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Harry Potter
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The Succubus
By Miracles79
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Chapter 12: Careful what you wish for.
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Disclaimer: The characters used in this Fan Fic are owned by JK Rowling and Warner Brother Studios (I think?) and are merely used in appreciation of the original author's incredible work. I own nothing apart from the story contained within these words, if that.
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"OH MY GOD!"
…
"They're here. They're here. Charlotte says she saw them!"
…
"Andy! Andy! How do I look? Do I look ready?"
"Oh, sure. You look ready… ready to be ignored that is…"
…
Walking through the crowded halls of Hogwarts, Hermione couldn't help but overhear the murmur of students spreading all around her. This had become a familiar scene in the last few days. The whispers and excitement, somehow, heightening with each passing hour. No matter where she looked Hermione could see groups of young girls and boys talking amongst each other, smiles reaching their lips at the mention of… that School.
Do they have nothing better to do than talk about that damn School…?
This is getting ridiculous!
This had been going on for far too long. Teenagers acting like children at the prospect of beautiful French women entering their lives.
And, no matter how hard she tried, Hermione couldn't escape the clamour.
Everyone was talking about it, and everyone sounded excited about it. Hell, even Harry and Ron wouldn't shut up about it, the latter talking in an excitement that only a child could possess. The situation was ludicrous. Hermione knew her entire year had a mountain of homework and studies to get to but no one - apart from her good self - seemed to spare a moment for it.
They were all too excited to even attempt it. Too excited to even acknowledge her disappointed gaze or her numerous complaints.
…
And what was the reason for their excitement, you might ask?
…
Well, it was because a certain French School would be arriving today…
The School that everyone had been waiting for with bated breath…
…
One; BeauBaxtons Academy of Magic.
And, what's more, word was they had already arrived in the castle ahead of schedule.
…
"Stevie, says he saw them." A young Ravenclaw announced to a nearby group, running straight into them in his hurry to spread the news. "He says he saw them fly in by Chariot. The one they used last year."
"By Chariot? Again? Thought they would have done something different. We've already seen the Chariot."
Laughing, a Hufflepuff stepped forward. "They're not here to show off, John. They're here to continue their education, you moron. Why would they care to impress us?"
"Why wouldn't they? All they do is show off. You can't tell me they wear those short skirts for their practicality. No, it's so they can show off their bodies. And, boy, can they show them off."
Stepping past the group of hormonal boys, Hermione continued on towards her destination. Many students passed her in a sprint, dragging their friends along to make it to the Great Hall before everyone else. Everyone seemed to be in a real hurry. So, it was no surprise when a young Gryffindor went tumbling to the ground right in front of her.
"Ow! Ow, ow, ow, ow."
Looking towards the young blonde, who was clutching her knee, Hermione turned and moved to kneel beside her. "Are you okay?"
When the young girl nodded in response, Hermione offered her hand and pulled the young Gryffindor up to her feet. The blonde girl dusted herself off, unaware that the person who had helped her was none other than the famous Hermione Granger. She had been too distracted by the pain in her knee to connect the voice to the brightest witch of her age.
But the moment she turned her emerald green eyes to Hermione, the girl froze in mid-action, eyes bulging at the sight in front of her.
H-Her-Hermione!
Oh…
Oh, shit!
Hermione, meanwhile, felt every nerve in her body sizzle with pleasure. A heat rushing through her body to rest and pulsate at her centre. Of course, this reaction too had become quite the norm in recent times. And yet, despite its newfound familiarity, Hermione still couldn't handle the emotion and pleasure that swept through her.
Every touch she shared with the young blonde had sent her heart racing into overdrive. Her hands resting on the young girl a little longer than was appropriate or necessary. Hermione couldn't help herself as she stared at those pink, luscious lips… her eyes glistening when she saw the flustered features of the young girl's face. The sight would have sent a lesser man over the edge without a shadow of a doubt.
However, rather than being unnerved by Hermione's predatory inspection, the young girl seemed to enjoy the attention. In among the bustle of students the young girl stood completely still, her eyes watching Hermione's lips part for every delectable breath. Emerald green eyes glazing over as she continued to caress the brunette's soft fingers with her own.
Recognising the lack of clarity in the blonde's eye, Hermione's mind snapped to attention and she immediately pulled away. The blonde looked upset at first, her hands rubbing together so that she could spread Hermione's warmth across her fingers, but the brunette didn't have time to feel sorry for her. She had to get away.
Apologising, Hermione turned and continued on towards the Great Hall. The young blonde watching her progress with increasing interest.
…
God dammit, Hermione!
You know you're not supposed to touch them!
When will you ever learn!
Unfortunately, since her return to Hogwarts, there had been a number of similar incidences that took place between herself and other female students. She had tried to suppress the Succubae's wants at first, but quickly realised that this would only make matters worse. Because, every time she denied the beast, showed signs of resistance, the Succubae would assault her mind with images. Sexual images that would make even the dirtiest mind blush and stutter upon inspection.
The Succubae had become a real problem these last few days, the creature intruding upon her mind whenever it sensed opportunity. In fact, rather recently, the Succubae had taken to watching the Gryffindor students who had gone up to bed early. The creature had even sent images of Hermione following the student up stairs, pinning them against their bed and having her way with them before any roommates could interfere. It was a terrifyingly difficult urge to suppress. The image was sickening… and yet, some part of her wanted to experience every moment of it.
Hermione had almost allowed herself to succumb to the Succubae's urges only yesterday. When everyone had gone upstairs to sleep and left her and Ginny along together in the common room. For whatever reason, Ginny had thought it a good idea to work through her Herbology essay while seated in Hermione's lap. To this day Ginny had not explained why.
The situation had been absurd because, while Ginny was brusk and a little playful, she had never attempted anything as intimate as this before. The redhead had proved rather distracting, her small frame fitting snuggly in her arms – which the redhead had wrapped around her waist.
