struggling to escape from her bed at St. Mungo's. She didn't understand why they wouldn't believe her. Did they really think she killed that troll? That she knew magic dark enough to tear it limb from limb? That she harvested its remains? That was crazy. She couldn't do something like that. She followed the rule,s she listened to her elders, she did everythign right.

So why did everyone think she was insane?

Day after day, she was forced to drink innurmerable potions of various effects, felt the Mid Healers peer into her head, and see every secret, every little detail about her life.

It was violating.

As horrifying at it was, it was worse that despite reading her mind, they still didn't believe her. They thought the monster from her memories was a representation of Dark Magic beyond her control, warping her psyche with its twiste dinfluence.

But it was real! The monster was real, and it followed Harry Potter around wherever he went!

Speaking on which...

ôHI THERE SQUEAKLES. HOW ARE YOU DOING TODAY?ö Hermione recoiled at the sound of that inhuman voice, the source of her current predicament.

ôGo away. Go away. Goawaygoawaygoawaygoaway...ö Hermione muttered under he breath, trying to ignore the monstrosity before her.

ôIS THAT ANYWAY TO TALK TO DEAR OLD REX SQUEAKLES? AFTER I CAME SO FAR TO VISIT YOU?ö

ôYou're not real. You're not real. Notrealnotrealnotrealnotreal!ö Hermione chanted, trying to will her declaration into truth.

ôNOT A VERY NICE THING TO SAY SQUEAKLES. AND HERE I WAS, COMING TO TAKE YOU BACK TO HOGWARTS.ö

ôYou're lying. You're lying. There's no way you would help me. You're the reason I'm trapped here!ö Hermione shouted, hoping that it would draw the attention of the Healers.

ôNOW NOW SQUEAKLES... IT'S NOT VERY NICE TO SAY THINGS LIEK THAT TO ME WHEN I CAME ALL THIS WAY. UNLESS YOU WANT TO STAY HERE THE REST OF YOUR LIFE.ö

Hermione hesitated, thinking about spending the rest of her life here, weighing it against the unknown offered by the beast before her. Considering what she had experienced over the last week, it wasn't a hard choice.

ôFine, just get me out of here!ö Hermione said harshly, her voice once again raising out of fear and desperation.

Rex;s jaws widened into a horrifying grin, as his claws shredded her restrains. The instant her limbs were free, Hermione flinched away from him, instinctive terror taking hold of her.

Rex stared at her for a moment, giving her a moment to process her terror, before picking the frightened girl up, examining her.

ôKEEP IN MIND SQUEAKLES, I'M NOT GOING TO DO THIS AGAIN IF YOU KEEP MAKING TROUBLE. UNDERSTAND?ö

ôI get it.ö Hermione replied. ôAs long as I don't make trouble, you'll try to keep me out of places like this, right?ö

ôUH... ACTUALLY, I JUST MEANT I WOULDN'T DO THIS AGAIN, BUT I LIKE WHAT YOU SAID BETTER.ö Rex responded, ôYOU SHOULD HANG OUT WITH HARRY SOME MORE TOO SQUEAKLES. HE CAN EXPLAIN THINGS A BIT BETTER THAN ME.ö

Hermione nodded, and repressed the urge to scream as reality tore itself apart and devoured her whole.

When she woke up in her room. She resisted the urge to run as far and fast as she could, resisted the urge to tell everyone she saw what happened. Instead, she curled up under the covers, and did her best to forget the horrors of her recent past.

She failed utterly.

 

[crazyfoxdemon]

o_0 I can't believe this updated.. Wow.. Talk about a good wake up surprise..

I'm liking what you've done so far...

 

[Innortal]

Agreed, well done.

 

[Ninsaneja]

S'good.

EDIT: But how is she going to be able to stay at hogwarts having "escaped" st. mungos?

 

[zeebee1]

Harry didn't think this out clearly.

 

[zerohour]

Harry didn't think this out clearly.

He's eleven.

I'm debating whether to solve this with either:
Well she's back/she got out so someone must have authorized it
or
Rex causes mental trauma until it goes away.

Both are fun, so I'm not sure which one to go with.

 

[Obfuscated]

A period of option #2 followed by the firm belief that #1 was always the case.

