Chapter One: Sexton Blake
Hermione woke, blissfully aware that she had actually managed a decent amount of sleep. It was only when she opened her eyes, did she realize the sun that crept through the cracks in the curtains around her bed was a bit to bright.
Immediately she shot out of bed, and froze. Where was Lavender's make up kit? Where was Parvati's relished pink, folded blanket that always sat at the end of her bed?
Than, like a ton of bricks, Hermione's expression slowly drained, and she looked on in horror and desperation. She was in the past. To far into the past. Shaking, she stumbled back to her bed - no, it wasn't her bed. It was no one's bed.
Her shoulders shook as she buried her face into the pillow and wept. She cried until there was nothing left. She wouldn't ever see Ron or Harry again, she wouldn't ever have to help Neville again.
Vaguely, Hermione realized that was her name. Slowly, attempting to strategically wipe to remaining tears from her cheeks without whoever was at the door seeing them, she turned slowly. The concerned face of Thalia looked over her, and her yes widened as she took in Hermione's reddened nose and bloodshot eyes. What's wrong?
Thalia hurried to the bed, enveloping her into a tight hug. Hermione sniffed and wiped her nose, deciding that crying wasn't getting her anywhere.
Just homesick, that's all. Thalia smiled knowingly, and pulled her to her feet.
You'd better get dressed and quick, we have class in ten minutes. You don't want to miss Transfiguration, Professor Dumbledore won't mind taking points from his own House. Thalia said, Hermione's eyes widened and she looked around desperately. What was there to wear? Here, you look about my size.
Thalia went to the other side of the room and dug into her trunk, pulling out plain black robes.
Hermione said gratefully, taking the material from Thalia who grinned broadly before heading towards the door.
I'll be in the common room.
Hermione looked down at the cloth in her hands before shrugging out of the night gown Poppy had provided her with. She looked forlornly at the empty space on the collar, where her Head Girl pin should have been.
Oh well, you can't have the best of both lives.
Hermione headed down the stairs, searching for the only familiar face. Thalia was standing by the entrance.
C'mon, Arline, we're going to be late! Though Thalia sounded urgent, the smile on her face spoke volumes. She didn't particularly care.
Hermione smiled and hurried down the stairs, happy that she at least had one friend.
She entered what used - or will be - Professor McGonagall's classroom, where the entire class was already seated, and staring at her. Professor Dumbledore stood in the front of the room, a small smile in her direction.
Thalia hurried to the only empty desk in the middle, next to a dark haired Gryffindor. Hermione found there were no empty seats on the Gryffindor side, while the Slytherins occupied the other side - where an empty desk sat.
Inwardly groaning, Hermione wandered toward the desk as Thalia sent her an apologizing shrug.
She sat next to a rather handsome looking Slytherin, who was bent over a book, most likely last nights homework. He had dark hair that fell in his face and pale, healthy skin. From the side profile, he had beautiful blue eyes.
Beautiful? Honestly, this is a Slytherin. There's nothing beautiful about them. Period.
Hermione snorted, and set down her books. The boy looked up, surprised. Hermione was slightly startled how intense the blue eyes that stared up at her were.
he said, looking down at her house crest, before offering her a neutral smile. I don't believe I've ever seen you before.
How observant...
I'm Arline Speck, Hermione introduced, nodding towards him. He raised an eyebrow, but said nothing more. Who're you?Ah, who am I? he said, a mischievous smile curving his lips. I am, Miss Speck, Tom Riddle.
Hermione's eyes widened so much she thought her eyes were going to pop out of her head. Then, she slowly started to lean away from him, and at his confused look, she fell right out of her chair and thumped to the floor, where the class sniggered at her.
Well, no girl has ever quite reacted like that before. Riddle smirked, but then leaned over and offered her his hand. She stared at it as if were some sort of disease.
It's so clean. Smooth, clean, and strong. How can this - this person be Lord Voldemort? Hermione felt overwhelmed, and Tom's was looking at her oddly, as his hand was held out to her for even longer. Take it, you twit! You must not make anyone suspicious. You don't know him. You aren't supposed to know him.
