Hermione is home for the holidays and there are some visitors she didn't think she would have to deal with.
End of December 1994
Hermione shifted in her seat. She'd been called once again to the headmaster's office. It was becoming tedious. It also didn't help that Hermione suspected the Headmaster of having his own agenda. When she first read about him in Hogwarts: A History, she idolized him. He defeated the darkest wizard of all time, Gellert Grindelwald. But what the history books left out, was that Albus Dumbledore was just as bad if not worse than her grandfather. She forced herself to pay attention to the Headmaster and his questions, "How have you been doing? Are you adjusting alright?" Dumbledore's eyes twinkle at Hermione as he sipped his tea.
Today the student body would be leaving for home for their winter break. She'd been in the middle of packing when the message reached her via her head of house. After reading her grandfather's letter and some of his journal entries, she was leery of just what Professor Dumbledore was up to. She decided to err on the side of caution.
"Things are...going well," she said slowly. She played with the cup in her hands. She didn't want to drink it, knew it would be rude to refuse to accept. She knew from experience that she wouldn't enjoy his efforts. The last cup of tea the Headmaster had prepared for her was so sweet as to be unpalatable, she didn't want to risk the tooth decay or any other insidious addition, not that she thought he would try to poison her. But still.
Of course, she had no proof of such things, but her grandmother had taught her to be mindful when someone offered you any food or beverages. She also had Hermione start dosing herself with Veritaserum to build up a tolerance. Though she knew she could fool the potion, as long as she felt she was telling the truth to whatever question was asked of her. And with the added benefit of her Occlumency shields, she had no doubt she could keep her secrets safe.
At first, it had shocked her to learn the varied nuances of Pure-blood society. The rules were daunting and if she were being honest with herself, downright terrifying. Someone you knew and thought could trust could slip something in your food or drink to kill you, or worse, know your secrets exposing them for the world to see. She'd questioned her grandmother why someone knowing her secrets would be worse than death and Vinda had laughed at her. Secrets were power if you knew enough secrets you had power. Her grandmother told her that is how most pure-bloods played the game. This wasn't the first time Hermione wondered why Hogwarts didn't offer pure-blood etiquette classes for muggle-borns. They were all losing a game they had no idea they were playing.
"I saw you and Harry dancing during the ball. I hope you were able to patch things up. He's been under a tremendous amount of stress and knowing that he has allies would be a benefit to him." Hermione snorted to herself, Harry is stressed. It was Harry who accused her of betrayal for not telling him of her change in circumstance. He attacked her. Her loyalty should be unquestioned, but that was exactly what Professor Dumbledore was doing.
Hermione blinked, pulled out of her musings, and decided to answer in the most benign way possible. "I think he was in shock when he read that article. My hope is that we can talk more on the way home. Make sure there is no additional misunderstanding, sir."
For a moment Hermione saw disappointment flash in Dumbledore's eyes. She kept the small smile on her lips to not tip him off that she had witnessed it. It confirmed in her mind that the 'doddering old fool' act was just that, an act and he had an agenda he didn't want to be known.
Dumbledore sighed and placed his cup on his desk, "I know things have been difficult for you, my dear. As you know, I was close friends with your grandparents. I wanted you to know that if you have any problems you can come to me. I always have a willing ear."
'Not bloody likely.' Hermione thought before she said with a smile, "I appreciate that Professor. My grandmother has been lovely and so has my cousin. We are slowly coming together as a family. It will still take some adjusting, but I'm happy."
"Have you heard from your grandfather?" Dumbledore asked as he leaned back in his chair steepling his fingers against his lips.
Hermione's heartbeat picked up and felt the tickling feeling in her head. She had felt this sensation before when someone was trying to access her thoughts. Hermione quickly filled her head with thoughts about the assignment she had in ancient runes and the books she would have to purchase over the winter hols. She wanted to work on her essay during her break. Her mind had the natural ability to block her darkest secrets, but not the thoughts on the surface. She just knew that if the tiniest thread of thought to things she wanted to remain hidden was present, anyone would be able to follow that thread and bypass her shields. She couldn't take that risk.
She breathed in relief when the sensation disappeared, and his brows furrowed slightly as he studied her. She knew then her ruse had worked. Brushing her hand down her muggle jeans she offered him a sad smile, "I received a letter from him after I arrived at my grandmother's estate. It was just an introduction though. He did hint that he would like for me to correspond with him, but..."
It was a half-truth, she wanted to keep Dumbledore at arm's length at least until she could determine where the actual truth lay. She'd once looked up to him as an example of what a powerful wizard, a good wizard should be. That image was quickly becoming tarnished. She was never one to take the words of others as a blanket statement and accept whatever was said about someone's faults. Everyone had them and she knew that her grandparents had a sordid history with Dumbledore, so their opinion of the wizard in front of her could be skewed. She would much prefer to form her own opinions.
She let out a small sigh and shook her head feigning confusion. "I'm not entirely sure I want to know him. I've read about him, the darkness he has as well as the evil things he's done. I know that he's my grandfather and I can't help that, but maybe in time the name Grindelwald will be associated with good things instead of fear."
