Chapter Twenty One

Disclaimer: J.K. Rowling's stuff. I own nothing here except the plot. Alas, no money is being made. This is for entertainment purposes only. Happy reading!

A big thanks goes to my beta, Charmed Nay, and I would also like to thank GinnyW for helping me go through this a second time and dusting it off.

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"What's wrong?" Hermione asked, noting the odd look on Severus' face.

"Nothing is wrong. Everything is right. I'm about to make love to my wife. That sounds strangely nice," he said honestly.

"Who would have thought, eh?"

He kissed her softly. "Well, we have to start this soon. They are all waiting for our crystal to confirm that consummation has been achieved. I think I would like for you to decide what you would like tonight, Hermione. Let this be your night."

"Undress me," she commanded softly. He began to unfasten her robes. "It was really nice of Rolanda to give me this. She would have been married in this if her beau had lived."

"It looks as if it were made for you, love," he said seductively, eyeing her dress. "It hugs your breasts, flares with your hips, and clings to your shapely legs. Elegantly perfect for you."

"Well, we did a bit of magical alteration, so if it looks as though it were made for me, I suppose it was." She sighed. "What is with all of these buttons? It's damned hard to do with one hand." She was trying to quickly get him out of his clothing.

"Good Lord," he said. "I could ask the same of you. There must be fifty back here."

She slid his wand out of his pocket. "Fix this," she demanded.

"My pleasure," he said. With a flick of his wand, their clothes disappeared, leaving them with nothing on their bodies save the binding cords.

Hermione pulled him to the bed. "Sit up against the headboard, love. Oh? What's this? Not quite ready for me, are you?" She reached down and caressed his nearly erect penis. It rose to attention quickly.

"It was getting there. I think my emotions are just extreme right now, and that is interfering with our more pleasurable marital duties." He sat down and scooted back against the headboard. "Are you ready for me?"

"What do you think?" she asked, sliding up with him. Severus idly dipped a finger into her and smirked.

"I would say so."

She straddled him. "I want to make love to you just like this, with our eyes level, with our hands bound, with me on top."

"I would say that is most acceptable," he said quietly.

"Hopefully, this will be better than my last attempt at being on top," she said, blushing slightly. "I think with you sitting up with me, it won't be as wearing on me."

"Last time was great," he commented. "Never think that anything you do for, to, or with me is not good enough for me. It's more than I ever thought I'd have." He sucked in a jagged breath as she began to lower herself onto him. "That's right," he coaxed softly, "all the way in. Lord, yes."

"Severus, it's like I can feel you all the way inside of me. I love this. I love you. I love becoming one with you," she said, tears brimming in her eyes. "Tonight was just, well, I loved it." Why the hell was she getting so emotional? She needed to get a grip on herself before she ruined things. The others would wonder what was taking so long for the consummation.

"I feel it too," he said softly, leaning forward to kiss her and to weave his free hand in her mass of hair. "Everything will be fine for us love." He dropped his lips to nibble upon her neck while his hand slid down to fondle her breasts tenderly. Hermione began to timidly move. She rested her chin on top of his head for a moment before kissing her way down the side of his face. His lips met hers, and they began moving together in slow, steady strokes.

It was hard for her to describe how she felt being in this position. He was allowing her to lead the way. If she would speed up, he would as well. If she would slow down and just snog for a bit, he would let her. No pressure. She felt powerful, as she could sense that he'd do anything for her. Hermione wondered if this was how he felt when she was writhing and moaning beneath him. "Severus, I love you."

"I know."

"Say it."

He smirked. "I love you." He nipped at her breasts. The more his tongue flicked over and around her perky nipple, the faster and harder she rode him. Severus loved the feel of her body on his, her legs curling back under his calves, locking her feet around him to better steady herself. It was difficult to continue to lave her breasts. They were jiggling about with her quickening strokes. His hand, which had made its way to cup her arse, came back around to massage her core. He could feel himself building, but from her sudden frantic movements, there was no way that he would come in time with her. She was already there.

"Severus! Oh, yes!" Hermione screeched as tremors began from within and made their way out. He allowed her movements to slow and come to a complete halt as she came down. "So-sorry," she said. He was about to tell her it was all right when she moved her legs a bit and leaned back, taking her with him. He found himself laying over her, still buried within. "Fin...ish it," she breathed erratically.

"Hell yes," he mumbled, beginning the rise to his own climax. He pounded into her drained, partially responsive body, boring his eyes into hers. "Legilimens," he whispered. He didn't know why he did it, but it slipped out. He wanted to feel what she felt. What he saw and felt had him calling out to her. The very first memory that accosted him was the one of her climax. He could feel her love, excitement, and pleasure. It flowed through into him. "My Mione," he exclaimed possessively as the waves of pleasure slowly receded.

The eye contact didn't break. Another flash came through to him. It was of Harry and Hermione. He felt a wave of jealousy flow from her. It was so forceful that he was nearly blown away. Then, he realized that more feelings were flowing through. Harry was giving her a ring, his ring. This was right before their binding. He could feel love, not their kind, but love of friendship, emanating from her. He could feel acceptance, excitement, gratitude, and so many things mixed together. He pulled away.

"Why, Severus?" she asked softly.

"I think that is something that I could ask you. Where did my wedding band come from, and what does Harry have to do with it?" He watched her expression closely.

"What made you delve into my mind that way?" she asked again.

"I wanted to feel how you felt, and I wanted to combine it with my feelings. I wasn't searching for anything. This flashed before my eyes just as I was about to pull away." He raised an eyebrow. "Explain."

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"Well, that's it then," Draco said, seeing the crystal blazing brightly. "Wonder why it's so bright. Good grief."

Trelawny leaned over, hearing what he'd said. "The inner eye feels that such a light represents strength of relationship."

Draco snorted. "It does, does it?"

"You should have more faith in what I say, Mr. Malfoy," she said airily, blinking her eyes rapidly behind her large glasses.

"Give me one reason," he said quietly, hoping no other staff members would hear.

"You are undecided about something, aren't you? Not sure how or why you feel a certain way when you've never flown down that path before. Am I not right?"

Draco gaped. "Er... Well, that could be a lucky guess! That could go along with anything."

She shook her head and looked past him to his two mates. "I think not," she murmured. "Believe what you will, boy. I know what you all think of me, but remember, I have given great warnings in the past."

