Lovers Of A Lifetime

A School Assembly Shocker

Harry's P.O.V

It was now September 1st, a week after first seeing Hermione. Dumbledore took me to see her quite often, and our visits were greatly helpful for her confidence.

Today, we were returning to Hogwarts, and as I stood before the Hogwarts Express, I felt a sudden sadness.

Hermione wouldn't be here this year. She may never even return.

Oh, what would we do without Hermione?

Hermione had told me that Ron had no clue about what was happening, about the games. She had asked me as gently as possible if I could tell him for her.

"Please, Harry... there's no way for me to tell him, and I'd rather everyone knew..."

The only thing I could do was agree.

I saw a flock of red-heads near to my left, and sighed quietly.

Well, here goes!

********************************

"SHE DID WHAT??"

I cringed at everyone's reaction to the news of Hermione.

Although it was how I expected them to react, hearing the shouts and swearing from them was still overwhelming.

Sat in the compartment with me now was Ron, Ginny, the Weasley twins, Neville, Dean and Seamus.

I was only planning on telling Ron, Ginny and the twins, but when everyone decided to move into our compartment, I told them all anyway.

"She volunteered for one of her best friends, and now she has to fight to the death against one of her other best friends, and twenty-two other kids..."

They were silent for a while, and I heard Ginny start to cry.

This was going to be a great year!

********************************

Udually, walking into the Great Hall filled me with excitement, and I was thankful to be here.

Now, though, I was filled with dread fir the upcoming year.

Without Hermione here, something bad was most likely going to happen.

I sat down with my friends, and stared at the table as the new first years were sorted.

My friends were rather gloomy too. They seemed to be taking Hermiine's news worse than I thought they would.

I turned to look at the front of the hall as Dumbledore stood to address the school.

He cleared his throat and began," Welcome, Hogwarts, to another school year. This evening I am sad to bring dreadful news... one of our fellow students seems to be in a terrible situation...."

He proceeded to tell the school and teachers all about Panem and the Games, and how Hermione was to participate.

"Although this is unfortunate, we will be able to check on Ms Granger... because our school will be watching the games from this very hall!"

It wasn't exactly good news, but everyone perked up at being able to see Hermione.

"The games will begin in two days time..." He stated as he sat down, signalling the students to eat.

Well, I sure hoped Hermione eas doing better than we were.