AN: Trigger warnings to many things are present in this story. Don't like, don't read.

I don't own Harry Potter.

All spelling mistakes are my own. There are my own Original Characters in this at times.

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My Little Witch,

Why was I the only one without a letter? I warn you now that I am not a patient woman. I understand that as your mother Alecto should be written to first and, as much as I detest the fact that my baby sister is the one that you are closest too, I also understand that communication with her is of utmost importance to you. What I find that is driving my anger is that you didn't think your MATE was important enough to write too. Did you even think about writing me? Did you even think about me all the years that I was in Azkaban? Or was I pushed aside? Is there someone else that holds you close, that understands what forever means? You are mine Little Witch, whether you want to be or not.

Hermione you have no idea how long I have dreamt of the day that I would get to see you once again. I remember when you were a few months old, and I held you for the very first time. The brightness in your eyes, the smile that you gave me, one in which you never gave anyone else, not even your mother Alecto. That, your smile, is what kept me going in Azkaban, what kept the Dementors from taking all my sanity. I know my reputation. I know that it may be hard for you to imagine being with someone like me but please… Please don't judge me before you even know me. Give me a chance to explain why I did the things I did. I'm not quite the monster that everyone has portrayed me as being. There were legitimate reasons for most of the things I did, reasons that I will only explain in person. I…

The woman that hurt you will pay. Alecto and I will make sure of that the first chance we get. Did Potter and that blood traitor Weasley hurt you? Do not lie to me. That is one of the many things I will not tolerate from my mate, being lied to. Respond as soon as possible Little Witch. I do not like to be kept waiting.

Your MATE Bellatrix

Hermione sat staring at the letter in her hands, her mind not only reeling over the feeling of opening the letter but also the words held within. Tears slipped from her eyes, her heart thundering in her chest wildly. It wasn't as if she didn't want to write Bellatrix. How could the woman think for one moment that she didn't think about her every day? Almost as much as her mother. At times Hermione had felt guilty, thinking she was constantly thinking more about her mate than her own mother.

Her heart ached for Bellatrix thinking she was pushed aside, thinking that there was someone else in Hermione's life. How could she put the woman's fears to rest without being there in person. Would she even believe a word that Hermione wrote? Bellatrix didn't strike her as the sort of woman that trusted easily, which was going to complicate matters when Hermione was so far away for so long. How was she supposed to ease Bellatrix's mind while also standing her own ground against the woman? She couldn't just bow to every whim the woman had, she needed to be strong, to be the mate that Bellatrix deserved.

The only question was, was she going to be strong enough to be that for the eldest Black sister.

Not to mention, how was she supposed to contend with her own jealousy when it came to her mate? She could already sense the close friendship Bellatrix had with her mother. Was there more to it than that over the years? Before they were in Azkaban were they more than just the close friends that she knew about?

A frown slipped onto her face as her mind began to spiral. She didn't want to share her mate, but was that fair to the other woman? Was it fair to demand that Bellatrix be with no one but her? Would Bellatrix take that poorly? So many questions began to circle her mind and even if she could find answers for each of them, she knew it wouldn't matter until she could meet Bellatrix in person and lay all her fears out between them. Obviously, Bellatrix was a very possessive person, which set Hermione on fire in more than one way.

But then there was Narcissa.

She knew the stories of the closeness of the Black sisters when they were growing up. She didn't know if it was all true or just what people assumed because the sisters were close. So many questions were beginning to overwhelm her, and she wasn't sure she could handle it on her first day back at class.

She tucked the letter into her bra, wanting it close but needing a little time before answering it. She glanced over at Draco as he packed his work away and stood, "Ready for class?"

Draco nodded and held her bag out to her, "Let's go before Snape has our hides for being late."

"Hermione!" Pansy Parkinson hurried out of the girl's dormitory and wrapped her in a tight hug, "I thought you were going to die."

Hermione raised an eyebrow at Draco as she patted the shorter girl on the back, "I'm still in pain but I'm good."

Pansy pulled back, pushing her dark hair out of her eyes, "You saved my life Hermione."

Hermione smiled at the girl, feeling uneasy about the praise, "I didn't save your life, Pansy. I just moved you a few feet. Come on or we'll be late." She wrapped her arm around the girl's shoulder, not willing to admit out loud that she needed a little help to move as the pain steadily increased in her side.

She was well aware of the fact that she was going to be in pain for a few weeks, and that the potions would fully remove the pain. But it was still a slight shock as the pain grew to a solid pulsing throb. Pansy wrapped an arm around her waist as they walked, Draco telling Hermione everything that she had missed while she had been in the hospital wing while making their way through the dungeons to the Potions classroom.

Ginny's bright red hair came into view and Hermione felt Pansy's body tense beside her. She frowned at the girl before pulling her to a stop, "You okay?"

Pansy nodded, her eyes narrowed on Ginny, "Why is she always hanging around you?"

Hermione frowned as she detected a note of jealousy in the girl's voice but didn't want to jump to conclusions, "Ginny is our best friend."