Draco turned away from the breezy witch to face his friends. They were both looking at him oddly. "What?"

"Nothing," Harry said, grinning slightly.

"Never did like her class," Ron said grouchily. "If it wasn't so easy to make up things to pass, I would have taken a page out of Mione's book and dropped it." He shuddered. "Wonder if she actually likes sleeping with Snape."

"I'd say so. She married him, didn't she?" Harry said, irritated. "Shouldn't matter to us, should it?"

"I guess it doesn't matter," Ron admitted. "Just the thought. Why him? Ruddy Incubus. I think he just passed by the castle one night and said, 'Oi, guess I'll mess with these two people.'"

Harry laughed, and Draco said, "Bet Snape's just like he is in class too." He raised an eyebrow and scowled in imitation of Snape. "Granger, can you tell me the difference between vaginal and anal sex? No? How disappointing! One hundred points from Gryffindor! I want three feet of parchment on this subject, and be ready for a thorough demonstration."

The boys laughed. Ron nodded. "I bet Mione doesn't take that shit. She probably tells him to go sod himself." The redhead broke into the first laugh that he'd had in days. Harry smiled at his two mates. He wondered if Ron realized that Draco had somehow become attracted to him. He doubted it, as Ron only had eyes for Luna. On that note, he wondered if Draco realized it even. "What do you think, Harry?" Ron asked mischievously.

"Well," Harry began, "I'd say he probably tried to pull that dominating nonsense on her, and she let him know quickly that wouldn't work. Now, I imagine he still dominates her, but he's right sneaky about it. She probably doesn't realize that he's steering her in the direction he wants her to go." He grinned. "Or, is that she realizes, but he's too smug to know she's only pretending to let him get away with it?"

"Good call," Ron said, laughing again. "I guess we should go on."

"I suppose," Harry said. "Looks like they aren't going to let us have any of that wine and bread. I'll tell them." As soon as Harry told them they would be leaving, wine and bread were shoved into their hands. "Guess I spoke too soon," Harry murmured. After about twenty minutes, the crystal lost its eerie glow, and everyone began clapping. The boys shrugged, but they clapped as well.

"Hermione and Severus Snape," Hagrid said shakily, suddenly breaking into a loud wail.

Draco shook his head in distaste. "Always blubbering, isn't he?"

"Shut it, you," Harry rebuked. "He's a good man. Just a bit emotional."

"A bit?" Draco asked incredulously.

"Malfoy, why don't you come back to the Burrow with us. When we go to see Luna in the morning, we can barge in on your dad," Ron said.

Draco brightened. "All right. I'm sure the headmaster would allow it."

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Hermione locked her legs around him, so that he could not pull away. "Stay and look into my eyes. I will explain." She tried to kiss his lips, but he pulled back. Stung, she began to tell him about what had happened. "I didn't have a chance to get a ring for you. I was going to let you have my House ring as a token until I could purchase one for you that I wanted. Harry showed up with a ring from his family's vault. He said--"

"I will not wear anything that belonged to that bastard, James Potter!" Severus bellowed, trying to pull at his ring.

"Stop," she said, grabbing his wrist. "It was never for James."

"But, you said it came from their vault. I thought there was something familiar about the ring when I put it on. Must have seen it on his finger," he said angrily. "I will have a word with Harry about this. He should have known better. I would have taken your House ring gladly, just so I had you. The token didn't matter."

"Severus, it mattered to me. This ring is beautiful. It was for Lily's father, and James Potter never wore it. It was intended for Harry. He said that he's sure his mum would have not minded if it came to you or our children. Please, understand, I don't like that it's from Lily, but I can live with it. Do you know why?" she asked. He remained silent. "Because of Harry."

The dark man regarded her carefully. So the jealousy he had sensed from her had been what she felt towards Lily. That would not do. "Hermione, there is no reason to be jealous of Lily. She is in the past. You are my present, and you are my future. Whether Harry likes it or not, we will give this ring back. I don't want any problems between us."

"The only problem will be if you don't accept it, Severus. I won't think of it as Lily's ring. I will think of it as Harry's grandfather's ring which Harry wanted us to have as a wedding gift." She smiled. "You can think of it however you'd like, but please, let's keep it. I can still get you another as well."

He nodded in understanding. "You don't have to get another for me, Hermione. I will accept this, but it's only because you do. I just... I don't want you to think that I like it because of Lily. You are my wife and my life. Never forget that."

"I won't," she whispered. "I love you with all of my heart. I am so glad that wretched spirit brought us together sooner than later. Think of all the time we'd have missed out on?" She giggled. "That sounds horrible, doesn't it? Thanking a demon for its pain."

"Actually, I know exactly what you mean. I've done it myself. Come. Let me hold you," he said, moving to the side. "All right?"

"Mmmm hmmm," she said softly.

"No pains?"

"All healed. Just suddenly sleepy. It's been a long day."

"Rest, love."

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The Incubus crept up slowly to watch the sleeping woman. She was, once again, dreaming of her old Head Girl dormitory. He smirked easily with the face of Severus Snape. One month and she would be under his spell. He would fill her with his seed, and their offspring would grow to take back all that had been lost. Their child would be more powerful than Merlin ever dreamed of.

He sniffed the air. What was different about her? Something had changed, but he couldn't really tell. He sat down on a chair to watch her sleep while he thought. The Incubus had foreseen something interesting earlier. There was another who would be an ideal mate. It was the male that was tied to the witch sleeping before him. He was much like the brooding man that she was fated to. The bastard that had denied his Succubus form. He'd even overcome his parting gift of continuous nightmares. It was the brilliance of this witch before him that did it.

If he moved too soon and too quickly, she would see through the charade immediately and not think him to be a simple dream of her lover. The Incubus vowed that if she was able to learn his true identity and able to push him away, he would leave her to mate with the other strong wizard. It would be easy to fool him. The thick wizard dreamt of this witch continuously. The man had nobody in his life to help him. It would be so easy to seduce him and drain his magic. Reaching out, he ran his fingers through her hair. Yes, there was something different about her. She stirred for a moment, and she opened her eyes.

"Hi," she murmured. "What are you doing?"

