Hi everyone. This is my first fanfic and I am really excited about doing it. After reading some of the brilliant stories created by my fellow writers, I know that what ever feedback I get will be constructive and brilliant. SPOILERS IF YOU HAVE NOT READ HBP YET! THIS IS OR WILL BE A PG-13 STORY, SO CAUTION LITTLE EYES.
EDIT: I want to add that all characters are the brilliant work of JKR.
This story takes place in Hermione's last year at Hogwarts. She as well as many of her fellow seventh years are of age and have joined the Order in their fight against Lord Voldemort.
On with the story.
CHAPTER 1
PUSHING FORWARD
The mood around the tiny table in the den was somber. The rusty overhead lamp barely gave enough light to cast erie shadows on the faces sitting in number twelve Grimmauld Place. Five minutes earlier Ron shoved his chair back with such vehemence that it flew across the room almost pinning Kreacher to the wall. Then he stormed out with only one backwards glance.
Hermione had long since mastered the looks of Ronald Weasley. This one, however breif, was filled with a worried pleading and she could only lower her eyes reluctantly. When she raised her gaze again, he was gone.
"Are you sure you want to do this Hermione?" asked Remus Lupin.
Hermione nodded.
"There is no proof he is..." Lupin's voice faded away as he brushed his graying hair off his forehead.
Hermione took a deep breath. She understood completely;the risk was enormous. She struggled to keep her voice level.
"But until we know for certain,"she began,"we cannot proceed either way. It is time we find our direction and push forward."
Hermione looked over at Arthur and Molly Weasley. Molly's eyes filled with unshed tears. It had only been five months since Dumbledores death and it seemed the forces of Lord Voldemort and The Order of the Pheonix were at a stalemate. One could only guess why Voldemort made no advances but the reason for the Orders idleness need no speculation. Uncertainty. Could Severus Snape be trusted?
This very issue had divided the Order beyond action. He murdered Dumbledore whom always held his highest trust. He could have allowed Harry to be tortured while escaping that infamous night yet he didn't. Then again, no one has seen or heard from him since.
The clock chimed 10 o'clock reminding everyone that Harry, Hermione and Ron (wherever he was) needed to return to Hogwarts.
Tonks rose swiftly from her chair pulling Lupin up beside her.
"It is her decision, she is of age Remus."
Hermione heard her whisper to to boyfriend as they walked to the front door.
"Hermione, wait." Harry reached for her elbow to hold her back
"There's no use trying to talk me out of it,"she began but Harry cut her off.
"I just wanted to tell you to be on your guard. You thought I wasn't practicing Occlumency hard enough two years ago but that wasn't it. Snape is very...accomplished."
Hermione smiled, grateful that Harry and turned to grab her coat. She didn't want to talk about this anymore tonight. She was tired and still had a foot of parchment due for Professor Flitwick on Charm Casting With Your Eyes.
With a final wave Hermione and Harry apparated to Hogsmeade.
*We're on our way! Any feedback can be posted in the feedback section and I will try and get back to your comments promptly.
~Nevillesgirl
Full Version: The Spinner's Secret **Completed**
CHAPTER 2
DISTRACTIONS
An hour later Hermione sat alone in the Gryffindor common room with Crookshanks curled underfoot while putting the finishing touches on her essay. She was waiting for Ron to complete his duties as Head Boy before retiring for the night.
She understood his reaction of course. They had only just gotten together over the summer after years of silly games and wasted time, and now she was willing to risk her life based on what? A new prophecy?
At that moment the door to the common room opened and an exhausted Ronald Weasley trudged in. His eyes looked red and puffy from crying but Hermione know he would never admit it.
Hermione stood letting the soft, silky fabric of her light pink nightgown and robe fall gently around her ankles.
"Ron..." Hermione's voice caught painfully in her throat.
He crossed the common room and took her in his arms. He buried his face in her bushel of hair that smelled faintly of citrus and melon.
"Hermione please," Ron sobbed. "I-cannot-lose-you. I...I love you."
Hermione gasped and drew slowly away from him. Ron refused to release her completely, keeping his arms circling her tiny waist. As she starred up into his face, Hermione remembered the first time Ron said those words to her. Of course he was just being grateful that she was finally helping him with his homework again. This was different. His words were powered with emotion and truth. Her heart swelled as she realized she truly loved him too. Hermione brushed a feathery kiss to his trembling lips.
"I love you too," she whispered, and went up to bed.
*_______________
The next morning Hermione grabbed a piece of toast and headed out onto the grounds to sit under her favorite tree to study. She had study hall and was planning to take this opportunity to practice charming students by just looking at them.
Harry had called an emergency Quidditch practice for some reason she didn't understand and Ron was patrolling the Great Hall before heading down to the Quidditch Pitch.
Hermione was grateful for the solitude. For the first time in her life Hermione could not concentrate on her charms lecture yesterday. She knew she had been distracted by the meeting later on that night. Professor Flitwick mentioned something about the power of the eyes...the power of persuasion. Not the Imperius Curse;not forced. Her thoughts were all jumbled. She needed to concentrate.
Hermione gathered up her books and headed back inside the castle. She turned to the left and down the stairs to the dungeon that had once belonged to Professor Snape. She needed something to help her focus. When she got to the dungeon there was a note on the door from Professor Slughorn requesting his students to meet him at the edge of the Forbidden Forest. Hermione smiled. They must be gathering ingredients for the potions cupboard. That was perfect. She would have several hours to complete her potion and be on her way without anyone knowing she had been there.
After several minutes of set up, Hermione rummaged through one of the old potion books belonging to Professor Snape. The Draught of Focus and Meditation suited her needs perfectly even if it was a bit complicated to make.
Hermione was having trouble locating all of the ingredients in the shared stores so she chanced unlocking the top cabinet with the huge restricted sign spell-o-taped to the front. As she moved an old engraved box from the back of the top shelf, the lid flew open and she was immediately concealed by a thick, dense cloud of black dust. At once the voice began to speak in that slippery, cunningly smooth tone she had become so accostumed to in her past six years at Hogwarts.
The voice of Professor Snape.
*For all of you HG/SS shippers out there, be patient. I promise it is coming
but we have to get through this part first. As always, feedback in the Feedback Forum is greatly appreciated.
~nevillesgirl
DISTRACTIONS
An hour later Hermione sat alone in the Gryffindor common room with Crookshanks curled underfoot while putting the finishing touches on her essay. She was waiting for Ron to complete his duties as Head Boy before retiring for the night.
She understood his reaction of course. They had only just gotten together over the summer after years of silly games and wasted time, and now she was willing to risk her life based on what? A new prophecy?
At that moment the door to the common room opened and an exhausted Ronald Weasley trudged in. His eyes looked red and puffy from crying but Hermione know he would never admit it.
Hermione stood letting the soft, silky fabric of her light pink nightgown and robe fall gently around her ankles.
"Ron..." Hermione's voice caught painfully in her throat.
He crossed the common room and took her in his arms. He buried his face in her bushel of hair that smelled faintly of citrus and melon.
"Hermione please," Ron sobbed. "I-cannot-lose-you. I...I love you."
Hermione gasped and drew slowly away from him. Ron refused to release her completely, keeping his arms circling her tiny waist. As she starred up into his face, Hermione remembered the first time Ron said those words to her. Of course he was just being grateful that she was finally helping him with his homework again. This was different. His words were powered with emotion and truth. Her heart swelled as she realized she truly loved him too. Hermione brushed a feathery kiss to his trembling lips.
"I love you too," she whispered, and went up to bed.
*_______________
The next morning Hermione grabbed a piece of toast and headed out onto the grounds to sit under her favorite tree to study. She had study hall and was planning to take this opportunity to practice charming students by just looking at them.
Harry had called an emergency Quidditch practice for some reason she didn't understand and Ron was patrolling the Great Hall before heading down to the Quidditch Pitch.
Hermione was grateful for the solitude. For the first time in her life Hermione could not concentrate on her charms lecture yesterday. She knew she had been distracted by the meeting later on that night. Professor Flitwick mentioned something about the power of the eyes...the power of persuasion. Not the Imperius Curse;not forced. Her thoughts were all jumbled. She needed to concentrate.
Hermione gathered up her books and headed back inside the castle. She turned to the left and down the stairs to the dungeon that had once belonged to Professor Snape. She needed something to help her focus. When she got to the dungeon there was a note on the door from Professor Slughorn requesting his students to meet him at the edge of the Forbidden Forest. Hermione smiled. They must be gathering ingredients for the potions cupboard. That was perfect. She would have several hours to complete her potion and be on her way without anyone knowing she had been there.
After several minutes of set up, Hermione rummaged through one of the old potion books belonging to Professor Snape. The Draught of Focus and Meditation suited her needs perfectly even if it was a bit complicated to make.
Hermione was having trouble locating all of the ingredients in the shared stores so she chanced unlocking the top cabinet with the huge restricted sign spell-o-taped to the front. As she moved an old engraved box from the back of the top shelf, the lid flew open and she was immediately concealed by a thick, dense cloud of black dust. At once the voice began to speak in that slippery, cunningly smooth tone she had become so accostumed to in her past six years at Hogwarts.
The voice of Professor Snape.
*For all of you HG/SS shippers out there, be patient. I promise it is coming
but we have to get through this part first. As always, feedback in the Feedback Forum is greatly appreciated.~nevillesgirl
*Thanks to all who are reading and hopfully enjoying the story thus far. As always your comments and questions are appreciated in the fanfic feedback section. Just scroll down until you see the title.
~nevillesgirl
CHAPTER 3
SNAPES MESSAGE
"Miss Granger," his voice oozed. "If you are hearing my voice then it is done. I can only assume you are feeling extremely pressured and are looking for...assistance."
There was a great pause as those words slide over her skin between her limbs and surrounded her body. Hermione could feel the heat of breath prickling her flesh. She shivered.
His voice continued. "The protection Dumbledore provided me is no more. It is unfortunate however, that I am the only one who is able to guide you through this most difficult potion. IF you choose not to follow my instructions precisely...you will end up in an everlasting coma."
Suddenly the black cloud was being sucked towards the middle of the room into a parchement on the table. Hermione cautiously walked over and lifted the parchment. It was hot, stinging her fingers, yet she held on to it. She had no choice. She must follow Professor Snapes directions or everything she has worked so hard for her entire life will be wasted. It was utterly ridiculous that she, Hermione Granger could not concentrate.
An hour into the potion and Hermione was having a difficult time keeping her mind on her work. It kept wandering to her task for the Order but her potion remained an intense shade of indigo like Professor Snape directions suggests.
It was then that the first set of unusual instructions appeared on the parchment.
Close eyes. Fill your mind with the sound of a running stream. Empty your mind of all other thought.
What strange directions for a potion Hermione thought, however she complied and closed her eyes. She filled her mind with the soft flow of moving water. Now I have to pee she thought. No! Empty that thought...all thoughts except the soothing sound of the water. Pee Pee, GOTTA PEE! No! Focus your intention. Empty all thoughts...calming, smooth water...
Professor Snape's voice tickled her ears in a soft whisper. "Now, look at your cauldron with the purpose of transfering that calmness mixed with the focus of your mind into your potion. If you've done it correctly, your potion will turn sky blue in twenty minutes.
Hermione did as she was told and opened her eyes. She felt heavy pressure fill the space behind her eyes and focused her intention tothe cauldron. She blinked as if in slow motion and when she opened her eyes, the pressure was gone.
Twenty minutes later Hermione looked at her potion and was delighted at its sky blue color. She grabbed the parchement, folded it neatly and stuffed it into her robes. She filled a jigger and shot it down...it had a pleasant peppermint taste. Then she filled a flask with the remaining potion and cleared her mess. Almost instantly Hermione felt the fuzziness in her brain fade. She walked to Arithmancy with confidence.
It was lunchtime before Hermione ran into Ron and Harry in the Great Hall. Harry and Ginny were absorbed in a conversation about nonverbal spells and Ron was stuffing his face as usual. At least he managed a quick kiss on the cheek and an acknowledging "Babe," before turning back to his ham and cheese sandwich.
Hermione tapped the table in front of Harry trying to get his attention. She wanted to tell him and Ron about her unusual potions lesson when Harry interrupted her, leaning across the table to whisper.
"McGonagall said meet at headquarters--last period excused; discussing prophecy."
To her left Ron choked on his pumpkin juice sloshing it down his chin. Apparently he had overheard.
"Let's go for a walk." she said.
Once outside Ron took her hand an led her towards the lake. They strolled in silence for a minute the Ron uttered something like the word "Don't". Hermione sighed in preperation of telling him about Professor Snape knowing he would be gone from Hogwarts but a strange thought invaded her mind. Do not reveal...
Hermione shook her head. How strange and opened her mouth to speak but as she did a vision flashed before her eyes of a dirty, rubbish-filled river and rows of run-down brick houses. Hermione swayed and promptly fainted into Ron's arms.
**Sorry for the interruption guys but I have apparently botched my fanfic feedback link. I am getting assistance so hopefully in the next couple of days you will be able to post your comments in the right spot.
Mahalo (thanks in Hawaiian) for your patience...
~nevillesgirl
feedback for fanfic
~nevillesgirl
CHAPTER 3
SNAPES MESSAGE
"Miss Granger," his voice oozed. "If you are hearing my voice then it is done. I can only assume you are feeling extremely pressured and are looking for...assistance."
There was a great pause as those words slide over her skin between her limbs and surrounded her body. Hermione could feel the heat of breath prickling her flesh. She shivered.
His voice continued. "The protection Dumbledore provided me is no more. It is unfortunate however, that I am the only one who is able to guide you through this most difficult potion. IF you choose not to follow my instructions precisely...you will end up in an everlasting coma."
Suddenly the black cloud was being sucked towards the middle of the room into a parchement on the table. Hermione cautiously walked over and lifted the parchment. It was hot, stinging her fingers, yet she held on to it. She had no choice. She must follow Professor Snapes directions or everything she has worked so hard for her entire life will be wasted. It was utterly ridiculous that she, Hermione Granger could not concentrate.
An hour into the potion and Hermione was having a difficult time keeping her mind on her work. It kept wandering to her task for the Order but her potion remained an intense shade of indigo like Professor Snape directions suggests.
It was then that the first set of unusual instructions appeared on the parchment.
Close eyes. Fill your mind with the sound of a running stream. Empty your mind of all other thought.
What strange directions for a potion Hermione thought, however she complied and closed her eyes. She filled her mind with the soft flow of moving water. Now I have to pee she thought. No! Empty that thought...all thoughts except the soothing sound of the water. Pee Pee, GOTTA PEE! No! Focus your intention. Empty all thoughts...calming, smooth water...
Professor Snape's voice tickled her ears in a soft whisper. "Now, look at your cauldron with the purpose of transfering that calmness mixed with the focus of your mind into your potion. If you've done it correctly, your potion will turn sky blue in twenty minutes.
Hermione did as she was told and opened her eyes. She felt heavy pressure fill the space behind her eyes and focused her intention tothe cauldron. She blinked as if in slow motion and when she opened her eyes, the pressure was gone.
Twenty minutes later Hermione looked at her potion and was delighted at its sky blue color. She grabbed the parchement, folded it neatly and stuffed it into her robes. She filled a jigger and shot it down...it had a pleasant peppermint taste. Then she filled a flask with the remaining potion and cleared her mess. Almost instantly Hermione felt the fuzziness in her brain fade. She walked to Arithmancy with confidence.
It was lunchtime before Hermione ran into Ron and Harry in the Great Hall. Harry and Ginny were absorbed in a conversation about nonverbal spells and Ron was stuffing his face as usual. At least he managed a quick kiss on the cheek and an acknowledging "Babe," before turning back to his ham and cheese sandwich.
Hermione tapped the table in front of Harry trying to get his attention. She wanted to tell him and Ron about her unusual potions lesson when Harry interrupted her, leaning across the table to whisper.
"McGonagall said meet at headquarters--last period excused; discussing prophecy."
To her left Ron choked on his pumpkin juice sloshing it down his chin. Apparently he had overheard.
"Let's go for a walk." she said.
Once outside Ron took her hand an led her towards the lake. They strolled in silence for a minute the Ron uttered something like the word "Don't". Hermione sighed in preperation of telling him about Professor Snape knowing he would be gone from Hogwarts but a strange thought invaded her mind. Do not reveal...
Hermione shook her head. How strange and opened her mouth to speak but as she did a vision flashed before her eyes of a dirty, rubbish-filled river and rows of run-down brick houses. Hermione swayed and promptly fainted into Ron's arms.
**Sorry for the interruption guys but I have apparently botched my fanfic feedback link. I am getting assistance so hopefully in the next couple of days you will be able to post your comments in the right spot.
Mahalo (thanks in Hawaiian) for your patience...
~nevillesgirl
feedback for fanfic
Sorry for the confusion guys! 
I have updated my siggy so hopefully now you are able to link and post feedback. PM me if you are unable to and I will take another look at it. Thanks for reading. 
~nevillesgirl
CHAPTER 4
THE MEETING
"Do you think she's alright," asked Ginny?
"I think she has taken on to much an now it has her all strssed out." replied Harry.
"Ron, stop fussing about her," his sister scolded. "She'll be okay."
The voices of her friends fluttered around her like she was invisible. Hermione opened her eyes, wondering where she was. She was in the boys dormitory, in Ron's bed. When she tried to rise Ginny pushed her back down.
"Just rest awhile." she said. "Is this the first time you've fainted?"
Hermione nodded. She was certain that this fainting spell was directly linked to the strange thought and vision she saw prior. Hermione longed to confide the weird events of the day to her friends but could not. Something told her to keep it to herself. They were worried enough about her already.
After insisting she was fine several times, Hermione swung her legs over the side of the bed and hopped down. Something dark scuttled quickly under the bed and out of sight.
It was determined that Ron would accompany her to Hogsmeade and she would catch up with everyone else at headquarters later. Hermione quickly gathered a backpack with some personal items and met Ron outside by the gate. She was glad Ginny kept Harry away. She didn't want to give him another opportunity to warn her.
The walk to Hogsmeade was tainted with tension. An uncomfortable silence hung between herself and Ron like a thin sheet of plastic waiting to smother them. It had been a long time since she had felt this way with him. As they grew closer to the village, Ron released her hand and slung his arm protectively around her shoulders, giving it a gentle squeeze. He steers her towards the Three Broomsticks and once inside orders two butterbeers. Alone in a corner booth Ron gulps down his drink like he is dying of thirst then reaches for Hrmione's hands across the table.
"I'm not as stupid as I look,"Ron stammers.
"I know..."
Hermione, I've read the prophecy; they will try- you must resist!"
The urgency in his voice was laced with such passion that Hermione barely recognized it. She leaned across the table and kissed him full on the lips. A long, lingering kiss to squash any doubts in his mind.
"Ouch!" Hermione jumped in her seat. Something bit the back of her leg.
Together she and Ron peered under the table and saw a rather large black spider with a shiny top. Ron shuddered noticably and raised his foot preparing to smash it, but as if sensing danger, the spider simply slipped into a crack in the floor.
Hermione looked at Ron fully, drowning in his eyes. "I'll see you at the Christmas Holiday in a couple of weeks."
Ron winked. "Good. I have something very...something to ask you."
With a last look over his shoulder, Ron left her at the table.
*________________________________
Hermione arrived at headquarters apologizing for her delay. No one seemed to mind though. They all seemed to know she was saying goodbye to Ron.
She settles herself across the table from Professor McGonagall, Lupin and Tonks and looks expectantly at each of them. Without hesitation, Tonks read the prophecy aloud.
"Let us disect this prophecy,"Professor McGonagall starts when Tonks had finished. "THE STRONGEST MIND IN THREE WILL TURN-Voldemort no doubt will see this as you. SOMETHING WITHIN ERRUPTS AND BURNS-We feel certain a plan will form in Voldemort's mind and burn Harry's scar to warn us. EXTERNAL COURAGE TO RAGAIN WHAT'S LOST-Your courage to regain Snape for the Order's use. A SACRIFICE OF EXPENSIVE COST-Self explanatory," said McGonagall somewhat stiffly. "IF IT IS FAILED THEN IT MUST BE...DEATH ETERNALLY-If you fail my dear, then no doubt the deadly terror of Voldemort will forever reign."
Hermione stood to take her leave when Lupin pulled her aside. "Where will you start?" he asked kindly.
Hermione told him about the vision she had a few hours ago. Lupin let out and audible gasp of shock. "Spinner's End!"
"What is ..."
It is Snapes residence when he's not at Hogwarts. It seems..." Lupin continued, "that Voldemort is using Snapes gifts to invade your mind and lure you there."
"Carful, now Hermione," adds Tonks. "Snape is very...gifted."
"I will." replied Hermione and with a CRACK, she was gone.
Hermione felt sure she was in the right place. The stale air filled her nostrils and she struggled to see on this dim street. Which house is his she wondered.
Hermione didn't have to wonder long for suddenly a frigid wind surrounded her and an icy voice pierced the darkness.
"Petrificus Totalus!"
Hermione went rigid and fell backwards into strong arms. At once she was carried into a run-down house with modest surroundings and no modern comforts. Once situated in an uncomfortable armchair, Hermione was released from the full body bind but fear froze her to where she sat. She was face to face with Lord Voldemort and beside him was non other then her former Potions Master, Severus Snape.
**We are getting into it now...there is no turning back.
smiles ~nevillesgirl
herefeedback here
I have updated my siggy so hopefully now you are able to link and post feedback. PM me if you are unable to and I will take another look at it. Thanks for reading. ~nevillesgirl
CHAPTER 4
THE MEETING
"Do you think she's alright," asked Ginny?
"I think she has taken on to much an now it has her all strssed out." replied Harry.
"Ron, stop fussing about her," his sister scolded. "She'll be okay."
The voices of her friends fluttered around her like she was invisible. Hermione opened her eyes, wondering where she was. She was in the boys dormitory, in Ron's bed. When she tried to rise Ginny pushed her back down.
"Just rest awhile." she said. "Is this the first time you've fainted?"
Hermione nodded. She was certain that this fainting spell was directly linked to the strange thought and vision she saw prior. Hermione longed to confide the weird events of the day to her friends but could not. Something told her to keep it to herself. They were worried enough about her already.
After insisting she was fine several times, Hermione swung her legs over the side of the bed and hopped down. Something dark scuttled quickly under the bed and out of sight.
It was determined that Ron would accompany her to Hogsmeade and she would catch up with everyone else at headquarters later. Hermione quickly gathered a backpack with some personal items and met Ron outside by the gate. She was glad Ginny kept Harry away. She didn't want to give him another opportunity to warn her.
The walk to Hogsmeade was tainted with tension. An uncomfortable silence hung between herself and Ron like a thin sheet of plastic waiting to smother them. It had been a long time since she had felt this way with him. As they grew closer to the village, Ron released her hand and slung his arm protectively around her shoulders, giving it a gentle squeeze. He steers her towards the Three Broomsticks and once inside orders two butterbeers. Alone in a corner booth Ron gulps down his drink like he is dying of thirst then reaches for Hrmione's hands across the table.
"I'm not as stupid as I look,"Ron stammers.
"I know..."
Hermione, I've read the prophecy; they will try- you must resist!"
The urgency in his voice was laced with such passion that Hermione barely recognized it. She leaned across the table and kissed him full on the lips. A long, lingering kiss to squash any doubts in his mind.
"Ouch!" Hermione jumped in her seat. Something bit the back of her leg.
Together she and Ron peered under the table and saw a rather large black spider with a shiny top. Ron shuddered noticably and raised his foot preparing to smash it, but as if sensing danger, the spider simply slipped into a crack in the floor.
Hermione looked at Ron fully, drowning in his eyes. "I'll see you at the Christmas Holiday in a couple of weeks."
Ron winked. "Good. I have something very...something to ask you."
With a last look over his shoulder, Ron left her at the table.
*________________________________
Hermione arrived at headquarters apologizing for her delay. No one seemed to mind though. They all seemed to know she was saying goodbye to Ron.
She settles herself across the table from Professor McGonagall, Lupin and Tonks and looks expectantly at each of them. Without hesitation, Tonks read the prophecy aloud.
"Let us disect this prophecy,"Professor McGonagall starts when Tonks had finished. "THE STRONGEST MIND IN THREE WILL TURN-Voldemort no doubt will see this as you. SOMETHING WITHIN ERRUPTS AND BURNS-We feel certain a plan will form in Voldemort's mind and burn Harry's scar to warn us. EXTERNAL COURAGE TO RAGAIN WHAT'S LOST-Your courage to regain Snape for the Order's use. A SACRIFICE OF EXPENSIVE COST-Self explanatory," said McGonagall somewhat stiffly. "IF IT IS FAILED THEN IT MUST BE...DEATH ETERNALLY-If you fail my dear, then no doubt the deadly terror of Voldemort will forever reign."
Hermione stood to take her leave when Lupin pulled her aside. "Where will you start?" he asked kindly.
Hermione told him about the vision she had a few hours ago. Lupin let out and audible gasp of shock. "Spinner's End!"
"What is ..."
It is Snapes residence when he's not at Hogwarts. It seems..." Lupin continued, "that Voldemort is using Snapes gifts to invade your mind and lure you there."
"Carful, now Hermione," adds Tonks. "Snape is very...gifted."
"I will." replied Hermione and with a CRACK, she was gone.
Hermione felt sure she was in the right place. The stale air filled her nostrils and she struggled to see on this dim street. Which house is his she wondered.
Hermione didn't have to wonder long for suddenly a frigid wind surrounded her and an icy voice pierced the darkness.
"Petrificus Totalus!"
Hermione went rigid and fell backwards into strong arms. At once she was carried into a run-down house with modest surroundings and no modern comforts. Once situated in an uncomfortable armchair, Hermione was released from the full body bind but fear froze her to where she sat. She was face to face with Lord Voldemort and beside him was non other then her former Potions Master, Severus Snape.
**We are getting into it now...there is no turning back.
smiles ~nevillesgirl
herefeedback here
Getting into the meat of the story now. Patience all you HG/SS shippers...its coming. I will leave you two chapters today since ch. 5 is so short. Enjoy and as always, looking forward to your feedback comments.
CHAPTER 5
THE PROPHECY REVISITED
Hermione opened her mouth to speak but before she could Voldemort quieted her with a silencing spell.
"Severus has forwarned me of your tendency for interruption." he hissed. "I am certain that the Order has discovered the new prophecy. I wish to...enlighten you and your fallible, mudblood mind to promising facts in its regard."
Hermione shifted and gazed cooly from Voldemort to Snape. Snape's eyes burned like coal smoldering just beneath the surface yet his demeanor remained unreadable.
"Severus, if you please...the prophecy."
Severus Snape flicked his wand lazily and a tattered piece of parchement appeared on the make shift table before them. Voldemorts voice dripped with contempt mixed with the hillarity of this situation as he read the prophecy aloud.
"THE STRONGEST MIND OF THREE WILL TURN
-You will turncoat Miss Granger.
SOMETHING WITHIN ERRUPTS AND BURNS
-A desire for power will errupt in you. As for burns..."
He broke off then, smiling wickedly that made his features seem manic.
"EXTERNAL COURAGE TO REGAIN WHAT'S LOST
-Your courage to regain my power,
A SACRIFICE OF EXPENSIVE COST
Perhaps expensive to some...they will cope without you
IF IT IS FAILED THEN IT MUST BE...DEATH...ETERNALLY
-You will not fail me for I will not accept death!"
Seeing as she still could not speak, Hermione only had the fire behind her eyes to convey her displeasure. To think that Voldemort and Snape would even think she would turn...preposterous!
"Ah...Severus, Miss Granger seems to believe my interpretaion of the prophecy is preposterous."
Voldemort swished his wand casually and lifted the silencing spell.
Hermione's eyes grew wide in astonishment but wisely held her tongue. She had only heard of Voldemorts powers of penetrating ones mind but never had she first hand felt his strength upon her. It would be wise indeed to guard her thoughts.
"Miss Granger, I will give you two hours in which you will come to an acceptable decision on your own. If not...your education will begin." Voldemort snapped coldly. Then he marched purposefully to the door and disapperated.
CHAPTER 6
DEADLY CHOICES
Severus Snape wondered how long before Hermione Granger cracked. He know too well that in six years at Howgarts she was highly the most gifted witch and could withstand immense pressure. However, this was not silly exams; this was The Dark Lord.
Slowly rising from the threadbare couch he looked at this girl whom he has known for so long, yet she has overnight it seems, grown into a young woman. He beckons her silently through the hidden staircase behind the bookshelf. Since the departure of Wormtail, there has been a musky smell trapped within the cracks of the walls. At the top of the stairs Snape grabs Hermione's elbow and ushers her forcefully into the first bedroom.
The furnishing are impovish: a small bed with a stained crochet blanket and an old table with an oil desklamp.
"You will confine yourself to this room while you are here." Snape did not look at her. "You will obviously need no foolish comforts while you are considering the Dark Lord's generous offer." And with those words he took his leave.
*____________________________
For the first time since hearing the prophecy and deciding to take this mission, Hermione questioned her decision. Alone in this room that smelled of mildew and mold a sense of forboding crippled her thought process. How could she be expected to come to an...'acceptable' decision? Encountering Voldemort face to face threw an unexpected wrench in her frail plan.
The wooden floor creaked beneath hr as she nervously paced around her prison. Grow up Hermione, she thought. Did you honestly expect to just walk up to Professor Snape and say, "Excuse me Professor, but we were just wondering whose side you're really on?" Sillyness; and now sillyness has gotten her captured.
What she needed was a better plan and the first thing on her 'To Do' list was to guard her thoughts. She had practiced Occlumency with Ron and Harry over the summer but she was so used to closing her mind to them on a daily basis, she found the task quite easy.
Two hours past like two years. Hermione paced a hole in the floor. The room was so stuffy that sweat marks pooled in patches clinging her T-shirt to her skin.
There was no use trying to escape. Every possible escape exit hid traces of impenetratable magic. She had sensed that as soon as Professor Snape left her.
Hermione let her mind wander to her former Potions Master. If he was loyal to the Order, he was concealing it very well. His eyes held nothing but the utmost loathing when he looked at her, which wasn't often. How in the name of Merlin was she going to gain his confidence?
The doorswung open shattering her reverie and Voldemort suddenly fill the room. Trailing close behind was Snape, his black eyes boring into hers. He blinked and looked away as Voldemort started to speak.
"Well Miss Granger...have you taken advantage of my generous mood and come to an acceptable decison?" His voice held restraint with the sense of something sinister veiled just behind his words.
Hermione straightened her stance and tried to speak boldly. "I-I'm not sure I understand what you mean by acceptable?"
"You try my patience...girl. Surely you know you must join me-swear alligence to the Dark Lord?" He looked incredulously at her.
Comprehension and fear rocked her body to the core. He wants me to become a Death Eater.
"I couldn't possibly..." she stammers
For a moment Hermione's mind flooded with a single thought. Don't resist. She blinked and shook her head furiously trying to clear away that traitorous thought from her mind.
"Oh yes...YOU WILL." growled Voldemort. "Time to go Severus. Bring the girl."
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CHAPTER 5
THE PROPHECY REVISITED
Hermione opened her mouth to speak but before she could Voldemort quieted her with a silencing spell.
"Severus has forwarned me of your tendency for interruption." he hissed. "I am certain that the Order has discovered the new prophecy. I wish to...enlighten you and your fallible, mudblood mind to promising facts in its regard."
Hermione shifted and gazed cooly from Voldemort to Snape. Snape's eyes burned like coal smoldering just beneath the surface yet his demeanor remained unreadable.
"Severus, if you please...the prophecy."
Severus Snape flicked his wand lazily and a tattered piece of parchement appeared on the make shift table before them. Voldemorts voice dripped with contempt mixed with the hillarity of this situation as he read the prophecy aloud.
"THE STRONGEST MIND OF THREE WILL TURN
-You will turncoat Miss Granger.
SOMETHING WITHIN ERRUPTS AND BURNS
-A desire for power will errupt in you. As for burns..."
He broke off then, smiling wickedly that made his features seem manic.
"EXTERNAL COURAGE TO REGAIN WHAT'S LOST
-Your courage to regain my power,
A SACRIFICE OF EXPENSIVE COST
Perhaps expensive to some...they will cope without you
IF IT IS FAILED THEN IT MUST BE...DEATH...ETERNALLY
-You will not fail me for I will not accept death!"
Seeing as she still could not speak, Hermione only had the fire behind her eyes to convey her displeasure. To think that Voldemort and Snape would even think she would turn...preposterous!
"Ah...Severus, Miss Granger seems to believe my interpretaion of the prophecy is preposterous."
Voldemort swished his wand casually and lifted the silencing spell.
Hermione's eyes grew wide in astonishment but wisely held her tongue. She had only heard of Voldemorts powers of penetrating ones mind but never had she first hand felt his strength upon her. It would be wise indeed to guard her thoughts.
"Miss Granger, I will give you two hours in which you will come to an acceptable decision on your own. If not...your education will begin." Voldemort snapped coldly. Then he marched purposefully to the door and disapperated.
CHAPTER 6
DEADLY CHOICES
Severus Snape wondered how long before Hermione Granger cracked. He know too well that in six years at Howgarts she was highly the most gifted witch and could withstand immense pressure. However, this was not silly exams; this was The Dark Lord.
Slowly rising from the threadbare couch he looked at this girl whom he has known for so long, yet she has overnight it seems, grown into a young woman. He beckons her silently through the hidden staircase behind the bookshelf. Since the departure of Wormtail, there has been a musky smell trapped within the cracks of the walls. At the top of the stairs Snape grabs Hermione's elbow and ushers her forcefully into the first bedroom.
The furnishing are impovish: a small bed with a stained crochet blanket and an old table with an oil desklamp.
"You will confine yourself to this room while you are here." Snape did not look at her. "You will obviously need no foolish comforts while you are considering the Dark Lord's generous offer." And with those words he took his leave.
*____________________________
For the first time since hearing the prophecy and deciding to take this mission, Hermione questioned her decision. Alone in this room that smelled of mildew and mold a sense of forboding crippled her thought process. How could she be expected to come to an...'acceptable' decision? Encountering Voldemort face to face threw an unexpected wrench in her frail plan.
The wooden floor creaked beneath hr as she nervously paced around her prison. Grow up Hermione, she thought. Did you honestly expect to just walk up to Professor Snape and say, "Excuse me Professor, but we were just wondering whose side you're really on?" Sillyness; and now sillyness has gotten her captured.
What she needed was a better plan and the first thing on her 'To Do' list was to guard her thoughts. She had practiced Occlumency with Ron and Harry over the summer but she was so used to closing her mind to them on a daily basis, she found the task quite easy.
Two hours past like two years. Hermione paced a hole in the floor. The room was so stuffy that sweat marks pooled in patches clinging her T-shirt to her skin.
There was no use trying to escape. Every possible escape exit hid traces of impenetratable magic. She had sensed that as soon as Professor Snape left her.
Hermione let her mind wander to her former Potions Master. If he was loyal to the Order, he was concealing it very well. His eyes held nothing but the utmost loathing when he looked at her, which wasn't often. How in the name of Merlin was she going to gain his confidence?
The doorswung open shattering her reverie and Voldemort suddenly fill the room. Trailing close behind was Snape, his black eyes boring into hers. He blinked and looked away as Voldemort started to speak.
"Well Miss Granger...have you taken advantage of my generous mood and come to an acceptable decison?" His voice held restraint with the sense of something sinister veiled just behind his words.
Hermione straightened her stance and tried to speak boldly. "I-I'm not sure I understand what you mean by acceptable?"
"You try my patience...girl. Surely you know you must join me-swear alligence to the Dark Lord?" He looked incredulously at her.
Comprehension and fear rocked her body to the core. He wants me to become a Death Eater.
"I couldn't possibly..." she stammers
For a moment Hermione's mind flooded with a single thought. Don't resist. She blinked and shook her head furiously trying to clear away that traitorous thought from her mind.
"Oh yes...YOU WILL." growled Voldemort. "Time to go Severus. Bring the girl."
feedback here
Thanks kelli for the words of encouragement!!! Glad you find it interesting about two different interpretations of the prophecy.
As always, I look forward to hearing your comments, so if you're reading please post so I know if I'm on the right track.
Now on witht the story...
CHAPTER 7
THE BREAKING OF WILLS
Hermione awoke to find herself lying on a palet of soft green grass. Tall pine trees swayed gently in the cool breeze. The only source of light was coming from the full moon overhead.
She pushed herself up to take in he surroundings and noticed that she was encompassed in a tight circle of Death Eaters. Hooded and masked, their heavy breathing giving off an anticipation of some significant event.
"Miss Granger has made the unfortunate choice, or should I say fortunate for me, to refuse my generosity." said Voldemort.
The Death Eaters sniggered at his remark.
"Allow me to...persuade you," he continued. "You are undoubtedly a very gifted witch although within your veins run contaminated blood. I am sure you can make up for that by putting your knowledge to better use then being on the losing side." Voldemort circled her, running the tip of his wand across her shoulders, under her untidy hair.
When Hermione said nothing, Voldemort yanked her to her feet by her hair. Although she felt sure he may have ripped some hair out, Hermione remained silent.
"Very well, Miss Granger," Voldemort hissed. "Let your education begin."
Voldemort pointed his wand to one of his Death Eaters and he stepped from his place in the circle.
"CRUCIO!" His voice pierced the night. Hermione curled into a ball as the feeling of electricity shocked her through. The pain was agonizing and she writhed pitifully on the ground. A scream threatened to escape her lips but her mouth would not work. It was relentless and Hermione could feel life slipping from her grasp. Then it stopped and she was left gasping for breath.
Around her wild cheers and cat-calls were heard from the masked figures surrounding her.
"Meet the maker of your pain, mudblood." said Voldemort and on those orders his faithful Death Eater removed his mask revealing...Professor Snape.
This pattern continued until the thirteen Death Eaters who formed the circle all had a turn, each one revealing the pleasure on their face in the aftermath.
"Another two hours to...contemplate I think." hissed Voldemort. "Take her back Severus!"
*____________________________________
Alone in her filthy room at Spinner's End Hermione cried. A lingering pain resided in the pit of her stomach where each Cruciatis Curse was centralized. Her humiliation in front of the Death Eaters was nothing compared to the draining of trust that left her soul as Snape revealed himself the first to torture her. He despised her yet, he did not gloat in merciless laughter as the others did, but remained placid as always.
