One must have been given the offering. Given is a very important word to consider here. This could be by magical vow, contract, or even a simple verbal or non-verbal agreement. Now, I understand how this might sound a bit mundane, but how one is given an offering is entirely up to you. Be creative. Fear, intimidation, torture, seduction are all worthy strategies. I believe magic can be pushed. Pushed to boundaries beyond theories and education. How could one know how hard to push if never tried? Anything is truly possible when there is intent and, of course, a drop or two of blood.

"Of course," laughed Hermione mockingly. "A little blood here, a little blood there, here's some blood, there's some blood, everywhere blood blood." She closed Curre Ritualia Rubrum, a book she continued to visit after already reading once before. However, this time around, she was able to read it without feeling uneasy or queasy from its elaborate details. Well, not quite, uneasy. She still bypassed the rituals themselves and stuck more to the theory of how blood works within these rituals. Placing the book on the small counter where she sat, Hermione jumped to her feet making sure to wipe her hands on her jeans from the loose soil that covered parts of the greenhouse. Looking out the windows she watched as the rain trailed down the clear glass; the sound of it pounding against the glass was relaxing in its own way. She had hoped that her break from gathering ingredients would be enough time for the rain to subside for a bit, but here she was stuck and happy that she decided to bring a book. Hermione took hold of the small basket containing the Dittany she promised Severus she would gather before he left a couple of hours ago. She smiled, then looked around the greenhouse. She was glad that Severus showed her the greenhouse earlier this week, even if she found herself covered in dirt after every visit. But it was a small price to pay for a new setting. Herbology was never her favorite subject and that was at no fault to Professor Sprout. The witch was extremely knowledgeable of her field. But whenever Severus started to explain the process of cutting a root or selecting the best leaves for his potion brewing, she couldn't help but listen to every syllable. His hands are captivating to watch too. Hermione shook her head at her own thoughts.

Voldemort had been gone, hence Severus's multiple visits throughout the weeks. He had a way of causing her to forget how much she missed Voldemort's presence. He had easily become a welcoming sight to her whenever he showed up in those long billowing robes of his. She looked forward to not only his teaching and demonstrations of proper technique, but also someone to simply talk to. Severus never mentioned his concerns out loud, only reminding her to keep her guard, but their shared knowledge about a certain young man in hiding became something that strengthened their friendship. She could easily recognize the slight worry in his eyes, whenever he informed her that there have been no changes to her friends' situation. But she knew there was more. Whenever she asked why he risked himself for Harry, he simply carried on with their lesson and ignored her question, especially questions about his personal interest in Harry. She felt in due time he would let her know his reasons, so for now, she would honour his decision to keep his secrets.

Hermione stood by the greenhouse door wrapping her coat tightly around her to protect her book and the Dittany from the heavy rain. Taking a moment to prepare herself she ran through the downpour feeling the weight of the water soak into the material of her coat. She managed to make it to the side door of the manor. Though thoroughly wet she was happy to see her cargo had no damage and was completely dry.

"Playing in the rain, Miss Granger?" Hermione's scream echoed throughout the foyer, causing Narcissa Malfoy to brace herself against the entry wall.

"Oh, I'm sorry Mrs. Malfoy. You scared me."

"It's fine dear, but that was not my intention."

"No need to apologize. It's your home, not mine."

"Is it?" said Narcissa under her breath. Hermione felt a sense of guilt roam over her. Yes. She knew Voldemort staying here was not her fault, but she was here. An uninvited guest invited by another. Hermione swallowed, the silence between them was starting to get unsettling, so she decided to talk.

"Your greenhouses are absolutely lovely. Severus showed me them a few weeks ago and I can't help but want to visit them. I believe the small greenhouse with the herb garden is my favorite place here, well, besides the library of course." Hermione laughed nervously. "Not that the manor doesn't have other amazing rooms too! I'm sure it does. Even though I feel the color scheme is a bit too dark for my taste. But what do I know? I don't think I have much of a valid opinion on decorating or fashion in that manner. Meeley is the one who picked out all my clothes. She has better taste than I do. It's completely ob-"

"Are you alright?" Hermione's head tilted to the side, confused at the comment.

"Y-yes, I...think so." The sound of Narcissa's delicate laugh took Hermione by surprise. She wasn't sure if she was glad the older witch found her babbling amusing or embarrassed she was being laughed at. Narcissa must have read the inner dialogue on her face because she quickly stopped and raised a manicured hand in surrender.

"Forgive me, Miss Granger."

"Hermione."

"Yes, Hermione. It's been awhile since an ounce of honesty has been spoken in this house. It was refreshing."

"Oh, well. I'm happy to help?" This made Narcissa laugh again. Hermione smiled, still not sure if she was worthy of such a reaction or even if what she said was indeed funny. "I should go to my room. I'm dripping everywhere."

"Do you mind?" Hermione watched as the blonde witch raised her wand towards her. Hermione's first reaction was to duck, but she slowly nodded her head in agreement. With a flick of her wrist, Hermione was dry and no longer quivering from February's rain.

"Thank you," said Hermione walking past the witch towards the small staircase that led to the upper floors.