"Yes, well, I can understand your hesitance and I think you're right keeping your distance from him, he may very well twist events from the past and cause you confusion." Dumbledore stood, rounded the desk, and offered Hermione his arm, "Come, I'll escort you to the courtyard. We wouldn't want you to miss the train, now would we?" his eyes sparkled especially bright and Hermione offered a slight smile in return.
She slipped her arm through his and kept her mind on benign things knowing that sometimes people could read thoughts with a mere touch. She didn't know if the Headmaster had such an ability. She didn't want to take the chance.
They made their way down to the entrance hall, students rushing back and forth making sure they had everything they wanted to take home. Greetings and salutations were exchanged in passing. Once reaching the entrance hall, Dumbledore paused before he reached the door, looked down at Hermione with a serious expression. "Dark times are ahead of us, Miss Grindelwald. I would like for you to think about where your loyalties lay. Don't let your grandmother or grandfather pressure you and change who you are."
Hermione blinked up at him, "Professor?"
Dumbledore let out a small huff of air before he spoke again, "The Dark Lord will return soon, and Harry will need all the support he can get. I know the two of you are close and I want you to be mindful that Harry depends on you. There may come a time that it would be best for all where some distance between the two of you is needed. At least until you truly get settled in with your grandmother and know where her loyalties are. If she'll throw in her support to the Dark Lord when he returns, she may require that you follow her lead. I don't want you to be hurt, my dear, or feel pressured to side with your grandmother and her dark views. As I said, if you need assistance please come to me and I can protect you." his voice had lowered toward the end of his little speech and it felt menacing, like a command or a threat.
Hermione swallowed before she spoke, her voice the slightest bit tremulous, "T-thank you, Professor, I'm glad I know I have someone who's still looking out for me."
Dumbledore gave her an enigmatic smile and patted her hand before opening the door and leading her out to the carriages.
Hermione only had a moment to speak with Harry privately before Ron arrived in the train compartment. She confirmed the promise from Harry that he would arrive at her estate the day after Christmas with Sirius. Hermione gave him a hug and let out a sigh of relief not knowing how much she needed Harry to believe her and take her side. Knowing that Harry didn't know where she lived, she told him that she would owl him soon with confirmation and time to arrive.
She felt an uneasiness as Ron sat across from the pair, his eyes shifting between the two. No words were exchanged, which Hermione was thankful for as she was sure it would degenerate into another fight. Soon they were joined by Ginny, Luna, and Neville ending their private contemplation. With time, Ron had relaxed in her presence when Luna had offered her sympathy about the article and asked if Hermione was alright and soon the others were offering her words of encouragement and support. Ginny even said that she'd written her mother to tell her to not condemn Hermione for things she has no control over. That the article was mostly lies meant to stir up drama. Hermione was thankful, but she would still be on her guard once reaching King's Cross.
The rest of the trip was uneventful, they all spoke about their plans for the holidays, the Triwizard Tournament and finally, they relaxed and played several games of exploding snap to release some of the building tension that they all experienced thus far this school year. She was glad for the feeling of normalcy.
Hermione's stomach fluttered in surprise when she exited the Hogwarts Express and spotted her grandmother, Kai, and Viktor standing next to each other. Kai with a smug grin on his face and Viktor with a warm smile as they both waved her over. She hadn't known that Viktor was joining them for the winter hols and wasn't prepared to spend an extended amount of time with him. She wasn't all that sure if he would try to kiss her again or if she even wanted him too.
Not that she minded Viktor. She found him sweet and protective of her which she enjoyed; it was just she needed this time away from him. Her feelings were confused about him. She found him very handsome and he was very caring of her and seemed interested in her even when her teeth were far too big, her hair bushy and an uncontrollable mess on her head. She was called a know-it-all swot by her peers, but he stayed by her side and growled at anyone that was disingenuous with her trying to use her for her knowledge or the fact that Viktor was close to her.
She also felt as if she were betraying someone with her continued association with Viktor, who; she didn't know. It was just a niggling feeling in the back of her mind. She wasn't committed to anyone and was free to date anyone she pleased, however whenever she was in close proximity to Viktor it just felt wrong. There was also an emptiness inside of her when he held her hand or held her. The kiss had been nice, but it didn't make any sparks fly. She did feel the fluttering in her stomach when he kissed her, but she'd thought when someone kissed you, you would feel more. A fire, burning, desire. Something other than just a pleasant warmth, a warmth you'd feel from a friend.
Maybe she read too many romance novels and they exaggerated. She decided not to worry about it right now and hoped in time she would understand why she felt so conflicted. She was in no rush to have an intimate relationship with anyone even though she did have those urges which she took care of herself. She was considered an adult in the wizarding world now with her Rite being successful, however, that didn't negate the fact she wasn't ready for more from anyone. She wanted to feel something more than mere attraction to someone before she shagged them.
Hermione smiled at the trio and gave them a small wave as she weaved in between the bodies on the platform. Her head turned to the left when Mrs Weasley called her name, gaining her attention. Knowing it would be considered rude to ignore her, she held her hand up to let her grandmother know she would be a moment and made her way over to the Weasley family who was all gathered, even Mr Weasley.
