Chapter Sixteen

Disclaimer: All characters belong to J.K. Rowling. I own nothing here except the plot. This is for entertainment purposes only. Happy reading!

A big thanks goes to my beta, Charmed Nay, and I'd also like to thank GinnyW for running through this a second time.

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"Relax, Hermione. You'll do fine," Minerva said, handing the notes back to her. "These will do nicely for the start of today's classes. You have Hufflepuff and Ravenclaw, a double class, this morning, and this afternoon, you will merely be watching me."

"I offered to give her a Calming Draught, but she wouldn't hear of it," Severus said softly. "She's a little worried that they won't see her as an authoritative figure."

Minerva smiled. "Just use my motto, dear. Each year I let them know that I will put up with no nonsense. Do you know what I start all my classes out with?"

Hermione nodded, and said, "You always let the students know that Transfiguration is one of the most complex and dangerous subjects taught here. You tell them that if they choose to mess around, they will be removed from your class and not return."

"Exactly. You show them that you mean business, and they will accept your authority," Minerva said. She had full confidence in young Hermione.

"I've told her that already," Severus said quietly. "I told her to not let them pull one over on her, or she'd never run her class properly."

"I'm sure that she will do fine, Severus. There is no need for her to be harsh, only show that she is in control of the class. We're off now. Good day," she called, walking off towards the classroom.

"This is it," Hermione said nervously. "Wish me luck."

Severus suddenly kissed her deeply, oblivious to the nearing students. "Good luck, Little One. Show them who is in charge."

She touched her lips after he walked off, smiling to herself. He'd kissed her in front of students. She eyed the students warily for a moment, but then strengthened her resolve. She cut their sniggers short by saying, "Get in class." The tone of her voice and the look on her face had the lot scampering inside. She took a deep breath before following them in.

After everyone became settled, she checked over her attendance list. Being first year students from other Houses, she wasn't familiar with all of them. "I am Instructor Granger, and I will be taking over your class for the rest of the year. I'm going to go over attendance to familiarize myself with you all. Please answer when I call your name." She was proud that her apprehension didn't show in her voice. For a moment she made eye contact with Minerva. When her mentor smiled and nodded, she knew that she was doing the right thing. After she had taken the role, she made a note of the one girl who was absent. The girl's Housemates said that she had been ill, but Hermione knew to check into it. Her friends had pulled such stunts before to get out of class.

"All right, I'm going to let you know upfront that I will not tolerate any foolishness or pranks. Should anyone think to get away with any trickery in this class, you will find yourself lacking House points and having a possible detention. Further disruptions will find you out of this class permanently." Hermione made eye contact with each student before lightening her voice. "Excellent. Who can tell me about Switching Spells?"

Hermione smiled as a young boy raised his hand. She beamed with pleasure as the boy gave a perfect explanation. It was that moment in which she knew she had made the correct career choice. She would be stern like Minerva, but there was no need to be as harsh as Severus. The rest of the class passed quickly as the students began to practice their switching. "I'll have twelve inches on Wednesday on the proper incantations used when switching small, like items, such as a matchstick to a needle. I want you to state how long the enchantment lasts, and you need to tell me the reverse incantations. Class dismissed."

Minerva came to her, and in a brief show of affection, hugged her tightly. "That was a superb class, Hermione. Keep that up, and you shall be handling this class on your own in no time. I want you to take notes in my two classes this afternoon on anything you feel relevant. After the evening meal tonight, I will go over what I have here, and you can ask questions."

"That sounds good. I really enjoyed it. This is the best decision that I've ever made," Hermione said with a bright smile. "I will go down and search out Severus. He should have a little time before lunch."

"I'll see you in the hall," Minerva said, waving her off. Hermione walked down towards the dungeons, but paused near a corner to listen to some students that had just been in her class. She'd heard her name and knew they were talking about her.

"She's not so bad," one said. "Our assignment is only twelve inches. We just have to write what we learned in class."

"I don't know. She looked like Professor Snape when she gave us that lecture about not acting up in her class. The old bat has rubbed off on her," another said.

Yet another said, "No way, mate. She's Harry Potter's right hand, she is. We'll have a good class with her over the next few years."

She smiled before moving on. They all started and looked guilty when they saw her. She nodded and kept moving along. Severus was still in his class when she got there. He was sitting behind his desk rubbing his fingers on his temples. "Bad class?"

"Fifth years, Slytherin and Gryffindor," he said, spitting her old house's name. "It seems that none had read the chapter as they were supposed to. Two cauldron explosions prove that simple instructions cannot be followed. The students were very cheeky today. I had to give out three detentions."

Hermione leaned over his desk, reached across to pull him closer, and kissed his lips. "Is there anything that I can do?"

He pulled back to look at her. "Why, yes, I think there is. Don't move an inch," he said so quietly that she almost hadn't heard him. She stayed still, draped over his desk. She wondered what he had planned. He warded the door and placed a soundproofing spell. She felt him move behind her.

"This is a lovely little position you are in," he whispered in her ear. "I wonder how it would feel to slide into you from behind. We've not tried this."

"What?" she asked in disbelief. What the bloody hell was he going to do to her? After a rustle of his clothing, she felt the back of her cloak, robes, and skirt being lifted. "Severus, I'm not sure... Oh!" He was now pulling down her knickers.

"Relax," he said softly. "Lean back and spread just a little." She did as commanded. Surely he wasn't about to do what she thought. She felt a finger probing her sex lightly, before delving in. "My, we are wet, aren't we? Tell me. Have you been thinking of me?"

To be quite honest, she hadn't been thinking of anything sexual. She wondered as well about her dampness. Just being near him possibly? "It's... there is a lot of light in here," she commented.

"Shhh... you're beautiful. Don't worry about it. I'll be leaning forward and only seeing the part of you that is clothed." She felt him move away for a moment. "Miss Granger!" His voice was so loud she jumped. "Stay put, girl. You missed a detention with me two nights ago. What do you have to say for yourself?"

She grinned for a moment and breathed a sigh of relief. "I was otherwise engaged, sir." She could have sworn that he meant to have her arse. Perhaps he would only give her a little spanking.

"Indeed? Do you know the punishment for naughty little girls that miss their detentions, Miss Granger?" he asked in a low, deadly voice.

"No." He rammed a second finger into her. "Ooh!"

"No? You will address me as sir or Professor at all times, Miss Granger!"

She could barely think straight with his fingers delving into her and his thumb caressing her core. "N-no, Professor Snape. I... I don't know." She began moving back against his hand, and he immediately pulled away. She whimpered in frustration. "Sir?" He moved back to her, and she felt his erection pressing against her bottom. "No! Not in there!" He chuckled loudly for a moment before pressing deeply into her. "Oh!"

