Unmasking the heir of Slytherin

by enchantingelana

Tom Riddle had a dark secret that not even Dumbledore knew about. Hermione is accidentally sent to the past and discovers his horrifying truth. Can she help him heal or will he still become the monster Lord Voldemort. This will not be your usual HG/TR.

33. Guilty and depressed

Hermione ate her breakfast feeling relaxed, there was no need to plan a murder as everything was done and ready to go. The only delay was that the quidditch match was tomorrow, but instead of being annoyed she welcomed it like a peaceful break. She was enjoying having her mind at ease, just eating and observing without having to worry or panic. Hermione raised a goblet, and as she sipped water from it she looked towards the Gryffindor table, and was glad to see Susan still there. Thank God that annoying girl had decided to join her friends, they were obviously talking about quidditch since Xavian was doing a demonstration using a miniature broom.

She put the goblet down before sweeping her eyes over the great hall, most people appeared to be talking about quidditch or handling merchandise associated with it. Her gaze settled on the Slytherin table before focusing on the dark lord, he appeared calm and nothing indicated ill effects from his self harming. But that didn't prove there wasn't any, his condition was meant to be a secret and she knew it. Tom suddenly locked eye with her and she hastily looked away, fearing he'd know. She busied herself with eating, but the feeling that he was watching her made Hermione swallow with unease.

Her plate was almost empty when Dippet called everyone to attention, before informing them of Professor Hammer's fall and how Tom had assisted. After he'd awarded 100 points to Slytherin, the dark lord stood and slightly bowed towards the headmaster. Then Dippet ordered everyone to clap and the majority chose to make it short, while Hermione joined the minority as she felt it was well deserved, Voldemort or not.

Tom bowed again but this time towards the students, then he sat back down with a smile which disappeared fast. Except the Slytherins, no one seemed pleased and many were giving the heir of Slytherin suspicious looks. Xavian was being blatantly obvious by staring at Tom accusingly, and though Dumbledore appeared worried it gave away he also suspected something, as he was the only staff that didn't look pleased. Slughorn noticed and gave his colleague a disapproving look, before whispering something to Merrythought.

As Hermione noticed the gloominess in Tom's eyes she couldn't help feel bad, to the unknowing persons he was masking it well, but she could tell by the slight squinting of his eyes, and the curved form of his right hand fingers. Even if it was just for appearing as a good and caring person, the heir of Slytherin had actually done something good, and right now the people were suspecting him of being what he really was, an evil creature capable of murder.

After awhile the dark lord was no longer the centre of attention, but he remained as he was. Tom must be really upset, Hermione suddenly wished those people hadn't reacted so negatively before creasing her brows in confusion. What the hell, did she just desire for people to blindly admire lord Voldemort? Suddenly, Tom caught her eye again and she looked away feeling guilty. Merlin, how could she think such a treacherous-no, she wouldn't, it wasn't that. She didn't want people to love the dark lord's every action without question, she just didn't like him being accused of doing evil, when he hadn't done anything evil. She'd seen with her own eyes how it'd taken Tom all his energy to heal Hammer, as he'd been in a bad state from his self mutilation, and it wasn't fair to make him feel bad when he'd worked so hard to act like a kind human being.

Hermione bit the inside of her cheeks, did she just confess to caring about young Voldemort? Fuck, why on earth would she-no, she didn't care about him. Such treatment of him had annoyed her because it wasn't right, like the way she hadn't liked it when Xavian had laughed at Tom for having worn out shoes due to being poor. This was just another case of right and wrong, and she was feeling this way because she'd always preferred doing the right thing over wrong. That was it, there was nothing more to it.

So, then was it right to be a judge, jury and executioner, and kill Tom for Voldemort's crimes? Feeling angry at herself, Hermione took in a sharp intake of breath. How dare her mind think such a thought? Tom was evil, she'd witnessed it and experienced his horrendous cruciatus curse. He was a murderer, right now Myrtle was dead and that was proof. She was going to kill a murderer to stop him from becoming a mass murderer, Tom wasn't some sinless innocent, and in the end he and Voldemort were the same. The wrong thing would be to let him become Voldemort when she had an opportunity to stop him, murdering Tom was the right thing.

As she had to do it tomorrow, her worries must be manifesting as stupid thoughts to justify the opposite. Hermione took a deep breath before getting on her feet, and walking towards the exit. Her mind was clear now, the bigger picture, the greater good was what mattered as in reality things weren't black and white. Grey existed and she was grey. Speaking of the bigger picture, people suspecting Tom wasn't really a bad thing as in the end he really was evil. Even if they got there through the means of a lie they would get to the truth, so in the end the wrong thing became the right thing.

Being intelligent the dark lord must also see this, he wasn't upset because he hadn't gotten the right reaction for his good deed, he was distressed because people were questioning his good boy image. Therefore, there was nothing not to like about this situation, and it wasn't wrong, it was right. Unlike earlier Hermione felt pleased that people had doubted Tom, and she left the great hall with a smile on her face.

Hermione tried not to appear bored while listening to professor Binns's lecture. History of magic had to be the most boring subject taught at Hogwarts, and she wished Dipper hadn't included it on her schedule. Sure, history of the wizarding world was interesting when there were pictures, and the lecture wasn't delivered in a monotonous voice. Despite the teaching method, being muggleborn she'd found it interesting enough to pay attention during her first five years at Hogwarts.

When the subject became optional she'd dropped it without a second thought, history could be learnt from books, and there was nothing a professor could teach that you couldn't learn yourself. Also, Binns's way of teaching had finally gotten on her nerves, and calling her Miss Grant hadn't helped either when she was the only one alert in class. She'd thought she was done with that class forever, yet she was back in history of magic while stuck in history. God, fate was cruel and her reality sounded unreal.

After another minute of listening to Binns, Hermione tried not to fall asleep. She blinked on purpose a few times while looking around the room, and the familiar sight of students having whispered conversations met her eyes. A few at the back were managing to take a nap and she found herself wishing she'd sat at the back. She was about to look forward again when Tom caught her eye and she speedily looked away, still feeling uncomfortable with his secret. In all the other morning classes the dark lord remained silent and so did she, and whenever she'd found herself looking right at him she'd instantly looked elsewhere.

At lunchtime, Hermione walked towards the hospital wing instead of going to the great hall. The feeling that fate had harmed Hammer to aid her was back, and she wanted to see how the professor was doing. As she neared the door guilt filled her, was she just coming here to lessen her blame? No, that'd be selfish and defiantly wasn't the sole reason. She also cared because she was kind and had empathy.

With her mind at ease she walked inside, a troubled expression plastered on her face as she took in empty beds on both sides of the room. Where was-oh, God-was she-. Suddenly, Hermione noticed something faraway with curtains drawn all around it. Merlin, in her panic she'd missed it, she thought as she hastily walked up to it. After making a gap in the covering her distressed expression returned, it was just pillows and a completely flat blanket. Then that meant-no-Hammer couldn't be dead. Refusing to believe she rushed inside the tented bed, and as she found Tom at the foot of the frame her eyes widened.

"I killed Hammer" he said calmly and her heart violently lurched. "That's what you're thinking, aren't you?" he added angrily, and still in shock she stared at him for a moment before understanding what he'd said. "You also think I'm stupid" Tom said, raising his voice. Taking her silence to mean, yes she thought he'd killed Hammer.

"No, Riddle" she finally said, moving back a little.

"Liar" he hissed. "To see me where Hammer could've been frightened you"

"I was scared to see just you" she said, shaking her head. "Because it looked like you were grieving her passing" That was true until he'd said he'd killed her, it was better left unsaid though.

"All morning you avoided me like the plague," the dark lord added, accusingly and her pulse quickened. Did he suspect- fuck, it was her. Prolonged staring was normal between them, especially when they hadn't fought and so her recent behaviour was questionable.

"It wasn't intentional,-" Hermione started, trying to think of an excuse. "I was distracted by-"

"The thought that I'd thrown Hammer down the stairs" he cut in with a cold voice, thank heavens that's the conclusion he'd come to.

"No, I heard Longbottom say he saw Hammer fall accidentally" she voiced, making herself look disappointed. "Even if I hadn't I wouldn't think that" she added with a hurt tone and his expression went blank. "If you wanted recognition for healing you could've done so without murder, unlike others I don't follow one stupid idea like sheep" Hermione finished angrily, when she'd intended it to be an emotionless statement.

"Indeed, you are not like the others" Tom said in sudden calm voice and almost startled, she blinked. "Death hasn't taken Hammer, she was transferred to St Mungo's" he added and a relieved look appeared on her face.

"Riddle, are you done?" Madam Whittaker's voice sounded and Hermione almost jumped. Oh no, she thought as the curtains were pulled away to reveal the female healer. Whittaker stared like she didn't believe what she was seeing, then she smiled widely and Hermione wished she could vanish. This woman was like an adult version of Susan, always linking her and Tom together. "Maya, what a surprise" Whittaker said excitedly. "To find you inside the bed with Mr Riddle" she added and Hermione couldn't help turn red. "That sounds awfully incorrect," Whittaker said laughing, but the Ravenclaw head girl didn't find it the least bit funny.

"I apologise" Tom said, slightly bowing his head. "It was not proper for me to remain, I should've stepped out when Granger stepped in" he added sounding uncomfortable.

"I know you're a gentleman, I'm sure you two were just talking" the healer said but her expression indicated otherwise.

"She came to see professor Hammer" Tom said, trying to dissipate the awkward atmosphere.

"Ah, Hammer's been taken to St Mungo's" Whittaker said sounding serious.

"Will she be okay?" Hermione said, looking less embarrassed and more alert.

"She's expected to make a full recovery"

"How long will that take?"

"That hasn't been determined, don't worry she'll be fine" Whittaker voiced, patting Hermione on the back. "I shudder to think what would've happened without Riddle" the healer said looking at Tom. "You should become a healer, you have what it takes"

"I will think about it, madam" Tom said giving her a charming smile, and Hermione couldn't help notice his white teeth. He rarely smiled, and when he did he looked like a whole other person. It added warmth and kindness, to his otherwise cold but handsome visage. "Seriously think about it, Mr Riddle" Whittaker said giggling like a teenager, and Hermione felt like rolling her eyes. "You've been telling an old girl the same line for three years" Ugh, was good looks all it took to turn an intelligent woman's brain to mush, but earlier hadn't she thought of Tom as handsome herself?

Hermione looked at the floor as guilt filled her, no it wasn't like that. She'd meant it like a fact, an emotionless observation of the truth of his physical features. She didn't personally find him attractive, and she wasn't attracted to him in any way. Hermione repeated that in her mind while she looking up again, and started to pay attention to her surroundings. Tom was pointing at a dish on the bedside table and saying it was finished, so that's why Whittaker had said are you done. He'd been preparing that potion, and that's the reason he'd been inside the curtained bed, there was no sinister motive.

Suddenly, a house elf appeared before opening the door and a boy walked in. Hermione immediately recognised him as Turner, the person she'd injured to get Tom on the quidditch team. His hands were still bandaged and having noticed the dark lord he appeared scared. "You're just in time, let's refresh those dressings" Whittaker said, beckoning Turner but he remained as he was. "Do hurry, the potion Mr Riddle has kindly prepared is best used fresh"

Knowing the maker seemed to frighten Turner further as he took a step back with a panicked expression, and he was about to repeat his actions when the house elf grabbed onto his legs.

"Come master" the creature said, pulling at him. "Polly is honoured to help" Encouragement and pleas kept coming from the elf as it almost forced him forward, but its facial expression said it thought Turner was a difficult patient. Completely missing it, Whittaker commented on the elf's loyalty and suddenly feeling guiltier about Turner, Hermione looked away before unexpectedly finding her eyes on Tom.

A corner of his lips was curled upwards, as he realised she was staring a flicker of surprise showed on his face, and this time she held his gaze. Suddenly, Tom's incomplete smile disappeared but it seemed to remain in his eyes. He was obviously finding the elf's behaviour comical, come to think of it, it was funny, and without thinking much of it Hermione smiled weakly to show she found it amusing too.

"Out the door both of you" Whittaker said loudly and their heads snapped towards the healer. "Wouldn't want you missing lunch, Mr Riddle" she continued, giving him a stern look. "A little weight would do you good"

"I'll endeavour to devour all I can" Tom said dramatically, placing a hand on his stomach and the healer became all giggly again. "Happy to have been of service, good day, madam" he voiced in a formal tone before slightly bowing his head.

"Good day to you too" Whittaker said blushing as she busied herself with the patient, and seconds later the dark lord started to walk towards the doorway.

"See you later" Hermione said before following him.

"Later, Maya, stay out of trouble" the healer voiced as Hermione neared the exit.

Soon Tom was at the door and instead of walking through he held it open. Ugh, his bogus chivalry is like a circus act on cue, she thought while stepping into the corridor. Any other day she would've shown some hostility, but with his end so near it was best to keep things calm. After a blink of an eye Tom caught up with her, and then they walked together in silence. As the doors of the great hall came into view a thought made Hermione halt, a second later he paused and fixed his eyes on her. She gave him an apologetic look before pretending to search for something in her bag, Tom turned away with an indifferent expression and disappeared through the door.

Feeling relieved the head girl put the carrier back on her shoulder, thank God he hadn't commanded her to go in with him. She wanted to avoid rumours of being a couple, arriving late and then walking in together would've made it seem so, and she really didn't want the aurors being told that when he ended up dead. Hermione waited another minute before deciding it was safe to go in, and as she sat down in her usual place she was glad to find Susan absent.

In the middle of her meal she unintentionally locked eyes with Tom, he held her gaze and without looking away she continued to eat. After awhile he stopped staring, she turned her attention towards her goblet and almost jumped to find Susan next to her.

"Don't" Hermione said in a dangerous voice as the girl gave her a, I know what you're up to, smile.

"Swear to Merlin I didn't say anything" Susan said putting a hand over her heart. "And I certainly didn't see anything" she added in a sarcastic tone, and the head girl glared at her before drinking from the goblet.

At 5.05 pm Hermione entered her room and was glad to see her bed. She dropped her bag before throwing of her shoes, then she plopped onto the mattress and curled into a ball.

She was at peace but tired, the afternoon classes had gone smoothly as the dark lord had been calm throughout them. However, he hadn't spoken to her and she didn't know if this was intentional. In the end it didn't matter because it was all happening like she'd planned, young Voldemort thought she was harmless and therefore, he was clueless about the death trap she'd set. Tom was extremely intelligent, but like his older self he had a weakness of being too sure of himself, his arrogance of thinking another couldn't fool him by lying and acting would be his downfall.

Thank Merlin she'd had the idea and strength to play submissive, powerless and controllable. If she hadn't done that she could've been the next Myrtle, or if she'd luckily succeeded on the astronomy tower she could've been in Azkaban. Alternatively, she could've been on the run for the rest of her life with little hope of getting back to her world, as every time she went out to do research or gather items she'd be risking capture. Even if she somehow got the authorities to believe her story, it surely would've made things worse. The unspeakables locking her up for life seemed a 99% possibility, they'd no doubt experiment on her when the upper level persons weren't trying to learn the future. So her present plan was the best one, blend in as if from this time and secretly get the job done.

God forbid, but if worse came to worse the last resort was to risk becoming a known murderer. If captured, she'd pretend to be insane so that they'd send her to an asylum instead, and after all the treatment if she wasn't a vegetable, she'd try to get back to her time. Little chance she would when trapped there, so she'd probably die going on about a dark lord that no one's ever heard of, or ever would. If it came to that she was willing to sacrifice her life to remove Voldemort, but hopefully fate would be kind and let her secretly kill him.

