...The Courage to Change the Things I Can...

And once again, big thanks to Nakhash Mekashefah, deliverer of many commas, and other sundry punctuation, beta extrodinare.

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Hermione tacked the last flyer to the wall in the Leaky Cauldron. Six hundred fliers in all, over the last few days, had been spread out over: Hogsmeade, Diagon Alley, and even within the halls of The Ministry of Magic by members of the Order. Since she had first come up with the idea nearly a week ago, Albus Dumbledore had put the execution of this plan at top priority for the Order of the Phoenix. Everyone had come together to plan and implement the idea and to get a campaign started.

The idea was first public education. The MOM wouldn't be able to stand against a vast public outcry. The fliers were simple enough to fit on one page, and to be understood by the average witch or wizard. Basically, they outlined a potential program, which would match voluntary participants based on genetic and personality compatibility. The decision to marry would also be voluntary. Rewards were available based on the needs of the participants for having and then providing those children with a stable home. For some, the rewards would be financial, for others, recognition, such as medals of Honour.

They were actually lucky that the Marriage Law had passed in such a hurry with so little preparation. It really was a badly written law, poorly thought out in terms of social viability. If they had actually taken the time to work out a foolproof law, it would be much harder to overthrow. As it was, most wizards and witches could see the unfairness of the law, and even if they were not directly affected, they resented the fact that the Ministry of Magic would take such sweeping totalitarian actions in secrecy.

Hermione was still uncomfortable with parts of their solution. It still reminded her in some ways of Hitler's breeding program in which women had been given awards for bearing strong, healthy, German babies of pure blood. But, it had to be better than forcing Muggle-born witches into marriage. And, they were out to save a way of life...it was right. But still, Hermione knew that had been the goal of Hitler as well...to save the Aryan race from the Jews and Gypsies and others of 'impure' breeding. Only now, they were trying to save a way of life by 'polluting' previously 'pure' bloodlines.

Playing around with eugenics was sticky business. It would be so easy to slip down that slope of questionable ethics...if this plan did go through, the committee which performed the genetic screening must be above bar. There must be safeguards in place to protect against bribery. Likely, the purebloods wouldn't like it...at least the ones who wanted to remain 'pure'. She didn't want to think of it, but there would probably have to be restrictive laws still in place forbidding unions between purebloods who did not pass a genetic screening. And then, there would be the protest against Muggle science intruding in the ancient and noble Wizarding world.

It was a mess.

She had also looked over the statistics of those who had already been married under the law. It was just under eighty new marriages with Muggle-born brides and pureblood suitors. Surprising, really, considering how many eligible single Muggle-born women were available between the ages of eighteen and fifty and how many single pureblood men, of any age, were out there.

The next order of business would be to contact each of these Muggle-born brides. Something would have to be done to help them, too, and Hermione was still at a loss as to how to go about it. For the time being, she just hoped to find out if any were actually in abusive relationships and do what could be done to stop it. They could get to work next on the restrictions against employment and holding bank accounts for the Muggle-born brides. That would at least be one step in the right direction. Next, would be to put a stop to the monitoring of the coitus requirements of the law. She didn't like thinking about that one. That meant there was someone checking in on how often...well, she did wonder if she and Severus were setting any kind of record.

"Are you quite done?" Severus asked, tired from trudging up and down Diagon Alley with Hermione most of the afternoon as she put fliers up and even answered questions of passersby. He'd spent the entire time in a heightened state of alert, wary of nearly everyone on the street, and longed to simply get back to Hogwarts and take a hot bath. They would have to hurry to get dinner in the Great Hall.

"Yes, done for today. Thank you, Severus. I do appreciate your help," Hermione said, wishing he didn't have to be so terse. But, a little politeness could go a long way, in most cases.

Severus grunted. "Now, if that is finished, we should head back to Hogwarts."

"If you don't mind, I need to get some Christmas shopping done. I can Apparate back later; after all, Draco is at Hogwarts this weekend, right? I don't think he'll attack me in the middle of Diagon Alley."

"No, but he is not without resources. He does have money and could easily hire someone to take care of his dirty work. Twenty minutes, Hermione, no more. Let's not waste time."

As they exited the Leaky Cauldron and went through the brick wall, Severus commented, "The main flaw of this plan is that most purebloods are highly unlikely to submit to genetic screening."

"I'm sure once they see the reasons behind it, they will understand. Besides, the genetic screening can even allow them to marry other purebloods in some cases, if they're genetically compatible," Hermione stated. She knew it would be a problem, but for now she didn't want Severus's pessimism to bring her down.

Hermione swiftly walked through Diagon Alley, leaving trails in the several inches of snow which had fallen to the street. Garlands and fairy lights decorated windows of shops, it was quite picturesque. She had a list planned, and would hurry. Usually, she had all her Christmas shopping out of the way by November. She'd been able to pick up a few things the previous weekend at Hogsmeade. Severus had told her to stay with Harry and Ron the entire time, though, so she hadn't been able to get away to get their presents. She understood he was looking out for her, but still, the bossiness got to her sometimes. And, she still wasn't sure if he expected her to get him something for Christmas, or if he planned to get her something, or what. But, she figured it was best to do so, since they were married after all. It seemed like it was simply what one should do for their spouse. Of course, he liked books. She could always get him a book. He might even appreciate it.

