Getting to King's Cross was easier said than done, but Hermione had managed to convince Moody, Tonks, and Sirius to take her and Harry separately from the other family, knowing that the Weasley's wouldn't make it until the last minute. Sirius insisted he go see them off, being able to do so for the first time.
Thankfully the aurors had witnessed the debacle between them and the youngest male Weasley. If it weren't for Moody having to pretend to not have a close relationship with the hazel eyed witch he would have hexed the young redhead this way and that. Molly watching or not.
Harry and Hermione had skipped dinner that night, instead taking it in Hermione's room. They did the same for breakfast that morning. Kreature had brought it to them. The crotchety house-elf had considered switching the hateful Weasley's food with one of theirs, but couldn't bring himself to want that on the youngest female blood traitor. She didn't yell at the young dirty mistress.
The house-elves had tidied up both Hermione and Harry's rooms, and packed their trunks for them. Both teens were grateful being relieved of a stressful task for them knowing that nothing would be left behind, Hermione more so.
Getting onto the red train Hermione and Harry found an empty compartment in the back. Once they were in the compartment they let their familiars out of their cages, giving them more attention than they had that week.
Thankfully the animals understood and didn't hold it against them. If anything they understood too well. Crookshanks had taken it upon himself to barge into Ron's room and shredded the clothes he left around and used his trunk as a scratching post. His mother had repaired his clothes, but she couldn't completely repair his trunk.
10 minutes until the train would leave, the door opened and Luna was in the doorway.
"Hello, Hermione Granger, Harry Potter. May I join you?" she asked politely in her dreamy voice.
Harry and Hermione looked at her. Harry had seen the young witch around, she seemed lost most of the time and her appearance was often strange.
"Of course," Hermione answered.
"Oh goodie," the sandy blonde witch said with a bright smile.
After getting settled in, the young witch plopped down and took out the latest issue of the Quibbler turning it upside down after putting on the glasses it came with.
"I noticed the Quibbler didn't post anything about my status. I don't know if you had anything to do with it, but I was hoping you'd be able to send my thanks to the editor," Hermione said as soon as she saw the magazine.
Luna grinned at the curly haired witch, "You're welcome. I'll let Daddy know you appreciate it too."
Harry tilted his head and looked at the witch curiously, "Is your dad a journalist?"
"Oh, yes. Daddy owns the Quibbler and he's the editor," she replied.
Harry nodded, "I didn't catch your name," he realized.
"Luna, Luna Lovegood. Most people call me Loony though," she said, her eyesight seeming far away again.
"Miss Lovegood I have to ask, I've been getting issues of the Quibbler and some of the articles fascinate me, but I have to admit some of them don't make sense to me. You know I'm a muggleborn and I have to admit there's only so many books on magical creatures in the library. Surely there's more than what Newt Scamander has published," Hermione said, trying to make conversation.
At first she considered the magazine to be nothing but a tabloid paper, but seeing some genuine articles in it she had changed her mind.
Luna looked at the witch surprised. She was aware of how most academics viewed the Quibbler, even if it offended her on a personal level. Hermione Granger was one of the most academic witches in Hogwarts, so it was pleasantly surprising.
"Please, call me Luna," she smiled before answering, "Yes. Some of the creatures published in the paper are hard to find and document. Much like the demiguise were before some naturalists were able to find a way past their shyness that triggered their invisibility," she replied with a nod.
Harry looked at them both with surprise, "Are they the creatures that invisibility cloaks are made of?" he asked.
"Only their fur thankfully. However without it, it leaves them defenseless making them easier prey. That's part of the reason why invisibility cloaks are so rare."
"So some of the articles in the Quibbler are sightings of undiscovered and hard to find creatures?" Hermione asked.
"Mostly," the younger witch nodded, tilting her head to the side.
"So it's the magical version of a cryptozoology magazine," Hermione stated.
"What," Harry asked completely lost.
"Like a jackolope. Some people claim they've seen them, but no one has been able to catch a live one and most people who 'have' one eventually say they glued on antlers to a rabbit," his sister explained.
"Oh!" he exclaimed in understanding.
At the moment of his enlightenment the train's whistle blew signaling its impending departure.
The compartment's door opened again revealing Neville, "Hey guys. The other compartments are full, can I sit with you?"
"Sure, mate," Harry said with a smile.
Looking out the window Hermione saw the Weasley's finally rushing onto the train. Hermione glared at the lanky redhead who was running onto the train.
"Um, Hermione?" Neville mumbled curiously.
"Yes, Nev?" the curly haired witch asked.
"Did you have a fight with Ron?" he asked tentatively.
The hazel eyed witch glowered, "You could say that," she said in clipped tones, turning to glare out the window not wanting to take it out on anyone.
Neville looked at Harry for help, Luna also looked at him curiously.
"Weasley noticed how Hermione's, ah, developed," he tried to say delicately with a blush, "and has been staring at her inappropriately. He was made prefect and then asked Hermione if she wanted to, um, be with him. Hermione said no and he blew up on her."
Said witch growled under her breath, startling Neville, who again looked at Harry imploringly for details.
"He accused her of a bunch of things and she eventually just told him he wasn't her type. She told him during the fight that Ginny was more her type than he was, and he flipped his top calling her a bunch of names. Then insulted her some more about her sexuality and tastes, then he…" Harry sighed hating this part the most, "he asked her who would want her for more than just someone to practice on."
Neville sucked in a breath while Luna glared.
