Chapter Four

Chelsea walked through the corridors to collect Hermione from her quarters, feeling the apprehension build up with every step that brought her closer to the vampire witch.

After gathering the rest of the guard members as she was asked to do by Master Aro, she told them everything that had happened with Hermione, warning them all to be cautious around her. She was nice, even polite but there was just something about her, other than her powers, that unnerved Chelsea. The fact that her power was repelled also left her feeling nervous about what Hermione would do to her, if she ever knew just exactly what it was Chelsea was doing. Hermione was no fool, Chelsea could tell, but she was ignorant in knowing what each member of the guards' powers were. Or at least that's what Chelsea hoped and believed anyway.

The meeting with the Volturi leaders didn't make her feel any better. It was obvious that they all had different views on Hermione being here. Master Aro was all for it, after all Hermione was his biggest prize, everyone in the guard knew it by his childlike excitement when he spoke of her.

Master Caius was obviously against it, especially if he was willing to raise his voice in disagreement at Master Aro. Things like that never happened, not with the leaders anyway. They were a strong unit and a force to be reckoned with. Nothing ever came between their bonds. And then there was Master Marcus, he seemed indifferent towards the whole thing. As always his voice of reason simply wanted to make the best of a strange situation.

The members of the guard were also split between wanting to have her here and not. The biggest ones to oppose her were Jane and Alec; they were the youngest members of the guard and had always been Aro's pride and joy amongst the coven that was until now anyway. Now that Hermione was here change was the in the air, they could all sense it. The only thing they couldn't sense was whether this change was good or bad.

Chelsea's steps grew slower as she got closer to the door of Hermione's quarters. She needed to calm down and stop being so nervous, otherwise Hermione would know that something was wrong. She would see that Chelsea was hiding something, and making an enemy of the vampire witch would not be the brightest idea in the world. Maybe it would be better for her to build a friendship with Hermione and be on her good side. It certainly wouldn't do any harm anyway. With that in mind Chelsea stood straighter, relaxed her shoulders and walked expertly to Hermione's door.

She knocked once, hearing the sound of movement before the door was quickly answered. When her eyes locked on to Hermione, her jaw almost dropped to the floor in shock. Yes Hermione was beautiful before, but now after freshening up she looked totally different. Her long curly hair was left to flow freely down her slender back. She wore a sophisticated dress that had a black skirt and a red and black floral top half. It fitted her like a glove showing off her beautiful trim figure. The skirt reached her knees and showed off her long slender legs. On her feet were a pair of black heeled shoes. The most striking feature of all, apart from her oddly coloured eyes, were her lips. They were painted ruby red and stood out against the paleness of her skin. They looked elegant and kissable. If Chelsea wasn't so nervous of the newcomer, and if Hermione was simply just another vampire, then she had no doubts that they could have been close friends. As it was, she didn't think that would happen, not yet anyway. It was too soon for that and trust had yet to be established.

"Wow you look fantastic." She said honestly, as Hermione let her slip into the room.

She smiled politely looking down at herself before looking back at Chelsea.

"You think so. It's not too much is it?" She said with a frown.

"Are you kidding me Hermione, you look great and believe me when I say dressing up nicely is never too much. Most of the guard members wear extravagant clothes." She said with a tinkling laugh, glad that things seemed to be normal now after the earlier incident.

Hermione squirted a little perfume on her wrist before flicking her long loose curls over her shoulders.

"I'm ready now, but first I have to ask you something." She said moving closer to Chelsea, her eyes never leaving the other woman's.

Chelsea wanted to back away and run out of there as quickly as her Jimmy Choo's would allow her too, but instead she stood her ground and smiled politely. Hoping that she wasn't about to be Hermione's first target.

"Sure ask away." She said, glad that her voice remained steady and didn't betray her nerves.

Hermione stood right in front of her wearing a polite smile, her eyes delving deep into Chelsea's eyes as she performed legilimency on her. She was gentle as she entered the vampire's mind and got all the information that she needed.

"Oh I was just wondering if you thought red was a good colour on me. I've never been one for fashion and you seem to be more knowledgeable in that field than what I am." She smiled sweetly and saw Chelsea visibly relax in front of her eyes, as a grin spread across the other woman's face. It was so easy Hermione thought as she listened intently to what the other woman was saying, while at the same time she formulated a plan in her head.