Fortunately, he didn't hang over her shoulder in Flourish and Blotts so she was able to find a new release on potions for him. It wasn't too pricey and she supposed she should get him something else before Christmas, but would think on it a bit more. Her savings for the year were running low and she knew she would have to get a job as soon as she got out of Hogwarts. Her parents had money set aside if she wanted to attend a Muggle university and she was still considering the possibility, but a Muggle university would be purely academic. Her future was in the Wizarding world, but maybe she would study something that could have a crossover application. They left Flourish and Blotts half an hour later, each with packages.

"I should like to make one more stop, since we've missed dinner anyway. It won't take long, this way," he said and they walked together to Knockturn alley. It was dark and dank and, where Diagon Alley had looked picturesque in its Victorian post-card appeal with snow on the streets and windowsills, Knockturn Alley simply looked dank and miserable with puddles of dirty, slushy snow piled against the buildings on either side of the narrow alley.

"What could you need down here?" Hermione asked, warily eying the less than upstanding people in the alley.

Severus turned and gave her an amused smirk, "Oh, you'll see," he purred, and continued walking. Hermione followed him quickly down several twists and turns until finally he entered a small store. It had an odd assortment of books and bottles of mysterious substances, but Severus didn't stop to look at any of them. Instead, he spoke with the proprietor for a moment in hushed tones. The man turned and fired a spell at the back wall and Severus tilted his head as a signal to follow. They walked through the wall and Hermione gasped at what she saw.

Rows of whips, manacles, masks, chains and shelves of small clips and other sundry instruments lined the walls. Eyes wide, she stood in place, taking in the contents of the room...finally, she turned back to Severus who was watching her with no small amount of amusement. "I thought we could use a few more toys. I have found my personal collection to be quite - lacking - of late."

"Lacking?" Hermione asked.

Severus chuckled, "Yes, lacking. You've only had a very small taste of things so far, Hermione. In fact, I'm feeling generous today," he said, almost smiling. "You may pick any item on this wall," he declared, making a sweeping gesture toward the wall of whips, floggers, and crops.

"You...want me to...pick a whip?" Hermione asked, eyeing the wall with concern.

"Yes, pick one, now." He didn't sound so generous that time. Hermione looked over the selection, feeling like a child sent to cut their own willow-switch to be punished with...well, what she imagined that would feel like since she'd never had that happen as a child. However, if she was going to pick something, might as well make it something that wouldn't hurt much. That meant the bullwhips were right out. Hermione took a step closer to the wall and perused the various instruments...she recognized a flogger which Severus had used on her many times now. It didn't hurt sharply...but it probably wouldn't do to simply get another. There were crops of various sizes. She picked one up; flexed it and imagined it falling on her backside...she was surprised when a flood of warmth settled in her lower regions.

She placed the crop back on its hook and looked over the other items. One looked particularly gentle, it was the length of the flogger, but it was horsehair bound together in a handle. She picked it up and ran her fingers through the coarse strands. After a moment, she placed it back on the wall to survey the other items for sale.

"Any one of these can be a gentle caress or can produce agonising pain, depending on how they are wielded," Severus murmured in her ear. "Don't choose something just because you think it won't hurt much. Where's that Gryffindor courage, Hermione? What here tempts you? I know something does, you're aroused already. Here," he said, and reached out to pull a long, coiled, single-tail whip from the wall. "Feel it," he said as he uncoiled it and ran the plaited leather across her hands. It was smooth and heavy and felt like a snake, firm yet yielding. Despite herself, Hermione imagined it falling across her skin...she imagined it would hurt, but she wondered how the whip would hit her...would it wrap around her body, would it cut through her skin...

"This looks...well, like it would hurt a lot," Hermione observed.

"Yes, that is a possibility," Severus agreed. "But, I can be so...creative...with a real whip like this one," he purred seductively, sending chills of arousal down Hermione's spine. She closed her eyes and leaned back slightly where he was nearly pressed against her. It felt totally surreal, standing in some back room of a shop in Knockturn Alley, shopping for whips...and she was actually aroused.

"Well, it seems like it would leave marks," she reasoned.

"Hermione," Severus drawled, sounding somewhat exasperated, "you seem to forget how effective my potions are."

Well, yes, there was that, too. He bent down and nibbled on her ear and then purred, "Come now, Hermione, don't tell me you're afraid of a bit of leather."

"I'm not afraid," she stated. No...she wasn't afraid...merely, apprehensive.

"Prove it," he dared.

He was doing it again. She knew it...he probably knew she knew it, too. Goading her, trying to push her buttons...he was having fun. But, she wondered if this were a new challenge. The only time he let go of his stiff, formal demeanour was directly after sex...usually directly after very rough sex. However, she did wonder if she could use that as a start, someplace from which to begin to learn about her husband. Pleasing him seemed to help too...a pleased and sated Severus was a more open Severus. However, she wouldn't be swayed by a simple dare. She turned and faced him, thoughtfully considering his words.

"And why do I get the feeling that whatever I pick, you would still get this one in addition?" Hermione asked, after a moment.

Severus's eyebrows raised slightly in surprise before he smiled. "Because, you are apparently learning to be perceptive, Hermione," he granted.

*****

Draco Malfoy watched as Professor Snape, the traitor, and Hermione Snape, the Mudblood, returned to Hogwarts. His father had meant to use her to get revenge on Potter, as well as Granger for the assistance she'd given Potter in defeating Voldemort. How like a coward she had been, hiding in back rooms in the dead of night formulating Arithmancy projections, of all things...a shame to Gryffindor, really. If she had been out on the battlefield she could have been killed, Potter could have been distracted, and the Dark Lord could have been victorious.