Not to mention the fact that Ginny's studying style was a little disruptive to her own learning. The young redhead seemed to use her whole body when contemplating difficult questions, her small butt fidgeting against Hermione's hips as she worked. The redhead didn't notice, and Hermione was in no position to say anything as she had been left completely flustered by the experience. The moment had lasted but a few minutes before Hermione had managed to escape to her dormitory, only succeeding to slip from Ginny's grasp because she had been thrown off her lap.
…
This wasn't even the worst of her troubles, quite remarkably. No, the biggest problem was her new found popularity among the female members of her own House, Gryffindor. She had amassed quite a following at this point, topped only by Harry.
Of course, Hermione had always been relatively popular – as a member of the Golden trio – but that previous fame was nothing compared to what she had now. Female students who she had never spoken to had gone out of their way to talk to her, some had even asked if she had any plans for Hogsmeade weekend. Others had asked for one on one tutoring in the library. And one particular sixth year had even taken it upon herself to sit next to Hermione whenever she was in the common room, which had incensed Ginny beyond belief.
Hermione had to admit she was struggling with the Succubus. The beast could be reasoned with up to a point but there was always a price attached. For instance, if Hermione wanted sole rein over her mind for the day she would have to allow the Succubus some form of physical contact to sate its hunger. So far Hermione had managed to lessen the contact to the simple brushing of skin against skin, something she had done innocuously with Ginny.
Thankfully, the redhead didn't seem to notice the increased contact or mind it if she did. In fact, rather surprisingly, the redhead was usually the one who initiated said contact. Often jumping towards Hermione with her hands outstretched in greeting. The Succubus seemed quite satisfied with this and would allow Hermione to have free rein over her mind for the duration of the day.
So, on the whole, all seemed well. For now at least.
…
…
Carefully descending along the moving staircase, Hermione heard more whispers from the crowd. Everyone seemed to be heading towards the Great Hall far earlier than usual. The moving staircase filled to the brim with anxious and excited students from every year. How nobody had fallen off the side, Hermione could have only suspected the hand of witchcraft had played a part in this. Because many looked like they were mere seconds from plummeting to their deaths.
"Hey, Alex!" A Gryffindor yelled five floors up from Hermione's position, to a student directly in front of her. "Martin says he saw the Beaubaxton students leaving the Hogwarts Express. They're on their way now!"
At this announcement the entire male student body cheered loudly, Hermione sighing as she watched young boys high five and hug each other.
You have got to be kidding me.
Pushing through the crowd of jubilant boys, Hermione scowled at the childish reaction from her fellow pupils. She was not alone in this, however, as many of the girls watched the commotion with similar, if not darker, expressions of their own.
This is pointless…
Our attempts to bond with BeauBaxton and Durmstrang last year was nothing more than a complete failure…
There was no international co-operation of any kind, we segregated ourselves from each other and hardly ever spoke…
The only time we did any sort of School bonding was during the Yule Ball when it was forced upon us…
Where students from other School's became acquainted with one other by stuffing their tongues down each other's throats…
What is the point? Why are we trying again when our attempts at bonding clearly failed?
Stepping through the doors of the Great Hall, Hermione marched towards a spare seat at the Gryffindor table. Many students even stopped their activities to watch Hermione's progress, her features appearing stern and hardened. Very unlike the Hermione Granger they were used to seeing.
Taking a seat, Hermione huffed and crossed her arms against her chest. An aura of 'do-not-fuck-with-me' emanating out of every pore of her body. The Gryffindor's realised this very quickly and left the brunette to her own thoughts, something Hermione was secretly grateful for despite her frustrations. Hermione knew she was taking things a little too far but she had good reason for her anger.
Truth is; it was late in the School day and a time that would usually be reserved for studying in the library. But no, instead, she had to sacrifice her precious studying time to welcome BeauBaxton Academy. A School who, by Dumbledore's own admission, they would not see much of and were not allowed to interfere with.
…
…
So, they were basically saying hello before being told never to speak with them again…?
What was the point in that…?
Surely… Surely it would be far more beneficial to allow both Schools to mingle with one another. To allow students to share their vast knowledge and experiences with each other.
Of course, like most things, there would need to be rules and regulations but it would, at least, allow a bond to form between Hogwarts and BeauBaxton. This was surely a better option that continuing with the isolationist policy that existed last year, which did nothing more than strain tensions between the two student bodies.
There were so many things about this that felt wrong. So much so that Hermione doubted Albus had any say in these matters, as he was a supporter of the same values that she herself possessed.
So, did that mean Madam Maxine had a hand in these limitations? Or, and this was far more likely, was this enforced by the Ministry of Magic in Britain who had conducted the meeting?
So many questions – that no one else considered – but that rested on Hermione's mind all the same.
Hmm…
For one; why are Beaubaxton living in Hogsmeade when there are so many unused room in the castle?
I mean, I know those rooms weren't created for living in but surely magic could solve that little conundrum…
This all felt wrong. Everything about this situation felt poorly planned and executed.
…
Which meant the Ministry of Magic definitely had a hand in all of this.
…
Allowing the matter to leave her mind, Hermione noticed the entire Hall was already packed to capacity. The noise inside had been unbearably loud upon entrance but had since died down, falling to a low murmur at the appearance of the teachers entering from the other side of the Great Hall. A few whispers now spoke of Chloe Roberts, who was seated beside Professor McGonagall, deep in conversation. But even her appearance couldn't detract from the main talking point of the night.
Turning to look away from the teachers table as Chloe's beautiful eyes had somehow managed to find her among the throng of students, Hermione felt her temperature rise. Even when busying herself with looking around her surroundings, Hermione could still feel Chloe's eyes pressing into her with every nerve-wracking second.
It was at this moment, however, that the brunette finally noticed something rather peculiar.
…
Directly behind the Slytherin table – a table which had always been placed closest to the wall - sat another larger table. This meant that there were now five tables inside the Great Hall. The inclusion of a new table should have resulted in the other four tables being squeezed together to accommodate the fifth. And yet, to Hermione's trained eye, the distance between the Gryffindor table and the Hufflepuff table had not been reduced by even the slightest margin.
No, in fact, Hermione was sure of it. The distance was the same, and the same applied to the Ravenclaw table on the other side of them.
