"Hermione?"
The voice made Hermione start. She glanced at her watch and gave a yelp. She only had ten minutes until they needed to leave for her mother's birthday party! She'd overslept! She scrambled up and grabbed her wand. This was an emergency. She was of age now, so she could do it. She flicked her wand quickly and ended up in a gorgeous blue dress, with gold round the edge. She then arranged her hair up into a simple plat at the back of her head. There was a knock on the door and Mark Granger stuck his head round.
"Are you ok, Hermione? You've been sleeping a lot lately."
"I'm fine dad, just tired. Is mum already there?"
"Yes, she doesn't suspect anything.
A few days ago, Mark and Hermione had organized a huge party for Susan Granger; it was her fortieth birthday on July third. They'd ordered a limo to take her to a posh restaurant where all their friends would be waiting. Hermione and Mark would come in last with her big present. Susan Granger had always wanted a motorbike. So they were going to ride it to the restaurant. Hermione scrambled to her feet. She made sure the bruises on her face were covered with as much makeup as possible. As she followed Mark downstairs, she remembered how much pain she'd put herself through a few hours before and all because of, him? Could she really be so desperate for him? This whole thing was mad.
She was determined to push him as far to the back of her mind as possible, because she had a party to go too and he wasn't going to wreck it! Not if she could help it! She didn't even have a clue what she was feeling. Was she missing him? Now that was crazy! Wasn't it? She hated him with a passion. Why on earth would she suddenly start missing him? She'd been having these feelings ever since the end of last year. A desperate longing for him, wanting him to hold her, love her. But why? He was her enemy after all. He hated her just as much as she hated him. Right?
So why then did she constantly want to suffer because he wasn't with her? Why was she subjecting herself to all this pain, torture, whatever? All this agony. Was it all for him? She knew she'd often yelled out his name when the pain was at its worst, begging him to help her. But of course, he never came. How could he? Why would he? She only hoped her parents hadn't heard anything. She'd placed silencing charms on her room most of the time, but what if occasionally she'd forgotten due to panic and grief? She knew she needed him, longed for him, but why? Why was the longing so bad that she was forced to suffer physical pain, at her own hand? She was so miserable, so sad, and so alone without him. She was torturing herself out of grief and longing for the man she couldn't have. Mark gently touched her shoulder, bringing her out of her thoughts.
"Are you ok, dear?"
"Yeah dad, just thinking."
They walked out the front door and mounted what was soon to be Susan Grangers knew motorbike. Thankfully, Mark didn't push the subject, so they were able to ride to the restaurant, leaving Hermione to think about him in peace. Him. The man she could not keep her mind off for 1 second. The man she longed for was pretty sure by now she was in love with. But how, why? How had this all happened, and so quickly? She dreaded to think what he'd say if he ever found out how she felt. She'd probably instantly be killed. Or worse tortured to death. At his hand. That thought did make her shiver.
They reached the restaurant a few minutes later, where the party was in full swing. Mark had dressed in his best suit and tie. When they got off the bike, Hermione glanced at her dad.
"Do I look ok?"
"You look lovely, mum will love it. You made that dress with your wand, right?"
Hermione managed a small smile. "Yes dad, I'm of age now in the wizarding world, so I'm allowed by wizard law. I wish I hadn't slept the evening away though, could have done with that to get ready."
"Don't worry, you look gorgeous."
The evening was nice. Susan was thrilled with her motorbike and insisted on riding it home. She hadn't drunk anything when she said it and refused to have a drink when offered one by her friends. She wanted to be perfectly sober for the ride. The same could not be said for Hermione, however. She was feeling so down and depressed, that she drank herself stupid. She was so smashed by the end of the night; she couldn't even walk. Mark had to carry her to his car which their next door neighbour had come in.
"Is everything ok with your daughter, Mark? It's not like her to be this gone, is something wrong?"
"I don't know, she's not been herself, she's been sleeping a lot, so I don't know."
"Are you going to ask her?"
"Yes, just before she leaves for her work once more, I am."
"Good idea."
The Grangers had told their friends that Hermione worked a long way away as a banker in another country. They weren't ashamed of her powers; Hermione just did not want too many people knowing. The rest of the summer dragged by as almost a blur for Hermione. She was constantly thinking about him and would constantly have to subject herself to pain. She was glad the Ministry couldn't trace the spells she'd used on herself, because some of them were pretty nasty. She would hear herself yelling his name, begging for his help, but little good that did. She was not looking forward to seeing him again. If she so much as heard his voice, she was sure she'd go crazy. Her parents had tried to gently ask her if anything was wrong, but Hermione had said no. The last thing she needed was her parents to worry, when she was away. That wasn't fair on them; they were innocent Muggles, after all. Hermione did not want to tell them that she thought she was captive under some kind of Love Potion or Curse. That would be just wrong. She wasn't exactly sure when the whole thing had started, but she thought it could have been the train journey home on the last day of term.
"Hermione?"
Hermione turned in her seat to face the door. Harry and Ginny were too busy kissing to notice and Ron was eating loads of chocolate frogs. Pansy Parkinson was standing there.
"What, Pansy?"
"Think you may have dropped this," Pansy handed Hermione back her bottle of water.
"Oh, thanks yes I did." Hermione took the bottle. She'd been carrying it on top of a load of books, and had dropped it, but it had rolled away, so she couldn't grab it.
Pansy left quickly; Hermione could not see her expression. Hermione was thirsty so she quickly drank the water down. It didn't taste any different, but she was almost certain that just as she'd finished the bottle, the first feelings for him had entered her heart.
Towards the end of the holidays, a few of Hermione's friends from when she'd been in Muggle Primary school came over and took her out clubbing. Hermione couldn't enjoy herself, even though she tried. She couldn't dance with another man without thinking of, him. This is stupid, she told herself sternly.
You're not even in love with him, you hate him in fact, so just let him go! But this was proving a lot easier said than done.
"What is it, Hermione?" Michael Prate asked.
"Nothing, I'm just a little pre-occupied right about now."
"We've noticed you haven't been yourself all night. What is it?" Hermione's other friends Anna, Karl and Emma looked up.
"Nothing, just thinking."
"About a boy?" Emma burst out excitedly. Hermione rolled her eyes. Typical Emma. Even in primary school she'd been the same.
"I guess you could say that, yeah. But I'd rather not talk about him."
"Oxo, who is it, someone from school?"
These 4 people she was sitting with now were the only Muggles besides her parents, who knew the truth about Hermione being a witch and attending Hogwarts.
"Yeah, kind of. Hey, would you guys mind if we dropped the subject?"
Emma sighed. "OK Hermione, but we will get the truth eventually!"
Hermione sighed inwardly. Knowing Emma, she would try everything possible to find out more.
Two days later, it was time for Hermione to return to Hogwarts. A week ago, she'd received her book list, along with the Head Girl's badge. She didn't know whether to be excited or worried about this. She sincerely hoped a certain young man was not Head Boy! If he was, Hermione didn't know what she'd do. Susan and Mark dropped her off and Hermione ran straight through on to platform nine and three quarters. There, she was thrilled to see her three best friends. Harry, Ron and Ginny.
"Hey, Hermione!" Ginny ran forward and hugged her friend tight. "We were hoping you'd come to stay with us this summer, Harry did, why couldn't you?"
"Well, I had my mum's birthday party and it was quite a busy holiday all round. Surely you got my owls?"
"Yeah course we did. Don't worry Hermione; I'm not mad at you, just curious."
Hermione heaved an inward sigh of relief. Ginny was not mad at her? That was definitely a good thing! She was going to need Ginny a lot this year, she just had that feeling. Harry and Ron both hugged her too.
"Great to see you, Hermione," Harry said quietly.
"How are you keeping, Harry?"
"Not bad, scar still gives me a bit of trouble now and then, but otherwise ok."
"How about you, Ron?"
"Yeah great! Fred and George have asked me if I want to have a job in their shop when this year's over! Just until I start work!"
"That's really, really cool!"
"Hey Hermione! I see your Head Girl! What a surprise!" Hermione smiled at Ginny.
"We'd better be careful," Harry smirked at Ron. "Don't want detention now do we?"