Intending to get to the great hall for dinner, Hermione stepped out her room shortly before 8pm. Halfway towards the main door she noticed Tom and froze. Gazing downwards, he was sitting at the bottom of his staircase in his quidditch uniform, leaning his left side against the wall and hair was covering his forehead. The dark lord was kind of hugging his broomstick, and the grip on his wand appeared weak while his left hand seemed limp. She should leave before he saw her and got angry, even though it was his fault for displaying himself like this in public. Hermione was about to move when he looked up and her eyes widened. Not even a trace of temper developed on Tom's face, instead he remained looking ill. He suddenly looked away, like he'd just realised she was there, and the movement seemed to have pulled something in his chest as he started to cough. The dark lord non-verbally materialised a goblet, while he filled it with water Hermione took the initiative to escape, and a second after she'd opened the door there was a sound of metal hitting stone. Then it was followed by something lighter falling and more coughing.

She needed to walk forward now, great if he died from too much physical stress after that self mutilation ritual. All the better if he was throwing objects in pain, it meant he was suffering and that was good. Hermione put one foot over the threshold before curiosity made her turn around, and once again she froze. His broom and the goblet were on the floor, and a darkened area was nearby where the water had obviously spilled. Continuing to cough, he pointed his wand at the fallen water carrier with a trembling hand, and as Hermione looked down again she realised something. Too much seemed to have spilled for him to have drunk any, did that mean he hadn't thrown the goblet, so then it'd dropped? Because he'd had weak control over his body and magic.

Another unsuccessful attempt by his shaky wand hand confirmed it, and without thinking she magically picked up the goblet before refilling it with water. As Hermione levitated it towards him he looked at her, and the shock from realising what she'd done broke her concentration, causing the spell to lose power. The goblet almost fell again but this time the dark lord caught it. With unsteady hands holding it, he looked into her eyes as he drank from it and suddenly she felt scared. Such did the magnetising power of his vision feel that her heart began to beat so fast, it felt like it'd escape through her eyes.

Suddenly, voices sounded and she jumped, before realising it was coming from the corridor since she hadn't closed the door. Without looking back she hurried out the room, then she ran all the way to the great hall and into her usual seat at the Ravenclaw table. It was good to be around lots and lots of people because they made her feel safe, and also because things made perfect sense. Hermione was about to drink water before deciding she could recover without the hydrating comfort, at least for five minutes she didn't want to think about what had just happened.

Her peace was ruined at 3 minutes by Susan Brewer, her so called friend. She asked the girl what hair products she used, anything to keep Susan from saying something about her and you know who. Crap, that was another one of his damn names. Almost at the end of her meal, she had to give in and drink water. Glad that she hadn't looked at the Slytherin table once she stood to leave, and turned towards the doors.

"Did you guys fight again? You didn't look towards the-" Susan started.

"I can't hear you" Hermione said, walking away as fast as she could. The girl replied, but there was too much noise for her to understand the words from a distance.

In her room she could no longer ignore the thoughts in her head, and dressed for bed she stared at the wall with a troubled expression. Her picking up the goblet, and refilling it had to have been instinctive, because she was used to helping people as it was the right thing to do, and she always preferred to do the right thing. She had in no way consciously made a decision to assist the dark lord, it'd been like a habit where your hands just do without your mind's instructions. That's all it was and there was nothing more to it.

Why else would she stop half way instead of bringing it to his lips? Yes, she'd stopped when she'd realised she was aiding lord Voldemort. Tom had given her such an intense look, as the memory replayed in her mind her heart beat increased and her cheeks became warmer, but for some reason the memory didn't make her feel afraid like she'd been when she'd experienced it.

Well, duh, he wasn't here now to threaten her so her mind was feeling safe. He must be angry with her, obviously offended that she'd stopped the spell before giving him the goblet, and instead of apologising or accepting punishment she'd ran off, then she'd also avoided him all dinner time. By tomorrow Tom would probably let it go as it wasn't a big thing, and if he didn't she had a few excuses in mind, but she really didn't have anything to worry about, as either way Tom was going to die tomorrow. Hermione smiled, before blowing out the candles and getting in bed. She closed her eyes and fell asleep peacefully, knowing tomorrow the world would be Voldemort free.

Sunlight filtered through the curtains of the head girl's room, Hermione was awake but still in bed. She knew it was Friday, the big day she'd been waiting for. However, for some reason it seemed unreal, like she was dreaming and that there was another day to go. She pinched herself, and as everything remained like it was Hermione took in a deep breath. Merlin, this was real and today certainly was the day. She glanced at the clock before making herself sit up, then she slowly got out of bed and walked into the bathroom.

Feeling nervous she entered the great hall for breakfast, while walking towards the Ravenclaw table she told herself she shouldn't be, because all she had to do was follow the plan and no one knew. She settled into her usual seat with what she hoped was an expressionless face, and was relieved to find Susan absent. Thank God, she really wasn't in the mood for conversations about quidditch or its male players. Annoyingly many were talking about just that, and despite the early hour, it seemed the entire hall was excited. She wished they'd all shut up, at least until breakfast was over but that wasn't going to happen.

While Hermione ate she looked towards the doors, she suddenly noticed Susan surrounded by her friends, and as they headed towards the Gryffindor table her eyes followed. The quidditch team, of the house of lion appeared huddled together in some sort of a meeting, and upon Susan's interruption their leader Xavian Potter's serious expression vanished. Soon the whole group appeared to be joking and laughing. All of a sudden Susan caught her eye and signalled at her to come over. Hermione nodded her head to say no, when Xavian noticed her and he also beckoned her to join. When her answer remained unchanged, he winked at her before placing a hand over his heart with a sad expression, and she looked away feeling uncomfortable. Xavian could call her friend all he wanted, but it wouldn't make it any truer.

After Hermione had eaten all she'd wanted, she drank some water and as she set down the goblet, she couldn't help recalling yesterday's mistake. Would the dark lord have forgotten-no he never forgot-would he let it go like it never happened? Most likely, quidditch had to be his top priority today, and if he made trouble it'd only be till the match. Speaking of the dark lord, what was he-? No, she shouldn't look towards the Slytherin table. If he was in a bad mood, catching her staring could make it worse, even if he'd make her life temporarily hell there was no need to ask for trouble. She got up, and as she put her bag on her shoulder her eyes went towards the Slytherins. There was a huge piece of parchment in front of Tom, and he appeared to be having a meeting with his quidditch team just like Xavian.

Only, he seemed more frustrated and the Slytherins that weren't on the team all looked like they'd gone mute. Not a single one of them was even whispering, however, they did occasionally glance at their team. But never directly at the dark lord, it was like he was their king that was planning an important battle, and they as lowly subjects didn't want to disturb his royal majesty of snakes. Tom suddenly looked right at her and she blinked, startled. He looked angry, fuck, she should never have-. Her mind froze as the dark lord's expression became neutral, he stared at her at her for a few seconds before turning towards Malfoy again, and from what she could see, the anger seemed to be back on his face.

Hermione exited the great hall with a confused expression, and as she walked down the corridor she recalled Tom's stare. He'd clearly been in a bad mood, but he hadn't directed any negative emotion towards her, why? He must've forgiven her for yesterday or he'd decided to let it go. So he was angry but not at her, then that's all it meant and there was nothing to worry about.

Throughout the morning lessons Tom was withdrawn, it was like his mind had gone on holiday, and left behind a body mimicking actions to appear alive. Though he didn't speak to her, he didn't completely ignore her as there were times when they'd locked eyes for a moment. The exception was the last class, halfway through it he'd told her a technique for improving a spell they'd been casting, and from then on she became certain he'd gotten over yesterday's event.

As Hermione walked towards the great hall for lunch, she couldn't help recalling Tom's latest spoken words, and suddenly she felt sad knowing he wouldn't be here soon to tell her things. No longer would she be able to marvel at his intelligence while he figured out the Wolfsbane potion, or something equally complex. Without warning, chattering students appeared and she halted, as she realised what she'd actually thought her feet felt like they were being weighed down by guilt.

What the-no, she did not feel sorry for Voldemort. Yes, he was intelligent. But she wasn't going to miss him or mourn him, because he'd killed her parents and friends. She let their memories flood her mind, and hatred for Voldemort instantly filled her heart, without a doubt she wanted Tom Riddle dead. Sure, she liked gaining knowledge from him and that was what she was going to miss. The information he used to feed her, not actually him. Except admiring his intelligence she didn't care for him at all, the greater good and her revenge required his death, and she also wished it. She'd make him pay for all the pain he'd caused her, no amount of genius would ever stop her from killing Voldemort.

As Hermione approached the Ravenclaw table her steps felt light, and she was now more determined than ever that she was doing the right thing. She settled into her usual seat while watching some Ravenclaws placing bets on which quidditch team would win, and as she loaded her plate with food her eyes took in numerous badges pinned on students. Nearly all of them showed support for either Gryffindor or Slytherin, but a few reflected love for quidditch just as a sport. There were also posters and banners that some were adding finishing touches to, and the sale of quidditch merchandise seemed to be getting intense, as limited products were being sold of auction style.

Professor Merrythought suddenly entered the great hall, and all buyers and sellers went quiet. Students running a trade at Hogwarts wasn't allowed, and those that broke that rule were sheltered by students of all houses, as it benefited them. Shiv Patil was the bravest and the best of all the sellers, since he wasn't just seasonal or opportunistic. He was consistent, reliable and an all year around available seller, and his products were good quality. Merrythought neared Shiv before fixing her eyes on him, and Shiv started to nervously fidget.

"Patil, I hope those are gifts for your fellow students" Merrythought said, pointing at a bunch of binoculars that turned red or green, before a team name flashed on them.

"Y-yes professor" Shiv said, stuttering and all his potential buyers began to tell the professor that this was true. Merrythought held up a hand to silence the group, before complimenting Shiv on his generosity in a sarcastic tone, and then she walked away slightly smiling. It was obvious to Hermione that Merrythought knew the truth, all professors must know, and it looks like they were prepared to turn a blind eye as long as the students were secretive.

She started to eat, while watching the defence against the dark arts professor take her place at the staff table, and even that place was displaying interest in the match. Sections of the staff table had different colours to represent the teams, Dumbledore was wearing a hat that said Gryffindors make Godric proud, and Slughorn had written on his robes in capital letters, Slytherin will win. Other members of staff also had badges or clothing to show support for their teams, and only Dippet and Merrythought had none which obviously meant they were neutral.

"Look at them" Someone near her said loudly, and as Hermione's eyes located who they were referring to she stopped eating. It was Xavian and Tom. They were at their tables, but on their feet and staring at each other with intense hatred. Susan was at the Gryffindor captain's side, and she appeared to be saying something with a serious expression. The Slytherin quidditch team were all looking at their leader Malfoy, and the aristocrat seemed indecisive on if he should speak. Xavian suddenly raised his hands before pointing his thumbs down, and as Tom drew his wand Malfoy took a step back while voicing something.

Merlin, if all hell broke loose could today's match get cancelled? Only if more than one was injured on a team would the game be postponed, oh God. Wait, Dippet had bent that rule when Crabbe had been hospitalised. Ah, yes, because a reporter was coming during the match. Without a doubt Dippet wanted Tom to be the only student interviewed, and having him on a team would conceal the headmaster's pre-planning. So as long as the dark lord could play, Dippet would make the match happen no matter what. Hermione breathed out in relief, Xavian had zero chance of defeating the heir of Slytherin.

Without warning, Tom flicked his wand upwards and Xavian flinched before pointing his magical stick. Silence spread as a huge sphere of golden light formed above the Slytherin table, the second it started to display the features of a snitch the quietness banished, and Hermione raised an eyebrow. The glowing ball shrank to the size of a normal snitch before flying towards Tom, and as he caught it the Slytherins clapped and cheered. Tom bowed theatrically, causing the nearby females to blush or look dreamy, and the Ravenclaw head girl felt like rolling her eyes, but was unaware that the visual had quickened her pulse.

Once the heir of Slytherin was upright again, he looked at Xavian with an expression that seemed to be saying, I dare you to do the same illusion or better, and not being very magically accomplished the Gryffindor captain just stared at Tom angrily. The dark lord smiled at him tauntingly before sitting down, and Susan and Andrew Smith appeared to be trying to get Xavian to do the same, but the Gryffindor captain seemed adamant to remain standing.

"Catch the real one if you're ma-" Xavian started to shout when Susan clamped a hand over his mouth, muffling the rest of his words, and Andrew and Alexander Weasley grabbed him by the shoulders, forcing him to give in and sit. A lot of students found this funny and were laughing, while the Gryffindors that thought it was amusing were trying not to. Tom clearly hadn't found anything about this humorous as both of his hands were coiled into fists, unlike most people he'd obviously registered Xavian's words. With his history of publicly accusing the dark lord of being queer, his incomplete word couldn't have been anything other than man. It was most likely his full sentence would've been, catch the real one if you're man enough, or a variation with the same gist.

The heir of Slytherin was murderously staring at the Gryffindor captain, even though Xavian wasn't aware as he was busy arguing with his friends. Tom suddenly drew his wand, and Malfoy distanced himself again, while motioning at his team to be silent. The dark lord raised his magical rod before lowering it again, and after he'd done that once more he jabbed it into the table. All the Slytherins had gone quiet, and they were looking at anything but Tom. Hermione resumed eating while continuing to watch the dark lord, and she couldn't help feel a little sorry for him, as she was sure what Xavian thought was absolute rubbish. She was 99% positive that the heir of Slytherin was asexual, and she'd seen with her own eyes why he avoided the quidditch changing room.

Suddenly, the Ravenclaw head girl noticed Slughorn approaching the Slytherins, and as Tom saw the professor he plastered a pleasant look on his face. Appearing cheerful Slughorn drew close to the dark lord, and the head boy curled and uncurled his fingers as he progressively leaned away. But his expression showed no distress as he talked to the professor, and soon Malfoy joined the conversation. Without warning, Slughorn patted Tom on the back and he momentarily closed his eyes looking pained, before appearing expressionless. He had to be hurting, weren't the un-healable cuts just on his chest and arms? Then again, he could've sliced into his back at another time, or whatever he was doing to himself hurt him all over whenever another being got close.

As Slughorn took his leave Tom flashed him a charming smile, and Hermione couldn't help wonder if that was to fake appreciation or express his relief, perhaps a mixture of both. Soon the dark lord's happy expression vanished, and then he drank from a goblet with a blank look, before appearing stressed. Interesting, his anger had worn of fast. Maybe he was faking it, or prioritising quidditch over a temper tantrum, as he must be more determined than ever now to win over Xavian.

Quidditch it is, she thought a minute later as she watched the dark lord, Malfoy and other players talking while pointing at a map with hovering models of brooms. After awhile she realised something, the entire Slytherin quidditch team looked pleased and some even looked very happy. She'd never seen them like this before while discussing or planning the game, Slughorn must've said something really encouraging to raise their self esteems. Poor slimy snakes, they had no idea they were doomed to fail. Tom would die during quidditch and with it their chance to win.

"Maya" Susan's voice suddenly sounded, and she looked sideways to find the girl next to her. "Sorry I've been with the Gryffindors so much" Susan said taking a seat.

"It's okay" She actually preferred it this way, but she couldn't voice that knowing it would hurt the girl.