"Watching you sleep, Hermione. You are safe. Go back to sleep." She nodded sleepily and closed her eyes again. The Incubus grinned wickedly. Yes, the other wizard would be easy, but this was much more of a challenge. It would be a great conquest to have this one, and to know that he had prevailed when they thought to have completely defeated him. He stood back and began to transform into true shape. Gone was the dark hair and eyes. Gone was the manly figure. The Succubus stood looking at Hermione through white eyes, shaking her thick mass of white hair. What was it about this little witch that had these strong wizards attracted to her? Where did she get her inner strength? Had it been planned for her to become so clever? It was time to check in on her other possible victim. Flexing her long claws and relaxing her wings, she vanished.

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Bellatrix stared at the ceiling for a long time. If she concentrated hard enough, she could see those enchanting emerald eyes shining down at her. Harry Bloody Potter had become her Lord. Her old Lord still lived within, but it seemed that the boy was much stronger than he. His memories and actions still showed through, but it was the young wizard that now had the upper hand. She found that she didn't mind. Bella, if you fail me in this, I shall be very angry.

Those words were much like the old Dark Lord's words. In fact, if she hadn't been looking at Lord Potter as he spoke, she could have sworn that her old Master had been there. She knew within her heart that he would come for her. She had killed Rabastan, her own brother-in-law, to prove that she believed him. His words were much like some told to her by her old Master. He was so much like him. Pretend to allow them to arrest you. I will come for you. How many times had she heard that phrase from her old Master? Yes, she would follow Harry Potter to the ends of the Earth if need be.

Bella liked the way he'd treated them. He had been angry, but there had been no harsh, unjust punishments. He'd treated them like friends instead of servants. He'd given them respect. She, Terence, and Mulciber were the only ones left from the old gang, aside from Potter's new followers. With Potter there was no groveling at his feet or kissing the hem of his robes, there was only a little kneeling for being naughty. She shivered at the thought of his way with Nagini and that other snake. A true Parselmouth if she'd ever seen one. They did his bidding easily and had even killed for him.

She closed her eyes to better remember the feel of his arm about her waist, and the sound of his voice whispering in her ear. Bella would have him. She wanted to feel his strength combined with her old Master's. She didn't care that he'd taken to the Weasley brat or was partial to the Mudblood. Dirty Severus' whore. No. She had to think more fondly of Severus. Her new Master had spoken the truth. Severus and Lucius were on his side. It was ridiculous of the others to anger them. She would heed his words. Though she didn't like them for betraying their old Master, she would begin anew with them and serve their new Master properly. They would come for her. She slid a hand down into her knickers, pretending it was Potter's hand stroking her.

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The next few days passed quickly for Hermione. The families of the fallen Death Eaters had given their 'loved' ones proper burials. Not that she liked Karkaroff, but sadly, he'd slipped away. It seemed a shame to hold on that long, only to die when freedom came for him. His family was due to pick up his body soon. It would likely be very hard for them. They had thought he'd been dead all of this time, and to know that he'd been very much alive, yet living in misery, would be hard for them.

There was still no change in Luna. She never blinked, never moved around, and just breathed slow, rattling breaths. Hermione hoped that Harry could get Bella to work up something that would help their fallen friend. She was so young and good. It was a pity to see her taken down. She'd become their friend two years prior, and she had stuck by them no matter what. It was great that she and Ron had found each other. For Ron's sake, she hoped that the girl woke up. She feared Ron would never date again. He might never move on, and he'd always be chained to Luna's room. Draco seemed to be helping him though. What was up with Draco anyway? He'd been acting very jumpy. She wondered if it was due to being assaulted at Higgs Manor.

Lucius had finally allowed his family and friends in for a visit while he was recovering. Severus had insisted that she accompany him once. She had been completely taken aback by Lucius' humble attitude, and his wife, Narcissa, had been entirely different from the first time she had met her. She seemed much nicer, and Hermione could see her true concern for her husband in the way she'd look at him or try to comfort him. Maybe getting together with them after everything was settled wouldn't be too bad, after all.

Severus was at the Ministry with Dumbledore and the others. They were having hearings for the two Edgecombes, Umbridge, and Fudge. She'd decided to hang about St. Mungo's with her friends. The only thing that bothered her was Ginny. She'd been acting odd. Earlier when Hermione had pulled Harry on the side to ask him something about Bella, Ginny had glared at her hatefully. She'd never known Ginny to be jealous before. She didn't feel like causing any problems, so she went to sit out in the corridor to sip on some hot chocolate.

It was then that she'd seen him. Viktor Krum. It had been a long time. He was with a group of wizards from his country. Hermione recognized one as being his friend during the Tri Wizarding Tournament. "Herm-own-ninny! Hi," he said, completely surprised. "Good to see you again. Ve vill haff to talk."

"Viktor!" she said with a broad smile, setting aside her mug. "I haven't heard from you in so long. Did you just not want to respond to my letters?"

"I vas not allowed owls while I trained. I haff them now. Ven I got home, they vere there." He brushed her hair back. "You look great."

"So do you."

"Viktor," a tall man, apparently his father said, "Ve haff no time to vaste. Karkaroff, remember."

"Yes," he said with a nod. "Herm-own-ninny, I vill owl you soon. Vood you mind?"

"Not at all. Please do. I miss our letters," she said brightly, squeezing his hand. His hook-nosed father was eyeing her appraisingly, making her feel rather uncomfortable. She watched the group leave. They had come for Karkaroff's body. How sad. She shook her head and went back to check on the others. Harry and Ginny were no longer in Luna's room, but Draco and Ron were both sleeping soundly on the chairs next to the bed.

Strong arms wrapped around her waist from behind, and a pair of lips found their way to her neck. "Sorry I took so long," her husband murmured. She turned around in his arms.

"It's all right. What's happened?"

He nodded towards the hall and pulled her out of the room. "Everything came out," he said. "They were forced to take Veritaserum. Marietta Edgecombe will be in Azkaban indefinitely for her uses of an Unforgivable on Draco and Stewart. Also, for her part in leading you two to your capture. Her mother has been relieved of her job at the Ministry for not reporting Umbridge, and for illegally altering the Floo Network. Umbridge has been given ten years for aiding in the breakout of Bellatrix Lestrange, and a few other things that came out whilst in trial. Fudge," he grinned evilly, "has been given life in Azkaban for a long list of things. One of them being that he purposely endangered Ginny Weasley's life by arranging for Percy to meet with her. Contributing to Percy's death. Contributing to Lovegood's state. It's good for the bastard."

Hermione nodded. "I agree. They all got what they deserved! What of Mulciber, Higgs, and Bellatrix Lestrange? When will their trials be?"