"Red is amazing on you Hermione. Your hair is mahogany with lovely red highlights, and your eyes are a mixture of gold and red. That along with your pale skin is a beautiful combination." Chelsea said with giddy glee. She loved fashion with a passion and loved nothing more than sharing her expertise with others. "I'm sorry to cut things short but we really need to get going. You were supposed to meet the three leaders on their own first but they thought it best that you meet everyone at same time, so that it means you're only getting interrogated once instead of twice."

"Oh of course, I think that would be better actually. I'm a little nervous as it is." Hermione said truthfully.

"I can't believe you are nervous, if anyone should be nervous it's us." Although she said it as a joke there was truth behind her words as well. "Let's go. It wouldn't do either of us any good if we kept the leaders and the full guard waiting now. Come along." Chelsea said, walking towards the door. As she stretched her hand for the door handle, Hermione laid her own hand gently on the other woman's arm.

Chelsea turned to look at Hermione in confusion, her first reaction was to jerk her arm away from her, but somehow she managed to refrain from doing that, in case she offended the other woman.

"I just wanted to say thank you. You have been a bigger help to me than you could possibly know." Hermione said honestly. After all the information she had just gathered from Chelsea, she knew enough now about her situation than before.

Chelsea smiled sweetly, feeling relief wash over her.

"I'm glad. I know how daunting it must feel for you being here in an unfamiliar place, with people you don't know. But if it makes you feel any better, we're all in the same boat. You might be met with opposition, but don't let that get to you, it's just because you different to anything we have ever seen before." She smiled reassuringly at Hermione.

"I know and believe me when I say that I understand better than most." After all she had entered the Wizarding world knowing nothing about it to start with. Now she was entering this world, which was their domain.

"Anyway we really should get going."

Hermione nodded her head in agreement and followed the other woman, with a confidence she did not feel. She walked tall and straight, with a determined tilt to her head, as she tried to calm herself down. She was nervous, she would be a fool if she wasn't, as she had to face the full Volturi guard and their leaders. She could not show weakness in front of them, if she did they would surely use that against her.

So she had to appear strong, confident and sure of herself which was why she dressed the way she did. She had to act the part and dress the part if she wanted to convince them. She could always fall back on her other idea. Flaunt her magic and send them into a panic.

The two women walked up the stairs and through the halls in silence, both lost in their thoughts. The only noise that seemed to break the tension was the small hypnotic tapping of their heels against the cold stone floors.

Hermione's thoughts drifted back to Aro, a small fluttering sensation started in her stomach as she thought about seeing him again. She was excited about it, she actually wanted to see him again, but couldn't understand why. Her feelings regarding him, if you would call them feelings, still left her confused. The pull between them was growing stronger, now that they were in close proximity. At least for her it was. He on the other hand gave no signs to feeling anything like that towards her. Except from his words that day at the Ministry and that day on the grounds of Hogwarts, he gave no indication he felt anything at all. Maybe the feelings were simply a product of her mind and her missing Severus, she wondered.

That in itself made Hermione feel cautious. Her thoughts often travelled to Severus, she loved him she knew she did as she could feel it in her body and in her heart. They had a bond unlike anything she had ever felt before. He knew her better than anyone and understood her, just like she did him. But always at the back of her mind was the sharp reminder that they were different and that they could never be together because he was mortal and she was immortal. The only way they ever could be, was if he went through the change. But even then she knew Aro would never allow that. He wouldn't risk another magical person being turned and knew that Severus posed more a threat to Aro's leadership than what she did.

And then there were her strange feelings towards Aro. From the moment she saw him, she felt the indescribable pull towards him, the feeling to get closer to him and simply be with him. When they touched it was as if an electric current was travelling through her body, leaving her confused and wanting more. She couldn't understand the reason why she felt drawn to him the way she did. Again when she had these thoughts she always thought of Severus and Aro's wife. She couldn't let these feelings interfere with anything. They would simply cause more trouble if she explored them further.

"Here we are." Chelsea said stopping at a large pair of double doors. "Before we go in I should warn you that the full Volturi guard is in there. Do not be intimidated by them as they are probably more scared of you, than what you are of them."

Despite what happened earlier, Hermione took great comfort from Chelsea's presence and from her words. She was both glad and relieved to have someone, at least appearing to be on her side. She was grateful for this.

"Thank you so much." Hermione smiled.

