The finding of Hermione
Chapter 4 of 5
sinbadWhat drives a woman to war? How does it become a personal matter?
ReviewedChapter 4 The finding of Hermione
After three miserable weeks Hermione became quite ill. Her treatment was savage: Raped at the whim of whichever Death Eater happened to be bored at the moment, nothing to eat and little water to drink. She lost weight and was dehydrated. The cold, damp dungeons had worked an insidious job on her. The damp, moldy air she had crept into her lungs, making it difficultto breathe, and violent coughing wracked her battered body. Sleeping was impossible between the nightmares and coughing. All hope was lost each time her body was used. Too weak to fight anymore, all Hermione wanted was death. Preferably quick, if not painless.
Malfoy was bored with her already. The girl was a shell of what she had been. For Lucius it was like a chess game. He ruined her mind, destroyed her body, and the best part was her giving up hope. That was, in his opinion, check and mate. The Dark Lord wanted a blow to the Order and most especially to Harry Potter. Returning her to her friends half-dead would do the trick. Even if she lived, it was more than likely her mind would be damaged forever. With any luck, he would be rewarded most handsomely for his efforts. Even if his job didn't earn any recognition, he did was amused by her pathetic cries and struggles. Snatching her right from under Dumbledore's meddlesome nose made all the Death Eaters laugh. His daring got him some respect from the inner circle if nothing else.
Malfoy noted it was almost midnight. Things should be quiet at Hogwarts, he mused while indulging himself with a glass of port. He decided it was time to bring things to a close with the Mudblood in his dungeon.
Hermione had fallen into an uncomfortable doze. She woke up from a harsh kick to the ribs. She curled into a fetal position trying, to protect her head and ribs from any more blows. Her breathing was raspy and shallow with a distinct wheeze to it.
"Get up, filth! I'm finished with you." Malfoy kicked her again, screaming at her to get up. "I'm done with you, useless thing that you are! Get up, you are leaving now!" When he saw that his only response from her was going to be a few whimpers, he snarled, reached down, and pulled her up by her arm. He noted her skin was dry and burning. He lowered the wards to his estate and Apparated them to an area near Hogwarts.
They walked about five hundred yards when he finally spoke, "We are quite near the wards on the Forbidden Forest side of the school. So sorry I cannot escort you to the door, as it is not in my best interests." With that, he shoved her. She slid down a rocky hill, her body landing at an painful angle, blood seeping from her head.
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Severus noted it was about three in the morning when he finished his meeting with the headmaster. Since it was so late he decided not to go to bed. He was restless and needed an outlet. Hermione's disappearance was eating away at him. He'd heard nothing from the Dark Lord, and he worried if his spying days were almost over. He was aggravated with the chit's kidnapping, and Potter and Weasley were more annoying than usual. They were watched constantly without their knowledge so they wouldn't go on some damn fool hardy mission to rescue their friend.
Professors Snape and Flitwick had searched Hogsmead; Locator Charms were used, and every proverbial rock was kicked over looking for the girl. The Aurors also did everything they could do as well. The Headmaster tried to aid them, but there was simply no trace of Hermione. Word was sent back to the school, and most of the staff came running to help in the search. All future Hogsmeade visits were canceled until further notice; unfortunately it was a day late and a Galleon short to help Hermione, but it would keep other students safe. Severus knew the Death Eaters had her and shuddered to think what they would do to her. He even wondered if she was still alive. All of little-miss-know-it-all's classes were affected. Her brains kept all of her teachers hopping; the other students couldn't seem to answer the simplest of questions without her. Hermione was the driving force of classrooms as well as the trio. Damn, he thought, Potter is falling apart at the seams because of his missing girlfriend. He passed a window in the hall, noted it was a full moon and decided to gather some herbs. The activity would do him some good.
The night air was cold so Severus cast a Warming Charm. He glided into the Forbidden Forest, melting into its darkness. He walked to the far side, deciding to gather Moon Flowers and Lavender. While the Lavender grew wild all over, the Moon Flowers were in only one area of the Forest he knew. He reached his destination and gathered enough of the herb to fill most of the inner pockets of his cloak. He was about to head back to the castle when he noticed some of the plants were disturbed. No one went out this far other than him, and there was nothing to note beyond those plants. Curiosity aroused, he decided to take a look.
