Happy Saturday, my freaky darlings. I hope you enjoy this chapter as much as I enjoy hearing from all of you. Not that you have to leave a review, I just enjoy seeing the hit counter go up every week. Legalese: I own nothing here. Just playing with the toys. At the end of the day I put them back where I found them.
Chapter 31 Hogwarts
Theo smiled warmly as she entered the prefect carriage on the Hogwarts Express for the beginning of the year meeting. "Hello, Granger."
"Nott," she greeted. "Good summer?"
He shrugged, "My father remarried a chit barely older than me. I see why, but still, gives one the creeps."
She shuddered, "Please tell me she doesn't want you to call her mum?"
"Nah, she'd prefer Mother, more dignified."
She burst out laughing. "Tell me you're joking."
"Can't," he grinned ruefully.
"Mental." She looked around, "No offense, but what happened to Malfoy?"
"Refused the badge. Says he's too busy for childish positions."
Knowing the real reason behind it, but playing her part, she rolled her eyes. "Of course he is." Neville sat next to her and she turned her attention to him, "Hello, Neville. How are your parents?"
"They're doing really well, thanks for asking. The healers are pleased with their progress. They came home last week. I suggested not coming to school this year because of that," he shook his head ruefully.
"Went over like a lead balloon?" she laughed.
"If that means not well at all, then yes. All three of them went after me."
"As they should," she said primly. "Education is highly important."
"For some people anyway," sneered Parkinson. "Some of us are killing time until we get married."
"That's true, Parkinson, some of us will be productive members of society and some of us will suck the soul out of some poor bloke while draining his bank vault."
She watched with amusement as the other girl reddened as the anger flush crossed her face. "I never.
"Managed to benefit anyone other than yourself? I know. It'll be okay."
Before Parkinson could retort, Adrian called the meeting to order. "Welcome, to another year, prefects. Let's get this meeting started." Head Girl and Gryffindor Garnet Hawke nodded her agreement. Both Theo and Adrian made a point to bid Hermione farewell as the meeting broke up. Neville placed a hand on Hermione's arm, when she looked at him he jerked his head indicating he wanted her to hang back. She nodded to others as they filed out.
Finally the two were alone in the carriage, "What's up?"
Neville's expression grew even more serious. He pulled out a scroll and presented it to her with a formal air. "From House Longbottom to the Light-Amid-the-Dark, Druidess Hermione Granger."
"I thank House Longbottom," she responded just as formally. She examined the scroll. Thick expensive vellum sealed with the house crest of a lion clasping a spear in red wax with ribbons of scarlet and silver, the house colors. Neville watched nervously as she read it.
To the Wise One, Hermione Granger, greetings,
In recognition and appreciation of her actions to the benefit of our House, we of House Longbottom pledge ourselves to her causes and needs. We stand at her pleasure.
Lord Francis Harfang Longbottom (signed.)
Hermione admired the shaky signature, happy the man once again knew the world around him. "I never needed any thanks, you know this, right?"
"Gran insisted. Alliances like this are how things used to be done. You represent a connection to the old ways and it needs to be honored."
"In that spirit, I accept and thank House Longbottom for their support." She smiled, "Let's go join the others."
Near the halfway point of the journey a third year appeared, "I have these for Potter and Granger." She handed them each an envelope.
"What is a Slug Club?" Harry wondered aloud.
"Won't know until you go, mate," replied Ron. "Want anything off the trolley if you miss it?"
"It says refreshments will be provided," replied Harry.
"I still want a gilly water," declared Hermione. "Get yourself something with the change as payment for playing owl." She handed him a handful of coins.
"Thanks." Ron nodded.
"Good idea," agreed Harry. "Get me a few Cauldron Cakes and same deal as Hermione."
"Sure thing, guys. And thanks."
"Thank you, Ron," Hermione nodded.