"Hermione?" She turned to face the witch. "I believe I promised an invite for tea some time ago, but since it is rather late in the evening, would you like to join me for perhaps a glass of wine." Hermione was ready to decline the invite, but the woman in front of her seemed welcoming. Not at all the cold or superior witch she had seen on a few occasions.

"Yes," Hermione smiled. "I'd like that."

A glass of wine turned into three and Hermione was glad for it. Narcissa introduced to her an Elf made wine that was beyond anything she was accustomed to. Hermione could never fool herself that she had anything in common with the older witch, but the way Narcissa's eyes lit up when she explained the process and the history of beverage, Hermione couldn't help but listen and soak up the words. It also helped that Narcissa agreed the library would be fine to have their evening drink and even pointed out a book that spoke of the small wineries around the world that produced the magical grapes used.

"Fascinating," said Hermione, looking through the book as Narcissa explained how the Malfoy's own one of the small vineyards in France. "So they are not considered house-elves?"

"Well, they're indeed the same species, but these elves are-"

"Free?" Narcissa, tilted her head to think.

"Yes, I suppose. It is believed centuries ago an owner passed away without an heir or next of kin leaving the land and whatever estates he owned. Between that time, they bred and expanded across Europe surviving and living off the wages of their skill of wine making. There are only a few vineyards, that is why the wine is special."

"Why share it with me then?" asked Hermione. Her words didn't come out with malice, only curiosity.

"Why not?" replied Narcissa with a smile. We don't know what lies ahead, why not enjoy the time we have?" Hermione smiled at her in return.

"I don't think I could agree with you even more. I also think it's time for bed," laughed Hermione. Standing from her chair and stretching.

"I think you're right," replied Narcissa following Hermione's suite. "I didn't realize a few minutes could turn into hours." Hermione smiled.

"Thank you. It's nice to have someone to talk to." The two women walked outside the library, making their way up the main staircase, then turning into separate directions.

"Hermione?" She turned to acknowledge the older witch. She could see the weight of concern that lived in Narcissa's eyes. "Why are you here?" Hermione stared at the blonde witch, thinking of the right words to say. She didn't know the woman and a few glasses of heavenly wine didn't invoke a sense of trust either. However, Hermione could tell the concern was genuine.

"I made a promise and it was only fair I kept it." Hermione watched as the Narcissa she observed in her youth made an appearance. She watched her shoulders straighten and an air of nobility surrounded them.

"And you believe," she paused, "That he will keep his promises? Whatever they may be." Hermione smirked.

"Not likely," she replied, shrugging her shoulders. "But I'm confident I can make him follow through if needed." Hermione wanted to slap herself, but the words came out. A sense of power brought on by the liquid courage from earlier. She watched as the corner of the witch's lip twitched. Does anyone actually smile around here?

"Goodnight, Hermione. I hope we can do this again soon."

"Of course," replied Hermione. "Thank you again for this evening." Narcissa provided her with a nod before turning on her heel and moving down the dark corridor. Hermione made her way to her shared room, tossing her coat on an abandoned chair and removing her clothes. The bed was so inviting, begging her to come to it. But first, she made her way to the bathroom, brushing her teeth quickly.

The cool sheets warming against her skin was divine and she was glad that her head still felt a slight buzz. It was the night time that was the worst for her. She had things to do and Severus to talk to during most days, but during the night when she laid in bed, thoughts of him filled her head. Exhaling and relaxing her body, Hermione closed her eyes waiting for sleep to take her away.

"Um," she heard herself groan. Her hips started to move and press against the firmness behind the back of her body. Her eyes opened slowly in the darkened room, but she recognized the hands that moved tenderly up her sides removing her camisole. His mouth was warm as it trailed open mouth kisses up her spine; she moaned when his hands reached her breasts, taking them in his hands and lightly pinching her taut nipples.

"Y-yes," she breathed, following his lead when his hands made it to her hips, lifting her arse higher as she pressed her head into the softness of her pillow. She continued to move her hips when his fingers entered her wet core, pumping in and out of her. He moaned. The reaction caused her to feel even more aroused. She loved how her body seemed to know how to tell him she was ready for him. Ready to be filled by him. In a quick thrust, her body got what it requested. Voldemort's movements were precise and hard; fucking her as though it were necessary to live. It didn't take long for perspiration to cover her skin and the sound of their bodies meeting in that most intimate place vibrated throughout the room. Their movements were perfectly in sync as he continued to plunge deep within. Hermione could feel her climax building, she was ready to come and from his erratic movements he was close. They released a moan simultaneously. Hermione's high pitched cry and his, a beautiful deep, throaty growl. Breathless and tired, she basked in the filling of his weight against her back. Enjoying the feel of his hot breath against the back of her neck.

Hermione reached behind her where his head rested, wanting to touch his flushed skin. Grazing her fingers across his scalp she paused, trying to understand what was twisted between her fingers. Merlin, what the fuck? Hermione screamed out loud, just as she grabbed a handful of someone's hair.

Another big thanks to everyone for their support! Reading the comments and reviews makes this shitty time a lot better. Thanks again Pamela RR and to the Guest user who asked for a promise - I promise this story will be completed. When? I don't know, but it WILL be.