Warning
Minor character death in this chapter. (By minor I mean not Severus Snape or Hermione Granger.)
The Beauxbatons entourage and the Ministry officials having finally left, Hermione escaped the Great Hall and went to Severus' office. She shut herself in and stood still in the middle of the room.
Everything had all just come crashing in on her when she saw Harry's reaction to her marriage. She suddenly realised that the reactions to her marriage might not all fit into just the two categories she had expected. She had hoped some people, like Minerva, would be happy for them. Just like she had known some people would be angry. But Harry had seemed sad, and that surprised her. She was irrevocably bound to Severus Snape, and she wouldn't change that for anything. No, she most definitely wouldn't ever want to undo it; she was just not quite sure how to actually do it.
'Where do we go from here?' she wondered. 'I started this because I didn't want Albus to send Severus and I away from each other. I wanted to stay with Severus. I still do, but, but, we were alone then. It was easy to be alone with him. It's wonderful to be alone with him. I just don't know how to be with him if we're not alone. I wish it was still just us. What's going to happen now? How is he going to react to the students, the Professors and everyone else who isn't in The Order? How am I going to react to them. More importantly how are they going to react to us? I know how some are going to react. We have to announce it tomorrow. Announce it. Oh no, oh no, oh no.' Her anxiety was increasing exponentially with each successive thought.
She was brought out of her thoughts when the door opened and Severus swept in.
"Hi," Hermione said uncertainly.
"Good evening?" Severus replied in a questioning tone.
They looked at each other until Hermione couldn't take it any longer, and averted her gaze.
"What is wrong?" Severus asked.
"There's nothing wrong," she replied.
"Nothing?" he said.
"No nothing, how did your - "
"You are lying to me. Why?" he asked curtly.
"Lying? Are you accusing me of lying?" she asked incredulously.
"No, I accuse you of nothing. I am stating a fact. You are lying. You are keeping something from me, that much would be obvious even to a Hufflepuff," he said, in a low dangerous voice. "Why do you lie to me Hermione? Explain."
She had been hiding the truth, she knew that. But she was being tactful, not deceitful. 'How dare he?' she thought. What she voiced was an angry, "Fine! Have it your way, I'm lying."
"We have established that you are lying. The current question is, why are you lying Hermione?" he said in a deadly quiet tone.
She had been evasive to avoid problems. She thought, 'I'd have been damned if I had spoken. Wouldn't I? Yes, I'm sure I would have. And now I'm damned because I didn't speak.' She felt tears threatening at her perceived hopeless plight. That made her mad. Very mad. "How dare you presume to judge my - "
"Your what?" he whispered, cutting her off. "I am judging nothing. However, you Madam are being overtly duplicitous."
"How dare you?" She was livid.
"You have already asked that. I dare because I am the one who is being lied to," he hissed in a voice that was barely audible.
"Of course you are the injured party here!" she spat back.
"And precisely how have I injured you?" His face was white with rage at her inference.
"I never said you had injured me. I said - "
"Yes?" he asked crossing his arms over his chest, and looming over her.
"Oh get away from me, you great bully." she moved to put distance between them.
Severus' arm shot out and he caught her. His hand holding her in place by her upper arm. He was rigid with fury, "Where do you think you are going?" His usual rigid control had snapped and he was bellowing now.
"I am going the hell away from you!" she declared, incensed by his hold on her. "Let me go!"
He did. "Go then Madam." he said, as he viciously pushed her from him. "Get out! And be warned, you will not get back in."
"Severus - " she tried to begin.
"No!" he bellowed.
"Severus I'm - "
"No!" He towered over her, he was beyond furious. "You do not even have the... courage... to admit to your lies. You think you can deflect the the attention from your deception by accusing me of intimidation, of 'being a bully', when you know that I am no more and no less then I have always been. I do not want to hear your diversions, nor your excuses. There can be no excuse for this behaviour."
"I am not your student!" she said shrilly.
"Exactly," he hissed. "You are my wife, as such this behaviour is unacceptable. I suggest that you - "
She cut him off. "Your behaviour is unacceptable Severus Snape! I wasn't lying to you. I didn't want to burden you with my petty worries. That's all. And what do I get for it? You scream at me, you... you... Did you tell me to go? Did you throw me out? You did!" Her voice broke and tears of frustration, fear, and rage ran freely down her cheeks. "I'll leave Severus. I'll get out, and I'll stay out if that's what you want!" She turned on her heel and made for the door. She was slower then she would have liked, blinded by tears as she was.
