I recently read that there was a new rule on fanfiction that you're not allowed to respond to the reviewers. I'd rather not take the chance and have my story deleted. I've tried to post my story on Ashwinder, but only the title and summary were submitted. Once I can figure how to post it, this story will be on Ashwinder.

If you want the link I used to convert the american money into Harry Potter currency, e-mail me. Don't expect an answer from me until after the 19th, as my computers broken (I'm using my cousin's at the moment) and it won't get fixed until the 19th. Sadness

VERY, VERY, EXPLICIT SEX SCENE! YOU HAVE BEEN WARNED!

Very long chapter. I hope it makes up for the huge wait.

Chapter Fifteen

"Do you think he'll ever wake up?" Tabby asked softly. My friends and I were all currently gathered around Septimus' body, watching his chest rose and fell. It was Christmas Eve, and the castle was empty save for the few people who had stayed behind. Septimus' gifts were piled at the foot of his bed. Snow was falling outside, blanketing the grounds even more in white.

"Soon hopefully." I answered. I was sitting next to Septimus' head, pushing his hair away from his face. He hates to have his hair hang in his face. I watched him breathe in and out, feeling amazed. He looks like he's simply sleeping. I sighed wearily and turned towards my friends. Every night I had come up here and sat next to him, and just talked. I was hoping my voice would bring him back, but so far there was no luck.

"Maybe he'll wake up tomorrow. It'd be like, the perfect gift." Max commented. I glanced at him to find him watching me. I quickly looked back to Septimus. Since I had been sleeping with Severus, I had tried to let Max down easily. It wasn't working. The more I pushed him away, the more he clung. He definitely didn't strike me as the type to cling to somebody, so something was up. I had noticed him popping up at inopportune times, like when I was in the library and Severus had approached me. Max had sat next to me and had refused to leave all afternoon, even after Severus left.

Severus was opening up a bit more lately, I'd noticed. At first he came only to have sex, using me for physical release. But lately...lately he had sought me out to complain about his classes, to talk about what he was reading, and anything else he felt like saying. It was great! The more time I spent with him, the more I found that I enjoyed being in his company. I had gotten him three gifts for Christmas, two of which were gag gifts. I don't expect gifts from him, but I do want him to know that I was thinking about him. I wanted more than just sex with him...so much more. Call me crazy, but I'm falling in love with the sarcastic, mean tempered, hooked nosed, raven-haired man.

"Perhaps." I gave Septimus' hand a squeeze. It was nearly time for dinner, and Madam Polinski always made us leave at dinnertime. I stood up and leaned over him, giving him a soft kiss on the cheek. I followed the others around the curtain surrounding his bed and moved towards the entrance doors when Polinski exited her office. She looked startled, surprised that she would not have to shoo us out for a change, but nodded and continued on her way.

I stepped out in to the corridor and pulled my sweater closer to me. Max stepped up to one side of me. I watched him watching me out of the corner of my eye. Deciding to ignore him, I began to walk towards the Great Hall. Tabby walked hand-in-hand with Jon on my other side. Mike and Julie were deep in conversation about something, and Shannon was looking suspiciously blank eyed. No doubt thinking about Kyle. Max was walking extremely close, and I fought the urge to tell him to back off. I have enough problems; I don't need to add another angry male. Zac had taken up following me around and staring at me. It creeped me out, and several times I had glared at him. He had looked away, but not for long. My life sucks.

The Great Hall was decorated in green, red and white. It looked like a strange mix between a Slytherin green and a Gryffindor red explosion. I settled in a deep red seat next to Severus, while Tabby and Jon quickly took the seats next to me before Max could. He settled for sitting across from me, next to Mike and Julie who were still talking. Shannon was on the other side of Max. I glanced over at Severus and caught his eye. He nodded so slightly it was barely perceptible. I nodded back and helped myself to the food that had just appeared. I was drawn into Julie and Mike's conversation and was about to eat a spoonful of potatoes when I felt Severus' hand slide under my robes. I nearly choked on my potatoes, but managed to regain my composure before I made a fool of myself.

Severus' hand found the end of my t-shirt and slid his hand under it. I took a deep breath as quietly as I could when I felt his hand brush my breast. I leaned forward slightly so my already baggy robes would move forward, so he could move more freely without being noticed. He cupped my breast and kneading my breasts. A small moan escaped my lips before I could censor it. Luckily it was covered by the conversation. I bowed my head and breathed through my nose. A sudden idea caused a smile to form. I pulled out a pen (I always kept one handy. Quills weren't good for emergencies) and grabbed Severus' hand. Sliding it out of my shirt and moving my robes aside, I quickly scrawled later tonight and released his hand. I watched from the corner of my eye as he read what was written on his hand and smirked. He returned to eating calmly, acting as though he had not aroused me to nearly impossible heights.

"Mia?" I jerked my head up to look at Shannon. The other's had risen from the table, ready to go back to the common room and drink hot cocoa. I stood up quickly, nearly tipping over my chair.