Hermione laughed.
"Shame no one could see us off this year properly, they're all working, ya know. But they all send their love to you Hermione." A few minutes later, the whistle sounded and they all boarded the train. Hermione instantly set off towards the Head's compartment. Please, she thought silently. Please Merlin, don't let it be him? Hermione swung open the compartment door. Her heart did a strange jolt. Fear, love? (Surely not!) As she stared into his icy grey eyes. Her worst fear had been realized. It was him. She'd pretty much known it would be, but that wasn't much of a comfort.
Sitting in front of her, was the man she'd been torturing herself over all summer. Suffering awful pain, because she had feelings for him she didn't even understand. Just looking at him, part of her wanted to run into his arms. But why? Something surely wasn't right. Had someone slipped her a potion? Pansy in her water bottle? She slowly took a seat across from him, constantly staring straight into his eyes. His eyes gave nothing away. She wished he'd just speak. Even if it was to insult her.
It was Draco Malfoy.
The living room of Malfoy Manner was dark, cold. The hooded figures gathered against the wall were completely silent. A few seconds later, the door opened and he entered. He swept over to stand by the fire place and instantly, the first hooded figure bent to kiss his robes.
"Master, Master," he murmured.
The other hooded figures followed suit. There were only four of them. The Dark Lord turned to face them.
"Welcome, Death Eaters. Lucius, I thank you for your hospitality."
"Anything for you, my Lord," came Lucius Malfoy's voice from behind his mask, as he bowed deeply.
"You know why I have called you four here, Lucius, it concerns your son rather a lot."
"Yes, my Lord."
"You may remove your masks," said Voldemort softly, as he removed his own.
Bellatrix Lestrange, Severus Snape, Narcissa Malfoy, and Lucius Malfoy all removed theirs. Voldemort looked at them all, sneering.
"Well, you all know already what I have done, but I will recap for you. Isn't it a shame that Pansy Parkinson cannot fight the imperious curse? She could have saved that filthy Mud Blood's life. Lucius, this will test how faithful your son is to me. The Mud Blood will have started to feel love and affection for your son as soon as she drank her water that day. Such a shame she dropped it. Lucius, if your son succeeds in killing her himself, or bringing her to me, that will prove how faithful he is to me. Or, alternatively, he could leave Hogwarts entirely and come straight to me. That would be even worse for her in a way. Bella, explain why."
"The Love Inducing Curse can only be cured completely through the act of marriage. The besotted one must be married to their beloved, for the curse to completely break."
"Right," hissed Voldemort.
"There is absolutely no way my son would ever even consider kissing a Mud Blood, let alone marrying one!" Lucius Malfoy snarled.
"Exactly my point, Lucius. Mr. Malfoy is way more noble than that, he surely would not stoop that low. Of course, there are smaller things like a kiss which would quell the curse for a short while, but not for long. The one under it would soon crave for another kiss or embrace, the ultimate thing to break it is marriage, which will not happen! So, if Mr. Malfoy left her and Hogwarts to come to me, she'd probably kill herself out of longing. This curse has no known cure but marriage. I must say, it would be quite entertaining to watch her suicide." They all laughed heartily.
"Does my son need to know about this?" Asked Lucius.
"Oh absolutely. You will send him an owl this very day, where he is currently getting his books, I believe?"
"Yes, my Lord."
"Then you will send an owl immediately to his exact location, informing him of our plans. Tell him, however that if he even thinks of failing or makes any loving move towards that Mud Blood, he will be killed in a very painful way! Understand? By me!"
"I completely understand, my Lord and I assure you, my son would do nothing of the sort."
"He'd better hope not, it's more than his life's worth!" Snarled Voldemort.
"What do you want my son to do, Master?"
"Tell him that's up to him. He can either kill the Mud Blood himself, after teasing her a little, or he can bring her to me." An evil smile suddenly crossed Voldemort's lips. "On second thoughts, Lucius, your son is a very charming young man to the women, as are you, Lucius. I would actually like it if Mr. Malfoy teased the Mud Blood some. Maybe the odd kiss here and there, just to make her crave him more. Then she will do herself some harm, which I will greatly enjoy hearing about. If he does kiss her or whatever he chooses, tell him he will be honoured highly for his actions. I will make his kissing a Mud Blood very worthwhile! Maybe he'll even have some fun with her in the end. Never the less, I'll make it worth his time."
"Yes, Master."
"Do not fail me Lucius, write exactly what I have told you, or you will be punished. You may even be punished if young Mr. Malfoy fails, so be warned."
"Yes, Master."
"I want you to write the letter here and now, so I may read it and then you may send it after I approve."
"Of course, Master."
Voldemort looked back at his Death Eaters, still sneering. "Of course, this isn't the only motive I have. Mr. Malfoy's faithfulness. There is also Dumbledore's stupid theory that love is the strongest and most powerful magic there is. I am using this to crush that flat! Young Mr. Malfoy would never ever fall for a Mud Blood, so that ruins that idea!"
The Death Eaters laughed. Voldemort handed Lucius a piece of parchment. Lucius began to write, watched closely by Voldemort.
Draco,
You need to read this carefully and take in every word on this parchment. I'm sure you know a little about the Love Inducing Curse. The curse that when placed either through a potion or a wand, can cause a person to feel unexplainable love for another. Draco, this is what has happened in your case. But do not worry son, this is for the Dark Lord's glory and for him to test your loyalty. The Mud Blood, Hermione Granger, has been placed under this curse by means of a potion from a water bottle she drank from. Your faithful girlfriend Pansy Parkinson gave it to her, while under the Imperious from the Dark Lord himself. As if circumstances couldn't be better for this, you and Miss Granger are Head Boy and Head Girl this year. Use this to your advantage, Draco. You know what I mean. The Dark Lord will honour you greatly if you succeed. What you do with the Mud Blood in the end, is completely your choice. The Dark Lord gives you free reign with her, as long as she ends up dead. You know how close she is to Potter, too. So maybe even try and do something to capture him and get him to the Dark Lord, also. He'll be so proud of you Draco if you pull this off, as will I. You may be revolted at the idea of even touching a Mud Blood, let alone kissing her or even having sex with her, but Draco, this may be just what we need to make her so desperate for you, she kills herself. At least then you won't have to do too much. The Dark Lord knows how horrible this prospect is for you, but believe me, if you succeed, he'll make it worth it!
Hang on to Pansy Draco; don't let her go, fill her in on this if you need to. I want you two married at the end of your time at Hogwarts. She is faithful to the cause. It's just a shag, Draco. Remember that. Use her, do whatever you need to do, if you can make her so desperate for you she kills herself painfully, so much the better! Don't disappoint the Dark Lord, son. Nor me. Your future depends on this.
Needless to say, if you do fail, you also will die. Your life depends on this! Use her well,
Your father, Lucius Malfoy.
Voldemort laughed heartily as he finished reading. "Brilliant, Lucius. Get that sent straight away!"
"Yes, Master."
As Malfoy disappeared to send the letter, Snape sneered from beside the Fire place. He then said something so softly, that no one heard it.
"I need to warn Miss Granger., quickly.
Back on the Hogwarts Express, Hermione pulled out a book from her trunk, not caring which one it was, just knowing she had to look away from him or she'd go crazy. She soon realized she was attempting to read Hogwarts a History.
However, it was no use. She'd get so far, and then look straight up into his cold grey eyes. They carried no warmth and his face gave nothing away. A few minutes later, there was a knock on the door and the Prefects entered. Hermione saw with a jolt, that Ginny had replaced her as Gryffindor Prefect alongside Ron. Pansy had replaced Malfoy as prefect from Slytherin. The Hufflepuff and Ravenclaw Prefects were the same. Hermione simply told them to take it in turns to walk the corridors and to report back at any sign of trouble. As soon as they'd left, the thing Hermione was partly afraid of, but also partly longed for, happened. Draco slid the compartment door shut and walked over to her. She was powerless to move. Did he suspect something? Know something even?
"I didn't realize you found me so attractive, Mud Blood," he sneered, taking his seat right next to her. Too close.
