I do not own Harry Potter or any of the characters. All rights belong to JK Rowling. I only own Sheridan and her creatures. I of course thank my lovely friend Sam, my beautiful girlfriend Carissa who kept me motivated, and a couple of awesome reader who helped me through this chapter with their awesome ideas. And for helping me with the Blaise and Ron scene. Thank you very much Devin Wolf (Devin) and lostmoonchild (Myrriha) and I like to thank Healer for being awesome with the re-write.


Of all the moments for Hermione's mind to completely shut down, it had to be now; when she needed it the most! She could not, for the life of herself, or Pansy for that matter, perform a single magic spell. She couldn't even hold the wand steady.

"Hermione! Move!" Harry shouted with panic. Ron had somehow managed to slip between the people fending him off, and charged at the brunette. Hermione barely hearing the warning, turned as Ron bore down on her, too close to dodge. Just as he reached her, he bounced backwards off a shield spell Cho had cast at the last second. And with a loud squeal, he rolled to a stop several feet back, before jumping back up to try again. As he began another charge, he was met with a well-aimed spell from Harry, striking him full on the face with enough force to break the skin, turning squeals of annoyance into ones of pain.

Awkwardly, Ron changed directions and started a blind run at the raven-haired wizard. And as luck would have it, Harry's second spell held no effect. It would have been over for Harry, if Ron had not been interrupted by a black blur that jumped out of the surrounding forest, and knocked him off course. Ron rolled with an angry snort, stomping his hoof at the new threat standing between himself and Harry. He'd seemed slightly put off by the fierce snarl, which erupted from the form of an enormous black Doberman, as it crouched itself between Ron and Harry. It dark fur bristled in anger as its lips curled back, revealing its vicious bite while snarling at Ron. Ron released an angry squeal towards the larger dog, digging his hooves into the ground as he threatened to charge.

The Doberman narrowed it eyes, and huffed as if taunting the angry pig while keeping a watchful eye on his movements. It was as if the dog was determined to keep itself between the two, and with a sudden squeal, Ron charged towards the Doberman with a furious rage reflecting within his eyes. And as he'd charged, the Doberman sprang forward with bared fangs.

A squeal of pain left Ron's lips as the larger dog tore into his shoulder, tearing away a healthy chunk of flesh as Ron forcefully twisted from its bite. The boy's fury, for hundredth time that night, had blinded him and he saw nothing but red.

"Watch out!" Harry shouted as Ron charged again.

Hermione felt her breath catch as she fully became aware of what was happening. She knew Ron was furious at what was going on, but too attack them? To have attacked Pansy? How could he have done something so terrible? Her eyes fell to Pansy when she heard a weak whimper leave her girlfriend's lips. Daphne and Cho had managed to slow the bleeding, and a slight coloration had returned to her face. Hermione didn't know how much longer the witch could hold on. Why wasn't anyone coming? Where was Sheridan? Why was she, Hermione Granger, absolutely useless when Pansy needed her most?

A pained yelp split through the air as one of Ron's tusks pierced into the Doberman's front leg, and he had forced it onto its back. A snarl escaped from its lips as it roll to a stand, keeping all pressure off of its injured leg, It'd let out pained whimper as Ron charged again. Through the panic, Harry shot another spell at Ron, hoping to draw his attention while the Doberman struggled to get out of the way.

Ron squealed as the spell did its job, he turned, his eyes burning and seething red with rage. That had been the final straw. His eyes locked onto Harry, and a chill spread through the boy's body as he watch Ron charge. Everything seemed to move in slow motion as he drew closer with each passing second. And for the second time that night, the Doberman intervened, colliding with the boar just as it had come within four feet of the raven-haired wizard. The two animals collided in a violent heap, tusk and teeth lashing at each other as the snarls become more ferocious.

"Back him up!" Ginny shouted as the Doberman managed to sink its teeth into Ron, latching onto one of his front legs and pulling hard enough to be rewarded with a pained squeal. Ron stumbled backwards. Realizing that he was fighting a losing fight, he struggled to escape, only to be blocked at every turn by larger dog. Determination and anger burned within the Doberman's eyes as it cornered the Ron against a large tree, snarling and ready to attack if he attempted an another escape.

This gave Ginny and Malfoy the chance to conjure chains around the boar, and as the enormous Doberman jumped away from their line of fire, Luna had cast the Homorphus charm. Ron went from hostile squealing, to pained and confused shouts as he was forced back to his human form. The boy clutched his bloody arm, the most serious of his wounds, groaning at the pain as Luna wrapped the boys robe around where the missing chunk of flesh was.

"What the bloody hells going on?!" He screeched, confused as to why he was bound, injured, and wands were drawn at him.

"I'll bloody kill you Weasley!" Malfoy shrieked, his voice cracking on the end of it. He'd raised his wand with an forbidden curse on the tip of his tongue, until Ginny, being the closest, tackled him and knocked his wand from his grip.

"We don't have time for that Draco!" The words came at the end of a snarl, which had come from the Doberman as it reverted into the form of Blaise Zabini. As the wizard reached the witches, who had just finished stemming Pansy's bleeding, an enormous dark-furred wolf emerged from the forest. Its fur was marked like the werewolf like they encountered earlier that night, but it stood as tall as a horse, where the other had been human-sized. It too reverted to a human form as it rushed towards the apprehensive students, becoming Sheridan by the time she reached them. She'd looked injured, her clothing torn, claw and bite marks dotting her face and shoulders, as well as a large bruise on her exposed midsection. Her two wolves were at her side shortly after she fully reverted.

"We have to get 'er to ze 'Ospital Wing…" Said Sheridan, quickly dropping to the injured witch's side. With a flick of her wrist an and unusual glow, the small imp, Toutaku, appeared before its mistress as she picked the younger girl up. "Come 'Ermione…Monsieur Zabini if you will… " She spoke quickly, she'd held her free hand out to the brunette as Blaise nodded with silent understanding. "'Ermione!" She shouted when the she received no response from the brunette.

Hermione blinked like she had been slapped in the face. Noticing the french woman and her extended hand, she quickly gripped it, felt the pull of apparation, and found herself in the familiar room of Hogwarts Infirmary.

Madam Pomfrey didn't take too kindly to the three apparating into her infirmary unannounced and causing a ruckus, but she didn't berate them once she saw the state Pansy was in. Without further hesitation, she directed them to get Pansy in bed and proceeded with her mending spells and medicines, but not before furiously ushering them out as quickly as she could despite Hermione's pleas to stay with her girlfriend.

"Her…mione.." Pansy's weak mumble was last thing the girl heard as she was forcibly pushed out of the wing. Hermione felt sick, Pansy was in pain and she couldn't even be with her as comfort.

"It is not your fault 'Ermione." Said Sheridan softly, placing her hand gently on the younger girl's shoulder.

"Yes it is… I made a mistake…" Her voice was barely a whisper. As Sheridan made to comfort her, she turned and ran as quickly as her feet would allow down the corridor, ignoring the older woman's calls as she rushed back to Gryffindors Tower.

There had been few students in the common room, though they were too engrossed with their studying to notice as the brunette entered, and ran straight to her room. She closed the door lightly and headed to bed, but after several steps, she fell to the floor with heartbreaking sobs, startling Crookshanks as the cat leaped onto the bed with a loud hiss.

Hermione was hurting, she made an huge mistake and Pansy was suffering because of it. She curled up on the floor and cried out the pain, she prayed with all her being that Pansy would be alright and forgive her.

After Hermione and Sheridan had Apparated Pansy to the infirmary. The students, wasted no time in setting off for the castle, lead by Blaise; who kept Ron tied in bindings, once they had succeeded in temporally mending Daphne's arm. They had walked a good hour before they'd returned to castle grounds, and the lights of the castle had come into view of the ragged students. After which the group had gone straight to the Hospital Wing. They'd found Sheridan waiting outside the doors, her wolves had been at her side, but Hermione was nowhere in sight. Harry and Ginny shared a confused look as Madam Pomfrey saw to Daphne's and Ron's injuries, shooing away anyone who tried to get a look past the curtain she'd hung around Pansy's bed. Anyone without serious injuries were denied any entry.