"Sorry about that. I was just thinking..." I trailed off. With any luck, they would assume I was thinking of Septimus and not question me. It appeared luck was with me. They all nodded and moved towards the door. I moved swiftly towards the exit, returning the good nights from the professor's. Stepping out into the cold corridor once again, I closed my robes and began to walk. I listened to my friends argue and laugh as I watched the snow fall and the portraits gather to celebrate the holidays. A feeling of peace and contentment overcame me. This is my home. I've only spent a short time here compared to the years at Hogwarts, but this feels more at home than Hogwarts ever did. Sadness enveloped me as I thought about leaving. This is my last year. This is it...I'm only going to return for the class reunions.

"Mia? What's wrong?" I glanced up to find my friends watching me. "This is the second time you've seemed overly distracted. Is everything alright?" Tabby grasped my hand and squeezed it. I nodded, my throat momentarily constricted. I swallowed.

"It's just...this is my home. This place is my real home, and the one my parents live in is my second home." Sad, but true... As much as I missed them, and as much as I loved them, they weren't a central part of my life anymore. "This is my last year. I was just reflecting on that. I mean, I know we'll stay in touch. But it's more than just where I hung out with you guys. This is where I met all of you. This is where I learned to fly, where I met Septimus. This is where Lucas Barbino ran naked down the corridor with my name printed on his back. I'm going to miss this place so much."

The other's nodded in understanding. We had reached the entrance to the common room, and spoke the password. Stepping into the warm room was a relief. I took off my robes and draped them across the chair. I kicked off my shoes and then sat down, curling my legs up under me and staring into the fire. The warmth immediately started to chase away the chill that lingered on my skin and in my bones. I sighed in contentment as a cup of hot chocolate appeared before me. Taking a small sip, the hot liquid burned my tongue slightly before swallowing.

"Remember the time Shannon swore Professor Matthews was winking at her?" Tabby commented. We all laughed.

"It turned out he had something in his eye? Yeah, that was great." More and more memories were called forth as we talked about all the stupid things we had done. Time passed slowly, and more hot chocolate was consumed. It warmed us all considerably, and soon there was a pile of clothes thrown carelessly in front of the furniture. Max finally stood up and stretched. He set his empty cup on the table next to his side of the couch, and then rubbed his eyes.

"Well, since you all are reminiscing about times I have not part in, I'll just head off to bed. Good night everyone." He nodded and smiled to everybody and moved towards the staircase. As he passed me, he ran his hand over my cheek. I forced myself not to shiver and move my head away. I waited until I was sure he wasn't around and then I took a deep breath. It's time to tell them. I had been planning on telling them for awhile now, but I always lost my courage. Severus was older and quite grumpy. I had no idea how they'd respond to the news that I was seeing him. But I had sworn a long time ago that I would keep nothing from them. They were my friends and they deserved to know.

"Guys...I need to tell you something." Attention fixed firmly on me, I took another keep breath and began to tell them what had happened from the moment I had worked with Severus on the potion. I stared at the fire once I was finished, not wanting to stare into their faces and see the disgust, disappointment, or whatever else they may feel. I didn't show my anxiety, but if they said it was disgusting, I wasn't sure what I'd do.

"We suspected as much." My head jerked to face Tabby and the other's watching me. I raised an eyebrow, still outwardly calm. "You haven't been reacting to Max's advances the same as you had before. Not to mention Sexy's been watching you quite a bit lately." This was news to me.

"He has?" I was feeling a bit incredulous over this revelation.

"Mmm. Yes, he has. I thought a few times he was going to say something to one of us, he looked like he was going to. He never did of course; he just continued to watch us. It's almost like he expects us to desert you because you're seeing him." Julie said. Makes sense, if they had suddenly abandoned me, he'd assume it was because of our relationship. I grinned a little. That was what I was expecting as well. It was good to know they weren't going to, that they'd stand by me in this instance.

"If we do abandon you, it's only because we're insanely jealous." Shannon added. I smiled widely. I have the greatest friends. I repeated my thought out loud, and the others laughed.

"I don't know what we'd do without you Mia. You make everything interesting. By the way, when are you going to give Sexy his presents?" I wasn't surprised they had noticed the three gifts I had gotten. Like all Slytherins, my friends were observant.

"Tonight. I'm supposed to floo down there after you all go to bed." They shared a look and stood up. Putting a hand over their mouths, they all faked yawning. Stretching slightly and draining their hot chocolate, I bit my lip so I wouldn't laugh at the chocolate mustache Mike and Zac had.

"Dang we're tired. I think we'll go to bed." Tabby said. "Goodnight." She winked at me as she walked passed, and linked arms with Zac. The other's spoke their goodnights, and I watched as they walked past. A small smile on my lips, I accio'd my bag. I threw the powder into the fireplace and spoke my destination. I stepped in and turned around. As I did, I reached out and grabbed my bag just before I began to spin. Squeezing my eyes shut and holding my bag close to me, I nearly fell out of the fireplace. Stumbling forward, strong arms gripped my shoulders and helped me upright. Opening my eyes, I saw Severus and couldn't help but smile.

He looked as grumpy as ever. His hair was tousled, and he was standing in nothing but black cotton pj's. He looked simply delectable. My smile widened as I thought about the look on his face after I gave him his presents. He stepped back and nodded towards the chair next to the fire.

