Caught Spying

A/N-Here is chapter 8. Enjoy it. Hermione's mother had been pregnant since September 9, and it is now October 15. Thank you to my beta reader, Missvampyre, for reviewing this chapter.

Also, the student's names were made up and are not canon, so beware of them and the American Magical School; I wrote this story before I knew about the Ilvermorny School of Witchcraft and Wizardry.

Chapter Eight: Gone

Blaise paced restlessly in his dimly lit room, frustration throbbing in his chest. "Damn," he muttered under his breath, disbelief lacing his voice. The betrayal had hit him harder than he expected—his fiancé, the one he thought he could trust, had chosen to stand up for Granger, that insufferable Mudblood. A wave of anger washed over him as he reflected on the signs he had missed. "I should have seen this coming," he growled, collapsing onto his bed, the weight of his thoughts pressing down on him.

His mind replayed the last conversation he had overheard between her and Granger—just before everything had spiralled. He recalled the moment when she had casually mentioned, "Come with me to the Gryffindor common room; you have your stuff." The words echoed in his mind like an ominous bell tolling, each chime deepening his sense of dread.

"What did she mean by that?" Blaise mused, biting his lip in agitation. But then, an idea sparked in his mind, illuminating the shadows of his doubt. "The exchange program! It must be that," he realized, suddenly invigorated by the thought. The revelation sent a chill down his spine. "She thinks she can just waltz away from Draco and Voldemort like there won't be consequences? She needs to be taught a lesson about defiance and betrayal."

With a surge of determination, Blaise shot up from the bed, his heart racing with adrenaline. He couldn't sit idly by, consumed by anger and betrayal. Without another moment's hesitation, he burst out of his room and made his way through the winding corridors of the Slytherin common room, a fierce resolve propelling him forward. Tonight, he would confront her and show her that choices have consequences—especially when they involve loyalty and standing up against the powerful.

…Hermione and the rest of the gang…

As Hermione pushed open the heavy door to the Gryffindor Common Room, the warmth and chatter of her fellow students enveloped her like a comforting blanket. She scanned the room, spotting Harry, Ron, and Ginny lounging by the fireplace, their animated conversation momentarily pausing as they noticed her arrival. Accompanying her were three Slytherins: Blaise Zabini, Pansy Parkinson, and another student whose name she couldn't quite recall. They moved cautiously, aware of the scrutinizing gazes from their Gryffindor counterparts.

"Hey, Hermione! How's the new term treating you?" Harry called out, a friendly smile lighting up his face.

"Pretty good, actually," Hermione replied, her eyes flicking towards the Slytherins, who had positioned themselves a step behind her. "We were just discussing some of the challenges we might face in our new classes."

Ron rolled his eyes slightly, muttering something about Slytherins being trouble. Ginny offered him a playful nudge, eager to keep the atmosphere light.

However, the moment quickly shifted as the clock struck the hour, signalling it was time for Hermione and her group to depart. With a shared nod, they turned to leave the cozy space, walking in a tight-knit formation as they made their way through the corridors of Hogwarts.

The corridor was peaceful, with only the faint echo of their footsteps bouncing off the walls. Yet, that tranquillity was abruptly shattered by an arrogant voice cutting through the air. "Granger, where do you think you're going?"

Hermione halted mid-step, her heart racing as she recognized the voice. She turned to find Blaise Zabini leaning casually against the stone wall, a smirk plastered across his face. His two companions loomed behind him, casting matching glances of amusement.

"Zabini, leave me alone," she replied firmly, her hand instinctively moving towards her wand. She could feel the warmth of her friends' presence close by, and she glanced back to find Harry, Ron, and Ginny mirroring her stance, wands at the ready.

Blaise pushed off the wall, stepping forward with a feigned air of authority. "You are not going anywhere, Granger, and that means you too, Pansy," he ordered, his tone dripping with condescension. The tension in the corridor thickened, and Hermione felt a mix of defiance and annoyance bubble within her.

"Zabini, I will never stay with you!" Pansy Parkinson shouted, her voice echoing through the dimly lit hallway. Her anger was palpable, and it was evident to Hermione Granger that with Blaise Zabini standing in their path, they would never make it to Dumbledore's office in time.