"Don't worry, love," he said, bringing his mouth to her ear. "That part of you is safe from me... for now." This position felt different than the other two that they'd done. The angle was different. Each stroke seemed to bring him further into her. She moved back against him with ease, stroke for stroke. Just as she was beginning to feel herself rising towards a climax, he shuddered behind her, spilling his seed into her. His strokes slowed until he stopped completely. Severus remained over her until his breathing slowed. She was about to protest in dismay when he spoke softly. "Tell me, Miss Granger. Will you be missing any other detentions?"

"No, Professor Snape," she said, her slight annoyance sounding in her voice.

"Tsk. Tsk. Has someone been left unsatisfied?" he mocked.

"I would say so, sir." She couldn't believe that he was actually going to leave her all worked up for nothing. He backed away from her, cleaning himself. She pulled her wand to clean herself and then tidied her clothing. "See that it doesn't happen again." With that said, she stormed out of his class.

Severus grinned wickedly. "Well, that was refreshing." All the symptoms of the headache he'd felt coming on had disappeared. She'd be upset for a little while, but when they got together later, she would be a wild little lioness. Humming, he made his way to the Great Hall. She was sitting there, looking flushed, and having a talk with Steward. Severus' eyes narrowed at the companionship the two seemed to share. The man never publicly paid any attention to anyone but Hermione. That would change soon. Rolanda would make her move today. He took his seat next to her. "Feeling all right?"

"Never better," she said icily before turning back to Steward. He caught a snippet of conversation. They seemed to be talking about something from the Muggle world. His peripheral vision showed Rolanda walking in their direction.

"Rolanda, where are the Galleons that you owe me? If the paper is to be believed, the Ballycastle Bats were winners in yesterday's match." Severus smirked, holding out his hand.

"You said they would win by more than one hundred fifty points, you did. They only won by one hundred thirty." She pushed his hand aside. "I'd think you are lucky that I don't make you pay up."

"Ha! We agreed on no such scoring! It was a straight bet. You're just backing out," Severus said, looking extremely disgruntled. "Have a seat. We shall discuss this weekend's match and have witnesses! You'll not get out of it this time."

Rolanda plopped down into a chair next to Steward's. "Pardon me, mate, but I'm going to have a seat here. He's worried about the blasted Ballycastle Bats when he should be worried about Appleby Arrows! No wonder he stalks about with his robes flaring! He's trying to be a bat like his favorite ruddy team!"

At this, Steward chuckled deeply. Severus looked at the man scornfully. "What do you find so funny, Professor Steward?" He noted that Hermione inched back warily, not wanting to be caught in the crossfire.

The man seemed uncertain. "Well, she just said about the bats and your robes. I thought it quite amusing. I thought it to be a joke, good fellow."

"Pah! Worry not on him. He's just mad that he didn't set the right point spread, is all. Mind your manners, Sev," Rolanda said, placing a hand on the man's shoulder to turn him towards her. "You like Quidditch, do you?"

"Why, yes, I am quite partial to the Pride of Portree. What say you on them?" Steward asked, taking interest in Rolanda.

"They are a right side better than the blasted Bats, I'll say that much. They have to play against the Harpies this weekend. I think they'll sweep the game," Rolanda said brightly. Quidditch talk had never actually been one of Severus' favorite pastimes, but it seemed the Muggle Professor enjoyed it. Bringing Rolanda into the mix seemed to be a positive idea. If anyone could get someone to cozy up, it was Hooch.

"Hermione, why aren't you eating?" Severus asked coyly. "Have you no appetite, dear?"

She shot him a glare almost as effective as his own. She took a bite of her chicken and chewed brutally. "Something vexes you?"

"Yes," she hissed. "I didn't appreciate your little game, Severus. Don't think about playing that one again. Had you done things differently, then perhaps, but mark my words, sir, I won't be playing along."

Good Lord. She was really angry. Hell, he was just having a bit of fun. He'd have to teach her the ways of the game. "Really, Hermione. I meant no harm. I'd had a rough morning, and you did ask if there was anything you could do to help," he said reproachfully, raising an eyebrow.

"Yes, I am aware of my folly. I had come down to tell you about my first class, and you... you took advantage of me. You didn't even care. I didn't mind the sex," she whispered, "but I would have enjoyed some pleasure."

"Did you not have any?"

"Yes, but that is beside the point."

"Well, no. If we both found pleasure, then what could possibly be wrong?" he asked innocently. He was enjoying the fresh flush of anger seeping into her cheeks.

"I would have liked to have climaxed as well," she said, clearly frustrated.

"Ah, but just think about tonight. You will be ready to have a go for many hours. I've actually done you a favor." He whispered into her ear. "It will haunt you all day long. Each time you think of me taking you against my desk, your knickers will dampen, and your heart will race. You'll be ready to tear me apart by the time we are able to be alone tonight."

Hermione bit her lip for a moment before whispering, "Bastard."

"Indeed," he said with a chuckle, tucking in to his own lunch. He made sure to press his thigh against hers and touch her at every moment possible throughout the meal. When he was finally done, he said, "Until tonight." She simply nodded, and he detected a small trace of a smile. Yes, she would learn to play the game well.

~~~~~~~~ HG ~~~~~~~~~ SS ~~~~~~~~~~

Stuart made his way back to his office, humming slightly. That Rolanda woman was a great load of fun. He was glad that the bat had the little confrontation with her. It had brought her to sit next to him. He hoped that she would continue to sit with him. Hermione was nice to talk to, but her brooding lover always seemed to vie for her attention. Stuart frowned. What did a pretty young thing such as Hermione want with that foul man? She could have anyone she desired.

He shrugged. Well, it wasn't his business, was it? Marietta had told him that she knew of a man that also loved Hermione, but he didn't want to compete with Snape. Hell, if he were in love with someone, he would fight for her! The girl did deserve better. It was the only reason that he had agreed to help Marietta with her little game. She gave him owls to deliver to the young fellow that adored her. Higgs was it? Yes, that was it. Poor sod. He was constantly owling for any information on the girl. "If I would be him, I would come here straightaway and demand a duel."

"Talking to yourself, Stuart?" Marietta asked, coming to take his cloak from him.

"Yes, I was pondering the situation with that Snape fellow and poor Hermione. Is your friend feeling any better about losing her?" he asked, placing a kiss on her cheek.

"He's still distressed. Tell me. Were you able to find out if she is going into Hogsmeade this weekend? Terence would love to have an accidental run in with her, but it won't help if she isn't going. Nor if Snape will be tagging along."

"Oh, sorry. I didn't get as far as to ask her. Madame Hooch had a seat with us, and we talked about Quidditch. Lovely woman, that," he said, seating himself at his desk.

Marietta scoffed. "That woman is a menace. I wouldn't get too close to her if I were you. I've seen her make grown men cry with a few sharp words. You are far too sweet to be mixed up with the likes of her. Besides, don't you think I am satisfying enough?" She began unbuttoning her blouse.

"Now, see here, Marietta, I don't exactly feel right about..."

"Shush, Stuart. You want this. I'll do this for you, and you will find out what Hermione will be up to this weekend?" She saw that he was about to refuse her, so she lifted her wand. "Imperio." He would come out of it thinking that he wanted her and would do what was requested of him. She detested his meaty hands fondling her, but this was for Terence. She'd do anything for him. Even lure that Mudblood whore out to the forest. It was a pity that little Malfoy had become messed up in the mix. That was one that would likely be a good lover. Perhaps she could stage a run in with him. Just once.