 

[Coelacanth]

lol, REX.

 

[zerohour]

Last bit of this chapter. Next chapter is about two thirds done, and mainly deals with Hermione coming to terms.






The next day, a far more subdued Hermione made her way to the library, and buried herself in her books, trying her best to forget the horrors of the past week. While it didn't fix anything, reading and research proved to be a wonderful distraction.

ôHi.ö Hermione glanced up, and almost flinched at seeing Harry's face.

ôIs it alright if I sit down? Maybe we can talk?' He asked, to which she slowly nodded. As soon as he sat down, she scooted her chair as far away from him as possible without leaving the table, causing Harry to sigh.

ôI'm sorry about Rex. He's... difficult to handle sometimes.ö

ôThat's a bit of an understatement.ö Hermione retorted.

ôthat's not very nice.ö A new voice called out from Harry's bag, causing Hermioen to freeze up as she recognized it.

ôHe's here?!ö Hermione almost shrieked, causing the librarian to glare at them from across the room.

ôWell, I can't just leave him alone/ Think of the trouble he could cause!ö

ôYou have to tell an adult about this! You can't just have a monster following you around! It's not normal!ö

ôhey!ö Rex protested from harry's bag, causing Hermione to flinch away.

Harry sighed, ôI'm not sure if you've noticed, but people generally don't do so well after meeting Rex. My science teacher went insane after seeing him for the first time. And it seems Professor Snape suffered a breakdown after Rex saw him picking on me.ö

ôYou mean he's the one that put Snape in St. Mungo's?! He was raving about...that THING?!ö

ôi'm not a thing! i'm an awesome dinosaur of awesomeness!ö

ôShush Rex.ö

ôbut harry!ö

ôI said shush!ö

ôfine...ö Rex grumbled, and a few moments later, a steady, faint snoring came from Harry's bag. Hermione visibly relaxed, though she still kept a wary eye on his book bag.

ôSo... what did you want to talk about?ö Hermione asked.

ôTo be honest... you.ö Harry admitted. ôIt's going to be a bit strange that your back... so we need to figure out how to explain it.ö

ôWhat do you mean?ö

ôWell, people don't just walk out of the loony bin every day, do they? Won't it be a bit odd that you're back?ö

ôI suppose... they must keep records about patients and treatments like a muggle hospital... Oh God.ö Hermione exclaimed, starting to hyperventilate, ôThey'll come to take me back. They'll put me in a straightjacket and drag me back in front of the whole school. This will go on my permanent record and then I'll never get into a good wizarding college!ö

ôDo wizards even have college?ö

ôThis is no time to worry about that! My life is falling apart before my eyes! You got me into this mess, so you had better fix it!ö

ôWe... may be able to fix it...ö Harry said hesitantly,

ôWhat?! How?!ö Hermione demanded, a glint of madness in her eye.

ôWell...ö

From Harry's bag, Rex let out a yawn that despite its low volume filled Hermione with dread. Peeking his head out, he gave her a grin. ôsounds like we're going on a whirlwind adventure squeakles.ö

Hermione resisted the urge to cry.

 

[Innortal]

LOL, yes! Never give Fate an opening like that! That's like asking if anything further bad for you can happen, in the standard format. Why, now that I even alluded to that, surely Fate will

[message ended as Fate caused a random event to happen]

 

[cgobyd]

It is alive? :blink:

Yay! :lol:

 

[zerohour]

Boom Baby. Chapter Nine.


Dear Mum and Dad,

Sorry for nit writing to you for awhile. School has been somewhat hectic for the last week, so I haven't had a chance to write to you. Classes have really started to pick up, and I think we're going to start working on projects soon, so forgive me if I get caugth up and forget to write you again. I hope you are both doing well, since I know you get a lot of appointments after Halloween.

Oh, I almost forgot! I finally made a friend here at Hogwarts. His name is Harry, and though he's a bit strange, even for a wizard, he's really nice. Maybe I can introduce you to him when the holiday's come around.

Anyways, I'm sorry to cut this short, but I need to get to class. I promise to write to you again soon!

Love,
Hermione.


