Hello Sweeties,

Here is a brand spanking new chapter! I am so sorry for the wait, however preparation for university has been hectic and chaotic. I hope everyone had an amazing holiday season and received everything they wanted and had a Very Potter New Year. This month, on January 14th we lost the Bravest Man We Ever Knew. My heart broke when I heard the news and I, being glamorous and ever so cool, sobbed like a baby in the middle of my college canteen. He had been an inspiration for as long as I can remember and I remember watching the first film when it had only recently come out on VHS and instantly adoring the beautiful man that was Alan Rickman. RIP Alan, we will 'Always,' love you.

Enjoy this chapter, my lovelies; as per usual all that you recognise belongs to J.K Rowling. Anything you don't, I created in the mess that is my imagination.

Chapter Eleven:

It's All Fun and Games until Your Broom is on Fire.

Arthur left with his children and the Order members shortly after breakfast. Ginny and Harry walked next to Hermione and Severus. They weren't happy with how Ron had acted and preferred not to have to deal with him. Harry was uncertain as to how he should act and feel around Severus as it had appeared to him that the raven-haired professor hated him. Ginny on the other-hand kept wiggling her eyebrows at her older friend, who blushed in return; Ginny was well aware of the rumours which circulated at Hogwarts regarding Professor Snape, particularly those pertaining to his more physical attributes.

Severus was for the most part silent as they walked to the portkey. He wasn't keen on the idea of leaving Hermione to fend for herself, especially after the youngest of the Mr. Weasley's meltdown before they had left the Burrow. He would be close by, but not close enough to be able to intervene at his own freewill. He was to spend the afternoon with Lucius and Draco before the oncoming fiasco that was to occur that evening. Hermione looked at Severus and smiled, helping with his rather possessive and protective thoughts. She was just as nervous, however her thoughts were directed towards him. She knew that everything was about to change and everything was going to become even more dangerous than it already was. Tonight was the first of many raids that would happen and Severus was slap dab right in the middle of it all. As a spy, his attendance was a vital sign of his role, he had to convince not only the Dark Lord but also his followers of his allegiance to the war. Hermione had never been more worried. She was shocked out of her train of thought, by a rather attractive young man landing before her; she knew him from school, as he was two years ahead of her. At this point Severus had taken a more neutral position behind the teens.

"This everyone is Amos Diggory and his son Cedric." Arthur stated happily as he began to chat with the eldest Mr. Diggory. Cedric smiled at the girls, taking Hermione's hand and kissing the back of it in a gentlemanly manner. Ron scoffed, whereas Hermione simply raised a perfectly sculpted eyebrow at the older boy. Ginny swooned when he turned away and giggled at Hermione who just shrugged. She wasn't attracted to anyone other than Severus, who at this point look rather grumpy at the liberties the boy had taken towards Hermione. He didn't like people flirting with his other half; however he was the only one that could make her swoon.

When they came to the portkey they discovered that it was simply an old boot. Hermione began to wonder how exactly they would all manage to hold onto that thing while they travelled. Severus wondered the same thing. Severus took a firm grasp on the boot, before looking at Hermione who still looked uncertain. He spoke to her through their connection.

"Little One, grasp hold of me. I won't let you go." She took hold of his robes and as they began to move, he grasped her with his other hand. The landed with a hard thud on the ground. Hermione landed on Severus who was holding onto her for dear life, Ginny landed on Hermione and George landed on her. In the end Severus was supporting the weight of four additional people as Fred landed on his twin. Hermione looked up at Severus who was bearing the brunt of the weight; he was wincing due to the pain caused by Hermione's left knee being pinned against his groin. Hermione wasn't in any better state as Ginny's arm had become caught between her shoulder blades.

"Messer's Weasley and company would you kindly remove yourselves from my person, before I am crushed to death." Severus sneered, exhaling through his teeth as George's right foot found purchase on his calf in attempt to knock his brother to the ground. Hermione huffed and dropped her head to the dark professor's chest. His subtle vanilla and earthy scent soothed her irritation at being used as a crash mat; of course it was nothing close to what Severus had to be feeling at that moment in time. She sighed in relief when Ginny managed to stand up; Severus chuckled, before talking to her through their connection.

"Hermione, while I could this would regularly be no problem. I believe the added weight of three Weasley's has severely bruised my ribs and stomach." Hermione jumped up that instant, not wanting to hurt Severus any further before offering her a hand to help him up. However he had already managed to stand and was rubbing his stomach in attempt to soothe the ache.

"I'm afraid I must now take my leave. Remain vigilant and don't allow yourself to become too caught up in the festivities and forget your surroundings." He stated straightening out the cuffs of his frock coat. Hermione frowned and her eyebrow creased; she didn't want him to go especially knowing what she knew. Severus wasn't very comfortable being out of ear shot of her as it would leave her vulnerable and the idea put him on edge.

"We will, Severus. Be safe, my friend." Arthur Weasley told the dark-haired professor before him. Severus bowed his head in thanks to the Patriarch of the Weasley household. Ron snorted, not caring at all for the fate of his Potion Professor. The way he viewed it was that without the greasy git in the picture he have the opportunity to make a move on Hermione; he didn't dare try anything extreme when Snape was so on edge. Severus being the experienced legilimens he knew everything that was going through the youngest red-haired male's brain at that point in time and he wasn't happy. His eyes flickered to Hermione who was worrying her bottom lip with her teeth. He spoke to her through their connection as he and the group went their separate ways.

"Hermione, please stay safe. Don't be the heroine; if anything were to happen to you when I can't save you, I wouldn't be able to live with myself." Hermione gave him a shy smile before nodding in response. She teared up and her heart constricted in her chest as she watched him walk away from her.

Harry came bumped his shoulder with his and gave her an encouraging smile before wrapping an arm around her shoulders.

"Come on, 'Mione. Everything will be fine."