With a nod of her head, Chelsea walked up to the doors and tapped on it once. Movement and voices could be heard from inside the room and a shuffling sound could be heard as Felix and Demetri got in place. They heard Aro say 'enter' before the doors were opened fully. Before Hermione could make a move, Chelsea nudged her forward and directed her head towards the hall, beckoning Hermione to go in first.

Straightening her shoulders and standing taller with that same determination as earlier Hermione stepped into the room and walked slowly down the aisle, with every vampire's gaze following her every move.

She suddenly felt like she was being escorted into court. Remembering something that Chelsea had said earlier, she realised that that's exactly what was happening. Guard members sat in chairs at either side of her, their gazes watching intently. At the front of the room were the three leaders sitting in what looked like thrones. Beside Aro and Caius, were two women, their wives Hermione realised. She did not linger on Aro's wife, not really wanting to pay much attention to the other woman. In front of the leaders and to the side was a single chair facing the room. That would be hers she mused.

Aro stood up gracefully and clasped his hands in front of him, an excited smile spreading across his pale face.

He took in every little detail of Hermione as she walked with grace and confidence. She was beautiful to behold, a Goddess to the eyes, and not just any Goddess but his. The pull they shared tugged him to her and he wanted nothing more than to give in and embrace her. He wanted to feel her skin under his hands, he wanted to take in her scent, and bury his face in those alluring curls. Most of all he wanted to mark her and proclaim to everyone that she belonged to him and no other. She was his mate. He wanted her to say those words. He needed her to say them. But now was not the time. Now he could only watch his mate from afar and play ignorant.

"Ahh welcome my dear so glad that you could finally join us." He said with some irritation. Not at her but at Chelsea for keeping them waiting.

"I do apologise, you see that was my fault. I took longer getting ready than I thought. I'm sorry for such tardiness." Hermione said, she had sensed his irritation at once and didn't want Chelsea getting in trouble for something that wasn't her fault. It was Hermione's after all.

"That's quite all right but I must ask of you not to do it again, and be respectful." He chastised her, although he admired her honesty.

"I will remember that in future." She whispered, ignoring the stares of the others in the room.

"Please take a seat." Aro said indicating the only other empty chair in the room.

"Thank you." Hermione said politely before following his order and taking her seat.

Aro looked at the guard members and smiled warmly at them all.

"Thank you all for coming at such short notice but I wanted you all to meet our new member and for you all to get to know each other. I am aware of some restlessness amongst you so I do hope this little meeting will appease your fears and worries. This is your chance to ask questions and get to know Hermione better, and in return she can get to know you all better." He smiled as his gaze turned towards her, a small sparkle lighting up his red eyes as his gaze found hers. "If that is, of course acceptable to you?" He waited patiently for Hermione to answer, and when she did she simply nodded her head in agreement. "Excellent." Aro exclaimed taking his seat next to Sulpicia. "Since it is only fair, I think my brothers should ask their questions first." He looked at each of them and waited patiently for one of them to speak, his smile fading slightly when neither one was forthcoming.

They simply looked at the girl taking in her calm demeanour and confident gaze. She sat elegantly on the chair betraying none of her emotions. She looked neither scared nor comfortable and was incredibly hard to gauge.

It was Marcus who eventually spoke up first, his calm monotone voice washing Aro with relief. Why did this have to be so difficult? Why did the coven not seem to understand the potential she could bring them? The problem was he had pampered those with powers too much, that their pride and egos stopped them from realising the truth. That Hermione would be an asset to them in future endeavours, that she wouldn't be a danger to them, if they only tried and accepted her.

"Welcome to Volterra Hermione. I must confess to being intrigued about you and looking forward to getting to know you better. I must say it has been a while since we last had a new member join us, especially one who was as fascinating as yourself." He gave a small tired smile. "I have witnessed some of your magic but what I would like to know is what part of your power is witches magic and which is vampire, if you have any?" He asked, curious and fascinated to see what her answer would be.

Hermione smiled warmly at him. He wasn't being sarcastic nor did he appear to be making fun of her, he was generally curious and appeared interested in her as a whole. Not just simply as a vampire. She both liked and respected that.

"Thank you." She said simply. Understanding the meaning behind his words, he simply nodded his head.

Aro looked between them both, not understanding what had just passed between his brother and mate. So he wasn't sure whether to be elated that they were getting on or worried that they seemed to share something secret between them. For now he would simply watch and see.

"Would it be alright if I stood? I think my answer would be more fitting if it was practical and you could see." She looked at Aro for permission knowing that he was the one who would give it to her or not.