"Is Parkinson going to be alright?" Susan asked, looking down at her feet and avoiding eye contact. Luna had taken a spot beside Sheridan, running her fingers through the soft fur of one of her wolves.

"It is not your fault Mademoiselle Bones," Sheridan answered softly, noticing that Susan had somehow gotten it into her head that she and Parvati were at fault. "and I do not know, we can only 'ope so. But Madame Pomfrey, she is quite skilled, oui?" She gave a small reassuring smile before continuing. "It is late, all of you return to your rooms for ze night, I will stay 'ere until morning." Except for Malfoy, there were no other complaints. Ginny walked Luna and Cho to their Portrait, while Susan and Amber returned to the Hufflepuff Chambers, Malfoy stormed away to Slytherin Tower with Blaise in tow, and both Parvati and Neville were off to Gryffindors common room.

"Where's Hermione?" Harry asked, "Is she alright?"

"I do not know 'Arry, she would not stay when I called to 'er." She frowned and the white wolf, Aya; let out a low whimper at her side.

"Do you think, it was on purpose? That this happened?" Sheridan sighed at his question, her brows slowly knitting together.

"I do not know 'Arry, ze Forbidding Forest, is a magical forest. Zere are many zings there that could 'ave affected Monsieur Weasley thoughts, made 'im see zings zat were not real or zink zings 'e would 'ave never zought normally. I can not say until I 'ave looked into it Mon Ami… But it is late, and you need your rest. We will speak of zis in the morning oui? Bonne nuit 'Arry."

"Right, thanks Sheridan. Good night…" He said rather glumly, bidding the older woman goodnight before he turned down the corridor. He nearly jumped out of his skin when he was met with Blaise, who had been leaning against the wall around the corner instead of following Malfoy back to their tower.

"Potter…" He nearly whispered.

"Zabini! What the devil are you doing lurking about the corridors?!" Harry hissed, his hand tight against his chest as he recovered. It was as if the boy had been waiting for him to show up.

Blaise arched a brow. "I wasn't lurking." He answered, watching the raven-haired boy closely as Harry tried to determine why he was there.

"Then what? What are you doing here Zabini?"

"I thought we were past formalities, when it was just us." He said, gracing Harry with an almost shy smile. Harry returned that smile, feeling less suspicious and more relieved at the sight of it.

"Am I supposed to believe, you're here... waiting for me?" The question had almost been hopeful.

"No, I'm thinking about sneaking into the Hospital Wing, so I might dispose of Weasel. Use that brain of yours Harry."

"You're not alone with that thought Blaise. I just hope Pansy is going to be okay. Are you okay?" He asked, too which Blaise nodded.

"Nothing but a few scratches, I was able to mend my own injuries. And don't worry about Pansy. There's no way she'd ever let someone like Weasel get the better of her. And Gra- I mean, Hermione? How is she?" Blaise asked.

"I don't know, I've never seen her freeze up like that, and we've faced Death Eaters. I have a bad feeling." He gave an exhausted sigh, realizing they'd started walking together. "You don't suppose things could get any worst?"

"I cant say Harry," Blaise shrugged, "no doubt all of Slytherin will have heard by morning. Weasley's as good as dead." Harry nodded, this was just perfect. Harry had enough to worry about, with Malfoy's being suspicious, and someone obviously out to kill Professor Dumbledore, he now had Ron to worry about. He didn't know what to make of the situation, he knew Ron hated Pansy, but to have actually attacked her in the way he had, and then attempt to run down Hermione, he was beyond disgusted.

"Its lucky you where there when you were Blaise," said Harry after a moment of silence, he turned to the Slytherin and asked,"Why didn't you tell me you're an Animagus?"

"You never asked." Harry frowned at the boys simple reply, and rolled his eyes. As thankful Harry was that Blaise had saved his life, he was still getting used to the boy and his sense of humor. Blaise had thought his comment was humorous, smirked.

"Still, thanks…" mumbled Harry, coming to a stop at the bottom of the Enchanted Staircase. Blaise gently tilted the wizard's chin up between his thumb and finger.

"Of course Harry, If I had gotten there sooner, then perhaps things would have ended differently…" There was a pause, and Harry fought back a blush as Blaise moved his hand to the boy's cheek. "You look tired Harry, you should get some rest." With that the Slytherin dropped his hand from Harry's cheek, and bid him a goodnight before retreating down the steps. It took a few moments before Harry realized that they'd climbed the staircase and he was standing before the Fat Lady, who regarded him with heavy-lidded eyes.

"Dragonpoxs" He muttered, and she sung open, muttering about the time and ungodly hour as he climbed through. The common room was empty, the fire slightly flickering as it was clinging to life as embers. Harry considered checking on Hermione but realized that even if he wanted to, the staircase to the girls' dorm would not let him up, at least at this hour. Hermione had probably wanted to be alone for a while anyways, and he respected that. With a stiff yawn, the wizard headed up the boys' side to his own bed.

Harry wasn't sure when sleep fell upon him, only that he had been woken by the sound of Neville's voice calling out to him. When he opened his eyes, the stout Gryffindor was standing at his bedside.

"Morning Harry," he greeted, the tiredness in his voice as clears as day, "Professor McGonagall wants to see all of us in the Hospital Wing. I reckon we all know why…" Harry nodded his thanks before he got up and changed into something more comfortable, and proceeded with Neville into the common room.

"You go on ahead Neville, I'll wait for Hermione." Neville nodded and the two parted ways. As Harry approached the bottom of the girls' stairwell, he heard Ginny calling out to the brunette.

"Hermione?" The younger girl called out softly. She frowned when there was no answer.

Hermione hadn't moved the entire night, she woke up from a very light sleep stiff and aching at Ginny's call. She wasn't sure when she had slept. It had taken nearly hours for her to shut her eyes, and sleep had felt impossible to even consider, since all she could think about was Pansy, but at some point she must have cried herself to sleep. She could only imagine what sort of mess she must of looked; her face red and puffy, her cheeks would most definitely swollen judging by the soreness, not to mention her bloodshot eyes, and no doubt her hair was more of a mess than usual.

She was sure she looked like a character from a true horror story if anything, but it didn't matter. No one was going to see her, at least not for the day. She didn't want to see anyone, nor did she want anyone to see her. What sort of thoughts would her fellow classmates think about her? By now everyone would have heard how she, goody-two-shoed-know-it-all-Hermione-Granger, made the stupidest mistake in her entire life, and people were hurt because of it.

"Hermione?" Ginny's voice had come from outside her room as she knocked on the door. There a was pause before she knocked again. "'Mione? Are you in there? Professor McGonagall wants to see those of us who were part of last night's lesson. 'Mione?"

"Maybe she's already with Pansy." Hermione could barely hear Harry since he only called up the stairs, but he sounded exhausted. From the sound of her voice, Ginny did too. Keeping quiet, she heard Ginny knock one last time before leaving her door.

"Maybe… shall we then?" Ginny said with a slight frown as she came down the stairs. Harry nodded, and the pair made their way out of Common Room and the Fat Lady's portrait, meeting up with Neville as they reached the bottom of the staircase.

The walk toward the Hospital Wing seemed longer than normal for the three Gryffindors. And as they turned on to the last corner of the corridor, Sheridan's enormous wolves came in to their view, followed by the rest of the Animagi students.

"Good Morn'…" Neville muttered.

"What's bloody good about it Longbottom?" Snapped Malfoy, an permanent scowl on his face.

"He was only being polite Draco." Sighed Daphne, she held her newly healed and bandaged arm around Cho as the girl leaned against her. "Good Morning Neville." She gave a faint smile that he returned, thankful for the pleasantries.

