Author's Note: And here is the next chapter. I was originally planning on updating tomorrow, but I ended up finishing one day early, so enjoy the update.
Angellwriter- Gabriel is two years older than Hermione, so he's in his seventh year. As for where he has been…I can't answer that. ;) You'll just have to wait and see.
TrixieRixie96-The bug was tracking what she and everyone else around her are saying.
Thanks for the reviews! You guys are the best!
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"You did what?"
Avery stammered and took a step backwards in fear, but Tom didn't care. He made sure his eyes flashed red, so the boy could see just how scary he was. He had trained his followers, and the first thing Avery went to do was curse Hermione. And to make matters even worse, he cast a stupid a damn Aguamenti in the middle of the corridor. What was he trying to do, make Hermione die of hypothermia?
His lips curled up slightly. Even if he had cast one of the three Unforgivables, Hermione could've easily beat him, though she was on crutches. Her magical skills were superior to everyone, except for him, of course. The duel didn't mean anything; he was sure both of them were holding back quite a lot. He would have to lure her out of school if he wanted her to duel properly. He smirked. He couldn't wait to see the glint in her eyes, the beautiful dangerous look on her face while she tried curse him.
Tom looked darkly down at Avery, who was bowed and trembling by his feet. Disgusting. How dare he touch Hermione. She was only his to touch, and his to curse if he pleased. She was his. It seemed like his followers were starting to get a little disobedient. Maybe a few punishments were in order. It would not do if Hermione was uncomfortable around him.
"Did I ask you to attack Hermione?" He asked coldly, and Avery trembled with fear, eyeing the wand in his hand. Orion and Abraxas were sitting a couple feet away, though he wasn't going to punish them anytime soon. They were faithful, they were obedient, and they could cast more curses in their sleep than Avery could. Not to mention, Hermione seemed to enjoy their presence. However, if they started getting too close, he wouldn't hesitate; Hermione was only for him. Not even they were worthy enough of her.
Cygnus had told him that he was spending the day with Violetta, but Tom didn't take that as a surprise. Orion's brother always came up with some sort of excuse to skip the meetings, but he let him skip them. Partly because he was Orion's brother, and partly because he was faithful as well. He was also an extremely skilled wizard. He served Tom well, and Lord Voldemort always rewarded his followers.
Hermione had stumbled upon their little meeting once, hadn't she? It was the darkest, most secret corridor in the whole entire castle. He wondered where she had been trying to go. There was nothing around this part of the castle; not even Dumbledore came here, which was why he chose this specific location. He had asked her about it, but she had refused to answer. She never answered anything he asked, anyway, so he wasn't surprised. But what he was shocked by was how open he was with her.
He had told her about Amy. He wondered why he did. It wasn't something he just shared with anyone. In fact, no one but he, Amy and Dennis knew about it, and the latter two were in no condition to talk. Then, he thought of the event that he sparked afterwards. What the hell was he thinking? Lord Voldemort did not go kissing random girls. Maybe if she had something Tom wanted. Did she? She had information. That had to be it. There was no other reason why he would do something so rash.
And his boggart…he shuddered. He had thought he saw wrong at first, but the reaction of the class showed that the prancing girl in front of him had been real. Was he afraid of her? Lord Voldemort was afraid of no one. He certainly didn't feel fear near her. More like…he was intrigued. But he definitely felt no fear towards her. Maybe the boggart had been toying with him. He was going to have to sneak out one night and curse the boggart in the worst way possible.
"My Lord," Lestrange crouched next to Avery. Tom turned his cold, pitiless eyes towards him. He was equally to blame about the incident. He expected his two oldest followers to set a better example than this. Walburga could be easily scared by a few minor curses by Orion, though nothing big or suspicious. Gabriel could be taken care of when he went to the Manor the following break. He narrowed his eyes; no one would mess with his Hermione and get away with it. "I—We didn't know you didn't want us to touch her."
"Yes," Avery scrambled to say. "We apologize, Master, and hope you can forgive us for touching the mudblood."
Without warning, Tom flicked his wand and Avery flew across the floor, landing on his face painfully. Tom shot one glare at Lestrange, who immediately froze and bowed his head. Tom took slow, careful steps towards the lump. "You call her mudblood one more time," Tom threatened. "And I'll chop off your tongue."
Abraxas was staring at Avery in disgust. Black was whispering to Nott, who frowned. Nott was faithful as well, but not as able as Abraxas and the Black brothers, and wasn't as athletic either. "B-but, Master," Avery protested. "What should I call her then?"
He dared to talk back? "You can get on your knees and beg to address her by Master." A cruel smirk twisted on his face, illuminated by the dim glowing torches on the wall. "She's too good for you."
"But she's a mudblood!" Avery whined, and Tom sent a Cruciatus at him. His screams filled the corridor, though none of his followers looked away. Nott was looking on with an excessive amount of excitement, while Lestrange looked like he was scared he was next. Both Abraxas and Orion watched, their eyes dark, and Tom knew that Avery's comment had gotten to both of them.
"I warned you," Tom said coldly, finally releasing Avery. He panted and lay pathetically on the ground, attempting to pick himself up. "Would you like if I started calling you mudblood?"
Avery shook his head fearfully, but then Lestrange spoke up. "My Lord," he said. Tom looked at him, wondering if he was brave or simply stupid for speaking up at a time like this. "Forgive me for being disrespectful, My Lord, but we were informed the girl was indeed a…" He paused. "muggleborn."
Tom arched a delicate eyebrow and turned towards him, and Avery let out an audible sigh of relief. Oh, he wasn't done with him yet. Not even close. "And who is this source?"
"Walburga, My Lord," Lestrange cast his eyes down. Tom sneered at him; the boy was all too willing to rattle everyone out as long as he got what he wanted. Coward.
"Walburga is a fool," he said, and then glanced back sharply at Avery. The boy had managed to somewhat crawl away, but immediately froze when he realized that Tom's attention was back on him. "Going somewhere, Avery?"
"N-no, Master."
"Good," Tom's lips curled. "Because we're not done yet." He lazily cast a second Cruciatus, and Avery wailed and flailed. He absentmindedly wondered when screams had stopped bothering him. Maybe it was around the time when he actually discovered what he wanted to do with his life: he wanted to become immortal.