Hermione had no idea how she was going to get out of this mess. She had two hours to come up with something-anything or else join the Death Eaters. She could only imagine what would happen if she refused.
Sleep took her back to the dimly lit dungeon and the words 'Look at your cauldron with the purpose...'. The words played over and over in her mind and sleep was restless.
Dawn was approaching when Voldemort and Snape came to get her. Her defiant silence again angered Voldemort and he said she would have a more active role in her education this time as he yanked her off her bed.
They apparated to a lovely street with brightly colored houses and Hermione knew instantly she was home. Her beagle, Muffy, barked with joy at seeing her Mistress. Suddenly a green flash of light flew from Voldemort's wand and her dog collapsed in silence. Hermione shreiked in terror as she realized Muffy was dead.
"IMPERIO!"
Before Hermione knew what was happening she had been hit by the Imperius Curse. She felt her mind turn like a blank page in a book waiting for words to bring it to life. Tears streamed down her face as Voldemort instructed her to kill her parents. She was walking to the front door when she remembered something Harry had said in their fourth year. Tell it no;fight it.
" No. no--no--NO!"
As she shouted the words Hermione was thrown back onto the pavement; the curse lifted.
"Unusually gifted in resisting my Imperius Curse but, no matter...I will finish them myself." said Voldemort wickedly.
"NO!" screamed Hermione. She could see the only choice before her now. "I-I will join you." she said as she hung her head, defeated.
FEEDBACKfeedback here
As always, I look forward to hearing your comments, so if you're reading please post so I know if I'm on the right track.
Now on witht the story...CHAPTER 7
THE BREAKING OF WILLS
Hermione awoke to find herself lying on a palet of soft green grass. Tall pine trees swayed gently in the cool breeze. The only source of light was coming from the full moon overhead.
She pushed herself up to take in he surroundings and noticed that she was encompassed in a tight circle of Death Eaters. Hooded and masked, their heavy breathing giving off an anticipation of some significant event.
"Miss Granger has made the unfortunate choice, or should I say fortunate for me, to refuse my generosity." said Voldemort.
The Death Eaters sniggered at his remark.
"Allow me to...persuade you," he continued. "You are undoubtedly a very gifted witch although within your veins run contaminated blood. I am sure you can make up for that by putting your knowledge to better use then being on the losing side." Voldemort circled her, running the tip of his wand across her shoulders, under her untidy hair.
When Hermione said nothing, Voldemort yanked her to her feet by her hair. Although she felt sure he may have ripped some hair out, Hermione remained silent.
"Very well, Miss Granger," Voldemort hissed. "Let your education begin."
Voldemort pointed his wand to one of his Death Eaters and he stepped from his place in the circle.
"CRUCIO!" His voice pierced the night. Hermione curled into a ball as the feeling of electricity shocked her through. The pain was agonizing and she writhed pitifully on the ground. A scream threatened to escape her lips but her mouth would not work. It was relentless and Hermione could feel life slipping from her grasp. Then it stopped and she was left gasping for breath.
Around her wild cheers and cat-calls were heard from the masked figures surrounding her.
"Meet the maker of your pain, mudblood." said Voldemort and on those orders his faithful Death Eater removed his mask revealing...Professor Snape.
This pattern continued until the thirteen Death Eaters who formed the circle all had a turn, each one revealing the pleasure on their face in the aftermath.
"Another two hours to...contemplate I think." hissed Voldemort. "Take her back Severus!"
*____________________________________
Alone in her filthy room at Spinner's End Hermione cried. A lingering pain resided in the pit of her stomach where each Cruciatis Curse was centralized. Her humiliation in front of the Death Eaters was nothing compared to the draining of trust that left her soul as Snape revealed himself the first to torture her. He despised her yet, he did not gloat in merciless laughter as the others did, but remained placid as always.
Hermione had no idea how she was going to get out of this mess. She had two hours to come up with something-anything or else join the Death Eaters. She could only imagine what would happen if she refused.
Sleep took her back to the dimly lit dungeon and the words 'Look at your cauldron with the purpose...'. The words played over and over in her mind and sleep was restless.
Dawn was approaching when Voldemort and Snape came to get her. Her defiant silence again angered Voldemort and he said she would have a more active role in her education this time as he yanked her off her bed.
They apparated to a lovely street with brightly colored houses and Hermione knew instantly she was home. Her beagle, Muffy, barked with joy at seeing her Mistress. Suddenly a green flash of light flew from Voldemort's wand and her dog collapsed in silence. Hermione shreiked in terror as she realized Muffy was dead.
"IMPERIO!"
Before Hermione knew what was happening she had been hit by the Imperius Curse. She felt her mind turn like a blank page in a book waiting for words to bring it to life. Tears streamed down her face as Voldemort instructed her to kill her parents. She was walking to the front door when she remembered something Harry had said in their fourth year. Tell it no;fight it.
" No. no--no--NO!"
As she shouted the words Hermione was thrown back onto the pavement; the curse lifted.
"Unusually gifted in resisting my Imperius Curse but, no matter...I will finish them myself." said Voldemort wickedly.
"NO!" screamed Hermione. She could see the only choice before her now. "I-I will join you." she said as she hung her head, defeated.
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CHAPTER 8
THE PROFESSOR AND THE PUPIL
Voldemort did not stand on ceremony. He marked here there in front of her house with Professor Snape as the only witness. As Voldemort spoke the incantation, he traced a blackened skull with a serpant slithering from its mouth into her left arm.
Hermione's flesh tore and seared in pain as white hot flashes sparked across her eyes. She thought she might pass out in agony if Professor Snape had not been half restraining, half supporting her. Professor Snape continued to support her even after they apparated back to Spinner's End. He needed to guide her into the shower for Hermione seemed incapable of coherant thought. Her body and mind were numb with shock and disbelief. I'm a Death Eater.
When she finished showering Hermione tip toed downstairs. She heard voices coming formt he other side of the bookcase.
"My Lord, do you think that is wise? After all, she is newly converted and not as eager to prove herself to you." said Professor Snape in a hushed voice.
"Severus," Voldemort began.. "You have done well but now that you are known to be loyal to me we need another to take your place." A slight pause had Hermione straining to hear with her ear pressed up against the wall. If only she had a pair of Extendable Ears.
"Teach her Severus. Make her understand there can be no refusal. You have two weeks"
Hermione scurried back up the stairs terrified of being discovered eavesdropping. She flew herself on her small bed and studied her new tattoo in shame. Her entire life was ruined for the service of the most vile, disgusting creature to walk the Earth. What's more, Hermione felt sick just knowing that she was confined to this house. This house that belonged to the traitor. But who was she kidding. She too was now a traitor.
Somebody help me. Hermione closed her eyes is desperation, willing a solution from this disaster set before her. She heard him climbing the stairs and sat upright just as he walked into her room.
"Miss Granger, I have been given the upleasant assigment of instructing you in your new role for the Dark Lord."
My new role?" questioned Hermione. "Am I expected to be pressed into his service so soon?"
A small smirk graced Severus Snape's pale face. "You do remember what will happen to your family if you refuse?"
Snape crossed over to Hermione and sat beside her on the bed. He took her face in his cold, clamy hands and forced her to look at him. "I am here to-help-you...aquaint yourself as role of spy. Learn well, for if you do not, it will not only be your life endangered but mines as well."
Professor Snape released her face and strode to the door. Telling her to rest ,he left without a backward glance.
*_______________________________
Hermione's first lesson was to send word tot he Order of her saftey. Professor Snape could not hide his displeasure and admiration at her perfectlly conjured Patronus. As her otter sailed swiftly out the window heading for Professor McGonagall, Hermione truned confidently to face her unlikely mentor.
"You must learn to close your mind." snapped Snape. "You will be easy prey to more powerful wizards if you cannot master this."
Everyday for four long hours Professor Snape invaded her mind. Hermione burned with embarassment as everyday she was left sobbing on her knees unable to block his intrusion.
"You must concentrate on breaking in to my mind as I am trying to invade yours." Snape sneered. "Let's try again."
And before she could brace herself, he was inside her mind reading her moods, analyzingf her thoughts: her loneliness for Ron, fear of falling behind in classes, failing her mission. Then something happened. Hermione focused all her energy into this one single thought.
I need to be in your confidence, Professor. It was like someone hit a reverse switch and now she had access to his thoughts and feelings.
Hermione was flooded with an anguish so intense she began to tremble. All at once that anguish turned to fear and Lord Voldemort's face pressed into view. Then, warmth coursing through her body. A chilled finger caressing her cheedbone with a hint of black fabric a the wrist.
Then it was gone. Professor Snape engaged her eyes and held them for what seemed an eternity. His gaze spoke to her. Do not fear me. And to her surprise her gaze spoke back. I don't. At once the connection was broken and before Hermione could question what just happened, Professor Snape was locking the door behind him.
*___________________________
Over the next two weeks Hermione was much improved in her skills. She could tell that despite himself, Professor Snape was impressed with ehr thirst for knowledge and perfection. She had seemed to master Occlumency and was improving as a legilimens daily. On an unexpected note Snape discovered her talent at charm casting with the eyes and was eager to mentor her in this area.
They also practiced being summoned by the Dark Lord. The first time her mark burned, Hermione yelped in surprise and pain. The Dark Loreds initial dispappointment with this subsided when she successfully and quietly apparated to him from Diagon Ally during her last practice.
She bowed before him keeping her eyes downcast al the while. She didn't want to be on the receiving end of his discipline because she dared to look at him. She was after all still a muggle.
"Master, you wished to see me?" Hermione kept her voice even as she spoke.
Studying with Snape over the past two weeks had its advantages. She has been voracious in learning how to control her thoughts but more then that she has learned to control her voice and her expression. She has brilliantly mastered nonverbal spells. Everything she has learned for the purpose of spying on the Order Hermione has turned it around and now used it to spy on Voldemort.
"Miss Granger, you are much improved in your skills no thanks to your filthy muggle nature but largely due to the brilliance and patience of Severus." hissed Voldemort.
"Yes master." replied Hermione, rising slowly to face him.
"Tomorrow you will rejoin your...friends," Voldemort continued slyly. "However tempted you may be to devldge your goings on here over the past fortnight, it would be prudent for you to keep silent."
"Yes, Master."
Voldemort surprisingly reached out and took Hermiones left hand in his right. He roughly pressed the tip of his wand to her maark and spoke softley the name 'Severus".
Immediately Severus Snape appeared in a deep bow.
"I wish you to bond Miss Granger to me in an unbreakable vow, Severus." Voldemort's voice cut cruelly throught the silence that followed.
"You see, I cannot have you ruining my plans with your silly girlish ideas of heroism." he spoke to Hermione.
For a split second, fear danced behind her eyes before Hermione could mask it but not bwefore she saw fury in Snapes eyes.
With a slight bow Hermione replied, "Whatever you wish of me My Lord."
With there hands still clasped together Voldemort spoke.
"Do you Hermione Granger agree to keep silent any and all activity of spying on the Order and your role as a Death Eater?" His words were ice, freezing her heart and soul. She was trapped yet again.
"I-I will"
At once, orange snake-like threads slithered around their hands and disappeared.
Hermione could not bear to look at the triumphant expression smothered across Voldemort's face.
"Excellent." he sneered as he released her hand. "You are dismissed."
**Well there it is. Hermione finds herself in a most difficult situation. How ironic that there is only one other who could possibly identify with her....
Please leave your feedback,HERE I would appreciate it.
~nevillesgirl
THE PROFESSOR AND THE PUPIL
Voldemort did not stand on ceremony. He marked here there in front of her house with Professor Snape as the only witness. As Voldemort spoke the incantation, he traced a blackened skull with a serpant slithering from its mouth into her left arm.
Hermione's flesh tore and seared in pain as white hot flashes sparked across her eyes. She thought she might pass out in agony if Professor Snape had not been half restraining, half supporting her. Professor Snape continued to support her even after they apparated back to Spinner's End. He needed to guide her into the shower for Hermione seemed incapable of coherant thought. Her body and mind were numb with shock and disbelief. I'm a Death Eater.
When she finished showering Hermione tip toed downstairs. She heard voices coming formt he other side of the bookcase.
"My Lord, do you think that is wise? After all, she is newly converted and not as eager to prove herself to you." said Professor Snape in a hushed voice.
"Severus," Voldemort began.. "You have done well but now that you are known to be loyal to me we need another to take your place." A slight pause had Hermione straining to hear with her ear pressed up against the wall. If only she had a pair of Extendable Ears.
"Teach her Severus. Make her understand there can be no refusal. You have two weeks"
Hermione scurried back up the stairs terrified of being discovered eavesdropping. She flew herself on her small bed and studied her new tattoo in shame. Her entire life was ruined for the service of the most vile, disgusting creature to walk the Earth. What's more, Hermione felt sick just knowing that she was confined to this house. This house that belonged to the traitor. But who was she kidding. She too was now a traitor.
Somebody help me. Hermione closed her eyes is desperation, willing a solution from this disaster set before her. She heard him climbing the stairs and sat upright just as he walked into her room.
"Miss Granger, I have been given the upleasant assigment of instructing you in your new role for the Dark Lord."
My new role?" questioned Hermione. "Am I expected to be pressed into his service so soon?"
A small smirk graced Severus Snape's pale face. "You do remember what will happen to your family if you refuse?"
Snape crossed over to Hermione and sat beside her on the bed. He took her face in his cold, clamy hands and forced her to look at him. "I am here to-help-you...aquaint yourself as role of spy. Learn well, for if you do not, it will not only be your life endangered but mines as well."
Professor Snape released her face and strode to the door. Telling her to rest ,he left without a backward glance.
*_______________________________
Hermione's first lesson was to send word tot he Order of her saftey. Professor Snape could not hide his displeasure and admiration at her perfectlly conjured Patronus. As her otter sailed swiftly out the window heading for Professor McGonagall, Hermione truned confidently to face her unlikely mentor.
"You must learn to close your mind." snapped Snape. "You will be easy prey to more powerful wizards if you cannot master this."
Everyday for four long hours Professor Snape invaded her mind. Hermione burned with embarassment as everyday she was left sobbing on her knees unable to block his intrusion.
"You must concentrate on breaking in to my mind as I am trying to invade yours." Snape sneered. "Let's try again."
And before she could brace herself, he was inside her mind reading her moods, analyzingf her thoughts: her loneliness for Ron, fear of falling behind in classes, failing her mission. Then something happened. Hermione focused all her energy into this one single thought.
I need to be in your confidence, Professor. It was like someone hit a reverse switch and now she had access to his thoughts and feelings.
Hermione was flooded with an anguish so intense she began to tremble. All at once that anguish turned to fear and Lord Voldemort's face pressed into view. Then, warmth coursing through her body. A chilled finger caressing her cheedbone with a hint of black fabric a the wrist.
Then it was gone. Professor Snape engaged her eyes and held them for what seemed an eternity. His gaze spoke to her. Do not fear me. And to her surprise her gaze spoke back. I don't. At once the connection was broken and before Hermione could question what just happened, Professor Snape was locking the door behind him.
*___________________________
Over the next two weeks Hermione was much improved in her skills. She could tell that despite himself, Professor Snape was impressed with ehr thirst for knowledge and perfection. She had seemed to master Occlumency and was improving as a legilimens daily. On an unexpected note Snape discovered her talent at charm casting with the eyes and was eager to mentor her in this area.
They also practiced being summoned by the Dark Lord. The first time her mark burned, Hermione yelped in surprise and pain. The Dark Loreds initial dispappointment with this subsided when she successfully and quietly apparated to him from Diagon Ally during her last practice.
She bowed before him keeping her eyes downcast al the while. She didn't want to be on the receiving end of his discipline because she dared to look at him. She was after all still a muggle.
"Master, you wished to see me?" Hermione kept her voice even as she spoke.
Studying with Snape over the past two weeks had its advantages. She has been voracious in learning how to control her thoughts but more then that she has learned to control her voice and her expression. She has brilliantly mastered nonverbal spells. Everything she has learned for the purpose of spying on the Order Hermione has turned it around and now used it to spy on Voldemort.
"Miss Granger, you are much improved in your skills no thanks to your filthy muggle nature but largely due to the brilliance and patience of Severus." hissed Voldemort.
"Yes master." replied Hermione, rising slowly to face him.
"Tomorrow you will rejoin your...friends," Voldemort continued slyly. "However tempted you may be to devldge your goings on here over the past fortnight, it would be prudent for you to keep silent."
"Yes, Master."
Voldemort surprisingly reached out and took Hermiones left hand in his right. He roughly pressed the tip of his wand to her maark and spoke softley the name 'Severus".
Immediately Severus Snape appeared in a deep bow.
"I wish you to bond Miss Granger to me in an unbreakable vow, Severus." Voldemort's voice cut cruelly throught the silence that followed.
"You see, I cannot have you ruining my plans with your silly girlish ideas of heroism." he spoke to Hermione.
For a split second, fear danced behind her eyes before Hermione could mask it but not bwefore she saw fury in Snapes eyes.
With a slight bow Hermione replied, "Whatever you wish of me My Lord."
With there hands still clasped together Voldemort spoke.
"Do you Hermione Granger agree to keep silent any and all activity of spying on the Order and your role as a Death Eater?" His words were ice, freezing her heart and soul. She was trapped yet again.
"I-I will"
At once, orange snake-like threads slithered around their hands and disappeared.
Hermione could not bear to look at the triumphant expression smothered across Voldemort's face.
"Excellent." he sneered as he released her hand. "You are dismissed."
**Well there it is. Hermione finds herself in a most difficult situation. How ironic that there is only one other who could possibly identify with her....
Please leave your feedback,HERE I would appreciate it.
~nevillesgirl
**I apologize in advance because I know that this next post will undoubtedly cause some anger in my readers. 
I hope that you will keep reading though and I am anxiously awaiting all of your comments. (Try not to be too harsh with me OK?)
CHAPTER 9
LAST NIGHT AT SPINNER'S END
Hermione walked quietly downstairs. She couldn't sleep and as this was her last night in Spinner's End, she decided be damned with her confinement. She would take her chances with Professor Snape.
She pushed open the bookshelf and as her bad luck would have it, encountered Professor Snape sitting moodily in the armchair with a glass of Firewhiskey in one hand and a half empty bottle in the other. He had abandoned his traditional black robes for a free flowing casual black tunic, making him appear uncharacteristicly boyish. His eyes however, remained stern as ever.
"What are you doing down here Granger?" slurred Professor Snape.
Hermione said nothing as she walked over to the couch next to the armchair. In a minute decision she looked over to the bar at the opposite end of the room, blinked and willed a glass to her. Catching it in mid-air Hermione confidently reached for the half empty bottle of firewhiskey in Snapes lax hand. Pouring herself a drink, she lowered the bottle to the make shift table and sank back into the couch.
Snape glared at her through beady, half-drunk eyes as Hermione sipped her drink. It burned going down but otherwise it was somewhat tasty. Ron would never believe she was drinking firewhiskey she thought.
Snape scowled and Hermione wondered if he was inside her thoughts.
Yes! came her answer in a gentle wave across her mind.
"Well stop it!" snapped Hermione.
Snape rose unsteadily out of the armchair and swiftly sat next to Hermione on the couch, his knee touching hers.
"What did you expect to happen when you volunteered for your...mission Miss Granger?" spat Snape. He kept his eyes plastered to her face but she hid her gaze from him. How did he know she volunteered?
"Come now," he continued. "Why did you volunteer in the first place? Wanted to be all grown up did you? Well here's your chance to be a...big girl."
Hermione winced as Professor Snape savagely gripped her shoulders with both hands and forced her to look at him. She could smell the alcohol on his breath as he bent forward to rub his slightly stubbled cheek to hers.
Hermione summoned her concentratin and silently thought the incantation for the stinging hex. It was so powerful that it knocked Snape off the couch. Hermione set down her empty glass and tried to step around him but Snape blocked her path.
" 'fraid are we? I saw your mind...it is illeagal." His voice taunted her as grim realization spread across her face. "Hanging around Potter has given you the impression of invincibility. I assure you that is not the case."
Hermione trembled, rooted to the spot between the couch and staircase. She recoiled under the intensity of his stare yet intuitively she knew it was not from fear or loathing, but from a raging heat scorching her chest and melting down her stomach, thighs and finally tingling her toes.
Snape stalked her with his eyes, pushing her backwards until she was flat against the bookcase. Blocking her with one arm up against the shelf, he drank her in. She could feel it...like static electricity transfering from her being to his. Confusion crippled her words and thoughts and she stood helplessly pinned to the wall.
Snape cautiously raised his hand to hr face and more gently then Hermione could ever imagine, touched her cheek with his index finger. He let his head fall slightly to ther shoulder.
"Hermione."
It was barely and audible whisper but the simplicity of just her name on his lips resounded through her brain.
Taking advantage of this unusual show of weakness, Hermione shoved forcefully against Professor Snape, sending him sprawling across the floor while she ran for the stairs and saftey of her bedroom. Before she closed the door she thought she heard a menecing growl and the name "Weasley" float up the staircase.
FEEDBACKHERE
I hope that you will keep reading though and I am anxiously awaiting all of your comments. (Try not to be too harsh with me OK?) CHAPTER 9
LAST NIGHT AT SPINNER'S END
Hermione walked quietly downstairs. She couldn't sleep and as this was her last night in Spinner's End, she decided be damned with her confinement. She would take her chances with Professor Snape.
She pushed open the bookshelf and as her bad luck would have it, encountered Professor Snape sitting moodily in the armchair with a glass of Firewhiskey in one hand and a half empty bottle in the other. He had abandoned his traditional black robes for a free flowing casual black tunic, making him appear uncharacteristicly boyish. His eyes however, remained stern as ever.
"What are you doing down here Granger?" slurred Professor Snape.
Hermione said nothing as she walked over to the couch next to the armchair. In a minute decision she looked over to the bar at the opposite end of the room, blinked and willed a glass to her. Catching it in mid-air Hermione confidently reached for the half empty bottle of firewhiskey in Snapes lax hand. Pouring herself a drink, she lowered the bottle to the make shift table and sank back into the couch.
Snape glared at her through beady, half-drunk eyes as Hermione sipped her drink. It burned going down but otherwise it was somewhat tasty. Ron would never believe she was drinking firewhiskey she thought.
Snape scowled and Hermione wondered if he was inside her thoughts.
Yes! came her answer in a gentle wave across her mind.
"Well stop it!" snapped Hermione.
Snape rose unsteadily out of the armchair and swiftly sat next to Hermione on the couch, his knee touching hers.
"What did you expect to happen when you volunteered for your...mission Miss Granger?" spat Snape. He kept his eyes plastered to her face but she hid her gaze from him. How did he know she volunteered?
"Come now," he continued. "Why did you volunteer in the first place? Wanted to be all grown up did you? Well here's your chance to be a...big girl."
Hermione winced as Professor Snape savagely gripped her shoulders with both hands and forced her to look at him. She could smell the alcohol on his breath as he bent forward to rub his slightly stubbled cheek to hers.
Hermione summoned her concentratin and silently thought the incantation for the stinging hex. It was so powerful that it knocked Snape off the couch. Hermione set down her empty glass and tried to step around him but Snape blocked her path.
" 'fraid are we? I saw your mind...it is illeagal." His voice taunted her as grim realization spread across her face. "Hanging around Potter has given you the impression of invincibility. I assure you that is not the case."
Hermione trembled, rooted to the spot between the couch and staircase. She recoiled under the intensity of his stare yet intuitively she knew it was not from fear or loathing, but from a raging heat scorching her chest and melting down her stomach, thighs and finally tingling her toes.
Snape stalked her with his eyes, pushing her backwards until she was flat against the bookcase. Blocking her with one arm up against the shelf, he drank her in. She could feel it...like static electricity transfering from her being to his. Confusion crippled her words and thoughts and she stood helplessly pinned to the wall.
Snape cautiously raised his hand to hr face and more gently then Hermione could ever imagine, touched her cheek with his index finger. He let his head fall slightly to ther shoulder.
"Hermione."
It was barely and audible whisper but the simplicity of just her name on his lips resounded through her brain.
Taking advantage of this unusual show of weakness, Hermione shoved forcefully against Professor Snape, sending him sprawling across the floor while she ran for the stairs and saftey of her bedroom. Before she closed the door she thought she heard a menecing growl and the name "Weasley" float up the staircase.
FEEDBACKHERE
CHAPTER 10
NEW YEAR'S EVE
It was unusually humid for a New Year's Eve day and yhermione was helping Mrs. Weasley and Ginny in the kitchen. Number 12 Grimmauld Place bustled with busy bodies getting ready for the party that evening.
Fred and George were arranging decorations and self exploding fireworks around the living room. Mad Eye Moody was heading security as he sound proofed the house. Bill and Charlie had transfigured the folding chairs they were supposed to be setting up and were having a dual with them. Fleur was cheering Bill on enthusiasticly.
Hermione looked expectantly out the window for Ron and Harry. They had a lead on one of the Horcruxes and were expected back at any moment. It had been a month since Hermione had seen Ron at the Three Broomsticks and she missed him terribly. When she saw his shaggy red hair suddenly appear at the end of the street, she squealed in excitement. Mrs. Weasley had to restrain her for it seemed she would rush out to meet him.
"That's not wise my dear." said Mrs. Weasley gently as she and Ginny winked at each other smartly.
It was an eternity before Ron was finally in the door. Hermione couldn't contain herself any longer and jumped recklessly into his arms wrapping her legs around his waist. As she showered his face with quick kisses, the entire house stopped to fully appreciate how undignified and wonderful this display of affection was. Harry however, gave Mrs. Weasley a sharp look, his eyebrows drawn together.
After the ruckus quieted down, Harry spoke.
"We ran into Bellatrix, Narcissa and Snape outside of Borgin and Burkes." Harry spat. "They did not see us, calm down Hermione, but we did manage to get close enough for Extendable Ears."
Fred and George grinned proudly.
"They are planning an escape on Azkaban--tonight at midnight." said Ron seriously.
They room suddenly became intensely charged with anger. Hermion know whom they were mad at but she had not yet the proof to give them regarding his innocence.
"Who was speaking when you heard this information?" asked Hermione quickly.
"Snape." said Harry quietly. His voice carried no trace of hatred but his eyes burned with it.
Hermione's head began to spin. Snape definatley know better then to disclose such important information in such a public place. Hermione's heart sank and she felt a slight pulse in her stomach as she realized this could only be a test designed specificlly for her. She swooned slightly and grabbed onto Ginny before she fell.
"Are you alright?" asked Ginny with worry plastered on her face.
"Yeah, just hot all of a sudden. I'm going to lie down."
Hermione excused herself to the privacy of her bedroom. It was now or never. This is the exact situation for why she spent years in secret learning to do it. It was illeagal yes, but the greater good would indeed benefit, somehow.
Hermione screwed up her face in concentration and felt that oddly familiar pull at her mid section. She remembered that this sense of uncomfortable imploding would be temporary as she shrank down farther to the floor.
*_____________________________________________
In the other room the plans continued. Professor McGonagall had arrived and determinded that for her own safety, Hrmione would not be permitted to accompany the raiding party. It was also decided that Harry, Ron, Neville, Lupin, Tonks, Moody and Arthur would station themselves in the prison while Ginny, Bill, Fleur, Charlie and Shackelbolt would patrol outside. McGonagall would wait back at headquarters with reinforcements if need be.
"We need to be in position by Eleven o'clock--sharp." barked Mad-eye.
Everyone nodded in agreement and then busied themselves in preperaton for that evenings party. Everyone was so preoccupied that on one noticed the brown, hairy tarantula skirt swiftly across the room and under the door, or the big black shiny spider lurking atop the filthy rafters.
Once back inside her room Hermione bolted the door from inside, place an unbreakable charm on it and snuck out her window into the tree beside it. She shimmied down and walked swiftly to the end of the street where she apparated.
A few minutes later Hermione was in a deep bow before the Dark Lord. After devulging her information, Voldemort eyed Hermione suspiciously and said "And did Harry say who was his informant?"
Hermione did not hesitate her reply. "Bellatrix, Master."
Voldemort stood, his back to Hermione. "You've done well," he said in a hushed whisper and swished his wand. Instantly a pair of sparkling diamond stud earrings appeared on Hermiones dainly ears.
"You are most kind, My Lord." said Hermione with a slight curtsey.
"You best get back before you are missed" snapped Voldemort and waved his had in dismissal. Before she left, Hermione heard Voldemort call for Bellatrix.
*_______________________________________
Hermione had just unlocked her bedroom doore when Ron burst in, a sheepish grin on his face.
"Did you fall asleep? I was calling you for twenty minutes." he asked.
Hermione nodded and followed him downstairs.
"Where is everyone?" she asked.
"Getting ready for the Par-tay...that's why I came to fetch you." he said. "Ginny needs help dolling up for Harry I suppose."
Hermione kissed him curtly on the cheek and sprinted back upstairs to help Ginny.
A few hours later the party was in full swing. The house was busting at the seams with order members dancing, eating and for once genuinely having a good time. Hermione was wrapped in Ron's arms lost in his eyes as they danced. The song was an upbeat number by the Weird Sisters but Hermione was content just swaying slowly.
"You look beautiful tonight." whispered Ron. "The way those earrings keep sparkling makes you look dazzling."
Indeed Hermione had taken pains with her appearance. Her longsleeved, off the shoulder dress was black and hugged her in allthe right places. She had a touch of color on her eyes and a sparkling light pink lip gloss accentuated her pouty lips. She knew she looked good.
Hermoine lowered her head to Ron's chest and closed her eyes.
"Hermione?"
Ron's voice, usually so carefree, was suddenly do timid and unsure that Hermione looked up at him slightly concered.
"I know I have no right to ask you this." he continued. "I mean...umm...will you wait for me?"
Hermione didn't mask her surprise. Her eyes wide, mouth ajar, she gave no reply. She couldn't. The future was so uncertain.
"Babe, I know this war is dangerous and...but I love you. Love is love, just like forever is forever. Will you? " Ron was breathless having just gushed out these last few words. Now he waited.
Hermione smiled and shook her head yes. Ron let out a whoop that brought all eyes on him. He lowered to one knee and slipped a think gold band enhanced with three red rubies a the center on her left ring finger.
At once the room errupted in cheers. They all knew, thought Hermione as she saw approval on every face in the room. Ginny scurried over to hug her while Ron was being congratulated by every man in the house.
"Sorry to break up the party folks" interupted Mad Eye. " Time to head out."
The room was filled with hugs and kisses and well wishes, then all was silent.
*____________________________________________________
Hermione had settled into the plush, bloodred couch in the family room next to Molly. She was reading Practical Transfiguration for Daily Living, trying to catch up on work she had missed while Mrs. Weasley was trying unsuccessfully to brush the tangles from Hermoine's hair.
Professor McGonagall was seated at the cherrywood desk in the corner trying furiously to concentrate on grading essays for her fifth year students. Hermione felt some sympathy for her. She knew that taking on the dual role as Headmistress and teacher was her choice but Professor McGonagall also had the Order to look after as well. It was obvious that right now that was the only thing on her mind.
The front door burst open and Harry, followed by the members of the raiding party strode through looking thoroughly bewildered.
"Your back so soon." replied McGonagall in astonishment.
"Gone!" snapped Harry. "They were already gone when we got there!"
Rookwood, Avery, Lucius, free: the thought made Hermiones' insides retch.
A heated debate followed. Everyone had an opinion about the events of the evening. Harry was shouting and cursing. Ginny was unsuccessfully trying to subdue him. Mr. and Mrs. Weasley were speaking in hushed tones while Lupin and Tonks merely nodded in silent agreement.
Ron had made his way over to the couch and plopped himself down in exhaustion.
"What do you think about all this?" he asked Hermione conversationally.
She was about to respond when she felt that familiar burning sensation on her left arm. Hermione knew she had to go. She just needed to find the right excuse.
"Ron, excuse me but...I'm not feeling well...girl problems y'know." she said lamely. "Please tell everyone I'm going to bed."
Without waiting for a response, Hermiond dashed up the stairs and into her bedroom.
**There it is. Hermiones first act of treachary against her friends. Sorry guys, it's gonna get worse before it gets better. Leave feedback. I'm always interested to hear what you guys think.FEEDBACK HERE
~nevillesgirl
NEW YEAR'S EVE
It was unusually humid for a New Year's Eve day and yhermione was helping Mrs. Weasley and Ginny in the kitchen. Number 12 Grimmauld Place bustled with busy bodies getting ready for the party that evening.
Fred and George were arranging decorations and self exploding fireworks around the living room. Mad Eye Moody was heading security as he sound proofed the house. Bill and Charlie had transfigured the folding chairs they were supposed to be setting up and were having a dual with them. Fleur was cheering Bill on enthusiasticly.
Hermione looked expectantly out the window for Ron and Harry. They had a lead on one of the Horcruxes and were expected back at any moment. It had been a month since Hermione had seen Ron at the Three Broomsticks and she missed him terribly. When she saw his shaggy red hair suddenly appear at the end of the street, she squealed in excitement. Mrs. Weasley had to restrain her for it seemed she would rush out to meet him.
"That's not wise my dear." said Mrs. Weasley gently as she and Ginny winked at each other smartly.
It was an eternity before Ron was finally in the door. Hermione couldn't contain herself any longer and jumped recklessly into his arms wrapping her legs around his waist. As she showered his face with quick kisses, the entire house stopped to fully appreciate how undignified and wonderful this display of affection was. Harry however, gave Mrs. Weasley a sharp look, his eyebrows drawn together.
After the ruckus quieted down, Harry spoke.
"We ran into Bellatrix, Narcissa and Snape outside of Borgin and Burkes." Harry spat. "They did not see us, calm down Hermione, but we did manage to get close enough for Extendable Ears."
Fred and George grinned proudly.
"They are planning an escape on Azkaban--tonight at midnight." said Ron seriously.
They room suddenly became intensely charged with anger. Hermion know whom they were mad at but she had not yet the proof to give them regarding his innocence.
"Who was speaking when you heard this information?" asked Hermione quickly.
"Snape." said Harry quietly. His voice carried no trace of hatred but his eyes burned with it.
Hermione's head began to spin. Snape definatley know better then to disclose such important information in such a public place. Hermione's heart sank and she felt a slight pulse in her stomach as she realized this could only be a test designed specificlly for her. She swooned slightly and grabbed onto Ginny before she fell.
"Are you alright?" asked Ginny with worry plastered on her face.
"Yeah, just hot all of a sudden. I'm going to lie down."
Hermione excused herself to the privacy of her bedroom. It was now or never. This is the exact situation for why she spent years in secret learning to do it. It was illeagal yes, but the greater good would indeed benefit, somehow.
Hermione screwed up her face in concentration and felt that oddly familiar pull at her mid section. She remembered that this sense of uncomfortable imploding would be temporary as she shrank down farther to the floor.
*_____________________________________________
In the other room the plans continued. Professor McGonagall had arrived and determinded that for her own safety, Hrmione would not be permitted to accompany the raiding party. It was also decided that Harry, Ron, Neville, Lupin, Tonks, Moody and Arthur would station themselves in the prison while Ginny, Bill, Fleur, Charlie and Shackelbolt would patrol outside. McGonagall would wait back at headquarters with reinforcements if need be.
"We need to be in position by Eleven o'clock--sharp." barked Mad-eye.
Everyone nodded in agreement and then busied themselves in preperaton for that evenings party. Everyone was so preoccupied that on one noticed the brown, hairy tarantula skirt swiftly across the room and under the door, or the big black shiny spider lurking atop the filthy rafters.
Once back inside her room Hermione bolted the door from inside, place an unbreakable charm on it and snuck out her window into the tree beside it. She shimmied down and walked swiftly to the end of the street where she apparated.
A few minutes later Hermione was in a deep bow before the Dark Lord. After devulging her information, Voldemort eyed Hermione suspiciously and said "And did Harry say who was his informant?"
Hermione did not hesitate her reply. "Bellatrix, Master."
Voldemort stood, his back to Hermione. "You've done well," he said in a hushed whisper and swished his wand. Instantly a pair of sparkling diamond stud earrings appeared on Hermiones dainly ears.
"You are most kind, My Lord." said Hermione with a slight curtsey.
"You best get back before you are missed" snapped Voldemort and waved his had in dismissal. Before she left, Hermione heard Voldemort call for Bellatrix.
*_______________________________________
Hermione had just unlocked her bedroom doore when Ron burst in, a sheepish grin on his face.
"Did you fall asleep? I was calling you for twenty minutes." he asked.
Hermione nodded and followed him downstairs.
"Where is everyone?" she asked.
"Getting ready for the Par-tay...that's why I came to fetch you." he said. "Ginny needs help dolling up for Harry I suppose."
Hermione kissed him curtly on the cheek and sprinted back upstairs to help Ginny.
A few hours later the party was in full swing. The house was busting at the seams with order members dancing, eating and for once genuinely having a good time. Hermione was wrapped in Ron's arms lost in his eyes as they danced. The song was an upbeat number by the Weird Sisters but Hermione was content just swaying slowly.
"You look beautiful tonight." whispered Ron. "The way those earrings keep sparkling makes you look dazzling."
Indeed Hermione had taken pains with her appearance. Her longsleeved, off the shoulder dress was black and hugged her in allthe right places. She had a touch of color on her eyes and a sparkling light pink lip gloss accentuated her pouty lips. She knew she looked good.
Hermoine lowered her head to Ron's chest and closed her eyes.
"Hermione?"
Ron's voice, usually so carefree, was suddenly do timid and unsure that Hermione looked up at him slightly concered.
"I know I have no right to ask you this." he continued. "I mean...umm...will you wait for me?"
Hermione didn't mask her surprise. Her eyes wide, mouth ajar, she gave no reply. She couldn't. The future was so uncertain.
"Babe, I know this war is dangerous and...but I love you. Love is love, just like forever is forever. Will you? " Ron was breathless having just gushed out these last few words. Now he waited.
Hermione smiled and shook her head yes. Ron let out a whoop that brought all eyes on him. He lowered to one knee and slipped a think gold band enhanced with three red rubies a the center on her left ring finger.
At once the room errupted in cheers. They all knew, thought Hermione as she saw approval on every face in the room. Ginny scurried over to hug her while Ron was being congratulated by every man in the house.
"Sorry to break up the party folks" interupted Mad Eye. " Time to head out."