"I know, but that doesn't stop me from worrying none the less."

"Well why don't you tell me how your summer has been so far?" Harry suggested wanting to distract her from her thoughts. As the group began their own trek to the campsite Hermione began to tell Harry what had happened at Hogwarts over the holidays.

"Well, first and foremost I began my apprenticeship with Severus is absolutely enthralling. He has so much to teach and I can't help but be entranced."

"Oh, really? What occurs in these lessons, Miss Granger?" Harry teased. Hermione rolled her eyes but a giggle still managed to escape her lips.

"Clear that filthy mind of yours, Harry! Nothing has happened!" She said sounding somewhat disappointed. Harry smirked at his best friend.

"Poor you! I am guessing you are wishing something would happened? Who can blame you? Not the worst view in the world." Hermione elbowed him, thinking he was teasing her again.

"Oh Harry… It isn't like that! I mean if something were to happen not only would it be inappropriate but I am sure the headmaster would have no choice but to force him to leave. It would ruin his reputation, he could face Azkaban for no fault of his own." She said tears in her eyes. Harry frowned.

"Well it isn't too long until you are of age in the wizarding world, is it? I mean you're fifteen, only a few more years" Hermione chewed her lip before replying.

"Less, really. My use of the time turner last year has resulted in increasing my age. So in actuality I am sixteen." Harry's eyes bugged.

"Really?" he said astonished. She simply nodded.

"Well, are you using it this year?" She nodded again, which resulted in Harry smirking once again.

"So by this time next year you'll very nearly be of the wizarding age of consent?" She thought for a second.

"Yes, I suppose so." Harry handed his friend a canteen of water which he had just taken out of his backpack, she thanked him before taking a sip.

"Well let's just hope this year is a quiet one." Harry said, which Hermione whole-heartedly agreed with.

"You never did say, do you want this, the relationship with Snape?" Harry asked after a few minutes of silence.

"Of course. I have dreamt about being with him since I started Hogwarts. Before that I just wanted to be his friend. His best friend." She smiled softly, remembering her life before everything changed before she knew he was real.

"Anyway, this isn't what I meant when I mentioned Severus!" She said looking at her friend disapprovingly. He chortled.

"Oh, I know! But this is just so much more fun!"

"I swear, Harry, you gossip like an old woman!" He shrugged, not particularly insulted.

"Enough about me and my lack of a love life. I noticed Ginny hasn't stopped looking at you since I arrived." Hermione said suggestively. Harry blushed a bit and became a bit uncomfortable. He ran his hand through his messy hair before holding the back of his neck.

"Ehhh… I'm not really interested. I mean she's pretty and everything, just not really my type."

"Really? I thought you'd be more interested now that she has lost the incapability to form a coherent sentence while in your presence." She said smiling at her awkward friend.

"She just isn't my type, Hermione." He said rather abruptly. She frowned in response. It wasn't like Harry to snap at her. She was about to ask him what was wrong when Mr. Weasley and the rest of the group came to a halt in front of them.

"Ahh! This is it! The Quidditch World Cup!"

Hermione had never seen anything like it in her life. Before her in the distance, stood the Quidditch Stadium. It was grand, its oval structure monopolising the horizon and its shadow casting the campground before it in shade. The campground looked like a village in its own right. Tents were set up in rows, magically lit campfires were alight before each of them. They didn't appear very large, however Hermione knew that as far as magic was concerned looks were deceiving. Stands were scattered around with witches and wizards selling their wares; as well as carts with food and drink. As they came closer to the camp, they were heard voices speaking languages of all types and volumes, however, the common emotion that surrounded them was that of excitement. The twins were as rambunctious as could expected as were the other boys present. Hermione, while not a great fan of Quidditch couldn't help but leach on the excitement. They bumped into a muggle man whom Arthur immediately recognised.

"Mr. Roberts!" The muggle man handed Arthur a map and pointed to the area in which their tents were located. Arthur led the group to a tent, at this point Cedric and Amos departed from the Weasley's to go to their own dwelling. Hermione pulled on Harry's arm before they followed the rest of their friends inside in the tent marked with the clearly butchered variation of their name, as instead in spelt 'Weezly'.

"I am sorry if I upset you, Harry. I didn't mean to make you angry." She apologised. Harry pulled her into a hug, burying his head in her hair. She felt the tension in his shoulders relax.

"No, 'Mione. I am sorry. I shouldn't have snapped at you. I can't explain it right now, but I will." He said before pulling back and looking at her. They smiled at one another before making their way inside the tent. Inside was complete chaos; Fred and George were as usual teasing their youngest brother mercilessly, Ginny was reading Witch Weekly while the remainder of the Weasley clan sat next to her.

That evening after the first game of the Cup between Transylvania and England which didn't go nearly as well as hope with England earning a measly ten points in comparison to 390; Kingsley Shacklebolt visited their tent to inform them of some additional information regarding the death-eater raid. As far as Lucius was informed, it was still a-go. However, as it was such a temperamental situation, they couldn't be too careful. Hermione didn't hear from Severus that evening, but Shacklebolt has told her all was well. She went to bed nervous and didn't finally find peace until two o'clock in the morning. She hadn't been asleep long when she was awoken by Harry.

" 'Mione, are you awake?" He asked.

"I am now, Harry. What is it?" She asked sleepily before rolling over. He got in the bed with her, laying on top of the light duvet. He was quiet for a moment before he replied.

"I'm scared Hermione."

"Why?"

"Everything is going to change and I am terrified." Hermione reached a hand out to wrap her arm around him. Despite the darkness she could make out his figure.

"It's alright to be afraid, Harry. Everyone has the right to be scared. Especially someone in your position. It's only natural."

"But that's just it, Hermione. It's not natural. I'm not natural."

"What are you on about, Harry. Of course you are!"

"Having these dreams isn't natural, Hermione. But it's not just that…"

"What dreams, Harry?"