Ginny rushed to her, knocking Pansy backwards as she threw her arms around Hermione's neck, "I've been so worried. Are you alright? What happened? Ron and Harry said that you all separated when Umbridge and her new Inquisitorial Squad showed up."

Hermione hugged the girl tightly, needing the closeness for a moment, "I'm fine. Andromeda Tonks is taking good care of me. Let's take our seats before Snape snapes. Oh, Gin, this is Pansy Parkinson."

Pansy glared at Ginny, her tone dripping with disdain, "Charmed."

Ginny frowned at the Slytherin girl, "Right. Come on 'Mione."

Hermione looked between the two girl's feeling like she was missing something but Ginny pulling her into the classroom distracted her. The four of them sat at the same table, Pansy making sure to claim the seat right next to Hermione's left while Draco sat beside her on the right. Hermione rubbed her forehead; she had her own issues to deal with and she really didn't want to try to figure out what Pansy's issue with Ginny was at the moment.

Snape's voice made her look up, "Today we'll be learning about the Antidote to Veritaserum."

Hermione shook her head as they got to work and began to tell Ginny and Draco what happened, leaving out the information about the club Potter wanted to start. Pansy filled in a few things that she couldn't remember after the group separated and Hermione was grateful that the girl was sitting with them. They worked well together, yet Hermione couldn't help but notice the disgusted grimace on Ginny's face throughout the class. Their table was recognized by Snape as having made the potion perfectly and when they were dismissed Pansy walked with them towards Charms.

Hermione was quickly tiring out as they crossed the castle, her body protesting every movement she made. Not to mention her mind was still on Bellatrix's letter that she had yet to answer. Without thinking she wrapped an arm around Pansy shoulders, leaning slightly on the shorter girl for support. She didn't want to admit how much she was struggling and the soft smile that Pansy gave her while wrapping an arm around her waist was one of understanding. She felt Pansy's arm stiffen and her grip become firm, allowing Hermione to relax against her, to use her as a crutch to walk without alerting anyone to her suffering.

Charms took longer than ever before, which Hermione attributed to the fact that she spent the majority of the class trying to start a letter to Bellatrix. None of them started the way she wanted them too, no matter how much she tried, and it only grew her frustration. When Charms ended Pansy once again helped her subtly, which Hermione was grateful for.

Draco eyed them curiously as they made their way towards the staircase, "Pansy are you sitting with us for lunch?"

Pansy glanced up at Hermione, "If I'm welcome."

Hermione smirked at the girl, "Like I would ever turn down such a charmer."

Pansy chuckled, before grinning shyly at her, "Well you could tell me to get lost."

Ginny grimaced, crossing her arms over her chest as she walked in front of Hermione and Pansy, muttering under her breathe, "I'd like to tell you where to go."

Hermione frowned at Ginny's back, swearing she heard the girl speaking, "What did you say Gin?"

Ginny spun around with a fake smile on her face, "I said that would be nice."

Hermione frowned at her before shaking her head, "Anyway I'm not going for lunch. I have to meet Andromeda in the Hospital wing."

Pansy smiled up at her, "I'll walk you there."

Hermione chuckled, "You sure about that? I'm sure you're hungry."

Ginny snorted, "Oh, she's hungry alright."

Draco heard Ginny's comment and stared wide eyed at her as he said, "We'll meet you at Hagrid's for Care of Magical Creatures then. Come on Ginny." He gripped her arm and pulled her away from Hermione's confused shrug. He glanced back and smiled as he watched Pansy helping Hermione up the stairs towards the fourth floor. He shook his head as he focused back on Ginny, "What's with you?"

They began to descend the stairs as Ginny sighed, shaking her head against the annoyance and slight jealousy she felt towards Pansy, "Don't you see the way Pansy is hanging all over Hermione. She's totally flirting with her."

Draco's eyes nearly bugged out of his head as he stumbled down the last two steps of the stairs, "They aren't flirting."

Ginny scoffed, flipping her hair over her shoulder and smiling beautifully at him, lowering her voice to a more seductive tone, "Well you could tell me to get lost?"

Draco's mouth went dry as he stared at his friend, his heart pounding in his chest uncomfortably, "S-s-she was g-g-giving her a ch-choice." He grimaced and cleared his throat after it broke on the last word.

Ginny scoffed, "And Hermione's," She lowered her voice slightly, a raspy quality entering her tone, "Like I would ever turn down such a charmer."

Draco swallowed thickly as he loosened his tie, suddenly feeling overheated, "Even if they were flirting Hermione has a mate remember. She has been talking about meeting my Auntie since we learned to talk. There's nothing to it."

Ginny nodded as they took their seats at the Slytherin table, "Hermione yes, Pansy not so much. She has no idea about Hermione's mate."

Goyle smirked, "I just got word from my father that Black is pissed. Something about her nearly launching a frontal assault on Hogwarts."

Draco's eyes widened, "I haven't heard from Mother yet. I'll have Hermione write her, let her know that she's okay."

Ginny frowned, "Can't Andromeda pass a note along?"

Draco shrugged, "Don't know. We can ask Hermione in class." They quickly put their worries about Hermione and Pansy aside to talk to their friends while they ate lunch.

