Caught Spying

A/N- I'm excited to share chapter six with you! I hope you find it captivating and enjoyable. Dive in and let me know what you think. Happy reading!

Chapter Six: Hermione's Decision

After Hermione took a moment to gather herself following the distressing encounter with Zabini, she realized the gravity of her situation. Hogwarts, despite its many protections, felt increasingly unsafe, especially for her and her children. Determined to find a solution, she made her way to the Library, where countless volumes lined the shelves, each filled with ancient wisdom and spells. Hermione dove into her research, combing through texts on protective charms, wards, and enchantments that could shield her family from any potential threats.

While poring over dusty tomes and scrolls, she stumbled upon references to an esteemed American wizarding institution known for its innovative approaches to magic and student safety. Inspired by the possibilities this school offered, Hermione quickly penned a letter expressing her interest in enrolling her children and possibly even participating in a student exchange program. As soon as the ink dried, she felt a sense of urgency and determination to act, so she entrusted her letter to an owl bound for the school.

With her message sent, Hermione made her way to Dumbledore's office, her heart racing with anticipation about how the headmaster would respond. Knocking lightly, she was soon granted entry. Dumbledore, with his twinkling blue eyes and serene demeanour, listened intently as Hermione outlined her plans for her family's future safety and education. To her relief, he wholeheartedly supported her intentions, expressing his admiration for her proactive approach. Dumbledore suggested the idea of implementing a foreign student exchange program, which could strengthen ties between schools and offer students unique experiences. He also mentioned that Harry, Ron, Ginny, Rose, and Natalie could be included if they showed interest in participating. Hermione nodded enthusiastically, grateful for Dumbledore's support and visionary ideas.

Feeling reassured, she left his office to find her friends. She located them in the bustling Great Hall, where the aroma of hearty food filled the air and laughter echoed off the stone walls. Harry sat at the Gryffindor table, devouring his meal with gusto, while Ron, as usual, seemed lost in a world of his own, likely contemplating whether to grab another helping or to engage in another heated discussion about the latest Quidditch match.

"Mind over matter," Hermione silently chanted, reminding herself to focus on the task at hand rather than letting the chaos of the moment distract her. She needed to share the exciting developments with her friends, knowing that this could change everything for them all.

"Ron, stop eating like a pig," Hermione ordered sharply, her voice cutting through the chatter in the Great Hall.

"Sorry, Hermione," Ron mumbled, his mouth still half-full as he reluctantly paused his feast. He turned his gaze toward her, watching intently as she carefully filled her plate. With a practiced hand, Hermione served herself two generous scoops of fluffy rice, followed by two heaping spoonfuls of creamy mashed potatoes. The centrepiece of her meal was an impressive stack of four tenders, glistening ribs, accompanied by a succulent piece of roasted chicken, the savoury aroma wafting enticingly toward him.

"Hermione, can you eat all that?" Harry asked, raising an incredulous eyebrow as he watched her mound of food. It was hard to believe she could finish such an enormous portion.

"Yes, Harry," she replied confidently, taking a hearty first bite of her chicken, savouring its rich flavour. As she continued to eat, her focus was unwavering, and twenty minutes later, she triumphantly wiped her plate clean, with only crumbs left behind. But she wasn't finished; her eyes sparkled with determination as she scooped up four more helpings of potatoes, inhaling them with remarkable speed, her appetite seemingly insatiable. After she polished off that portion, she glanced up to find both Ron and Harry gaping at her in astonishment, their expressions a mix of disbelief and admiration.

"Let's go," Hermione declared, rising from the table with a brisk motion, her best friends following her lead. Unbeknownst to them, she had chosen to keep the recent confrontation with Zabini a secret, and the weight of that decision pressed heavily on her mind. She hadn't even confided in Dumbledore about the unsettling encounter; uncertainty gnawed at her.