What he saw shocked him. Not believing his eyes, he carefully maneuvered himself down the steep incline until he saw the Granger girl. He wasn't even sure if she was still alive, but he wouldn't, couldn't, leave her like this. Severus was finally able to reach her. Noting she was breathing, even if the chit's breath was shallow, at least she lived. Hermione was covered in bruises, her right ankle was obviously broken, and he suspected her ribs as well. Merlin alone knew what else was wrong with the girl.
"Hermione," he softly said, "wake up. You are safe now. I need to get you to the Hospital Wing." Severus was used to terrorizing students, but this wreck of a girl wouldn't be able to handle any roughness.
Hermione started sobbing. She must have been delirious because the Potions master couldn't clearly understand her. She repeated over and over, "No more, please no more," in a broken voice. To his absolute horror the girl tried to crawl away from him. She was terrified so badly that even in her deplorable, pityful condition she was trying to escape her torment.
Time was of the essence. The girl was in dire need of medical help. He made his decision quickly. Severus put her in a modified body-bind; she would not be able to move on her own, but he would be able to carry her, cradled against his body. The Headmaster needed to be notified, so he sent his Patronus ahead. Help would be waiting for them the moment they arrived back to the castle. Severus carefully scooped her up into his arms, watching her eys her eyes glaze over; he could feel her frail body shaking through the spell. Severus draped his cloak around her to warm her and for the sake of her modesty.
He must have made some impression on her, as he repeated, "You are safe, no more harm will come to you," like a mantra. Tears streamed down her face, but she did stop struggling against the spell. Hermione went limp in his arms, allowing whatever faith she had left to be shown. She still shivered, but she accepted the spell to minimize any damage that could be done by struggling, as he suspected she would have done.
He was not surprised to see not only Poppy, but Albus and Minerva as well, all waiting for them to return. Poppy took one look at Hermione and with troubled eyes brought her to the Hospital Wing. She immediately started running diagnostic spells, clucking with disapproval, and retrieved many potions from her supplies, including potions for pain, Skele-Grow and a Dreamless Sleep potion, among others. Albus, Minerva and Severus were waiting for news about Hermione on the opposite side of the curtain.
"However did you find her, Severus?" Albus asked incredulously.
Minerva watched him, her eyes brightly shining with emotion. Severus took a deep breath, sighed and told them about his herb gathering that turned into a rescue mission.
Poppy finally emerged from behind the curtain. She cast a Silencing Charm to be certain they would not be overheard, called for Dobby and placed an order for chamomile tea and biscuits. When everything arrived she finally sat down, ready to face her co-workers.
"Hermione is very ill. She has several broken ribs, a broken ankle, a concussion, soft tissue damage and bruising over most of her body as well as pneumonia. She is also dehydrated and malnourished. I gave her a potion to prevent pregnancy and any sexually transmitted disease she may have been exposed to. I can only guess at the horrors Hermione was put through and if she will be able to recuperate mentally and emotionally. It is obvious that she was tortured with the intent of breaking her: I think she will live, but it is touch and go at the moment. No matter what happens, she will never be the same girl we all knew."
Minerva had tears streaming down her face; Albus looked troubled, and to a person who did not know Severus well, he appeared to be cold and withdrawn, but in reality, he was plotting revenge on behalf of the girl.
True evil had befallen a student in his care, on his watch. He felt a certain amount of guilt, as he was a chaperon for a Hogsmeade trip and she had been taken from right under his nose. Severus, true to his nature, assumed all of the responsibility for the current situation. Professor Flitwick might have been there as well, and the students had separated when they should have stuck together, but Severus didn't even think on those bits of information. He blamed himself, as he did every time Voldemort or one of his loyal Death Eaters did an evil deed.
Minerva was the first to speak the question weighing on everyone's mind. What should they tell Harry and Ron? Harry was not ready to face Voldemort yet, and news of his friend's mistreatment might push him over the edge. Severus harrumphed. Filius made the suggestion to say nothing except she was found, which was immediately discounted, and Albus finally made the decision to tell them what was needed only. Poppy's only suggestion was to let Hermione set the pace since no one knew everything.
The discussion lasted until dawn and was ended with hoarse screaming. Hermione had woken up in pain and terror.
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My thanks to charmed3. She spends a lot of time polishing my work and correcting my punctuation.
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Latest 25 Reviews for Semper Fi, Hermione
21 Reviews | 8.43/10 Average
i'm glad Ursula is helping her. Please update soon.
Response from sinbad (Author of Semper Fi, Hermione)
I swear I'm trying, I got a few bad hits in real life and am dealing with a few issues. Hopefully, the fates will let me catch my breath for a update.