"I'll be right back." He turned and entered his bedroom. I settled into the chair, waiting for him to come back. A few seconds later, he entered the room again holding a present. I grinned at him. He set it down before me and moved to sit on the chair across from me. I grabbed the bag I had set next to my chair and opened it. I handed him his three presents. He glanced at them then caught my gaze.

"I only got you one." I had to grin because he looked a little guilty.

"The first two are...er...gag gifts." Looking entirely suspicious, he opened the first one. He stared at it for a few seconds before pulling it out. It rang suddenly in the silence. I couldn't keep the smirk from spreading across my face. His face was disbelieving, amused, and a little upset.

"You actually got me one?" I nodded. The bell glowed from the fireplace, making it look magical. It was only a regular bell.

"Yes, and you should wear it." He shook his head. I grinned and rolled my eyes. A couple of weeks ago Severus had spent the entire week sneaking up on me, and I had threatened him. I said I was going to get him a collar with a bell, so I could hear when he was coming. He hadn't taken me seriously. Of course, I don't really expect him to wear it. I watched silently as Severus set the bell aside and grabbed the next gag gift. He opened it slowly, as though he was afraid it'd explode. He pulled out the black t-shirt and couldn't help but snort in amusement at what it said. He turned the t-shirt towards me and gave me one of those rare smiles.

I don't discriminate--I hate everyone. It's so perfect for him.

He smirked. "Thank you. I plan on wearing this to the Christmas party they have for the staff." He set aside the t-shirt and grabbed the last present. Instead of opening it, he set it on his lap. "I want you to open yours before I open mine." I nodded and picked up the package that was on the floor before me. I carefully unwrapped it and gasped. Tears sprang to my eyes. A beautiful necklace lay amongst the wrappings. An emerald with silver wings was attached to a silver chain. It sparkled in the light.

"It's beautiful." I whispered. I walked to Severus and brushed my lips against his. Holding out the necklace to him, he took it and I turned around. After much fumbling, he managed to get the "blasted thing" on. Moving back to my seat, I admired the way the light played on the emerald. Sitting down, I watched as Severus began to unwrap his real present.

Slowly it revealed a book, and I noticed the way he looked rather disappointed. Oh, he won't be disappointed for much longer. He finished unwrapping the book, to reveal the title. His breath escaped him in a whoosh noise, and he sat there staring at the book. The book was extremely old, the lettering on the cover fading, the leather thinned out in some places. Most Potent Potions, First Edition was scrawled across the top.There were only 50 first editions left, the rest had been burned at the printing shop. They had remade the book with some modifications. If people thought there were some dangerous potions in the one in the library, they were sadly mistaken. Those that had the first edition usually kept it under lock and key and various wards. The book could run for 103 galleons, 12 sickles, and 27 knuts. Roughly converted, that would be around 500 dollars. It's a good thing I got this book for free.

"Where did you...get this?" He looked up at me, his eyes soft and wondering. I smiled slightly. He looked like a little boy at Christmas.

"I got it from Hans, the owner of Club Zone. He often comes across rare items. He loves to buy things, no matter the cost, and he knew I was interested in Potions. He gave me the book awhile go. But there was a mistake and he had sent me two copies. We pretended that we didn't notice. I kept one and gave the other to Septimus. I'm giving my copy to you."

"I can't take it. It's yours." His voice was flat, brooking no argument.

"I'm giving it to you for Christmas. Severus, I want you to have it. If you don't take it, I'll be offended." I moved towards him and sat at his feet. I grabbed one of his hands and squeezed it. "Please take it. It would mean a lot to me if you did." He reluctantly nodded and set the book on his table. Eyes never leaving mine, he leaned over and kissed me. I melted into the kiss instantly, loving the feel of his lips on mine.

Wrapping his arms around me, he lifted me up and moved towards his bedroom. I wiggled myself closer to him, and he sighed contentedly. Setting me on his bed, he slowly began to remove his clothes. I watched in silent delight as more of his pale, smooth, incredibly soft skin was revealed. At this point my breathing was becoming rougher and louder. Severus, finally naked, moved forward to grab my hand. I allowed myself to be pulled to my feet. Severus slowly began to undress me as well. My breath caught as he ran his fingertips brushed my chest with each button he undid. Feeling the almost unbearable need to touch him, I ran the tips of my own fingers lightly down his chest. He shivered but kept working at my clothes.

Patience finally breaking, he ripped my underwear off of me in a sudden movement and yanked me close. The heat coming off of his body, and the smell of him drove me to distraction. Merlin, how I want this man...My thoughts were fuzzy and mostly incoherent, but one thought shone through the most. I love him. The startling thought was swept away as Severus began to kiss my jaw and neck, nibbling here and there. He moved his lips further down which caused me to moan in response. Severus moved forward and his body pressed against me, forcing me backwards. Knees hit the back of the bed and lost my balance, collapsing onto it. Severus stared down at me, his eyes dark with lust. The light from the fireplace cast a flickering light across his face, making him look more sinister than usual. Instead of scaring me, I was more aroused. I whimpered, and a smug smirk spread across his face as he climbed onto the bed as well.