Severus realised that casting a locking spell would be useless; because she would hear it and counter it. Instead he easily swept past her, and physically blocked her exit.
Hermione stopped before him. Dashing the tears from her face with the back of her hands, she struggled to master her emotions. She looked up at him. In a shaky voice she said, "I didn't want to bother you with my silly worries. I didn't want to say anything that might cause problems between us, and now look! I might as well have just told you in the first place."
In his mind he raged, 'Yes, you stupid witch! You should have told me!' With utmost disdain his mind added, 'As I believe I said from the beginning.' He fought the overwhelming desire to voice those thoughts. The effort of not speaking his cutting remarks was making him nauseous.
What he finally said was, "Hermione, you can tell me anything. Even if I do not like it, we shall find a way to work through it together." He was completely taken aback by his own words. He was even more surprised then Hermione was to hear these words issue from his mouth. As he considered what he had just said, he was shocked by the realisation that he actually meant his words.
"Oh, Severus," she said sadly.
"Come now," he said, all traces of anger gone from his voice. He took her hand and led her to the couch they had slept on for the past week. When she was seated, he gave her his handkerchief and went to get tea.
He handed her a cup and sat beside her with his own. He reached out and smoothed her unruly hair away from her face. "Tell me," he said simply.
She told him about what happened at the Gryffindor table. She told him about how sad Harry had seemed. She voiced her newest fears. Fears she realised that came down to a question she had to ask him. "Severus, will you think our marriage is worth it, when we have to face all kinds of negative reactions?"
"We have already faced some," he reminded her. "Surely you have noticed that I do not mind what other's think. Do you mind how our marriage is perceived?"
"No! Well yes, but I know it's worth it," she said firmly.
"Do you?" he asked quietly.
"I do. You are worth it Severus," she said in a very firm assured voice.
"Well then, it is nothing that is insurmountable. We shall deal with it as it happens. If it happens," he consoled her.
Even though they were now technically allowed to retire to bed together, as the French delegation and Ministry representatives had departed, they never made it to bed that night. Instead, Hermione fell into an emotionally exhausted sleep in Severus' arms on the tartan couch. He removed her tea cup from her hand and set it safely aside. He then spent most of the night awake; studying the witch in his embrace and wondering how it was that she made him feel things he hadn't felt in years, and in some instances, ever.
Hermione awoke around five the next morning to find herself alone. She was gripped with an unreasonable panic that could only be due to the obscene hour of the morning. 'He's left me!' she thought in anguish. 'I was horrible to him, and he's left me.'
Almost as if on cue Severus opened the door and came in. He was back after a brief trip to restore discipline in the Slytherin common room. He looked at his wife and said, "Some dunderhead thought it would be amusing to wake all of Slytherin house at four in the morning with strategically placed stink bombs."
Hermione not seeming to have heard him greeted him enthusiastically. "Severus!" she exclaimed as she rushed to him. He opened his arms to her just in time. She pressed him back into the wall while burying her hands in his hair to hold him near her. She kissed him firmly, thoroughly. As he returned her kisses she pressed her body into his. When she finally broke the kiss for lack of oxygen she wrapped her arms around his shoulders, and buried her face in the crook of his neck. "Good morning," she said, smiling into his skin.
"Iubitaù," he murmured.
She moved a little away to face him. "What?"
His face was completely unreadable. "Nothing."
"Oh, no! We did that bit last night. What did you say?" She smiled.
"It's Romanian," he said simply. "Something I heard members of my mother's family say."
"And it means?"
He mumbled something that she couldn't understand. She took his hands in hers. "Severus," she said, "tell me, please."
He jerked sharply away and moved past her. "Beloved," he spat.
"It means beloved?" she asked.
"Is that not what I just said?" he snapped. His body tensed even more as he felt her slip her arms around him from behind, and rest her cheek on his back.
"Thank you," she said softly.
He tried to draw away from her but she held fast. 'How could I have said that? What is wrong with me? And she thanks me? She thanks me! How - ' he berated himself. However, his inner diatribe was interrupted because she was speaking again.
"Thank you for finally giving me the courage to say something I have been wanting to tell you for a very long time now." She paused and gathered herself. "Severus look at me, please."
She released him and he turned to face her, crossing his arms over his chest as he turned.