Response from HermioneWeasley1972 (Reviewer)
I promise not to bug you. :) This is a great story. You are being very realistic about it.
Sad update but glad she was found.
Response from sinbad (Author of Semper Fi, Hermione)
Yes, she has a rough road ahead of her. Hopefully I'll be able to update soon. Thanks for the review.
Wow, this is brutal.
Response from sinbad (Author of Semper Fi, Hermione)
Yes, it is. However, I believe in happy endings.
Good beginning. I found this by doing a random story pick, so I am in trigued.
Response from sinbad (Author of Semper Fi, Hermione)
Thank you for the compliment. Real life has me busy at the moment but I do intend to finish this story.
Oh my gosh, you have me hooked.
Response from sinbad (Author of Semper Fi, Hermione)
Thank you, obviously this is my first dark fiction. I do promise a happy ending but it will be slow coming.
i don't know what to say. but thank you for sharing your vision.
Response from sinbad (Author of Semper Fi, Hermione)
Thank you for taking the time to comment. I hope you enjoyed the story.
Response from sinbad (Author of Semper Fi, Hermione)
Thank you for taking the time to comment. I hope you enjoyed the story.
Playing Devils' Advocate (just to warn you): I wholeheartedly agree that in the US, the defense lawyers put the victim of rape "on trial," as it were, which is what prevents many rape victims from coming forward. On the other hand, we have a very nasty trend in the United States of women who "cry rape" just to destroy a man's reputation and career. So it has become a necessity for defense lawyers to try to reveal if that is the case in a rape trial. In other words, "Is the rape victim telling the truth?" Not every woman who claims she has been raped has in fact been raped. Unless there is physical evidence (DNA if the man was careless, signs of a struggle like torn skin, bruises, torn clothing), the DA and the defense has every right to ask the question if the woman is telling the truth. Many honest men's careers, futures, and families have been destroyed because of this. What of the men whose lives are effectively raped by women with false claims?Rape is an awful thing, and women should be safe from such sickness. However, there are sick men in this world. It is the reason why I don't walk alone in certain areas of Los Angeles at night. If I was walking alone in a bad area, got raped, yes, the defense has every right to ask "Why were you so stupid as to be walking alone there at night?" Because, in this society, you do something (that you SHOULD have every right to do, but because of the dross of society CAN NOT do) that stupid, you are in fact inviting trouble. You walk at night in that area of Los Angeles, you are in fact saying, "Come and get me." And let's take the issue of clothing. Why do women wear revealing, hardly anything there, g-string showing, short-short skirts that show their twat clothes? Because they want men to notice them. It is the only reason. They want to look hot. For whom? Their mothers? Themselves, when they look in the mirror? (Do they wear that shit when they are lounging around watching TV?) No. They want to look hot for a guy, dance seductively, feel wanted, tease them a bit, make the guy want her... it is THE ONLY reason. Okay, so they SHOULD be able to dress like that if they want to (never mind that most of us don't want to see it), but it is rather stupid. Because there WILL be that one nut-job that sees her and rapes her because he's been teased one inch too far that night. So, is teasing a guy like that fair to HIM? Do any women actually THINK that what they are doingwhen they dress like that, reveal body parts, rub themselves up against a guys' body while they're dancing, but it's all in fun and it will go nowhereis FAIR to the guy they are doing it to? Does the woman deserve to be raped for that? NO! (I'd double-underline that if I could.) But (if you are reading this calmly and objectively as my 'Devil's Advocate persona is presenting it), here you can see WHY a prosecutor will ask these questions. The asshole should still rot in a jail cell for raping the woman, YES, but that woman should feel ashamed of her own behavior.Of course, there are women innocent of any of those behaviourswho haven't dressed raunchily, who haven't walked down that certain street in that certain bad area because they felt they had a right towho have been raped and still get the third-degree on the stand. And for that, the defense attorneys should be flogged for being scum-sucking bottom feeders and be dis-barred./devil's advocateNow for my review of your chapter: This was a very poignant chapter. I could feel Hermone's distress most keenly, and Severus' too. He wants to help her so badly, and that is truly commendable. I'll admit to missing a couple of earlier chapters, so I didn't read what happened to Hermione, and I will go read those. But her pain is real, what happened to her was awful, and no matter how it came about, I hope she heals and someone gets revenge for her (if it's not her, herself; though I'm kind of hoping Severus will do it).