"Had to make sure Xav didn't get the match cancelled, a different date would mean Turner the seeker healed and back" she said, running a hand through her hair. "This is most likely the only chance to see Tom play quidditch" a slight smile appeared on Hermione's face, indeed it was. "It's one of my top ten dreams" she continued in a higher pitched voice. "It's the dream of many" the girl added, placing a hand over her heart. "I was also protecting Xav, there's no way he can beat Tom"

"I know"

"And still he managed to make me feel bad, by saying it wasn't about success but bravery" Susan continued, making a face.

"Senseless bravery is stupidity" Something she'd learnt in her first year when seeking the troll.

"Exactly, but he was so upset I had to say sorry" the girl said rolling her eyes. "He also wanted me to ask you to wear this" she added, holding up a badge showing support for Gryffindor.

"I can't, it'll give him false hope" Hermione said turning her face away from it.

"Thought you might say that" Susan said looking towards Xavian, before nodding her head to say no. "I think he's saying please"

"Sorry" the Ravenclaw head girl mouthed after facing the Gryffindor table, and before Xavian had a chance to wink or do something flirty she quickly turned away. Her eyes suddenly found Tom's, and he held her gaze for a few seconds before facing Malfoy.

"Were you staring at you know who?" Susan suddenly said, and the head girl almost dropped her fork.

"No" she lied looking down at her plate. "And don't call him that"

"Why" Susan voiced teasingly.

"Because it sounds dumb"

"Yeah, secret admirer is so much-" the girl paused as Hermione gave her a murderous look. "Okay I'll stop" she said raising her hands in surrender, and then they continued their meals in silence.

When she was about to leave the great hall Susan stopped her, and insisted she wear the badge in her hand.

"I already told you-" Hermione started in an annoyed tone.

"This is a different one" the girl said holding up a multicoloured badge with the words, I love quidditch, may the best house win. "Its neutral, you have no reason not to-"

"Fine" she interrupted impatiently. Anything to get away from the girl, she really wanted some time alone before the big game.

"Yay, now we both have them" Susan said pinning the badge on her with a huge smile.

"Thanks" she said hurriedly before rushing out the door.

"Remember to put it on your cloak otherwise it won't be visible" the girl shouted after her and Hermione raised a hand to indicate she'd heard.

The Ravenclaw head girl sat on her bed with her eyes on the clock, the afternoon classes would've taken place now if they hadn't been cancelled for the match. There were 30 minutes till it began, and with each ticking sound announcing a second she got more and more uneasy. After a restless 5 minutes she rubbed her temples in an attempt to calm herself, and then she distracted herself by mentally repeating the broom cursing incantations. Soon Hermione decided to check them against the book, she was sure she'd be correct and she was right.

After awhile she stood in front of her door wearing her cloak, she glanced at her wristwatch once more and then she touched it. The activation object was on her wrist and the spells were engraved in her memory, she was 100% ready. When there was 15 minutes left she wished herself luck and stepped out the door.

The corridors were filled with people dressed in outdoor clothes, and they were all heading in one direction. Excitement and anticipation was in the atmosphere, many had it on their faces but not Hermione. She looked cold and serious, and she couldn't help feeling worried and a little nervous. With each step she sank more into her mind, and became progressively less aware of her surroundings. Suddenly, something hard crashed into her and she was thrown backwards while her cloak rose up. As she snapped back to reality she heard shouting and yelling, and saw a mass of green.

Crap, looks like she'd bumped into a group of Slytherins. While getting back on her feet she realised they were first years, before she readjusted her cloak they glimpsed her head girl badge, and became less hostile and more apologetic. Hermione was about to leave when one of them pointed out she'd dropped something, lying near her feet was a badge with its back to her. Ah, yes, Susan had put it on her and she was meant to wear it on her cloak. She really didn't give a damn, then again it would help her fit in with the others. She looked at her wristwatch as she picked it up, and then with her eyes forward she pinned the badge to the front of her cloak. There was ten minutes left, she needed to get to the stand fast if she wanted to be at the front.

"Hey, come back" a voice called and ignoring it she speed forward, she really didn't have time for more false apologies from baby snakes. Once she was outside the cold weather of November made her shiver, and she cast a warming spell on herself. As she got closer to the pitch she heard many voices, and some shouts of support for a team. Without warning, something tapped her on the shoulder and she turned to find it was Professor Stephen Reed.

"Miss Granger, I thought it was you" he said with a smile. "Come with me" he said, gesturing towards the building that was exclusively used by quidditch players.

"Professor I-erm-w-why?" she stuttered with her heart racing. Oh God, did they know?

"You're not in trouble, the headmaster demands your presence" Reed said, chuckling and she gave him a weak smile. She didn't trust a word she'd heard, and as she followed him she discretely gripped her wand. Was she was being too paranoid? It was probably nothing or Aurors could be waiting to arrest her, preparing herself for the worst she held her breath before stepping inside. Seconds later Hermione inhaled a lungful of air, thank God there were no Aurors here. The headmaster appeared to be whispering to Longbottom and Bones, who were standing near some guy that had to be the reporter, as he was next to a person with a camera, and even from the back she could tell that the individual holding the journalist's attention was the dark lord.

"That was quick" Dippet said walking towards her and the professor. "Certainly didn't hear any announcement"

"Didn't have to make one, spotted her close by" Reed said.

"How convenient" the headmaster said pausing in front of her. "Granger, if Mr Gideon Cuffe asks you anything say only good things" he added in a whispering voice.

"Of course headmaster" she whispered back. Cuffe, where had she heard-? Ah, Barnabus Cuffe, the editor of the daily prophet in her time, that reporter could be a relation.

"Under no circumstance are you to reveal how you arrived at Hogwarts" Dippet continued, whispering and she nodded her head in response. "Try to look cheerful in the picture" he said before turning towards Professor Reed, and then he carried on conversing in low tones.

Stupid Dippet, why couldn't he have been content with just Tom's picture? She could've been sitting at the front of the Ravenclaw stand now. Then again, it didn't really matter as the curse didn't require eye contact. As long as she attended the match and saw Voldemort die with her own eyes it would do. Even if things were happening differently than she'd thought, everything important was going according to plan, so then why did she feel so-she couldn't find the words to explain it. The best she could come up with was, she didn't want to be in here and wanted to be out there.

Hermione suddenly overheard Dippet say the words Albus and interview as they were spoken a little louder, and the headmaster's expression certainly didn't look happy. Poor Dippet, he was trying so hard to get everyone to see him as the all powerful headmaster of Hogwarts. It would never work, definitely not after today. The game wasn't going to boost his image and bury old rumours, it was going to do the exact opposite when she killed Tom. She suddenly felt a little guilty, yes it was for the greater good, but when the victim to be was in front of your eyes it was never easy.

Hermione blinked on purpose a few times as the thought repeated in her mind. Oh no, that couldn't apply to the dark lord. Was that not what she was feeling? The real reason why she didn't want to be here so much, that sense of feeling trapped, more like suffocation, as it was suffocating to be in such close proximity to your prey minutes before you were going to hunt it down, because killing was never easy if you still had your humanity. Hermione bit the inside of her cheeks, and tried to block out the dark lord's masculine voice as he continued talking to the reporter. No, this wasn't going to be a murder. Truthfully it would be an execution for heinous crimes, and serving justice should never be hard. Of course it wasn't, she was just worrying too much for no reason.

The heir of Slytherin's voice caught her attention again, and trying to distract herself she looked at anything but him. She suddenly realised Longbottom and Bones were staring at her, they looked shocked and in disbelief, and were whispering to each other. Why in Merlin's name were they looking at her like that? Did they-there was no way they could suspect what she was planning to do. Trying to steady her pulse she inhaled deeply, without warning Bones smiled at her and she smiled back feeling relieved. See, it was nothing. If they knew they wouldn't be all smiles towards a killer to be, they would have told Dippet some time ago and the Aurors should've arrested her by now.

"Everyone gather together for a picture" the photographer suddenly said out loud, and Hermione tried to quickly get in front to avoid looking at the dark lord directly. Suddenly, the camera man decided to change the angle and moved. Tom turned around before she could, and finding herself facing him she froze. He raised an eyebrow before creasing his forehead, seconds later his expression went blank but his eyes remained on hers.

As she held his gaze she felt kind of empty knowing this was the last time she'd ever see him, the final time she'd see him wearing that quidditch uniform, and the very last time he'd look at her like that. She wanted to look away but she found herself unable to, a side of Tom's lips suddenly curled to reflect a faint half smile, and she blinked. He looked emotionless again and even though she appeared the same, emotions were swirling inside her. "Look this way everyone" the photographer suddenly said with an impatient tone, and the dark lord looked away, while she turned towards the camera feeling self conscious.

Fuck-everyone must've noticed, why hadn't she looked away sooner? Could that be used to implicate her in his murder? No, she was over worrying. Staring at a person before their death wasn't a crime, if the Aurors asked all she had to do was say she'd had a big crush on him. Nearly all the girls at Hogwarts did so it wouldn't be that unbelievable, especially when they saw the way he'd looked. Therefore there really wasn't anything to stress about, so why couldn't she feel at ease? Speaking of feelings, what the hell was that strange feeling when Tom had stared at her? It must've been the shock of knowing he was going to die when no one else did, yes that did make sense. "Miss could you smile please" the camera man said, and it took Hermione a few seconds to realise he was talking to her. She forced the corners of her lips upwards, and soon a flash of white light met her eyes. When the photos were done Tom was the first person to step away from the group, as she distanced herself she caught a glimpse of his face, and he looked stressed. The second Dippet approached him the facade of being calm took over, and from the headmaster's expression it was obvious he was happy with him.

Gideon Cuffe suddenly drew her attention away, he appeared warm and kind but his eyes were crafty. She'd had enough experience with Rita Skeeter to know not to trust reporters, and whenever he asked questions with a motive of fishing for information, she gave him nothing. Hermione was glad to see the back of him when he left to talk to Longbottom and Bones, he'd definitely have a newsworthy story, but she didn't want to give Cuffe the satisfaction of success yet.

A sudden flash of light made her look to the left, and she saw the photographer taking more pictures of Tom and Dippet. The young Slytherin was the perfect model of smiles and joy, but she knew better. Especially when the fingers of his right hand were curled, and obviously itching to form a fist. Having to appear happy while feeling pain from others closeness must be finally taking its toll, when the photographer lowered his camera Tom immediately put a distance of an arm's length between him and the headmaster. They appeared to be talking quietly when Cuffe decided to join them, then the conversations became loud and when the reporter wished Tom luck it was easily heard throughout the room.

"I'm meant to be neutral but all the best" Dippet said with a smile.

"My thoughts exactly" Reed voiced while walking up to the group.

"Thank you headmaster" Tom said with a humble expression. "Professor" he added, slightly nodding his head towards Reed.

"Give us a good game so I can take some great snaps" the photographer said as he wiped the lenses of his camera.

"I will try, sir" the dark lord said, giving him a smile.

"Good luck, Riddle" Longbottom said bowing his head a little.

"Thank you" Tom said returning the curt nod.

"I'd like my team to win but I wish you no ill" Bones voiced looking a little guilty, and nearly everyone in the room laughed.

"Excellent, loyalty should always be shown to your own house" the young Slytherin said giving her a charming smile, and Bones blushed a little.

Suddenly a lot of eyes were on Hermione, no one was voicing it but it was obvious they were finding it odd, that she hadn't joined the well wishing. Merlin, she should say something because it could seem suspicious afterwards. She made herself lock eyes with the dark lord, and hoped her expression was neutral.

"The young lady's badge says it all" Cuffe said, pointing at her when she was about to say good luck. "She's just too shy to say it herself" he added with a smile and Dippet, Reed and the photographer laughed while Longbottom and Bones exchanged a look. Yes, her badge did say may the best team win. So then no one should think she was specifically against Tom, and now that the reporter had pointed it out there was no need to say anything. Besides, directly saying good luck to the dark lord, while wearing a neutral badge could also seem suspicious. Soon the attention from her died away but the heir of Slytherin's eyes lingered on her. His expression was blank so there was nothing to interpret from his face, after taking a deep breath she forced herself to lower her gaze, but she could still feel him staring. And that heavy, suffocating feeling was back, when was looking away from him that hard? God, knowing someone was dead man walking was really having an effect on her.

When Tom took his leave and disappeared through the door at the other side of the room, she couldn't help but feel relieved. Dippet thanked her, Longbottom and Bones for participating before leading the reporter and the picture taker out the front door. Reed, Longbottom and Bones followed and she was the last to step outside. Hermione inhaled deeply, no longer minding that the air was cold because she felt free, and only when the quidditch stands became visible did she start to feel burdened.

After a moment Dippet, Reed and the people from the Daily Prophet started to walk in a different direction, leaving her with Longbottom and Bones.

"We think it's nice" Bones suddenly said in a high pitched voice.

"Your badge" Longbottom added hesitantly after Hermione gave them a questioning look.

"Oh, thank you" she said giving the couple a smile. Yeah right, they were being overly nice because of that secret she knew. Soon Longbottom and Bones separated to go to the sections representing their houses, and as she turned towards the Ravenclaw stand her pulse quickened a little.

While approaching the seats Hermione tried not to feel nervous, almost all of them were filled with pupils and trying to locate an empty one her eyes found Susan. There was a place beside her being occupied by a woollen scarf and binoculars, looks like the girl had saved a seat for her. She took a step towards it before a realisation made her pause, Susan was nosy, clever and observant, and would most likely notice something. It would be foolish to take that risk, she had to find a place that wasn't anywhere near that girl. Susan suddenly looked back and forth with a searching expression, and as she got on her feet Hermione immediately ducked out of view. Out of the corner of her eye she saw the gossip girl searching for her as she put a couple of rows between them, Hermione eventually settled into a seat right at the back, and the neighbours seemed to be students that could be considered outcasts of Ravenclaw.

Almost all of them gave her disbelieving or questioning looks, and some even whispered to each other. They must be baffled to see her sit amongst them when there were seats left elsewhere, best place to avoid Susan though and the view wasn't that bad. Continuing her ignorance of the misfits, she brought out her wand and binocular. After she looked through it she spotted the photographer taking pictures of Dippet and Malfoy, then Cuffe appeared to be talking to them for awhile. Suddenly, the blonde aristocrat and the daily prophet staff dispersed, and the headmaster walked up to the seating place that was only for Hogwarts staff. Shortly afterwards he stood at the front, and pointed his wand towards his throat.

"Attention everyone" Dippet suddenly said with a magically magnified voice. "Attention" he added raising his voice, and after a couple of seconds silence almost spread throughout the stadium. "This match will be refereed by Albus Dumbledore" The Slytherins started to talk amongst themselves, and some even protested loudly. "Who will be-silence" the headmaster finished making his voice louder, and the Slytherins quietened. "Who will be fair when making any judgements" he continued in an annoyed tone, as the house of snakes got a little noisy again. "Druella Rosier will be commentating" the headmaster said pointing towards a girl clad in green, and as she bowed her head in response the Slytherins became quiet once more, showing approval for one of their own. "My gratitude to all the players who have worked hard in preparation, good luck to both teams" Dippet said before taking his seat, then he raised a hand in the air and in seconds the sound of a drum roll followed.

Soon the Gryffindor team walked onto the pitch, and the Gryffindors welcomed them with cheers and whistles. A few Ravenclaws and Hufflepuffs also joined while most of the Slytherin's booed them. When the Slytherin team arrived the Slytherins greeted them loudly, and shouted encouraging things, while the Gryffindors booed them, and Hermione took in a sharp intake of breath as she located the heir of Slytherin.

