Hermione and Draco found themselves falling. As they fell, they saw a desolate forest vastly approaching below them. Draco landed hard on his back with a thud near a stream that looked black and nowhere near safe to drink. Hermione landed seconds after, face down right on Draco's stomach. "Oof. I'm sorry." Hermione grunted too stunned to worry about their close proximity.

"Whatever, just get off of me!" Draco growled shoving her to the side. They both stood slowly, checking their muscle and bone movement to make sure nothing was torn or broken. As they saw that their bumps and bruising were nothing to the extreme, they took in their surroundings.

"Where the bloody hell are we?" asked Draco.

"Judging by the recent chain of events, my guess is we are in that book of fairy tales, though it doesn't look at all how I pictured it to be." Hermione replied looking up from which they came.

"How do we get out of here?"

"How should I know, I don't even know how we got here in the first place other than you opening that book."

"You're supposed to be the brightest witch of your age! Think of something."

"Easy for you to say, Malfoy. I bet you have never once thought of something on your own. But I do think that maybe," she paused only a moment as she took a few steps forward, "maybe, possibly we can get out the way we came in."

"Whatever, Mudblood, and just how do you suppo- what are you doing Granger!" Draco yelled as he saw Hermione begin to climb a nearby sickly looking tree.

"I'm climbing to the top so maybe I can see which direction we should take to find people and hopefully an explanation as to why we are here," she said reaching the top of the tree. She squinted and steadied herself as the tree wavered under her weight, "Ah, over there. I see a tower near some dead briar thorn bushes. We're going to have to cross the stream a little ways down, but we should make it in just a couple of hours." announced a happy Hermione who was beaming at her discovery.

"That's just great. We have to trek through a creepy as fuck forest and go towards an even creepier tower." Draco grumbled.

"Stop complaining. It doesn't do any good." Hermione replied reaching the safety of the ground once more. "Let's just start walking."

"Where?!"

"That way," she said pointing in the direction of the tower, "Geez you would have thought you have never gone hiking in the woods before."

"I haven't. I never had a need for it."

"Hmm," she said with a roll of her eyes, "Of course you hadn't."

They had been walking for close to an hour through thick brush and tripping over roots when they came across the sound of boisterous chatter. A band of men and the occasional woman who were laughing and conversing loudly. Hermione and Draco gave each other a look before quickly hiding behind a couple of tree trunks.

"Way to go Robin. Let's see how much you pillaged from Prince John and the Sheriff this time." cried one brawny man. He looked as though he could kill someone with nothing but his two fingers.

"I think the townspeople will be happy to have a cent back." Spoke a broadly grinning man who Hermione and Draco assumed was Robin.

"One of these days, Little John, we are gonna give Nottingham and Prince John what they deserve. Wouldn't you agree?" asked Robin as he evenly separated the bags of what sounded like coins." Let's get going and take these bags to the poor." The troupe of men got up and started walking in the direction of the tower.

"Oh my gosh! Robin of Locksley. The Robin." said Hermione excitedly.

"Um...who?" Draco asked giving Hermione a confused expression.

"You know, Robin Hood? Have you never heard of him? Robin Hood or Robin of Locksley, was the Lord of Locksley and the Earl of Huntington. He was seen as a hero across Nottinghamshire for giving up his own titles to save the peasants of Locksley and across Nottinghamshire. Often seen by his men as thoughtful and brave. He is also known for being arrogant and naive and for risking other people's lives for his own personal glory. Robin fought for King Richard in Acre, Israel, during the Third Crusade with his mans-"

"OH FOR THE LOVE OF MERLIN! SHUT UP! All I asked was who he was not his entire life story Granger." Draco turned to head out on his own and was met with an arrow pointing directly at his head.

"Who are you and what might your business be?" snarled the big burly and brawny man they had seen talking before. Up close, they noticed just how much a giant of a man he truly was.

Thinking quickly, Hermione stepped in, "Um, sorry to walk in on your...camp...uh you see we are a little lost and we were hoping to find people willing to help us. I'm Hermione Granger and this is Draco Malfoy. And you are?"

"Hmm." The gigantic 7 foot man eyed them skeptically. There was a brief silence before he spoke again. "Alright. I am not saying I trust you, but I may be willing to help you. My name is John Little but everyone calls me Little John."

"Little John? That doesn't make any sense. You're huge!" said Draco bluntly before he could stop himself.

"Hahaha." guffawed Little John. "That's the idea." slapping him heartily on the back nearly knocking Draco over with the force of it. "How about some grub. You look like you could eat a bit."

"What's this Little John?" asked a women with the air of a noblewoman.