And then there was Snape. He had spent years deceiving the Dark Lord and his followers. And now, he walked side by side with a Mudblood as his wife. Snape even seemed to treat her as an equal, not the Mudblood slave she should be. She should be his inferior, yet he'd even held the door for her as they entered the castle. Apparently, he had taken her shopping; they both carried shopping bags. Snape was the worst kind of Muggle-lover. Draco shook his head as he watched them descend the stairs to the dungeons.

They would both pay for what his father had become. He had visited his father, now a mindless idiot, in St. Mungo's. It had been humiliating to see his sire, formerly proud and well kept, smiling idiotically at the others in the ward. His previously long hair, which had been proudly kept and worn long, was now cut unevenly and not combed properly. Snape had even stripped that dignity from him in the duel. Draco had ordered the nurses to take care of it and had given them a handful of Galleons with instructions to get him some better clothing, too.

He'd also hired two Healers privately, specifically to find a treatment to help his father. His last visit had shown little improvement, but at least Lucius Malfoy retained the ability to read and speak. With that intact, Draco was certain his father could be brought back. He wanted to be there, too, when his father took his revenge. He had contemplated simply doing it himself, but it would be so much better for his father to take back his own life. Of course, he would never consciously remember his former life, but he could be taught about who he had been...that would be enough. Lucius Malfoy had kept journals and Draco was sure there were a few hidden Pensieves in the manor. Between those, and Draco's own instruction, he was sure his father would once again rise to his former glory.

*****

"I think I lost count of how many fliers I put up today," Hermione sighed, as she flopped down on the worn, red couch in the Gryffindor common room.

"Well, let's hope it works," Ron said, with a look of concern.

"So, Hermione...if the law is overturned, what will you do?" Harry asked.

"Not much different from my previous plans, really. I just won't be working on getting the law repealed, anymore. I'm planning on going into Arithmancy."

"No, I mean...with being married to Snape."

"Harry, that can't change. Did you miss the binding ceremony? It's for life, you know."

"Oh...sorry. Well, how is it going with him anyway?"

"Well...it's going. Not sure what to say, really. He's not romantic or anything..." she trailed off, shrugging. "Anyway, are you two done with your mid-term essays yet?"

"Don't you ever give it a rest, 'Mione?" Ron sighed.

"No, I don't. They're due in less than a week; come on, bring them out. I'll look them over and let you know where you need to revise.

The boys groaned but complied. It was the same at every mid-term and final. Hermione got bossy and demanded to see their papers. While they made the usual protests, Harry was glad to see this. He was worried about her, and her new tendency to sleep in on Saturday mornings and even Sunday mornings had him a bit concerned. But, she was still the same old Hermione.

"So, do you boss Snape around as bad as you do us?" Ron asked, as he handed his incomplete essays over to Hermione.

"Oh, yes, Ron," Hermione said sarcastically. "Behind closed doors; Professor Snape is a complete kitten and does whatever I tell him to."

"Watch it, you're starting to sound like him," Ginny, who was sitting off in one corner reading, quipped.

*****

Harry and Ron escorted Hermione back to the dungeons a while after curfew. Severus had; amazingly, given Harry and Ron passes to be out after curfew for those times Hermione stayed late in Gryffindor Tower as he was sometimes disposed in handling matters to do with Slytherin and his other duties at Hogwarts. Hermione would be glad when the year was over. The heightened security and caution with Draco Malfoy were tiring. But still, she had to wonder how much longer they would need to be so careful. What kind of a life could she have when she was constantly looking over her shoulder for an enemy?

"Thanks, guys," Hermione said, as she opened her door. "I'll see you tomorrow at lunch."

"Hey, I was wondering about that, Hermione. Why are you sleeping late on weekends now?"

"Sometimes it's nice to have a lie-in. Besides, I usually have breakfast with Severus weekend mornings."

"Oh...well, all right. I've just never known you to be a late sleeper is all."

"Don't worry, Harry; my sleeping late isn't the end of the world. Now, goodnight, see you tomorrow."

After taking a few minutes to put her things in place and straighten her room, Hermione undressed and went to the bedroom. She wondered if he'd use the horsehair flogger she'd picked out or the long whip he'd picked, tonight. She had been thinking about it all evening as she helped Harry and Ron with their papers and had a humming sense of anticipation and nervousness.

Friday nights were intense. The rest of the week was tame in comparison, quite nice, but tame. But, she didn't know what to expect as she walked through the living room and entered the bedroom. Would there be a chain hanging from the ceiling? Ropes coiled and waiting on the bed? But, when she entered the bedroom, Severus was already asleep and snoring. Which seemed odd...his snoring hadn't been bothering her lately. So, she went to shower, casting a silencing spell on the bathroom door so as not to disturb him. He had been doing the same for his morning showers, since he woke more than an hour before she needed to be awake.

After a shower, she slid between the sheets. He was still loud. Why hadn't she heard him snoring lately, anyway? By now, she wasn't scared of doing something about it, though. And so, lying on her side facing away from him, she reached back and elbowed him softly in the ribs. If he got upset, that could be blamed on her tossing in her sleep. When he didn't react, she reached back and trailed her fingers lightly over his ribs.