Together Harry and Hermione entered an opulent train car. Plush upholstery lined the walls. A large heavyset bald old man with an absurdly large mustache sat on one side. The two sat next to Ginny. She smiled, "I rated an invite after he saw me use the bat bogey hex on Goyle." Hermione surveyed the group: Blaise Zabini, son a famous beauty, Marcus Belby, nephew of Damocles Belby, and Cormac McLaggen, a Gryffindor seventh year with several important members of the ministry, and Neville. The latter looked uncomfortable with the gathering.
Marcus slid in next to Hermione, "Granger." He nodded in greeting.
"Flint," she greeted. "How's Dahlia?"
"Ready for another year. Jasper did something to annoy her, so she's glad to be away from us 'heathen snakes'" They both laughed.
"Are you acquainted with Miss Granger, Mr. Flint?" asked Slughorn
"Yes, sir. My sister is in Gryffindor and introduced us."
"How nice of her. And promoting inter house unity, how splendid," Slughorn beamed. He began questioning the others about famous family members before addressing Marcus and Harry, "I hope we have a competitive quidditch season, captains. Though, I am hoping for a Slytherin House Cup."
"We'll give it our best efforts," responded Marcus.
"But so will Gryffindor," laughed Harry.
The students fled as soon as they politely could. Hermione flopped onto the seat next to Ron. "While he could be useful for networking someday, that was an utter waste of time," she huffed. She happily accepted her gilly water. "Thanks."
"What do you mean, Hermione?" asked Neville.
"Professor Slughorn likes to collect people, feeling close to the famous and powerful. I'm sure he likes making introductions and suggestions. Someday that could help launch careers or make connections for a project."
"You make it sound like you plan on using him," said Ron.
"Because I do. Just like he wants to use me. 'Oh, I saw the Druidess yesterday, she was a student of mine you know. Always a thoughtful girl.' Then maybe an introduction of two down the road."
"I see," Ron frowned, a sliver of envy sliding across his face.
"Trust us, Ron, you missed little," assured Harry.
"Flint seemed friendly enough," Neville remarked. "Zabini, as well."
"We're growing up. Soon we'll leave behind school rivalries," Hermione deflected.
"True enough, I suppose."
"I support and encourage their efforts," she said closing the matter.
"If Slughorn is going to teach Potions, where's Snape gone?" questioned Ron.
"Defense Against the Dark Arts," answered Ginny. The boys stared at her. "What? He's wanted the position for years. Bound to happen eventually."
"She's not wrong," said Hermione.
At Hogesmeade Station Dahlia orchestrated a small meet cute between Marcus and Hermione, despite the two being acquainted for years. "She thinks she's being cute and subtle," apologized Marcus in a whisper.
"She's adorable and so Gryffindor."
He offered her his arm, "May I escort you to the carriages, Miss Granger?"
"Why thank you, Mr. Flint. So thoughtful of you." She linked her arm with his. She faked a flicker of apprehension when he handed her up into a carriage of Slytherins. She smiled apologetically at Ron and Harry. The latter shot her a thumbs up. "Hello, all." She smiled faintly at the Slytherins.
"Granger," greeted Adrian.
"It's nice to see you, Hermione," said third year Astoria warmly.
"How are you, Astoria?"
"As well as I can be," she gave her a wan smile. Hermione noticed her pale complexion and the dark circles under her eyes. She wondered again if the younger Greengrass sister suffered from a blood curse. She needed to get back to that since she was finished with her OWLs. The wrongs of the patriarchy wouldn't be avenged without help.
"How was your summer?" asked Daphne.
"Pleasant enough, I suppose. No where near as exciting as last summer," she joked.
"Fighting wyverns is exciting?" questioned Zabini.
"It isn't boring, I assure you." She shrugged, "I've learned with enough daring you can do just about anything, even the impossible."
"Gryffindors," Zabini snorted, out of habit, temporarily forgetting his friends' mission. Theo glared and elbowed him. He gave her a sheepishly smile.
She laughed, "We're all quite mad." She looked out at the passing scenery. She felt no compulsion to keep the conversation going. She wasn't suppose to woo them, they needed to win her over. Before the silence stretched into awkwardness, she addressed Marcus. Might as well confirm the rumors the others had no doubt been hearing. "What's Felix up to?"