ôYou know this is illegal, right? Right?!ö Hermione asked, clinging desperately to Harry as they rode Rex through nightmarish realms. ôYou can't just break into a government run hospital! You'll do jail time!ö

ôNO MORTAL CAGE CAN HOLD THE ALMIGHTY REX!ö

ôI think she was talking to me buddy.ö

ôOH. WELL, I'D BREAK YOU OUT IF YOU GOT ARRESTED HARRY.ö

ôSee? No problem!ö

ôYES! BIG PROBLEM!ö Hermione shrieked, but her cries went unheeded as they arrived at their destination. It had been less than a day since Hermione had been ôrescuedö from St. Mungo's, making it just over a week since she was introduced to Rex. Just over a week since her world was shattered, and the remains were pieced together in a sick caricature of what it used to be, twisted in to a disturbing, deformed whole.

And here she was, riding the source of all that madness, back into the asylum he had sentenced her to.

They crept their way through St. Mungo's quickly making their way back towarcds the psychiatric wing. The sounds of their approached was masked by the noise of the patients, their mutterings, moans, screams and sobs all masked their footsteps as they moved closer to their goal.

Rex of course, was the exception to this. Discontent with his smaller incarnation, he reveled in the dark majesty of his true form, despite the difficulties that came along with it. His thundering footsteps and thrashing tail drowned out even the fiercest cries of the residents of St. Mungo's. It was no surprise that it drew some unwanted attention.

ôWhat should we do? Hermione asked as they crouched against the wall, trying to avoid the gaze of the confused Healer.

ôDON'T WORRY. I GOT THIS.ö Rex answered their concerns, turning to face the curious care provider. The Healer stared in disbelief at the creature that towered over him, Rex's eye began to glow in anticipation, and the last vestiges of hope for the unfortunate Healer vanished with the rising malevolent light.

The screams echoed through the halls, merging with the cries and muttering of the insane, as another person joined their ranks. Rex merely grinned, and savored the psychic meal the Healer had provided him. Harry sighed in mild irritation, while Hermione once again used him as a human shield.

With the main obstacle... dealt with, reaching th epatient files.


ôI think I found it.ö Harry called out, examining the folder before him, ôHermione Granger, a first year muggkleborn attending Hogwarts, was admitted after exposure to extremely powerful dark magic of an unknown origin. It seems the Miss Granger had been reading forbidden tomes that corrupted her mind, resulting in an astonishing rate of descent into the Dark Arts. It is believed that Miss Granger used the Dark Arts to attack and kill a troll that had wandered into the castle, and that she may have consumed some of its body as a side affect of the corruption of her mind. It appears that her young mind was unable to handle the strain of the Dark Arts, resulting in a psychological split between her primary personality, and the part of her mind that used the Dark Arts, resulting in the devlopment of a second personality. We have yet to directly interact with this new personality, but Miss granger has repeatedly referred to it as 'Rex...'ö Harry read aloud, staring at the reports the Healers had filed. It seemed mostly it was speculation about the source of Hermione's apparent breakdown, and what aspects of the Dark Arts she had studied.

ôLet me see that!ö Hermione demanded, snatching the folder from the dakr haired boy. Her eyes grew wider as she read through the file, until it seemed as if they would burst out of her skull if they continued.

ôGive me a pen Harry.ö Hermioen ordered, abruptly slamming the folder shut. Wordlessly, he handed her one, and she began to write furiously, filling out a new sheet of paper with the details of her miraculous ôrecoveryö and her subsequent release from St. Mungo's. It took only a few minutes for her to complete it, now they just had to hope that it was enough to persuade both the Healers and the Teachers.

They quickly vacated the premises, and Rex tore open another rift back to Hogwarts. Once more, Hermioen shut her eyes as tight as she could, and held Harry so tightly that he began to lose feeling in his limbs. Soon enough, they were back at Hogwarts, and the rift in reality sealed behind them.

Harry looked around, making sure no one had seen their arrival, before turning to look at Hermione. She was obviously trembling, but significantly less than the previous night. Harry awkwardly tried to think of the right thing to say to her, but given the unusual circumstances, he could be forgiven for a less than stellar choice.