"I keep having dreams about a house and a man. I don't know where it is nor who the man is." He explained.

"It's just a bad dream. Even I have them sometimes. I have Severus' bad dreams too."

"What do you mean?"

"The connection we share allows us to share dreams. We can block one another out, using dreamless sleep potion, but sometimes even that doesn't work. When it doesn't it usually means that we share each other's nightmares. Severus has them about his earlier days as a spy."

"Really?" He asked, surprised.

"Yes. Sometimes when he knows they are bad, he won't sleep. I try to tell him not be so careless towards his health, but he is adamant about me not seeing them. He thinks by being exposed to them, I'll think he is a monster. It's a ridiculous concept, I could never think that about him"

"I don't blame him, Hermione. He is a private man." Harry responded.

"Yes, to everyone else. But never with me. He has always be open with me." She explained.

"I don't think anyone will ever want to be with me. Especially with how I am now."

"Don't be silly, Harry. Any girl will be lucky to have you." She was shocked as Harry began to cry.

"Harry! What's the matter?" She asked as she hugged him tight. He didn't answer, he just continued to cry. She continued to hold him until he eventually felt asleep. She didn't know what made him cry. But she thought it best to let him sleep. Before she herself found rest, she tried her connection with Severus once more.

"Stay safe, Severus. Goodnight." Just as she began to drift she heard his silky soft voice respond to her.

"Goodnight, sweet girl. Have pleasant dreams."

The next morning Hermione awoke to Harry's arm slapping her in the head.

"Bloody hell, Harry." She said as she pushed off his weight and rubbed her forehead; before getting up from the bed. She could tell it was still fairly early as the only other person awake was Arthur who was sitting at the table near the camping stove. She was able to shower and dress before anyone else woke up. She dressed for the day, once again pulling on Severus' jumper. She was pulling her hair through the tie up into a ponytail as she walked back to the main area of the tent when she spotted Severus. He was sipping on a cup of coffee as he listened to Arthur who was talking about particularly sketchy occurrence in the misuse of muggle artefacts department. Hermione's breath caught. The sunlight was coming through a gap in the tent flap and it illuminated the usually taciturn man before her. She couldn't help but admire him. He was wearing his spectacles, which she assumed was due to a headache; she loved his glasses they were frameless and they sat on his large nose in manner she couldn't help but find overly seductive. His nose, while large suited his sharp angled face. His hair looked soft and she knew it had just been washed, she knew it was smell of the specially formulated herby shampoo he had created himself to help with the inevitable greasiness that resulted from hanging over a cauldron all day. His hand rested on his face, his index finger resting on his cupid bow, framing his pale lips. The sight, made them look tantalising and utterly kissable.

His dark eyes shot towards her, his heart sensing her presence in the room. He smirked softly at the young witch, acknowledging her appraisal of his person. Her face broke out into a blinding smile as she ran towards the man. He had just enough time to place his coffee on the table before he had an armful of witch in his lap. If he was angry about her actions it certainly wasn't expressed as she was embraced by his strong arms. She hadn't been embraced in that manner for a while, it was desperate and she could feel his love. Arthur chuckled, but she was unaware as she buried her face into his hair. It was soft and his neck smelled of his rich aftershave; she was in her own personal heaven. She kissed his neck subconsciously, which resulted in Severus stiffening slightly before patting her back softly, motioning it was time to untangle themselves. He of course didn't want her to cease cuddling in his lap however realised the repercussions of their arrangement and decided it was best to cease it before it became more difficult for the both of them. Hermione stood up straightened her borrowed jumper. Severus smirked at her.

"What a jolly jumper, Hermione." Arthur said complementing the young woman. She blushed.

"Oh! Thank you, Mr. Weasley."

"Yes, that it is" That was the only response Severus gave on the matter as he summoned her a cup of tea. She found it was perfect as she sat beside him.

"Did you sleep well?" He asked as she sipped her tea. Hermione blushed again looking at the two men at the table.

"In the end, yes. Harry came into my bed last night, after one of his nightmares." She explained. Severus raised his eyebrows over his glasses at her. While it wasn't abruptly visible on his face, he was jealous.

"Nightmares?" He asked.

"Yes, He has been having them all summer. He says all he sees is a house and a man. He doesn't know where the house is nor the identity of the man."

"Do you think Mr. Potter would allow me to access his thoughts to see these night terrors? Perhaps I know the man and the location." Severus asked. Hermione bit her lip, after all it wouldn't hurt to ask him whether he was okay with it.

"I don't see how it could hurt. I'll go wake him up before everyone else gets up." She stated as she walked back to the makeshift room Harry was asleep in.

"Harry, you have to wake up" She said as she shook her friend awake. Harry shot up rubbing the sleep from his eyes before reaching for the glasses she held out for him.

"What's wrong, 'Mione?" He asked. She told him to get up and follow her; he did as asked and left the room to go out to where Severus and Arthur sat.

"Professor." He greeted awkwardly. He was unsure as to what was going on but didn't want to question his best friend as she scared him a little bit when she is angry.

"Mr. Potter." Severus responded just as stiffly. Hermione rolled her eyes and huffed at their attitude towards one another, while polite was rather uncomfortable to witness.

"Honestly, you two! You're making me want to run and hide. Harry, Severus wants to see your thoughts. He is an incredibly talented legilimens and there may be a chance he could recognise the man you are seeing in your dreams. You can trust him, Harry I promise." She explained, as she took his hand and guided him to sit at the table.

"Alright, 'Mione. I trust him because you trust him." He said as he sat down somewhat hesitantly. Severus sat up in his own chair, placing his mug on the chipped wooden table before him.

"Mr Potter, relax your person and open your mind. Legilimency is an extremely intrusive art and can be quite stressful on the body so relax and don't fight against me." Severus said as Harry prepared himself.