"Greet your opponents" Dumbledore's magically loud voice suddenly said, and both teams faced each other with dislike clear on their visages, before bowing their heads curtly. "Captains shake hands" he added, and Malfoy and Xavian drew closer with expressions of hatred. Then they briefly touched hands and let go, they didn't even bother with the shaking.

The Gryffindor captain suddenly shifted his gaze to give Tom a look of pure loathing, and the dark lord's expression returned the intense hate. "Mount your brooms" the transfiguration professor instructed and both teams did just that. Dumbledore blew a whistle as he released the quidditch balls, and the players immediately flew upwards.

"Weasley has the Quaffle and he's trying to pass it to Smith, but Crabbe's thrown a Bludger at him" A girl's magically magnified voice said, and Hermione felt chills go down her spine as she sounded like Bellatrix Lestrange. Hadn't Dippet said she was Druella Rosier? Ah, she was Bellatrix's mother, no wonder they sounded similar. "Avery's managed to take the Quaffle and he's past it to Nott, but Allen has just aimed a Bludger at his head" Nott moved upwards, causing the Bludger to bang into his shoulder instead and the Gryffindors cheered loudly. "Weasley has the Quaffle and he's way ahead of the beaters." Druella continued with an annoyed tone. "Looks like he's heading towards the Slytherin keeper, Lestrange don't you dare let that slimy Gryffindor score"

"Rosier" Dippet's magically loud voice said crossly. "You are not allowed to say biased things"

"Sorry headmaster" Druella said sounding unapologetic. "Yes, Lestrange has managed to block it," she added in a high pitched voice. "Macnair has caught the Quaffle and he's passed it to my darling Cygnus"

"Rosier" Dippet snapped.

"Sorry- passed it to Black" Cygnus Black, if memory served her correctly then Druella was meant to marry him, and whether it was an arrangement by their parents or not, it seemed Druella already admired him, and she sounded kind of nice for a Slytherin. How on earth did she end up producing something like Bellatrix Lestrange? "Malfoy's heading towards the goalhoop, and Crabbe has knocked away the Bludger aiming for him. Merlin, Malfoy's managed to get past Wood" she continued breathlessly. "Slytherin score" Druella declared excitedly, and the Slytherin's applauded loudly. "Ten-nil to Slytherin" they were winning, but it was all pointless because their seeker was doomed to fall.

Imagining Voldemort's upcoming death Hermione smiled as she lowered the binoculars, and then she rubbed her eyes. She was about to look through the magnifying lenses again, when she realised the surrounding odd pupils were sneaking glances of her, and some were whispering. Shouldn't the shock of her decision to sit here have worn off by now? God, did they know-no that was impossible. Hermione took a deep breath to calm herself, there wasn't anything abnormal on her that could give away her intent to kill, to them she was just an ordinary student watching quidditch through binoculars, because that's all they could see. So why were they still giving her such strange attention? Then again, she shouldn't expect normalcy as they were outcasts for a reason. Maybe they were fascinated by the fact that she hadn't moved places yet, or some other mental reason.

Hermione looked through the binoculars, and started paying attention to the commentator again. "Nott has the Quaffle. Oh, Allen's thrown a Bludger at him" Druella said. "Nott's dropped the Quaffle." She added angrily, and the Gryffindor stand burst out laughing. "Weasley has caught the Quaffle and he's just ducked Goyle's Bludger. He's passed the Quaffle to Smith and Smith's heading towards goal." Druella continued sounding worried. "Fricken hell Smith's made it past Lestrange." She suddenly yelled, and the Gryffindors screamed in joy.

"Language Rosier" Dippet shouted.

"Fricken isn't a swear word"

"We all know what you meant"

"Gryffindor score, ten- ten. Both teams have equal points" Druella announced sounding annoyed.

The game went on for awhile without anyone scoring, Hermione watched another attempt by Gryffindor before removing her eyes from the binoculars, and then she turned them towards her wristwatch. Although she was seeing her time teller her mind didn't register the information, she was more concerned about its other purpose as an activation object. Hermione held her breath as she gingerly touched the strap of her wristwatch, should she do it now? Had she waited long enough for it to seem like an accident in the beginning? After actually reading the time she knew enough minutes had passed, Hermione took in a deep breath before looking through the circular magnifiers again. Even though she'd been watching the game, she hadn't directly focused on Tom as there hadn't been a need yet.

She suddenly spotted the dark lord, he was managing to fly just fine and not as bad as Xavian had said. But you could tell he wasn't that experienced, as his posture reflected unease, and he avoided complex moves like twirling and somersaulting. Something that Xavian made a point of showing he had no problem doing, and he also occasionally took his hands off the handle while appearing carefree. Tom on the other hand was gripping the broom firmly, and his face had an expression of intense concentration.

She should activate the spell now, maybe five more minutes-no, enough time had gone by. Hermione froze for a few seconds before lowering the magnifiers, her focus on the spell would be better if she wasn't looking at him. "Oh my God, Riddle may have seen the snitch" Druella suddenly yelled, and she almost dropped the binoculars before gripping her wand in panic. It was now or never, under the cover of her cloak she pressed her magical stick into her wristwatch. 'Amirafreevax' Hermione said nonverbally, and her heart lurched as she felt the watch become hot, indicating that the spell had worked.

With her pulse racing she shakily picked up the binoculars, and as she zoned into the two seekers her eyes widened. They were both fine, why the fuck wasn't Tom's broomstick throwing him off? What the hell was-maybe it took a couple of seconds to work, tightening the grip on her wand she counted to five, while watching Tom and Xavian flying forward neck and neck. Still the curse failed to kick in, with her heart beating fast she recast the spell but the dark lord continued to remain unaffected. Merlin, why the hell wasn't it- she'd cast it correctly otherwise she wouldn't have felt heat, wanting to scream she gripped her wristwatch and her fingertips found it was hot. Why wasn't it fucking working? With her hands shaking in rage, she jabbed her wand into the activation object and tried once more. Tom suddenly dived downwards, and Hermione froze feeling hopeful and shocked. "Yes, Riddle's tricked the Gryffindor" Druella shouted, and she realised in horror the dark lord wasn't falling. He was intentionally flying down and obviously towards the snitch. He'd pretended before to deceive and delay Xavian. Oh, God, when he caught it all could be lost.

In anger and desperation Hermione cast the spell once again, wishing more than ever for it to work but it wouldn't. All the noise sounded distant and her heart jumped when Tom closed his outstretched hand. As he soared up into the air while holding up a closed fist her binocular holding hand shook, and she suddenly felt like she couldn't breathe. "Yes, our sexy seeker has caught the snitch" Druella yelled and the Slytherin stand went crazy. "But not sexier than you Cygnus darling" she added hastily.

"Rosier, control yourself" Dippet shouted.

"Victory delirium" she said unashamedly before jumping on her feet. "Slytherin wins the game" Druella shouted raising her hands, and the Slytherins made more noise.

"Congratulations Slytherin" the headmaster announced, as Tom waved the snitch held hand with a smile, while the house of snakes continued cheering.

Realising he was still in the air Hermione snapped out of her paralysed state, and tried the spell again but it was all in vain. The dark lord held the snitch by its wings while looking at Xavian, and as Xavian shouted something with a furious expression, Tom started to fly down with a smirk on his face. Suddenly the Slytherin's started to chant the dark lord's surname, adding to Hermione's rage and sadness as she tried one last time. When Tom's feet touched the ground she wanted to scream, and a single tear escaped her eye. She took in quick breaths as anger made her tremble all over, and it took all her energy not to sob loudly when she desperately wanted to. Where had she gone wrong? She'd worked so hard planning it all, why hadn't it worked? Why would fate do this to her? Hermione bit her lips as another salty tear escaped and she let out a muffled cry, knowing the sounds of the stadium would mask it.

All of a sudden students started to scream and point towards the sky. For a moment she was too lost in her grief to care, then she looked up and the visual almost gave her a heart attack. Not believing her eyes she jumped to her feet before looking through the binoculars, and her shock intensified. It was clearer than ever now, the person dangling of a shaking broomstick was Albus Dumbledore. What the fuck? What in Merlin's name was-oh, God-holy mother-was that Tom's broomstick? Christ, the broom appeared ancient and definitely wasn't a new model. Why the hell did he have the dark lord's broomstick? They were enemies so how-this didn't make any fucking sense, did they swap brooms, if so why in the name of seven heavens would they do that?

No wonder she'd failed to kill Tom, her spell must've activated from the start. But as all attention had been on the seekers, no one had then noticed the referee on a cursed broom, a broomstick he shouldn't have fucking been using in the first place. Albus bloody Dumbledore had saved the dark lord. Fate was toying with her, instead of letting her kill Voldemort-oh my God-she was going to murder Dumbledore. Hermione suddenly felt like she'd collapse, and she clutched the seat for support. Voldemort was alive, and she was about to kill the only man Voldemort had ever feared.

If only she could lift the curse but that wasn't possible. Dumbledore couldn't know that yet as he was casting spells on the broomstick, and Slughorn and Merrythought were now also sending magic towards it. The photographer's white flash mixed in with the light from the spells as he kept taking pictures, and Gideon Cuffe had a gleeful expression on his face. Dippet tried not to look terrified and lost, as he ordered all students to go to their dormitories. It was chaos as the remaining professors tried to force pupils to leave, since the ones that wanted to stay attempted to hide or kept sneaking back in.

Dumbledore suddenly began to fall, many screams sounded and Hermione screamed with them. In seconds a Phoenix appeared, accompanied by a strange song and captured the auburn haired professor, before safely setting him down. Then the cursed broomstick landed not so far away, and shattered into pieces. Many students were overjoyed to see Dumbledore out of danger, and so was Hermione. She smiled toothily with a hand over her heart, the relief she was feeling now was indescribable in words. She'd forgotten Dumbledore had a phoenix, thank God it'd saved him.

Slughorn and Merrythought were talking to Dumbledore with serious expressions now, while Dumbledore stroked his avian saviour sitting on his forearm, and Dippet looked like he'd recovered from a heart attack. The photographer was still emotionlessly taking pictures, like he'd been imperiused to do so, and Cuffe seemed to be questioning some students. Soon Hogwarts staff authority was back in full power, and the students were made to follow their heads of houses to their dormitories. As Hermione walked among the Ravenclaws she was on the verge of tears, the short lived joy from Dumbledore's escape was gone and cruel reality was laughing at her. She'd failed to kill Voldemort, it was weighing heavy on her heart, and she didn't know if she should scream in anger or cry in defeat.

A familiar corridor leading to the heads quarters approached, and she started to branch off towards it.

"There you are" Susan's voice said, and Hermione carried on like she hadn't heard until the girl jumped in front of her. "Where have you-" Susan trailed off with a disbelieving expression and the head girl looked at the floor, wondering if she was crying without knowing.

"Miss Granger" a stern voice said at that moment, and she turned to find it was Merrythought. "Your immediate presence is required at the headmaster's office" Hermione gave her a questioning look and was about to ask why. "Now" the professor ordered, making it clear she wouldn't be saying why.

"Yes professor" Hermione said, taking a step in a different direction with a worried expression

"To your dormitory Miss Brewer" Merrythought commanded as Susan tried to follow her.

"You owe me an explanation" the girl shouted out before turning away.

As Hermione advanced down the corridor she couldn't help wondering if she was in trouble, surely there was nothing to connect her to the broom curse, then why was she being summoned? And Merrythought was still with her, was the professor making sure she didn't run off, or was Merrythought also required there? After awhile they arrived at the headmaster's office, when the professor opened the door her pulse quickened, but her expression was calm. She discreetly gripped her wand as she followed Merrythought inside, while the visual meeting her eyes caused her to momentarily hold her breath.

Dippet was behind his desk looking ill, Dumbledore was at his right side appearing concerned, and Slughorn was on his left with an anxious visage, and Merrythought soon moved to stand next to the potion's professor's free side. Cuffe was standing near the fireplace with a floating notepad and quill close by, and his photographer was next to him. Longbottom, Bones, Tom and two men that were clearly Aurors were seated near the headmaster's desk. She tried to forget that the dark lord was here as it made her feel teary, it was too soon to be near him after what had happened, but since she didn't have a choice she had to use Occulumency to subdue her emotions. Suddenly all eyes were on Hermione, and she tried not to look self-conscious.

"Have a seat Miss" one of the Aurors said, pointing at a chair while looking at her suspiciously. To rub salt into her wound, the seat was next to Tom and she bit the insides of her cheek, as she made herself sit there. She tried not to, but she couldn't help noticing that the dark lord was fidgeting, and it was obviously because many people were too close to him. Longbottom was on his right and she was on his left, so Tom was kind of trapped as he couldn't inch away to either side, and moving back would be obvious as he would stick out from the even line of other seats. Plus, the chairs seemed to be placed a little closer than normal. Hermione absolutely detested being so near, she had half a mind to inch away herself since she could, but knowing it was hurting him was enough to make her endure.

"So as I was saying before the interruption," the other Auror said and she looked at him. "Mr Riddle, are you sure you're happy your team won?"

"Yes, sir" the dark lord said mechanically.

"Then why did you leave so quickly when your team was being photographed?" the Auror questioned, narrowing his eyes.

"I did have a photo taken with them, sir" Tom started in a voice with an annoyed undertone. "As I've had many taken before, and since I was the main student interviewed for almost an hour" he continued, emphasising the word hour. "I assumed it would be fine to retire early from the spotlight" the dark lord added, placing his eyes on the journalist.

"He'd thought correctly," Cuffe said nodding his head. "If I'd wanted more of Mr Riddle, I would've protested at him leaving so fast"

"I see" the Auror said, scribbling something with his quill.

"Albus Dumbledore has taught you transfiguration since you started Hogwarts" the other Auror stated, getting on his feet before taking a step forward.

"Correct, sir" the heir of Slytherin said, looking right at him with a blank expression.

"Dumbledore has never given you marks as high as your other professors have" the Auror said looking at his notepad.

"Also correct, sir" the dark lord said in a higher pitched voice.

"Would you consider a prank to just humiliate Dumbledore justified?" the Auror asked, taking another step forward, and the dark lord's left hand coiled into a fist.

"Riddle would never-" Dippet started with an outraged expression.

"Misunderstanding is what this-" Slughorn also began looking angry.

"Please don't interrupt the questioning" the other Auror said, cutting them off.

"Respect should always be shown to staff at Hogwarts" Tom finally said sounding emotionless.

"Are you sure, Mr Riddle?" the Auror that'd asked the question said with a taunting tone.

"I'm sorry, sir." The dark lord said sounding the opposite. "Please clarify if this is a routine questioning, or an interrogation of a suspect" he added, slightly raising his voice and his expression was still blank.

"You tell me" the other Auror said standing, before bending down so that he was at eye level with the dark lord. "Why so fidgety lad if you haven't done anything wrong?" he questioned, fixing his eyes on the dark lord's hands.

"I'm tiered, sir" Tom said slightly leaning back. "And very uncomfortable to still be in my quidditch uniform" he added in a tone that seemed to saying was the Auror blind, before crossing his arms.

Hermione suddenly wished she hadn't heard the word uniform, she was now aware of a faint musky smell among the dark lord's usual scent. It wasn't sickening or pungent, but since it was his personal perfume it felt like too much information, and thankful that the weather was cold she tried to ignore it.

"Alright Mr I've got innocent answers for everything" the Auror said. "Did you know Dumbledore would be using your broomstick today?" he questioned standing straight again.

