A/n: You know what this is guys? A very late update, May is a bad month for me always has been always will be. I suffer from depression I have little bouts here and there, but thankfully this year I have been lucky to escape the worst of it. But it has meant I have fallen behind in writing hence late chapter and replying to your lovely reviews. So I am not ignoring you I am merely just trying to keep on top of things. On a second note, I have literally just wrote this chapter took a 3 hours but we got there, i did attempt some last night but I was drunk and it didn't make a whole lot of sense.
Disclaimer: I do not own any recognisable characters and no money has been made from this.
Enjoy...
Chapter Twenty One
The liquid slides across her tongue quenching her throat she drinks greedily from her goblet. Next to her another champion struts by, long robes sprung like a peacocks feathers as he heads back to the dance floor she resists the urge to laugh. The heat from the room makes her drink another goblet, the raspberry substance almost intoxicating with the extra hint of spice. She detects the slight tinge of alcohol someone has spiked the punch.
A part of her wants to warn the Professors however, with each second that slips by the alcohol numbs the part of her mind. The part that worries as a happy haze makes her leave the punch be. She knows it's wrong, as she wanders away knows that she will pay dearly tomorrow with a headache but she is too far gone to care.
Neville is laughing his endearing laugh that makes those nearby burst into chuckles, Luna manages to choke on her own punch. Smiling, Hermione feels a wave of satisfaction for her friend, before turning her eyes elsewhere. She finds Fleur dancing with a Champion from America both in deep conversation, the young man trying his best to flirt but she can tell Fleur is merely entertaining.
The heat eventually becomes too much as she heads for a quick break, the food served and long since left to be collected the audience dispersed to their own parties. The cameras turned off after Lord Riddle's speech and the tense atmosphere lifted. The band grew louder after that moment, the gig becoming much more popular to the youngsters. Most Professors' have stayed to observe the partygoers rather to enjoy the rest of the evening. Professor Black having a field day lurking in the shadows and catching students in compromising positions.
Stepping outside the cool winters air greets her, she breathes deeply. The torches flicker in the wind, the campsite a few hundred feet away is a beautiful sight. She catches the wisp of smoke and finds two of the Russian contestants having a fag break. She smiles at them in passing; they merely watch her with disinterest as she settles against a railing.
Frost is creeping along the ground, taking the grass as hostages in the dark night, no moon on show only floating clouds. She wonders absently how many Dementors linger in the air; she can feel them, her spine tingles with the thought that they are watching her from above. She shivers internally, knowing exactly what the creatures are capable off doing.
"You shouldn't be out here…" A voice comments making her start. "Who knows what someone might do."
"I'm sure you'll protect me Raven." Hermione replies folding her arms as the witch approaches.
"I doubt you'll need it. Just turn into a little bird and fly far away." Raven whispers slinking up next to her the warmth from the witch makes Hermione's pulse jump. "Tell me how much did I inspire your little animagus?"
"That was long time before you." Hermione answers with a chuckle.
"Such a shame, I was almost honoured. Tell you what how about I inspire in another way." Raven promises leaning closer her breath ghosting across Hermione's shoulder.
"I thought I told you I wasn't interested?" Hermione replies eyeing the witch next to her.
"Well you did… Then you come dressed in all this how could I just leave you be?"
"You're married Raven." Hermione answers turning to the witch.
"Maybe, but that's my problem not yours. You enjoy the rest of your evening, you know where I'll be if you change your mind."
With those words Raven steps away heading to search the area, dressed in trousers and black jacket Hermione wonders how the witch can escape tradition of robes. None the less, this is Raven and she doubts anyone will want to tell her otherwise.
Taking one last breath of air, she heads back into the room, where Neville intercepts her dragging her to the crowd that has gathered. The band playing their most favourite song she cannot help but join in as Luna leans against her both of them dancing in beat with one another. The room bounces in her vision the crowd growing in number she loses track of who dances with her. Thankfully, Neville stays close by, pushing any unwanted advisors away using his body as a shield.
Half way through the next song, heart pumping, body sweaty she leans on Neville, his chest flexing under her weight as she presses her forehead to his shirt. He rocks them both in a slow dance as she catches her breath Luna lost to her own trance as she dances unaided to the music.
"I'm pissed." Hermione whispers into the lapels of Neville's suit.
"I noticed." Neville chuckles.
"Why aren't you?" Hermione asks.
"Because after Luna's first glass I realised it was spiked. Didn't you notice?"
"No… yes. Maybe."
"Wanted a bit of fun?"
"I'm so horny…" Hermione whispers making Neville choke on fresh air. "I mean like seriously horny."