The room was filled with hugs and kisses and well wishes, then all was silent.
*____________________________________________________
Hermione had settled into the plush, bloodred couch in the family room next to Molly. She was reading Practical Transfiguration for Daily Living, trying to catch up on work she had missed while Mrs. Weasley was trying unsuccessfully to brush the tangles from Hermoine's hair.
Professor McGonagall was seated at the cherrywood desk in the corner trying furiously to concentrate on grading essays for her fifth year students. Hermione felt some sympathy for her. She knew that taking on the dual role as Headmistress and teacher was her choice but Professor McGonagall also had the Order to look after as well. It was obvious that right now that was the only thing on her mind.
The front door burst open and Harry, followed by the members of the raiding party strode through looking thoroughly bewildered.
"Your back so soon." replied McGonagall in astonishment.
"Gone!" snapped Harry. "They were already gone when we got there!"
Rookwood, Avery, Lucius, free: the thought made Hermiones' insides retch.
A heated debate followed. Everyone had an opinion about the events of the evening. Harry was shouting and cursing. Ginny was unsuccessfully trying to subdue him. Mr. and Mrs. Weasley were speaking in hushed tones while Lupin and Tonks merely nodded in silent agreement.
Ron had made his way over to the couch and plopped himself down in exhaustion.
"What do you think about all this?" he asked Hermione conversationally.
She was about to respond when she felt that familiar burning sensation on her left arm. Hermione knew she had to go. She just needed to find the right excuse.
"Ron, excuse me but...I'm not feeling well...girl problems y'know." she said lamely. "Please tell everyone I'm going to bed."
Without waiting for a response, Hermiond dashed up the stairs and into her bedroom.
**There it is. Hermiones first act of treachary against her friends. Sorry guys, it's gonna get worse before it gets better. Leave feedback. I'm always interested to hear what you guys think.FEEDBACK HERE
~nevillesgirl
**Hi all! I am in a bit of a rush this morning but I want to get you started on Ch. 11. It is a rather long Chap though so I will post part of it now and then update it (hopefully) later today with the rest.
Enjoy.
~nevillesgirl
CHAPTER 11-PART I
REVELATIONS
Two months later Hermione was sitting in the library engulfed in her studies at Hogwarts. N.E.W.T.S were fast approaching and she still had so much left to learn. She was even more burdened now becuase of her mission for the order and her very occupying role as "spy" for Voldemort.
So far The Dark Lord has been pleased with her information and has not suspected her of treachery. This is little comfort to her though, as she realizes the information she leaks to him sabotages her friends. Her last bit of information came at a price. The Weasley's son Fred was the recipient of a very powerful Memory Charm. Avery took pleasure in recounting the event to the Dark Lord in saying the shipment of invisibility cloaks going throught the Weasley's Joke Shop was now destroyed. Fred was in St. Mungo's making slow progress to recovery.
In the meantime, Harry had found and destroyed a horcrux that had once been a beautiful cup with a frolicking badger on its crest and even that brought Hermione little joy.
Ron was becoming suspicious of her distracted behavior. He had already commented a few times...more then a few times on her secretiveness and midnight trists with Merlin-knows-who. Ron thinks I'm having an affair and maybe I am she says quietly to herself. For on more then one occasion sh has let her mind be caressed by thoughts of her dark, dangerous, former Potions Professor. Hermione hated to admit this to herself but she missed the intimate, intellectual connection she shared with Professor Snape during the two weeks of her "training". True, he was brusque, always businesslike when it came to her lessons but then she remembered her last night at Spinner's End. Vividly she recalls the heat of his breath on her skin, the gentleness in his touch and most importantly the intensity of his stare. It confuses her to keep dwelling on it but she can't seem to help it.
Once she thought he invaded her mind and told her to "see him" but when she looked about the Gryffindor Common Room the only living thing she saw was a big, black shiny spider nestled snuggly in his web by the fireplace.
Hermione let out a shreik that brought a disapproving glare from Madam Pince.
Surely he couldn't...but how?...Of course if she could then he...
Hermione quickly shoved her books into he bag and raced back to the common room. Please let it be empty, please...please.
The common room was indeed empty and Hermione walked swiftly to the fireplace. There was nothing there but the remnants of a handsome looking spider web. Hermione was not dissuaded though and dropped to her hands and knees.
"Professor Snape," she whispered urgently. "Professor..."
Hermione's eyes searched quickly. Perhaps she was mistaken, but as she prepared to rise, she saw eight spindly legs appear from behind the poker. Hermione scooped up the spider and spoke softly, holding it up close to her mouth.
"11 pm....Forbidden Forest."
"Hermione! What are you doing?" As Hermione spun around, she saw a look of disgust on Ron's face.
"I just killed this spider and was getting rid of it before you got here." Hermione said sweetly. "I know how squeamish you get around them."
Hermione walked to the window, opened it, and dropped the spider casually outside.
*End of Part I
CHAPTER 11 PART II
REVELATIONS
At ten minutes to Eleven, Hermione cast a Disillusionment charm on herself and made her way out to the Forbidden Forest. She wondered briefly if Professor Snape would even come. She had so many questions. Throughout dinner she had worked herself up so much that she burned with anger. He was spying on her! Her preoccupied mind didn't go unnoticed. Several Times Ron or Harry had to ask her if she was listening to them.
The air outside was brisk, feeding her passion to discover the trusth. She walked deep intot the forest constantly looking behind her to make sure she wasn't followed. She Disillusioned herself and sat upon a boulder wainting quietly. It wasn't long before Professor Snape loomed before her, his black, billowing robes trailing after him.
For a moment niether spoke, each regarding the other with understandable suspicion, then Professor Snape broke the silence.
"Get on with it Miss Granger. It was you who asked for this meeting." His vioice was strong yet somehow he seemed more approachable then in previous meetings.
"Professor, your an...an...animagus." fumbled Hermione for now that she had him here, she didn't know what to say to him.
"Finally got there did you?" sneered Snape. "Is that all?" He moved as if to leave but Hermione reached out and grabbed his arm.
"No, wait," she was pleading. She knew it but she couldn't help it. "Does the Dark Lord know?"
"NOBODY knows. Do you understand?"
Hermione nodded. "The order thinks..."
Snape held up his hand to silence her. "The Dark Lord can sense such things. Tell Her I remain forever failthful tothe one who's life I took."
"But my torture? You..."
"Think Miss Granger. We both must play out part convincingly or the Dark Lords' vengence will be terrible. People get hurt. People...die."
Hermione closed her eyes, willing that image out of her mind. Snape came and sat beside her.
"Thus far your performance is very convincing." said Snape slowly. "A time will come when you will need to choose between something difficult for the overall benefit of the cause or in something utterly selfish. It comes to us all. If you choose poorly, we die."
In the distance the clock in the bell tower chimed. It was midnight. She needed to get back intot he castle before lockdown. Hermione turned to say goodbye to Professor Snape but he had already transformed and was scuttling out of sight.
*_____________________________________________
Hermione was breathless by the time she reached the Gryffindor Common Room. Her hands and feet were half frozen from the cold so she headed straight for the fireplace to warm up for a minute before she wen to bed.
"Nice walk outside did'ya," came a surly voice from behind her.
Hermion sighed and slowly turned to face Ron. He wasn't alone Harry stood a few paces back, his arms crossed, a concerned look on his face.
"Ron," Hermione began. She really had no idea how to explain why she had been outside past curfew. She longed to tell him the truth but knew of course that was impossible. "I just fancied a walk..." she said lamely.
In the Forbidden Forest? How...romantic." Ron accused. His eyes were screaming his feelings of betrayal.
"Hermione, what's going on with you?" asked Harry cautiously. "You've been distracted for weeks."
"I just have a bit of pressure wouldn't you say? I mean, YOU DO know all albout PRESSURE don't you Harry?"
Hermiones' retort took him completely by surprise. She's never kept anything from him and Ron. She's never thrown sarcasm around about the task Harry muast do before.
Hermione spun on her heels and headed for the girls dormitory. Ron caught her hand and forced her to look at him.
"Running away? Feeling a bit...dirty are we?"
HOt tears sprung to her eyes asHermione violently shoved Ron to the side and raced upstairs. I'd like to see him try and follow me she thought. Perhaps he'd like to slide down the stairs again.
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Enjoy.
~nevillesgirl
CHAPTER 11-PART I
REVELATIONS
Two months later Hermione was sitting in the library engulfed in her studies at Hogwarts. N.E.W.T.S were fast approaching and she still had so much left to learn. She was even more burdened now becuase of her mission for the order and her very occupying role as "spy" for Voldemort.
So far The Dark Lord has been pleased with her information and has not suspected her of treachery. This is little comfort to her though, as she realizes the information she leaks to him sabotages her friends. Her last bit of information came at a price. The Weasley's son Fred was the recipient of a very powerful Memory Charm. Avery took pleasure in recounting the event to the Dark Lord in saying the shipment of invisibility cloaks going throught the Weasley's Joke Shop was now destroyed. Fred was in St. Mungo's making slow progress to recovery.
In the meantime, Harry had found and destroyed a horcrux that had once been a beautiful cup with a frolicking badger on its crest and even that brought Hermione little joy.
Ron was becoming suspicious of her distracted behavior. He had already commented a few times...more then a few times on her secretiveness and midnight trists with Merlin-knows-who. Ron thinks I'm having an affair and maybe I am she says quietly to herself. For on more then one occasion sh has let her mind be caressed by thoughts of her dark, dangerous, former Potions Professor. Hermione hated to admit this to herself but she missed the intimate, intellectual connection she shared with Professor Snape during the two weeks of her "training". True, he was brusque, always businesslike when it came to her lessons but then she remembered her last night at Spinner's End. Vividly she recalls the heat of his breath on her skin, the gentleness in his touch and most importantly the intensity of his stare. It confuses her to keep dwelling on it but she can't seem to help it.
Once she thought he invaded her mind and told her to "see him" but when she looked about the Gryffindor Common Room the only living thing she saw was a big, black shiny spider nestled snuggly in his web by the fireplace.
Hermione let out a shreik that brought a disapproving glare from Madam Pince.
Surely he couldn't...but how?...Of course if she could then he...
Hermione quickly shoved her books into he bag and raced back to the common room. Please let it be empty, please...please.
The common room was indeed empty and Hermione walked swiftly to the fireplace. There was nothing there but the remnants of a handsome looking spider web. Hermione was not dissuaded though and dropped to her hands and knees.
"Professor Snape," she whispered urgently. "Professor..."
Hermione's eyes searched quickly. Perhaps she was mistaken, but as she prepared to rise, she saw eight spindly legs appear from behind the poker. Hermione scooped up the spider and spoke softly, holding it up close to her mouth.
"11 pm....Forbidden Forest."
"Hermione! What are you doing?" As Hermione spun around, she saw a look of disgust on Ron's face.
"I just killed this spider and was getting rid of it before you got here." Hermione said sweetly. "I know how squeamish you get around them."
Hermione walked to the window, opened it, and dropped the spider casually outside.
*End of Part I
CHAPTER 11 PART II
REVELATIONS
At ten minutes to Eleven, Hermione cast a Disillusionment charm on herself and made her way out to the Forbidden Forest. She wondered briefly if Professor Snape would even come. She had so many questions. Throughout dinner she had worked herself up so much that she burned with anger. He was spying on her! Her preoccupied mind didn't go unnoticed. Several Times Ron or Harry had to ask her if she was listening to them.
The air outside was brisk, feeding her passion to discover the trusth. She walked deep intot the forest constantly looking behind her to make sure she wasn't followed. She Disillusioned herself and sat upon a boulder wainting quietly. It wasn't long before Professor Snape loomed before her, his black, billowing robes trailing after him.
For a moment niether spoke, each regarding the other with understandable suspicion, then Professor Snape broke the silence.
"Get on with it Miss Granger. It was you who asked for this meeting." His vioice was strong yet somehow he seemed more approachable then in previous meetings.
"Professor, your an...an...animagus." fumbled Hermione for now that she had him here, she didn't know what to say to him.
"Finally got there did you?" sneered Snape. "Is that all?" He moved as if to leave but Hermione reached out and grabbed his arm.
"No, wait," she was pleading. She knew it but she couldn't help it. "Does the Dark Lord know?"
"NOBODY knows. Do you understand?"
Hermione nodded. "The order thinks..."
Snape held up his hand to silence her. "The Dark Lord can sense such things. Tell Her I remain forever failthful tothe one who's life I took."
"But my torture? You..."
"Think Miss Granger. We both must play out part convincingly or the Dark Lords' vengence will be terrible. People get hurt. People...die."
Hermione closed her eyes, willing that image out of her mind. Snape came and sat beside her.
"Thus far your performance is very convincing." said Snape slowly. "A time will come when you will need to choose between something difficult for the overall benefit of the cause or in something utterly selfish. It comes to us all. If you choose poorly, we die."
In the distance the clock in the bell tower chimed. It was midnight. She needed to get back intot he castle before lockdown. Hermione turned to say goodbye to Professor Snape but he had already transformed and was scuttling out of sight.
*_____________________________________________
Hermione was breathless by the time she reached the Gryffindor Common Room. Her hands and feet were half frozen from the cold so she headed straight for the fireplace to warm up for a minute before she wen to bed.
"Nice walk outside did'ya," came a surly voice from behind her.
Hermion sighed and slowly turned to face Ron. He wasn't alone Harry stood a few paces back, his arms crossed, a concerned look on his face.
"Ron," Hermione began. She really had no idea how to explain why she had been outside past curfew. She longed to tell him the truth but knew of course that was impossible. "I just fancied a walk..." she said lamely.
In the Forbidden Forest? How...romantic." Ron accused. His eyes were screaming his feelings of betrayal.
"Hermione, what's going on with you?" asked Harry cautiously. "You've been distracted for weeks."
"I just have a bit of pressure wouldn't you say? I mean, YOU DO know all albout PRESSURE don't you Harry?"
Hermiones' retort took him completely by surprise. She's never kept anything from him and Ron. She's never thrown sarcasm around about the task Harry muast do before.
Hermione spun on her heels and headed for the girls dormitory. Ron caught her hand and forced her to look at him.
"Running away? Feeling a bit...dirty are we?"
HOt tears sprung to her eyes asHermione violently shoved Ron to the side and raced upstairs. I'd like to see him try and follow me she thought. Perhaps he'd like to slide down the stairs again.
Please FEEDBACK HERE
CHAPTER 12
THE TRUTH BE TOLD
Hermione has been looking forward to this Hogsmeade weekend for a week. Tensions between Ron and Harry were merely tolorable borderlining on explodable. She knew that she had hurt them with her words and actions but they hurt her as well. If they only knew. Pride was the barrier blocking their reconciliation.
To make matters worse her thoughts were all jumbled up again. When she was supposed to be indentifying the characteristics and properties of Dragons Blood, she was thinking about Ron, then Harry, then her mission, then her spying, then Professor Snape, then back to Dragon's Blood.
Hermione grabbed her flask of Focus and Meditation potion and shoved it into her school bag. She was going to have some peace and quiet today. The abandoned Wand Shop in Diagon Alley was perfect. Hermione knew it was against the rules to leave Hogsmeade but it was the perfect opportunity to sneak away. She would be able to concentrate in peace.
Hogsmeade Village was bustling with witches and wizards shopping that no one noticed Hermione steathly sneak around the corner of Madam Pudinfoots and apparate to Diagon Alley. Inside Ollivanders Hermione situated herself atop the dusty counter and pulled out her Potions book to finish her essay on Dragon's Blood.
Hermione knew she had company before she actually saw him. Ron's thoughts, so full of paranoia, connected so clearly with her thoughts she didn't have to ask why he was here. Hermione's heart sank as she realized Ron no longer trusted her.
This had to end. Ron needs to know the truth. Hermione strained to remember the Dark Lords exact wording...Keep silent any and all activity of spying on the order and your role as a Death Eater. Of course! Why hadn't she thought of this before? She couldn't tell Ron anything with her WORDS, but she could tell him with her mind.
"Ronald, three is no one here." Hermione began as she hopped down from the counter. "Please come out so I can talk to you."
Ron stepped out from behind an old, broken down shelf, hands stuffed in his pockets.
"I need you to come sit beside me and listen to what I am about to tell you without interruption,"she continued. "I have wanted to share these things with you for so long but I didn't figure out how I cold until just now."
Hermione reached into her bag and pulled out her Potion. "I need you to drink half of this. I will drink the other half. It is a potion to help with focus and meditation." Hermione explained as a puzzled look crossed Ron's face. "You and I are going to converse with our minds."
"But why?" asked Ron skeptically, looking at the potion.
"Because if one word escapes my lips about what I am about to tell you, I will die." Hermione took a deep breath. "I am bound by an unbreakable vow."
Hermione could see that Ron was struggling to believe her. She handed him the flask.
"Please," was all she said.
Ron tipped the flask to his lips and tasted the peppermint liquid as it slid down his throat. Hermione took the flask and did the same.
How do we know it worked, wondered Ron.
If you can hear me in your mind, it worked.
Ron's eyes widened. He could hear Hermione yet she spoke nothing.
Ron, very early in my mission I was captured by Voldemort. He tortured and threatened me until I swore to become a Death Eater. I have been marked.
Hermione raised her hand to silence Ron as he made an attempt to protest. I have been forced into a double agent role as spy. I am still loyal to the Order and so is Professor Snape. And I love you. Do you understand what I have told you?
Ron nodded.
"Good. Now quickly go find Harry and tell him everthing I just told you, then meet me back here in ten minutes. We need to make up." Hermione gave Ron a sly smile and shooed him off toward the back door.
Twenty minuted later Hermione was relaxing in Ron's embrace after being thoroughly kissed. It had been so long since they had enjoyed each other's company without suspicion. They weren't talking about homework or NEWTS or about quidditch or the Order. In fact they weren't talking at all. The voices outside were a subtle reminder that the world was getting along just finde without them. It was heavenly to be in that moment and feel perfectly peaceful. Hermione wished it wouldn't end.
Ron, upon his return had said that Harry was skeptical of the explanation he was given but seemed to accept that he would be filled in at a later time.
A searing pain burned black under her longsleeved shirt. Hermione jumped and groaned in frustration as she started to pull away from Ron.
"Don't go Hermione," pleaded Ron.
"I must, "said Hermione.
"Is this how it's going to be from now on?" asked Ron in desperation. "He calls and you go running?"
"Until Harry destroys him, yes." Hermione said matter of factly
Hermione rose, said a quick goodbye an disapparated.
*_______________________________
All is out in the open now. Well all except for how Professor Snape feels...
As always, thanks for reading and your feedback is anxiously anticipated.
FEEDBACKHERE PLEASE
~nevillesgirl
THE TRUTH BE TOLD
Hermione has been looking forward to this Hogsmeade weekend for a week. Tensions between Ron and Harry were merely tolorable borderlining on explodable. She knew that she had hurt them with her words and actions but they hurt her as well. If they only knew. Pride was the barrier blocking their reconciliation.
To make matters worse her thoughts were all jumbled up again. When she was supposed to be indentifying the characteristics and properties of Dragons Blood, she was thinking about Ron, then Harry, then her mission, then her spying, then Professor Snape, then back to Dragon's Blood.
Hermione grabbed her flask of Focus and Meditation potion and shoved it into her school bag. She was going to have some peace and quiet today. The abandoned Wand Shop in Diagon Alley was perfect. Hermione knew it was against the rules to leave Hogsmeade but it was the perfect opportunity to sneak away. She would be able to concentrate in peace.
Hogsmeade Village was bustling with witches and wizards shopping that no one noticed Hermione steathly sneak around the corner of Madam Pudinfoots and apparate to Diagon Alley. Inside Ollivanders Hermione situated herself atop the dusty counter and pulled out her Potions book to finish her essay on Dragon's Blood.
Hermione knew she had company before she actually saw him. Ron's thoughts, so full of paranoia, connected so clearly with her thoughts she didn't have to ask why he was here. Hermione's heart sank as she realized Ron no longer trusted her.
This had to end. Ron needs to know the truth. Hermione strained to remember the Dark Lords exact wording...Keep silent any and all activity of spying on the order and your role as a Death Eater. Of course! Why hadn't she thought of this before? She couldn't tell Ron anything with her WORDS, but she could tell him with her mind.
"Ronald, three is no one here." Hermione began as she hopped down from the counter. "Please come out so I can talk to you."
Ron stepped out from behind an old, broken down shelf, hands stuffed in his pockets.
"I need you to come sit beside me and listen to what I am about to tell you without interruption,"she continued. "I have wanted to share these things with you for so long but I didn't figure out how I cold until just now."
Hermione reached into her bag and pulled out her Potion. "I need you to drink half of this. I will drink the other half. It is a potion to help with focus and meditation." Hermione explained as a puzzled look crossed Ron's face. "You and I are going to converse with our minds."
"But why?" asked Ron skeptically, looking at the potion.
"Because if one word escapes my lips about what I am about to tell you, I will die." Hermione took a deep breath. "I am bound by an unbreakable vow."
Hermione could see that Ron was struggling to believe her. She handed him the flask.
"Please," was all she said.
Ron tipped the flask to his lips and tasted the peppermint liquid as it slid down his throat. Hermione took the flask and did the same.
How do we know it worked, wondered Ron.
If you can hear me in your mind, it worked.
Ron's eyes widened. He could hear Hermione yet she spoke nothing.
Ron, very early in my mission I was captured by Voldemort. He tortured and threatened me until I swore to become a Death Eater. I have been marked.
Hermione raised her hand to silence Ron as he made an attempt to protest. I have been forced into a double agent role as spy. I am still loyal to the Order and so is Professor Snape. And I love you. Do you understand what I have told you?
Ron nodded.
"Good. Now quickly go find Harry and tell him everthing I just told you, then meet me back here in ten minutes. We need to make up." Hermione gave Ron a sly smile and shooed him off toward the back door.
Twenty minuted later Hermione was relaxing in Ron's embrace after being thoroughly kissed. It had been so long since they had enjoyed each other's company without suspicion. They weren't talking about homework or NEWTS or about quidditch or the Order. In fact they weren't talking at all. The voices outside were a subtle reminder that the world was getting along just finde without them. It was heavenly to be in that moment and feel perfectly peaceful. Hermione wished it wouldn't end.
Ron, upon his return had said that Harry was skeptical of the explanation he was given but seemed to accept that he would be filled in at a later time.
A searing pain burned black under her longsleeved shirt. Hermione jumped and groaned in frustration as she started to pull away from Ron.
"Don't go Hermione," pleaded Ron.
"I must, "said Hermione.
"Is this how it's going to be from now on?" asked Ron in desperation. "He calls and you go running?"
"Until Harry destroys him, yes." Hermione said matter of factly
Hermione rose, said a quick goodbye an disapparated.
*_______________________________
All is out in the open now. Well all except for how Professor Snape feels...
As always, thanks for reading and your feedback is anxiously anticipated.
FEEDBACKHERE PLEASE
~nevillesgirl
CHAPTER 13
AN EXPENSIVE COST
It was midnight but every lamp burned brightly in Number twelve Grimmauld Place. Harry, Hermione, Ron, Ginny and Neville were joined by half the members of the Order. They were all gathered around the large kitchen table, faces tense.
Kingsley Shackelbolt overheard Lucius Malfoy trying to persuade the Muggle Prime Minister to release the authorization codes for his nuclear weapons. The price for his refusal would be the destruction of London Bridge during morning rush hour.
"Good thing you broke through the door before Malfoy could complete the Imperius Curse." said Tonks to Shackelbolt. The others nodded in agreement
"Well whatever we do," said Ginny, "we'd best get to the bridge earlier then we did the last time."
"How do we know they haven't abandoned that plan?" asked Neville. "I mean, they know Shackelbolt overheard Malfoy don't they?"
A quick look was exchanged between Ron, Harry, Hermione and McGonagall
"Because," said McGonagall sternly, "it has been confirmed."
Indeed Hermione did confirm all of this to Ron. He was getting quite good at legilimency. He in turn told McGonagall and Harry everything. In a compromising twist, the Dark Lord wished Hermione to join the attemped rescue as not to arouse suspicion, however she was not to raise her want to assist one side or the other.
Mad Eye wanted to station the majority of the defenses around the perimeter of the bridge but Hermione knew Lord Voldemort's plan was to strike the foundation. After some consideration it was decided that Bill, Lupin and Neville would cover the North end of the bridge while Harry, Mad Eye and Ron would cover the South. Ginny and Tonks would give support to the North end. Meanwhile Hermione and Molly would support the South. Mr. Weasley, Shackelbolt and McGonagall would watch from a distance with back up if it was needed.
It was a brisk spring morning, clear and crisp. Hermione could smell the fresh rain that had fallen overnight. She wrapped her scarf tighter around her neck. She felt completely helpless. Was this how Professor Snape felt during every battle that has happened over the years? Not being able to join in and help the side you truly believe in. It was a complete waste of talent and knowledge.
It didn't take long to get into position. The hard part was waiting. Hermione closed her eyes and sent a message over to Ron who was stationed over by the support beam . I love you too was his reply.
Thought you were smarter then that-guard your thoughts! The voice was as familiar as it was foreign in her mind and Hermione knew at once Professor Snape was there.
"They're here, Mrs. Weasley." was all she got out before a jet of red splashed the space before her.
It was pandemonium. Hermione could see streams of red and green flying from the North support and knew Bill, Lupin and Neville had their hands full.
Hermione couldn't worry too much about what was happening on the other side, when streaks of red and green were flashing right in front of her. Harry and Snape were locked in a vicious battle though it seemed like most of their curses were missing there marks.
Hermione had never seen Mad Eye Moddy dual before. She knew by the way he expertly handled his wand and deflected curse after curse that he was a well trained Auror even if he was retired. Rookwood was on the defensive before this challenge began.
Ron however was locked in a rainstorm of curses being thrown at him from every angle. Lucius Malfoy's face was contorted with determination and rage as Ron narrowly kept avoiding one curse after another.
Hermione could see Molly Weasley providing support by casting protective charms around Ron, but he was moving so quickly, they weren't much help.
Molly stiffled a scream as Ron side stepped a stunning curse and it hit her squarely in the chest. Hermione felt a rise of panic in her lungs, stifling her breath. There must be something she could do. Voldemort would surely know if she used her wand. She looked around quickly and decided that a well timed rockslide might just do the trick.
Silently, evasively, Hermione looked at the rocks behind the support beam with the purpose of knocking them loose. She blinked quickly and the rocks started to tumble down the river bank.
Rookwood was tripped up byt he avalance as Mad Eye yelled, "Petrificus Totalus!" A second later a huge boulder came crashing down the hill landing on the helpless Rookwood crushing him beneath it. Hermione was silently congratulating her cunning when she noticed Ron's arms flailing in the air. Her rockslide had tripped him up as well. Malfoy, taking advantage of Ron's unbalanced state, sent his curse flying with such vehemence, it was barely a blur. the rushing sound of a train accompanied the jet of green that hit Ron firmly in the chest. A dazed expression crossed Ron's handsome, sweaty face as he crumpled instantly to the ground. A light spray of pebbles covered his body as the rockslide ended.
Hermione's scream echoed loudly underneath the bridge. As suddenly as the Death Eaters appeared, they were gone. Hermione continued screaming as the others quickly joined her surrounding Ron's lifeless body. Lupin was helping Neville, who was sporting a black eye and a giant gash oozing blood brom his left cheek.
It was Harry who spoke, emotion sputtering through his words. "Bill, could you...take care of...your mother? It's probably best she...not wake...just yet. Hermione, let me...I've got to move him."
Harry had bent over Hermione and lay a comforting hand across her shoulder but she smacked it away. She had thrown herself across Ron and was sobbing uncontrolably.
"Mad Eye," said Harry. " Could you bring Ron? Everyone, back to headquarters."
Gently Harry eased Hermione off of Ron and lifted her into his arms. Then he apparated back to headquarters.
*____________________________________________
**Sorry, Sorry, Sorry. I know some of your will no doubt be sooooo mad at me. I hope you keep reading though for the entertainment of it. He is most definately gone and not pulling a Gandulf the Gray.
PLEASEFEEDBACK HERE
~nevillesgirl
AN EXPENSIVE COST
It was midnight but every lamp burned brightly in Number twelve Grimmauld Place. Harry, Hermione, Ron, Ginny and Neville were joined by half the members of the Order. They were all gathered around the large kitchen table, faces tense.
Kingsley Shackelbolt overheard Lucius Malfoy trying to persuade the Muggle Prime Minister to release the authorization codes for his nuclear weapons. The price for his refusal would be the destruction of London Bridge during morning rush hour.
"Good thing you broke through the door before Malfoy could complete the Imperius Curse." said Tonks to Shackelbolt. The others nodded in agreement
"Well whatever we do," said Ginny, "we'd best get to the bridge earlier then we did the last time."
"How do we know they haven't abandoned that plan?" asked Neville. "I mean, they know Shackelbolt overheard Malfoy don't they?"
A quick look was exchanged between Ron, Harry, Hermione and McGonagall
"Because," said McGonagall sternly, "it has been confirmed."
Indeed Hermione did confirm all of this to Ron. He was getting quite good at legilimency. He in turn told McGonagall and Harry everything. In a compromising twist, the Dark Lord wished Hermione to join the attemped rescue as not to arouse suspicion, however she was not to raise her want to assist one side or the other.
Mad Eye wanted to station the majority of the defenses around the perimeter of the bridge but Hermione knew Lord Voldemort's plan was to strike the foundation. After some consideration it was decided that Bill, Lupin and Neville would cover the North end of the bridge while Harry, Mad Eye and Ron would cover the South. Ginny and Tonks would give support to the North end. Meanwhile Hermione and Molly would support the South. Mr. Weasley, Shackelbolt and McGonagall would watch from a distance with back up if it was needed.
It was a brisk spring morning, clear and crisp. Hermione could smell the fresh rain that had fallen overnight. She wrapped her scarf tighter around her neck. She felt completely helpless. Was this how Professor Snape felt during every battle that has happened over the years? Not being able to join in and help the side you truly believe in. It was a complete waste of talent and knowledge.
It didn't take long to get into position. The hard part was waiting. Hermione closed her eyes and sent a message over to Ron who was stationed over by the support beam . I love you too was his reply.
Thought you were smarter then that-guard your thoughts! The voice was as familiar as it was foreign in her mind and Hermione knew at once Professor Snape was there.
"They're here, Mrs. Weasley." was all she got out before a jet of red splashed the space before her.
It was pandemonium. Hermione could see streams of red and green flying from the North support and knew Bill, Lupin and Neville had their hands full.
Hermione couldn't worry too much about what was happening on the other side, when streaks of red and green were flashing right in front of her. Harry and Snape were locked in a vicious battle though it seemed like most of their curses were missing there marks.
Hermione had never seen Mad Eye Moddy dual before. She knew by the way he expertly handled his wand and deflected curse after curse that he was a well trained Auror even if he was retired. Rookwood was on the defensive before this challenge began.
Ron however was locked in a rainstorm of curses being thrown at him from every angle. Lucius Malfoy's face was contorted with determination and rage as Ron narrowly kept avoiding one curse after another.
Hermione could see Molly Weasley providing support by casting protective charms around Ron, but he was moving so quickly, they weren't much help.
Molly stiffled a scream as Ron side stepped a stunning curse and it hit her squarely in the chest. Hermione felt a rise of panic in her lungs, stifling her breath. There must be something she could do. Voldemort would surely know if she used her wand. She looked around quickly and decided that a well timed rockslide might just do the trick.
Silently, evasively, Hermione looked at the rocks behind the support beam with the purpose of knocking them loose. She blinked quickly and the rocks started to tumble down the river bank.
Rookwood was tripped up byt he avalance as Mad Eye yelled, "Petrificus Totalus!" A second later a huge boulder came crashing down the hill landing on the helpless Rookwood crushing him beneath it. Hermione was silently congratulating her cunning when she noticed Ron's arms flailing in the air. Her rockslide had tripped him up as well. Malfoy, taking advantage of Ron's unbalanced state, sent his curse flying with such vehemence, it was barely a blur. the rushing sound of a train accompanied the jet of green that hit Ron firmly in the chest. A dazed expression crossed Ron's handsome, sweaty face as he crumpled instantly to the ground. A light spray of pebbles covered his body as the rockslide ended.
Hermione's scream echoed loudly underneath the bridge. As suddenly as the Death Eaters appeared, they were gone. Hermione continued screaming as the others quickly joined her surrounding Ron's lifeless body. Lupin was helping Neville, who was sporting a black eye and a giant gash oozing blood brom his left cheek.
It was Harry who spoke, emotion sputtering through his words. "Bill, could you...take care of...your mother? It's probably best she...not wake...just yet. Hermione, let me...I've got to move him."
Harry had bent over Hermione and lay a comforting hand across her shoulder but she smacked it away. She had thrown herself across Ron and was sobbing uncontrolably.
"Mad Eye," said Harry. " Could you bring Ron? Everyone, back to headquarters."
Gently Harry eased Hermione off of Ron and lifted her into his arms. Then he apparated back to headquarters.
*____________________________________________
**Sorry, Sorry, Sorry. I know some of your will no doubt be sooooo mad at me. I hope you keep reading though for the entertainment of it. He is most definately gone and not pulling a Gandulf the Gray.
PLEASEFEEDBACK HERE
~nevillesgirl
CHAPTER 14
Hermione didn't know how long she had been up in her room at Number Twelve Grimmauld Plance. She didn't know how many breakfasts she's refused to eat. She didn't know which homework she has yet to complete. Hermione didn't know when she stopped crying or took a shower or even climbed into bed. Hermione certainly didn't know if she got any sleep because her dreams were only nightmares of Ron.
It seemed impossible to Hermione that she would never again see Ron in the Great Hall jamming fried chicken into his mouth while being rude to Sir Nicholas. That she would never see him cringe at another spider. It seemed unreal that she would never see Ron play Quidditch or get all loopy around Fleur again. But most of all it just didn't seem possible that she would never feel Ron's arms arounder her rf kiss his lips ever again.
Absentmindedly Hermione twirled the ruby clustered ring on her left hand. She would never be Mrs. Rondald Weasley. Unintentional tears began to flow from her pink, puffy eyes again.
There was a firm knock on her door and it slowly opened to reveal Harry. He looked haggard and exhausted. His hair was just as unkempt as ever and his eyes were almost as swollen as Hermiones.
He walked over to the bed and climbed in beside Hermione. He held her until her tears seemed to run dry the well in which they came from. For a long time neither of them spoke. They just comforted one another in thier grief silently.
Finally Harry pulled away and looked at Hermione.
"Hermione," Harry began. "I don't want to talk about Ron. It-It's too hard. I need to talk about something though or I'll go mad. You don't have to say anything if you don't want to."
Hermione nodded.
"I wanted to tell you I...I believe you about Snape." Harry rushed on like he would lose his nerve if he didn't. "When the fighting began, I was going to take on Malfoy but Snape grabbed my arm and shook his head. It started out normal enough, with both of us shooting curses at one another." Harry paused. "Then...then he was...in my head. He said 'Don't fight me. I will not harm you.' Of course I didn't believe him but then he said ' If you can't trust me, trust your friend. She told you my true intentions.'
Harry stood up and started pacing at the foot of Hermione's bed.
"After that, every spell he threw missed and I decided to trust you. I followed his lead and started missing accidentally on purpose. Hermione, I...I know you are hurting. I need you to hang in there for just a while longer. I can't...I can't do this if I lose you too."
Harry walked over to Hermione and kissed her softly on the cheek.
"I'm going to be gone for a while. I may have found the last Horcrux but it will be difficult and Kreacher will have to come with me." Harry rolled his eyes and groaned at that prospect.
Hermione grinned slightly as Harry turned and walked out the door.
*___________________________________________
A few days later Hermione had finally managed to leave her self-imposed solitary confinement and go downstairs for breakfast. After Molly whipped up Belgian waffles with strawberries and whipped cream, she brought out Hermiones school books and notes.
"Professor McGonagall had these sent over for you, dear. Wants you to begin preparing for your NEWTS I expect." she said kindly.
Hermione looked over at the older woman as she took her books. Molly Weasley had dark circles bulging under her eyes. Her usually bright, fly-away red hair hung limp, cascading her pale face, hiding her gaunt cheek bones.
Hermione starred blankly at her text books.They seemed to be mocking her. Screaming to her in silent horror that for all her immense knowledge, it could not save Ron. What good are NEWTS when for all practicalities sake they can't help you save the one you love?
Hermione took her books up to ther room. She had the feeling Mrs. Weasley wanted to talk but she couldn't bring herself to do it. She locked the door, threw the books haphazardly on the foor and sat crossed legged in the middle of the room.
Hermione felt inescapably, uncharacteristicly lost. She yearned to feel alive, useful; to be doing something worthwhle. Her lonliness permiated every ounce of her being. The last time she remembers feeling this way was six years ago when she first started at Hogwarts with no friends and no other with her enthusiasm for learning. While Harryand Ron did not share her thirst for knowledge, they did respect it, especially Ron. He needed her and now he was gone. Who else would ever need her? She felt empty. Not even her studies gave her a sense of satisfaction.
She was smothering in her lonliness. True, she had kept herself isolated to protect her raw emotions for a few days but even so, who could she talk to who would understand her torment, her inner demons of guilt at her part in betrayal.
Hermione got to her feet and pulled on her light pink wind breaker jacket. The weather was just cool enough for it. She needed to go for a walk and breathe some fresh air. She needed some advice. There was only one person Hermione could think of who could remotely, even possibly understand her predicament, and she was off to Spinner's End to find him.
*________________________
**As always, I look forward to your awesome feedback.
FEEDBACK HERE
~nevillesgirl
Hermione didn't know how long she had been up in her room at Number Twelve Grimmauld Plance. She didn't know how many breakfasts she's refused to eat. She didn't know which homework she has yet to complete. Hermione didn't know when she stopped crying or took a shower or even climbed into bed. Hermione certainly didn't know if she got any sleep because her dreams were only nightmares of Ron.
It seemed impossible to Hermione that she would never again see Ron in the Great Hall jamming fried chicken into his mouth while being rude to Sir Nicholas. That she would never see him cringe at another spider. It seemed unreal that she would never see Ron play Quidditch or get all loopy around Fleur again. But most of all it just didn't seem possible that she would never feel Ron's arms arounder her rf kiss his lips ever again.