"My broomstick" the dark lord said slowly with a shocked expression, and Hermione went absolutely still, wanting to know the answer very badly.

"Yes yours" the other Auror said.

"No, sir" the heir of Slytherin said with anger creeping into his voice, and the Ravenclaw head girl creased her forehead in confusion.

"You mean, you had no knowledge that Dumbledore would be using your broom during the match, and that you didn't consent for him to use it today or any other day"

"Correct, sir" the dark lord said icily. "I leant my broom to professor Slughorn today, I'm sure he can explain how it came into Dumbledore's possession" he continued, looking at the potion's professor without any emotion, and Hermione knitted her brows. Why would the professor borrow from a student, unless they'd swapped-"

"I insisted Riddle to use my broom during the match" Slughorn said, confirming her unfinished thought. "It was the latest model, and I naturally wanted Slytherin to be advantaged" That's the real reason why the Slytherin's had been so happy at lunchtime, it all made sense now.

"Understandable" the Auror that'd asked Tom a question said. "But why would you want the boy's broom back in return?" he questioned, giving the professor a suspicious look, while Hermione stared at Slughorn with murderous glints in her eyes. Her failure, it was all his fault.

"I needed to fly to Hogsmeade for an appointment" Slughorn said trying to appear un-intimidated. "Never been good with the legs due to my weight" he added, patting his knee as he smiled nervously. "Riddle had little time to get familiar with my broom, I didn't want to lessen that so I asked to use his" the professor continued, crossing his arms. "Didn't see anything wrong with that since he had mine," Slughorn said sounding not so sure now. "It was also convenient, I was getting late and Riddle was right in front of me"

"This appointment you were getting late for," the other Auror said, turning a page in his notebook. "Whom did you go to see?" he questioned, fixing his eyes on the professor.

"Fredrick Kiddell at J. Pippin's potions" Slughorn answered sounding more confident.

"Wasn't it a nuisance trying to rush back in time for quidditch?"

"Well, yes" the professor replied with an expression that seemed to say, why were they asking him that?

"Why would you trouble yourself so much, especially when your own house is playing?" the Auror said taking a step towards the professor. "Wouldn't it be convenient to just reschedule?" he added, raising his voice.

"Kiddell said that's the only time he could do this month," Slughorn said defensively. "The uncommon ingredients he'd obtained could've all sold out next month"

"Have you heard any whispers about the ice king?" the other Auror questioned, giving the professor a suspicious look, and everyone in the room seemed to tense while Tom stopped fidgeting. Hermione racked her brain, but she found zero information on who this ice king was.

"You think I met with him?" Slughorn said angrily.

"Do you suspect professor Slughorn to be a client?" Cuffe asked, looking at the Auror eagerly.

"I'm a respectable-" the potion's professor started crossly.

"Horace, they haven't accused you of anything" Dumbledore said, interrupting.

"Nor would they have any evidence" Dippet added. "The professors I employ can never be criminals" he continued in a firm voice, but his uncomfortable expression gave away he wasn't sure.

"At this time, Slughorn is not being considered a suspect in relation to the ice king," the Auror that'd asked Slughorn a question stated, and Dippet looked relieved while the potion's professor calmed, and Cuffe looked disappointed. "Since you're well connected to privileged witches and wizards, I thought you might've heard something from the grapevines?" the Auror asked, locking eyes with Slughorn once more.

"Yes, I am well connected" the potion's professor said with pride, slightly puffing his chest out. "If I knew anything I would immediately report it" he added, boring his eyes into the Auror.

"Good to know you're such a good wizard" the other Auror said sounding unconvinced. "Taking Riddle's broom in a rush to keep your appointment, that's a solid excuse" he said looking at his colleague.

"Solid" the other Auror said, shaking his head. "But why and how did you get Dumbledore to use Riddle's broom?" he questioned in a louder voice, piercing his eyes into Slughorn.

"Dumbledore needed my-" the potion's professor started in an unafraid tone.

"I asked Slughorn to lend me his broomstick" Dumbledore said, making the Aurors look at and him, and Hermione suddenly noticed the dark lord was fidgeting again.

"Why?" the Auror that'd asked Slughorn a question said. "Surely, you have your own"

"I did, it irreparably shattered into pieces today, when a spell I was trying to invent behaved unexpectedly" The transfiguration professor said, pulling a wooden chip out of his pocket.

"This was in your quarters"

"Yes"

"Was Slughorn present at the time?" the Auror asked while writing with his quill.

"No"

"Out of all the staff you could've asked to borrow from, why Slughorn?" the other Auror questioned.

"He is a trusted friend and colleague" Dumbledore said, looking at Slughorn warmly. "It was also convenient as his quarters is close to mine"

"Did you make the request before or after he'd returned from Hogsmeade?"

"After, in fact he was still wearing his travelling cloak" the transfiguration professor said with his eyes on the Auror again.

"Were you informed that the broomstick wasn't his?" the law enforcer asked, refreshing the ink on his quill.

"Yes"

"And since the actual owner was a student, naturally importance wasn't given on obtaining their permission" the other Auror said questioningly.

"On the contrary, I wasn't comfortable to use the broom without Riddle's consent" Dumbledore said, rubbing the piece of his broken broom between his fingers, and Tom looked like he was bursting to shout out something nasty.

"It's entirely my fault" Slughorn said sounding apologetic. Yes it is, Hermione thought, wanting to hit him. "I insisted Riddle would be fine with it, he'd said I could use his broom as my own and I assumed I could lend it like it was mine"

"Normally I wouldn't use a student's property, but the time for the match was fast approaching and Slughorn was being very persuasive" Dumbledore said, looking at the dark lord and the Slytherin head boy curled his hands into fists, but his face had no emotion now.

"Tom my boy, I'm so sorry" Slughorn almost cried out, looking very guilty.

"Please don't apologise, sir" Tom said appearing really sad, and the expression was so sudden and realistic, that Hermione couldn't help but blink several times. "I said you could treat my broom as your own, of course you can lend it like your own" he continued with a reassuring expression before smiling, Slughorn looked relieved for a few seconds and then he returned the smile. "I'm sorry, sir. I'm so sorry my broomstick has caused so much trouble" the dark lord added, sounding and appearing apologetic.

"It's alright Tom, I don't believe it's your fault" the potions professor said, shaking his head.

"Headmaster, I don't know how-" Tom started, looking troubled.

"I never believed for a second you had anything to do with it" Dippet said, interrupting.

"Be assured you will not be punished for simply being the broom's owner" Merrythought said, looking at him kindly which was rare as she always wore a harsh expression.

"Innocent until proven guilty" Dumbledore stated, putting the piece of his broken broom back in his pocket.

"I say innocence is questionable until proven so" Cuffe said with a sly expression, and the photographer nodded his head in agreement.

"Mr Gideon Cuffe, I hope your profession hasn't completely enslaved your conscience" Dumbledore said, giving him an intense disapproving look and the reporter almost flinched.

"Course not, honest reporting is what I do" Cuffe voiced, looking at his notepad. "But it's obvious it's an inside job"

"Without a doubt" One of the Aurors said. "Mr Riddle, if you did somehow come to know that Dumbledore was going to use your broom, you can tell us" he added, fixing his eyes on the dark lord. "You won't get in trouble, it could provide a clue to the real person responsible"

"I wish I could help, sir" Tom said sounding genuinely regretful. "But I truly didn't know Professor Dumbledore would be using my broom"

"All you head girls and boys share quarters," the other Auror said, successively glancing at each student. "Did any of you see anything out of the ordinary?" he questioned, resting his eyes on Hermione. Longbottom shook his head to say no and everyone else remained silent. "Miss-err-" the Auror started before looking at his notepad. "-Granger" he added, looking up. "Are you sure you didn't see your Slytherin friend doing anything unusual?" the Auror said giving her a threatening look, Tom's hands became fists again and all the Hogwarts staff looked annoyed.

"No, I did not see my colleague doing anything unusual" Hermione said coldly, emphasising the word colleague. How dare he use the word friend, whatever the hell gave him that impression?

"I did not mean that at all negatively, miss" the law enforcer said, giving her an unkind smile. "Your fellow head boy-" he added, accentuating the word your and she almost flinched. "-could've been imperiused, so he may've behaved oddly before being obliviated"

"Miss Granger," Dumbledore started. "No one will punish you-" he said with his eyes on Tom. "-for telling the truth" he finished, placing his eyes on Hermione. The Auburn haired professor thought she was hiding something, because she feared the dark lord's reaction later, but this time Tom really was innocent.

"I'm sorry, sir" Hermione said, shaking her head. "I honestly didn't observe Riddle doing anything out of the ordinary"

"It's unlikely anyone manipulated me to do anything without my knowledge" the heir of Slytherin voiced, slightly tilting his head a little to the left, and a disturbed expression flashed on his face. "I was surrounded by students all day, I doubt any of them could cast an imperious to make me lift a finger" he continued, with almost laughter in his voice.

"We are of the same opinion" an Auror said looking at his colleague.

"A skilled adult, most likely a professor may have imperiused you" the other Auror said.

"My professors would never" Dippet said hotly, lightly punching his desk and Merrythought and Slughorn whispered something to each other.

"I don't think so, sir. I don't recall any gaps in my memory" Tom said mechanically as he began to fidget again.

"Hogwarts professor recruited by dark lord Grindelwald, to murder Albus Dumbledore" Cuffe said excitedly as his quill started to write faster, and the Slytherin head boy looked at the transfiguration professor without emotion.

"A theory for now" a law enforcer said with a disapproving expression.

"I don't believe Gille-Grindelwald has anyone at Hogwarts under his control" Dumbledore said with a heavy voice, as he stroked his phoenix with his eyes on the bird.

"We hope so professor" An Auror said. "But we have to explore all strong possibilities"

"Yes, like how easy it would be for the head of Slytherin-" the other Auror started. "-to have access to the Slytherin head boy" he finished, with his eyes on Slughorn and an accusing expression on his face.

In seconds the questioning, which was more like an interrogation, turned into an argument between the Hogwarts staff and Aurors. Cuffe's eyes seemed to sparkle as he soaked it all in, and the photographer took a picture, knowing everyone was too distracted to protest. It wasn't long before Slughorn's Slugclub came under scrutiny, and he was accused of using it as a means to groom its members into joining the dark side.

"This young gentleman is a member and Hogwarts top student" Slughorn said crossly, pointing at Tom. "Does he look like a future dark lord to you?" the potion's professor almost shouted, and Hermione suddenly had the urge to laugh out loud, indeed he was the future dark lord. A future he no longer would've had, she thought with her expression darkening. Bloody Slughorn, if only he hadn't interfered with her plan. Hermione blinked and took a deep breath, she would not cry, not here.

As the defensive and offensive conversations between the adults continued, Longbottom and Bones started whispering, and every couple of seconds Tom momentarily shut his eyes, like he was getting a head ache. All of a sudden Hermione started to get irritated too, her outdoor cloak was getting a bit stuffy, and she desperately wanted some alone time to deal with all that'd happened. After awhile her prayers were answered when the Aurors said all students could leave, and the heir of Slytherin was the first to get on his feet. Seconds later a law enforcer added that all students could leave except Mr Riddle, and Tom balled his hands into fists before sitting back down.

As Hermione walked out of Dippet's office she felt unburdened, she wasn't just free but also free from suspicion of cursing the broom. The broomstick, she thought with a sinking feeling and water threatened to leak from her eyes again. Longbottom and Bones suddenly gave her forced smiles, she pretended to yawn and rub her eyes under the guise of tiredness, before returning their smile. As they continued forward they resumed their whispered conversation, and she followed. Soon they turned into a corridor, and Hermione was about to do the same when someone blocked her path. It was Xavian Potter, he was staring at her with a shocked and hurt expression.

"I'm sorry you didn't-" she started, figuring the defeat must've hit him hard.

"It's true" he said, interrupting. "Others said but I had to see with my own eyes"

"What?"

"Why did you lie?" Xavian shouted and she almost jumped.

"What the hell's wrong with you?" Hermione said angrily, taking a step back. "I don't know what you're-"

"You say you're not ready for a boyfriend" he said, cutting her short. "So why the hell is that pinned over your heart?" the Gryffindor yelled, pointing at her chest.

"What has my badge-" she started with a shouting voice, grabbing at the object in question and Hermione froze as her eyes met it. What in the name of bloody Merlin? It wasn't the neutral one Susan had given her, a Slytherin badge on her cloak but how?

In seconds she recalled bumping into first year Slytherins, so she wasn't the only one to lose a badge in that collision, and she'd claimed the wrong one. That's why that Slytherin had shouted at her to come back, and she'd been too busy to look at what she was putting on herself. God, it all made sense now. Longbottom and Bones's disbelieving expressions, Tom's ghost of a smile, Cuffe's comment about her badge speaking for her, the Ravenclaw outcast's sustained interest, Susan's demand for an explanation, Dumbledore publicly asking her to voice the truth, while intending to covertly tell her not to protect Tom out of fear, and why the Aurors had thought she was friends with the dark lord. Fuck, they all thought she and Tom were caught in a web of some twisted courtship.

Feeling like laughing and crying at the same time she let go of her cloak. She'd wanted to assassinate the heir of Slytherin, yet she'd sat at the stand wearing his symbol like he was her champion. Indeed, fate was a fucking cruel bitch. "That's not my badge" Hermione said in a forced calm voice. "I wore someone else's by accident" Xavian's angry expression became angrier. "Whether you believe or not that is the truth" she added, in a tone that said he'd had no right to know anyway.

"Liar" Xavian snapped, threateningly taking a step towards her.

"Out of my way" Hermione roared, pointing her wand.

"You expect me to believe-"

"My personal life is none of your business" she shouted. "I'll wear a Slytherin badge if I want to" she added, poking her wand into his neck and he flinched. "Don't" she yelled, magically throwing him against the wall as he made to pull out his wand. "Leave" she said, as he straightened while murderously glaring at her. "Or you will be responsible for what happens to you" Hermione added threateningly, pointing her wand again. He was testing her limit, she was already very angry and on the verge of seriously harming him.

Xavian gave her a dirty look before turning his back towards her, and started to walk away. Seconds later she lowered her wand still looking pissed off, and moved forward in the same direction. Suddenly, a group of students turned in from another corridor. She instantly recognised Shiv Patil but not the three other boys, and for some reason two of them were kind of holding their hands up.

"Everything okay, Granger?" Shiv said with a concerned expression.

"Fine" Hermione replied, before realising Shiv's hands also seemed raised under his cloak. "Patil, what's with the-" Before she could finish the sentence, she was lifted high into the air and thrown forward. It was too unexpected and quick for her to use her wand, and as gravity pulled her down, she saw a flash of Xavian facing her again with his wand raised. A second later she crashed into Shiv and his group, causing something to hit her head hard and something else to initiate piercing sensations in her hands.

"Admit you wore it to support Riddle" she heard Xavian shout as her vision blackened. She desperately wanted her wand, but she couldn't feel it in her hand anymore and her fingers seemed to have frozen. Why couldn't she move or see, what was happening? Then there was a lot of loud voices that she couldn't make sense of, and more pain.

"You're a fucking idiot, Potter" A male voice said, and Hermione suddenly understood the spoken language again.

"She's bleeding" another voice said.

"I just meant to throw her to the floor, like she threw me into a wall" Xavian's voice said, sounding panicked. "I didn't know she'd crash into disillusioned beer bottles, or have an almost invisible barrel of whiskey dropped on her head" he shouted.

