Unlikely Savior
Summary: What if Hermione was saved by Bellatrix instead of being tortured by her? Who would be the enemy and who would be friend?
AN: This story has been sitting around for some time and, now that electricity is a problem again (propane getting higher yet our money is the same and both generators have decided to quit...yeah, major pain in the ass!) I am writing on an 8" Windows tablet with a bluetooth keyboard that is quite small BUT...I have been inspired to add to several stories and create a few new ones! Yay! Amazing what can happen when most other distractions are taken away! LOL Anyway, hope you enjoy this story and thanks for checking it out!
Stay safe, sane and have a wonderful day/night! :)
Disclaimer: I do not make any money with this.
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It wasn't supposed to be like this. She was supposed to be the 'Smartest Witch of Her Age' and yet, here she was, captured and being tortured, at least Harry and Ron had gotten away. But how had anyone known where they were? No one had said the despot's name. They hadn't stepped out from the protective circle she had created, and she knew it worked due to having had Snatchers walk right by them previously; it was why she no longer wore any perfumed anything. She had heard one of the Snatchers comment about smelling something and Hermione knew it was her lotion they were smelling.
As she lay in a pool of her own blood, Hermione tried to remember if they had left any sort of trail or signs behind when they had changed locations but nothing came to mind. They had been so careful, so why had they been caught. She considered the wound Dolohov had given her at the Department of Mysteries but dismissed it. Professor Snape had pulled the dark magic out when he realized the wound wasn't healing properly. It had been painful, almost as painful as receiving the curse but she was thankful afterwards when it had started to truly heal. Now it was a thin scar that bisected her breasts; so no trace there. The only person to know what they were doing was Dumbledore but he had died when Professor Snape killed him and he fell from the Astronomy Tower. But something wasn't adding up, something or someone had "tattled" on them.
Hermione saw a figure slink into the room and braced herself for another round of torture. She had yet to give anything up, even when her torturer had used Legilimens on her. She never thought she would be grateful for Professor Snape's epic failure to teach Harry Occlumency, but it had given her a reason to learn and practice so she could help him. As the person slowly made their way to her, Hermione finally got to see who was there...Bellatrix Lestrange. Well, shite, now the true torture would happen.
But much to her surprise the "crazed and deranged" witch leaned over and lifted her up as if she weighed nothing. Who knew Bellatrix was so strong or had she lost that much weight? She had been giving most of her portion of food to the boys to make sure they got enough.
"Bloody hell witch! Don't you eat?" Bellatrix whispered sharply in Hermione's ear. "No worries, we'll fix that while we heal the rest of you."
Hermione's mind officially shut down at this point with Bella's civil tone and admonishment, as if she cared. All Hermione could do was nod her head before she started feeling the blood loss and laid her head on the witch's shoulder as blackness claimed her.
Bella shook her head as she watched the witch's eyes close and oblivion claimed her. The poor little thing had stayed strong until she hadn't a need to anymore. Looking around to make sure they were still alone, Bellatrix apparated out of the cellar to safety. She knew she would most likely get a lecture on breaking character but she was no longer able to watch the brave witch suffer any longer.
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Hermione came to some time later to the sounds of fierce whispering.
"You shouldn't have risked your cover to save her." a male voice hissed.
"I couldn't leave her there to die or be tortured worse!" was retorted, Bellatrix, she knew.
"You risked blowing all our covers, Bella!" another voice whispered.
"It was worth it! She's special and you know it!" Bella stated with a hint of voice instead of a whisper.
"Both of you are right, stop arguing." a calm voice stated. "Bella, you did well but Dolohov is correct in that you risked everyone's cover with your actions."
"Of course, my apologies for not thinking things through more but I do not apologize for saving her, she's needed if this war is to end." Bella quietly stated.
"Dolohov, go see to the others; Bella, check on the witch, she is awake." the calm voice commanded.
"Of course." Both said as they went their separate ways.
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"Good, you're awake. You gave us quite the scare, you know." Bellatrix told Hermione as she ran a scan over her body. "Excellent, the potions have done their jobs. You know, you really should eat more, you weigh no more than a feather." Bellatrix chided kindly.
Hermione could only stare, her tongue stuck to the roof of her mouth. Who was this person and where was the real Bellatrix Lestrange. At her look, she got a quiet laugh from Bella and a low chuckle from the wizard behind her. Hermione immediately stiffened, knowing that visage from what Harry had told her about the Chamber of Secrets, Tom Riddle.
"Ah, seems she knows who we are. Good. That will save some time." the wizard said.
"I won't tell you anything." Hermione stated with conviction, her eyes conveying the truth of her words.
"We have no doubt but we have no need for you to tell us anything you wish not to but allow me to explain. We are not your enemy, Hermione Granger. We are the ones everything is being pinned on." Tom Riddle told the shocked witch as he gave Hermione a warm smile, "As you can see, I'm not the cold, cruel bastard I've been made out to be."
"But, but, Dumbledore had memories he showed Harry of you." Hermione stammered.
"Ah, yes, the pensieve memories. I'm afraid they were tampered with to show me but the truth is...my visage was overlaid onto the true person." Tom explained.
"Wouldn't that show though?" Hermione asked. She knew she had read that tampered memories always had an added aura to them. It was a way the DMLE and Wizengamot knew the memories were false or had been tampered with.
"Not if it was done by a powerful witch or wizard." Bella shared. "You see, about five decades ago, a young wizard named Michael Stepford decided he wanted to rule the world. He changed his name and hid his appearance after he set up his "death". He wanted no one to know his true intentions."
"If that's true, then why did Dumbledore believe you were the cause?" Hermione countered as she stared at Riddle.
"Because, my dear, I was close enough in looks to fool the old wizard." Tom answered. "Also, my background was much the same. Michael and I were both orphans, both magical outcasts, both Parseltongue and both taken in by Dumbledore at the same time. However, that is where the similarities end." Tom told her.
"I was known as a loner in the orphanage, a freak, but I did not torture those around me; I did not torture animals and I most certainly am not emotionless. I feel all the feelings you do. I enjoy the company of others. I have no interest in ruling over anything. I most certainly do not have any problems with muggle-borns. I actually find most are quite entertaining." Tom chuckled at her dubious look.
"It is true. The inventions muggles have come up with to make their lives easier is nothing short of amazing and quite ingenious." Tom told her.
"What about your parents?" Hermione wanted to know.
"Ah, yes, the potion induced marriage. It was Michael's mother who did that, except she was more insidious about it. She potioned her paramour for a full three years before Michael was conceived and only stopped when she learned she couldn't brew it any longer, too dangerous while pregnant." Tom explained.
"However, when someone is under a love potion's influence for that long, certain side effects will happen." Bella added as Tom nodded his head.
"You see, by the time the potion was out of the man's body, his mind couldn't handle the lack of its influence and went in the opposite direction. So instead of continuing to love the witch he was married to..."
"He despised her instead." Hermione finished. It made sense. No one would be able to feel on their own after having an artificial influencer for that many years, it made her cringe at just the thought.
"Yes. But what most do not know is that by the end of the first year of continuously ingesting the potion, any feelings the man may have had had been fully replaced. The marriage may have still had a chance had it stopped there but three years...well, no emotion was left so by the time the witch fell pregnant, the man truly had no emotional well whatsoever." Tom continued.
"So that's why the child was so barren emotionally." Hermione stated. Realizing how the influence of the potion itself wasn't really to blame but the prolonged consumption of it was. It stole the man's ability to feel anything on his own.
"Exactly!" Bella smiled widely.
"So, why pin his deeds on you? If he wants to rule the world and rid it of muggle-borns and the like, why not take full credit?" Hermione pondered.
"Ah, the real question." Tom grinned. "Honestly, we have no idea."
"What?" Hermione asked as she berated herself for her lack of command of the Queen's English making the other two chuckle.
Tom sighed, "I truly have no idea why he doesn't show his true nature with the goals he seems to have. We have managed to convince him we are none the wiser but, truth is, we are tired of being blamed for things we have not done. All the bad, it is all on him. If anything, we have tried to rescue victims such as yourself."
