For The Love of Pranks! I Love You!

Dumbledore's Army

The next day Hermione informs the boys and I that we are holding a meeting later today during the Hogsmeade trip, at the Hog's Head. We dress warm for the snowy weather and head to the carriages, interested to see what this meeting will entail.

After spending most of our time in Zonko's, we decide it's time to head over and inside, I'm surprised to see a lot of students, but not the trio yet.

"Thanks for coming everyone." Hermione greets as the three of them come through the door.

"Now I believe you all know why I've gathered you here. It's quite obvious that we aren't being taught proper defense spells, proper ways to defend ourselves against the outside—against Voldemort." She visibly shutters but I applaud her bravery in finally saying the name.

"How do we even know if he's really out there?" A fifth year asks and we collectively roll our eyes.

"Because Dumbledore said you toss-pot." Ron says making the twins hum in appreciation at the insult.

"So Dumbledore says because he says." He says directing toward Harry.

"The point is, where's the proof?"

"I'm not going to talk about Cedric, so if that's why you're here, you can clear out." Harry says frustrated, turning to tell Hermione something.

"Is it true you can produce a full Patronus?" The airy voice of a fifth year Ravenclaw asks.

"Yes—"

"I've seen it!"

Hermione cuts him off before he can disclaim it. People start chatting in awe while Harry's friends tell of his accomplishments.

"He fought off a hundred Dementors with that Patronus."

I smile at him, knowing this saved Dad from the kiss two years ago. Hermione smiles widely knowing Harry won't discount my statement.

"Look. It all sounds really great when you say it like that...but the truth is, most of that was dumb luck.. Facing this stuff in real life.. it's not like school."

"In classes, if you mess up, you can just try again tomorrow. But out there... when you're facing death or watching a friend die... You don't know what that's like."

He sighs, looking at everyone before his eyes land on mine. I smile sadly, knowing how hard this has been on him.

"You're right Harry, we don't. That's why we need your help. Otherwise, we don't stand a chance."

"I'm with you." I say with a smile, knowing this will help not only all the students, but Harry too.

"Count us in." The twins say shortly after. Then come voices from around the room, Harry watching in shock, while Hermione digs through her bag.

"Can...Can you all sign your names here, that way I can contact you when we know more? I have charmed the parchment so that no one may speak of our group without a consequence. It's important this remains a secret."

Hermione explains this as we all stand and sign out names. Leaving the run-down pub shorty after, everyone seems to have a slight spring in their step.

"First, we do need a place to practice. Somewhere Umbridge won't find us." Hermione says once we've left the town, but have yet to reach the school.

"The Shrieking Shack?" Ginny asks and I immediately shake my head.

"Much to small for everyone."