Suddenly, an intense feeling washed over her, as if someone was watching her closely. Her gaze instinctively shifted to the Slytherin table, and there he was—Zabini, his piercing green-blue eyes locked onto hers. A shiver crawled up her spine as his gaze seemed to penetrate her very being. A smirk danced across his lips, a knowing look that both intrigued and unnerved her before he returned to his meal, his demeanour casual.

"Hermione, are you okay?" Harry asked, breaking her out of her thoughts. With concern etched across his face, he studied her carefully, sensing that something was amiss.

"Yes, let's go," Hermione said with a determined nod as she turned away from Ron and Harry, leaving them behind in a state of bewilderment. The two friends exchanged puzzled glances, their brows furrowed, as they followed her through the dimly lit corridors of Hogwarts. The walls were adorned with moving portraits, and their eyes tracked the trio's every step, but Hermione seemed unfazed, her focus set on reaching the Gryffindor Common Room.

As they walked, Harry felt a frown settle on his face. The weight of the impending battle against Voldemort loomed heavy in the air, and he couldn't shake the worry that Hermione would be unable to join them in the fight until after the babies were born. It was a thought that tugged at his heart, knowing how vital she was to their mission.

When they finally reached the large portrait of the Fat Lady, Hermione stepped forward confidently. "Jinxes," she announced in a clear voice that echoed in the quiet hall. The door swung open almost instantly as if eager to welcome them inside.

As they entered the familiar warmth of the Gryffindor Common Room, the soft glow of the fireplace illuminated the space, casting flickering shadows on the walls. The trio made their way to a secluded corner where the crimson and gold chairs sat invitingly. They settled into their seats, the atmosphere buzzing with the usual chatter of other students.

"Harry, Ron," Hermione began, her tone suddenly serious, "I have something important to tell you." She took a deep breath, her hands clasped together, revealing just how much her news weighed on her.

"Go on," Ron prompted, leaning forward with an expression of concern.

"I'm going to America to study at an American magic school…" Hermione started, her voice steady but her eyes revealing a hint of trepidation about their reaction.

The words hung in the air for a moment before Ron erupted, "No!" he yelled, his voice both incredulous and panicked. The impact of her statement was clear, and Harry felt a rush of conflicting emotions, unsure of how to react to this unexpected news.

"Ron, I need you to pay attention for a moment. I've already had a conversation with Dumbledore about my idea, and he actually thinks it's a brilliant plan. In fact, he went a step further and offered to send along a few students to accompany me on this adventure. I wanted to extend the invitation to both of you—Ginny, Rose, and Natalie. If you're interested, I would love to have you join me. It could be an exciting experience for all of us."

"Count us in! We wouldn't miss it for the world."

Draco tossed and turned in his luxurious bed, the silk sheets slipping between his fingers as restless thoughts swirled in his mind. He stared up at the ornate ceiling, the faint glow of moonlight filtering through the heavy curtains, illuminating the room in a soft, silver hue. Just nine short months lay ahead until the arrival of his child—a moment he both anticipated and dreaded.

As he lay there, he couldn't help but ponder the baby's gender. A plethora of possibilities danced through his mind, yet he felt a deep conviction settle within him. "It will be male," he mused, a smug smile creeping onto his lips. "After all, the Malfoy heir is always male." The weight of legacy pressed heavily upon him; the family name, the expectations, the lineage—everything hinged on this child.

He frowned momentarily, a hint of doubt creeping in. "That Mudblood better not get the gender wrong," he thought darkly, the air in the room suddenly feeling a touch colder. The notion of having a daughter was something he struggled to reconcile with, even as he tried to picture the little one in his mind. But no, in his heart, he was resolute: it had to be a boy. The future of the Malfoy name depended on it.

As he sat at his desk, his mind wandered to images of his Mudblood lover. He imagined her dominating him in ways that made him blush and feel alive. Just as he was lost in his fantasies, a familiar tapping came from his window. He rose from his seat and saw Zabini's ebony owl perched on the sill, its beady eyes fixed on him. After carefully taking the letter, he offered the bird some water and a treat before settling back into his chair to read the contents.

