A New Struggle

by fandomfanatic93

It has been a year and a half since the end of the Battle of Hogwarts and Hermione felt like she was finally piecing her life back together. That is until a letter from the Ministry threatens to shatter her. Rated M because I haven't quite decided where I want this to go. Disclaimer: The lovely J.K. Rowling owns Harry Potter, not I. Reviews are encouraged and appreciated.

2. Chapter 1

Chapter 1

Hermione awoke to the sound of scratching at her window. She let out an annoyed puff of air and sat up in bed. She sent a menacing glare towards the window and through her duvet off her. Twisting her waist, she sat on the edge of the bed and placed her feet on the cold floor. She glanced at her alarm clock and a groan escaped her. It was 4:30 in the morning. She raised from her bed and stomped her way to her window and jerked it open. The owl made its way in and dropped an envelope in her hand. She gave it a treat and it flew away.

She scowled at the retreating owl and closed her window. Glancing down at the envelope addressed to her, she made her way to the desk to retrieve the letter opener. She slid the tool under the flap, tearing it open, and she began to read.

Miss. Hermione Jean Granger,

It is with our greatest pleasure that we inform you of a new law that will be effective immediately on Monday the 22nd of November, 1999. The Marriage Law requires young witches and wizards between the ages of 17 and 45 to be joined in matrimony. The Ministry of Magic will match young couples based on the results of a comprehensive exam that will be given on Friday the 19th of November, 1999.

After being placed with a compatible partner, you will be expected to marry within six months of learning the name of your future spouse. You and your spouse will be expected to conceive at least one child within three years of your union.

Failure to adhere to the Marriage Law is not advisable. All those who do not participate will no longer be accepted in the wizarding community; your wand will be snapped and you will spend a minimum of 5 years in Azkaban.

If there is a legitimate health concern that would result in not being able to conceive children, we ask that you please make an appointment with one of our appointed Mediwitch or Mediwizard at St. Mungo's.

We are striving to rebuild our community and we would like to extend our gratitude for your help.

Hoping that you are well,

Theodore Bennett

Head Marriage Consultant

Ministry of Magic

Hermione sank to the floor, eyes glued to the letter in her hands. She had read the letter at least three times and was at a loss. She uttered the only conceivable word that came to mind, "Fuck."