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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Hermione stood in McGonagall's office, her school robes hanging off her body. Her mind was clear for the first time in months as she watched the smoke rise from the train as it pulled into the station. She missed Narcissa but she was finally feeling settled, as if now that she knew what was happening outside the walls of Hogwarts she could relax slightly. She took a deep breath and turned back to McGonagall, "Bellatrix?"

McGonagall smiled, "Voldemort located her and Alecto. They were giving the Ministry a run for their money. I do believe you get the Transfiguration from your mother and the curses from your mate. They were leading a distraction so others could get out of Diagon and Knockturn Alley."

She closed her eyes for a moment, letting the anxiety of not knowing what happened with her family calm itself. She had spent the last two weeks mostly in the hospital wing, having been targeted harder than before. Luna had been torturing her in every way conceivable, except not with Unforgivables. It was as if the girl was getting closer to it but would always pull back at the last second. Even some of the Ravenclaws were casting worried glances at Hermione as she writhed on the floor in pain.

When she opened her eyes she moved to the armchair beside the older woman, "Archie and Crabbe?"

McGonagall frowned, "Azkaban. Voldemort couldn't get to them in time."

Hermione frowned into the fire, her anger burning just as brightly as the flames, "Make sure Narcissa feeds the bats. Archie doesn't have anyone, which is why I usually helped him out at times."

McGonagall nodded, her voice soft and heartfelt, "She misses you and wishes you would return."

Hermione popped her neck before looking over at the woman, "Did you tell her the plan?"

McGonagall looked away from her, "No. I knew she would try to stop us. I didn't see another way for this to play out."

Hermione smiled at the woman, "It's worked so far Minerva. I'm fine. A lot better than what I would have been if it wasn't for you."

McGonagall shook her head, emerald eyes teary, "You still suffered."

Hermione sighed, taking the woman's hand in her own, "You know what being under the Imperius Curse is like. I didn't feel the pain and you made it seem like I did. Giving me all those potions right before releasing me, meant that I barely felt it. Trust me when I say it was preferable."

McGonagall shook her head, pleading at Hermione to understand, "Your body still had the damage done Hermione."

Hermione nodded, releasing the older woman's hand and rubbing her still sore ribs, "I know, and I will deal with it." She knew she wouldn't be able to keep the woman from feeling guilty but they both knew this is how it was going to go. They both knew the moment they entered the castle after the meeting that Hermione would be punished for leaving the grounds, even if it was the holiday and she was accompanied by a Professor. The fact that Umbridge had somehow known that she and Potter were gone didn't set well with her. Someone was aware that they were leaving the school. Someone who knew about the meeting before even they did.

It was unsettling.

A knock on the door had both women tensing slightly before McGonagall called, "Who is it?"

"Snape."

McGonagall release a sigh, "Come in."

Severus Snape quickly entered the room before warding it after he shut the door, "How are you doing Hermione?"

Hermione shrugged, not in the mood to discuss the differing aches and pains throughout her body, "Are the others here yet?"

Snape nodded, "They are exiting the train right now. I have the potions for you. Take them now and then I'll give you some before dinner."

Hermione took a deep breath before downing the two pink potions. She hated the taste, but she knew they would help ease the pain for the rest of the day. She was tired of taking potions period, since that seemed to be all she drank this year so far. She would actually kill for some of Narcissa's special cider, something she never thought she would resort to.

"Umbridge is still awaiting word from Fudge. Your mate gave the Ministry pause the last two weeks." Snape smirked at her.

Hermione chuckled, "I'm sure she did, but I think there's more to it. I think they are waiting for the perfect moment. The Raids just happened. It would be too soon for her to take Hogwarts after something like that. Macnair and the elder Lestrange were killed. Rodolphus and Rabastan are out for blood and not holding back."

Snape nodded, "Yes, the Dark Lord isn't letting the out of Andromeda's care right now."

Hermione stood, moving to the window to watch the students walk towards the castle, "No, I don't assume they are. They lost their father during an unprovoked raid by the Ministry."

She spotted Draco and a smile pulled at her lips, until she caught her reflection in the window. The new scar on her face was large and unmissable. Luna had been creative that day, having somehow sliced carefully under the right side of her nose at a downward angle, and through her lips to the base of her chin. It had taken Madame Pomfrey all night to figure out a counter curse and then the skin had knitted back together so slowly that a scar hadn't been preventable.

She turned back to the two Professors, "I should go see Draco. I'll see you in class tomorrow." She strode from the room, her mind quickly back on her family.

How was she going to explain all of this to Draco? They knew Hermione was here on her own for the last two weeks, but would they understand the plan she and McGonagall had come up with? Would they be okay with it when they did find out or would they be disgusted by what was going to happen? She doubted it, but it was still nagging at the back of her mind.