Hermione thought for a moment, she hadn't really thought anything other than what Dumbledore had told them all but it would explain a few things; like how someone knew where they were. If this Michael had changed his name, what was it changed to? Why was he hiding behind another wizard if the strength of his convictions was so strong? Then it hit her...
"What if he isn't just targeting muggle-borns and those who "sympathize" with them?" she asked.
"Continue." Tom gently commanded.
"Well, this Michael has gone to great lengths to pin everything on you and select pureblood families. What if that was his main goal to begin with?" Hermione told them.
"How do you figure that?" Bella asked, her voice a bit harder as her anger grew.
"Easy, Bella." Tom cajoled.
"He's a half-blood, right?" Hermione wanted clarified.
"Yes." Tom answered.
"Well, what if he was targeting purebloods because he isn't one? What if he feels by taking down the most influential families, i.e. purebloods, would enable him to become "pureblood"?" Hermione asked them.
Both Tom and Bella were quiet for a time as various emotions flowed across their faces.
"Son of a bitch!" Bellatrix exclaimed.
"Language, Bella." Tom scolded.
"Sorry, but I think she might be right! How dare he do this to us just so he can "step in" when we're all dead or rotting in Azkaban!" Bella exclaimed.
"You truly are the brightest witch of your age." Tom complimented, making Hermione blush.
"I've just learned to think outside of the box." Hermione said.
"You say it as a bad thing. Not everything can be learned in books, my dear." Tom told her gently.
"So I was told." Hermione stated. "and have learned."
"By who?" Bella asked, truly curious.
"A snarky professor." Hermione shared as there was a knock on the door.
"Sir, a word." the disembodied voice said but Hermione knew it all too well. Hermione started going though the past six'ish years and started piecing things together.
"Come in. I believe we were just talking about you." Tom bade the voice as he stepped back to allow Severus Snape into the room.
When Severus stepped in, he froze and schooled his features.
"I believe you know our guest?" Bella cooed.
"I do." Severus stated.
"Oh come off it, Severus. The witch is being told the truth, no need to hide." Bella chided the stoic wizard.
"You, you killed Dumbledore but not for the reason or reasons we were led to believe." Hermione stated.
Severus just stared at the witch, not showing any signs if she was right or wrong.
Tom and Bella smiled as they watched the witch's thoughts run a mile a minute, putting things together before her eyes widened and snapped to her professor.
"It was a mercy killing that he ordered you to do!" she exclaimed. "His hand, it was black and traveling up his arm...a curse from putting on the ring he found. He was dying, probably painfully, and he wanted you to cast the killing blow instead of Malfoy so everyone would believe you to be a traitor. Dumbledore set the whole thing up! He wanted us to see you as a villain so you could go unquestioned by the dark lord who is this Michael character instead of Mr. Riddle." Hermione said in one breath.
"Breathe, witch." Tom told her with pride in his voice and a touch of humor.
Hermione studied her professor a bit more, the wheels turning even faster, "You showed favoritism to Slytherin to gain his favor in hopes to help those he targeted better, in an indirect way, but you still saved our arses many times over the past six years."
Severus remained stoic during her monologue only to snort at the end. "You make me out as some sort of bloody Hufflepuff."
"No sir, just a very clever Slytherin and talented spy." Hermione countered with a smile.
"Hmph" was Severus' reply.
"You have news, Severus?" Tom inquired, giving the dour wizard a reprieve.
"I do, from Lucius. He overheard the Carrows talking about Halloween and a massive raid being planned. They also spoke of Fenrir recruiting as many werewolves as possible to aid in the raid." Severus reported.
Tom frowned, "Did the two sycophants say where this raid was to happen?"
A pained look crossed Severus' face, " The orphanage."
"What orphanage?" Hermione asked. She didn't know there was one close by.
"The Bellows Home for Children. It is situated in Horizontal Alley just up the street from Silvertongue's Home for Wayward Children." Bella told her.
"Silvertongue's Home for Wayward Children? Is that like a halfway house for troubled kids?" Hermione wanted clarified.
"It is." Severus told her.
"If he's targeted one, will he also target the other since they are so close?" Hermione pondered.
"He may, it would be logical." Tom answered. "Severus, grab Dolohov, Yaxley, Rookwood and Clearwater and do what you can. There should still be a box of quills you can use to make golems."
"Sir." Severus answered as he turned to leave but not before he glanced to the witch in the bed making Tom smile a small smile of knowing. Severus scowled at him before billowing out of the room.
"That wizard has turned billowing into an art form." Bella chuckled as she watched Severus leave.
Hermione could only nod.
"Now, back to what we were discussing." Tom started. "I believe you were pointing out how Michael could be trying to rid society of purebloods so he could step in."
"It just makes sense. If there is no one who could say otherwise and he has the ability and power to alter memories on someone as old and powerful as Dumbledore was, no one would be able to stop him. He'd also be in a place where no one would question him either." Hermione thought out loud.
"Why do you think that?" Tom wanted to know her thought process.
"Well, if you, purebloods I mean," She said as she looked to Bellatrix, "are all dead or in prison, then who will be around to even suspect him of coercion and a hidden agenda? Who would believe convicted "DeathEaters" that he was a fraud and had set them up?"
"She's right, you know." Bella backed up Hermione much to Hermione's surprise. It would take some time for her to get used to Bellatrix Lestrange being sane and civil.
"You keep being civil with her Bella and you may just break the poor witch's mind." Tom chuckled. Hermione ducked her head, embarrassed he had called her out.
"Nothing to be embarrassed about, Hermione. We understand what has been told to you with no way to counter it without showing our hand." Bella soothed the young witch.
"I'm just embarrassed about being so easily duped more than anything." Hermione admitted.
"It happens to the best of us." Tom tried to console. He understood all too well and knew it would take her some time to come to terms with her new reality.
"Bella, love, why don't you go check in with the house elves at Hogwarts? See if they have any new news to share?" Tom instructed.
"As you wish." Bellatrix responded before her whole demeanor changed to that of the deranged witch Dumbledore had told them about, making Hermione shudder.
"Sorry, dearie, but this is the only way I can get in without suspicion." Bella apologized.
Hermione nodded her head but remained quiet.
"Quite impressive, is it not?" Tom smirked as Bella dramatically left the room.
"Very. How does she do that?" Hermione wanted to know. She wasn't sure she'd ever be such a great actress as Bellatrix Lestrange.
"Years of practice unfortunately. She had to be that way so her sire wouldn't beat or curse her on a regular basis. If she came across as insane and demented, he left her alone...mostly." Tom sadly shared.
"I'm sorry, no one should have to deal with any sort of abuse." Hermione stated sincerely.
Tom regarded her a moment before speaking, "You mean that, don't you?"
"Yes" she promptly answered without thinking making Tom smile.
"If there were more like you in the world, Michael Stepford would never had stood a chance." Tom complimented.
"Thank you" Hermione blushed.
"Now, there is a topic I must address." Tom stated.
"Is that why you sent Bellatrix away?" Hermione asked.
"Partially, yes. I thought you would be more comfortable without an audience." Tom explained.
Hermione studied him a moment, not sure what was so sensitive of a topic that she wouldn't want an audience present for it.
"I noticed when Severus stepped in that you took notice." Tom started.
Hermione only nodded, wondering what he was getting at. Of course she noticed her former professor; he knew how to command a room without even trying.
"I also noticed your eyes widened just a touch and you inhaled quickly." Tom added.
Hermione refused to read more into it than there was so she just stared at him. Tom chuckled at her stubbornness. He was going to have to spell it out before she would admit anything but given her history with the dour wizard, he couldn't really blame her.
"You find him attractive and interesting." He stated.
Hermione wanted to crawl under the covers and hide. There was no way he could know that! She had only admitted it to herself within the last few months. It was why she had such a problem thinking of Severus Snape as a murderer. The wizard intrigued her on a level no other wizard ever had and he was quite easy on the eyes to boot.
"Ah, denial is more than a river in Africa, my dear." Tom chuckled.
"I didn't, I mean, I don't, um, he was my professor." Hermione managed to say.
"And you are older than your birth certificate says." Tom raised a brow at her.
Hermione sputtered before she could catch herself, how the bloody hell did he know that?
"I know quite a bit about you, Miss Granger." Tom admitted.