"I get the point." Neville splutters face flushed. "Not considering Fleur are you?"
"No, no, no too many problems with that. If someone just walked in here stark naked I'm not sure what I'd do."
"I don't think we should be having this conversation." Neville answers glancing around.
"Just promise me, that you won't let me wander off with someone."
"Even Raven?"
"Especially Raven."
He chuckles before putting her back on her feet placing an arm around her shoulder to stabilise her, she sway to the music as Luna crashes against her side for a hug. Wrapping her arms around Luna, Hermione joins the witch as she bobs to the music the room spinning. She will have to call it a night soon, perhaps after one more drink.
"'Mione." A hand curls round her arm as Neville retracts. "Are you okay?"
"M'good." Hermione mutters accepting Fleur's arm.
Unconvinced, Fleur merely smiles attaching herself to Hermione's side and scowling at any who dares get within an inch of her. What right does she have over me? She's just helping, only concerned. Concerned I will move on. I am pissed lets not pick an argument. She shakes the thoughts from her mind; she will not pick a fight tonight. Too much going on to pick a fight.
BANG.
A scream breaks out the music grinding to a standstill, a door blows open a spell flying through the air hitting an Auror. Shouting breaks out the dance breaks up people darting for cover. Another Auror falls, the intruder darting through the hall without stopping heading straight for the Minister.
"Stop!" An Auror calls a spell leaving his wand.
The intruder slides on his knees, the spell flying overhead and destroying the door behind. With speed, the intruder springs to his feet drawing a large knife and slicing the Auror. Blood squirts more screams erupts.
"'Mione!" Fleur shouts dragging Hermione away from the fight. "Move."
"Stay calm!" Snape's voice bellows over the shouting as he emerges with Professor Black.
"Move along." Professor Black orders ushering the students pass.
"Mione!" Hermione shrugs out the grip the current of students pull Fleur along before she grab her.
Turning back to the fight, Hermione watches transfixed as the attacked removes any opposition, anxiously she watches Tonks step in. Lifting her dress, Hermione pulls her wand out, drunk or not she will not allow Tonks to come to harm.
Five Aurors including Tonks swarm the intruder; they duck and weave through spells repelling the Aurors as though they were nothing. The knife cuts through flesh with ease as Lord Riddle moves forward raising his wand. Tonks narrowly dodges the knife spell striking her side, Hermione steps forward raising her own wand.
A hand wraps around her arm tugging her back into the furious Professor Black.
"What the hell are you doing?" She hisses.
"Helping." Hermione protests struggling in the iron grip.
"You won't…" Professor Black begins only to break off as a cry rips through the air.
Another Auror hits the floor, in a flash the intruder rushes for Lord Riddle. Staring in shock, Hermione watches the knife rise into the air glinting in the torch light. Smack. A foot collides with the intruder a well-placed kick sending them flying backwards. Dazed the intruder rises to attack wielding his knife he swipes. Clang two blades clash the intruder staring down Raven as she pushes him off. She swirls swiping out his legs and narrowly missing his throat with her knife.
They fight dirty, a cut rips Raven's jacket, she ducks out the way removing the jacket and throwing it to the floor. She lashes out a kick to the face breaking a jaw as the intruder hits the ground blood squirting from his mouth.
"Murderer!" They scream rushing Raven in the hopes to get to Lord Riddle.
Tensing Hermione moves to help only to find Professor Black has hold of her, unrelenting as they watch the fight. A knife embeds deep into flesh a small gasp echoes in the silence, disbelieving eyes turn to the stomach cut open. The victor stepping back, hands bloody as a knife falls to the floor, followed by the intruder who collapses to their knees. Shock plastered on their face as they gaze at the wound, before slouching motionless to the ground.
Professor Black releases her hold as Raven wipes the blood from her knife with a piece of cloth. Stepping over the fallen intruder, she goes to aid the Aurors, Tonks already climbing to her feet as Professor Black moves to help.
Motionless, Hermione watches the twitching body of the intruder unable to look away. Their eyes connect she watches life slowly ebb from their body, the intruder no older than thirty. One word repeating on their lips like a mantra a prayer to their god. Until the last piece of life, slips away and a few words slip unbidden from their lips.
"My baby boy…"
She shudders staring at the body, the blood that oozes out decorating the floor. A person steps into her vision blocking her view a hand gently turns her around. Professor McGonagall moves her through the hall to join the other students milling around outside. The party is over it would seem, the chatter alive with what could be happening.
Neville finds her first, his arms wrapping around her in a fierce hug, she hugs him back just as fiercely. The drink wearing off life returning to the forefront of her mind. Why did the intruder risk so much? How did he get onto Hogwarts grounds? Who did Riddle kill?