~~~~~~~~ HG ~~~~~~~~~ SS ~~~~~~~~~~

Severus had just finished marking some essays when his Floo roared to life. Out stepped Lucius, looking extremely worried. "How did you get through my grate?" Severus asked quickly.

"I was with the headmaster. We have problems, Severus. I came as soon as I read this evening's edition. Look," he said, thrusting the paper at him.

On the front page, there was a picture of Douglas Bradley. The caption read, "Local Man Presumed Dead." Severus read over the article and paled considerably. The boy's parents had received his hand in an Owl Post earlier. His ring was on it, and the tests were conclusive. It was definitely a part of his body. There had been a note, sealed with the fallen Dark Lord's mark. It told the parents that their son would never return, and that he had been the meal of a pet. The parents were asking for any information leading to the capture and conviction of the party responsible.

"Good Lord," Severus said in horror. "Bella."

"Yes, Bella. This is her work. Who else did such horrible things to the surviving family? At least I never stooped so low. Either of us," Lucius said. "This is not good, Severus. They must have felt that the boy was no longer needed, so they did away with him. I say we storm Higgs' home. We can find answers."

"That would not be prudent, Lucius. We would be trespassers, and the law would be against us. What of Fudge?"

"You sound just like that old fool Dumbledore! He suggests that we sit and wait. How can I just wait for her to find Draco? You know what she told me she would do to him! To hell with laws," Lucius hissed.

"What of Fudge?" Severus asked again, hoping the man had learned something.

"That bastard! He's not biting. I had a small meeting with him under the pretense of wanting a license to place an Unplottable Spell on my new property out near the Isle of Drear." Lucius snarled. "The greedy blighter took my Galleons to have it available immediately, but when I asked about Bella's escape, he choked up. Told me I've no need to worry about it, and he was quite certain that all was being done to find her."

"He must be afraid. Could it be that they are monitoring him?"

"I have no idea, but Umbridge walked in just after I had asked a couple of questions. It was as if she could sense his distress, the toad! I still say we storm Higgs' Manor!"

Severus offered his friend a tumbler of firewhisky. "Let's talk about this first. If we do that, then Bella will never be found. We don't know for sure that she is there. We have no positive proof that Bradley's remains would be there. The old man is smarter than that. The only thing we would accomplish is allowing them to know that we are suspicious. This would jeopardize Draco more. They might figure out that we got our information from him."

Lucius took a long sip. "You are right. I just hate this. I don't know what to expect. From what you say, that Percy will be meeting with his sister this weekend during the Hogsmeade visit. I've just spoken to the headmaster, and he does not intend to cancel the outing, even in light of what has happened! It would be safer! I can only hope that the dolt will spill something of what he knows. He looked at me oddly when I made to see Fudge."

"We can only hope. I think we should be in town this weekend. You can use your cloak, and I will borrow Harry's. We'll keep an eye on them, and we'll defend them if need be. Surely, Bella wouldn't make her recovery known to the public. Not just yet."

"All right, Severus. Is your Granger going as well?" Lucius asked, eyeing him oddly.

"Well, I suppose she will. Even though she is on the staff, she still likes to enjoy her friends. That means Draco will be with her, along with Harry and Weasley. We'll follow them about. It will be fine, Lucius," Severus soothed. He was worried as well, but if he showed that emotion to his friend, there was no telling what the man might end up doing. "Let's go talk to Albus about having more staff present this weekend. Perhaps he could request some of the Order members to keep a watch as well."

"Right then," Lucius agreed.

~~~~~~~~ HG ~~~~~~~~~ SS ~~~~~~~~~~

Minerva's last class had been her seventh year Gryffindor and Slytherin students. Hermione had a quick word with her mentor, made arrangements for a proper time after the meal to come together, and hurried to meet her waiting friends. "How was your first class today?" Harry asked quickly.

"It was great!" She went on to tell them about it as they made their way towards the library. "I'm just so happy," she said, putting her notes down on the table.

"Well, that's good, I guess," Ron said. "I don't get why someone would want to stay in school even to teach, but I suppose it's your call, mate."

"I think it's brilliant," Harry said. "I wish I never had to leave Hogwarts either. It's the only place that ever felt like home to me."

"Maybe Dumbledore can keep you on then, mate," Draco said. "They could always weasel you in somehow. He has that oaf Hagrid here, doesn't he?"

"Shut it, you!" Ron said, swatting Draco behind his head. "Right pest, this one."

"Eh! Look here," Draco said, pulling Hermione's hand to his face to inspect. "Snape has gone and proposed! This has to be his mum's ring!"

"It is," Hermione said softly, smiling at the ring. "He and I have decided to be married. We've not set a date yet."

"All right, Granger. Got yourself a good man there, and a Slytherin to boot," Draco said approvingly. "You lot should all do with a quick dip into our dormitory."

"I've all I need in Gryffindor," Harry said, shaking his head with laughter.

"Ravenclaw has the only girl I'm interested in," Ron said dreamily.

"Good Lord! He looks just like her," Draco teased.

"I don't see you with a girlfriend! Nothing wrong with me loving my girl," Ron said hotly, ears turning red.

"No, there isn't," Hermione said, touching his hand. "Did everything... turn out all right?"

Ron nodded, smiling broadly. "It's nice to have someone that cares, you know? Doesn't matter that I don't have much to offer. By the time she graduates, I hope to have a good job and maybe a flat on my own."

"That's good, Ron," Harry said. "Hopefully, we'll find a team to pick us up. There's money in that. You can always room with me over on Grimmauld if you'd like."

"Or, I am thinking of getting a flat as well. You are welcome with me, mate," Draco said quickly. "If you'd dare room with a lowly Slytherin."

"Oi! Why don't you stay with Harry and me then?" Ron asked brightly. "We could all save our wages that way."

"Sure," Harry said. "You're welcome. Mione would have been with us as well, but I think she's likely to go with Snape this summer."

She grinned. "Definitely, but we'll be by to visit."

"I'll think on that," Draco said thoughtfully.

"Snape! What's he need to visit for? I'm not sure he'd be interested in the fun we'd like to have. You can leave his arse home," Ron whined.

"I think you'd be surprised, Ron. Did I not tell you about that drinking game the staff had?" The boys all shook their heads. She grinned, and she began telling them all about it.

"Speaking of staff, I was telling Harry about that bloke Steward and that Marietta. When we met up with them on the way to the Astronomy Tower, they were right chummy, those two. I think more is going on if you ask me," Ron said.

"Yeah, sounded like she meant to sleep with him, according to Ron," Harry said. "We were thinking this could be something for Draco to follow up on."

"I wonder if she goes out there each night. Maybe I'll venture up there tonight for a look. She might want to have a little talk with me," Draco said. "I'll see what I can find out about her and Steward."

"Sounds like a plan," Hermione said. "You lot might want to go over your notes from today's class. You heard what she said. She's going to test you on it next class."

"Mione, can you explain about bringing a statue to life? I know the incantation to use, but I just don't understand the how and why of it," Harry said, furrowing his brow. "If you have time."

"Of course. It's my area of expertise now, isn't it?" she asked brightly, glad that things hadn't changed between them. She wondered what her lover was doing at that moment. She knew what she would like to be doing. With that, she felt her knickers dampen.