Hermione tried to move, but couldn't. The next thing she knew, Draco had placed an arm around her shoulders and pulled her close against him. With his other hand, he turned her head to face him. His lips were barely an inch from hers. Most of her wanted to beg him to stop. She knew what was happening to her was not right, but she couldn't. She just didn't have the power. Her whole being had gone weak at his very first words.
"Want something, Mud Blood?" He sneered and then kissed her. His lips started off lightly, but then he intensified the kiss. Soon, it was more passionate than Hermione had ever been kissed in her life. She completely sank into his control. She was powerless. He was certainly a damn good kisser; she couldn't lie about that! Draco's other arm came up around her and pinned her to him. Again, the kiss deepened.
Meanwhile, in a compartment further along the train, Harry, Ron and Ginny were talking quietly. "Did you see her face? I swear she's covered in bruises, even though she's trying to hide them. Do you think something's wrong she's not telling us?"
"I don't know, but she didn't half seem different, why couldn't she stay with us this summer? Ok it was her mum's birthday, but what about the rest of the time?"
"Maybe she's found someone. You know a Muggle guy."
Ron went slightly red at these words and glared at his sister.
"Ronald, you didn't have the nerve to say anything to her, so if she has, it's just too late for you. You should have made a move sooner."
"Well, if she has," said Harry quietly. "If he's responsible for those bruises, he'll never hear the end of it if I find him!"
"Too right!" Snarled Ron.
"Do you think we should ask her?"
"No, no way! Bad move. Not yet, leave it for a while. Plus, if anyone should ask her, it should be me. I'm a woman, so she may be more willing to talk to me. I'll see how her bruises look in a couple of days. She may have done something to herself completely as an accident. Let's not read too much into this just yet."
"Good thinking, Gin. But if she says anything that doesn't sound right, please will you let us know?"
"You don't even need to ask that one Harry, that's an obvious yes."
The three of them fell silent, just looking out of the train window. None of them had any idea how far they were from the truth, or what was happening in the Head's compartment as they spoke.
Inwardly, Draco was sneering. Stupid Mud Blood, she's just falling straight into the Dark Lord's trap. She doesn't have a clue. I will not fail him or my father; I will do as the Dark Lord asks. I will keep this up for a little longer, then release her, enjoy the effects. Lucius had sent a similar letter to Pansy, explaining the situation. Pansy had seen Draco just before he boarded the train and he had kissed her long and hard.
"Don't read anything into this, Pansy," he had said quietly. "This is only for the Dark Lord, I will never fall in love with her, and you know we are to be married at the end of this year."
Pansy had smiled and kissed him back. "For the Dark Lord, anything," she had whispered. "The only reason he put the imperious curse on me was to make sure I got it absolutely right, because I was a little unsure. He spoke to me gently all the way through, guiding me step by step, so I didn't falter."
A few seconds later, Draco released the kiss. They were both breathing heavily. Hermione's heart was pounding. He had kissed her! She was desperate for it again already! Draco released her and walked back to his seat across from her. Hermione almost stood up to follow him, but stopped herself. She spent the rest of the journey staring out of the window, lost in thought. Something definitely wasn't right. Why on earth was she feeling this towards Draco and why so strongly? She was starting to feel a little scared. She was sure he was a Death Eater, or very soon to become one, so she should not feel for him! He'd called her a Mud Blood, but then why had he kissed her? This was seriously crazy and she didn't like it one bit!
When they arrived at Hogwarts, the Prefects knocked on the Head's compartment to ask what they should do next. "Supervise everyone off the train and to the coaches. Make sure the first years get to Hagrid ok," said Hermione. The Prefects nodded and left. Hermione followed Draco out of the compartment and to where the coaches were waiting. Quickly, she sped off to sit with Ron, Harry and Ginny.
"Don't tell me," said Harry as soon as the door was shut. "Malfoy's Head Boy?"
"Yes," said Hermione quietly, looking down at her feet. The other three knew something was wrong but decided for now, to keep quiet.
After the sorting had taken place and Dumbledore had made his start of term speech, the feast began. Ginny, Harry and Ron all noticed that for the first time ever, Hermione had not paid Dumbledore the slightest bit of attention and she was Head Girl! Her eyes had been fixed on the Slytherin table. Looking straight at Draco Malfoy! Harry tried nudging her a few times, but it was no use. Her gaze didn't flinch once. After the feast, during which Hermione didn't eat a thing, in spite of Harry, Ron and Ginny's best efforts, the Prefects supervised the first years to their dorm. Dumbledore approached Hermione and Draco after nearly everyone else had left.
"Follow me Mr. Malfoy and Miss Granger, I will show you to your private Quarters."
They followed Dumbledore out of the great hall and through a door concealed in the wall.
They turned down a small corridor to the left and there were their Quarters. A picture of a very old wizard and witch side by side, captioned, "first ever Head Boy of Hogwarts, Brenda Smart, First ever Head Girl of Hogwarts."
"United," Dumbledore said to the portrait and it swung in to admit them.
The Head's private Quarters were a mixture of Gryffindor and Slytherin colours. They were in a well-furnished common room with a crackling fire. Through a door were three more doors. One on the left with D.M. engraved on it, with a picture of a snake. The one to the right, H.G. with a lion's picture. In the middle of the two, was a huge bathroom with a bath the size of two swimming pools.
"Please choose a password for your rooms and keep it to yourselves. The password for the main entrance as you just heard is united. But please pick a private password. Dumbledore plugged Hermione's ears as Draco picked his, then the other way around. Both of the pictures nodded.
"If you need anything, do not hesitate to find me. You have set the prefects their rounds, I trust?"
"Yes, Sir, we decided them on the train."
"Thank you, Miss Granger. I will let you know when the first Head meeting is, it will be within the next week. For now, good night to you both." Dumbledore left and the portrait swung shut.
Hermione was half dreading, half longing for what she knew was about to happen. Sure enough, the portrait had no sooner closed, when Draco grabbed her arm and led her straight to the couch. Hermione was powerless, as Draco pushed her down, took his seat beside her and took her in his arms. The next few minutes were a blur to Hermione, as she felt Draco's kisses. She responded, but still her mind and heart were screaming, why the hell am I doing this! Draco's kisses even seemed empty of all tenderness and emotion. Almost as if he were simply doing what was required of him. Once, Hermione tried to pull back, but couldn't. How long would it be, Hermione wondered before he started going further? Did she want that? No! She didn't want any of this! Did she? No way! Was she under some kind of spell? Potion? Charm? She had no idea. All she knew was that this whole thing was crazy and not right.
Thankfully, a few minutes later there was a knock on the portrait. Draco released Hermione and she stood up to answer it.
"Miss Head Girl?" It was a very nervous looking house elf. Hermione smiled gently at the young Elf. "Miss Head Girl, Professor Dumbledore wants to see you in his office. Just you."
"Thank you," said Hermione kindly.
"No problem, Miss Head Girl." The Elf scuttled away, as Hermione headed for the Head Master's office.
When she reached the moving staircase, she realized the gargoyle was already aside. She knew why. Because she didn't know the password. She rode the stairs quickly, wondering what Dumbledore could want with her so soon. When she reached the top, she knocked.
"Come in," said Dumbledore, his voice was the soberest Hermione had ever heard it.
Hermione quietly pushed open the door. Dumbledore was seated behind his desk. There was no twinkle in his eyes, no kind smile on his face what so ever.
"Come in, Miss Granger."
Hermione walked slowly in and took the seat beside Dumbledore's desk, as the door clicked shut.
"I just received this and I'm sure it's for you."
Dumbledore pulled open a draw and handed Hermione an old book. Advanced dark potions, curses, spells. Hermione stared at the Head, her heart sinking fast.
"Look at the front cover," Dumbledore said softly.
"Hermione looked and saw the following scratched on it, probably with a quill.
H.G. T2P fifty. A.
S.S.
Hermione stared at it a few times, and then back at Dumbledore.
"I am guessing that the H.G. could stand for either Head Girl, or Hermione Granger. Both of which apply to you. Turn to page fifty, please read it when you are alone." S.S."
Hermione could only think of one person with those initials. Professor Snape. Dumbledore then asked Hermione the question he'd only asked two other wizards.