She smiles reassuringly at Neville, searching the crowd for Fleur, she finds the witch chatting intimately with Bill. The couple holding hands, she turns away the night becoming unnaturally cold. At least she has someone. Neville turns back to comfort Luna leaving Hermione alone in the crowd of people. She has no one to turn to, no one to talk to other than family. She is grateful for the Tonks taking her in, but she wishes she could have someone to curl up to in the night. Someone she could trust and love.
Stepping through the crowd, she heads back towards the castle, flicking her wand and transfiguring her dress into something a bit more comfortable. The dance is over for the Champions, but Hogwarts still celebrates. She Leaves the arena behind following the stream of students back to the castle, Neville trudging along behind.
"You coming?" Neville asks as she pauses towards the entrance.
"I'll catch you up, need some fresh air." Hermione promises.
He pauses by her side, wanting to argue, but decides better of it, deciding to turn away and head to the common room. She settles on one of the ledges to the window gazing down at the Auror activity. Wondering how the man made it through all the security, did they have help?
She shivers at the thought, before her mind journeys back to Raven the witch was lightning fast. Raven didn't even break a sweat as she took him out; it makes Hermione wonder what the witch is like with a wand? She is related to Professor Black. She even holds the surname; they would not let her keep it without proof.
Watching the students roam past, Hermione smiles at those who notice her lingering in the shadows, chuckles at the ones struggling to get into one another's pants. She shakes her head turning her attention back to the Arena, the chatter of Aurors outside. How did they get past the Dementors? She dismisses her thoughts, too light headed to care.
"Can I join you?" A sultry voice asks placing a cup of punch.
"You know it's spiked right?" Hermione asks regarding Raven.
"Why else would I be drinking it?" Raven chuckles standing next to her.
Hermione chuckles accepting the goblet and sipping the contents before handing back to the witch beside her. Raven eyes dance with amusement as she gulps the goblet, the adrenaline pouring of the witch in waves it makes Hermione shiver. A hand curls across Hermione's shoulder Raven leaning in casually.
"I warned you, shouldn't be on your own." Raven whispers against her ear.
"I'm not on my own."
A tiny smile graces the Auror's lips, as dark eyes travel across Hermione's body. She could blame the drink, could place the blame on to the spiked punch. None the less, the wiser part of her knows better, the truth is she craves the attention of someone else. Someone who sees her more than just a bookworm and the brains of a group.
She captures Raven's lips with her own, two arms circling her waist and holding against the window. Tongues clash in urgency and unrestrained lust, Hermione loses herself to the kiss. Her arms grab the leather jacket pulling Raven closer to her as they fight for dominance. They break apart lust clouding Raven's eyes, a whisper in the back of Hermione mind warning why she should not be doing this.
Panting she rests her swirling head against Raven's shoulder, trying to ground herself to reality. Tensing as the witch's hand travels against her ribs, her heart jumping as Raven chuckles in her ear. Should not be doing this. The world is still spinning and every time she closes her eyes, she sees the eyes of the intruder staring back at her. The empty eyes that stare unseeing. She shivers realising that the witch holding her is the one responsible for the actions.
She just wants to forget, wants to escape the world and enjoy life for a split second. Tired of those relying on her, the scheming of the games and the chanting of her name. She misses the comfort of another soul; even if Raven is married, it is only a physical thing. I can lie to myself for tonight.
Raven interrupts her thoughts, pulling her chin to the side and stealing her breath away with a searing kiss. Teeth bite her bottom lip begging entrance as a tongue swirls against Hermione's stealing a breathless moan. I need to stop. She stumbles slightly in the grip, her shoes becoming uncomfortable.
A cough interrupts them, making Raven pull away and glare at the intruder. Blinking, Hermione steps back from the embrace only to find herself against the cold stonewall. With a slight shiver, she finds Professor Black standing next to them, unimpressed with the compromising position. Not meeting the cold eyes of her Professor, Hermione plucks the drink from the side and sips repeatedly. Willing the alcohol to numb her embarrassment.
"Gonzales." Black mutters the gloom form the corridor clawing at her robes.
"What brings you by?" Raven questions shuffling awkwardly.
"You were missing, so was Granger didn't take too long to put together."
"Yep, she's safe you can run along."
"No Aurors inside the school."
"Nymph's always hanging around." Raven protests.
"A graduated student." Black replies shortly.
"You can't be serious?" Raven argues stepping closer to her aunt.
"I won't say it again."