His touch caused me to arch my back, wishing for more. He stroked me everywhere, he lips following the path his hands gently took. I moaned and received an answering moan from Severus. He slid up my body and moved to kiss me. I moved my head aside and put my hands on his shoulder. I pushed him sideways and slipped on top of him. I leaned down and kissed the tip of his nose. There was just something about his nose I loved...I loved his eyes, his voice, his hands...I just loved everything about him. But there was just something about his nose that drove me crazy. I moved my kisses from his nose to his eyelids, and then kissed his frown lines. Skipping over his mouth, I licked, sucked, nibbled and kissed my way down to his chest.

His muscles rippled as me moved his arms to pull me against him. I lay there, trapped on top of his chest while Severus stared into my eyes. I briefly thought about allowing myself to show how much I cared, but dismissed the idea. He'd laugh, or worse, say he never wanted to see me again. As long as he never knew how much I truly loved him, he'd never end my fantasies for good by saying it was just sex. I could pretend it was more. But I couldn't keep all of the love out of my eyes, for I saw surprise and an answering look cross Severus' face before he moved his head to kiss me. My head became even fuzzier, and it wasn't until Severus was parting my legs that I realized he had flipped me over. I kissed his chest and neck, and spread my legs to allow him access. I wrapped my arms around him and arched up, brushing against him. He whimpered, and the noise went straight to my nether regions. I groaned in response and rubbed myself against him. Gods...

He smirked but made no move to enter me, and I growled. He chuckled softly. I growled again as he moved himself to my entrance, but once again made no move to enter. He simply watched with a blank face as I jerked my hips, rubbed against him, and attempted to force myself on him. I finally gave up and simply pressed my body against his, loving the feel of his hard body on top of my softer one. His warm skin felt so good, and his own personal smell was heavenly. It was a mix of herbs, sweat, male, and sandalwood. I gave a soft sigh of content and my eyes drifted closed. Even though I was still aroused beyond belief, the thought of Severus covering my body with his own, in an almost protective way relaxed me. A small smile curled my lips as I felt Severus' heart beat against me.

My eyes snapped open and a moan escaped my lips as Severus slid inside of me. I wrapped my legs around him and began to move against him. Soon only the sounds of our moans and mumbled words was all the noise that filled the room. Severus thrust roughly inside of me. My back bowed, causing him to slide in further. He grabbed my wrists and forced them above my head. I bit his shoulder, a hint of pain adding to the pleasure. I started making noises I didn't know I could make as he moved roughly inside me. He was wild, thrusting; hair tangled and in his face, eyes glittering with passion. His face was twisted with his pleasure. He leaned down and nibbled on my neck. Moving his lips to the place behind my eye, he sucked. I was sensitive there, and I bucked as a jolt of pleasure flashed through my body. It seemed to heighten everything I was feeling.

"So sweet...so warm..." He growled into my ear, low and rumbling. His voice was the last straw, and I came fast and hard. My released triggered his, and he came as I was coming down from my own release. I groaned as I felt him empty himself into me. Even after he was finished, his hips kept twisting even though he had already reached satisfaction. Finally he stilled. His chest moved against mine as he forced air into his lungs.

He looked down at me, his wonderful dark eyes dancing. It was always after sex that he looked the happiest. Although lately he'd been looking happy when we would have long intellectual conversations about whatever we could think of. His lips would curl upwards, his eyes would look less cold and distant, and he became much more animated. He would, at times, move his hands when he talked, trying to emphasize his point. His hair would fall into his face and he'd impatiently brush it back.

It was at times like those that I loved him more than I thought possible.

He stimulated my brain, my body. There were times when he was cold and distant, and it was those times we would sit in silence until Severus would make some sort of gesture. We'd have sex (I could never call it making love. The sex would always be silent and cold) and then he'd roll off the bed and take a shower. If I wasn't gone by the time he was out of the shower, he'd snap at me. I'd snap back, and we'd end up not talking for the next two days.

It was times like those I hated him, reminded by his behavior why I disliked him during my first years at Hogwarts.

Severus rolled off of me now, interrupting my internal musings. He pulled me close to him and curled his body around mine. My back was pressed against his chest, and his head was on the pillow next to mine. I felt warm and safe, and couldn't help but sigh contentedly and snuggle closer. He ran a finger up and down my arm, his breath making goose bumps rise on my neck.

"Severus..."

"Hmmm..." He kissed my neck gently. I wish he would stop. His kisses always make me hope for more...they make me hope that just maybe he cares for me. But he had made it crystal clear before we did anything that he just wanted my body. Still...I want him to promise.

"Can you promise me something?" I held my breath, ready for his reaction. I wasn't disappointed. He stiffened and moved away. He stood a couple of feet away from the edge of the bed. I immediately felt bereft and tried not to move closer to him than the edge of the bed. He always moves away physically when he doesn't want to talk about something, or do something. He distances himself as much physically as he does emotionally.

"Depends on what you wish me to promise." His voice was harsh and had a hint of frigid steel underneath. I shivered. He hadn't spoken to me in that tone since the last time he'd gotten in one of his "moods". He had nearly thrown me out of his office for daring to touch him before he initiated a move. The man has some intimacy issues. I felt anger rise up, mixing in with the fear that he would kick me out of his rooms and refuse to talk to me. The man has no right to take that tone! I haven't asked anything of him so far! Haven't demanded some undying profession of love for him!