"Hermione, dear, we read that horrid article in the paper, how are you doing?" Mrs Weasley asked as she fussed over Hermione and pulled her into a hug. "Oh my, have you been eating? You're far too thin."
Hermione had been shocked by the woman's actions considering the cold shoulder she received when she arrived at the Burrow this past summer and the howler she'd received after the article. But then remembered that Ginny had written and refuted almost everything the article included. Still feeling cautious she answered, "I'm adjusting slowly, thank you, Mrs Weasley."
Molly pulled her back at arm's length and studied her, a frown marring her freckled face, "Yes, well, Harry and Ginny sent us letters informing us that things have been difficult for you," she said and pursed her lips, "you can join us at the Burrow for Christmas if you wish, you know you're always welcome in our home."
"I appreciate the offer but, my grandmother and my cousin told me we have plans."
Molly frowned while looking over at Vinda and back down at Hermione, "Yes, well, I understand, but the offer still stands, love."
Hermione smiled and pulled Molly back for another hug and whispered, "Thank you. Your support means the world to me," she felt a bit vindictive after she said that as Mrs Weasley stiffened slightly.
Molly hugged her tighter for a moment and pulled back, her fingers running through Hermione's hair, "You'll be alright, love. Just know we are always here for you," she smiled, and then she blinked and looked at her husband, "Arthur, did you remember Hermione's gift?"
"Hmm, yes, right," Arthur rummaged through his pockets and pulled out a small package and handed it to Hermione. Molly smiled down at her as she waved her wand and the package enlarged.
"Thank you," Hermione looked down at the package, feeling the weight knowing all too well it would be her custom made Weasley jumper. She honestly didn't think she would receive one this year but was pleased to have another one to add to her collection.
"Now, you don't want to keep them waiting," Molly said.
"I hope you have a Happy Christmas," Hermione said as she gave Molly and the rest of the Weasley's including Harry a hug before she left. She wondered as she made her way across the station if the change in Mrs Weasley's attitude was also in part due to the gift Hermione sent them for Christmas.
She knew the Weasleys didn't have a lot of money, so she sent them funds for a large extravagant dinner along with a new china set, telling them it was for all the times she spent at the Burrow with them enjoying Mrs Weasley's delicious cooking. She wanted to extend an olive branch to the woman even though she had been harsh with Hermione due to the article.
When Hermione was finally able to make her way to her grandmother, Vinda raised a perfect brow looking her up and down shaking her head making a quiet tsking sound. "Honestly, Mia? Denim trousers? How positively Muggle."
Hermione couldn't help but grin as she hugged her grandmother tight. She knew that her grandmother hated it when she wore her muggle clothing, but she was raised as a muggle and was not about to let that go. It was part of who she was and wasn't about to change her habits now and fit inside a pureblood box just to appease the dictates of a skewed society. She would dress appropriately when the occasion called for it, but that was the best she would offer for now and Hermione thought she was being very generous.
Kai grabbed her arm when Hermione pulled away from Vinda, "I'll side-along with Mia, grandmother. I'll meet you and Viktor there."
He didn't give their grandmother a chance to answer before he apparated them away with a loud crack.
Hermione hissed at Kai swatting at his arm and leaned over placing her hands on her knees as nausea rolled through her when they arrived in the foyer. "You could have warned me!"
"And ruin the fun?" Kai chuckled as he pulled at her arm to stand, tugging her towards her bedroom, "I just wanted a moment alone with you before grandmother arrives with Viktor."
"Yes, thank you for warning me, cousin," Hermione grumbled as he pulled her through the estate to her suite and closed the door.
Kai leaned against the door and crossed his arms over his chest, "He likes you; you know."
Hermione walked over to the couch and threw herself down, putting her arm over her eyes with a groan, "I know," she said quietly, "I like him too, but we live so far apart and he's a Quidditch star and is going back to playing professionally when he graduates this year. We really don't have a lot in common. It's all very confusing."
Kai lifted her feet as he sat down at the end of the couch placing her feet in his lap removing her shoes, tossing them to the side, "I know, just enjoy his company while you can, yeah?" he said with a shrug.
Hermione lifted her arm and looked at her cousin, "Are you suggesting that I shag him?"
His eyes snapped to her and he frowned, "Sweet Circe, Mia. NO! I don't want you to shag anyone until you're at least forty, maybe fifty."
Hermione let out a small giggle and covered her eyes again and listened to Kai grumble under his breath about locking her up in a tower so no one could touch her. "Relax Kai, I have no intentions of shagging Viktor or anyone, I was just teasing you."
Kai shoved her feet off his lap and loomed over her, one hand on the back of the couch, and the other next to her head. Hermione felt his breath brush against her arm and moved it once again and cracked an eye open meeting his blue eyes, "You best keep it that way," he said in a low voice and flicked her forehead before he straightened out and walked to her door to leave.
"Prat!" Hermione yelled as he left.
There was a whirlwind of activity leading up to Christmas, but Hermione could feel melancholy begin to set in at night. She knew it had to do with the absence of her parents. It'd been just the three of them for so long. They had established traditions that she wanted to acknowledge and participate in. But also, didn't want to offend and ignore her grandmother's efforts. She plastered on a smile and enjoyed the family time she had with her grandmother, Kai, and even Viktor. Presents were handed out, elf-made wine was consumed, and a delicious meal was enjoyed, but it didn't stop the ache in her heart. After dinner, she excused herself early telling her grandmother she had a headache that she would join them for breakfast in the morning.