Looking into his deep black eyes she took a steadying breath and said quietly, "I love you."
When he saw the open look of adoration on her face, he couldn't resist reaching out to touch her. He stroked her cheek with the back of one of his elegant hands.
She paused and took his face in her hands. She ran her thumbs over his cheekbones lovingly. "So many times I have wanted to tell you, but..." she trailed off.
"Hermione," was all he could say. He drew her to him and embraced her gently. With her head once more buried in his neck he whispered, "Beloved," his arms tightened around her, after a beat he whispered again, "Hermione my beloved."
They stood like that for a long time. Simply holding each other. They were brought back to the real world by a knock on the door. Reluctantly they moved out of each other's arms.
Severus opened the door to find Winky there holding out a sealed parchment. "Professor Sir, this comes for you. The owl who is bringing it just now, is still in the kitchens sir." She held out the parchment and he took it scowling down at the elf. Hermione came over and thanked Winky. Winky nodded and was gone. Severus closed the door and opened the parchment.
"An owl in the kitchens, that can't be very sanitary. Does your mail always get delivered there?" Hermione asked.
"Only if it's important and cannot wait. As a general rule owls won't come into the Dungeons," he answered absently. He was re-reading the note.
He handed the parchment to Hermione and she read:
Severus,
Our Lord is most pleased with your marriage. He has high hopes for this new connection.
We have a new brother, a James Adams from America. He was marked tonight.
I am leaving for England now. After I conclude my business I will head to Hogwarts to check on my son's progress. I shall most probably see you before this owl reaches you tomorrow morning.
Lucius
"Ironic."
Severus reached out and fingered a lock of her hair by her face. "What is ironic?" he asked.
"That The Dark Lord is more accepting of our marriage then Albus," she answered sadly.
"Ironic indeed. Will you accompany me to show this to Albus?" he asked.
"Of course."
Severus spoke the password and he and Hermione ascended to the Headmaster's office. He knocked and Albus called him in.
"Severus, my boy!" Albus greeted with a welcoming smile, his eyes twinkling happily. The smile and twinkle faded as Hermione entered the office after Severus.
"Please sit," Albus directed.
Severus and Hermione sat in the overstuffed arm chairs in front of the Headmaster's desk. Severus spoke first, "This came this morning." He handed the short note to Albus.
"It seems like your plans are working out well," Albus said resentfully.
"Yes Albus, our marriage will cause no problems with The Dark Lord. It seems that our marriage will actually be to The Order's advantage," Severus said evenly.
"That may be," Albus allowed. "I can't say that I am unhappy with another spy bearing the Dark Mark either. Now here is how I want you to handle things. I still want to keep Miss Gra - "
"I beg your pardon Albus, but it is Madam Snape," Severus corrected.
"Yes, Hermione," Albus said. "As I was saying, her status with The Order should be kept secret within The Order for the time being, for security reasons. Severus, as you voiced such strong objections to her posing as a student this year, I have found another way to explain her early N.E.W.T.s, and her very presence in the castle. You two will announce your marriage at lunch today. Minerva will announce Hermione's N.E.W.T. results at that time as well. Minerva was adamant about having that... privilege. After that, when you are approached and questioned about your current and future plans, you will simply tell people that Hermione is a... house witch," Albus ordered with a triumphant smile. "You will both have to keep up that pretense. Severus you will need to treat Hermione as would be expected of a pureblood Master of his house. Hermione you will need to be seen spending your time reading Witch Weekly, gossiping, primping, that kind of thing. I know this may not be how you intended your married lives to be, but it's all for the good of The Order. You both understand the importance of that."
Hermione's face registered complete shock, and she was utterly speechless.
Severus' voice was a deep appalled whisper, "Surely there is another way."
"I believe this is the best way." Albus smiled. On the surface it seemed to be his usual benevolent smile, but if you looked closely it was actually a smile of twisted victory. A smile prompted by the knowledge that forcing Hermione to live like a house witch, would be very likely to cause irreconcilable differences between her and Severus.
"Albus I do not think that this - "
"Severus, it is decided. I have already taken your wishes into consideration. As you did not want Hermione to, what was it? Yes, I remember, 'be a mature married woman parading around in the uniform of a schoolchild', then this is the best option. I am sure that if Hermione would have rather: assisted in classes while doing advanced work set especially for her; spent time researching in the library; devoted herself to advancing academically; worked on special projects in Arithmancy, Potions, Ancient Runes and the like; then you never would have approached me with that concern."