"Next week," he said shaking his head. "Harry needs to talk to Bella soon. I think this weekend will be the one." He raised his eyebrows conspiratively. "The one where he goes to get her. It's that poor girl's only chance."

Hermione nodded. "I'm glad they cancelled today's classes as well. I really wasn't ready to start up. Minerva said that Albus would like us to resume tomorrow though. On a Friday," she huffed! "Why not wait until Monday?"

Severus smiled. "Come on. Let's get back. They can all find their own way back."

"I just talked to Viktor. He and some others have come for Karkaroff's body," she said as they strode to the nearest open Floo grate. "Sad for his family."

"He has no family, Hermione. Those that are likely coming for him are past students or school supporters. His wife was killed long ago. They had no children," Severus said solemnly. "I suppose he thought of Krum as a son though. What did he have to say?"

"Not much. They seemed in a rush. His father wanted him to hurry along. He'll be writing to me soon though. We've a lot to catch up on! I wanted to tell him about my marriage!" She ginned happily, but her smile faded. "What?"

"How serious were you two?"

"Oh, come on! We were friends. A little crush, yes, but it never turned into anything. Look at the distance between us!" She kissed her lover's cheek. "Please don't worry on it. You are the only one for me. I am your wife, Severus."

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Harry nodded to Arthur after the guard opened the cell for him. He'd given them his wand and requested complete privacy. Arthur knew that Harry was simply here to keep Bella believing that he was coming for her, so he made sure to silently cast a spell on the open window to her cell. Nobody, not even Arthur, would be able to honestly see what was going on. They would only see what looked like Bella and Harry having a talk. He felt he had no choice but to go along with this. If this enabled their side to get information that might help his son's girlfriend, then so be it.

He wasn't priggish to where he'd not trust in Dumbledore's plans. This needed to be done. Harry needed to do what he had to do to see it done. He had to keep Bella believing that he was the next Dark Lord. Arthur smiled kindly at the guard. "So, you grew up with Muggles?"

"Yes."

"Tell me. Did you ever use something called a phonographic?"

"Er... phonograph? Record player?" Weasley nodded. "Sure, when I was younger. There are other things people use now. Those are outdated."

"Fascinating. While we wait, er, would you mind telling me about them? I find this a captivating subject."

"Sure. Why not?" the guard said happily.

Inside the cell, Harry was looking at the sleeping witch. "I know you aren't sleeping," he said, hoping to startle her. Her hooded eyes opened slowly. He gave her a lopsided grin. "Missed me?"

"Yes. Have you come for me?"

"This weekend," he said softly. "I'll have you out of here. Then we can work on our Reversal Spell for Luna Lovegood, all right?"

"Yes, my Lord. I have an idea of what I can do. I just need to check a few things over in my notes. Were you able to retrieve them?" she asked.

"Someone is getting them for me, and they will be ready for you by the time I get you out of here," he promised. "I've been busy with a few things. It's why I haven't come sooner. Would you like to know of everyone's fates?"

"I've been allowed to read, so I have kept up to date with everything."

"Very well. I know this won't mean much to you, but I have smuggled in a little something for you," he said, digging into his robes. He pulled out a small container of Chocoballs.

"My favorite! You do know me so well," she said, leering wickedly. "While the allure of strawberry mousse and clotted cream is great, there is something that I want more, Master."

"What would that be?" Harry asked, wishing he could take a step away from the advancing witch. She was licking her lips. Just fucking great, he thought snidely. She wants to snog me.

"I want to kiss you, Master. Is it your will that it be done?"

Harry seemed to think this over. "Will it go no farther than us?" She shook her head. "I don't think that will be a problem." He couldn't deny her, or she might become suspicious.

The woman stepped up to him, being nearly his height; she tilted her lips up to his slightly and pressed a soft kiss on his closed mouth. He was surprised. How could such a cruel and vicious witch have such a soft touch? Out of curiosity, he opened his lips to allow her invading tongue in. He was disgusted yet awestruck. Her lips and tongue were soft and welcoming. Ginny kissed nothing like this. Blast! Ginny! He was cheating on her. But, he had to do this. She would understand. He closed his eyes and went with the kiss. A vision of Bella bending over a chair as he pounded into her from behind entered his mind. He moaned subconsciously. Was this a sick fantasy? One of Voldemort's memories? What the hell was going on?

Somehow the wench's hand had slid up beneath his robes and snaked into his loose fitting trousers and briefs. She was now firmly stroking him. He moaned again. "I know," she said frantically. "It's been so long for us."

Slam her down onto the bed. Take her. You want her. It's for the good of things. Harry froze. What the fuck? Why was he thinking these things? Nonetheless, he felt the urge to move to the bed, and he easily maneuvered the witch to lay with him on her single bed. They just barely fit together, but it was enough. She was unfastening his trousers now, bent on getting them down. Harry mentally shook himself. "Stop," he said, sounding weak to his own ears. "Not here."

She looked up at him. "Let me please you, Master."

He pulled her face to his. "Not today, Bella. They might look in on us and become suspicious. This Saturday night when I come for you," he said. He kissed her chastely. She nodded and buttoned his pants again. "You be a good girl for me. Tell no one of our plans."

"Never."

He stood up, adjusted his hard cock, and walked to the door. He knocked once. He turned back to face her once before the door opened. He gave her his most brilliant smile. Arthur escorted him outside, where he promptly vomited.

"All right, Harry?"

"No," he said finally. "I need to see Severus. Immediately."

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Harry pounded on Severus' chamber door. "Severus!"

Finally, after a few minutes, a disheveled looking Snape opened the door. Harry saw that he had only a bathrobe on. Shit! He'd probably just interrupted them. Sod it! "Harry, wh-?"

"I really need to speak with you, Severus," the boy said.

"Come in," Severus said, the annoyance leaving his voice. He could see that something had truly gone wrong. "Is Bella not buying into the act any longer?"

"Oh, she's buying into it all right," Harry said, running his fingers through his hair. "The fucking problem is, Severus, that I think I am as well."

"What?"

"You heard. I... Have a look. I won't block you. That way you can feel what I felt and see how it happened."

Severus pulled his wand out. "Harry, don't you just want to explain?"

"Please," Harry said, visibly shaken.