Draco,

I hope this letter finds you well. I have to say, you're quite fortunate to have the Mudblood in your life. Something is captivating about her; I've had the chance to taste her lips, and I find myself wanting more, but out of respect for your claim on her, I will refrain from pursuing anything further... for now. After the child is born, however, I might have to indulge myself if that's alright with you. It's only fair.

I should mention that she read your last letter. So far, I've managed to stay out of trouble with the professors and the Golden Boys. It's a bit of a balancing act, but I'm doing my best to keep a low profile.

Honestly, it's incredibly dull here without you around. The atmosphere has changed significantly since you left. We recently received word from Dumbledore about a wizarding school in the States that's interested in starting an exchange program. If you sign up to participate, your house stands to gain a whopping two hundred points! Plus, you'd earn additional points based on your academic performance. Naturally, I won't be joining; I must watch over my charge and keep things in order here.

Anyway, I've got to run now. I'll catch you later, and take care until then.

Best,

Blaise

Draco leaned back in his chair, a sly smirk spreading across his face as he surveyed the letter before him. The flickering candlelight cast shadows around the room, illuminating the intricate seal that adorned the envelope. After a moment of contemplation, he carefully placed the letter on his polished oak table, allowing a sense of satisfaction to wash over him. With a final glance at the stack of parchment, he turned away, his thoughts lingering on the contents of the message. As he padded softly across the cool floor, he made his way back to the large, inviting bed draped in rich, dark fabrics. Settling beneath the covers, he let out a quiet sigh, the weight of the day's events slipping away as he prepared for a restful night.

Hermione gathered Ginny, Natalie, and Rose in a quiet corner of the Gryffindor common room, her expression serious as she laid out the details of the plan. The flickering fireplace cast a warm glow on their faces, but there was an undeniable tension in the air. Each girl listened intently, nodding in agreement as Hermione articulated their intentions. Knowing the significance of what they were about to undertake, they each took a moment to write heartfelt letters to their parents, explaining their decision with care. After sealing the envelopes, they felt a sense of camaraderie and relief, and with that, they each crawled into their respective beds, the weight of the night's discussions lingering in their minds.

The next morning dawned bright and crisp, but Hermione awoke with a churning feeling in her stomach. Ignoring the cold dread that settled in her chest, she dashed out of her bed, her heart pounding with a mix of anxiety and resolve. She sprinted to the sixth-year girls' bathroom, the sound of her bare feet slapping against the stone floor echoing in the eerie silence. She barely made it to the toilet before her body revolted, and she emptied her stomach into the bowl, a wave of nausea crashing over her. Clenching her jaw, she reminded herself that this was only the beginning—a long journey of physical changes, emotional turbulence, and new challenges.

As she flushed the toilet, the sound was oddly soothing, a reminder that the ordeal was over for now. She splashed cold water on her face, attempting to shake off the lingering disgust. She diligently brushed her teeth, wishing away the sour taste that lingered. Looking at her reflection, she steeled herself for the day ahead, determined not to let fear overshadow her resolve.

When she finally made her way back to her room, she dressed quickly, her mind racing with thoughts of what lay ahead. As she entered the Great Hall, the familiar, bustling atmosphere enveloped her. However, her focus quickly shifted as she overheard a group of fifth-year Slytherins whispering animatedly at a table nearby. Eavesdropping on their conversation, she felt a mix of curiosity and trepidation about what they were saying, aware that the choices they had made might ripple outward far beyond their small circle.

"Did you hear about Pansy?" whispered a student to Hermione. "No, what happened?" Hermione's mouth dropped open in shock as she listened to the news. Blaise had raped Pansy after she walked in on him talking about his plans for Granger. Hermione's heart raced with fear for her friend, who had become her first close female companion since they met in their first year at Hogwarts. They had decided to keep their friendship private due to the dynamics of their respective houses.

