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Update: I'm still working on finishing the chapter. Its coming along well at 23 pages, but I still have a few more pages to go. I'll be working on it all day tomorrow I hope.

Is there an echo in here or is it just me?

certainly not, you're not the only one listening! besides that'd make you talking to yourself and therefore crazy

hope all's well, looking forward to the new chapter, and from hearing from you sometime soon hint hint cough cough!

Razz! See? What did I say earlier? You've gone through a heck load of threads and you still wonder if someone's till out there listening. Tsk tsk.

Well, I'll take this new gleaming thread as an oppurtunity to catch up on what I've missed. I'm copying your chapters into Word (a cleaner read ) and I'll be back soon with my feedback!

Glad you're back mate.

Adding\\ My last reply to your story, I signed with 'Phoenix'. Has it really been that long.

Razz. Of course we are still here!

I actually am checking your thread every week to see if there might be an update... I really miss our chats Urrh... replies to eachothers posts. It's been too long since you updated, and I'm still longing for more.

What did you say? 23 pages. And you're going to post it all in once? Ooh that has to be one of the best days this year! *jumps around in excitement*

Wow- I really enjoyed reading Harry's Last Task! I loved all the little twists- well not twists- but all of the new things happening to Harry and everyone. I cant wait to find out what happens next- interesting how Harry is getting stronger and I wonder about Percy's plant- well if you are making me wonder like JKR does then I must say that you are a pretty good writer. Keep up the good work and hope to see a new post!

Razzie, you know I'm always here to read your fanfic! Like Jordan I always checked it. So it'll be 23 pages ... mmh... I think I have to copy that into a word file as well.
I am so excited, I hope you will post soon and then I have like 5 fanfictions to read, I'll be a busy lady

I'm so happy you're back again and well and all.
Olivia

Hello!

Thank you for sticking your heads in and saying hi Well, you thought 23 pages was a lot? Try 38

I'm going to post in two installments because that's just nuts! I'll go and put the first one up now.

I am so incredibly nervous because this is my first post in over three months. I hope the break did me good. Let me know what you think.



EDIT: You may have noticed that I haven't come up with a title for this chapter. Feel free to throw in any suggestions. Though I may be able to come up with one in the meantime... Oh and for those people I am yet to catch up with. I'm sorry I've been catching up on the site work and writing so I've neglected my friends, but now that one installment is up that should all change.

hey

nice to see you back, nice chapter, actually more than nice, it was perfect!
Cant wait for your next one, and good luck with the rest of the story.

Steve

What a pleasant suprise in my inbox today - a notification of your new post! It's really no suprise that I was glued to the screen once again while reading the new chapter. I'm glad you were able to take a break and even more glad to see your back!! You know I'm loving your fic and look forward to the next installment!! Razz Rocks!

CIAO!!

How about "Friends and Lovers" for a title. We had Ron and Harry in the beginning and it ended with Harry and Draco curled up by the fireplace all alone.

Great to see you back writing again. I liked the chapter but I do not not really know what to write at this time. It has been so long I have lost some of the important items with the story. I need to go back to the beginning and get the story fresh in my mind. I did like the Draco/Harry encounter. I never thought of Draco disobeying his instructions and not seeking Harry out. I did not think he had that much back bone. I guess hatred can be a powerful source of courage.

Let me get caught up again with the story and maybe I will post some more if you have not got the next chapter up. I think there was something about Ginny and Socks I had figured out but I have gotten too old to remember that far back.

Wow! Great chapter Razz, really liked the dialog between Snape and Voldemort. I like to see your version of voldemort, its even more evil ^^. Also the encounter with Draco was just right, the old hatred and everything, hes just right. Wonder what Hermiones up to now, hopefully some Horcrux-searching.

Its going to be great to see Harry and Draco working together on the pensieve ^^.

Cheers!

Amazing chapter Razz, kudos for doing your best on getting back into the swing of your wondrous story.
The conversation Snape had with Voldemort (usually not a good sign to begin with) was so eerily cryptic--Harry's run-in with Snape though at first glance a revelation of personal clockwork, this scene showed professional side of the plan. Is this another intricate trap Voldemort has slithered somehow into action? Was Draco's suffering from the Dark Mark supposed to draw Harry to him? The conversation they had was brilliant BTW, it really displayed an important element of how Harry and Draco compete for similar things at times yet are tragically polarized by love versus hatred.

Does McGonagall's outing have to do with the mystery behind the plant or is Hermione involved? Speaking of which, Ron's intuition (or was that also fear?) seems like a nice change that he notices things; but is something going on with Hermione? I'm not sure whether to feel safe with the horcrux studying/researching thing-

Kudos again Razzberry, can't wait to hear from you!

RAZZZ!! I cant believe it! You updated! hahaha, I'm just messing with you. But I'm amazingly pleased to see that there is another chapter to be read so pleased in fact, that I'm posting about it before even reading it, hahaha.

WEll, I'm gonna read it now and I'll talk a little more tomorrow (cause everyone LOVES hearing me talk. har har haaaar )

Good night Razz! and I'm glad you've gotten another chapter down.

Alec


EDIT: 38 PAGES?!?!?!?!? holy-! I guess I wont be posting tonight either way! haha this exciting! I love reading your long ones!

YAY! I posted the second half of that last chapter.


I know I know!! Not just once but twice in twenty four hours too! You might have picked up I'm BACK!! - Have fun reading Alec. Its so long I expect I'll hear from you some time next week? LOL.

All these questions and more will be addressed in the next chapter I'm yet to write. Shouldn't take me long though because I'm really looking forward to all the drama unfolding.

Kind of makes you realise why Harry's always so clueless doesn't it? Grrrr that Voldemort is an evil git. Evil I tell you! I adore the way you delve into all the happening Justin. I'm real glad you like Harry and Draco, there's more to come. Poor boys

He's pretty evil, huh? Cunning, cold, cruel and malicious. I'm over the moon that you thought so because I had to really think about that dialogue.

Again, its gratifying to hear that. He's another one I really had to work on not to splay him out of character, yet be free to develope him too. Thanks Captain!

And it gets worse in the next chapter Greg, but never fear, this is NOT a slash fic. They are just two boys in an unusual situation. Hope you like what is to come.

Agreed! But Draco was not under orders to seek out Harry Potter. GASP. That should become clear soon.

Totally my bad. I'm sorry I took three months off. I'd be amazed if anyone can really remember all the stuff that's about to unravel. Its a huge fic to re-read. I know. I've done it. Thanks for taking an interest, oh, and sorry about the mistakes when you read it. I forgot to put it through the spell check before I posted it up. D'oh!