Before Malfoy could begin an argument, the doors of the Hospital Wing opened with a loud creak, and they were met with Professor McGonagall."You may enter now." She spoke, her voice firm, as if it were an order instead of a statement. The look she had given indicated that this was no time for futile arguments between houses, and slowly the students shuffled inside, each gathering next to Pansy's bed as the girl was still soundly sleeping.

"Now then, let us speak of what exactly happened last night." Came the calm voice of Professor Dumbledore as the Headmaster entered the room, Snape and Sheridan in tow several paces behind him. Harry furrowed his brow, noting that Hermione was no where to be seen.

"Excuse me Professor… but are we not going to wait for Hermione?" He asked.

"Miss Granger, wishes to come at a later time Mr. Potter." Replied the Headmaster. Taking his word, Harry silently nodded. "Now then, I do believe that a recounting is in order?"

"Yes Professor." Harry nodded, he then told the three professors, and Sheridan what had happened when they'd each departed their separate ways the previous night; leading to the mysterious woman's appearance, and to Ron's violent out burst. The others filled in their own details as they eventually became relevant. Harry had even gone to tell the Professors about the boys recent attitude with his fellow classmates, and especially his reaction towards Hermione and Pansy's new 'friendship.'

When the tale was finished, he was met with a long silence. McGonagall had wore an expression of surprise, while Snape and Dumbledore held a their silent thoughts.

"Surely, Mr. Weasley's actions can be explained," McGonagall's stammered, "I find it rather difficult to believe that he could be capable of something so horrendous, if that was the sole motivation!"

"Indeed, Professor Dumbledore," Snape drawled out, "I too find it difficult to believe that the boy could bring himself to such actions. The boy after all can barley manage to stir up even the simplest of potions after six years of practice, much less commit assault. Clearly it must be some mistake. Perhaps Weasley's, shall we say, heart? Was simply in the wrong place?" Snape finished, he'd given Ron the same look of disdain he often used for his non-Slytherin students, while the boy in question, slept without a care in the world several beds away. Harry rolled his eyes, and fought back the retort that threatened to come at Snape's expected putdown of Ron and his condescending reasoning.

Draco suddenly stepped forward in a furious rage.

"Wrong place? Wrong place? Is that what they bloody call it! He ran Parkinson down the first chance he got! He tried to kill her, and you honestly think it was a mistake!? Just wait until my father hears about this!" The last part he snarled at Ginny. "This will make the Prophet! Blood Traitor attempted murder! Everyone will know what your kind is capable of-"

"Push off Malfoy!" Ginny snapped back, stalking up to the boy in her own anger. "My brother may be a sodding idiot, and extremely clueless, but that doesn't mean he's out to actually hurt anyone!" Deep down Ginny hoped that what she'd said was true, she had to believe that Ron had not intentionally done it out of anger.

"Right, I suppose you think Weasley was just being friendly as he ran her down, and then turned on the rest of us!"

"Shut it Malfoy, It wasn't like that and you bloody well know it! My Brother is not a murderer nor did he do it on purpose! And who are you to accuse him of that? If I remember correctly, your father's a Death Eater, and you're just as pathetic!"

"Just as pathetic!? Hold your tongue Weaselette, or I'll curse it to the roof of your mouth!" Malfoy snarled, pulling out his wand only to have it fly into Dumbledore's outstretched hand.

"Mr. Malfoy, I would rather not have students cursing one another this morning, nor do I appreciate the kind of language you are using in my infirmary!" Snapped Madame Pomfrey, as Dumbledore held Malfoy's wand between his forefinger and thumb.

Without his wand to make a threat, Malfoy spluttered and growled down at Ginny, "You know who's really pathetic? Bloody Blood Traitors and certain Mudbloods!"

"Don't call her that." The younger girl gritted her teeth, though he hadn't spoke a name, Ginny knew he could only mean Hermione. "None of this is her fault!"

He nearly laughed."Bullocks! Of course it's her fault! This is all your precious Mudbloods fault! She… she- " He stuttered trying to find the right words, "Somehow brainwashed Parkinson into believing she'd actually want to date a filthy Mudblood! The wonders a simple love potion can do to someone! This is all her fault, the attack, it was on purpose and you all bloody well know it!" Malfoy nearly shrieked, receiving an stern look from Madam Pomfrey, as the boys ranting caused the sleeping witch beside them to stir.

"Enough." Dumbledore spoke, raising his hand to bring a halt to the Slytherin and Gryffindors arguing. "Now, now Mr. Malfoy, I do believe that Mr. Weasley has a logical explanation for his actions. I have spoke with Miss Lightrose, and If I understand correctly, I believe that the forest played some part in this…" He nodded towards Sheridan as he finished his sentence. The younger woman nodded.

"Oui, it is quite possible Professor Dumblydor. It is possible zat being 'is Animal state is a wild pig, and being zat 'e 'ad already been z'reaten once last night, 'ad triggered 'is defensive state of zought. 'E could 'ave very well been in ze area, and as natural instinct wanted to clear ze area of ze danger 'e sensed, whez'er 'e knew what or 'oo it was at ze time." She paused to look at the boys form, noting Lavender, who'd snuck in quietly during the ruckus, at his side. "Zat, is what I would like to believe in ze least. I do not zink… I would 'ope zat 'e is not ze type to intentionally 'arm someone as 'e 'as." She'd continued with casting her glance to Pansy, who'd thankfully had fully regained her normal coloration over night as she laid asleep.

Madam Pomfrey's medicines and magic had done their work, but she still recommended that Pansy stay rested for several days, as the wounds would still have left her in considerable amounts of pain.

"I am afraid we will not know, until I 'ave spoken wiz ze creatures 'oo were in ze area."

"How soon can you do that Miss Lightrose?" Professor Dumbledore asked.

"I can go now Professor."

"Yes, then we will know who is at fault for this." Snape drawled out, his hand now on Draco's shoulder to restrain him from doing anything rash.

"Professor Snape means… we would like to know the full story. Would you be so kind, Miss Lightrose?" With a brief nod, Sheridan left with both her wolves trailing behind her. As he'd made the request, Dumbledore had smiled, but now he looked between his students with an unreadable expression. Without warning, he turned to make his exit as well.

"Come along, Minerva, Severus," he began, "I'm sure Miss Parkinson is in good hands with friends, and could do well with some more rest. Classes are excused for the day...tell the students we are having a respite for their hard work." With that, the three Professors were gone. Snape wisely pulling Malfoy along with him as he left.

"I reckon Madame Pomfrey wouldn't take to kindly to all of us being here…" Harry mumbled, "You lot stay," he motioned to the two Slytherins, and Cho. "We'll come back a bit later." With thankful nods and murmurs, the extra students slowly shuffled out of the Hospital Wing and went their separate ways.

"Ginny…" Harry called, catching the girl's arm as she'd cooled off some. "I'm worried about Hermione."

"That makes three of us Harry," Luna answered before Ginny could. "You don't suppose she thinks this is her fault do you?"

"Why on earth would she think that Luna?" Ginny asked, arching an brow.

"Hermione is a brilliant witch, wouldn't you agree? But everything has faults, and she's just found one of her own. After all… she's hardly indestructible. You saw it last night didn't you? Hermione's reaction when she saw Pansy hurt."

"Of course, she'd completely shut down didn't she? That why she froze like that, right?"

"Yes, and I suppose it would be crushing to the spirit if you knew what she did, but couldn't use it when needed…" Luna finished with a sad tone, her arms around Ginny's shoulders. Harry nodded in understanding.

"Ginny, you and Luna head down to the kitchen, see if you can get the House Elves to get you some food. I have a feeling Hermione won't go down to breakfast."