ôSo... we'll talk some more tomorrow night?ö Harry asked uncertainly, ôWe really haven't gotten a chance to discuss everything since you found out about... well, everything...ö

Hermione stared at him in disbelief, causing the young boy to redden. ôNever mind. I guess you just want to put this behind you... Makes sense I guess. I'll just be going now.ö

ôWait!ö Hermione protested, desperately trying to get her thoughts together. ôI guess... we could meet up tomorrow night...ö She said, ôWould the library be alright?ö

Harry relaxed, ôThe library sounds fine. So I guess I'll see you then?ö

ôY-yeah. See you tomorrow.ö Hermione replied, and the young Boy-Who-Lived left with his nightmarish companion safely tucked away.

Hermione stood there for a long moment after he left, even after all the recent events, unable to wrap her mind around what was happening to her life.

--- --- --- --- ---

The next day was incredibly awkward for Hermione. Yesterday she had mostlyu stayed out of the way, btu now, everyone knew she was back, and the Hogwart rumor mill had been hard at work. No one really knew anything for sure, but that was what made the rumors thrive.

Pretending to read her book in the common room, Hermione heard the whispers. Rumors ranging from her being half-dragon, to a Dark Witch, even the daughter of He-Who-Must-Not-Be-Named. At first she thought it strange that it was so easy to hear them, but Gryffindors weren't renown for their subtlety.

Still, they didn't even try to keep their voices down. She was right there!

Walking through the halls was a new experience as well. Before people either ignored her or mocked her. Now, they ignored her or avoided her, and in one case, ran away screaming.

Hermione's eyes widened as she saw her Head of House walking towards her, before quickly duckign her head an increasing her pace. If anyone was to see the truth, it was Professor McGonagall, and even if she didn;t Hermione wasn't sure she could keep herself from blurting it out to her. Th ebest course of action was to avoid her as best she could, until she got used

ôMs. Granger?ö The professor asked, trying to determien if the young Gryffindor was actual before her.

Drat.

ô Did they release you from St. Mungo's already?ö McGongall asked, looking over her favorite student.

Hermione froze, her natural instincts to tell the truth warred with the new truths of her existence. She struggled valiantly against twelve years of respecting authority and honesty, trying to do the right thing and lie through her teeth.

ôUm... yes. I guess so.ö Hermione managed to say, ôI don't really remember much since Halloween. Everything is kind of a blur to me.ö

McGonagall frowned, causing the young girl to sweat, fearful that her deception would be uncovered, ôWell, I suppose that's only to be expected. After the trauma you suffered, it might be for the best that you don't remember.ö

ôIf you say so professor.ö Hermione agreed, ôI had better get to class.ö

ôYes, that would be best Miss Granger.ö Professor McGonagall replied, before moving on to her own class.

--- --- --- --- ---


Classes were somewhat better. While the rest of the students were wary of her, the professrs seemed to be a bit more normal. She didn't know if it was because they knew she was alright, thanks to St. Mungo's files, or at least, what she had written in St. Mungo's files, or if they were confident they could deal with any ôoutburstsö she might have.

Still, it was a great deal more uncomfortable than sh ewas used to, and for the first time in her life, Hermione found herself cutting class.

'It's ridiculous,' Hermioen thought to herself, 'I'm probably the only person who skips class to go to the library.'

At least Madame Pince left her alone, aside from her typical glare at her silence being disturbed. Hermione was allowed to peruse the various books and tomes in Hogwart's library without disturbance. For the first time, she actually had an opportunity to think about what had happened to her, without monsters or doctors looming over her shoulder.

She spent a lot of time thinking.

--- --- --- --- ---

It was with great trepidation that Hermione found herself meeting up with Rex and Harry. While Harry seemed friendly enough, Rex was still terrifying. Hermioen managed to keep her shivers in check, but couldn't help but flinch whenever he moved or spoke. It was like being in the same room as a rabid dog. You knew it was only a matter of time before it turned on you.

Harry seemed to pick up on her distress, because shortly after she arrived, he turned to Rex, ôI think you'd better hide for now.ö

ôAW... BUT WHY?ö

ôThere are too many people in the halls this early. Prefects, Teachers, and we'll probably run into the Twins at some point. It'll be much less trouble if you don't walk around driving people insane.ö

ôBUT HARRY...ö

ôRex...ö Harry intoned, sounding like a parent scolding a child.

ô...FINE...ö Rex sighed, shrinking down into his stuffed form.