"You shouldn't have been hitting a lady in the first place" Shiv shouted back.

"It was supposed to be a harmless shove, not some hard beating" Xavian said defensively.

"Well mate, you're gonna be in for some hard beating if Riddle really is her boyfriend"

"Is that supposed to scare me, Patil?" the Gryffindor quidditch captain said, with what sounded like forced laughter. "We all know he's a faggot"

"Faggot or not, she wouldn't have worn that badge if they didn't have a strong friendship"

"Bullshit"

"Even if she just has a crush on him, Riddle won't like it when he hears what you did because she was supporting him"

"It's your fault" Xavian said, raising his voice. "This wouldn't of happened if you hadn't been taking those to the Slytherin common room"

"Don't you dare try to put this on me, Potter" Shiv said in a louder voice. "You're the one who threw her with magical strength"

"It's not healing" a voice suddenly said.

"Aren't you usually good at those?" Another voice said.

"It's too complex, we have to take her to the infirmary"

"Granger, can you move?" Xavian said worriedly. "I'm sorry"

"Alcohol's burning her cuts, conjure some water" Shiv said urgently as Hermione suddenly cried out in pain. "Rest of you make all this disappear"

"What?" a voice said.

"But the-" Another voice started.

"Forget the Slytherin party and the money" Shiv shouted. "We could all get expelled"

Soon chants of Evanesco met her ears, as a continuous stream of water on her hands provided relief from the burning sensation.

"Stretchers ready" A voice suddenly said.

"Okay, on the count of three let's levitate-" Shiv started.

"Patil, its Riddle" Someone interrupted, sounding frightened.

"Merlin, let's run" another voice said.

"No, we should slowly walk back" Shiv said with a slightly shaky voice.

"Potter, you coward" someone said as Hermione heard what sounded like running, and then there was a thudding sound. All of a sudden she began to see blurry images, but her limbs still felt like jelly.

"It was Potter" a wavering voice said, and she could almost make out a person pointing at someone.

"He threw her against my disillusioned supplies, a barrel fell on her head" Shiv said speaking fast, and Hermione could kind of see a figure taking a step back with its hands raised.

"He didn't like her wearing a Slytherin badge" Another voice said sounding shaky.

"It's all a misunder-" Xavian started unsteadily with fear evident in his voice, but before he could complete the word he started screaming. Hermione saw the outline of a tall figure, pointing what was obviously a wand at a shorter form, while the other humanoid shapes began to flee.

Suddenly, the Gryffindor went quiet but there wasn't silence, as she heard thudding, knocking and scratching sounds, and then she heard heavy breathing for a few seconds. Without a doubt that was Tom, he was obviously beating Xavian to a pulp after magically silencing him, and the dark lord was clearly physically strained. Considering his self mutilations, quidditch, the Auror's interrogation and now this, anyone in his shoes would be.

All of a sudden the stinging in Hermione's hands seemed to return tenfold, and she couldn't help but scream. The tall body froze and instantly turned towards her, like he'd forgotten about her in his bloodlust, and the figure on the floor was motionless now. She could almost make out the wand as the high and slender outline pointed it at her, and she couldn't help gasp in fear. Aside from the fact that he was a psycho dark lord in the making, there was no logical reason to fear him, because lately she'd done nothing to displease him. Still, old fears died hard when you were wandless.

"I'm not going to hurt you" Tom suddenly said in a gentle voice, and her racing pulse seemed to calm. She took in a sharp intake of breath as she felt her hands tingle, and shortly afterwards they permanently stopped stinging. Then she heard him mumble something, and a cool sensation started on her head before spreading down her spine. In seconds her sight returned to normal, and as the almost paralysed feeling disappeared, she hesitantly got on her feet. She swayed while taking a few steps with her hands outstretched, then she almost tripped on her cloak when a hand grabbed it out the way. "Use your eyes" an icy voice said, releasing the material, and Hermione turned her head and looked at the speaker with an alarmed expression. Tom Riddle looked exhausted, dishevelled, annoyed and was alive. All of a sudden everything rapidly came to her mind, and she immediately lowered her gaze. She was no longer dazed or mentally numbed, the full brunt of everything that'd happened weighed down on her. Her heart felt like it would tear, and she wished she could blink out of existence.

Suddenly voices and footsteps sounded, then there was speech that sounded like Dumbledore's before someone else spoke, and lost in her sadness she didn't notice. Tom summoned something from the floor and hurried forward, before turning back towards her. "Why are you stupidly waiting to get caught?" he almost shouted, and she realised a group of professors were coming towards them. "Move" he ordered flicking his wand at her, and she flinched before finding herself disillusioned. As the dark lord resumed speeding in the direction of the heads quarters he disillusioned himself too, she started to follow when she caught a glimpse of Xavian's bloody body, and suppressed a gasp. She knew he was just unconscious, but he'd been beaten so brutally he looked dead. Yes, Xavian deserved punishment but not like that. Everything was her fault, she'd failed to kill the dark lord, and now all the evil he'd do was on her.

When she entered the heads common room she was breathless and in tears, she hadn't wanted to cry before being alone, but she hadn't been able to help it. Occulumency would've kept her emotionless, but her spirit had been so weak, that she hadn't had the energy. Hoping to make it to her room while disillusioned she started towards it, seconds later Tom took away the camouflage, and she tried to bury her face in her shoulder while continuing forward. "Stop" the dark lord said, sounding slightly irritated as he blocked her path, and she instinctively took a step back. "Use it" he said with a sudden soft voice, and she almost jumped as something cloth like touched her hand.

She looked down with wide eyes to find a handkerchief floating near her fingers, feeling ashamed that her enemy was witnessing her personal pain, she neglected his offering and took another step back. "Imperio" Tom whispered, and before she could react her mind went blank. That white cotton handkerchief with the T.R initials, it was so inviting and her face was wet. Yes, she should use it. Hermione plucked it from the air and wiped her tears with it. Then she neatly folded the cloth, after she'd put it in her pocket the magic on her mind disappeared, and she looked up at the dark lord with a horrified expression "Don't mention what happened in the corridor to anyone" he ordered, behaving like he hadn't just imperiused her seconds ago. "Especially my involvement" he added, emphasising the word my. "After all, where would the satisfaction be if there was punishment for punishing Potter?" Tom said, before giving her half a smile and she immediately looked away. She'd felt something she shouldn't have, it was as if he'd pulled a strange emotional string in her heart, and as she tried not to acknowledge it a guilty expression plastered on her face.

Hermione suddenly wanted to break into a run, she wanted to be as far away as possible from the dark lord. "Here" he said pointing a stick, and she jumped back with an alarmed expression, before realising it was her wand. Fuck, lost in sorrow she'd forgotten to search for it. "Take it" the dark lord prompted when she raised her hand with an unsure expression, after she'd shakily grasped her wand she realised their hands were connected by it. The heir of Slytherin must've noticed too as he was obviously feeling the tremors from her hand in his, he suddenly let go with an uncomfortable expression, and startled she almost dropped the stick.

Seconds later Tom turned so that his back was facing her, and she suddenly observed his hands were slightly trembling. If he was so sickly why couldn't he just bloody drop dead? As the dark lord advanced towards his room she had a wild thought to shout Avada Kedavra, and he turned back around like he'd telepathically heard. "Why?" Tom said and her heart lurched, before she realised his eyes were lowered and on her cloak.

Thank God, she thought taking a deep breath. The dark lord hadn't asked why she wanted to kill him, he wanted to know why she'd worn a Slytherin badge. Would he get mad at her if she told him the truth? But saying she'd started to like Slytherins all of a sudden wouldn't be believable, suddenly she had an answer.

"Potter kept insisting I support Gryffindor," Hermione started hesitantly. "Seemed like a good idea at the time" Remaining expressionless he turned away from her again, and feeling safer she tightened the grip on her wand.

Suddenly, the common room door opened and Slughorn walked in.

"Ah, there you are my boy" the potions professor said, smiling widely. "I'm sorry I-" he started with a serious look.

"Professor please, no more apologies" the dark lord interrupted. "I am not unhappy that you lent my broom"

"I'm afraid this is a different matter"

"Different?"

"Tom I have to ask this," Slughorn started with a guilty expression. "Did you get into a fight with Potter in the corridor?"

"No, sir" Tom said with a confused expression.

"Miss Granger" the potions professor said as she was about to move towards her room, and she tried not to give Slughorn a death glare. "Were you injured by Potter?" he questioned, taking a step towards her. "If you hit back in self defence, or someone defended you," he continued, giving Tom an apologetic look. "You wouldn't exactly be punished" the professor said with his eyes on her again.

"But nothing like that happened, sir" Hermione lied, putting a puzzled expression on her face. "And as you can see I'm certainly not injured" she added, and a burst of emotions tried to get through her Occulumency shields. What she'd said she didn't believe, her body was fine but not her soul.

"That Gryffindor must've lied" Slughorn said, seeming satisfied with the answers. "Despite all their bravery, they don't seem to accept defeat bravely" he added with a smile.

"Your observation is most accurate, sir" Tom said, nodding his head.

"My boy you mustn't repeat what I said to anyone" the professor said loudly, looking troubled.

"I have already forgotten" the dark lord said reassuringly.

"Miss Granger I-"

"Professor, I would not wish to cause you trouble" Hermione said, interrupting.

"Excellent" Slughorn said loudly with a smile, while giving a clap with his hands. "Despite all the unpleasantness" he added with a serious voice, placing his eyes on the dark lord. "We Slytherins will be celebrating, Tom you mustn't be late"

"Could I be excused, professor" the dark lord asked in a forced calm voice.

"Nonsense my boy" Slughorn said deafeningly, like he'd been insulted. "You sealed our victory, how can we celebrate in your absence?"

"But I'm feeling unwell, sir" Tom said, touching his forehead with a pained expression.

"Let's see Madam Whittaker, a check up will-" he started with a concerned expression.

"No" the heir of Slytherin said loudly, turning one of his hands into a fist, and Slughorn looked alarmed by his behaviour. "It's just a headache, sir" Tom said mechanically. "I wouldn't want to inconvenience Madam Whittaker, over such a small matter" he continued in a calmer voice, before giving the professor a smile.

"Are you sure my boy?" Slughorn questioned looking unconvinced, while Hermione looked towards her room once more. "Granger, is it just a headache?" the professor asked, and she looked at him with a lost expression. Why was he-? Suddenly she understood, and if it wasn't for Occulumency she could've burst into tears. Slughorn had obviously seen the badge, if he didn't think she was Tom's girlfriend, or at least a close friend he wouldn't have asked her that.

Feeling almost humiliated she looked at the dark lord, did he want her to answer or not? The heir of Slytherin's emotionless appearance was no help, and it was like he'd been taken aback by Slughorn's question too. "Don't look at him, tell me the truth" the potions professor said, crossing his arms.

"Granger's defiance is not intentional, sir" Tom said with an uncomfortable tone. "As she is only my colleague" he added, emphasising the word colleague. "She does not know the actual answer, and was looking to me for help" he continued with a smile that didn't reach his eyes. "It truly is a headache, sir" Tom finished with a slightly strained voice.

"Still, it couldn't hurt to have Madam Whittaker-"

"But it's almost gone" the dark lord said with a sudden cheerful expression. "I will attend the celebration, sir" he added with a toothy smile. "I'm honoured to be personally invited" he said, slightly bowing his head.

"O ho, good to have you in such high spirits" Slughorn said loudly, reaching out to touch Tom on the shoulder, and pretending to sneeze the dark lord distanced himself. "Get yourself together and put on your best robes" he continued, hardly noticing the dodge.

"Of course, sir" the heir of Slytherin said, taking another step back, while Hermione advanced a little towards her chamber.

"Miss only colleague, you must come too" Slughorn said loudly with a cheerful tone, and the head girl froze as she realised he was addressing her, while Tom had gone emotionless again. As she saw the look on the professor's face she wanted to curse him, but the cruelty of fate wouldn't allow it.

"Professor I-" Hermione started in a forced calm voice.

"You did support Slytherin" The professor said, interrupting. "Miss Granger, I haven't forgotten about detention today" No, no. Was he going to do what she thought he was going to do? "Your detention task is to celebrate with us" blood drained from her face, and as she imagined being a public spectacle at the Slytherin gathering, while they thought the dark lord had lured her with false affections into making a fool out of herself, she felt truly humiliated. Occulumency was now the only thing keeping her sane and composed.

"Granger wore the badge as a courtesy to me, since we're paired in all classes" Tom said looking momentarily unsure.

"Courtesy, of course" Slughorn said with a mischievous smile.

"Professor, having arrived in September, I don't think she knew how deep house rivalries are" he continued, looking at Hermione. "Granger's experience at the celebration may not be entirely positive, wouldn't that be unkind?" Tom said, looking at Slughorn again, and Hermione quashed a feeling of reflexive gratitude while taking a deep breath.

"My boy, you make us Slytherins sound like barbarians" the professor said with a mock hurt expression before laughing out loud.

"That was not my intention, sir"

"I'm aware," Slughorn said, waving his hand dismissively. "You'll be pleased to know, I never meant to make Miss Granger attend against her will" he said cheerfully. "I couldn't resist making her think otherwise" the professor added, with his eyes on Hermione. "On this happy day your detention is cancelled" Slughorn said, giving her a smile, and although she felt relieved she didn't return it. "Please do attend the celebration as a guest"

"I'm sorry I have to decline, sir" Hermione said, finally flashing him a smile, and the dark lord suddenly caught her eye. "Please excuse me, I'm tired" she forced out, barely holding herself together.

"Of course, Miss Granger" Slughorn said dismissively. Then he and Tom talked about something that she couldn't be bothered to focus on, and halfway up the stairs to her room she noticed the professor leaving.

The second the common room door shut, the dark lord sank to the floor and put his head in his hands. He too had just been holding it together, the only difference was he'd brought it upon himself and she hadn't. As she neared her doorway she caught sight of Tom again, he was still on the ground and drinking something out of a vial. He suddenly threw it against the wall, and as she heard the sound of its possible destruction she pushed her door open.

After rushing inside she sealed the entrance, and magically sound proofed her room. Then she freed her mind from Occulumency, and as all feelings and emotions hit her with their worst she screamed as loud as she could. When her throat was hoarse she started to punch and kick at the walls. The dark lord's handkerchief suddenly fell out of her pocket, she murderously glared at it before trying to rip it apart with her hands. After many tries she managed to tear it a little, and as she attempted to separate it into two, a purple light caught her eyes. Even though her throat hurt she screamed one more time, why the fuck did she still have the chrysanthemums Voldemort had given her days ago? Hermione grabbed the flowers, and pulled the petals of with her fingers before crushing them with her feet. Then she yanked the badge of her cloak with a cry, and set it on fire. How the hell had she worn a Slytherin badge and not known? How?

"Incendio" Hermione shouted, setting the handkerchief and the remains of the blossoms alight too. But the burning did not bring her satisfaction, as all she could see was her dream of a Voldemort free world going up in smoke. "No" she shouted, stamping at the ground. Her wish and hope, it was gone. Hermione raised her hands and sobbed into them. Why hadn't she been able to kill Voldemort? Why had all her attempts to kill him failed? Why was heaven working in the favour of the devil? Was there no such thing as right or wrong to the higher powers? Then why didn't they bend fate to her favour, or was Voldemort right? Were right and wrong of no meaning, and did power only matter? Then was she not powerful enough to defeat him? He was Lord fucking Voldemort and all she was doing was, tolerating him, working together with him and letting him control her. How the heck was that making him pay? Trying to get the upper hand she'd become almost like his slave, she might as well carve a dark mark into her forearm. What was the difference between her and a death eater? Willing or not, they did their masters bidding and so had she.