"Relax," Severus breathed. "Legilimens!" A couple of flashes from the past couple of weeks came through before the visit that had transpired. He could feel desire warring with repulsion, a sense of duty conflicted with remorse of betraying his loved one, need, hate, lust, and desire. The flash disappeared as another one appeared. Severus' eyes narrowed as he saw a naked Nymphadora Tonks straddling Harry, laughing and leaning closer to kiss him. The vision suddenly disappeared, and he felt a mental shove.

"Sorry," said Harry, blushing furiously. "Don't know how that slipped in there."

Severus couldn't believe what he'd just seen. "Harry? What the hell? When was that?"

"That's personal, sir," Harry said curtly.

"She's an Auror! She's about six years older than you are! Were you even of age?" Severus asked incredulously.

"Look, sir, with all due respect, you are older than Mione. There is no difference here, and yes, I was of age."

"Why were you filled with fear?"

"Well, I wasn't afraid of her. That's for sure. I just didn't want to die never knowing how it felt to... you know. That was before I went for Voldemort. Look," Harry said angrily. "What do you think about that visit with Bella? You didn't see it all, but did you feel that?"

"I did," Severus said. "What are your thoughts?"

"I wanted to have sex with her. I didn't want to. A voice in my head told me to go on and do it while another voice was horrified that I'd even considered it." Harry shuddered. "It was almost as if I could remember having her before. I'm afraid that he truly is living within me."

"This is something we should bring to Albus. He and I have considered this already. I think it best if he gives you his opinion. Meet me there. I'll be along shortly. I just need to tell Hermione." Severus walked back to his bedchamber and smiled at the sight of his naked young wife lying on her side, crooking her finger at him. "I have some other place to be; it will have to be fast."

"Ah, well, we've been playing for an hour now. Come here and make love to me, Severus. Only then will I allow you to be off," she said huskily, still reeling from the two oral orgasms he had given her earlier. "Take your own pleasure, love; I have had enough already."

Severus slid over her, kissed her, and plunged into her depths without any further stimulation. As she had said, they'd been in bed for a long time teasing and pleasing each other. He'd never have enough of his wife. Never. "No woman in her right mind would say that to her lover."

"I felt a bit too sensitive. Just feeling you within is-Oh-enough," she said contentedly as he quickened his pace. "Good Lord," she murmured. "Keep that up."

He smirked and shook his head before strengthening his strokes. Pride with his ability to bring pleasure to his wife spread throughout his body as his wife began moaning and squirming under him. Too sensitive, eh? She was the best lover he'd ever had. It felt like she was made for him. Hermione had learned to move in time with him, tightly squeeze him as he was sheathed within, and how to bring him over the edge by doing little things. At the moment, she was caressing one of his arse cheeks, and her other hand had drifted down to fondle his bollocks. Grinding roughly against her, he brought them both to the climatic peak that they sought. Sadly enough, she didn't allow him to enjoy the relaxing peace that had entered his body. "You have some place to be, don't you?"

"Yes, I have to meet Harry in Albus' office. There has been a bit of a setback." Severus kissed her. "I will wake you and explain everything when I come back. For now, I must hurry off."

"I hope you're going to dress before you go," she said cheekily.

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

Bellatrix couldn't believe her good fortune. Her old Master was slowly finding his way back to her. She could see him and hear him within Potter so much. She would never before openly admit to thinking that the old Dark Lord had been hideous when he'd created his new body, and he'd insisted on having her anyway. Hell, she wouldn't even think that to herself in fear that he'd see it, but now things had changed. Her new Lord had a healthy, young, ready body. The possibilities were endless. She never thought that the spell her old Lord placed on himself would work. Should she tell the new Lord about it? She feared telling him in case it would change him.

She desperately wanted to stay in his good graces, but she didn't like to share what she didn't have to. The Mudblood was not a threat. That was Severus' toy, but the Weasley girl. He wanted her. How could she get rid of her without him killing her as well? Could she handle sharing with the little twit? Time would tell. Perhaps if she quickly reversed the Lovegood girl's spell he would be additionally pleased with her. Even Bella had to admit that her new Master had brilliant foresight to be working with Lovegood on such research.

Lord Potter would need to have her old papers. There were only a couple of things that she needed to go over to find the right words to reverse the girl's hex. There was only one problem. She hadn't the nerve to explain to her Lord that the girl would likely be no more than a Squib. Would this hinder his research? She didn't want to displease or fail him.

Bugger it. She needed some sort of release after the interaction they'd had earlier. Before now, she'd been remembering his hold around her waist and his voice whispering promisingly in her ear. Now, she had so much more to think about. His full lips, his practiced kiss, his hard cock, and his manly groaning were all things that would help her along to meet her next orgasm. She couldn't wait until they would have time alone together. Saturday. He would come for her. She would be free.

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

The evil spirit that was preying on Hermione took on the appearance of Severus once again as it made its way to the witch's bed. 'She's dreaming of being in his chambers tonight,' the Incubus thought, recognizing the woman's dark lover's bedchamber.

"Are you back already?" she asked sleepily.

The Incubus nodded. The girl was naked, completely. She reeked of sex and... something else. What was different about her? "I am," he answered silkily.

"Come back to bed, husband," the witch said lazily.

Husband! They'd been married! No matter. That would just make things easier. In fact, now was as good a time as any to start a seduction. Sliding into the bed beside her without bothering to disrobe, the Incubus' hand glided along her body. No human could understand what sex felt like to a fallen creature of darkness. Whether in the female form or the male form, it was the most excellent feeling imaginable. A small portion of the witch or wizard's magical power would accompany each wave of desire that would build up for the creature. When orgasmic release finally came, there was an energy exchange.

In the Succubus form, the creature would take more magical energy than in the Incubus form. Reason being that she needed the wizard's powers and seed to conceive and sustain a child in the womb until it was ready to be birthed. Most times, the wizard would die from over exuberance as he climaxed within the Succubus. Those that lived, and there were few, would have substantially declined magical capabilities.

In the Incubus form, the creature would take magical energy and mingle it with its own during the coupling. When he spilled his seed forth, all he'd taken and what he needed to add would be deposited into the woman's womb. She would carry the child to term, and when she delivered, all of the mingled magic and a large majority of the witch's would be expelled with the little one. More often than not, she would die in childbirth from exhaustion. Those that lived would have declined magical capabilities.