"I just want you to promise that you'll try your best to survive the war." Surprise flitted across his face. He wasn't expecting that...

"Why would you want me to promise such a thing?" His voice no longer sounded cold and harsh, just flat and slightly curious.

"We've been together for how long now? Three months now? Three and a half? Somewhere around there...in that time I've gotten to know you a little bit. I don't pretend to understand some of the things you say or do though. Anyway, in the time we've been sleeping together, I've come to think of you as a friend, at least. And like any of my friends, I'd really rather you didn't die." Disbelief and astonishment filled his face.

"You...you care about me?" I pretended to look surprised at his question.

"Yes, of course." He studied my expression for a while. His face was back to being hard and unyielding. After a few tense moments his face softened. He moved closer and (surprisingly) gave me another hug. Maybe I'm going nuts...I hugged back fiercely, pressing my face into his chest and snuggling up to him. He didn't seem to mind. He hugged me tighter for a second and then released me. He didn't push me away though, so I had to crane my neck to look up at him.

"I promise to do the best that I can." I smiled happily up at him. My eyes widened in surprise as Severus smiled a full, happy smile at me. I blinked several times; making sure it wasn't an illusion. This caused him to throw his head back and laugh. His laugh was like dark chocolate, pleasing and oh-so-delicious. I shivered in response as I gazed up at the happy man. I reached out and cupped his cheek in my hand, wondering if maybe this was the real Severus, the one hidden underneath the bitter layers of subterfuge. He gave me a soft smile that took my breath away. He has a smile that could stun a dragon in it's tracks. It was all the more precious because I knew he hadn't smiled and laughed like this in Merlin only knows how long. I felt my heart melt. I've officially fallen for Severus Snape. May the god's have pity on me.

"You should go to your common room. You're bound to be missed." I snorted. The others knew exactly where I was at.

"My friends know I'm down here." Severus met my eyes. Although he was hiding it very well, I knew he was curious about their reactions. Let's play with him a bit... I smiled sweetly and moved towards the bathroom. Not caring that I was naked, I made it two steps before Severus grabbed me. He sure can move quickly...He turned me around.

"Hermione, if we're to be friends --" Here he twitched before continuing "-- then I suggest you tell me what your other friends think. I do not wish for you to suffer because you are my friend." I was taken back by the sincerity in his voice.

"They don't care. Well, the guys don't care. The girls are mostly jealous." Severus once again looked shocked, but nodded. I turned and was about to enter the bathroom when I heard a hiss behind me. Spinning around, I found Severus clutching the part of his arm where the dark mark was. He glanced up and met my eyes. Moving toward the stand next to his bed, he grabbed his wand and charmed his clothes on. He turned towards his closet to get his "uniform". With a glance back, he turned into Professor Snape mode.

"Go to Dumbledore, and tell him I have been summoned. Then go to your common room. No argument." He cut me off. I closed my jaw with an audible snap. A knot of anxiety was forming in my stomach. Worry caused a film of white to drift over my eyes, making everything hazy. Severus is going to face that madman. He's going to face the same man that put Septimus in a coma. I can't lose both of them. Please God, no. Let Severus be all right. Let Septimus wake up. Gone was the relaxed atmosphere, which brought back the fears and worries previously forgotten.

I moved forward and stood on tiptoe. Severus had grabbed his mask and was putting it on. I moved the mask up so I could see his face. I kissed him gently on the lips and then replaced the mask. Giving him a quick hug, I turned and ran for the door, grabbing my wand as I passed it. I muttered the same spell Severus used, instantly clothing myself. Casting another quick spell before exiting the room, I moved my things from his room to mine. I cast one last worried glance at Severus before making my way through the corridors.

SNAPE'S POV

Hermione left the room quickly, to my relief. I don't think I could handle her questions and such at a time like this. Another jolt of pain made me wince. Making my way outside the passageway that Septimus had once used, I shoved all thoughts of the girl from my mind. Any weakness could be exploited, and I would not have the girl punished because I felt something for her.

What exactly do I feel for her?

The thought nearly made me stop, but I pushed it away with a snarled Now is not the time! and continued on my way. The only light outside was from the moon. All was silent, only the wind making noise as it passed through the trees. I pulled my robes closer as the wind penetrated my clothes and made me shiver. Reaching the apparition barrier, I quickly concentrated on the image my dark mark provided and apparated.

I appeared in a field surrounded by trees. It was extremely dark there, as moon and stars alike were covered by the clouds. It was freezing as well. Lucius Malfoy's voice rang out from the darkness, friendly and warm.

"Severus, my friend. Glad to see you." I inclined my head to my acquaintance.

"Lucius, friend. You're looking well." A strand of hair not out of place, and a warm smile turning his comely face even more handsome. The smile didn't quite reach his eyes, which remained a cold blue. Although we weren't actually friends, appearances must be kept. When we were in school, you could usually find Lucius and I hanging out. He would come up with the ideas, and I would perfect them. Together we'd execute them. With his ideas and my brains, we never got caught.