Hermione sank to the floor and beat her knuckles against it, before letting out another cry. She'd failed, it was all her fault. It had been out of her hands but it didn't matter, the end result wouldn't change. She should've bloody foreseen the risks, and chosen something more concrete. It was all on her, as the memories of Harry, Ron, the Weasley family and her parents ran through her mind, she cried harder and harder. When Hermione couldn't make any more noise she resorted to soundlessly weeping, hours later she crawled to the bathroom and stripped of all her clothes. On her third attempt she pulled on her nightdress but neglected the robe. Then she lay back on the cold floor, she deserved suffering not comfort, maybe she'd learn then that this was a battle? Perhaps Hogwarts homelike comforts had made her forget?

A few more hours passed and her crying began anew, but the reasons were very different. When it'd settled into her mind that she'd lost, and that the outcome couldn't be changed no matter how much she wanted, new treacherous thoughts had formed in her mind. She didn't know how or where they'd come from, they were suddenly there and made their presence known. Hermione screamed before punching the floor, how could her own mind do this to her? There was nothing to hide behind but guilt and shame, it was an awful thought, but it couldn't be denied that a tiny part of her was glad Tom had lived. It was the side of her that had a terrible thirst for knowledge, and it was happy he'd be around to tell her new things. Surely, these feeling had developed after her plan had failed but it was still wrong.

She shouldn't like him telling her things, she couldn't like anything about him. She was supposed to hate him 100% but she didn't, did she? Hermione beat her knuckles against the floor again, and sprouted fresh tears. Yes, she liked it when he spoon fed her information. She enjoyed working in lessons with him, and she loved watching his brain in action, when they worked on their potions project. If it was just admiration for his intelligence, it wouldn't have been so terrible but that wasn't true. Ashy remains on the floor caught her eyes and attacked her mind like accusing evidence, those flowers had been his creation and she'd held onto them for days. Because deep down she'd liked them and had been making excuses to keep them, to the point that her subconscious had registered them as something she loved, and so at nights its light hadn't seemed alien. She let out a cry, and tugged at her hair feeling ashamed.

If only that was all, but it wasn't. Hermione hadn't realised or suppressed it until an hour ago, but she'd been thankful that he'd tried to dissuade Slughorn from making her attend the Slytherin celebration. And most terrible of all, she believed Xavian deserved punishment, and therefore a part of her had been pleased that Tom had hurt Xavian. She knew it wasn't just to defend her, that it was only an excuse he'd needed to hit the Gryffindor, and at the same time to manipulate her into thinking he cared. She knew he really didn't care because Voldemort only cared for himself, he just wanted her on his side, as he thought she was a powerful witch that could be advantageous to him.

Then there were times when she'd thought he was handsome, yes it was a fact he was. But unlike other girls she knew he was Voldemort, and surely she'd only found him attractive when she was a little unfocused. But even if it was a momentary mistake, she was still at fault as it wouldn't have happened if she'd had better control over her mind. Hermione screamed once more and new hot tears dropped onto her cheeks. She was guilty of all these traitorous things, and it was crushing her heart. She liked things about Tom when she shouldn't, and now a part of her was glad he lived. Disgust and anger welled up inside her and she resumed punching the floor. An hour later she lay on the ground, curled into a ball and soon sleep claimed her mind.

Hermione spent the entire next day in her room, she'd eaten nothing and drank only water. The following day was a Sunday, her depression continued and she spent morning and afternoon crying and staring at the ceiling. Her stomach wanted food, but she was determined to continue the starvation. She didn't have the willpower to face the world yet, especially Tom Riddle.

After the sun had gone down she choose to stay in darkness, hours passed as she leaked more tears and slept in between. A sudden knocking sound made Hermione sit upright, and in seconds she realised it was coming from her door. She didn't want to see anyone, and hoping it would go away she covered her ears with her hands. Was it the dark lord, she suddenly thought with an alarmed expression. The knocks became louder, and searching for her wand in the dark she moved further away from the doorway.

"Granger" a voice said loudly, and realising it was Bones she relaxed a little. "Granger" Bones called again, and expecting she'd go away Hermione stayed as she was. Without warning, there was a flash of yellow light with a crackling sound, indicating that the sealing magic on her entrance had been undone, and finally locating her wand Hermione gripped it tightly. The door suddenly opened and the light flooding in made her squint.

"Leave" Hermione hissed, shakily raising her wand as Bones walked in uninvited.

"Come with me"

"Get out" she said attempting a shouting voice.

"Come with me" Bones repeated, and Hermione was about to make the girl leave with magic, when she noticed the vacant look on her face. The light from outside wasn't strong, but it was enough for her know what she'd seen, Bones was without a doubt under the imperius curse.

"Listen to her" A faraway male voice said, and Hermione almost dropped her wand in fright. It was Tom, only he'd do something like this because he couldn't get in her room. "If you know what's best for you" the dark lord's distant voice added, and Bones immediately pointed her wand.

Hermione shakily got to her feet knowing there was no choice, as even if she disarmed the girl it would be a temporary fix. She'd have to leave her room one day, and there'd definitely be punishment for disobeying Tom. For a second she wanted to be recklessly defiant, then she knew she couldn't purposely endanger an innocent, as he could also decide to hurt Bones for the defiance, and it'd be all her fault.

Hermione hid her wand hand behind her back before taking a few unsteady steps forward, and as she felt dizzy from low energy she grabbed onto Bones for support. Seconds later they advanced towards the door together, while stepping over the threshold Hermione lowered her gaze, and she couldn't help feel scared as she wondered why Tom had done this.

Her pulse picked up speed as she slowly walked down the staircase, while leaning heavily against the rail with her eyes still downwards. After her feet touched level ground, she saw the dark lord's shoes on the stone floor, and took in a sharp intake of breath but still didn't look up. She didn't want to be here, she didn't want to see his face. Suddenly feeling more energy less than ever, Hermione almost stumbled towards an armchair before holding onto it for support, and at that moment she felt her wand fly out of her hand.

She angrily creased her forehead but didn't bother to look over her shoulder, the direction her stick had gone in told her it was Bones behind her. Of course it'd be Bones, out of her view and under the dark lord's control. He must've known she'd least expect to be disarmed like that and he was right, in her weakened state she'd overlooked Bones as a threat. Seconds later she held her breath as she watched the dark lord's shadow advance towards her, and when he walked past her she released it. But she couldn't feel relieved, he'd obviously take possession of her wand and was now completely out of view. "Obliviate" she suddenly heard Tom say and the unexpectedness made her blink. "Goodnight Bones" he added.

"Erm-goodnight Riddle" Bones said sounding a little lost.

"Is your head okay?"

"My-my head"

"You did just drop" the dark lord said with a concerned tone.

"Oh- that explains it" she said sounding reassured.

"I've numbed the area, but you should go lie down"

"Thank you, Riddle. I will" Bones said, and Hermione saw her legs as she walked in front of her.

"Granger, are you-" she started in a high pitched voice.

"She twisted her ankle when she helped you up" Tom said interrupting.

"Oh, I'm sorry" Bones said moving in her direction.

"It's ok" Hermione forced out in a voice barely above a whisper.

"Best to leave her still" the dark lord said, when Bones was about to touch her. "Otherwise the spell may not set it properly"

"Ah, yes" Bones said lowering her hand. "Granger, were you always here" she started sounding confused. "In the common room I mean"

"She arrived seconds after you fell" Tom said answering instead. "In your dazed state you didn't notice"

"Of course" Longbottom's girlfriend said sounding confident again.

"You should really lie down, Bones" the dark lord said moving towards them. "Don't worry about Granger, I'll take care of her" he voiced, placing his hand on the other side of the armchair Hermione was holding, and she couldn't help feel chills go down her spine. What the hell did he mean by that, or was he just saying that to get rid of Bones?

"I see-erm-err-" Bones started in a tone that said she felt awkward. "-thank you both and goodnight again" she added hurriedly and it was obvious now, that she thought she was delaying a longed for private moment between her and the dark lord.

"Goodnight Bones" Tom said in kind but dismissive tone, and as the girl walked away Hermione wished she'd come back.

Soon the sound of a door opening and closing met her ears, and she momentarily held her breath. Seconds passed in uncomfortable silence, then the dark lord vocally cast a sound proofing spell and her heart lurched. "Look at me" Tom said in soft voice, and she felt too afraid to. "Look at me" he shouted, making her flinch and appearing fearful she looked at him. She caught a flash of anger and annoyance on his face, before his usual emotionless mask took over. "You stupid, weak, pathetic creature" he hissed punching the armchair, and she let go of the furniture feeling more frightened. "Sit before you fall" the dark lord said in a gentler voice, and she realised she was kind of swaying to one side. "Sit" he added with a commanding tone, and she shakily lowered herself onto the armchair, then the hairs on her arms stood. He was behind her and out of her view again, but now that they were completely alone it was ten times scarier. After a tense moment the heir of Slytherin walked in front of her, and even though she kept her head upright she avoided his eyes.

Without warning he gave his wand a wave, making Hermione almost jump and as a floating green shawl materialised, she realised she was missing the robe she usually wore on top of her nightdress. Suddenly, she felt more self conscious and embarrassed than afraid. The nightwear wasn't that revealing, nothing he hadn't seen at the Halloween dance. Only this felt more personal and disgustingly intimate, no wonder Bones had reacted so uneasily. When he bent down towards her an unsure expression flashed on his face, and feeling uncomfortable she held her breath. As he wrapped the shawl around her, taking care not to touch her, she couldn't help turn red. The second he was done he was far away again, and she took in a deep breath feeling secure.

However, the comfort of being covered didn't last. The dark lord's continued presence and stare made the fearful feelings creep back. "He isn't worth it" Tom suddenly said, Hermione wondered what he was talking about, but fearing she'd anger him she didn't show it. "Whatever Potter said or did, almost two days of starvation isn't justifiable" he continued in a high pitched voice, and his unpredicted words made her blink in disbelief. "Are you dim or just feeble?" he added with anger creeping into his voice, and as her own hot temper ignited she looked at the floor. She wanted to shout out that it was actually because he'd lived, and he was dumb to have not figured it out. "Must be disgustingly both" the dark lord said dismissively, and Hermione dug her nails into the chair's armrests.

Grief suddenly gripped her heart, and instead of crying she wanted to laugh. The dark lord had caused her sadness and craziness, and here he was giving her an earful against it. Fate and bad luck must've teamed up, and were having a bloody field day. And as if that wasn't enough, they'd made Xavian fucking Potter the reason for her madness. That was like saying Dumbledore had gone without food for days, because a flobberworm had leaked mucus on his hands. No wonder Tom was pissed, she was a powerful witch in his eyes and he couldn't comprehend her behaviour. Must be a blow to his ego to have ever held her in high regard, so this is what all his anger was really about, and he'd summoned her to understand.

All of a sudden Hermione wanted to cry, she was depressed, angry, weak and really hungry. Her world was collapsing and she didn't have the energy or care, to smooth out a dent on the dark lord's self-worth. Fuck it, she was getting out of here. A second later he looked away and she felt brave enough to actually do it. "Don't" Tom said in warning tone as she rebelliously raised herself of the armchair, and her courage instantly vanished.

Hermione sat back down feeling angrier and more trapped than ever. It was clever to obey when you were wandless, but it didn't feel like it. Then again, it was all her fault. This wouldn't be happening if she'd just killed the son of a-oh, God no. She wasn't going to cry in front of him, not again. Hermione sniffed and blinked, trying to stop herself from doing so. The dark lord suddenly said something, and this time she blinked feeling terrified. Had he just spoken parseltongue? "Sssibby" he repeated, and she moved her eyes back and forth, feeling a lot more scared. Was he calling a snake? He could've made those sounds in anger, he'd done that before so-damn it, she shouldn't have tried to get up.

Without warning a loud crack sounded, causing her to jump in her seat, and as a house elf appeared her eyes widened. What the-since when did their kind respond to parseltongue?

"Sibby is indebted to serve you" the elf said bowing, and suddenly it all made sense. There was no parseltongue, the creature's name was worded in a way that could be made to sound so, and the dark lord could've intended it or had done it instinctively. "Why is now master doing this?" it suddenly wailed, banging its head on the floor. "Why, why?" it voiced continuing its actions, and Hermione also couldn't help think why. Why on earth was it answering to Riddle when students weren't masters of Hogwarts elves? Wait, when it'd arrived it hadn't said at your service, it'd said indebted to serve you. Also, Sibby hadn't addressed Tom as master but now master, like he was her master for now. Holy mother Mary, he'd somehow blackmailed or manipulated it into thinking it owed him its services. All this under Dumbledore's nose, and considering how powerful house elves could be, it must be something awful indeed. Not surprising since he was Voldemort, it just made an already scary situation, a lot scarier. Especially when you didn't know why he'd need a house elf at this moment, and as Hermione continued to stare she tried to keep her expression calm. "Now master, I is getting in trouble" Sibby the elf said, after fixing her with a terrified expression.

"She isn't in a position to tell anyone anything" Tom said reassuringly, and Hermione couldn't help feel alarmed. Tell about the elf servitude thing, or whatever he was planning to do with its help?

"I is in trouble, I is a bad elf" it continued, boxing its own ears.

"Stop that" the dark lord snapped, and Sibby went quiet after gasping in fear. "Bring it" he ordered before dismissively waving his hand, and mumbling something the house elf disappeared. What in God's name was it meant to bring back? Veritaserum, foeglass, pensive or some kind of a weapon, she thought as her pulse raced.

Suddenly, Sibby appeared again and her heart lurched. It was holding something covered in white cloth, why was it concealed? The dark lord raised his wand, she stopped blinking and Sibby took a step back. Soon a tea table materialised, and for a moment Hermione felt relieved. "Put it down" Tom ordered, and the elf placed what it'd brought on top of the new furniture. "Leave" he said, making a gesture of dismissal with his hand, and as the house elf vanished Tom's eyes went towards her.

Hermione was breathing faster than usual as she stared at the recently conjured table, wondering what kind of dangerous thing lay on it and why he wanted her here? The dark lord flicked his wand towards the direction she was looking in, the covering on the mysterious thing fell away, and she held her breath as she saw a dome like metal. What in God's name-was that-? The metallic top magically detached, and Hermione's eyes widened in disbelief as she saw what was inside. It was food, cooked chicken and potatoes. Bloody Merlin, why would he-was she hallucinating from hunger?

"Eat" Tom commanded, moving the tea table closer to her. She could still see it, it was real. Why did he want her to-this had to be a cruel trick. "Eat" he repeated in a higher pitched voice, and her stomach agreed but not her mind. The dark lord didn't care about others, what had he put in it? Even if there was nothing hidden, she didn't want his food. Too afraid to vocalise it, Hermione nodded her head to say no. "You will eat" Tom hissed, taking a step towards her, and she leaned as back as she could. "Even if I have to shove it down your throat" he shouted, pointing his wand and Hermione jumped in her seat. Merlin, he looked furious. She was meant to be submissive so-. No, she didn't want to. At this moment her soul couldn't bear it, the willpower wasn't there.