"Legilimens!" Hermione observed Severus as he searched through her friends memories. He was like a predator, striking and alluring. His perfect features darkened and his expression soured before he released Harry from the connection. Severus took off his glasses and pinched the bridge of his nose.

"Severus, what did you see?" He shook his head. She walked over to him and stood beside him, placing her hand beneath his chin, forcing him to look at up at her. He wrapped his arm around her and placed an open hand on the base of her back, pulling her closer. He simply wanted her close, regardless of the company. She tentatively ran her hand through his hair, he visibly relaxed beneath her fingertips.

"Who did you see, Severus?"

"Bartemius Crouch Jr. He was where I can only assume is Riddle House in Little Hangleton. Riddle House belonged to Riddle's paternal family. The manner in which he was speaking, to whom he was addressing. I don't know if I am simply being paranoid but it sounded like he was talking to the Dark Lord." Hermione stiffened. He pulled her close, cuddling her to his chest, he wanted to protect her from everything. Severus continued to hold her as he spoke to Harry.

"What do we do?"

"There isn't much else we can do at the moment. If he is back, he isn't back in the true sense. I would know, the mark isn't reacting in the manner it once did. It twitches nothing more than that." Severus replied as he stroked Hermione's hair. She sat perched on his knee, soaking in the comfort her dark haired saviour was providing her with.

"The entirety horcruxes have yet to be destroyed, however after that is done he won't be able to return. That will be the end of him, once and for all." At this point he was talking more to Hermione than Harry.

Once the rest of the group began to wake up, Severus departed from tent and left to go and report to Dumbledore about Harry's dreams and then to once again join Lucius. Lucius was sitting in a luxurious leather armchair in the grand tent he had purchased for the event.

"Well, well, well. Look what the Hippogriff dragged in! You were out early." Lucius said sipping on the drink in his goblet.

"Just because your royal highness doesn't wake up until lunchtime doesn't mean the measly servants do also."

"Oh come off it, Lord Snape. You know as well as I do that you have been known to sleep in late every now and then." Snape simply smirked in response.

"How was Lady Snape, this fine morning." Lucius asked dryly as he swirled the liquid in his glass. Severus raised an eyebrow to his friend.

"By that I assume you mean, Hermione. While she is not Lady Snape, she is…. Worried."

"It's only a matter of time, Severus. Besides having a wife isn't all that bad; when they aren't nagging. Even then it isn't too hard to tune it all out."

"Somehow, I find it hard to believe Narcissa would appreciate that."

"What she doesn't know, won't hurt me. Anyway, why was Hermione worried?" Lucius asked curiously.

"Mr. Potter; has been having dreams involving Crouch and the Dark Lord." Lucius responded by rolling his eyes back into his head with his head lolled to the side pulling a highly unattractive face.

"Oh perfect, another one to join the ranks from Azkaban. It's bad enough with the sister- in -law from hell popping over for daily tea and chat with Cissa. Do you know the sadistic bint threatened to feed me her husband's bollocks if I quote 'Fucked up with the Dark Lord.'?"

"Well, you won't have too much to worry about, the poor sod hasn't had any balls since he married Bella. They shrivelled up and shrunk back in for safety as soon as he realised he'd have to consummate their marriage bond." Lucius cackled in response to his friends comment.

"Just imagine, a combination of Bellatrix and Rodolphus." Lucius said with a shiver.

"Oh please don't, I have only just had breakfast." Severus' face contorted in disgust.

The second and third games came and passed in a blur, Hermione hadn't seen or heard from Severus since he had visited them the morning of the second game. While she knew how dangerous and risky him being around the group was, she couldn't help but miss him. She was so used to being with him every day. They had worked together so seamlessly and his company made her feel safe and loved. However now, she felt alone and vulnerable. It was the morning before the Ireland versus Bulgaria game, when she saw Severus. He and Lucius walked into their tent unnoticed until they rid themselves of their disillusionment charm. Hermione stood up from her spot on one of the few armchairs where she had been reading a potions textbook. Lucius smirked at his friend before greeting the girl.

"Darling, how are you? Looking radiant as ever." He said kissing her cheek. She rolled her eyes, but blushed and chuckled none the less. Lucius, in true Malfoy fashion was dressed like he was going to a high end fashion show, meanwhile she was wearing a periwinkle blue long-sleeved shirt and a pair of black cargo shorts; the heat of summer had finally gotten to her.

"Hardly, but thank you either way. I am fine, simply reading ahead for the year." She replied. Lucius reached for the book she was reading and noticed it as a book most definitely not on the Hogwarts syllabus.

"For my apprenticeship, that is." She added sheepishly. Lucius chuckled. Severus looked at the young woman, who he couldn't help but think looked stunning today. Her hair was messy but piled up on her head into a bun and her skin looked golden from being exposed to the sunlight. She was practically angelic.

"Good morning, Severus." She said with a smile. His heart stuttered in his chest before he straightened himself up. After all he wasn't some hormone driven teenage dunderhead.

"Good morning, Hermione." She bit her lip, looking towards Lucius who was busy staring at the interior of their tent, properly comparing it to that of his own. She turned back to Severus who gave her a smile that he only saved for her as his eyes were soft and open. She ran forward to hug him and he chuckled before wrapping his arms around her shoulders. He spoke to her through their connection.

"Well this is a lovely greeting, Little One."

"I've missed you, Severus."

"I missed you as well, sweet girl." He thought as he let her go. Lucius smirked knowingly at his friend.

"Where are the others?" Lucius asked, focusing on Hermione.

"Arthur, Charlie and Bill went out to get some breakfast. They decided to get something nice as it is Percy's birthday. Percy went to meet Penelope who is also here for the World Cup. Everyone else is in bed. However Arthur, Charlie and Bill should be back soon." Severus and Lucius shared a look.