"Then I said 'fuck you' to him, then told him that I wouldn't, and he yelled more about 'Mione and then said she didn't know she was 'passing up a good thing'. So I told him he was a gross, deplorable, homophobic asshole, basically, who made a pass at my sister and got all pissy when she turned him down. He flipped out," Harry looked away, "I was adopted by Hermione's family this summer."
Both listeners smiled at him, happy for the orphan.
"And he told me she wasn't my sister then…" Harry stopped, trailing off.
"Can you guys keep a secret?" he asked vulnerably.
"Of course, Harry," Neville said.
Luna nodded, "You may not know me, but I can take a witch's oath if you'd like," she offered.
Harry stared at her with shock, "No. Just your work is good enough," he smiled at her.
"Well, he said that and I admitted that Hermione is my blood bonded sister."
Neville's eyes widened whereas the silvery blue eyed witch tilted her head, not really surprised.
"He didn't have anything to say to that."
Neville looked pensive.
"Well Ron's an ass and he's going to flunk his OWLS. It's nothing less than he deserves," Neville said under his breath.
Luna nodded in agreement, "Ronald isn't a very good friend. He's the one who started calling me Loony when Ginny was my friend. After my mummy died Molly Weasley stopped letting her play with me."
Deciding to move on to lighter subjects Neville pushed forward with something he was excited about.
"Guess what I got for my birthday?" he asked with a grin.
"Another rememball?" Harry asked.
"No," Neville sighed, "I could do with another one, I lost the old one ages ago… but no, look at this!"
He rummaged through his school bag that that held his robes so he wouldn't have to go through his trunk later and pulled out what looked to be a small gray cactus in a pot, only it was covered in boils instead of spines.
"Mimbulus mimbletonia," he said proudly.
"It's really, really rare," said Neville, beaming. "I don't know if Hogwarts even has one in the greenhouse. I can't wait to show it to Professor Sprout. My great uncle Algie got it for me in Assyria. I'm going to see if I can breed from it," he said excitedly.
Harry stared at it warily, it looked to be pulsating making it look like it was ready to burst. It reminded him of some sort of diseased organ that would be found in potions. However he was happy for his friend who he knew loved herbology.
"Does it do anything?" Harry asked politely.
"Loads of stuff! It's got an amazing defense mechanism…"
"Please don't poke the boils, we're hours away from the Hospital Wing should something happen," Hermione begged.
Neville blushed and nodded, listening to his intelligent friend.
They made small talk for the rest of the ride, getting to know Luna better. She was odd, but nice and friendly making Harry and Neville more than willing to be her friend. Hermione was extremely pleased with this knowing how… friendless the witch was last year. She agreed to be her friend and watch out for her, but now she had 2 other people to be the younger witch's friend with her.
Harry was surprised that Malfoy hadn't made his typical appearance to antagonize him, but wasn't too upset. He was upset however at how Ron had yelled at some students, which upset Hermione enough that her magic was crackling through her hair again.
"He's going to abuse his power, I just know it," she growled to herself.
The rest of the group looked around uncomfortable with the truth.
What surprised the siblings was when Cho made an appearance, "Um, Hello, Harry."
Harry twisted his head, "Um, hi?"
"Um, I just thought I'd say hi. Bye!" and she left just as quickly as she came, confusing the occupants in the compartment.
When the warning whistle blew they took turns changing in said compartment, the girls dressed first.
Luna noticed the difference in the older witch's clothing compared to the regular student robes. Her skirt was black, her socks here black, her shirt was a pin stripe brick red, and her tie was black with the Gryffindor insignia at the base. Considering her master was the potions professor who seemed to live in the color black it was nice to see that the curly haired witch was wearing color. The sandy blonde was surprised, but pleased, happy that the witch hadn't been passed up as prefect. She hadn't noticed her apprentice badge before as it was hidden under a light cardigan, but was now lovingly placed on her black robe.
"Congratulations on your apprenticeship," Luna said.
"Thank you," Hermione replied with a small grin.
Opening the door to let the boys know that they could change saw Neville and Harry glaring at Ron.
"What's going on here," Hermione inquired slowly, sounding a bit like Severus.
Neville shivered a bit before answering, "Weasley thought it was imperative to check the compartment, even though we told him you were changing."
"Is that so?" Hermione replied, settling her glare on the redhead.
"Feel free to look in the compartment, prefect Weasley," the witch said mockingly.
Ron's ears turned red. He knew he wasn't sneaky enough, but he hoped to catch a peek at Hermione while she was changing. Harry and Neville though took it upon themselves to block the window with their bodies, making it hard to see anything. He tried to threaten them with point loss and detention, but they stood firm.
To save face he stepped into the compartment, looked around and left.
"Thanks guys," Hermione breathed, her anger dissipating with Ron's leaving form.
"No problem," they mumbled, going to take their turn to change into their school robes.
Once they were all set, familiars now in cages, they discussed studying, if only to help calm Hermione down and cheer her up a bit.
"Would you mind if I joined you occasionally?" Luna asked in a small voice.
"I would love for you to join me," Hermione said with a happy grin.
It wasn't often that someone asked to join her to study instead of helping them with their homework.
The young witch grinned happily.
"I might not always be in the library now though since I have to work with Master Snape to further along my apprenticeship, but when I can I would love to. I also study a bit during meals," Hermione said, "I wouldn't mind you coming to join me at the table. If you're not comfortable with that, I can sit with you."
Luna's grin widened, "I would like that very much, Apprentice Granger," she replied dreamily.
"My friends call me Hermione," the curly haired witch smiled, knowing how much it would mean to the sandy blonde.
Getting off the train Harry waited to hear the familiar voice of Hagrid calling for the first years, but it didn't come. Instead it was a female voice.