*FIRST-YEAR*

The Hogwarts Express chugged along the tracks, its familiar rhythm reverberating through the compartment windows as it carried a mélange of excited first-years and seasoned upper-level students. In one of the compartments, nestled against the window and surrounded by the comforting smell of old books, sat Hermione Granger. With her brow furrowed in concentration, she was deeply engrossed in a hefty tome, its pages filled with dense text and intriguing illustrations.

"Hi," came a charmingly hesitant voice from the doorway, cutting through her focus.

Hermione looked up, momentarily startled, and smiled as she marked her place with a finger before closing the book gently. "Hello! Can I help you?" she replied, her tone inviting.

"Yeah, can I sit here with you?" A girl with striking black hair and sharp features stood in the doorway, her eyes shimmering with curiosity.

"Sure! I'm Hermione Granger. And you are?" Hermione asked, gesturing toward the empty seat beside her.

"I'm Pansy Parkinson," the girl replied, stepping into the compartment and settling down comfortably.

"Hi, Pansy! It's nice to meet you. What do you think about Hogwarts so far?" Hermione asked, her curiosity piqued.

They soon fell into an invigorating conversation, exploring everything from their hopes for the upcoming school year to their doubts and fears as they approached this new chapter in their lives. As they delved into the details of receiving their acceptance letters, their respective families naturally emerged as topics of discussion.

"So, you're Muggle-born. That's really cool," Pansy said, her tone surprisingly warm. "I've never talked to one before, but you seem nice enough."

Hermione's face lit up with a smile. "I can say the same for you! I've never really interacted with a Pure-Blood, or many other wizards at all, for that matter. So, what house do you want to join?" she inquired, intrigued.

"Slytherin, definitely. It's all about ambition, and I think I fit right in," Pansy answered confidently, a sly grin spreading across her face.

"I'm not sure yet," Hermione admitted her uncertainty reflecting in her eyes. "I've heard a lot about Gryffindor, but I'm still trying to figure out where I belong."

As the weeks unfolded into the school year, Hermione and Pansy established a routine of secret meetings under the cover of night, sharing tales and dreams that drew them closer together. However, the dynamics shifted one fateful evening when a troll launched a chaotic attack during the Halloween feast. Despite the turmoil that followed, Hermione found herself forming strong bonds with Harry and Ron. Yet, amidst her newfound friendships, she continued to carve out precious moments to meet Pansy under the stars, ensuring that her friendship with her unexpected companion remained intact even as she navigated the complexities of her first year at Hogwarts.

*SECOND YEAR*

As the Hogwarts Express chugged steadily along the tracks, the rhythmic clatter of wheels against iron filled the air, creating a comforting background hum. Hermione Granger had just gotten up to change into her crisp school uniform, the familiar excitement of a new year bubbling within her. Just as she was navigating through the crowded compartment, her foot caught on an unexpected bump, and she suddenly found herself teetering backward.

"Hermione!" a voice rang out, cutting through the noise of laughter and chatter. Her heart racing, she looked up and saw a bright smile from Pansy Parkinson, her fellow student from Slytherin.

"Pansy! It's so good to see you!" Hermione exclaimed, regaining her balance. The familiarity of her friend's face eased the momentary embarrassment.

Pansy tucked a loose strand of hair behind her ear, her expression radiating warmth. "My summer was absolutely wonderful! My parents took me to Italy, and it was just magical. The sights, the food—oh, you would have loved it! I even managed to get a light tan," she said, beaming with pride as she lightly brushed her sun-kissed skin.

The excitement of the summer trip reignited their friendship, and the two girls spent a few moments catching up on their adventures. However, their joyful chatter was cut short by an undercurrent of tension. They both knew that the year had taken a dark turn. Just days into the term, a basilisk had lurked within the castle, allowing it to petrify Hermione. The incident had left Pansy anxious for her friend, her usual confident demeanour faltering at the thought of Hermione's danger.

Despite the chaos, Pansy thought to herself that she would be the first to sneak into the Hospital Wing after midnight, a determined plan to check on Hermione's recovery. The memory of her friend lying still, encased in a vulnerable state, haunted her, and her resolve to support Hermione only grew stronger.