"Is everything alright?" She asked looking worried, Severus opened his mouth and looked as if he was about to say something however Percy and the older Weasley men walked into the tent.

"Severus! Lucius! To what do we owe this pleasure?" Arthur asked as he moved forward to shake Lucius' hand and grasp Severus' bicep as he shook his hand as well.

"It's not really a visit for pleasure so much as to provide you with some information." Severus responded as Arthur gestured them to sit down on one of the settees.

"Oh?"

"We have a good reason to believe that the Death Eaters will attack late this evening after the game." Lucius drawled as he ran his hand through his straight blonde hair. Severus rolled his eyes and pinched the bridge of his nose; it was his tell-tale sign of irritation.

"You always have a tactful manner of delivering bad news, Lucius" He said, as he rubbed his eyes. Arthur nodded in response to what Lucius had just revealed, while others attempted to digest it. Bill and Charlie were sharing looks of worry as well as determination.

"Well, we appreciate the warning. We are well prepared and we will make sure to stay safe." Arthur replied standing and looking straight into Severus' eyes.

"We'll keep Hermione safe" Charlie declared. Severus nodded appreciatively.

"And I'll make sure Draco still has all his hair and stays out of trouble this year." Hermione said, bumping her shoulder against Lucius. Severus snorted and sneered at his friend.

"It's the hair of a Malfoy that determines what kind of witch or wizard that they marry. Long, lustrous platinum hair will give you a woman like Narcissa. Short and untidy hair will give you…" Lucius was interrupted by Ron who walked in with what one can only describe as a birds nest on his head, yawning as he scratched his buttocks.

"That…." Lucius finished, looking at the youngest Weasley boy. Hermione rolled her eyes.

"Really Ronald? Is that necessary." Hermione asked.

"Wot?"

"Apologies for my Son."

"All is well, Arthur. We should be leaving anyway. Happy Birthday Master Weasley." Lucius said as stood up. Lucius turned to them as he was about to cast the disillusionment charm on himself.

"Thank you, for looking after my son." With that he left. Severus stood as well and looked at the Weasley's who had suddenly busied themselves. He turned to Hermione who looked up at her dark man.

"Stay safe, please? For me, please don't get hurt." Hermione said as she took his hand in hers. He smiled at her before leaning forward and kissing her forehead tenderly.

"Don't worry about me, I'm perfectly capable of making sure all appendages stay where they are intended to." She smiled at his snipe.

"Yes well, not a scratch." He chuckled.

"The same goes for you, Miss Granger. I shall see you soon." He kissed her forehead once more, inhaling her sweet scent before leaving the tent, leaving many shocked Weasley's in his wake. Hermione blushed.

"You've tamed the Potions Master." Charlie said looking on in awe.

"He isn't tamed." She said irritated by what he had stated.

"She is right, Charlie. You tend to be different with those you love and care deeply for." Arthur stated grasping his shoulder. Hermione nodded her thanks to the man she viewed as a second father.

"Well, we had best prepare for the day ahead. There is a lot to do." Arthur suggested, with that the tent became chaos as in true Weasley nature.

That afternoon the group packed their belongings and shrunk them to be put in their pockets when they left for the Quidditch Match. Hermione made sure to dress snugly when they stepped out to head to the stadium, they had eaten and were attempting to forget about what would happen that evening and simply enjoy the match as well as possible. Hermione stood next to Harry, who had offered his arm to his best friend. She gladly looped her arm through his and listened to the twins joke about the teams they were about to see play.

"The Irish are definitely the ones to beat they have it in the bag!" Fred stated about as excited as a little boy on Christmas.

"No! Bulgaria have Krum! He is a legend." Ron said as he munched on a liquorice wand. Harry who didn't know too much about other teams that weren't from Puddlemere United, was simply happy be there. Ron purchased a dancing shamrock hat and a large green rosette, however he also purchased a miniature figure of the Bulgarian seeker, Krum. Harry was drawn to a display selling 'Omnioculars.'

"You can replay action…slow everything down… and they flash up a play by play breakdown if you need it. Bargain- ten Galleons each!" The saleswizard said holding up what appeared to be brass binoculars with odd looking knobs and dials. Hermione smiled at the man who was waving his product in front of them. Ron looked down at what he had just purchased appearing to be at a battle with himself. Harry then asked for three pairs of them for himself and his friends. Hermione thanked him before finding a wizard selling programs and went ahead and purchased three to go with the omnioculars Harry had bought.

"Kids, we are in the spectators top box with the minister!" There was no containing the Weasley boys excitement at this point. As they entered the arena they walked for nearly half an hour and up a flight of stairs covered in a plush purple carpet to the box where the minister was already waiting. The box was situated halfway between each set of goal posts in which were two rows of purple gilt chairs. Harry gasped when he caught sight of Dobby who was sitting in a seat behind them on a raised platform. However it turned out to be Winky, a house elf who knew Dobby well and explained that she thought freedom was going to Dobby's head. When asked what she was doing sitting in the Top Box, she explained that she was saving the seat for her master before ignoring them completely. Harry was greeted by the Minister of Magic himself, Cornelius Fudge. Percy was green with envy as the minister greeted the famous boy like an old friend. Harry was then introduced the Bulgarian Minister of Magic whom introduced himself much like a fan finally meeting their idol. Alongside him stood Ludo Bagman, the commentator to the games as well as the Malfoy's, Severus, Kingsley and a few others Hermione didn't recognise.

"And isn't this… quaint" Lucius said as he looked at the Weasley's his eyes displaying distain. Hermione was impressed with the act and had to admit his Slytherin qualities shone aptly.