She leaned against the wall near the entrance to the dungeons waiting for Draco. Pansy saw her first and her gasp ripped through the quiet entrance hall like a bomb going off. She grimaced as heads turned in her direction and she glared at everyone that dared to look at her. She was already self-conscious enough she didn't need the entire student body of Hogwarts judging her on her looks alone.

Pansy flung herself into Hermione's arms, burying her face in Hermione's pale neck, "I didn't know."

Hermione held the girl tightly, feeling warmth spread through her chest, "I was worried you would be here alone. I'm thankful you weren't."

She continued to hold Pansy as Draco approached, his green eyes tearing up. She smirked at him and unwrapped one arm from Pansy and held it open. He slammed into her body, wrapping his arms around her and Pansy both and buried his face into the other side of Hermione's neck. She held them both tightly, ignoring the strange looks she was getting from the passing students. These two were more important than anyone else in that moment and she only cared that they knew she was fine and that she loves them.

Her eyes darted up as Harry entered the entrance hall with Ginny beside him. Their eyes met and she shook her head slightly. She silently cast Legilimens, Can you all hear me? She felt Draco and Pansy tense in response while Harry and Ginny met her eyes even as they continued to move towards the stairs. Moaning Myrtle's after dinner.

Harry and Ginny continued up the stairs as if nothing happened as she pulled out of their minds. Draco and Pansy relaxed into her body for a moment before they pulled back. She smiled at them before taking their hands and leading them towards the Common room.

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Dumbledore gave his welcome back speech at dinner and soon the feast was underway. Hermione caught Harry's eye more than once as they ate but then didn't acknowledge anything. Pansy wouldn't let go of Hermione, as if she was reaffirming that Hermione was there and alive. She was curious what the girl had been told to make her leave, but she would save that for their little meeting. Instead, she wrapped her arm around the girl's shoulders and kissed the side of her head in comfort.

When they finished dinner, she held Pansy's hand as the three of them walked towards Moaning Myrtles lavatory on the second floor. Draco was talking excitedly about the amount of presents that were waiting for him and Hermione once they returned home. He refused to open them until she was there with them, which made her heart swell with even more love for the boy she considered her brother.

They slipped into the cold bathroom, knowing no one ever came in there. It was the one place they could speak in private as long as they warded the door. Hermione leaned back against a closed stall and sank to the cold floor, her body still aching and tired. She had already arranged for Snape to leave the potions in her dormitory and under a concealment charm in her footlocker. Pansy sat beside her, leaning her head on her shoulder, "I missed you Hermione."

Hermione smirked at her, "Missed you too. How was your holiday?"

Pansy sat up, "I spent the entire time worried. It didn't help that my grandfather and Millicent's father were injured in the raids."

Hermione frowned, "I'm sorry. I didn't know."

Pansy shook her head, "They're fine but it was close with Millicent's father. Andromeda Black saved his life that night."

Hermione smiled proudly, "Don't ever doubt her."

The door burst open, and they surged to their feet, wands drawn. Hermione in the center with Draco and Pansy on either side of her, pulses racing and adrenaline suddenly surging through their bodies. Harry rushed around the corner, sliding on the slick floor at the sight of three wands, "Whoa. I come in peace."

Hermione sighed and lowered her wand, "It's bloody good to see you, Harry."

Harry and Ginny rushed forward but Harry reached her first, wrapping his arms tightly around her, "I've been so worried. Are you alright?" He pulled back, brushing his fingers gently across her new scar.

She smirked at him, "I'm great. We have loads to catch up on. How are you?"

Harry chuckled, "I've been better. This stress is killing me."

Ginny snorted, "He's just worried about grey hairs at this age."

Harry grimaced at Hermione, "It could happen ya know."

The five of them laughed until the door opened once more and they all stood together, wands drawn. They heard a soft muttering and then Ronald Weasley appeared across the room his wand out and a scowl on his face. He inched closer, his eyes zeroing in on Hermione as he moved. Everyone was tense, unmoving until he was directly in front of Hermione.

Suddenly his arms flung around her body, his voice hoarse, "I thought you were dead."

Hermione snorted, a cackling laugh bubbling up from her chest, "You think they can get rid of me that easily Ronald?"

Ron pulled back with a grin, "Not unless you took half of them with you."

She snorted, "Too true."

Ron stepped back and looked around, "Alright, I know the Ministry is going to be empty in one month. Some kind of party to celebrate the successful raids over the holidays. Fudge won't be anywhere near his office as everyone will be near the atrium."

Harry smiled at him, "That was bloody dangerous last night Ron."

Hermione frowned but Ron shook his head, "I needed to know, and I couldn't get away from dad to talk to you any sooner."