As the days passed, Pansy found herself spending more time in the shadows, listening intently as the faculty discussed the disturbing events. One evening, she overheard a snippet of conversation among the professors that made her heart leap. Hermione had recovered and was no longer petrified. Relief flooded through Pansy, banishing the fear that had gripped her heart since the incident.

With a newfound sense of hope, Pansy planned her visit to the Hospital Wing, ready to embrace her friend and reassure her that this year would not end in darkness. The bonds of friendship would only grow stronger, and together, they would face whatever challenges lay ahead.

*Third Year*

The train rattled through the countryside, its rhythmic motion punctuated by the excited chatter of Hogwarts students. Among the clamorous voices, two girls found themselves seated together once again in a cozy compartment. Hermione Granger couldn't shake the feeling that something was troubling her friend, Pansy Parkinson.

Worriedly, Hermione leaned closer, her brow furrowing with concern. "Pansy, what's wrong?" she inquired, her voice soft yet insistent.

Pansy sighed, her normally vibrant demeanour dulled by an air of heaviness. "It's just my parents," she confessed, staring out the window as the scenery blurred past. "They've made it clear that by the end of my seventh year, I need to be married. They've already chosen my husband for me—Blaise Zabini."

Hermione's mind raced as she processed this revelation. She was familiar with Zabini, a charismatic boy with a reputation that preceded him. Ranked third in their year, he was renowned not only for his good looks but also for his cleverness. He trailed only Hermione herself, who held the top spot, and Draco Malfoy, who occupied second place. Zabini was the kind of boy who made heads turn, admired by girls in their year as well as those in the fourth year above.

Navigating the challenges of school life, Hermione and Pansy developed a friendship that flourished during the daylight hours among their peers. They shared laughs and stories, strengthening their bond as they tackled the pressures of their studies together. However, everything shifted when Hermione stumbled upon the Marauder's Map, a magical artifact that revealed the entire Hogwarts grounds and the whereabouts of its inhabitants. Intrigued by its potential, she eagerly shared her discovery with Pansy.

"Pansy, you have to see this!" Hermione had exclaimed, her eyes sparkling with excitement as she unfurled the map on their shared table in the Gryffindor common room.

Pansy's expression turned serious as she took in the intricate details and the names that danced across the parchment. Sensing the gravity of their secret, she made a blood-pact promise, her voice firm. "I swear, Hermione. I'll never tell anyone about this."

But as the school year progressed, their late-night escapades, once filled with laughter and whispered secrets, became increasingly rare. Hermione found herself pulled deeper into the mysteries of the Marauder's Map, exploring the hidden corners of Hogwarts that were previously unknown to her. Their friendship, though not broken, transformed as the enchantment of the map created a rift between their nightly rituals and the camaraderie they once enjoyed. Pansy, burdened by her family's expectations, became more distant, navigating her path amid the chaos of adolescence and obligation.

The distance between them grew, leaving Hermione to wonder how to contact her friend, who seemed to be caught in a web of parental pressure and uncertain futures.

*Fourth Year*

The Quidditch World Cup had set the stage for an unforgettable summer, taking place just before the start of the new school year. Hermione, thrilled to be attending, went with her friends, an experience that she had long sought after. The exhilarating atmosphere quickly soured when Death Eaters stormed the campgrounds, their masked faces instilling terror among the spectators. The chaos that followed was chilling—innocent people were tortured before their very eyes, casting a dark shadow over what was supposed to be a celebratory event. The train ride to Hogwarts felt heavy with tension, the weight of fear lingering in the air as students exchanged worried glances. Yet, amidst this turmoil, Hermione and Pansy managed to find solace in each other, meeting up to discuss their summer experiences and sharing both fears and moments of camaraderie.

Upon their return to Hogwarts, a sense of foreboding hung over the school. During the opening feast, Dumbledore unexpectedly announced the reinstatement of the Triwizard Tournament, a competition between three prestigious wizarding schools. As he spoke, Hermione and Pansy exchanged curious looks, sensing an uncharacteristic vibe about the Headmaster, almost as if he were overtaken by something beyond his control.