I think Albus must have used a mastery level lengthening charm to extend the walls outwards without crushing the entire structure…
That's incredible…
The rest of the School also seemed to recognise the appearance of a fifth table but – rather than be impressed with the ingenuity on display – the students talked about BeauBaxton once again. Sighing, realising Albus Dumbledore's incredible talent was being ignored because of a few good looking French women, Hermione shook her head.
'HehEhEhHeHeeHe!'
Ignoring the Succubus – its laughter bouncing across the confines of her brain – Hermione rubbed her forehead. It was only moments later - when Hermione saw Harry and Ron come sprinting through the doors of the Great Hall - that the brunette's migraine, finally, turned into a pulse-pounding headache.
What on Earth were Harry and Ron doing?
They were sprinting into the Great Hall like they were late when they were, in fact, five minutes early.
…
"Hey." Hermione drawled the moment Ron reached her, panting for breath.
Harry, waving to Hermione as he approached, punched Ron on the side of his forearm before snatching something out of the redhead's hand. Then, sitting down beside Hermione – who looked flabbergasted - Harry explained. "Ron thought we might be late. So, he decided to sprint here. I said we had enough time but he disagreed. So, rather than talking this over like a mature adult, he took my Marauder's map and legged it over here. That's why we were sprinting to get here."
Nodding in confirmation, a disapproving gaze turning to Ron's tired features, Hermione led Ron towards the seat beside her and sat him down. The redhead was red faced, out of breath and rubbing the spot where Harry had punched him in some distress. Poor Ron, he wasn't one for physical endurance. Although, now that she came to think of it, neither was she. They were quite similar in that regard… before the Succubus infected her, that is.
"I did… not run… I… was… jogging…." Ron wheezed, lounging against the table as he tried to catch his breath.
Before Harry had a chance to reply, Albus stood from his seat and walked to the front of the stage. Silence immediately followed this motion, not a single mention of BeauBaxton's being heard while their Headmaster demanded their attention.
"Young ladies and gentlemen. It is a pleasure to see you all again and I hope your return or, in some cases, introduction to Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry has been a good one. Now, I will keep this short as it is late in the day and you all have lessons in the morning. So, without further ado, please join me in welcoming back, BeauBaxtons Academy of Magic!"
And with that the Hall erupted into loud applause, the doors of the Great Hall swinging open to reveal the familiar sight of blue robes and beautiful faces. The noise within the large room only increased upon their sighting, Hermione covering her ears as Ron stood up and applauded – exhaustion forgotten.
Great!
This day can't get any worse.
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The large group of French students made their way into the Great Hall, smiling and curtsying in a rehearsed but no less genuine manner of greeting. Some BeauBaxton students even waved to students from Ravenclaw, who they had spent a lot of time with last year during the Tri-Wizard tournament. Butterflies, confetti – by the looks of it – and other impressive feats were shown as the Beaubaxton students came in group by group.
They had clearly spent a lot of time practising their entrance. Students flowing towards the front of the cue to greet the Hogwarts students before moving along to allow their classmate a moment in the spotlight. It was very well rehearsed and co-ordinated, Hermione had to admit. Even if it was a little over the top.
So, clapping along with the other students, in support of each BeauBaxton student's efforts, Hermione waited for them all to take their seats. There were a lot of student's to get through, though. Many already moving to the table to watch their seniors introduce themselves to the Hogwarts students. They all seemed very beautiful, skin unblemished and bodies either small or curved in all the right ways.
'BEauBAXtoN… BeAUBaXTOn… HeHEHahAHAheHaheHa!'
Calm down…
You have no reason to get excited…
You won't be seeing them again…
'BeAUbaXton… Want… Desire… Feed… Hunger… Fuck… Fuuuuck… HAHEEHahHEahEhAHa!'
Realising that she had not prepared herself properly for the arrival of the BeauBaxton students, Hermione closed her eyes tight. The sight of so many beautiful, unique and exotic women was sending the Succubus into a frenzy. Images assaulted her mind one after another; Hermione tackling a BeauBaxton against their table and rubbing herself up and down her in front of the entire School. Images of Hermione helping a group of lost Beaubaxton students find their way, only to lead them into a four way orgy, were only some of the thoughts that troubled her aching mind.
The images wouldn't stop, the feeling of her sex pulsing against the tight confines of her knickers becoming harder and harder to bear. A moan was threatening to pass her lips. Her face was flushed, lips chaffed and eyes now wandering to each girl like they were an all you can eat buffet.
'HEhAHHEHAheHahEhA! W-Want… Desire… Hunger… Feed… Must… Have… A… Taste!'
The Succubus was ecstatic at the prospect of tasting so many women. Hermione's sense of control lessening as the beast battered at every restraint keeping it at bay. There would be no reasoning with this creature. The time for agreements and deals were now gone. The Succubus had seen the best this world had to offer and it wanted to taste every last drop of it. It no longer cared for compromises, for Hermione's sanity… it wanted to feed, to taste and it would do so without hindrance.
No!
You will not do anything to these girls…
They are not yours…
You will leave them alone…
Leaning towards the table, haggard breathing passing her lips, Hermione felt droplets of sweat race down her nose. The effort of restraining the beast was proving to be physically as well as mentally draining. But she didn't dare drop her guard. Hermione knew the beast was desperate to escape. Clawing and scratching against the defences that Hermione's own mind had created. But, Hermione knew, that the creature couldn't escape without her say so… which meant it was up to Hermione to tame it, and tame it she would.
…
Finding it difficult to breathe, Hermione rubbed her throat to further aid the flow of oxygen. The Succubae was still battling against its restraints but, for the most part, Hermione had managed to calm it down. How she had accomplished such a feat, the brunette had no idea. But some part of her knew that the Succubus had been contained… for now at least.
Turning to look at the newest group entering the Great Hall, Hermione was assaulted by the breath-taking sight of Beaubaxtons oldest students. Hazel eyes wandering across to the newest group to enter the Great Hall, their defined bodies evident even in their thin pieces of clothing. At this realisation, Hermione frowned.
Why would they wear such flimsy material?