Reluctantly, Hermione gingerly took his hand, and as soon as she was on her feet, she practically ripped her hand from his. He gave her a suspicious glance, but then concentrated on Dumbledore, who finally started class when she was seated.
She sat on the far end of the chair.
It figured that the students in 1943 were behind. Hermione had learned all of this the week before, and it was relatively easy. Apparently, Tom Riddle was fairly respectable in Transfiguration, for his second attempt was perfect. The plain bar of soap was now a full course dinner.
So, Arline Speck, were did you come from? Tom asked idly, while poking at his mashed potatoes. Hermione looked up from her own meal, and sent him a mild glare.
I transferred. she replied tersely. He just looked at her, before a smile broke out on his face. Hermione felt like spitting on it.
Very clever, he said appreciatively. No, really, what school did you transfer from?A wizarding school. In lower Britain, a private school. Hermione replied, hoping that he'd just stop talking to her before she broke his nose. The urge was strong.
He laughed, and Hermione felt rather insulted. Not because he laughed, but because his laugh was human, genuine, and happy. Tom Riddle didn't deserve such a laugh. She scowled at him.
Fine, I understand. he said after a moment. You don't want me to know.How observant of you. she said under her breath.
I rather thought so, he said lightly, before turning his meal back into soap and standing. What's your next class.
Hermione opened her mouth to tell him to bugger off, when she realized she didn't know. When she didn't answer, Tom smiled.
Follow me, Slytherins have Potions with Gryffindors next, you're most likely in that class. And he turned to leave, not even looking to see if she was going to follow him.
Stupid arrogant bastard.
Hermione gathered her books and cursed mentally at Thalia, who seemed to have disappeared into thin air. She followed Tom into the dungeons, where he led her to a different classroom than where Snape taught. Hermione briefly wondered why.
Here we are, Professor Peren is our resident Potions Master. Tom opened to door for her, and gallantly waved a hand to let her enter first. Hermione stared at him before she hurried past.
Hi, Arline. Thalia said, sitting down next to her at the lunch table. Hermione glared at her. Thanks for leaving me there with Riddle, Hermione said scathingly, Thalia looked mildly affronted.
Well, Riddle's a nice guy - for the most part. Thalia blinked when Hermione stared at her in disbelief.
Hermione wanted to scream it, but it out more as a whisper. How can you say that?What are you talking about? Thalia retorted. You don't even know him, you had one conversation with him.
Hermione opened her mouth to say that she did know him, before she snapped it shut and stared at Thalia, who was looking at her disapprovingly.
Oh my god...I don't know Riddle. At least, Tom Riddle, the one I know is Voldemort.
I - I - Hermione didn't know what to say.
Look, just stop judging people, all right? Thalia sat down and didn't talk to her for the rest of lunch. Hermione felt drained. She couldn't believe what she'd done.
Hey, Speck! The soft tenor spoke up behind her and Hermione turned, to find Riddle walking towards her, a small smile on his face.
Taking a deep breath, Hermione offered the best smile she could give him, knowing who he would become.
Tom blinked. You can call me Arline. I don't particularly like my last name, thanks. she said quietly. Tom smiled.
All right, Arline, then you may call me Tom. Hermione nodded, and after a short silence she shifted her weight nervously.
So - er -Tom, what exactly did you want? Hermione winced, that had come out rather rude. But Tom didn't seem to notice, his eyes just sparkled.
I didn't think you'd been caught up on the what we're taking and what we've already learned, so I thought I might help. Hermione was so surprised her mouth dropped open. Tom glanced around, before giving her a confused look. What? Surprised that a Slytherin could be so nice? I hadn't thought the rumors had gotten so bad.I'm sorry, it's just - Tom waved a hand, effectively stopping Hermione. He gave her a timid smile before taking her hand and leading her toward the exit. The one that led to the lake. Where are we going?The lake.Why not? he answered, shooting her a devious look. Hermione was suddenly reminded of who exactly had a gentle hold on her hand. She found it hard not to pull away from him.
he said, motioning toward the base of a large apple tree that sat near to lakes edge. So, how do you like Hogwarts?I like it well enough, but I miss my friends. Hermione answered truthfully. Tom nodded.
I would've too when I first came here, he said, looking up into the tree's branches.