When Pansy woke up, most of the day was already gone. The first thing she was aware of when she opened her eyes, was that she was met with the off-color white walls of the infirmary. The smell of healing incense and poultices were trapped in her mouth and all she could do was groan.

"Hermio- Owch! Bloody hell!" She grunted, gritting her teeth at the pain she'd felt trying to sit up had caused. Taking in her surroundings, memories of the previous night returned to her. "Weasley…" She sighed as she laid back on the pillow. She closed her eyes for a brief moment and opened them to see familiar faces around her, but the face she wanted to see the most wasn't among them.

"What happened?" She forced out, her voice dry and hoarse from sleep and the lack of use. Neville had taken the liberty of using the Aguamenti Charm to conjure her a glass of water and offered it to her, as Daphne launched into an explanation of what had transpired the previous night in the Forbidden Forest.

Pansy nodded as the information sunk in, recalling that she'd literally threatened Malfoy with detaching certain essential body parts; in a way that no amount of magic would ever been enough to fix if he ever called Hermione a Mudblood again, that Daphne had screamed out to her, and something had hit her. The she'd heard Hermione scream and that was the end of it. From what Daphne had told her though, it had been Weasley, who Pansy saw being fussed over by Lavender and a few other Gryffindors while the boy slept on.

"Bloody Weasley…" She groaned in irritation. She was down right sick at even the sight of the boy. He was just lucky that she was in too much pain to move right then. He would have never seen the attack coming if she'd been able to move. Just as she opened her mouth to say something, she was cut off by Lavender's shrill cry.

"Won-Won!" Lavender squealed, and everyone flinched. Ron groaned as his eyes fluttered open and she latched onto him for a fierce kiss. When they pulled away a moment later, Ron started telling her about the night before, full of himself as usual and making himself the helpless victim.

"Where's Hermione?" Asked Pansy, trying her best not to hex Ron no matter how much it'd hurt her if she moved. Harry and Ginny could only give each other a knowing look, since as Harry had suspected, Hermione hadn't left her room all day. Harry and Ginny had spent the entire day trying to coax her out, but the brunette had absolutely refused to open the door or even speak to them except when she asked about Pansy. As far as they knew, the brunette hadn't had a single meal all day either, since every meal they brought up to her had ended up left by her door until a house elf presumably took it away at some point.

Pansy arched a brow at the silence, slowly rising from her bed despite her pain. Harry opened his mouth to speak, but stopped as Ron began talking louder, making himself to be the hero of the previous night.

"It was bloody enormous Lav, and it tried to eat me! It was blood-thirsty I tell ya, but I was too quick! I had it on the ropes I did!" Pansy snorted, catching Ron's attention in the middle of his tale with his encounter with the Were-wolf beast.

"Worthless git…" She mumbled, "I go and bloody well save your red haired arse, and you repay me by sending me to the Hospital Wing. You had it on the ropes? I'd never seen a fat pig turn chicken so fast. If anyone was in danger from that bloody beast it was me!" She huffed in annoyance at his audacity to lie like that. Someone giggled as she finished and everyone turned to find Sheridan leaning against the doorway.

"Non, Mademoiselle Parkinson," she began, "you were in no danger, If you remember, ze… beast in question, never actually attempted to 'arm you." said Sheridan, taking several steps back and holding up her right arm, fingers pointed down at the floor. She paused as her fingertips began to glow, waiting for the light which had materialize into white glow, to reach from her arm to the floor before she dropped her arm to her side. There was a collective gasp from everyone who had encountered the creature the night before and a strangled squeak from Ron, who'd immediately started cowering in his bed. Sheridan chuckled as she ran her finger lightly through the beast's fur, "'is name.. is Bo."

"B-Bo?! This bloody creatures name is Bo!? It bloody near killed me!" Ron screeched, pointing his wand at the wolf creature.

"Nonsense Monsieur Weasley. Bo, 'e is quite 'armeless. Because 'e-"

Lavender snorted, "Harmless? From what Won-Won's told me that beast nearly made a snack out of him! How could you have let such a foul beast loose!? My poor Won-Won! Look at his face, your beast did that!" She'd been referring to the claw marks and the large gash that Ron was sporting across his face. Sheridan, being unprofessional at that moment, let out an amused laugh at the girl's accusations.

"Zat was 'ardly ze case Mademoiselle Brown, I 'ad made it perfectly clear zat zere were to be… 'ow you say…obstacles? Zat were to be 'andled to prevent ze pairs from reaching ze lake. Aside from Monsieur Weasley and 'is violence, ze students were in no real 'arm. I 'ad spoke wiz ze forest creatures zey 'ad encountered earlier zat very day. Ze Centaurs were merely zere to keep you from wandering where you should not 'ave been, ze wolves were 'aveing noz'ing but fun, as were ze spiders and Bo. 'E is raz'er sweet… " She smiled, petting Bo slowly through her explanations. "Besides," she began again, she and the wolf moved over to Pansy's side, the woman plucked an apple from a bowl at the witch's bedside to offer to her beast. Bo leaned in its large head and gently took it into its mouth with a satisfied look. " 'E does not eat meat."

"Are you serious?" Pansy scoffed in disbelief, quickly sitting up a little straighter as Bo leaned in closer. He had his large ears flattened against his head as he looked at her, a soft whine coming from his mouth. Seeing that he meant no harm, Pansy took pity on the creature and petted him, finding that his fur was the softest thing she'd ever handled.

"That doesn't excuse what your beast did to Won-Won's face!" Lavender hissed. "My Poor Won-Won… your beautiful face." Ron blushed while Pansy felt ill at having to listen to the girl gush over the minor scratches the boy had. Though she couldn't help but feel a little jealous that her own girlfriend hadn't bothered to show up. Just what was Hermione doing?

"Bo, 'e did not do zat to Monsieur Weasleys face." said Sheridan, drawing Pansy's thoughts away from Hermione for the moment. She turned to inspect Ron's injuries a little more, noticing the gash, that she secretly hoped would scar, and the minor claw marks. Pansy hardly saw what the big deal was.

"Then who did?" Lavender snapped with a glare, and for a moment it seemed like Sheridan might suddenly hit the daft girl, or so Pansy hoped.

"I did." said Harry, defending both Sheridan and her summons. "The ruddy git was going to attack Hermione, I had to do something. Then he charged at me, and… a-and well…" It was faint enough that only Luna and Blaise seemed to notice, but the boy did blush. Luna smiled as she noted Blaise smiling faintly as he picked up on it as well.

"Blaise was lucky enough to be there, don't you think so Harry? After all, if he hadn't you might have ended up like Pansy, or Daphne if you were blessed by Fortuna Wisps." Luna finished for Harry in her roundabout way, making the boy look down in hope to hide his blush.

"Daphne? What happened to Daphne?" Pansy asked, her eyes dropping to the girl's wrapped arm.

"Weasley…" She said. The boy sure was striking out with the Slytherins, and Daphne's wound only worried Pansy further with Hermione nowhere in sight. For all she knew, Hermione might have managed far worse than they had.

"Where's Hermione?" Pansy asked for the second time, and once again was met with silence. She'd turned her gaze to each of the Gryffindors present, waiting for an answer, only to be met with nervous glances or awkward rubs of the neck.

"Harry… why isn't Hermione here?"

Harry sighed, "She hasn't come out of her room all day." At this, Pansy tried to stand, and cursed painfully.

"She what? Why not?" She grunted, Daphne carefully, but forcibly, leaning her back down.

"Well, we suspect that she might blame herself for your injuries." Ginny said, brushing her hair back nervously.

"Why the devil would she think that?" Pansy asked glaring towards Ron, "Its not her fault your brother's a complete nutter. Tell her I wanna see her." Pansy nearly begged, thankful that her girlfriend not being there hadn't been because of injury.

"Of course Pansy." Harry nodded with a smile.

"I'll go this time, I bet she's tired of you visiting and yelling through the door." said Ginny as Harry was about to run off, giving him a smirk as the raven-haired wizard rolled his eyes in mock annoyance.