"Do not make false accusations," Tom told him frostily once Avery was released from the curse. "Why would you feel the need to listen to a young, petty schoolgirl?" Avery whimpered. "Hermione is a half blood. The noble house of Slytherin doesn't accept anyone lower."
It was true. He had found out he was the Heir of the Slytherin last year, and had started working on his chamber. It would only be a matter of time before he released Slytherin's noble work on the castle. Then, everyone could see how truly brilliant the founder was. And he, Tom Riddle, was related to him.
"Y-yes, My Lord. I understand. I won't touch her."
"Make sure you don't," Tom said, his eyes flashing red. Avery shrunk back. "I've just come across this spell in my textbook." He smiled eerily at Avery. "Well, aren't you going to ask what it is?"
Avery looked like he wanted to do anything but. "M-master, what was the spell on?"
"What an interesting question, Avery," he sent the boy a sickening sweet smile. "Once it touches human flesh, it eats its way through the body and won't stop until it fully devours everything. It starts with the skin, and then makes its way to the vital organs." Tom played with his wand. "Would you like to see how your corpse looks like, Avery?"
"N-no!" Avery added quickly. "My Lord."
Tom looked at him for a couple more seconds, before swinging over to his left. "Abraxas," he said coldly. "I expect you'll take better care of your brother from now on. And you as well, Orion, with your cousin."
"Yes, My Lord," they both answered simultaneously. Tom sneered. How nice it was to be called by his proper title again. Hearing his disgusting muggle father's name spewed around would simply not do. He couldn't wait until he could use his real name. Lord Voldemort.
He had told Hermione his name too. That was pathetic of her to ask him while he was drunk, but he was a hypocrite, was he not? Her tongue was zipped shut almost as much as his was, which made him resort to the most pathetic methods known to mankind. No matter now, though; he was coming close to breaking her. He could feel it. By the way she leaned in to the kiss…
Tom frowned. But he too had enjoyed it, hadn't he? That would simply not do. He would have to put aside these pesky schoolboy feelings and focus on the bigger objective. Destroy Dumbledore and rule the world. Of course, he would also murder Grindelwald. The man was simply becoming more and more of a nuisance. Why would Hermione fear him as her worst fear? What was her relation to him?
"My Lord," Nott came forward and knelt before him. Tom's eyes flicked to him. "My father has found the lead on Hepzibah Smith, as you had asked."
At least some of them weren't that useless. They all had no idea why she was so important to him, but he had a feeling that Abraxas guessed. And Hermione…she had seen enough hints and she was by no means stupid, so it would be fairly easy for her to figure it out as well. The horocruxes were his secret. He really had to stop letting his guard down around her. Not to mention, who knew if she knew what he did with his disgusting father…
"My father says she has moved from Romania to Albania," Nott continued. "He also would be pleased to book you an airplane flight for tonight if you so please."
Tom sneered. Pureblood wealthy people, so easy to please. If he had that much money, he wouldn't spend it pleasing a silly schoolboy, no matter if that said schoolboy was destined to the greatest wizard the world would ever know. They were all so eager to help him.
"I will not be leaving tonight," Tom said coldly, and Nott bowed his head. "It would be too suspicious to Dumbledore if I leave in the middle of the year."
"I will go, My Lord," Avery volunteered.
Tom narrowed his eyes and the boy flinched. What did he think he was, stupid? There was no way such an important mission like this was going to go anywhere close to the stupid boy. "Do you want to help me, Avery? Or were you just looking for an excuse to get out of school?"
Avery froze. "I-I want to help you, My Lord."
"Lies," He hissed, circling around the boy. The boy was truly pathetic. If it hadn't been his father's tremendous influence on the wizarding society, Tom would've never even considered inviting Avery in to this group. "Do not lie to me, Avery. Do you know what I do to liars?"
Avery seemed to not be able to respond.
"My Lord," Orion interrupted, and Tom turned his head to him. They hadn't had a meeting in a long time, so he often forgot about Orion's dangerous side. He was such a goofball in public, Tom had forgotten the way his eyes glinted dangerously before he cursed his victims. "Crabbe told me that Peter Pettigrew, a Gryffindor sixth year, is starting to follow him around and asking questions about you."
"Didn't I tell him to be careful?" Tom narrowed his eyes. This would not do. If suspicion arose around him, Dumbledore would be down his throat in a matter of mere seconds. One single legilimency spell on one of his followers would be the end of him. He would have to teach his followers occlumency soon. "Crabbe is a fool."
Orion didn't flinch, unlike Avery, who had now crawled away and was attempting to compose himself after the after effects of the Cruciatus. "Crabbe says that Pettigrew has been poking holes for awhile. Crabbe thinks that Pettigrew wants to join."
A Gryffindor, join a group run by the heir of Slytherin? That was unthinkable. "Tell Crabbe that he can use whatever measure he deems fit to…fix Pettigrew's brain. And tell him he will come to me immediately and explain why he did not see fit to deem us with his presence here."
Tom looked around irritably. So many of his 'loyal' followers were not here. Did they think they could avoid him? In such a small school? He would have to spend some of his free time tracking them down, and showing them exactly what happened when one defies Lord Voldemort.
He looked over at his group, and spoke slowly. "The Halloween Dance it this weekend," he said. "I trust that all of you know your roles." All of his followers nodded. His eyes scanned around, but he found no sign of lying. Interesting. That was a first. Either they were all telling the truth, which he highly doubted, or they were training to shut him out. If that was the case, then he had some work to do as well. "If you do not know, I advise you find out, or you'll face my wrath." He directed his next statement towards Avery. "I trust you know how scary my wrath is?"
Avery nodded fearfully.
"Excellent." Tom's lips curled up. "You are dismissed."
ஐ
"I feel so silly in this,"
Nick laughed and reached over to pat her head. He ruffled her mane. "I think you look cute."
He was still unsufferable, of course, no matter how much he complimented her. She had ran to him straight with the bug, and they had spent hours recording Hermione's voice so they could play it the night of the dance.
"Don't want Eileen to get too suspicious," he pointed out. "By doing this, she'll hear you and still think the bug is safely in place."