Response from sinbad (Author of Semper Fi, Hermione)
Thank you for the review and the devil's advocate points. I was brought up with the belief that even the cheapest, low level hooker has the right to say 'no' and that belief has flavored my thoughts on sexual assault. As you pointed out women wear sexy clothes to be noticed by men. This is quite true. However, men also wear after shave, dress attractively is it not for the same purpose? Of course it is. You have made several valid points. Our legal system has good and bad points and I'm sure there are women who cry rape for her own reasons. These women make it even more difficult for true victims to be taken seriously and should be shot on general principle.I had hoped to get people thinking with this story and I can't thank you enough for the comments you made. For the purposes of the story I'm keeping things straightforward in a black/white view with no shades of grey. Please don't take this to mean that I'm discounting your points, in fact I agree with some of them in a limited way. I'd like to point out that the laws are stacked against women, it is fairly recently that women have rights at all. For many years women were thought of as property owned first by her father then her husband. I remember that a great-aunt of mine went to buy a house and she couldn't sign a morgage contract, her husband (they were seperated) had to do it for her. Rape laws need a major overhaul (as well as many others I'm sure). Women's liberation was a good first step but women still are not seen as equal to men in many areas including equal pay for equal work. At least we can buy a home now.Again, you made valid points and I hope you aren't disapointed that not all of them are addressed. This is the longest, most well thought out review I have yet to recieve in this or any other story. Thank you for taking the time and effort as this review gives not only me but everyone who looks at the reviews made something to think about. Which, by the way, was one of my goals for this story.I hope you will continue to read this story and enjoy it. Maybe by the end of it a few people will find something worth thinking about. As I continue writing this story you may be sure I will be remembering your comments. Hopefully this story will live up to your expectations. Thanks again, sinbad
Response from notsosaintly (Reviewer)
Oh, I am and will be in no way disappointed if any of the points I made aren't addressed. And I don't feel discounted at all if someone agrees with them in whole, in part, or not at all. There are a lot of areas I did not even touch, and it would make an extremely good discussion/debate in the proper venue. I hardly ever give my viewpoint because for the most part people who voice their opinions do so to make someone agree with them. I have views and opinions, but my policy is 'to each his own', and whether someone agrees with me or not ... it doesn't bother me at all. So no worries there.I will in fact go back to the beginning and read your story in full so as to get the complete picture, because this one chapter made me think and drew me in that completely. And I have no expectations, because as a writer myself, I know it is up to you to create the vision and I am happy with whatever picture you choose to divulge. :)
Response from sinbad (Author of Semper Fi, Hermione)
I know what you mean, some day if we ever have a chance to meet I suspect we could talk for hours... enjoy!
Response from sinbad (Author of Semper Fi, Hermione)
Thank you for the review and the devil's advocate points. I was brought up with the belief that even the cheapest, low level hooker has the right to say 'no' and that belief has flavored my thoughts on sexual assault. As you pointed out women wear sexy clothes to be noticed by men. This is quite true. However, men also wear after shave, dress attractively is it not for the same purpose? Of course it is. You have made several valid points. Our legal system has good and bad points and I'm sure there are women who cry rape for her own reasons. These women make it even more difficult for true victims to be taken seriously and should be shot on general principle.I had hoped to get people thinking with this story and I can't thank you enough for the comments you made. For the purposes of the story I'm keeping things straightforward in a black/white view with no shades of grey. Please don't take this to mean that I'm discounting your points, in fact I agree with some of them in a limited way. I'd like to point out that the laws are stacked against women, it is fairly recently that women have rights at all. For many years women were thought of as property owned first by her father then her husband. I remember that a great-aunt of mine went to buy a house and she couldn't sign a morgage contract, her husband (they were seperated) had to do it for her. Rape laws need a major overhaul (as well as many others I'm sure). Women's liberation was a good first step but women still are not seen as equal to men in many areas including equal pay for equal work. At least we can buy a home now.Again, you made valid points and I hope you aren't disapointed that not all of them are addressed. This is the longest, most well thought out review I have yet to recieve in this or any other story. Thank you for taking the time and effort as this review gives not only me but everyone who looks at the reviews made something to think about. Which, by the way, was one of my goals for this story.I hope you will continue to read this story and enjoy it. Maybe by the end of it a few people will find something worth thinking about. As I continue writing this story you may be sure I will be remembering your comments. Hopefully this story will live up to your expectations. Thanks again, sinbad
Response from notsosaintly (Reviewer)
Oh, I am and will be in no way disappointed if any of the points I made aren't addressed. And I don't feel discounted at all if someone agrees with them in whole, in part, or not at all. There are a lot of areas I did not even touch, and it would make an extremely good discussion/debate in the proper venue. I hardly ever give my viewpoint because for the most part people who voice their opinions do so to make someone agree with them. I have views and opinions, but my policy is 'to each his own', and whether someone agrees with me or not ... it doesn't bother me at all. So no worries there.I will in fact go back to the beginning and read your story in full so as to get the complete picture, because this one chapter made me think and drew me in that completely. And I have no expectations, because as a writer myself, I know it is up to you to create the vision and I am happy with whatever picture you choose to divulge. :)
Response from sinbad (Author of Semper Fi, Hermione)
I know what you mean, some day if we ever have a chance to meet I suspect we could talk for hours... enjoy!