"Right, get a move on then." Harry sighed, watching Luna being pulled along as Ginny ran off to Gryffindor Tower.

As the witches left, Malfoy, accompanied by Crabbe, Goyle, and Millicent, came into the room.

"Off to find your little mu-" Millicent began, as the boys stalked past.

"Don't let Pansy hear you say that Bulstrode," came Daphne's voice with a threatening edge in it, "Hermione's a friend, and Pansy will have your tongue if she hears you insulting her."

"Just having a bit of fun Greengrass." Millicent said, though her voice had lost its sneering tone. Millicent, on certain level, feared Daphne since she could hex her into being inside out if she so cared. By far though, Pansy was the one she was most afraid of, and the two together were enough for her to be civil.

"I advise you to find something else to amuse you Millicent…" Daphne warned as she ran past and caught up to the retreating pair. "Ginny do you mind if I tag along? Cho's studying in the library and I need a better scenery the that Hospital Room." She asked politely. Ginny nodded and without further conversation the three were on their way.

It had only taken a few moments for the three girls to reach the entrance to Gryffindors Common Room, where Ginny quickly assured the Fat Lady that Daphne was a guest before saying the password. As they entered, Ginny pulled Daphne down to duck her head as a Fanged Frisbee shot past the trio, escaping from the hands of some fourth years. The common room was crowded with elated students since classes were still excused, and many had felt it appropriated to test her brothers products. Something Daphne found amusing, since Slytherins generally only experienced the nastier ones and she'd yet to bring herself to buy any. Dean and Seamus, who had been in the middle of a game of wizard chess, looked up as Daphne giggled, taking in the sight of a first year playing with her pink Pygmy Puff.

"Blimey! What the devil is she here for?" Seamus spoke, surprised that the Slytherin Ice Queen stood before them. Whereupon everyone else, who was able, turned to look in interest.

"Shut it Seamus, she's a friend. Have you lot seen Hermione come down yet?" Ginny asked, watching Luna and Daphne fawned over the Pygmy.

"They're known to sing on boxing day you know."

"Are they? It's so cute, do you think Cho would like one?" Whatever the girls had said after that, Ginny didn't hear as it was drowned out by the rest of the Common Room resuming their activities.

"I haven't see her Gin," Seamus answered, turning his attention back to the game as Dean was coaxing a pawn to sneak up while he wasn't looking. Ginny frowned, and headed towards Hermione's room, cursing when she saw the plate of food she'd brought earlier still sitting outside the door.

"Hermione?" She called out, lightly tapping on the door, "Hermione are you alright?"

"I'm fine Gin…" Came the quiet reply on the other side of the door. "What is it?"

"Hermione… aren't you going to come down and see Pansy? She's awake and she wants to see you…" There was a pause and a light thump on the door.

"No I don't think so…" The brunette muttered.

"Why not? Hermione you know that none of this is your fault… right?" Ginny spoke softly as she sat beside the door, "Please Hermione, go and visit her, save the poor girl from Ron and Lavender's displays of affection."

"Yes, save us all from it."

Hermione blinked, thinking hunger must of really gotten to her. She'd thought she had heard Daphne's voice. "Daphne?"

"The only one Hermione. What's going on? You know Pansy misses you quite a bit. Wont you come out?"

"No, go away. Please leave me alone." Both girls frowned as they stood outside the door.

"Well then at least eat what I bring up this time," said Ginny, mouthing for Daphne to keep trying while she went to get the girl something to fresh to eat. As Ginny had gone Daphne took her empty spot by the door.

"Hermione? Did you know I have an older brother?" She asked, Hermione remained silent though she listened, "Of course he's a Death Eater and locked away in Azkaban, though that's hardly the point now is it? Anyway, his name is Adam, we used to be very close, he and I. He was the protective type when we were little. He was always there for me whenever I was bullied, lonely, or even when I was afraid. Our parents had high standards, and I was never to show any emotions in their presence. What kind of life is that for a child who had everything she could have ever wanted, but couldn't even show her happiness for it? Adam could always make me smile though, and he let me, that was the best part." She gave a short laugh as she fell into a memory. "He was no doubt my big brother, and my best friend. He taught about me magic and told me about Hogwarts, he was the first one I heard about it from. But…" Her voice trailed, and suddenly the air grew sad.

"But?" Hermione asked softly, giving away that she'd been listening to Daphne's story.

"When he received his Dark Mark, he changed, of course he changed who wouldn't? But I hardly ever saw him after he'd received it, hardly ever saw our parents for that matter. The House Elves took care of me you see. But Adam changed, he became someone dark, completing the tasks a Death Eater does I suspect. He'd stopped sending me letters, and on vacations our conversations were brief, through he remained close to our parents. My mother would say that I would understand when I got my Dark Mark, that it was my destiny when I came of age. Next year I suppose. Anyway, one night when Adam was home, I remember that it was raining, there had been a storm and the lightning had frightened me. I'd gone to my brothers room, he seemed like he was himself again that night, and he'd let me lay with him in bed. Halfway through the storm I screamed because of the lightning, and his hands were suddenly around my throat. Our Parents were away, and he was cursing my existence, he'd said I belonged to a better world and he would send me there. He'd completely lost his mind and I'd lost my brother. After that, the room was flooded with Aurors, and they took him in while the House Elves cared for me." Daphne paused with a sad sigh.

"Oh Daphne… I'm so sorry." The story had brought tears to Hermione's eyes and she'd taken a shaky breath, "What did you do?"

"I never trusted anyone again, not my parents, or the people they associated with. I listened to them of course, being the example of a good child, a good girl. Did as I was told, spoke when spoken too, never argued or embarrassed my parents, but I never trusted them again. I continued the years through school, did my studies, and passed my marks to keep my parents remotely happy. I somehow got involved in Pansy's crowd though. And over the months I could have truly called her a friend, but I refused to allow myself to trust her. Then they started calling me the Slytherin Ice Queen." She laughed softly, "While Pansy was the Slytherin Silver Queen, of the Silver Trio. I never understood why Pansy hung around Draco, I suppose it was because of their families, he was and still is a prat, all talk not action. Blaise is alright, but Draco is another story, along with Vincent and Gregory." Daphne paused, It took Hermione a moment before she realized that those were Crabbe's and Goyle's first names.

"You and Pansy seem pretty close now…"

"Yes, she's one of my closet friends, though we didn't become close until forth year… when I started to trust her."

"Why fourth year?" Daphne had her, Hermione was interested and that meant the her story had the girl thinking.

"The Tri-Wizard Tournament of course."

"Right… of course, it was an rather exciting year wasn't it?" At that Daphne laughed.

"I didn't care about the Tournament, it was the Yule Ball that opened my eyes."

"The Yule Ball?" A small smile graced Hermione's lips as she remembered her time with Viktor Krum, then she'd frowned. She'd gone though so much trouble to make herself beautiful, though no one really seemed to notice her, only who she was with.

"Yes, because of Cho. I saw her, she was so beautiful, I felt like I'd been hit with a Bludger! Merlin's… she was as beautiful as she is smart. I have a thing for the smart type.. I fancied you for ages before Cho…" Daphne admitted, enjoying Hermione's sharp intake of breath. Hermione blushed and covered her mouth in surprise, though the other girl couldn't see anyway.

"Merlin's beard Daphne… don't say things like that, but go on with your story, please."