Harry nodded, "I don't think we were heard but if anyone saw then they confirmed our 'dislike' of each other."

Ginny nodded, "Fred and George got word that some of the members of DA were starting to think you all were faking at being angry at each other. At least until Hermione unleashed Fiendfyre on Ron."

Ron nodded vigorously, "Scared the bloody hell out of me 'Mione. I thought for sure you were going to kill me."

Hermione frowned, "I'm so sorry Ron. I never meant to lose control like that."

Ron shook his head, "Hey," he gripped her shoulders, "we agreed to make it look real. I knew what saying that about your mate would do to you. No hard feelings. Besides, that was brilliant. No one has ever controlled Fiendfyre before. If I hadn't been pissing myself, I would have found it amazing."

Hermione shook her head, "I still never wanted it to go that far."

Ginny gripped her shoulder, "The point is, it worked. Everyone believes you three are at odds. Now what happened at the meeting."

For the next hour Hermione and Harry filled them all in on the events of the meeting. Of course Hermione left out her detail of her conversation with Narcissa, that was private and for them two alone. When they finished Ginny frowned, "So even Dumbledore is suspicious of dad?"

Harry nodded, "And he has good right to be." He glanced at Ron.

Ron frowned, "Is Dumbledore going to turn on me now? I mean I know the point of this is to hide what our plan is until the right moment but if Dumbledore believes me to be on the Ministry side, what's he going to do?"

Hermione began to pace, "I don't think he does. Dumbledore is hiding something still and I think it has to do with how the war actually started. He's just putting it aside for now to focus on this Ministry business. If Umbridge is going to claim the school, we need to act either before or right after she does. If they are going to celebrate then I bet, it's not just about the raids."

Pansy caught her hand, "You think it's happening within the month?"

Hermione smiled at her, and leaned into her for support, "I do. I think we'll need to get word to the others that our plan will be in motion soon. At that point we can fill them in on our plan with Ron. Even Umbridge is under the assumption that Ron is on the Ministry side."

Ron nodded, "I was at the last meeting with dad. Someone higher up is pulling the strings. Fudge is nervous, like he's been threatened or worse. He didn't look good the last time I saw him. Dad is getting nervous too. I think the boss is getting complacent. I think they believe they have the upper hand now. There is this one person that's slightly concerning though."

Hermione frowned at him, "Who?"

"Miss Granger. She's too calm." Ron answered with a frown.

Hermione snorted, "She's on our side."

Everyone frowned at her, but Draco asked, "How do you know?"

Hermione smirked, "Miss Granger is Tonks in disguise. She was the Ministry employee that had to interrogate me months ago. She's worked her way up in the Ministry thanks to Lupin."

Harry nodded, "Lupin mentioned that. So, Tonks is high up then?" he turned to Ron.

Ron nodded, "She's one step away from meeting the boss but Umbridge and dad are stopping it. They know who the boss is, and they aren't letting anyone close."

Hermione frowned, "I can get word to Tonks about this. She'll help you and at least you'll have someone you can trust with you in there. But Ron, this is getting too dangerous."

Ron shook his head, "I'll be alright Hermione. We need someone we can trust it there and who better than Arthur's son. Everyone believes that I'm following in his footsteps. Its an advantage, a surprise for everyone when we need it."

Harry sighed, "I hate to agree with him but he's right Hermione. He's our secret weapon until we can figure this out."

Hermione shook her head, "I still don't like this. It's getting too complicated now. The raids were only the beginning. Who's to say they won't be coming after all of us next?"

Draco raised an eyebrow at her, "They already have 'Mione. Mum is beyond panicked that you'll end up sent back to them in a body bag. Aunty Bella is one step away from storming this castle and Aunt Andy is right behind her." He smiled at her sadly, "Now tell us about this potion."

Hermione told them everything she knew of it. When she was done, she frowned, "Until she can figure out what it is, there's really no counter for it."

Ginny shook her head, "Do we know if its still in your system?"

Hermione shook her head, "I haven't had a diagnostic run lately and even if I did, I wouldn't trust anyone but Andromeda to tell me the truth."

Ginny frowned, "Mum thinks Harry and I are dating."

Silence descended on the group until Ron burst into laughter, "Well you have to admit, with you two whispering in a corner by yourselves, it was kind of all she needed."

Hermione frowned as she glanced over at Draco, seeing the hurt enter his eyes she quickly asked, "But you're not, right?"

Ginny and Harry equally looked horrified, and spoke in unison, "Gods no!"

Hermione smirked as Draco visibly relaxed, "Then care to explain?"