Thanks wouldbe for the kind words and I know it was a loooong chapter, and so is the next one too. I appreciate that you read and comment. You guys make my enthusiasm for the story even more, which is a lot at the moment because the end is in sight now! Finally!

Its really nice to be back, I can tell you. I've been itching to get this fic done and now its well on the way! That is a fantastic compliment, hp6. I just hope you enjoy the rest.



Well, like I said, the part two of the chapter is up. There's loads more dialogue in this one too, which I prefer. Hope you like it.

Yeah, I made it!
Geeze, Razz, its so good to have you back! I really missed your writing! And once again, you have outdone yourself! Man...
I don't know where to begin.

That Snape/Harry scene was brilliant! I dont know if it's new, or whether I just missed it, but, really, brilliant!
I know you cant get enough of my praise *lol* but I have an uncreative day today, and I am simply running out of words that match your story. *chuckles*
Ah - I know... *lol*
New marks.

T for Troll
P for poor
A for acceptable
E for exceeds expectations
O for outstanding
and
R for razzberry2

So there goes - those last two installments definitely deserve an R! *lol*

I was laughing when I read that Draco/Harry/firewhisky part - people kept looking at me, probably wondering whether I have gone mental. *lol*
Hm, new things to wonder about, new theories... Let me see.

I am not one hundred percent sure about Snape. You make it seem like he is doing what Voldemort told him BUT Snape, the douple-tripple-quadruple-crosser, surely is on his own side. Yeah. *sigh* The way he talked about Lily... oh my.. *sigh* He really liked her.
By the way... are you suggesting Draco really is Snapes son? Ugh... Well, it would explain a lot... I wondered about that before. Lucius is just too old for Narcissa to be her true love, eh? Oh, I don't know.
So what will they find in the office? Dumbledore's portrait? The pensive? A thought that proves Snapes innocence? A horcrux?
Hm... will Draco take te horcrux, give it to Volders and then Snape will destroy it? Because how could Volders be wrong about his own horcrux? And what the heck is wrong with Julie? Draco didnt take the potion... very very suspicious... hm - so many things to ponder about!

Razz, pleasure reading it! So good youre back!
If I come up with a few decent new theories, I shall let you know.

See you, Flutters

Nadja, what an incredibly uplifting review!

I don't really know what to say. I know you would have had a bit to catch up on since you've been so busy yourself, so I really appreciate you taking the time.

You know, I was really nervous about that because its an important scene. But I am so relieved you found it funny. It could have gone over like a wet blanket! Thank you.

You just can't be sure what's going on in that head of his, can you? Who knows what side he's on until the end proves it, and maybe even then we'll still be in doubt *sigh*

... LOL. No, atleast not in my fic. I think though, for Snape to take the unbreakable vow he must have had some kind of strong link to Draco.

That is exactly what you will find out next chapter! I suppose it seems like there are so many mysteries but the walls will all come crumbling down, starting from the next installment.

Hmmmm... Harry will be thinking on that one, you can bet. I'd always planned that Draco would be the one to reveal the potion as being a problem. I wanted to use it as a way to show that as unlikely as it seems, Harry and Draco have bonded in some respects. Otherwise, why would Draco bother telling Harry that there was something wrong with it? He could have taken it but not used it, and not said anything. Crikey, I'm pathetic being so fussy, huh?!

Thanks again Nadja for taking the time, mate. It means a lot to me coming from such a clever writer as yourself!

Razz! You totally rock, two updates! Yippy!
And these two updates were definitely worth the waiting!

You know, With this one:

I thought they mentioned Hermione... I don't know why but that was my first thought. But after reading these chapters I'm absolutely positive they ment Pancy. But where has Hermione been all these days? Has she really been busy with studying for her NEWTs and searching out about the horcruxes... hmm I don't know, might be something fishy here.

Absolutely amusing to read the whisky part, our sweet boys are growing up! They really are teenagers now... I can even find some of my friends in their behaviour. Yeah the potion... I always knew something wasn't right with that Julie girl, she put what in ? Some sort of toxic right?

The Ginny/Harry scene's were perfectly written, but I still can't get used to the fact that they are a couple... *urgh* Harry is ment to end up alone, and I'm still not too fond of Ginny.

Your Voldemort is perfect... He's evil but also human. He's a total maniac. I love to read about him in this fashion, it's way better than just describing him as some sort of resurrected zombie. Your Voldie has some emotions... they're just different than ours. He knows greed, anger and power but he also experiences pleasures in his own way. *shiver* he's such a creep.

What's in DD's office... don't tell me they're doing all of this for the pensieve, if they are.. Then there has to be something important in it. Maybe some memories were left behind in it, 'cause no one took them out after his death. It could be that he knew more about the Horcruxes than he let Harry in on, and they'll find the unknown horcruxe once they find that specific memory. Draco probably wants that memory destroyed... and Harry wants to use it. Okay... enough of me and my theories. I'll just wait to see what's really hidden in that room.

Where this 38 pages already? No... that can't be... So there's more coming? Today? Tomorrow? Next week...

I know I keep saying the same things basically, but the truth is what it is - YOU ROCK RAZZ!!! I can't wait for the next chapter!! ***biting fingernails*** Wish I had more time now to write a better review and discuss theories...maybe in the near future!!

Bravo Razz, bravo!

Part 2 complimented the first portion very well, the fact each major players in this chapter are making leeway in being more open from Ginny, Hermione and Ron to Dobby and Draco umphed (sp?) the characterization. Oh and the Ogden scene... () Perfect; no need for displays of awe-inspiring magic; I imagine it was easy and difficult to pull off Harry willingly hanging out with Draco-the wizard who revealed he hated Harry the previous night- the exchange was at ground level and Harry again showed how modest, yet vulnerable he can be. Real, relatable, plain and deliciously complicated.

Hermione kind of surprised me a bit, she is paramount to ensuring the Trio can accept the troubles of the Wizard World and hopefully live through them. She still hasn't shared all of her secrets, is it too risky for Harry and Ron to get involved in? Is it something so advanced or covert (the Order) they aren't in the 'know'?

I'm glad Harry caught up with Dobby again, you really have captured the virtue House-Elves do their best to achieve. The way he described Draco's plight revealed he cares about the Malfoys still, pains from their old ways and yet still wishes they can be saved. What was Dobby talking about when he said it will be his third time? Does it deal with a House-Elf's magic or is it a different brand (wizardry)?
Thanks and good luck on the future chapters!