Hermione watches the standoff, tense as Raven stares at her aunt, before clicking her tongue. She steps back the tension evaporating as she turns swiftly and storms towards the exit. Slightly relieved Hermione watches the witch disappear still sipping her drink, at least it means she will not be making any more mistakes tonight.
A hand swipes the goblet out of her hands making her jump as the goblet clatters against the floor bouncing along the stone.
"It's fucking spiked." Black hisses with anger.
"I know." Hermione answers flustered.
"Of course you do," Is the harsh whisper. "Enjoy your alcohol driven stupor."
With those words, Black vanishes into the darkness disappearing from view leaving a very flustered Hermione behind. Confused she stares after the witch, slight anger building inside. Who is Black to tell her whom she can or cannot see? What right does the witch have to judge her? For the last six years she made Hermione's life hell, all of a sudden she cares. No Hermione will not stand for it.
Stumbling forward she heads for the stairs; perhaps she should charm a suit of armour to stalk Professor Black. She chuckles at the thought stumbling through the school. Considers the idea in detail, planning the action down to the last dot. She pauses atop the stairs looking towards the Gryffindor Common room before considering going to give the witch a piece of her mind.
She heads to the professor's quarters stumbling over her feet she follows the corridor to the quarters preparing herself for a fight. Her hand pounds the wood, demanding entrance she creates a rhythm knock, knock, knocking, knock, knock… knocking. The door swings open Professor Black staring at her in annoyance.
"What are you doing?" She demands folding her arms.
"You have no right to cock block me." Hermione splutters earning a surprised look form her Professor. "I mean it's bad enough I have to watch everyone else hump like freaking bunnies."
"You're drunk." Black points out with a sigh.
"That's a very cynical view; I like to think I am indulging the lesser side of life."
"A what?"
"No idea, sounded good though." Hermione chuckles playing with her hair and staring off into the distance.
"Professor Black?" A prefect calls appearing around the corner.
"Evening Collins," Black replies still eyeing Hermione. "What brings you by?"
"Heard talking, is Granger okay?"
"M'fine. Why does everyone eep asking that?" Hermione hicks up.
"You heard her she's fine." Black replies with a smirk.
"You know you're just like… like…" Hermione trails off lost for words.
"I don't mind Professor I can take her back to Gryffindor." Collins insists stepping forward.
"Kettle call pot Black, that's it… Oh no, not in a racist way though, don't mean it like that." Hermione rambles.
"I think Granger is quite happy losing points for you Gryffindor's Collins." Black chuckles.
"I can tell you where to shove my points." Hermione replies.
"I don't mind honestly Professor." Collins pleads eyeing Hermione in slight worry.
"Run along Collins, I'll make sure Granger gets back."
Uncertain, Collins turns and leaves heading back the way he came. Hermione wave's goodbye to him before Black curls a hand in her robe and drags her into the room. Stumbling Hermione steadies herself on the table as Black sweeps past.
"I'm going to get you a potion and then when your sober I'm going to make you watch our interactions." Black comments pausing next to her side.
"It's a nice room," Hermione murmurs looking around the living space. "I was expecting a coffin and chains hanging from the walls if I'm honest."
"That's at one of my other houses when I'm feeling gothic along with my torture devices."
Hermione stares at the witch next to her, unsure if she is joking or not. Feeling sluggish Hermione fails to interpret the smirk sent her way; instead, she leans to the side to eye the little kitchen no bigger than a cupboard. It is like a tiny little flat, they are standing in the living room with a round and chairs and only a few feet away sits a bed.
"Didn't think you would need torture devices to make someone talk." Hermione replies earning a small smile for Black.
"True," Black concedes her dark eyes running along Hermione's body.
Shivering under the intense gaze, Hermione knows it is just Black's way of seeing if she is a potential danger. None the less, she still enjoys the gaze that lingers, her heart jumping excitedly in her chest hoping Black might do something. Do I like her like that? She will not, not after what happened with Raven.
"You really shouldn't be here." Black replies almost quietly.
"Where?" Hermione asks not following the conversation.
"In my room," Is the sigh. "I should have let Collins take you back."
"Well here now," Hermione replies noticing a tiny little trinket on the table.
Bending over she eyes the little gem, before glancing back at the witch to her side. "Can I touch it?"
"You've never asked before." Is the smart reply. "But yes you can touch."
"Don't know with you could be a potential dangerous weapon." Hermione says picking up the small little gem.
Black mutters something behind her, but Hermione is not paying attention as she plays with the little gem, the green glinting in the light before placing it back on the table. Standing back up, she spares the gem one last look before turning back to Black. Only to find the witch standing right next to her, only centimetres apart. Swallowing, she inhales Black's natural sent, making her already spinning mind twirl with confusion.