Hermione visibly slumped when she thought of all the things Severus would have said about her, she wasn't his favorite student after all.
"You are very much mistaken, Hermione." Tom told her. "Severus thinks very highly of you."
Hermione's eyes snapped to Tom's, was he reading her mind?
"I don't need Legilimency to know what you're thinking." Tom told her as he sat in a chair he pulled next to the bed.
"When you first started Hogwarts and for several years, Severus did complain about you a bit. His main complaint was that you refused to think outside of the box, that you would spew the answer word for word from the text book. However, after your fourth year, his tone changed. He praised your work more than complain about it. He said you were finally learning that not every answer was found in the written word and he was quite proud of you. He would say that the three of you, the Golden Trio, just might survive." Tom shared.
Hermione snorted, not believing Severus Snape had anything nice to say about her.
"Doubt me if you wish but know that Severus Snape rarely changes his opinion on anything or anyone but he did about you. He was pleased that you had started thinking for yourself and asking proper questions. He wished, so many times, that he could praise you rather than put you down constantly." Tom told her.
Hermione continued to have a disbelieving look on her face even though inside she was rejoicing. Her main goal had been to make the strict wizard proud. Out of all the teachers at Hogwarts and even her muggle school, Severus Snape was not an easy person to impress. She was thrilled that the man had seen and approved of the changes she had started to make.
"Your third year, you used a Time Turner to take as many classes as you could, did you not?" Tom prodded.
"I did." Hermione managed to say, her voice not wanting to work.
"You used it so much that you managed to gain two years to your age." Tom smirked at the witch.
"I, um, didn't think it was that much." Hermione admitted. She had tried to keep track of her turns but wasn't sure she had always noted every single one. She had been happy, at times, to just get her work done.
"Yes, well, some of us keep track of such things." Tom told her.
"Not to be rude, but what is the point to this conversation?" Hermione wanted to know.
"Just to tell you that you must be patient, Hermione. There is more to Severus than most know and definitely more than he allows anyone to see. Bide your time and you will have a chance to win your wizard." Tom stated as he rose. "Now, if you will excuse me, there are things I must attend to."
Tom chuckled as the witch sputtered at his retreating back.
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Severus Snape was concerned about the information he was to deliver. If the overheard conversation was true then there was at least one children's home that was in danger and possibly two. Hopefully they could save as many as possible. The attack was said to take place in a week's time. He had several ideas how to handle the situation but he wouldn't make a move without his commander's approval. So, here he was, heading up a too long set of stairs to touch base with their leader.
Tom Riddle wasn't what everyone thought. He wasn't the one responsible for the first war nor was he responsible for the currently brewing war. Sadly, the populace of wizarding Britain was being misled. The person responsible was hiding his true nature under the guise of a member of the "Light". Severus knew the wizard's goals were horrible but there was no physical proof to pin such things on Michael Stepford. He was powerful and conniving and so very manipulative. Severus knew the wizard could sell snow in Siberia if he so chose.
Once at the top of the stairs, Severus knocked on the door he was told Riddle was in. When the door opened, he heard a familiar voice and cringed inside. Hermione Granger was in the room. He wasn't afraid of her finding out the truth, he was afraid she had been badly hurt. The last he had heard, the 'Golden Trio' were on the run trying to find Michael's Horcruxes and destroy them. If she was here, where were Potter and Weasley? Were they dead? Captured? On the run by themselves, a thought that scared him more than anything. Those two couldn't find their way out of a deteriorating cauldron without Miss Granger's help.
When the door opened, Severus greeted their leader, "Sir, a word." he really didn't want to enter the room and see what shape Miss Granger was in although she sounded fine. However, Tom didn't give him a choice and so Severus schooled his features and stepped in, internally relieved that the fiery witch seemed perfectly fine if a bit tired. Of course, Bella had to razz him a bit about his stoic behavior. He knew Tom and Bella were educating Miss Granger on the truth but he hadn't expected the witch to dissect him so easily. He thought she made him sound like a bloody Hufflepuff but then she corrected his thinking with a compliment.
Severus had to admit that her intelligence was spot on about his actions. He was taken aback by the respect her voice held; no judgment, no disdain, nothing negative whatsoever and it floored him. Although he knew it shouldn't, she was a logical being after all.
He gave his news to Tom and used his peripheral to watch Granger's reaction. As he had expected, she was horrified as any sane person should be. Severus nodded when Tom told him to grab a few others and the box of quills so they could transform them into golems to replace the children. Severus hoped they would have time. Surely, between the four of them, they would get all the transfiguration done and the children moved to the underground safe house before anyone on the other side could alert the dark lord of their actions.
Before leaving, Severus couldn't help but glance towards Hermione one more time; he needed to make sure she really was okay. She looked better than he expected. However, he wondered how badly she had been injured before being brought there. He knew Bella had broken cover to get the witch out of the danger she had been in, which was telling in itself and not in a good way either. What Severus didn't miss was the small knowing smile Tom aimed his way. Of course, Severus scowled at their leader before leaving but wasn't surprised Tom had caught his concern over the witch, the wizard missed very little, it was why he was chosen as the leader.
Severus gathered Dolohov, Yaxley, Rookwood and Clearwater as he picked up the box of quills, shrunk it before putting it in a robe pocket just before they left with a quiet pop. Once at the Homes, Severus and Rookwood took the orphanage with half the quills and Dolohov, along with Clearwater and Yaxley, took the remaining quills and headed to the other home. After taking pictures of each child, gathering their things and herding them into the tunnel to the safe house, both groups set to work transfiguring.
"The Granger witch was your student, yeah?" Rookwood asked Severus.
"Yes." Severus answered.
"Man, that is one tough witch!" Rookwood stated.
Severus cocked a brow at him. "What? Didn't they tell you how they found her?" Rookwood scratched his face.
"I wasn't there long enough." Severus answered.
"Well, that little witch had been tortured for several hours before Bella broke character to rescue her." Rookwood told him.
Severus wondered if the golem he just transformed would ever be rendered back to a quill with as much power as he put behind the spell. He hadn't meant to overpower the spell but learning that Hermione had been tortured for so long had angered him. As he listened to Rookwood tell of all the injuries the young witch had sustained, Severus had to keep his anger under control. He didn't want to overpower another spell, however, when Rookwood told him how much blood she had lost as well as how light Hermione had been, he barely contained the magical surge.
"Bella was able to carry Hermione out?" Severus' voice was deadly calm causing Rookwood to look over at him.
"Yeah. You care for the witch." the wizard stated.
Severus didn't answer; afraid he would give himself away. He knew Hermione had used a blasted Time Turner her third year and he knew she had added a few years to her age. He admitted, if only to himself, that the witch had been of age for two years now. It had made it difficult for Severus. He had watched her grow from a buck toothed, bushy haired know-it-all swot to a bushy haired fierce warrior and he had no way to let her know how proud he was of her or how intrigued he was of her. She had grown out of her Merlin forsaken hand waving stage then she had finally learned that the written word didn't always have the answers and now she was a logical warrior being told the truth. Severus almost felt sorry for the despot. He knew he didn't want to be on her bad side. Of course, remembering all the times he had witnessed her wrath being unleashed on the two dunderheads she called friends was quite enjoyable, he knew he really didn't want to challenge her either.
True he was more experienced and fine-tuned but Hermione had plenty of power and raw emotions to fuel her spells, not to mention he knew she had a devious streak. He had seen that first hand as well. Once she fine-tuned her skills, the witch would be a force of nature the wizarding world hadn't seen before, add her intellect and no one should want to be on the wrong side of her wand.
Now that she was being told the truth, Severus couldn't wait for her to help Tom figure out how to take the megalomaniac stirring up so much trouble and death down.
"I can't say I blame you for wanting the witch. She's quite easy on the eyes and, once healed and fed, will have quite a nice body." Rookwood was saying when Severus tuned back in.
"She was my student, Rookwood." Severus stated.
"And how many witches out there have you taught, Severus? Nah, you can't let something trivial like that stand in your way." Rookwood told him.
Severus slid his eyes over to the wizard, "When did you get so wise?"