~~~~~~~~ HG ~~~~~~~~~ SS ~~~~~~~~~~

Bella look at the younger Higgs as he wiped his mouth. "That was better," she said approvingly. Why did Lucius have to become a traitor? He was always most agreeable to kinky sex! She supposed she could always use the Imperius on him, but to what purpose? No, he would need to be punished for betraying their master. She would first kill her nephew and be sure that he watched it happen. Poor Narcissa would lose son and husband on the same day. Too bad, sister dear. To be nice, she would send Draco's heart to her with a nice little note about Lucius as well. That would do.

"Thanks," the boy said.

"Do you have a girlfriend, Terence?" she asked brazenly. "Does she please you the way that Auntie Bella does?"

"She is a young girl, and she doesn't compare to the woman that you are," he said immediately. He did like Marietta though, but to keep her from harm, he would never let this woman know that.

"Good answer. Is she loyal to you? Are we going to get rid of her once her job is done? She could end up being our downfall, you know," Bella said, grinning wickedly at the boy's sour expression.

"She has her uses. I don't think it wise to dispose of her," he replied evenly. Bella wanted to congratulate him on a lie well told. He loved the girl it seemed. Perhaps she would come in handy, but if it looked as though she could spell out trouble for them, the girl would need to be killed. If only she had Severus' skills at Legilimency, she could find out all she needed. She sighed. Severus. That had been heartbreaking to know that he was a traitor. What with his disposition, she'd never dreamt it could be true. He would meet his fate, as would his filthy Mudblood whore.

"Has she told us if the Mudblood and little Draco will be in Hogsmeade this weekend?"

"Not as of yet," he replied. "I expect an owl tonight. I shall let you know straightaway.

"That is acceptable. I can't wait to see the look on Potter's face once he realizes that I have made a full recovery and survived to kill his beloved. It will be delicious." Bella licked her lips. "Why has your father not made any moves against the brat?"

Terence wondered if she was just testing him. Surely his father had gone over this with her already. "Father thinks he is too strong and too well protected. He thinks that he might have other uses."

Bella mulled this over. Yes, it was the same thing that the old man had said. But, why would they want to allow him to live? "What other uses?"

"Well, as father said, after we get the others out, we will need a powerful wizard to follow. Potter did defeat our master, and he has done things that we've seen only our master do. We hope to convert him or eventually kill him," Terence said quickly. If his father hadn't mentioned this to the woman, she showed no signs of it.

"I see his point, but I, for one, would enjoy seeing the brat die for the pain he has caused us all. For our master. I will speak to your father about this at a later time. What says Fudge?" she asked.

"He says that Lucius paid him a visit. Malfoy gave him a bit of a bribe to rush a request through the process above all the others already waiting. The man has only changed in the light of the public, I would say," Terence said, pulling up his trousers. "He also said that he was curious as to the steps the Ministry was taking on finding out about your escape. Umbridge interrupted the conversation, but he said it looks as though Malfoy Senior is worried."

"And, he should be," Bella said slowly. "I trust that he's seen the paper by now. He will know that I am coming for them. I wouldn't be surprised if he tries to take his heir out of Hogwarts. I so hope he does. It would be easier to get to them both."

"We'll have them this weekend. Both Draco and the Mudblood will be brought to our dungeons, and I have requested to keep the Mudblood alive for a bit of sport. Father has agreed. Do you think that is to your liking?" He hoped that she would agree. "We could have a good bit of fun with her. Nobody will ever find her here. Once we tire of her, we can discard her."

"As long as I get to play with Draco, you can play with your little dirty creature," she said with a nod. "Get out. I want to take a nap."

"Call if you need something, Bella. I shall let you know what Marietta has to say," he said curtly. As he left the woman's room, he had the feeling that he was also not as indispensable as he would have liked to think. He would have to be very careful where this woman was concerned. If Marietta had to die, well, better her than him. Same thing for the Mudblood and Draco.

~~~~~~~~ HG ~~~~~~~~~ SS ~~~~~~~~~~

Marietta made her way to the Astronomy Tower in a fury. Steward had failed her again, the fat lug! She had sex with him, used the Imperius, and it was for nothing! That damn Madame Hooch had waylaid him, and he hadn't much time to talk to Granger. Terence would be disappointed in her. She'd promised to send him an owl this evening with news.

Her luck had just changed. Draco Malfoy stood silhouetted in the moonlight. "Hello," she said easily. She knew that he was here probably thinking about Granger again, but that was exactly what she meant to talk to him about. She tried to summon a few tears to her eyes. It wasn't hard to do, what with the life she was leading. Terence seemed to care for her some days, but on other days, he was so distant. She was going to be working at a boring job, following in her mum's footsteps, and she didn't want to. She was bedding that fat Steward often to keep him under her eyes. If he ever threatened to tell anything, she would have plenty to talk to the headmaster and the School Governors about.

"Hi," Draco said. "I was just wondering how you were. I haven't seen you since that night. All okay?"

"Not really," she sniffed. "I feel so alone. I could use someone to hold me. Would you?" She allowed a few tears to flow down her cheeks, and she smiled warmly when she felt his arms encircle her body.

"There, there," he said. "It can't be as bad as all that."

"Sometimes it is. I am just so lonely. I was only supposed to be here a few nights each week, but I find that there is a lot more work that needs to be done. I've been staying more often than I should," she said, wiping away her fake tears. "You? Are you over your little problem?"

"I don't know. I'm a bit confused still. She seems happy, so I guess it's best to just let her be. I can always hope that one day there may be a chance."

Well, this wouldn't do. Marietta knew she had to keep him interested in Granger, and why not have a little fun as well? "Draco, would you fuck me?"

She saw his look of surprise. "Er... now? Here?"

"Yes. We both need it," she said easily. "It would soothe us."

"I... I don't know. Someone may come up. Maybe we shouldn't," he said, stammering.

"Very well," she said quietly, lifting her wand. "Imperio!" She smiled as he stood there timidly, waiting for her instructions. "You will not recall that I am putting you under this spell, Draco. You will continue to stay close to Granger, and you will honestly believe to have some feelings for her. You will make sure that she is seen with you in Hogsmeade this weekend. Do you understand?" He nodded. "You will now allow me to perform fellatio on you, and you will think of me fondly. If I should have need for intimacy with you again, you will allow it." He nodded and began unbuttoning his trousers. She smirked. The boy was just too easy. She put away her wand and lowered to her knees. Oh, yes, his cock was impressive. Terence seemed to be lacking, even wretched Stuart had him beat in this department.

She put her lips on his hardening tip and felt him spring to life under her fingers. With practiced licks, sucks, and movements, he was soon pushing his cock all the way into her mouth. He came with a deep growl of pleasure, and she licked him clean. She stood and looked at him expectantly. "Thanks. That was exactly what I needed. You're good you know," he said as he fastened his trousers.

"Of course. We'll have to meet again," she said softly.

"Marietta, who had you crying?" he asked, brushing her hair from her face gently. He brought his soft lips to hers for a sweet kiss.

What would it hurt to give him a name? "Do you remember Terence Higgs?"

"Yes, I saw him over at Pansy's house for a New Year's celebration. He was the Slytherin Seeker before me," he said, kissing her again. "Has he hurt you?"

"Sometimes I feel as though he uses me. I miss him while I am stuck here," she admitted. "I suppose he'll be waiting for me once I have my training and begin my career, but there are nights when I could use this closeness that we have just shared. What say you?"

"I accept, and if you want me to set that idiot straight, you just let me know. He doesn't know what he's got right in front of him," he said, pulling her into a tender embrace. She sighed contentedly. Draco Malfoy always seemed so cold, but he did have a tender spot, didn't he? She wished things could be different. Perhaps he would be a better choice.

"I need to owl him now to say hello. Meet me here on Wednesday night please."

"I will, Marietta. Thanks again," he said, watching her walk away.