That got a reaction. Only, not quite what she was expecting. With a groan, Severus rolled over, tossing a leg and an arm around Hermione and nestling his face into the crook of her neck. She stiffened at first, but he stilled quickly, still asleep. And then she realized he wasn't snoring, anymore. Well, that explained it. Hermione adjusted herself to a slightly more comfortable position and settled down to sleep. His breath on her neck was comfortable, really. His arm lay across her breasts and his leg was thrown over her hip as if she was some kind of body pillow. His skin was warm and felt nice after moving through the cold room. She'd never thought he would be a cuddler...well, he didn't actually cuddle in the traditional sense of the word, but he did seem to like holding her while he slept.

So, apparently there would be no whips and chains that night. When she was halfway asleep, Hermione realized she was slightly disappointed. She had been worked up for something, and so when he turned out to be asleep, felt a bit let down.

*****

Severus woke the next morning at his usual time. He didn't remember Hermione coming to bed, but he held her tightly now. She was warm and soft and just the right size. He realized he might have been missing something before with women. He had never actually spent the night with a woman before he was married. His previous relationships were nothing more than casual sexual encounters...to him, anyway. Spending the night simply never came up. But, waking up holding Hermione was pleasant. He wondered if that was also why he'd been sleeping better. Being sexually sated helped, certainly, but he'd still never slept well previously, even after sex.

He thought about waking her, but decided to let her sleep a bit longer. She needed more sleep than he did; it wouldn't do to wear her out. He also wondered about the upcoming holiday as he lay awake. Hermione's parents had been reasonable, though understandably upset about the circumstances, but he wondered if spending nearly three weeks with them would go well. As a guest, it would be rude to simply spend his time alone. He could hold civil discourse with people in formal social settings, well enough; he could even be pleasant at times. But he had the feeling, based on what he'd observed of Hermione, that they would be rather casual and close.

He wondered if they would spend large amounts of time watching a television. He'd heard of them, and had seen them before, but they seemed pointless. Or, what if they had a fascination with board games? Would they expect him to participate in a Muggle board game? He knew that he couldn't upset Hermione's parents and would have to play along with expected things. Despite spending most of her time at Hogwarts, Hermione was close to her parents. So, if he wanted Hermione to be content with him, he would have to appease her parents. He wondered if he would break under the strain of acting nice for such a long period of time. At least Hermione already knew he was rude, she could deal with that, he wasn't about to spend all his time putting on a nice act. Christmas break would be strain enough.

He also wondered if her parents would expect them to sleep in separate rooms. They would probably assume that he and Hermione were simply performing to the requirements of the marriage law. Either that, or they probably didn't want to think about it at all. So, he prepared for the possibility of spending his holiday without Hermione in his bed. He didn't like that possibility.

After a while, physical needs forced him from the bed to the bathroom. He stalled for time with a shower and shave before getting back in bed with Hermione. Deciding she'd slept long enough, he softly nudged her to roll to her back and climbed over her, and gently took a nipple in his mouth and suckled. Hermione stirred with a moan and her hands came up to grasp his head, fingers gripping his hair and urging him against her breast more firmly.

He glanced up at her face, her eyes were still closed and she had a smile on her face. He increased the force of his ministrations, much to her apparent delight, as he reached behind his head to untangle her hands from his hair and brought them together, holding her wrists above her head firmly and teasing her with light suckling and blowing air across her wet nipples. She groaned in protest and writhed, trying to arch up against him and pulled her arms slightly against his grip.

"Eager this morning?" he asked her. She responded with an affirmative groan. He chuckled and went back to teasing her for a few moments before he reached for the bed-curtain tie and swiftly secured her wrists to the headboard. Once she was tied, he took her mouth in a possessive kiss, reaching down with one hand to tease at her clitoris for a moment. Severus moved between her legs and thrust inside swiftly. Her legs wrapped around his waist and he revelled in the feeling of her flesh under his, her tight channel around his cock and her tongue slithering against his, inside her mouth. He thrust with a steady, firm rhythm until she came and then took her more forcefully, groaning loudly as he came with Hermione climaxing into a second orgasm with him.

"Tonight," he purred in her ear, "tonight, I will test you, thoroughly."

*****

Hermione emerged from the shower and walked through the living room, entered her room to gather her clothes, choosing jeans and a jumper, and then took a seat on the couch. She grabbed a blueberry muffin from the breakfast tray Severus had waiting and looked over at him, already buttoned up in his frock coat and sitting in his favourite wingback green leather chair. His hair was tucked back behind his ear on one side to keep it out of his face while he wrote. She speculated at his ability to alternately soothe, frighten, and arouse her and yet still be so distant. Would he always be so remote?

She had to wonder if the man had any emotions beyond annoyance, anger, and lust. She'd seen his annoyance at students ever since her first year...she'd seen his anger on a few occasions; he was downright scary, then. But, his lust she'd only known about since their first discussion on marriage. And, she was the only one at Hogwarts who knew him like that...at least she hoped so. He thought love was overrated, at best...had he even experienced love? Hermione had only experienced platonic love; she loved her parents, she loved her friends, but she'd never been in love. She'd had a few crushes...Lockhart in her second year, which she now refused to acknowledge ever happened, Remus Lupin in third year...and even beyond that, she would have had no qualms at marrying him if he had been eligible. She still wondered about him, but that would never happen now.

So, focusing on what was real, she tried examining her feelings for Severus. She would be with him for a long time. While she had grown comfortable with him on some levels, she still remained wary. He liked to goad her, tease her, and she had to be careful not to fall into his verbal traps. And, when it came to sex, she had to concede he was certainly an expert there. She hadn't thought sex could be so good. Even getting tied up this morning hadn't been bad at all, she'd enjoyed thrashing against the cords around her wrists as he rode her. Of course, his last words to her before he'd untied her and left the bedroom were cause for concern.