Rookwood snorted, "I'm not wise, mate, just a man who knows a beautiful witch when I see one. She's way out of my league but I'd bet you'd have a shot."
Severus grunted but it got his mind thinking. Would Hermione see him as a man and not her professor? Would she entertain a relationship with him? Could he chance it?
"What makes you think I'm interested in Hermione in that way?" Severus wanted to know.
"Well, for starters, you've called her Hermione twice now instead of Miss Granger and…you don't suffer stupid people, Severus. I'd bet she would keep you on your toes!" Rookwood shared with a smile then held his hands up in surrender when Severus shot him a scowl. "Alright, alright, I'll drop it but you should consider courting her before some other bloke comes along and steals her away."
Once Rookwood shut up and concentrated on their work, Severus had to admit that he wouldn't mind courting Hermione if she would have him. He knew he was a hard wizard to be around. He was snarky, cantankerous, had a barbed tongue and knew his banter wasn't for everyone. But could she handle him? As soon as that thought crossed his mind, Severus slammed a door in its face, locked it up and threw away the key. He needed to concentrate on saving the children without raising suspicion until it was too late, not dwelling on how he would love for Hermione to "handle him".
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Back at Clearwater Manor, Hermione was being fed potions to help her regain the weight she had lost. She was also being told more of what was going on, what they had done, were planning on doing and asked for any input she might have.
"This Michael person, he wants Harry, right?" she asked with a calculating look.
"Yes." Narcissa answered.
"Well, why don't we use that to our advantage?" Hermione queried.
"How so?" Bellatrix asked. She had gotten back two hours before and had told Tom what she had learned from roaming Hogwarts and talking with the elves.
"Well, if you let me contact Harry and set up a meeting place, I can explain to him what you've told me." Hermione shared.
"Will he believe you?" Tom asked, having slipped quietly into the room.
"If I tell him my experience here and let him scan me for any spells, he would." Hermione explained, knowing her "brother" would want to make sure she was free from any influence of any kind.
"Say he does believe you, what of your other friend? Weasley?" Narcissa wanted to make sure nothing bad would happen to the witch. Over the last day they had chatted and found they had a few things in common.
"Ron? Well, I'd need to stun him, take his wand then stick him to a seat before I shared anything with him. Then I would silence him while he ranted and raved about trusting "bloody DeathEaters" and only after he calmed down would I lift the spells so we could have a civil conversation." Hermione smiled sheepishly. She knew exactly how Ronald Weasley would react but she also knew if she waited him out, his strategic mind would kick in and the other information would sift down into his consciousness and he would then, begrudgingly, be willing to help.
"Sounds like he'd be more trouble than he's worth." Bella said in a matter of fact tone.
"Don't underestimate his strategic abilities." Hermione chided. "He has a sharp mind for strategy, he's just too lazy most times to use it."
"If you think you can get through to him, then I will support bringing him in the know. However, Bella will go with you, disillusioned, to make sure nothing gets out of hand." Tom told Hermione.
She thought about it a moment before agreeing. "Okay, just, make sure to keep your distance. Harry seems to have an uncanny knack for knowing when something or someone is hidden from him."
"Probably because he's been kept in the dark his entire life." Narcissa stated.
Hermione sighed, "You're probably right. So when do we do this?"
"Tomorrow night, you need a bit more rest before using your magic." Tom told her and Hermione nodded.
"How will you find Mister Potter?" Narcissa asked, curiosity brimming.
Hermione gave them a sheepish look, "I, um, sort of put a tracking charm on him when we learned we would be on the run."
Tom let out a bellowing laugh at her admission, "Are you the only one who can track him? You said you weren't sure how you had been found." he asked once he calmed a bit.
"I'm fairly certain that only I can track the charm, I put my signature on it and was thinking I would be the only one to disarm the charm when I cast it. Does that make a difference?" Hermione asked.
"It does, actually." Bella answered. "Your signature alone wouldn't do it but your intent would."
"Awesome!" Hermione couldn't help but crow, her guess had been the right thing to do.
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The next morning found Hermione performing the tracking charm so Bellatrix, Tom and her could see where Harry and Ron were.
"Alright, ladies, have a safe journey and I look forward to your return." Tom told them just before Bella apparated them both to a nearby location. Harry had put a few wards up that Hermione had taught him, she was so proud.
Allowing a few minutes for her equilibrium to settle, Hermione stepped away from Bella and canceled the disillusionment spell on herself. They had both checked the area to make sure no one was lurking unseen other than them.
Hermione slowly approached where she thought the shield was at and sent a knocking spell. It was what they had chosen to use to identify one of them versus a stranger or worse if they got separated outside the wards. She counted to three and sent another knock before knocking four times quickly, finishing the code. In the next moment, she felt a hand grab her arm and pull.
"Hermione!" Harry yelled as he quickly embraced her. "I didn't think we'd see you again! Where have you been? Are you alright?"
"Hi Harry, good to see you too." Hermione smiled genuinely at her best friend. "Where's Ron?"
"He's sleeping, we haven't gotten much sleep, both of us worried about you." Harry told her. When he turned to yell for Ron to wake up, Hermione quickly silenced him. At his glare for being silenced, Hermione gave him a reassuring smile.
"Ron needs his sleep, Harry. Besides, what I have to tell you, we can tell Ron later." she hedged.
"What aren't you saying, 'Mione?" Harry accused.
Hermione sighed, "Sit down, Harry. I have a lot to tell you."
Harry cautiously sat and started to get up when Hermione took his wand. "Just to make sure." she told him. When Harry raised a brow at her, she placed a muffling spell around them to make sure Ron didn't come barging out.
After two hours of back and forth, Harry scanning her for spells and asking her specific questions, he finally sat down and considered everything he had just been told by his best friend; the only friend who had never turned her back on him or lied to him. It took Harry another few minutes for him to calm down. It was outrageous what she had said but he couldn't help but believe her, reminding himself that Hermione had never lied to him or steered him wrong, so if she said they could be trusted, then he'd give them the benefit of the doubt. That didn't mean he wouldn't be prepared but now he understood why she wanted Ron to stay asleep and he couldn't help but agree with how she planned to tell him.
When Hermione had told him that Bellatrix Lestrange was out there waiting for them, disillusioned and was there for protection, Harry insisted he go out to meet her. If she was as Hermione had said, he wanted to see it himself. Hermione sent her patronus to make sure it was safe and when Bella said it was, both of them stepped out. Well, after Hermione placed a sleeping spell on Ron. The last thing they wanted was for him to wake up and become panicky that Harry was missing.
"Lord Harry Potter, how nice to finally meet you." Bella said as they approached her, giving Harry a slight bow of her head to acknowledge his station as the last scion of the Potter line.
Harry had his wand at the ready but was willing to give the witch a chance.
"Bellatrix" he responded. "Not sure if it's nice to meet you or not." Harry grunted when Hermione elbowed his ribs.
"It's alright, Hermione, he has no reason to trust me." Bella conceded. "You explained everything to him?" she asked Hermione.
"I did, which is why we are out here." Hermione answered.
"Where's Mister Weasley?" Bella asked.
"Sleeping. I put him under a sleep spell so Harry could speak with you." Hermione told her.
"So you still have him to tell then?" Bella stated,
"We do." Hermione replied.
"I have a thought about that." Harry piped up with.
"What thought?" Hermione and Bella asked at the same time.
"Well, is there a spare room where you're staying?" Harry asked.
"There is." Bella answered, curious where Harry was going.
"Then I suggest we take down the wards, levitate Ron out, shrink the tent and apparate to where your headquarters is at." Harry explained.
"Then we set the tent up in the room with an enchantment to make it seem as if we are still here, wake Ron and, after spelling his arse to a seat and silencing him, explain the situation." Hermione finished.
"Exactly." Harry agreed.
"Alright, let's get your camp broken down. Harry, you are in charge of your friend. Hermione, if you would take down the wards, please." Bella instructed. "Then we can get somewhere safer."
Hermione quickly took down Harry's wards and put out the fire as she covered any traces that anyone was there as Harry walked in to levitate Ron out. Bella shrunk the tent and also erased any tracks that anyone was ever there as well; one could never be too safe. Then she held out a portkey. When Harry raised a brow at her, Bella chuckled. "Never go unprepared, Harry." which earned a smile from him.