Looking he saw it was professor Grubby-Plank. "Where's Hagrid?" Harry asked confused, and concerned.
"I'm not sure…" Hermione answered, looking around.
In the corner of her eye she saw Malfoy pushing around a young second year from a carriage and almost went to say something. However she was in no mood knowing he would be just as bad as Ron, perhaps just a bit less horrid.
Walking to get what they thought was a horseless carriage Harry and Hermione startled seeing black reptilian skeletal horses with wings. Their heads were dragon-like while their eyes were white, staring at them.
"Oh you can see them too?" Luna asked.
The siblings looked at Luna startled.
"What are they?" Harry asked.
"Thestrals. Only those who have seen death can see them," she said petting one on the nose, "They're seen as a bad omen, but they're really gentle and friendly."
Hermione's eyes sparkled at the discovery. Something magnificent that had been hiding in plain sight the whole time, much like her.
Walking into the Great Hall, Hermione made sure to resume her poise, and Harry followed her lead.
Finding a seat Hermione noticed Harry received a few quick overly friendly 'Hi's', trying to hide the fact that they were talking about him moments before. Hermione narrowed her eyes at them, but said nothing more.
Looking at the staff table Hermione quickly saw a new witch, who she hoped was not their new Defense professor.
'Umbridge… Senior Undersecretary of the Ministry if I remember correctly. What's she doing here? Unless the Ministry, unless Fudge, is trying to interfere and censor us, or discredit us, I see no reason for her to be here.'
Hermione waited calmly with the rest of the school for the Sorting Hat to sing its song and sort the new firsties.
In times of old when I was new
And Hogwarts barely started
The founders of our noble school
Thought never to be parted:
United by a common goal,
They had the selfsame yearning,
To make the world's best magic school
And pass along their learning.
"Together we will build and teach!"
The four good friends decided
And never did they dream that they
Might someday be divided,
For were there such friends anywhere
As Slytherin and Gryffndor?
Unless it was the second pair
Of Huffepuff and Ravenclaw?
So how could it have gone so wrong?
How could such friendships fail?
Why, I was there and so can tell
The whole sad, sorry tale.
Said Slytherin, "We'll teach just those
Whose ancestry is purest."
Said Ravenclaw, "We'll teach those whose
Intelligence is surest."
Said Gryffindor, "We'll teach all those
With brave deeds to their name,"
Said Hufflepujf, "I'll teach the lot,
And treat them just the same."
These differences caused little strife
When first they came to light,
For each of the four founders had
A House in which they might
Take only those they wanted, so,
For instance, Slytherin
Took only pure-blood wizards
Of great cunning, just like him,
And only those of sharpest mind
Were taught by Ravenclaw
While the bravest and the boldest
Went to daring Gryffindor.
Good Hufflepujf she took the rest,
And taught them all she knew,
Thus the Houses and their founders
Retained friendships firm and true.
So Hogwarts worked in harmony
For several happy years,
But then discord crept among us
Feeding on our faults and fears.
The Houses that, like pillars four,
Had once held up our school,
Now turned upon each other and,
Divided, sought to rule.
And for a while it seemed the school
Must meet an early end,
What with dueling and with fighting
And the clash of friend on friend
And at last there came a morning
When old Slytherin departed
And though the fighting then died out
He left us quite downhearted.
And never since the founders four
Were whittled down to three
Have the Houses been united
As they once were meant to be.
And now the Sorting Hat is here
And you all know the score:
I sort you into Houses
Because that is what I'm for,
But this year I'll go further,
Listen closely to my song:
Though condemned I am to split you
Still I worry that it's wrong,
Though I must fulfill my duty
And must quarter every year
Still I wonder whether sorting
May not bring the end I fear.
Oh, know the perils, read the signs,
The warning history shows,
For our Hogwarts is in danger
From external, deadly foes
And we must unite inside her
Or we'll crumble from within.
I have told you, I have warned you. . . .
Let the Sorting now begin.
The students applauded awkwardly.
"I wonder if the Sorting Hat as ever given warnings before," the brunette witch wondered aloud.
"Yes, yes it has," Nearly Headless Nick answered, "The Hat is honor bound to give warnings whenever it feels the school is in danger. The warning is always the same: Stand together, be strong from within."
"Together we stand, divided we fall. It's a common saying in the States," Hermione said, understanding the warning.
She watched the sorting and applauded for everyone.
After the meal Dumbledore stood to give his opening speech.
"If I could have your attention after eating such a magnificent feast, I have some start of the term notices. The Forbidden Forest, is forbidden. This is a warning for the first years as well as some of our older years," he looked over his glasses at the students, "Mr. Filch, the Caretaker, has asked me for nearly the 500th time, to remind you all no magic in the halls, among a number of banned items. The long list can be found posted on his door."
He watched as some of the students snickered knowing they were won't to do despite what the caretaker wanted. While magic in the halls was against school policy they were witches and wizards and magic was a part of them, so as long as there weren't duels the rest of the staff turned a blind eye.
"We have two changes in the staff. We are pleased to welcome Professor Grubby-Plank back, and she will be teaching Care of Magical Creatures. We are also delighted to host Professor Umbridge, our new Defense Against the Dark Arts instructor."
There was a polite round of applause, Harry seemed a bit panicked that the half-giant wasn't there. He enjoyed Hagrid's class and was worried about him. He knew the man lived at Hogwarts year round, and for him to not be there was startling.
Hermione reached her arm out and rubbed his back feeling his distress.