"So, what did you mean about testing me thoroughly tonight?" she asked, after she'd finished her muffin and was drinking her milk.

He looked up from his work and smirked, "I think I'll be testing out yesterday's purchases." He looked thoughtful for a moment and stood, going to the bookshelf and pulling out a text. "There's actually something else," he said, as he thumbed through the pages until he came to his goal, marked the page with a slip of parchment, and then walked to where Hermione was sitting and handed her the book.

"The Guide to Medical Spells and Charms for the Medi-Witch or Wizard?" Hermione asked.

"Turn to the marked page, I should like for you to prepare for tonight using the Charm indicated," he explained, as he went back to his chair.

She looked confused for a moment, but turned to the marked page and began to read, eyes growing wide and mouth gaping open as she realized what he wanted her to do. "You can't mean..." she said, trailing off in shock as she looked at him and saw he was completely serious. "But that's...eeww," she exclaimed, looking back down at the page with a grimace of disgust.

"You can perform the charm or I can do it for you," he said with finality. "I'm certain you would rather do this yourself and I really have no desire to attend to this for you. But, if it helps your concerns," he continued in a lighter tone, "performing a regular colonic is quite healthy."

Hermione read through the rest of the text on the "Fundamundic" Charm, attempting to quell her unease. After reading through the text on the indications for its use, she realized that, in fact, it was quite healthy. However...if he wanted for her to do that to 'prepare' for that evening that meant he would want to...oh. "Um...I guess this means you want to...um..." she stammered, blushing.

Severus looked over to her, amused by her reaction. He would have to appreciate that while it lasted, he didn't think he would be able to make her blush like that much longer. "If by 'um' you mean anal intercourse, you would be correct," he said. "Do not be concerned; it is highly pleasurable when done correctly."

"Oh," she said simply. She looked over the wand motions and the incantation; they were fairly simple to remember. Once sure she could perform the charm adequately, she closed the book and placed it back on the shelf and then went to her room, pulling her books out and settling down to spend the day studying.

Severus left their quarters, likely to spend time checking up on Slytherin House, and didn't return until just before lunchtime to escort her to the Great Hall.

As they walked, he asked: "When have you arranged to visit with your parents?"

"The day school lets out, next Saturday. How long would we be able to stay?"

"I need to be back the day before classes resume. So, within that time frame it is up to you."

"All right," she said, nodding. "Oh, thought you might want to know...the Weasleys will be visiting while we're there, too."

"Thank you for informing me," he muttered grumpily. "Is there a library in your parents' home in which I might find solitude during the incursion?"

"Well, no...it's not really a big house."

Severus made a noncommittal grunt as they approached the doors of the Great Hall and went their separate ways. She spent the afternoon studying in the Gryffindor common room. For some reason, a few of the Gryffindors seemed to think she should have some special information concerning what would be on the Potions test.

"But you live with him, Hermione. Wouldn't you see what he's putting on the test?" Parvati Patil asked.

"No, Parvati. I don't look through his things or even pay much attention to what he's working on. I have no idea what's on the test and even if I did, it wouldn't be fair to tell you about it. That would be cheating," she lectured.

"Come on, Hermione, what about House spirit? Couldn't you take a little peek and see?" Lavender whined.

"Absolutely not! What do you think we are - Slytherins? That is cheating and cheating is wrong," she ranted, appalled that her fellow Gryffindors would even contemplate cheating, or contemplate using her to cheat. She ended up leaving the study group early; she could study more effectively on her own anyway.

*****

Just after seven o'clock that evening, Hermione exited the bathroom, having just performed the Fundamundic spell. It had been awful. Still, she was most certainly clean...very, thoroughly, intimately, clean. Severus looked up from his grading as she walked through the living room, noting the stunned expression on her face.

"You'll get used to it. First time is quite uncomfortable, it becomes easier with time."

"Oh," she said simply, and went back to her studies. A little while later she frowned, wondering how he would know it became easier with time. Deciding she probably didn't really want to know, she went back to reading. All her essays were done, so she simply went through her class notes and did some re-reading of the materials covered so far that year. She had a growing feeling of anticipation regarding what would happen later, an odd mix of fear and giddiness. She was looking forward to it, even if her stomach was in knots.

And so, about nine, she put her books away, stripped, and went to the bedroom. Walking about nude had seemed very odd and embarrassing at first, but now, after standing before him unclothed or under him in bed on so many occasions, she didn't feel exposed. Severus placed his book down and followed. She waited for instruction when she heard his boot steps behind her. He walked slowly to stand in front of her then handed her a leather thong. "Put your hair up tightly, no loose strands," he instructed.

When she had bound her hair in a neat braid and tucked the length up in a knot, he spoke again. "Very good. Your obedience of late has been pleasing. And so," he said, unbuttoning his frock coat, "tonight you may have a few choices as to the order of events." He laid his frock coat over the edge of the bedside chair and began unbuttoning his white, linen shirt next. Hermione watched in anticipation, wondering what it was she was going be able to choose, as he peeled his shirt off and placed it over the back of the chair, as well. He walked to the wardrobe and withdrew yesterday's purchases, the horsehair flogger and the long whip, along with a rope and the long chain and hook. He used his wand to levitate the chain to the hook in the ceiling and motioned for her to come.