"So your parents?" Black mutters eyes darker than usual.
"I'm drunk not stupid." Hermione chuckles, holding the chair tightly behind her.
"If you say so."
"I'm not stupid." Hermione argues.
"Then what are you doing with Raven?" Is the short response.
"Nothing,"
"Didn't look like nothing."
"It has nothing to do with you what I do and don't do."
"It does actually, being a Professor and all." Black replies acid lacing her words.
"You're neither Professor of my house and you never gave a damn before." Hermione argues stepping toe to toe with the witch. "I don't see why you suddenly start caring."
"Because she is married and my niece." Black says in deliberately slowness. "She's made enough mistakes in life; don't want a student adding another."
"It's her life, what we do is up to us."
A hand curls on Hermione's shoulder, long fingers pressing against her collarbone as Black fights the anger that swells. It should scare Hermione, she really wants to be scared, except it excites her makes her heart leap with a promise of something to happen. I really need to talk to Andy about this.
"Stay away from Raven."
"Fine." Hermione answers, she'll stay away, but Raven always finds her.
"Fine?" Black repeats sceptically.
"I'm not the one chasing her." Hermione shrugs. "You want Raven to stay away, talk to Raven."
The shrug dislodges the chain around her neck, making it jingle slightly the cold metal bumping Black's thumb. Turning Black's attention from the argument to the chain around Hermione's neck.
"A gift from Raven?" Black asks.
"Not exactly." Hermione replies heart pounding. "Someone else."
She hopes Black does not ask any more questions has seen the witches response to Hermione talking to Andy before. To learn Andy gave Hermione an heirloom – well she doesn't know what it might make the witch do.
Thankfully, Black does not ask any more questions simply regards Hermione before withdrawing her hand, making Hermione sigh in relief. The relief is short lived when the hand plucks the necklace up to reveal the pendant dangling on the end. Black grows stock still, eyeing the pendant before cradling it in her hand.
"This is my sisters." Black whispers. "We were all given one at birth… I thought she threw it away."
Licking her lips, Hermione eyes the pendant, heart pounding beneath her rib cage. Her mind still swirling she really wants to sit down, she does not feel too great. Black clenches her fist around the pendant before releasing it again.
"How did you get it?" Black demands.
"Andy gave it to me." Hermione answers plucking the pendant from Black not wanting the witch to break it.
"She gave it to you?" Is the sceptical reply.
"Yeah along with a promise." Hermione answers with a smile twiddling with the pendant. "She gives me lots of things… I don't know why."
"Like what?"
"Jewellery, these bracelets were a gift." Hermione jingles the bracelets on her arm before shrugging.
"She just gives them to you?"
"It's what you do with presents." Hermione answers confused.
"What do you give her?"
"A headache." Hermione chuckles remembering all the times she has made the witch panic. "Not much I'm stone broke and well Andy never wants anything. I usually get her flowers but she always forgets to water them."
Hermione realises she's rambling, letting her tongue run wild when really all she wants is to sober up and go back to her bed. She should have stayed with Neville he would have stopped her from doing anything stupid.
"That potion?" Hermione asks, clutching the chair behind once more.
"I'll make it." Black comments strangely quiet as she heads into the kitchen.
"I'm just going to sit." Hermione replies heading to the tiniest sofa in the world.
She sits but misjudges the angle and falls on the floor instead. "I'm going to lie on the floor."
She hears Professor Black snort from the kitchen as the carpet greets with a comfortable feel she makes herself at home. Curling up on the floor, she drags a nearby blanket on top of her, inhaling the smell of Professor Black it lulls her to sleep.
~~~~~ Fractures~~~~~
A prod to her stomach wakes her, groggy she blinks awake, and a banging headache making her wince as the sun fills the room. Looking up she finds Professor Black staring at her. Oh god what did I do? Startled she sits up, realising she is on the floor in an unknown room a blanket draped over her a cushion abandoned on the floor behind her.
"Morning." Black greets with a smirk. "Sleep well?"
"Where am I?" Hermione asks looking around the room.
"My private quarters, you decided to visit last night and give me a piece of your mind. I'll show you the memories if you're inclined?"
Embarrassed she rubs her face to hide her burning cheeks. What did she say? What did she do? Professor Black is far too happy; it means she made a fool out of herself someway.
"I'll get you a potion." Black chuckles sweeping into the kitchen, opening cupboards and slamming them once more.
Wincing at each bang, Hermione groggily gets to her feet grasping a chair for support. She has not felt like this in a very long time. She clutches her stomach that aches. Feeling as though she is going to puke at any second. Her head swims, a small sweat breaking out on her neck as she braces herself for a potion.