"By all means go ahead." He said his voice sounding more excited than he planned it to.

Hermione stood up and walked towards the vampires, almost as if she was a teacher about to conduct a lesson. In this case it seemed fitting as she was about to teach them all about her magic and the difference between her and them.

"As you all know I was born a witch and have magic coursing through my veins. When I was first turned I was a mystery and no-one seemed to know whether I could do magic or not. It wasn't until my friend Remus put my wand in my hand and tested me. I was able to cast a spell but unfortunately the wand shattered in my hand. It appeared my magic had changed and I was too powerful for that wand." She instinctively flexed her hand, the gesture going noticed by many of the Volturi including Aro.

"Where is your wand now?" He asked.

Hermione looked briefly at Aro, wondering exactly how much she should tell him. Would he be angry at her for leaving such a powerful tool behind? Would he see behind the ruse, and know that she was using her wand as leverage to go home one day?

"My wand is back home in safe hands." She simply said. Apart from his shoulders tensing slightly he gave no outward sign of being angry or annoyed. "I own the second most powerful wand in existence. I am its master and it works only for me. But you see I have no need for a wand as I can perform wandless magic. Something that I wasn't able to do as a witch. Not then anyway. I probably could have as my magic grew." She was confident in her abilities and knew that her magic was strong, even as a young student.

"So your magic has changed since you were turned? How fascinating." Aro said. Inside he was seething at her words though he did not show it. He knew why she had left her wand back there, so that she could see him again.

"That's right. My magic has grown stronger my signature has changed, its strengthened and entwined with my vampire abilities. I have my basic magic skills that every witch has but I also have vampire gifts. I can use one's own power against them. Not only that but I can enhance it tenfold. Repelling it from myself. I can absorb it as well. However back at home we never had the chance to see how long I would have this power for, if I still have the absorbed power in me, I mean." She did not need to look at Jane as she spoke, from the corner of her eyes she saw the young vampire stiffen and tense, her back ramrod straight. She had already felt the effects of what Hermione could do. Hermione could feel Jane's glare, as if she was holding herself back and trying not to use her power to cause her pain. "It also seemed I had random bouts of power whenever my emotions were peaked. Such as when I was angry and upset, or if I wanted to inflict pain. Not only that but I can enter a person's mind and look through their memories to find any information I want. I can also plant false images in a person's mind. Something that has done me well in the past." With that she looked pointedly at Aro whose eyes widened in realisation.

So that day on the grounds of her school, when she took his hands and showed him that image. She had fed him a false image. He had thought that what she had showed him was a vision of the future, like what Alice could do, but it hadn't been. It had been a lie. He didn't know whether to feel annoyance at being tricked or impressed by her skills. She was fascinating indeed and he found himself even more intrigued now than he was earlier.

"Magnifico." He whispered quietly, totally enraptured by her.

"Will you show us your magic then? After all you did promise back in the plane." It was Demetri who spoke up now breaking the silence that had descended after Aro's praise.

Hermione turned to Demetri and smiled remembering her promise to him.

"Of course." She nodded. "I can do little things that is basic for example-" She took her shoes off her feet, putting them in front of her audience. She waved her hand over one turning it into a cup. "I can turn objects into other objects." She waved her hand again and the cup turned into a rat. It began to scamper away but she froze it in place. "I can turn an object into a live creature and make it immobile. These spells are all fun and harmless but there are dangerous ones also." She waved her hand again and the frozen rat began to fly up and down into the air. She unfroze the rat and lay it back onto the ground. "Imperio." She said out loud. "In the Wizarding world there are three curses used only by dark witches and wizards. We call them unforgiveables. They are called that for a reason and I believe you can understand why. Imperio is used to control a person's mind and body getting them to do things against their will." She looked at the rat and commanded it to walk towards the audience, which it did. Then she commanded it to stop, again it followed her command unable to do anything but follow it. "Many wizards have killed saying that they only done it under imperio. That is why it is dangerous." She remembered the fake Alastor Moody's class and suddenly felt like she was teaching it this time. "The next curse is called the Cruciatus, also known as the torture curse. It is incredibly similar to Jane's pain power." Again she did not chance a glance at the young vampire. "Having been under both of them I can say that the difference between them is; Jane's power makes you feel like your body is burning from the inside out. Whereas the Cruciatus feels like you are being stabbed by a thousand hot knives. Both are as painful as you can imagine and both can be used on a vampire just like the Imperio. I'm not sure about Jane's power but being put under the Cruciatus for a long period of time, will eventually turn you mad. I have seen what can happen to a person under prolonged use." Her thoughts turned to Bellatrix Lestrange; she had repelled her Cruciatus and enhanced it. She also added her own flair making Bellatrix hear the cries of everyone she had ever tortured, mostly Frank and Alice Longbottoms cries of pain and agony. She wanted her to feel what it was like. She wanted her to feel their pain as well as Neville's. In doing so she turned the other witch insane, or rather even more insane than she already was.