Of course, it just wasted so much of her study time. Ancient Runes had come and gone, and she was once again defeated by Tom, though this time he didn't even look her way. Hermione felt her heart clench, but looked away. One boy wouldn't be the end of her.
Thanks to frequent visits to Pomfrey, her leg had healed rather well, and she could now walk around. Of course, running was still painful for her, but at least she wouldn't have to carry the annoying crutches around with her. She had given them to Violetta, who had fun swinging back and forth.
Hermione grinned at him. "On the bright side, I think I look better than you," Nick scowled down at his reindeer costume, and then went cross-eyed to look at the huge red ball stuck on his face. "Very scary, Nick. Your nose is going to electrocute me."
"Shut up. Lily made me wear it." Nick gestured over to the redhead who was over at the food table, giggling at something Remus Lupin said. Hermione frowned; based on all the symptoms that the boy was showing, he seemed to be a werewolf. But she couldn't just go up and ask him, and she thought werewolves were not allowed in the school in the first place.
"Ooh, Nick's whipped," Hermione giggled, and Nick scowled at her. "Are you going out with her now? I'm offended. I thought we were friends." She pouted childishly. "Aren't you supposed to tell me everything?"
"Like you tell me what's going on between you and Riddle," Nick shot back, and it was Hermione's turn to scowl. "There's nothing between Lily and I, anyway. She's using me as a toy to get someone jealous."
"And you're okay with that?" Hermione asked, looking around. She spotted Violetta and Cygnus laughing about something in the corner, while Black stood next to them, the other two not minding him much. He didn't look too offended though; he was busy blowing kisses at any girl that looked his way. Speaking of Black, he and I need to have a talk…
"Yep," Nick grinned at her skeptical face. "What, can't believe that I'm helping out a damsel in distress? I mean, look at my face." He gestured towards himself. "It's the typical prince face. Can't you see it?"
"Of course not," Hermione crossed her arms. "Knowing you, you got something out of it. What did you trade?"
Nick smirked to confirm her suspicions, but didn't say anything else. Before Hermione could inquire him further, Ron came over, dragging Seamus behind him. "Hey Hermione, hey Nick!" He greeted cheerfully. He was dressed as a huge ball of fire that reminded Hermione of the thing Mario would always determinedly walk in to to suicide in Nintendo games. "Are you two here together?"
"Yes," Hermione replied, as the same time Nick said, "No."
"You want to come here as my date?" Nick raised an eyebrow. "How flattering, but I think I'll have to pass. I don't fancy dancing with a lion."
Hermione swatted at him. "If you want to dance with Lily to get your hidden motive, then fine. No need to break my poor heart. I'll just dance by myself here." To be honest, she had hoped that Nick would stay with her, though it was selfish request on her part. She didn't want to face Tom right now, and he was less likely to talk to her if Nick was with her.
"I was more under the impression that you wanted to dance with Riddle."
"Tom?" Hermione asked, surprised. "Now why would I dance with that idiot?" Nick looked at her sharply. She hadn't told him anything that had gone on between her and Tom, but it was rather private. Hermione thought back to his cold, unblinking eyes as he told her off, and was surprised to feel her eyes moisten slightly. She quickly put them down, but Nick narrowed his eyes.
Nick shook his head, sighing. "You two have the weirdest relationship…" he trailed off. "Well, you better think of a reason why you don't want to dance with him," Nick said, staring at something behind her. "Because it looks like he's coming over here right now."
Hermione spun around, and what Nick said was true. The devil himself was striding towards her leisurely, though he certainly didn't look like a devil. His hair was slicked back neatly, and he wore a suit and a tie. What kind of costume is that?
"Hermione," Tom greeted politely, not looking at anyone else. There was no anger in his voice, and Hermione glanced at him suspiciously. Ron was frowning slightly, but Seamus dragged him away, saying something about items to blow up in the bathroom. Nick stood protectively behind her, wearing a scowl. "You look lovely."
"Thanks," Hermione said shortly, and spun away. She felt him grip her arm tightly, but would not turn back to look at him. The two of them engaged in a tug of war contest that only ended when Hermione wrenched her arm away. Everyone else in the room was staring, though some tried to hide it more than others. Abraxas saw them and frowned, heading over. Nick was watching them with narrowed eyes, but didn't move to stop Tom. It seemed like he was waiting for Hermione's permission, lest he did something she didn't want him to do.
He's such a good person.
"Why are you running away?" Tom asked innocently, and she glared at him. If he thought everything could get away just like that, he was terribly mistaken. "I do hope you're not scared by my costume." Yep, I am absolutely terrified of a tie and a suit.
"I wasn't aware that you wanted to talk to me," Hermione said, and Tom winced as if he had been slapped in the face. But this is nothing new. You always knew he was a good actor. "I wouldn't want to repeat past mistakes."
Tom frowned. Abraxas had gotten to them, and he glared at Nick, who was still standing there, arms crossed. Nick met his eyes, and his look clearly said that there was more important things than house unity at the current moment. After awhile, Abraxas sighed and agreed. "You know I didn't mean that."
"On contrary, I think you did," Hermione looked around the crowd to see if there was any person she could run away to. She needed to get away from Tom for a few minutes. "I wouldn't want to force my presence on you."
"You don't." Tom said. "Why won't you forgive me? Would it be better if I apologized?"
"Two words mean nothing," Hermione narrowed her eyes at him. "After all, you broke off any chance of us being friends with just four."
Tom looked too startled to say anything, and Hermione used her silence to her advantage and stomped out of the Great Hall. She was grateful that no one followed her, though felt rather bad for leaving Nick by himself. Oh well, he's going to come after me with questions later anyway, so we'll be even.
She spotted a small lump sitting on the fields, and headed over. "Black?" she called out, and Black looked up from the spot where he was seated on the grass. He was dressed as a dark prince, which rather suited him. His expression, however, shocked her. No smile was present on his face. Instead, his eyes held a distant look.
She remembered Violetta's request that she stayed with both Black and Cygnus for their mother's birthday, but the two of them had been excused from school to visit their mother's grave. They stayed out quite late, from what she heard from Abraxas, and she hadn't seen them since.
"Hey, Squirtle," he said, motioning for her to join him. She sat down next to him. He looked at her, before turning and staring in to the Forbidden Forest. "I like your costume."