"You going to be sick?" Black asks emerging into the room once more.
Not daring to open her mouth Hermione nods, still woozy. Like lightening, Black is guiding her to the bath room muttering threats under her breath, the pain Hermione will be in if she pukes in her room. Hermione has a second to acknowledge how nice the bathroom is before she is clutching the toilet and puking her guts up.
"Can't handle your drink Granger?" Black smirks sitting on the bath.
Groaning at the taunt, Hermione stays close to the toilet annoyed at herself for getting so drunk. It is unusual for her though, she's normally good at handling her drink, and she has drank plenty of times with Tonks. A favourite past time of theirs over the summer.
A knock at the door makes Black rise grumbling about stupid students as she goes to answer. IN between bouts of puking, Hermione hears the whispered conversation in the other room. Is that blood? She stares at her vomit wondering if it is blood or not before flushing. She pukes again as the door behind her crashes open the bickering entering the bathroom.
"She can't handle her alcohol she'll be fine." Black says standing in the doorway.
"Well if you answered when someone tries calling, you would know Bella this is not the case." Is sharp response from Andy?
"Andy?" Hermione mutters.
A cool hand presses to her forehead, as Andy makes sure her hair is tied behind her. A comforting hand rubs her back as she retches once more. Andy pulls out her wand pressing it to the back of Hermione's neck removing the sensation of the need to puke.
"I was busy." Black comments.
"Sleeping no doubt. It's poison Bella," Andy snaps passing Hermione a towel to wipe her face. "Whoever put alcohol in the punch also laced it with poison. Nearly all the contestants are ill minus a few and half of Hogwarts and several Aurors were poisoned. Now help me get her up."
Pulling Hermione to her feet Andy struggles to carry her to the door. Earning a sigh of annoyance from Professor Black who moves Andy out the way before hooking Hermione's arm around her shoulder. With no help, Black half carries half drags Hermione behind Andy. Too woozy to care about embarrassment, Hermione concentrates on walking.
"How much did you drink?" Andy asks Hermione.
"Don't know two maybe three cups."
Holding Professor Black's robes Hermione notices the few students in the halls talking to Aurors who are jotting down comments. She passes the green faces of the Weasely Twins who wave at her in acknowledgment. She knows they would never do this, only ever wanting to cause pranks but even they would not poison the school.
"You know what this means right?" Black asks half way to the hospital.
"It's happened again." Andy replies.
"Tom is going to be furious."
"We'll catch who did this." Andy answers helping Hermione up the stairs. "How you feeling?"
"Like death." Hermione answers.
"Silly question really."
They reach the hospital where Madam Pomfrey rushes out to greet them. Hermione swallows at the amount of students on beds; she has never seen the school this way before. They have created new beds that line the corridor for all the students.
"Place her on here."
Between the two of them, Professor Black and Andy manage to lie her on the bed. Grateful for the comfort Hermione curls up into a ball as Andy drapes a blanket over her. Grasping Andy's hand, Hermione tugs the witch a little closer not wanting to raise her voice.
"Neville?" She asks.
"He's fine; he didn't drink much sitting with Luna at the moment. Rest Hermione you'll be fine soon."
She does not argue merely let sleep claim her.
~~~~~Fractures~~~~~
Despite the rough start, it does not take long for Hermione to heal and get better, Pomfrey believes it has something to do with her emptying her own stomach and ridding the poison from her system. Still though they give her the antidote to take late in the afternoon. She recovers quicker than most do; those who fell into a deep sleep were force fed the potion. Luna remains in the hospital with Neville by her side until she is well enough to leave.
With cramps Hermione settles in the great hall aware of the many students missing, she knows this will inspire a great investigation. She wonders who they will put a head of the investigation.
Harry and Ron were also poisoned, Harry fairing worst the Ron, who she suspects was too busy kissing Lavender to drink too much. They discharged Harry in the evening not long after Lily paid him a visit, giving Hermione a hug in passing. Not long after Harry, they discharged Luna although not quite her chirpy self she was up and walking once more.
In truth, the whole ordeal scared Hermione. Makes her question who is desperate enough to poison nearly everyone in the school? That is when the news came that one student did not wake up, one of the contestants from America died. An odd hush crept along the school that night, as Hermione and Neville sat side by side in silence.
From a window, Hermione watched the American team break down at the news. The next day a two-minute silence followed the death, a partygoer who drank too much. Luna stayed close to Neville all day, not wanting to leave his side. Harry sat with Hermione most the day, a part of her wonders why, but the other part acknowledges Harry as a brother.