"Another important change is in addition to the Head Boy and Head Girl, Professor Snape has taken on an apprentice. His apprentice will have all the liberties and privileges as the Head Boy and Girl, as well as the ability to give and take points along with detentions,"
This announcement roused the student body to look around, the purebloods wondering who would bother to form such a close bond with the surly professor. It had to be someone in Slytherin; who else would he consider?
"There may be occasions where she will have to miss class, either working on something he assigned or even helping in his class. All punishments she may receive will be headed by Professor Snape, aside from points, all detentions shall be brought to his attention by those assigning them."
All of the prefects shivered not wanting to risk Snape's ire by trying to assign his apprentice detention. Chances are he would override them anyways.
"Apprentice Granger, if you would please stand."
Hermione rose from her seat, her head held high and her expression aloof. The hall burst into furious whispers.
The headmaster cleared his throat, disbursing the whispers.
"Tryouts for Quidditch teams will take place in – "
"Hem, hem."
Dumbledore looked at the large witch curiously who rose from her seat. The witch was not that much taller standing then she was sitting. The fact that she interrupted the headmaster earned her a few glares.
The headmaster looked on disapprovingly as it was clear she wanted to make a speech. However he felt he would be gracious enough to allow the witch to talk. He sat down and gave the witch his utmost attention. His expression startled some of the students as his grandfatherly façade faded.
The fat witch looked slightly startled as she shifted her eyes a bit.
"Thank you, Headmaster for that warm welcome," she simpered, her voice was breathless and girlishly high. It grated on half of the student's ears and send a shiver of revulsion down the other.
"Hem, hem. It's lovely to be back at Hogwarts, and I'm so glad to see so many happy little faces!"
The students shifted angrily, none of them taking kindly to being spoken to like a bunch of 5 year olds.
"I'm looking forward to getting to know all of you and being great friends," she giggled girlishly high that did not fit with her appearance.
"I'll be her friend if I don't have to borrow that horrid cardigan," Pavarti whispered to Lavender, who giggled quietly.
Hermione rolled her eyes, silently agreeing with the statement of the offending article of clothing. It was as though she let a small child dress her.
"Hem, hem."
The petite witch glared, 'That's going to get annoying very very quickly.'
"The Ministry of Magic has always considered the education of young witches and wizards to be of vital importance. The rare gifts with which you were born may come to nothing if not nurtured and honed by careful instruction. The ancient skills unique to the Wizarding community must be passed down through the generations lest we lose them forever. The treasure trove of magical knowledge amassed by our ancestors must be guarded, replenished, and polished by those who have been called to the noble profession of teaching," she bowed at some of the professors at the table, none of who bowed back.
Minerva looked as though she was going to bore a hole into the pink clad witch just by staring at her, before exchanging a look with Hooch who was also watching her with hawk-like eyes.
Umbridge fidgeted clearing her throat again.
"Every headmaster and headmistress of Hogwarts has brought something new to the weighty task of governing this historic school, and that is as it should be, for without progress there will be stagnation and decay. There again, progress for progress's sake must be discouraged, for our tried and tested traditions often require no tinkering. A balance, then, between old and new, between permanence and change, between tradition and innovation…"
The witch quickly lost interest in a majority of the student body, some, like Luna, took out a magazine and simply ignored her. Hermione of course sneered discretely at her, taking in everything she was saying just as much as the rest of the staff.
"… Because some changes will be for the better, while others will come, in the fullness of time, to be recognized as errors of judgment. Meanwhile, some old habits will be retained, and rightly so, whereas others, outmoded and outworn, must be abandoned. Let us move forward, then, into a new era of openness, effectiveness, and accountability, intent on preserving what ought to be preserved, perfecting what needs to be perfected, and pruning wherever we find practices that ought to be prohibited."
When she sat down Dumbledore clapped. The staff clapped once or twice, or in Severus's case, not at all. The students heard it and just followed along glad that the boring speech had ended. The only thing that kept them awake was being able to ignore her and not have to pay attention. It was nearly as bad as History of Magic.
"Thank you, Madam Umbridge. As I was saying, quidditch tryouts will be held…"
Hermione was thinking furiously, absentmindedly explaining to Harry in short terms what the large witch's speech was about. Needless to say the petite witch was not happy.
Getting up Hermione noticed that Romilda Vane started herding the first years, barking at them to get up and follow her, scaring them. Ron wasn't far behind calling the little ones "Midgets".
Hermione glared at them. "First years, this way!" she called commandingly, glad that Severus had given her the password before she left Grimmauld Place.
The first years looked at the apprentice and quickly followed her. She spoke in a way that they felt the need to follow her and she spoke to them kindly, making them feel comfortable. Romilda arched an eyebrow and let the apprentice do so knowing she was higher ranked than her. Ron however glared heatedly at her.
Harry followed his sister's lead and made sure to stand behind the first years so none of them got lost if they lagged behind a little. While he didn't agree with Ron's choice of words, he had to admit they were… small.
Hermione rounded up the first years before leading them down to the Great Hall, promising to show them around so they wouldn't be late. She also instructed the older prefects to help direct them, a harsh glint in her eye that promised retribution if they didn't listen to her.
Knowing she was a force to recon with before she was an apprentice they agreed quickly.
Sitting primly at the table, surprised to see that Harry was there before her, she smiled while they ate breakfast in near companionable silence. She could tell something was bothering him, but wouldn't ask him about it until she had at least had a cuppa and a muffin. If it was something bad she would rather already have something in her stomach than go through the morning hungry.
As the parliament of owls came down with mail Hermione paid the owl that held her Daily Prophet, noticing the dirty look Harry gave it.