This year would bring new faces as students from Beauxbatons and Durmstrang arrived at Hogwarts, igniting excitement and nervousness among the students. In the midst of this, Hermione caught the eye of Viktor Krum, the star Seeker from Durmstrang. Hermione found herself increasingly aware of his presence as he seemed to follow her around the school, a shy smile on his lips. Eventually, he gathered the courage to approach her and ask her to the Yule Ball, leaving her both flattered and astonished.

The night of the Yule Ball arrived, shimmering with enchantment. Hermione, dressed in a beautiful gown, danced with Viktor, losing herself in the music and atmosphere. Meanwhile, she spotted Pansy dancing with Draco Malfoy. She couldn't help but admire how handsome he looked in his elegant robes, a sight that stirred something unexpected within her. The evening, filled with echoes of laughter and the sound of enchanted music, provided a brief escape from the impending darkness.

However, the excitement of the Tournament soon collided with the stress of school exams. As the Final Rounds approached, dread settled in. It was during this time of supposed celebration that tragedy struck. In a devastating turn of events, Voldemort returned in a way that would haunt their memories forever, culminating in the horrifying murder of fellow student Cedric Diggory. Stricken with grief and disbelief, Harry narrowly escaped from Voldemort, creating an even darker atmosphere at Hogwarts.

In the wake of such sorrow, Hermione and Pansy faced a poignant farewell to their years of friendship. The bond they had shared, once so vibrant, now felt overshadowed by the terrifying reality they were thrust into. Hermione, fiercely protective, didn't want Pansy to be caught up in the dangers lurking in the shadows, especially now that the Dark Lord had returned. With heavy hearts, they parted ways, the promise of their friendship lingering in the air, a bittersweet reminder of happier times now marred by fear and uncertainty.

Fifth Year

Once again, Hermione Granger found herself aboard the Hogwarts Express, and the familiar sound of the train chugging along the tracks comforted her. Glancing out the window, she saw Pansy Parkinson lounging in the adjacent compartment, a mischievous smile lighting up her face.

"Hey, Hermione!" Pansy called out, her voice teasing yet inviting.

Hermione smiled back, her heart warming at the sight of her friend. "Pansy, this is for you," she replied, reaching into her bag and pulling out an intricately designed diary. The cover was adorned with magical runes that shimmered softly in the dim light of the train.

As she handed the diary to Pansy, Hermione quickly explained its enchantment. "This diary allows you to communicate with me anytime you want, even when we're separated. Just write, and I'll hear you!" she said, her eyes sparkling with excitement.

The year sped by, filled with the usual trials and tribulations of being a fifth-year student at Hogwarts. However, this year was particularly taxing for Hermione. The Defense Against the Dark Arts professor, Dolores Umbridge, was not only cruel and unjust but also enforced a regime of fear and deception. Hermione understood the dire truth—that Lord Voldemort had indeed returned—yet Umbridge twisted the narrative, painting Harry Potter as merely an attention-seeking liar.

Throughout the year, Hermione and Pansy exchanged messages in their diaries every night, sharing secrets, dreams, and advice that helped them navigate the complexities of adolescence and the looming darkness threatening them from all sides. Their friendship blossomed in unexpected ways, with both girls relying on one another for support in a world that felt increasingly unsafe.

Things took a dire turn when Professor Umbridge caught Hermione and Harry in the act of using a communication spell to contact Sirius Black. Her sharp, beady eyes caught them red-handed, and she wasted no time in administering her cruel brand of discipline. With gleeful malice, she managed to locate most of Dumbledore's Army, gathering evidence against the group. In a particularly chilling moment, she unleashed an Unforgivable Curse upon Harry, who barely managed to dodge it.

Thinking quickly, Hermione stepped up. "Wait! We were finishing a secret weapon for Dumbledore, and it's hidden in the Forbidden Forest," she spun an elaborate tale, her voice steady despite the fear coursing through her veins. Umbridge, clearly intrigued and skeptical, decided to follow them, unknowingly walking into a trap.