It didn't take Hermione any time to work out what was going on. Albus was painfully obvious, though he didn't seem to think so. "You must realise Albus that when Severus approached you, he knew my mind. Neither of us wish for me to pose as a schoolchild, no matter how distasteful the other option may be. Everyone said it so well when I was inducted to The Order. It was a few months ago but I'm sure you remember. It was mentioned that my years are beyond those of my former classmates, due of course to the combination of when my birth date falls in the school year, and my Time-Turner usage. It was also said that my maturity has always been beyond my years, as is my intellect. So please, refrain from insulting my intelligence." Hermione smiled sweetly, while her eyes flashed in cold calculation.
Severus looked at her and was filled with admiration that showed clearly in his eyes as they searched hers. "Hermione, I have had all of your belongings brought to our chambers. Why don't you go ahead and make yourself comfortable. Do anything you wish. Change anything to suit you, I have no attachment to things as they are. I will join you soon."
"That would be perfect." She gave Severus a genuine smile, which he returned.
She then glanced briefly at the Headmaster, "Albus." She nodded and left the two men alone.
Severus looked at Albus with an inscrutable expression on his face.
"We haven't had a chance to talk since your marriage Severus. How did this come about?" Albus asked, disappointment evident in his voice.
"We spent every hour of the day and night together for several months. We became quite accustomed to the arrangement. As Hermione's orientation neared an end she was concerned that you would separate us. When she asked me, I told her that it was my belief that you would indeed see to it that we no longer lived together - "
"What do you mean you lived together?" Albus asked forcefully.
"Albus, you put us together. I know you only meant for us to work together, but we spent twenty-four hours a day together since the first night of Hermione's orientation." Severus continued quickly before the Headmaster could voice his opinions on Severus' last statement. "However, we did not have a physical relationship. That did not happen until after we bound ourselves to each other. When Hermione's fear of our immanent separation manifested, she offered herself to me as a bound concubine; so that you would allow us to continue to live together. She knew the spell from research she had done. She initiated the spell." Severus hesitated before continuing, "I know I did not have to respond. I did not have to accept her. Perhaps it was the Slytherin in me, but after all these years to have..." Severus thought better of finishing that statement. He did not like to expose himself in that way, even to his mentor. "Suffice it to say I did not wish an end to our circumstances either. When my part in the spell came, instead rejecting her, or dishonouring her and accepting her as my bound concubine; I offered myself in return and took her as my wife."
"Severus you know I care for you as a son. But, I simply can't condone your marriage. Minerva believes that I'm put out because you didn't consult me before you married Hermione. Maybe that's a piece of it, I'm not sure. What I am sure of is that now was not the time. Defeating Tom must be our primary focus," he said.
"Albus you know that my marriage will work in favour of our defeat of The Dark Lord. Furthermore - "
Hagrid rushed into the Headmaster's office. "Headmaster, Perfeser Snape. There's trouble," Hagrid blurted out.
"What is it Hagrid?" Albus asked calmly.
"Some Slytherins tricked the two French kids inta goin' inter the forest. I'll go in meself ter start looking fer 'em, but I could use some help."
"Of course Hagrid, I will gather others to help." Albus left his office to conscript volunteers.
"Hagrid," Professor Snape spoke, "do you know which Slytherins did this?"
"Yes sir, a couple o' firs' years. I sent 'em to wait fer ya by yer office," Hagrid answered, as Professor Snape walked out with him.
"I'll see to them Hagrid. Send for me if I am needed," Severus said, as he turned towards the Dungeons.
"Will do Perfeser!" Hagrid called to Professor Snape's back.
It had been a long morning. After doling out punishments to the Slytherins who tricked the exchange students, Severus made his way to the private chambers he would now be sharing with Hermione. It was almost lunch time by the time he entered their chambers. He froze just inside the door. His eyes drank in the vision before him. Hermione was standing staring contemplatively into the fire. She hadn't heard him come in. She was dressed in simple black robes trimmed and lined in deep purple. Her hair was in a loose bun, and the way she held herself with such aplomb almost made him smile. He thought he had never seen anything more simply elegant.
Hermione startled when Severus came up behind her. He wrapped one long arm around her waist and pulled her back into his body. 'Does he always have to be as silent as a cat?' she wondered fleetingly.
"I think I've made progress with the power enhancing potion for Harry this morning," she said, as a pleased expression graced her face.