Hi, Heather! It feels good to get back on here again and see what I've missed.

I actually read this awhile ago but true to my nature, I got up to do something else and completely forgot about it! I'm sorry it's been so long. I've been trying to get ahead in Children's Literature since I now know what to expect next semester. Maybe this time I'll actually meet all the requirements and not be so rushed for time like last year.

Anyway, this is fantastic! Julie must dislike her old boyfriend pretty bad if she's willing to call him "a vile sack of festering pus." Wonderful imagery, and a great nickname too. Though I really don't feel any sympathy for her after what she planned to do with Harry. I'm mad with Harry too; he needs to make up his mind and not go sleeping around anymore. I'm glad he left Julie's place but it sounds like Ginny doesn't want him back. Too bad for him though it serves him right, playing with fire like that.

It's really nice that you put emotion into the Fat Lady. Some fics I've read portray her as having little or no emotion at all and it didn't seem that way in the books.

Poor Hermione. Looks like she's got herself in a pickle with Zach. She should never have given him that love potion. Frankly, I thought she was smarter than that. Has J.K. ever mentioned an antidote for love potion in the books? I can't remember ever coming across one before.

'Smorbal?!' Oh I love Ron. That was hilarious!

Just out of curiosity what is a smorbal anyway? Some magical creature J.K. made up or it is something you came up with?

It's good the 'wedding' didn't go as planned. That Zach is a smarmy little cutthroat with no brain, with or without love potion. He's definitely in character to the books, his dislike for Harry, his pompous attitude, and his actions.

There's something fishy about that old lady at the orphanage and that voice is even creepier. Whoever she is, she lead them straight into a trap! Oh, if she were only alive, I'd strangle her with my bare hands!

I have a feeling her identity is revealed in the next part but I wanted to save that for another time.

Great job as always, Heather. You're an awesome writer.

Hey Razz

Well assuming you havent hired a new editor, can i carry on where i left off?

I have great pleasure in telling you it was word perfect all the way through, not a single mistake, well done you although there was one thing, the one who went patroling with Pansy, do you mean Michael Corner or Anthony Goldstein. Just a thought but i dont think there was a Michael Goldstein, correct me if im wrong.

Its been such a long time, i'd almost forgetten whats happening in your story, but reading through this again brought it all back. and it made me remember why your story is among the best things i've ever read, and that includes published works. Its the way you describe everything, its almost like being there yourself it's that real.

Some of my favourite bits in this chapter i'll discuss here. Malfoy, now he's not one of my favourite characters, not by a long way, but the way you describe his pain makes me feel sorry for me, and at the start, Snape was so well written, it was scarily accurate.

Dobby only he could wear a silver boobtube, that really did inject some humour at the right time, the warm moments between Harry and Ginny were amazingly heartfelt. and the Ginny-watch really did make me laugh. Something tells me when she finds out about that she wont be the happiest girl in the world.

And the Drinking scene! so hilarioush! memories of drinking cheap vodka with a group of mates aged 16 just came flooding back when i read that, it was fantastic!

oh hell it was all wonderful! And well worth the wait, i just hope its not such a long wait this time

great to see you back, i think we all agree. On a personal not it'd be good to hear from you whenever you can, i hope everythings well, and everything that happened recently went well and fixed what it was supposed to

take care
Jim

I never thought it could happen but the second part of the chapter was possibly even better than the first! You have no idea how happy I was when Harry and Draco had their little drinking session, it was so funny and just right. The potion! I got a bit upset there, wonder whats going to happen there.

And I just thought of the thing when Hermione started crying, the bottled up sadness and depress. It's something Rowling has never written of, at least not explained the impact it has on the trio. Really good that you brought it up, when you think about it seems as they are a bit emotionally stubbed when you dont hear about this taboo sadness.

Love to see Ginny back in the story, she really lifts it when its too much bad things going on around them.

Cant wait for the next!
Cheers!

Oh my !!

I just typed out the longest reply to all of you guys and it didn't hit the board!! That is so sad because it took me around an hour to do. *sniff* And I stayed up late to do it too.

Well, I'm going to have to do another one tomorrow. I'm so fluffed off about that. *drops to knees and screams "WHY?"*

I'll edited this tomorrow if no one else posts in the meantime. Sorry about not having your replies up. I can't believe it. Couldn't it have happened on a one-paragraph post?? *pout*

My new siggie seems very apt right about now...

Razz, what a fabulous update!

I have to say that I had to laugh at the Weasley Wiz-Wonder-Mallows. My my, I do think I could do with a few myself. How incredibly clever that was... ah, Fred and George...

And then there's Hermione. The trio has endured their fair share of troubles and torment, but she's right, it's always Harry. You really could feel just how worried she truely is about her friend and it seems that when she allows herself, she really is haunted by the unknown.

And Draco... First, I do think it's honorable of Harry to reach out to Draco. I think Harry's at that crucial turning point where petty childhood disagreements are worthless. Harry knows what the bigger picture shows us, and it seems he feels a form of pitty and sympathy for Draco. Harry even saying he doesn't want to fight him speaks volumes. And I also admit that I do feel terribly sorry for the life Draco must now endure. He does seem ill and has been so for a while. I hope he can wisen up before it's too late.

But Pansy... is she for real? She actually joined the DA, but then has been secretly assisting Draco. I wonder what her agenda actually is...hmmm... I have a suspicious feeling about that one. Could she simply be using this newfound reputation (for lack of better words) to acheive something more...hmmm... or is she just trying to play nice in hopes of finding any shimmer of hope for the man she, dare I say it, loves? Ah, the questions...

And one final thing...

I'm even more curious about this "health tonic" now...

Wonderful job, Razz! What can I say... I loved it! Thanks for writing this story!
~Cori

Ok, I'm really sorry... I was waiting until I was done reading the whole story to review, but I just can't help myself. This is just amazing. I feel like I'm reading Book 7 before it is out! You are absolutely brilliant. I am sitting here with tears in my eyes now after reading chapter 2... and that's really, really bad because I'm at work! I just want to quote something quickly:



Oh god! That is so sad! It just makes me want to crumble into a little ball and cry my eyes out!

You are so very talented. If this story had been given to me in a cover that said "By J.K. Rowling", I would have totally believed it. Ok, so I'm going back to the story now... I'm sure I'll edit this about 20 times before I'm done.

Edit:
WHAT?!? Are you serious? He slept with Julie? What about Ginny!?!? I am so peeved right now it is not even funny! It better have been a dream, or really Ginny in disguise, or something... Cause I am fuming right now!