He coiled the rope around her wrists in a secure set of twists and knots and then pulled her arms up and attached the rope to the chain. His eyes looked down into hers intensely, and she caught the nearly imperceptible flair of his nostrils, belying his calm exterior. "Now, for your choice: the flogger you picked, the paddle, or the whip?" he asked.

"The...flogger, sir," Hermione answered with a shaky voice.

"Manners, Hermione...what's the magic word?" he mocked.

"Please, sir. Use the flogger, please, sir," Hermione stammered, quite aware of the irony of asking politely to be whipped.

"Better," he said, and went to retrieve the horsehair flogger. Hermione had picked that one after she knew he would pick the long whip, anyway, and as he strode towards her, his wiry pectoral muscles flexing with the instrument in his hand, she wondered how it would feel.

A moment later, she discovered it was quite stingy as the coarse hair whipped across her back. She hissed with each stroke as he strode around her, striking in a swift cadence. Her skin soon tingled all over as he spared not an inch of skin between her shoulders and knees. Hermione had been aware, before, that there were certain areas he did not strike with his strap or paddle. Her buttocks usually bore the brunt of most of his attentions, but the horsehair was light enough not to injure her when used over a wider area. He came to a stop in front of her, pinning her with an intense glare. Suddenly, he whipped the flogger back and forth across her breasts repeatedly, leaving her gasping. He stepped back and regarded her reddened skin. "Was that to your satisfaction?" he asked.

"Ahh...yes," Hermione gasped, trying to remember her manners, "thank you, sir."

"You are quite welcome," he purred, stepping close to her and pressing his body against hers. She could feel his erection through his trousers. "We're only getting started," he whispered, and grabbed her by her coiled hair and took her mouth in a fierce kiss, plunging his tongue deep into her mouth and biting her lip as he pulled away. He reached up and untied her hands.

"Now, Madam Snape, kneel on the rug, put your head down," he ordered.

Hermione moved to obey, being addressed as 'Madam Snape' gave her an odd thrill. Once she had taken three quick steps to the rug and knelt, lowering her body until her cheek rested against the soft wool, she was grateful he had ordered her to kneel on the rug. The stone floor was cold and hard, but this was nice.

"Reach back and spread your arse for me," he ordered next.

Cheeks flaming, Hermione reached back and placed her hands around her upper thighs and began to pull them apart, but her hand was slapped sharply.

"No, higher," he directed, physically grasping her hands and placing them on the curve of her buttocks, "spread yourself for me."

Hermione thought she had ceased to feel exposed before him, but this was a new level of exposure. She slowly pulled her arse cheeks apart, painfully aware of what he was looking at. She jumped slightly when she felt his hand come down to her cleft, slick with what felt like oil, lightly tracing her crevice all the way to her anus, where he applied pressure with two fingers. "Open for me," he commanded evenly.

Hermione wasn't sure what to do, or what exactly he meant. She thought quickly...he apparently wanted her to open...there, but she hadn't the slightest idea how.

"I said, open for me, now," he growled. He applied slightly more firm pressure at her rear entrance, sending a jolt of pleasure through her body along with the mortification she felt at not being able to do what he requested. She tensed, causing her anus to pucker even more tightly. "Madam Snape, if you continue with this direct disobedience you will be punished," he warned fiercely.

Hermione felt somewhat panicked and completely frustrated. His fingers at her entrance only caused her to tighten in automatic reflex. She thought for a moment, realizing he wouldn't tell her to do something that was impossible...therefore, it was only a matter of concentrating on the right movement and she could do it. But, thinking about what usually happened when that opened only caused her to cringe and tighten further.

"Apparently, you will need more incentive to obey. Hands down on the rug, now," he said. Hermione moved her hands down and placed them on either side of her face, stomach roiling, as she knew she was about to be punished. He used his hand, swiftly giving her ten very firm, stinging swats, which brought tears to her eyes. "Spread yourself again," he intoned. Hermione reached back to her stinging arse cheeks and pulled them apart swiftly to keep from incurring further punishment. His fingers returned to their previous location and Hermione fought the impulse to tense again. "Open, Hermione...now."

She forced herself to ignore the embarrassment she felt, reminding herself that she was perfectly clean thanks to the Fundamundic charm. She concentrated her attention to relaxing and allowing his fingers entrance. She felt him slip one oiled finger into her tight anus and immediately tensed. His finger remained for the moment, though, and she focused again on relaxing...a decidedly odd feeling, but apparently she succeeded as his finger slipped further inside her. She gasped at the sensation, which felt like it extended all the way through her clitoris and then down into her toes as he worked his finger in and out slowly.

"Good girl," he praised. "You've earned a reward," he said, and with his other hand, reached between her legs, working at her clitoris. The combined sensations were nearly overwhelming and soon she was screaming out in a most intense, and unusual, orgasm, which nearly caused her feet to cramp as her toes curled. He continued working his finger in her anus for a moment longer and then withdrew. She heard a clink and then felt something cold on her clitoris...the clamp...which he attached firmly, causing Hermione to groan at the combination of pleasure and pain it brought. "Kneel up," he ordered, and she pushed herself up from the rug, holding her back as straight as possible.

His arms reached around her shoulders, pulling her back against his bare chest as he knelt behind her. His wool-clad hips ground against her, and she could feel his erection, straining and hard through the cloth. He took her earlobe between his teeth and pulled slightly as he ran his hands down her chest. Hermione arched and cried out as she felt a sharp pinch on each of her nipples. She looked down at the clips he'd attached, making her hyper-aware of every breath which shook her breasts. He continued nibbling at her earlobe. "Do they hurt?" he asked softly.