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Hermione and Pansy rounded the corner into the Hospital wing. Hermione's limping was more pronounced, and Pansy was having to hold her up as they hurried into the room. Hermione's breathing was erratic as the pain flamed brighter. She gripped her side as Pansy lowered her onto the narrow bed and closed her eyes tightly as Pansy held her shoulders, "Are you alright Hermione?"

A strong voice sounded behind them, "Of course she's not you twit."

Hermione snorted as Andromeda's concerned filtered through the pain, "Don't mind her Pansy, she's uptight."

Andromeda scoffed as she shooed Pansy towards the foot of the bed, "I'll show you uptight you little shit." A grin accompanying the woman's words told Hermione the woman was relieved that she was still able to joke even through the pain. "Alright, potion time." Hermione grimaced, watching as Pansy sat beside her, taking her hand gently. A move that was not missed by Andromeda's watchful eyes, "Yes, well, Hermione how long did they last?"

Hermione downed the first of the five, shaking her head and squeezing Pansy's hand tightly, "Not long enough."

Andromeda nodded, her eyes narrowing on Hermione's hand in this new girl's. She felt her skin crawl at the thought. Hermione belonged to Bellatrix, belonged to Narcissa in a way too. Hermione belonged to the Black sisters to all that knew the girl and the idea that Hermione was close to this girl wasn't sitting well with her.

Hermione finished all five potions and took a deep breath as the pain began to ease slightly, "Thank you Andromeda. Have you heard from Narcissa?"

Andromeda nodded, "She's beside herself with worry. A note to her might help ease her panic, though the other one is just as concerned as is your mother." She held Hermione's eyes with a heavy stare.

Hermione knew who Andromeda was talking about, but the look in the older woman's eyes was telling her something else. She followed the woman's eyes down to where her hand was clasped with Pansy and she rolled her eyes, not wanting to go there, "Tell her I'm fine. That you talked to me. I will write them later tonight and pass it along to you."

Andromeda nodded, seemingly put at ease for the time being, "Alright. A quick diagnostic and then I'll let you get back to class."

The diagnostic was over before Hermione thought it would be and she quickly guided Pansy out of the Hospital wing before the woman could ask more questions. They made their way slowly towards the grand staircase, a slightly distance between them now that Hermione could walk without pain. She frowned as they began to descend the stairs, "Pansy, I need you to know something."

Pansy glanced over at her, "What's up?"

Hermione frowned, "I like you, I do, but…"

Pansy eyed her curiously, "But?"

Hermione stopped at the top of the stairs leading to the Entrance Hall, "I have a mate."

A sad smile crossed the girl's pale face, "I know. It's alright Hermione. I have a tendency to flirt, and I didn't mean to make you uncomfortable."

Hermione quickly shook her head, a grin pulling at her lips, "You didn't. I don't mind flirting with you. Flirting doesn't mean anything, but I just need you to know that it will never go past that. I mean did you see the look on Ginny's face."

Pansy laughed, taking Hermione's hand and pulling her down the stairs, "So that means I can still flirt right? And why is he and Ginny so worried about it?"

Hermione pulled the girl closer as they stepped outside of the castle, making their way down the pathway, "My mate is his Aunt Bellatrix." Pansy's eyes widened slightly in horror, and Hermione couldn't stop the cackling laughter that ripped from her chest, "That going to be a problem?"

Pansy shook her head, a dark grin pulling at her lips, "Not if you're there to protect me. So, I can be your beard at school. Everyone will think you and I are dating, and you won't have the likes of Ronald Weasley trying to get in your pants."

Hermione chuckled, "Yes because they all know you'll roast them over a spit if they tried." She wrapped her arm around Pansy's shoulders, "Not to mention I've seen you running from Crabbe and Goyle recently. Care to share with the rest of the class my dear?"

Pansy snorted and shook her head, "They really don't know the meaning of no. I've turned them down every day for the past year and they still won't get the hint."

Hermione nodded sympathetically, "I know the feeling. Ronald has been nonstop since our second year. I swear The Chamber of Secrets didn't just fuck with Lockhart's mind."

They giggled as they made their way towards Hagrid's hut, finding the rest of their Slytherin class keeping distance from the Gryffindor's that were huddling around Hagrid's door. Draco smiled and waved them over as Ginny rolled her eyes at them, "Pansy, I see you are joining us again."

Hermione frowned at Ginny, "Lay off Ginny."

Ginny crossed her arms over her chest, "She helps you once and she's suddenly your best friend?"

Hermione frowned, her anger surging forward faster than she could stop it, "More than you ever have."

Draco held his hands up quickly, "Hey, guys come on now. We're all friends here."

Hermione nodded, an eyebrow raising, "Lay it out Ginny."

Ginny nodded turning to face Hermione, "Alright, you know you have a mate. What's she going to say when she finds out about this?"

Hermione glanced at Pansy a smirk coming to her lips, "Hopefully she won't say anything, but if she'll let me explain then I'll tell her the truth."

"Which is?" Ginny asked, tone sarcastic yet hurt.