Edit#2:
Ok, so obviously she isn't Ginny in disguise, seeing as Ginny was all "aren't you going to introduce us ?" I am so saddened right now... How could he do that to her? After she loved him and cared for him and is waiting for him? I kind of hate him right now...

Edit#3:
Ok, been reading this for hours upon hours now, trying to take in the whole thing. I find myself become angry and frustrated with all of the characters... except maybe Ginny. Harry, Hermione and Ron are all getting on my nerves. I still can't believe Harry slept with that Julie...

I hate that stupid *substitute word for permiscuous woman*! I'm sorry, but she is all over Harry's stuff, and she was trying to throw Ginny under the bus with that "she was more interested in snooping around my flat than your health" or whatever comment. I hope Pettigrew sends a stream of green light at her head. I hate her. Ok, now I need to go to bed... I will resume with chapter 23 in the morning.

Oh lily!! You had me lmao at your edits. You go girl with the angry smilies!! I'm assuming you are fond of Ginny? Well, I'm not I'm sorry to say. Not since HBP anyway. Couldn't stand her in that book. I've tried making my Ginny more likeable than I thought Ginny was in HBP, and if she's one of the few characters you're not cheesed off with then I'm really pleased to say that maybe it worked. But never fear, this is canon as much as possible and I just had to let Harry sleep with someone at his age, and Ginny's not ready yet - nor do I want to picture that so along comes Julie. Actually she's quite instrumental to the plot. Feel free to loathe her. LOL. Some people have liked her, but hey, there's more to her than meets the eye. You'll know a bit more about what I mean if you get to the latest chapter. I can't believe your still reading if its annoying you so much. (That sounds really catty, but I don't mean it like that at all! Its just hard to see that in print! I'm chuckling as I'm typing this because I loved your reaction!) If my writing can provoke like that then I'm happy! Anyway, if you do continue to read, maybe you'll forgive me somewhere along the line.LOL.

Cori! - How are you?? Wiz-Wonder-Mallows would be forever in my lollytin if they were real! I'm so scatty I think I would be living off them. Hermione's breakdown is out of character a bit, but she's very upset at the moment. LOL. I'm having a ball writing the Harry and Draco scenes because after HBP, Draco is my second favourite chacter and his 'relationship' with Harry is so potentially explosive that it just can't be left unexplored. IMO. Harry will be 'chatting' to Pansy in the next installment too, so you'll find out more about her then. The potion? What IS our Julie up to? Thanks for reading cori!!

Hey Captain! - Thanks for the praise. I'm so pleased you liked the Harry/Draco scene (though I did edited it a bit since then). I always see stuff after I've posted that needs changing. Whether its dialogue or sentence construction. Its still the same story though. Hermione's outburst was inevitable in my fic. Poor girl. She's under a lot of stress!! And yep, Ginny will be around because Harry needs her. Glad to see you again!

Hiya Jim! - Michael Goldstein? *slaps head* Thank you for pointing that out. D'oh! You feel sorry for Malfoy? YAY!! I do too. He's still Malfoy though *tsk*. And you liked my Snape? Excellent. I really enjoyed writing the drinking scene with Harry and Draco. They are going to have a fairly intense 'chat' very soon. There won't be any of the humour then. Thank you for dropping in, and I apologise for throwing you out of whack with being away so long. I'm surprised still that anyone has bothered to come back. I certainly wouldn't have blamed them if they didn't! LOL.

Writingfreak! - what a pleasure to see you're still around. I hope that means you've updated your fic!! *runs off to see* YES! I'll be reading that after I leave here. A smorbal was actually a snorkle. Stupid Ron! LOL. As usual, thank you for your comments, mate.

Hiya Justin! - I haven't had to include much in the way of magic in the last couple of installments, but that will all change very soon. Confrontation time!! LOL. I love the way you describe my Harry! Hermione has her reasons for breaking down. You're right, the trio don't normally do stuff like that. Dobby's un-indaba? Hm. You'll have to wait and see. :-S Glad we had that brilliant chat about Draco yesterday! Can't wait until you start posting.

Hi wouldbe! - LOL. You don't need to leave enormous replies. I'm thrilled that you let me know you're reading. Its such a good thing to get on the site and see someone has left me a note to say they're reading and enjoying. Its more than enough reward! I used to be of the mind that I probably wouldn't finish the fic if I didn't have all the support, but I have to admit now that its getting so close to the end, and I'm excited about the whole plot, I'd finish it no matter what now. Thanks again!

Marieke! - A lot of reading I know. You'll find out who Voldemort and Snape were talking about next chapter. Hm, I wonder how much store Harry puts in what Draco says? The seed of doubt however has been planted in Harry's mind now about the potion. He will feel the need to ask someone about it. Harry/Ginny?? *rotfl* I know!! I feel the same way and sometimes I can not believe I'm wring them. Oh well, all is not yet a foregone conclusion. *sigh* It really made me smile that you like my Voldemort. Like you, I'm much more terrified of 'real' villains rather than the cardboard cutout type. They're much more unstable and unpredictable. The pensieve apparently does contain something important (according to Snape, anyhow) but you'll see that soon. And yeah ... 38 pages. I was consumed by the writing bug. It was so good to get it all down on paper finally. Thank you for your comments, mate.

Just a quick note. A lot of people have been asking after my family since that was the reason I was away. Just to let you all know - dad came through the op well, and my little 2yr old is unfortunately still having tests, though he hasn't had any reoccurence of the blue lips and rag-doll posture he was getting (You have no idea how scary that was) so it may not need any action taken. The juries still out on that. Thank you all again for your amazing well wishes. It meant a lot to me at a time when I was very frightened and a little bit sad underneath. You guys are just the best!

I just had the best 15 minutes reading the Draco-and-Harry-get-drunk scenes. Really great Razz! That was something!

Sorry, I'm so late in replying, I was away over the weekend.

I think you got even better, seriously. This was the best chapter. And I like the whoel Draco description. It's a lot of truth in there I think. Poor guy, he doesn't deserve to be punished that way. And Harry is a gem here.

I'm looking forward to the next chapter, and I'm so glad you're back again, your dad's OP went well and I hope your little boy (DJ I think) will be better again.