"Our master is agitated tonight. We'd better not keep him waiting." I had long suspected that Lucius knew I was a spy. He never tried to find out, and he never interrogated me, although he had his share of chances. Lucius had learned to respect me, and even if he did find out we were working for different sides, we would remain friends. Lucius always had good brandy and the better library of the two of us. Conversations with him were never dull, and I valued his friendship, such as it was. It would put a damper on some of our more interesting conversations, but overall nothing would really change. Lucius was honorable in some aspects of his life, our friendship one of the few.

I followed Lucius down the path that lead straight into the forest. The path we followed was old and barely used. It wound it's way around thick bushes, finally reaching a dilapidated house resting between two enormous trees. Redwood, I think. Sitting before the house, in a chair so ostentatious it was laughable, was the Dark Lord. For someone who comes from Subtle Slytherin, he has the subtlety of a Gryffindor. The Dark Lord's eyes glowed blood red in the darkness. Torches had been strategically placed in a semi circle. The flickering light only caused the Dark Lord to look grimmer and more snake-like, and thus more terrifying.

After everybody was in a semi-circle around the Dark Lord, Wormtail moved to take his place next to him. He looked proud and particularly rat-like. He also looked superior, and I knew that most of the Death Eater's wouldn't mind killing him. The Dark Lord swept his followers, eyes lingering on some longer than others. I felt his eyes on mine, but my head was bowed in deference, so I could not see him. Finally his eyes moved away.

"I have perfected my planss for Ariess. We need to sstrike when they leasst expect it. Ass ssuch, I have decided that we sstrike at the end of the sschool year. The bratss will be too occupied with the graduation that they won't expect to be attacked. They won't expect to be attacked with Minisstry Officialss and Aurorss there as well. But it iss a perfect plan. Potter, Dumbledore, and all those Mudbloodss...It is an opportunity we cannot miss." He stopped talking, trying to regain his breath. Since his interrupted rebirth 3 years ago, he had been seriously weakened. He was better now than he was before. Before he couldn't say two sentences without needing to take a break. A sudden thought struck me, and I nearly jerked my head up in surprise. What if he's faking? What if he's only pretending to be weak? When we strike at Aries, he'd shock everyone if he fought himself. I need to study him...Unfortunately, it seemed I wasn't going to get to. Not right away anyway.

"After everyone has received their diplomas, we will sstrike. They will be bussy hugging and congratulating each other they will not notice the sound of us approaching. We will not waste time hessitating. My most loyal and strongest followers will attack the teacherss, Minisstry Officialss, and Aurorss. They otherss will concentrate on attacking the mudbloodss. Any half-blood or pureblood that refussess to join our causse must be annihilated. I will not sstand for oppossition." There were murmurs of agreement, but I stayed silent. Surprisingly, Lucius also did not mutter his agreement. I risked a glance at him to find him staring at me. I raised an eyebrow although he could not see it through my mask. He seemed to sense the movement though, for he inclined his head briefly.

The Dark Lord rambled on and on about his plans for the future, a future that didn't include mudbloods, muggles, or sympathizers. He talked long and in detail of all the wonderful torture methods that would be used to dispose of the "lesser beings". I went cold at the thought of one of them raping my Hermione. Hermione with her smile, Hermione with her sincere eyes and lovely lips. Her laugh, her hair...her intelligence. Nothing would be left of her if Voldemort has his way. Nothing. My Hermione will be gone, only a shell remaining. The picture this conjured -- a picture of a broken young woman, not the spirited thing she was now -- made me want to run to her and hide her away. No! I will not let that happen to her. Nobody is going to hurt her, I swear on my life.

Finally, after much kneeling and listening, the Dark Lord called the meeting to an end. Half-way through. Now came the socializing part. Most of the people here were wanted by the Ministry, so this was their chance for some interaction with others. People immediately formed groups, talking animatedly with one another. I drifted around, responding when spoken to, just listening in on their conversations, gauging each person in turn. They're excited. They can't wait for the end of the year so they can torture everybody. My stomach churned and I resisted the urge to hurl. When I felt a hand on my shoulder, I turned in surprise, ready to hex whoever it was that dared touch me.

Voldemort's red eyes stared into mine. I allowed him to invade my mind, hiding away all the things I didn't want him to see. He seemed satisfied with what he found, and dropped his hand back to his side. I blinked a few times, my eyes watering from staying open. Direct eye contact was needed to perform legilimency, and blinking would disrupt the connection.

"Sseveruss. What do you have to report?" His hissing voice made my stomach heave even more, and I fought to regain my composure. His voice was hissing, but it had a flat, cold tone to it. It was the voice of someone who could rip your insides out and not blink an eye. The voice of someone who could kill his own mother and father, and whoever else he didn't want alive. I dropped to my knees and kissed the hem of his robes.

"My lord." It was an honor he had singled me out. Most would give their arm for such a chance. I glanced at Wormtail. Indeed, some have. The Dark Lord was pleased with my actions and gestured for me to stand up.

"The old fool is planning something, my lord. He will not share with anyone, not even his most trusted, what it is. He has been making inquiries about certain items, such as the Heart of Valor." The Heart of Valor was a stone that would cause the person holding it to have huge amounts of courage, as well as protection. It was rumored to have disappeared after it was used in the Trojan War. There were rumors that the gods had taken it, thinking it too powerful for any mortal to handle. Pure bullshit.