"I must ask you Hermione, whether there is anything you'd like to tell me?"
Hermione stared into Dumbledore's bright blue eyes; his gaze was kind and gentle.
"No, Sir. There isn't anything."
"Ok, Miss Granger. But I am here. If you need me, don't think twice. Do you understand?"
"Yes, Sir. Thank you."
Hermione left the office at top speed. She headed straight back to her Quarters. For some reason, she had a very strong feeling that the one person, who must not see this book, was Draco Malfoy. She didn't know why, but she was sure of it. Mind you, she wasn't sure she trusted any of her thoughts and feelings lately. They seemed to have gone right out the window. Hermione pulled open the entrance and headed fast for her room.
"Purity," she whispered to her lion and her door swung open. She dashed inside and locked it with a charm. Even though she had the password, she was taking no chances. Quickly she walked over to her bed. She didn't bother undressing. She had a very strong suspicion that she would not get much sleep tonight, after seeing what P. fifty. Had to say.
The Love Inducing Curse.
This chapter of the book explains in a lot of detail, all about the dark and potentially dangerous spell or potion, known as the Love Inducing Curse. This chapter is divided into sections. Each section title is given as a question, followed by the answer. This is why we've written it in this fashion. Meaning question and answer. If you are reading this particular book, it means you know nothing what so ever about this curse and are starting from scratch, which is a good thing! There are more advanced books about this curse, but this book gives you the basics.
We sincerely hope you are only reading this for study purposes, as it's not at all pleasant. You have been warned.
1. What is the Love Inducing Curse?
In a few simple words to begin with, the Love Inducing Curse is a spell, or potion that literally Induces love from one person towards another. It is a very powerful and potentially dangerous spell, or potion.
2. Where did it come from?
The Love Inducing Curse was invented in the 19th century, by clearly a Dark wizard or witch. From then until this day, advanced Healers at St. Mungo's hospital for magical maladies and injuries, are yet to discover its true origin. Although extensive research is under way around the clock.
3. Why spell, or Potion?
This particular curse can be given to the intended target in either one of those 2 ways. The recipe for the potion liquid form of it is very hard and complicated.
It is not published in any books at all, as a result, the only ones who will know it, are accomplished Dark wizards. The same is true of the spell, no books hold the incantation.
4. What are the effects?
If someone is under this curse, they will feel longing for the one the curse has made them fall in love with. This is not a love that can be lifted. It is not a pretend form of love only caused by the curse. Initially, it is. However, once the love has hit, it is true. The curse has caused true love from the victim, towards their intended lover. The victim will feel desperate for his/her lover all the time and if they cannot be reached, the victim will resort to physical self-harm. The victim will often call out their lover's name, begging for their assistance. This rarely ever happens, however, as the wizard casting such a dark piece of magic, will not feel anything about someone else's fate and is often more than happy to let them die.
5. What should someone do if they feel they may be under it?
The first and most important thing to do is not to panic. It may not be the curse at all, but they may have fallen in love of their own free will. It is vital the victim remains calm. The second thing to do is to go straight to St. Mungo's and request the help of a Healer from the ward spell damage. The Healer will run a series of advanced tests on the person who feels threatened by this curse and the Healer will be able to tell them straight away, whether they are in danger, or not and if so, who their Controller is.
6. What if the answer is yes?
Very unfortunately, if the answer is yes, the victim is in very serious trouble.
7. This sounds almost light, why is it so dark and dangerous?
The only time a Love Inducing Curse would be used, is for dark reasons alone. It may be someone is being used for information by the dark side with its use, or a Dark witch or wizard simply looking for some sexual stimulant. In the past, this curse has been used as a joke by witches and wizards, trying to get someone to fall for them who they truly care about to satisfy their heart's desire, but that hardly ever happens these days. If the curse is in use, it is very likely it's at a Dark witch or wizard's hand.
8. Is there a cure?
As stated in brief before, if the answer is yes to a person being under this curse, they are in very serious trouble. This is because; there is still no cure for this curse. If any information had been found, the words in this book would magically change to include it. By no cure, this means there is no spell or potion that can cure it. There are a few things that will quell the curse on a temporary bases, but we're talking a matter of hours, maybe minutes.
The first one is a kiss to the victim from the caster, or the person intended to be the victim's controller. The person controlling the victim, may not necessarily have cast the spell, or given the potion to the victim.
This is the very first step. This also includes an embrace. Little, but at the same time, huge acts of love and tenderness towards the victim from the controller. The second step is much more serious. In some, very rare situations, the curse will be quelled for a number of years by a kiss or embrace, causing the Victim to marry and fall in true love with someone else. But that was back when the Curse was knew and much weaker. These days, that wouldn't work what so ever.
The second step is the victim giving him/herself to their controller, through the act of sexual intercourse. This could however, mean the loss of something very important to the victim. Their virginity. As stated before, it is very likely the controller would not care one bit about this loss to the Victim.
If this step takes place, it is more than likely the controller will cast a contraceptive charm over the victim, (if a female) to prevent pregnancy. If not, it is likely the controller would simply kill the mother and baby together. If the victim is a mail, the controller would probably cast the charm over herself. If not, just take the baby as her own, after killing the father.
9. Does that mean the third is marriage?
Yes. The third and final step, which would break the curse completely, is the act of marriage between victim and controller. Needless to say, a Dark witch or wizard would not wish to marry the one they've abused. At least, it's very unlikely. If the controller realizes the position and has a major change of heart, then maybe. But otherwise no way. That is the only way to dispose of the curse completely. This is very unfortunate; as the simple and very nasty truth of this is that the victim of the Love Inducing Curse will most probably die. What is worse, it will very probably be at their controller's hand.
The one they're madly in love with. Their lover will become their executioner.
10. Can anyone help the victim in any way?
Yes, they can. To close friends of a victim of this curse, it is vital they stay close and they will probably need to do a lot of listening. The victim is going to want to talk about his/her lover on a very regular bases. Their friends must hear them out. If the controller is someone the victim's friends don't like, they must keep that to themselves, or the victim will most likely snap at them. If this happens, it is vital that they are not snapped back at by their friends. The victim is going to need a lot of friendship by the end. Friends are the most important thing to the victim, in spite of them thinking the most important thing is their controller; this is not at all true. Friends are vital, as they will most likely have to organize the Victim's funeral service.
11. The victim's state of mind?
Unfortunately, this curse is now way more advance than it used to be, when it used to control everything about the victim. Now, it doesn't. This may almost sound less advanced, but don't be fooled, it's more. This is because now, the victim has a little control over part of their mind. Part of them is still them. The way they were before the curse was cast. Part of them will know something is wrong, particularly if their controller is someone they'd never normally dream of falling in love with. If a victim, for example, was reading this chapter now, part of them would be horrified at their reading, but most of them would flatly deny some of this text, especially about the most important thing in their life not being their controller. It's a constant state of war in their mind, about what is happening to them, but they're powerless to stop it.
12. Can the curse be cast by someone else, against even the controllers will?
Highly unlikely, but possible. It works the same way as Polyjuice Potion. Using a lock of the controller's hair. However, this curse works most likely till the end of the victim's life, instead of just one hour. If someone has a lock of the controller's hair without the controller knowing, then yes. It can be used against their will. In most cases however, the controller willingly gives some of their hair. If it is used totally against their will however, the controller cannot object. Once the curse is cast, it's too late. If they want to dispose of it, they'll have to hide from their victim. This will most probably cause the victim's death, as they will most probably kill themselves out of grief because of not being able to find their love. We really recommend you ignore the part about the victim over time finding another true love. The curse is now too strong for that.
13. What if the controller dies?
Ok, maybe in that situation, it's possible. Although the victim will spend months, maybe even years in mourning their controller. The one, who wanted true love from them, would have to be very very patient.
14. Can't the victim's friends get them away from their controller?
No! Bad, bad idea! The victim would most probably turn on their friends for even trying to attempt that. We're talking unforgivable here. They need to be with their controller at all times, or else they'll turn violent to others, not just themselves. Don't even try to break them apart, unless you want to risk a duel with someone who used to be a good friend, maybe even risking your death.