Olivia

Before I start I would like to say one thing in response to your views on my last review:

Please don't think for one minute that I ever hated your story. That's impossible. It's incredibly well-written and I have been enveloped in the world it contains for the past two days. I couldn't stop reading it if I wanted to. As a matter of fact, I tried to stop reading it a couple of times, around the whole Julie thing. I was at work and I was all " I'm not reading any more of this nonsense! Harry can't do that to Ginny! That girl is a total *substitute word for permiscuous woman*!" ...So I x'd out my screen... but I found myself all like , stealing glances at the screen, picturing this fic up there... and after about 3 minutes I had it up again like . So, in the end, I was hooked. That being said...

Yep, Ginny lover here . I know I'm one of a small population on this thread, though. I don't understand why everyone finds Ginny so repugnant in book 6? I adore her! She is such a little spitfire. I know you don't like her all that much, but I still thank you for keeping their relationship so canon. It makes for a very intriguing read.

Julie... I loathe Julie . I loathe her more than I hate Voldemort. More than Pettigrew. More than... anyone, really.

And I must say that after reading those last 60-or-so pages (because that is how many pages it was when I printed it out on paper to take it to the pool and read it today!), I am pretty confused. I was 100% sure that Socks was the animagus Ginny. But they have been in the room at the same time now, so I'm not sure. And that potion that Julie gave Harry... I never trusted that *substitute word for permiscuous woman*, so I never trusted that potion! Healing potion my butt! And the fact that the potion contains something that could kill you? Psssh. Please bump her off in the next chapter. I really do despise her.

Well, good job... you've warped my fragile little mind. I'm hopelessly addicted to this story now. I hope you're happy. As if I didn't already lack a life ...

Anyways, you are an absolutely brilliant writer and I hope you do this in some way or another as a living... because if you don't, you should.

Just a sidenote... I hope you update often

Hiya guys!! Sorry I didn't reply earlier. Had a busy day as my daughter goes back to kindy tomorrow. YAY!!

Hi lily *waves* I absolutely didn't take offense to what you wrote! I tried to get that across in my text above but I knew it still would sound ambiguous, but trust me, I loved your post! Like I said, the fact that you felt so passionately about it made me feel quite smug actually. I welcome all feedback, and I am resolute at never taking offense to anything! Except personal insults But your review was marvelous! And then you go and top it with what you just said so I thank you from the bottom of my heart. It doesn't surprise me you're confused, but there will be answers in all of these final chapters, so bit by bit it will all come together and the lightbulb in your head will go 'dink' many many times over. LOL. I like to keep people guessing. Keeps you coming back. Thanks again lily for reading and of course for commenting!

Olivia!! How are you sweetheart? I hope everything is well. I look forward to exchanging a few PM's soon. I'm still a bit swamped catching up but it shouldn't be long. Thanks for caring so much and asking about my family. And yes! You remembered my sons name. Never apologise for not replying Liv, its really completely cool. I'm so glad you liked the last chapter. I had a frenzied zone of writing and my fingers were tap dancing over the keys for days getting it all on paper. I see you're writing too now. Its thoroughly addictive isn't it? I can't wait to check out your work! Thank you for stopping by mate and we'll catch up soon.

Razz!
hey! long time no see (around the forum that is) and I mean that solely because of me. sorry I havent been around lately. Its been hard for me to find the time to write more to my fic, and having a mentally unstable computer doesn’t help my situation either. lol…not to mention I have dial up internet *bows head in shame* lol. Anyway…so its nice to see your updates…
I have to admit…because I havent been near your story for quite a while *sniff* I completely forgot most of what was going on. But as I read, most of it came back. I really enjoyed these two posts. The whole thing with Hermione…well, I wasn’t too sure of what it would be at first, but I think that it might have something to do with Zacharias Smith. I’m not sure what, but I think it might have something to do with that. When she broke down on harry when he, ron, and her were all up in the room…well I think it runs a little deeper than her just being mad about harry having to do everything. Even though, that was quite surprising…hermione always seems to be the one to cry often for some things, but her breaking down like that was unexpected…very well written.
The scenes between malfoy and harry, I really like the way you write these. And although I’m sure you’ve heard this a billion times already, I really found the wiskey scene quite hilarious. It was all very real and very likely for the two of them. The whole name calling thing…priceless. Touché razz!
Then there is the dreaded thing that is to happen later between malfoy and harry. Both of them don’t seem to want it to happen (the inevitable fight) but both seem to know it must. I’m still a little confused as to what the deal with the pensieve is…I’m sure you mentioned it in an earlier chapter…you probably did and I just don’t remember. I’ll probably go check…lol.
Well, keep up the amazing work!

~cheers!~

Hiya WB!! Don't worry about not being able to pop in too often! Its really nothing to feel guilty about. Life gets in the way of things, and not to mention you're supposed to be updating your own fic regularly. I know how it is. I appreciate people dropping in to let me know they're reading every now and then. (that's not to say I don't adore those people who post every chapter ) LOL. You'll find out what Hermione's upset over eventually, but not just yet. Good guess about Zach though. She has yet to dump him properly, but she's intent on doing that asap. And thank you for your kind comments about the drinking session. I was hoping people would like it. I worked hard to get the dialogue as in character and as amusing as I could and yet the basic direction of their chat came pretty easily, so its a huge relief to hear from readers about it. You're right about the tension between the two boys. Neither of them do want to fight one another, and for the same reason really, although Harry has another reason as well - that being that he's beginning to soften towards Malfoy a bit. What is the reason they both don't want to fight? You'll find out VERY soon. (If you haven't already guessed)

Thanks for dropping in WB. Its fantastic to see you're still on the forums! You've been registered almost a year soon!

Razz! Sorry I havent replied about your latest (satisfingly long) chapter. It was great to read your writing. Your my favorite FanFic writer and it is very enjoyable to read your stuff!

You know the long chapters are my favorite, so you wont be surprised to hear how great I thought this one was, heh. Were Draco and Harry having some bonding time? heh, pretty crazy stuff.

Sorry, I never really have much to say about your fic but praise, but I cant wait for the next installment!

Thanks a bunch Razz.

alec

Hiya Alec! LOL. There probably isn't much to say about what's going on at the moment, but the action will heat up in the next installment. Yeah, Harry and Draco were having a bit of improptu unguarded time together. Its important that they both got to see each other like maybe their friends see them. Usually Harry and Draco only ever show their worst sides to one another, but for the purposes of what is coming, they had to be able to get a glimpse of who the other really is. Glad you liked it.

I'm writing all day today. I've already got seven pages down but I think this is going to be another looooooong chapter because there's a fair bit of stuff going down on this Sunday at Hogwarts. I'll post as soon as I can. Thanks all for reading!!