"Just a couple of youngsters who say they're lost, Marian." he said walking up.

"Hey we are not you-."

"Cool it Draco. We need to be careful. These people don't take witchcraft very well." Hermione quickly whispered in his ear. "From what I remember, they are very old-fashioned and superstitious towards witches and magic. They think it's the work of the devil. But we need their help so don't do or say anything that could cause suspicion. In other words act and speak like a muggle."

"Fine." Draco replied realizing the severity of their situation.

"Hmm. What did you say?" asked Little John.

"Nothing just we are not exactly children. We are both adults." Hermione answered.

Little John arched a brow, "Where are you two from anyhow?"

"Um...uh.." Hermione stuttered.

"We're from Carlisle." Countered Draco saving a thankful Hermione.

"Never heard of it. Well, no matter eat," said Little John tossing Draco a pork leg off the spit, "you need your strength."

"Why would I need my strength?" Draco asked staring at the hunk of pork in front of him somewhat uncomfortably unused to eating without a proper knife and fork.

"Why, there is talk of war. Robin and us merry men against the Sheriff of Nottingham and Prince John. Should be an easy win. Prince John, King Richards lousy shit of a brother, is a weak coward and the Sheriff is a prick who is said to have been raised by a witch. She uses dark magic the rumours say." Little John made the sign of the cross over his heart.

"Little John, don't bother them with our troubles. They look exhausted enough without hearing you go on, They must of walked for miles." Marian turned her focus towards the young witch, "Hermione was it, come with me. I can show a safe place to bathe and lend you some fresh clothes."

Hermione smiled gratefully. "That sounds wonderful, thank you." She shot Draco a look saying, 'don't mess up' as she stood to follow Marian.

"John, as soon as Robin gets back have him do the same for this young man."

"As you wish Lady Marian." smiled Little John.

"So Hermione. Are you and that Handsome young man…?" Marian asked.

"Hehe." Hermione giggled, "No, in fact, we don't particularly like each other at all."

"I don't believe Robin and I liked each other either at one point. But it did happen eventually and now here we are," Marian gave her a smile, "I will keep watch while you bathe."

"Thank you so much. How did you meet Robin? You speak of him fondly." replied Hermione as she stripped down and walked into the refreshing water.

"We grew up together, our father's being friends. He left to fight in the crusades alongside King Richard and my brother at just sixteen. He only just came back not too long ago. He came into my manor to talk about my brother and to tell me that he died and asked him to protect me. Though apparently on the way home he crossed Guy of Gisbourne and Guy had come back for revenge. Took off with my horses. Finished?"

"Yes."

"Here,"said Marian holding out a sheet to dry off with. "Let me get your dress."

Hermione wrapped herself in the large sheet.

"This should fit." Marian said walking over to her. She was holding a beautiful forest green dress with silver trim that fell to the ankles. Hermione stepped into the soft fabrics and slipped it on with ease. It fit like a glove in all the right places.

"Thank you again. It's beautiful." said Hermione as she carefully braided her thick wet hair to the side. When she was done it framed her face in a way that brought out her best features.

"It looks wonderful on you. I'm glad you like it." Marian smiled.

"Could you show me around?" asked Hermione as she looked up noticing that what she thought was just a camp was actually a makeshift home. Houses were wrapped around trees with rope bridges connecting them. If she looked harder she noticed that what she thought was just bushes were actually little huts cleverly disguised.

"Of course. Let me introduce you to Little John's wife, Fanny along the way." replied Marian.

Hermione smiled as she walked on talking and enjoying her company with Marian.

Draco and Little John were sitting in awkward silence as they ate when Robin and some of his men walked up.

"Oi, Little John. What have we here? I've never seen him before."

"Hey, Robin this is...uh..what's your name again?"

"Malfoy. Draco Malfoy."

"Draco? Strange name. Anyhow. He and some girl said they were lost and from Carlisle."

"Never heard of it." Robin said suspiciously.

"Oh, Marian asked if you could find him some clothes and a place to freshen up."

"Oh. Well let's go Draco. Gotta listen to the lady."

Draco stood up to follow Robin when Marian and Hermione walked up. Hermione gave him a warning look to remind him to not use or mention magic. Draco nonchalantly nodded to let her know he understood.

"Robin!" exclaimed Marian happily.

"Hello there, love." replied Robin while picking her swinging her and giving her a kiss. "I was just about to do as you asked of me."

"Thank you. What are yo-." exclaimed Marian quietly.

"I don't trust them. Something is off. Something about them just doesn't sit right." said Robin taking Marian aside.