When they landed, Bella brought them into the Manor and led them to a room they could use. She then set the tent up and turned to leave them to their undesired task when Tom entered. Harry's wand immediately pointed at the wizard. Tom patiently waited for the young wizard to rein in his programmed response.
"I am pleased you all made it without any trouble." Tom stated. "However, allow me to make this a bit more believable for your friend." Tom turned to Bella and, with her nod, entered her mind.
"I see; will this do?" Tom asked as he changed the empty room into the forest they had been inside of.
"Perfect." Harry said then added, "Thank you, Tom."
Tom gave Harry a nod and led Bella out of the room. He then warded it to keep anyone out that needn't enter and possibly cause an explosive situation to become worse.
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After a few minutes, Harry and Hermione looked at each other, sighed deeply and entered the tent; time to face the music, so to speak.
After waking Ron, Hermione greeted him as Harry led him to sit on a "log" by the "fire" so they could talk. As soon as Ron was sitting, Hermione stuck his arse to his seat as Harry caught his wand. A very confused Ron took a moment before he exploded.
"What the hell, mate? Hermione?" Ron exclaimed, completely confused over his friends' actions.
"It's just a precaution, Ron." Harry told his friend.
"We want you to listen to us before you angrily stomp off." Hermione stated.
"What? Why would I stomp off angry?" Ron asked suspiciously.
"Well..." Hermione started and then spent the next two hours telling Ron what she had told Harry. As they thought would happen, Ron exploded; swearing they were cursed or potioned, yelling that they weren't his friends if they had joined the other side. Everything they had expected but hoped wouldn't happen. They let Ron have his tantrum and then released him so he could go sulk and calm down.
It took until the next evening before Ron would even look at them then it took another day for him to say a word to either of them. But because he couldn't really "escape" either of them, he finally managed to deal with his emotions a bit quicker.
"Alright, I don't like it but you say we can trust them?" Ron asked sulkily.
"Yes, Ron, they can be trusted." Harry answered, trying to not be upset over his best mate's reluctance.
"While you were busy being mad at us, we have interacted with them." Hermione shared.
"Fine. So, what's being planned?" Ron asked, an edge still to his voice but his body language was starting to soften, slightly, which Harry and Hermione took as a good sign.
Harry and Hermione told him what they knew and asked if Ron would help them figure out a strategy.
"Yeah, let's go down and figure this out." Ron answered.
As the three of them left the room, Ron was amazed at the spell work. Nodding his head in appreciation, they went downstairs to join the meeting.
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"Alright, the Orphanage and Wayward Home has been taken care of." Tom started down a list in front of him.
"Severus, how are the students? House elves? Professors?" Tom asked.
"Minerva has recruited Flitwick and Pomona to help with making golems for all students. No one will be left in the school. The Room of Requirement has made a safe place to stash said students. The house elves have been alerted to the danger and are adding their magic to the wards." Severus answered. "The professors on our side have been told what they need to know and are willing to do what is needed to keep Hogwarts as safe as possible."
"Excellent, thank you, Severus." Tom praised. "Dolohov, Bella, how are the shops in Diagon Alley?"
"The shop owners have been told as little as possible but most will ward their properties against damage if the battle goes that far." Bella answered.
"Knockturn Alley shops are either walking the line of neutrality or on the side of Stepford." Dolohov added.
"Sadly, we can't win them all." Tom sighed. He wanted no loss of life but knew some would fall. At least the children would be kept safe.
"Yaxley, how are our supplies coming along?" Tom asked.
"Medical supplies are set for any injuries, clothes, blankets and cots are ready and various potions have been created that should cover most of what else happens." Yaxley told his leader.
"Or so we hope, friend." Tom acknowledged.
"Ah, the 'Golden Trio' has arrived." Narcissa announced causing the three teens to blush and duck their heads a bit.
"Come, join us, friends." Tom called to them.
As introductions were made, Hermione had a thought occur. "How will we know all those who are on our side and who are different?"
"Good question. We have yet to figure that out." Tom answered her.
"We would need a way to mark them where we can all see but wouldn't give them away." Ron thought out loud.
"What about the coins you made for the DA, 'Mione?" Harry asked.
"No, we need something that can be seen, Harry." Hermione told him.
"What if it was a wrist or arm band?" Severus suggested.
"Oh!" Hermione perked up. "Like the muggles wear to honor a cause or a lost loved one."
"Exactly." Severus gave her a small smirk and enjoyed the light pink tint to her cheeks though his expression never changed.
"Alright but what would ours be?" Dolohov asked.
"It would have to be something no one outside our side would recognize." Tom stated.
"How about a cornucopia pin?" Ron suggested. When everyone turned to look at him, his face turned bright red. "What? It would go with Halloween well enough and it would show the many opportunities taking this wizard down would give us all."
"Ron...that's genius!" Hermione exclaimed.
"Always the tone of surprise." Ron chuckled.
"Alright, I believe I'll give that task to the witches." Tom stated as he noted the head nods from Bella, Narcissa and Hermione.
"So what do I need to do?" Harry asked.
"Well, Harry, your part will be to sneak into Hogwarts and make yourself known when signaled." Tom told him.
Harry nodded, "I can do that. I'll do it in the Great Hall, that way plenty of people see me and will alert Stepford of my arrival."
"Excellent." Tom agreed. "Alright everyone, we have two days before this happens, I want you all to get plenty of rest so we are at our best when the time comes."
Recognizing their dismissal, everyone went in various directions. The witches gathered to discuss just how the pins would look and how many to create. They would put a charm on them that would give off a faint glow when activated by Tom. They spent the rest of the night creating them so the next day they could use as little magic as possible.
They would give Severus the pins for those at Hogwarts and he would deliver them while he also explained their meaning.
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Before Hermione could leave with Narcissa and Bella, Dolohov approached her.
"Miss Granger, may I have a word?" he asked.
Hermione gave him a suspicious look and looked to Harry and Ron, the other witches, Tom and then Severus before she gave a small nod.
"I understand your cautiousness around me. I wanted to apologize for causing you harm during the battle at the Department of Mysteries." Dolohov told her, sincerity in his voice and body language.
"That spell was supposed to hit Alecto Carrow, not you, but you moved into its path and there was nothing I could do to stop it." Antonin told her, his face full of remorse.
Hermione studied him a moment, glancing to Harry and Ron, who were watching intently, ready for an attack before she looked to Severus. His demeanor had relaxed a bit but he was ready for anything. However, at Severus' slight nod, Hermione took Dolohov at his word.
"I accept your apology, Mister Dolohov." she finally said and was a bit surprised to realize she meant it too.
"Thank you, Miss Granger. It's more than I deserve and it's Antonin or Dolohov, whichever you chose." Antonin told her.
"Hermione then, Antonin." Hermione responded before she walked over to Bella and Narcissa, leaving the room.
Antonin released the breath he had been holding and realized a heavy burden had been lifted from his shoulders. When he looked to Tom, he got a smile and nod of approval before he walked to his own room to rest.
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The next day, everyone mingled and lounged around the Manor, relaxing and resting for the day after. Amazingly, no one showed how nervous they were for the following day's confrontation. Hermione found herself watching a certain dour wizard off and on, whenever he was in view. She hadn't realized her actions had been observed by anyone until Bella and Narcissa pulled her away for an "in-house" spa treatment.
As they were being pampered, Bella started the questions. "So, Hermione, you have eyes for our Severus?"
"What?" was all Hermione could manage, her brain having stalled due to the observations of the witch.
"Do not think we haven't noticed your eyes watching him every time he comes into a room you are in." Narcissa added with a smirk.
"I, I don't..." Hermione stammered.
"Oh, don't try to deny it, girl. We aren't blind." Bella chided her.
Hermione sighed, "He fascinates me." she admitted, ducking her head. "AndIfindhimquitesexy." she added.
"There is nothing to be ashamed of, child." Narcissa told the young witch, chuckling at her embarrassment.
"It doesn't matter, he only sees me as his former student." Hermione said in a flat voice.
"Psh, for someone so brilliant, you can be really dense." Bella teased.
"What?" Hermione asked, her brain trying to process what was being said or not said.