There were only a few rules that could not be broken. They could never take an unwilling lover. Only one seduction could occur with the same person per night. They could be visited twice so long as they were not disturbed. This enabled the fallen creatures to study their prey. Only one dual seduction could occur per century. There was never usually any need for it. Most of the time there was no pull to any particular witch or wizard. The witch allowing the Incubus' hand to glide over her naked body would eventually couple with her mate, conceiving a child. It was foreseen by the Chief Entity that their first child would grow to be a most powerful witch, and she would bind with the most powerful wizard of the age's son.

As they grew older, they would defeat a Dark Wizard that would be greater than Merlin himself. The Incubus would do what had to be done to stop this. If this witch denied the Incubus, as her husband denied the Succubus, another powerful wizard's child would have to be used. This other wizard lived in Bulgaria, and he had dealings with the witch Granger. His name was Viktor Krum. Any child sired by him and the Succubus would be connected to her because of their friendship, and it would grow to intervene with the Granger daughter's binding to the other wizard's son, whom she would eventually help to overthrow their champion.

There was a reason the Succubus didn't just go straight to the most powerful wizard of the age to seduce him. He was a Wizard of the Snake. The only wizard that could outright kill an Incubus or Succubus was a Parselmouth. Of all fallen beings, the Serpent Lord was the most powerful, with a Succubus being next in position. The forked tongue chants and hexes were too much to bear and ultimately drained all power from creatures such as he. His offspring would have his scent, but they wouldn't likely all inherit his gift of speaking Parseltongue.

"I can't believe you are getting me excited again. I'm a little tender; go slowly," she whispered, drawing the Incubus from his thoughts. He brought his lips down to lick her neck as his fingers continued to gently caress her sex.

"No," the Incubus said in disbelief as it backed away. She had married her lover, Snape. Why did a Wizard of the Snakes mark her? The Scent of the Serpent was all over her. "You are marked."

"What?" she asked, turning to look at him. "Are you just now bringing that up again?"

That was what had been different about her! She was scented. Her scent wasn't this strong when he'd first come upon her after her ordeal. Placing a transforming hand onto her stomach, the Incubus growled. A seed had been sown. The scent of fertilization mixed with the Scent of the Serpent was too much. He had failed. He would not be able to couple with her if he wanted to. The Chief Entity would be most disappointed, but there was always another way to get to her future child and have their work completed. Through Krum. "I must leave you now, but we shall meet again through your progeny. You have not won this time, Hermione Granger."

"Severus?" she asked, sitting up to get a better look at her lover. His hair was lengthening and turning white. The black was leaving his eyes as well, leaving them vacant of any color. "Oh my... Incubus?"

The features changed to those of a scantily dressed woman with long claws, a spiky tail, and horrid wings. "Not any longer," the creature purred. "I am a Succubus now, girl."

"What are you going to do to me?" Hermione asked backing away.

"There is nothing that I can do directly to you without bringing about the wrath of the Wizard of the Snakes. To harm you or yours would enable him to track me. I came to you because your soul called out for help, and I knew you would easily succumb to me, but now two things stand in my way." The Succubus cackled wickedly. "You have not won though. Our will shall be done." With one quick puff of smoke, the seductress that had plagued her lover for weeks was gone.

The room temperature began returning to normal, but Hermione continued to shiver, as she began to wake. So, her first thought had been right. The Incubus had returned. Why did it leave? There was much to figure out. Hermione pulled her knees up close to her chest and rested her head on them while she waited for Severus.

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

Ron looked at Draco. "What's wrong, mate? Why do you keep staring at me?" He wiped at his mouth, wondering if he had any crumbs.

"Honestly?"

"Sure."

"I don't know."

"Er... all right." Ron shook his head. "Awww, come on. Tell me."

"It's just that I don't really know why, but I can't stop looking at you. I want to be around you. What's happening to me?" Draco asked, sounding like he was talking more to himself than his friend.

"Er... all right," Ron said again, sounding dumbfounded. "Bloody hell," he said minutes later. "Do you fancy me?"

"I don't think so, but it feels like it." Draco stood up. "Fuck this. I'll just stay away until it passes." He walked a few feet before stopping. "I don't like blokes in that way! I just don't know what this is."

Ron watched his friend leave. What the bloody hell was that all about? Sounded like he fancied me, but then he denied it saying he likes girls. Odd. If a Malfoy did fancy him, he wouldn't be horrified because he was a boy. He would feel sort of honored, he supposed. It didn't matter though. There was only one witch for him. That was Luna. She would be coming out of this soon if Harry had his way. Ron's eyes drifted down the corridor where he could still barely make out Draco's form. "Don't stay away too long, mate," he said aloud.

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

"So you see, Harry," Dumbledore said in conclusion, "I think that there was just another transference of power between the two of you."

"But, how could that be?"

Severus spoke. "He often worked in secret on spells. His last plan was to make proper arrangements should he be defeated. The Dark Lord knew that if anyone defeated him it would be you, thanks to Albus' guidance. He never admitted that, but I knew it. I know that his last spell that he was working on, along with Bella, was to ensure that one of two things would happen."

"And?" Harry asked impatiently.

"Well, either you would be taken with him, or he would become part of you. Wouldn't that be the most ironic punishment?" Severus asked dryly. "To either kill you or corrupt you?"

"It would," Harry nodded. "So, it's not just a transfer of his abilities. It's him in here."

Dumbledore held up a hand to stop Severus' comment. "No, Harry. Severus and I worked through that once he told me what Tom was planning. It's why we cast that spell on you before we went to battle. We didn't want to tell you anything other than it was a Protection Spell. It was true, but we didn't mention that it was your soul we were protecting. It did appear to have helped. You may have indeed been killed when he was killed otherwise."

Severus spoke. "Unfortunately, we have been wondering if the other part of his spell worked. Is he a part of you? Well, I would say no. I think, as Albus does, that there was a transfer of powers again."

"Right, just happen to have his old memories and desires then?" Harry asked sarcastically.

"There is one who would know exactly what he did to himself," Severus said softly.

"Who?"

"Bella?"

"Always comes back to her, doesn't it?" Harry might have known. Ironic though, that he'd have to use her to find out two different things. "Speaking of her, is her room ready?"

"It is," Albus said. "No one will ever find her. I have Myrtle banned from the bathroom until next week. She hasn't seen us go in to prepare for Bella's arrival, nor will she see you bring her there."