"He has asked me to try and locate it, if possible." Albus had actually asked me to research and find it. He wanted to give it to Potter, but I made sure to make it sound like he wanted it for himself. Albus and I had talked long into the night about what I should and shouldn't tell Voldemort. I had to make sure to tell him things that nobody else knew. If I repeated common knowledge, I was as good as dead. Voldemort nodded and patted my back.

"You have done well, my boy. Resssearch the sstone, but do not hand it over to the old fool." The unspoken command was to give it to him and lie to Dumbledore. Over my dead body...

"I am tired. I think I will go rest." Voldemort turned and moved away, limping slightly. This was the signal that everyone was to leave. The ones who were allowed to be seen in public made their way to the edge of the forest. The other's moved to the surrounding area where makeshift tents had been put up. I turned and moved swiftly away. I slowed only to the sound of Lucius' voice calling my name. He caught up with me just as I was entering the forest, his footsteps in tune with my own.

"Severus, I have a favor to ask of you." His tone of voice was urgent and low, almost secretive. I glanced at him and noticed his eyes fixed on the people ahead. "Please meet me at the outskirts of Longbourne at three o'clock. I need to speak with you." His peculiar behavior was immediately noted. I nodded in consent. He inclined his head smoothly at me, once again sleek and cool in front of the others. With a sharp crack he disappeared.

He would not act this way normally. Something is going on...Just what have I gotten myself into?

HERMIONE'S POV

My friends and I were gathered in front of the fireplace in the common room. All was silent. We stared into the fireplace, half asleep. The crackling of the fire was a soothing noise, and I felt my eyelids drift shut. They shot back open when Tabby, who was on the couch with me, shifted. I glanced at her to find her staring into the fire, a small smile on her face. No doubt thinking about her time with Jon. I looked over to Jon and noticed the same smile on his face. I sighed. Why can't I have love like that?

I had returned to my common room a nervous wreck. Thoughts and ideas tumbled around in my head until they were barely coherent. What if Severus dies? What if he gets hurt? I eventually woke up Tabby, who had been asleep with Jon in her bed. They were (thankfully!) fully clothed. Waking up Tabby woke up Jon, who decided that I need all my friends. We gathered in the common room, silently lending support. We had all relaxed before the fire, not speaking, just being. It' is times like these I truly love my friends. Not that I don't love them at other times...

I had promised myself that the next morning I would go visit Septimus and tell him everything that had been going on in my life -- even if he couldn't hear or respond. Don't muggles say that people in coma's can hear and understand everything a person says? I wouldn't open his presents for him, though. When he wakes up, he can do it himself. I bet he's going to be surprised at the number he received. The pile of presents was so large,; Madam Polinski was forced to move some of them to the bed next to Septimus'.

The common room portrait entrance slid open, jerking me out of my thoughts. The other's had sat up, sleepily rubbing their eyes and yawning. Lupin stood in the flickering light of the fire, face pale. His hands couldn't seem to be still, running through his hair, then resting on his hips, shifting again to play with his mustache. I raised an eyebrow at his obviously agitated state. What's his deal?

"Miss Granger. The Headmaster requests your presence in the his office." I sat up slowly. Something isn't right. Is Septimus okay? And Severus? Oh god, what if I've lost them both? I froze up at the thought. My breath caught in my throat, and I stared at Lupin in panic. A dull roaring filled my ears, and black dots swam before my eyes. NO! I am NOT going to faint. I will not be weak! I closed my eyes tightly and forced my breath out of my throat. I sucked it back in and opened my eyes. I stood up to follow Lupin out of the common room when I stopped. I'm not leaving my friends out of this any longer. They've heard everything second-hand so far. They deserve to know what's going on. They have the loyalty of a Gryffindor.

"I'm not leaving without my friends." My tone brooked no argument. This time it was Lupin who raised his eyebrow.

"Your friends were not summoned."

"I am not a dog you can just snap your fingers at. Besides, whatever I'm told during this meeting I'll be sure to tell all my friends. Either way, they're going to find out. It's better if they hear it first hand. What if I tell them something wrong? Vital information can be skewed because I misheard." Lupin sighed and nodded resignedly.

"Come, all of you." My friends shot me smug, thankful looks and trudged after him. Our feet scraped the floor as we made our way down the dark, cold, silent corridor. Lupin walked ahead of us, never once looking back to see if we were following, despite the fact we were walking silently. Oh, that's right! He has super-hearing. And smelling.

We finally reached the stairs that lead to the Headmaster's office. We crowded onto the stairs and stood shivering in the cold as we waited for the steps to stop moving. Finally they stopped with the sound of stone scraping against stone. The door to the headmaster's office stood darkly against the gray of the stone. Light shone from the crack and the keyhole. Lupin moved forward and opened the door. Warmth rushed out to meet us, and we each sighed happily as it warmed us.

I was surprised at the number of people squeezed into the small room; every single Weasley, Lupin, Professor's Peabody, Strippe, Matthews, Mad-Eye Moody, Tonks, and Julie were present. Of course, Severus, Dumbledore, and McGonagall were there. Much to my surprise, Potter and his friends were in a corner of the room, nearest Dumbledore. Looks of surprise and suspicion were thrown my way, but I ignored them. I took a seat next to Septimus', and my friends stood behind me. Dumbledore graciously conjured some chairs, taking up what little room had been left. They seated themselves silently. Septimus' seat remained empty out of respect for his efforts in aiding the order.