Absentmindedly Hermione twirled the ruby clustered ring on her left hand. She would never be Mrs. Rondald Weasley. Unintentional tears began to flow from her pink, puffy eyes again.
There was a firm knock on her door and it slowly opened to reveal Harry. He looked haggard and exhausted. His hair was just as unkempt as ever and his eyes were almost as swollen as Hermiones.
He walked over to the bed and climbed in beside Hermione. He held her until her tears seemed to run dry the well in which they came from. For a long time neither of them spoke. They just comforted one another in thier grief silently.
Finally Harry pulled away and looked at Hermione.
"Hermione," Harry began. "I don't want to talk about Ron. It-It's too hard. I need to talk about something though or I'll go mad. You don't have to say anything if you don't want to."
Hermione nodded.
"I wanted to tell you I...I believe you about Snape." Harry rushed on like he would lose his nerve if he didn't. "When the fighting began, I was going to take on Malfoy but Snape grabbed my arm and shook his head. It started out normal enough, with both of us shooting curses at one another." Harry paused. "Then...then he was...in my head. He said 'Don't fight me. I will not harm you.' Of course I didn't believe him but then he said ' If you can't trust me, trust your friend. She told you my true intentions.'
Harry stood up and started pacing at the foot of Hermione's bed.
"After that, every spell he threw missed and I decided to trust you. I followed his lead and started missing accidentally on purpose. Hermione, I...I know you are hurting. I need you to hang in there for just a while longer. I can't...I can't do this if I lose you too."
Harry walked over to Hermione and kissed her softly on the cheek.
"I'm going to be gone for a while. I may have found the last Horcrux but it will be difficult and Kreacher will have to come with me." Harry rolled his eyes and groaned at that prospect.
Hermione grinned slightly as Harry turned and walked out the door.
*___________________________________________
A few days later Hermione had finally managed to leave her self-imposed solitary confinement and go downstairs for breakfast. After Molly whipped up Belgian waffles with strawberries and whipped cream, she brought out Hermiones school books and notes.
"Professor McGonagall had these sent over for you, dear. Wants you to begin preparing for your NEWTS I expect." she said kindly.
Hermione looked over at the older woman as she took her books. Molly Weasley had dark circles bulging under her eyes. Her usually bright, fly-away red hair hung limp, cascading her pale face, hiding her gaunt cheek bones.
Hermione starred blankly at her text books.They seemed to be mocking her. Screaming to her in silent horror that for all her immense knowledge, it could not save Ron. What good are NEWTS when for all practicalities sake they can't help you save the one you love?
Hermione took her books up to ther room. She had the feeling Mrs. Weasley wanted to talk but she couldn't bring herself to do it. She locked the door, threw the books haphazardly on the foor and sat crossed legged in the middle of the room.
Hermione felt inescapably, uncharacteristicly lost. She yearned to feel alive, useful; to be doing something worthwhle. Her lonliness permiated every ounce of her being. The last time she remembers feeling this way was six years ago when she first started at Hogwarts with no friends and no other with her enthusiasm for learning. While Harryand Ron did not share her thirst for knowledge, they did respect it, especially Ron. He needed her and now he was gone. Who else would ever need her? She felt empty. Not even her studies gave her a sense of satisfaction.
She was smothering in her lonliness. True, she had kept herself isolated to protect her raw emotions for a few days but even so, who could she talk to who would understand her torment, her inner demons of guilt at her part in betrayal.
Hermione got to her feet and pulled on her light pink wind breaker jacket. The weather was just cool enough for it. She needed to go for a walk and breathe some fresh air. She needed some advice. There was only one person Hermione could think of who could remotely, even possibly understand her predicament, and she was off to Spinner's End to find him.
*________________________
**As always, I look forward to your awesome feedback.
FEEDBACK HERE
~nevillesgirl
CHAPTER 15
PROFESSOR SNAPES TRUTH
Little has changed since she last encountered Spinner's End. The same balmy air hung heavily around the dilapidated brick homes badly in need of repair. Making her way up the stairs to the front door, Hermione lifted her shaking hand to knock, when she heard hushed voices coming from indoors. It was impossible to make out what was being said through the thickness of the door.
She didn't have much time to decide. Hermione screwed her face up in concentration and shrank down to the floor. Dizzying, twisting,sprawling, squatly onto the stoop, the brown, hairy tarantula squeezed under the threshhold.
"My Lord," said Snape. "She is hardly traitorous considering it was on your orders she do nothing. She could not save Rookwood anymore then she could save her own boyfriend with out being disloyal to you ." Severus Snape coerced reverence from his tone.
Keep an eye on her Severus," ordered Voldemort harshly. "If it is as you say, and that boy was her...love, she may indeed sabotage my plans in her moment of weakness. Give her a few days to grieve before you fetch her to me." said Voldemort. "I don't want to see her crying over a worthless blood-traitor. It will anger me.
Voldemort swished his cloak and disapparated.
*_______________________________________
Am I welcome? Her voice slipped into his mind and instinctively Severus was searching the corners of his home for her. He found her lurking beneath his couch.
" 'Tis safe," he said.
Hermione appeared before him pale faced, skeletal and shaking. She made her way over to the fire to warm herself when Shape spoke.
"What brings you here Miss Granger? No doubt you have seen that this is hardly a place of refuge." His voice was slippery and mocking.
Why did I think he would be different, Hermione wondered. Professor Snape had always had it in for Ron. She would find no sympathy here.
"That is where you are gravely mistaken Miss Granger." Professor Snape said sharply. "I will be the only one who knows exactly how you feel about every aspect of your circumstance.
Hermione shipped around to face him, her bushy hair obscurring her face. "STAY OUT OF MY HEAD!" she yelled as she quickly pulled her hair out of her face and into a messy ponytail.
"If you want me out of your head, perhaps you had better calm down and tell me why you are here." Professor Snape conjured two cups of tea on a tarnished silver teaset and sad stiffly on the couch.
Hermione sank wearily on the couch next to him and took a deep, ragged breath. She didn't know where to begin. Begin with Ron Weasley. She looked at Professor Snape knowing he sent her that thought. With minimal interruption Hermione confided about her engagement, her love, her emptiness, her betrayal and her guilt as it applied to Ron. Her words, once started, were a gushing fire hose, powerfully strong and unstoppable.
Professor Snape said nothing as tiny sobs escaped her lips threatening to consume her. Struggling to keep her composure, Hermione sipped her tea Finally Professor Snape spoke as he stealthly moved to the window to draw the moth eaten curtains tighter.
"What I am about to disclose has only been shared with one other." He cleared his throat nervously in an uncharacteristic display of weakness. "Your loss, your emptiness; I know what it feels like. There is a giant abyss, dark and cold resting in your chest and nothing that used to bring you pleasure will fill it. Am I correct?"
Hermione was amazed. He described her feelings exactly. "How do you know?" she politely asked.
"Because once, a very long time ago, before I was a spy or murderer, I too loved beyond reason and sanity." Professor Snape paused slightly as if haunted by memories. "She was perfect, she was pure. She embodied everything a woman was to me: beautiful, intelligent, independent. I was drawn to her against my will. She was kind, so unnaturally kind to the likes of me; a Slytherin obsessed with the Dark Arts. We met in secret to study and invent. In our seclusion we were free, openly kind to one another. In public we scorned one another. Except for once. She defended me once and I insulted her and shamed myself in the process. That is where I lost her the first time, for after that she never treated me the same. Soon after that she began dating James. James Potter.
Hermione let out a gasp of surprise. Professor Snape had not only loved, but he loved Lily Potter, Harry's mother.
"We went our seperate ways of course." He continued hurriedly as if the memories scalded his lips. "I lost her forever the night Voldemort killed her. It was my fault. I told him the prophecy that made him choose Harry. I have to live with that. You...you remind me of her in so many ways." Snape cleared his throat noisily.
Professor Snape looked at Hermione with his obsidian eyes and for once Hermione detected a flicker of emotion, regret perhaps. They shared this pain, not in the now, but on a level in whcih no one but themselves could penetrate.
"Professor, how...how do I do what is required of me when all I feel is emptiness and anger?"
"You hide." Professor Snape spoke with darkness etching his words, wrapped in experience. "You hide behind your mask of Occlumency. You close your emotions...for the time being, to accomplish what you must. When it is done you can repair the damage with your friends. You have that option. I had no friends so my only recourse was isolation."
Professor Snape rose and walked briskly to the fireplace and began coaxing life from the dying embers. When he spoke again, it was softly and full of compassion. "Miss Granger, the Dark Lord, he will require some extraordinary news from you soon to test your loyalty. You must never give away the secret of the Horcruxes however. But...you must give him something worthwhile."
"Worthwhile?" Hermione questioned.
"Come now Miss Granger, you are intelligent are you not? You must know that the Dark Lord has suffered recent losses to his supporters. He will require you to give him the edge in delivering a quick blow to the Order." Professor Snape turned and put an unsure hand upon her shoulders as Hermione began to cry.
Hermione just realized the weight of his words and the impact her betrayal would have on her friends. A real possibility existed for a lot of destruction and death. Hermione cried until exhaustion took her to a place of dreamless sleep.
Please FEEDBACK HERE
PROFESSOR SNAPES TRUTH
Little has changed since she last encountered Spinner's End. The same balmy air hung heavily around the dilapidated brick homes badly in need of repair. Making her way up the stairs to the front door, Hermione lifted her shaking hand to knock, when she heard hushed voices coming from indoors. It was impossible to make out what was being said through the thickness of the door.
She didn't have much time to decide. Hermione screwed her face up in concentration and shrank down to the floor. Dizzying, twisting,sprawling, squatly onto the stoop, the brown, hairy tarantula squeezed under the threshhold.
"My Lord," said Snape. "She is hardly traitorous considering it was on your orders she do nothing. She could not save Rookwood anymore then she could save her own boyfriend with out being disloyal to you ." Severus Snape coerced reverence from his tone.
Keep an eye on her Severus," ordered Voldemort harshly. "If it is as you say, and that boy was her...love, she may indeed sabotage my plans in her moment of weakness. Give her a few days to grieve before you fetch her to me." said Voldemort. "I don't want to see her crying over a worthless blood-traitor. It will anger me.
Voldemort swished his cloak and disapparated.
*_______________________________________
Am I welcome? Her voice slipped into his mind and instinctively Severus was searching the corners of his home for her. He found her lurking beneath his couch.
" 'Tis safe," he said.
Hermione appeared before him pale faced, skeletal and shaking. She made her way over to the fire to warm herself when Shape spoke.
"What brings you here Miss Granger? No doubt you have seen that this is hardly a place of refuge." His voice was slippery and mocking.
Why did I think he would be different, Hermione wondered. Professor Snape had always had it in for Ron. She would find no sympathy here.
"That is where you are gravely mistaken Miss Granger." Professor Snape said sharply. "I will be the only one who knows exactly how you feel about every aspect of your circumstance.
Hermione shipped around to face him, her bushy hair obscurring her face. "STAY OUT OF MY HEAD!" she yelled as she quickly pulled her hair out of her face and into a messy ponytail.
"If you want me out of your head, perhaps you had better calm down and tell me why you are here." Professor Snape conjured two cups of tea on a tarnished silver teaset and sad stiffly on the couch.
Hermione sank wearily on the couch next to him and took a deep, ragged breath. She didn't know where to begin. Begin with Ron Weasley. She looked at Professor Snape knowing he sent her that thought. With minimal interruption Hermione confided about her engagement, her love, her emptiness, her betrayal and her guilt as it applied to Ron. Her words, once started, were a gushing fire hose, powerfully strong and unstoppable.
Professor Snape said nothing as tiny sobs escaped her lips threatening to consume her. Struggling to keep her composure, Hermione sipped her tea Finally Professor Snape spoke as he stealthly moved to the window to draw the moth eaten curtains tighter.
"What I am about to disclose has only been shared with one other." He cleared his throat nervously in an uncharacteristic display of weakness. "Your loss, your emptiness; I know what it feels like. There is a giant abyss, dark and cold resting in your chest and nothing that used to bring you pleasure will fill it. Am I correct?"
Hermione was amazed. He described her feelings exactly. "How do you know?" she politely asked.
"Because once, a very long time ago, before I was a spy or murderer, I too loved beyond reason and sanity." Professor Snape paused slightly as if haunted by memories. "She was perfect, she was pure. She embodied everything a woman was to me: beautiful, intelligent, independent. I was drawn to her against my will. She was kind, so unnaturally kind to the likes of me; a Slytherin obsessed with the Dark Arts. We met in secret to study and invent. In our seclusion we were free, openly kind to one another. In public we scorned one another. Except for once. She defended me once and I insulted her and shamed myself in the process. That is where I lost her the first time, for after that she never treated me the same. Soon after that she began dating James. James Potter.
Hermione let out a gasp of surprise. Professor Snape had not only loved, but he loved Lily Potter, Harry's mother.
"We went our seperate ways of course." He continued hurriedly as if the memories scalded his lips. "I lost her forever the night Voldemort killed her. It was my fault. I told him the prophecy that made him choose Harry. I have to live with that. You...you remind me of her in so many ways." Snape cleared his throat noisily.
Professor Snape looked at Hermione with his obsidian eyes and for once Hermione detected a flicker of emotion, regret perhaps. They shared this pain, not in the now, but on a level in whcih no one but themselves could penetrate.
"Professor, how...how do I do what is required of me when all I feel is emptiness and anger?"
"You hide." Professor Snape spoke with darkness etching his words, wrapped in experience. "You hide behind your mask of Occlumency. You close your emotions...for the time being, to accomplish what you must. When it is done you can repair the damage with your friends. You have that option. I had no friends so my only recourse was isolation."
Professor Snape rose and walked briskly to the fireplace and began coaxing life from the dying embers. When he spoke again, it was softly and full of compassion. "Miss Granger, the Dark Lord, he will require some extraordinary news from you soon to test your loyalty. You must never give away the secret of the Horcruxes however. But...you must give him something worthwhile."
"Worthwhile?" Hermione questioned.
"Come now Miss Granger, you are intelligent are you not? You must know that the Dark Lord has suffered recent losses to his supporters. He will require you to give him the edge in delivering a quick blow to the Order." Professor Snape turned and put an unsure hand upon her shoulders as Hermione began to cry.
Hermione just realized the weight of his words and the impact her betrayal would have on her friends. A real possibility existed for a lot of destruction and death. Hermione cried until exhaustion took her to a place of dreamless sleep.
Please FEEDBACK HERE
CHAPTER 16
MINDS AND GROUNDS INVADED
"So am I to understand Granger, that no one has seen or heard from Harry Potter in over a week? That according to you, the loss of this Ronald Weasley completely devestated him and he is grieving in privete?"
"Yes My Lord," said Hermione.
Voldemort ran his spidery looking fingers across his head, deep in thought, his eyes closed. When he opened them, his gaze fell upon Severus Snape. "Excellent!" he said. "He will be even easier for me to destroy, in his weakened love-infested stupor, once I find him."
"Master," Severus said slowly. "What Miss Granger says about Greyback..."
"IT WILL BE DONE!" snapped Voldemort. "The girl's information makes in imperitive that we proceed at once since the Order is after him. Getting inside Hogwarts will, of course be challenging seeing as we no longer have someone on the inside anymore, however..."
"My Lord," interrupted Hermione. She cowed as he rounded upon her, fury flashing form his red eyes at being interrupted, but she bravely continued. "I believe if you capture one Remus Lupin, he will prove to be a wealth of information on the gettings in and out of Hogwarts."
Snape looked shrewdly at Hermione from behind veiled eyes, then turned his icy stare upon Voldemort.
"Severus, bring him to me." said Voldemort with a sinister laugh.
*__________________________________________
Hermione had been back at Hogwarts two month when news of Remus Lupin's disappearance reached her ears. Tonks was understandably out of her mind with worry, as once again her vividly pink hair returned to a mousey shade of light brown.
With the disappearance of Lupin, the Order grew increasingly restless. They had taken him in Hogsmeade, in broad daylight and there seems to be no witnesses. Even McGonagall seemed more alert then before, increasing the guards and enchantments around Hogwarts.
Secretly Hermione was pleased with this because now at least there was some protection against the invasion that Hermione knew was yet to happen. Voldemort has yet to inform her of the plan. He and Professor Snape have been isolated in careful preperation. No one was to know any detail of the plan until The Dark Lord gave you orders personally. This very fact has Bellatrix Lestrange all upset. She has been harassing every Death Eater with a possible inside connection to no avail. Rumor has it she argued intensely with Snape about why The Dark Lord was not confiding in her just two days ago.
Snape. Hermione still could not believe how she completely humiliated herself that night she went to see him after Ron's death. To his credit, he never brought it up again. He even managed to offer sound advice and strategize with her very amicably on controlling her emotions however, Hermione could not escape the fact that she had woke up on the couch the fateful night curled up in his awkward embrace.
Hermione shuddered in embarrassment and stretched her legs straight as she leaned against the burly oak tree on the west side of the castle. The steady rays of the pre-summer sunshine did little to emit the shiver housed in her bones.
Over the course of the last two months Hermione did indeed take Snapes advice and close off her emotions. It was particulary difficult because as always Snape believed in being practical and would conjure visions of her loved ones at the most inopportune moments.
One such incident saw Hermione studiously hunched over her cauldron intent on producing a splendid rendition of Amortentia, the most powerful love potion known to exist, when to her dismay, the spiral shaped steam rising from her couldron suddenly took the shape of a sheepishly grinning Ronald Weasley. A surprised scream tore from her lips as she accidently tipped too much Rose Quartz Dust into her cauldron. A high pitched, school-girl giggle floated from the opening and her potion turned a sickening shade of orange-pink signaling its complete uslessness.
On another occasion Hermione graced a black eye from rushing to hug Harry whom she thought was hanging around outside of the common room one evening waiting for her to return from the Library, only to find it a bewitched suit of armour.
Both times Snape informed her that until she could effectively hide her emotions and do her job, The Dark Lord could and would easily manipulate her thoughts and actions. He would prey on her weakness.
It was no use. Hermione closed her Transfuguratin book in disgust. Severus would be disappointed in my ability to remain focused she thought gloomily. "Arrgh." Her yelp of frustration brought several stares from passing students. She needed to stop thinking about Severus Snape.
Hermione decided to return to the castle. Dusk flirted with the sky and soon whatever warmth the sun teased her with would be gone. It would be best to get indoors.
It was nine thirty and Hermione and Ginny were enjoying a friendly, but disasterous game of Wizards Chess, seeing as both of them only learned to play because of thier respective ex-boyfriends.
Hermione was just thinking how Ron would think her soft for not smashing Ginnys' Rook to pieces when her scar burned viciously and a harsh whisper resounded in her mind.
"Do not participate, keep your cover."
Instinctively Hermione rose and ran quickly to the window. Off to the left a faint light glowed in Hagrid's Hut but the dark, swarthy momement stealing from the base of the whomping willow caught her eye. Hermione gasped audibly and Ginny jumped and joined her at the window.
A half transformed werewolf wearing a glazed expression stood with his hind paw pushing the secret knot on the wolloping tree, allowing the intruders easy access to the grounds. Once the last masked figure was clear, normal expression overtook Remus Lupin's grotesque features as he released the knot allowing the unrestrained brances to swarm uninhibited around his body. As the clouds parted revealing a magnificent full moon, it's beams illuminated the grounds showing a now fully transformed Remus Lupin being beaten mercilessly by the possessed branches.
*_______________________________________
Oh my goodness what have you done Hermione? *gasp shreik*
As always anxiously awaiting your FEEDBACK HERE
~nevillesgirl
MINDS AND GROUNDS INVADED
"So am I to understand Granger, that no one has seen or heard from Harry Potter in over a week? That according to you, the loss of this Ronald Weasley completely devestated him and he is grieving in privete?"
"Yes My Lord," said Hermione.
Voldemort ran his spidery looking fingers across his head, deep in thought, his eyes closed. When he opened them, his gaze fell upon Severus Snape. "Excellent!" he said. "He will be even easier for me to destroy, in his weakened love-infested stupor, once I find him."
"Master," Severus said slowly. "What Miss Granger says about Greyback..."
"IT WILL BE DONE!" snapped Voldemort. "The girl's information makes in imperitive that we proceed at once since the Order is after him. Getting inside Hogwarts will, of course be challenging seeing as we no longer have someone on the inside anymore, however..."
"My Lord," interrupted Hermione. She cowed as he rounded upon her, fury flashing form his red eyes at being interrupted, but she bravely continued. "I believe if you capture one Remus Lupin, he will prove to be a wealth of information on the gettings in and out of Hogwarts."
Snape looked shrewdly at Hermione from behind veiled eyes, then turned his icy stare upon Voldemort.
"Severus, bring him to me." said Voldemort with a sinister laugh.
*__________________________________________
Hermione had been back at Hogwarts two month when news of Remus Lupin's disappearance reached her ears. Tonks was understandably out of her mind with worry, as once again her vividly pink hair returned to a mousey shade of light brown.
With the disappearance of Lupin, the Order grew increasingly restless. They had taken him in Hogsmeade, in broad daylight and there seems to be no witnesses. Even McGonagall seemed more alert then before, increasing the guards and enchantments around Hogwarts.
Secretly Hermione was pleased with this because now at least there was some protection against the invasion that Hermione knew was yet to happen. Voldemort has yet to inform her of the plan. He and Professor Snape have been isolated in careful preperation. No one was to know any detail of the plan until The Dark Lord gave you orders personally. This very fact has Bellatrix Lestrange all upset. She has been harassing every Death Eater with a possible inside connection to no avail. Rumor has it she argued intensely with Snape about why The Dark Lord was not confiding in her just two days ago.
Snape. Hermione still could not believe how she completely humiliated herself that night she went to see him after Ron's death. To his credit, he never brought it up again. He even managed to offer sound advice and strategize with her very amicably on controlling her emotions however, Hermione could not escape the fact that she had woke up on the couch the fateful night curled up in his awkward embrace.
Hermione shuddered in embarrassment and stretched her legs straight as she leaned against the burly oak tree on the west side of the castle. The steady rays of the pre-summer sunshine did little to emit the shiver housed in her bones.
Over the course of the last two months Hermione did indeed take Snapes advice and close off her emotions. It was particulary difficult because as always Snape believed in being practical and would conjure visions of her loved ones at the most inopportune moments.
One such incident saw Hermione studiously hunched over her cauldron intent on producing a splendid rendition of Amortentia, the most powerful love potion known to exist, when to her dismay, the spiral shaped steam rising from her couldron suddenly took the shape of a sheepishly grinning Ronald Weasley. A surprised scream tore from her lips as she accidently tipped too much Rose Quartz Dust into her cauldron. A high pitched, school-girl giggle floated from the opening and her potion turned a sickening shade of orange-pink signaling its complete uslessness.
On another occasion Hermione graced a black eye from rushing to hug Harry whom she thought was hanging around outside of the common room one evening waiting for her to return from the Library, only to find it a bewitched suit of armour.
Both times Snape informed her that until she could effectively hide her emotions and do her job, The Dark Lord could and would easily manipulate her thoughts and actions. He would prey on her weakness.
It was no use. Hermione closed her Transfuguratin book in disgust. Severus would be disappointed in my ability to remain focused she thought gloomily. "Arrgh." Her yelp of frustration brought several stares from passing students. She needed to stop thinking about Severus Snape.
Hermione decided to return to the castle. Dusk flirted with the sky and soon whatever warmth the sun teased her with would be gone. It would be best to get indoors.
It was nine thirty and Hermione and Ginny were enjoying a friendly, but disasterous game of Wizards Chess, seeing as both of them only learned to play because of thier respective ex-boyfriends.
Hermione was just thinking how Ron would think her soft for not smashing Ginnys' Rook to pieces when her scar burned viciously and a harsh whisper resounded in her mind.
"Do not participate, keep your cover."
Instinctively Hermione rose and ran quickly to the window. Off to the left a faint light glowed in Hagrid's Hut but the dark, swarthy momement stealing from the base of the whomping willow caught her eye. Hermione gasped audibly and Ginny jumped and joined her at the window.
A half transformed werewolf wearing a glazed expression stood with his hind paw pushing the secret knot on the wolloping tree, allowing the intruders easy access to the grounds. Once the last masked figure was clear, normal expression overtook Remus Lupin's grotesque features as he released the knot allowing the unrestrained brances to swarm uninhibited around his body. As the clouds parted revealing a magnificent full moon, it's beams illuminated the grounds showing a now fully transformed Remus Lupin being beaten mercilessly by the possessed branches.
*_______________________________________
Oh my goodness what have you done Hermione? *gasp shreik*
As always anxiously awaiting your FEEDBACK HERE
~nevillesgirl
CHAPTER 17
HOWLS AND SCREAMS
Screams of terror woke most of the Gryffindor dormitories and soon the common room was flooded with students shoving at the window for a peak of the commotion outdoors. Hermione and Ginny were trapped, being smushed up against the glass as people clamored for a better view. Intermittened jets of red and green lit up the night sky.
Hermione couldn't take it anymore. Her oxygen was being cut off by the swarms of terrified students. Turning to face the crowd she focused her intention, thought Immobulus and blinked but nothing happened. Again, conclusively thinking of the freezing charm, Hermione focused and blinked but nothing changed. Why isn't it working?
"Hermione," came Ginny's muffled voice, "Freezing Charm on three." She grasped her wand from her robes and pointed it at the crowd. "Three-two-one."
"IMMOBULUS!" They shouted together and the crowd froze instantly.
"I'll contain this crowd Ginny," said Hermione as the crowd stilled in shocked silence. "You go down and do what you can. Neville! Go with her!"
Ginny and Neville skirted out the portrait hole. Hermione had no sooner lifted the Freezing Charm when two things happend. One, she was barraged with anxious questions from anxious students and two, Dennis and Colin Creevey snuck out the portrait hole, cameras in tote.
"QUIET! Everyone settle down. I know you have many questions but they can't be answered now. Stay-in-the-common-room! You will be safe. I must go." Hermione strode to the portrait hole and turned back to the expectant crowd. "I am putting an anti-escaping charm on this exit." Then she turned and fled out the door and down the stairs.
Hermione knew she couldn't join in the fighting but she could help take care of the wounded. Before she headed to the hospital wing, she needed to see the havoc she has caused. Sprinting down the first floor corridor she surrveyed the scene. Loud, startling screams pierced the air. Disorderly shouts chased Hermione down the hall as she ran for the entrance.
"Oh...god...I'm b-bleeding!"
"It BIT me!"
"Out of my way!"
"RUN! DEATH EATERS!"
Hermione didn't have the luxury to wallow in the mass hysteria collapsing around her. She needed to find Ginny. Harry would never forgive her if she let anything happen to her.
Streams of red and green suddenly streaked in front of her face and Hermione ducked quickly behind a pillar. As Hermione peeked out, she saw Ginny being chased into the Great Hall by Dolohov, the Death Eater who had caused her near death experience two years ago in the Department of Mysteries. Hermione followed, concealing herself behind the massive pillars. The usually feastive Hall with its dim candlelight was now bathed in a spectacular light show. Tables were being violently split apart. Benches were soaring overhead. Splinters of wood littered the air.
Ginny was quick. She'd struck like lightening and then she was gone. Dolohov's face exploded in anger as he couldn't lock her down in position. He was spinning 'round and 'round, his robes a whirlpool of black fabric. Then there was calm. The air stilled and Dolohov stopped spinning, panting and gasping for breath.
Before Hermione could comprehend what was happening, Ginny, her red-flame hair flowing behind her stepped out from where the head table usually is and pointed her wand at an unsuspecting Dolohov.
"SECTUMSEMPRA!"
Dolohov staggered as a deep, red gash bled freely from his torso to his face. He sank to the ground, unconscious.
Ginny turned, saw Hermione's stricken expression and said slowly, "For Ron."
Hermione shook her head. "Where's Neville?" she asked franticly.
"I saw him chasing a couple of Death Eaters towards the greenhouses." Ginny said suddenly concerned. "Don't worry, I'm on it." She raced out the door to find Neville.
Hermione stepped over the pool of blood that was expanding around Dolohov's unresponsive body. She was sure that he would bleed to death but before she had time to concern herself with the giant blood stain on the floor, a great ferral howl errupted through the castle. It was drowned out immediately by a fierce wailing coming from the grounds outside.
Hermione rushed to the window and saw Hagrid's Hut engulfed in a raging inferno of flames.
Thick, black smoke rose over the fire casting a heavy shadow over the bright orange glow. The wailing intensified as a flash of green illuminated the pumpkin patch for an instant and a masked figure fled towards the castle on foot.
Hermione choked on a sob as she sank weakly to her knees.
Hagrid. Not Hagrid.
Hermione violently wiped the hot tears from her face and pushed herself up. She had to get to the third floor. Madam Pomfrey could probably use her help. She couldn't help Hagrid but she could help others.
Hermione was taking the stairs two by two when she tripped over a partly shattered camera. A peice of glass lodged deeply in her shin but she ignored the pain and kept running. As she neared the Trophy Room Hermione encountered a most gruesome sight. Dennis Creevey's light bulb pajamas were soaked through with blood on his right calf. His body was thrown over his older brother Colin and trembling in shock. When she got closer Hermione could see Dennis trying franticly to cover and fill gaping holes spaced sporadically over Colin's body. There were incriminating claw marks on his face and Hermine knew that Colin was dead. She was about to comfort Dennis when a ruckus from the Trophy Room caught her attention. Hermione saw bloody paw prints at the entrance and her heart lurched as she realized Greyback has cornered another victim.
"Dennis, get yourself to the hospital wing now! Madam Pofrey will need to take a look at that bite."
Hermione crept to the door of the Trophy Room and slowly pushed it open. Greyback was leaping about the room, tossing plaques and cups at a harassed looking Bill Weasley. The air rained silver and gold as greyback flung awards at Bill's head. He sprung forward suddenly pinning Bill to the ground. Bloody foam gathered at the corners of his jaw and Hermione could see an addictive expression in his crazed eye.
Abruptly Greyback flew backward crashing into a trophy case, snarling in fury. Bill's stinging hex gave him just enough time to gain his feet before a slew of objects once again littered the air.
Hermione was quietly creeping out of the room when a big, heavy silver cup smashed against her temple. Stars briefly danced before her eyes and then she was sinking into darkness.
*_______________________________________________
**I'm begging you all for forgiveness now. I know this post will no doubt have some of you in hysterics *semi-evil grin*
You know you want to leave FEEDBACK HERE go on...you can do it.
~nevillesgirl
HOWLS AND SCREAMS
Screams of terror woke most of the Gryffindor dormitories and soon the common room was flooded with students shoving at the window for a peak of the commotion outdoors. Hermione and Ginny were trapped, being smushed up against the glass as people clamored for a better view. Intermittened jets of red and green lit up the night sky.
Hermione couldn't take it anymore. Her oxygen was being cut off by the swarms of terrified students. Turning to face the crowd she focused her intention, thought Immobulus and blinked but nothing happened. Again, conclusively thinking of the freezing charm, Hermione focused and blinked but nothing changed. Why isn't it working?
"Hermione," came Ginny's muffled voice, "Freezing Charm on three." She grasped her wand from her robes and pointed it at the crowd. "Three-two-one."
"IMMOBULUS!" They shouted together and the crowd froze instantly.
"I'll contain this crowd Ginny," said Hermione as the crowd stilled in shocked silence. "You go down and do what you can. Neville! Go with her!"
Ginny and Neville skirted out the portrait hole. Hermione had no sooner lifted the Freezing Charm when two things happend. One, she was barraged with anxious questions from anxious students and two, Dennis and Colin Creevey snuck out the portrait hole, cameras in tote.
"QUIET! Everyone settle down. I know you have many questions but they can't be answered now. Stay-in-the-common-room! You will be safe. I must go." Hermione strode to the portrait hole and turned back to the expectant crowd. "I am putting an anti-escaping charm on this exit." Then she turned and fled out the door and down the stairs.
Hermione knew she couldn't join in the fighting but she could help take care of the wounded. Before she headed to the hospital wing, she needed to see the havoc she has caused. Sprinting down the first floor corridor she surrveyed the scene. Loud, startling screams pierced the air. Disorderly shouts chased Hermione down the hall as she ran for the entrance.
"Oh...god...I'm b-bleeding!"
"It BIT me!"
"Out of my way!"
"RUN! DEATH EATERS!"
Hermione didn't have the luxury to wallow in the mass hysteria collapsing around her. She needed to find Ginny. Harry would never forgive her if she let anything happen to her.
Streams of red and green suddenly streaked in front of her face and Hermione ducked quickly behind a pillar. As Hermione peeked out, she saw Ginny being chased into the Great Hall by Dolohov, the Death Eater who had caused her near death experience two years ago in the Department of Mysteries. Hermione followed, concealing herself behind the massive pillars. The usually feastive Hall with its dim candlelight was now bathed in a spectacular light show. Tables were being violently split apart. Benches were soaring overhead. Splinters of wood littered the air.
Ginny was quick. She'd struck like lightening and then she was gone. Dolohov's face exploded in anger as he couldn't lock her down in position. He was spinning 'round and 'round, his robes a whirlpool of black fabric. Then there was calm. The air stilled and Dolohov stopped spinning, panting and gasping for breath.
Before Hermione could comprehend what was happening, Ginny, her red-flame hair flowing behind her stepped out from where the head table usually is and pointed her wand at an unsuspecting Dolohov.
"SECTUMSEMPRA!"
Dolohov staggered as a deep, red gash bled freely from his torso to his face. He sank to the ground, unconscious.
Ginny turned, saw Hermione's stricken expression and said slowly, "For Ron."
Hermione shook her head. "Where's Neville?" she asked franticly.
"I saw him chasing a couple of Death Eaters towards the greenhouses." Ginny said suddenly concerned. "Don't worry, I'm on it." She raced out the door to find Neville.
Hermione stepped over the pool of blood that was expanding around Dolohov's unresponsive body. She was sure that he would bleed to death but before she had time to concern herself with the giant blood stain on the floor, a great ferral howl errupted through the castle. It was drowned out immediately by a fierce wailing coming from the grounds outside.
Hermione rushed to the window and saw Hagrid's Hut engulfed in a raging inferno of flames.
Thick, black smoke rose over the fire casting a heavy shadow over the bright orange glow. The wailing intensified as a flash of green illuminated the pumpkin patch for an instant and a masked figure fled towards the castle on foot.
Hermione choked on a sob as she sank weakly to her knees.
Hagrid. Not Hagrid.
Hermione violently wiped the hot tears from her face and pushed herself up. She had to get to the third floor. Madam Pomfrey could probably use her help. She couldn't help Hagrid but she could help others.
Hermione was taking the stairs two by two when she tripped over a partly shattered camera. A peice of glass lodged deeply in her shin but she ignored the pain and kept running. As she neared the Trophy Room Hermione encountered a most gruesome sight. Dennis Creevey's light bulb pajamas were soaked through with blood on his right calf. His body was thrown over his older brother Colin and trembling in shock. When she got closer Hermione could see Dennis trying franticly to cover and fill gaping holes spaced sporadically over Colin's body. There were incriminating claw marks on his face and Hermine knew that Colin was dead. She was about to comfort Dennis when a ruckus from the Trophy Room caught her attention. Hermione saw bloody paw prints at the entrance and her heart lurched as she realized Greyback has cornered another victim.
"Dennis, get yourself to the hospital wing now! Madam Pofrey will need to take a look at that bite."
Hermione crept to the door of the Trophy Room and slowly pushed it open. Greyback was leaping about the room, tossing plaques and cups at a harassed looking Bill Weasley. The air rained silver and gold as greyback flung awards at Bill's head. He sprung forward suddenly pinning Bill to the ground. Bloody foam gathered at the corners of his jaw and Hermione could see an addictive expression in his crazed eye.
Abruptly Greyback flew backward crashing into a trophy case, snarling in fury. Bill's stinging hex gave him just enough time to gain his feet before a slew of objects once again littered the air.
Hermione was quietly creeping out of the room when a big, heavy silver cup smashed against her temple. Stars briefly danced before her eyes and then she was sinking into darkness.
*_______________________________________________
**I'm begging you all for forgiveness now. I know this post will no doubt have some of you in hysterics *semi-evil grin*
You know you want to leave FEEDBACK HERE go on...you can do it.
~nevillesgirl
CHAPTER 18
TALES OF BRAVERY
The uneven feeling of sliding sideways out of bed caused Hermione to wake from her restful nap. Ginny had sat unceramoniously on the left side of the bed, snapping her gum loudly. Pushing herself up awkwardly Hermione looked around the hospital wing. It was packed with patients. Hermione's eyes lingered in the far right corner where a large sign hung: CAUTION! BITE VICTIMS Pansy Parkinson was crying hysterically, knocking over her Calming Draught as Madam Pomfrey struggled to restrain her. Professor Sprout, a blood soaked bandage covering her hand was comforting a couple of first years who were bombarding her with frantic questions. Justin Finch Fletchley was moaning to his girlfriend Susan Bones, who was unhurt, that his muggle parents would never understand or accept his imfirmity. But the most heart-wrenching of all was little Dennis Creevey, who just stared blankly at the ceiling. Hermione's heart bleed sorrowfully as she looked back at Ginny.
"Ginny, I..." Hermione couldn't even begin to explain.
"Oh shut-uuup!" Cried Ginny as she flung her arms around Hermiones neck. "You're alive and awake and that's all that matters."
"B-But...how bad is it?" asked Hermione softly.
"Hermione," said Ginny sadly, "it's devestating. You know about Colin Creevey already. According to McGonagall, Dennis said Greyback bit his leg first and Colin tried to jinx him. Well, it missed and Greyback just...killed him."
"And Hagrid?" asked Hermione hoarsely.
Ginny's eyes filled with tears. "Burned alive. A Death Eater locked him in his hut and set it on fire. They also killled Buckbeak." Ginny paused to let her words sink in then continued. "McGonagall has called an emergency meeting at Headquarters tonight. Ooooh! Before I forget I do have some great news though. Bill killed Greyback. He won't tell me how but...Hermione? Are you okay?"
Hermiones face paled translucent and she swooned, dizzy although she was still sitting on the bed. "I'm just so tired Gin. Can we talk later?"
"Sure." said Ginny and left Hermione sinking back into her pillow.
*_____________________________________________
Later that evening at Headquarters Professor McGonagall wasted no time in calling the meeting to order. There were many injured present among the members so McGonagall was addressing the group in the living room.