"Thanks, I like yours too," Hermione commented. "It's better than mine. I feel like I'm suffocating in here." She rubbed her sweaty hands on the legs of the costume. She snuck a peak at him. He still wasn't showing any emotion. Was it her? Did she smell or something?
Black suddenly blurted out, "She told you, didn't she?"
Hermione blinked. "Who told me what?"
"Violetta," Black took a deep breath. "She told you about me, didn't she?" Hermione nodded slowly, and he let out a shaky laugh. "Go on, then." He said. "I'm ready."
He was being more than confusing. "Ready for what?"
Black looked surprised that she hadn't caught on right away. "Ready to yell at me, of course."
Hermione couldn't help but notice that Black looked like a sad, kicked puppy. "I'm not going to yell at you," she tried to reassure him. "We don't even need to talk about it right now if you don't want to. I know it's hard for you and Cygnus, but-"
"No," Black cut her off. "You're lying."
Hermione only gaped at him, surprised, but Black apparently thought of her silence as a sign of her agreement. "You're disgusted by me," Black continued. "About what I do to girls, and what girls did to me in my past. Everyone is. You don't need to lie to make me feel better."
"Black," Hermione began.
"I honestly don't know why you think I want to hear you spout lies," Black said, an edge in his voice. "It's completely pointless. If I wanted to hear lies, I would tell them to myself."
"Listen to me-"
"Or did you come here to laugh at me? Go ahead, then. You get front row seats to watch me break down." His voice was sour, bitter. "Do you have a camera with you? I bet you could take a picture and sell it for at least a couple hundred galleons."
The fact that he still had the energy to be egoistic annoyed her. "ORION BLACK," she all but yelled at him. He blinked, but his eyes were still dull. To emphasize her point, she slapped him across the face.
He blinked at her, and then slowly brought his hand to rub the stinging red hand print on his face. Hermione began to speak before he could cut her off again. "I am not mad at you," She said strictly. "Of course, we have to have a talk about what you were planning to do with people, but why would I be mad at you for all you've been through?" She smiled gently at him. "I'm not that mean, am I?"
"Yes you are," Black said, rubbing his face. "You slapped me."
"You deserved it," Hermione said, and Black didn't argue. "Anyway, let's talk." Her voice softened. "Are you really going to kill your parents?"
"I don't know," Black buried his head in his hands and let out a hoarse laugh. "Cy and I have always worked with that goal in our mind, but is it really worth it? It's been so many years and I can't even remember her that well anymore. Sure, what she has done what Cy and I still sticks as clear as day, but I can't remember her that much." His voice was sad. "Yet I still love her."
Hermione thought of her own father. He was cruel not just to her, but to everyone else in the world. Yet she still stayed with him, despite everything that he had done to her. Sure, she was afraid of him, but was it only because of that? Did she still hold her feelings for him, feelings for when she was little, and he introduced her to magic? Feelings from the time when he acted like a kind, caring father? Hermione didn't want to know the answer.
"I know you do," Hermione said quietly. "You wouldn't have visited your mother's grave if you didn't."
Black shrugged, but said nothing else. Hermione decided to use his silence to continue talking and said, "Now, I believe you had something else to say to me. About you, and what you do to the girls." She frowned at him, to let him know exactly what she thought about the topic.
"Oh, that," He looked at her, as if needing to make sure he saw her reaction to his words. He raked a hand through his hair and sighed. "I use girls to relieve my anger."
Hermione sighed. "That's messed up, you know?"
"Yeah, that's me."
"Not that I approve of what you're doing," Hermione cast him a sideways glance. "But out of curiosity, how many girls have you…er…" she blushed slightly, and the first signs of a grin snuck on Black's face. "Slept with?"
"Are you looking for names, or numbers?" Black raised an eyebrow. "Because numbers would be a hell lot easier."
Hermione blinked. "That many? You know an exact number?"
Black looked insulted. "Of course I know."
"Do I want to know?" she asked.
"Depends," Black shrugged. He was so nonchalant about this whole thing, it rather scared Hermione. "Are you scared of big numbers? Because I would close your ears if you are."
Hermione scowled at him. He was a fifth year. How bad could it be? "No, I want to know. Tell me."
"Don't say I didn't warn you." Black said. He paused for the effect. "I've slept with none. Zero. Nada."
Hermione's jaw dropped down, and she stared. "N-none?" she asked, wondering if she heard right. He smirked at her surprised face.
"Your impression of me wounds me," Black said. "You seem to have gotten the idea that I sleep with everyone I see." Black grimaced. "I don't need to sleep with them to break them, you know."
"Yeah, I'm sure," Hermione's voice was more bitter than she anticipated, as her mind flew to Tom. Was it true what she said to him? Was she really broken because of his four little words? She always thought she was stronger than that. Letting a person hold so much power over her…her father would be displeased.
Black paused, and then looked at her. "What's going on between you and Tom?"
Was he a mind reader of what? Was it a skill one acquired after hanging around Tom too much? "What do you mean?" she asked cautiously and slowly.
"The tension between the two of you has been so thick since the DADA lesson," Black explained. "And I heard you two mention something about a kiss. So spill." Black caught her look. "You two suck at whispering."
Hermione was sure she was blushing. She hated that Tom had that effect on her. She couldn't even think about him without her skin turning color. What was she, a chameleon? "I am interrogating you, Black. Don't try and change the subject."
"Nope, this is much more interesting," Apparently, their little chat had lifted his mood tremendously, and he was now grinning again. "So you like Tom, right?" He only laughed when Hermione shook her head. "Don't listen to Abraxas. He'll try to warn you about Tom. While you should definitely be careful around him, you're tough enough. You even beat him in a duel."
"By falling on him," Hermione muttered.
Black ignored her. "So, how do you like his costume? I'm sure you love it. I know for a fact that boys getting properly dressed up can turn on girls," he gave her a self satisfying smirk. "I also know for a fact that Tom himself can turn on girls quite well."
"Of course," Hermione glared at him darkly. "I forgot. You're the specialist in this."
"Glad you noticed." Black shot her a sideways glance. "Do you want to know how he got that costume? I know you're curious. Aren't you going to ask about it?"