Daphne giggled, "Sorry. Anyway, after the Yule Ball, Pansy noticed that I was watching Cho…much like she was you, before the two of you started to date. When I told Pansy that I liked girls, she wasn't disgusted by it, she'd said 'boys, girls, what does it bloody matter if you're in love? when I told her I'd fancied Cho Chang, she'd said 'I knew it even before you did!' And before I knew it… the daft cow had me locked in a broom closet with Cho! She wouldn't let either of us out until we spoke to each other, so I confessed to her. I was surprised when she admitted to having feelings for me as well. Then we began to spend time together, just studying at first, but then it became a regular thing. We started to date a little into fifth year, and over time I fully trusted her and Pansy as well… and well I'm happy now. Happier then I've ever been, though my parents didn't approve. Cho's were kind enough, and more then welcoming when they accepted me." There was a pause, and Daphne sighed, "My point is Hermione, for the longest time I shut myself away because I was afraid… I blamed myself for what happened to my brother, and it wasn't healthy."

"That wasn't your fault though Daphne…" Hermione began, knowing exactly where the girl was headed.

"Nor were Pansy's injuries yours." She replied before Hermione could continue. "Don't say anything, just think about it… Pansy would really like to see you… if not tonight then tomorrow. Good night Hermione." Daphne finished, leaving the brunette to think about what the girl had told her.

Hermione leaned against the door, going over the girl's words slowly. In a sense, Daphne was right. she wasn't the one who attacked Pansy, Ron had. But that didn't make her feel any less guilty. Daphne just didn't understand what her failure had meant, no one did. It wasn't just letting Pansy get hurt, though she was beyond upset about that. It was the implication that she'd freeze up like that under pressure, and next time it might be everyone at stake. There was a war coming and everyone knew it. Harry was going to be at the center of it and she wasn't going to let him be there alone. As much as she loved and cared for him, she knew things; spells and secrets, information that would help him. But it wouldn't do any good if she froze up again like with Pansy. It was all too much, and it could happen any day now.

Hermione swore, thumping her head against the door. She couldn't think about that now, she wanted to see Pansy, more then anything. At the same time she didn't. She was afraid. She hated this, being afraid, not knowing what to do, being useless. This would have never happened to her months ago, months ago she would have been able to mend Pansy's wound herself without a second thought, and the two of them would have gone right back to hating each other by morning. Months ago, she wouldn't ever had realized how happy she could be with someone like Pansy, and how much it would hurt if she couldn't save her. She loved Pansy, and it hurt so much because she'd been so weak. Hermione felt a tear roll down her cheek, and then a sob escaped her lips.

"I'm so sorry Pansy… I'm so sorry…" She whispered through her tears, unable to bear the thought of facing the other girl just yet.

-Two Days later-

Pansy was on her third day in the infirmary, three days of being stuck in the Hospital Wing. Three days of enduring the horrifying display of Ron and Lavender sucking face, and worst of all three days since she'd seen Hermione. She'd had enough. Harry and Ginny had kept her updated on her girlfriend's status, and she knew that Hermione hadn't eaten at all since. Ginny suspected she was taking nutrient potions again and it was all too clear that Hermione was not going to come and see her. If that was the case, She was going to see her instead.

"Pansy are you even listening?" said Harry, snapping his fingers in front of the girl's face, making her blink as her attention was brought back.

"Sorry Harry, what did you say?" she said with a sheepish smile.

Harry sighed with a slight frown, "I said if we're going to go through with this, you need someone to take your place tonight. Do you have anyone in mind?" He asked a second time as Pansy nodded.

On the second day, Pansy had already decided to sneak out and see her girlfriend since Hermione still hadn't made an appearance. She and Harry had then spent the better half of the morning planning how to do it. After an hour of talking they had a solid plan, involving Harry's Invisibility Cloak, Polyjuice Potion, and someone to take Pansy appearance for the night, since Madame Pomfrey kept a watchful eye on her. Unfortunately, she'd been forced to wait another night while the potion was lifted from Snape's supply.

And by the third day, Pansy was miserable. She needed to see Hermione. She'd watched as Madame Pomfrey did her daily routine, coming over to check up on the girl before moving on. The woman had such a bubby air about her that Pansy found it difficult to stay too much depressed, but missing Hermione brought it back quickly.

"Fit as a fiddle I must say. One more night and you'll be free to go my dear girl."

Pansy groaned. "I don't think I can handle another night in this miserable place! I miss Hermione!" Pansy nearly roared, Madame Pomfrey merely chuckled before she turned to another injured student.

"Honestly Harry, I think this is killing me, not seeing Hermione. I've become the very people I used to be disgusted by." Harry chuckled, and Lavender snorted, the sound making both of them turn to look at her. "Have you something to say Brown?"

"Did it occur to you Granger doesn't want to see you Parkinson? Perhaps you and your pug nose frightened the poor girl away." She sneered while Ron snickered, similar to how Draco usually did.

"Weasley, didn't anyone ever teach you that a cow's mouth works better shut? I might just seal it myself if she keeps it up."

"Shove off Parkinson." Ron mumbled, glaring at the girl.

Pansy smirked, Ron had only made this easier for her. She and Daphne had a bet going about Ron's famous rages. She'd remembered that Hermione once told her about how red it actually got if pushed enough, and she'd bet the other girl that she could push the boys face into being redder than the apple Daphne had been eating at the time.

"Ooh not very friendly are you Weasley? Is it because you've realized what a cow your girlfriend is? You must, after all…" Pansy glared dangerously at the pair, "You dumped Hermione for that-which-never-shuts-the-bloody-hell-up. I mean honestly, Hermione would rather spend time with Harry, hell she'd put up with Draco if it meant not having to hang around your cow. Its like you traded in a Firebolt for an old witches broom. Hermione is smart, gorgeous, absolutely stunning actually, she's kind, and the brightest witch of all of Hogwarts. No doubt she'll be ahead of her years by the time she's done here. Have I mentioned how Gorgeous she is? Her warm brown eyes, full lips, just the sweetest you've ever had the luxury to taste for that matter, warm and soft to the touch, her skin just delicious, her hands, even that tangled mess she calls hair, I could keep my hands there all day."

Ron visually swallowed, earning him a glare from his girlfriend when she noticed his apple red face. Pansy smirked, and continued.

"Oh and don't get me started on the luscious, soft, dare I say, rather sexy arse? And the way those lovely curved hips sway, whenever she moves, even through her robes and even better in a short skirt. It seems hardly fair that Harry and I get to enjoy such a goddess, and you get a simple brown cow. But then I suppose that's suitable. A pig for a cow." Pansy finished flicking her fingernails idly as if bored.

At that Harry snickered, earning a glare from Ron.

"Something funny scar-head?" He snarled. Harry blinked, wondering when Ron had become such an complete arse.

"Excuse me?" He growled, eyeing Ron as he smirked.

"You heard me Scar- hea-"

"I wouldn't finish that sentence Weasley." Said Blaise as he ended the room, cutting the boy's sentence short like a knife. "Potter may have the patience to not strike you, but that doesn't mean I wont." Not waiting for Ron's reaction, he turned to Pansy. "Alright there Pansy? Potter?" Pansy smiled, and Harry nodded.

"Mr. Weasley, you may go, I told you that an hour ago!" Madame Pomfrey scolded as she ushered another injured student into the nearest bed.

With a loud grumble, Ron climbed out of bed and got changed, much to Lavender's enjoyment and Pansy's disgust before leaving, pulling Lavender by the hand as he'd gone.

"Have you ever seen someone so disgustingly pale?" Grunted a voice from behind the three onlookers. Turning around, the group found Millicent staring off in the direction Ron had left, her face crumpled as if she'd smelled something decaying. Shuddering slightly, she looked down, "Its rather eerie… Anyway, what is it you want Parkinson?"

Pansy sighed, no doubt Hermione was going to be upset with her later, but she needed the girls help. And Pansy knew that having the larger girl agree to something wouldn't be without its questions. Taking a deep breath, Pansy sighed as she laid out her request to the girl.

"Millicent, I'm dating Hermione Granger." She stated, flicking her gaze up to the other girl to gauge her reaction. Millicent blinked once, completely beyond words as she looked at Pansy, hoping that she'd tell her it was a joke. After ten minutes of silence, she blinked a second time and collected herself enough to speak again.