"Yes?" she asked, looking at him through the corner of her eye.
"Seamus and his mum are calling me a liar and he's acting as though he'll catch 'the crazy' by being around me," he huffed, "All because of that ruddy paper," he finished glaring at it.
"Lavender started that as well, until I told her to shut her gob or I'd shut it for her," she informed opening the paper "Anyways, lucky for you, you nor Dumbledore are mentioned in it," she replied, "Besides that would mean they'd have to call Diggory a loon too."
Harry nodded, a haunted look crossing his eyes. He had been haunted by 'What if's', had Hermione not been there. He knew for a fact that Cedric Diggory would have died and he felt conflicted by it. Just trying to be fair he almost got the other boy killed. Until they returned to Hogwarts he had thought the other wizard died.
Hermione had leaned into him, shoulder to shoulder, offering him silent comfort that he took greedily. Harry brightened when Neville sat across from them and started talking about nonsensical things taking his mind off petty problems.
Minerva came by soon after handing out their class schedules. Luna skipped over sitting next to Neville holding her own schedule. The group of three smiled at the younger witch.
Neville groaned softly under his breath.
"What's wrong Neville?" Luna asked kindly.
"We have History of Magic, double potions, divination, and double defense today. Professor Umbridge gives me a bad feeling, and I'm rubbish at potions," the blond haired boy lamented.
Hermione 'hm'ed in acknowledgement. Instead of Divination she had Arithmancy. She was looking forward to potions though.
"Yes I get a bad feeling from her too. I believe the best method of dealing with her would be to treat her with extra kindness," Luna said airily.
Hermione looked at the young witch and raised her eyebrows. Her idea had merit. Kill her with kindness.
"I agree," Hermione said, "The less we antagonize, or give in to whatever mess she might come up with, we should be fine."
Harry pouted, but knew that Hermione wouldn't have agreed if she didn't think it would work. They practically did the same thing to Mrs. Weasley and it worked better than he thought it would.
Enjoying a lazy breakfast, Hermione was glad that Ron was sitting further down the table with Dean and Seamus, she could see bits of food coming out of his mouth. She rolled her eyes and took another sip of her cuppa.
"Apprentice Lady Granger," came a respectful acknowledgement.
Hermione looked up with mild surprise seeing Malfoy standing behind Luna and Neville.
"How many I help you, Malfoy?" she asked with polite aloofness. He hadn't started with insults and acknowledged both of her high positions.
"I would like to apologize for my extremely rude and uncalled for uncouthness involving you and our interactions in the past. I would like to hope that you will find it in yourself to forgive me," he said, bowing at the waist towards her.
The petite witch was surprised would be an understatement. Her facial expression was one that screamed 'unimpressed', even though her eyebrows gave away the intrigue she felt. It was an expression often seen on her master, but a touch more emotive than the acerbic man.
"I will have to think of it, Mr. Malfoy. Four years is a bit to get over in one day, especially the small stint of you wishing me dead one year."
The young blond blushed and looked away with shame.
"However I believe we can be cordial until I've decided," she said.
"Thank you, Apprentice Lady Granger. It is more than I deserve," he gave her another bow before leaving back towards his table.
His interaction with her had caused whispers, none more than among the gossip queens Lavender and Pavarti.
"Hermione what did he mean by that?" Lavender asked, leaning eagerly towards the witch hoping for juicy details.
Hermione gave the blonde witch frosty look, "Exactly what he said. I am an apprentice, and I am Lady Hermione Granger. Daughter of Duke Leeroy Granger and Duchess Abagail Granger, of The Royal Family."
Lavender's eyes widened almost comically. She had been rooming with a member of The Royal Family for 4 years and didn't know it. Pavarti had been ogling a Lady for 4 years. She had nearly argued with the Lady last night. Knowing her peerage and new position as apprentice gave her a new outlook on her interactions with the bushy haired witch, although her hair seemed to be curlier than bushy now.
History of Magic had been just as boring as always. Giant Wars instead of Goblin Wars weren't that much different. Hermione rolled her eyes when she caught Harry playing hangman with Neville, where Ronald was drawing Quidditch plays. She hoped he realized that he wouldn't be getting any help from her that year. If he didn't it was a right shame he'd fail his History OWL.
Walking across the courtyard in the light drizzle, Hermione and Harry pulled their hoods up. Neville was walking slightly behind them. The witch cast and impervious on their cloaks, letting the water slide off their cloaks instead of soaking into it. It was a good call considering there were heavy drops splashing on people heading back into the building.
Before they reached the entry however Cho came and flounced in front of them.
"Hello, Harry," she said with a winning smile.
"Hi," he replied, mild confusion on his face.
He realized he asked her to the ball last year, having still been in the closet, but he didn't think he'd given her the idea that he was keen on dating her.
"Did you have a good summer?" she asked.
"Yeah, how 'bout you?" he questioned trying to be polite.
"I'm not sure if you heard, but me and Cedric broke up," she said shyly looking at him through half lidded eyes.
"Oh. I'm sorry," he said, unsure of how to reply to that.
"That's okay, I broke it off with him," she shrugged, moving her hands behind her back lightly twisting side to side.
"Oh," hesitant on what to say. He didn't know why she would leave the Hufflepuff. He was a good guy, good seeker, handsome, extremely well liked, and if he wasn't mistaken also the new Head Boy.
"I was wondering if maybe you'd like to go to Hogsmead with me on the upcoming weekend," she battered her lashes at him with a coy smile.
Harry furrowed his eyebrows, "I'm sorry, Cho. I'm not interested. Maybe we can be friends," he suggested instead.