I guess I should post in here before someone eats me. I just managed to process all the missed chapters in to Word earlier today, but was pulled aside in the outside world, so now I'm finally reading. You're writing incessantly today and I'm reading. How fitting!

I've managed to read up to about when Snape informs Harry that he will have to help Draco with getting whatever he needs inside the Head Office. I'm not all that far behind... am I?

Well in any agenda, I'm going to review on what I've read so far, sound like a plan?

23. The Unknown Passage

This was one of my favorite chapters out of the ones I've read today. You grab the reader's attention with all the description, which is a bonus on your part. I don't recall if I've ever expressed this to you or to anyone who writes, but the very first sentence of an installment is the one that determines the curiousity [and overall attention span] of the reader. Blah, you probably already knew that. I would be able to comment on only those first two lines with a load of things to say; primarily because it's a concept which could virtually go in any direction. That's where the theories come into play.

The scene where Harry falls into the ungerground (gutter?) system after pursuing Draco is the one which is probably most exhilirating out of the chapter. Beautifully written, it's captivating and fun to read.

The dialogue between Lucius, Draco and Harry was well written too. I hope it's alright if I comment negatively on some thing's. In my opinon a review isn't simply 'I like it all.' Now see; ... I work both ways, postive and negative criticism, though each equally constructive and helpful. *grin*

I like how the dialogue unravells itself however, I'm not too fond of how some of Harry's reactions are displayed. I don't like this passage because it seems like Harry is being a bit too 'polite', in a sense, towards the Malfoy's. Yes, you may think - Polite? What the heck is he talking about? - but I somehow seem get that impression.

The 'with a piercing, deadly gaze...' portion says clearly that Harry is dead seroius, but then he goes onto saying 'If you, your son ...'. From the previous chapters I don't get the feeling that Harry would name Draco as 'your son', even when talking to Lucius. Calling Draco by his first name would have had much more impact in my humble opinon.

[That's the first negative thing I've written in the FanFic section of the site since I've registered. Hope it wasn't too harsh. All I want to do is help.]

Shall I get back to the things I admire again then eh? I'm going to skip a bit because I'd have to ramble for ages if I don't. But as a general overview, I think that it's brilliant that you have Socks enter in the scene and most of all have her be a sort of protective source against those vial creatures. They are Screaming Wraiths right? - *sigh* Me and my inability to comprehend simple things.

Ah. We now come around to Ginny and her ... problems. I'm loving the idea of having them in an impossible situation in pouring rain. Very cool! It was a bit frightening to see Ginny address Harry as 'Mr. Chosen One', but I guess that in the dynamic of the situation, it was appropriate.

She seemed to have exploaded in the end eh? Just what I was waiting for since the Julie story. Of course, by the last paragraph they manage to smooch up () and lock. Razz, you're so unpredictable with your plot twists!

The cup... it's gone! Theories overload! - Yeah those of you who are up to speed are like 'where the hell has this guy been, he's so late.' Don't make fun! What can I say? I feel like a newbie all over again.

Unfortunately that's all I've managed to get out on thread so far. I'm going to re-read the next chapter to see what I've mis-read, and I'll cook up a reply on that one ASAP. One chapter down, four more to go. Slowly but surely, I'm getting there. All in good time, mate.

LOL. Jordan.

Of course you can put in criticism! I'm not that delicate (unless you catch me on a bad day ) But those are very rare!! This gives me the opportunity to explain some of my reasons behind doing something that maybe didn't sell so well. That sentence you pointed out where Harry said "If you, your son, or anyone else touches her..." I used the term son very deliberately. Harry using the term to threaten Lucius, to try and strike him where it would hurt. He wanted Lucius to know in no uncertain terms that his own son was included in his threat. He was kinda desperate to get his point across. Hope that explains it a bit better and that you find that feasable. Thanks for your feedback on it though!

As for all of the other stuff, Yipee! LOL. I'm so pleased you still enjoy my story, and take your time catching up. Its a lot of fun keeping you guessing with the twists. Life is like that too don't you think? You think you've got it all worked out and something comes along to throw you off kilter again. Its great to have you back on the thread, mate!

Well, I did spend around 5 hrs writing today and I only got 4 more pages down I have sucessfully edited all 10 pages I've got so far, but I had a lot of trouble with keeping Pansy in character. She was getting way too smart I'm happy with what I've got now though. I'll write some more tonight and tomorrow.

Razz, just read your new chapter and I'm shocked. She can't be dead. When I read the title I had the feeling there would be something like that, but with Snape doing that I don't think she's dead. There must be some plan.

Now I also wonder what is wrong with Ginny. Because I don't think she would normally be cool about the whole Julie thing.

You got me really curious, Razz, and I hope you will update soon.

Now I can't sleep!

Great chapter
Olivia

OHMIGOSH!!!!! I am so totally on the edge of insanity right now wondering what is going to happen next!!! RAZZ you are just the BEST!!!! I can't wait for the next chapter!! May the writing fairies sprinkle their dust on you now so you can keep those words flowing!! I'm always WOWED and will be again I'm sure...In the meantime I'll try to let my fingernails grow back.

Oh deary, deary, deary, oh... *sigh*
What to say?
*scratcheshead*
Let me start from the beginning.
I so loved that breakfast part! Hermione making Harry suffer. *lol* No compassion for that poor chap. *chuckles* But she's right! Usually, you deserve the headache, and I know what I am talking about...
Liv wondered what was wrong with Ginny - well, I have the answer: it was Luna again, and Ginny is out there somewhere as Socks... Probably spying on Julie, tearing her robes apart, sewing pyjama sleeves together, switching her toothpaste with shoe polish... something mean, something evil.
No, just kidding. But I have no idea where Ginny went to. So maybe somebody else has a clue?

Pansy... now I finally knew what you meant when you said she was getting too smart. And yes, she was. I had thought she's one league with Crabbe and Goyle. But that's okay, she served her purpose, right? I don't mind. I somehow feel bad for her, though. Not being able to trust your own family... sounds a lot like STASI (methods from Eastern Germany before the wall came down). *sigh*

I must admit I was a little lost when I got to that part when Ron and Harry went to Hogsmeade. Maybe I was reading too fast or lacking vocabulary, but I really didn't get it at first. I thought they were after Ginny. Hm.
So was it some kind of trap for Hermione?
Or just coincidence? I can't remember which house that Zacharias was in - but not Slytherin, right? Hm...
But she isn't dead, and Snape saves her. *chuckles*
My bet.

Okay, I'm off, sorry. Need to learn. Exams for my birthday, thank you very much. *sigh*
The chapter was brilliant as always, by the way. I was on the edge of my seat, and Heather, you rock my socks.