"Good lord, Arthur. What did you have to sell to get seats in the Top Box? Surely your house wouldn't have fetched this much?" Fudge who wasn't listening to the exchanged explained that Lucius had donated a large amount of money to St. Mungos. Lucius looked at Hermione who stood with her head held high and a sharp eyebrow raised questioningly, he rolled his eyes at the minister who was currently singing his praises. He really only did it in order insure he gained the seats. Hermione noticed Narcissa was holding tightly onto Draco's arm not wanting to let go of her son. She was as anxious as Hermione was about what would happen that evening. She was interrupted from her train of thought by Ludo who bellowed to the minister.

"Are you ready, Minister?"

"Ready when you are, Ludo!" Fudge said as he got comfortable. Severus ended up sitting next to Hermione. Harry wiggled his eyebrows at his friend, who rolled her eyes and tried to put on looking as uncomfortable as physically possible. Meanwhile, Severus was attempting to make her laugh through their mental connection. Her face went red with effort to keep her mouth closed, however mirth danced in her eyes.

"Sonorus!" Ludo's voice echoed around them and spread to every corner of the stadium.

"Ladies and Gentlemen… welcome! Welcome to the final of the four hundred and twenty-second Quidditch World Cup!" The stadium was in uproar, the excitement of the spectators shook the stands.

"And now, without further ado, allow me to introduce… the Bulgarian National Team Mascots!" Arthur queried as to what mascot the Bulgarians had brought; his question was soon answered as Veela's suddenly danced onto the field. Hermione was shocked as the beautiful women glided along the grass. All the men became entranced, all except Severus who leant back with his arms crossed across his chest and his feet crossed as they were outstretched before him. Hermione's brow creased. Why wasn't Severus affected? As if reading her mind, which he didn't at this moment in time, he answered her through their connection.

"I am not seduced by magic, potions or any other form of magic. I can't be affected by things that would entrance the normal wizard." He said as he rolled his eyes at Lucius, whom Narcissa was having a hard time getting to sit down.

"Why not?" She thought, biting her lip.

"Our bond." He said as he turned his dark eyes to her. She shivered at the deep stare he fired upon her. Severus nodded towards Harry who she noticed was attempting to scale the front of the box to reach the women. Even Draco, who wasn't attracted to women was trying to crawl over the bannister. Hermione pulled both back to their seats trying to stop them before they were injured. The stadium was in uproar as the women lined up to leave the pitch. Arthur pulled Ron's hat from his grasp as he was attempting to tear off the shamrocks from its stitched exterior.

"You'll be wanting that once Ireland have had their say!" Ron who was still staring at the women was pulled from his ogling and stared at his father with glassy eyes.

"And now, kindly put your wands in the air…. For the Irish National Team Mascots." Ludo announced, before a stream of green and gold whizzed across the stadium. It did a circuit before it split in two separate streams of light. The stadium was stunned into silence as a rainbow appeared and formed a shamrock which glittered before it began to rain golden light. However it turned out to be golden coins which bounced off of their heads. The shamrock turned out to be comprised of leprechauns in vests who threw the pieces down upon the stadium. Ron picked up as much gold as could physically fit in his pockets handing a fistful to Harry paying him back for the omnioculars. Hermione smiled at the gold which had gathered in her lap, Severus nudged her as he slipped his own winnings into his pockets. She followed suit, slipping the gold into her pocket. The leprechauns floated to the ground crossed their legs on the other side of the pitch from the veela's.

"And now, ladies and gentlemen, kindly welcome – the Bulgarian National Quidditch Team! I give you- Dimitrov! Ivanova! Zograf! Levski! Vulchanov! Volkov! Annnnddd Krum!" Ludo Bagman announced excitedly. All Weasley men stood yelling with excitement once Krum flew into the arena and began to circle. Viktor Krum was a predatory looking man, he was bulky with sallow skin and thick eyebrows. He flew towards the Top Box, raising his arm victoriously. He locked eyes with Hermione, smirking and scanning her body appreciatively. Hermione suddenly felt very vulnerable, she sank into her seat and wrapped her arms around her torso keeping her eyes anywhere but on him.

Severus's stare was lethal; he didn't appreciate the way the Quidditch player was eyeing up Hermione. He felt her shy away from the front of her chair instead moving as far away as the area would allow. She bumped her arm with Severus, who wanted nothing more than to take her away from the intrusive eyes of the Seeker.

"And now, please greet — the Irish National Quidditch Team! Presenting — Connolly! Ryan! Troy! Mullet!Moran! Quigley! Aaaaaand — Lynch!" Ireland's Quidditch team streaked onto the pitch in a blurr of green.

"And here, all the way from Egypt, our referee, acclaimed Chairwizard of the International Association of Quidditch, Hassan Mostafa!" And with the snitch released the game began. The game was the most intense they had seen all week and Hermione couldn't be more relieved than when the game was over. Krum caught the snitch which ended the game, however Ireland won by ten points. Ludo ended the projection charm he had cast on his throat as Fred and George scrambled over and held their hands out with large grins on their faces as they had won the bet they had made before the match. Hermione breathed out a lungful of air she had been holding in what was about to happen was terrifying her and she felt lost and scared. Severus squeezed her hand when no one was watching as he stood.

Arthur led the group down the stairs, the twins and the older Weasley's children were talking about the match as they joined the crowd leading to the campsite. When inside the tent they collected their belongings into their pockets and sat down with a mug of hot cocoa as they waited in suspense. Outside fans were celebrating, knowing nothing of what would happen that evening.

It was nearly two when everything changed. The singing from earlier on in the evening was replaced with screaming and the sound of running feet. A loud chanting was heard over the screams as well as the occasional curse thrown before a responding scream resonated. Arthur rushed his family out of the tent, pausing as he took in the destruction before him. It was horrific. The sky, which should have been black, was painted with amber and smoke as what had to be hundreds of tents were on fire in the distance. Bodies floated above the ground and moved like marionettes as men below moved them with a simple flick of their wrist. Hermione gasped in horror as she realised not one was fighting back. The marionettes were muggles. Arthur cast a look as Hermione, Charlie and Bill; they knew what they were required to do. Charlie and Bill ran towards the chaos, intent on getting the muggles away from the line of the Death Eaters. Percy had both Fred and George with him taking off after their father. Hermione took Ginny's hand as well as Harry's and began to run towards the tree line. Ron ran behind them, keeping hold of Harry's jumper. They weaved in and out of muggles who were running in the opposite direction. Hermione began yelling.