"What were your findings this morning?" he murmured in his dark silken voice, his lips lightly grazing her ear as he spoke.
Hermione and Severus had been working on the potion as much as possible over the last week. They had made quite a bit of progress the day before as it was Saturday, and they had all day to work on it. Except of course the brief time in which they were required to attend the parting dinner for the Beauxbatons entourage.
Hermione began speaking somewhat breathily, "I think it's promising. This time I didn't brew it with the Amazonite, Bloodstone, and Jet just sitting in lumps in the bottom of the cauldron. That was effective, but I think I may have found a way to increase the effectiveness of the stones. I actually pulverized small chips of each stone and incorporated the powder in the brew. I know this hasn't really been done in potions, but I think perhaps ingesting some of the stones, and thereby their properties, may prove to be beneficial. At least, I know it won't be harmful."
She turned in his embrace, and looked into his eyes. "I was wondering if there was a way to make the potion act like Muggle time released medications. You know take the potion, and get instant benefits, and then get hit with another wave at a later time."
Severus looked at her with what might have been encouragement glinting in his eyes. He was impressed that she chose to spend her morning in the lab, rather then redecorating. 'She really is a prodigy in Potions,' he thought. He was so pleased when he had the time to work with her. No one else had ever come close to his level of understanding in the field. 'Even the other Masters do not understand the way I work like Hermione does. Perhaps when the Dark Lord has been defeated I will be able to devote more time to research, with her,' he thought wryly. He really wished he could have been working with her in the lab this morning rather then dealing with dunderheads. 'Since when do I allow myself to hope and wish?' he wondered. But he did hope and wish, he hoped and wished to one day be able to spend his days devoted to researching with Hermione. Yes he was impressed by her, and that showed in his eyes.
Hermione smiled at the look in his eyes and continued, "I couldn't figure out how to do that in one potion, so what I have done is create four separate potions. All four doses are taken all at the same time, negating the need to repeat the doses for four days. So hopefully Harry won't have to take a repeat dose mid duel with The Dark Lord." She laughed gently and continued, "As you know the potion lasts for twenty-four hours. What I have done is create four potions: the first potion acts immediately; potion two has a twenty-four hour delayed release; potion three has a forty-eight hour delayed release; and potion four has a seventy-two hour delayed release."
She paused, took a breath, and looked at Severus expectantly. "So, what do you think?"
"Hermione," Severus asked smoothly, "you are telling me that you have created potions that for all intents and purposes enhance Harry's powers for four consecutive days without him needing to take repeat doses?"
"That's the idea, yes," she answered with a smile.
"We need to test - "
"It's already in the testing phase," she informed him.
"What do you mean? How - "
"I took a phial of each potion half an hour ago. The first dose seems to be having positive effects. I've done some simple spells and each spell has been at least doubly as powerful as it would normally be, some more so. I - "
Severus grabbed her roughly by the shoulders, his dark gleaming eyes boring into hers. "You tested an experimental potion on yourself! When you were alone!"
"Yes... well... I - "
"Have you no mind!"
"Severus, I didn't - "
"How could you do something so careless! How could you endanger yourself like that!" he raged.
"You're overreacting, there was no - "
Her response was interrupted by a knocking on the door. Severus was not pleased. "Enter," Severus barked, as he waved his hand to wandlessly open the door.
Minerva McGonagall came in with a determined look on her face. "Severus, Hermione," she began. She didn't seem to notice the charged atmosphere. "I know Albus intends to force you to announce your marriage at lunch today. However, I will have none of it."
Both Severus gazed at her with an unreadable expression, while Hermione was obviously perplexed.
"Hermione, as Albus knows I will be announcing that you took your N.E.W.T.s at the beginning of the summer, but then I will announce your marriage. For you to have to stand and tell the assembly, 'we're married'." Minerva scoffed. "What was Albus thinking? No we will handle this with the dignity it deserves. I will just go from one announcement right into the next. Albus won't know, until it's done. I hate going behind his back but this calls for it. He's being so, so petulant." Minerva pronounced.
"Thank you Minerva," Severus intoned. He was genuinely touched by her thoughtfulness.
"Yes, well, you're welcome." She smiled. "I must go now. I have to help Albus with..." her voice trailed off as she was already halfway down the Dungeon corridor.
"Severus," Hermione said, as he shut the door behind Minerva, "I'm sorry."