"Yes, sir," Hermione answered truthfully.

"Tell me, in detail, what you're feeling now," he urged, nearly tenderly.

"I...my nipples hurt, sir. And...and, the other clamp hurts, too..." she said hesitantly. He reached back down to her breasts and flicked each clamp, causing her to arch her back and hiss in pain. His hands then caressed down her sides and then came together between her legs, one hand searching further to slip two fingers between her folds and inside where he searched out the sensitive spot inside and curled his fingers against her inner walls.

"Now, Hermione, what do you feel?" he purred.

"Ohh...it feels good," she answered, resting her head back against his shoulder.

"What else...tell me more," he said, as he continued working his fingers, driving her nearly to the point of orgasm.

"Now...oh, um, I feel like I'm going to climax...but it hurts too, it feels like my nipples are burning now...and...oh, gods...a lot of pressure..." she babbled, nearly incoherent, but trying to do as he asked. His other hand slid around her hip and behind her, where he pressed against her anus again, working a slick finger against her entrance in a pulsing motion.

"Open for me," he whispered in her ear. When she relaxed the tight ring of muscle, he slipped a finger inside, working it in opposing rhythm to his other hand. Hermione began to rock her hips to accentuate the growing sensation, hands fluttering at her sides, seeking to grab something and hang on. She nearly squealed at the multitude of feelings. "Now! Tell me, Hermione. I want to hear about it all...how does it hurt?"

"OooohHHhhh...it...ahh...it...it feels like...aahhhmmm...like my breasts...are...like they're attached...to where your hands...ohhh gods..." Hermione could barely speak, much less give a synopsis of the sensations she felt.

"Keep talking," he hissed, and then bit down on her neck.

Hermione grabbed his thighs to support herself and tried to form a coherent word as she writhed against him. "Oh...gods, it hurts," she cried, as his teeth clamped down on her neck, "it hurts and I'm going to...oh, I'm gonna..." she trailed off and let forth with a scream as she climaxed, bucking against his hips in the throes of her climax.

"Good girl, well...for the most part," he said, when she leaned limply back against his chest. He then removed the clips from her nipples and clitoris. "You neglected to address me properly five times. Tell me, what do you think an appropriate punishment would be for someone who forgets such a supposedly well-known rule?"

Hermione realized what he was telling her as she rested, limp and spent against his chest. She couldn't believe she'd forgotten something so simple. And was he actually asking her to tell him how to punish her? "Um...I don't know, sir?" she stammered, hoping he wouldn't ask her again.

"That is not a valid answer. Stand up, now," he ordered, as he stood behind her and hauled her to her feet, tightly gripping her arms. He dragged her over to where the chain hung and quickly bound her wrists and attached them to the hook above her head. "Now, you will answer. In fact, I'll make it easy for you," he said, and retrieved the long whip. He smirked at her, watching as her eyes followed the whip as it dragged behind him. With a flick of his wrist, he sent the leather to coil gently around her knees. "How many lashes, with this whip, do you think your infraction warrants? I do warn you, though; if you answer incorrectly, I shall double the amount I believe it warrants."

Hermione stared down at the whip coiled around her knees and then up its length to Severus's hand and then up his arm, to his face, which was a stern mask. Her stomach clenched as she thought. He said she hadn't addressed him properly five times. She was almost tempted to say 'one lash' but for his warning to double whatever number he was thinking. The whip looked like it would hurt...a lot. So, it would be a harsh punishment. The lighter floggers he had used on her multiple times for a single infraction, but they were much less severe. Finally, hoping her answer was right, she answered, quietly but steadily: "Five, sir." She watched his face closely, waiting for him to speak.

"You have answered correctly. Prepare for your punishment," he said, and with a flick of his wrist, uncoiled the whip from her knees and strode around behind her. Hermione focused on relaxing, knowing by now tension only made the pain worse, but the anticipation and even excitement made it difficult to relax. She heard the whip whistle through the air and screamed as it fell across her back, arching forward as far as she could. Each successive stroke felt like fire lancing across her back. She was sobbing when he finished with the fifth stroke, hanging nearly limp from the bonds around her wrists. He came in front of her and wrapped one arm around her waist while he untied her with his free hand and guided her to the bed.

"Hands and knees," he directed. With shaking, but gradually steadying, breath, Hermione moved to the centre of the bed and waited. She sighed when he had climbed onto the bed behind her, after pulling off his boots and trousers. His hand moved to rub along her wet centre, fingers dipping inside and then spreading her moisture back to lubricate her prepared entrance. Hermione dropped to her elbows as his hand pressed down between her shoulders and arched her back when she felt his cock brush against her thigh, gasping with pleasure as he finally filled her and pounded into her, hands grasping her hips firmly, pulling her back against him.

Severus pulled out before he could come and repositioned himself to take her arse. He pressed lightly against her and then commanded: "Let me in." She had learned well in the quick lesson on muscle control and he sheathed himself fully, glad to hear her cry in pleasure as he did so. He pounded to completion, quickly, knowing she wouldn't be able to take a long duration her first time. He fell over her as he came, gasping for breath.

*****

Half an hour later, Hermione felt she was nearly ready to fall asleep in the huge tub, with her head leaning back against Severus's chest. His fingers rubbed along her arms languidly. However, if she stayed in much longer she would turn into a prune. So, she stretched broadly and then moved away, turning to face him as she stepped out of the tub. He was sprawled back against the edge, looking utterly relaxed. She thought she saw him smile a moment before he said, "I'll get my skin crème out for you. You were right, it did leave marks."