Pansy smirked at the Gryffindor, "Aw, Hermione she's jealous." Ginny glared at the girl, wand appearing in her hand. Pansy shook her head, a snarl crossing her face, "I wouldn't if I were you Weasley."

Hermione rolled her eyes, "Now, now children. No silly wand waving or silly incantations in this class."

Draco laughed, "Five on Ginny."

A smirk pulled at the corner of Hermione's mouth as she looked between the two girls, "I'll take that."

She and Draco took a step back, and he asked with a grin, "You really think Pansy has it in her to take on Gin?"

Hermione nodded, "Unlike you, I've seen what Pansy can do in a fight."

Pansy pulled her wand free as Hermione walked up behind her, whispering quietly in her ear, smiling as a shiver ran down Pansy's spine, "She has a left side weakness." Hermione grinned darkly as Draco whispered something to Ginny, his eyebrows bouncing up once before he stepped back. Hermione stepped back as the other students gathered around, watching what was happening.

Ginny raised her wand, taking a strong stance with her left foot forward. Pansy held a more relaxed stance, one that Hermione recognized. The girl would be loose enough to move in either direction depending on where the spell would fly. Hermione looked between them as she moved to stand beside Draco on the side, "Fair fight, no one interferes, or they take me on. Be civil ladies." She smirked as she nodded at them both.

"Stupefy!" Ginny shouted.

"Flipendo!" Pansy easily sidestepped Ginny's stunner and landed the perfect shot of her knockback jinx to Ginny's chest.

Ginny's eyes widened as she was thrown backwards a few feet, landing with a huff on her back in the dirt. Hermione smirked at Draco, holding her hand out palm up. He rolled his eyes with a grimace, dropping five galleons into her hand before hurrying to check on Ginny. Hermione moved towards a grinning Pansy, wrapping an arm around her shoulders, "And we have a clear winner."

Ginny took Draco's hand, allowing him to pull her to her feet and began to dust her butt off, "Nice cast Pansy."

Pansy frowned at the redhead, confusion coating her words, "Thank you."

Hermione chuckled and leaned closer to Pansy's ear, enjoying the shiver that was once again rolling down the girl's spine, "When we have problems, we lay them out and then handle them. After all is said and done, we move on. No hard feelings, no grudges."

Ginny grinned at them both, "It's what keeps us as friends. Hermione I'm not jealous, I just want you both to be careful. And you know I would have helped if I could."

Hermione nodded a soft smile coming to her face, "I know Ginny. I'm sorry I snapped at you, but don't worry so much."

Hagrid appeared in his doorway; his eyes trained on their group as he called order to his class. They spent the hour talking and laughing, Ginny and Pansy slowly getting to know each other better, which Hermione was thrilled about. There was something about Pansy that Hermione was drawn to. As if they were supposed to be in each other's lives.

But now she had to explain their plan to her mate, and that was easier said than done.

When class ended, they made their way back towards the castle, Hermione's arm once again around Pansy's shoulders as the girl helped her walk as the pain increase. She was desperate to sit somewhere but they were too far from the castle, and she was supposed to meet Andromeda again before dinner. She was exhausted and her mind was still spiraling with answers for Bellatrix, and now to add this tidbit of information in was going to be hectic.

She missed Narcissa, wanting to see the woman more than ever before.

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The week passed slower than Hermione had ever suffered through at Hogwarts. The potions weren't getting any easier to take and the rumor of her and Pansy possibly dating began to circle the school by dinner that first night. She didn't deny anything and since Pansy had become a permanent member of their group, everyone assumed it was confirmation. Ron kept grimacing when he would look over at them and Pansy had taken to touching Hermione more when the boy was looking. Much the same happened when Crabbe and Goyle came poking around Pansy. Hermione became more possessive over the girl when they were around and eventually both Ginny and Draco caught on to what they were doing.

Ginny had been in absolute hysterics when she had heard Ron complaining to Harry that Hermione was never alone anymore. Ginny had, at the urging of both Hermione and Pansy, told Ron that Pansy was Hermione's girlfriend and there was no separating them. Ginny loved the idea, knowing that her brother thought he was entitled and hoped that this would deter him from acting.

It hadn't. In fact, it seemed to increase his leering and not so subtle hints.

Hermione still hadn't written Bellatrix back by the end of the week. Not that she hadn't tried but she was still struggling with her own insecurities when it came to the questions that Bellatrix had asked. On Saturday morning she was the first one up, finding her usual seat in the common room she took a deep breath as she finally forced herself to answer Bellatrix. She wanted to Bellatrix to know that she was serious about what she was saying so she started it the only way she could think of:

MY ONE AND ONLY,

I never meant to leave you out of the letter train I am currently forced into. I would much rather speak to you in person about all of this so I will answer a few things only. On the contrary I think my mate is the most important one of all to write to, however every time I tried, I couldn't figure out how to start that wasn't awkward or self-deprecating. Draco and I were discussing it and the only thing I could think of to start the letter was, Hey I'm your mate want to get to know before we shag? Not exactly the best way to begin not only a letter but a relationship that has been predestined.