Yes, it hid their bodies from view but it was in an almost teasing manner. The outline of their bodies could be seen very clearly and yet no skin was exposed, except on their forearms and neck.
…
As her boredom began to rise, attention turning to the other BeauBaxton students sitting at their table, a collective gasp emanated from the student body. Turning, surprised by the silence that followed, Hermione could only gasp upon inspection of the beautiful creature standing at the foot of the Great Hall.
With a few steps, the figure moved into the hall. The sound of her footsteps echoing within the silence, matching the pace of the brunette's heart. Turning her blue cerulean eyes to audience, the figure looked over the student body of Hogwarts, inspecting every face with a smile. The glimmer of white teeth peeking out behind her soft red lips, causing the male populace to clutch their pant leg almost immediately.
Standing tall the figure looked to her side, her bright blonde locks flowing past her shoulder in time with the movement. Everyone stared in silence, enticed by the movement. She was perfect. The embodiment of the most beautiful painting brought to life. Her healthy, unblemished, pale skin was the envy of every woman in the vicinity. The subtle hint of red plush adorning her lips completing the breath-taking ensemble.
Still smiling, the figure held the edges of her dress and curtsied in front of the entire School. The movement was slow yet majestic, her eyes never blinking as they held each students gaze.
"Jesus Christ…"
Ignoring this stray voice, the figure stood to her feet. This attention was nothing new to her, the sight of boys licking their lips and staring at her breasts was just a common occurrence outside of Beaubaxton Academy. She no longer became flustered by this response, in fact she took it in stride. She had done so when she was a Tri-Wizard Champion, and she would do so again.
"T-Th-That's… That's Fleur Delacour!" A student whispered, although in the silence of the Hall it came across as more of a yell.
"I thought she was going to the Palace of the fine arts!"
…
Ignoring the murmurings from the students, Fleur turned and moved towards the BeauBaxton table. As she walked, her eyes continued to search the large number of students for the one person she was hoping to see. Fleur had promised herself she would only look, for one single a moment. It would be a chanced glance and nothing more than that… but she needed to make sure that she was still here.
Where is she…?
Merde! Was she in Gryffindor…?
Or was it Ravenclaw…?
I can't recall
…
'HEHAhehhahEHhAHa… HUH! -"
Alerted to the Succubae's abrupt silence, Hermione sat up, concern rising as silence reigned in her mind. Blinking, Hermione felt a sudden weight being lifted of her shoulders. Her own thoughts racing to the forefront of her mind, no longer sounding distant and unclear.
',,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,'
Hey!
Hello?!
W-What's going on…?
',,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,'
Hello!
HELLLO!
Whimpering, the beast remained silent, never responding to Hermione's questions or even her words of comfort. The beast was… scared… terrified even… but… of what?
In fact, if Hermione wasn't mistaken, the beast was receding back into her, scratching and clawing against its own well-formed barriers. It was undoing all the work it had done since its inception, tearing it all down in a panic the likes of which she had never felt before. Not even when her life was in danger had she experienced this kind of fear.
What are you doing…?
Why are you hiding…?
The creature refused to listen. She could feel the Succubae relinquishing its control, scurrying away into the darkest corner of her mind… leaving Hermione in complete control of her mind and body.
…
Wait…?
She was in complete control of her mind and body…?
All she could hear was her voice, and her voice alone, not the deranged mumblings of a sadistic creature. The creature was no longer present, hidden as far back as it could possibly go without perishing all together.
This was great. She was free. Free of the Succubae's control for the first time in weeks.
…
The Succubus was terrified now, whimpering and crying somewhere in the background of her mind.
But why…?
The Succubus had been so excited, so desperate to seize control over her mind and body just moments ago. And yet, in the blink of an eye, the creature had panicked and scratched its way into a corner of her mind… giving her complete control…?
Despite the feeling of relief and happiness washing over her, Hermione couldn't help but feel a sense of dread. Something wasn't right. The Succubae would never act this way unless it feared something. But, what? There was nothing unusual going on. No dementors coming to suck the life out of her, no death eaters coming to silence the last hope of resistance.
Nothing.
And yet, the Succubae had abandoned her…
Unsettled, Hermione tried to fit in with everyone else, turning her eyes towards the last remaining Beaubaxton student to have entered the Great Hall.
…
And that was when it happened…
…
The moment she looked in Fleur's direction, Hermione saw those very same stunning blue eyes looking back at her.
…
Fleur was staring at her… her. One of the most beautiful women in the world - and a worthy champion to boot - had stopped in her movements and was now staring at her. She was standing completely still, the eyes of the entire School watching her in concern as she just… stood there.
Eh, what…?
She didn't move. Fleur was unresponsive to everyone, her classmates who tried to usher her to sit never even gained a moment of her attention. Even Madam Maxine's words failed to muster a response, appearing as static in Fleur's ears.
…
The only thing that could be seen, by the students and teacher in the Hall, was Fleur's sudden change in expression. Gone was the happy smile and warm expression. Replaced with a look of shock and surprise that now tainted her otherwise beautiful features… before another undiscernible expression followed shortly after.
"Fleur? Fleur? Qu'est-ce qui ne va pas?" A nearby seven year Beaubaxton called, gripping her hand and trying to pull her to sit.
"…"
"Miss Delacour, would you please sit down. Miss Delacour!"
"…"
Nervous whispering followed Madam Maxine's words. Students turning to look in the direction of Fleur's eye line but finding nothing amiss whatsoever. The noise in the hall gradually grew louder, the concerned looks from teachers of both Hogwarts and Beaubaxton becoming more noticeable by the second.
Realising where Fleur's eyes were resting, Albus immediately stood up from his chair and called for everyone's attention. "Enough! I would ask that you not shame us in front of our arriving guests. You are free to talk to your heart's desire at the culmination of the feast but not before. Do I make myself clear?"
Fleur, realising the headmaster was speaking, shakily moved towards the nearest seat and collapsed into it, her head in her hands. The Beaubaxton students grew concerned, looking at one another in hopes that an explanation could be had. But no one had any answers for their clan leader's strange behaviour. Even Madam Maxine, who had shooed a nearby student away from the seat nearest Fleur, could not get a word out of the blonde student.