They both watched as Ron and Lavender had an argument on the same day, each one storming off in another direction. The next level of the Championships is nearly due so Hermione nudged Harry to go see if Ron was okay. She could no longer comfort her old friend and even if she could, she did not want to, not anymore.
Tonks found her that day hugging her before carrying on with her job. The Auror presence increased with the poisoning. A small part of Hermione wonders if the intruder had anything to do with it. Was he just a distraction? Everyone knew someone spiked the punch; did the Intruder become a distraction to take everyone's mind of the punch?
"Hermione." Someone calls snatching Hermione from her thoughts.
"Hey Cho." Hermione greets.
"Professor Black wants you."
"What for?" Hermione asks setting her book down.
"She didn't say. She's in her classroom, I wouldn't keep her waiting." With those words, Cho walks away.
Curious, Hermione collects her belongings before heading off in the direction of the classroom. Taking the steps, two at a time she wonders what Professor Black could possibly want. Pausing outside the classroom, Hermione takes a breath before knocking. Apprehension crawling along her spine, a bad feeling growing in her gut.
"Enter." Professor Black calls.
Pushing the door open, Hermione enters the room Professor Black sat behind her desk with piles of paperwork, a single chair sitting in front of the desk.
"Shut the door." Black orders not looking up.
Swallowing, Hermione closes the door behind her before walking towards the table. Black points to the single chair in front of silently ordering Hermione to take a seat. Settling into the wooden chair, Hermione reorganises her robe waiting for Black to speak.
"You're looking well." Black says after a few minutes of silence.
"Erm thank you."
"Do you feel better?" Black asks lifting her head to look at Hermione.
"Yes?"
"It's a simple question, yes or no."
"Then yes." Hermione answers unnerved by the witch. "What's this about?"
"As you are aware someone poisoned the school and the contestants. Now this leaves us with several ideas, there is someone madly in love with a contestant that why want the best for them and decided to help by poisoning the school. This is unlikely scenario. We have a possible serial killer. Again unlikely. Or a contestant tried to take out all the other contestants so they could win."
"Okay." Hermione replies unsure where this is going.
"Do you have any suspicions?" Black asks folding her hands together.
"No." Hermione answers truthfully.
"None at all?" Black replies.
"No, no one. Professor why…"
"Before the dance where were you?" Black asks interrupting.
"Getting ready."
"Who with?"
"Ginny was helping me get ready for the dance."
"Anyone collaborate this?" Black continues jotting everything down.
"Neville, Tonks and Luna we were all a good hour."
"After that?"
"I was at the dance; I spoke to you at the dance." Hermione protests.
"You disappeared during the dance for twenty minutes, people remember seeing you leave. Why is that?"
"Am I… Am I a suspect?" Hermione demands.
"Answer the question."
"No not until you tell me what the hell this is about." Hermione argues.
"Truth is Granger; you have a lot to gain by ridding the competition. You have the means to access the punch, you admitted yourself that you knew it was spiked. Drank enough to make yourself look ill then you made sure you were out the way in my room when the school broke out in worry. When you woke up you were sick to rid the poison from your body, it's all a bit suspicious."
"So you think I intentionally poisoned the school?" Hermione scoffs in disbelief. "I didn't do anything."
"Then answer the questions."
God she was so wrong, she actually believed for a moment that Professor Black gave a damn. Actually cared somewhat about her. That the last six years was just them getting used to each other. She was so wrong; to be accused of something this atrocious crime, Black truly did not know anything about her. She could be just doing her job, has to ask everyone… However, no one else from Gryffindor has seen the witch. Only me. Why me?
"Why is it assumed that I need to poison people to win?" Hermione demands agitated.
"Everyone knows you won't make it past the next round." Black replies with a chuckle. "You're the only one with a motive."
She feels like crying, she actually thought Black might have changed perception of her after their little battle. Nevertheless, she was wrong, she let down some of her defences let the witch close only for Black to stab her in the heart. She really wants to cry. She fights the urge anger boiling under the surface and frustration. What did her blood status have to do with anything?
"I didn't do it." Hermione protests her voice cracking a little. "I don't intend to win."
"You're a champion though."
"No I'm not."
"You have Tonks training you, my sister, Lupin and Neville admitted aloud he doesn't want to win… So that leaves you little miss Champion."
"I'm not a sodding champion." Hermione spits jumping to her feet.
"Sit down."
"No," Hermione shakes her head in disbelief. "I won't sit here and listen to slander."
"Granger you have the means, the knowledge…"
"I also have a heart." Hermione interrupts. "How do I know you didn't do it?"
"Excuse me?" Black growls rising to her feet.