Bella shook her head as she glanced to Narcissa. "It would seem she hasn't noticed, Cissa, how he enters every room she has been in at least once."
Narcissa nodded solemnly, "So it would seem Bella, poor dear, so bright yet so blind."
"He does not!" Hermione finally managed to find her voice.
"Yes, he does, Hermione." Bella corrected her.
"And his eyes seek you out each time." Narcissa added with a smile.
"What? Why haven't I seen it or felt him looking at me?" Hermione wanted to know. She didn't think she was that oblivious.
"Because you don't believe you have a chance with him." Narcissa said knowingly as Bella nodded. "You dismiss any other feelings due to that misinformation."
"It's only natural. It took Rod hitting me over the head with a bludger, metaphorically speaking, before I realized he returned my interests." Bella admitted.
"However, I had to use several "bludgers" before Lucius would look my way." Narcissa shared as the witches chuckled.
"I don't think it'll take that for you though." Bella told Hermione.
"Really?" Hermione wanted to know why she thought that. "Why?"
"Because, silly, you both know you want the other." Narcissa explained causing Hermione to "meep".
"Oh, child, you haven't been obvious or anything but there are others putting "bugs" in his mind as we have yours." Narcissa assured Hermione.
Both older witches chuckled softly at Hermione's relief.
"So will you pursue Severus when this is all over?" Bella asked.
"Maybe" Hermione squeaked.
"You should, you know. I think the two of you would make an excellent couple." Narcissa stated.
"Really?" Hermione asked in a small voice. She wasn't sure where her command of the Queen's English went to but she couldn't help it. She was so out of her comfort zone it wasn't funny.
"Definitely!" Bella chirped with a wide smile.
"Absolutely." Narcissa added.
"But, I have no clue what to do, say, act..." Hermione confessed hoping the two witches would give her some tips. For the next two hours, Bellatrix and Narcissa offered her tips and advice on snagging a Potions Master's attention.
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When Severus entered the third room Hermione had been through, Tom clapped him on the back.
"Planning on pursuing the lively witch when this is all done?" Tom asked.
Severus scowled but stayed silent, knowing it was useless to attempt to lie. He could lie to himself and everyone else but Tom...Tom would make it his highest goal to prove you wrong when he knew the truth, whatever that may be.
"Severus, my friend, you should really stop scowling so much. I see the way your eyes follow the young witch whenever she is near." Tom told him.
Severus sighed, Tom really didn't miss much. "I'm too old for her."
"That's a bunch of shite and you know it." Tom hissed, making Severus' head snap to the wizard. Tom rarely cursed so when he did, anyone near paid attention.
"You are not too old, Severus. She is of age and has been for two years now and you know that no wizard her age is going to interest her, she's too mature. What are you afraid of?" Tom demanded.
"The same thing everyone else is...rejection." Severus admitted quietly.
Tom pulled him to a quiet corner, "Severus, I highly doubt that young witch would reject you, she is not nor will she ever be Lily Evans."
"How can you know?" Severus was curious.
Tom chuckled, "Have you not seen how she will seek you out? When Dolohov approached her, she not only looked to her friends, me or the other witches but she sought you out as well."
"I, did notice that, yes." Severus admitted.
"She wanted to make sure you were aware and whether or not you approved. It was your reaction above all others that swayed her actions." Tom shared. Severus stayed quiet.
"Severus, when this whole mess is finished, you really should take a chance on Hermione. I believe you will be pleasantly surprised." Tom said just before walking away to leave the wizard to mull over their conversation.
Severus thought about what Tom had said and couldn't help the bubble of hope that grew in his mind and soul. He then spent the next several hours looking for said witch only to learn Bella and Narcissa had pulled her away for some pampering. He was glad they had taken to Hermione and were helping her. Otherwise, he knew, she would be buried in some tome or another. When he finally spotted her, his breath caught. She looked radiant. Her skin glowed, her smile outshone any sun and her eyes sparkled with joy; he had never seen her so beautiful before. It was then that he decided he would pursue the witch if they survived the next day.
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The next morning, everyone gathered in the formal dining room for breakfast. What amazed Hermione was the level of calm everyone seemed to have. She would have thought there would be an air of nervousness or at least a bit of unease but nothing like that was present which made it easier for Harry, Ron and her to relax as well.
Everyone sat around the table for a few hours before going to their rooms to finish getting ready. When the hour finally came upon them, everyone's attitude changed, now they were serious and focused.
"Tom, how will I know when he has arrived?" Harry asked. "I've never met him, as far as I know."
"Oh, you'll know and you have met him." Tom told him as he touched Harry's temple to show him who Michael Stepford truly was and who he was masquerading as.
"You've got to be kidding me! Bloody Hell!" Harry exclaimed.
"I'm afraid not." Tom replied.
Harry shook his head, "Shite."
"Indeed, my young friend. Watch yourself and wait for my signal." Tom agreed.
"I will." Harry promised and he meant it. He really didn't want to face the despot without backup.
"Good luck, Harry, be careful." Hermione told him as she gave him a tight hug.
"I will and you too, 'Mione." Harry told her as he returned her tight hug.
Ron shook his hand but Harry pulled him into a one arm hug before stepping out of the Manor to disaparate to Hogwarts gates.
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After Harry arrived, he quickly put his cloak on and entered school grounds. He took his time making his way to the school, not knowing if anyone was out and about that could spot the barely there ripples his cloak made from his movements. Once inside, he made his way to the Great Hall, it was so quiet. Harry stood next to the doors to wait for the signal from Tom.
As he waited, he was able to see through the slight opening between the doors. He peered around before taking in the Head Table. Shaking his head, he hoped the day went well and few lost their lives. Harry hoped the element of surprise would help to save some. Even though he knew the "students" in the Hall wouldn't be harmed no matter what spell was cast at them, he still worried, and hoped none of the older years decided to try to help.
Taking a deep breath and letting it out slowly, Harry stepped to the side of the entrance to wait, his least favorite thing to do.
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At the Manor, Tom readied his friends and allies.
"Alright, everyone knows what to do. I wish you all well and hope to see you again but we all know that we don't always get what we want." Tom stated as he took in everyone gathered.
"Let's put an end to this." Bella spoke and many chorused her thoughts.
"Activate your portkeys those who have them and once they are gone, we apparate." Tom instructed. When everyone had left, Tom gave a brief smile, patted a robe pocket, then disappeared.
Once everyone had landed and disillusioned themselves, Hermione and Ron let the group in. Hermione led a group into the school while Ron led a group to some secret tunnels and entranceways the 'Golden Trio' had used throughout the years.
It took about half an hour for everyone to get into position before Tom sent the alert to Harry.
Taking a deep breath, Harry slipped into the Great Hall and watched for a moment, happy to see most of the professors were on their side. When a "student" came running into the Hall, exclaiming about seeing shapes moving in the shadows, Harry knew it was show time.
He threw off his cloak...
"Pardon my intrusion, Headmaster Snape, but it seems your security is lacking." Harry smirked.
"Potter!" Severus sneered as he stood. "Where are your bodyguards?"
"Eh, gave them the night off." Harry snarked.
"We must alert our Lord!" Alecto shouted as they stood and started to cast the spell.
"That won't be necessary." Harry stated as he accio'd the wand to him. "That's better."
"You insolent fool!" Severus snarled, "Your arrogance knows no bounds, boy, just like your father."
"Psh, my arrogance is nothing compared to your dark "lord's"." Harry bantered back as he turned his attention to the half-giant sitting at the Head table.
The entire Great Hall had gone silent as the grave, which the golems had been instructed to do. The teachers all followed Harry's gaze and gasped. Hagrid's face had gone from bumbling idiot to outrage to utter calm.
Hagrid stood and walked around the table, "'arry, you know i's me."
"Nice try but the real Hagrid wouldn't be so calm or graceful." Harry stated as he pointed his wand at the half-giant.
Before anyone could react, "Hagrid" laughed. "What do you know about anything, boy!" was sneered.
"I know that you're impersonating a friend of mine. I know that you allow Hagrid to be himself half the time and you knock him out when you need to be him. I know your real name is Michael Stepford and that you're a half-blood. I know that the one you pinned as the "dark lord" is Tom Riddle because you both have similar backgrounds and looks." Harry told him.