At times growing up I feel like I thought about you more than my own mother which I can't tell you how much guilt I have felt for that. It was always your picture, the only one I have of you, that I would look at when I would fall asleep and when I would wake. I always wondered what you were like, if you would even like me when I was a child let alone now. I always dreamt of you. We would be sat beside the lake near home, and you would be talking to me. Just talking. About everything and anything. We would have no secrets and that is one of the happiest dreams I ever had as a child. Don't thing for one second that you were ever far from my mind.

While there is no one like that in my life I must warn you about a rumor you will no doubt hear. It is not true however I think it is best I tell you in person what is happening. Please trust me that I would never throw away something that I have wanted, needed, my entire life. Please trust that I will tell you everything when we meet in person.

I have never once thought you were a monster, and I never will. I've heard the rumors, I've heard the vicious vile things that people have said about you and it has taken everything in me, and occasionally Narcissa, to stop me from acting on my anger. One day those people will rue the day they ever opened their filthy mouths to speak such filth.

I had a few bruises from where they grabbed me, but they are healed. As for last weekend, well I'm sure you've spoken to Andromeda, and if not well… I guess you better because I wasn't conscious for most of it. The pain is horrendous, and I find myself tiring faster than I'd like, but I'm getting there. Andromeda says there's something wrong with my diagnostics, but she won't tell me anything until she's one hundred percent sure about the results.

I apologize that it has taken me this long to respond. I wish we could meet face to face. Of course, I belong to you, always have and please don't ever doubt that. Until we can meet face to face, I will continue to await your letters. Be safe and please don't do anything reckless. Don't think I didn't hear about the assault on the castle plan, my friends like to gossip. And before you ask, no I will not divulge my sources.

At least not without the proper kind of torture…

Your MATE Hermione

Hermione hoped that last comment wasn't too soon, too much, but she couldn't help but end it on a teasing tone. She sat back with a sigh, staring at the multiple pages. She could only hope that this would assuage some of her mate's fears, though she knew it wouldn't help all of them. For the first time in months, she felt relaxed, a strange sense of calm entering her body.

Andromeda had insisted on eating dinner with her the night before, including a sweet desert that was made by the older woman. Hermione had never tasted anything so delicious before. She had gotten to know the woman better through out the week, having a few long conversations during their potion exchange, especially when Hermione was too tired to return to class. She was healing but Andromeda wasn't happy with how long it was taking her, fearing that Hermione would have to take the potions even longer than just two weeks.

She leaned forward to start folding the papers before beginning to stuff them into an envelope as Pansy entered the common room, "You are up way to early on a Saturday Hermione."

She chuckled as she kicked the chair out for Pansy, "You ever seal an envelope with S.W.A.K. before?"

Pansy shook her head, "Nope. It's only possible if you have a mate. You'll know what to do if you want to seal it that way strong enough. Close your eyes and concentrate on it."

Hermione closed her eyes and focused on the envelope, feeling the urge to kiss it. She pressed her lips to it and pulled back, opening her eyes. She grinned as she saw the ruby red lipstick stain in the shape of her own lips and she couldn't stop herself from touching her lips, checking for the lipstick she knew wasn't there. Her heart rate kicked up a notch as she wrote the name 'Trixie' on the front, not wanting anyone to know who it was for. No one but her mate would be able to open it no matter what, so the name was only fitting, a trick for her Trixie.

Pansy grinned at her, "You got lucky. Not everyone gets a mate."

Hermione smiled, "Do you have one?"

Pansy nodded, "Yes but I don't know who mine is. I can only hope their as sweet and kind as you if I ever meet them."

Draco's laughter filled the air as he collapsed in the chair next to Hermione, "If you think Hermione is sweet and kind, you haven't seen the real her."

Hermione gasped in fake shock, "I take offense to that."

Draco grinned and leaned towards Pansy, "When were six, Hermione had better control over her magic than most adults we know. She decided that my mother needed to take some time off, so she began making the furniture self-cleaning except because we were still kids, they began to attack everyone who went anywhere near my Mother."

Hermione raised an eyebrow at Pansy and shrugged, "She didn't need any more stress for a while."

Draco grimaced at her, "The wardrobe ate my father 'Mione. It took mum two days to undo what you did so he could get out of the damn thing."

Pansy snorted a laugh. Hermione couldn't stop the smug grin from widening, "Narcissa was mine. What can I say?" It wasn't as if she was intent on being malicious it had just happened… At least she thinks…

On their way up to breakfast a hand latched around Hermione's arm and she was jerked down the corridor on the second floor. Draco and Pansy had been waiting for Ginny and Hermione wanted some food before she had to meet Andromeda, so she had gone ahead. Now she was regretting that decision as Potter's hand held firm and dragged her down the corridor towards Moaning Myrtle's lavatory.

She grimaced as she stumbled into the large room that she hadn't been in since their second year, "What do you want now?"

Ron was leaning against a stall door as Harry turned to her after shutting the door, "Are you in? Dumbledore's Army."