"Attention!" Said McGonagall sternly. "The first order of business is to congratulate you all on an excellent job in repelling the Death Eaters from Hogwarts." She cleared her throat. "Yes, there were casualties however, if not for your brave efforts and determination, the carnage would have been much worse. The second order of business is to get an update on Harry's mission and to do that is..."
"HARRY!" Ginny's red hair blurred behind her as hse leapt up from the couch and into Harry's arms.
A small commotion followed. Hermione noticed how guant and pale he looked. His usually sparkling green eyes were hollow and lifeless. He was thin and overly exhausted. With her injury there was no way to fight the crowd that had surrounded Harry to welcome him back. She would see him after the meeting. Soon things quieted as everyone was again on the edge of their seats anxiously awaiting an update.
"The last horcrux has been destroyed." said Harry proudly. "The task at hand is to plan an offensive and go after Voldemort."
The room went wild. People who were not wounded were jumping up down, hugging one another. Shouts of delight and congratulations were hailed across the room and to the upper floors where members were dangling over the banister to hear better.
"Settle down everyone, settle down." Said McGonagall. "Thank you Harry. Now before we get to individual testimonies about the events of last evening, It is time that all members be completely informed of the goings on of The Order. It is only united that we have a chance of defeating Voldemort and his army of Death Eaters."
Professor McGonagall crossed the room, her emerald green robes swirling around her feet and stopped directly behind Hermione who was seated on the couch.
"Hermione Granger, as I am sure many of you have noticed has been inconspicuous around Hogwarts and Headquarters the past few months. No doubt you thought her ill after the loss of her fiance and was taking some time to recuperate in isolation. This was not the case entirely."
Hermione shifted uncomfortably in her seat as all eyes reverted on her. She looked down, disconcerted, and took to picking absently at her pink fingernail polish.
McGonagall continued. "While Hermione was indeed mourning the loss of Ronald Weasely, she was facing something far more disturbing. Something that had happened even before the untimely death of Ron. She cannot tell you these things herself because she is bound by the Unbreakable Vow." McGonagall paused and spun slowly about the room looking challenging at the stunned members. "Some months ago, shortly after beginning her mission for The Order, she was captured, tortured and forced into service as a Death Eater by Voldemort under pain of death for those she loves."
A soft buzzing filled the room as the order members reacted to this news. Loyalties were mixed as some offered sympathies and condolences while others called for her immediate dismissal.
It was Harry who came to her rescue. "Hermione has however," he said loudly, "completed her mission for The Order." The room once again fell into silence as Harry spoke. "Upon becoming a Death Eater, she was trained by Snape for the purpose of spying on the Order-she was to take his place. She has indeed taken his place and has been spying on Voldemort for The Order. Snape has been helping her. He remains faithful to our cause."
No one said a word.
Professor McGonagall quickly steered the conversation in another direction. "It is now time to hear testimonies of bravery from those whose actions were directly affected by last nights events."
McGonagall flicked her wand and a wheelchair containing Remus Lupin rolled itself into the living room. His hair was stringy and matted to his head. His face sported deep cuts, still seeping drops of blood. Most of his body was covered in bruises in shades of black, blue and purple.
He slowly opened his eyes and began to speak to the flabberghasted crowd. "I have never looked or felt worse." he said weakly. Even in his obvious pain he managed a small smile.
Hermione hung her head in shame. Lupin noticed her action and promptly sought to reassure her. "This is not your fault Hermione. Greyback would have told Voldemort about me if you didn't and keeping silent on the matter would have put your life at risk."
A deep hacking cough shook his body.
"Lucius, Bellatrix and Snape kidnapped me in fornt of the Hogshead Tavern. If Snape had not been there, I'm certain that Malfoy would have beaten and tortured me far worse then he did. Snapes reminder that I must remain healthy to be useful to Voldemort ceased his violence towards me. When we got to Voldemorts lair, he was eager to tell me who my betrayer was in the hopes that Hermione would be discredited in my eyes. I do believe he intended me to die last night so imparting that secret to me didn't make a difference to him."
Tonks brought a glass of water over and Remus took it gratefully. After draining it he continued.
"I was put under the Imperius Curse and forced to drink a truth serum-Veritaserum I think. It was then that I revealed how to get into Hogwarts using the secret passage between the shreiking shack and the whomping willow. Then we waited until the full moon. Under the curse, I was forced to hold the secret knot allowing the Death Eaters and Greyback to gain entrance to the grounds. Voldemorts plan was simple. Upon finding out of The Orders plan to eliminate Greyback, he wished him to bite as many students at Hogwarts as possible before he was killed. Once everyone was on the grounds, I was told to release the knot. The Imperius Curse was lifted and the whomping willow, sensing an intruder very near to the opening of the passageway, began thrashing me."
Lupin's breathing was raspy. His expression reliving every horror endured of last evening.
"Again Severus intervened on my behalf. He risked bodily harm by braving the ferocious branches, dissillusioned both of us and carried me deep into the Forbidden Forrest. I was half unconcious and in no shape to attack anyone anyway so he left me in a cave covered by a blanket he conjured. He lifted the Disillusionment Charm and returned to the battle."
The room remained silent as the members of The Order absorbed this information. Faces reflected looks of astonishment and eventually grim comprehension that Seveus Snape truly was on The Orders side.
"Thank you Remus." Said McGonagall. "You may return to your rest." She flicked her wand and again the wheelchair moved independetly back out the door. "Next we will hear from Neville Longbottom."
Everyone turned to face Neville who was seated on a wooden stool over by the firplace. He was reletively unhurt except for the oozing boils covering his face. Neville looked around the room shyly and cleared his throat.
"Ginny and I left the seventh floor togther but once outside I lost track of her. I didn't really know where to begin-it was absolutely chaotic outdoors. I saw a couple of Death Eaters running unchecked toward the greenhouses so I decided to start there." His face contorted into a knot and his eyes became hard as stone. "It was Bellatrix and Snape. I seemed to have interrupted an arguement. I'm not sure what it was about but Snape said he was going after "her" and Bellartix muttered something about him wanting all the glory. It was then they spotted me. Snape hit me with the Impedimentia Curse and I breifly stumbled backwards giving him time to head towards the castle and Bellatrix towards greenhouse three."
Hermione cringed when Neville winced as a huge boil on his forehead popped, gushing yellowish-green pus towards the slope of his nose. Quickly he dabbed it with a tissue then applied a foul smelling ointment to his wound.
"Bellatrix treated me like a child-like I was not worthy of the confrontation," he said indignantly. "She taunted and danced around me, skipping even, as she flung curse after curse at me." Neville nodded respectfully at Harry. "If I hadn't learned to deflect curses and to anticipate and avoid spells from Harry, she would have gotten the best of me. She dropped her guard as she lectured me on weakness and immaturity. She lowered her wand as she instructed me on how superior her knowledge was over mines. In that moment I hit her with a stunning spell that shoved her backward into the Venomous Tentacula. Its spiky, red vines wrapped tightly around her left arm paralyzing it almost instantly. I won't be surprised if she loses all function in that arm. She needed to get the antidote immediately and she didn't." Neville said smartly.
"I don't know what happened next except I heard Ginny running down the hill from the castle calling me. The next thing I know she was hanging upsidedown from her ankle in mid air and a bunch of Buboterbers were pelting me popping undiluted pus onto my face." Neville grinned thinly at the sympathetic groans coming from every direction.
"Somehow Bellatrix freed herself as Ginny let herself down and both sent spells flying at one another. Suddenly Bellatrix yelled 'Protego' and Ginny was hit with her own full body bind and Bella, wimpering in pain, was dashing across the lawn. I released Ginny and we both headed to the hospital wing."
Hermione looked around the room. People were shaking there head in disbelief, muttering, whispering. She could see them working it out in their heads and they should be. It was a lot of information to take in. Not one person however shot her any other look besides compassionate and for that she was grateful.
"I think it is best for everyone to get some sleep." Said McGonagall. "Tomorrow, I will tell you about a little encounter of my own that evening and how the implications of what was disclosed during that encounter are volumnous. Good evening."
Hermione hurried up to her room on the second floor and locked the door. She saw Harry flagging her down amidst being smothered by Ginny but she didn't feel like talking tonight. Her head was throbbing on her temple. All she wanted to do was fall into bed and sleep for a thousand years.
Hermione slipped on her pink satin nightgown and brushed out her tangled mane of curls. Yawning widley she climbed into bed.
In that moment before entering the world of dreams Severus Snape filled her mind. You have proven yourself valuable to The Dark Lord. I am glad you are safe. Sleep well. Hermiones forehead flooded warm from the feeling of a feathery kiss and she drifted off into dreams.
*_______________________________________________
**Sorry if this chap is kind of long. Please leave your FEEDBACK HERE
~nevillesgirl
TALES OF BRAVERY
The uneven feeling of sliding sideways out of bed caused Hermione to wake from her restful nap. Ginny had sat unceramoniously on the left side of the bed, snapping her gum loudly. Pushing herself up awkwardly Hermione looked around the hospital wing. It was packed with patients. Hermione's eyes lingered in the far right corner where a large sign hung: CAUTION! BITE VICTIMS Pansy Parkinson was crying hysterically, knocking over her Calming Draught as Madam Pomfrey struggled to restrain her. Professor Sprout, a blood soaked bandage covering her hand was comforting a couple of first years who were bombarding her with frantic questions. Justin Finch Fletchley was moaning to his girlfriend Susan Bones, who was unhurt, that his muggle parents would never understand or accept his imfirmity. But the most heart-wrenching of all was little Dennis Creevey, who just stared blankly at the ceiling. Hermione's heart bleed sorrowfully as she looked back at Ginny.
"Ginny, I..." Hermione couldn't even begin to explain.
"Oh shut-uuup!" Cried Ginny as she flung her arms around Hermiones neck. "You're alive and awake and that's all that matters."
"B-But...how bad is it?" asked Hermione softly.
"Hermione," said Ginny sadly, "it's devestating. You know about Colin Creevey already. According to McGonagall, Dennis said Greyback bit his leg first and Colin tried to jinx him. Well, it missed and Greyback just...killed him."
"And Hagrid?" asked Hermione hoarsely.
Ginny's eyes filled with tears. "Burned alive. A Death Eater locked him in his hut and set it on fire. They also killled Buckbeak." Ginny paused to let her words sink in then continued. "McGonagall has called an emergency meeting at Headquarters tonight. Ooooh! Before I forget I do have some great news though. Bill killed Greyback. He won't tell me how but...Hermione? Are you okay?"
Hermiones face paled translucent and she swooned, dizzy although she was still sitting on the bed. "I'm just so tired Gin. Can we talk later?"
"Sure." said Ginny and left Hermione sinking back into her pillow.
*_____________________________________________
Later that evening at Headquarters Professor McGonagall wasted no time in calling the meeting to order. There were many injured present among the members so McGonagall was addressing the group in the living room.
"Attention!" Said McGonagall sternly. "The first order of business is to congratulate you all on an excellent job in repelling the Death Eaters from Hogwarts." She cleared her throat. "Yes, there were casualties however, if not for your brave efforts and determination, the carnage would have been much worse. The second order of business is to get an update on Harry's mission and to do that is..."
"HARRY!" Ginny's red hair blurred behind her as hse leapt up from the couch and into Harry's arms.
A small commotion followed. Hermione noticed how guant and pale he looked. His usually sparkling green eyes were hollow and lifeless. He was thin and overly exhausted. With her injury there was no way to fight the crowd that had surrounded Harry to welcome him back. She would see him after the meeting. Soon things quieted as everyone was again on the edge of their seats anxiously awaiting an update.
"The last horcrux has been destroyed." said Harry proudly. "The task at hand is to plan an offensive and go after Voldemort."
The room went wild. People who were not wounded were jumping up down, hugging one another. Shouts of delight and congratulations were hailed across the room and to the upper floors where members were dangling over the banister to hear better.
"Settle down everyone, settle down." Said McGonagall. "Thank you Harry. Now before we get to individual testimonies about the events of last evening, It is time that all members be completely informed of the goings on of The Order. It is only united that we have a chance of defeating Voldemort and his army of Death Eaters."
Professor McGonagall crossed the room, her emerald green robes swirling around her feet and stopped directly behind Hermione who was seated on the couch.
"Hermione Granger, as I am sure many of you have noticed has been inconspicuous around Hogwarts and Headquarters the past few months. No doubt you thought her ill after the loss of her fiance and was taking some time to recuperate in isolation. This was not the case entirely."
Hermione shifted uncomfortably in her seat as all eyes reverted on her. She looked down, disconcerted, and took to picking absently at her pink fingernail polish.
McGonagall continued. "While Hermione was indeed mourning the loss of Ronald Weasely, she was facing something far more disturbing. Something that had happened even before the untimely death of Ron. She cannot tell you these things herself because she is bound by the Unbreakable Vow." McGonagall paused and spun slowly about the room looking challenging at the stunned members. "Some months ago, shortly after beginning her mission for The Order, she was captured, tortured and forced into service as a Death Eater by Voldemort under pain of death for those she loves."
A soft buzzing filled the room as the order members reacted to this news. Loyalties were mixed as some offered sympathies and condolences while others called for her immediate dismissal.
It was Harry who came to her rescue. "Hermione has however," he said loudly, "completed her mission for The Order." The room once again fell into silence as Harry spoke. "Upon becoming a Death Eater, she was trained by Snape for the purpose of spying on the Order-she was to take his place. She has indeed taken his place and has been spying on Voldemort for The Order. Snape has been helping her. He remains faithful to our cause."
No one said a word.
Professor McGonagall quickly steered the conversation in another direction. "It is now time to hear testimonies of bravery from those whose actions were directly affected by last nights events."
McGonagall flicked her wand and a wheelchair containing Remus Lupin rolled itself into the living room. His hair was stringy and matted to his head. His face sported deep cuts, still seeping drops of blood. Most of his body was covered in bruises in shades of black, blue and purple.
He slowly opened his eyes and began to speak to the flabberghasted crowd. "I have never looked or felt worse." he said weakly. Even in his obvious pain he managed a small smile.
Hermione hung her head in shame. Lupin noticed her action and promptly sought to reassure her. "This is not your fault Hermione. Greyback would have told Voldemort about me if you didn't and keeping silent on the matter would have put your life at risk."
A deep hacking cough shook his body.
"Lucius, Bellatrix and Snape kidnapped me in fornt of the Hogshead Tavern. If Snape had not been there, I'm certain that Malfoy would have beaten and tortured me far worse then he did. Snapes reminder that I must remain healthy to be useful to Voldemort ceased his violence towards me. When we got to Voldemorts lair, he was eager to tell me who my betrayer was in the hopes that Hermione would be discredited in my eyes. I do believe he intended me to die last night so imparting that secret to me didn't make a difference to him."
Tonks brought a glass of water over and Remus took it gratefully. After draining it he continued.
"I was put under the Imperius Curse and forced to drink a truth serum-Veritaserum I think. It was then that I revealed how to get into Hogwarts using the secret passage between the shreiking shack and the whomping willow. Then we waited until the full moon. Under the curse, I was forced to hold the secret knot allowing the Death Eaters and Greyback to gain entrance to the grounds. Voldemorts plan was simple. Upon finding out of The Orders plan to eliminate Greyback, he wished him to bite as many students at Hogwarts as possible before he was killed. Once everyone was on the grounds, I was told to release the knot. The Imperius Curse was lifted and the whomping willow, sensing an intruder very near to the opening of the passageway, began thrashing me."
Lupin's breathing was raspy. His expression reliving every horror endured of last evening.
"Again Severus intervened on my behalf. He risked bodily harm by braving the ferocious branches, dissillusioned both of us and carried me deep into the Forbidden Forrest. I was half unconcious and in no shape to attack anyone anyway so he left me in a cave covered by a blanket he conjured. He lifted the Disillusionment Charm and returned to the battle."
The room remained silent as the members of The Order absorbed this information. Faces reflected looks of astonishment and eventually grim comprehension that Seveus Snape truly was on The Orders side.
"Thank you Remus." Said McGonagall. "You may return to your rest." She flicked her wand and again the wheelchair moved independetly back out the door. "Next we will hear from Neville Longbottom."
Everyone turned to face Neville who was seated on a wooden stool over by the firplace. He was reletively unhurt except for the oozing boils covering his face. Neville looked around the room shyly and cleared his throat.
"Ginny and I left the seventh floor togther but once outside I lost track of her. I didn't really know where to begin-it was absolutely chaotic outdoors. I saw a couple of Death Eaters running unchecked toward the greenhouses so I decided to start there." His face contorted into a knot and his eyes became hard as stone. "It was Bellatrix and Snape. I seemed to have interrupted an arguement. I'm not sure what it was about but Snape said he was going after "her" and Bellartix muttered something about him wanting all the glory. It was then they spotted me. Snape hit me with the Impedimentia Curse and I breifly stumbled backwards giving him time to head towards the castle and Bellatrix towards greenhouse three."
Hermione cringed when Neville winced as a huge boil on his forehead popped, gushing yellowish-green pus towards the slope of his nose. Quickly he dabbed it with a tissue then applied a foul smelling ointment to his wound.
"Bellatrix treated me like a child-like I was not worthy of the confrontation," he said indignantly. "She taunted and danced around me, skipping even, as she flung curse after curse at me." Neville nodded respectfully at Harry. "If I hadn't learned to deflect curses and to anticipate and avoid spells from Harry, she would have gotten the best of me. She dropped her guard as she lectured me on weakness and immaturity. She lowered her wand as she instructed me on how superior her knowledge was over mines. In that moment I hit her with a stunning spell that shoved her backward into the Venomous Tentacula. Its spiky, red vines wrapped tightly around her left arm paralyzing it almost instantly. I won't be surprised if she loses all function in that arm. She needed to get the antidote immediately and she didn't." Neville said smartly.
"I don't know what happened next except I heard Ginny running down the hill from the castle calling me. The next thing I know she was hanging upsidedown from her ankle in mid air and a bunch of Buboterbers were pelting me popping undiluted pus onto my face." Neville grinned thinly at the sympathetic groans coming from every direction.
"Somehow Bellatrix freed herself as Ginny let herself down and both sent spells flying at one another. Suddenly Bellatrix yelled 'Protego' and Ginny was hit with her own full body bind and Bella, wimpering in pain, was dashing across the lawn. I released Ginny and we both headed to the hospital wing."
Hermione looked around the room. People were shaking there head in disbelief, muttering, whispering. She could see them working it out in their heads and they should be. It was a lot of information to take in. Not one person however shot her any other look besides compassionate and for that she was grateful.
"I think it is best for everyone to get some sleep." Said McGonagall. "Tomorrow, I will tell you about a little encounter of my own that evening and how the implications of what was disclosed during that encounter are volumnous. Good evening."
Hermione hurried up to her room on the second floor and locked the door. She saw Harry flagging her down amidst being smothered by Ginny but she didn't feel like talking tonight. Her head was throbbing on her temple. All she wanted to do was fall into bed and sleep for a thousand years.
Hermione slipped on her pink satin nightgown and brushed out her tangled mane of curls. Yawning widley she climbed into bed.
In that moment before entering the world of dreams Severus Snape filled her mind. You have proven yourself valuable to The Dark Lord. I am glad you are safe. Sleep well. Hermiones forehead flooded warm from the feeling of a feathery kiss and she drifted off into dreams.
*_______________________________________________
**Sorry if this chap is kind of long. Please leave your FEEDBACK HERE
~nevillesgirl
**Thank you to everyone who is reading this fanfic and a bigger thank you to all who are leaving feedback This chap is a bit short due to the Easter Weekend but I wanted to leave you something because the next chapter may not come for a while. I have already re-written it twice *ugh* And now...
CHAPTER 19
HARRY'S DILEMMA
Number twelve, Grimmauld place had never had so many people pass over its threshold at once. There was not an inch of unoccupied space through out the entire house. The rooms were giving off a strange buzzing sound as members were now reacting to Professor McGonagalls account of meeting with Severus Snape.
Hermione, Ginny, Harry and Neville were huddled in a corner talking excitedly about the newest development spreading like wildfire through the Order. This information gives the Order an inside track on Lord Voldemort's latest and most secret plans. It also puts one of there own in even more peril then she has been in the past.
Hermione's excitement was shadowed by what she had needed to do in order to get this "honor" bestowed upon her by the Dark Lord.
"Cheer up Hermione." Said Neville. "It will all work out in the end."
"Yeah, I mean he trusts you now doesn't he? You are in the inner circle." added Ginny with a wide grin.
The news of Hermione being admitted into Voldemort's closly guarded inner circle was indeed surprising and valuable. Snape informed Professor McGonagall the night of the Hogwarts invasion that Hremione would be called into seclusion soon for an extened period of time in which she would have an intricate part in planning Voldemort's final attack on Harry and the Order. Professor McGonagall also told her that Severus said the reason her Freezing Charm didn't work when she tried it nonverbally with no wand was because her subjects were too many and too big. His only instruction to her was 'practice'.
Only Harry remained reserved. He sat stiffly crosslegged on the floor tapping his sugar quill inquisitively upon the parchment between them.
"Gin, Neville," Harry said quietly, "would you mind if I had a moment alone with Hermione?
Ginny leaned over and kissed Harry's cheek, then she and Neville headed towards down to the basement kitchen.
"Muffliato." Said Harry then yelled loudly "I LOVE YOU HERMIONE!!"
Hermione jerked her head up in shock. Her bemused expression gave way to one of humor as she realized he was merely testing to see if his spell worked. Sure enough, no one reacted to such a profound declaration, confirming the Privacy Spells power.
"I can't believe this could all be over soon." Harry said staunchly. "I mean, we've been fighting him for so long I hardly would know what to do with myself when it's over."
"I know." said Hermione. " The suffering, the loss, the...death, it must account for something: Ron, Hagrid, Sirius, your parents-It must not be in vain. We must be victorious," she said with determination.
After a moment of tense silence Harry spoke, his voice quiet, his tone urgent.
"Hermione, the last horcrux was a locket that belonged to Slytherin. It was difficult to locate because that dung bettle Mundungus Fletcher actually stole and sold it to someone, who sold it to someone, who sold it to Borgin and Burkes."
Harry looked around fervently to be certain they weren't being over heard then continued.
"On a hunch, I wandered into their shop one day while patrolling in Knockturn Alley, under my invisibility cloak of course, and heard old Mr. Borgin talking about how nice it was to have it back in the shop after all these years. He told his partner Burke that after it was cleaned up he would be locking it up with every enchantment possible to ensure its safety. I know my only chance of getting my hands on it was during its cleaning."
Harry rolled his eyes in disgust. "Kreacher was keen to perform the honor of retrieving the locket but he was caught just after he slipped it to me under the cloak. They tortured him monstrously but because he was ordered not to speak, he gave nothing away. In the end they killed him."
Hermione thought of the grumpy old house elf who used to reside at Grimmauld Place. She could still see his pig-snout face stalking from room to room scavenging the Black families possessions before the Order threw them out, muttering obcenities under his breath. He was loathsome true but he didn't deserve the death he got. Now his greatest ambition of being beheaded and mounted on a plaque in the home of his ancestors would never be realized.
"Oh, Harry, I'm sorry," said Hermione.
"I'm not."said Harry moodily. "Kreacher was...well...whatever. Anyway, the locket was very welll protected. It...It...with each enchantment I broke, It drained me of my ability to love." said Harry brokenly.
"What?" said Hermione incredulously.
"That night I got back, when Ginny rushed into my arms, I felt nothing. My parents, Dumbledore, Sirius, Ron...a void where my love for them once was." Harry looked at Hermione with terror looking back at her from his wide, green eyes. "Dumbeldore said that love is the power that Voldemort knows not. How can I defeat him if I cannot feel it?" he asked desperately.
Hermione thought for a minute. This was a very serious problem. Then a sly smile spread across her face.
"Who in this world loves you more thean any other? Who would...die for you?"
"Ginny." said Harry feebly.
"That's right, Ginny." Hermione stared at Hary squarly. "Do you remember how Tom Riddle sucked the life from Ginny to gain his strength in our second year? Well you must do almost the same thing. Only what you will do will not kill her but make her, as well as you stronger. You must become one. One flesh, one mind, one heart. Go to her Harry, confide in her. She will know what to do. Once she infuses her love into you, she will help you feel love for everyone else."
Hermione paused giving her words time to penetrate Harry's thoughts.
"I need to ask you something. I have an idea. It will be risky mind you, but if we succeed, we give the Order and more importantly you the advantage in the final battle. I cannot speak it to you so you must enter my mind or the Unbreakable Vow will find me traitorous no doubt."
Harry looked quizzically at her for a minute then she felt immense pressure fill her mind and Hermione knew that Harry was there.
I want you to make me secret keeper of Headquarters.
Hermione are you mad? thought Harry.
Don't freak out. I have a plan. If Voldemort falls for it, we choose and control the final battleground. I will tell Voldemort you have returned and that you are staying at Headquarters. I will give him the location most eagerly. If he believes me, I will fill you in on the rest of the plan later.
"Okay Hermione, I trust you." said Harry as he carefully slipped out of her mind. "Be careful." Harry rose from the grungy floor, a shy smile playing his lips. "I'm going to go find Ginny."
"Good." Hermione glanced down at her left arm which was starteing to sear with heat. "I have to go anyways."
"Talk to you soon." said Harry as he lifted the Muffliato spell and trudged uncertainly towards the door leading to the basement kitchen. His eyes searched for a fiery red head girl who may hold the key to his heart and victory for the Order.
*_________________________________________-
Leave your FEEDBACK HERE
~neviilesgirl
This chap is a bit short due to the Easter Weekend but I wanted to leave you something because the next chapter may not come for a while. I have already re-written it twice *ugh* And now...CHAPTER 19
HARRY'S DILEMMA
Number twelve, Grimmauld place had never had so many people pass over its threshold at once. There was not an inch of unoccupied space through out the entire house. The rooms were giving off a strange buzzing sound as members were now reacting to Professor McGonagalls account of meeting with Severus Snape.
Hermione, Ginny, Harry and Neville were huddled in a corner talking excitedly about the newest development spreading like wildfire through the Order. This information gives the Order an inside track on Lord Voldemort's latest and most secret plans. It also puts one of there own in even more peril then she has been in the past.
Hermione's excitement was shadowed by what she had needed to do in order to get this "honor" bestowed upon her by the Dark Lord.
"Cheer up Hermione." Said Neville. "It will all work out in the end."
"Yeah, I mean he trusts you now doesn't he? You are in the inner circle." added Ginny with a wide grin.
The news of Hermione being admitted into Voldemort's closly guarded inner circle was indeed surprising and valuable. Snape informed Professor McGonagall the night of the Hogwarts invasion that Hremione would be called into seclusion soon for an extened period of time in which she would have an intricate part in planning Voldemort's final attack on Harry and the Order. Professor McGonagall also told her that Severus said the reason her Freezing Charm didn't work when she tried it nonverbally with no wand was because her subjects were too many and too big. His only instruction to her was 'practice'.
Only Harry remained reserved. He sat stiffly crosslegged on the floor tapping his sugar quill inquisitively upon the parchment between them.
"Gin, Neville," Harry said quietly, "would you mind if I had a moment alone with Hermione?
Ginny leaned over and kissed Harry's cheek, then she and Neville headed towards down to the basement kitchen.
"Muffliato." Said Harry then yelled loudly "I LOVE YOU HERMIONE!!"
Hermione jerked her head up in shock. Her bemused expression gave way to one of humor as she realized he was merely testing to see if his spell worked. Sure enough, no one reacted to such a profound declaration, confirming the Privacy Spells power.
"I can't believe this could all be over soon." Harry said staunchly. "I mean, we've been fighting him for so long I hardly would know what to do with myself when it's over."
"I know." said Hermione. " The suffering, the loss, the...death, it must account for something: Ron, Hagrid, Sirius, your parents-It must not be in vain. We must be victorious," she said with determination.
After a moment of tense silence Harry spoke, his voice quiet, his tone urgent.
"Hermione, the last horcrux was a locket that belonged to Slytherin. It was difficult to locate because that dung bettle Mundungus Fletcher actually stole and sold it to someone, who sold it to someone, who sold it to Borgin and Burkes."
Harry looked around fervently to be certain they weren't being over heard then continued.
"On a hunch, I wandered into their shop one day while patrolling in Knockturn Alley, under my invisibility cloak of course, and heard old Mr. Borgin talking about how nice it was to have it back in the shop after all these years. He told his partner Burke that after it was cleaned up he would be locking it up with every enchantment possible to ensure its safety. I know my only chance of getting my hands on it was during its cleaning."
Harry rolled his eyes in disgust. "Kreacher was keen to perform the honor of retrieving the locket but he was caught just after he slipped it to me under the cloak. They tortured him monstrously but because he was ordered not to speak, he gave nothing away. In the end they killed him."
Hermione thought of the grumpy old house elf who used to reside at Grimmauld Place. She could still see his pig-snout face stalking from room to room scavenging the Black families possessions before the Order threw them out, muttering obcenities under his breath. He was loathsome true but he didn't deserve the death he got. Now his greatest ambition of being beheaded and mounted on a plaque in the home of his ancestors would never be realized.
"Oh, Harry, I'm sorry," said Hermione.
"I'm not."said Harry moodily. "Kreacher was...well...whatever. Anyway, the locket was very welll protected. It...It...with each enchantment I broke, It drained me of my ability to love." said Harry brokenly.
"What?" said Hermione incredulously.
"That night I got back, when Ginny rushed into my arms, I felt nothing. My parents, Dumbledore, Sirius, Ron...a void where my love for them once was." Harry looked at Hermione with terror looking back at her from his wide, green eyes. "Dumbeldore said that love is the power that Voldemort knows not. How can I defeat him if I cannot feel it?" he asked desperately.
Hermione thought for a minute. This was a very serious problem. Then a sly smile spread across her face.
"Who in this world loves you more thean any other? Who would...die for you?"
"Ginny." said Harry feebly.
"That's right, Ginny." Hermione stared at Hary squarly. "Do you remember how Tom Riddle sucked the life from Ginny to gain his strength in our second year? Well you must do almost the same thing. Only what you will do will not kill her but make her, as well as you stronger. You must become one. One flesh, one mind, one heart. Go to her Harry, confide in her. She will know what to do. Once she infuses her love into you, she will help you feel love for everyone else."
Hermione paused giving her words time to penetrate Harry's thoughts.
"I need to ask you something. I have an idea. It will be risky mind you, but if we succeed, we give the Order and more importantly you the advantage in the final battle. I cannot speak it to you so you must enter my mind or the Unbreakable Vow will find me traitorous no doubt."
Harry looked quizzically at her for a minute then she felt immense pressure fill her mind and Hermione knew that Harry was there.
I want you to make me secret keeper of Headquarters.
Hermione are you mad? thought Harry.
Don't freak out. I have a plan. If Voldemort falls for it, we choose and control the final battleground. I will tell Voldemort you have returned and that you are staying at Headquarters. I will give him the location most eagerly. If he believes me, I will fill you in on the rest of the plan later.
"Okay Hermione, I trust you." said Harry as he carefully slipped out of her mind. "Be careful." Harry rose from the grungy floor, a shy smile playing his lips. "I'm going to go find Ginny."
"Good." Hermione glanced down at her left arm which was starteing to sear with heat. "I have to go anyways."
"Talk to you soon." said Harry as he lifted the Muffliato spell and trudged uncertainly towards the door leading to the basement kitchen. His eyes searched for a fiery red head girl who may hold the key to his heart and victory for the Order.
*_________________________________________-
Leave your FEEDBACK HERE
~neviilesgirl
**Thank you to all for your encouragement... this was a difficult chapter to write and had three makeovers, one entirely from scratch before I was satisfied that it accomplishes the purpose. Enjoy
CHAPTER 20
THE CIRCLE OF THE BROTHERHOOD
"Tardiness will not be tolorated Miss Granger." hissed Voldemort. He sat crossed legged in the middle of a circle surrounded by black candles floating six inches from the ground.
Snape sat in the 12 o'clock position, Lucius Malfoy sat in the nine o'clock position and Bellatrix Lestrange sat in the six o'clock position. She gave Hermione a scathing look as she slowly approached the circle.
"Your excuses are?" inquired Voldemort impatiently.
"Forgive me My Lord." Said Hermione as she humbled herself in a deep apologetic bow. "Harry Potter has returned and I have some information I wish to discuss with you in that respect."
"First things first Miss Granger," whispered Voldemort sinister. "This is the Circle of the Brotherhood. It invokes the power of those within and joins them momentarily to allow for undisturbed meditation. The circle is a powerful entity that holds its members faithfully in trust. One may not enter unless invited. To do so will cause instant death. Do you accept the terms of the circle?" asked Voldemort.
"I do," said Hermione.
"Then come forth and join your bretheren." Voldemort motioned her to enter. "Take the hand of the person next to you," he said.
Obediently Hermione took her seat at the three o'clock position. Taking the hands of Severus and Bellatrix, Hermione looked up expectantly at Voldemort, curiosity burning from her light brown eyes.
Voldemort raised his thin arms overhead and stretched out his long pointed fingers, palms up to the heavens. Red sparks shot from his narrow eyes. He spoke the incantation as one burning with desire. His voice enveloped his words in a seductive caress causing a shiver to vibrate the air within the circle.
"Kaspus-eto."
Hermione vaguely recongnized the words from a book she once borrowed from the restricted section back at the Hogwarts library as an ancient branch of magic; one that harnesses the power of the elements and manipulates it for the users divine purpose.
A fierce wind whipped through the circle encompassing each member individually. Hermione could feel the air swirling violently around her body and saw the same happening to the others.
Again Voldemort spoke the incantation, this time through venomous, clenched teeth. His head was thrown back, struggling for control.
"Kaspus-eto. Speak to us."
Hermione's hands, where joined with Snape and Bellartrix was white hot, melting into one another, but not painful. The heat escaping from her hands suddenly shot a bright yellow beam of light straight to Voldemorts' outstretched arms. Shortly it did the same from the others. The beam then shot directly upward, as if channeling the power from the sky.
But something else rose up inside of Hermione, flaming, burning, yearning for release. A curious feeling, one oddly familiar yet never fully explored. It seared her chest causing her breathlessness. She was being invaded by a blackness. Something dark and dangerous and strangly exciting. It chased the light heartedness from her being. She could see it traveling, but where? It invaded Snape almost against his will, his eyes wide with shock, his face traitorous with pleasure.
Snape turned his eyes on her and Hermione felt the Atlantic Ocean crashing overhead. She was drowning in the cold obsidian depths of his gaze and yet it soothed her, cooled her with a rush of raw, unabashed emotion. She was sure he could never possess such passion; such power.
Hermione... it sweetly touched her mind as it has done so many times before.
Severus...she answered with more ferver than she has ever thought in her life in respect to her former Potions Professor..
Agonizing wails caused Hermione to return her focus to Lord voldemort at the center of the circle. His head was thrashing violently from side to side as he fought to control, the power coursing through his body and out through his long fingers. His usually pale skin blushed pink yet the shade steadily deepened the longer the connection remained. A murderous scream tore from Voldemorts lips as his face blotched crimson, as if something was invisibly scalding him.
"ENOUGH!!" he commanded and the members released their hands, fear flickering in every eye.
Instantly the wind and rays of light ceased.
"DISSENTION AMONG US!" Snarled Voldemort. "A feeling which doesn't belong...I will discover..." he said as he brandished his wand and turned slowly in the circle.
Hermione quickly masked the foreign emotion taming in her chest as Voldemorts' wand passed over her and fell to rest on Bellatrix.
"Ah, Bella," crooned Voldemort. "Distrust and...loathing is it, for members of our circle?
"Master I...forgive..." Bellatrix choked on her stifled plea.
"Silence! One of our ranks must purify you of these thoughts. Rise! The ones whom the thoughts are of may not participate. It will cloud the cleansing process." Voldemort motioned to Lucius. "Take her. Do not return until summoned."
Hermione watched silently as Lucius Malfoy, a triumphant expression gleaming in his eyes, yanked a protesting Bellatrix to her feet and ripped her from the sacred circle.
"Master," said Snape in an even tone. "Miss Granger spoke of Harry Potter's return. Perhaps, in light of recent events, now would be best to recieve her information."
"Prudent as ever," replied Voldemort. "Well Miss Granger?" a curious note in his voice.
"Master," started Hermione. "Harry returned two days ago from whereabouts unknown. Although he says he is well rested, he appears tired and weak."
A dreadful cackle tore wickedly from Voldemorts' lips. "Excellent!" He said.
"Furthermore," Hermione paused milking every ounce of curiosity and hunger from Voldemorts' countenance. "I have information which will greatly please you."
"Which is?" asked Voldemort hungrily.
"As you know, I have known the location of Headquarters for some time now. I am privileged to be able to give you its location for Harry has made me Secret Keeper for the Headquarters of the Order."
Voldemorts' narrow eyes widened to reveal bloodred middles of unbelief.
"Snape will be able to confirm the information as accurate." said Hermione. "The Headquarters of The Order of the Pheonix is at number twelve, Grimmauld Place, London."
Voldemorts' eyes flew to Severus searching for confirmation of this most unexpected developmet. Severus' eyes revealed astonishment, then a sinister smile graced his thin lips and he nodded curtly to his Master.
"If I may be so bold as to suggest," ventured Snape carefully. "Perhaps it is a good time for you to take care of that business in Northern Europe you were telling me about. Miss Granger and I will be honored to begin prelimenary plans on your assault on their Headquarters and when you return, we can discuss the Plan with the other members of the Circle."
Voldemort nodded thoughtfully. "The uprising in the North will require my attention for a few months. I trust you will have a working, undefeatable plan of attack when I return."
It was a commanded statement rather then a question and its implications were clear. Upon his return, The Dark Lord wished to attack the Order at its Headquarters immediately.
"Seclude yourselves within Spinner's End. Make it impenetratable to all. I desire absolute secrecy."
He left them then, leaving Severus staring at Hermione with an expression of shock and awe.
*______________________________________________
If you would like please leave FEEDBACK HERE
~nevillesgirl
CHAPTER 20
THE CIRCLE OF THE BROTHERHOOD
"Tardiness will not be tolorated Miss Granger." hissed Voldemort. He sat crossed legged in the middle of a circle surrounded by black candles floating six inches from the ground.