Ginny moved to Draco's side, taking his hand in hers, "You know my parents never agree with anything I do, say, or who I spend time with. I decided to throw them a bone but also to get closer. I figured if Ron was working dad, then maybe mum might know something."

Hermione frowned, "And?"

Ginny shook her head, "Mum's worried that dad has gotten into something he can't get out of. She's concerned it may cross over into the family if he's not careful, but he won't listen. At least that's all I got over the last two weeks. They had a nasty argument a few days ago but she was too upset to discuss it."

The six of them stood in a circle in the middle of Myrtle's lavatory, lost in their own thoughts. Hermione's arm was around Pansy's waist while Draco and Ginny were still holding hands. Hermione took a deep breath as she looked at each one of them, "When this goes down, Harry and I will lead Umbridge into the Forbidden Forest."

Draco frowned, "Why the forest?"

Harry grinned, "Hagrid's half-brother, whose more giant, is hidden in there."

Hermione nodded, "McGonagall will head to Umbridge's office and reconnect the Floo network to the Ministry. As soon as Harry and I get away from Umbridge we'll head straight there."

Draco spoke quickly, "Where we will be waiting for you."

"Draco," Hermione began but Draco cut her off.

"You aren't going without us Hermione. No more running off just the three of you." He stood tall, his face set and his eyes just as determined as his mother's.

Hermione chuckled, "You done?"

Draco slouched slightly, "I think that covers it."

Hermione snorted as everyone chuckled. Finally, she grinned at him, "I was going to say you'll have to knock out the Ravenclaws first and then meet us there with enough time to guard McGonagall while she works."

Draco's face tinted pink, his ears turning red with his blush, "Oh." Everyone laughed and Draco grinned crookedly at her, "So what's the sign?"

Hermione and Harry nodded at each other, "We think Umbridge has found a weak link."

Pansy grimaced, "Who would help her?"

Hermione took a deep breath, "I believe it will be Neville Longbottom."

Everyone's face fell but Ginny nodded, "He wants revenge on Bellatrix because he believes she tortured his parents. Makes sense. I'm just sorry it has to be this way."

Hermione nodded, "He's too lost in his revenge plans to see the truth now. Over the next few days, Harry will try to convince him without alerting him that we are on to him. However, I don't think he'll believe it. I don't know what's going to happen in the Ministry, but I do know that we have numbers and power on our side."

Pansy spoke quietly, "What happens if the Ministry decides to interfere?"

Hermione glanced around, "They are out for blood. They took some of ours and," she glanced at Pansy, "nearly took others. We do what we must. You must mean it." She stared each of them in the eye, "You can't go into this unsure. Umbridge will not hold back." Five heads nodded and she felt relief flood through her body. She knew they could get hurt. She knew anyone of them could be killed.

And it hurt.

But she also knew they needed to do this. They needed everything they were going for. They needed the information, and they needed the prophecy. She could only hope that they would all make it out alive.

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A strange calm settled over Hogwarts castle in the following weeks. An unease passed through the student body, as if everyone was aware of a coming war that didn't revolve around Voldemort and Dumbledore. They hadn't called a DA meeting and members were starting to get antsy, curious as to why. Hermione hadn't spent any time with Harry outside of her detentions but even those weren't as intensive as they had been. Luna was watching her, torturing her whenever possible, leaving her on the floor of random rooms to make her late for her classes. There was a new glint to Lovegood's eyes whenever Hermione would be caught alone, and she couldn't help but wonder if Luna was enjoying it more and more each time.

Near the end of February, Harry set the time for a DA meeting that evening, and Hermione knew it was time. The day was cold but warmer than average and most students were spending their evening outside. She rushed to change into her loose dragon hide black pants and the t-shirt Fenrir had given her, knowing she would need the movement later. Her heart raced as she met Pansy by the common room door and took the girl's hand, sharing a knowing look. They made their way up the grand staircase in silence, being joined by Ginny and Draco on the second floor. Harry met them on the seventh-floor landing and nodded at them before following Hermione towards the Room of Requirements.

Once inside they all pulled their wands and smiled at each other. They waited with bated breath as the room began to fill, students from all houses but Ravenclaw flowing in and ready to learn. Hermione squeezed Pansy's hand, giving the girl a quick kiss on the temple. Draco smiled at Ginny, pulling her closer and whispering something in her ear. Hermione grinned at them before nodding at Harry and stepping forward.

"Umbridge is onto us. A snitch was among us the entire time. Neville Longbottom betrayed us, as he would not listen to reason." She could see eyes widening but she pushed on, "He doesn't want to believe that Bellatrix Black is innocent." Gasps ripped through the quiet room and Hermione knew she had their full attention, "She was there to stop Rodolphus and Rabastan Lestrange, but they charged her anyway because she was there. I don't have time to explain all of it but she and Alecto Carrow have been cleared of all charges. Now, a door will be appearing behind us, and you are all to scatter. Run to your common rooms and avoid any and all Ravenclaws. There are Slytherins and Gryffindors on each floor ready to help you through the secret passages."