Her lip curled up at the name, "As much as I loath the name, yes. I will help you and your little band learn some real defense. As long as a few of my own are welcome too."

Harry grinned at her, "Thanks Hermione and as long as they can keep a secret, the more the merrier. Neville is looking for a place for us to do this inside the castle where Umbridge can't find us."

Hermione rolled her eyes, "For the love of Merlin Potter, have you never read a book before?" She shook her head, holding her hands up, "No don't answer that. Of course, you haven't. Room of Requirements. The room becomes exactly what you need, and no one can get in unless they have the same purpose as you."

Harry and Ron shared a surprised look before Ron asked, "Where do we find it?"

She pinched the bridge of her nose, a huff of air escaping her lungs as she shook her head, "Seventh floor, left corridor, near the Bamabas the Barmy tapestry." She could feel a headache coming on quickly.

Harry nodded, "We'll check it out. The first Hogsmeade visit is in two weeks. We'll be having our first meeting there."

She raised an eyebrow, "Please not the shrieking shack. I can't do that place again."

Ron snorted, "Me neither. Dealing with Pettigrew and Snape at the same time was the worst."

Hermione bit her tongue, not wanting to give anything away, but the need to defend Snape was overwhelming. Instead, she shook her head in anger, "Right, well if we're done, I have to get to the hospital wing."

Harry frowned at her, "How are you doing? We heard about the potions you have to take."

She glared at him, her eyes narrowing, "And yet you couldn't ask how I was doing after it happened?"

Harry frowned at the floor, but Ron responded, "It's not like we can get anywhere near you with Pansy Parkinson hanging around. What's up between you two anyway? Are the rumors true?"

She smirked at him, "Yes. Got a problem with it Ronald?" His face began to turn a light shade of red and she could see his anger rising. She laughed, a slight cackle entering it as she spun on her heel, "Get over yourself Ron. I never liked you. I merely tolerate you because I must. Take care Harry." She waved over her shoulder and made her way back out to the grand staircase.

She climbed the stairs towards the fourth floor as she contemplated what she was getting herself into by agreeing to help Potter. While learning more defense was wise, helping Potter and his Dumbledore's Army wasn't something she wanted. Nor did she think that Voldemort would be happy about it. However, her hands were tied now. She entered the Hospital wing with a frown on her face, worry beginning to circle her chest.

Andromeda frowned as she watched the girl enter the room upset, "Everything alright Hermione?"

Hermione nodded, "Sorry, I'm fine. Starving but fine."

Andromeda nodded, smiling brightly, "Good thing I brought breakfast."

Hermione grinned and dived right into the food between taking potions. She knew that whatever was coming would be big but for now she just wanted to relax and enjoy the peaceful feelings that were once again swirling through her system.

.

The rest of the first month of school passed relatively quickly. Hermione hadn't received a letter from Bellatrix or her mother in return and she worried that she had upset her mate or possibly angered her with the letter she had sent. Andromeda hadn't liked the rate at which Hermione was healing so she was still taking the potions. Andromeda was also supplying her meals three times a day claiming that she needed the nutrition to help with healing. Hermione was starting to get the feeling that Andromeda had ulterior motives for feeding her, but she wasn't going to complain when the sweets and foods were homemade by Narcissa.

She hadn't really talked to Narcissa either. Umbridge was now searching all incoming and outgoing mail as of the week before and Hermione thought it better not to risk Bellatrix or Alecto being discovered. She knew the Toad would be watching her mail closely, so she had only sent useless things to Narcissa every once and a while to keep the woman less worried. Even Andromeda was being searched so sending anything through her wouldn't work.

When the first weekend trip to Hogsmeade finally arrived, Hermione was hopeful that she would be able to meet up with Narcissa. She felt as if she hadn't seen the woman longer than just a month and it was starting to grate on her. She dressed quickly and hurried to the Hospital wing finding Andromeda in an argument with Umbridge. She placed her back against the wall and listened, peaking around the corner.

"You can't keep me from my patient Dolores." Andromeda snapped angrily.

"She is perfectly fine and no longer requires your care. Madame Pomfrey is more than capable to take over now. I will get the same order for you as I did for Madame Malfoy if I have to." Umbridge's voice was lower than normal, and Hermione could hear the note of victory it held.

"You won't get away with this. I'll go above your head if I have to. Do you really think you can control Hogwarts? Dumbledore-"

"Dumbledore will not be around here much longer Black. And when he is finally gone, I will be in charge. No one will be allowed in or out of this school. Don't think I don't know about your relationship with Hermione Black. I can make sure you never see her again. Madame Malfoy was never given full guardianship over the child, and I will make sure she is never returned to them again." Umbridge snapped, her calm demeaner finally waning.

Andromeda's voice darkened, a rush of magic bursting through the room, "Are you threatening my family you worthless little Toad?" A darkness crossed Andromeda's face, one that rivaled even Narcissa's.

A gasp ripped from Umbridge's lips as her face contorted into a glare, "It's not a threat but a promise. So remember this moment when you see Hermione again, because what she is going to go through will be because of you and your family."