She could tell that her grandmother was worried about her, but she didn't want to break down and make her grandmother feel uncomfortable about the situation. It wasn't her fault that her parents now had no idea who Hermione was, she knew that the blame laid squarely on her shoulders, or rather her magic.
On Boxing day, she woke early still feeling the residual pain and decided to celebrate the day as she would with her parents. Each Boxing day her parents would take her ice-skating and have hot chocolate. She felt the need to honour the tradition that her parents had with her since she was a little girl.
Hermione had rushed through her shower and got ready for the day picking out her riding outfit. She would take her horse, Mystery, to the small pond on the edge of the estate, certain that it should be frozen over by this time of year, and if not? Maybe she could work on her elemental powers and reinforce the ice. Digging through her closet for her ice-skates she pulled them out and on an impulse grabbed her small boom box. She loved ice-skating to Tchaikovsky and Bach.
Kai had been curious about the boom box when he first noticed it and she explained that it was much like the wizarding wireless except it didn't run off magic, but batteries and it could play cassettes and CDs. He sniffed at the cassettes, wrinkled his nose, and tossed them back in the box. He'd been fascinated by the silver compact discs and was amazed by the quality of sound they produced. She'd forgotten all about it until she saw it shoved under the racks of clothes hidden from view.
Taking out her untraceable wand she flicked her wrist and shrunk her skates and radio before stuffing them in her vest pocket heading downstairs to see her grandmother before she headed out for the morning. Today Harry and Sirius would arrive for their talk and she wanted to be in the right frame of mind for that particular conversation. Over the past several months her grandfather had warned her about Dumbledore. She wanted to tell Harry everything about what she learned, but she decided to hold back that piece of information until she was certain that Harry could occlude his thoughts. She would have to ask Sirius if he could before she shared too much.
The estate was quiet as she traversed the hallways towards the smaller solarium off the kitchen where they often ate breakfast. There were no boisterous noises coming from Kai as he told their grandmother stories of his time at Durmstrang and she shuddered thinking of the tales he might share with their grandmother about Hermione at Hogwarts.
"Good morning, grandmother," Hermione said in a quiet voice, her boots making a small clicking noise against the polished marble floor as she entered the room. Looking around the room Hermione noticed that her grandmother was alone. "Where's Kai and Viktor?"
Vinda lowered the Daily Prophet and smiled at Hermione as she sat across from her, "The boys were up late. Kai invited two of his friends over late last night. He hoped to have a pick-up Quidditch game today."
Hermione wrinkled her nose as she grabbed a piece of toast, "I can't believe Kai bought me a broom."
Vinda laughed and set the paper to the side, "Yes, well, he had hoped that you would be able to join him in playing I suppose."
"I loathe flying."
"He knows, he thinks he can convince you at some point. You know how stubborn he can be."
Hermione gave a small snort taking a bite of her toast. She was thoughtful for a moment as she chewed wondering if she should ask permission to go ice-skating or just tell her grandmother she was going. She didn't want to set a precedent of having to seek permission when she did something, her parents had trusted her judgment, and Hermione was often alone when her parents had to work. She was so used to being on her own and taking care of herself it was odd for her to change her ways and ask to do something.
"Grandmother," Hermione said slowly, "I wanted you to know that I was going to take Mystery out for a ride this morning."
"I figured as much when you came down with your riding outfit on dear," Vinda said with a smile.
Hermione looked down at herself and gave a small laugh, "Yes, I'm sure that was a dead giveaway, but I also wanted to let you know I planned on going to the pond and maybe do some ice-skating."
"Ice-skating?"
"Yes, Mum and papa used to take me every Boxing day," Hermione explained as fast as she could feeling the lump in her throat start to form. She looked out the large windows watching the sun peek over the horizon and tried to keep her face smooth, but she could feel the sting in her eyes as tears pricked at them.
Hermione looked back at her grandmother and blinked back her tears when she felt her grandmother place a hand on top of hers with a gesture of comfort. "It's okay to miss them, Mia. I don't think any less of you that you do."
At that moment, all Hermione could do was nod and brush the tears from her eyes. Her grandmother gave a sympathetic pat on the hand and continued to speak, "I'll see you when you return but be mindful of the time, your Professor is bringing your friends over here to speak to you at ten and Narcissa will be coming over to have luncheon with us."
Not able to stomach any more breakfast Hermione gulped down her tea in a very unladylike fashion and stood kissing her grandmother on her cheek and to bid her farewell. She needed to leave before she broke completely.
Theo leaned back on the couch, his arms stretched out on the back, his leg crossed over his knee. On the outside, he was the very picture of indolence. On the inside, however, he was anything but. He'd arrived at the Rosier estate last night with Draco after Kai invited them over to spend a few days during the holiday. He was looking forward to a pick-up Quidditch game and frivolity, not to mention possibly getting closer to Hermione.