Hermione repeated, staring at him. He looked at her and nodded, a small frown on his face.
I didn't have any friends until I came here, he said, sighing. And even when I came here I had to prove myself. Being a muggle-born in Slytherin isn't easy.Being a muggle-born period isn't easy. There's always people who're prejudice. Hermione mumbled, pointedly not looking at him, opting to study the back of her hand instead.
Tom said, smiling. You must be muggle-born.Yes, and I'm proud of it. she said defiantly, lifting her chin and looking rather insulted, though nothing insulting was said.
I never said you weren't, She didn't fail to realize that he hadn't said the same thing.
Did you have a boyfriend? The question was quiet. Hermione found it completely out of character for the boy Hermione had imagined Tom Riddle to be. He was handsome, and the few times that she'd seen him in passing, there was always at least two girls following him around.
she said after a moment, also quiet. She didn't like to think about the mistake of Viktor Krum. How about you?Of course not, I find being tied down to one woman rather pointless. There's much to many fish in the sea. Tom replied indignantly. Hermione rolled her eyes, a typical boy.
You'll think differently when you get older, Hermione said, picking at her fingernail.
No I won't. This was said in such a forceful voice that it took Hermione by surprise and she stared at him in discomfort.
Don't forget who this is. He has no emotions, he has no sympathy, and he certainly has no love.
Why not? Hermione swallowed the nervous lump in her throat. Tom looked up at her, his bright blue yes piercing her.
To have a girlfriend, to have someone who you love, is only a fantasy. Besides, it's vulnerability at it's worst. he sneered, his face contorted into hatred. Hermione was nervous now, this was who she thought Tom Riddle to be.
It's n-not fantasy. she said, attempting to glare at him. Who ever told you it was - was severely mistaken.
She stood up, and dusted off her clothes. She needed to get away from him. She felt sick, dirty, and disgusted. He looked up in bewilderment.
Where are you going? He stood also, Hermione turned to glare at him.
she replied before determinedly stalking away from him, and he continued to stand there, staring after her in curious astonishment, before his expression turned dark and serious.
Stupid, stupid Hermione. Hermione wanted to slap herself. Talking to Tom Riddle - Voldemort - as if he were a person. Disgusting. Hermione looked up, startled. Thalia smiled at her. Where'd you go?With who? she asked slyly, and Hermione wondered whether or not she actually knew.
No one, Thalia laughed.
Is that so? Hermione ground out, Thalia continued to smile at her.
If you say so, Arline. Hermione was tempted to say that she did say so, but refrained and walked past her and to the stairs the led to the Gryffindor Common Room. She wanted to forget the conversation with Riddle she had just had.
Hermione clenched her fists so tightly she was sure that the little crescent moons of her fingernails would forever be imprinted on the palm of her hand; a proof of her stupidity.
How could you have been so stupid? Been here for three days, and already you've had a decent conversation with Voldemort, who just happened to have killed Cedric, Harry's parents, Seamus Finnigan, taken away Neville's parents, and so many other innocent people.
Hermione felt the tears well up. She hadn't meant to be civil. She really hadn't, but this Riddle, the seventeen year old, or perhaps eighteen, was actually tolerable. He was handsome as well, with beautiful blue eyes -
No! Not beautiful! Disgusting, that's what they are. Disgusting, repulsive, foul, and hideous.
Hermione knew that even as much as she desperately wanted to believe that he wasn't nice, smart, and had beautiful eyes - for a Slytherin, it was evident that she did. Only three days and she was attracted to a murderer, whose very name strikes fear in normal people's heart.
Hermione felt like cursing. Already, she'd let down Ron and Harry. She'd let down everyone on the side of good, for being nice to Riddle, for forgetting he was Voldemort.
From this point on, no more niceties. You'll be as mean as he is in your day, only you'll be more dignified. And much less bloodshed.
Determined, Hermione acknowledged this challenge, and took it to heart.
Hey, Arline, did you finish last nights Transfiguration essay? Thalia asked in-between her bites of steak. Hermione nodded absently. Of course she had, did she never not? Good, because I didn't. Hermione said, looking at Thalia exasperated. Thalia shrugged and gave her a toothy grin.