The Chinese witch paused and stared at him. She knew she was one of the prettiest girls at Hogwarts, smart, and a good quidditch player. She was very desirable.
"Come again?"
"I said no thanks?" Harry tried again.
The witch narrowed her eyes at him, "Why not?" she prodded, leaning forward to look hard into his eyes.
Hermione glared at the witch whilst standing next to her brother.
"You're not my type," he explained.
"Not your type?" the Asian witch cajoled.
"No."
"And what is your type, Harry Potter?" she glared heatedly, grinding her teeth.
"Tall, nice, and handsome," he replied, confident with his sister next to him.
His answer startled her, "Handsome? Don't you mean beautiful?"
"No. I mean handsome," he said more comfortable now that it was out there.
"Oh." She said stunned.
"Yeah," he ran a hand through his hair, knocking his hood back before fixing it, "So, um, see ya."
With that they left the witch standing in the rain heading to potions.
Entering the potions classroom Hermione left her brother to find a seat while she went to stand next to her Master's desk.
The hazel eyed witch was pleased with the change in the classroom. It was brighter almost as sunny as when she took her OWL at the ministry. The students settled into their seats marveled by the sudden change. She noticed that Harry and Neville were sitting at their usual table leaving an empty seat.
"Settle down," Severus said deeply, shutting the door with a bang behind him.
"Before we begin today's lesson I am going to go over a few things," he said, his cloak billowing behind him as he walked down the aisle to the front of the room, "First, my Apprentice will be here even though she's already taken her OWL. She will either be brewing a different potion than you lot, a different one I may assign, or I will have her go around to help me keep an eye to make sure you don't kill yourselves. Second, I believe it is appropriate to remind you that this is your OWL year. An important examination that you will be sitting next June. During the exam you will be tested on how much you have learned about the composition and use of magical potions. As moronic," he sniffed, "as some of you are. I expect you to at least scrape by with an 'Acceptable' or suffer my displeasure for the rest of your educational career in these halls."
His eyes swept across the room, lingering on those who often botched up even the simplest potions.
"Third, it has been brought to my attention by my Apprentice that some of you may have been having difficulties due to the lighting in my classroom. While originally I lowered the lighting to increase the difficulty she has pointed out that it may confuse some of you when choosing and preparing your ingredients. Never mind reading the blackboard. I expect improvement with these changes that are meant to help you," he curled his lip in a slight sneer.
"After this year many of you will most likely cease studying under my tutelage as I only take the best for my NEWT classes. Depending on your choice of career, I highly suggest you pay attention and study this year."
His students fidgeted in their seats. Most of them hadn't considered that their choice of career may depend on them actually getting an O on their OWL as most of the other classes accepted EE and some A.
"Today we will be brewing a potion that often comes up on the Ordinary Wizarding Level examinations: Draught of Peace, a potion meant to calm anxiety and soothe agitation. Many of you will become familiar with this potion closer to the exams coming up. Be warned: If you are too heavy-handed with the ingredients you will put the drinker into a heavy and sometimes irreversible sleep, so you will need to pay close attention to what you are doing," he said softly.
"The method and ingredients are on the blackboard," he flicked his wand twice, "You will find everything you need in the store cupboard," the blackboard revealed the spikey writing and the cupboard opened, "You have an hour and a half. Begin."
While they were mixing their potions Severus turned to Hermione.
"I expect a quarter of the class to make something acceptable, I want you to brew a perfect batch. I would like some of this ready for the Hospital Wing. Last year, believe it or not, Madam Pomfrey ran out."
Hermione nodded and got to work knowing this potion forward and back with her shortcuts and know how.
Many of the students were already stressed complaining that he had picked one of the harder potions to start them off with. On their first day back too.
"A light silver vapor should be rising from your potion," Severus said with 10 minutes left to go.
Hermione had already brewed and bottled the potion, making sure the vials were charmed to be unbreakable. Severus nodded at his Apprentice.
"We, my apprentice and I, are going to be walking around to look at the sorry excuses that you call the draught of peace," he said, walking down one aisle with Hermione down the other. He left her in charge of the Slytherins to subtly show them he wasn't going to allow favoritism just because she was a Gryffindor.
Harry's potion had a grey vapor instead of silver. Ron's was spitting green sparks. Seamus's fire had gone out and he was poking at it with his wand. Surprisingly Neville's potion had a light grey, almost silver, vapor coming from it.
On the other side of the room Draco's potion was giving off a small silver vapor, but it sputtered in an odd pattern. Crabbe's was somehow orange. Goyle's was similar to Neville's, his vapor just a tad shade darker. Hermione smiled at the Slytherin proud of his work.
"Weasley, what is this?" Severus asked softly.
"Draught of peace?" the redhead hedged, refusing to look at the potions master.
"Indeed. Can you read Mr. Weasley?" he asked.
Half of the class was snickering, even some of the Gryffindors.
"Yes," the wizard replied, his ears tipped red.
"Read lines 4 through 9."
"Allow to simmer until the potion turns purple/ shake powdered porcupine quills vigorously until they are ready and then add until the potion turns red/ stir the potion until the potion turns orange/ add more porcupine quills until the potion turns turquoise/ allow to simmer until it turns purple/ add powdered unicorn horn until it turns pink.," he read, his face turning red.
"Yes. You however didn't let it simmer long enough, added too many porcupine quills, and forgot to add powdered unicorn horn," he glared at the young wizard.
"A waste of ingredients and time to make this pathetic mess. Evanesco."