He remembered when he arrived at the estate, his magic flared and he could sense her, but not her exact location. When they all trudged up the stairs towards Kai's suite, he could smell the scent of her, like a spring breeze with hints of freesia and some exotic flower he couldn't name. Looking around the hallway he didn't see her, but the pull became stronger with each step and he knew that she was close by.
Kai had waved them further down the hall asking Viktor to show them to his room while he went onto his cousin's room and knocked, the door had opened, and Kai disappeared for a moment before remerging. Theo's stomach clenched when her scent brushed against his senses as Kai closed the door after leaving her room. He'd been disappointed that he hadn't had a look inside, instantly chastising himself for thinking such a thing. That was her sanctuary, and he didn't know her well enough to tread on it.
He would change that soon.
The little swot that was like an itch under his skin, annoying him and intriguing him all at once. He'd felt so envious of Viktor, having had the privilege of tasting her lips. He wanted to know if they were as sweet as he imagined. He never in his life fancied a bird as much as he did her. He was consumed with thoughts of her.
He yearned for her, his dreams coming more persistent each day that passed. He spoke to Draco about it, privately of course, and Draco was suffering the same thing. Constant dreams of her, always her calling out to them some of them turning downright erotic. He'd lost count of how many times he'd awoken to damp sheets and nightclothes. If he didn't know they were dreams he would have thought, they were real. They felt so real to him. He wanted them to be real.
Merlin, I will answer her bloody call soon. If I don't, I could very well run mad.
He couldn't eat breakfast this morning in Kai's suite, his mind on a constant loop around Granger.
Granger, Granger, Granger, Hermione.
Theo was wrenched from his thoughts as he heard Draco ask Kai, "Are you going to work at the Ministry when you graduate?"
Kai made a choking sound and shook his head. He cleared his throat and looked at them all seriously before he spoke, "No, the Ministry is not for me. Grandmother has several businesses I could head, but it just depends on certain...things."
Theo didn't miss the way Kai's eyes flicked to Krum and the frown that Krum wore. He was curious about what that look meant but knew better than to ask.
Draco laughed a little, "I can understand, I just thought that is why you moved to England."
"No, we moved here because it's closer to Hogwarts for Mia, and this will be Mia's estate once she graduates so grandmother thought it would be beneficial for us to live here so Mia would be comfortable when she inherited it."
Theo furrowed his brows and pursed his lips deep in thought. He knew what Draco was thinking. Her estate is close to their own. Theo hid his smug smile at the possibilities of being close to Granger, so close in fact he could see her estate from his own.
"Now. Are you blokes ready for a game?" Kai asked, leaning forward giving him and Draco a wicked grin.
Theo feigned enthusiasm as he followed the others out of the room. While he didn't hate Quidditch, he much preferred other less boisterous pursuits. But if it meant being close to Granger, he would suffer through it. Maybe she would come out and watch them? If he could just see her maybe he would start feeling better and not feel this deep ache.
"What about my Mia?" Viktor asked, grabbing Kai by the arm once they were on their way.
Theo's hackles rose to hear the Bulgarian refer to Granger as his, she was calling out to him and well, Draco, not Krum. His eyes slid over to Draco who had a scowl on his face staring at the back of Krum's head. Theo was surprised that Krum didn't feel the intensity of Draco's stare.
"Let me go check and see if she wants to join us," Kai said with a shrug walking towards her door. Looking over his shoulder he said with a grin, "Although I highly doubt, she will. I'm surprised she didn't beat me with the broom I gave her."
Viktor chuckled and shook his head, "It vas quite entertaining vatching her chase you around the room. I vas surprised she hates flying so much."
Draco snorted from behind him, a smug look on his face, "Granger has never done well with flying, she barely passed the class in our first year."
Krum looked back at them giving them a nod, "She can fly vith me. I vouldn't let her fall."
'Oh no she bloody will not!' Theo seethed silently.
His hand twitched, wanting to hex Krum. He knew that Granger wouldn't appreciate it, but it would feel oh so good to knock Krum down a peg or two. Granger may have gone to the Yule Ball with the tosser, but he couldn't see her wanting a long-term relationship with him. He was all muscle and brawn with no brains, whereas Granger was smart and... and... soft with womanly curves that deserved to be respected. He didn't want Krum's meaty paws anywhere near her.
She looked so beautiful when she arrived at the Yule Ball on that vacuous Neanderthal's arm that she took his breath away. She was grace and beauty personified, something he never imagined a swot like her could pull off. Salazar, when she'd smiled his stomach would flutter and an intense feeling of want washed over him. Before that day in the dungeon corridor her teeth were too large for her mouth and would overlap her lip, he'd always found it...cute. Now she had the perfect smile. Though it really didn't matter to him, either way, he still found her attractive.
They all stopped before Granger's door, Kai paused before turning the knob and pushed it open. Theo looked at Draco for a moment before following Kai and Viktor into the room. They watched as Kai made his way to another closed door.
"You lot wait here while I go check on sleeping beauty. Don't be alarmed if you hear screaming, she's not much of a morning person." Theo took that moment to look around her room. The pale blue and creme walls were soft and muted making it feel welcoming. The bookshelves were stuffed with tomes and knickknacks of all shapes and sizes. He wanted to go over and inspect them to see what kind of things interested her but didn't want to intrude more than he already had.