Whispers erupted around the room, but it didn't last long as a loud boom echoed through the room. Hermione nodded to Harry, and he hurried to the opposite side of the room, pacing three times quickly for the door to appear. Hermione turned back to the room and shouted, "Run!"

A rush of students sprinted towards the doors as another boom shook the room. Hermione spun to her friends, her family and nodded at them, "Let's hope Ron has his end ready."

Harry nodded, "I warned him. He was on his way to McGonagall when I left him."

They turned back to face the next boom and flinched slightly when a hole appeared in the solid stone wall. Umbridge stood with her usual toad like grin on her face as the doors appeared and a group of Ravenclaws rushed in, Luna leading the way, wands aimed at them.

Luna smirked at Hermione, snatching her wand from her hand, "No one to save you now Black."

Hermione raised an eyebrow at her, "Haven't I proven I don't need to be rescued Lovegood."

Luna glared at her, aiming her wand at her hands, "Bind them." Ropes shot from Luna's wand and wrapped tightly around Hermione's wrists, pinching the skin tightly. She knew she wasn't going to get out of them but then she didn't need to get free just yet.

Luna jerked her from the room, causing her to stumble through the corridors and down to the third floor. Pain flared in her wrists as the ropes bit into her skin and she knew by the time she was released there would be blood. Luna shoved her into Umbridge's office, the pink walls and kitten décor making Hermione want to vomit but she didn't have time as Luna gripped her arm again and jerked her around and down into a chair. She was going to get whiplash if Luna kept it up. Luna held her wand on her as the others filed in, the group of Ravenclaws waiting at the doorway.

Umbridge entered the office a grin on her face, "Well, well Miss Black. You'll be expelled this time, after I've gotten what I want from you."

Hermione frowned up at her, "What do you want with me? I thought this was all about Potter?"

Luna chuckled darkly, "And they call you the brightest witch of our age."

Umbridge smirked, "Now, now dear Luna. She may not know. After all, her mother has been in Azkaban for so long."

Hermione felt her heart skip a beat. This woman knew who her mother was. Did that mean she knew who her mate was? Did she know where they were? She quickly strengthened her mental walls as she felt a prodding begin. It was weak and didn't bother Hermione much, but she knew the woman would only go harder.

Luna rolled her eyes, "Let's get this over with. I've waited a long time for this."

Umbridge's eyes snapped to Luna, a glare crossing her face, "Patience child. You know we need information first."

Hermione frowned and glanced at Harry over Umbridge's shoulder. He was just as confused as her and Hermione knew that they would have to change plans on the go, once again, "What do you want?" She felt a harder poke at her walls but kept them firm.

Umbridge pulled her wand from her bag and aimed at Hermione, "Information that only you can give us. Cruico!"

No one had been expecting and unforgivable, including Hermione. Fire burst through her body as her blood began to boil. Her body jerked back in the chair and her wrists strained against the ropes. Her muscles tightened painfully as her jaw locked, preventing her from screaming even if she wanted to. She could taste copper in mouth and wondered for a moment if she had bit her tongue or bitten through it but couldn't feel it through the fiery pain she was experiencing. A few minutes later the curse was released, and Hermione's body sunk into the chair even more, Luna gripping her shoulder to keep her upright. Sweat beaded across her forehead as she glared up at Umbridge, the poke to her mind returning in full force.

She smirked at the woman, "I may not know what you are looking for, but you won't get through. I was taught Occlumency by the best."

Umbridge raised her wand again, but Harry's shout stopped her, "Hermione tell her." Hermione frowned at Harry, confused as Umbridge turned to him, "Tell her Hermione. In the forest. We can lead you there."

Umbridge's eyes gleamed in the pink light of her office, "Both of you will take me. Luna, watch these other miscreants until I return."

"But," Luna began to protest.

Umbridge pinned the girl with a look, "Do as I say. Now."

Luna nodded; her anger apparent on her face. Umbridge gripped Hermione's arm and yanked her out of the chair, shoving her into Potter. Harry frowned at Hermione as he steadied her, as best he could with his hands tied. Hermione winked at him and they began their trek down to the forest.

.

Luna grimaced as she shook her head, "I should be down there."

Penelope Clearwater shrugged, "I bet nothing is down there anyway. Potter's a liar remember."

Cho Chang nodded on Luna's other side, "I bet Umbridge is just going to get rid of them and leave them for the animals anyway."