In a split second, Hermione gathered her determination. "Stupefy!" she called out, pointing her wand directly at Blaise. The spell shot forth with a bright flash, and Blaise was caught off guard. He froze for a moment before collapsing to the stone floor, hitting his head with a dull thud, his eyes momentarily rolling back. A flicker of guilt washed over Hermione, but she quickly pushed it aside, knowing that their mission was more important than one student's pride.

"Come on, we need to hurry," she urged, glancing back at Pansy and the others, who seemed taken aback but then hurried to follow her lead. They moved quickly, their footsteps echoing softly against the cold stones of the corridor as they made their way toward the great staircase.

As they approached the gargoyle guarding the entrance to Dumbledore's office, Hermione took a deep breath, trying to steady her nerves. She recited the password—"Fizzing Whizzbee"—and watched as the gargoyle sprang to life. It swung aside to reveal the moving staircase spiralling upward. They rushed onto it, the stairs creaking softly under their weight.

Upon reaching the top, Hermione paused for just a moment outside the heavy wooden door. She knocked firmly, the sound reverberating in the quiet hallway. "Come in," a warm voice called from inside. She pushed open the door to find Professor Dumbledore sitting behind his desk, his silver beard glinting in the soft light. Surrounding him were seven other students, their expressions a mix of concern and curiosity as they turned to see who had entered. The atmosphere was thick with anticipation, and Hermione could feel her heart racing as she stepped inside, ready to explain the urgency of their arrival.

"Welcome, students," Professor Dumbledore announced, a happy twinkle dancing in his blue eyes as he surveyed the eager faces before him. The warm glow of the candlelit room cast soft shadows, enhancing the air of anticipation that filled the space.

"Hello, Professor Dumbledore," the students collectively replied, their voices a mix of excitement and nervousness.

"Are you all ready for the adventure that lies ahead?" Dumbledore inquired, his smile broadening as he took in their eager expressions.

"Yes, we are," Hermione Granger affirmed, stepping forward with an air of determination. Her eyes sparkled with curiosity and a hint of anxiety, reflecting the weight of the journey they were about to undertake.

"Then step up and grasp hold of the portkey," Dumbledore instructed, his tone both encouraging and authoritative. He stepped aside, allowing the students to gather around the ancient-looking object on the stone table—a weathered, old boot surrounded by an ethereal glow.

He watched intently as they moved closer to the portkey, their fingers reaching out to make contact with its surface. A few whispered words of encouragement were exchanged among them; the excitement was palpable. With a sudden flash of light and a soft whooshing sound, the group vanished into thin air.

Dumbledore sighed softly, the echo of their laughter still lingering in the room. "Good luck, Miss Granger," he murmured to himself, knowing that she was destined for greatness, even as she embarked on this new chapter of her journey.

…..The group…

As they gracefully touched down, Hermione glanced around and spotted four figures standing expectantly before them. The air buzzed with excitement and curiosity.

"You must be our new students," announced the woman in flowing pink robes, her voice warm and welcoming. Her bright smile instantly put Hermione at ease, and she returned the gesture, nodding her head in acknowledgment.

"Yes, we are," Hermione replied, her voice steady but enthusiastic. I'm Hermione Granger," she introduced herself, standing a little taller with pride.

The others echoed their names in turn, eager to make a good impression. "I'm Harry Potter," he said, his characteristic humility shining through despite the weight of his fame.

"Pansy Parkinson," she chimed in, confidence in her tone that hinted at her determined nature.

"Ginny Weasley," came a cheerful voice, full of spirit and warmth.

Next, Ron stepped forward, a bit more hesitant than his friends. "Ronald Weasley," he introduced himself, his shy smile matching the rest of the group.

Emerging from the background, Rose Green followed suit with a friendly wave. "Rose Green," she said with a bright glint in her eye.

Natalie Portman introduced herself, a little unsure but equally excited. Her presence radiates talent and charm. "Natalie Portman."