The sofas faced each other in front of the crackling fireplace, on the coffee table in between had a stack of parchment, one book opened that had elegant penmanship notated in the margins. A goblin-made silver quill lay before her inkpot, and a rag still damp from cleaning off the tip. He held back a snort knowing that she was more than likely working on some assignment for school.
'Just like I do.'
He always secretly admired her. She matched his intelligence and was the top of all their classes. Everyone always became annoyed with her constant hand-waving in class, but he understood why she did. She was trying to prove herself, prove her worth in the magical world. Every pure-blood looked down on her, even some half-bloods as well, all because they thought her blood was dirty and that she had no place in their world. It was a common rumour that muggle-borns only existed because they somehow stole the magic from someone else. How Theo wasn't sure. And with Hermione, the rumour mill had been especially vicious. Saying that in order for her to be so proficient in magic she would have needed to steal the magic of several witches and wizards.
But she hadn't.
She was a pure-blood like him and deserved to be treated like respect. Although now that he knew that she was it made him stop and think. What if there were other Mudbloods out there that were pure-bloods hiding in plain sight? In fact, why did blood purity really matter? It was power that made the witch or wizard. Just look at Crabbe and Goyle, they were as dumb as rocks, but because they were 'pure' all doors were open to them.
His thoughts turned from Granger to her friends, the very few she struggled to make. He couldn't understand how she could tolerate Potter or Weasley. He'd watched how time after time they would barge into the library in a state of panic the day before an assignment was due and ask her for help. That help often consisted of Granger re-writing their work for them while they goofed off and eventually being kicked out of the library so she could finish their work and her own, in peace.
It also didn't escape his notice either the way they often shunned her for the littlest infraction. Potter and Weasley always sticking together while treating her harshly. This year it was Granger who was stuck in the middle between the two tossers, each pulling on her for attention. It had annoyed him that she didn't stand up for herself, not that he would say anything, she was, at the time, outwardly beneath his notice.
Then that morning Granger was forced to sit at the Slytherin table by Kai, who had fixed her a plate of food, insisting she eats. He'd wondered at the time why Kai would care. At the time he inexplicably felt his jealousy flare. He shouldn't have cared, but he had. He didn't understand at the time why Kai paid her special attention, the way his eyes would follow her throughout the day. He didn't like it one bit, but he was helpless to voice his ire.
He grimaced internally thinking of the dreadful moniker he used to call her. He only called her Mudblood in his mind, but guilt still ate at him. When the article came out his stomach dropped and felt instantly sick. Kai later confirmed it they were somehow responsible. They'd been the ones that spoke about the letters' contents. While it was assumed that they were alone at the time, it became very apparent it hadn't been the case after the article made its rounds. He knew that Granger wouldn't have inadvertently let it slip, especially to a notorious gossipmonger as Skeeter.
He'd watched her enter the Great Hall that day and it was obvious that she hadn't heard yet by the smile on her face. The hall was quiet as she made her way to the Gryffindor table and sat across from her supposed friends. He remembered glancing at Draco before he heard Potter yell at her and throw his goblet, hitting her on the head. He'd had to hold himself back when it became known she was injured. He then remembered watching helplessly as Professor Snape had swept her up into his arms and carried her away. He'd wanted so badly to skin Potter alive...slowly and watch the git die a slow painful death.
He could still see the way she'd looked, so lost and pale her expression was one of shock and disbelief. He'd wanted to be the one to shelter her, tend her hurts. His magic raged; he'd felt like he was in the middle of a gale. It wasn't until Draco placed a hand on his shoulder that he came back to himself and the wind died down. He'd looked around and saw that his magic had affected several in his vicinity.
He wanted to murder them all for repudiating her, even though he had done the same in the past. She didn't deserve to be treated that way. She always offered a helping hand to anyone who came to her, never turning her nose up at anyone who asked, not knowing how they spoke about her in private.
Later, when they entered the common room after breakfast everyone was talking about Granger, speculating if she'd always known. He knew, of course, she hadn't because Kai had told them.
Blaise had joined them on the long sofa and was talking about Granger in a foul way, a way that he usually talked about anyone he wanted to bed going into detail what he would do to her. Crabbe and Goyle joining him with their own details about fucking her into submission and what her smart mouth was best used for. They only shut their mouths when Draco stood up and shot a hex at each of them making it known in no uncertain terms that Granger was off-limits.
Blaise shut his mouth after that, and so did everyone else in the common room who practically fled to class, weary of Draco knowing he would kick their asses if they continued on. That was the one thing about Draco, he never levelled empty threats, he always followed up with them if anyone didn't heed his warning.
The week following the article's release, Theo hadn't seen her in any classes, and he'd grown worried. It was widely speculated if she left the school due to the scandal. He knew that wasn't the case because he still felt the tickling sensation of her presence when he was near the Gryffindor common room. He would often go there with Draco even if there was no reason for them to be, just to feel closer to her.
Suddenly, Theo jumped, the picture of Granger vanishing from his mind like wisps of smoke when he heard Kai yell, "Tipsy!"