"Why not Professor, you have the knowledge the means and the connections. In addition, your own little nephew who is champion and don't deny it, everyone knows it was fixed for Draco to get entrance. I know his a champion, seen it with my own eyes."
"You have ten seconds to withdraw that accusation…"
"Or what? You'll try to beat me in a duel?" Hermione demands vibrating with hurt. "We know how that will work out."
"Granger you are treading a very thin line." Black hisses.
"Fine if you must know, when I wasn't with Fleur or Neville I was with Raven. Ask your niece I'm sure she'll collaborate my story."
"Did she get you anything too?" Black snaps angry.
"What?" Hermione asks taking a step back.
"Well since my sister buys her affection of you, I'm wondering if you ask the same of my niece."
Stunned, Hermione stares at the witch in confusion, removing the hair out of eyes she feel the necklace bump her chest. Andy's heirloom. She clutches the necklace through her robe, Black's eyes darting to the motion before looking back up.
"You think…" She trails off in disgust.
"I think nothing, I know. Seen it all before Granger. Championships do funny things to people, shows there true intentions."
Swallowing, Hermione shakes her head hiding her face from the witch as a single tear falls. Black has no idea, she really has no idea what or who Hermione is. Her heart breaks slightly; she will never be able to trust the witch after this. Pulling the necklace from around her neck, Hermione stares at the heirloom.
"She gave me this as a promise… A promise that I would hand it back after the championships is finished. That I would personally put it in her hand. I thought she was being foolish, over exaggerating the games. She gave it to me before the first Level. After that I kept it safe, 'cause I knew that I might not be able to keep the promise."
Removing the necklace from around her neck Hermione meets her Professor's eyes. She feels nothing – just numb, licking her lips she eyes the necklace once more.
"I know I'm not meant to leave the next round." Hermione answers staring at the pendant. "But just because I'm a mudblood in your eyes doesn't mean I will result to cheating."
Black leans forward on the desk staring at Hermione in unrestrained fury, angry with Hermione for calling her out. The door opens behind them stopping Black from screaming the place down. Hermione drops the pendant on the table, on top of the notes from their meeting the small necklace making a rather loud thump.
"Give that to Andy," Hermione whispers as students take their seats. "I look forward to what has been arranged to knock me out."
"Granger." Black hisses, eyeing the rest of her classmates.
This is her class, but she will not stay today, not after this. "I'm sorry Professor I don't feel so well."
With those words, Hermione turns away, ignoring Professor Black as she repeats her name. She does not make eye contact with any of her classmates, in fear of not being able to keep her tears from falling if she does.
"Longbottom sit down." Black orders. "Longbottom!"
Neville follows her out the class shutting the door on Professor Black. Hermione barely makes it down a few corridors before collapsing against a wall, Neville wrapping his arms around her she cries. Deep sobs into his chest she would never do something like that.
"It's alright." Neville whispers rocking her. "I have sweets."
She laughs into his robe, glad that she has Neville to rely on. "Also detention as well."
"Most likely."
~~~~~ Fractures ~~~~~
"Welcome to the fourth level," Riddle's voice rings out above them.
Nervous Hermione rolls her shoulders not fully prepared for the level. She goes to touch her necklace only to realise it is still no there. She has not spoken to Professor Black in three days, her homework is overdue for certain things but she feels no motivation to do them. She wants nothing to do with Professor Black nothing at all.
Snape is with them preparing them for the level, she told him what happened, and he was less than impressed with either her or Professor Black. Whether or not Snape has spoken to Professor Black remains a mystery, however, there was a rumour that the pair was caught arguing outside a classroom only yesterday.
Nothing has come of the investigation into the poisoning, Hermione suspects it is still ongoing but doubts they will find anyone guilty. The more interesting news broke out that Ron and Lavender have broken up. It always amazed Hermione how trivial gossip always excited the masses more than real news.
Snape pats her back before leaving; she braces herself for the level. No apparating again in this level makes her wonder what they will be facing now. The door lifts up, the crowd cheering as they enter the arena.
"All thirty one contestants are in the arena today, you aim today is…"
She swallows; she is going to die to day.
A/n: Alright guys I have edited this, I was just checking it but because I've been reading and writing this for the last few hours it's all just blurred into one big thing. Any mistakes I'll come back around with fresh eyes to fix it. Sorry again for the late update hopefully back on track next week. Also apologies for the angst, I mean I gave you Bellamione and just ripped it all away... It's going to get worse before it gets better. So I was thinking how many chapters will this hit and I'm going to guess between 40 - 50 chapters give or take... Then again I might go over again haha. Till next time when I'm a bit more with it. Now if you excuse me I have to go clean ferrets. Till next time.