Hermione felt her heart quicken, a slightly fear slithering through her body as Umbridge spun on her heel to storm from the room. Hermione dashed across the hall and hid in the nook behind the stone statue, watching the woman until she disappeared from view. She stepped out of the shadows glaring at the spot that Umbridge had turned before heading into the Hospital wing.

"Andromeda?" She asked softly, seeing the pain and upset in the woman's watery eyes.

"Hermione," Andromeda pulled her into a tight hug, burring her nose in the girl's hair.

Hermione ran her hands soothingly up and down the older witch's back, "It'll be alright." When Andromeda pulled back to look at her in shock she smirked up at her, "I heard. Don't worry. I can handle the Toad for a while. Promise me you won't blame yourself."

"Hermione I'm the reason she's going to-"

Hermione cut her off, shaking her head, "No you're not. She started this long before you came along. You being here has helped keep her away from me. Just don't let my mother or mate do anything foolish. We'll figure something out. I'll tell Narcissa when I see her in Hogsmeade. Go, before we get into more trouble."

Andromeda nodded, starting her diagnostic before speaking, "If you need anything I want to know about it."

Hermione nodded, "Hey I'm feeling great but if something comes up, I'll figure out a way to contact you. I promise."

When Andromeda was done, they hugged once more before she watched the older woman step into the fireplace, the bright green flames swallowing her whole. A sudden pop made Hermione startle and she turned to find Umbridge grinning at her, "No more Floo network. Run along now, enjoy this trip while you can."

Hermione glared at the woman as she turned to leave. She had a strange feeling in the pit of her stomach as she made her way towards the entrance. Something about the way the woman had said those words told her that she may not have a chance to visit Hogsmeade again. She tried to shake the feeling of being watched as she made her way towards Hogsmeade, knowing that Draco and Pansy would already have found Ginny and made their way to the Three Broomsticks to meet with Narcissa.

She crossed into Hogsmeade ten minutes later, her eyes glued to the Three Broomsticks. She needed to warn Narcissa, to warn the family that Umbridge was making a move. She caught sight of Harry Potter waving at her, motioning for her to approach them. She rolled her eyes and detoured to him, "What? I'm busy."

Harry frowned, "I just over heard Umbridge saying she's going to make a decree that will prevent us from taking unnecessary trips to Hogsmeade."

She grimaced, "I knew she was going to do something like this. She's threatening my family."

Harry's eyes widened at her, "Hermione I know we don't really like each other but I think we have a common enemy."

She eyed him carefully, "How do you figure?" Harry frowned over her shoulder, and she turned to find a few Ravenclaws watching them intently. She curled her lip in disgust at them.

Harry took her arm and pulled her away, leading her further away while bringing their bodies closer together, "Even if you are on Voldemort's side and I'm on Dumbledore's, I think we can agree that right now the biggest threat is this new third party, The Ministry."

Hermione nodded, shivering slightly against the cold breeze as they walked slowly, "I have to say I'm shocked that you actually have a brain, let alone that you're using it. I'm listening."

Harry smirked at her, "I'm not as dumb as I look sometimes." She snorted but motioned for him to continue. "All I'm saying is that right now teaming up might work in our favor. She's cracking down on too much and if we do this Army thing then it gives us a fighting chance."

She frowned at him, pulling him to a stop near the alley near the Three Broomsticks, "I already said I would do the Army. I have a few Slytherin's that agree with you. Facing a third threat together is stronger than doing it alone. Besides Ronald would probably end up puking slugs again if left on his own."

Harry chuckled, remembering their second year and Ron's broken wand, "True. The only problem I see is if she's threatening your family that means you are more of a target than I am. All she's doing to me is making it seem like I'm lying. She's actually physically going after you."

Hermione frowned, a thought that hadn't even occurred to her yet, "I don't think I like a smart Harry Potter."

He grinned at her, "Just like I don't like a powerful Hermione Black. Either way are we agreed?"

She deep sighed, "Unfortunately yes, but I have to warn Narcissa of the threat Umbridge made this morning. Come on. Time to meet thy enemy." She took his arm and pulled him into the shop.

The Three Broomsticks was dimly lit by firelight that bounced around in the fireplace. Candles sat on each table in the small room, lighting the occupant's faces slightly. A few tables held a few teachers needing a break just as much as the students. Hermione scanned the area and found her family in the back of the room, in a rounded booth, watching her intently. She glanced over at Harry, taking in his nervous hesitant look, "You ready?"

He stared into her eyes for a moment before nodding, "I trust you. Them not so much."

She nodded as she led the way to the booth, "Dido Potter."

Her eyes landed on Narcissa, and she couldn't stop the smile from spreading across her lips. It felt good to see the woman, to be in her presence and feel that familiar feeling of safety that the woman always gave her. Narcissa stood as they drew near and those familiar strong arms were suddenly around her, Narcissa's mouth against her ear, "Are you alright?"

Hermione nodded and pulled back, "Yes but we have to talk. Sit." She sat beside Narcissa while Potter sat beside a scowling Draco, "Potter and I have decided to side together." Narcissa opened her mouth, but Hermione shook her head, "She threatened our family Cissy. She's got Potter under surveillance and just now when I was with Andromeda in the Hospital wing, she not only threatened our family," she frowned at Narcissa, "But she promised Andromeda that I would be the one to pay for it."