"You'll have ample access to her, and you will be able to take your time at finding out what you need to know. The Chamber of Secrets will indeed have another secret," Severus said blandly. "What do you need for tomorrow night?"

"Have you talked to Arthur?" Harry asked.

"No, it's just Hermione and Albus that knows. We didn't want to involve any others in case the Ministry questioned them."

"What if we're questioned?"

"We're confident that they won't stoop to using Veritaserum on us, especially when we have alibis for being here," Severus said with a smirk. "I've spoken to Lucius, and he's given me his cloak to use."

"Excellent," Harry said. "I still wish that I knew how Voldemort's old memories or thoughts found their way into my mind."

Dumbledore had been sitting silently. "I think Harry that this time you may have received Tom's gift of being a nearly natural Legilimens. You might not think so, but there are things that nearly prove it to me. For one, the interaction with his followers. You felt things, saw things, knew what to say, and even 'remembered' things. What if you were feeding off of their memories and feelings? What if they are not your own?"

"So, maybe the vision of Bella and me... I mean Voldemort, might have passed through her mind, causing me to experience it?" Harry asked incredulously.

"It's possible. Maybe it is easier with people that were associated with him. It doesn't likely work well on Severus because he is a superb Occlumens. He, after years of needing to do so, automatically keeps some walls up to block stray mind probes," Dumbledore answered. "And, maybe that is why Lucius feels that you can see through him at times."

"Does he?"

"He does," Severus put in.

"I think maybe you should talk to Bellatrix to find out exactly what her old Master had planned. Be sure to pretend to think that it's brilliant, and maybe show interest in wanting to learn the curse should you ever need it," Dumbledore said slyly.

"Got it," Harry said with a smirk. "I suppose I feel a little better, although we really won't have an explanation until we talk to her." There was someone that Harry needed to have a long conversation with. Ginny. She deserved to know the truth about everything even if that meant losing her. He'd not start the next stage of their relationship based on deception. "I think I'll be off now."

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

Severus walked in to find a pale Hermione grasping her wand tightly as she stared ahead in deep thought. "Hermione?"

She jumped and pointed her wand at him. "Severus?"

"What's wrong?" he asked, moving towards her.

"Incubus... here," she said, breathing raggedly.

He'd never seen her so upset. "It was just a dream, love," he said, pulling her into his arms. "I'm here. We defeated that demon. Don't be upset."

"No, Severus," she said, pulling back. "He was here, touching me. I thought he was you. When his lips touched my skin, he went mental. The Incubus began changing from your form to the form of the Succubus. She said that I had called out for help when I was in such despair, and it answered my call. It was able to come back."

Severus didn't know if he should believe it or not. It could have just been a dream. "I think you may have been dreaming, Hermione. I defeated her when--"

"Severus! It came back to me because I called out for help when I thought all hope was lost! Don't you see? I invited it back unknowingly."

"What exactly was said?"

Hermione bit her lip in thought for a moment. "She said, and I quote, 'There is nothing that I can do directly to you without bringing about the wrath of the Wizard of the Snakes. To harm you or yours would enable him to track me. I came to you because your soul called out for help when you were with great despair, and I knew you would easily succumb to me. But, now two things stand in my way. You have not won though. Our will shall be done.' Then she was gone." Hermione stood up to fetch some water. "I'm parched."

"The Wizard of the Snakes?" Severus was confused.

After drinking an entire glass, Hermione said, "Severus, when it kissed my neck, it tasted Harry's scent upon me. Apparently, it fears a Parselmouth. I've no idea why, but I am glad that Harry didn't remove the spell yet." She took Severus' hand. "She said that she would be back and would win. She said she'd meet me again through my children."

Another ruddy reason to thank Potter for his damn insight to put his scent on Hermione. Truth be known, Severus had grown used to it, and rarely noticed it any longer. It's why he hadn't pushed to have it removed yet. Maybe it would be prudent to leave it. "I think we should let Albus look into this. Maybe he could talk to his old mate again. Perhaps there is something in the library about a Wizard of the Snake." He kissed his wife chastely on her trembling lips. "It's gone. We have time to learn and be prepared for its return."

"What two things are stopping her? Harry's scent is one, but what is the other?" she contemplated aloud.

"Our marriage perhaps?"

"Maybe, but I doubt it. I think it would still try to take what it wants," she said softly.

"We will never be at peace, will we?" he asked sounding annoyed. She looked taken aback by his harsh tone. "It's not you. It's just everything. I've finally found someone that I adore. She adores me, we marry, and things still try to dampen my happiness."

"What else is there? What happened in Dumbledore's office?" she asked moving to snuggle closer to him.

"It's Harry. He fears that part of Voldemort is inside of him. We don't believe so, but we can't really be sure. Bella is the only one that knows exactly what types of spells the Dark Lord placed on himself before he was defeated. Harry now has the task of finding that out as well."

"Poor Harry," Hermione commented. "I think I remember reading something about this when I was researching the spell Harry's mom used to protect him against Voldemort the first time. I think I'll look into that as well while I'm looking up things on Parselmouths."

"Ever my little bookworm," Severus commented, placing a kiss on her head. "I think I shall talk to Albus in the morning. For now, I just want to hold you. Tomorrow night we'll have to be ready for Bella."

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

Ginny stared at the retreating back of Harry Potter as he slowly made his way back up to the castle. Her Harry had kissed another woman. She didn't know how to feel. She was angry and hurt, yet she could understand why he'd done it. Voldemort had played one last trump card in hopes of remaining alive, and it was now distorting Harry's true thoughts. Harry also had to do this to help Luna, and now to help rid himself of Voldemort's influence once and for all.

She was asked to forgive him. Could she? Yes, she could and would forgive him, but she wouldn't like what he had to do. Bellatrix would pay for this. It was her fault somehow that Percy had been hit by that stray hex. Now the woman wanted Harry! He promised that he would hide nothing from her, no matter how painful it was to tell. Ginny appreciated that, and told him that she could handle it. Well, she could. Couldn't she? For now, yes. "There's one thing you didn't count on, Bella dear," Ginny said aloud, still watching Harry's retreat. "Harry is mine. He's the only one that understands me after what happened with Tom. I'll not share my man longer than I have to."

The youngest Weasley smirked as she began fantasizing the many ways that she would like to torture Bellatrix Lestrange. A plan came to mind. It was simple enough. Once Harry had what he needed from the woman, she would do what needed to be done to avenge her brother's death and the molestation of Harry! "Ginny!" a voice yelled. Blast! It was Hermione. She looked at her friend and nodded a crisp hello. "Harry said that you were here."