Snape sat in the 12 o'clock position, Lucius Malfoy sat in the nine o'clock position and Bellatrix Lestrange sat in the six o'clock position. She gave Hermione a scathing look as she slowly approached the circle.
"Your excuses are?" inquired Voldemort impatiently.
"Forgive me My Lord." Said Hermione as she humbled herself in a deep apologetic bow. "Harry Potter has returned and I have some information I wish to discuss with you in that respect."
"First things first Miss Granger," whispered Voldemort sinister. "This is the Circle of the Brotherhood. It invokes the power of those within and joins them momentarily to allow for undisturbed meditation. The circle is a powerful entity that holds its members faithfully in trust. One may not enter unless invited. To do so will cause instant death. Do you accept the terms of the circle?" asked Voldemort.
"I do," said Hermione.
"Then come forth and join your bretheren." Voldemort motioned her to enter. "Take the hand of the person next to you," he said.
Obediently Hermione took her seat at the three o'clock position. Taking the hands of Severus and Bellatrix, Hermione looked up expectantly at Voldemort, curiosity burning from her light brown eyes.
Voldemort raised his thin arms overhead and stretched out his long pointed fingers, palms up to the heavens. Red sparks shot from his narrow eyes. He spoke the incantation as one burning with desire. His voice enveloped his words in a seductive caress causing a shiver to vibrate the air within the circle.
"Kaspus-eto."
Hermione vaguely recongnized the words from a book she once borrowed from the restricted section back at the Hogwarts library as an ancient branch of magic; one that harnesses the power of the elements and manipulates it for the users divine purpose.
A fierce wind whipped through the circle encompassing each member individually. Hermione could feel the air swirling violently around her body and saw the same happening to the others.
Again Voldemort spoke the incantation, this time through venomous, clenched teeth. His head was thrown back, struggling for control.
"Kaspus-eto. Speak to us."
Hermione's hands, where joined with Snape and Bellartrix was white hot, melting into one another, but not painful. The heat escaping from her hands suddenly shot a bright yellow beam of light straight to Voldemorts' outstretched arms. Shortly it did the same from the others. The beam then shot directly upward, as if channeling the power from the sky.
But something else rose up inside of Hermione, flaming, burning, yearning for release. A curious feeling, one oddly familiar yet never fully explored. It seared her chest causing her breathlessness. She was being invaded by a blackness. Something dark and dangerous and strangly exciting. It chased the light heartedness from her being. She could see it traveling, but where? It invaded Snape almost against his will, his eyes wide with shock, his face traitorous with pleasure.
Snape turned his eyes on her and Hermione felt the Atlantic Ocean crashing overhead. She was drowning in the cold obsidian depths of his gaze and yet it soothed her, cooled her with a rush of raw, unabashed emotion. She was sure he could never possess such passion; such power.
Hermione... it sweetly touched her mind as it has done so many times before.
Severus...she answered with more ferver than she has ever thought in her life in respect to her former Potions Professor..
Agonizing wails caused Hermione to return her focus to Lord voldemort at the center of the circle. His head was thrashing violently from side to side as he fought to control, the power coursing through his body and out through his long fingers. His usually pale skin blushed pink yet the shade steadily deepened the longer the connection remained. A murderous scream tore from Voldemorts lips as his face blotched crimson, as if something was invisibly scalding him.
"ENOUGH!!" he commanded and the members released their hands, fear flickering in every eye.
Instantly the wind and rays of light ceased.
"DISSENTION AMONG US!" Snarled Voldemort. "A feeling which doesn't belong...I will discover..." he said as he brandished his wand and turned slowly in the circle.
Hermione quickly masked the foreign emotion taming in her chest as Voldemorts' wand passed over her and fell to rest on Bellatrix.
"Ah, Bella," crooned Voldemort. "Distrust and...loathing is it, for members of our circle?
"Master I...forgive..." Bellatrix choked on her stifled plea.
"Silence! One of our ranks must purify you of these thoughts. Rise! The ones whom the thoughts are of may not participate. It will cloud the cleansing process." Voldemort motioned to Lucius. "Take her. Do not return until summoned."
Hermione watched silently as Lucius Malfoy, a triumphant expression gleaming in his eyes, yanked a protesting Bellatrix to her feet and ripped her from the sacred circle.
"Master," said Snape in an even tone. "Miss Granger spoke of Harry Potter's return. Perhaps, in light of recent events, now would be best to recieve her information."
"Prudent as ever," replied Voldemort. "Well Miss Granger?" a curious note in his voice.
"Master," started Hermione. "Harry returned two days ago from whereabouts unknown. Although he says he is well rested, he appears tired and weak."
A dreadful cackle tore wickedly from Voldemorts' lips. "Excellent!" He said.
"Furthermore," Hermione paused milking every ounce of curiosity and hunger from Voldemorts' countenance. "I have information which will greatly please you."
"Which is?" asked Voldemort hungrily.
"As you know, I have known the location of Headquarters for some time now. I am privileged to be able to give you its location for Harry has made me Secret Keeper for the Headquarters of the Order."
Voldemorts' narrow eyes widened to reveal bloodred middles of unbelief.
"Snape will be able to confirm the information as accurate." said Hermione. "The Headquarters of The Order of the Pheonix is at number twelve, Grimmauld Place, London."
Voldemorts' eyes flew to Severus searching for confirmation of this most unexpected developmet. Severus' eyes revealed astonishment, then a sinister smile graced his thin lips and he nodded curtly to his Master.
"If I may be so bold as to suggest," ventured Snape carefully. "Perhaps it is a good time for you to take care of that business in Northern Europe you were telling me about. Miss Granger and I will be honored to begin prelimenary plans on your assault on their Headquarters and when you return, we can discuss the Plan with the other members of the Circle."
Voldemort nodded thoughtfully. "The uprising in the North will require my attention for a few months. I trust you will have a working, undefeatable plan of attack when I return."
It was a commanded statement rather then a question and its implications were clear. Upon his return, The Dark Lord wished to attack the Order at its Headquarters immediately.
"Seclude yourselves within Spinner's End. Make it impenetratable to all. I desire absolute secrecy."
He left them then, leaving Severus staring at Hermione with an expression of shock and awe.
*______________________________________________
If you would like please leave FEEDBACK HERE
~nevillesgirl
Thank you to all who has read this fanfic and who has left incredible feedback. I am apologizing in advance as I know some of you have stuck with the story just to see how it ends however...it does have a specific ship in mind and you knew we would get there eventually. So, with minimal hesitation...
CHAPTER 21
DRAMATIC DISCLOSURE
June seventh. Voldemort has been gone a month aready and tensions were high among the Death Eaters. The Dark Lord left Lucius and Bellatrix in charge of maintaining obedience among his followers while Severus and Hermione were isolated in Spinner's End.
A week ago Hermione left her seclusion to take her N.E.W.T exams up at Hogwarts. She was now a graduate from school. She also took that opportunity to tell Harry that Voldemort had bought into her plan and left her and Snape to work out the details of the attack. Harry's impatience was obvious but he seemed resigned to the fact that he must wait.
Hermione was pleased to notice the sparkle in his emerald eyes as he looked at Ginny. When he said 'I love you' to her a whirlpool of deep green swirled in his eyes as well as her own. Hermione had never known Ginny to have green eyes before. Whatever she did, Harry was obviously more than just attracted to her. There was strength and depth that bound them together. It almost made Hermione burn with envy.
Almost. For Hermione has been feeling a strength burning within her for the last month. Each day, she spent vulnerable to Severus fed the power residing dormant inside of her.
He no longer called her 'Miss Granger' but frequently used her first name. That simple act ignited a fierceness that linked her with him, especially since she has begun using his first name as well.
There mutual trust in each other was so complete that Hermione knew even as they plotted the attack on Headquarters, that every word spoken, every idea suggested, would ultimately be to benefit the Order.
On several occasions a heated arguement would bring Snape inches from Hermiones' flushed face as he attempted to talk her out of an unecessary risk she was planning to take. It was the same if Severus chanced a risk, then both of them would end up glaring at one another in silence, breathing ragged with something obscure veiled behind their eyes.
It was a strange feeling and for Merlins sake Hermione could not understand it. If Severus could, he was keeping it hidden very well.
Today however, they were wholly in agreement as they analyzed the developing plan set before them. It was scorching, even with the air conditioner blasting. Hermiones' white sundress clung provocatively to her youthful curves in the summer heat.
"The attack should be simultaneous, All Death Eaters entering the house at once." said Hermione. "This will give the Dark Lord an illusion of strength and surprise and will allow the Order to have all of our members contain the Death Eaters in the place of our choice. He can use the Dark Mark to signal it."
"Excellent idea," concluded Severus. He was linked with her mind so often that he saw the advantage this act would give the order over Voldemort.
Severus was amazed at the intricate way in which Hermiones' mind worked. He regarded her thought process in the highest esteem as she logically covered every angle, every potential pit fall to her plan.
He could no longer deny the mounting attraction building within him for this young woman. It threatened to consume him which terrified every ounce of his manner. Not since Lily Potter has Severus felt something even half as strong as this.
Severus bent over the parchment Hermione was writing on and inhaled. The fresh citrus scent of her shampoo washed over him in waves of glory, leaving him disoriented. Since that day at the Circle however, Severus has bridled his emotions painstakingly. He has not yet discussed the matter with Hermione but knew the implications of what transpired that day. He saw Voldemorts' face, the color of his skin. Voldemort had been in pain. Bella's thoughts of distrust masked the true cause of that pain and because the Dark Lord did not respect the power of this particular branch of old magic, he was useless to detect its origin. Love.
He was falling in love with Hermione Granger.
What makes Severus shake with jubilant delight and fear all in one is the knowledge that what resulted between himself and Hermione that day was only possible if the feeling was reciprocated. Was it possible that Hermione was feeling the same thing too? Certainly not! She was young and beautiful and he was old and well...
Severus snapped back to attention. Hermione was speaking to him. "Pardon me, I didn't quite get that?" he said apologietically.
Hermione looked quizzically at him. "I was saying that we should lure Voldemort into a false sense of security. Have him take Ginny into the final confrontation with Harry. If he believes that torturing and killing Ginny will destroy Harry, leaving him distraught, he will want to exploit that weakness in him."
"Um hmm." said Snape distantly.
Hermione couldn't help but notice how distracted Severus was tonight. It was nearing midnight, maybe he was just tired.
"Hermione," said Severus as nonchalantly as possible. "What is the purpose of having Ginny present at the..."
"Come now, Mr. Snape," said Hermione mockingly. "I thought you were intelligent."
She saw his pale pallor flush with embarrassment then continued. "They are in love. Surely you recongnized the signs of what happened to Voldemort when intense love was around him?"
Hermiones' hand flew to her mouth, shaking in horror at the truth she's just realized and revealed at the same time. Her frightened eyes plastered to his face as he swiftly crossed the living room, closing the distance between them.
"You cannot hide from me Hermione." said Severus as she fervently attempted to mask her feelings with Occlumency. He grabbed her wrist gently as Hermione tugged half heartedly to free herself from his grip.
"But you were my...you are too..." Hermiones' small voice trailed off uncertainly.
"Your teacher?" Snape finished for her. "Too old for you? Hermione, I have not been your teacher for awhile now. And yes, I am twenty years your senior," he said harshly. "But who understands you better then I? Who makes you feel the passion better then I ? Who have you turned to in your dispair? Who will you continue to turn to, but me?"
He paused, boring his intense obsidian gaze into her, weakening her resolve. "Search your heart for the truth." He said quietly. "If it is found, embrace it."
Hermione stopped struggling and looked questioningly into Severus' pale face. For once his features, usually sharp with anger, were soft and uncharacteristicly calm. Tentatively she reaches a trembling hand to his cheek expecting him to pull away at such a bold action of emotion, however he turns his lips into the palm of her hand and gently kisses it, emitting soft pink sparks from where they met.
Severus sighs in ecstacy at the innocence of her actions. Hermione permits the warm rush of feeling to flow from her head downward into her tingling toes. She allows it to stroke her entire body as she succumbs to the innocent pleasure of admittance.
Oh my gosh! I'm falling in love with Severus!
They had come to one another on their own accord, on their own terms, without any magical interference or trickery. The implications of this were monumental. It was real and binding. She knew it and just one look at Severus told her he knew it as well.
Severus' face was inches from hers as he took her willingly into his arms. She lost herself in the blackness of his eyes and Hermione just knew he was going to kiss her. She could sense his hesitation and spoke gently.
"I won't turn on you. I'm not Lily."
Courageously, she rose up on her tip toes to meet him. His lips were sweet as they met with hers, cautiously at first, then with arder as they both surrendered to the budding passion within them. Hermione buried her fingers excitedly into his thick, shoulder length hair, coaxing him deeper into the kiss. She felt the power of magic coursing through her body, mingling with his, growing stronger with each passing second.
Hermione pulled away suddenly, comprehension dawning across her delicate features. She had an idea to weaken the Dark Lord before he fought Harry.
"No." said Severus simply. "' 'Tis too dangerous."
Hermione didn't question how he knew what she was thinking. Their minds were already one.
"But the process has already begun." she said confidently.
"Hermione," Severus said undecidedly. " You are willing to complete the process? Wait a minute. How do you know of this magic?" He asked suspiciously, his thoughts flying to Ronald Weasley.
"Not Ron." Hermione said in reassurance. "I instructed Ginny on the process months ago."
"Are...Are you sure?" Severus asked as Hermione pulled away and took his hand leading him toward the hidden bookcase that led upstairs to the bedrooms. "It requires us to become one. You must be certain."
Pausing at the bookcase, Hermiones' caramel eyes met the onyx gaze of Severus Snape. Not speaking, she blinked, turned and began to climb the staircase.
I am certain. The thought floated into Severus' mind. He continued to stare at her from the bottom of the staircase in stunned silence.
A soft white fabric smelling faintly of lavendar and roses hit him full in the face. Severus smiled as he held the flimsy fabric out in front of him. Shaking his head in amusement Severus slowly climbed the stairs.
Later, much later, Hermione may be wanting her sun dress back.
*________________________________________________
**dant dant daaan... there it is. The controversial chapter of love. This is a disclaimer that Hermione is indeed 18 years old and out of Hogwarts.
I am anxious for your replies so leave yourFEEDBACK HERE
~nevillesgirl
and you knew we would get there eventually. So, with minimal hesitation...CHAPTER 21
DRAMATIC DISCLOSURE
June seventh. Voldemort has been gone a month aready and tensions were high among the Death Eaters. The Dark Lord left Lucius and Bellatrix in charge of maintaining obedience among his followers while Severus and Hermione were isolated in Spinner's End.
A week ago Hermione left her seclusion to take her N.E.W.T exams up at Hogwarts. She was now a graduate from school. She also took that opportunity to tell Harry that Voldemort had bought into her plan and left her and Snape to work out the details of the attack. Harry's impatience was obvious but he seemed resigned to the fact that he must wait.
Hermione was pleased to notice the sparkle in his emerald eyes as he looked at Ginny. When he said 'I love you' to her a whirlpool of deep green swirled in his eyes as well as her own. Hermione had never known Ginny to have green eyes before. Whatever she did, Harry was obviously more than just attracted to her. There was strength and depth that bound them together. It almost made Hermione burn with envy.
Almost. For Hermione has been feeling a strength burning within her for the last month. Each day, she spent vulnerable to Severus fed the power residing dormant inside of her.
He no longer called her 'Miss Granger' but frequently used her first name. That simple act ignited a fierceness that linked her with him, especially since she has begun using his first name as well.
There mutual trust in each other was so complete that Hermione knew even as they plotted the attack on Headquarters, that every word spoken, every idea suggested, would ultimately be to benefit the Order.
On several occasions a heated arguement would bring Snape inches from Hermiones' flushed face as he attempted to talk her out of an unecessary risk she was planning to take. It was the same if Severus chanced a risk, then both of them would end up glaring at one another in silence, breathing ragged with something obscure veiled behind their eyes.
It was a strange feeling and for Merlins sake Hermione could not understand it. If Severus could, he was keeping it hidden very well.
Today however, they were wholly in agreement as they analyzed the developing plan set before them. It was scorching, even with the air conditioner blasting. Hermiones' white sundress clung provocatively to her youthful curves in the summer heat.
"The attack should be simultaneous, All Death Eaters entering the house at once." said Hermione. "This will give the Dark Lord an illusion of strength and surprise and will allow the Order to have all of our members contain the Death Eaters in the place of our choice. He can use the Dark Mark to signal it."
"Excellent idea," concluded Severus. He was linked with her mind so often that he saw the advantage this act would give the order over Voldemort.
Severus was amazed at the intricate way in which Hermiones' mind worked. He regarded her thought process in the highest esteem as she logically covered every angle, every potential pit fall to her plan.
He could no longer deny the mounting attraction building within him for this young woman. It threatened to consume him which terrified every ounce of his manner. Not since Lily Potter has Severus felt something even half as strong as this.
Severus bent over the parchment Hermione was writing on and inhaled. The fresh citrus scent of her shampoo washed over him in waves of glory, leaving him disoriented. Since that day at the Circle however, Severus has bridled his emotions painstakingly. He has not yet discussed the matter with Hermione but knew the implications of what transpired that day. He saw Voldemorts' face, the color of his skin. Voldemort had been in pain. Bella's thoughts of distrust masked the true cause of that pain and because the Dark Lord did not respect the power of this particular branch of old magic, he was useless to detect its origin. Love.
He was falling in love with Hermione Granger.
What makes Severus shake with jubilant delight and fear all in one is the knowledge that what resulted between himself and Hermione that day was only possible if the feeling was reciprocated. Was it possible that Hermione was feeling the same thing too? Certainly not! She was young and beautiful and he was old and well...
Severus snapped back to attention. Hermione was speaking to him. "Pardon me, I didn't quite get that?" he said apologietically.
Hermione looked quizzically at him. "I was saying that we should lure Voldemort into a false sense of security. Have him take Ginny into the final confrontation with Harry. If he believes that torturing and killing Ginny will destroy Harry, leaving him distraught, he will want to exploit that weakness in him."
"Um hmm." said Snape distantly.
Hermione couldn't help but notice how distracted Severus was tonight. It was nearing midnight, maybe he was just tired.
"Hermione," said Severus as nonchalantly as possible. "What is the purpose of having Ginny present at the..."
"Come now, Mr. Snape," said Hermione mockingly. "I thought you were intelligent."
She saw his pale pallor flush with embarrassment then continued. "They are in love. Surely you recongnized the signs of what happened to Voldemort when intense love was around him?"
Hermiones' hand flew to her mouth, shaking in horror at the truth she's just realized and revealed at the same time. Her frightened eyes plastered to his face as he swiftly crossed the living room, closing the distance between them.
"You cannot hide from me Hermione." said Severus as she fervently attempted to mask her feelings with Occlumency. He grabbed her wrist gently as Hermione tugged half heartedly to free herself from his grip.
"But you were my...you are too..." Hermiones' small voice trailed off uncertainly.
"Your teacher?" Snape finished for her. "Too old for you? Hermione, I have not been your teacher for awhile now. And yes, I am twenty years your senior," he said harshly. "But who understands you better then I? Who makes you feel the passion better then I ? Who have you turned to in your dispair? Who will you continue to turn to, but me?"
He paused, boring his intense obsidian gaze into her, weakening her resolve. "Search your heart for the truth." He said quietly. "If it is found, embrace it."
Hermione stopped struggling and looked questioningly into Severus' pale face. For once his features, usually sharp with anger, were soft and uncharacteristicly calm. Tentatively she reaches a trembling hand to his cheek expecting him to pull away at such a bold action of emotion, however he turns his lips into the palm of her hand and gently kisses it, emitting soft pink sparks from where they met.
Severus sighs in ecstacy at the innocence of her actions. Hermione permits the warm rush of feeling to flow from her head downward into her tingling toes. She allows it to stroke her entire body as she succumbs to the innocent pleasure of admittance.
Oh my gosh! I'm falling in love with Severus!
They had come to one another on their own accord, on their own terms, without any magical interference or trickery. The implications of this were monumental. It was real and binding. She knew it and just one look at Severus told her he knew it as well.
Severus' face was inches from hers as he took her willingly into his arms. She lost herself in the blackness of his eyes and Hermione just knew he was going to kiss her. She could sense his hesitation and spoke gently.
"I won't turn on you. I'm not Lily."
Courageously, she rose up on her tip toes to meet him. His lips were sweet as they met with hers, cautiously at first, then with arder as they both surrendered to the budding passion within them. Hermione buried her fingers excitedly into his thick, shoulder length hair, coaxing him deeper into the kiss. She felt the power of magic coursing through her body, mingling with his, growing stronger with each passing second.
Hermione pulled away suddenly, comprehension dawning across her delicate features. She had an idea to weaken the Dark Lord before he fought Harry.
"No." said Severus simply. "' 'Tis too dangerous."
Hermione didn't question how he knew what she was thinking. Their minds were already one.
"But the process has already begun." she said confidently.
"Hermione," Severus said undecidedly. " You are willing to complete the process? Wait a minute. How do you know of this magic?" He asked suspiciously, his thoughts flying to Ronald Weasley.
"Not Ron." Hermione said in reassurance. "I instructed Ginny on the process months ago."
"Are...Are you sure?" Severus asked as Hermione pulled away and took his hand leading him toward the hidden bookcase that led upstairs to the bedrooms. "It requires us to become one. You must be certain."
Pausing at the bookcase, Hermiones' caramel eyes met the onyx gaze of Severus Snape. Not speaking, she blinked, turned and began to climb the staircase.
I am certain. The thought floated into Severus' mind. He continued to stare at her from the bottom of the staircase in stunned silence.
A soft white fabric smelling faintly of lavendar and roses hit him full in the face. Severus smiled as he held the flimsy fabric out in front of him. Shaking his head in amusement Severus slowly climbed the stairs.
Later, much later, Hermione may be wanting her sun dress back.
*________________________________________________
**dant dant daaan... there it is. The controversial chapter of love. This is a disclaimer that Hermione is indeed 18 years old and out of Hogwarts.
I am anxious for your replies so leave yourFEEDBACK HERE
~nevillesgirl
CHAPTER 22
COUNTING DOWN
July came roaring in like a summer storm dispite the gentle rain that fell over Spinner's End. The process and the plan were complete. Hermione and Snape now awaited word from Lord Voldemort. Over a seemingly innocent game of Gobstones, Hermione contemplated Severus as he considered his next move.
"Will you stop looking at me with those harsh eyes of yours Hermione." said Severus playfully.
"Harsh? Harsh! Are you serious?" asked Hermione in regards to her new coal-colored orbs. Hermione knew of course that he wasn't.
Severus smiled wickedly and took his shot, knocking all of Hermione's remaining stones out of bounds and winning the game. "You know," started Snape, "the Dark Lord's wrath will be unquenchable when our treachary is discovered."
Hermione sighed. It never failed. At least twice a day Severus would broach the subject of weakening Voldemort and how dangerous it was, especially for her.
"Yes, yes," she said impatiently. "Although, if we are successful, in his weakened state Voldemort cannot possibly take on both of us."
" 'Mione, there is no way of knowing which one of us he will go after and make no mistake, he will come after one of us." Severus' voice was racked with emotion. "I could not bear it if he chose to hurt you instead of me."
"He can't hurt either of us Sev, our love is too powerful." said Hermione with a wide smile. "Besides, he underestimates the power of love. He certainly won't believe you capable of such feelings."
She was right, almost as usual thought Severus. The Dark Lord didn't believe that he could love, not ever again. And there were others who would believe this as well.
"Have you considered what Potter's reaction to 'us' will be?" asked Severus quietly.
Hermione didn't say anything for she has indeed given a great deal of thought to what her best friend will think about her newfound love for their former Professor; a man he merely tolorates though accepting of his loyalty.
In Harry's mind, Severus will alwyas be the man who armed Voldemort with part of the prophecy that made him decided to go after his parents. He will always be the slimy git who fueded with Harry's father and Godfather. Severus will always be the unfair teacher who made Harry and his friends' lives at Hogwarts miserable for six years. Forgiveness and friendship may be asking a bit much.
"No Sev, I can't say about Harry" said Hermione. She was about to elaborate when Severus interrupted her, clutching his left arm.
"He request our presence at the Circle. Remember, in the Circle, concentrate on guarding your feelings."
Arms linked they apparated intothe presence of the Dark Lord.
*____________________________________________
Within the Circle the wind whipped Hermione's hair into tangles around her face. Voldemort, at the center, his arms overhead, controlled the power flawlessly. Hermione focused her intention on Voldemort's version of the plan and knew that Severus was doing the same.
"Hmmmm, very good." said Voldemort orgasmically as his mind absorbed and embraced the simplicity and concreteness of Hermione and Snape's plan.
Bellatrix deranged smile could only mean that she approved of her role in the plan to excerise revenge on Neville Longbottom. She had lost most function in her arm just as Neville had predicted.
Lucius too had a greedy expression across his face as he saw himself locked in a vicious battle against Arthur Weasley. It was evident that his disdain of the muggle-loving blood traitor would fuel his conquest to destroy him and his family.
When the power subisded and they all stepped from the circle, Voldemort offered his praise. "The brilliance to weaken there forces by causing a disturbance in Northern Europe in which half the Order must go to fight is sheer genius." said Voldemort cockily. "That must have been your idea Severus, after all, Miss Granger is still a Mudblood."
Hermione could feel Severus' blood boil at the indecent slur but saw him expertly remain impassive as he answered. "Yes My Lord."
"Master," said Hermione hesitantly,"sh-should I return to Headquarters? I've been away for months now and my absence may arouse suspicion."
"Eager aren't we, to get back to the muggle-lovers," sneered Malfoy
"Now Lucius," said Voldemort, "Miss Granger has proven herself valuable and has been flawless in her assignments, lest you forget that fiasco with the prophecy." hissed Voldemort, his narrow eyes darkening with fury.
"Of...course not master." stammered Malfoy. "I only wished...why the company she keeps..."
"Yes, the company she keeps has been a goldmine of information to me." Voldemort coiled his words carefully. "Do you wish to ...debate this point Lucius?"
"No Master. Forgive me."
Voldemort turned his razor sharp gaze to Hermione and said sinisterly," A fortnight Granger, then we finish it."
*_____________________________________________
Hermione slept like the dead for three days, the prophecy running in and out of her dreams.
The strongest mind in three will turn
Something within errupts and burns
External courage to regain what's lost
A sacrifice of expensive cost
If it is failed then it must be
Death...Eternally
When she woke on the fourth, Ginny burst into her room flinging her arms around her neck.
"We've been so worried about you," she said. "Harry said not to worry of course but you know me."
"Harry! I must speak to him immediately." gushed Hermione. "A fornight is all the time..."
"Done." interjected Ginny. "It's all been taken care of. Harry entered your mind that first night you were back. He knows everything and the plans are in place." Ginny paused, a look of uncertainty across her pretty face. "Hermione, he knows everything."
Ginny stood from the bed, her arms crossed in mock consternation. "You and...Snape? How...when...why?"
Hermione gasped. Her hand flew to her mouth then quickly she jumped out of bed, pulled on some shorts and a faded grey t-shirt and tried to tame the tangled mess that was her hair. "I have to explain," she started.
"Oh, I wouldn't just yet," said Ginny. "He's madder then a Horntail dragon guarding her eggs."
"I must try." said Hermione desperately and set out the door.
Hermione found Harry sulking in the Attic. Hermione remembered two Christmases ago Sirius sulking about the attic, mooning over his lonliness and uslessness in this very same manner. Sitting alone in the dark, Harry's emerald green eyes lit the way to him.
"Harry?" called Hermione softly as she cautiously approached him.
"DON'T!" spat Harry. "FILTHY, SLIMY...GIT he is and...what about RON!" Harry's face flushed with rage. His lean body was shaking uncontrollably as he shouted insults and accusations at Hermione. "He's always been horrible to us Hermione. A lifetime of nastiness can hardly be erased by a few months of good deeds."
"Harry, please let me explain."
"I DON'T WANT YOU TO EXPLAIN!" roared Harry. "I want...I want..." Harry sighed and buried his face into his hands, his voice choked with emotion. "I want my best friend back. I want you two together. I want all of us forever."
Hermione knelt beside him and covered him with her arms letting his sobs shake her body. Months of grief relinquished from the tight constraints Harry held, overflowed. Hermione realized that while Harry was understandablly upset over her relationship with Severus, it has been overshadowed by his lack of mourning for Ron. Once he was calm Harry would allow her to explain, she hoped.
"I -I just- miss- him." said Harry in between sobs.
"I know." consoled Hermione as she stroked his unruly hair. "It is hard to feel the pain at first but if you let yourself, and let someone be there to help you through it, you will heal faster." Hermione felt the familiar rush of misery rise in her chest that she would always associate with the loss of her beloved Ron. "I loved him too Harry."
Harry looked up at her with tears still brimming his eyes. "Loved? Is that all? Is Ron reduced to just a memory; some bloke we used to hang around with?"
Hermione shook her head, willing Harry to understand. "Harry, I will always love Ronald. He was the first person to truly accept me for being me." she chuckled suddenly. " Yes, we argued, constantly it seems, but when we were alone, we understood one another. With Severus." Hemione ingnored the obvious wince paining Harry's face and continued. "With Severus though, I am alive, not just understood. No one else will ever know how it feels to betray the people you love, too make a choice and watch them die because of it. No one else has ever nurtured my desire for knowledge or made me feel unblushing passion."
Harry started to protest but Hermione firmly stopped him.
"Harry, Severus has done some dispicable things in his life, especially to those you love. I am not asking you to forgive him and become bosom buddies however, I am asking that you co-exist peacefully and acept that their is a side to him in which I alone am privileged too and that he is not a monster." Hermione wiped the tears coursing down her cheeks.
Hermione boldly entered his mind, seeking resolution. Please Harry, do this for me. Focus on more important things then hating Severus. Please...focus on Ronald... on Ginny...on my love for you. Please...
Harry nodded slowly in defeat. Before either one of them could say anything else a piercing scream traveled through the house.
"HERMIONEEEEE!"
It was Ginny.
Harry and Hermione sprinted downstairs until they almost collided with Ginny, who was guarding Hermione's bedroom door.
"You have a visitor. He said it was urgent though how he got in here unseen, I'll never understand." said Ginny curiously.
Hermione flung open her door and there pacing back and forth in her messy bedroom was Severus.
*______________________________________________
Kindly leave your FEEDBACK HERE
~nevillesgirl
COUNTING DOWN
July came roaring in like a summer storm dispite the gentle rain that fell over Spinner's End. The process and the plan were complete. Hermione and Snape now awaited word from Lord Voldemort. Over a seemingly innocent game of Gobstones, Hermione contemplated Severus as he considered his next move.
"Will you stop looking at me with those harsh eyes of yours Hermione." said Severus playfully.
"Harsh? Harsh! Are you serious?" asked Hermione in regards to her new coal-colored orbs. Hermione knew of course that he wasn't.
Severus smiled wickedly and took his shot, knocking all of Hermione's remaining stones out of bounds and winning the game. "You know," started Snape, "the Dark Lord's wrath will be unquenchable when our treachary is discovered."
Hermione sighed. It never failed. At least twice a day Severus would broach the subject of weakening Voldemort and how dangerous it was, especially for her.
"Yes, yes," she said impatiently. "Although, if we are successful, in his weakened state Voldemort cannot possibly take on both of us."
" 'Mione, there is no way of knowing which one of us he will go after and make no mistake, he will come after one of us." Severus' voice was racked with emotion. "I could not bear it if he chose to hurt you instead of me."
"He can't hurt either of us Sev, our love is too powerful." said Hermione with a wide smile. "Besides, he underestimates the power of love. He certainly won't believe you capable of such feelings."
She was right, almost as usual thought Severus. The Dark Lord didn't believe that he could love, not ever again. And there were others who would believe this as well.
"Have you considered what Potter's reaction to 'us' will be?" asked Severus quietly.
Hermione didn't say anything for she has indeed given a great deal of thought to what her best friend will think about her newfound love for their former Professor; a man he merely tolorates though accepting of his loyalty.
In Harry's mind, Severus will alwyas be the man who armed Voldemort with part of the prophecy that made him decided to go after his parents. He will always be the slimy git who fueded with Harry's father and Godfather. Severus will always be the unfair teacher who made Harry and his friends' lives at Hogwarts miserable for six years. Forgiveness and friendship may be asking a bit much.
"No Sev, I can't say about Harry" said Hermione. She was about to elaborate when Severus interrupted her, clutching his left arm.
"He request our presence at the Circle. Remember, in the Circle, concentrate on guarding your feelings."
Arms linked they apparated intothe presence of the Dark Lord.
*____________________________________________
Within the Circle the wind whipped Hermione's hair into tangles around her face. Voldemort, at the center, his arms overhead, controlled the power flawlessly. Hermione focused her intention on Voldemort's version of the plan and knew that Severus was doing the same.
"Hmmmm, very good." said Voldemort orgasmically as his mind absorbed and embraced the simplicity and concreteness of Hermione and Snape's plan.
Bellatrix deranged smile could only mean that she approved of her role in the plan to excerise revenge on Neville Longbottom. She had lost most function in her arm just as Neville had predicted.
Lucius too had a greedy expression across his face as he saw himself locked in a vicious battle against Arthur Weasley. It was evident that his disdain of the muggle-loving blood traitor would fuel his conquest to destroy him and his family.
When the power subisded and they all stepped from the circle, Voldemort offered his praise. "The brilliance to weaken there forces by causing a disturbance in Northern Europe in which half the Order must go to fight is sheer genius." said Voldemort cockily. "That must have been your idea Severus, after all, Miss Granger is still a Mudblood."
Hermione could feel Severus' blood boil at the indecent slur but saw him expertly remain impassive as he answered. "Yes My Lord."
"Master," said Hermione hesitantly,"sh-should I return to Headquarters? I've been away for months now and my absence may arouse suspicion."
"Eager aren't we, to get back to the muggle-lovers," sneered Malfoy
"Now Lucius," said Voldemort, "Miss Granger has proven herself valuable and has been flawless in her assignments, lest you forget that fiasco with the prophecy." hissed Voldemort, his narrow eyes darkening with fury.
"Of...course not master." stammered Malfoy. "I only wished...why the company she keeps..."
"Yes, the company she keeps has been a goldmine of information to me." Voldemort coiled his words carefully. "Do you wish to ...debate this point Lucius?"
"No Master. Forgive me."
Voldemort turned his razor sharp gaze to Hermione and said sinisterly," A fortnight Granger, then we finish it."
*_____________________________________________
Hermione slept like the dead for three days, the prophecy running in and out of her dreams.
The strongest mind in three will turn
Something within errupts and burns
External courage to regain what's lost
A sacrifice of expensive cost
If it is failed then it must be
Death...Eternally
When she woke on the fourth, Ginny burst into her room flinging her arms around her neck.
"We've been so worried about you," she said. "Harry said not to worry of course but you know me."
"Harry! I must speak to him immediately." gushed Hermione. "A fornight is all the time..."
"Done." interjected Ginny. "It's all been taken care of. Harry entered your mind that first night you were back. He knows everything and the plans are in place." Ginny paused, a look of uncertainty across her pretty face. "Hermione, he knows everything."
Ginny stood from the bed, her arms crossed in mock consternation. "You and...Snape? How...when...why?"
Hermione gasped. Her hand flew to her mouth then quickly she jumped out of bed, pulled on some shorts and a faded grey t-shirt and tried to tame the tangled mess that was her hair. "I have to explain," she started.
"Oh, I wouldn't just yet," said Ginny. "He's madder then a Horntail dragon guarding her eggs."
"I must try." said Hermione desperately and set out the door.
Hermione found Harry sulking in the Attic. Hermione remembered two Christmases ago Sirius sulking about the attic, mooning over his lonliness and uslessness in this very same manner. Sitting alone in the dark, Harry's emerald green eyes lit the way to him.
"Harry?" called Hermione softly as she cautiously approached him.
"DON'T!" spat Harry. "FILTHY, SLIMY...GIT he is and...what about RON!" Harry's face flushed with rage. His lean body was shaking uncontrollably as he shouted insults and accusations at Hermione. "He's always been horrible to us Hermione. A lifetime of nastiness can hardly be erased by a few months of good deeds."
"Harry, please let me explain."
"I DON'T WANT YOU TO EXPLAIN!" roared Harry. "I want...I want..." Harry sighed and buried his face into his hands, his voice choked with emotion. "I want my best friend back. I want you two together. I want all of us forever."
Hermione knelt beside him and covered him with her arms letting his sobs shake her body. Months of grief relinquished from the tight constraints Harry held, overflowed. Hermione realized that while Harry was understandablly upset over her relationship with Severus, it has been overshadowed by his lack of mourning for Ron. Once he was calm Harry would allow her to explain, she hoped.
"I -I just- miss- him." said Harry in between sobs.
"I know." consoled Hermione as she stroked his unruly hair. "It is hard to feel the pain at first but if you let yourself, and let someone be there to help you through it, you will heal faster." Hermione felt the familiar rush of misery rise in her chest that she would always associate with the loss of her beloved Ron. "I loved him too Harry."
Harry looked up at her with tears still brimming his eyes. "Loved? Is that all? Is Ron reduced to just a memory; some bloke we used to hang around with?"
Hermione shook her head, willing Harry to understand. "Harry, I will always love Ronald. He was the first person to truly accept me for being me." she chuckled suddenly. " Yes, we argued, constantly it seems, but when we were alone, we understood one another. With Severus." Hemione ingnored the obvious wince paining Harry's face and continued. "With Severus though, I am alive, not just understood. No one else will ever know how it feels to betray the people you love, too make a choice and watch them die because of it. No one else has ever nurtured my desire for knowledge or made me feel unblushing passion."
Harry started to protest but Hermione firmly stopped him.
"Harry, Severus has done some dispicable things in his life, especially to those you love. I am not asking you to forgive him and become bosom buddies however, I am asking that you co-exist peacefully and acept that their is a side to him in which I alone am privileged too and that he is not a monster." Hermione wiped the tears coursing down her cheeks.
Hermione boldly entered his mind, seeking resolution. Please Harry, do this for me. Focus on more important things then hating Severus. Please...focus on Ronald... on Ginny...on my love for you. Please...
Harry nodded slowly in defeat. Before either one of them could say anything else a piercing scream traveled through the house.
"HERMIONEEEEE!"