"Oh, Robin." Taking his face sweetly in her hands. "Don't worry. Whomever they are. I trust them. I feel it. I feel they were sent to help with Nottingham, the Prince, even King Richard. Darling. Whatever happens they are here for a reason."

"Alright Marian, I can't say I trust them but for you I will give them a chance." Robin smiled and kissed her forehead. "Draco," he called, "this way. I will have some clothes for you. Little John, please find them a place to stay."

"Of course."

Draco followed. Marian took Hermione's arm in hers. "So Hermione, tell me about yourself."

"Well, My full name is Hermione Jean Granger. I was originally from Esher in Surrey, but spent my later school years in Mallaig, Scotland. When school was over I moved to Carlisle. Draco and I met in school, parted ways and met each other again at a library in Carlisle. Not much to tell really. No siblings. My parents had an accident and can't remember me." Hermione hated lying but she stretched the truth a bit.

"Hmm." Marian murmured. "I've never heard of it. But I trust you." Marian gave Hermione a knowing look. Marian walked towards a hidden spot by the river. "I found this amongst your possessions." She held out Hermione's wand. She acknowledged the shock and terrified expression on Hermione's face. "Don't be afraid. I don't believe you are evil. A witch you might be you are not a bad one like the ones we so commonly know here. Now please tell me the truth. I won't tell anyone as you want to keep it secret for good reason." She gave Hermione her wand. "Keep this hidden. Not everyone will be as accepting of your goodness." She said with caution.

Hermione took a deep breath, "Okay…" she preceded to tell Marian the truth. The real truth.

"Wow. That's a fantastical story. Can you show me some of what you can do."

"Umm, sure." Hermione made sure no one was nearby. "Wingardium Leviosa," pointing her wand at a leaf she slowly lifted it.

"Wow, that's amazing." Marian smiled. "Keep it hidden underneath your dress. Okay?"

"Okay. We should probably head back."

"You're right. I think Little JOhn should have your accommodations ready by now."

They were just walking back when Draco crossed into Hermione's line of sight. She noticed he was in different clothes too. 'He looks incredibly handsome' she thought surprising herself yet again. He was wearing pants made of hide that hugged him just right. Along with a longsleeved leather and wool tunic tied with leather straps. It made him look like a warrior. Knee high boots again made of hide and tied with leather straps. He turned his head towards her feeling her gaze on him. She blushed and turned away quickly realizing she was staring. Embarrassed that she was caught, she chastised herself mentally for doing so. Marian raised her eyebrows. "What?" Hermione inquired.

"Oh, nothing. Just it seems yo-."

"No! Not at all." Hermione cried defensively.

"Okay." Marian grinned at her.

Draco had noticed Hermione staring. He noticed she blushed and turned away. He smirked. He was used to having that effect on girls but moreso with Hermione. He couldn't quite understand why Hermione's reaction had hit him that way but it was very much satisfying. Little John walked up.

"Aight, your hut's this way. Come along Hermione."

Draco and Hermione followed close behind. He noticed how the green of her dress brought out her chocolate brown eyes. He never noticed it before with her bushy hair always surrounding her face up until a few years ago. 'Hmm' he thought, 'she has it tied back. The Mudblood actually doesn't look that bad. When she isn't glaring at me.' He shook the thoughts out of his head. 'Why the fuck am I thinking about Granger?!' he grimaced.

"Here we are." announced Little John. He indicated a small but serviceable makeshift hut. "Welcome to your home for the time being." He started to walk away.

"Wait. Are we sharing a room?" asked Draco.

"Of course." Little John continued on his way.

"Umm…" Hermione stood there awkwardly. "Well better get this over with and see inside." She walked in decidedly. Draco came in behind her. It was definitely small on the outside but surprisingly spacious on the inside. In one corner there was a small table big enough for two people. A small counter-like structure in another corner with bread and dishes on it. Directly in the middle was a spit and bread stand to bake and cook over. Then in the furthest corner was a straw-made bed big enough for two. They just stood around awkwardly not knowing what exactly to say.

"So where did you hide your wand when you with Robin?" asked Hermione quickly, trying to lessen the awkward silence.

"I put a spell on it to make it look like a stick and less noticeably a wand."

"Really? Which one?"

"Dissiluminatione Lignum."

"Well done. Why didn't I think of that." murmured Hermione. Draco was surprised.

"You didn't think to use a disguisement charm Granger?" Draco smirked.

"No..I should've. Damn it."

"What happened?!" inquired Draco his grin diminishing when he realized something had happened between she and Marian.