Suddenly, her mind went blank. Hermione's hands went near the food before she picked up a knife and fork, she cut into the chicken, placed a piece in her mouth, then she chewed and swallowed it. She repeated her actions until she'd eaten the entire meal, later there was a goblet of water in her hands, and she couldn't remember where it'd come from. Only that she had to drink all of it, and so the head girl did just that, shortly afterwards her mind returned to normal and she burst into tears.

Why the fuck had he imperiused her to-if only she was crying because of that. She wasn't, the real reason was truly awful. Her stomach was glad for the food, and a part of her couldn't help feel grateful that he'd made her eat. How could her traitorous body like what Voldemort had done? Feeling more ashamed by the second she cried louder, is this what he wanted? To manipulate her emotions under the pretence of providing relief, so that her body uncontrollably felt indebted to him, while her mind cursed at her. Hermione began to sob into her hands as the guilt started to burn her heart, like she'd been fed poison instead of food.

"Stop that" Tom suddenly snapped, and her shoulders jumped in response before she began to whimper. "Silence" he yelled, followed by the sound of something exploding, and trying to hold her breath she looked up with a terrified expression. The dark lord appeared murderous, the tea table and everything that'd been on it was in pieces. "You think it's terrible to be fed when you're hungry?" he shouted, grabbing a fistful of her hair and she cried out in pain. Tom immediately released her before taking a step back, and he was forming and un-forming his hands into fists.

He suddenly threw something at her, and she recoiled at its contact before realising it was a handkerchief. Then she forced herself to pick it up, the dark lord obviously wanted her to use it, and it was wise not to push her luck. Besides, he'd just imperious her and probably crucio her as well this time. After she'd patted her eyes and cheeks with the cotton square, Hermione lowered her hands and went still. The heir of Slytherin was unmoving too, and he was watching her. After awhile she mustered up the courage to ask if she could leave, she was about to vocalise it when he started to vanish the items he'd broken, and she lost her nerve. Soon the common room was back to its normal appearance, and Tom's eyes were on her again. He took a few steps towards her and Hermione couldn't help feel afraid. After a few tense seconds the dark lord placed her wand on her seat's armrest, and she took in a deep breath before tightening her fist around the stick.

Power and protection, it was in her hands again. Her mind registered the heir of Slytherin's presence once more, and the sense of safety didn't last but she felt braver. Only when he started to walk towards his room did she believe she was out of danger, but to ensure its permanency she had to get out of here. Too impatient to wait until she was alone, she sprang to her feet and climbed the stairs to her chamber with ease. Seconds after her feet had touched the landing, she became aware of her newfound strength and full belly. Guilt began to originate from there again, like she was pregnant with it, and she shakily raised a hand towards her door handle. "Granger" Tom's voice called after she'd touched it, and Hermione froze with her heart beating fast.

Then she wiped all emotion from her face, and forced herself to turn towards him. The dark lord appeared expressionless too, and he was looking right at her. "You will not tell a soul about Sibby the elf" Tom ordered, and she nodded her head to say yes. "Potter's worthless compared to you" he added in a softer voice, lowering his gaze and she blinked in disbelief. As the meaning of his words sank in, the heavy depressive feeling in her stomach changed to something strange and fluttery. With his expression still blank, Tom locked eyes with her again before disappearing into his room, and a second later she did the same.

Guilt, shame and regret crashed onto Hermione with renewed vigour, and she fell onto her bed in tears. Too unfocused to magically sound proof her room, she buried her face in her pillow and began to cry with all her strength. She'd liked what he'd said to her, hadn't she? It was all lies, to manipulate her to fulfil his hidden agenda. But true or not, the way she'd felt wasn't false, was it? It was confusion and surprise, that is what that feeling had been and nothing more.

The food, there was no denying that. More warm tears fell on her pillow, and now it was soaking wet. But she hadn't had a choice, he'd imperiused her to eat. It wasn't her fault, she wasn't to blame if he cared whether she'd eaten or not. No, no. The dark lord did not fucking care about her, she let out a mild cry and clawed at the quilt. Of course he didn't care, Voldemort wasn't human enough to feel such emotions. He was a psycho who could only care about himself, he thought she was clever and wanted to use her, right? Well, he wouldn't be able to if she wasted away, so keeping her mind and body well served his purpose. That's why he'd fed her, and to also try and understand why someone inferior like Xavian mattered so much.

Only he didn't, the dark lord had just presumed. It was Voldemort that'd made her go crazy, if he had just bloody died-why hadn't he-fate wanted to mentally torture her. Forcing her to experience and feel-that wasn't true. Her actions had been forced but not her emotions. Ingesting chicken and potatoes, that wasn't her. But liking the sensation of her belly being full, and relief that the burning hunger had disappeared, that was all her wasn't it? Hermione punched her bed a few times and sobbed louder. No, no. He was Voldemort and she couldn't like anything he did for her, even if it was against her will.

She hated him, she wanted him dead. But she couldn't help liking a few things about him, why in the name if Merlin, why? This wasn't the first time, how could she-? Hermione was about to hit the mattress again, when she became aware of the slipping cloth on her shoulders, and remembering what it was she jumped into a sitting position. But before she could angrily discard it, the time limit on Tom's conjured shawl expired and it vanished. Only it seemed to her like it'd soaked into her skin, and she couldn't help feel dirty as she became plagued with thoughts of his magic going into her body. Hermione scratched at her shoulders and hands before leaking more salty water. Suddenly, she located his handkerchief on her person and tried to rip it apart with her hands. She managed to pull a few threads before destroying it with magic, then she lay back on her pillows and produced fresh tears.

She hated Voldemort, that was 100% true. But the less negative things he did, some of the things he was capable of, there was no denying she couldn't help-. It didn't mean anything, she didn't actually like Voldemort. She just liked the qualities in him and anyone could have those qualities. Like with what he'd said earlier, she knew she was better than Xavian Potter, and she'd felt that strange happy feeling because she knew it was true. It didn't matter if the dark lord had made her realise it. Because it wasn't actually the dark lord that had made her happy, it was the truth of his words.

So all along her crazy feelings were justified, it wasn't Tom but the things he could do. She had an admiration for those talents and actions, that's all it was. She hated Voldemort, she wanted him dead and she wouldn't give up until he was. He could try and manipulate her all he wanted, but she would not be manipulated or deceived. He was what he was, and she would fulfil her vision of a Voldemort free world. It wasn't over, there was still time but for now she was a failure. Guilt and blame filled her heart once more, and recalling memories of her old life Hermione cried herself to sleep.

Hello readers, I'm very grateful to have readers that are still reading this story. I wish I could update faster, and I would if I could.

When I'm too sad or stressed, the creativity just doesn't come to me, and in a whole day all I can write is a sentence.

I will never ever abandon a story, no matter how long it takes, if I'm still alive I will always try to finish the story.

Lately I got a message saying, there's is no way Tom could be that intelligent while at school, and that Hermione should be as intelligent as him, because she was the most intelligent in class at 1998.

I'd like to say once again, it's clear from the books that Hermione relies heavily on just memorising things to be called intelligent, and she does have magical talent when it comes to casting learned spells.

So she has a very sharp memory, but that doesn't make her super intelligent in my eyes. Canon fact is, she struggled in HBP when she didn't have a book to tell her how to make perfect potions, and she even tried to get Harry to stop using Snape's book because it wasn't ministry approved.

That says three things about her, 1. She relies heavily on what she reads, 2. She doesn't have the ability to use her own mind to make a potion, and 3. She gets very jealous when someone bests her.

When I get messages saying, Hermione should be very powerful and undefeatable, I just think no, no. She is talented with a wand, but she is not very very powerful yet. With her age, and a little over one year battle experience, of which most was spent hiding and reading, will not turn her into a seasoned warrior.

In DH she did get captured by death eaters, and then got crucioed. I know there was more than one, but the point is, she couldn't fight them off. Even when she had Harry and Ron, to distract or back her up.

Bellatrix Lestrange was able to duel with at least three people simultaneously, before being killed by Molly Weasley. So it's possible to magically fight more than one at once, only Hermione couldn't manage, even with Harry and Ron to provide some help.

So to make her as powerful as Dumbledore or Merlin, as other fan fics do, would be incorrect and wrong in my eyes.

Now I know many have said, Hermione and Tom are roughly the same age now, and still at school.

Whether Hermione is better than Tom Riddle at this point in her life, remains to be seen in my fan fic, as Hermione never got to use her full strength, and skills against him.

If you recall from my previous chapters, she tripped on furniture by accident, and Tom used that moment of distraction to take her wand with physical body strength.

No matter how powerful she is, Hermione is a girl with an average body, and Tom being male will always be physically stronger than her. Many won't like this, but it's a scientific fact, that males are stronger than females without having to do any workout.

Those that do workout won't be stronger than males that have the same workout routine as them, this in no way means that males are undefeatable. Where females lack in strength, they have to make up with skill, speed and cunningness.

At other times, Hermione was too slow at drawing her wand, causing him to disarm her before she had the chance, or she didn't draw her wand on purpose. So you see, she couldn't have magically fought back without her wand, and so she has never actually duelled with him.

Yeah, we know he's Tom Riddle, but during fights all Hermione can see is Voldemort. That innate fear cannot be helped, and knowing he's already a killer doesn't make things better either. As all she can see is, herself as another Myrtle and Tom becoming Voldemort as usual.

Even when she realises he couldn't be as strong as Voldemort, a tiny part of her is fearful to test it. While a large part of her is confident that she'd win, if she did without killing him, then he'd permanently label her a threat he had to get rid of.

So even though it greatly pains her, she chose to pretend to be weak and submissive, to make Tom think she isn't something he has to eliminate. Allowing her to peacefully plan he's murder, without having to look over her shoulder all the time, and the secrecy of her skills also gives her the upper hand, since he'd never be suspicious of her real motive to kill him.

Those of you messaging me and saying, Hermione would never act rashly, or she's so good she'd never do anything evil or dark, I have to say you're wrong. She already is all of those things in canon.

Here are some shocking facts for you –

At 11 she seeks out a troll to try and prove she's powerful, then she set fire to a professor during quidditch because that's probably the first thing that popped into her head.

At 12 she suggests and makes polyjuice potion to sneak into the Slytherin common room, without caring about the consequences if caught.

At 13 she punched Draco Malfoy without a care, she could've used her wand but she decided to get physical. Here, I strongly believe Malfoy would've hit her back, and the only thing holding him back was his pure blood upbringing that taught him, it was wrong to physically hit females.

All of the above shows and proves she's reckless and instinctive -

At 14 she puts Rita Skeeter in a jar, and then black mailed her to write what Hermione wanted for a year, and only then would she not report Rita as an unregistered Animagus.

(This proves Hermione's impulsiveness, a dark side to get what she wants, and a disregard of the law / the right thing, as long as what she gains is justified in her eyes).

At 15 she created a jinx that was to be activated when a member of the D.A turned traitor, resulting in the permanent scarring of Marietta Edgecombe. The word sneak was written on her face in serious pimples, and it was so powerful that Madam Pomfrey was unable to make the slightest change. Plus, Hermione was also unsympathetic towards Marietta afterwards.

She was also completely horrible to Luna Lovegood, and tells harry off for associating with people like her. (This shows Hermione's a little controlling, arrogant and prejudiced against outcasts.)

She manipulated Umbridge into the forbidden forest, and lets centaurs drag her away. She does not attempt to help, and nor does she attempt to seek help. Being a bookworm, Hermione must've known that all stories of centaurs state that their kind like to rape women,

Here I like to think that the ones at Hogwarts are a different breed, or that Dumbledore, or a founder of Hogwarts put them under a magical vow, to not to give into their raping nature if a female stumbled into the woods, and that Hermione knew that. But Umbridge may not have known that, and she probably thought she was going to get gang raped or killed, which is exactly what Hermione wanted.

At 16 she uses Cormack McLaggen by dating him, even though she has no interest in him, just because she gets jealous of Ron not drooling after her, since he's found Lavender. She also uses confundus charm on him to make him lose, so that Ron can be the quidditch keeper.

And there are other things that hint at her being not so good, but I think I've said enough.

With all these in the books, I don't know why people write to me and say, -but Hermione would never turn dark or use unforgivables, or that she's so good and pure and that I've ruined her character.

Hermione was never a typical Gryffindor, the things she did in the HP series required some kind of a cunning character, and a streak of darkness within.

Someone recently sent me a PM saying she wouldn't find Tom attractive while he's being so cruel to her.

Well, obviously she wouldn't at the moments when he's being 100% evil towards her, or when he's torturing the life out of her.

But he isn't very cruel all the time, especially when Hermione just obeys him or doesn't oppose him. It is at those moments that Hermione glimpses the side of Tom that is the clever, genius boy. Naturally, unintentional admiration follows, and given her age, hormones also try to mess with her head.

Yes, hormones do affect Hermione, and she is a human with desires -

In COS Hermione wasn't immune to Lockhart's looks, even though she knew he was stupid, she even went as far as to make excuses for him, and outlined hearts around the lesson slots she had with Lockhart on her time table.

There's strong suggestion she went out with Krum because he was older, kind of handsome, and she didn't want to appear like she couldn't get a date.

From the books it's obvious she has a weakness for pretty boys, what girl wouldn't?

Proving Hermione isn't above being a teenage girl when it comes to hormones, and with Tom Riddle being the most handsome boy at Hogwarts she will have moments of weakness, dark lord or not.

That is realistic, especially from my character analysis, it would be un-realistic if she wasn't affected by his good looks in the slightest.

About Tom's intelligence -

No matter how many people say otherwise, Tom is a genius, like Dumbledore was when he was young.

Tom is and always will be more intelligent than Hermione, this is proven by the books. Dumbledore said Hermione is the brightest witch of her age, but he said Tom was one of the most brilliant students to have ever attended Hogwarts.

Tom's intelligence isn't just because he can memorise things, I like to think that his brain is more special than others, like Einstein's brain had more glial cells than normal humans.

Also, Tom has natural talent for some things, and you just have to be born with it to be advantaged.

Someone said what I'm portraying Tom to be is impossible, that genius like that at his age cannot exist.

Yet, in our world sho yano started college at 9 and entered school of medicine at 12. Akrit Jaswal performed his first surgery at just seven years old, and also started medical school at 12.

If the muggles can do it, why not wizards, so as far as I'm concerned Tom can be that much of a genius at that age.

The only advantages Hermione has is her experience in battle, and the element of surprise or disguise, as Tom lacks battle experience, and would fall for it if she acted dumber / weak, because he doesn't know the real her.

Even though Tom's not experienced in battle, he is skilled, cunning and manipulative. He would eventually find a way to deal with her, if he thought she was a threat, and so she acted to make him think she wasn't.

I see that as being kind of Slytherin smart, and not weak or stupid, like countless people have told me.

I always thought it was stupid when Hermione in other fan fics battles Tom and wins, and then gets all panicked and throws a hissy fit, when Tom gets interested in her, and starts investigating her back ground.

What did she expect? If she wanted to lay low or have him dismiss her as a mundane witch, it's obvious she should've pretended to be one.

Funny, how no reviews seem to complain about that, or that she's not acting very intelligent if she doesn't know the meaning of, how to not draw attention.

Instead, there's dozen's of reviews praising her for being brave and not weak. I never understood that, anyone else feel the same way?

Umm, this author note has gotten long as I got carried away.

Thank you to all that reviewed the last chapter, and also those that messaged me.

Hope this chapter was satisfactory, and please forgive any mistakes in grammar.

Please, please review. Even its just one word it means a lot to me, and it really does help me to update faster.

Until next time, hopefully some of you will still be here.