"Now, I have one more announcement to make before the feast commences. This announcement concerns both Hogwarts and Beaubaxton, and only applies to the female members of the School body," A few murmurs started up but were quickly shut down by Professor McGonagall's glare. "I am very proud to announce that – with the co-operation from the Ministry and BeauBaxton – that we will be having our very first student exchange program."
"Student exchange program?" Hermione whispered under her breath, along with the rest of the School.
"Yes. Now, this is a very unique and rare opportunity for all of us. Which is why - in this program - only certain, hand-picked students will attend classes at Beaubaxton Academy. They will also live in the dormitories at Hogsmeade, and experience life as if they were a Beaubaxton student. The same also applies to Beaubaxton, of course. Beaubaxton students will come to Hogwarts to be taught by us and will live in our castle."
"…"
"This opportunity is available to female students only, and each student will spend one month at the other School. The program will continue throughout the school year and, depending on its success, there is a possibility that this will continue far beyond that. More information will be revealed next week by your Heads of House. Now, without further ado… let the feast commence. "
.
.
.
With the sound of cutlery hitting the plates the entire School – Hogwarts and Beaubaxton – turned their attentions to their meals. Small pockets of conversation began to bubble up from around the table as exotic and traditional foods appeared out of thin air. The feast on this occasion, and like most occasions, was impressive to say the least. That much could be attested to by Ron who was already on his second leg of chicken, his hands holding two items of food at all times.
And yet… Hermione hadn't moved.
The sound of laughter emanated all around her position but not one word registered because the brunette's entire focus was on the fifth table. More specifically, on the previous Tri-Wizard champion… Fleur Delacour.
Hermione didn't have the best of views but she could still see Fleur's vague outline. The blonde woman was still slouched in her chair, hands covering her face as she shrugged of anyone who tried to touch her. What the hell was going on?
The entire table that surrounded Fleur had not made a move to even touch their food yet. All were looking at her in worry, eyes occasionally turning to each other in hopes that a solution could be found. No one dared to utter a single word, the silence oppressive even from Hermione's position. Madam Maxine, meanwhile, was looking extremely uncomfortable, eyes scanning the vicinity to make sure no one was prying into their business.
With this realisation in hand, Hermione quickly withdrew her gaze back to her food, just in time to avoid Maxine's scrutinising gaze. She had to focus on her food, focus on eating. No one on the Gryffindor table seemed to notice her discomfort. Ron was too busy stuffing his face to notice, Harry was in conversation with Fred and George, and Ginny was talking Quidditch with one of her friends.
So, steadying her breathing, Hermione reached out and poured a bowl of rice onto her plate. This was as much as she could eat today. While the food on display looked delicious; Hermione's appetite had long since abandoned her along with the Succubus. For some reason the Succubae's disappearance had filled her with a sense of… dread… fear… to an almost life threatening extent. It made no sense; she had all the reason in the world to be happy right now, and yet… not a single thought strayed in that direction.
Hey!
',,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,'
Wake up!
',,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,'
What aren't you telling me…?
What's going on…?
',,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,'
In response to the silence, Hermione looked up from the plate, the fork of rice half-way to her mouth… before the movement stopped altogether. In fact, all movement ceased. The only sounds to reach her ears was that of her own heartbeat. A pair of deep blue eyes racing into focus from across the Great Hall. Even through the throng of students Hermione could see her eyes, Fleur's eyes. And they were looking directly at... her.
W-What…?
Why is she…?
If Hermione had been paying attention she would have seen that Madam Maxine was no longer seated beside Fleur…
That the students were no longer watching Fleur with concerned expressions, their attentions now on the food that littered the table...
But she hadn't been paying attention. No, it wasn't that. It was that she couldn't pay attention. Madam Maxine's absence and the students change in priorities were all insignificant. Because all Hermione saw… all of her attention… was now on Fleur, just Fleur.
Feeling nervous, Hermione wet her dry lips with her tongue, Fleur's eyes lowering to watch the pink intrusion with another unreadable expression. Those beautiful blue orbs were now fastened to her, never blinking, as they began to narrow in her direction.
W-Why is Fleur staring at me…?
We've barely even spoken to each other…
So, why…?
Lowering her eyes back to her plate of rice, Hermione stirred the contents with her fork, the sound of her heartbeat still racing in her ears. The sound was really starting to unsettle her now. With every passing second, Hermione's body temperature started to heat up. Sweat sliding down her forehead as she continued to stir the rice with her fork, eyes trained on the movement.
Even without looking, Hermione could tell Fleur's eyes were still on her. It was hard to ignore really; the heat that pressed against the side of her face, the side that Fleur was looking at. God, she must have been as red as Ron's hair by now.
Why is she still staring at me…?
Does she lack sufficient Bouillabaisse…?
… This was becoming too much.
… Enough was enough.
…. She had to leave.
Realising that her appetite had long since passed, Hermione pushed the plate away and stood up from the table. Several eyes, including Fleur's, watched Hermione's movement, interest waning as they returned their attention to more pressing matters. All that is except for a fair few who watched with great interest.
"Eh, Hermione?" Ron mumbled around his mouthful of chicken, looking at Hermione as she rose unexpectedly. "Where are you going?"
Turning to face the redhead, Hermione smiled. "There's no need to worry, Ron. I'm just going upstairs to my dormitory. Feeling a little sick so I'm going to go and sleep it off."
"Are you sure you're alright?" Harry asked leaning towards her while Ron returned to his meal, fully satisfied.
"Yes, Harry. I'm fine. I'll see you both tomorrow morning."
Walking down the aisle towards the entrance of the Great Hall, a hand suddenly stopped Hermione in her tracks. Looking down the length of the arm, Hermione was not at all surprised to see Ginny's concerned features. A small trickle of jam resting on the corner of her lip…
She was always a messy eater…
Much like Ron in that regard…
"Hermione, are you alright?" Ginny asked, pulling Hermione down so they weren't overheard.