Aro watched as Hermione became lost in her thoughts. He had been there that day when she had tortured the curly haired witch. She deserved everything that she got, after seeing her thoughts. They were not of a pure and innocent nature.

Hermione shook her head as she looked at the rat.

"Crucio." She said as the rat began to squeal in pain, clawing at the floor and trying in vain to try and run away from whatever it was that was hurting it. The vampires watched with rapt attention, taking some enjoyment from watching the helpless animal suffer. "The last of the three unforgivable curses is aptly called the killing curse. You don't need any explanation on this curse. It won't kill or harm a vampire, I know because I've faced it three times, twice willingly and once as a form of attack. It works against all other living creatures however." Her gaze turned to the rat and without any remorse of guilt she said, "Avada Kedavra." The green light flashed from her hand hitting the rat. With one last startled squeak it fell to the ground unmoving and deadly still. Waving her hand once more she set the rat on fire before causing it to disappear. The vampires began to whisper and murmur amongst themselves, both in nervous astonishment and in awe. "I have to tell you that not all magic is bad or dark. I know lots of spells that are good, or used for protection." She waved her hand over herself and at once her outfit changed into her favourite fighting outfit. Her hair was now pulled into a tight ponytail and her feet were now clad in her leather boots. She felt more like herself dressed like this.

"Wow that was incredible." Demetri said in awe.

"Thanks. I can make myself disappear." With a wave of her hand she disillusioned herself causing everyone to gasp. "I can silence myself." Although they couldn't see her she silenced herself and began to walk amongst the vampires tapping a couple on the shoulders startling them, before appearing once more at her chair. She cancelled the spells and grinned knowingly. "These spells are great making me silent and deadly. It means you can't hear my tell-tale heartbeat." She smiled again then said. "Some spells are even tied to your emotions. There is something in the world called a Dementor. These are horrible creatures used to protect the Wizarding prison, what they do is suck all the happiness out of you, leaving you a cold empty shell. In order to protect yourself from one you need to cast a patronus charm. In order to cast this spell you need to think of the happiest memory that you have." She closed her eyes and thought of the time on the hill when she revealed herself to Severus and he kissed her. "Expecto patronum." She said loudly. A brilliant flash of white light flew from her hand in the form of her newly acquired giant bat patronus. She watched it as it flew around the room twirling and dancing in the air. A wistful look crossed her features as she remembered why it had turned into a bat. The bat flew around the room one more time before disappearing. "My patronus used to be an otter. Then one day it changed."

Aro, who had been watching her with rapture smiled at the fact her patronus was a bat.

"Did it change when you turned my dear? Bats are associated with vampires after all, although we all know that is simply a legend." He grinned warmly at her as he waited for her to answer.

"It did change after I turned, but that is not the reason why. The patronus is tied to you emotions it changed when I-"

"When you fell in love with your wizard." Marcus said with a sad smile.

Aro felt the familiar surge of jealousy tear through him. Everything seemed to tie her with this dark wizard and he hated it.

"That's right. My patronus knew that I loved him before I did." She looked down at her hands and smiled sadly. "The reason why it's a bat is because when he was teaching me to fly he wore these fluttering robes. As I watched him up in the sky, the shape of his body reminded me of a large flying bat." She laughed as she remembered the image of him.

"He taught you to fly." Marcus asked curiously.

"Yes he did. Severus is one of the most powerful and talented wizards I know. He is the inventor of many potions and spells. He can fly; he is a highly skilled Legilimens and Occlumens. That means he is more skilled at invading your mind than what I am. He can also stop you from penetrating his mind and can feed you false images. He is more skilled than me at it. Believe me." She spoke of him with so much pride and love, that every vampire in the room could see her feelings for him.