With that Ron's cauldron was empty. Most of the class snickered, Harry being amongst them.
"Those of you who have managed to read the ingredients, canter your potion, label it, don't forget your name, and place it on my desk for testing," he turned around leaving the flustered Weasley, "Homework will be 12 inches on the properties of Unicorn horn and its purpose in the draught of peace. You may thank Mr. Weasley for that. It will be due Thursday. Dismissed."
The rest of the afternoon passed by relatively normal until Defense Against the Dark Arts.
The room was gloomy which was at odds with the professor that was wearing a vibrantly fuzzy pink cardigan with a little black bow in her hair. The class remained silent unsure what kind of teacher she while they took their seats.
The toad like witch grinned at them with fake pleasantness.
"Well, good afternoon!" she exclaimed brightly once everyone was settled.
Only a few people replied, Harry and Hermione were part of the handful.
The ministry worker tutted, "That simply won't do. When I say 'Good afternoon' I expect you to reply: Good afternoon, Professor Umbridge. Now let's try again. Good afternoon, class!"
"Good afternoon, Professor Umbridge," Hermione and Harry said in fake chipper tones, greatly reminded of primary school.
"That wasn't too difficult now was it?" she asked rhetorically, "Now. Wands away and quills out," she chirped.
Most of the class did so mulishly. A DADA lesson without a wand was usually a boring one. As the students were getting their quills and parchment the stubby witch went into her handbag and pulled out a surprisingly short wand, proceeding to tap it against the blackboard making words appear.
Defense Against the Dark Arts
A Return to Basic Principals
"As I've understood your teaching in this subject has been rather lacking. Often disrupted and quite fractured what with all different the professors. Many who have not followed a Ministry approved curriculum. Therefore you are woefully unprepared for your O.W.L," she frowned theatrically, faking sympathy.
"Never fear, I am here to rectify this travesty!" she chirped, "We will follow a carefully theoretical centered, Ministry approved, curriculum of defensive magic. Copy the following, please."
Umbridge tapped the board again erasing the previous words and revealing:
Course aims:
1: Understanding the principals underlying defensive magic.
2: Learning to recognize situations in which defensive magic can legally be used.
3: Placing the use of defensive magic in context for practical use.
The students diligently copied the board. When the sound of scratching quills stopped Umbridge smiled.
"Has everyone got a copy of Defensive Magical Theory by Wilbert Slinkhard?"
The class murmured an affirmative where Hermione and Harry said a calm, "Yes, Ma'am."
The pink clad witch squinted at the class and gave them a tight smile, "We will try this again. I expect a: Yes, Professor Umbridge or a No, Professor Umbridge. Now. Does everyone have a copy of Defensive Magical Theory by Wilbery Slinkhard?"
"Yes, Professor Umbridge," they choired.
"Good. Turn to chapter 1 on page 5, 'Basics for Beginners'. There's no need to talk," she giggled.
Hermione sighed and stared at the book, not bothering to turn the page as she had already read the pathetic excuse for a book, looking around the class with her head down. Harry tried to read it, but couldn't focus or read past the first paragraph.
Pavarti however had raised her hand. Seeing this Hermione also raised her hand so she wouldn't be singled out. Umbridge looked over the witches, trying to ignore them hoping they would give up. 5 minutes later the ministry worker pursed her lips before calling on the Indian descended witch.
"Did you have a question about the chapter, dear?" she asked cheerfully.
"No, Ma'am I –"
"Well we are reading the first chapter, if you have any other queries please wait until the end of class," she said flashing her teeth in a threatening manner.
Pavarti looked at the fat witch carefully, "I have a question about the course aims, Ma'am."
"Your name?"
"Pavarti Patil, Ma'am."
"Miss Patil, they're written very clearly in English on the board," she replied sickening sweet.
Pavarti glared at the slight, "I can read them just fine. I noticed however there was nothing about the practical portion of class."
This caused the rest of the class to shift uncomfortably. Hermione refused to move, keeping her calm poise. Harry's eyes glinted as he lifted his eyes from the page, no longer pretending to read.
"Using defensive spells?" she giggled, "I don't see why you would need to use such spells in my classroom, Miss Patil. I assure you, you won't be attacked in my classroom."
"We're not going to use spells!?" Ron protested.
"You will not speak out of turn Mr.…?"
"Weasley."
"Mr. Weasley."
"Miss Grangmer, you have a question?" Umbridge called, butchering her name.
"Apprentice Granger, and yes. There is a practical portion on the O.W.L. and I simply don't feel comfortable enough going into such an important exam without having some practice. I'm perfectly adequate at reading theory, you could say it's a hobby of mine, but I find it hard to perform a spell on the first time," the last bit was a bit of a fib. Emotion based spells were often times difficult for her to cast, but with a bit of meditation she was able to cast them after a few hours' worth of practice.
"If you study the theory enough you should be fine, dear," The older witch brushed her off.
The curly haired witch put her hand back up in the air.
Umbridge glared at her, "Yes, dear?"
"Will you be giving after class tutoring for those of us who would like to practice under qualified supervision?" she asked in an innocent tone, knowing that complimenting the witch in front of the class and claiming that she was indeed qualified to teach and supervise them wouldn't give her an out.
Umbridge pinched her lips together. The uppity mudblood was asking class and school appropriate questions pertaining to her class, so she couldn't even call her out on straying from the subject. The young witch wasn't even mentioning anything about past classes, professors, or claiming that she was unfit to teach. She had been hoping one of them would mention something about the Dark Lord or speak out of turn so she could punish one of them.