"Looking into a possible Potions apprenticeship. Snape gave him some leads and a recommendation. He might visit Hogesmeade when we do if you're interested in seeing him."
"Perhaps. I think he'll enjoy an apprenticeship. Tell him I said good luck. I hope it works out." Their arrival at the castle saved her from any further small talk. Marcus climbed out and offered her a hand down. Adrian accidentally on purpose jostled her, causing Hermione to end up in Marcus's arms. They both blushed. He glared at Adrian. "Thank you." She caught his eye and held it.
"You're welcome." He continued to stare into her eyes, not wanting to let go of her. Who knew when he'd get to touch her like this again with everyone watching them so closely?
The other seventh year clapped him on the shoulder, "Let's go, mate, firsties to sort, feast to eat, and all that."
"Yeah," he said slowly, blinking. "See you around, Granger."
"I'd like that. Bye, Marcus." She moved to join her waiting friends. Ron glared at Marcus. "Nice touch, Ron."
"You don't have to act so annoyed," Harry told him.
"Who says I'm acting? I don't trust them."
"Hermione does," said Luna, "and that's enough for me."
"Thanks, Luna." The dreamy blonde linked her arm with Hermione's and together they entered the castle, separating in the Great Hall. Once the first years were sorted Dumbledore addressed the students.
"We find ourselves at the beginning of new year, and that means changes. I would like to introduce Horace Slughorn, a renowned potioneer that has come out of retirement to teach once more in our hallowed halls. Before you fret, Professor Snape has graciously agreed to teach Defense Against the Dark Arts." Murmurs ran up and down the hall. "I know you all will do your best to cooperate as we adjust to these changes." With those announcements he dismissed the students to their dorms.
The silence of the gossips lulled Hermione into a false sense of security. She had managed to convince Lila to allow her to sort her belongings herself once the house elf unpacked them. Arranging her things was not below her dignity, despite what the elf thought. Focusing on the order to put her books she missed the look Lavender and Parvati shared before they verbally pounced. "So, Hermione," started the Indian girl, "you looked rather cozy with the snakes on the ride up."
"I've socialized with several of them before. They were nice enough, I suppose."
"You looked rather like a smitten kitten when Flint caught you there." The juvenile glee in Lavender's voice bothered Hermione. The sting of resentment coursed through her. They were sixteen, boys and homework should have been the sum total of her concerns, instead the fate of the world stood on her shoulders. Had been placed there years ago, not that she was the only one. She knew Harry often felt the same way.
She ignored the baiting in Lavender's tone, "He and a handful have always been nice to me. Nott and the Greengrass sisters have been pleasant. Nott is a spectacular revision partner for Arithmacy. "
"Are you saying you don't think Flint is cute?" questioned Parvati.
Fay rolled her eyes, "Guys, what is with this interrogation? Dahlia dragged Hermione over to her brother. Having a modicum of manners he offered her help into a carriage. Being Hermione, she graciously offered an olive branch of friendship, like she does. If Flint noticed she's gotten quite fit what's the harm?" She waggled her eyebrows. "He's grown into his features and got his teeth fixed. He's gotten rather good looking himself in a rugged kind of way."
Sally-Anne entered the fray, "Why does it matter? They had a moment, that's all. It could develop into something, and it might not."
Parvati pouted, "Hermione doesn't share gossip."
"Not with you," shot back Sally-Anne.
"Not with anyone," said Hermione trying to diffuse the situtation. "I don't like being talked about. And I try not to talk about others. The gossips at school have never really been all that kind to me. Always demands to tell them everything, regardless of whether or not I want to share, or making up whatever fits their narratives about me. I just loved the rumors about using love potions to trick Viktor into fancying me. Because that's the only way someone like him would be interested in someone like me. So, excuse me if I don't want to share my thoughts or feelings about one carriage ride with some Slytherins."