"Hermione you are aware of proper procedures, what were you thinking?" he said softly.
"I was - "
"You could have killed yourself," he whispered icily.
"Severus, you are right. I won't do it again," she said earnestly.
He looked at her silently, his eyes were fixed on hers and they seemed to pierce through to her very soul. "See that you don't," he whispered, his voice warming somewhat. He reached out and took her hand in his. He drew it to his lips and placed a soft kiss on her inner wrist.
She suddenly realised that his anger was not judgment of her poor lab procedures, but it was concern for her well being.
Glancing at the clock, he said, "We must go to the Great Hall." He kept her hand in his as they made the walk to lunch.
The Great Hall was filled with staff and students. The Headmaster stood, and the Deputy Headmistress called for attention. "Good afternoon everyone. Before we begin our lunch there are a few announcements that need to be - " The Headmaster stopped speaking as he noticed the staff door open and Aurors enter the Great Hall. Two of them headed straight for Professor Snape.
At the Gryffindor table words of excitement that the hated teacher might be being arrested were voiced. Harry didn't speak, was watching Hermione, who had gone white and was rising to her feet.
"Hey, I wonder what's up with 'Mione. You think she wants to see the bat get in trouble up close?" Ron laughed.
"Ron," Harry said disapprovingly.
The Gryffindors noticed that an Auror was headed their way. "Hey Tonks, what's going on?" Harry asked when she reached their table.
"Official business Harry," Tonks answered, without looking at him. She had reached Hermione. "Hermione, will you come with me please?"
Hermione's and Snape's gazes were locked as they were each led out of the Great Hall through the main doors.
The Gryffindors looked up to the High Table where one of the Aurors who had approached Snape remained, and was explaining something to Dumbledore.
Out in the Entrance Hall were Tonks, and an Auror Severus and Hermione didn't know. The unknown Auror spoke to Hermione. "Miss Granger - "
"Madam Snape," Hermione corrected.
"I beg your pardon, I was about to introduce myself, I am Auror Barnes, not Snape," the Auror responded in confusion.
"No, no," Tonks interjected helpfully, "Hermione is Madam Snape. She's not Miss Granger any longer. That's why I had you bring Professor Snape out here."
"I thought I was bringing her teacher to support her?" Auror Barnes said questioningly.
"Auror Barnes," Hermione spoke slowly and clearly to the young Auror, "Professor Snape is my husband."
"You're married to your teacher?" Barnes asked in shock.
"No, Severus isn't my teacher, we - "
"Look Barnes, I'll explain it all later. For now just remember she's Madam Snape, and she's not a student," Tonks said. Then she turned to Hermione. "Hermione, Severus, there have been some developments. First Hermione your parents are alive, well, and safe."
"My parents?" Hermione asked.
"Yes. Around four this morning the Dark Mark was seen over your parent's home. They were found inside," Tonks stated factually.
Hermione turned to Severus, and he wrapped a supportive arm around her.
At the concern on Hermione's face Tonks reassured her, "Your parents are fine Hermione. As a precaution they were taken to St Mungo's. It turns out that whoever was trying to hurt them was interrupted. They had received some Cruciatus, but not enough so that it was lastingly harmful. That's all. They were treated at St Mungo's and released to us. There was no time to contact you first." Tonks voice was regretful. "Your parents were hidden under the Fidelius Charm. The Auror who was ordered to hide them was Obliviated by their secret keeper, so they are extremely safe. Only their secret keeper knows where they are, and after the Obliviate no one knows who their secret keeper is. Nothing could be safer," Tonks said gently.
"Severus and I were supposed to see them tonight," Hermione said.
"That won't be possible Hermione." Tonks said gently. "However, I'm sure their secret keeper will find a way for them to send you a note. That is the usual way it's done when someone is sent into hiding unexpectedly."
"Oh, that's good then," Hermione said in a monotone.
Auror Barnes spoke into the ensuing silence, "There's one more thing. Lucius Malfoy was found dead on the scene. Madam Snape do you know any reason why Lucius Malfoy would be at your parent's home?"
"No I don't," Hermione said. She was obviously confused by this information.
Severus tightened his hold on Hermione. "In what condition was Lucius Malfoy's body found?" he asked the Aurors.
"Let's take this to my office," The headmaster commanded, as he and Kingsley Shacklebolt came into Entrance Hall.
When they entered Dumbledore's office they found that he had already sent Minerva McGonagall and Remus Lupin up.