~~~~~~~~ HG ~~~~~~~~~ SS ~~~~~~~~~~

Hermione ripped off Severus' shirt and began placing eager kisses on his bare chest. "What's the rush?" Severus asked cheekily. "We've all night." She had already removed his trousers forcefully after disrobing herself.

"I demand you to do your duty to me, husband-to-be," she said austerely.

Severus growled and picked her up quickly, moving to the bed. "Oh, I will definitely do my duty, wife-to-be," he said seductively. "How do you want it?"

"Like earlier," she panted, bucking against the palm molding her sex. "Only better."

"Better?" he scoffed. "I found it to be quite acceptable."

She glared at him icily. "Make me... you know."

"No, I don't know. Whatever do you mean?" he asked innocently.

"I want to... have an orgasm with you in me... that way," she said, writhing against his fingers. He lazily licked her nipples, but she pulled his head away. "Please."

He neatly flipped her over. "Tell me exactly what you want," he purred. He began to maneuver her into position. "I want to hear it, Hermione."

"I... I want to come with you inside of me," she said after a moment. "I love the way you feel within me. You fill me so deeply this way."

Completely provoked, Severus slammed into her brutally. "Tell me," he shouted. "Say it. What do you want me to do, Succubus?"

"I want you to do it hard," she screeched.

"Do... what... hard?" he managed between delicious thrusts.

"Fuck me," she said softly.

"Sorry?"

"Fuck me," she yelled. He grunted his approval, and they fell into a rapid series of strokes. "I can feel it!"

"What... do... you... feel?" he demanded.

"I'm... coming," she moaned, bucking against him wildly.

"Me too," he groaned. "Good Lord, I'm coming with you." Each shook involuntarily for long moments after. He silently slipped out of her and lay next to her. "You feel so good to me, Hermione."

She smiled dreamily. "I can't believe you made me say all that."

"There is nothing wrong with heated words between lovers, my dear. I find those words to be a turn on. It lets me know that you want me, need me inside of you," he said, scooping her into his arms.

"It's just a little embarrassing. I feel like a... scarlet woman," she admitted. He saw the deep flush in her cheeks and was, once again, amazed at her innocence.

"As far as I am concerned, it was magic. Never hold yourself back, love. Not with me," he whispered, before kissing her softly. A sudden pounding on his outer doors made them each groan. "What the hell?"

"I'll go for a bath," she said. "It's likely one of your Slytherin students with a problem."

"I hope," he replied, hastily putting on his clothes.

"You hope? What's happened?" she asked warily. She didn't like the grim look in his eyes. "Severus?"

"It's Bella. I had a meeting with Albus and Lucius earlier. I was going to tell you, but you waylaid me as you came in," he said, smoothing his robes. "Bradley was killed. It was in the Prophet today."