"Perhaps you should study harder, I don't believe I have the time to offer such tutelage," she simpered, as though she wanted to do so.
Lavender raised her hand next making Umbridge internally sigh in frustration.
"Yes, Miss…?"
"Lavender Brown, Ma'am," she answered in as innocent a voice as she could muster.
"Yes, Miss Brown?"
"I don't believe I'm comfortable without practicing under proper qualified supervision," she said following Hermione's lead, "Apprentice Lady Granger is our top student and has been every year since first year. Everyone knows she's the best at understanding theory, but I believe I'll need all the help I can get. With your guidance and tutelage, especially since you're Ministry trained, I'm sure I could get an O," she finished with a dazzling smile.
Dolores stared hard at the pureblood not saying anything as she thought about her answer, "I will see what I can do, Miss Brown. I am pleased that you have such faith in the Ministry. In the meantime everyone please return to reading the first chapter," she stared at the students disdainfully daring another one to raise their hand.
This had not gone as she had planned. She would simply have to prod them harder. Potter was known to be extremely emotional, so it shouldn't be too hard to goad him into making a foolish outburst. She just had to bide her time. She was here to punish and learn as much dirt as she could on the brats.
Everyone was happy when class ended and packed up as quickly as they could. Hermione took her time with a small smile as she packed up, giving Dolores an uneasy feeling. The mudblood was just as unconcerned and poised as Narcissa Malfoy. A witch everyone knew not to cross, especially since she was Narcissa Malfoy nee Black. A family who was well known to dabble in the dark arts, most of them smart enough not to get caught.
She knew better though, that brat was unfit for proper society and should be stripped of her magic.
'Magic thieving mudblood…' she hissed in her mind as she watched the curly haired witch leave her classroom confidently.
Hermione smiled predatorily as she walked down to the dungeons to meet her master. The impudent ministry worker would learn her place, and learn not to interfere with her education. It was simply unforgiveable. The fat witch would learn fear. She could play the game better than that toad and she intended to do so.
Severus sat grading the poor potions, although he was surprised at Longbottom and Goyle's turn out. They were just a few minutes of simmering away from earning an Outstanding. The worst potion students he had the misfortune to teach, the bottom tier respectfully, and their potions came out better than the rest of their classmates, with the exception of Draco.
Hearing his classroom door creak open, having not heard a knock, he was pleased to see that it was his apprentice.
"Hermione," he greeted with a smile.
"Master Snape," she replied giving him a crooked grin, closing the door behind her as she continued with her even stride as she walked towards him.
"I have to say your idea of brightening the classroom had plenty or merit. While the majority of you year mates are still woefully stupid, I was surprised. Longbottom and Goyle made the second and third best potions in the class," he said.
The petite witch's eyes brightened, gold shining more than usual, "Good! I knew they could do it."
"Indeed, at least one of us did," he conceded.
"They took to the theory well last year. I let them study with me and they usually made the same mistakes," she offered.
His face showed surprise at the admission.
"I have to say, thank you and I'm proud of you for your behavior in that class. You made changes to the classroom, didn't antagonize or show favoritism, and you didn't pick on Harry," she said leaning over and giving him a quick kiss.
"Give me more of those and I shall endeavor to maintain this change," he quipped.
The curly haired witch grinned before settling herself onto his lap feeling emboldened by her giddiness. Severus flicked his wand at the door, locking and silencing it, before putting his hands on her waist.
Hermione smiled at him, her eyes sparked with a warmth that was similar to the warmth she felt gathering in her nether regions. She ground her hips onto his pelvis as she leaned over and kissed him soundly on the lips.
The dark wizard firmly held his witch, kissing back and enjoying her ministrations. He felt the warmth of her quim and felt himself harden.
The witch mewled in delight and started pressing herself against him, grinding her hips more firmly into him.
Severus held back a groan letting his witch continue, easing his tongue into her mouth, Hermione moaned and returned the favor. The wizard then proceeded to suck on her tongue, moving his hands to her hips and helping her grind harder on his lap.
The petite witch moaned, breathing heavily through her nose. She was so close.
He released her tongue and moved so his mouth was next to her ear, "Cum for me, Pet," he murmured silkily.
The witch bit her lips to stifle her moan as she came in her knickers. His voice was a sinful delight, and she enjoyed the pet name, no pun intended; add in the firm grip on her hips and it was a sure thing. She leaned heavily on him, her forehead resting on his shoulder as she tried to catch her breath.
This was the most they had done so far, and it was… wonderful.
He kissed her softly on the neck. While knowing it was probably a heat of the moment thing he couldn't find it in himself to feel guilty about any of it. He did feel a pleasant wet spot on his pants and knew he'd clean it up before they left the room.
Finally catching her breath she leaned back and gave him a small kiss with an easy smile. She waited until she was breathing more regularly and when she did she wiggled until she was off his lap. Surprisingly she wasn't embarrassed, but extremely pleased and relaxed. Heaving what was a comforting breath she smiled at him again.
"That's not what I came down here for, but it was extremely lovely all the time. Perhaps a repeat performance will be in our near future," she grinned cheekily at him.
The dark wizard smirked at her, "When you wish it."
"Care to give me a small lesson on more proficient ingredient preparation methods?" she asked.
He grinned at her, "Of course."
"Afterwards I would love to tell you about what happened during my Defense class. Harry was thankfully silent. That witch however has another thing coming. She's going to wish she never came here," she said airily.
Severus grinned at her back as she sauntered to his demonstration table. He loved it when she was in the midst of retribution. She was utterly thorough and covered her tracks. Beauty, brains, and vicious. What more could he ask for?