"Sorry, I let myself get carried away," admitted Parvati. "You're right, it was fifteen minutes in a carriage not hours closeted away somewhere. And you shouldn't share anything you're not comfortable with."
"Thank you. And perhaps if something does happen, not that I'm saying it will, I could share some of it so you could set the story straight."
Eyes lit up with glee, the other teenager clapped her hands and bounced on her toes. "Oh, yes, please. I promise no specualtion or exaggerations."
"Thank you." Hermione returned to her book arranaging, noticing that Lavender didn't look mollified by her statement. "What?"
"Ron looked annoyed about Flint paying you attention."
"Ron has expressed several times he does not trust Slytherins. I have pointed out to him that it is time to start leaving behind childish prejudices based on what school dorm a personality quiz hat placed us in. I'm all for House pride, but he takes it to extremes sometimes."
"Uh huh." Lavender still didn't look pleased, but she dropped the matter.
In Potions Theo joined Hermione at her table before anyone else could. Harry and Ron joined the class last minute, collecting old books from a cupboard in the back. She noticed Harry's results were outstanding, leaps above his previous work. Not that she thought he was stupid by any means, but she remarked on his improvement. He showed her and Ron the notes in the margins. She flipped through the book noticing spells also annotated on the edges. "This book belongs to the Half Blood Prince," she read. She handed the book back, "Be careful, Harry."
"You're just worried Harry will keep doing better than you in class," jeered Ron.
"No, I'm apprehensive of spells that we have no idea what they truly do. But by all means, Ron, play with unknown magics. That always ends well. And if it doesn't Hermione will save you, won't she?" She stormed off, tired of his hostility every time she advised caution. She had enough going on without his shit.
As the only Gryffindor in Arithmacy Hermione found herself assigned to a study group with Theo, Malfoy, and Hannah Abbott. The Hufflepuff giggled, "If it was any other Gryffindor I would wonder if Professor Vector wanted to kick off a war."
"But Granger's capable of parley and pax?" joked Theo.
"Exactly."
Draco rubbed his jaw, "I don't know, she punched me in third year and it still aches. I think she knows war, too."
"Balance in life is key," quipped Hermione to their amusement. And the group began working on the equation at hand.
Somehow after class she found herself swept along to the Heads' dorm. In the small common room Adrian, Marcus, and Graham Montague argued over the quidditch teams. She settled on a couch next to Theo. Draco flopped across from her dramatically, rubbing his left forearm. "Look, all I'm saying is the German Spears have a shot at the International Cup with von Hess at the helm," declared Montague.
"Not happening," said Hermione.
He looked over at her, "What's not happening?"
"The Spears are about to lose von Hess. He's going to claim age and aggravated injury, but in reality the team is dumping him before the scandal breaks."
"What scandal?" asked Adrian. "And how do you know?"
"That his wife, her sister, and his girlfriend are all pregnant by him. Viktor told me. Viktor's girlfriend told him, her sister works for the team's PR department."
"Viktor?" Montague looked confused. "Viktor Krum?"
"Yeah. We still keep in touch. He thinks his current girlfriend might be the one. But don't tell anyone."
Adrian made a show of looking around, "Who would I tell that would say anything to anyone of importance around here?"
"Point," she giggled.
Montague gave her a seductive smile, "So, does your ex-boyfriend ever offer you match tickets?"
"No. He knows I'm not interested in them." She laughed at his crestfallen face.
"So cruel," laughed Adrian.
"You have no idea."
"Stop flirting," Draco snapped. "I thought we were getting Pucey's notes from last year, not having social hour."
She looked at him closely. "Are you okay?" she asked her voice soft and concerned.
"Yes! No! I don't know anymore." He tore open his oxford and ripped it off. "All I know is that my arm is driving me insane."
"Oi!" cried Montague looking between Hermione and Draco. He realized she didn't look surprised or horrified, only concerned. "You already know."
"More than you imagine," she muttered. She looked at Theo, "Is he safe?"
"Safe enough,"
"Draco?" He raised an eyebrow. "Not just my secret here."