You can't expect me to do homework when I have a life - more probably, a nice, loving relationship with the most wonderful man. Thalia sighed, and looked across the hall, well, to the table to their right. The Ravenclaws. Haywood Sherman, a tall skinny Ravenclaw with soft brown hair and eyes as black as Thalia's.
Boy, you mean. Thalia looked mildly insulted, and smacked Hermione's arm playfully.
You're just jealous. Thalia stated, a triumphant grin plastered to her face when Hermione looked at her indignantly.
Of what? Kissing in the hallways? Cooing at each other? Making eyes across the room? Hermione sneered. She wasn't jealous. She wasn't jealous. It wasn't her fault that Thalia seemed to have the perfect relationship.
Thalia was surprised, her black eyes widened and her eyebrows rose. Are you really jealous?
Hermione didn't answer, but merely glowered into her dinner, hoping that Thalia would just forget it.
You are! Thalia exclaimed, before she smiled and patted Hermione's back. I'm sure there's a perfect guy out there for you, Lin.
Hermione smiled at Thalia's pet name for her. She rarely ever called Hermione Lin, but when she did, Hermione knew she was being serious, or she was up to something.
Hermione humphed. Yeah, right, who would want me? She gestured to herself. Board like, bushy hair, pale complexion, no meat. Definitely no beauty here.
Thalia merely smiled at her. Who said beauty has anything to do with it?
With that, Thalia left Hermione to her meal.
Hermione hadn't talked to Tom in three months. She glanced over to the Slytherin table, Tom was talking to a fairly decent looking Slytherin girl, who was practically drooling over him, and he was humoring her, Hermione could tell. From the way he wouldn't actually look at her, but more talk at her while looking across the table at one of his friends. He had never done that to Hermione.
Then again, he never really talked to me when he was with his friends.
Hermione sighed, it wasn't worth fantasizing about. She placed her fork on her plate and stood.
Though Tom had tried after the first two weeks of Hermione's silence and harsh glares to talk to her, Hermione hadn't budged. She didn't want anything to do with him, despite what the little voice in mind was saying it wasn't fair to Tom to treat him like Voldemort. But than her other mind would scream back:
Tom Riddle is Voldemort!
And than the problem would be solved. There was no reason to befriend him, he would only hurt her, and she would only hurt her friends. If she ever saw them again.
Shuffling her feet against the flagstone, Hermione came to the stairs that would lead to the Gryffindor Tower, before deciding that she would visit the Astronomy Tower. She needed to look at the stars - the same stars Harry or Ron might be looking at as well.
Hermione closed her eyes against the cool night air. She had been up in the Astronomy Tower for hours it seemed. The stars were bright and the night was cool, the full moon illuminating the grounds in a harsh shroud of pale light. The light made everything, especially the lake, seem surreal.
Hermione smiled. Here, she felt at home. Here, she felt safe and normal.
A creak of wood and a soft rustle of clothing made Hermione freeze. After a moment, there was no sound except for the crickets and the frequent frog. Hermione relaxed, and snuggled deeper into the thin robes she'd worn for school. Even though there was goose flesh covering her arms and legs, she refused to leave. She didn't want the feeling of normalcy to go.
Than something - or someone - cleared their throat, and Hermione whirled around. Tom Riddle's face was contorted in the shadow of the moonlight, but his eyes seemed to glow from it. He looked a little confused, but determined.
Arline, I want to know. he demanded, his voice strong. Hermione straightened herself from the chair she sat in, and turned to fully face him.
Know what, Riddle? she hissed. Tom narrowed his eyes.
That, exactly. Hermione raised an eyebrow.
What are you talking about? Hermione demanded, pulling her robes tighter around herself.
Why you must act as if I've hurt you in any way, why you act as if I were poison itself. His voice rose as he went on, and Hermione could see his fists clenched, his wand in one hand. She felt slightly afraid.
He would have cursed you while you were unaware, if he was going to.
Hermione didn't truly believe that voice inside her head. But this Tom Riddle wasn't Voldemort, he didn't go about killing people after they see his face. In fact, as far as Hermione was concerned, the only person killed thus far was Myrtle.