ôSo... he can just do that whenever?ö Hermione asked cautiously.

ôYeah, but he doesn't enjoy it. Says it's like putting on clothes that are a few sizes too small.ö

ôI see...ö Hermione considered, her analytical mind taking hold, pushing her primal fear to the back of her head. ôI wonder if Mumblus the Mad's theories of spatial distortion could be applied to explain that...ö

ôHermione? Are you still here?ö

ôHm? Oh I'm sorry. Just got caught up in my thoughts.ö

ôRight... let's head to the kitchen. I think a bit of food would be good for you.ö

ôWell, I have been avoiding the Great Hall...ö

--- --- --- --- ---


It was only a short trip to the kitchens, and an even shorter wait for the elves to bring them something. Hermione was utterly fascinated that there were hidden rooms through out the castle, and seemed enamored with discovering each and every one of Hogwarts secrets.

ôJust think! The fact that rooms like this are secret means there could be dozens of places like this that have been completely forgotten! I haven't discovered anything resembling a blueprint for Hogwarts, and if secret rooms reply solely on word of mouth, it's no surprise that places were lost! Think of all the things we could learn! We could find one of Ravenclaw's studies, Slytherin's Labs!ö

ôSure...ö Harry replied, a little put of by her manic disposition. ôWhy don't you have a bite to eat?ö

Hermione nodded frantically, remembering her manners enough to stop talking.

ôso can i get something to eat too?ö

ôNo children tonight Rex. You'll drive Hermione mad.ö

'but harry...'

ôbaby steps Rex. Why don't you have some meat? I'm sure the elves would get you something.ö

ôfine, but it's just not the same...ö Rex grumbled, nonetheless leaping out of the bag to feast

It was disturbingly adorable, to see a miniature dinosaur feasting on a meal larger than he was. Harry took a moment to watch his two companions fill their bellies, before resuming their conversation.

ôSo, I take it you're interested in joining us with our explorations?ö
ôhey, can you guys bring me some more meat later?ö

ôOf course Master Rex sir! Just call for Pinky and Blinky and we will be happy to bring you some more!ö

ôgreat, great...ö

ôRex, do you really think you'll need more foodö

ôwell if you're not going to let me devour the dreams of the innocent, i might as well fill mhy belly with meat. besides, I don't need to eat much now because i'm little. when i get big again, i'll have more room.ö

ôI guess that makes sense... Are you ready to go now?ö

ôyeah.ö

ôHermione?ö

ôReady Harry!ö

--- --- ---

Hermione quickly realized that searching for hidden rooms wasn't as exciting as her books and the Indiana Jones movies made it out to be, though to be fair, they had the advantage of at leats vaguely knowing what they were looking for. She and Harry were just blindly searching for something that may or may not exist. The issue was further compounded by the fact that Hogwarts was filled with odd quirks, so any discoveries they made could easily just be something they hadn't enountered before.

It was made worse by Rex's attempts to 'help' which consisted of offers to punch holes in walls. No matter how many times both Harry and Hermione told him not to, he kept on trying. Hermioen had a sinking feeling that sometime in the near future, Hogwarts would need some remodeling. Hopefully Harry would keep it to a minimum.

Still, for all the problems, it was the most fun Hermione had had in a long time. Granted, that could be due to the fact that she recently escaped from an insane asylum, but even discounting that little detail, it was a far more enjoyable time than any before in Hogwarts.

ôWell, it's gotten really late. I think I'd better head back to Gryffindor Tower.ö Hermione said, repressing a yawn. They had spent hours wandering around looking for hidden chambers, and had found a few. In the morning she would cross reference their results with Hogwarts: A History and current students to see if any of them were unknown. Her hopes were fairly low, but they had only just started.

ôYeah, we should probably get back to our dormitories as well.ö Harry replied in turn.

ôwait, we still gotta make one more stop.ö

ôWe do?ö Hermione asked.

ôyeah, I gotta visit mr. huggles..ö

ôThat's the name you decided to call him? Mr. Huggles?ö Harry asked in disbelief.

ôonly the left one. I haven't named the other two.ö

ôWho's... Mr. Huggles?ö Hermioen asked

ôhe's my other pet, so you'd better get along with him squeakles, okay?ö

ôDo I want to know?ö Hermione asked Harry, who merely shook his head.