"Let's all sit," Dumbledore said. "Hermione and Severus sat between Minerva and Lupin. All three Aurors sat across. Everyone faced Dumbledore."
"Now," the Headmaster began, "why wasn't I consulted in this?"
"You are being told now sir," Auror Barnes responded.
Tonks groaned, and Kingsley Shacklebolt turned on the Auror. "Ms Barnes," he said in his royal authoritative tone, "I need you to go back to the office and file your report on the events. I need you to go quickly now, the paperwork must be in before tea time. We wouldn't want anyone else who needs to know left in the dark."
The young Auror looked confused, but gave no argument. She simply said, "Of course sir." Nodding to them she added, "Good day Headmaster, Professor Snape, Madam Snape."
"Good day Auror Barnes," Dumbledore said dismisively, to the departing young woman.
"Now that we're all Order members, let's speak candidly. What exactly is going on?" Dumbledore asked.
"Everything I told Hermione and Severus is accurate," Tonks said.
"I believe I related the same details to you Albus," Kingsley added. "What we haven't learned yet is why Lucius Malfoy was at the Granger's, and why he is now dead."
"Or what it is that The Dark Lord is up to now," Severus added with deadly calm.
"My Goodness," Minerva exclaimed, "Lucius Malfoy was his right hand. For him to be dead... murdered I assume?" she asked Kingsley.
"As far as we can tell, yes. His body is being examined now," Kingsley answered.
The door to the Headmaster's office flew open in urgency for the second time that day. "Professors, you're needed in the hospital wing!" a breathless and distraught Hufflepuff Prefect informed them.
"Ah, the daily drama that is Hogwarts," the Headmaster drolled, "Kingsley, Ms Tonks, if you will excuse us please I will catch up with you later." The headmaster turned from the Aurors. "Minerva, Severus, Remus, if you would come with me?"
Hermione didn't have time to wonder what Minerva nodded to Severus for, as she found his hand reaching out to her. She placed her hand in Severus' and found herself accompanying the Professors to the hospital wing.
When they entered the ward they could just barely make out a figure in on a far cot. It was tucked in to it's chin and not moving. Hermione was the first to notice the mop of messy black hair, and the familiar glasses on the bedside table. "It's Harry," she whispered to Severus. He nodded in reply as Madam Pomfrey had bustled up to the group.
"It's Mr Potter, again. However," Madam Pomfrey spoke sternly, "it is nothing serious this time. Just a case of fatigue I'd say. His friend Mr Weasley brought him up about half an hour ago. Mr Weasley says that Mr Potter was thrashing and yelling. He claimed that he couldn't get a response from Mr Potter for several minutes. He said that Mr Potter seemed to be reacting to things unseen." Madam Pomfrey harumphed in disbelief. "I examined Mr Potter thoroughly and it's my opinion that he must have fallen asleep, as he himself testified to. He was just having a nightmare he couldn't wake from. For a young man of his age to fall asleep during the day," the Matron tsked, "no doubt he is spending too mush time on Quidditch, and staying up nights to study. I put him to bed, and gave him a phial of Dreamless Sleep. He should be out for at least twelve hours."
"And where is Mr Weasley now?" the Headmaster asked benignly.
"I sent him off as soon as he finished telling me what he had seen. I'm sure he's in his common room studying," she answered.
"And the Hufflepuff Prefect who burst into Albus' office," Minerva asked, "where does she fit in?"
"According to Mr Weasley, and judging by her state of alarm," the Matron smiled indulgently, "I'd say Mr Potter is her love interest, and they were working together when he dozed off. She was too distraught to relay the details, so Mr Weasley gallantly did the honours."
"That would explain it." The Headmaster smiled indulgently. Let's be on our way then," he said as he turned to Minerva, Remus, and Severus. "Hermione?" the Headmaster questioned accusingly.
"Is here at my behest Albus," Minerva answered.
"Of course, of course," the Headmaster mumbled.
The group left the ward and stopped in the corridor once the door was firmly closed.
"Another vision?" Minerva asked no one in particular.
"The Dark Lord," Severus added scowling.
"Could this be connected to the Dark Mark over Hermione's parent's home, and and Lucius Malfoy's death?" Remus questioned.
"Whatever it is we won't know until Harry awakens, and that won't be for at least twelve hours," the Headmaster responded.
Severus leaned idly on the wall and crossed his arms over his chest. "Perhaps Weasley could relay what he saw and heard?" he suggested.