I have my reasons, Riddle, now leave me alone. she snapped, turning around. Tom let out a harsh laugh. You heard me, Hermione snarled. Tom was silent behind her, and she was hoping that he used his prowess to escape unheard, but of course, her hopes were dashed.
You still haven't answered my questions, Speck. he said, his voice cold as stone. Hermione turned her head to glance at him, and found his face was shrouded still, though this time he looked purely evil. Surprised, Hermione blinked and the angry expression she'd carefully cultivated on her face evaporated. You wouldn't understand, Tom. she said quietly, at last. Tom looked mildly shocked at her sudden softness. I can't be your friend, and I can't be around you. I can't even talk to you.
Tom said nothing for a moment, before looking toward the sky.
You know, the stars tell the future. he said, his voice a quiet whisper. And, if you listen close enough, the wind will sing, and the stars will shine, and moon will smile. He looked back at her startled eyes, and gave her a benign smile. Maybe one day you'll realize you're wrong.
Than he left, the door gently clicked shut behind him. Hermione stared at the door for a long time, before getting up to slowly walk back to the Gryffindor Tower, uncaring if Ogg found her.
It's Saturday, Arline! Thalia jumped on her bed. Hermione groaned. Three hours of tireless sleep just wasn't enough. We're going to Hogsmeade! C'mon!
Hermione reached out to push Thalia off the bed, but couldn't find the giggling body to remove it.
Thalia laughed, and pulled the duvet off Hermione and onto the floor. You have to get up and get dressed, we leave in an hour. Let's go! Hermione growled. I don't want to go, give me my blanket back.
Hermione held out her hand expectantly, but only received a raspberry from Thalia, who ran off with the duvet trailing behind her. Her laughter echoed all the way to the common room.
Hermione growled and threw herself back onto the bed. She swore the world was out to get her. Not only did she have loads of homework to do, she had to think about Tom's words last night, and Thalia's incessant energy. She wondered what that girl took in the morning. It must be rather strong coffee.
Hermione eventually climbed out of bed when the cool morning air finally got to her, and she brushed her teeth, briefly combed her hair and dressed in regular black robes.
Tiredly, she walked down into the common room, where Thalia was sitting next to Nigel Steiner, who's white smile would probably win him Witch Weekly's Best Smile award. He was a good looking bloke, with his tan skin, and muscle from playing Quidditch.
He's fine, Hermione heard Thalia say. though I'd have to say he had a rough time of it last Quidditch match.I'll say! Nigel said, laughing. He nearly missed all the quaffles, and we were having a bad game.
Thalia smiled, but it didn't reach her eyes. Hermione found she respected Thalia even more. When Thalia set her eyes on Hermione, they immediately brightened.
Oh, Arline's here, see you later Nigel. She waved good-bye to Nigel, who smiled at her, and winked at Hermione, who colored as she was pulled out of the Gryffindor Common Room.
He's such a jerk, Thalia said as the turned the corner, anger evident on her childlike features. Thinks he's king of the damned Quidditch team. I'm better than he is, and I can't play worth beans.
Hermione shook her head, a light smile on her face. After a moment of silence, Thalia looked at Hermione as if she'd just realized something.
Say, where were you last night? she looked her Hermione suspiciously when Hermione's cheeks reddened.
Urm - nowhere important. Hermione replied, looking at the passing portraits. So, where's Haywood?Don't change the subject, Arline. You were with a boy, weren't you? A devious smile adorned Thalia's thin mouth, and her eyes sparkled with unreserved joy. Hermione colored even more, and Thalia let out a barking laugh. You were! I told you that a guy would come your way.
Hermione gave her a withering glare. It was nothing like that,Oh? Than what was it? Thalia teased. Did you have a cuppa? Hermione said forcefully, pushing open the doors to Hogwarts.
Hermione's voice was annoyed now, and Thalia's evil glint in her eye didn't help the situation.
A shag?Wh - no! Hermione stopped suddenly, glaring at Thalia, who mirth was poorly hidden. Just drop it, okay? I just had a talk with Riddle, if you really need to know. Thalia calmed at that, and her expression sobered. So are you guys friends again?We never were, Hermione said placidly. exactly how I wanted it to be.