The introductions continued as Terry Boot stepped forward, flashing a friendly smile. "Terry Boot."

Anna Foot offered a shy wave. "Anna Foot."

Scott Pond introduced himself next, his demeanour relaxed and laid-back. "Scott Pond."

His brother, Ken Pond, joined in with a grin. "I'm Ken Pond."

Leslie Jiles, with her keen intellect, added her name to the mix. "Leslie Jiles."

Brad Scotts, looking quite amiable, waved as well. "Brad Scotts."

Finally, Haley Brown finished the introductions with a beaming smile. "I'm Haley Brown."

"Welcome to Magicx's school!" a male figure declared, his voice booming with enthusiasm. He wore a striking deep green robe that flowed elegantly around him, the fabric shimmering softly under the warm light of the enchanted surroundings. His eyes sparkled with excitement, reflecting the wonder of the new students gathered before him. The air was thick with anticipation, and the students could feel an undeniable energy coursing through them as they prepared to embark on their magical journey.

As the students shifted in place, their curiosity piqued, an airy, melodious voice interjected, "We are your Professors." They turned to find a woman clad in flowing white and gold robes, her smile radiant and welcoming. Her presence seemed to brighten the atmosphere even further, calming any nerves that may have lingered among the first-year students.

The group nodded in unison, their faces lighting up with smiles in response to the warm introductions. "Well, come along!" the male professor urged, gesturing with a sweeping motion of his arm. "We have a grand feast awaiting us, and you'll also need to be sorted into your houses."

With a sense of camaraderie growing among them, the students exchanged eager glances and began following their professors down a path lined with ancient trees and shimmering lights. Every step filled them with a growing sense of excitement as they left behind the landing spot—a place of uncertainty—and moved towards their new home, which was filled with magic and discovery.

…..Blaise…

"Damn it! That insufferable witch!" Blaise exclaimed under his breath, frustration tightening his grip on the ice pack resting on the table. The weight of his words hung in the air like a dark cloud, knowing that both the Dark Lord and Draco would not take this news lightly. He glanced at the clock on the wall, the impending meeting looming ominously in his mind.

With a resigned sigh, he pushed himself up from the table, the wooden chair scraping against the stone floor. He reached for his heavy, dark cloak, a garment that seemed to echo the secrets he carried. As he fastened it around his shoulders, the fabric enveloped him like a shroud, providing a sense of comfort despite the turmoil brewing inside.

Blaise made his way out of the common room, his footsteps echoing against the cold, dimly lit corridors of Hogwarts. The atmosphere was heavy with anticipation as he stepped outside, the cool night air hitting him with a sharp bite. He strode purposefully towards the gates of the castle, the looming structure casting long shadows under the moonlight. Once he reached the ancient gates, he glanced around to ensure no one was watching. With a swish of his wand, he disappeared into the night, travelling quickly to Malfoy Manor.

Upon his arrival, the expansive estate loomed in front of him, its grandeur tinged with darkness. He made his way inside and was soon greeted by Draco, who was leaning casually against the wall, his expression a mixture of curiosity and concern.

"Good to see you, Blaise," Draco said, offering a curt nod. There was an unspoken understanding between them, a camaraderie forged in shared troubles and dark ambitions.

"Same here," Blaise replied, his voice low and urgent. "But unfortunately, we have a problem." The gravity of his words was not lost on Draco, whose eyes began to narrow with suspicion.

"What kind of problem?" Draco inquired sharply, anxiety creeping into his tone.

"You'll find out soon enough," Blaise said cryptically, keeping his cards close to his chest as they entered the dimly lit room where the meeting was to be held.

Inside, the atmosphere was thick and tense. A group of figures was gathered around a long, heavy table, their faces illuminated by flickering candlelight, each displaying a mixture of eagerness and malevolence. The room buzzed with their excited chatter, sharing ghastly tales of the muggles they had tormented over the past week or discussing their latest skirmishes with the Order of the Phoenix.

The heavy door swung open, and suddenly, the atmosphere shifted as Voldemort entered. His presence instantly silenced the room. His pale skin seemed to shimmer in the candlelight as every pair of eyes turned to him, filled with a blend of awe and fear.