"Did he teach you that skill as well?" Aro asked through gritted teeth showing an air of calmness despite the anger that filled him. Seeing her like this brought doubts to his mind, making him realise that winning her affection wouldn't be as easy as he first assumed.

"No he never had the need to." She stood taller trying to change the subject. "Apart from flying I can also apparate anywhere I want, within a reasonable distance." One minute she was standing there the next minute she blinked out of existence appearing again at the back of the room. A few startled gasps were heard as she made her way back to the front of the room. "I can appear anywhere outside as long as I know where I'm heading too." She turned to Marcus and smiled. "I hope that answered your questions about my magic. I'm sorry if I got a little carried away." She giggled slightly, that was typical of her, always enthusiastic when it came to learning and showing off her skills.

"That was incredibly informative and enlightening Hermione. It will be good to see what else you can do in the future." He smiled warmly at her but as always the smile never reached his eyes. They were always so tired and sad looking. Remembering what Chelsea said, the reason behind that was because he had lost his mate. Would she look like that the longer she was away from Severus, she wondered sadly.

"Well thank you for the demonstrations. They were educational indeed." Aro said turning his gaze to Caius next. "Brother have you got a question for our new guest?"

Caius looked at Hermione, a look of disdain on his sharp handsome features. It was clear from the moment she had met him that he neither liked nor trusted her.

"I have two brother. Hermione-" The way he said her name was full of distaste, as if it left a bitter taste on his tongue. "What is the full extent of your association with the children of the moon, and are you aware that here in Volterra it is punishable by death?" He looked at her smugly and from the corner of her eyes she saw Jane look at her brother Alec, malicious grins on their young faces.

"Brother that is enough we have already spoken about this." Aro said anger evident in his silky voice.

"Wait it's all right. He has a right to know." She turned her head to Caius defiantly and looked at him with a confidence shining in her eyes. "Yes I'm aware of some of the laws here in Volterra, but fortunately for me you cannot condemn me for the way I acted as a witch. My best friend is a werewolf. When I was first turned it was he I turned too for comfort and friendship. After all he knew how I felt."

"You dare compare them to us." Caius spat out, the anger evident on his face and in his voice.

"Yes I do. Remus wasn't born a werewolf he was attacked as a small boy. Do you think he wanted to be turned into that beast? No he didn't, he loathed that side of himself. How many of you wanted to be turned into a vampire? I know I didn't. I was a promising young witch whose life was taken away. It is ignorance like this, which causes hate and Wars in the world. Remus took a potion that, although it didn't cure his lycanthropy, it meant that he could keep his own mind when he turned so that he couldn't harm anyone. Granted not every werewolf is like that, some like the wolf who turned him preyed on humans, turned them in order to create armies. But with every species there are those who are classed as good and those who are classed as being bad. Look at vampires, look at humans, and look at witches and wizards." She took a moment to calm herself, and stop the irritation from sounding in her voice at Caius's words. "What we are does not define us, but what we do and how we act most certainly does." The whole time she spoke with authority and conviction, showing that she found truth in her own words.

Many in the room listened intently to her and agreed silently with her comparison. Others however would need more convincing. "You want to see my involvement with werewolves other than Remus then let me show you." She said.

She walked up to Caius, her gaze never leaving his, and watched as he recoiled away from her hands as she went to take his.

"What on earth are you doing?" He asked both afraid and nervous.

"You want to know so I'm going to show you but I need you to trust me and look into my eyes."

Caius looked at all the eager faces of the crowd in front of him and didn't want to show fear in front of them. So he done the only thing he could and took her hands, keeping their gazes locked.

He wasn't sure what to expect but the moment she had entered his mind he felt it and tried not to flinch. He was startled when he heard her voice in his head saying,

"Caius relax; this won't take long."

Although he found the whole situation both unnerving and fascinating he done as she asked and relaxed. Well as best as he could anyway. Only then did she play different scenes in his mind. The first one was of her fighting two werewolves, her ripping the head off of one and pulling out the heart of the other as she took a bite before tossing it away. This was a warning to other wolves that were lurking not that far away. The second image was her and the Cullen's fighting a group of vampires, with her friend wolf helping them. The scene shifted to her fight with the alpha and finally how she flew them up into the sky before pushing him back down to earth impaling him on a tree branch. Once the image had ended she slowly pulled out of his mind and let go of his hands, before she went back to her chair.

He sat for a moment stunned by everything he had just seen. If those images were true, then he was indeed impressed by her tenaciousness. She was quite the adversary when it came to killing those beasts he so loathed. If those images were true, then she might have just won his respect.