"Of course I am, Ginny. I'm just feeling a little under the weather so I'm going to sleep early tonight."
"I was watching you Hermione. I've never seen you like that. You looked out of sorts. Are you sure you're going to be okay?"
Smiling, attempting to calm the redhead's worry, Hermione placed a hand against her shoulder. "Like I said, Ginny. I've not been feeling well today. I'll be back to normal tomorrow, so please don't worry."
Pursing her lips in thought, Ginny eventually nodded her head in understanding, letting go of Hermione's forearm. "Okay then. I'll bring up some food with me if you change your mind, or feel hungry later on in the day. Just come up to my room and wake me up. I'll have to hide it from Ron which means you won't find it without me."
Hugging Ginny goodnight, Hermione walked down the aisle before making her way through the entrance of the Great Hall. Never once looking back for fear that she would see Fleur's eyes looking back at her.
The moment Hermione stepped outside, out of view to the occupants of the Great Hall, her footsteps quickened towards the moving staircase. Taking the steps two at a time, Hermione continued onward. Her progress almost halting in its tracks when she heard a new set of footsteps somewhere below her.
…
…
She didn't dare turn around, the sounds of heels forcing her feet to quicken up the stairs. With reckless abandon Hermione jumped towards the retreating flight of stairs, behaving in a manner that was very much unlike her. The act alone could have resulted in her death but some force told her she needed to move… like her life depended on it.
…
The sound of heels coming ever closer, Hermione's fast paced walk quickly turned into a jog.
…
In the back of her mind, the brunette could hear a strange whimper coming from inside… the Succubus crying, begging her to hurry.
…
As Hermione finally reached her floor, her jog turned into a full-on sprint. The footsteps behind her immediately followed her rhythm, the sound of breathing from the pursuing figure drawing closer and closer. She was almost there. All she had to do was make it to the Fat lady and this would all be over. Once inside, she was safe… safe from this unsettling situation. Surely the comfort of the Gryffindor common room would be enough to calm her racing heart.
Turning the corner, Hermione saw her goal in sight. The fat lady was in sight.
…
And then, in a flash of movement, Hermione was suddenly grabbed from behind, a surprised gasp leaving her lips as a pair of arms wrapped themselves around her mid-drift. Without a moment's pause, the figure turned Hermione around and pushed her head back, gripping her by the throat.
"Ah! Ahh!"
The figure's fingers tightened, nails digging into the side of her neck before forcing the young brunette into the air and against the nearby wall. Chocking, Hermione turned her face to look in the direction of her abuser…
And the person she saw was one of the last people she expected…
"F…Fl… Fleur!"
…
…
Struggling against Fleur's hold, Hermione tried to pry the blonde woman's fingers off her neck. The act of breathing was becoming painful now, her airways closed off, and face turning purple. But Fleur showed no signs of caring, a trickle of blood slipping down her nails as they split open the brunette's skin.
Panicking, Hermione attempted to fight her way out, pushing and kicking from her elevated position against the wall. A gasp of pain leaving the brunette's lips as the back of her neck arched upwards, the bones extending beyond their normal rotation. Feeling a white hot sensation race across her spine, Hermione threw out a flailing arm.
Showing quick reflexes, Fleur caught Hermione's forearm and forced it against the wall, pinning it to the side of her hips. Gargling and spluttering, Hermione forced herself to look down, tilting her head towards the woman who had inflicted all this pain. When she finally saw Fleur's face an unnerving chill swept through her body, adding to the fear that was still tearing her apart.
Fleur… Fleur looked pissed; white, perfectly shaped teeth gritted in anger and eyes narrowed together with a maddening glint. The sight was terrifying to look at. A woman who Hermione had once considered the most beautiful thing she had ever seen was no more. Replaced by a creature that would be commonly found in the darkest nightmares you could possibly imagine.
That wasn't to say Fleur wasn't beautiful. She still retained her natural beauty, of course. But that knowledge only added to her fear.
To think that someone so beautiful could have such a demented side to her.
…
Tilting Hermione's head down, Fleur leaned forward level with the brunette. "Did you really think you could trick me?"
"W-What…?"
"I-It was a nice trick," Fleur snarled, tightening her grasp around Hermione's forearm. "Hiding your essence… And I don't know how you did it! But that doesn't change the facts. I know what you are! You. Are. A. Succubus."
Whimpering, the voice coming from her own lips rather than the Succubus, Hermione began to choke. A sudden darkness was resting over her eyes, her arm going limp and lolling to her side. Noticing this, Fleur's fingers eased their pressure. Within moments the brunette let out a loud gasp before coughing and spluttering, a throbbing pain resting at her throat.
S-She knows…
H-How…?
How does she know I'm a Succubus…?
"How dare you show your face to me," Fleur seethed, breathing heavily in anger. "After everything you did to us!"
"W-What… What do… you mean…?"
"You were once like us; descendants from our blood line," Fleur whispered, a hint of sadness reaching her voice. "You were supposed to be the next step in our evolution… but we were wrong!"
At these words, Fleur re-tightened her hold around Hermione's throat, eyes pierced together in anger and betrayal. Ignoring the muffled scream of pain, Fleur watched the Succubus with a hint of satisfaction. This was no less than what the creature deserved. It was a blight upon the world, and should have been eradicated years ago.
Feeling her feet dangle above the floor, Hermione felt tears rush to her eyes, the sounds of silence the only thing to accompany this trauma. "I… I… Can't…"
"You betrayed us! You were supposed to be like us… but you were impure, tainted. We should have known!"
"I…I don't… Ah!"
"We welcomed you with open arms. Sheltered you. Kept you safe from harm. Called you family! And, behind our back, you leeched off everyone you became intimate with. You ignored our rules, our doctrine and put us in harm's way!"
…
Dropping Hermione - so that she crumpled to the floor - Fleur grabbed a hold of the Gryffindor's collar and threw her towards a nearby door. The moment Hermione's back made contact with the door, the wood splintered around her body and she was propelled inside. Skidding along the floor, Hermione's crashed into the Teacher's desk, a sickening crack emanating from her shoulder.
"Ahhhhhhhh!"