Flutters

OMG!

There arent many authors who can make my blood freeze, make my heart rate triple inside of 5 seconds, and as Nadia said, rock my socks!

This was one of your best chapters in terms of suspense, and i have to say, you wrote it stunningly. This isnt such a suprise to your loyal readers, but this was simply amazing.

Loved the bit where Hermione punishes Harry, so funny, and so what someone would do in that situation,

Loved the awkward moment even more, that was so well written its like being there, and watching it unfold in front of you!

So Pansy's spying on Blaise for Draco then, hmmmm wonder what thats aboutm i'll have to think about that one.

And the cliffhanger, you're the best at cliffhangers, you really are, and the master of suspense. So im assuming Snape, or another Death Eater, but probably Snape, hoodwinked Zach into bringing Hermione out there, by magical means i assume, seeing as you say, shes too smart to go out in that weather. she cant be dead, she just cant be, you cant kill her! and yet, the feeling i have, with Harry's reaction, and the green flash, i just cant stomach it, its shocking, it really is.

has to be said as well, during the awkward moment section that you said Harry thought his day couldnt get any worse, i had a seriously nasty feeling when i read that, i was right!

Im actually shaking now, im shocked, i need to go lie down for a while!

Wonderful, mistake free, and wonderful writing Heather.

Take care mate, oh and write more very very quickly as i, and quite a few others want to know whats going on!
Jim

Yeah, Jim - I am with you!

Hermione isn't dead. If you ask me: she's stuck somewhere with Neville, who's not dead either. There's got to be a spell that casts green light just like the AK, but then don't kill the victim - just stun. I mean, Snape is really creative. It shouldn't be that much of a problem to change the colour of the jet of lightning to - ah - make believe. Hehe.
Razzy can't be that cruel, right?

Cheers, Nad - off to my books again

You did NOT just leave it like that?!? Are you trying to ruin my life?

Oh god... Did you just kill off Hermione? Please say you didn't... oh man... headache...

And I know it will be atleast a couple of weeks until the next installment, and I just don't think I can take it!

Ok... now that I have vented...

Very, very interesting chapter...

Although, I must say I am not at all happy about little miss Julie being a teacher at Hogwarts... God I hate her .

Anywho, you already know all too well about my feelings toward Julie. I hope Hermione's alive. I hope Julie gets avada kedavra'd, or atleast gets a nice bat-bogey hex by Ginny. And, I hope my poor Harry is ok.

Next, please

Whoa...
I am not entirely sure i know what happened, i read it faster than i can think, but all your chapters do that to me... initial reaction- mixed between a realy great chapter and confusion on hermiones death? or is she just being used as bait for harry? all i know is snape has her and i dont like that, not after what he did to dumbledore, is harry still gonna meet malfoy? nice tho!

.

..... .....


Hiya Olivia - Things are getting down to the nitty gritty now. Some not nice things will happen before the end. You've been very observant all the way through this fic and I think you have a good handle on Ginny. You won't have to wait long now.

wouldbe - Thank you so much for your encouraging comments. I'm well and truly bitten by the writing bug now I'm back and the updates will be coming swiftly and regularly until the end of the fic which isn't very far away. A fair amount of stuff to pack into the last chapters though so it should keep you on the edge of your seat.

Nadja - Glad you liked the breakfast scene. You are another one who follows characters well and understands the changes in text. And yes, the Pansy you read was toned down from what I originally wrote, but it was hard to make her get her point across without giving her a healthy dolloping of intelligence. Hope she wasn't too OOC. I guess war changes people, and she's having a massive wake-up call because of the people she's closest to. I may go and edit the part where Ron's talking about Hermione because I think you're right, it is a little ambiguous. Zach's role will be revealed next chapter.

Jimmy - Thank you for your kind words. Just like Hermione to be scolding about a hangover, eh? Pansy will have a role to play in the near future. She's done a bit of growing up, but she's still a cow at heart. Looks like she's on Draco's side - whatever that is. You have a good idea about the characters too. You'll find out how close you are in the next chapter. You won't have to wait too long, I promise.

Nadja - How cruel I am will be up to you to decide at the end of my fic. I'm going to put a poll in with the final chapter so I can get votes on whether people are okay with the final outcome. You know I am cruel in so far as I don't like to give too much away. Maybe you'll forgive me at the end - then again, maybe not.

lily - Thank you for reading and commenting again! I warned you via PM that I was a shocker for cliffies, even though I haven't had much cause to use them lately, now that things are in motion this one will not be the last. Be ready for anything. You won't have to wait weeks for an update. I am cruel, but not a sadist. You will be seeing more of Julie.

hp6 - Hi there, and thank you for your comments. Snape is almost impossible to second guess. Harry felt utterly betrayed at seeing him. As for Hermione? Well, .



Okay folks. Thank you all so much for commenting. I've refrained from using any happy smilies because of the events of the chapter. But I can tell you I was over the moon by all of your reactions. Like I said above - I won't keep you waiting too long.

for the part about you not waiting long to update. I'm totally addicted to this fic. to seeing Julie again. Can't stand her. Unless... unless she gets bumped off, then !


Erm... excuse me ? I hope that was a sad face because she loses her hair or something... not because she is dead... because if she dies and Julie lives, I am going to be majorly . Seriously ...
I do love your fic, Razz. You write so beautifully. How bout you throw a fan a bone, and bump off Julie real quick so Harry and Ginny can get married and live happily ever after? hmm ?

Oooh and I love the idea of putting out a poll for the end of the story! Fabulous idea! That will be so much fun !

That was brilliant, Lily! You made me laugh. I hope she just lost her hair too.

Now, Razzie, write soon, I want to know if I'm right with Ginny and if Hermione is not dead. And as Jim knows perfectly well: I'm always right.

Such an amazing chapter!

Ah no not Hermione, why not Ginny Julie? Hermione can't be gone, she's too cool to be finished off this soon. But what on earth has gotten into her? Why did she leave The Three Broomsticks to start with, don't tell me she wanted a romantic stroll in the moonlight with Zach.

I did like the conversation between Harry and Pansy. You did portray her as a bright girl... maybe we all underestimate her brain capacity. She might be something more than just a young dumb Slytherin. I never pictured her as dumb as Grabbe and Goyle, not all Slytherins are dumbos, but yeah, she's a cow that does anything for Draco or any other Malfoy. I loved to read the story she told Harry about her life at home and her parents. It did add something more to her character, it's always nice to read some background information.
I'm still thinking about the "Bl..." line. Did she really mean Blaise? Or someone else... I can't be sure about that with you as the writer, but I just can't come up with any other name that starts with Bl.