"No! Run the other way!" It was no use, no one was paying attention to her. As they ran into the trees Hermione let go of Harry's hand in order to have her wand hand free. She kept hold of Ginny, afraid to let the young girl go. They continued to run, Hermione kept track of her breathing and her feet. Harry ran much faster than the girls, leading the way. He caught a tree branch, which swung back and hit her in the face. Hermione didn't care, she just kept running, one foot in front of another. She saw Draco in the distance; his blonde hair bright in the darkness. He was like an angel amongst the trees. They continued ducking as she felt spells cast behind her. She pulled out her own wand, throwing stunners behind her as she ran. Ginny's eyes were wide with fear, her feet stumbling on the roots of the trees. Hermione pulled the girls arm, heaving her onto her feet again.

"Come on Ginny, it's okay. Not much further now." She panted. Draco cast a spell, hitting a Death Eater who was chasing them. He missed and hit a tree, knocking it to the ground. While it didn't stop their pursuer it did deter him. Hermione reached the others, turning and seeing the scene before them. It looked like the end of the world. Every eschatological possibility was presented to them. Their attacker was coming closer, every spell she tried to throw at them was deflected. She did the only thing she could.

"Grab hold of me!" They all took hold of her cloak and with no warning at all they were gone.

Hermione landed on the ground with a tremendous bang, her shoulder hitting a large stone which was embedded into the soft ground. The grass was wet and it quickly soaked through her travelling cloak, she groaned in pain before realising where she was. The abrupt apparition had left her and her four passengers dazed and ever so slightly confused; the fire and destruction which had just moments ago dominated their vision was replaced with darkness. The only light was provided by the house in the distance and also the stars which were few and far between in the cloudy night sky. Hermione stood, her knees shaking, the adrenaline slowly leeching from her body only to be replaced with fatigue and aching muscles. She hadn't planned to apparate, it had been a spur of the moment decision brought on by the screams of tortured muggles and a rogue Death Eater who had found the group of teens and had been approaching at an alarming rate. Mr. Weasley was nowhere in sight and she didn't know the activation code to the port key they had found. Her shoulder ached and throbbed, a wet sensation ran down her back, this was how she was alerted to the blood. It was certain she had bruised her back, from the feel of it only the strongest salve would relieve the tension.

From her left she heard a groan, reminding her of her friends. Draco was rubbing the back of his head with his hand, clearly having wacked it on the ground when he fell, he offered a hand to Ron who scowled and glared at the blonde boy who rolled his eyes and turned away.

"Is everyone alright?" Hermione asked as she helped Ginny up, wiping the grass from the back of the younger girls cloak.

"Fine. Considering you tried to kill us." She glared at the red-haired teen.

"Shut up, Ron. She saved our lives." Ginny said to her brother, bitterly. Hermione watched as Draco helped Harry up, his hand lingering with the other boys; saving that piece of information realising now certainly wasn't the time for that type of question. Ginny began to sob, the events of the evening becoming too much for the younger girl, Hermione rubbed her arm soothingly, trying to placate the girl at least until they got back to the burrow. They were silenced by a growl from the undergrowth around them. The dense plant life echoed the sound making it impossible to pinpoint the sound. Hermione pushed Ginny behind her. Ron, Draco and Harry formed a circle around her so all sides were covered. All but Harry raised their wands.

"My wand, it isn't here!" Harry exclaimed. She shushed him. Ron screamed as a large black dog erupted from the grass. Hermione gave a growl of her own before steadying her wand; it was still pointed at the man.

"Who is my intended soul bond?" She asked with authority.

"Severus Tobias Snape" He answered wincing. Harry began to object but was silenced with a shake of Draco's head.

"You complete Arse, Sirius Black!" The animagus shifted back into his human form, laughing hysterically at his own antics.

"Sirius!" Harry said excitedly, as he ran forward, wrapping his arms around his godfather.

"Do you have any clue as to what we just went through?" Hermione questioned angrily. Sirius chuckled, before straightening his face and becoming more serious.

"So, it happened tonight?"

"Of course, you knew that!"

"I was hoping it was a fluke…" Sirius said with a heavy sigh, Hermione rolled her eyes.

"Clearly not."

"Where are the others?" Sirius asked his face grave and worried.

"I apparated everyone away. It was complete carnage. We were under attack. I did as I was told to do if it became a battle, it was more mass genocide. The muggles, they were being tortured, burnt. They were screaming as they were killed in the most heinous way." She exclaimed, tears spilling from her eyes. Sirius sighed, holding Harry a little tighter. Hermione gathered emotions, knowing that this was but the beginning. There was much worse to come.

"I suppose I better contact the Order, tell them where we are." Hermione exclaimed as she raised her wand.

"Expecto Patronum." A regal looking Eagle Owl sprouted from the silver-blue tendrils. It swooped and glided above their heads, before coming to a hover in front of her.

"Alert the Order we are safe, inform Mr. Weasley of our whereabouts. Don't go to Severus or Lucius, at any costs." With a ethereal hoot, the patronus was gone.

"Come, we should head to the Burrow, that is where we are to meet." And so began the trek back to the Weasley home. Hermione led the group whereas Sirius stuck to the back, guarding them from any possible rear attack. They walked for ten minutes before coming to the barrier of the wards. They were eagerly accepted as Mrs. Weasley came bustling out of the house, tears in her eyes. They did look a sight after all, they were covered in soot, their clothes charred slightly and ripped in various places. Hermione was face and hands were covered in blood from a graze on her forehead.