"As you can see," she said sulkily.

Hermione had had enough. Over the past few days, since Percy's funeral, the girl had been looking at her oddly. "Out with it, Ginny. What have I done to you that has you treating me like shit?"

Ginny seemed surprised for a moment. "Nothing intentional, but you still bother me all the same."

"Well?"

"Well what?"

"Well, tell me so that we can work through this."

"I don't like that you are always included in things while I am not. He runs to do your bidding no matter what. I don't like that you carry Harry's scent. I don't like that he gave you his grandfather's ring to put on Snape's finger. The night of your wedding, he had promised me he would return as soon as he took Ron to see Luna. Where did he go instead? I always wonder if he had once fancied you, and if he still does on some level," she said hotly. "There! Is that what you want to hear? Want to gloat about my insecurities now?"

"How ridiculous!" Hermione said angrily. "You know, Ginny, Harry has enough on his mind right now to not have to worry about his girlfriend's uncalled for jealousy and selfishness. I just saw him, and he seemed so dejected. Told me to come keep you company while he and Severus go... do their thing." Harry stepped around into Ginny's line of vision when she turned away. "Harry loves you. He and I are only friends. Of course he would come to my wedding, Ginny. I'm like a sister to him, and both Ron and I would run off to do his bidding at any time. Yours too," she said softly, hating that she had sounded so unkind.

"You're right," Ginny said. "It's just a lot right now. Percy approved of Harry. Right before he died, he told him so. Harry held Percy as he passed on. I can never lose him, Hermione. I just don't know how to keep him. I don't know what competition I truly have. I mean, he'll be graduating soon. Where will that leave me? I'll still be here for another year. He'll be off playing Quidditch without me."

"Ginny, I don't think that Harry wants to play Quidditch any more. And I must confess, there is nobody that can compare to you. Not in Harry's eyes. I know what's going on with Bellatrix. Severus said Harry threw up because what he'd done had made him sick. Just give it some time. He'll find a way to wait for you. Trust me."

"Hermione, you are so wise. Do you know that? You always sound so logical and honest. I wish that I could be more like that," replied Ginny, wiping a lone tear from her cheeks.

"No, you don't, Gin. If you were more like me, then you wouldn't have attracted Harry," Hermione said with a sly grin. "Let's go up to my old chambers and pack some more of my things away to bring to mine and Severus' chambers. It'll pass the time for us until they return."

"Sure thing, Madame Snape," Ginny said cheekily. The girls made their way back to the castle. Each silently wondered what thoughts were going through their lovers' minds. Ron came walking up.

"Oi, either of you see Draco about?" he asked.

"He was up on top of the Astronomy Tower earlier. Said he wanted to be alone," Hermione said with a shrug. "I think he's really messed up inside. You know, from what happened with us at the Higgs' home, and then he was worried about his father as well. Maybe he'd rather talk to you, Ron, being a guy and all."

"Er... right. I guess I'll go on up then. Hate for the bloke to be alone if he's needing someone to talk to," he said quickly, turning to walk away from them. Ron hadn't seen Draco since the day before when they'd had that strange talk. He sort of missed the bugger. He quickened his pace until he was nearly at the top of the stairs. Softly, he opened the closed door before making his way out. It wasn't as cold, and it hadn't snowed lately. The air was crisp and cool, but with the sun shining so brightly, it was quite comfortable. Draco was leaning over on the ledge with his elbows propped up in front of him to hold his head up. He seemed to be in deep thought. Ron grinned at his mate. He'd never seem his so calm before. "Draco?"

"Hi," he said, not turning to look at him.

"Why've you been hiding out, mate?"

"You know why," he said tartly, smirking at Ron finally.

"Look, you've a lot on your mind. Don't worry on it. Honestly," Ron said clapping his friend on the back. "How about we sit down, right here, right now, and we talk. You tell me everything that happened over at that Terence bloke's house, and if there is something you want to add in about your dad, well, I'll listen to that too."

Draco looked at Ron. He was right. Maybe they should talk about it. It might bring out some reasoning as to why he suddenly felt so attracted to the red head. Of any wizards at Hogwarts, a Weasley would be the last he would want. Right? Hell, he didn't want any wizards, yet for some reason, lately, when he masturbated, showered, or laid down for bed, he thought of Ronald Weasley. There were many thoughts: his big goofy grin, his idiotic outbursts, his odd logic, and his funny way with words. What the fuck did this mean? Was he gay? What about the girls he'd been with? Sighing, Draco began to speak. Might as well mention it all.

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

"All right. Those Muggle type devices are going to pick up anything we do or say, so you be sure to keep your mouth closed and keep your Invisibility Cloak on at all times," Severus said. "All we do is put this potion along the stones on the outside of her cell."

"You get that acidic stuff you were searching for then?" Harry asked dumbly.

"Yes, Harry," said Severus in an irritated manner. "We wouldn't be able to use it otherwise, would we?"

"Severus, how are we going to stun her and spell the wall to crumble? We can't speak aloud for fear of having our voices being caught on tape," Harry pointed out. "If I use Parseltongue, I'll be a suspect."

"We'll just do them silently. They won't have the strength that they would if we'd chant them aloud, but it'll serve its purpose. I'm going to stealthily have this pour itself in an area large enough to fit one of us in at a time. After it settles for a few moments, we'll each issue a Blasting Curse at the very spots. Both of our hexes combined should sufficiently crack open the weakened wall." Severus began pulling on his cloak. "Remember, Harry. Usher no sounds. Silently stun Bella whilst I handle any guard trying to enter from her doorway. Levitate her outside, and I will follow. We will then Disapparate to our four different spots as we've previously planned. If they are still on our trail after the fourth one, then we will have to fight. We can't let them trace us back to Hogwarts."

Right then," Harry said. They'd gone over the plan already, but it always helped to hear it again. "Let's go get our witch."

---

Southern's Notes: I decided to stop it here as the first portion of the next chapter all went with it.

What about Harry? Wow, huh? I think something more is going on inside of him, and that Bella is bringing it out. So, how do you all really feel about Draco? Think he likes Ron or...? There will be some Bella/ Harry interaction (you know the kind... but it won't be too much). Just a fair warning. I wonder what Ginny has planned though. Wink.