Once they entered the Forbidden Forest, Hermione and Harry led Umbridge deeper into the trees, where the air was thick with tension and uncertainty. Suddenly, a group of Centaurs emerged, their majestic forms towering over the trio. In a flash, they took Umbridge away, ensuring that she would cause no more harm for the time being.

After their harrowing encounter, Hermione and Harry raced to the Ministry of Magic to rescue Sirius, little knowing that they were walking straight into Voldemort's trap. The scene that unfolded was chaotic; countless Death Eaters—including the notorious Bellatrix Lestrange and the cunning Lucius Malfoy—lay in wait. The clash that ensued was fierce; spells flew in every direction as the students fought bravely against overwhelming odds.

In the chaos, a powerful nonverbal spell cast by Antonin Dolohov struck Hermione, the pain instantaneous and blinding. She fell to the ground, unable to move, the world around her blurring as darkness threatened to engulf her. It took weeks for her to recover from her injuries, the physical pain only matched by the emotional strain of the battle.

During her long recovery in the hospital wing, Pansy visited Hermione every night, bringing with her the warmth of friendship and comfort. Together, they would reminisce about their shared adventures, finding solace in their connection as they both grappled with the realities of the dark forces gathering around them.

Hermione felt an urgency gripping her heart as she navigated the familiar grounds of Hogwarts, determination propelling her forward. She knew the weight of trauma all too well and understood the painful consequences it inflicted on a person's soul. Pansy was in distress, and Hermione felt a pang of responsibility to help her.

As she made her way toward Hogsmeade, the picturesque village nestled among the rolling hills, she whispered to herself, "Where would I go if I were Pansy?" It didn't take long for her to answer: Pansy would retreat into the shadows of the trees, away from prying eyes and judgment. With that thought in mind, Hermione hurried down the winding paths and into the quiet embrace of the surrounding woods.

It was in a secluded grove that she found Pansy, her face streaked with tears, her body hunched over in despair. The sight broke Hermione's heart.

"Pansy!" she called, rushing to her side.

The two girls sat together on the damp ground, surrounded by the whispering leaves, and talked for what felt like hours. They shared stories, fears, and the weight of their respective worlds. Finally, Hermione felt a heavy question rising in her throat, one she hoped would bring some clarity.

"Pansy," she began gently, "can't you tell Professor Dumbledore about what happened?"

"No," Pansy replied, her voice barely a whisper, full of resignation and misery.

"Why not?" Hermione pressed, searching her friend's eyes for a glimpse of hope.

Pansy took a shaky breath, her expression darkening. "In the world of pureblood families, once a female is engaged or married, her life is no longer her own. The male partner controls everything—from what time dinner is served to whom she may associate with and even how many children they will have together. Any form of punishment directed at the male or any assistance for the female is simply unacceptable."

Hermione's brows furrowed in disbelief. "But that's not true for the Weasley or Longbottom families. Surely they don't adhere to such archaic beliefs?"

Pansy shook her head, a hint of sadness tightening her features. "No offence, Hermione, but while the Longbottoms and Weasleys are indeed pure-bloods, they aren't entangled with the Dark Arts. Their values differ greatly from those steeped in a more sinister tradition. It's complicated..."

Hermione felt a fierce anger bubbling within her at the injustice of it all. "That's medieval!" she breathed, her mind racing with thoughts of how unfair it was for Pansy to feel trapped by her lineage.

In an effort to offer some hope, Hermione spoke quickly about the exchange program and her friends who were planning to go to different magical communities to learn and grow away from the influences that bound them. "You could come with us," she urged. "It could be an opportunity—a fresh start."

Pansy looked up at Hermione, her eyes flickering with consideration. "I'll think about it," she murmured, her voice steadier, though uncertainty still lingered in her gaze.

A/N- I really hope you enjoyed this chapter! I'm excited to dive into the next one, which will be coming your way soon. Stay tuned! Take care!