"No." Though I am rather curious.
"Too bad, I'm going to tell you anyway. So, as you probably know, Trace was absolutely desperate to go with him," Hermione was surprised to hear a scoff in his voice. Sure, she knew that Black used girls, but she had thought that he would've at least considered Tracey a friend. It looked like that was not the case. "Tom has never been interested in shopping, so he said yes when Tracey offered to shop for him. Guess what she bought him?"
"Give me a hint,"
"Pink and sparkly," Black offered.
"Vampire."
Black stared, clearly confused. Hermione sighed and shook her head. "I don't know. Tell me."
"Your creativity sucks," Black laughed. "Tracey's is much better," Hermione glowered at him. "But it's a bad creative. Well, bad for Tom and hilarious for us. She bought him," Black paused for the effect. "A unicorn costume."
"A what?"
"Unicorn," Black grinned. "It was pretty shiny too. You should have seen Tom's face when he saw it. He was speechless, while Tracey thought it was the best thing she had ever gotten him. Imagine her face when he chased her out."
"Did she leave the costume?" Hermione asked, finding the situation rather hilarious.
"Of course she did, but Tom threw it in the fireplace as soon as she left," Black rolled his eyes. "Then Tracey comes back in and claims she forgot something, and Tom makes up this bizarre story about how I accidently threw the costume out the window. There are no windows in the common room." Black snorted. "Unfortunately, Trace bought it, and is now not talking to me. Apparently, she poured her heart and devotion in to that piece of pink cloth."
"I thought you didn't like her," Hermione said, unable to hold back her giggles as she imaged Tom dressed in a unicorn costume. If only she had been there to take a picture. Then, she remembered why she had not been there, and sobered immediately.
Black glanced at her as she quieted down, but didn't comment on it. "Actually, I'm surprised you haven't noticed. I'm a lot like Cy, actually," he grinned. "Guess how?"
"You're secretly best friends with Violetta," Hermione guessed, and blinked when an embarrassed expression crossed his face. It was gone in mere seconds, but Hermione stared. "Wait, don't tell me, you like Violetta?"
Black looked around in panic, and then turned back to Hermione. His face was all the confirmation she needed. "Please don't tell Cy," Black pleaded. "He would actually murder me."
Hermione doubted that Cygnus would do so, but she nodded anyway. The two brothers were really complicated, weren't they? One secret after another. "I won't tell anyone." Hermione said. "As long as you don't start rumors about Tom and me."
"I don't think they're all rumors," Black grinned as she smacked him. "Alright, where were we? Oh yes. Cy and I are not alike because of Violetta," Black coughed and looked away, and Hermione felt herself smiling widely. "We don't like many people."
"Excluding Violetta."
Black groaned. "I am going to regret talking to you."
"You should always regret talking to me," Hermione said quietly, looking at the castle. Soft music met her ears as she watched the couples dance together. Black glanced at her sharply, but she took no notice. She saw Nick's blue hair mesh with Lily's, though the girl was dragged away halfway by a boy that looked quite like Harry. Nick didn't seem upset, and instead grinned and headed off in the other direction. He sometimes is too nice for his own good.
"I don't know what happened between you and Tom," Black said, interrupting her thoughts. "But I enjoy talking to you, if that counts for anything. You should be flattered."
There was an egoistic way in his talking, but a bit of friendship in it as well, and Hermione couldn't help but wonder if she had taken his presence for granted. She should really treat him better. Then, she thought of him squirting her in the face with water and took all the positive things back. He did not deserve anything from her.
"Tom's not good at expressing his feelings," Black continued. "He probably pushed you away, didn't he?" He laughed at Hermione's expression. "The four of us, Cy, Abraxas, Tom and I have been together since forever. And even though Tom likes to close himself in a little box, we've learned to read him and pick out the little signs. And the signs are pointing to him liking you right now."
Hermione snorted so loudly that Black looked slightly insulted. "Sorry, but the signs are wrong. Tom Riddle, liking me? Ha!" She laughed, and Black scowled at her. "Yep, and pigs fly."
Black just stared at her blankly and transfigured the rock next to his foot in to a small pig with wings. It flew around, snorting, until Black transfigured it back. "I just proved your point invalid."
Hermione ignored him. "It doesn't have to be me, actually. Tom falling in love with anyone is just…I don't know. It's weird." The closest Tom gets to love is with Amy, Hermione thought. And even that doesn't count as love.
"Why did Tom kiss you then?" Black pressed. "And don't you tell me it's for information. He does not kiss everyone that he wants information from…" Black frowned. "Strike that. He does. But how do you explain his boggart?"
Hermione had no answer for that. Black had a smirk on his face that he only wore when he knew he had won. She decided to change the subject. "Oh, psh, enough about me," she said, trying to sound like Tracey. Black chuckled. "When are you going to ask Violetta out?"
Black groaned. "Not this again."
"You know you want to talk about it."
"I do not."
"You're going to have to stop playing with other girls, you know," Hermione told him seriously. "Violetta is not that kind of girl. If you want a chance with her, you'll have to prove you're willing to go into a real relationship and be devoted to just one girl."
"It's no use," Black shook his head. "You think I don't notice how she is with Cy? I know where her feelings lay, and they're not going to change anytime soon. I'm not going to take one of the only happy points in Cy's life away. Plus, I perfectly fine with being the arsehead I am."
Hermione looked at Black skeptically. "Nope, I don't think you are. I think you're silently dying on the inside."
Black snorted. "Sorry, but I'm not that dramatic. My insides are still perfectly intact."
Hermione reached over and poked him in the side. "I beg to differ, Black."
"Are we having a poke war, Squirtle?" Black laughed, inching closer to her. "Because if we are, prepared to have your arse kicked."
They didn't end up having a poke war. Instead, it escalated in to a full blown cat fight, with the two of them pawing and clawing at each other. Hermione was sure their laughter could be heard inside ballroom, but she didn't care.
When her father had told her about her mission, she was immediately against it. Not because she had any doubts about her skills, but because of the people around her. After Nick had run away, she had had no one, and wasn't too keen on getting attached to anyone ever again. No one could have her back the way Nick had. Yet here she was now, placing herself in the care of some friends who accepted her even though she had secrets. She truly appreciated what others did to her now. It was no longer about the physical aspects. They were with her mentally, and that was all that counted. Hermione wondered if she was changing.