Hermione was left with her mouth agape! They had killed the prat? He was one of their own! Good grief! She dressed as quickly as possible, not wanting to be left out of the conversation. She wondered if Harry and the others had found out.

~~~~~~~~ HG ~~~~~~~~~ SS ~~~~~~~~~~

Severus opened the door to find a red faced Draco, panting and holding his side. "What is it?" he asked immediately, motioning for the boy to enter.

"Sir, it's her. Marietta. She's the one that's been doing Higgs' dirty work here. She's the spy," Draco gushed. "Where is Granger?"

"I'm here," Hermione said, walking into the room. "Did I hear you correctly? You have proof that it's her?"

"Hell, yes. She came out to the Astronomy Tower tonight. Eyes full of tears, saying she needed someone to hold her. Next thing I know she is asking me to f-shag her. It took me by surprise. I didn't know what to say, so I told her that someone might happen along. She takes out her wand, and she tries to use the Imperius curse on me." Draco sat down, running his fingers through his hair. "She told me to keep believing I had feelings for Hermione, and I had to be sure to bring her to Hogsmeade this weekend. She said we had to be seen together. Then she... well, she told me that I had to allow her to... you know." He pointed to his nether regions. "Let her... go down on me, and I had to still think of her fondly afterwards. Well, I allowed it, of course," he said with a smirk. "But, now she wants to meet with me Wednesday night, and I just don't know if I want to have sex with her. She as much as told me that she is definitely Terence Higgs' girlfriend. She said that sometimes it feels like he is using her, and she could use the closeness that I can give her."

"I'm so sorry, Draco," Hermione said, patting his shoulder. "That must have been horrible for you."

He grinned wickedly. "Well, not exactly. She was actually pret..."

"Enough. We do not need details, Draco," Severus said, interrupting the boy's story.

"She told me she was off to owl him, so I gave her some time to have a head start. I went to the Owlery just to see. She wasn't there yet, so I hid to wait. I stayed hidden for about twenty minutes. Still nothing. Just as I was about to leave, I heard a loud ruckus. In walks that Steward bloke. He was mumbling to himself, hair all poking out." Draco accepted a glass of water from Severus and took a sip. "He tells an owl to deliver the letter to Terence Higgs and to keep it safe, as it's from the lovely Marietta."

"Stuart?" Hermione was shocked. He was involved? But, he was so... nice. "I can't believe that he is involved."

"I will rip them both apart," Severus said darkly.

"I don't know," Draco said. "The berk seemed under a spell. I'd say she uses the Imperius on his arse as well; only he can't fight it off. What say you on that?"

"It's possible," Hermione said, looking to Severus.

"Rolanda. I'll need to talk to her. She can find out." Severus paced for a moment. "Why must you be seen in Hogsmeade this weekend? I wonder if they are going to try to do something with the two of you, or if this is simply another test. Lucius and I plan to be there, and Albus is sending others in. I still don't like it."

"We have to go," Hermione insisted. "It's the only way to tie in the others. We have to be bait, Draco and I."

"We have enough to take Marietta now. She as much as told me about Higgs. It wouldn't take much to get her to confess to everything else," Draco said.

"If I know Higgs, neither he nor his son has told her everything that is going on. For all we know, she doesn't really know. Her attempt at directing you, Draco, is our only true connection to the others. We have to catch them all. We have to find out where Bella is hiding." Severus downed his amber liquid. "I must speak with the headmaster. We'll all meet in Hermione's chambers after classes tomorrow."

"Right then," Draco agreed, taking his leave.

Severus pulled Hermione to him for a tight embrace. "I'll not let anything happen to you, Little One. I can't be sure, but it feels as though this will be coming to an end soon. Then, we can get on with our lives as we were meant to."

She kissed him on the cheek. "I won't let anything happen to you either, Severus." He raised an eyebrow and chuckled.

"Wench." They shared a long kiss. "Hermione, if anything should happen to me, you know that I... care deeply for you, right?"

"Oh, rubbish. Don't talk like that. You'll be fine." She held him fiercely nonetheless. Hoping to lighten the subject, she cheekily said, "If you care so much, why did you pull that stunt on me today?"

He pulled away to look into her eyes. "Are you still on about that?"

"I didn't appreciate it. I was almost there, and then... nothing."

"But, this evening, we..."

"That is not the point. What would it have hurt for you to wait or touch me for a few more seconds today? I could have been as satisfied as you were. Instead, I had to wait until this evening. I don't know that I like that. I didn't mind the little student and teacher game, but I just felt... used," she said honestly. "Then, tonight you made me say those foul things."

"Hold on, Hermione. I didn't make you say those foul things. You could have said other things. I just wanted you to be vocal about what you were wanting and feeling. I loved hearing you say those things, but if you feel that uncomfortable about it, well, don't." He pushed back a stray hair from her face. "As far as my game today, well, the other night you woke me in the middle of the night to play Succubus, so I thought it was my turn to retaliate. If you didn't like it, it won't happen again."

"I just explained what part of it I didn't like, and I think there is a big difference. The other night when I pretended to be the Succubus, well, it was all about you, if you'll remember. I wanted you to enjoy it. I didn't care to have an orgasm. Today was all about you. Do you not see my point?" she asked softly. "I'm not angry. Not anymore, but I just thought you should know how I feel."

Severus looked at the woman before him. So open and honest. How did he not realize that she would be affected negatively by his idea of fun? "I am sorry."

"It's all right. Really. Don't look so dejected." She kissed him and giggled. "You're not punished, you know. I just thought I would tell you how I felt."

"What else is there?" he asked, noticing she was holding something back.

"To be honest, I had come here to share my first teaching experience with you. After that happened, it just left me feeling sour, and I left upset."

"Hermione," he purred, holding her closely. "I do care about your first day. You stormed away so quickly, and then we hadn't the time just yet to really talk." Now she had him feeling guilty. Why hadn't he asked her about her class? He supposed that he had been rather selfish. "I promise to never leave you unfulfilled purposely again. Deal?"

She smiled. "Deal. Now, I'm going to go have a bath. Are you going to see Albus?"

"Yes. I shan't be long."

~~~~~~~~ HG ~~~~~~~~~ SS ~~~~~~~~~~

Severus sighed. They had been talking for nearly an hour. Albus had decided to call in Rolanda, Harry, Draco, Weasley, and Lucius. Rolanda was to convince Steward to have a walk on the Quidditch pitch and take a flight. She would then find out exactly what he knew by whatever means necessary, and if it was found that he knowingly aided Edgecombe and the others, then he would be punished as well.

It was a unanimous agreement that Draco needed to meet with Marietta to see what she had to say, and if he wanted to allow things to progress, he could without worry of being brought up on charges by the staff for lewd misconduct. Harry would be present on the rooftop in case things got out of hand. If Draco gave him a signal that he felt uncomfortable, Harry would appear to have just come upon them. Thus, thwarting her plans.

Another decision on Hogsmeade was made. Choice Aurors and Order members would be present, as well as staff members. Severus and Lucius would use Invisibility Cloaks to watch over Draco and Hermione. Harry and Ron would try to keep an eye on Ginevra and Luna as they met with Percy Weasley. Harry also decided to enchant the necklace that he'd given Ginevra for Christmas. It would be an emergency Portkey. There would only be a five second delay from the first moment she activated it to when it would pull her to Harry's side.

"Well, I must say, I do feel more confident now that we've talked about it. Our plan seems solid," Lucius said.

Albus nodded. "We will get what we can out of Steward and Edgecombe. If it deems enough evidence to move on the Higgs family, then our trusted Aurors will follow through with it. If not, we will have to await their next move. I am afraid we won't know more until young Draco and Rolanda have talks with their friends."

"Hermione will document everything that we have so far. I will let her know once back in our chambers." Severus smirked at Lucius' raised eyebrow. "If these talks prove fruitless, and they take too long to make a move, then Lucius and I plan to do some investigating on our own. He has a spy in the Ministry who is now watching Fudge, Umbridge, Weasley, and Edgecombe."

"It seems that Madame Edgecombe is clean. She rarely converses with Umbridge as she once used to. Umbridge is always with or near Fudge, while Weasley follows Fudge about. Hopefully, the fool will make a mistake with his sister this weekend," Lucius said.

Ron's eyes narrowed, but Draco put a hand on his shoulder. "Father, does this spy know anything about Weasley's plans for this weekend?"

"Nothing more than he's heard. As I said before, he heard Fudge tell Weasley to be sure to have the talk with his sister. Once Weasley went back to his office, Umbridge asked what talk he was referring to, and Fudge laughed. He said something about Weasley having a message for her. We are unclear if it's family related, a threat, or a warning, but I guess we shall see."

"I just wish this would be over," Ron murmured.

"We all do, Ron," Harry said, smiling softly. "Looks like there will always be something happening. We'll just have to do as we've always done. Deal with it as it comes."

"We've done as much as we can here for tonight," Rolanda said, yawning loudly. "I aim to start out with Steward tomorrow early, so I'll be off to find my bed. Good night all. You too, Barny." She patted Severus on the head before leaving.

He sneered scornfully at the witch's retreating back. "Barny?" Lucius asked dubiously. "Why would she call you such a name?" Snape just shook his head refusing to answer.