"Well brother what did you see?" Aro asked curiously.

Caius grinned and turned his attention back to Hermione, she visibly relaxed when she saw the admiration shine in his bright red eyes.

"If that's how she fights then we should all be afraid." He gave her a slight tilt of his head then said, "Welcome to Volterra Hermione." Just like that she had finally began to win over Caius.

Aro was incredibly pleased as he clapped his hands with excitement.

"Wonderful I am glad brother. Perhaps later you can share your experience with me." He asked curiously, wanting to know just what she had shown him.

"Of course, I would be delighted to."

"Wonderful." Aro exclaimed again, his boyish smile spreading across his face. "Who wants to ask the next question?" He said looking towards the coven.

"I would beloved." The woman, who Hermione had been trying to avoid, spoke up. Turning her attention to Aro's wife, she noticed how beautiful she was to behold. She had long dark curly hair that flowed sensually down her back. Beautiful full lips with a slight cupid bow, perfect for kissing Hermione mused. Quickly chastising herself for such a thought.

"Of course my dear go ahead." Aro said smiling, even though a cold chill swept through his body. He had not expected his wife to have contact with Hermione and it unnerved him that she was taking an interest in her now.

"Hello dear my name is Sulpicia and I am so glad to make your acquaintance." She smiled warmly at Hermione, who in return smiled politely back. Aro's wife appeared nice and sweet, she didn't seem false as she spoke and genuinely seemed curious. "Please don't think I'm not glad that you're here but isn't it hard being away from your loved ones, especially your mate? Will you return back to him at all?"

Hermione slumped back against the chair slightly as she became lost in her thoughts again. With a deep sigh she turned to Sulpicia and smiled sadly.

"Leaving my loved ones was hard but leaving Severus," She sighed again, shaking her head slightly as if to rid herself of the negative thoughts she was having. "Was the hardest thing I've ever had to do. I feel like a part of me is missing." She said truthfully. "He is a wizard however, and despite our feelings I know we could never be together like that. I would love to go back home and see them all again but I have to respect the fact that I chose to come here of my own free will." That wasn't exactly the truth but they didn't need to know that one of the reasons she was here was to protect them.

"That is so sad and sweet; I can't imagine ever being parted from my husband." Sulpicia said laying her hand gently and possessively on Aro's arm, staking her claim in silent warning.

Aro tried not to tense at her touch and smiled, laying his hand on top of hers. He felt uncomfortable at what was passing between the two women.

"Severus and I weren't married but before I left I made him promise me that he would live his life and be happy, even if that means he's happy with someone else."

The thought of Severus with another woman caused her chest to tighten painfully. Although that's what she asked him to do, and hoped that he would do, the thought of him in the arms of another was painful to her. She couldn't think about it, it hurt too much.

She turned her gaze back to Aro and quirking her eyebrow in a way that would make Severus proud she simply said,

"Now I've been nice and answered all of your questions I have some for you Master." She said using the name she had heard Chelsea using. "What exactly do you want with me? I know you tried to use Chelsea's powers to bind me here, and failed. I know that you want the powers I have. But I have to ask why?"

Aro was not prepared for her question at all so looked momentarily shocked. How did she know about Chelsea's power, she had said that Hermione knew something had happened but didn't know what exactly? But she did.

"Loyalty is important here in the Volturi coven. We make no exceptions. You are an oddity in our world Hermione, a mixture of witch and vampire. You intrigue us and we want to learn more." Aro said calmly, it was the truth however. "Quid pro quo my dear. Why did you agree to come here? What is it you want?"

Hermione thought about his question for a moment then said,

"What I always want, to learn. I want to know what it's like being a vampire; I want to learn things that only the Volturi can teach me. I am a vampire after all and I think it's about time I embraced this part of myself. I can't do that in the Wizarding world now can I?"

"Very true." Aro simply said. He clapped his hands together once and stood up. "I think we have exhausted our guest enough for one day. We shall adjourn for now and meet up tomorrow at the normal time. For now go and enjoy the rest of your evening."

Everyone began to make their way out, only Chelsea was brave enough to come to her afterwards.

"Hermione I am so sorry about what I tried to do. Please don't hold it against me. I was only following orders."

Hermione smiled reassuringly then said,

"I understand, honestly I do. Just don't do it again." Her eyes tried not to follow Aro and Sulpicia as she took his arm in hers, and they walked through the door of the large room looking beautiful and regal.

