Disclaimer: See Prologue.

A/N: Well, I've learned something about myself. If I log online, and I have at least four or five reviews, I apparently am going to update. And I understand if any of you think Luna's placement a little peculiar. It was a toss-up though. Ron and Hermione almost became Slytherin's Heirs, which would have fit if you think about it. However, I wanted to live, and I think this way is better. Besides, Luna's an enigmatic character, which I think Salazar would approve of 100. Okay, now, let's consult the hat to see what this chapter will be on… Hermione!

The Chosen Eight

Chapter Eight

The Choosing - Lady Ravenclaw

Hermione sighed as she prepared for bed. How had her life become what it was? Six months ago she was just an ordinary girl, with loving parents who were so proud to have such a talented young witch as a daughter. They never knew that it would get them killed.

She threw herself onto the bed at that thought and began crying into her pillow. It was her fault that they died. She was the reason. The Death Eaters may have done the deed, but she was the one who pointed them in that direction.

"There, there, sweet. I'm sure things will turn out alright."

Hermione immediately jumped out of bed and just stared at her surroundings. She was standing in a room that most definitely was not apart of Number Twelve Grimmauld Place. It was the most beautiful room she had ever seen. The walls were a tan stone, the floor was a midnight blue with a gorgeous blue rug with a celestial image of some sort on it. The coverlet on the bed was a rich tan color, with the sheets and pillowcases made of a royal blue silk. In the doorway, there stood one of the loveliest women she had ever seen.

She was tall in stature, with graceful, willowy features. Her eyes were a mixture of blue and purple, and her hair was of the most unusual bronze color. She was a very exotic beauty, which usually would have made Hermione, or any girl, dislike her on sight. However, by her bearing, one could tell that this was a noble and fair woman, such was the aura of Rowena Ravenclaw.

To Hermione, who had pretty much memorized Hogwarts: A History, which included portraits of all four Founders, she was instantly recognizable. The how part is what had her stumped, not to mention the where and the why.

"I can see that you recognize me. I'm sure a smart girl like you can figure out why I have brought you here. No?" she said at Hermione's blank expression. "My dear, you are going to be my Heir."

"W-what?" Hermione stammered.

Rowena laughed at her shock. "Have can you look so stunned? I have watched you all your life. You have exhibited a very quick intellect that is so essential to a Ravenclaw Heir, not to mention you have an inner strength that will see you through all that will come to pass."

Hermione was flabbergasted. "This is so… unbelievable."

Rowena smiled kindly at her. "If I know you and your insatiable curiosity, you will have many questions. Well, there's no time like the present, if you'll excuse the term. Let us get started on your training, and you will understand all in time."

OoooOoooOoooO

Hermione opened her eyes to her room at Order Headquarters with a new outlook on life. No longer did she blame herself for her parents' demise. No longer would she stand idly by and let others lived while she had her nose stuck in a book because she just had to know. Not that she would quit learning, but she would now experience things that she had learned about. And she would put that learning to good use. She had a mission to complete.

Tbc…

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