Walking through the broken door, Fleur placed a hand against Hermione's mouth, silencing her. As the seconds rolled on, Fleur's eyes suddenly darkened and her hand pressed harder against her mouth. Suddenly realising that the blonde Veela was chocking her, Hermione swatted and batted against Fleur's hold.
But Fleur didn't flinch… She was far stronger than Hermione, who still seemed to be in her infancy when it came to the age of a Succubus. It was no wonder this battle was so easy. A young Succubus would stand little chance against her. The Veela had become accustomed to her abilities while young Hermione had not.
Releasing her hold around Hermione's mouth, Fleur allowed the brunette a momentary rest bite. Enjoying the sight of the Succubus gasping and pleading for air. When she believed the creature had gulped in enough, Fleur wrapped her fingers around her throat and dragged her up the nearby blackboard.
"Hurts, doesn't it," Fleur sniggered, leaning into Hermione's face to watch the pain etched upon it. "The feeling of helplessness. Betrayal. How do you think we felt when you betrayed us?"
"…"
"We warned you! We told you not to drain anyone of their life essence! You were supposed to feed up until a point and then move on to someone else! We wanted to protect you! Protect your kind from extinction! To help you, teach you of our ways! But you never listened! You fed off everything, drained them dry until they were nothing more than husks!"
Eyes rolling into the back of her head, Hermione felt blood drip down her arm. "I… I didn't… I didn't know…"
"And when the world learned of you… learned that we had protected and sheltered you… everyone sought our extinction. My kind were slaughtered, our young murdered because of our perceived alliance with you! We risked our lives for you! Tried to help and nurture you to live among us… But you betrayed us!"
Placing Hermione's feet against the ground, Fleur grabbed Hermione and threw her head first into the row of tables in front of the School desk. One by one Hermione felt the tables collapse against her weight, her body rolling as she tried to regain her balance mid-flow. Once crumpled against the floor, pain and shards of wood sticking out of her skin, Hermione looked up to see Fleur throwing chairs out of the way to reach her.
Groggily, Hermione tried to claw her way out of the room but was halted when Fleur gripped the back of her hair and turned her around. Then, leaning down to rest on top of the Succubus, the Veela placed her hands back against her throat. Hermione's eyes bulging as the pressure returned.
"Ten years! Ten years my kind were slaughtered! And yet we still protected you! Believed you could be saved from your own desires! And then you committed the most heinous crime imaginable! Or should I say your hero, Rose did! That harlot drained our leader's daughter and fled!"
Slipping in and out of consciousness, Hermione's mind suddenly caught the mention of a familiar name. But, no… it couldn't be…
Rose…?
My other mother…?
Could it really be her…?
Unaware of Hermione ponderings, Fleur gritted her teeth and stared down at the brunette. "You killed our most prized possession, our next ruler… And then fled like cowards! So, we banished you! Hunted you down until there were nothing but a handful of you left! We had given you so much and you used us! You are our greatest shame… and our greatest disappointment."
"…"
Suddenly realising their close proximity, Fleur blinked and leaned away. She hadn't meant to come so close. Hermione's breathless, flushed expression caused her cheeks to redden upon inspection. Angry with herself, Fleur shook her head, trying to get rid of the stray thoughts that circled inside her mind. This wasn't the time to be admiring the brunette's beauty. She was a Succubus, ugly on the inside and fake on the out.
And yet, as she watched Hermione, Fleur's expression became distraught. She looked like she was close to tears. Turning her face away from the Succubus, Fleur tried to control the pain, the heart-ache that remained in her chest. The same pain that had affected her back at the Great Hall when she had laid eyes on Hermione.
She had to control her emotions…
The Succubus had tricked her, made her feel this way…
It wasn't real…
Couldn't be real…
Her enemy couldn't be her… her…
No, she refused to say it…
The thought was ludicrous…
This was all a trick designed by Hermione…
She had made her feel this way…
Her feeling were nothing more than an illusion, to blind and trick her…
That was it. This wasn't real…
This wasn't real!
…
Looking up at the Veela, Hermione saw Fleur's shoulders shaking. Her face turned away from view. The soft sounds of a whimper leaving her lips as she held her hands to her face. Hermione remained completely still, shocked to see Fleur was… actually crying. Why was she crying…? She had no reason to cry?
Suddenly, turning to face the Succubus, Fleur's features hardened. "And yet… despite all of the pain you have put my kind through… you continue to torture another Veela! Why?! Does it amuse you! Huh?! To play with my emotions! Do you think it's funny! I had so many dreams about… about… and you!"
Confused, Hermione tried to speak up, but the act of speaking was no longer available to her at this moment. The pain in her throat would not allow the passage of words, only breathing.
"…"
"You were supposed to be my soul mate! Do you have any idea how rare that is!?" Fleur whimpered, tears slipping down her eyes. "I had finally fulfilled a lifelong dream that had escaped my mother and grandmother! I had found my destined one in life! The one person who could make me happy beyond compare! And it was all a lie!"
Tears landed on Hermione's cheeks, her lips… Hazel eyes watching the Veela in shock.
"I was so looking forward to coming back to Hogwarts. I-I wanted to see you again. Make up for my mistakes last year during the Tri-Wizard tournament when I was too scared to approach you. I had so many plans… So many dreams. But it was a lie all along. You were playing with me. You deceived me! Made me fall in love with you! I should have known it was a trick. Should have known this was too good to be true!"
Gritting her teeth, Fleur snapped and began to strangle Hermione with both hands wrapped around her neck. "You are a mistake! Your kind a mistake! I remember seeing a pretty young thing with the potential to become something great! But it was all just another lie! All the talk of you being the brightest witch of your age was a lie!"
"… Please… Ahhh!"
"You manipulated the women of this School, didn't you!? Asked them to spread tales of your brilliance! So you would not be founded by the proper authorities! So that you could hide in plain view of everyone! No one would suspect the great Hermione Granger of being a Succubus, would they!? No, the best friend of Harry Potter couldn't possibly be anything other than human!"