Luna rolled her eyes, "Potter probably but-"

"Stupefy!" echoed down the hall and a burst of red light hit Penelope Clearwater, sending her body into the wall before knocking her unconscious. Luna spun on her heel just in time to be hit with a Stupefy of her own, which had the world going black after her head hit the wall. Cho Chang dropped her wand, but it didn't stop a third flying at her too.

Ron shook his head as he cut everyone's bindings, "You lot alright?"

Draco rubbed his wrists, "What took you so long Weasley? It's been an hour."

Ron smirked at him, motioning to his new Ministry robe uniform, "Couldn't get away until now. The party is in full swing, and Fudge's office is unguarded."

McGonagall shooed them all into Umbridge's office, "No time for chit chat. Everyone in. Where's Black and Potter?" She hurried to the fireplace and began to work on reconnecting the Floo network.

Ginny frowned, "They took her to the forest an hour ago."

Pansy stood at the doorway, watching the corridor, and smiling widely, "Here they come." She snatched Hermione's wand from Ginny and held it out as Hermione entered the room, "You're late. We were getting worried."

Hermione smirked at her, "I would never miss a date with you."

Pansy smirked at her, "Maybe you'll get a second one."

Draco rolled his eyes, "And I thought you and my mum were bad."

Hermione grinned at him, "You haven't seen anything yet." He groaned but she ignored him and crossed the room to McGonagall, "Is it possible?"

A burst of green flames came to life and McGonagall turned to grin at her, "Alright. You all be safe. Hermione I will be getting what we agreed on. I will send an owl to Narcissa when I return here. Be safe." Hermione nodded and stepped into the fireplace.

.

.

The Ministry was dimly lit in the afterhours, the black tiles on the floor reflecting everything around it. The walls matched the floors, the tile the same black as the floor. The silence was eerie since the place was usually so busy no matter what time it was. Hermione waited for everyone to be through before McGonagall nodded to her and sprinted in the opposite direction.

Harry frowned as he turned back to Hermione, "Do I even want to know?"

Hermione shook her head, gripping her wand tightly, "No. Let's go while we can. Did a message get sent to everyone?"

Ron nodded as he shed the Ministry robes, "Yes. I sent my Patronus to Voldemort and Dumbledore."

Hermione nodded and they all fell silent as they turned a corner and hurried towards the door that led to the Department of Mysteries. Hermione easily broke through the wards and the group scrambled to close the door behind them when they heard a voice getting closer. They sprinted through a doorway in the back of the narrow room they were in and gasped in shock as they froze, staring into a seemingly never-ending room. Rows upon rows of shelves stretched in every direction, filled top to bottom with blueish grey glowing glass orbs.

Ron grimaced, "Please tell me they're numbered."

Draco nodded, pointing to a corner of a shelf nearest to them, "Row three."

Harry sighed, "Ninety-seven here we come." Everyone snorted as they began to make their way further down the aisle.

As they reached the ninety's Hermione frowned and glanced into the darkness around them, their wands with Lumos leading the way. She couldn't shake the feeling that she was being watched, but it wasn't unpleasant. She wasn't sure who Voldemort would send, not that she was afraid of anyone he would send. She knew he would make sure that it was people he trusted to keep her safe, but her skin crawled all the same.

Pansy slipped closer to her, whispering quietly, "What's wrong Hermione?"

She gripped Pansy's hand, feeling a chill run down her spine, "Stay close to me." Pansy nodded and they continued to row ninety-seven.

Harry turned back to them, "Over here."

Hermione nodded at Harry as she continued to stare into the darkness, "Go ahead Harry."

Harry frowned as he moved forward, looking for the prophecy. He stopped in front of one, his eyes narrowing on it, but he couldn't reach for it. It was as if his body wouldn't allow him to even attempt to retrieve it, "Hermione I can't grab it." Hermione frowned at him, before looking at the Prophecy, she reached out simply and took it, her eyes widening slightly. Harry's eyes widened, "It's about you not me Hermione. Voldemort was right."

She sucked in a breath quickly as a rush of frigid air circled her and she shook her head, "We'll open it later. Right now, we need to get out of here." They rushed back to the small group but found themselves being surrounded.

Hermione smirked at the silver masks on the Death Eaters faces. They began to move towards them slowly and she had the urge to burst into laughter at her friends trying to be intimidating. She pulled Pansy closer to her, feeling the girl's body tight against her own as she stared at the Death Eater in front of her. She saw a twitch of fingers from under the black robes, the Death Eater flipping her off, and quickly swallowed her laugh in case they were being watched by anyone.

She would pay Amycus back for that later.

She shook her head and faced forward as a Death Eater approached, wand out. It waved over the mask and Lucius's face appeared, "Well done children."

Hermione raised an eyebrow at him, "Really?"