It was Ginny.
Harry and Hermione sprinted downstairs until they almost collided with Ginny, who was guarding Hermione's bedroom door.
"You have a visitor. He said it was urgent though how he got in here unseen, I'll never understand." said Ginny curiously.
Hermione flung open her door and there pacing back and forth in her messy bedroom was Severus.
*______________________________________________
Kindly leave your FEEDBACK HERE
~nevillesgirl
**Thank you kelli for pointing out some gramatical errors...I should always proof read no matter how tired I am. . Forgiven?
I am hoping to go back and try and fix that after posting chapter 23-if I'm not too tired.
CHAPTER 23
RISK AND REWARD
Hermione flew into Severus' outstretched arms and immediately knew something was not right.
"Either come in or get out. In either case Potter, close the door." Ordered Snape. "I don't have much time."
Harry and Ginny stepped over the threshold and closed the door but remained near it, unsure of what exactly was going on. Hermoine knew that whatever it is, was of vital importance for Severus to risk showing up at Headquarters.
"No one knows I am here," said Snape. "Hermione, I overheard Lucius talking to the Dark Lord. He was petitioning to have you killed once the attack on the Order began." Snape looked disgusted. "His fondness for murdering muggleborns is insatiable. I came as soon as I heard."
Both Harry and Ginny gasped in shock.
"But that makes no sense," questioned Hermione. "Voldemort called Malfoy on his mistrust of me before I returned here."
"That matters not. The Death Eaters are always jostling for the title of the Dark Lord's favorite. I must get back before it is discovered I am missing." Severus kissed Hermione lightly on the lips then disapparated outdoors
Hermione rushed to the window to see Severus hurrying towards the end of the street. Suddenly he went rigid and fell backwards, hitting the ground hard. A masked, hooded figure appeared beside him. The unmistakable gleaming blond hair portruding from the sides of the mask left little doubt that Lucius Malfoy had planned a to catch Severus in the act of betraying Lord Voldemort. With a loud crack both figures disapparated.
Hermione didn't have time to panic. If she didn't go to the Dark Lord now and Severus was discovered to be traitorous, Voldemort would kill him. Harry and Ginny's feeble attempts at trying to restrain her did nothing to distract her from her purpose.
"I must leave now!" Hermione shouted at them. " Prepare for the battle...it will come sooner then expected."
*_______________________________________________
Hermione knew where she was going before she got there. The smell of moss and wet grass filled her nostrils as she strode with purpose to the Circle. Hermione's heart quivered at the sight that met her. Severus, his hands bound behind his back was being interrogated by Lord Voldemort with Lucius Malfoy standing smuggly in the background.
"What are you concealing Severus?" demanding Voldemort.
When no answer was forthcoming, Voldemort raised his hand and smacked Snape violently with the back of it. "Lucius tells me you went to warn Granger. Did you?" taunted Voldemort as he stalked Severus in a slow, panther-like circle.
"Warn me of what my Lord?" Hermione spoke with no conviction, only a question. The Dark Lord must believe Severus did not tell her anything.
Granger, you were not summoned. Why are you here?" asked Voldemort suspiciously as he looked from Lucius to Snape and then back to Hermione.
"I came to inform you of something strange I saw," said Hermione quickly, "but it seems to have been on your orders that Malfoy had Snape kidnapped on my street." Hermione shot a malevolent look at Lucius. "To test me no doubt; to see if I would run to the you. Haven't I proven myself trustworthy yet Lucius?"
The challenge in Hermione's voice was unmistakable and caused Lucius to flinch menacingly in her direction.
"Easy Lucius, we shall see if she is truly loyal." said Voldemort mysteriously. Voldemort continued to circle Severus causing fear to grip Hermione about her throat.
"I sense compassion in you Miss Granger,no doubt because you are still a recent convert." said Voldemort malicously. "By now you must have realized that among my followers this simply is not allowed. You all exist because I allow it. The competition of my most trusted and loyal servant is genuinely cut-throat." Voldemort looked at Hermione evenly, relishing at the absolute truth in his words. "To feel compassion for a fellow Death Eater is useless, for one day I may have you perform a most heinous act against any one of them."
Voldemort kicked Severus in the knees knocking him to the ground. He was upon him instantly. "CRUCIO!"
Hermione watched in horror as Severus writhed uncontrollably on the ground. Beads of perspiration lined his forhead and blood trickled from his lip. He was biting it, refusing to utter a sound. Hermione could barely stand it. She was powerless. Anything she said or did in trying to rescue him would seal both their fates in certain death. Against her will, tears pooled in her eyes as that familiar warmth began rising in her chest.
Suddenly Voldemort yelped in pain, lifting the curse. He looked curiously at his hand and arm which were the faintest shade of pink.
Gasping for breath Severus whispered, "Hermione, no."
Voldemort wheeled on Hermione, wand raised menacingly at her heart.
"Now it's Hermione, is it?" He spat venomously through clenched teeth. "Lucius, Hermione get into the Circle."
It was an order they both dare not disobey. A quick glance at Severus' hardened eyes told her she had better comply at once.
Voldemort stepped to the center and raised his wand. He spoke the incantation in a strange hissing Hermione recognized as Parseltongue. The wind stilled and the sky darkened. Lightening flashed across the heavens accompanied by booming claps of thunder. The streaks of electricity joined, forming a single ray of pure power and connected with Voldemort's wand tip.
Lucius did not hesitate and linked with Voldemort, the beam coursing through the Dark Lord and connecting with Malfoy's chest. The surge in power was enormous.
Voldemort raised his left hand and extended his index finger towards Severus who had just gained his feet. He bent his finger slightly and the power shooting out from it and hit Severus in the stomach, knocking him over. A small burn hole in his black robe above his navel was the only evidence of the connection.
"Link Miss Granger and prove once and for all your loyalty," commanded Voldemort. "Dispose of Snape and take his place as my most trusted servant."
Finally Hermione understood. With her power linked, the blast that would shoot from Lord Voldemort's finger would be strong enought to kill Severus. She could not stall another moment. Both their lives depended upon her actions. Hot tears escaped her eyes, burning her cheeks as they fell on her face. She focused on the deadly link she must make.
'Mione, Sheild Charm once you link...3-2-1
Hermione heard his voice and knew what Severus wanted her to do. Raising her eyes to Voldemort, she linked. She felt her power push forward from her body to meet with Voldemort and immediatley she concentrated all her energy on one thought. PROTEGO!
It was quick. The beam firing towards Severus was instantly repelled back towards Voldemort. It narrowly missed his sinewy form but the strength of the ray in passing was enough to knock Lucius, Voldemort and Hermione from the Circle.
Hermione didn't have a moment to lose. She scrambled to her feet and raced to Severus. Clutching his hand firmly, she thought of number twelve, Grimmauld Place and disapparated, hearing Voldemort cursing in rage as they left.
*______________________________________________
As always your FEEDBACK is always appreciated.
~nevillesgirl
. Forgiven?I am hoping to go back and try and fix that after posting chapter 23-if I'm not too tired.
CHAPTER 23
RISK AND REWARD
Hermione flew into Severus' outstretched arms and immediately knew something was not right.
"Either come in or get out. In either case Potter, close the door." Ordered Snape. "I don't have much time."
Harry and Ginny stepped over the threshold and closed the door but remained near it, unsure of what exactly was going on. Hermoine knew that whatever it is, was of vital importance for Severus to risk showing up at Headquarters.
"No one knows I am here," said Snape. "Hermione, I overheard Lucius talking to the Dark Lord. He was petitioning to have you killed once the attack on the Order began." Snape looked disgusted. "His fondness for murdering muggleborns is insatiable. I came as soon as I heard."
Both Harry and Ginny gasped in shock.
"But that makes no sense," questioned Hermione. "Voldemort called Malfoy on his mistrust of me before I returned here."
"That matters not. The Death Eaters are always jostling for the title of the Dark Lord's favorite. I must get back before it is discovered I am missing." Severus kissed Hermione lightly on the lips then disapparated outdoors
Hermione rushed to the window to see Severus hurrying towards the end of the street. Suddenly he went rigid and fell backwards, hitting the ground hard. A masked, hooded figure appeared beside him. The unmistakable gleaming blond hair portruding from the sides of the mask left little doubt that Lucius Malfoy had planned a to catch Severus in the act of betraying Lord Voldemort. With a loud crack both figures disapparated.
Hermione didn't have time to panic. If she didn't go to the Dark Lord now and Severus was discovered to be traitorous, Voldemort would kill him. Harry and Ginny's feeble attempts at trying to restrain her did nothing to distract her from her purpose.
"I must leave now!" Hermione shouted at them. " Prepare for the battle...it will come sooner then expected."
*_______________________________________________
Hermione knew where she was going before she got there. The smell of moss and wet grass filled her nostrils as she strode with purpose to the Circle. Hermione's heart quivered at the sight that met her. Severus, his hands bound behind his back was being interrogated by Lord Voldemort with Lucius Malfoy standing smuggly in the background.
"What are you concealing Severus?" demanding Voldemort.
When no answer was forthcoming, Voldemort raised his hand and smacked Snape violently with the back of it. "Lucius tells me you went to warn Granger. Did you?" taunted Voldemort as he stalked Severus in a slow, panther-like circle.
"Warn me of what my Lord?" Hermione spoke with no conviction, only a question. The Dark Lord must believe Severus did not tell her anything.
Granger, you were not summoned. Why are you here?" asked Voldemort suspiciously as he looked from Lucius to Snape and then back to Hermione.
"I came to inform you of something strange I saw," said Hermione quickly, "but it seems to have been on your orders that Malfoy had Snape kidnapped on my street." Hermione shot a malevolent look at Lucius. "To test me no doubt; to see if I would run to the you. Haven't I proven myself trustworthy yet Lucius?"
The challenge in Hermione's voice was unmistakable and caused Lucius to flinch menacingly in her direction.
"Easy Lucius, we shall see if she is truly loyal." said Voldemort mysteriously. Voldemort continued to circle Severus causing fear to grip Hermione about her throat.
"I sense compassion in you Miss Granger,no doubt because you are still a recent convert." said Voldemort malicously. "By now you must have realized that among my followers this simply is not allowed. You all exist because I allow it. The competition of my most trusted and loyal servant is genuinely cut-throat." Voldemort looked at Hermione evenly, relishing at the absolute truth in his words. "To feel compassion for a fellow Death Eater is useless, for one day I may have you perform a most heinous act against any one of them."
Voldemort kicked Severus in the knees knocking him to the ground. He was upon him instantly. "CRUCIO!"
Hermione watched in horror as Severus writhed uncontrollably on the ground. Beads of perspiration lined his forhead and blood trickled from his lip. He was biting it, refusing to utter a sound. Hermione could barely stand it. She was powerless. Anything she said or did in trying to rescue him would seal both their fates in certain death. Against her will, tears pooled in her eyes as that familiar warmth began rising in her chest.
Suddenly Voldemort yelped in pain, lifting the curse. He looked curiously at his hand and arm which were the faintest shade of pink.
Gasping for breath Severus whispered, "Hermione, no."
Voldemort wheeled on Hermione, wand raised menacingly at her heart.
"Now it's Hermione, is it?" He spat venomously through clenched teeth. "Lucius, Hermione get into the Circle."
It was an order they both dare not disobey. A quick glance at Severus' hardened eyes told her she had better comply at once.
Voldemort stepped to the center and raised his wand. He spoke the incantation in a strange hissing Hermione recognized as Parseltongue. The wind stilled and the sky darkened. Lightening flashed across the heavens accompanied by booming claps of thunder. The streaks of electricity joined, forming a single ray of pure power and connected with Voldemort's wand tip.
Lucius did not hesitate and linked with Voldemort, the beam coursing through the Dark Lord and connecting with Malfoy's chest. The surge in power was enormous.
Voldemort raised his left hand and extended his index finger towards Severus who had just gained his feet. He bent his finger slightly and the power shooting out from it and hit Severus in the stomach, knocking him over. A small burn hole in his black robe above his navel was the only evidence of the connection.
"Link Miss Granger and prove once and for all your loyalty," commanded Voldemort. "Dispose of Snape and take his place as my most trusted servant."
Finally Hermione understood. With her power linked, the blast that would shoot from Lord Voldemort's finger would be strong enought to kill Severus. She could not stall another moment. Both their lives depended upon her actions. Hot tears escaped her eyes, burning her cheeks as they fell on her face. She focused on the deadly link she must make.
'Mione, Sheild Charm once you link...3-2-1
Hermione heard his voice and knew what Severus wanted her to do. Raising her eyes to Voldemort, she linked. She felt her power push forward from her body to meet with Voldemort and immediatley she concentrated all her energy on one thought. PROTEGO!
It was quick. The beam firing towards Severus was instantly repelled back towards Voldemort. It narrowly missed his sinewy form but the strength of the ray in passing was enough to knock Lucius, Voldemort and Hermione from the Circle.
Hermione didn't have a moment to lose. She scrambled to her feet and raced to Severus. Clutching his hand firmly, she thought of number twelve, Grimmauld Place and disapparated, hearing Voldemort cursing in rage as they left.
*______________________________________________
As always your FEEDBACK is always appreciated.
~nevillesgirl
CHAPTER 24
THE PORT KEY
Hermione heard the shocked voices milling about her but she could not look up. She had her face buried into Severus’ chest as he lay unconscious, sprawled across the grimy floor of number twelve, Grimmauld Place.
She almost lost him. Two minutes ago Lord Voldemort had been willing, no eager in fact, to kill Severus. The thought throbbed through her skull painfully as she realized she could have lost another person she loved to the Dark Lord’s cruelty.
Suddenly Hermione was angry and she knew what she needed to do. Shoving herself up from the dirty floor and dusting herself off, she searched the room for assistance. Ginny was attempting to bandage a deep cut in her thigh but she brushed her aside roughly. There was no time for doctoring. Her eyes settled on Remus Lupin.
“Remus, could you move Severus upstairs to my bedroom and do what you can for his injuries?” asked Hermione. “He’s been subject to the Cruciatus Curse.”
She heard Lupin say mobilicorpus and knew that Severus’ body was floating upwards towards the second floor but she couldn’t think about him right now. She needed to find Harry.
Hermione found him outdoors in the backyard talking to Neville.
“Harry, the Port key, is it ready?” asked Hermione as she stared nervously at the Devil’s Snare that Harry and Neville were arranging discretely among the Ivy shrubs and Queen Ann’s Lace.
Harry clutched his scar abruptly as he shook his head. “Not yet. Wow, he sure is mad. He’s so mad that he’s not even bothering to use Occlumency against me. What did you do?” He asked with a touch of amusement in his voice.
Hermione told Harry of the betrayal and of Severus’ injuries as they ran back into the house and gathered everyone together for some final instructions
“He is gathering them now,” said Harry. “Remember, no one is to touch any of the doors once the charm is complete. Everyone—to your door and on three we cast.”
Harry gave everyone a chance to get into position then counted down in a firm voice, “Three—two—one!”
In unison everyone shouted “Portus,” as wands pointed to every single doorway leading into the house. The windows had an inescapable charm upon them already. The shabby walls of number twelve, Grimmauld Place glowed fluorescent for a few minutes then dimmed to reveal its original grayish color.
Quite unexpectedly, amidst the noise and disorder, a soft, mournful melody descended from the second floor, becoming steadier and stronger. It was mottled and eerie, almost laugh-like as it streamed downward like a cloud resting about the living room.
Hermione turned to see Severus being supported by Lupin, his face etched in melancholy beauty as the sound swept from his lips and permeated the entire house, leaving behind a sheer light blue shield.
“‘Tis a spell,” said Snape, “similar to the one the Death Eaters used at Hogwarts the night Dumbledore…” his voice trailed off in sorrow. “Anyways, it senses loyalty of the heart. This spell will not allow anyone whose heart is loyal to the Dark Lord to leave Headquarters. It is a barrier of sorts.” But he could not continue for Severus’ face screwed up into one of agonizing pain.
Hermione knew exactly what he was feeling. Her Dark Mark burned as if someone was pressing a red-hot iron to her forearm and she screamed as the unpleasant sensation lingered ruthlessly. A brief flicker of fear flickered in Hermione’s coal eyes as she locked her gaze with Severus.
“He’s here,” she whispered hoarsely. She felt the faintest quiver of fear travel up her spine and tingle her neck as he smiled reassuringly at her.
I will be right here.
Time stood still as all eyes fell on which ever door was nearest to them.
*________________________________________
The hooded figures stole stealthily through he shadows of the tightly uniformed houses on number twelve, Grimmauld Place. The air was balmy and suffocating, making it somewhat difficult to breathe through the thickness of their skeletal masks.
News of the betrayal traveled like a wildfire, spreading uncontrollably among the Death Eaters. The Dark Lord’s rage was torrential and unpredictable. In the immediate aftermath the Dark Lord sent a variety of curses flying into oblivion then finally turned his anger upon the only other available person. The antlers that had sprouted from Lucius Malfoy’s head were now gone but many a Death Eater enjoyed a chuckle at the sight it had been.
Voldemort stood at the front door, eye level with the twisting serpent doorknocker with Lucius in the background. Both were robed in black glory without hoods or masks. Lucius was smug in his task of directing the Dark Lord’s followers into position surrounding the house. He has the coveted position of the Dark Lord’s most loyal and faithful servant.
“My Lord,” asked Lucius carefully. “We are still using the mudblood’s plan? Will she not have told them?”
“Yes my reluctant friend,” said Voldemort harshly. “The traitors would be fools to return here, knowing I will be destroying it. Besides, they are weak,” Voldemort paused, boring his narrow eyes intimidating Lucius, “or do you think they are powerful enough to overcome my wrath?”
“Never My Lord, those traitorous, slimy vermin shall never…”
“Enough Lucius,” said Voldemort, his voice laced with boredom. “Granger could not have warned them of everything in the plan between the time she fled with Snape and now. And even if she did tell them, she is dead for she was bound by the Unbreakable Vow never to reveal her status. They couldn’t have possibly prepared a counter attack with so little time.”
Apprehensively the Death Eaters looked to their left arms for the signal. Fifteen strong they stood awaiting either glorious victory or death. The mark burned and they all simultaneously reached for their assigned door.
The winds screeching was deafening as the entire house uprooted from its ancient foundation. Spinning rapidly and thrusting forward mightily, the house propelled towards a destination known only by Harry. It gave a stomach-retching lurch then landed heavily upon the ground.
*_____________________________________________
As always your FEEDBACK is most welcome and appreciated.
~nevillesgirl
THE PORT KEY
Hermione heard the shocked voices milling about her but she could not look up. She had her face buried into Severus’ chest as he lay unconscious, sprawled across the grimy floor of number twelve, Grimmauld Place.
She almost lost him. Two minutes ago Lord Voldemort had been willing, no eager in fact, to kill Severus. The thought throbbed through her skull painfully as she realized she could have lost another person she loved to the Dark Lord’s cruelty.
Suddenly Hermione was angry and she knew what she needed to do. Shoving herself up from the dirty floor and dusting herself off, she searched the room for assistance. Ginny was attempting to bandage a deep cut in her thigh but she brushed her aside roughly. There was no time for doctoring. Her eyes settled on Remus Lupin.
“Remus, could you move Severus upstairs to my bedroom and do what you can for his injuries?” asked Hermione. “He’s been subject to the Cruciatus Curse.”
She heard Lupin say mobilicorpus and knew that Severus’ body was floating upwards towards the second floor but she couldn’t think about him right now. She needed to find Harry.
Hermione found him outdoors in the backyard talking to Neville.
“Harry, the Port key, is it ready?” asked Hermione as she stared nervously at the Devil’s Snare that Harry and Neville were arranging discretely among the Ivy shrubs and Queen Ann’s Lace.
Harry clutched his scar abruptly as he shook his head. “Not yet. Wow, he sure is mad. He’s so mad that he’s not even bothering to use Occlumency against me. What did you do?” He asked with a touch of amusement in his voice.
Hermione told Harry of the betrayal and of Severus’ injuries as they ran back into the house and gathered everyone together for some final instructions
“He is gathering them now,” said Harry. “Remember, no one is to touch any of the doors once the charm is complete. Everyone—to your door and on three we cast.”
Harry gave everyone a chance to get into position then counted down in a firm voice, “Three—two—one!”
In unison everyone shouted “Portus,” as wands pointed to every single doorway leading into the house. The windows had an inescapable charm upon them already. The shabby walls of number twelve, Grimmauld Place glowed fluorescent for a few minutes then dimmed to reveal its original grayish color.
Quite unexpectedly, amidst the noise and disorder, a soft, mournful melody descended from the second floor, becoming steadier and stronger. It was mottled and eerie, almost laugh-like as it streamed downward like a cloud resting about the living room.
Hermione turned to see Severus being supported by Lupin, his face etched in melancholy beauty as the sound swept from his lips and permeated the entire house, leaving behind a sheer light blue shield.
“‘Tis a spell,” said Snape, “similar to the one the Death Eaters used at Hogwarts the night Dumbledore…” his voice trailed off in sorrow. “Anyways, it senses loyalty of the heart. This spell will not allow anyone whose heart is loyal to the Dark Lord to leave Headquarters. It is a barrier of sorts.” But he could not continue for Severus’ face screwed up into one of agonizing pain.
Hermione knew exactly what he was feeling. Her Dark Mark burned as if someone was pressing a red-hot iron to her forearm and she screamed as the unpleasant sensation lingered ruthlessly. A brief flicker of fear flickered in Hermione’s coal eyes as she locked her gaze with Severus.
“He’s here,” she whispered hoarsely. She felt the faintest quiver of fear travel up her spine and tingle her neck as he smiled reassuringly at her.
I will be right here.
Time stood still as all eyes fell on which ever door was nearest to them.
*________________________________________
The hooded figures stole stealthily through he shadows of the tightly uniformed houses on number twelve, Grimmauld Place. The air was balmy and suffocating, making it somewhat difficult to breathe through the thickness of their skeletal masks.
News of the betrayal traveled like a wildfire, spreading uncontrollably among the Death Eaters. The Dark Lord’s rage was torrential and unpredictable. In the immediate aftermath the Dark Lord sent a variety of curses flying into oblivion then finally turned his anger upon the only other available person. The antlers that had sprouted from Lucius Malfoy’s head were now gone but many a Death Eater enjoyed a chuckle at the sight it had been.
Voldemort stood at the front door, eye level with the twisting serpent doorknocker with Lucius in the background. Both were robed in black glory without hoods or masks. Lucius was smug in his task of directing the Dark Lord’s followers into position surrounding the house. He has the coveted position of the Dark Lord’s most loyal and faithful servant.
“My Lord,” asked Lucius carefully. “We are still using the mudblood’s plan? Will she not have told them?”
“Yes my reluctant friend,” said Voldemort harshly. “The traitors would be fools to return here, knowing I will be destroying it. Besides, they are weak,” Voldemort paused, boring his narrow eyes intimidating Lucius, “or do you think they are powerful enough to overcome my wrath?”
“Never My Lord, those traitorous, slimy vermin shall never…”
“Enough Lucius,” said Voldemort, his voice laced with boredom. “Granger could not have warned them of everything in the plan between the time she fled with Snape and now. And even if she did tell them, she is dead for she was bound by the Unbreakable Vow never to reveal her status. They couldn’t have possibly prepared a counter attack with so little time.”
Apprehensively the Death Eaters looked to their left arms for the signal. Fifteen strong they stood awaiting either glorious victory or death. The mark burned and they all simultaneously reached for their assigned door.
The winds screeching was deafening as the entire house uprooted from its ancient foundation. Spinning rapidly and thrusting forward mightily, the house propelled towards a destination known only by Harry. It gave a stomach-retching lurch then landed heavily upon the ground.
*_____________________________________________
As always your FEEDBACK is most welcome and appreciated.
~nevillesgirl
Neville's Girl you continue to intrigue me and draw me into your world that you have so elaborately created! I smell a movie being made. It has all the elements. Love, lost love, new found love, betrayal, death, deception, courage! I haven't read any other fanfics yet and I may not have too. Hopefully once this story is concluded you will be inspired to carry on with yet another installment into your world. Keep on writing!
Neville's Girl you continue to intrigue me and draw me into your world that you have so elaborately created! I smell a movie being made. It has all the elements. Love, lost love, new found love, betrayal, death, deception, courage! I haven't read any other fanfics yet and I may not have too. Hopefully once this story is concluded you will be inspired to carry on with yet another installment into your world. Keep on writing!
Neville's Girl you continue to intrigue me and draw me into your world that you have so elaborately created! I smell a movie being made. It has all the elements. Love, lost love, new found love, betrayal, death, deception, courage! I haven't read any other fanfics yet and I may not have too. Hopefully once this story is concluded you will be inspired to carry on with yet another installment into your world. Keep on writing!
CHAPTER 25
MAYHEM AND MISFORTUNE
It was a wide open, abandoned field, with patches of scorch marks spaced intermittently about. The faint scent of acrid burning grass and wood lingered at what once was the glorious site of the four hundred and twenty-second Quidditch World Cup.
Impatient at this unexpected development, Voldemort brandished his wand at the front door and shouted, “Alohomora!” The rusty steel hinges flew off, pulling the door neatly from its lodging.
It was mayhem, with Order members scrambling in all directions and blood thirsty Death Eaters giving chase. Curses ricochet off walls and shattered glass. Chairs were overturned in haste and the silver serpent chandelier came crashing to the floor sending metal pieces scattered about the living room.
Before Hermione could run or arm herself in defense she felt an invisible hand strike out around her throat. Slowly she was being lifted up, her feet dangling helplessly three feet from the ground. Voldemort laughed cruelly as he closed the space between his hands. Imaginary fingers savagely squeezed Hermione’s windpipe, constricting airflow to her lungs. Gasping and choking for breath, Hermione franticly clawed at her neck as spots of black danced behind her eyes.
Suddenly a ray of pink slashed through the air splitting the space between Hermione and Voldemort and she plummeted to the ground in a crumpled heap.
“Severus.” Spat Voldemort as he turned away from Hermione to face his once most trusted follower. “New magic…one whose origins I cannot detect, how interesting.”
Hermione’s vision was blurred but she could make out Snape and Voldemort Stalking one another dangerously, wands at the ready.
Find Harry! Love you.
Hermione had only a split second in which to act. “Stupefy!” She cried. Luckily Voldemort’s attention was captivated by Snape and her Stunning Spell hit him just enough to allow her to escape to the stairs. Knocking over the ancestral house elf shrunken head collection as she ascended the staircase she heard Voldemort’s manic laughter.
“Love, you are not capable of love Severus. I made you. You are a monster fashioned out of my own image. Love is a loathsome weakness.”
Stopping briefly at the second floor landing Hermione looked back at Severus and the Dark Lord. They were locked in a battle of wills, sending curses with their minds as well as their wands but Hermione didn’t have time to admire the agility and grace in which Severus moved. She needed to find Harry.
A rainbow of colors at the window caught Hermione’s attention but before she could make her way over to see what was happening outside, an ear piercing shrill filled the air from the second floor toilet. A moment later a large bulky looking Death Eater with long blond hair came bounding out of the rapidly flooding room
Quick as lightening Hermione concentrated on the trip jinx and thought Impedimenta. As the Death Eater stumbled he tried uttering a curse aimed for Hermione, but she was prepared for him. “Langlock!” she shouted and he muted swiftly as his tongue glued to the roof of his mouth. Hermione bound his wrists and ankles and shoved him forcefully into a small closet, locking the door. Then she forced her way into the bathroom to find the source of that terrifying scream.
There was something blocking the door. Hermione had to push. When she finally got through she saw a complete mess. The sink was blasted into tiny shards of fiberglass and strewn haphazardly about. The toilet was ripped from its foundation and lodged behind the door, allowing water to quickly fill the room. The mirror was shattered into a spider web shape still upon the wall and the serpent shaped light fixture dangled precariously overhead.
Ginny’s limp body was sprawled across the bath tub, a large lump protruding from her temple and blood trickling from the corner of her mouth.
After repairing the toilet, Hermione rushed to check on Ginny’s injuries. She seemed unconscious but otherwise okay. Hermione revived her rapidly, wishing she had Madam Pomfry’s skill for healing.
“That…that ugly sasquatch hit me over the head with some invisible object,” said Ginny shakily as she got to her feet. Unsteadily she walked to the window with Hermione right behind her.
Streams of red, yellow and green illuminated the gardens. Bellatrix Lestrange’s manic laughter rose to the broken window as she carelessly taunted Neville and Harry who were both trying zealously to contain her.
The gardens were a beautiful sight in an eerie sense. Hermione could barely make out the Devil’s Snare that she knew was camouflaged among the other plants but there was also a Venomous Tentacula with its deadly spikes removed and floating overhead in a circular motion. A Fanged Geranium, waiting presumably for prey, was planted at the Northern part of the garden by the gate, while Neville’s favorite plant, a Mimbulus Mimbletonia, which spews stink sap when touched, was planted strategically at the south end of the garden near the back door. It seems that Bellatrix has already been sprayed with the putrid, sticky substance as it was clinging to her dark curly hair.
A sound so out of place in the fierce battle around them had Hermione and Ginny whirling around in curiosity. Cornered and obviously frightened, a sniveling Peter Pettigrew was begging and pleading shamelessly for his life while Remus Lupin advanced threateningly upon him.
“Remus my friend, please,” Stuttered Pettigrew, running his filthy hands through his patchy balding hair nervously.
“Shut your mouth,” Said Lupin angrily! “You should have died four years ago. I should have killed you then, but no. Harry, being merciful, spared your worthless life. And how did you repay him?” Spat Lupin, his face contorted in rage. “You helped Voldemort rise, using Harry’s own blood rendering the blood protection it provided him useless.
Peter Pettigrew cowered pitifully in the corner, damp with sweat. His ragged clothes looked as if they hadn’t been cleaned properly in years. “I had no choice Remus. You and Sirius were out to kill me. I…I needed the Dark Lord’s protection.”
“Because of you Voldemort gained power and entrapped Sirius. HE DIED BECAUSE OF YOU!”
Pettigrew whimpered pathetically, seeing every option before him drown one by one. “The Dark Lord, he has a weakness. Remus, spare my life and I will inform you, all of you, how to defeat him.”
It was a last ditch attempt for Peter to try and save his own skin and Hermione, for a moment, was afraid that Remus would fall for it. She needn’t have worried. Hermione and Ginny held tight to one another as they watched Lupin raise his wand and point it at Wormtail’s chest.
Suddenly Remus was hurtled through the air, directly over Hermione and Ginny and out of the broken window. A small scream escaped Ginny’s lips as she tried to move but couldn’t. She and Hermione seemed frozen to one another in a full body bind.
“Wormtail, Wormtail,” hissed Voldemort as he advanced casually upon Peter Pettigrew. “I see you still do not understand the meaning of loyalty.”
“Master, no…a ploy is all…” stammered Pettigrew fearfully. “Trying to escape…”
“You have become a liability,” snapped Voldemort and with that, a green jet of light struck Wormtail firmly in the chest. He crumpled to the ground with terror plastered to his haggard face.
Hermione knew she was only going to get one chance to do this. If Voldemort was in front of her, Severus must indeed be hurt or even worse…dead. Panic rose up in her chest as she tried not to focus on that thought. Her only hope, everyone’s only hope was Harry.
Harry! Quickly…He’s got Ginny and…
“Oh no Granger,” sneered Voldemort as he smacked her across her pale cheek. “No more warnings for you. I should have known the prophecy was wrong in asking me to trust a Mud blood like you to turncoat.”
Voldemort waved his wand and both Ginny and Hermione floated effortlessly before him as he ascended the stairs to the attic.
“You will die last traitor. You will watch the others suffer my wrath, then perish as did your beloved Severus,” said Voldemort with an evil grin.
Voldemort kicked open the attic door and motioned the immobile girls into the dark room.
“Expelliarmus!”
Harry’s voice cut through the stale air of the attic as Voldemort’s wand flew across the room.
“Ah, Harry. We meet for the final time at last,” said Voldemort as he slammed the door behind him.
*__________________________________________
**Okay we are fast approaching the finish of our little adventure. Leave your FEEDBACK HERE
Big hint...I have written the Epilogue already but have one final chapter to write just before it.
~nevillesgirl
MAYHEM AND MISFORTUNE
It was a wide open, abandoned field, with patches of scorch marks spaced intermittently about. The faint scent of acrid burning grass and wood lingered at what once was the glorious site of the four hundred and twenty-second Quidditch World Cup.
Impatient at this unexpected development, Voldemort brandished his wand at the front door and shouted, “Alohomora!” The rusty steel hinges flew off, pulling the door neatly from its lodging.
It was mayhem, with Order members scrambling in all directions and blood thirsty Death Eaters giving chase. Curses ricochet off walls and shattered glass. Chairs were overturned in haste and the silver serpent chandelier came crashing to the floor sending metal pieces scattered about the living room.
Before Hermione could run or arm herself in defense she felt an invisible hand strike out around her throat. Slowly she was being lifted up, her feet dangling helplessly three feet from the ground. Voldemort laughed cruelly as he closed the space between his hands. Imaginary fingers savagely squeezed Hermione’s windpipe, constricting airflow to her lungs. Gasping and choking for breath, Hermione franticly clawed at her neck as spots of black danced behind her eyes.
Suddenly a ray of pink slashed through the air splitting the space between Hermione and Voldemort and she plummeted to the ground in a crumpled heap.
“Severus.” Spat Voldemort as he turned away from Hermione to face his once most trusted follower. “New magic…one whose origins I cannot detect, how interesting.”
Hermione’s vision was blurred but she could make out Snape and Voldemort Stalking one another dangerously, wands at the ready.
Find Harry! Love you.
Hermione had only a split second in which to act. “Stupefy!” She cried. Luckily Voldemort’s attention was captivated by Snape and her Stunning Spell hit him just enough to allow her to escape to the stairs. Knocking over the ancestral house elf shrunken head collection as she ascended the staircase she heard Voldemort’s manic laughter.
“Love, you are not capable of love Severus. I made you. You are a monster fashioned out of my own image. Love is a loathsome weakness.”
Stopping briefly at the second floor landing Hermione looked back at Severus and the Dark Lord. They were locked in a battle of wills, sending curses with their minds as well as their wands but Hermione didn’t have time to admire the agility and grace in which Severus moved. She needed to find Harry.
A rainbow of colors at the window caught Hermione’s attention but before she could make her way over to see what was happening outside, an ear piercing shrill filled the air from the second floor toilet. A moment later a large bulky looking Death Eater with long blond hair came bounding out of the rapidly flooding room
Quick as lightening Hermione concentrated on the trip jinx and thought Impedimenta. As the Death Eater stumbled he tried uttering a curse aimed for Hermione, but she was prepared for him. “Langlock!” she shouted and he muted swiftly as his tongue glued to the roof of his mouth. Hermione bound his wrists and ankles and shoved him forcefully into a small closet, locking the door. Then she forced her way into the bathroom to find the source of that terrifying scream.
There was something blocking the door. Hermione had to push. When she finally got through she saw a complete mess. The sink was blasted into tiny shards of fiberglass and strewn haphazardly about. The toilet was ripped from its foundation and lodged behind the door, allowing water to quickly fill the room. The mirror was shattered into a spider web shape still upon the wall and the serpent shaped light fixture dangled precariously overhead.
Ginny’s limp body was sprawled across the bath tub, a large lump protruding from her temple and blood trickling from the corner of her mouth.
After repairing the toilet, Hermione rushed to check on Ginny’s injuries. She seemed unconscious but otherwise okay. Hermione revived her rapidly, wishing she had Madam Pomfry’s skill for healing.
“That…that ugly sasquatch hit me over the head with some invisible object,” said Ginny shakily as she got to her feet. Unsteadily she walked to the window with Hermione right behind her.
Streams of red, yellow and green illuminated the gardens. Bellatrix Lestrange’s manic laughter rose to the broken window as she carelessly taunted Neville and Harry who were both trying zealously to contain her.
The gardens were a beautiful sight in an eerie sense. Hermione could barely make out the Devil’s Snare that she knew was camouflaged among the other plants but there was also a Venomous Tentacula with its deadly spikes removed and floating overhead in a circular motion. A Fanged Geranium, waiting presumably for prey, was planted at the Northern part of the garden by the gate, while Neville’s favorite plant, a Mimbulus Mimbletonia, which spews stink sap when touched, was planted strategically at the south end of the garden near the back door. It seems that Bellatrix has already been sprayed with the putrid, sticky substance as it was clinging to her dark curly hair.
A sound so out of place in the fierce battle around them had Hermione and Ginny whirling around in curiosity. Cornered and obviously frightened, a sniveling Peter Pettigrew was begging and pleading shamelessly for his life while Remus Lupin advanced threateningly upon him.
“Remus my friend, please,” Stuttered Pettigrew, running his filthy hands through his patchy balding hair nervously.
“Shut your mouth,” Said Lupin angrily! “You should have died four years ago. I should have killed you then, but no. Harry, being merciful, spared your worthless life. And how did you repay him?” Spat Lupin, his face contorted in rage. “You helped Voldemort rise, using Harry’s own blood rendering the blood protection it provided him useless.
Peter Pettigrew cowered pitifully in the corner, damp with sweat. His ragged clothes looked as if they hadn’t been cleaned properly in years. “I had no choice Remus. You and Sirius were out to kill me. I…I needed the Dark Lord’s protection.”
“Because of you Voldemort gained power and entrapped Sirius. HE DIED BECAUSE OF YOU!”
Pettigrew whimpered pathetically, seeing every option before him drown one by one. “The Dark Lord, he has a weakness. Remus, spare my life and I will inform you, all of you, how to defeat him.”
It was a last ditch attempt for Peter to try and save his own skin and Hermione, for a moment, was afraid that Remus would fall for it. She needn’t have worried. Hermione and Ginny held tight to one another as they watched Lupin raise his wand and point it at Wormtail’s chest.
Suddenly Remus was hurtled through the air, directly over Hermione and Ginny and out of the broken window. A small scream escaped Ginny’s lips as she tried to move but couldn’t. She and Hermione seemed frozen to one another in a full body bind.
“Wormtail, Wormtail,” hissed Voldemort as he advanced casually upon Peter Pettigrew. “I see you still do not understand the meaning of loyalty.”