She hoped she was.
"And how old are you?" A familiar voice echoed from above them. "Too old to be cat fighting for sure." Hermione sighed. He seemed to have a knack at interrupting things just when they were getting fun. Tom was standing, looking down at the two of them. His tie had disappeared, and Hermione wondered if it was in Tracey's hands. Then, she wondered why she cared. She felt Black nudge her and whisper in her ear, "Have you ever thought of giving him a second chance?"
She had not, but only because she hadn't even thought about giving him a first. This was not like her to feel attracted to someone who knew more than he should, and who wanted to know even more. She hadn't even considered them compatible. She should be like her father, lead him on and hurt him in the worst way possible.
But she was not her father.
"Hey," Hermione greeted, standing up and brushing herself off. Black sat up, but remained seated. "How's your night going?"
His eyes bore into hers, and his face was impassive. "Are you talking to me now?"
"I never said I wasn't," Hermione pointed out, beaming up at him. He was looking at her suspiciously. "Would you like to dance with me, Tom?"
Black laughed from behind her, and when the both of them looked at him, he waved them off, still chuckling. "Don't mind me, I'm going back inside." He waved at Tom and gave Hermione a little wink. She was happy to see him back to himself once against she forgave him for the wink, just this once. He disappeared in to the ballroom, and it was just Tom and her again.
"Well, then," Hermione said, as Tom stood there silently, seemingly having no intention to do anything. "Are you going to make me ask twice?"
"No one dances at the Halloween ball."
Hermione smiled at him and repeated herself. "Do you want to dance, Tom?"
"You want to dance with me?" Tom raised an eyebrow. The light illuminated his face, making him look more dangerous, yet more handsome at the same time. "I was under the impression that you disliked me."
"The past is the past," Hermione waved him off, and dragged him back inside. He resisted for a couple of seconds, until Hermione unleashed her worst glare on him, and he reluctantly followed. She beamed back at him, and he was looking at her suspiciously. "Time's a wastin'."
"I do hope you know what you're doing," Tom replied smoothly, stepping delicately in to the ballroom. As soon as he appeared, several people started floating over. Tom paid them no mind. "I have a reputation to uphold, after all, and it wouldn't do if my companion couldn't dance."
"Don't worry," Hermione grinned up at him. "I will step on your shoes so many times they will be ruined."
She let Tom drag her to the middle of the ballroom, where she fulfilled her promise in ruining his shoes. He did scold her a couple of times, but didn't leave her to go dance with Tracey, who was watching angrily from the side. At that moment, Hermione didn't care about the fact that everyone was watching. The only thing that mattered was the charming young man in front of her.
Of course, she didn't know that a pair of eyes were watching her from behind the bathroom door. The said person raised their cameras and clicked multiple shots of the duo.
"My Lord," the person said in to their phone. "I have the proof."
ஐ
Hermione shook her arms around, grateful at the freedom. While dancing with Tom had been fun, she couldn't wait until the night was over so she could take off her ridiculous lion costume. She changed in to the sports gear that Black had given her, and tied her hair up.
It was time for some paintballing.
She had told Nick about it, and he had snorted, saying something that the people in Slytherin had nothing better to do with their time. He had told her to have fun, but to not work her leg too much, and also to watch out for Eileen. It turned out he didn't need to worry; Eileen didn't show up at all. She had headed towards the library, where Nick promised to keep close supervision over her.
Tracey had seemed to deem Hermione a threat, and announced that she was going to play this year. Walburga couldn't have cared less. Tom or not, she wasn't going to go anywhere near Hermione, and left to talk with Gabriel. Abraxas's brother had decided not to play, and Hermione frowned. Why has he been in the school the whole time and I haven't noticed him? She thought. Where is he sneaking off to?
"Everyone, line up!" Black yelled in to a microphone. The three girls assembled on one side, and all the boys on the other. Avery shot her a snide look when Tom wasn't looking, and she narrowed her eyes at him, before turning her back firmly on him. "Is everyone here? Perfect. Now, my little bro here will tell you about the special new rules we have."
Cygnus scowled, obviously not pleased about being called 'little bro,' and took the microphone from his brother. "This year, as you all recall, it was Nott's year to buy the guns." Hermione saw everyone turn towards a short, scrawny boy who scratched his head sheepishly. "But of course, the idiot forgot. Thanks to him, we are left with no equipment other than the balloons and the paint. Therefore, we are simply going to throw balloons at each other."
Boos could be heard around the room, and Eleanor cleared her throat. Instantly, silence fell over the room and everyone looked at her. Tracey scowled darkly, obviously not pleased that someone other than herself was getting the attention.
"Can't we just transfigurate something?" Eleanor asked, and obviously for Tracey's benefit, she threw her hair behind her shoulder, causing many guys to ogle at her. Hermione rolled her eyes and mentally gagged. The girls here were…shallow, to put it nicely.
"We could've," Cygnus said. "Except that idiot waited until we were all in here until he told us about it. You know the rules. No getting out until a team wins. There's nothing here to transfigure either," he pointed at the large maze in front of them. "Everything in there is a necessary obstacle."
Eleanor shrugged, but stayed silent. No one else seemed to have a better suggestion, and Black took the microphone back. "Like always, Cy and I are the captains of the teams." He announced cheerfully, and many people booed this. He grinned. "The teams were drawn earlier, and it seemed fair, so here we go." He flicked his wand once, and lines of writing appeared on the wall.
Hermione scanned down both lines. She was in Cygnus's team. She hadn't particularly cared which team she ended up on. She looked at her teammates, then at the other team. Fair my arse. Abraxas, Eleanor, Tracey and Tom were all on the other side. Avery, Lestrange and Nott were as well. She didn't recognize anyone besides Cygnus on her team. He shot her an apologetic look and mouthed, 'I didn't pick them.'
"This is not fair," someone called from next to her. His face was rather pointy and squashed. "You guys got all the good people, and we're stuck with this girl," Hermione blinked as he gestured at her.
Cygnus glared angrily at him. "Flint," he said coldly, and the other boy met his gaze evenly. "Shut up."