Lucius shrugged, a smirk pulling at his lips, "Had to make it convincing. Narcissa would kill me if anything happened to you."

"She's not the one you have to worry about Lucy." A shrill voice rang out behind him, a figure slowly appearing out of the darkness.

Hermione's eyes widened as the woman appeared. Her heart raced, blood pumping too fast for her body to handle. Adrenaline flooded her veins, sending goosebumps rising across every inch of her skin. The hairs on the back of her neck rose in excitement as the woman cocked her head, onyx eyes locking on her own. Hermione's breathing hitched before it began a marathon. She took in the wild black curls that seemed to go on forever and for a moment, she wondered what it would be like to run her fingers through the woman's hair.

"Cat got your tongue pet?" The soft sultry voice caressed Hermione's skin, floating through the air as if it was made only for her, a frequency that only she could hear.

Hermione smirked, even though she felt like she was hyperventilating, "I'd rather something else have my tongue."

Bellatrix's eyes widened, a wicked smirk pulling at her lips, as her words came out as a purr, "All in good time my little witch."

Hermione couldn't take her eyes off the older woman, the way the black corseted dress hugged her curves tightly. The way her breasts were pushed together, and the tops exposed by the low cut. Everything about the woman screamed dark, dangerous and seductive.

And Hermione wanted it all.

She lived for it.

Bellatrix took in her little witch for the first time and found herself craving the young woman. She knew the girl was stunning, having seen the photos that her sister had taken. But a photo was nothing compared to the real thing. She could feel her anger pulsing in the back of her mind at the obviously malnourished girl. Her mate was hurting, she could see it but now that she was right in front of her Bellatrix wanted nothing more than to take her mate home. To have her way with her, before letting her rest. The girl's eyes were glued to her, and Bellatrix couldn't stop the excitement that rushed through her body at the thought that her mate wanted her just as much. It was different seeing it in person compared to it being written in a letter.

Everyone was so focused on Hermione and Bellatrix's staring contest, that no one noticed Harry and Lucius's contest taking place. Their eyes locked and it was as if a switch had been flipped within them. Their souls seemed to burst into life and called out to each other. Harry shook his head from his trance as Draco's voice broke through his thoughts.

Draco smirked, "Aunty Bella. Good to see you again." Bellatrix glanced at him with a smile.

Hermione couldn't stop the growl that slipped from her lips, jerking Bellatrix's attention back to her. She wasn't sure where the jealousy had come from, but the knowledge that once again Draco met someone, more importantly Bellatrix specifically, before her made her anger rise quickly. Pansy wrapped an arm around Hermione's waist, leaning in to whisper in her ear, "Easy 'Mione."

Bellatrix's body stiffened suddenly, standing straight to her full height, her eyes zeroing in on Pansy's hand on Hermione's hip. Her jealousy roared to life. Her anger reaching a boiling point so fast it made her head spin. No one dared touch what was hers, and this little witch was hers. She knew her sister was in love with her mate, that her mate was in love with her sister but that was different. She loves her sister too, but she would always come first to her mate. Just as her mate would always come first to her.

Someone else's hand on her mate made every dark thought she had come to life, and she snapped, "You'll do wise to remove your hand." The low tone broke near the end before she shouted, "Now!"

Hermione glanced at Pansy, still trying to calm her anger down. She didn't want to lose control like she had with Ron, especially not around her mate.

Bellatrix's wand aimed at them, but Lucius was quick to stop her, "Now. Now. Let's just, all, calm down."

Hermione took a deep breath before her eye caught on a glass orb and spotted a face in it. She frowned as she looked over at Bellatrix, "Shit. Stupefy!" Her anger being too high she accidently sent both Bellatrix and Lucius flying backwards. She grimaced in guilt before shouting, "Run!"

The group turned and sprinted after Hermione as they darted down another aisle. Harry called out, "Hermione what's wrong?"

She slowed near a black door, "We were being watched and not by someone from our side. Trust me." She opened the door and motioned for them all to jump. She looked back down the aisle and spotted Bellatrix moving towards her. She swallowed thickly and flung herself out the door, hearing a whispered scream echoing behind her.

She gripped her wand and quickly, silently called, "Arresto Momentum!" sighing as all their bodies jerked to a stop just above the rocky floor. She slowed her breathing before releasing the spell, which she instantly cursed herself for as her body landed hard on the jagged stone. The others began to push themselves to their feet and Pansy quickly rushed to help her stand. Soft whispers called out to her from The Veil, urging her closer. She frowned as she moved closer, a murmuring growing louder as she approached. She knew what this was, what it represented and that it was dangerous. And yet she was still drawn closer.