ôProbably not, but Rex'll show you eventually, so it might as well be while I'm here. Otherwise Rex'll drag you over here to show you on his own.ö

ôRight. I can see how that might go badly... Wait, isn't this the door Dumbledore told us not to go into? The one that will result in a painful and horrific death?!ö

ôOh, yeah, you're right. Don't worry, Rex'll protect us. ö

ôyeah, that's right.öRex stretched, resuming his horrific visage. His mouth opened, as he let out a monstrous bellow, ôBLINKY! PINKY! BRING ME SOME MEAT!!!ö

With a pop, the two house elves he had been talking to earlier appeared, with an entire flank of beef, Rex enamined it briefly, before ôMORE. BRING ME MORE! THIS ISN'T ENOUGH FOR MR. HUGGLES.ö

ôOf course Master Rex sir! How much more does Master Rex sir need?ö

ôTHREE TIMES AS MUCH, AT LEAST. MR. HUGGLES HASN'T EATEN IN A WHILE SO I WANT TO MAKE SURE HE'S NICE AND FULL.ö

ôYes Master Rex sir! Right away!ö

The elves vanished to retrieve more food, and the unusual trio turned to fae the door.

ôYou ready Hermione?ö

ô...Do I really have a choice?ö

ôNOT REALLY SQUEAKLES. BESIDES, YOU'LL LOVE MY DOGGIE.ö

Despite bracing herself, Hermione couldn't fully repress a scream when she saw the Cerberus in the room. It growled at her briefly, before Rex somehow squeezed himself through the door. Upon seeing the far fiercer beast, the Cerberus cowered, squatting down and covering two of its heads with its paws, while the third merely whimpered in terror.

Rex strode up to the creature, before roughly petting the vulnerable head, ôGOOD DOGGIE. YOU RECOGNIZE YOUR MASTER. NOW LET'S SEE IF YOU CAN LEARN A TRICK BEFORE YOUR FOOD GETS HERE.ö

Hermione sighed in relief, that something else was the target of Rex's attention.

ôSo what does Rex want with him anywas?ö Hermione asked, sittign down next to harry.

ôHe wants to ride him.ö

ôYou're joking.ö

ôNope. He's gonna ride him all over Hogwarts once he gets him trained. I'm hoping that'll take long enough that Rex gets bored. Otherwise it'll be really troublesome to deal with.ö Harry sighed.

ôTroublesome is the least of your worries. Everyone in the school will go mad if they see that.ö Hermione replied, thinking of the damage such an event would cause.

ôDon't worry about it too much. Rex'll probably get bored long before he finishes training the dog.ö

ôSomehow I don't think probably will be enough.ö Hermioen sighed, unable to shake the visions of carnage form her mind. Still, if Harry wasn't concerned, maybe she was being a bit of a worrywort. It wasn't like he was going to start riding it around tomorrow.

Right?

 

[cast2007]

Looks pretty good. You misspelled Hermione a couple of times but I think that's just due to fat fingering it. Glad to see its back.

Btw will Annabel and Hermione have a rivalry over Harry?

 

[zeebee1]

Just what did she write on that paper to make people forget that she was the theoretical user of dark magic, including the dark magic they found on her?

 

[Ninsaneja]

Obviously, she refuted the original hypothesis, noting that she didn't gain enough weight to have eaten the troll and that her wand was never tested for said dark magic. Then she followed through with a faked interview in which she expressed confusion over the subject and saw a "Dark figure" using the dark magic. There you go.

EDIT: But none of it matters. the file being marked "closed." means saint mungoes won't care, and the teachers at Hogwarts accept that she's cured or whatever. Magical world is silly.

 

[zerohour]

She essentially wrote something along the lines of "The unknown curse has been successfully extracted from the subject by Healer X. Subject appears to have no recollection of the events, and is safe to be among the general population."

The fact that Healer X happens to have gone insane, and is jabbering about the same things Hermione was only makes it seems more plausible. They probably tried to analyze the spell and it took root in them.

Don't worry. They gave him a plaque.

 

[zeebee1]

Well, if the boss is superstitious this could come back. Clearly Hermione is contagious.