"Graham's fine. He knows, kind of anyway."
"Let me see your arm," she instructed. She reached for him.
He jerked away, "You shouldn't touch filth like this," he snapped.
"Stop being fussy and give me your arm or I will stun you and look at it anyway.""
"Bully," he sulked giving her his arm.
"No, that's your job. Now be quiet." She ran her fingertips along the scar. Pain, anger, and a darkness so vile it stung oozed from every pore of the stain. Riddle made the Mark hurt, enjoyed causing the pain. Enjoyed knowing the enduring agony it created. He impeded the healing process to prolong it. She released his arm and sat back.
"You're crying, little witch," Marcus brushed the tears from her cheeks.
"Tom Marvolo Riddle, Lord Voldemort, whatever you want to call him is a twat faced douchapotmus. Regardless of how he dies it will NOT be horrible enough. Burning for a thousand years would be ten thousand too few. He is a monster," she ranted. "And I can't remove it completely. It still has to function." She considered her dilemma. "Fawkes, I need help."
"Who is Fawkes?" asked Theo.
"Professor Dumbledore's phoenix familiar. Remember, help will always come at Hogwarts to those that ask for it." The fiery bird burst into the room circling over her head before landing on her shoulder. "Hello, pretty bird. We need to heal the pain without removing the magic, no matter how vile. Will you help me?" The bird trilled. "Thank you. I think we could dilute your tears with mine, that should work." The bird seemed to agree. Together Druid and bird cried over the Dark Mark. Hermione's skin glowed as the phoenix tears hit her cheek. There they mingled with her own and dropped onto the Mark. Malfoy's body relaxed as the agony eased.
"Thank you. I can still feel it, but it doesn't hurt."
"You're welcome." She slumped into Marcus's side, his arm coming around her. All she did was cry and yet the effort drained her considerable.
Graham stared at her, mouth open, "You're the Druid."
"You said he knew," she accused.
"He does," replied Marcus. "But there is knowing because someone told you and then there's knowing because you saw it."
"I understand, I suppose. Rather annoying reaction, though."
Harry reported Dumbledore had him viewing memories of Riddle's grandfather, uncle, and mother. "To better understand him," he explained.
She rolled her eyes, "Maybe it will help."
"Doubtful. And he wants Snape to teach me Occlumency."
"Am I suppose to think that's a bad thing?" she teased.
"It's not on the surface, but Snape and I don't get along at the best of times."
"That's fair. Ask if I can join you. Maybe my presence will act as a buffer."
The night before Hermione's birthday the Hunt summoned her to celebrate as was their custom. Most of the gifts were pretty trinkets or the knowledge of small beauty charms. Finn presented her with a corolla fashioned to look like woven hawthorn decorated with mistletoe leaves and henbane flowers. The polished bronze shone in the fire. "You are the leader of the Druids, you deserve the symbol of your proper rank."
"I'm the only Druid, but I will wear it with honor," slipped it on. The others chuckled. His sister sent her well wishes and a bronze torc and beaten bracelet set that matched the crown. She wondered if they had the items made for her, or had been holding onto them for this day. With the fae one never could tell. Not that they would answer truthfully if she asked. They may not even know themselves if they had been keeping them. She noticed her white gown that evening resembled something more along the lines of druidic robes than fae ballgown. She might not be declaring anything, but the universe seemed to be.
Una spoke once the feasting began, "A storm brews on the horizon, are you prepared?"
"Can anyone ever truly be prepared?" Hermione countered. "There is much we do not know and more we have to accomplish."
Finn nodded, "Aptly put, Tempest. Know that when you meet his forces in pitched battle we will stand at your side. You have earned this from us and perhaps more."
Catan nodded, "We stand by our allies, and you have proven yourself to be worthy of that title.
Nesan stood, "But those battles are another day. Let us dance and make merry this night." He offered his hand in invitation, which Hermione gracefully took and twirled her about the clearing. The first of many dances that night as the festivities continued until nearly dawn.