15. What if the victim sees the controller showing signs of love and affection towards someone else?
In this case, the victim's only option is to go and harm themselves, out of anger, or jealousy. The victim will not dare harm the controller or their love, because they will be terrified of either dying, or losing their controller's love and affection, all be it only fake. The victim will take out their feelings on themselves. Usually, through producing unbearable physical pain.
16. If the victim is soon to die, can those close to them do anything to make their last days pleasant?
As stated before, don't snap at them if their controller is mentioned continuously. Be patient, gentle and understanding. It is very likely that soon the victim will be dead, caused by either their controller, or at their own hand. Or, if the whole thing is a trap, they may be killed by the planner of the whole thing. To the Victim's friends, just stay close, show them you care and on a personal level, prepare to say your goodbyes.
As expected, Hermione did not sleep at all that night, after finishing reading the chapter on the Love Inducing Curse. The worst part was she was showing all the symptoms and effects the book had mentioned. She was sure beyond all reasonable doubt, that she was under this curse! She rows for breakfast at eight, feeling as if she'd only just gone to bed. She was terrified, but was determined not to show it. She was exceptionally glad that Draco hadn't knocked on her door last night, to continue what he'd started on the train and in the common room. She didn't think she could have taken it and she probably would have cracked. After she was dressed, she hid the book safely in her trunk and placed a disillusionment charm on it, so it looked like a potions bottle.
When she reached the great hall, she saw with a very strong feeling of sadness, that Ginny, Ron and Harry had saved her a seat. How long could she go before the truth came out? She checked herself in a little mirror she briefly conjured with her wand and saw her bruises were even worse. She tried a simple healing incantation, but it didn't do any good. She guessed that because they were due to such Dark magic, she had no chance of healing them. Last night, after she'd finished reading, she'd put herself through even more pain, because she was sure the book was describing her life. She would be dead soon.
"Hey, Hermione!" Ginny called over to her. Reluctantly, Hermione walked slowly over and settled between Ron and Ginny.
"Oh Merlin Hermione! What the hell is up with your face?" Hermione was deeply thankful they couldn't see the rest of her body. She was bruised all over and healing cuts were everywhere.
"Oh nothing," she tried to shrug. "I tripped over last night and it flipping hurt!"
Ginny nodded but didn't say anything. Neither she, Harry nor Ron believed her one little bit. Something was up, they knew it. They just needed to find a way to get her to tell them the truth. They were her friends and no matter what, they would not walk away from her. They'd agreed that the night before.
"You look like you hardly touched your pillow," Harry persisted gently.
"I'm fine, Harry!" Hermione snapped. Then, before any of them could say or do anything, she'd grabbed her bag and stormed out of the hall. The reason for this was that she was trying desperately not to cry. She reached her first class, Transfiguration, which thank Merlin, was empty. She went in, sat at one of the desks, put her head in her arms and cried. She was determined not to show any emotion in public, but Merlin she was in pain! Mental agony! Draco Malfoy's my controller! She thought desperately. If I wasn't sure of it before, I sure am now! Draco's my controller! Oh dear sweet Merlin help me! Even while she was crying out her pain, a huge part of her begged for Draco right about now. She needed her controller! Just like the book said! Hell, she was in serious trouble!
Suddenly, she felt an arm close round her shoulders. She looked up to see none other than her Controller himself! Hermione's heart was pounding fast! She was partly terrified, partly madly in love with Draco Malfoy! Again, another book symptom! Maybe she would take her life, just to get away from this!
Draco took her face in his hands. She knew he could see the bruises. He made no comment. His eyes were blank. My controller, she reminded herself.
The controller does not care about their victim and is often more than happy to let them die. Draco leant in and kissed her. His kiss was void of all emotion. Hermione wondered if she dared speak to her controller. She was past all doubt now that that was who he now was to her. Should she call him Mr. Malfoy out of respect? Hell, she feared him alright!
"Sir?"
Draco made no response, just held her against him.
"Sir, I know what's going on. I know what you've done to me, using Pansy and my water bottle. I know about the Love Inducing Curse! Please, Sir, before it gets too far, can't you please just let me go? I'll give you whatever you and your boss want; I just don't want to be controlled like this! I was never even in like with you before this curse hit, so I know what it is! I haven't told anyone else and I don't intend too. But please, let me out of this? Don't hold me captive to emotions I don't even feel, please? I'll do anything!" She was cut off as Draco cut her off with his lips.
"It's too late for that, Mud Blood," he sneered. "I have my goal; you are not going to stand in my way. You are just a piece of the equipment to help me get there," he smirked. "Don't worry, dear sweet Granger, you'll be dead soon one way or the other."
Hermione shivered. She knew he was right. She kept her eyes away from his, trying to hide the tears threatening to fall. Draco leant in and kissed her. She shivered physically at his touch.
"I know I'm good, Mud Blood. A lot of women tell me that. I will see you this evening in our Quarters; don't miss me too much, eh?" He kissed her long and hard once more. "I don't know what time, as I have business to attend too first, but stay up and wait for me, you understand?" He kissed her yet again.
"Oh and you don't need to call me Sir, seen as you'll be dead soon, when we're alone, you can call me Mr. Malfoy. Seen as I'm your controller," he smirked.
His smirk was just pure evil.
That vanished all doubt. Hermione knew she was under it; Draco had told her as much. Should she contact Dumbledore? No way! She didn't want to endanger anyone else. It wasn't fair on them.
Hermione wondered why Draco had come to find her now. Just before class. She didn't know about the owl he'd received that morning.
Draco,
The Dark Lord and I are very proud of you for your actions so far. Now, onto the bad news, well kind of, the Mud Blood will now know in full detail about the curse she is under. The Dark Lord is aware that Snape sent her that book. Snape has of course, been killed by the Dark Lord himself this evening. Don't worry about it, tell the Mud Blood straight that you are her Controller. Put all her doubts to rest, today. If you can, try and find her before class, even. Draco, the Dark Lord thinks that you have already proven that you will be faithful. He's still testing your loyalty, but he thinks you've gone far enough to earn the Dark Mark. So, if you'd like to take it this evening, meet me just inside the Forbidden Forest at eight this evening and I will take you to the Dark Lord for your Marking. Well done, Draco. I and the Dark Lord are proud of you. Keep up the good work and enjoy tonight, for you are going to be rewarded by the Dark Lord himself! See you at eight, Son.
Your father, Lucius Malfoy.
Hermione allowed her head to hit the desk and she cried all over again. Her face was bruised worse than ever from her own self harm, her lips were swollen from Draco's (her Controller's) hard kisses and she felt completely alone. There was no one she could talk to about this, no one. Suddenly, she felt an arm around her shoulders once more. She was sure Draco had come back. However, the arm seemed way too gentle. But when she raised her head, she saw that the arm around her belonged to Professor McGonagall!
"Miss Granger?" The Professor's voice was the kindest Hermione had ever heard her speak.
" sorry Professor, she sobbed, unable to restrain herself anymore. Professor McGonagall took one look at her and gasped. Her bruises were turning a nasty black. She also saw Hermione's swollen lips.
Unknown to Hermione, as soon as she'd stormed out of the hall, that was all her friends needed. Instantly, Ginny approached the staff table. Dumbledore was sitting in the centre, looking very grim indeed.
"Professor Dumbledore?"
"Yes Miss Weasley?"
"Professor, please may Harry, Ron and I talk to you briefly after breakfast?"
"Is this regarding Miss Granger?" Dumbledore asked sharply.
"Yes, Sir."
"Come to my office as soon as breakfast is over. Professor McGonagall, don't they have you first?"
"Miss Weasley has me first," squeaked tiny Professor Flitwick, "but don't worry Miss Weasley, go straight to Professor Dumbledore's office as he says."
"Tell Mr. Potter and Mr. Weasley the same," said McGonagall."
"Thank you, Professors," Ginny walked back to the Gryffindor table to tell the other two.
After their conversation with Hermione, Harry, Ron and Ginny suddenly discovered they'd lost their appetite. "Something's got to be up," said Ginny quietly, as she took her seat next to Harry, having just returned from the staff table. "Those bruises looked nasty. Harry and Ron nodded. "Well, hopefully Dumbledore will be able to tell us something."