Narcissa's anger was instant, and Hermione knew the woman was struggling to control it before others were alerted to it.

Harry glanced everyone, "I over heard Umbridge saying she wants to prevent us from coming to Hogsmeade again. She's trying to force Dumbledore out so she can take over. The Ravenclaws are officially her new Inquisitorial Squad."

Ginny frowned, "What does that mean?"

"She's giving them permission to give out punishments at their own discretion. It's not the Professors we have to worry about anymore. In fact, I heard she's trying to take McGonagall down too." Harry grimaced.

Hermione felt anger rise in her chest and Draco shook his head, "McGonagall is the only descent professor besides Snape."

Harry opened his mouth, but Hermione kicked his shin under the table, knowing exactly how the boy was about to put his foot in his mouth. Harry grimaced at her as he rubbed his shin, but Hermione shook her head at him, "Either way, we have a third player in this war. Someone on the inside of the Ministry is calling the shots and neither Dumbledore nor Voldemort are able to get a foothold in it."

Narcissa finally had control of her emotions as she placed a hand high on Hermione's thigh, "Potter, as much as I loath this idea it may be necessary for Dumbledore and Voldemort to meet. Discuss a truce in this war until this Ministry matter is settled."

Harry nodded, "I agree. I've already brought the idea to Dumbledore. It would have to be a neutral place, one with plenty of wards. I know Dumbledore isn't exactly calm where Voldemort is concerned."

Hermione snorted, "That's an understatement, but the same is true for our side. If we can convince our side, then we will limit it to only a few people with him. Mostly the few he trusts."

Harry eyed her for a moment, "Does that include you?"

She knew this was an important moment. If she agreed, then she would be showing her hand to the Boy Who Lived. On the other if she denied it, she wouldn't be able to join Voldemort at the meeting. Neither idea sat well with her, but she was also so tired of lying, of being something she wasn't. She held her head high and stared into Harry's hazel eyes, "Yes. Just as Dumbledore's includes you."

Harry nodded, a small smile coming to his lips, "Trust right."

Hermione nodded, "Trust. Only you. If Ronald askes me one more time…."

Harry chuckled, "I have tried to get him to stop I swear." They shared a smile before Harry asked, "What about Christmas break? We'll have a few months to find a place by then."

Hermione glanced at Narcissa, finding the woman watching her curiously, "That will do. I'll take the plan to the Dark Lord and send word to Hermione."

Harry nodded as the bell dinged above the door, "Alright, I have to go so no one sees me. I'll talk to you later about the plan Hermione."

She nodded at him and watched him leave until Narcissa's hand gripped her thigh painfully. She turned to look into the woman's anger filled eyes as Draco pulled Pansy and Ginny away for drinks. Hermione frowned, "What?"

"You did all this without talking to me first. What else are you involved in?" Narcissa's voice was low, made only for Hermione to hear.

She frowned at the woman, "I haven't been able to talk to you. Umbridge is watching Harry and I like a hawk. She's started reading incoming and outgoing mail. I could just send something like this to you. And why do you always assume I'm involved in something?"

Narcissa's blonde brow rose, an incredulous look crossing her face, "Because I raised you, my Darling."

Hermione snorted, "Then you only have yourself to blame Cissa."

The hand on her thigh began to slide higher as Narcissa leaned closer, "What plan exactly are you discussing with the Potter boy?"

Hermione leaned her arms on the table, one hand under the other, her fingers brushing lightly against the side of Narcissa's covered breast, pulling a soft gasp from the woman's mouth. She smirked darkly at the woman, "You'll have to come up with a better way of getting information out of me Narcissa."

Narcissa's hand disappeared as she sat back against the booth with a grin, "Is that a challenge Honey?"

Hermione smiled widely at her, "More like a wish." She frowned suddenly, her eyes trying to memorize everything about the woman's face. She hated going without seeing her, without being able to talk to her whenever she wanted. Her chest tightened, her heart constricting at the feeling of loss, as if she were losing the woman even though she was right in front of her, "I miss you Narcissa. It's been hard without being able to write to you. Not knowing when I'd get to see you again."

Narcissa's eyes softened, leaning forward to brush a kiss across Hermione's cheek, "I've missed you too. And I've felt the same. We'll get through this, and we'll figure out this Umbridge situation, but please don't keep me in the dark. I can't take it again."

Hermione nodded, resting her head on the older woman's shoulder as she launched into everything. Telling the woman everything she could think of that had happened in the last month. It wasn't as if she was keeping anything from the woman, but she really did not want to worry Narcissa without reason. As they began to laugh, Draco, Pansy and Ginny returned to their table. They continued with their visit and Hermione had never felt happier than in that moment, forgetting about Umbridge and the Army that Potter wanted her to help train. For once they were just friends and family laughing and spending time together.

But she knew it wouldn't last and soon they would be right back in the war that was taking place within Hogwarts now.