"Dears, where is everyone else?" She asked, Hermione looked at the matron with a hauntingly familiar look which reminded her of her brothers during the first war.

"We got separated, I apparated us out when it became to gruelling." She informed the woman before her who was urging them all inside. Hermione stood at the door her wand in her hand as the others went to the table she had to ensure the safety of those in the house at all costs, those were her orders. Mrs. Weasley fussed over the others trying to preoccupy herself as they waited for the others. Hermione heard the tell-tale sound of apparition and went outside, it was Arthur with the twins, closely followed by Charlie and Bill. Mrs. Weasley sighed with relief, but Hermione was still looking for Severus and Lucius to arrive, along with the other Order members she knew were scheduled to be there after the events tonight. Another whoosh, this time her grandparents arrived. Her grandmother unleashed a mighty cry as she spotted the bloodied form of her granddaughter.

"Hermione!" Her grandmother rushed over inspecting her. Hermione's resolute and brave face gave way to an immeasurable amount of tears.

"Oh my Cub" Minerva McGonagall's sharp Scottish brogue cracked as she held her grandchild, glad to be able to be awarded that as she knew many grandparents would be unable to do such an act ever again after that evenings events. There was another crack, this time it awarded Hermione with just what she had been waiting for. Severus Snape stumbled with Lucius, their arms bracing one another's giving strength where it was greatly needed. Hermione let out a son and thanked every deity she could think to thank as she catapulted her body at the dark man in the black cloak, his last in hand. He dropped the grim reminder of his obligations only to replace it with an armful of beautiful brave witch. She sobbed into his shoulder as she was wrapped up in his arms. He relaxed tenfold in her hold and kissed every inch of her within his reach, as he stroked her hair. He had seen the Death Eater approaching her and her friends and he had felt his heart stop. She was every bit a Gryffindor as she protected her friends. The montage in his head repeated the words 'You're alive. You're safe'. He continued to kiss her head as she tightened her hold on him. She moved her head to look up at him, her eyes full of tears. His eyes widened as he noticed the now dried blood coating her face.

"You're hurt." It wasn't a question, but a statement. She shrugged.

"It's fine. I'm okay." He huffed, as her feet slid to the ground. He kissed her cheek, examining the cut on the head.

"I have some paste in my cloak. Let's go meet the others and I can heal you." He said, taking her hand and guiding her into the house, where the others had departed moments before giving the pair a moments privacy.

The Order members were in a sullen mood as they sat around the table in the kitchen. Severus took Hermione's cloak and draped it over the back of her chair, his eyes widened as he saw the blood on the back of her shirt. She looked at him before realising what he saw. The blood had ran down her back into base not quite reaching her shorts.

"Do you mind me healing you here or would you prefer going into the other room?" He asked through his teeth. Her grandmother was tearing up, hating seeing her granddaughter in such a sight.

"Here is okay…" She said as she lifted the back of her shirt up keeping her front covered. Molly brought over a basin of hot water and a clean cloth, to which he added murlap essence before he began to clean the cut on her back handing her another cloth to hold to her head. After cleaning the cut he cast a healing spell and rubbed a pain relief salve over the angry looking scar. While her back was revealed he applied some bruise salve to her bruises and scorgified her brassieres back strap and her periwinkle shirt. She smiled her thanks to him once he sat beside her, applying another healing salve to the scar on her forehead after casting a spell to knit the skin back together. He kept his leg firmly against hers as the Order discussed the events of the evening, not wanting to be even an inch away from her.

After the meeting, Severus flooed her back to Hogwarts, Draco and her grandparents not far behind them. Hermione went to her room in her grandparents quarters to shower and dress for bed, however when it came down to going to bed she couldn't sleep. Images of the evening forced themselves to the forefront of her mind. She dragged herself out of bed, tiptoeing out of her grandparents quarters and across the teachers' lounge to Severus' quarters. She whispered the password to get through his wards and walked into his library, it was dawn and light was beginning to pour in through the windows. Severus was sat, showered and dressed for the day in his robes, sipping on a cup of tea. She suddenly felt vastly underdressed in her stripy blue pyjama trousers and navy tank top. Severus looked up at her surprised at her presence.

"Little One, what are you doing up?" He asked his voice soft and gentle.

"I can't sleep." She said tearfully. He nodded in understanding, frowning at her attire.

"Aren't you cold?"

"I wasn't, but it is a bit nippy." She said as she shifted her weight onto her other foot, he sighed as he summoned a jumper for her. It was one of his favourite for lounging as it was worn and old. He stood, walking over to her and pulling it over her head.

"I would like this one back, Miss Granger." She giggled slightly, to which he gave her a small smile. He guided her to his settee and sat down, pulling her into his side. She pulled the offered blanket over herself as she snuggled into his side.

"Where is Draco?" She asked.

"Sleeping Beauty is in my guest room." He said rolling his eyes and putting on his glasses. She giggled again at the likeness.

"Would you like me to read to you?" He asked. She nodded and snuggled further into his side as he picked up a book from beside him and began to read.

"It is a truth universally acknowledged, that a single man in possession of a good fortune, must be in want of a wife. However little known the feelings or views of such a man may be on his first entering a neighbourhood, this truth is so well fixed in the minds of the surrounding families, that he is considered the rightful property of someone…" That was all she heard before she drifted off into a peaceful sleep.

Authors Note:

So that is all for today, my lovelies. I hope you enjoyed reading this as much as I liked writing it. I'd like to mention that nothing above a friend connection will happen until Hermione is sixteen years old, nearly seventeen. I'd like to remind you that Hermione was a year older than the others before she started at Hogwarts, making her twelve. By the end of her third year she is fifteen years old. By the end of fourth year, in which she will be using the time turner even more due to her apprenticeship, she will be the physical age of nearly seventeen.

Until Next Time,

M xx