"Right. Now that everybody is here, we shall begin. Severus has returned to Aries with disturbing news. Tom plans to attack Aries at the graduation ceremony, using a surprise attack. Now --"

"With all due respect, Albus, I don't mean to interrupt. But what in the world are they doing here?" Molly Weasley could no longer keep silent, and she glared at me with what she must of thought was a terrifying glare. I sneered in response, earning a 'Humph' from her.

"What the nosy busybody is trying to ask is why the traitor is here. Why don't you tell her to bugger off and annoy someone else for a change?" I was sick of everybody looking at me with mistrust, and Mrs. Weasley was one of the worst. The last time I had seen her, she had sent so many disappointed, disapproving, mistrustful looks my way I was tempted to stick my tongue out at her.

"Why you little bitch --!" Bill Weasley broke in, ready to jump to his mother's defense. I sneered once again.

"Miss Granger, that is no way to speak to --" Dumbledore began.

"Kiss my justified ass, you goblin kissing tosser!" I snarled. "When she wasn't mothering me to death, she was asking me personal questions she had no right to ask!" Bill Weasley stood up, ready to draw his wand and hex me. I stood up also, my wand already out and pointing at his face before he even had his out of his pocket. He froze, staring at my wand like a deer caught in headlights. Apparently my reputation for being the smartest witch in my year has paid off. He knows damn well that I'll curse his balls off, curse-breaker or not..

"Enough!" Dumbledore snarled. I was taken back by his tone of voice and dropped my arm. I pocketed my wand and sat down calmly, acting as though I wasn't about to remove Bill Weasley's balls with a spell. Dumbledore glared at both of us before speaking wearily. "Molly, she is here on my request. We have found evidence that she isn't a traitor, and I ask you to accept that." He held up a hand.

"I will not reveal the details to you just yet. That will be saved for later. The most important thing is preparation for the attack. It's still months away, but in that time there's much to do." Bill Weasley slowly sat back down. Silence filled the room, only broken by McGonagall asking what the plan was.

"Every single Order member shall carry a wand hidden in their robes. Moody, Tonks, you shall patrol the grounds. If there are any Auror's that you can trust to not ask questions, ask them to join. We need all the help we can get." And so the meeting continued. I listened attentively to what was being said. I noticed my friends were listening as intently as I was, nodding in some instances.

"Miss Granger. Oh, and your friends of course." He nodded in our direction. Suddenly every single eye was on fixed on us. I pretended to not notice and fixed my eyes on Dumbledore. "We need you to train the Hogwarts students all that you've trained Aries. Of course, we're not asking that you stop training Aries. We also offer our services for anything you might need." Plans started to form in my mind at once. I nodded my head.

"That's a good idea. I already know how I'm going to work this." I turned to speak to my friends when Dumbledore cleared his throat. I faced forward again.

"Please share with the room how this is going to work. Everybody should be kept up-to-date on every aspect." I sighed, but nodded resignedly. I was still being stared at in mistrust. I glared at those people, making sure to lock eyes with every single Weasley before speaking.

"First, my friends and I will train Potter and his friends. They, in turn, can help us train the other students. I will pair up the Hogwarts students, two people each. Each pair of Hogwarts students will then be paired with an Aries group. They will work together on defense, offense, accuracy, precision, and healing. Those that have already been trained to the best of their abilities will also help us train others. There are many students, and we can't do it all by ourselves. Everybody will work together. We only have a couple of months to get them ready, so we're going to have to work hard and push them to their limits. The first years are the most vulnerable, as they know the least. Everything depends on the student's ability to work together. On occasion we will call on the teachers and Order members to help us." Dumbledore nodded, apparently agreeing with what was said.

"You do realize, Miss Granger, that this will bring you into close contact with Harry and his friends, as well as members of the Order. And that you may at times be required to help us in turn." I nodded grimly, mentally preparing myself for the fights to come.

"I'm well aware of that, sir. I'm prepared to do what it takes to make as many students survive the attack." I noted the surprised looks on the still distrustful members. What, they thought I'd let all those kids die? I suddenly felt sad. They really do think I'm evil...

Dumbledore smiled, his old lined face suddenly alight. "We may have a chance. Let's get to it then, people."

I'm so sorry for the long wait. I had this about a quarter done when I lost the "will" to write. Not a lot of people reviewed my last chapter, and I briefly thought of not writing anymore. But I decided to finish the story, at least for myself. If nobody else wants to read it anymore... :( Well, I suppose that's okay. Sorry I couldn't write enough for you people to like it and stay interested.

On another note, I'm back at school, so I don't know how often I'll update, not that I'm updating often right now. School is evil...On a happier note, things get more interesting now. It's closer to the end of the story...

Thanks to my beta, Apryl.

Thanks to all my reviewers. I'm sorry I can't respond to you personally, but that rumor...I've heard about it from two different sources now. If it turns out to be false, I'll be sure to respond.

Push the little purple button, please!