"You know nothing!" "Hagrid" exclaimed as he raised his wand to duel the brat.
Harry smirked and countered the spells sent. "Come on, Stepford, is that all you got?" he taunted. It was a dangerous ploy but one he and Tom had chosen. If Harry could rile the imposter enough, hopefully he wouldn't realize the shapes moving in.
After about ten minutes of spell flinging, "Hagrid" had to pause.
"What's wrong, Stepford? Not feeling well?" Harry asked as he scanned the room to see the many shapes waiting in the background. He noticed the professors had seen the pins' glows and knew the time had come. The true memory of the pins had been hidden until the time was right, that way no one could slip up in any way and inform the imposter.
"Never you mind, boy." fake Hagrid growled before his eyes narrowed at a figure standing behind "The-Boy-Who-Defied". "Riddle!"
"The charade is up, Michael. We all know you're not Hagrid." Tom stated as he pulled something out of his pocket. When he held it up and touched it with his wand, "Hagrid" started convulsing. After ten minutes or so, a wizard who could have been Riddle's twin stood in "Hagrid's" place.
"The truth always comes out." Harry stated just before the battle began.
"I will kill you all!" Stepford yelled as he started casting spells at the "children". The howl of pure anger and frustration could be heard in the Forbidden Forest when the "children" returned to the inanimate objects they originally were.
The professors immediately started dueling the true DeathEaters at the school and were amazed at those who were on their side. However, they knew not to doubt the pins worn so they only gave a nod and continued their battles.
At the end, it came down to Harry and Michael. As the true dark lord cast the killing curse at the boy who had been a constant pain in his arse, Harry cast Expelliarmus and the clash caused the Hall to turn white and everyone had to cover their eyes so not to be blinded. After a moment, Tom and his "inner circle" all cast a shading spell so they could see. It would seem that Michael was using the Dark Mark to pull from his followers; many were down with more following the longer the spells clashed. After several more minutes, Harry pulled from deep within and added a little extra which caused the dark lord to fall to his knees before Harry's spell overwhelmed him and the power behind it encapsulated the despot. There was a crystal clear moment that everyone saw Michael Stepford just before he solidified into a stone statue, flawless, followed closely by those truly faithful.
Fortunately, those who were only in his service due to coercion, threats or some other reason were still standing...with unblemished arms. A loud chorus of cheers erupted when the realization was made that the dark bastard was truly dead and gone and their damnation was removed as if it had never been there.
After a few moments of celebration, Tom, Severus, Hermione, Ron and Bellatrix found themselves running to the center of the room to the crumpled body there.
"Harry!" Hermione shouted as she slid on her knees to her brother in all but blood and cradled his head as her tears flowed.
"Not right, mate, not right." Ron chanted as he knelt by his best mate's side.
Tom ran a diagnostic spell over the wizard's body and locked gazes with Severus. At his nod, both wizards started chanting as they waved their wands over Harry. When Poppy tried to intervene, Bella and Lucius held her back, whispering to allow them to heal the boy then she could do what she did best...finish his healing.
Severus and Tom spent half an hour chanting to bring Harry back. The two wizards were close to being spent when Harry finally took a quick inhale and sat up straight before slumping back down and breathing normally. It was then that Poppy was release to tend to her patient and the two wizards who had done magic far beyond hers. She noted how drained they seemed and, without thinking, handed each a Pepper Up potion along with a Rejuvenation potion, all without missing a beat in healing Harry.
Smirking at each other, Tom and Severus downed their potions and sat patiently while Poppy finished with Harry, knowing she wouldn't let them go anywhere until she had scanned them.
"Well, gentlemen, you all will need plenty of rest after that little display but you are no worse for wear." Poppy stated after her scans but everyone could easily see the relief in her eyes and body that the three were going to be alright.
"Thank you, Madam." Tom gave her a smile as Severus nodded, "Yes, thank you, Poppy."
Harry sat up and took a few breaths before speaking, "Is he gone?"
"Yes, Harry, he is gone, for good this time." Tom answered and enjoyed the true joy radiating from the young man.
"Well, I must say he had us all fooled." Minerva commented.
"Hagrid of all people." Flitwick squeaked.
"Yes, the perfect patsy." Pomona sadly stated.
"Exactly." Tom said softly. "No one expected Hagrid to be impersonated by someone of that ilk."
"Where is Hagrid?" Harry asked.
"Here." Bellatrix came in with Hagrid following her looking quite drowsy.
"Whut's goin' on?" Hagrid slurred.
"Come with me, Hagrid." Poppy demanded gently as she took the half-giant's hand. "We'll get you fixed right up."
Hagrid looked around the Hall before allowing Poppy to lead him away, confusion written all over his features.
Deciding tea was in order, Minerva summoned the elves and tea was served for all. With several cups in her, Minerva sighed, "Tom, I am so sorry for believing the lies." she may have said his name but she made sure to look at all the "DeathEaters" gathered.
"You believed what you were supposed to, nothing more, nothing less." Bella stated.
"Yes, had you shown knowledge of anything else, you would have been killed." Lucius added.
"Yes, well, I am sorry nonetheless." Minerva stated. "On that note, I would like for all of you to pull your memories so we can submit them to Madam Bones of the Department of Magical Law Enforcement. No one will believe us otherwise."
As everyone concentrated on the events of the day, Severus summoned enough vials for everyone to use. Each vial had the standard protection spells on them that the Aurors used and was labeled with the name of the memory holder along with the date. While everyone was working on gathering their memories, Minerva sent a patronus to Amelia Bones. Within moments, Amelia arrived with a contingent of Aurors. When they took in the scene, she approached the group.
"Eventful day you've had." Amelia stated.
"That it was, Madam Bones." Tom agreed.
Amelia and the Aurors watched as each person placed their memories into a vial and handed them off to whichever official was by them.
"Thank you. Now, no one is under arrest at the moment, however, I do ask that no one leave the country until this can be sorted." Amelia commanded.
"Of course." Lucius stated while others nodded their heads to let the HBOY know they understood.
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Amelia was taking a break in her office when she received a patronus from Minerva McGonagall.
Amelia, we need you at Hogwarts presently. There has been an incident that requires your attention...and bring Aurors as well.
Minerva McGonagall, Deputy Headmistress, Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry
When Amelia appeared, she was surprised at the destruction. As she surveyed the Great Hall, she noted several bodies littered the floor. She also noted the many golems that were sitting in for the children as well as various items which she deduced had been golems at one time. She couldn't help the sigh that escaped her when she realized that the only way a golem would revert back was if it was hit with a spell. As she approached the group, she made note of who was there. She now understood why the Deputy Headmistress had called her.
She instructed the Aurors and was pleased to see all present followed her orders and understood her command to not leave. There were some distinguished names standing around: Malfoy, Lestrange, Dolohov, Clearwater...there was much more here than met the eye. She noted the statues and assigned two of the Aurors to log each one, place a band on them and send them to a cell within the DMLE. The statues had been posed in such a way that the Dark Mark was shone for all to see. As she rubbed the bridge of her nose, Amelia realized the paper work was going to be a nightmare.
Realizing she needed to know what, exactly, happened, Amelia approached Severus.
"Care to explain all this, Headmaster?" Amelia asked.
"Of course." Severus answered and spent several minutes informing Amelia what had happened.
"I see." Amelia said as she pulled a vial from her robes and placed her memory of the conversation in it, sealed it and stuck it back in her pocket. "I need to see the students, make sure they are secure and unharmed." she commanded.
"This way." Severus said as he led Amelia and the Aurors to the Room of Requirement. After walking in front of the wall three times, a door appeared which Severus opened and led the small group in.
Amelia cast the Sonorus charm, "If I could have everyone's attention, please." she said above the chatter. "I need you to gather in groups of your House, so your Head of House can make sure everyone is accounted for. Thank you."
After a moment, the Head Boy and Girl along with the Prefects gathered the Houses together so an attendance could be taken. Minerva, Flitwick, Pomona and Severus counted those present and was pleased to inform Amelia that every student was there and unharmed. Of course, Amelia had several Aurors assisting each Head of House so all would be above board.