"Granger?" She asked.

Pansy nodded.

"Gryffindors Granger?" She asked again as Blaise took a uneasy breath, ready for the worst.

"That's right…" Pansy nodded again, folding her hands together.

"Know-it-all… Hermione Granger?" She asked a third time while Harry bit the corner of his mouth nervously.

Pansy groaned, "Yes! Hermione Granger is my girlfriend! What's so difficult to understand about that Millicent?" Her patience was thinning as she tried to get it through the girl's thick skull.

Mudb-" Millicent began, still slowly putting it together.

"Don't call her that." Pansy gritted through her teeth, "I didn't ask for you to come here and talk about Hermione's and my relationship. I need a favor."

"Bullocks Parkinson! What? Did you expect me not to have questions when you dropped 'I'm dating Hermione Granger' statement on me? A year ago you hated her! You were ready to harass and bully her every chance we got, and now you're dating her? How does that happen? You're both girls!"

"Well spotted, I suppose then you must be blind if you haven't noticed that both Cho and Daphne are girls? Or have you been confusing Cho as being a boy?" Pansy answered dryly. The room had gone silent as Pansy and Millicent looked at each other.

"But how can…?"

Pansy arched a brow.

"Oh for Merlin's sake! Not THAT!" Millicent spat back sharply. "I mean how did this happen? When did this happen and why?" Pansy let out a long groan as she laid back against her pillow.

"Is that really important Millicent?" She asked, the larger girl only folding her arms in silence. "Its been going on for months now." sighed Pansy, wanting to get this over with so that her plan could start.

"She's Muggle-born, Pansy."

"It's not me who has the problem with Muggle-borns, and I'm tried of pretending that I do. I don't need approval from the rest of my Housemates. I don't care about her parentage, I care about Hermione and I need to see her. So enough of these questions, you are going to help me."

"I couldn't care less about Granger, I owe you nothing Parkinson." said Millicent, "You want my help? What do I get out of helping you?" At that Pansy sat up.

"You will help me Bulstrode, or everyone's going to hear about your little secret pleasures in the Room of Requirements." At the threat Millicent flushed redder then Pansy had ever seen her.

"How do you know about that Parkinson!" The larger girl nearly shrieked, getting a disapproving shush from Madame Pomfrey as she hustled by. Pansy gave an amused grin as both Blaise and Harry shared a perplexed look.

"I have eyes and ears Bulstrode. It wasn't difficult to recognize that look in your eyes when you se-"

"Alright, alright! What is it you want Parkinson?" Millicent nearly whimpered, knowing that the other girl knew her secret.

Pansy smirked, the girl was so easy to get to, and if she fully cooperated , then everything would go as planned.

As night had fallen again, Hermione was even more miserable, if that was possible. Three days had passed since Pansy was taken to the infirmary. Three days since she'd seen Pansys face, and two days since she'd spoken to Daphne. She hadn't eaten a single meal that Harry or Ginny had brought her, and hardly recognized the feeling of hunger anymore since yesterday. She'd gotten to the point where she ignored her two friends as they pleaded for her to come out. Now and then she'd felt swayed to listen to them but her own thoughts always drove her back to strengthening her locking charms before Harry or Ginny could undo them. Hermione would have added a silencing charm as well, but the frequent visits from the two had been the only source of information about Pansy's condition she had.

"Hermione this isn't doing you any good, please come out and eat something!" Harry pleaded, having spent the last thirty minutes trying to get the girl to open the door while Ginny had gone to the kitchens at his request. If they couldn't enter, the House Elves could. Harry wished that he had thought of that sooner, he knew there was no way Hermione could refuse them if they went to her directly and the house elves might let them do just that.

"Go away Harry, I'm not hungry!" Hermione snapped. She was tired of the boy and his constant pleading. Hermione had too much on her mind to eat. The last two days she'd spent trying to get up the courage to go and see Pansy only to lose all resolve before she got past her door, even though she wanted nothing else than to be at her girlfriend's side. She was a bloody coward.

'Heart of a lioness… yeah right… some Gryffindor you are Hermione…' She mentally scolded herself each time.

"Hermione please come out, Pansy wants to see you…" Harry said quietly. Hermione snorted. She had been thinking a lot in the past three days and had come to the only conclusion she could think of for why Pansy wanted to see her. Pansy wanted to break up with her after seeing how easily she cracked under pressure. And who would blame her?

She'd faced worse in her 5, going on 6, years at Hogwarts. But it had been entirely different then. She'd faced ancient spells, a Basilisk, the Whomping Willow, Dementors, and even Death Eaters. She'd seen death and injury before, and she'd been able to deal with them. So what was it that had been so different with Pansy, than anything that had happened with Harry or Ron? A part of her knew what it was; she loved Pansy. Though she loved Harry, and Ronald to an extent, the two were like brothers. Pansy was different, she was someone Hermione felt she could always be with. She had always treated Hermione well, despite the years they'd supposedly hated each other. None of that longer mattered. Hermione loved Pansy, but it was that same love that might have made it so impossible to help Pansy when it mattered most.

Her thoughts were interrupted by a sudden pop, as a small House-elf appeared with a tray of food, wobbling awkwardly out of apparation. Hermione frowned and scrunched her face as the fresh food overpowered anything else in the room.

"Please take it back… I'm not hungry. I'm sorry, but I won't eat it." Said Hermione weakly, her voice barely an whisper. Normally the House-Elf would have obeyed, but the youngest Weasley had begged and pleaded with him to ignore Hermione if she asked that. Swallowing nervously as his orders clashed, he followed his previous order to the best of his ability by setting the tray on the nightstand. Turning to the witch with an apologetic look, the house-elf popped out of the room as fast as he'd appeared.

"Her…mi…one." Came Harry's voice as he insufferably began to bang his forehead against her door. "Hermione, no one blames you. Why are you doing this?"

"Leave me alone Harry, please, I'm not coming out…" It was silent on the other end, and Hermione thought, hoped he had taken the hint, sighing sadly as he resumed his banging moments later.

"Hermione, open the door…" Came a stern a voice, or rather Pansy's voice. What wouldn't they do to get their way? Harry wasn't fooling anyone with a voice changing charm.

"For goodness sakes…Harry!" The girl groaned burying her face within her knees.

"Hermione!" Pansy shouted, as the irritating pounding continued before suddenly stopping. Hermione gave a relieved sigh when suddenly there was a pained yelp.

"Ouch! Bloody injury!" Pansy's voice hissed, the sound made the brunette gasp in surprise. It had sounded too real.

Pansy smirked outside Hermione's door as the sounds of undone charms came from behind the door. Waiting for the door to open, she leaned casually against the doorframe just as the brunette scampered out to meet her, worry etched on her face. The expression on the Gryffindor's face turned slightly sour as she realized the fake-out Pansy had pulled; that the cry of pain had been bait to lure her out and she'd bit down on it. Pansy knew full well that Hermione did not like being fooled but that didn't mean she wouldn't pull that trick, but her smug grin faded as she took in her girlfriend's state.

"That's not funny Pansy." Hermione hissed through gritted teeth, standing pale and almost sickly before her.

"You're not eating again…" she replied tightly, resisting the urge to embrace her tightly and never let go.

"I'm not hungry." Hermione ground out. Pansy guessed that this much was true since Ginny had told her that Hermione had started taking Madame Pomfrey's nutrient-supplement potions. Looking at the brunette, Pansy wondered how much the witch had stashed from time.

"What are you doing here?"

"To see you. We're all worried, you've been in here since the lesson. Worse, you haven't visited, not once in three days. You've been here while little ole me, has been stuck in that nasty infirmary, with Weasley and his cow."