I absolutely loved this chapter Razz!

Hey Razz, I have to say this chapter lived up its previous parts and chapters(mini-sagas ) with the vibe of the narration and Harry's first person steadily building to the cliffhanger which unlike the others has left me in denial. 'Hermione Granger is not dead' is the mantra to keep up that gleam of hope alive because without her Harry and Ron are categorically screwed. I could weave theories to legitimize the thoughts Hermione and Zach didn't become moths lead to a false flame and Voldemort now has an advantage over Harry that he can't let go of; but since Potter is in the dark on Hermione's dealings it doesn't seem solid enough to lean on...

Pansy was admittedly sharper than what Rowling has led us to believe though I agree becoming the pawns of Voldemort's game is enough of a wake-up call for maturity, even the haughtily rude nemesis of Hermione needs to grow up. Her cryptic comments were rather cool and added another dimension for Harry to realize what a Slytherin in the Second War and the peace years goes through; what he could've gone through. Parkinson's words about Snape allow question of the Slytherin House's divisions and alliances: Is Snape continuing to guide Slytherins safetly through the war?Iis he permitting them to decide (agendas-with/out Voldemort's dominance) on their own? Or are they choosing Snape to continue being their Head-leader despite the fact he is marked and cursed man?

The breakfast scene was interesting too BTW...just when Harry really felt clueless and hungover his private relationships just mush and congeal without exploding ...yet. Why was Ginny seemingly so passive towards Julie (who shouldn't be trusted) and is Molly up to something besides staying with family?
Can't wait for Dobby to save all these foolish wizards
Tuitus

Hi there! Thanks alot for the fast uptdate, I was so happy when i saw the new chapter. And became even happier while reading it ^^ (although it was pretty dark). Wow, it was really good the tension when Julie talked to Harry in the great hall was incredible, when Julie said she wanted to meet privately I seriously felt ill or something.

The last scene confused me a bit, I did'nt really get what was happening but it was really exciting all the same. Snape! Wonder what he's up to, it came as bit of a shock to see him there but looking back at his discussion with Voldemort it was'nt to wierd. Best cliffhanger in ages I gotta say, im looking forward to the next chapter.

Cheers!

Oh lily!! I'm sorry, but I can't bump-off Julie because she still has a purpose. You know, my mum doesn't like Julie much either and I'll tell you what I told her, she's here to stay - at least until her part is played out. *snigger* Yeah... I'm looking forward to putting in a poll and hopefully getting the readers who aren't keen on commenting to at least select from a multiple choice to let me know what they thought over all. When the views per chapter are in the hundreds you just know there are people out there... - doO DOO Doo doo (supposed to be theme from "the twighlight zone")

Livvy You will know soon enough what's going on. We are now absolutely knee-deep in the thick of things and the coming wind-up is fairly traumatic, I'm sorry to say - actually no I'm not. I love the dark parts. There are more to come. I'll be writing tomorrow. No kids for 5 hours. YAY!!!

Heya Marieke - Originally I had Pansy as way too smart, so then I rewrote her dialogue with Harry and turned her into a hysterical blubbering idot and that just wasn't working so then I came up with a compromise. I'm betting on the fact that she's sobered a bit because of her situation in the war and she's having to watch her luuurve suffer. I need her though, so I hope she's not too OOC. I may go back and edit her part a little if I get an epiphany.

Justin *waves* You'll get some answers to the whole Zach/Hermione thing next chapter. You're right though, Hermione's not an idiot. She's usually quite the suspicious one, isn't she? As far as Pansy - well Slytherins have pretty much always been very biasedly portrayed in Jk's books - to the extent of being rather stereotyped, and it just doesn't gel with me. Jk's offered up so many believable characters in her books - people who are well rounded and vivid and faulty and unpredictable, that I can't believe she would singularily offer up the entire current Hogwarts house of Slytherins as being as atypical as we've so far been allowed to see. I mean the Slytherin adults are not particularly 2 diamentional are they? So there has to be more to the students than what we've seen so far. And I guess as we've only seen them through Harry's eyes to date then that could explain it. I get the feeling that Harry should be in for a few surprises as far as his opinions of Slytherins go. He is horrified in the books of the fact that he could have been put into Slytherin and that seems pretty telling in my opinion. The breakfast scene is laced with important pieces of information and hints and clues on a number of things. Its easy for me to see them of course Those lightbulb 'dinks' will start kicking in very soon. LOL.

Hey there Captain! Yeah... Harry was extremely uncomfortable with Julie being there. LOL. Glad it made you feel all squishy too. He really doesn't know quite what to make of her. I'm so sorry the last scene had you I don't know if it was because you weren't sure that it was Hermione they were going to find or not, but I edited that passage by putting her name in so it was more obvious. If it was because of the way I described the action, then I don't know what I can do to make it easier to comprehend. You weren't the only BTW so there must be a problem somewhere. If you think of anything specific, let me know, okay? PM or here is cool.




Thank you so much for all of your comments!! I can't believe I started this story over a year ago. It would have been finished months ago if I hadn't gone on hols in Jan and then needed family time away. Still, its coming to the crunch and will resolve all of your questions soon. Some sooner than others.

I'm so lucky to have VTM members as my readers!!

this is a great chapter. I must make a comment about "Ginny." I don't believe that it is her...she is so out of character. When she walks up, everyone expects her to react to Julie's presence, when she doesn't all should know that something is wrong...She is acting more like Luna than Ginny...the way you described her...she is almost in a "dreamlike" state. I really thought of Luna. I am sure that Hermione realized something was up...she was, afterall, watching "all of this with narrowed eyes"...shame Ron and Mrs. Weasley didn't notice the change in Ginny's behavior.
I found Pansey interesting. I am not totally sure that I trust her. She may just be saying these things to Harry to make him think that she isn't on the "dark" side. You never really know what someone's motivation is...well, we don't know her motivation, but I know that you do, Raz
Hermione! no! not dead! I believe that Snape took her to ensure that Harry does his task with Malfoy. I don't believe he would kill her. Things could get bad, though. Snape can't be around to protect Hermione all of the time. Who knows what can happen if, and when, he leaves her. I am totally worried...oh, what was Hermione thinking when she was looking at that potion...she seemed to know something, but didn't say what (which Ron pointed out is normal for her). I can't wait to see what is going on with Mr. Smith...interesting situation.
you really have me hanging. write more again, soon!