Black was frowning, and then an idea seemed to pop up. "We'll trade," he said gleefully. "We'll trade Trace for Hermione." He gestured towards the girl who was clinging to Tom happily. She glared at Black when he spoke, but didn't seem to notice that Tom wasn't looking at her at all. She's still as slow as ever.
"Do it," Flint said, eyeing Hermione in disgust. Hermione sighed. Did everyone in the Slytherin house hate her? It sure seemed like it. "Come on, at least Tracey can seduce some of them, which is more than I can say for this-"
A red jet flew past his head, missing him by just a few centimeters. Flint turned around slowly, eyes wide. Tom stood there, wand in hand, smiling pleasantly at him. "Sorry, my hand slipped," he said smoothly. "Were you saying something?"
"N-no," Flint looked away. "We can begin now."
Cygnus nodded. "Good. Each team has ten minutes to devise a plan for ten minutes, and when the bell rings, it's time to head in to the maze. Everyone got it?" Everyone nodded. Two doors opened on both sides of the room, and Cygnus nodded at his brother. "Ten minutes starting now."
"Good luck, little bro," Black said gleefully, leading his team in to the opposite room. "You'll need it."
Cygnus scowled and closed the door behind him. As soon as all of them were in the room together, Flint rounded on Hermione. "I vote we use her as bait,"
Before anyone could agree or disagree with the idea, Hermione turned to Cygnus. It wouldn't do to start a fight in the room. They were supposed to be a team, not enemies. "So, basically, if you get hit with a balloon, you're out?"
"Duh," Flint rolled his eyes, but Cygnus ignored him.
"Yes," Cygnus nodded. "Then you have to sit down. Anyone who is sitting down in the maze is out, so others know not to hit them. You can't sit down if you're not out. The costumes don't let you."
"Okay," Hermione said, rather hyped up. Other than the truth and dare game she had played, she had never really done a group activity before. This was rather exciting, despite the fact that her team didn't seem to like her much. "What's the plan?"
"Don't bother yourself with it," Flint said sweetly, apparently forgetting that the team captain was actually Cygnus. "You won't need to learn it."
True to his words, Flint made an elaborate plan that included everyone but Hermione. Cygnus shot her an apologetic look, but Hermione waved him off. If they didn't want her, then fine. She'll just go solo. She'll just get more hits than Flint did. That's all. Who cares if he was a Quidditch player? Her aim would be ten times better.
Five minutes later, Hermione found herself standing alone in the maze as the loud bell rang. They had all split up, and Cygnus reluctantly left Hermione. She had to reassure him that she would be fine before he would leave. Hermione sighed and tossed the balloon up in the air. She had to be careful; if she accidently dropped it and the paint spilled on her costume, then she would be forced to sit down as well. The detectors didn't care which balloon it was from. It only detected paint.
Hermione hummed quietly to herself, and immediately regretted it. She heard footsteps running towards her, and was instantly on alert. What kind of stupid plan was this, having every man for themselves? It was better to go in groups. Flint was an idiot.
Oh well. Group or not, she was still Grindelwald's daughter, and he would have nothing but perfection. As Abraxas rounded the corner with Eleanor, Hermione chucked balloons as fast as she could at them. Her pockets immediately refilled them for her. They had been charmed by Tom, who had told her smugly that he had once again beaten her in charms.
They both dodged and fired away, and Hermione let her reflexes kick in. She decided to show off a bit and kicked off the wall, flying around and looking like a monkey. Abraxas hesitated for only a fraction of a second, but that was enough. Blue paint squirted all over his belly and he sat down. With only Eleanor left, it was too easy. Some well-timed jumps to confuse her and Hermione nailed her in the arm.
Two large bangs sounded as Eleanor sat down, and Hermione was strangely reminded of the Hunger Games. She grinned as Eleanor scowled at her, while Abraxas just sighed, as though it was expected.
"Why are you wandering by yourself?" Abraxas asked. "Isn't it strategically to go in groups?"
"That's what I said," Hermione rolled her eyes. "But they were set on using me as bait, so of course they wouldn't listen to anything I had to say."
Abraxas laughed. "Using you as bait? That probably would've been a good strategy. You would've taken everyone out before they even saw you." Hermione scowled at him, and he waved her off. "Go and be the hero. We'll still be here when you get back."
Another bang echoed in the background, but this time it sounded different. Someone from her team must have gotten out. Hermione nodded and waved. "Have fun together," she said to Eleanor, who seemed to brighten up considerably as she considered the position she and Abraxas were in. Hermione didn't wait to find out what the girl did. She sprint around the corner and didn't stop until she found a little dark corner to stand in.
She was planning to stay there for the remainder of the game, but there was no such luck.
"If it isn't the filthy halfbreed," Avery jeered. At least he wasn't calling her a muggleborn anymore. Someone seemed to have knocked some sense in to his brain. "What are you doing here, all by yourself?"
Nott and him formed a human barrier, preventing her from leaving her little corner. She wasn't planning on leaving, anyway, but she hadn't wanted company. Only Lestrange hung back, eyeing Avery uncertainly. "Just hit her," he said cautiously. "Don't badmouth her, or she'll run off and tell To…." Lestrange trailed off.
"I'll just make sure she can't talk again," Avery grinned gleefully, taking a step forward. Nott was eager to follow. For someone who had never met her, Nott was sure eager to help ambush her.
"Run off and tell Tom?" Hermione asked, confused. Avery froze, before narrowing his eyes at her. "I won't run off and tell Tom. What do you think he is, my guardian? He has better things to do with his time," Hermione rolled her eyes. Yeah, like torture me with his questions.
"You wish you were worthy enough for him to be your guardian," Avery hissed. "You'll have to pay for what you did to me last time," He was absentmindedly stroking her left hand, and Hermione saw a dark bruise.
"I did not run off and tell Tom," Hermione said, but none of them seemed to believe her. Did Tom punish Avery just because he was stupid enough to drench her in water? And how had Tom known? Did someone tell him?
"Avery," Lestrange said sharply. "Just get her out."
"You ruin all the fun, Lestrange," Avery said, still keeping his eyes on Hermione's.
"Do you want a repeat of what happened last time?"