Suddenly, Harry nudged Ron and Ginny. Draco Malfoy was rising from the Slytherin table and heading fast from the hall.
"I do not trust that evil git," said Harry quietly. "I don't know why, but I just have a feeling he's got something to do with this."
"You think he gave her those bruises?" Snarled Ron.
"Not unless he saw her this summer somehow," said Harry. "She had them on the train yesterday."
"Yeah but they're worse," Ron persisted.
"Let's wait until we've spoken to Dumbledore," said Ginny quietly. "I think that's the best thing we can do for her."
"Whatever it is," said Ron quietly. "I know we shouldn't walk away from her. Something is certainly up, but we should stay beside her no matter what!" Harry and Ginny nodded fervently.
Before long, breakfast was over. Harry, Ron and Ginny stood up quickly and headed for the staff table. Dumbledore stood up. Without a word, he walked with them out of the hall and to where the Gargoyle stood guarding his office.
"Match stick," he said and it swung aside. Quietly, Harry, Ron and Ginny followed him up to his office.
As soon as they were inside and the door was closed, Dumbledore looked at all three of them, again with no twinkle in his eye.
"What do you suspect?" He asked quietly.
Ginny took a deep breath. "Well Sir, she didn't come to ours this summer, which is really unlike her. She was not herself yesterday when we saw her, she hardly said anything. Also, she is covered in black bruises. They were there yesterday when we saw her at Kings Cross, but they seem worse this morning. We know there's something she's not telling us, but we don't know what it is." Dumbledore sighed heavily and conjured up chairs for them to take a seat.
"If you were not her best friends," he began, "I would not be telling you this. I wish I could say to you these were just suspicions, but I'm afraid I cannot. One thing I would ask though, is please do not tell Miss Granger you know the truth. Let her tell you, if and when she is ready." They all nodded.
Dumbledore reached into his desk draw. "Yesterday, Miss Granger received a book with a coded note on the cover. Basically, it said turn to page fifty and please read it when you are alone. It was signed, in code, from Severus Snape. I called Miss Granger to my office to collect this book as I was sure it was for her, but not before I'd turned to page fifty and made a copy of the text for myself." He sighed again and pulled out a thick role of parchment.
"Miss Weasley, with you being a female, I would not be surprised if Miss Granger needs you more than these two. That's just the simple truth." Again, they all nodded.
"I'll be there for her Professor," Ginny said quietly.
"Miss Weasley I don't have any doubt in my mind that that is indeed the case." Dumbledore cleared his throat and began to read aloud the text Hermione had read only the night before. When he was finished, Harry, Ron and Ginny looked horrified.
"Sir, are you saying that Draco Malfoy is her Controller? Is that where she got all the bruises from? Over the summer because Draco wasn't with her?"
Ron suddenly kicked himself. "What is it, Mr. Weasley?" Asked Dumbledore.
"I saw that pig Pansy Parkinson come into our compartment and give Hermione a water bottle! Do you think she could have…"? His voice trailed off.
"It is very possible," said Dumbledore quietly. "I would even say almost certain. I'm afraid it could very well be that Mr. Malfoy is Miss Granger's Controller and there is nothing anyone can do about it."
"Can't I contact Fred and George?" Said Ron, almost desperately. "They might be able to help?"
Dumbledore smiled sadly at them. "While I know that Mr. and Mr. Weasley are very talented young men, I doubt even they could help her out of this one. Train medical witches and wizards haven't found a cure as yet."
Harry, Ron and Ginny looked devastated. "Is there anything we can do, Professor?"
"Just as the book says," said Dumbledore heavily. "Just stay close to Miss Granger and be the best friends to her you can. I can't take her out of the Head Girl's position, because Mr. Malfoy is Head Boy. That would mean separating them, that would be disastrous." Again, they all nodded, feeling utterly defeated.
"Evil git," muttered Harry. "Evil bloody git! He's got her and there's absolutely damn nothing we can do about it!" Dumbledore nodded sadly.
"They're still researching, Harry. Don't give up hope just yet."
"Hermione could and probably will die!" Burst out Ron angrily. "The only way she'll be saved is if that fucking bastard marries her! Not ever going to happen! He'll kill her before that happens, or get his Master to do it for her!"
"There is one more thing you people need to bear in mind," said Dumbledore quietly. "This isn't in the book, although in my view it should be. When Miss Granger mentions her Controller, he would have told her how she can address him. You must address him that way around Miss Granger; else she will think you're insulting her Controller. That is a very bad move."
Harry had to put his arm around Ginny then, as she was silently crying. "Do you know what he would have asked, or should I say ordered, her to call him, Sir?" Harry asked, gently holding Ginny close.
"I am pretty certain he would have asked her to address him as Mr. Malfoy."
Harry, Ron and Ginny looked murderous. "Arrogant, big headed git!" Harry yelled. Dumbledore did not even flinch.
"So, I must ask you if this is the case, to address him as such when you are around Miss Granger. Not Draco, not Malfoy, but Mr. Malfoy. He may even have asked her to call him Sir, but I doubt this. I'm sure it's Mr. Malfoy."
"So we have to call him Mr. Malfoy around Hermione?"
"I'm afraid so, everyone does, even the teachers, even myself. Around Hermione, it's Mr. Malfoy."
"What if we don't?" Demanded Ron.
"Then you could get seriously hurt," said Dumbledore quietly. "Miss Granger could turn on you for insulting her Controller. That's the worst thing you can do. It's the worst thing anyone can do."
"Are we talking a duel?"
"Mr. Potter, we could be talking unforgivable." Harry gasped.
"Bloody hell!"
"So please, I cannot stress to you enough how careful you must be. Call him whatever you like when Miss Granger is not around, but when she is, it's Mr. Malfoy! That's vital! Do you understand?"
"Yes, Sir." Harry, Ron and Ginny said together, all looking close to tears by now.
"Miss Granger must not know you know the truth. While part of her is still her, knows what's wrong, etc, most of her is in love with Mr. Malfoy. Unless she says something, you must not mention anything about the Curse, ok? Also, do not be at all surprised if she talks about Mr. Malfoy to you on a very regular bases indeed. Miss Weasley, you will probably hear more than these two, because you are a woman, Miss Granger will probably want to tell you all. Do you understand? Please, do not walk away, stay by her side. Even if you hear Mr. Malfoy mentioned every five seconds."
"I understand, Sir." Said Ginny, her voice shaking with grief, as the other two nodded.
"Good," said Dumbledore quietly. "I think I should tell you that Mr. Malfoy is going to be joining Miss Granger's class, remember, she needs to be near her Controller at all times, else she'll harm herself. None of this is her fault; I don't want her more hurt than she already is! Miss Weasley, I would like you to be there for her, as a woman, so I hope you won't mind if I move you up a year? I have had a quick look through your work since last night and I think you could cope. Please, will you do this? When her Controller shows signs of pure hatred towards her, which we know he will do, she's going to need a female friend to break the fall. Try and keep her from self-harm as much as possible. Please?"
Ginny nodded. Shakily, but full of determination. "I'll do it, Sir!"
Dumbledore smiled sadly at her. "Thank you, Miss Weasley. I know you two will also be there, but Miss Granger is going to need her female friends most. You do understand that?" Harry and Ron nodded.
"Good," said Dumbledore again. "Just one last thing. There is one thing you need to make very clear to Miss Granger, through words as well as actions. As soon as possible Miss Weasley, I want you to say these words to Miss Granger and put all your heart into them."
"Words, Sir?"
"Yes Miss Weasley. They're quite simple, it's just one sentence, but Miss Granger needs it more than any other."
"What is it, Sir? I'll say whatever she needs to hear!"
Dumbledore smiled sadly once more, and then stood. The others followed him as he held open the door.
"We love you, Hermione."
McGonagall grabbed the scroll and read it. She went white as a sheet. Dumbledore instructed her on this scroll not to tell Hermione, let her speak first, but god that was hard! The Professor looked at her best student, trying to keep tears back herself. Mr. Malfoy truly was evil.