"Zabini," Voldemort called out in his chilling voice, resonating with authority and darkness. The room was tense, and Blaise felt every gaze upon him, waiting for what he had to say next.

Blaise brusquely approached him, bowing with a stiff spine. "Milord, we have a dire problem."

"What kind of problem?" Voldemort's cold voice sliced through the air.

"The Mudblood has eluded us and fled overseas to finish her schooling. There was some exchange program at Hogwarts," Blaise spat out the words with venom, "and it seems my fiancé is now her friend - just like those other weak and pathetic girls."

Voldemort's red eyes glowed with rage. "Crucio!" he bellowed, unleashing the full force of his wrath on Zabini. Blaise bit down hard on his lip, stifling his screams as the curse wracked his body. When it finally ceased, he gasped for air, trembling in pain.

"Parkinson!"

"Milord," Mr. Parkinson trembled before his master.

"Your daughter has strayed from our cause," Voldemort hissed with disgust.

"Yes, milord," Mr. Parkinson replied, head bowed in shame.

"Zabini," Voldemort turned to the young boy quivering nearby. "Return to Hogwarts and find out where they have gone."

Blaise nodded dumbly, still recovering from the agony inflicted upon him by his leader. As soon as Voldemort dismissed him, he disapparated back to school in a dizzying swirl of black smoke.

"Parkinson," Voldemort turned to the father once again. "Retrieve your daughter and teach her a lesson in loyalty to our cause."

"Draco."

"Yes, milord?" Draco stood rigidly at attention.

"When you locate that Mudblood, keep her under close surveillance. We cannot afford any more mishaps." Voldemort commanded, his voice dripping with fury.

"Dismissed."

….Hermione's Parents….

"Look, a letter!" Jane exclaimed, her eyes bright with excitement as she spotted the envelope tucked beneath the guard's arm.

"Wait, don't open it just yet," the guard said, his tone serious as he stepped forward to get a better look.

"Why not, Remus?" Ted asked, curiosity piquing in his voice as he leaned closer.

"It could be a trap," Remus replied, his expression stern. He crossed his arms and glanced at the others. "Tonks, can you check it for any enchantments?"

"Got it," Tonks responded with a nod, her demeanour shifting to one of focus. She took the letter from Jane, her fingers delicately tracing its surface as she muttered a few incantations. The air around them hummed with magic, and they all watched expectantly.

After several tense moments, Tonks finished her spell. "All clear!" she announced, handing the letter back to Jane with a reassuring smile. "Mrs. Granger, you can open it now."

With a mix of anticipation and relief, Jane carefully opened the envelope, her heart racing as she unfolded the letter inside. A warm smile spread across her face as she read the familiar handwriting. "It's from Hermione!" she said, her voice laced with joy.

"Well, how is she?" Ted asked, leaning in to catch a glimpse of the letter.

Shane, who had been quietly observing, chimed in, "She's doing well. Apparently, she and some of the other students have transferred to the American school. She seems excited about the new adventures ahead."

….The group….

"Silly me, I forgot to introduce myself," said the first female professor with a warm smile. I'm Professor Spears, and these are my esteemed colleagues, Professor Boa, Professor Cat, and Professor Neat." Each professor nodded in greeting, their expressions welcoming yet authoritative.

As Hermione and her companions walked alongside the professors through the bustling corridors of the institution, the air buzzed with the energy of students engaging in lively discussions. Professor Spears continued, her voice clear and commanding, "While you are here, your house will serve as your family. You'll earn points through your achievements and good behaviour, but remember, any rule-breaking will cost you dearly in points."

Hermione felt a twinge of nostalgia at this, her mind racing back to her time at Hogwarts. 'Just like Hogwarts,' she thought to herself, feeling a mix of excitement and trepidation as they entered a larger hall filled with eager students. The familiarity of the system brought both comfort and a challenge, reminding her that this was a chance to forge new memories.

A/N-I'm going to pause here. I hope you enjoyed this chapter. Not much is happening at the moment. Until next time on Caught Spying. Goodbye!