"I didn't think you'd be in any state, or wa-"

"It doesn't matter, I decided that if you weren't going to visit me, then I'd visit you." The way Pansy said it, it sounded like the most obvious thing in the world. Pushing her way into the room, Pansy sat Hermione down onto the bed carefully before making herself comfortable beside her. "You should have seen the look on Weasley's face when I came in with his sister a while ago." Pansy continued as she looked around the room. For sure, it was more Muggle-like then her's, and plainly decorated, though it was rather comfortable. She was especially interested in the pictures of Hermione with her parents, but it had somewhat confused her when she noticed the pictures were still instead of moving.

"Madame Pomfrey really let you go so soon? I'm not well-versed in medicine, but your wound looked serious." Pansy tensed at the question, giving the brunette all she needed to know.

"There's a simple solution to that Hermione." She paused, knowing that even though Hermione had her, the brunette loved to hear about solutions and how people accomplished things. "Millicent owed me a favor, so she's taken my spot for the night. "But Harry's cloak is the real key. Do you know how useful that thing is? "

"Harry, let you use his Invisibility Cloak?" Pansy couldn't help the sly grin that formed on her lips as she nodded her answer, watching as Hermione paused thoughtfully at the idea that Harry told Pansy about his cloak, and even lent it to her. Hermione listened quietly as Pansy described her plot to escape the infirmary. Pansy went into detail about every step; from how Millicent Bulstrode laid as Pansy in the Hospital Wing thanks to Professor Snape, who was now short one dose of Polyjuice potion, to how an invisible Pansy had skulked through the halls, to revealing of herself in the Common Room to everyone's surprise. Each step unfolded as Hermione pictured it happening in her mind. Hermione could tell by Pansy's grin that she felt rather proud about the whole thing and how it had turned out.

While she'd been recounting her plan, Pansy could clearly seen how thin her girlfriend had gotten in just three days. It became even more apparent when the witch had turned to her, smiling her approval about the plan she'd just executed.

"You need to eat, Hermione."

"We've been here before, Parkinson." Came the scoffed reply. "I'm not hungry and I have no intention of eating when I don't want to!" Pansy didn't know what caught her off-guard more, the sudden anger or that she'd referred to her by last name.

"You don't fool me… Granger. What this really about, Hermione? And since when do you call me Parkinson anymore? We've been dating for months. I'd say I know you well enough to know when you're hiding something."

"Shove off! You don't know anything! Get out of my room!" Hermione stood, yelling and screeching at this point, but Pansy wasn't stupid. She could see right past the Gryffindors facade and knew that Hermione was hurting; angry and upset with no way to deal with it. Seeing Hermione like this was new to Pansy, something she'd never seen before but it hurt more than anything. It hurt worse than anything that Weasley could do to her, even if he gave it everything he had.

"Hermione, What is this really about? The lesson? Weasley? Me? What are you so angry about that you haven't eaten in three days?" She snapped back at the ranting Gryffindor, deciding that gentleness wouldn't work.

"Who said anything about being angry? I'm not angry!"

Pansy scoffed, "Oh? Then I suppose you aren't eating for your own personal enjoyment. You're easy to read Hermione, and I'm not stupid. You're mad about this whole situation, so you're punishing yourself. I heard you crying the other night." That last part made Hermione gasp audibly before clamping her mouth shut.

Genius that she was, Pansy knew that she didn't have to say anything as Hermione put the pieces together.

"There no way you could hav- the mirror… how could I have been so stupid." She whispered more to herself than Pansy. She'd forgotten that the mirror was activated though a simple saying that worked from both ends. Pansy nodded silently. The second night Pansy had been in the hospital wing she'd had Daphne bring her the enchanted Mirror, she'd activated it only to find girl sobbing heartbroken apologies to her even though she didn't know that she could hear them. Pansy had wanted to go to her at that instant and tell her everything was fine, that none of it was her fault.

"What are you hiding Hermione?" Pansy asked sternly, taking advantage of Hermione's pause at being found out.

"I'm not hiding anything! Why are you so persistent about this?" The answer had sounded angry, but Pansy knew she getting through by the slight waver in the other girl's voice.

"You're lying Hermione, why won't you talk to me-"

"BECAUSE I CHOKED!" Pansy was thankful that she'd silently cast a silencing charm as she'd entered, or else all of Gryffindor would have heard. She waited silently as Hermione frantically paced the room, spilling the thoughts that had tormented her the past few days. "You were injured! Badly injured, You were in so much pain, and there was so much blood… and… and I choked! For the life of me I couldn't remember a single spell!" She shouted, closing her eyes. She'd been brought back to that night, when she'd seen how badly Pansy had been hurt. The injury had been far worse then she'd thought, it had been an open wound of torn flesh, so deeply pierced that she could see bone, and what she'd know to be some internal organs. The blood she recalled continued to flow, dripping inside the wound and flowing out into a pool of blood underneath Pansys pale form. She felt sick at the memory, sick with herself. "Do you understand how frustrating that is? Not to remember a single spell when it's needed!? How could I have froze up like that? I couldn't remember a single charm or incantation, I couldn't even move! I was completely useless!"

"Stop it Hermione!" Pansy stopped her, bringing the brunette's arms down slowly when she'd reached up and taken hold of her own hair and made to yank it out. "It wasn't your fault, It could have happened to anyone. The important thing is I'm fine and I'm here. Everything's fine…" Pansy tried to soothe the distraught Gryffindor, but the other witch merely pushed away, refusing to listen reason.

"No its not Pansy! You don't understand! I know the spells! Tergeo, would have been useful for cleaning your wound and Vulnera Sanentur would have mended it! There are at least eight other spells I can think of right now that would have been useful! What good is it if I know all the spells and I can't execute them when it counts?" Pansy couldn't believe what she was hearing, she'd never thought she'd ever see Hermione in such a state. The Gryffindor's shoulders were slumped in defeat as she choked breathlessly on the tears that had started to form. "I let you bleed Pansy, if Daphne and Cho hadn't stopped it.. I.. what would I have done if you…" Pansy was at Hermione's side as her voice died out and she broke into tears, unable to do anything but sob.

"Hermione, I don't blame you. It was an accident, well…Weasley had better hope it was an accident. If I have to blame anyone, then I'd blame that bloody idiot, not you. You can't continue to beat yourself up, it could have happened to anyone." Pansy said softly, gently tilting the girl's head towards her when Hermione dropped her gaze. "Look at me, I'm fine and as good looking as ever." Pansy teased, giving her girlfriend a playful smile, making Hermione snort in a soft chuckle. Pansy smiled the open-toothed smile that she knew Hermione adored and held her girlfriend close as she relaxed.

"You know, I might kind of like you Pansy…" Hermione said softly, giggling. Pansy snorted, though Hermione knew the other girl was smirking.

"Yeah, well I might kind of like you too Hermione…"

"And you aren't angry?" The brunette asked again, dropping her head in shame.

"Oh I am angry, but not about that. I'm angry to find you like this. Pale and sick… again." "She gritted her teeth in remembering the state that Ron had caused her to go into months ago. "You need to eat, and I'll drag out you of this room if I have too." Hermione giggled, pressing her head softly against the girl's chest.

"Pansy?" She asked slowly.

"Mmm?" was the quiet reply, as Pansy enjoyed having Hermione in her arms again.

"Millicent has… Secret pleasures?" She'd furrowed her brow, as the thought occurred to her. Pansy chuckled and then broke into giggles.

"She fancies a nice prance around the Room of Requirement, in a dress." She said simply, causing the two to burst into giggles. Thankful that Hermione was briefly out of her depression, Pansy retrieved the tray of food the House elf had left and proceeded to feeding Hermione herself. Hermione rolled her eyes at the act. She felt better now, but she still couldn't shake the shame she felt about the way she'd froze up, it was a mistake that could have cost her Pansy, and she'd never chance that again if she could help it.


Okay~ so this is the re-write, and I gotta say I like it a whole lot better. Please Rate and Review, and I'll see you soon!