Hermione turned to check her back out in the mirror, somewhat shocked to see five long, red welts criss-crossing her upper back.

"Go lie down in bed; I will be there in a moment," he said, as he rose from the water, towelling himself dry. Hermione nodded and did as he said. He didn't take long, and soon was straddling her thighs and rubbing her back in long strokes, expertly massaging her muscles as he rubbed the healing crème into her skin. She sighed as he leaned down over her and placed a single kiss at the back of her neck.

"You're doing very well, Hermione. You've pleased me greatly tonight."

Hermione smiled as he moved off her, pulling the covers over them and then pulling her tightly against his chest. She snuggled deeply into his comfortable embrace, wondering how she'd ever slept well alone. He was so comfortable, his longer body curling around hers just right as they lay on their sides together.

She had received an owl earlier that week from her mother, who had asked, very carefully and diplomatically, about their sleeping arrangements. After all, with such a marriage of convenience they may easily have separate rooms to sleep in. Hermione had responded to let her know that the guest bedroom would not be needed. She had very briefly worried about what her parents would think of them sleeping together. But, since they were married, it wasn't like he was some boyfriend staying over. If that were the case, she was sure her mother wouldn't have even asked: he would have been relegated to the guest bedroom politely but firmly. She wondered if she should have asked Severus his opinion first, but she was sure he would prefer to sleep with her than to sleep alone, too.

*****

The week before Christmas break was hectic. Every class had a major test and she was worried. She'd spent time she usually devoted to extra study the week before mid-terms to work on the project to repeal the Marriage Law. She didn't actually have to do that...she could have just turned the plan over to the Order and let them deal with it, but she wanted to be involved, she wanted to take a proactive stance to work against it.

So, the week of finals saw Hermione spending nearly every evening with her nose in her books, reading over material to make sure she caught everything that might be on a test. Wednesday night at eleven, Severus stopped in her room.

"Hermione, do you realize there is such a thing as studying too much?" he asked.

"No. My friends tell me that, but I wouldn't expect you to," she responded.

"Your friends are mostly on the neglectful end of the spectrum when it comes to studies. But, if you insist on studying materials you already know over sleeping when you need to it is more likely to have a detrimental affect on your tests."

"I have to make sure I know all this," Hermione insisted with a yawn. "I've got a History of Magic final tomorrow as well as the practical final in your class."

"Very well, but falling asleep over your cauldron will not help your grade," he warned, and went to bed. He wasn't sure why he was offering her study advice. He should just leave her to sink or float on her own; she obviously didn't want his guidance, anyway. She should, though. He already knew these things; he knew that she would most likely make the same test scores if she only studied for a little while, or practically killed herself studying for ridiculously long hours.

*****

The next day in Potions class, Professor Snape announced: "Today, you lot will be brewing your fate. This is the last major test before N.E.W.T.'s and by now I should hope that most of you have perhaps absorbed at least some of my instruction. Unfortunately, most of you aren't worth the bother to teach. You have your assignments: begin. As per usual, there will be no talking between classmates. This is a test, if you cannot perform on your own, you will receive the dreadful grade you deserve."

He spent the class time stalking between tables, glaring at students who were nervously measuring out ingredients and chopping and stirring. He made his way past the area where Hermione sat between Potter and Weasley. Both the boys fidgeted nervously under his gaze, glancing up and quickly moving back to their potions. Hermione, however, kept at her potion-brewing, unaffected by his presence. He moved on, but frowned as he noticed the slight shadows under her eyes and that her skin was a shade too pale. Her attention to her potion didn't seem to be affected by her lack of sleep, at any rate. He did hope she would be up to her typical standards...for some reason, he didn't think he'd find enjoyment in giving her a lower grade.

*****

"See you on Boxing Day," Harry said, embracing her. He then hefted his bag to his shoulder and joined the queue of students headed for the train depot. He would be spending Christmas with the Weasleys; fortunately, he didn't have to stay holed up in Hogwarts at every break, anymore, now that Voldemort was gone.

"Later then," Hermione called to Harry, Ron, and Ginny, as the exited the great hall. When they were gone, she walked swiftly back to the dungeons to run down her checklist. She had already owled presents to the Burrow and so she only needed to make sure her presents for her parents and Severus were in place. She wondered if he would give her one, too...it might seem a little strange to her parents, if he didn't, but she didn't expect one from him.

Just as she finished reducing the last of her Muggle clothing and had packed them away, Severus came through her open door.

"I trust you are ready to leave?" he asked.

"Yes, I've got everything here," she answered. "Aren't you going to change into Muggle clothes?" she asked.

"I hadn't thought to. We will be Apparating to your parents' back garden, so I see no need for Muggle clothes at this time," he explained.

"Well, I guess we're all ready then," she said, as she picked up her bag of reduced luggage. He gave her a curt nod and they left the dungeons, warding and locking doors behind them as they walked back up the stairs and out the entrance hall. Hermione wondered what this would be like...her first Christmas home with her husband. Strange. It still seemed strange to think of having a husband. But, she did. They Apparated nearly simultaneously and both appeared with loud cracks in the Grangers' back garden.

_______________________________________________________________________________________

A/N: Special thanks to LadyOfTheMasque for her permission to use the 'Fundamundic' charm (which is from her story, "For Someone Special" that can be found at the Restricted Section)

And, a big thank you to everyone who has reviewed. :-)