“Master, no…a ploy is all…” stammered Pettigrew fearfully. “Trying to escape…”
“You have become a liability,” snapped Voldemort and with that, a green jet of light struck Wormtail firmly in the chest. He crumpled to the ground with terror plastered to his haggard face.
Hermione knew she was only going to get one chance to do this. If Voldemort was in front of her, Severus must indeed be hurt or even worse…dead. Panic rose up in her chest as she tried not to focus on that thought. Her only hope, everyone’s only hope was Harry.
Harry! Quickly…He’s got Ginny and…
“Oh no Granger,” sneered Voldemort as he smacked her across her pale cheek. “No more warnings for you. I should have known the prophecy was wrong in asking me to trust a Mud blood like you to turncoat.”
Voldemort waved his wand and both Ginny and Hermione floated effortlessly before him as he ascended the stairs to the attic.
“You will die last traitor. You will watch the others suffer my wrath, then perish as did your beloved Severus,” said Voldemort with an evil grin.
Voldemort kicked open the attic door and motioned the immobile girls into the dark room.
“Expelliarmus!”
Harry’s voice cut through the stale air of the attic as Voldemort’s wand flew across the room.
“Ah, Harry. We meet for the final time at last,” said Voldemort as he slammed the door behind him.
*__________________________________________
**Okay we are fast approaching the finish of our little adventure. Leave your FEEDBACK HERE
Big hint...I have written the Epilogue already but have one final chapter to write just before it.
~nevillesgirl
**Disclaimer. I have used excerpts from Half Blood Prince in this chapter. They are the words of JKR and have been borrowed for the use in this chapter.
CHAPTER 26
LOVE CONQUERS ALL
“Amazing what two years does to a person Harry,” said Voldemort. “You are no longer a scrawny child but finally a man although you are still an unworthy opponent. It makes me wonder, Harry as I see you standing before me with such confidence, why that is so?”
Voldemort waved his wand and both Hermione and Ginny floated over to him. Voldemort’s breath was hot as it traced Ginny’s cheek with his words. “I have your—girlfriend in a most compromising position and yet I sense assurance in you. What gives you this false sense of security Harry, that you will be able to defeat me?”
Harry reached into his pocket and withdrew a tattered piece of parchment, floating it towards Voldemort who caught it in mid air. Voldemort scanned the paper quickly, his eyes becoming wide in astonishment as Harry began to recite the words aloud.
Harry then flung an old heart-shaped locket at Voldemort’s feet. Looking at it curiously Voldemort laughed. “This isn’t it, you fool. Where…”
Harry interrupted him boldly. “Yeah, I know it’s a fake,” said Harry staring intently at Lord Voldemort. “This is what I found in that little cave of yours. By the way the inferi, nice touch; Demented but nice.”
Harry grinned as Lord Voldemort choked back his mounting rage. Hermione could sense something powerful approaching and braced herself. She was pretty sure that she could employ a Shield Charm around herself and Ginny since she was still holding tight to her. Hermione thought Protego as a stream of white flashed towards Ginny and ricocheted back at the Dark Lord, singeing the cuffs of his sleeve.
Cursing violently while blocking a chorus of spells sent by Harry, Voldemort separated Ginny from Hermione throwing them each at opposite ends of the room. A cloud of dust puffed airborne as Ginny landed on a moldy old couch.
In the moment it took to separate them from their binds, Hermione and Ginny were sending curses furiously towards the Dark Lord. It was now three against one and Voldemort, while surprised for a moment at the skill of each of his adversaries, looked amused as he deflected each curse lazily.
Hermione let fear take hold of her as she felt a vigorous power almost upon them. Everyone must have felt it too for suddenly all movement stopped. Even Voldemort searched around for this invasion of power not his own.
A loud CRACK shook the attic and Severus Snape materialized in front of them. His black robes were torn to shreds revealing portions of the white tunic only Hermione knew resided there. It was stained with blood. He was limping and sporting several deep gashes along his face and neck.
Yet Hermione noticed several things about the man she loved. While he appeared broken and battered, Severus’ eyes wee sparkling black obsidian. They were clear which meant so was his mind. The other thing that Hermione saw was Severus’ hands as he raised his wand chest level, pointing it at Voldemort. They were a delicate shade of pink. Hermione know instantly that this is what kept Severus alive…his love for her.
Even as Hermione flooded her heart with love for Severus and began to see that pale pink color in her hands, she heard Voldemort cursing, strangling on his words.
“Impossible!”
Severus, Hermione and Ginny ran to surround Harry behind him, forming a semi-circle. All looked menacingly determined towards the Dark Lord. They opened their minds and forced their way into his thoughts simultaneously.
Dropping to one knee Voldemort clutched his head with his pale, spindly fingers and wailed as a flood of memories invaded his mind: Lily Potter’s piercing scream as she crumpled in death, Ronald Weasley’s death…the agonizing pain of the Cruciatus Curse…weakness from being empty and possessed by pure evil.
There were many more memories all equally as painful and disturbing as the next. They bombarded his thoughts, forcing anguish upon him until he could no longer take it. Voldemort made a ripping and grabbing motion across his forehead and removed these thoughts from his mind. Rising to his feet, he saw the ropes of silver eagerly find there way back to its rightful owner.
Voldemort didn’t speak. Panting with shock and rage, he looked at the unlikely group gathered before him. His thin red eyes glowered at Snape as he gnashed his teeth and thrust his arm out in a grabbing motion towards Hermione’s stomach.
She doubled over, collapsing to her knees clutching her mid-section. The pain was tormenting, as though tiny razor blades were slashing at her insides. Patchy spots of blood stained crimson through her light blue sweater.
Ginny ran over and cast a protective charm around them both and tried to stop the bleeding. Jets of white and red bounced off the invisible shield surrounding them and promptly disintegrated. When Lord Voldemort realized his spells were ineffective, he raised both Ginny and Hermione and bounced them from wall to wall, blood dripping from Hermione’s expanding wound, until the spell lifted and they both tumbled to the ground.
In that brief, unguarded moment Snape yelled, “Sectumsempra,” and a great flash of white slashed through the air cutting Voldemort’s left arm. It oozed green, thick and slimy not red as human blood. Instantly the wound began healing itself and Voldemort, in his fury waved his hand flinging Severus’ wand from his grip.
A sudden glow of palest pink invaded the musky attic and at its core was Harry. He was speaking the incantation with his arms outstretched towards the ceiling. The melody was hypnotic; an ancient verse caressing the room. It was alive and breathing, commanding reverence and respect from all present.
As Harry continued to speak, the glow about the attic underwent a metamorphosis from a subtle pink to a vibrant shade of neon.
Hermione struggled to open her eyes as she lay in a broken heap next to the door. Her gaze fell on Severus and every ounce of love she felt for him filled her soul. She saw understanding in his features as he looked at Harry, blinking in surprise.
He linked his power with Harry and a strong pink beam connected them together. The surge in power was unfathomable and it took all of Harry’s concentration to manage it.
An equally powerful beam came from the opposite side of the room where Ginny had just gained her feet, her right arm hanging limply at her side.
Voldemort looked befuddled as he tried to ascertain the origin of this mysterious power and where to begin trying to defeat it.
Hermione knew that in order for the magic to penetrate Voldemort’s coarse, inhuman shell to the fullest, she would have to link with Harry. She could not stand upright and feared that to exert all of her energies into this one moment would suck the life from her body.
Hermione looked at Severus again, then Ginny and finally Harry. This is what love is about she thought. If my sacrifice will give those I love a chance to live, it’s worth the risk. From her laying position, Hermione focused all her love, her joy, her longing, her hopes and dreams into one thought and linked with Harry.
Hermione could see Voldemort twisting and screaming in agony. The love surrounding him was so strong it burned at his translucent flesh. Harry pointed his index finger at Voldemort’s chest and said “Amor.” The pink ray hit him firmly. It melted away flesh and bone until there was only a pile of ashes where Voldemort had stood.
The Dark Lord was no more.
*__________________________________________
**Just to let you know the incantation that Harry says is spoken in the lovely Latin language.
~nevillesgirl
FEEDBACK HERE
CHAPTER 26
LOVE CONQUERS ALL
“Amazing what two years does to a person Harry,” said Voldemort. “You are no longer a scrawny child but finally a man although you are still an unworthy opponent. It makes me wonder, Harry as I see you standing before me with such confidence, why that is so?”
Voldemort waved his wand and both Hermione and Ginny floated over to him. Voldemort’s breath was hot as it traced Ginny’s cheek with his words. “I have your—girlfriend in a most compromising position and yet I sense assurance in you. What gives you this false sense of security Harry, that you will be able to defeat me?”
Harry reached into his pocket and withdrew a tattered piece of parchment, floating it towards Voldemort who caught it in mid air. Voldemort scanned the paper quickly, his eyes becoming wide in astonishment as Harry began to recite the words aloud.
“To the Dark Lord, I know I will be dead long before you read this but I want you to know that it was I who discovered your secret. I have stolen the real horcrux and intend to destroy it as soon as I can. I face death in the hope that when you meet you match you will be mortal once more. R.A.B.”
Harry then flung an old heart-shaped locket at Voldemort’s feet. Looking at it curiously Voldemort laughed. “This isn’t it, you fool. Where…”
Harry interrupted him boldly. “Yeah, I know it’s a fake,” said Harry staring intently at Lord Voldemort. “This is what I found in that little cave of yours. By the way the inferi, nice touch; Demented but nice.”
Harry grinned as Lord Voldemort choked back his mounting rage. Hermione could sense something powerful approaching and braced herself. She was pretty sure that she could employ a Shield Charm around herself and Ginny since she was still holding tight to her. Hermione thought Protego as a stream of white flashed towards Ginny and ricocheted back at the Dark Lord, singeing the cuffs of his sleeve.
Cursing violently while blocking a chorus of spells sent by Harry, Voldemort separated Ginny from Hermione throwing them each at opposite ends of the room. A cloud of dust puffed airborne as Ginny landed on a moldy old couch.
In the moment it took to separate them from their binds, Hermione and Ginny were sending curses furiously towards the Dark Lord. It was now three against one and Voldemort, while surprised for a moment at the skill of each of his adversaries, looked amused as he deflected each curse lazily.
Hermione let fear take hold of her as she felt a vigorous power almost upon them. Everyone must have felt it too for suddenly all movement stopped. Even Voldemort searched around for this invasion of power not his own.
A loud CRACK shook the attic and Severus Snape materialized in front of them. His black robes were torn to shreds revealing portions of the white tunic only Hermione knew resided there. It was stained with blood. He was limping and sporting several deep gashes along his face and neck.
Yet Hermione noticed several things about the man she loved. While he appeared broken and battered, Severus’ eyes wee sparkling black obsidian. They were clear which meant so was his mind. The other thing that Hermione saw was Severus’ hands as he raised his wand chest level, pointing it at Voldemort. They were a delicate shade of pink. Hermione know instantly that this is what kept Severus alive…his love for her.
Even as Hermione flooded her heart with love for Severus and began to see that pale pink color in her hands, she heard Voldemort cursing, strangling on his words.
“Impossible!”
Severus, Hermione and Ginny ran to surround Harry behind him, forming a semi-circle. All looked menacingly determined towards the Dark Lord. They opened their minds and forced their way into his thoughts simultaneously.
Dropping to one knee Voldemort clutched his head with his pale, spindly fingers and wailed as a flood of memories invaded his mind: Lily Potter’s piercing scream as she crumpled in death, Ronald Weasley’s death…the agonizing pain of the Cruciatus Curse…weakness from being empty and possessed by pure evil.
There were many more memories all equally as painful and disturbing as the next. They bombarded his thoughts, forcing anguish upon him until he could no longer take it. Voldemort made a ripping and grabbing motion across his forehead and removed these thoughts from his mind. Rising to his feet, he saw the ropes of silver eagerly find there way back to its rightful owner.
Voldemort didn’t speak. Panting with shock and rage, he looked at the unlikely group gathered before him. His thin red eyes glowered at Snape as he gnashed his teeth and thrust his arm out in a grabbing motion towards Hermione’s stomach.
She doubled over, collapsing to her knees clutching her mid-section. The pain was tormenting, as though tiny razor blades were slashing at her insides. Patchy spots of blood stained crimson through her light blue sweater.
Ginny ran over and cast a protective charm around them both and tried to stop the bleeding. Jets of white and red bounced off the invisible shield surrounding them and promptly disintegrated. When Lord Voldemort realized his spells were ineffective, he raised both Ginny and Hermione and bounced them from wall to wall, blood dripping from Hermione’s expanding wound, until the spell lifted and they both tumbled to the ground.
In that brief, unguarded moment Snape yelled, “Sectumsempra,” and a great flash of white slashed through the air cutting Voldemort’s left arm. It oozed green, thick and slimy not red as human blood. Instantly the wound began healing itself and Voldemort, in his fury waved his hand flinging Severus’ wand from his grip.
A sudden glow of palest pink invaded the musky attic and at its core was Harry. He was speaking the incantation with his arms outstretched towards the ceiling. The melody was hypnotic; an ancient verse caressing the room. It was alive and breathing, commanding reverence and respect from all present.
As Harry continued to speak, the glow about the attic underwent a metamorphosis from a subtle pink to a vibrant shade of neon.
“A verbis ad verbera: From words to blows,
A capite ad calcem: From head to heel,
Amor vincit omnia: Love conquers all.”
A capite ad calcem: From head to heel,
Amor vincit omnia: Love conquers all.”
Hermione struggled to open her eyes as she lay in a broken heap next to the door. Her gaze fell on Severus and every ounce of love she felt for him filled her soul. She saw understanding in his features as he looked at Harry, blinking in surprise.
He linked his power with Harry and a strong pink beam connected them together. The surge in power was unfathomable and it took all of Harry’s concentration to manage it.
An equally powerful beam came from the opposite side of the room where Ginny had just gained her feet, her right arm hanging limply at her side.
Voldemort looked befuddled as he tried to ascertain the origin of this mysterious power and where to begin trying to defeat it.
Hermione knew that in order for the magic to penetrate Voldemort’s coarse, inhuman shell to the fullest, she would have to link with Harry. She could not stand upright and feared that to exert all of her energies into this one moment would suck the life from her body.
Hermione looked at Severus again, then Ginny and finally Harry. This is what love is about she thought. If my sacrifice will give those I love a chance to live, it’s worth the risk. From her laying position, Hermione focused all her love, her joy, her longing, her hopes and dreams into one thought and linked with Harry.
Hermione could see Voldemort twisting and screaming in agony. The love surrounding him was so strong it burned at his translucent flesh. Harry pointed his index finger at Voldemort’s chest and said “Amor.” The pink ray hit him firmly. It melted away flesh and bone until there was only a pile of ashes where Voldemort had stood.
The Dark Lord was no more.
*__________________________________________
**Just to let you know the incantation that Harry says is spoken in the lovely Latin language.
~nevillesgirl
FEEDBACK HERE
CHAPTER 27
WANDS AND WORDS
Harry slumped to the ground completely exhausted. Ginny rushed over to his side as Severus raced to Hermione. Kneeling down beside her, he gasped in horror at the complexity of her injuries. Besides a few broken bones and a possible concussion, the blood staining her sweater was now roughly the size of a basketball. He must stop her bleeding.
For the second time in his life, Severus coaxed healing with his words and gently touched his wand to her stomach. Hermione moaned but remained motionless as the wand and words stitched the massive internal cuts within her frail body. She was shockingly pale and Severus trembled inwardly at the thought that he may already be too late.
By the third pass over her wound, the color in Hermione’s face began to return to normal. By the fourth time Severus spoke the verse; Hermione was stirring and opened her eyes.
“Severus,” she whispered, trying to reach out her hand to touch him.
“Rest,” he whispered back, looking cautiously over to where Ginny was helping Harry to his feet. “I must go see if any others need assistance.”
“Please mend my bones,” pleaded Hermione. “I want to help the others too. Please.”
Severus shook his head but finally consented recognizing the stubborn glaze in Hermione’s black eyes.
Within a few minutes the two couples were abandoning the attic to help the rest of the Order. The third and second floors appeared empty and quiet. When they reached the first floor, Bill and Fleur Weasley were corralling the tightly bound and captured Death Eaters into a circle while other Order members surrounded them protectively.
A crashing sound like pots and pans falling from their ceiling cache filled the room. It was coming from the basement kitchen. Harry and Ginny raced toward the stairs that would lead them to where her parents were still fighting Lucius Malfoy.
Hermione jumped frightfully as a jet of green shattered the back door apart. Together with Severus she ran outside to see Neville locked in what appeared to be a one-sided dual.
Bellatrix Lestrange was barely upright with three long red spikes protruding from the side of her torso. The Venomous Tentacula hit its mark. The Fanged Geranium seems to have sunk its teeth into her left leg and blood was spurting freely from the wound.
When she saw Hermione and Severus lingering on the back porch she froze in utter disbelief. “No!” she screeched. “You should be dead—both of you!”
“Ah but Bella, it is your Master who is dead,” said Snape wickedly. Among Bella’s manic protest, Snape continued. “Search your soul, he is gone.”
Bellatrix screamed insanely and raised her wand towards Severus. “Avada…”
“Expelliarmus!” Hermione’s voice disarmed Bellatrix at the exact same time Neville hit her with a Stunning Spell. Bellatrix stumbled backwards into the Devil’s Snare hidden among the shrubbery.
The vines wrapped around her ankles causing her to topple over sideways. Subservient vines slithered about her arms, legs and neck. The more she struggled the tighter the vines coiled about her. Slowly Bellatrix turned three shades of purple as the Devil’s Snare obstructed her windpipe leaving her gasping and choking for oxygen. Severus, Hermione and Neville watched placidly as Bellatrix Lestrange, the Dark Lord’s most obsessed supported, slumped over with a vacant expression plastered to her face—dead.
*____________________________________________
The days that followed the battle were measured with relief intermingled with grief. The raiding party the Order sent to contain the uprising of Death Eaters in Northern Europe suffered massive casualties, two of whom were Mad Eye Moody and Nymphadora Tonks.
The giants had joined the fight against the Order and in attempting to save an orphanage of disabled school children from their vengeance, both Mad-eye and Tonks were crushed under the collapsing roof of the derelict building.
Remus was besotted in his sorrow and retreated in solitude to the Forbidden Forest at Hogwarts.
Much of Headquarters was in shambles after being transported back to number twelve, Grimmauld Place. Molly Weasley led the task of cleaning and restoration, making it her top priority.
Ministry officials arrived to retrieve the captured Death Eaters and promptly escort them to Azkaban. They also took photo confirmation of the bodies of Bellatrix Lestrange and Lucius Malfoy before they were disposed of.
Arthur Weasley took pride in rehashing the details of his dual with the infamous Muggle-hater, pausing affectionately on the part where Molly used an ordinary muggle kitchen knife tipped with poison to pierce Lucius through his heart.
Two weeks later Hermione was sitting upon the remnants of a once beautiful blood red couch nursing her lingering injuries and reading aloud from The Daily Prophet.
“The Dark Lord vanquished…The Chosen One Victorious…oh listen to this,” said Hermione in disgust.
“Hermione, does it really matter?” Ginny asked as she swept shards of glass into a corner then muttered “Evanasco” to clear it away.
Hermione looked up quizzically from her newspaper. “Swallow a bitter pill this morning Gin?” She asked with concern.
“Easy for you to be cheerful,” Ginny said sourly as she sat down on the couch beside Hermione. “You have your man. Okay, so he’s recovering in St. Mungo’s and guarded by a team of armed Aurors awaiting to escort him to trial for Dumbledore’s murder, but at least you know he loves you and wants to be with you.”
The sadness in Ginny’s voice was almost enough for Hermione to blow the secret. Harry was incredibly cruel for putting her through this thought Hermione. Not to mention she had to lie to her best friend.
“Cheer up Gin,” said Hermione. “You know he’s just tying up loose ends regarding the battle and he’s bound to be busy now that he’s accepted a position in the coveted Auror Training Program.”
Ginny smiled unconvincingly and was about to push herself off the tattered couch when a spray of purple orchids rained down upon her. Ginny gasped and looked at Hermione, who wore an expression of amused approval. Amidst the showers of purple flowers descended a single white calla lily with a string dangling from its stem. As it approached eye level, Ginny saw a bright teardrop sparkling diamond fastened to a thin gold band.
Hermione had tears in her eyes as Harry strode through the front door and dropped to one knee in front of Ginny. Taking her left hand in his he said softly, “Now I am free to be with you, if you’ll still have me.”
Hermione politely excused herself from the room as Harry engulfed Ginny in a passionate, long overdue kiss. She had a sudden urge to visit Severus at St. Mungo’s.
*___________
*FEEDBACK HERE*This is not the end! One more chapter to go...
~nevillesgirl
WANDS AND WORDS
Harry slumped to the ground completely exhausted. Ginny rushed over to his side as Severus raced to Hermione. Kneeling down beside her, he gasped in horror at the complexity of her injuries. Besides a few broken bones and a possible concussion, the blood staining her sweater was now roughly the size of a basketball. He must stop her bleeding.
For the second time in his life, Severus coaxed healing with his words and gently touched his wand to her stomach. Hermione moaned but remained motionless as the wand and words stitched the massive internal cuts within her frail body. She was shockingly pale and Severus trembled inwardly at the thought that he may already be too late.
By the third pass over her wound, the color in Hermione’s face began to return to normal. By the fourth time Severus spoke the verse; Hermione was stirring and opened her eyes.
“Severus,” she whispered, trying to reach out her hand to touch him.
“Rest,” he whispered back, looking cautiously over to where Ginny was helping Harry to his feet. “I must go see if any others need assistance.”
“Please mend my bones,” pleaded Hermione. “I want to help the others too. Please.”
Severus shook his head but finally consented recognizing the stubborn glaze in Hermione’s black eyes.
Within a few minutes the two couples were abandoning the attic to help the rest of the Order. The third and second floors appeared empty and quiet. When they reached the first floor, Bill and Fleur Weasley were corralling the tightly bound and captured Death Eaters into a circle while other Order members surrounded them protectively.
A crashing sound like pots and pans falling from their ceiling cache filled the room. It was coming from the basement kitchen. Harry and Ginny raced toward the stairs that would lead them to where her parents were still fighting Lucius Malfoy.
Hermione jumped frightfully as a jet of green shattered the back door apart. Together with Severus she ran outside to see Neville locked in what appeared to be a one-sided dual.
Bellatrix Lestrange was barely upright with three long red spikes protruding from the side of her torso. The Venomous Tentacula hit its mark. The Fanged Geranium seems to have sunk its teeth into her left leg and blood was spurting freely from the wound.
When she saw Hermione and Severus lingering on the back porch she froze in utter disbelief. “No!” she screeched. “You should be dead—both of you!”
“Ah but Bella, it is your Master who is dead,” said Snape wickedly. Among Bella’s manic protest, Snape continued. “Search your soul, he is gone.”
Bellatrix screamed insanely and raised her wand towards Severus. “Avada…”
“Expelliarmus!” Hermione’s voice disarmed Bellatrix at the exact same time Neville hit her with a Stunning Spell. Bellatrix stumbled backwards into the Devil’s Snare hidden among the shrubbery.
The vines wrapped around her ankles causing her to topple over sideways. Subservient vines slithered about her arms, legs and neck. The more she struggled the tighter the vines coiled about her. Slowly Bellatrix turned three shades of purple as the Devil’s Snare obstructed her windpipe leaving her gasping and choking for oxygen. Severus, Hermione and Neville watched placidly as Bellatrix Lestrange, the Dark Lord’s most obsessed supported, slumped over with a vacant expression plastered to her face—dead.
*____________________________________________
The days that followed the battle were measured with relief intermingled with grief. The raiding party the Order sent to contain the uprising of Death Eaters in Northern Europe suffered massive casualties, two of whom were Mad Eye Moody and Nymphadora Tonks.
The giants had joined the fight against the Order and in attempting to save an orphanage of disabled school children from their vengeance, both Mad-eye and Tonks were crushed under the collapsing roof of the derelict building.
Remus was besotted in his sorrow and retreated in solitude to the Forbidden Forest at Hogwarts.
Much of Headquarters was in shambles after being transported back to number twelve, Grimmauld Place. Molly Weasley led the task of cleaning and restoration, making it her top priority.
Ministry officials arrived to retrieve the captured Death Eaters and promptly escort them to Azkaban. They also took photo confirmation of the bodies of Bellatrix Lestrange and Lucius Malfoy before they were disposed of.
Arthur Weasley took pride in rehashing the details of his dual with the infamous Muggle-hater, pausing affectionately on the part where Molly used an ordinary muggle kitchen knife tipped with poison to pierce Lucius through his heart.
Two weeks later Hermione was sitting upon the remnants of a once beautiful blood red couch nursing her lingering injuries and reading aloud from The Daily Prophet.
“The Dark Lord vanquished…The Chosen One Victorious…oh listen to this,” said Hermione in disgust.
“Ministry officials, working closely with Harry Potter and The Order of the Phoenix have rounded up the last of You Know whose supporters.
‘We are pleased to inform the public, that The Order of the Phoenix, in affiliation with the Department of Magical Law Enforcement proclaims the wizarding community once again safe from the terrorizing reign of You Know Who,’ reports Rufus Scrimgeour, Minister of Magic…”
‘We are pleased to inform the public, that The Order of the Phoenix, in affiliation with the Department of Magical Law Enforcement proclaims the wizarding community once again safe from the terrorizing reign of You Know Who,’ reports Rufus Scrimgeour, Minister of Magic…”
“Hermione, does it really matter?” Ginny asked as she swept shards of glass into a corner then muttered “Evanasco” to clear it away.
Hermione looked up quizzically from her newspaper. “Swallow a bitter pill this morning Gin?” She asked with concern.
“Easy for you to be cheerful,” Ginny said sourly as she sat down on the couch beside Hermione. “You have your man. Okay, so he’s recovering in St. Mungo’s and guarded by a team of armed Aurors awaiting to escort him to trial for Dumbledore’s murder, but at least you know he loves you and wants to be with you.”
The sadness in Ginny’s voice was almost enough for Hermione to blow the secret. Harry was incredibly cruel for putting her through this thought Hermione. Not to mention she had to lie to her best friend.
“Cheer up Gin,” said Hermione. “You know he’s just tying up loose ends regarding the battle and he’s bound to be busy now that he’s accepted a position in the coveted Auror Training Program.”
Ginny smiled unconvincingly and was about to push herself off the tattered couch when a spray of purple orchids rained down upon her. Ginny gasped and looked at Hermione, who wore an expression of amused approval. Amidst the showers of purple flowers descended a single white calla lily with a string dangling from its stem. As it approached eye level, Ginny saw a bright teardrop sparkling diamond fastened to a thin gold band.
Hermione had tears in her eyes as Harry strode through the front door and dropped to one knee in front of Ginny. Taking her left hand in his he said softly, “Now I am free to be with you, if you’ll still have me.”
Hermione politely excused herself from the room as Harry engulfed Ginny in a passionate, long overdue kiss. She had a sudden urge to visit Severus at St. Mungo’s.
*___________
*FEEDBACK HERE*This is not the end! One more chapter to go...
~nevillesgirl
EPILOGUE
**July 4, 2002. Five years since the destruction of Voldemort and his power.
Hermione awoke to the sound of Molly Weasley’s shrilly voice floating upstairs. Rubbing her eyes groggily, she rolled over in Ron’s old bed in the attic. The Burrow was a combination of noises from harried voices to pounding feet on the rickety staircase. They filtered through the thin walls, urgently pleading with her to rouse, Hermione couldn’t move. Pulling the covers up to her chin, she stared at eh moving pictures upon the old, wooden dresser. The photos looked back at her mockingly; pictures of her eleven year old self along with Ron and Harry, pictures of Ron in his robes polishing his prefect badge, pictures of herself sitting on Ron’s lap at Headquarters. So many memories reminding her of a life she would never have.
Sadness filled her chest on what should be a joyous day, but the thought of Ron not being here compounded the emptiness that consumed her. Reluctantly Hermione pushed herself out of bed and tied her unruly hair into a messy ponytail. As her Maid of Honor, Ginny would be requiring her full attention. Hermione hastily checked the clock on the wall. The wedding was in…whoa, four hours. That did not give her much time for reminiscing, yet that is where her heart was at the moment.
Ron should be here for his sister and for his best friend. Hermione casually strolled around the attic bedroom, her fingers trailing gently over trinkets of the past. Somewhere overhead the attic ghoul pounded on the plumbing, drowning out the sound of Mrs. Weasley’s shrills.
Hermione picked up Ron’s Head boy badge and clutched it to her heart, allowing hot tears to spill over onto her cheeks. She still missed him and thought about him everyday. Hermione dropped the badge back onto the dresser and moved over to the bed. Shrugging out of Ron’s faded, maroon sweater with the large “R” down the front, Hermione contemplated her life and that of her friends.
Neville should be arriving any moment form Hogwarts where he was the Herbology Professor. As Harry’s best man, he had apologized in advance for his tardiness but said the mandrakes were going through a mid-life crisis and needed constant supervision as some of them were trying to change pots for a flashier one.
Remus Lupin would be arriving later in the day to attend the reception. As Headmaster of the newly opened Wolfsbane Boarding School for Underage Wizards, he was quite busy. It was the first year-round establishment in Britain. Professor Sprout would be acting as Deputy Headmistress while he was away. Hermione thought of all the young witches and wizards affected by their wolfish condition that would get to complete their education in a safe, non-judgmental environment, thanks to Remus.
Dressing carefully in her tea-length black strapless dress that matched her eyes, Hermione thought of the man whom she always associated with that color. Severus. Hermione closed her eyes and let the events of the past few years flood her memory.
The trial of Severus Snape for the murder of Albus Dumbledore came to a screeching halt when a mysterious package arrived addressed to Dolores Umbridge. In the middle of the entire assembly the voice of the late Albus Dumbledore commanded the room proclaiming Snapes innocence. Not since the outlawing of Magic Carpets in Britain had there been such uproar. Umbridge was furious, especially when Harry stepped forward as the star witness to testify on the potency of the poison that Dumbledore drank on the night died. As all evidence became instantly circumstantial, the court had no choice but to acquit Severus on all charges.
Opening her eyes, Hermione cast a smoothing charm over her bushy hair then twist it into an elegant bun at the nape of her slender neck.
Between Severus’ job as the Defense against the Dark Arts Professor at Hogwarts and her job as the Head of the Department for the Regulation and Control of Magical Creatures, it was a miracle their relationship has thrived over the past five years.
Hermione smiled as she remembered the one tense moment between Severus and Harry shortly after the war was over. Years of repressed anger and built up tension finally spilled over. Matching insult for insult, Severus and Harry finally ended up in the backyard of number twelve, Grimmauld Place hurling hexes and jinxes at one another in a very public dual. Fred and George Weasley were the ring leaders, taking bets and selling popcorn. When it was all over, Severus was crawling over a pile of manure as a dung beetle and Harry was quickly unraveling as a roll of toilet paper. In the end, while they agreed they would never be friends, out of their mutual love for Hermione, a grudging truce was called.
Hermione laughed and shook her head. Truce nothing. Just last week when they both thought she wasn’t looking, Snape hit Harry with a well placed Jelly-legs jinx but not before Harry hit him with Densuago, causing his two front teeth to enlarge rapidly to the floor.
Suddenly Ginny burst into the bedroom flushed pink with excitement clutching a copy of The Daily Prophet in her hand.
“It made the paper,” she exclaimed proudly as she showed Hermione a picture of the four hundredth and twenty fourth Quidditch World Cup.
“Ginerva Weasley, I am surprised at you,” said Hermione in mock disapproval. “Harboring an old grudge is so unlady-like.
Hermione stared at the front page headline; Cannons blast Tornados, and then glanced at the picture of Ginny knocking Cho Chang through a Quidditch hoop and off her broom.
Ginny giggled girlishly, “I know but I couldn’t resist.”
A familiar tingle traced down her spine and Hermione turned to see Severus standing in the doorway drinking her in with his eyes. He looked dashing in his black dress robes and his slightly shorter shoulder length hair slicked back into a neat ponytail.
“May I borrow Miss Granger for a moment?” He asked Ginny, a small smile playing his lips.
“Absolutely not,” Ginny replied with a smile of her own as she pulled Hermione from the room. “Her obligation is to me today. After that you can have her all to yourself.”
As Hermione passed him and smelled his sweet scent of musk and cedar wood, she gently touched his cheek with her fingertips.
You may have not just a moment, but my entire life, she thought, looking back at him over her shoulder.
I want more than you life. I want eternity.
The End.
**____________________________________________-
**Sob, sob, using boxes of tissue** We have come to the end of our magnificent adventure. Thank you to all who have read and replied faithfully.
I have one more favor to ask of you...One last reply if you will. FEEDBACK HERE
~nevillesgirl
**July 4, 2002. Five years since the destruction of Voldemort and his power.
Hermione awoke to the sound of Molly Weasley’s shrilly voice floating upstairs. Rubbing her eyes groggily, she rolled over in Ron’s old bed in the attic. The Burrow was a combination of noises from harried voices to pounding feet on the rickety staircase. They filtered through the thin walls, urgently pleading with her to rouse, Hermione couldn’t move. Pulling the covers up to her chin, she stared at eh moving pictures upon the old, wooden dresser. The photos looked back at her mockingly; pictures of her eleven year old self along with Ron and Harry, pictures of Ron in his robes polishing his prefect badge, pictures of herself sitting on Ron’s lap at Headquarters. So many memories reminding her of a life she would never have.
Sadness filled her chest on what should be a joyous day, but the thought of Ron not being here compounded the emptiness that consumed her. Reluctantly Hermione pushed herself out of bed and tied her unruly hair into a messy ponytail. As her Maid of Honor, Ginny would be requiring her full attention. Hermione hastily checked the clock on the wall. The wedding was in…whoa, four hours. That did not give her much time for reminiscing, yet that is where her heart was at the moment.
Ron should be here for his sister and for his best friend. Hermione casually strolled around the attic bedroom, her fingers trailing gently over trinkets of the past. Somewhere overhead the attic ghoul pounded on the plumbing, drowning out the sound of Mrs. Weasley’s shrills.
Hermione picked up Ron’s Head boy badge and clutched it to her heart, allowing hot tears to spill over onto her cheeks. She still missed him and thought about him everyday. Hermione dropped the badge back onto the dresser and moved over to the bed. Shrugging out of Ron’s faded, maroon sweater with the large “R” down the front, Hermione contemplated her life and that of her friends.
Neville should be arriving any moment form Hogwarts where he was the Herbology Professor. As Harry’s best man, he had apologized in advance for his tardiness but said the mandrakes were going through a mid-life crisis and needed constant supervision as some of them were trying to change pots for a flashier one.
Remus Lupin would be arriving later in the day to attend the reception. As Headmaster of the newly opened Wolfsbane Boarding School for Underage Wizards, he was quite busy. It was the first year-round establishment in Britain. Professor Sprout would be acting as Deputy Headmistress while he was away. Hermione thought of all the young witches and wizards affected by their wolfish condition that would get to complete their education in a safe, non-judgmental environment, thanks to Remus.
Dressing carefully in her tea-length black strapless dress that matched her eyes, Hermione thought of the man whom she always associated with that color. Severus. Hermione closed her eyes and let the events of the past few years flood her memory.
The trial of Severus Snape for the murder of Albus Dumbledore came to a screeching halt when a mysterious package arrived addressed to Dolores Umbridge. In the middle of the entire assembly the voice of the late Albus Dumbledore commanded the room proclaiming Snapes innocence. Not since the outlawing of Magic Carpets in Britain had there been such uproar. Umbridge was furious, especially when Harry stepped forward as the star witness to testify on the potency of the poison that Dumbledore drank on the night died. As all evidence became instantly circumstantial, the court had no choice but to acquit Severus on all charges.
Opening her eyes, Hermione cast a smoothing charm over her bushy hair then twist it into an elegant bun at the nape of her slender neck.
Between Severus’ job as the Defense against the Dark Arts Professor at Hogwarts and her job as the Head of the Department for the Regulation and Control of Magical Creatures, it was a miracle their relationship has thrived over the past five years.
Hermione smiled as she remembered the one tense moment between Severus and Harry shortly after the war was over. Years of repressed anger and built up tension finally spilled over. Matching insult for insult, Severus and Harry finally ended up in the backyard of number twelve, Grimmauld Place hurling hexes and jinxes at one another in a very public dual. Fred and George Weasley were the ring leaders, taking bets and selling popcorn. When it was all over, Severus was crawling over a pile of manure as a dung beetle and Harry was quickly unraveling as a roll of toilet paper. In the end, while they agreed they would never be friends, out of their mutual love for Hermione, a grudging truce was called.
Hermione laughed and shook her head. Truce nothing. Just last week when they both thought she wasn’t looking, Snape hit Harry with a well placed Jelly-legs jinx but not before Harry hit him with Densuago, causing his two front teeth to enlarge rapidly to the floor.
Suddenly Ginny burst into the bedroom flushed pink with excitement clutching a copy of The Daily Prophet in her hand.
“It made the paper,” she exclaimed proudly as she showed Hermione a picture of the four hundredth and twenty fourth Quidditch World Cup.
“Ginerva Weasley, I am surprised at you,” said Hermione in mock disapproval. “Harboring an old grudge is so unlady-like.
Hermione stared at the front page headline; Cannons blast Tornados, and then glanced at the picture of Ginny knocking Cho Chang through a Quidditch hoop and off her broom.
Ginny giggled girlishly, “I know but I couldn’t resist.”
A familiar tingle traced down her spine and Hermione turned to see Severus standing in the doorway drinking her in with his eyes. He looked dashing in his black dress robes and his slightly shorter shoulder length hair slicked back into a neat ponytail.
“May I borrow Miss Granger for a moment?” He asked Ginny, a small smile playing his lips.
“Absolutely not,” Ginny replied with a smile of her own as she pulled Hermione from the room. “Her obligation is to me today. After that you can have her all to yourself.”
As Hermione passed him and smelled his sweet scent of musk and cedar wood, she gently touched his cheek with her fingertips.
You may have not just a moment, but my entire life, she thought, looking back at him over her shoulder.
I want more than you life. I want eternity.
The End.
**____________________________________________-
**Sob, sob, using boxes of tissue** We have come to the end of our magnificent adventure. Thank you to all who have read and replied faithfully.
I have one more favor to ask of you...One last reply if you will. FEEDBACK HERE~nevillesgirl
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