The Underworld
Summary: Circumstances have changed, and it's time for the all-knowledgeable Hermione to learn a few things about life. SS/HG GW/DM
The letter slipped from her hands and floated softly to the ground. Much of what occurred after that was a blur. She could vaguely remember the moment when the shock left her - she had exhaled deeply, and then the first choked sob had escaped her, followed by another and another until she couldn't stop if the world depended on it. She did not remember the moment where she collapsed and curled into a ball, but this was the position in which Ginny Weasley had found her nearly an hour later.
"Hermione, what's wrong? Hermione? You're scaring me!" Ginny shook her gently, trying to pull her back into reality. Suddenly, Hermione looked up, still sniffing, and whipped the tears from her eyes.
"The letter," she whispered hoarsely.
Ginny looked around.
"What letter?"
Hermione's brows furrowed and she glanced around. Her eyes stopped on a pile of ashes on the floor. Of course. Of course it would be made to self-destruct. Wouldn't want anyone seeing it, would they?
She laughed bitterly, shaking her head.
"It was nothing, Ginny. I just need some time alone."
"But-"
"Just go." She insisted.
The girl hesitated before reluctantly making her way out of the girl's dorm. Hermione sighed and pulled herself up to sit on the bed. So the letter was gone. But she could still remember vividly what it said – if anyone had asked, she could have even recited it word for word.
Dear 7th year female,
Due to the fact that you are a virgin & 17 years of age, you have been chosen to participate in a new business venture created by your new Headmaster, Timothy Filko. This involves dancing, as well as "serving" men to meet a weekly money quota. This program is not optional. If we discover that you have told anyone about it, we will take it upon ourselves to punish you by " punishing" your closest family member. Meet me by the oak tree near the Quidditch area sharp to discuss this further. Any lateness will be punished.
Thank you for your cooperation,
Headmaster Timothy Filko