A small elf appeared with a small pop next to Kai, "Yes, Master Kai."
"Where's my cousin, where's Mia?"
"The little miss be tellings the Mistress that she be goings to the pond on her horse twos hours ago."
"What?" Kai growled.
The elf cringed back slightly, her ears quivering. Kai ran a hand through his hair and knelt in front of the small creature, "I'm sorry, Tipsy. I'm not mad at you, just my pig-headed cousin. You can go now, thank you."
Tipsy gave a small nod and popped away.
Theo moved out of the way as Kai came barrelling towards them, storming out the door, "Come on, we're going to get Mia before she accidentally drowns herself."
"What? Drown herself? What are you talking about?" Draco exclaimed. Theo could feel his stomach drop. Could she still be so despondent as to try and hurt herself? He felt the burning need to find her and make sure she was okay.
Theo jogged to keep up with Kai, his heart hammering in his chest. Adrenaline coursing through his body making his legs feel weak. All of them grabbed a broom when they reached outside, taking off in the air. The closer they got to her, the more he could feel her, her magic flooding the area. Leaning forward he flew faster, he and Draco passing Kai and Viktor with ease. He needed to see Granger and make sure she was safe.
Hermione breathed deeply, enjoying the quiet solitude as she skated. She decided to forego music giving her time to put her thoughts in order. Harry would be arriving soon, and she needed to decide just how much to tell him. She was still unsure if she should tell him about her suspicions concerning the Headmaster and Harry's involvement in his still as yet unknown plans.
She resolved to tell him she was a Rosier as well as being an elemental. She would hold off on telling him her suspicions regarding the Headmaster. Harry revered Dumbledore to an even higher degree than Hermione had. She just felt if she were to cast doubt it would just result in another blow-up.
She felt the less he knew the better, at least until she felt he would be able to look at it objectively. Though, whether he would ever be able to do that, Hermione had her doubts. She'd also concluded that she would have to put distance between herself and Harry. Keeping him at arm's length to keep him safe. She didn't want Dumbledore suspecting that she knew of his past nefarious deeds.
Shaking her head, her mind turned to the recent information she'd learned. Her grandmother had given her even more letters written by Dumbledore to her grandfather. It seemed they'd continued correspondence leading up to and even during their conflict. She'd read the outright boastful letters when she returned home and the contents of said letters made her stomach roil and bile rise in her throat.
Dumbledore was a monster in the guise of a helpful Headmaster.
Dumbledore was playing a game with people's lives, he didn't care how many were hurt, how many families were torn apart. All he cared about was power, becoming the master of death. It all started when he and Hermione's grandfather had fallen in love. Her grandfather freely admitted to her that at one time he enjoyed doing experiments on people just to see how far he could push them. With Dumbledore, however, he was more subtle in his torture; more insidious and crueller. Dumbledore often sent letters to her grandfather reiterating that if you tell someone a lie enough, they will eventually believe it.
A prime example was Tom Marvolo Riddle.
Lord Voldemort was one hundred per cent of Dumbledore's creation. He allowed a small boy to languish in horrid conditions in Wool's Orphanage. Letting him believe that his parents didn't want him. That his mother would rather die than raise him. Dumbledore had planted the seed of hatred in Tom Riddle. Once Riddle was old enough to attend Hogwarts Dumbledore allowed that seed to flourish by filling his head with lies and half-truths it was inevitable that he would rebel and seek power by any means necessary. What she was still unsure of, was the Headmaster's goal. Why create a dark wizard in the first place? It became clear the more she read.
Riddle was the son of Tom and Merope Riddle Sr. The journal stated that on a freezing December night, Dumbledore had found a distraught Merope wandering in muggle London. She'd been heavily pregnant and unable to Disapparate without harming the baby. When she told him who she was, he knew that she was a descendant of Salazar and that in his research he knew that one of the Hallows may be in her possession. He'd been wrong, however. She'd had Salazar Slytherin's locket, not the Gaunt ring. He'd still thought that she could be of use. Seizing the perfect opportunity, he led her to Wool's Orphanage where he told her that it would be safe for her to give birth to her child while he fetched her husband.
He never did, nor had he ever intended to. Reading her grandfather's letters further she finally understood why Dumbledore had done the unthinkable. He was still obsessed with the Hallows. The Gaunts were descendants of Salazar, yes, but also that of Peverell family, Cadmus was said to have possessed the Resurrection Stone and that made Dumbledore closer to obtaining one of the Hallows.
Hermione remembered clearly what her grandfather had written in his last letter. 'You must be mindful, my darling girl, when dealing with my former lover. He'll use any means necessary to obtain what he feels is rightfully his, even destroying the lives of others. I fear for your safety now I know of your association with Harry Potter. It was no coincidence that his parents were killed. Albus needed the boy close so he could eventually gain the invisibility cloak when your friend served his purpose, and that is to ultimately die.'
Hermione let out a frustrated growl skating faster, she'd come out here to forget her problems and all she seemed able to do is rehash them. It wouldn't do any good to dwell on events she had no part of. She was clever and she would find a way to unwind all the lies that Dumbledore told and fix the lives he ruined.