She turned her gaze to Severus and gave him a nod, "Prefects, escort your House to their common rooms, food and drink will be waiting for you there." Severus announced before billowing out of the room with the small contingent he had come with following him. They made their way back to the Great Hall where Amelia filled another vial for the record.
The next hour was spent with all those present repairing and cleaning up the Hall so the students could continue their day as normal. Amelia thanked all those present for their help and cooperation before disapparating back to the Ministry.
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Once the legalities had been seen to and Amelia gone with her Aurors after repairs had been done, Tom and his group excused themselves. Harry, Ron and Hermione were given permission to leave with the others but were expected to return to school the following Monday.
Back at Clearwater Manor, a celebration commenced as soon as everyone arrived. The elves had been planning a feast fit for a king...or a returning group of heroes. Upon arrival, everyone went to their rooms and showered, changed and relaxed that the War was over and so few casualties were made.
As soon as everyone gathered in the dining hall, Tom clinked his glass.
"I would like to make a toast." he paused to give everyone time to settle down. "A toast to those who lost their lives battling the evil that was Michael Stepford and his true followers. A toast to those of us who risked our lives on a daily basis to bring an end to the madness and save as many as we could. A toast to those who helped how they could even when it meant only looking the other way."
Everyone raised their glasses and a chorus of "Here! Here!" was heard before a quiet moment was taken to honor the fallen. Then Abraham Clearwater stood and welcomed all to his home and wished them a wonderful night.
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Hermione watched everyone as they splintered off into smaller clusters to chat and exchange stories or joke. What amazed her most was the lack of alcohol consumption. Oh, there were plenty with a drink in their hand but no one was getting drunk or even tipsy, no, everyone was enjoying their drink. Harry, Ron and her had been given a shot of tequila along with everyone else, when Tom was giving his speech. Then they were allowed to have whatever alcohol they wanted.
When Ron had asked why, several of the adults said that if they were old enough to fight in a war, they were old enough to have some alcohol. They couldn't argue with that but even the boys were sipping their drinks instead of knocking them back and asking for more. She was quite proud of them.
As her eyes moved over the gathered witches and wizards, Hermione noticed a quiet relief in their postures, the edge was gone. Although many lives had been needlessly lost due to Stepford's madness, many more were saved by their quick and decisive actions that night. It saddened Hermione that one being could cause such destruction and horrors but her heart was lessened its burden by those she was surrounded by; those who pulled together and ended the dark lord's reign.
There was only one other thing that would make this night perfect...Severus Snape. She wasn't sure how she would go about things but knew, one day, she would pursue the wizard. He was everything she wanted in a partner and life mate and hoped he felt the same. As she was scanning the crowd to try to get a glimpse of her heart's desire, she felt a presence behind her.
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Severus was relieved that it was over, that the dark bastard had been dealt with permanently. As he watched his fellow fighters leave with their leader, he sighed. As much as he would like to join them in celebrating, he knew his obligation was to the school and its inhabitants.
"So, Severus, this was the plan all along?" Minerva queried.
"No, we got lucky." Severus answered.
"How so?" Minerva prompted as the other professors gathered around.
Severus sighed before explaining about Hermione being captured and how that had led to that night. The other professors were horrified that someone so young had gone through such trauma and was glad the young witch had those around her that could heal her body and help her soul to heal as well.
When he finished his tale, he turned to go to his quarters when Minerva spoke.
"You know, lad, you could join them." she stated and gave Severus a warm smile at his raised brow. "Go on, enjoy yourself, we can handle the castle for one night."
"You are sure, Minerva?" Severus wanted clarified.
"Go have some fun, Severus." Pomona urged.
"Yes, Headmaster, take the night off for once." Flitwick told him.
"We can handle whatever comes up, you deserve a break. Don't think we don't know what a fine line you've had to walk these past months." Sinistra stated with a smile.
"Very well, if you should have need of me, I will be at Clearwater Manor." Severus shared as he walked to the gates and disappeared.
When he arrived, he was immediately included in the festivities with someone handing him a drink and Tom clapping him on the back as he leaned in closer.
"Your witch is around here somewhere."
"She is still a student." Severus sighed.
"Then have her take her N.E.W.T.s" Bella chimed in. "We all know she could pass them with her eyes closed and one hand tied behind her back."
"Your young witch is over at the bar, Severus, looking for you, if I'm not mistaken." Narcissa quietly stated with a smile.
"Corrupting the young are we, 'Cissa?" Severus arched a brow.
"Tsk, if they can fight in a war, Severus, they can have a bit of liquid reward." Lucius answered instead.
"Hn, I suppose." Severus replied although he couldn't agree more.
As he looked to the bar, he saw her, Hermione, as she leaned against it while chatting with Dolohov and Lady Greengrass. He couldn't help but give a small smile at how beautiful she looked and how happy she seemed.
Deciding to test the waters, Severus skirted around the main area to come up behind Hermione, timing it so she wouldn't be in conversation.
"Miss Granger." Severus' baritone voice quietly said.
"Headmaster." Hermione responded as she tamped down the urge to shiver at the sound of his voice so close to her ear. She turned her head to look over her shoulder at him.
"Enjoying yourself?" Severus asked.
"I am, thank you." Hermione replied.
"Good, you deserve it. You all deserve it." Severus told her and held back a chuckle at the surprised looked aimed at him.
"Thank you but you deserve it more." Hermione countered and continued when he only cocked a brow at her. "You've been working both sides for far too long, sir. You deserve to be able to have a good time with no worries too."
"Thank you." Severus quietly said before looking out over the gathering. "I do hope to see you and your friends back at Hogwarts on Monday."
Hermione sighed; she wondered when that would come up. It wasn't that she didn't want to take her N.E.W.T.s but her heart was conflicted. Sensing her turmoil, Severus prompted her.
"Is it because I am now Headmaster?" he asked.
Hermione swiveled on her stool until she faced the man who held her heart. "No! That's not it at all!" she stated emphatically.
"It's just, well, as much as I would love to finish my education and pass my N.E.W.T.s, I'm not sure if Hogwarts is such a good fit anymore." she told him honestly, well, mostly honestly. The truth was, she wasn't sure she would behave herself or be able to concentrate with Severus as the Headmaster. She knew herself well enough to know that much.
"Then, why don't you sit your N.E.W.T.s in a week's time at the Ministry?" Severus put out there.
"I can do that?" Hermione's interest piqued.
"If the Headmaster and your Head of House sign off on it, then, yes, you can." Severus told her and enjoyed the smile that slowly made its way across her face.
"I would much prefer that!" Hermione was barely able to contain her excitement.
"Then I shall see to it for you." he informed her and was taken off guard when she suddenly hugged him.
Deciding hugs weren't so bad; Severus wrapped his arms around her and returned her affection. When Hermione pulled back to peer up at him, Severus found himself very tempted to close the distance and kiss her. Realizing how close he was to losing his control, Severus gently pushed Hermione back onto her stool with a gentle smile.
"None of that, I'm afraid, until you have passed your tests and are no longer considered a student." He shared and was relieved to see the fear leave her eyes. "Do not fear, my little witch, I return your interests very much, but I will not have your name or reputation besmirched in any way." he assured her.
Hermione couldn't believe what she was hearing and it took everything she had to not hug the man again. "Of course, Headmaster, sir." A week was going to feel like forever for her but he would be worth waiting for, she just knew it.
A week later found Hermione Granger sitting in the testing room at the Ministry taking her N.E.W.T.s. She was surprised to find others with her of varying ages. The tests took all day to complete but when she walked out of the room, Hermione felt she had done her best and that was all anyone could ask for. The administrator told her that her results would arrive by owl in a week. After giving the wizard a nod, she walked out of the room and was immediately surrounded in black.
She laughed as Severus swooped in and carried her to an empty office. "You are officially no longer a student, Miss Granger."
"True and what is my reward for being such an excellent former student?" she asked cheekily.
Instead of answering, Severus closed the distance and captured her lips in a searing kiss, making both their toes curl. When they finally broke for air was when he answered her question. "Me, if you want me." he whispered.
"Always." Hermione whispered against his lips as she brought him in for another kiss to prove her point.
~Fin~