The rest of the teachers were also in shock. None of them liked this one bit. They would go along with it, to keep Hermione alive, but they hated it as much as Dumbledore, Harry, Ginny and Ron. Remus Lupin was once more back as Defence against the Dark Arts teacher. He read his scroll and looked furious.
Harry, Ron and Ginny left Dumbledore's office fast and headed towards their first lesson. Behind them, they could see Draco Malfoy following them. No doubt he'd just been told about his change of group. Harry and Ron desperately wanted to curse him, but they knew they couldn't. Dumbledore suddenly appeared and gently took Ginny's arm. He led her aside.
"I wanted to point this little extra piece of information to you, Miss Weasley. This is going to greatly annoy Mr. Malfoy. Because his intent was to tease Hermione, be kissing her one minute, gone the next. Make her hurt herself even more. However, I have another plan in mind. Small as it is, I hope it will help Miss Granger out some. Mr. Malfoy is going to want to tease her, but I'm not allowing that. I'm moving them into the same class, they share Quarters, and I'm even moving him onto the Gryffindor table. He wants to be with Hermione that bad, he can be with Hermione."
Ginny smirked. "Good one, Professor, I like it."
"At least," Dumbledore smiled sadly. "At least it won't make Miss Granger's last days worse."
Ginny nodded, tears forming in her eyes. "Is there honestly nothing we can do to save her?"
"No Miss Weasley," Dumbledore sighed again. "The only thing that will break this Curse is Mr. Malfoy marrying her."
"That won't happen, will it. He'll just use her."
"I am very afraid that is indeed the case. Miss Granger is going to die, at his hand. There is nothing we can do, unless a cure is found before Mr. Malfoy kills her, or gets his Master to do it. Trust me Miss Weasley; I will fight as best I can!"
"I know Sir," said Ginny faintly. "But I just hate how much power Malfoy's got over Hermione! I hate it so much!"
"We all do," Dumbledore sighed. "But we're powerless to stop it. He'd need to fall in love with her and marry her to save her life."
"No chance," said Ginny, who was in tears now. Gently, Dumbledore put his hand on her arm and handed her a tissue. "Thank you, Sir."
"Please, Miss Weasley, I can't stress this enough. Please, stay by Miss Granger's side, you and Mr. Weasley and Mr. Potter all. She is going to need you a lot. You especially."
"We will, Sir."
"If Miss Granger wants to talk about Mr. Malfoy to you, please listen and don't insult him! Whatever you do! Miss Weasley, I repeat this to you, because you're the one who'll she'll probably talk to about him most. Please, stay calm! Unless you want the unforgivable placed on you by your best friend, please, just do as I ask! "Ginny nodded.
"Remember those words," Dumbledore said quietly. "They are vital. Get them in as soon as you can, even if it's in front of Mr. Malfoy! The sooner, the better!"
"Yes, Sir. Does it need to be me who says them? Not Harry or Ron?"
"It would be better if it was you," Dumbledore nodded. "You're a woman, after all."
"Yes, Sir. I'll do it, today!"
"Good, thank you. Just be as close to Miss Granger as you can."
"Sir, what if Mr. Malfoy tells her she must let go of us as her friends or he'll walk away from her?"
"If he does, she will do it instantly. But don't you walk away from her, ok? Stay close, no matter what!"
"We will, Sir."
Draco walked towards his first class, sneering. So they'd found out, had they? They were trying to make it so he was near that Mud Blood at all times were they? She wanted him near her, did she? Well, he could most certainly use that to his advantage later on. Dumbledore had decided it was best for them not to be separated; he was trying to numb the pain. The Mud Blood was going to die, they could do nothing about it and Draco was greatly satisfied by this. The only way she would live, would be if he set her free by marrying her. That would never happen! He would never marry such filth, ever! He and Pansy Parkinson were engaged to be married at the end of this year, whether he loved her or not was irrelevant. He'd have her over a Mud Blood any day! Plus, she was as devoted to his Master as he was. His father had taught him well, he knew it.
He reached the classroom, Transfiguration and found that the Weasel had joined them. Nice try, Dumbledore, keep her safe, like it's going to work! Draco entered calmly and sat down on Hermione's other side. Ginny was on her left. Hermione's heart sped up when she saw Draco and she tried to hide it. Her face blushed. Draco smirked. Ginny desperately wanted to kill him! Harry and Ron too, were glaring over at him.
"Good morning, Mr. Malfoy," said McGonagall, as calmly as she could.
Draco didn't answer. He just leant forward and captured Hermione's lips in a bruising, lustful kiss. None of them could do anything to stop him and they knew it. He was truly her Controller.
Dumbledore walked back up to his office, thinking hard. He had decided his best move was to tell the rest of the school. He knew he couldn't stop the inevitable, but he thought they should know. However, he was going to make it very clear to them that they must not tell Hermione they knew. That would be simply disastrous.
The first day of class went buy as a blur to Hermione, who was lost in the fact that Draco Malfoy was by her side. She tried to concentrate, but couldn't. Draco continuously kissed her, and then smirked. He knew none of the teachers could stop him.
"Evil, little fucking git!" Harry burst out angrily, as soon as they were heading for dinner. "If every day's going to be like this, Hermione has no bloody chance of passing her N.E.W. T's before…" His voice trailed off. None of them were even sure whether Draco would allow her to live long enough to take them.
"Shut up!" Hissed Ginny warningly, as Draco came around the corner, holding Hermione tightly in his arms.
"Hey Hermione!" Yelled Ginny, running to catch up with them.
Draco again kissed her passionately.
"Hey, Ginny."
"How did work go for you today?"
"Fine, thanks, I think I'm keeping up." Hermione snuggled closer into Draco. Ginny tried not to cry.
"What are you doing in our group anyway?"
"Oh, Dumbledore decided I was able to come up to your year. My work grades were good enough."
"Cool!" Squealed Hermione. Just for that moment, that painful moment, Ginny saw the old Hermione. The one who bossed them around, but was up on work. The one who lived for grades, her best friend.
It was heart breaking. Ginny had to look away. "Thanks," she said, trying to keep her voice steady, while tears poured down her face.
Hermione looked at her friend and saw she was crying. Draco smirked. "Mr. Malfoy, may I have a quick word with Ginny, please?"
Draco smirked again, but nodded. "Don't miss me too much," he sneered, kissing her yet again. "I will be out of here for a while tonight, wait for me in our Quarters, do you understand?" Hermione looked at him.
"Mr. Malfoy, I'll do whatever you ask me to do. I love you, so I'll do it."
Once more, a small part of Hermione was yelling that she had to stop this! That it was crazy and something was badly wrong, but most of her would go along with Mr. Malfoy fully and completely. Draco kissed her once again. "Good," he said quietly, released her, and then walked away.
Hermione turned to face Ginny, who was desperately trying to get herself under control. Harry and Ron had just joined them as Draco left. Hermione looked at Ginny and her eyes held true pity.
"Ginny, whatever is it?" She walked to her friend's side and put an arm around her. Ginny just sobbed unrestrained into her shoulder.
Professor Dumbledore suddenly walked past, and then stopped. He looked back at the four of them and his heart swelled with pity. Gently, he took Hermione's arm. Ginny was still hugging her tightly. In silence, they walked up to Dumbledore's office, Harry and Ron following behind. As soon as the door was closed, Ginny who still hadn't let go of Hermione burst into fresh sobs. Hermione hugged her close. The sight was heart wrenching.
"Ginny, what on earth's the matter?" Hermione asked and her voice was unsteady, as if she too was about to cry.
Ginny looked at Dumbledore, who nodded. Harry had to speak; Ginny was crying too hard.
"Hermione, we know about you and Mr. Malfoy. We know what is happening, we know about the Curse. We know who Mr. Malfoy is to you and we want you to know no matter what, we will not walk away from you. We know how you got those bruises; we know the only way you'll be freed. We know why you didn't want to tell us, because you were afraid we'd walk away from you! Never!" Ginny hugged her tighter.
"Do you love Mr. Malfoy?" Asked Dumbledore quietly.
"Yes," said Hermione at once.
"Do you love him with your whole heart?" Dumbledore persisted very gently.