"Only Barny I know is Barny the Fruitbat. He's the mascot for the Ballycastle Bats, you know," Ron said promptly. "Team has been lucking up all season, if you ask me."

"They have not! With the addition of their newest Keeper, they have earned their wins," Severus hissed immediately. "Now you sound just like Rolanda, boy!"

"Hang on," Harry said with a grin. "Barny the Fruitbat?" Everyone in the office began chuckling, realizing what Harry was getting at. "She thinks you're a bat."

"Good night," Severus said blandly, leaving Albus' office. He'd have to seek revenge on Rolanda for that one. The only reason he followed the damn team was because his mother's family had always supported them. They had relations in Ballycastle. He'd been there only once with his mum as a child. Northern Ireland's coast had left an impression upon his mind. It was beauty and peace all rolled into one. Had he been a child of nature, he would have found his way back there to live as one with the world. He snorted at the thought. Actually, he found the team's uniforms fetching. Solid black, aside from one scarlet bat on the chest area. Impeccable.

Upon entering his chambers, he found his lover curled up before the fire with her notes, intently going over her procedures for her classes the next day. Instead of interrupting her, he lay behind her and ran a hand along her back. "Tell me about your class today."

He couldn't see her face, but he knew she was smiling proudly. "It was brilliant. I was nervous, mind, but it didn't convey in my voice. I told them firmly that we'd not have any nonsense, and they accepted it. We only did Switching Spells today, and I assigned my first bit of homework. I heard some students talking after class, and they seemed to approve, though one did say that he thought maybe you had influenced me some."

Severus chuckled. "Threaten to send them to Filch or to me for detentions, the twits. They'll learn their place. How do you feel?"

"I feel as though I'm doing what I was meant to do. I'm actually teaching, sharing knowledge. I have almost everything that I've always dreamed about," she said softly, flipping her parchment over to examine a diagram.

"Almost?" He wondered what other dreams she'd had that he didn't know about.

"Yes, almost. We're not married yet, and we're still a bit away from having children. After that, I'll be complete," she said confidently, brushing an absent kiss on his hand whilst she read over the next parchment.

Severus snuggled closer to her back and allowed his hand to drift down to her soft stomach. He closed his eyes, almost longingly, wishing to feel her round and hard with his child growing inside of her. Perhaps he shouldn't remind her to take her potion again when it would be due. Hermione's hand closed over his, and she turned back to kiss him lightly. "Love you."

He nodded. "Only you would." She simply shook her head disbelievingly and went back to read over her notes once more. Why could he never just say it? She longed to hear it. Those words that he'd said only in their dream. Sighing, she threw down the parchment. She'd read them enough to know them perfectly.

"I'm tired, lover. Bring me to bed," she whispered. "You can tell me what Albus had to say on things."

"As you wish," he purred smoothly.

~~~~~~~~ HG ~~~~~~~~~ SS ~~~~~~~~~~

"Oh, come on! You've not got any classes this afternoon," Rolanda said, pulling Stuart forward. "I want to see that dive you've been bragging about for the last ten minutes."

"Well, I suppose we could have a small flight," Stuart agreed, allowing her to escort him to the pitch. He inhaled the fresh, woodsy scent of the chipper woman holding his arm. As of late, he'd found himself looking forward to mealtimes. Not to eat or to chat with Hermione, but to see this woman. She rattled on continuously, sounding much like one of his old friends that had passed on. It was pleasant. Some part of his mind seemed to not want him to talk to her, but the rest of him overrode that idiotic thought. Why ever not talk to her? She treated him nicely.

"School broom fine?" she asked with an evil smirk. "Hate to leave you behind."

"Certainly," he agreed. "And, you won't be leaving me behind."

The pair flew about, each showing off flying skills to the other, and eventually Rolanda led the man towards a mountain peak across from Hogwarts. "Nice flying, Stuart," she said, smiling jovially as they dismounted. "Look at this view, mate."

"It's nice to have someone to talk to. I've been so lonely. If it hadn't been for Hermione, I might have considered leaving." Stuart smiled genuinely.

"Well, Stuart, while we are here, we have to talk. I have always been a blunt woman, and that isn't about to change now," Rolanda said, yellow eyes twinkling. "I want to know what is going on between you and that Edgecombe witch."

"Marietta is my assistant," he said immediately. "There is nothing..." He rubbed his head slightly. "Good Lord."

"What is it?"

"Did the headmaster ask you to befriend me? To find out if I have been taking advantage of my assistant?" He hoped that wasn't the case. It would be for naught. He would never use a young woman in such a way. A flash of Marietta's leering face and naked body passed through his mind. He stood up suddenly, running his fingers through his hair.

"Eh? What are you on about? I saw the way she was looking at us as I left the castle with you a bit ago. Didn't seem too happy," Rolanda lied.

"I apologize for jumping to conclusions. I admit that I would have been disappointed," Stuart said, sitting back down. "Truth of the matter is, I like Marietta, but sometimes it feels as if pieces of my evenings are missing. I often find myself thinking oddly about things. I suppose I don't feel right acting as her errand boy, but I also feel as if I am meddling in little Hermione's affairs as well."

"Hermione? What's she to do with your assistant?" Hooch asked with a shrug, seemingly confused. The man may have had his memories modified with an Obliviate, but why would he still remember certain things?

"Well, seeing as you and that Snape fellow aren't exactly best mates, I will tell you. Marietta is in touch with a fellow, er... Terence Higgs. Well, he fancies little Hermione and lost her affections to Snape." Stuart chuckled. "I don't know what she sees in him, but Marietta has been having me to send notes to Higgs. I do not read them, but she says he is always asking if she's happy and what not. Poor bloke."

"Stuart, I'm going to be straight with you. Severus Snape is a good friend to me. He always will be. Hermione is in love with him, and she has never been involved with Terence Higgs. That boy is either lying to Marietta, or she is lying to you," Rolanda said firmly. "I think I would like to find out which, don't you?"

"Well, yes, but I thought for sure..."

"Trust me, Stuart. I know each of them personally. Higgs isn't exactly a good guy, and well, to be honest, Marietta isn't as nice as one would think. I wonder if she hasn't tampered with your mind. Pieces of your evenings have gone missing, you say?"

He nodded. "What can we do about that?"

"Do you trust me?" she asked.

"Yes."

"Then, I need you to speak with Severus."

"Oh, well, he's never been pleasant to me. I doubt that he'll agree to it." He hoped anyway. The man's glare was enough to turn him in the opposite direction most days.

"He will. Trust me. Come," Rolanda insisted, pulling him up with her. "Race you back." Both scrambled to mount their brooms and fly back as quickly as possible towards the castle. Rolanda made it back first, but only just. "Not bad at all!"

She led Stuart down to the dungeons where they found Severus in his office. "What brings you two here?" he asked through narrowed eyes.

"I think Stuart has had some Memory Charms placed on him. I would like you to have a look. See if you can detect any," Rolanda stated without preamble.

"Well, couldn't you have done that?" Stuart asked her quickly, backing away from the menacing looking dark man that was approaching him as if he was the main course of a meal.

"I'm not as good as Severus. No. Sorry," she said, warding the doors. "Have a seat."

Stuart obeyed nervously, and Severus swooped down on him. "Legilmens," he purred, staring into the eyes and delving into the mind of the man before him. Severus saw flashes of the man's childhood, memories of a woman, a sexual encounter with Edgecombe, and Edgecombe lifting her wand to the man. He could feel the man's disgust and sudden loss of willpower once the girl spoke to him. He pulled away. "Not a Memory Charm. I think she used the Imperius to will what she has done to not surface in his mind. Quite clever. Most don't think to do that."

"The wench," Hooch commented.

Stuart had paled considerably. "Did you... did you see what I just saw?" Severus nodded. "I... inappropriate behavior... I will be sacked. My reputation will be ruined. Seeing it now, I realize that I have had relations with her, but I never pursued it. You must believe me." The man's last plea was directed to Rolanda.

"She probably forced you like she did young Malfoy," Rolanda bellowed, grabbing her wand. Purple sparks were shooting from the tip precariously.

"Settle down, Ro, and put that wand away," Severus commanded. "She will be punished. And, you," he looked to Stuart. "I fear that you have been assaulted by your assistant. We will have to seek the headmaster's council on this, but there are other things at risk here. You will not be allowed to repeat anything. Do you understand?" The disappointed man simply nodded.

"Buck up, Stuart. We shall see that she is punished. This is not your fault. Tell Severus everything that you told me!"

Severus held up a hand. "Let's do this with Albus. Come on. We'll Floo up."