"Yes. Headmaster should I find him and talk to him?" Remus asked.
"Yes, yes. Let me know if he has any more information. I'll be in my office with Minerva. We need to contact some people, make sure no one panics because Aurors were in the school." Minerva and Albus walked purposefully off.
"Well I'll go see if I can find Ron." Remus smiled as he turned and headed off in the opposite direction. He didn't realise that he walked right past Ron, who was standing by the hospital doors hidden under Harry Potter's invisibility cloak.
Checking to make sure that they were completely alone, Hermione stepped up to Severus, put her hand on his shoulder and leaned in to speak closely with him. Neither Hermione or Severus heard Ron's sharply indrawn breath.
Hermione knew Severus would be worrying about Harry's dream, and dwelling on Lucius' death. He needed a distraction. She needed, she needed... she knew what she needed, and she knew why she needed it. She would give anything in the world to not to need it. The fear, and pain of why she had this need kept her from voicing it, even in her own head. Surreptitiously she drew her wand, and pointed it at the front of Severus' trousers.
Ron held his breath, he thought that even Snape shouldn't have to take a hex there. Under the invisibility cloak he crossed his legs and curled in on himself in defensive sympathy.
Severus couldn't see Hermione's hand and wand, but he felt her breath as she leaned into him and incanted, "Fructuarius."
It was obvious that Severus Snape was unnerved to feel the unexpected surge of magic. An inscrutable look came into his deep black eyes as they bore into Hermione's. "What do you think you are doing?" he asked, his voice a low whisper.
"I, I..." Hermione was suddenly at a loss for words. Her thoughts reeled as she realised what she had done. 'What do I say, how do I explain?" she wondered frantically.
"Hermione?" Severus asked.
"Um," Hermione stalled. At the look on his face she was tempted to call him 'sir', "I, er, I just, would you do it back please?"
Severus face took on a shrewd and calculating look at her response. "Why would you perform such an impulsive act? Moreover, what would give you the idea that I would cast a reciprocal - "
"It wasn't impulsive!" Hermione blurted. "I, I've been thinking about it for a while now. Actually I, er, even considered it before, you know," she glanced around furtively, "before we met with Madam Macnaughton."
Severus' eyes held a glint as he breathed, "Since before - "
"Yes, even before." Hermione smiled up at him. "I know we haven't discussed this, and you are in no way obliga - "
"No we most certainly have not discussed this," he cut her off, speaking in his dark silky voice. "Knowing that, you just thought you'd simply cast a little spell and - "
"No, no. I didn't plan to cast the spell! It just... happened," she answered sheepishly.
"Just happened?" he asked softly.
"Yes, I - " she began in a desperate apologetic tone.
Severus made a soft shushing noise in his throat. He bent, his lips coming into the barest contact with her ear. "What do you want Hermione?" he asked, his voice a deep purr.
"I want you to perform the spell on me," she answered without hesitation.
"How very... Gryffindor," he whispered his eyes glinting. He withdrew his wand from his sleeve.
"Please, cast the spell," Hermione beseeched.
A thoroughly confused Ron Weasley wondered why Hermione was begging Professor Snape to cast a spell on her.
He saw Professor Snape tuck most of the wand up the wrist of his sleeve, leaving the tip out. He then saw Professor Snape reach that hand down and place it very low on Hermione's abdomen. He was tempted to throw off the cloak and stop her from whatever she was doing, he knew it couldn't be good. The spell she had cast sounded like it might be related to the Furnunculus spell. He understood wanting to cast that on Snape even if the location she had pointed her wand at was delicate, a Snape with boils would be worth it. But, he couldn't understand why she'd want it cast back on her. He couldn't stop her though, he needed to get in to Harry. He wouldn't be able to if he revealed himself. So he remained hidden and silent, just watching Hermione and Snape.
Snape's hand was softly caressing Hermione very low on her abdomen. Suddenly his hand stilled and he seemed to concentrate. "Fructuarius," he incanted, in a voice so soft that Ron almost didn't hear him.
Hermione didn't seem hurt in any way, even though Snape had touched her! So Ron decided to stay hidden. Before he knew what was happening Professor Snape had taken Hermione and swept off down the corridor. All he could see now was the back of Snape's robes as they swished around a corner out of sight.
Ron shook his head in confusion and silently opened the door to the hospital ward where Harry slept peacefully.