Whatever happened last time must've been pretty bad, as Avery gripped the balloon so tightly Hermione thought it would pop. His hands were shaking, and he glared at her, like it was her fault. And maybe it was.
"You're lucky that we're here right now, filthy halfbreed," Avery said, raising his balloons. Creativtiy was clearly not one of his strong points. "You better be careful when you go outside for the school sbreaks. I will hunt you down, and I will inflict all the pain you have caused me to felt."
If he was trying to be intimidating, it was not working. Though, she would have to talk to Tom about it later. The boy hadn't harmed her, so why should Tom harm Avery? Hermione sighed, and simply tossed a balloon at the front of Avery's shirt. He had not been expecting it, and it hit him clear in the chest. Two more balloons were tossed, and the three Slytherin boys sat down, clearly not happy. Three bangs sounded, followed by another two from her team. They were winning 5-3, but Hermione knew the game was just beginning.
Hermione left the three yelling boys. Avery had suddenly lost all his bravado and begged her not to go tell Tom. She had ignored him and just left. She didn't report to Tom with everything that happened. What did he think she was?
Hermione hiked to an empty area and crouched down, yawning loudly. The bangs were more frequent now, coming from both sides. She had lost count hours ago, and could only hope that there would be some sort of signal if she was the last person standing. But then, she didn't expect to be the last person standing. She couldn't imagine Tom getting hit.
He seemed to have some sort of telepathy link with her, because Hermione whirled around and there he was, tossing a balloon in the air nonchalantly. Without warning, he flicked it at her, and she dodged to the right, and then the fight began. It was almost as exhilarating as the fight in Diagon Alley, or their little duel in DADA. Balloons flew in all directions as paint colored the walls. Hermione narrowed her eyes, trying to figure out a pattern which he moved in. She found none. He seemed to be not able to find hers either, and kept throwing balloons at an increasing rate.
At the end, the two of them seemed to come to an agreement and stopped dodging, focusing all their energy at chucking balloons. By the time it was all over, they were both covered head to toe. Hermione giggled as a green spot was splattered near his eye, and he was blinking rapidly, trying to get it out of his eye.
"Here," Hermione leaned over and used a spare tissue to wipe it for him. He was watching her carefully. In the background, the large cannon echoed. "Is that better?"
"Yes," Tom said quietly, observing her. "I have to say, you look quite flattering yourself." He pointed to her cheek, where purple and red spots dotted her skin. "Want to call it a draw?"
"Of course not," Hermione scowled at him. "I won, obviously. Why should you get some of my credit?"
Tom laughed. "I was being nice and offering you a chance to take at least half the victory," he said. "Because everyone knows that I obviously beat you."
"Nice and you shouldn't ever appear in the same sentence," Hermione told him.
Tom smirked, looking at her. "You think you know me so well, don't you?" He murmured, and Hermione felt herself lean in instinctively. Tom sighed, and then said quietly, to himself, "And I suppose you do."
"Tom?" Hermione questioned. "Why is your boggart me?"
Tom's lips quirked up. "I knew you would ask me. Truth is, I have no idea," he shrugged. "Maybe I'm afraid of your hair. It looks like a beehive."
Hermione swatted at him.
"Why is your boggart Grindelwald?"
Hermione looked at him. "I told you already."
"Hm," Tom tapped his chin thoughtfully. "Why do I get the impression that you're lying?"
"I don't know," Hermione told him sweetly. "False alarm."
He scowled, and she giggled. "Next question," she said, more softly. "Did you mean what you said? About…the kiss, being a mistake?"
Tom smirked. "I didn't peg you to be the type who would lose sleep over this. Are you finally admitting that you are in love with me?"
"I am not in love with you," Hermione said hotly. "I was just curious."
"Curiosity killed the cat."
"I'm not a cat."
Tom rolled his eyes. "Fine. I did mean it, at that time," his eyes scanned her face, and then they locked in to hers. Grey met brown, as the two of them stared at each other. "But now, no. In fact," he raised his hand and placed it on her cheek. "I would do it again."
Hermione laughed shakily, pressing her face against his hand. "This sort of tactic doesn't work on me, Tom,"
"Doesn't it?" Tom asked lightly. "I think you're beautiful,"
Hermione snorted. Now that was crossing over the borderline of cheesiness. "And I think you're a liar."
Tom scowled at her. "Fine. I think you're ugly as hell. Better?"
"Yes," Hermione nodded. "Complimenting me won't make me like you enough to let you beat me in class, by the way. I'll still be number one."
"As if I need to do something like that," Tom scoffed. He paused, before saying, "Then, does complimenting you earn me another kiss?"
"It depends," Hermione said, as he carefully tucked a strand of hair behind her ears. "on the quality of the kiss, of course."
Tom's lips quirked up. "You doubt my skills?"
Hermione shrugged. "I can't judge short kisses. They don't give my mind time to process it,"
Tom grinned wickedly. "Then I'll have to give you one you remember, don't I?"
Without waiting for her to respond, he closed the gap between them. Hermione wrapped her arms around his neck, as he drew her in. His arms were around her waist and his body was pressed against hers. His mouth was doing wonders to hers as they fought for dominance, even while kissing. Tom eventually won, and laid her down on the ground without breaking the kiss, and half leaned over her. She ran her hand through his hair, and it was as soft as she had imagined. It slipped easily between her fingers, as soft as silk.
That was how Abraxas and the rest of the crew found them minutes later. The game had ended, but neither of them had noticed. All Hermione cared about was the pair of soft lips that was pressing against hers, the warm body on top of her. Her grip on his neck was so tight. She wasn't going to let go anytime soon.
Author's Note: And Tom and Hermione marry and live happily ever after. Just kidding. The story doesn't end this quick. Actually, I don't think this is even the halfway point yet, so if you're not a major fan of long stories, sorry. If you like long stories, then good. You'll be seeing a lot more of me, which, I suppose, can be both good and bad.
Are they OOC? I feel like they're OOC. I actually have no idea whatsoever on how to write romance, though I am trying. So you'll just have to deal with my crappy attempts for a while.
In case you were wondering, I got the unicorn picture from a picture I saw on google. If you're curious, you can just type "voldemort you are what you eat unicorn" or something along those lines in to google, and you should come up with a very interesting Voldemort. ;)