"Marian found my wand and immediately knew I was a witch. Scared the shit out me, but she took it quite well surprisingly. She said she wouldn't tell anyone. She knows how people who work with magic are hated here. BUt she knew I am good."

"Still treat it with caution. We don't want to get killed before we find a way back."

"Malfoy, are you actually sounding nice?" Hermione asked in mock surprise. Smirking she crossed her arms.

"I..uh. UGH. Just until we get out of here." Draco replied grumpily. Hermione giggled. Just then they heard a loud commotion. They rushed outside. Marian, Robin, Little John and some other villagers were huddled around a horse. They walked over. They saw Robin bent over a blind elderly man.

"They destroyed everything Robin. The smell of smoke still burns."

"Who, Duncan?"

"The Sheriff and his men. They destroyed everything. Thank God, I found you."

"It's alright Duncan. You're safe now."

Suddenly an arrow shot in front of them and a shout, "Enemies approaching! Over the hill!"

"Stupid fool! He led them straight to us." said a dark, shaggy haired, athletic built man.

"Be still, Will Scarlet!"

"I'm so sorry Robin. I'm so sorry." Everyone looked toward the hill. Thousands of men with war paint, and animal skins on them in brutish manner screaming in a deafening roar. The Sheriff of Nottingham at the head.

"CELTS! TO THE TREES!" a man shouted. Everyone started running towards their camp in a frenzy of panic.

"Draco. Come with me. We will need you." Robin laid a hand on Draco's shoulder. Draco contemplated whether to ditch and run or stay. He had enough of war. But he figured it was better to stay and get this over with than to leave and be the coward everyone thought him to be..

"Count me in." Draco replied. Hermione stood in shock. She never would have thought that he would actually stay and fight. She was impressed and a little proud though she didn't dare admit it.

"I want to fight too." Hermione stepped in.

"Haha, you're a woman." Robin and Little John laughed.

"So what if we're women. I've given birth to 8 boys. If us women can handle the pain of birth then we can handle anything else too." Fanny countered with her hands on her hips and a spark in her eyes.

"Fine. Grab a bow and quiver of arrows the three of you." Robin gave in handing Draco a sword. The three gathered their weapons. Hermione was leaving toward the front lines when Draco grabbed her arm.

"Granger, are you crazy. What are you thinking fighting in th-."

"If crazy means living through torture and beatings, if crazy means living through the Battle of Hogwarts, if crazy means I can survive erasing my parents memory of me to protect them, if CRAZY means I can live through the heartbreak of losing those I love then I sure as hell can be crazy enough to survive this." Hermione responded fiercely. She walked away in a huff leaving Draco to collect himself as he stood open-mouthed. He was horrified to realize he had actually been worried about Hermione fighting with the rest of them. He stomped to follow her to the front lines, hoping that maybe some blood and gore could clear his head of Hermione.

"RRRAAAAHHHHHH!" roared the Celts as they ascended onto the camp. Flaming arrows flying. Some hitting the thatched roofs, others hitting their mark on the chest of a villager. Swords clashed, blood spilt. He looked over and saw Hermione on a roof shooting arrows quickly and with a practiced hand. She got each and every one of her targets. 'Impressive.' he thought. A Celt charged at him, their swords met with a clash. He had no idea what he was doing but he managed to hold his own pretty well. He sideswiped his opponent, kicked him, then stabbed hard into the man's stomach. He left him where he fell to bleed out.

A familiar voice screamed behind him. His heart sank as he turned quickly to see Hermione thrown off the roof into the arms of another Celt, her bow and quiver taken from her. Her arms were pinned to her sides, though she struggled with all her might. The slight sound of her shrill cry knocked him into gear. Pulled an arrow to the bow and shot the Celt directly through the ear canal killing him instantly. She was then able to kick the other in the testes and thinking simply on reflex, slit his throat. Breathing staggeringly, she managed to look up and catch Draco's eyes. Determination clashed with fear as she nodded a thanks in his direction. He caught her eyes flicker in horror and turned to see a rush of Celts coming at him from all sides, leaving no safe exit to flee. He realized in that moment that magic was his only answer. He discreetly pulled out his wand, laid it even with his sword and murmured 'sectumsempra.' he cut each one for extra measure as he saw the blood start to fill their chests with no exit point.

Robin saw something from the corner of his eye. A light maybe. Turning, he saw Draco fighting off a bunch of Celts. Too easily he noticed. Like he wasn't even trying. Robin frowned as his suspicion grew. "ROBIN!" he turned and saw Marian dragged onto the Sheriff's horse. "ROBIN!"

"Marian." He tried to run after but it was too late. What was left of the Celts followed until there was nothing but the dead and the injured left.