She paused and took a deep steadying breath, trying to compartmentalize her thoughts. First, she needed to clear Sirius so Harry could be free of the abusive home in the Dursleys. Dumbledore wanted Harry there so he would feel helpless and be more malleable. To free Sirius she would have to find the rat, Pettigrew. How? She was still working that out. She would worry more about Dumbledore's machinations later.
Having that decision firmly in mind she smiled and began to skate again. The cold wind stinging her cheeks and she moved faster and faster She would take the rest of her time on the ice to honour her parents and their Boxing day tradition. The drama that her life had become can wait a few hours.
She remembered the laughter they shared each Christmas, the closeness they shared together. She missed them terribly, feeling the hole in her heart from their absence. Kai and her grandmother were helping fill her heart with love, but that hole where her parents were would always remain, but that didn't mean she couldn't open herself up and let her new family in.
Leaning forward, she pumped her legs harder, skating backwards. Coiling her body, she propelled herself into a spin. She caught movement out of the corner of her eye. Landing she canted her head to the side and saw that on the embankment next to Mystery, Kai, Viktor were there, but also Malfoy and Nott.
'What the hell are Malfoy and Nott doing here? Can't I get a moment's peace away from those two?'
She tried to deny the flutter that she felt seeing Malfoy and Nott standing there, their faces expectant as they watched her move. Twisting her body, she skated forward, making eye contact with her cousin. She folded her arms across her chest as she approached him annoyed that her time had been disrupted. When she came to an abrupt stop in front of Kai, she tilted her skate, spraying him with ice.
Kai chuckled as he shook his head, ice chips falling from his hair and clothes. He looked up, his face serious as he studied her, "What are you doing out here alone, Mia?"
She looked away from him as she stepped onto the embankment, her good mood plummeting. Flicking her wrist, her boots and jacket floated towards her, and she snatched them from the air. Tossing her wool coat on the snow-covered ground, she plopped herself down content with ignoring everyone.
"Mia?" Kai said squatting next to her.
Hermione shook her head letting out a small huff and began to unlace her skate with force not wanting to have this conversation with an audience, but also knew that Kia was nothing if not persistent.
Taking off her left skate, she held it in her hands reverently, her fingers stroking along the blade to the stitched leather. Her eyes stung as she catalogued each scuff mark on the white leather recalling how each imperfection came to be. Each one was made when she was with her parents. Most years she would get new skates as she outgrew the previous pair. But this pair… This pair was incredibly special to her. They were the last pair her parents had bought her. She remembered opening the box last Christmas, seeing the light from their Christmas tree gleam on the blade. Her parents had even had the Gryffindor Crest tooled into the leather of the boot. She would always treasure these skates.
"I was skating," she finally said in a soft tone, her mind still conjuring up images of her parents.
Kai grasped her chin and slowly turned it towards him, "Why are you alone, love? You know you could've been hurt, yeah?" he could tell there was something wrong with Mia but couldn't put his finger on it. Her eyes, even though the colours had changed in them, always sparked with life whenever he looked into them. Now they were dull and filled with sadness.
Shifting closer he tossed his broom to the side landing on his knees next to her, "Talk to me, please."
Tearing her face away she grabbed her boot and shoved her foot inside, her lips pressed into a thin line, "I was just skating, a muggle thing."
"There's more you're not telling me."
Letting out a grunt of annoyance she tilted her head back looking to the heavens. Her tears pooled in her eyes and began to sting but she refused to cry right now, not in front of them. Yes, she wanted to keep her parent's memories alive but keeping it to herself wasn't doing the memory justice. Kai would understand, take her feelings into consideration. But sharing something profound to her with Malfoy and Nott nearby… She just couldn't convey the depth of her feelings. Those two, who had been sworn enemies until recently hadn't yet earned the right to see her inner self.
Taking her other skate off she shoved her foot into her boot and stood. She shook off her wool coat and slid it on as she met Kai's eyes picking up her skates, she shrunk them before stuffing them into her pocket. Finally, she said, "I was honouring a memory."
Kai stood and stepped in front of her, his eyes roaming her face trying to find the answers to his questions. A small frown graced his lips and finally, he gave her a small nod seeming to understand that she wouldn't speak any more on the subject.
Trying to lighten the mood, which was something Kai excelled at, he summoned his broom and wrapped his arm around Hermione's shoulder as she walked towards her horse, "Do you want to join us for a round of Quidditch?"
"Have you gone mental?" she snorted as she shrugged out from under his arm, "You know I do not fly."
"Well, you do have a new broom, top of the line I might add."
Grabbing the reins in her hands she grabbed the pommel and cantle of the saddle and slid her foot into the stirrup pulling herself up. Looking down at Kai she gave him a smirk, "And you know exactly where you can shove that broom cousin. Now, if you don't mind, I have company arriving soon and tea with Narcissa after that. Good Morning," giving the others a nod of acknowledgement she kicked her heels into Mystery's belly. She clicked her tongue urging Mystery into a canter, kicking up snow and slush. She glanced one more time behind her chuckling at the spluttering faces of Malfoy and Nott now covered in snow. As well as the grinning countenance of Kai and Viktor who had a good enough sense not to stand behind a horse.