"Uh oh looks like it's that time of the week." Chelsea said with a small giggle, making Hermione fully aware of the meaning. "Shall I walk you back to your quarters?" Chelsea asked politely.

Hermione looked around the room, appreciating it for the first time since she had entered.

"Actually if you don't mind I'm going to stay here for a moment. Then I can just apparate back to my quarters." She said with a smug smile. Now that she could picture her quarters it would be easy just to pop in and out whenever she wanted to.

"Are you sure?" Chelsea asked again; glad that she could return quickly back to Afton, her mate.

"Yeah honestly you go. I won't be long I just want to check out this room, it's amazing."

Chelsea had been living here for so long that she really didn't notice the breathtaking sight of the large dome or the marble pillars and floors anymore. She couldn't appreciate it like the fresh eyes of Hermione could.

"No problem. Take your time but be careful." With a small smile Chelsea was off leaving Hermione alone to look around.

Why hadn't she noticed how stunning it was in here? Oh right she had been in a room full of power Volturi vampires that's why. She thought.

The room was large and circular, decorated in cream marble with green trimmings. As she looked up into the dome there were several large windows letting in natural light, but not direct sunlight. No-one would sparkle in here.

She walked over to the three thrones and ran her fingers over each one of them. They were black and gold, very befitting for each of the three leaders. Behind their chairs was a large rectangle space with pillars leading towards a door and more windows. Above the door and the window was a large balcony that could look over the whole of the circular room. A set of stairs was at either side of the balcony, it looked like it was used for grand entrances, maybe a dance or for the three Volturi leaders to show off their leadership. She could picture them coming down the stairs to take their positions on their thrones while court began.

Slowly she made her way past the thrones and to the middle of the circular room. So absorbed was she in looking up at the dome, she didn't realise that she was no longer on her own, until someone roughly tapped her shoulder.

Looking to see who was there she wasn't surprised to see Jane standing, her face void of all emotion.

"I have no idea why my Master wanted you here but he does. You may have fooled them, but you will never fool me. I know what you are." Jane said, her voice cold and angry.

"Oh and what am I?" Hermione said quirking her eyebrow up.

Jane made a snorting noise before looking Hermione straight in the eyes.

"You are nothing but a fraud and soon he will realise that, they all will. But for now know this, I don't like you and I certainly don't trust you."

Hermione stared at the young looking vampire and didn't know whether to feel angry at the way she had just spoken to her, or admire the fact that she wasn't afraid, like some, to talk to her like that.

She moved to stand closer to the other girl, keeping her own emotions close to her chest.

"I have to say that the feeling is mutual. I neither like nor trust you, you have been nothing but rude since the moment we met. What's the matter little girl, upset that you are no longer the apple of your Master's eye. Scared of a little competition."

Jane sneered at her and tilted her head.

"Competition. I would hardly call you that. You know nothing of our world or our ways and I promise you that after tomorrow, you will be on the first flight back to where you came from." Jane smiled smugly and gave a small chuckle. "As I said your little party tricks may have won over some of the Volturi, but you will never win my favour. Until tomorrow."

With that the young vampire turned on her heel and using her vampire speed left Hermione alone to ponder her words. Hermione had to admit that she was left a little unnerved, something big was happening tomorrow and she had no idea what it was. But she got the impression that whatever it was she wouldn't like it.

With that she apparated back to her quarters and the minute she entered the room she cast a silencing charm and set up wards. The last thing she wanted was to hear Aro and Sulpicia in the throes of passion especially when her feelings were so conflicted at the moment. She walked up to the framed pictures and picked up Severus's photo. She caressed his face lovingly before pulling it to her chest, closing her eyes and wishing she was there in his rooms.

She had only been in Volterra for one day and already she missed Hogwarts, her friends and him most of all. It had been a long eventful day and she didn't know how she was going to last being away from them too long.

Still clutching the picture, she sank down onto her knees, and rocked herself on the spot, wishing she could just disappear back into Severus's arms. To her he was home, to hell with everything else.

Hermione wasn't sure how long she sat there, clutching at the photograph and lost in her thoughts. And because of the silencing charms and wards set up, she didn't know that someone tried to unlock the adjourning door to her room, or the fact that because of the wards they were repelled away from the door in confused irritation. This was not the end of it, they would be back to try again later.