Gasping for breath, hands lifting Fleur's away from her throat, Hermione tried to speak. "I… I… I'm not… What you… Think… I am? I… haven't done anything… to… the students… Of this School!"
"Liar!" Fleur shouted, hands returning to her throat with a maddening glint in her eye. "I've seen the way your friends look at you! The Gryffindor will look at you with longing. The Ravenclaw cannot keep her eyes off you, every time she thinks no one is looking she'll seek you out… and watch your every move. The Slytherin girl will flinch and grimace every time you are touched by someone other than herself. I've seen it all. You tricked them into loving you, just like you tricked me."
"…"
"I will not let you get away with this!" Fleur screamed, lifting Hermione off the ground and pushing her against the wall. "How did you do it?"
"W-What…?" Hermione said, finally free from Fleur's ill treatment.
"How did you hide your essence from me last year?"
Confused, Hermione said nothing and rubbed her throat to ease the pain that was steadily building.
"I should have smelled your essence immediately. Should have known you were a Succubus. But I didn't," Fleur murmured, looking confused. "I-I should have known it was a trick. That you were not my mate. I should have smelled the stench that permeates around you this very minute. But I didn't… How did you do it?"
Ignoring Fleur's words, Hermione rubbed her throat and coughed against the floor, blood trickling from all over her body. "Look, I know you fear me. Fear my kind. But I assure you I won't hurt anyone…"
Angered, Fleur pushed Hermione back against the wall and stepped forward. "I don't believe you! It's in your nature to hunt, feed and kill! There is nothing more to you! You will always succumb to your desires. It is in your nature!"
"Please, listen to me, Fleur. You're right I am a Succubus. But I am only a half-blood. The reason why you didn't smell my essence last year is because that part of me was dormant. It was awakened recently and since then I have kept my Succubus-half under control. I won't fed off anyone. Please believe me, Fleur. I would rather die than harm another soul."
Smiling mockingly, Fleur shook her head. "So very convincing. Your kind always did have a silver tongue. Could talk your way out of anything. Even if you were covered in blood, standing over a dead body with a knife in your hand… you could talk you way out of any suspicions. But I know what you are. I will not be fooled by your deception. Not again. Never again!"
Grabbing Hermione, Fleur tossed the Succubus against the opposing wall. The brunette's light body came crashing down into the brickwork, the wall caving to her form before she slid down and landed in a heap on the floor. Walking towards the bleeding brunette, Fleur pinned her against the floor, a foot placed against her neck.
"Listen to me now Sucky, and listen well. This will be your last warning. Stay away from Beaubaxton Academy and its students. Stay away from me and, more importantly, stay away from my sister. If I ever see you talking or even walking by Gabrielle… I will tear you limb from limb. If you ignore any of my warnings I will, personally, end your life with my own bear hands! Is that understood!?"
"…"
"Beaubaxton might very well banish me for it, the authorities imprison me for killing another student but it would be worth it to rid the world of one more filth," Fleur snarled, never lessening the pressure on Hermione's neck. "And, for the record, my imprisonment wouldn't last long. My family would see fit to release me from my cell and smuggle me away to safety. I would be treated like a Queen by the clans, held up in the highest of honours."
"P…Pl…"
"But I'm giving you one last chance. If I find you have acted upon your desires I will kill you, is that understood, Sucky?"
Grimacing as Fleur's heel dug into her throat, Hermione nodded. "Yes! I-I understand!"
"Good," Stepping over Hermione's throat, Fleur walked towards the exit of the room before turning back to face the brunette. "Make use of this because it will never happen again."
Then, turning, Fleur walked out of the room and out of sight…
…
Watching the Veela leave, Hermione slumped back against the wall, spitting blood from her mouth as the wounds along her body started to heal on their own. This was another advantage of being a Succubus, the ability to heal rapidly would prove useful without a doubt. Sitting up, feeling the bones in her body ache, as only the superficial cuts had healed, Hermione staggered to her feet.
She had just been completely man-handled by Fleur. Her body left scarred and questions were now racing inside her head. But those questions never had time to materialise, as another familiar entity had risen from inside Hermione. One that had hidden itself away from harm only to appear when it was safe to come out… the similarities between the creature and Fleur's story were starting to ring true it seemed.
'KILL… KILL…. KILL…. SLAUGHTER… TORTURE… PAIN….. HUMILIATE…. KILL….. HER…..'
Feeling the Succubus raging inside her, Hermione took a moment to calm her shaking legs before walking out of the room and towards the Fat Lady. As she walked the Succubus continued to rage, wanting to tear Fleur limb from limb… So brave it was to speak of this when Fleur was nowhere to be found to hear it. Too scared to face its kin.
But Hermione could feel the honesty hidden within the creatures words, the Succubus wanted Fleur dead and would do so whenever the opportunity arose.
…
….
With or without its masters approval.
.
.
.
Author's Note: Wow! This took longer than expected. I'm going to keep this brief as it is really late at night and I have work early in the morning, but I promised an update and I'll always try to deliver on time. So here you are. I hope you like it, and that the wait for Fleur's inclusion was worth it. I know some people might be concerned about Fleur and Hermione's situation but I assure you…
Fleur will definitely be one of the women chasing after Hermione…
It will just take time and I have an entire storyline planned between the two that will exist within the framework of this story…
I really hope you like it because I have been working on it for a long time.
Reviews etc are very much welcomed as always, I'll try to reply to your comments as quickly as I can. But besides from that I hope you enjoyed this chapter, and if you have any questions please don't hesitate to ask. I will answer them in a manner that doesn't give away the story or my plans
All the best and thank you for reading!
P.S. I will come back to improve this chapter later on. It is a little rushed near the end because I have a lot to do in the next coming weeks which will take up a lot of my time. Also, a quick question: would any of you prefer it if I made Fleur speak in broken English… i.e. saying 'z'is' instead of 'this' etc. Or are you fine with how it's written now?
Your answer would be really helpful as I want to nail Fleur's character down to a tee, which would be impossible if the majority believe I am leaving out her accent, inflexion etc. Those sorts of things can make a character separate themselves from the rest. I would be really grateful to hear your opinion.
:D