She shook her head of the trance and turned to Harry, "Don't Harry." She caught his arm and he frowned at her.

A cackling laughter filled the room as they were suddenly surrounded by black smoke. Hermione felt strong arms wrapping around her and a jerk behind her navel as she was apparated across the room. Harry was left standing near The Veil alone.

Hermione was pressed tight against a body, and she sucked in a breath as lips brushed across her exposed neck, "That was unfair pet. We didn't even have our wands raised."

Hermione smirked, allowing herself to relax into the woman's body behind her, "We're being watched. I saw a face in an orb coming from behind all of us."

Bellatrix hummed, the vibration in her chest causing Hermione to shiver, "Well done, but I'm here now and no one is going to hurt you."

Hermione whimpered slightly as Bellatrix's lips pressed against her pulse point. She was already becoming a mess and she had just met the woman, well sort of. Did it count if the woman was supposed to be holding you hostage, even if it was just for appearances? It wasn't as if they had even said hello. Maybe Draco was onto something with the whole, 'I'm Hermione, your mate, lets shag'.

She was quickly pulled from her thoughts as more people began to apparate into the room. Hermione recognized a few of the Order members and frowned, "This can't be good."

Bellatrix gripped her tighter, protectively, "It's not pet. Someone has been discovered."

Tonks's eyes landed on Hermione, "They know we're here. Fenrir and Moody barely escaped."

Hermione's heart thudded painfully in her chest as a bright blue light narrowly missed Tonks. She looked over to see Kingsley Shacklebolt aiming for Tonks. Hermione spun away from Bellatrix as the woman sent silent curses his way, trying to protect her niece. She knew the fighting was just beginning but if Fenrir and Moody were caught, did that mean so was McGonagall?

She watched as more fighting exploded around the room, Sirius Black appearing next to Harry. Arthur Weasley appeared beside Lucius and began a duel with the unsuspecting man. Hermione found Harry, her eyes widening in surprise as he took his stance next to Lucius Malfoy, dueling his godfather. Hermione sprinted away from Bellatrix, needing to get to McGonagall, to know she was safe. She dodged spells as Death Eater and Order members alike stood side by side, fighting against a horde of people in Ministry robes. She spotted Ron laughing as he fought alongside Rodolphus Lestrange, both men beating their opponents back easily.

She raced towards the doorway, until a curse slammed into her left shoulder, jerking her right off her feet. She rolled back to her feet and found Umbridge grinning at her, "You just don't learn."

Hermione raised an eyebrow at her, "I learn faster than you." She dropped to her knees as a bright purple light shot over head. Umbridge blocked it just in time, but her eyes widened at the attacker.

Bellatrix's anger was on display for all to see as she reared her wand back, arm extended over her head, "You dare touch the mate of a Black!" Her voice started out in a high pitched, childlike tone that turned into a deeper scream, "You dare touch my mate!"

A volley of spells ripped from the tip of Bellatrix's wand and Hermione could only watch in awe as an assortment of colors cascaded down around the Toad in pink. Watching Bellatrix battle was more than just awe-inspiring, it was a turn on. It had every piece of Hermione's being on fire in all the best ways, making her rethink most things in her life. She couldn't take her eyes off her mate, the woman's hardened onyx eyes, the way she focused all her anger into her quick movements and silent curses. She was so caught in the moment she almost missed the shouted curse and bright white light.

Almost.

She pushed herself to her feet and placed herself between Bellatrix and the too fast bright light, she raised her wand, absolutely, positively sure that this curse was intended for her mate, "Avada Kedavra!" The green burst of light soared from the tip of her wand hitting her target true a moment after her body absorbed the white light.

She had a moment where time felt frozen, suspended as she watched Arthur Weasley's eyes widen slightly, meeting her own as the light dimmed. He knew who had killed him, the girl that had killed him, the girl that had meant to kill him. He was aware that Hermione had killed him before the light disappeared and his corpse fell backwards.

Silence filled the hall as she felt her skin splitting apart like nothing she had ever felt before. The pain was blinding, blood spurting from her torso, and arms, even as she fell backwards. Shouts echoed around her, but she couldn't hear anything as her body began to grow cold. Bellatrix's face appeared above her own, blood smeared on her pale flesh.

All Hermione could think was that she'd had the best day of her life. She finally got to meet her mate. She got to be held in the woman's arms. She got to feel safe one last time. She got to see the love and fire in her mate's eyes, a dream she never imagined possible before now. She had seen the woman smile, seen her eyes sparkle as they had in that photo from so long ago.

She missed Narcissa and she hadn't gotten to see her mother, but she had been held by her mate and that was a dream come true. A dream that she would carry with her as her eyes closed and, for the first time in her life she wasn't scared of the darkness that consumed her.