Then Hermione did break down.
"No," she sobbed, as Ginny held her close. "No, but most of me does! Part of me hates his guts and I know I'm fucking trapped! I know the only way I'll get out is if he marries me, not going to bloody happen! I'm his slave and I might as well say I'm dead! I'm as good as dead damn it! He'll never fall in love with me, I'll never fall in love with anyone else now, and it's Mr. Malfoy for life! I couldn't love anyone else, even if a small part of me wanted too. It sucks so bloody much!"
Hermione cried into Ginny's shoulder.
"Miss Granger," said Dumbledore gently. "You need to tell your friend's the truth. You need to let them be there for you, be by your side, no matter what your Controller says. You need to try as much as possible to fight him. You must not let him win! Miss Granger, we know you love Mr. Malfoy with most of yourself, but you must keep yourself going for your true and loyal friends who really do care for you."
"What's the fucking point?" Whaled Hermione. "I'm going to be dead soon anyways and even if I live, Mr. Malfoy is the only one I'll fall in love with ever! I'm already in love with him, if he even leaves me, I'll kill myself! I can't be away from him for long, or I'll go mad! I'm starting to miss him already!"
Harry, Ron, Ginny and Dumbledore exchanged concerned looks. "Hermione, will you let us be there for you?" Asked Ginny gently. Hermione nodded.
Harry suddenly stepped up to Dumbledore and looked him straight in the eyes. Can I try? He thought. Can I say something nasty about Draco and see what happens? Slowly, Dumbledore nodded to Harry.
"Hermione, how can you love that man?" Said Harry quietly. "He's an evil, cruel…" That was as far as he could get. Instantly, Hermione had her wand on him.
"Don't you dare insult Mr. Malfoy. Don't you…"
"Oh is that what he's asked you to call him is it?" Said Harry, rage coursing through him towards Draco Malfoy. Not Hermione, but Draco. "It's Mr. Malfoy is it? You'll do whatever he says, I suppose?" Hermione raised her wand.
"I love Mr. Malfoy Harry and I will not stand there and see him be insulted. Mr. Malfoy is my everything; I will not see him hurt!"
"Oh but he's hurting you," said Harry, taking a step towards her. He did not draw his wand; none of this was her fault. He had never felt more sympathy for anyone in his life. "You'll let him use you, hurt you, control you and you'll still love him? Fight it Hermione, if you can, fight it!"
"I need Mr. Malfoy so badly right now; it's driving me crazy! You stand there and insult him? Crucio…"
That was as far as she got. Instantly, Dumbledore had disarmed her. Harry, Ron and Ginny stared in horror at their friend.
"Go and fetch Mr. Malfoy," Dumbledore said quietly to Ron. "Now." Instantly, Ron obeyed.
"What if he doesn't come, Professor?" Whispered Ginny who was as white as a sheet, as Hermione broke down yet again and Harry ran forward to take her close.
"Oh he'll come," said Dumbledore quietly. "He'll be very sorry indeed if he doesn't."
"Ginny," said Hermione from against Harry's shoulder, tears pouring down her face. "Mr. Malfoy is not going to be here tonight; will you join me?"
"Of course I will," said Ginny gently.
Harry and Ron did not ask if they could also. They were sure Hermione would want just women and they were right. Hermione released Harry and ran to Ginny.
"I love Mr. Malfoy so much," she sobbed. "Where the hell is he!"
"You can tell me all about Mr. Malfoy tonight," said Ginny gently. We'll have a night where there's no men allowed. Yeah?"
To their great relief, Hermione managed a smile. "Except for Mr. Malfoy, right?"
"If you want Mr. Malfoy to join us when he gets back, I'm sure he will." Said Ginny gently, holding her friend close against her chest, as even Harry had to blink back tears. This was hell. Hermione was not herself they knew that, but she wanted Draco more than any of them.
Dumbledore put his hands gently on Harry's shoulders.
A few minutes later, the door opened and Ron and Draco entered. Draco saw that Hermione was crying, but Dumbledore stood between him and Hermione, who was still being held tenderly by Ginny.
"Please, let him through," Hermione sobbed. Dumbledore had no choice. Ginny stepped back, as Draco approached Hermione and took her close. He was sneering straight at her. Dumbledore looked disgusted. Next second, he was kissing her passionately.
"What time are you leaving tonight, Mr. Malfoy?" Asked Ginny carefully.
"What business is that of yours, Weasley?"
"Because I would like to spend time with my friend if that's ok with you Mr. Malfoy." Ginny hated speaking to the evil ferret like this, but she knew she had to, else Hermione would hit the roof, hurt them, maybe even herself.
"I'll go out when I choose to go out Weasley, if you can't say it in front of me, don't say it at all. If I'm there when you come, too bad. Hermione and I may also be… Busy." He smirked. Dumbledore was looking furious. Harry stepped back from him, as he seemed to be radiating that power once more, just as he had when he had stunned young Crouch in their fourth year.
"Mr. Malfoy, I would like a few words with Miss Granger. We will only be a few moments."
Hermione looked desperately at Dumbledore. "It will be very brief," he said gently to her. "I promise you."
"I'll be outside, Mud Blood," Draco kissed Hermione then left. "Miss Granger, I'm sorry about this, but I want to ask you a question. I'm sure Mr. Malfoy will wait for you."
Hermione nodded. "I hope he does, I miss him already!" Her hand twitched towards her wand pocket, realising it wasn't there as Dumbledore had taken it. "You will get your wand back in a moment Miss Granger," said Dumbledore, as Hermione glared at him. "I wanted to ask you if you wanted to go to St. Mungo's to have this confirmed, or not."
Hermione broke down again. Suddenly, they saw the old Hermione yet again and it was very painful to watch.
"What! Have it confirmed that I'm going to die whenever Mr. Malfoy decides to kill me? That Mr. Malfoy is my Controller? That the only way I'll be freed is if he marries me? That I'm entirely at his mercy? That I can never love another for the rest of my life?" She broke down completely, her sobs heart breaking. Dumbledore approached her. He gently took her right hand. "Miss Granger, please believe me when I say on behalf of me and all the good people in Hogwarts, that we are very, very sorry. Wizards and witches are looking for a cure around the clock, you never know. Please, don't give up hope." The real Hermione looked straight into the Professor's eyes. "Please, listen to me. I'm going to die, I know this. These are my last days alive. I'm entirely at Mr. Malfoy's mercy, just please, stay close to me, all of you? I won't let you down; I'll live for you guys."
By this time, Ginny, Harry and Ron could not hold back any more and they all began to cry. "We'll be here for you Hermione," sobbed Ginny. "We promise!"
Dumbledore knew it wouldn't be long before Hermione was begging for Draco once more, so he made it brief. "Will you?"
Hermione nodded. "Yes, I'll go to St. Mungo's. I have to. Maybe someone there will talk to me, try at least. I know there's no comfort or way out for me but…"
"Miss Granger, you take as long as you need at St. Mungo's ok? We will not rush you at all. Even if you're there a month, we won't rush you." The others shook their heads.
"Can I go now, Professor?" Instantly, Dumbledore nodded.
"Would you like us all to come with you?" He asked gently. Again, Hermione nodded.
"I need Mr. Malfoy," she said quietly. Instantly, Harry opened the door. Draco was still standing there. Harry couldn't take it. He marched outside and faced Draco.
"Look what you've done to her you fucking git! She's going to St. Mungo's tonight to be told she's going to die! She wants you with her and by damn Merlin you're coming! If I could kill you without killing Hermione as well through her losing you, I fucking would! I hate your guts; you should burn in hell!"
Draco pulled out his wand, but at that moment, Dumbledore appeared. "Come in, Mr. Malfoy. We are off to St. Mungo's as are you."
They all watched helplessly, as the real Hermione vanished once more, as she ran into her Controller's arms. Dumbledore gently took her arm and they prepared to disapporate for the hospital, before Hermione could change her mind, at her Controller's order. Draco kissed her lustily, and then smirked.
Just before they left, Ginny said the words Dumbledore had asked her to say, trying to keep tears from her eyes and her voice steady. Though this was very difficult.
"We love you, Hermione."