~~~~~~~~ HG ~~~~~~~~~ SS ~~~~~~~~~~

Marietta approached Draco just as he exited his last class. "Can I have a word?"

"Well, I was on my way to see if Hermione needs anything," Draco said coyly. "Being a new Instructor and all."

"This won't take long," she said softly, pulling him by the arm.

"Who the hell is this?" Pansy asked, voice molten with acid. "I remember you. What are you trying to dig into Draco for?" She pulled Draco away. "You don't have to listen to that trash."

"Now, now, Pansy. That is uncalled for. She and I have become friendly." Draco pulled away from Pansy, ignoring her sour expression. "Sorry. Where do you want to talk?"

"What have I done for her to talk to me that way?"

"Ah, she's just mad because Sinistra gave her detention for sleeping in class. I tried to wake her," he said innocently. "Come into this room here."

She hugged him tightly once the door was closed behind them. "Thanks. I just wanted to be sure."

"Be sure?" he asked, scrunching his face in puzzlement.

"That... uh... things were still all right," she said carefully.

"Well, of course, Marietta. Do you still want to meet tomorrow night?"

"My mum owled me earlier. I am to meet her tomorrow evening for dinner. Did you mean what you said the other night?" she asked softly.

"What part?"

"The part where you said Terence didn't realize what he had right in front of him."

"Of course. Look at you. You're brilliant and beautiful. He shouldn't make you so sad," Draco said, trying to sound concerned.

"Well, this weekend when you're in Hogsmeade, prove it. Buy something for me," she said boldly. "I'm partial to silver trinkets."

"All right," he agreed. "Shall we meet Sunday at some point, so that I may give you the gift?"

"If nothing changes, let us meet at the Astronomy Tower Sunday afternoon. Maybe around two. All right?"

"I'll be there," he said firmly. "With your gift." He watched as she smiled excitedly and fled from the room. Only then did his heart begin to return to its normal rate. He was afraid that she would try to have him. Draco just didn't feel right about being pressured into sex with someone he found repulsive. The girl wasn't ugly, but something just within made her undesirable. Her foul nature most likely. He snorted. This would reassure Snape and his father.

~~~~~~~~ HG ~~~~~~~~~ SS ~~~~~~~~~~

Hermione was describing everything as quickly as she could to a Dictation Quill. Severus had put her in charge of keeping all of their findings in order. These would be what they handed over to the Aurors once things were ready.

Severus and Albus had found out from poor Stuart that Marietta Edgecombe had used his mind and body numerous times over the last few months. Each time she needed something to go her way, she would place him under the Imperius if he didn't agree to help her. She always only left enough information for him to not get suspicious about things, and for them to carry on a conversation about Higgs and Hermione.

They'd pulled those memories to the forefront and had him place them in a Pensieve to make a record. From what Severus said, Stuart requested a few days off from teaching to deal with all he'd found out. Rolanda offered for him to stay in her quarters. To everyone, including Marietta, Stuart will have gone home to handle personal problems. The Muggle Studies classes would just resume the following Monday.

Ginny's necklace had been charmed. All she needed to do, if her situation became uncomfortable, was to touch it and say Harry's full name. She would then have five seconds to hold onto Luna before it activated and sent them to Harry. It was just a precaution. Nobody believed that they would need it, as Percy was likely just taking the opportunity to put down his family and Harry.

Draco's information had been the most reassuring. According to what Edgecombe had said, it seemed that getting Draco and Hermione both into Hogsmeade was another test to be sure he was still susceptible to following instructions without question. Marietta had even requested a gift and made arrangements to meet on Sunday. With Bellatrix Lestrange on the loose, they would keep the extra security in town whilst the students were there. Things seemed to be going well.

~~~~~~~~ HG ~~~~~~~~~ SS ~~~~~~~~~~

"Tell me one more time," Bella said in her mock sweet voice.

"Saturday," Terence stated again, "Weasley will lure his sister out towards the Shrieking Shack where you, Warrington, and I will be waiting. You get to do what you've got to do to the girl while we take care of Weasley's memory."

"Don't forget about our late master's glorious Dark Mark floating in the air above her mangled body. Potter will come running and know that vengeance has been mine," Bella said with a squeal. "What of my wittle bitty nephew Draco and Severus' Mudblood?"

"They will be in Hogsmeade. We won't have them called to the forest until after Potter and Weasley are lost in grief over the girl's death. Sunday, early, Fudge and Umbridge will enable us to get Rabastan and Antonin out of Azkaban. This will unnerve both Snape and Malfoy. We'll send a message to Snape claiming Lucius needs him to visit. At this time, Marietta will have Draco and Granger enter the forest where we will be waiting for them to bring them back here," Terence said proudly.

His father smiled. "Very good, son. A plan well thought out. Once we have what they want here, we will have the leverage we need to get them away from Dumbledore's protection. Our late Dark Lord will be revenged. His loss will not be forgotten. The traitors responsible shall pay."

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Southern's Notes: The next chapter will be very long, as it is the weekend finally. We will see how the plans come together and which sides fail. Cheers.

I don't know if I should warn you about this now or not, but there will be Character Death in the next chapter. Don't worry. It's not one of our main characters, but that is all I will say.