Of course Severus would assume the guilt. Above all else he is truly honorable. Though the story is dark, you are leaving glimpses into the true character of Severus that gives hope to the readers that there may be a happy ending waiting. Well done!
Response from sinbad (Author of Semper Fi, Hermione)
I totally believe in happy endings! I'm glad you like my version of Severus. Thanks for the review!
Sad, but very interesting. I am eager to see how Hermione will pull herself together after such a tragedy. A real angsty piece. I love angst! Good work, I hope you update often!Livvy
Response from sinbad (Author of Semper Fi, Hermione)
Thanks for the review! I try to update as often as I can (I am a few chapters ahead of my beta) but real life hits hard often as my wonderful beta is a very busy lady.
I am so happy you updated! A sad story - but I look forward to what happens next!
Response from sinbad (Author of Semper Fi, Hermione)
Thank you for the review. I have been sitting at my computer for hours waiting for the story to post as I have yet to get over the excitement of posting and reviews. Yes, the story is sad at this point but things will improve later on. Hermione is a very strong person and she will avenge herself in the end. I hope you will enjoy the future chapters as they post.
Hurry up with the next chapter!
Response from sinbad (Author of Semper Fi, Hermione)
It's with my beta as we speak...be forwarned chapter four has some intangable element that creeped me out.
Response from Mysty (Reviewer)
Judging from the events of the foregoing chapters, creeping out the reader is the whole point. This is starting to remind me of some of my favorite female authors: Bradley and Lackey come to mind. Good job!
Response from sinbad (Author of Semper Fi, Hermione)
Concidering I know how well read you are, I take your comment as quite the compliment.
Great job, sinbad. Those boys are up to no good!
Response from sinbad (Author of Semper Fi, Hermione)
Thanks Mom!
oh my I hope she lives to kick their asses. And that they get to her in time. She is tough she will survive this. With the help of her friends.
Response from sinbad (Author of Semper Fi, Hermione)
Of course she will, she just has a rough road ahead of her, but like you said she is one tough lady. She will be an inspiration if I have my way *winks*. Thank you for taking the time to review!
Response from sinbad (Author of Semper Fi, Hermione)
Of course she will, she just has a rough road ahead of her, but like you said she is one tough lady. She will be an inspiration if I have my way *winks*. Thank you for taking the time to review!
oh goody a story with drama and suspense. I wonder what Lucius wants with her. I guess I will find out soon enough.
Response from sinbad (Author of Semper Fi, Hermione)
I hope you will enjoy my future chapters. Thank you for the review!
Response from sinbad (Author of Semper Fi, Hermione)
I hope you will enjoy my future chapters. Thank you for the review!
Its amazing that you have time to write with all the stories you read and review. And how awesome your stories turn out too. I believe this one is going to be a favorite of mine. Onto the next chapter.
Response from sinbad (Author of Semper Fi, Hermione)
Thank you, I have to admit it is tough, but I really love to write even if my beta has to smack me up side my head to make my stories worth reading. Lol. Thanks for the review as they make my day!
Response from sinbad (Author of Semper Fi, Hermione)
Thank you, I have to admit it is tough, but I really love to write even if my beta has to smack me up side my head to make my stories worth reading. Lol. Thanks for the review as they make my day!
About time someone points out that half the drama in the books wouldn't have happened if the boys had just used common sense and done what they were supposed to!
GREAT beginning and I cannot wait to see where you take this!
Response from sinbad (Author of Semper Fi, Hermione)
Thank You! This story is all about a few things, but mostly about ane particular woman, Hermione regaining control of her life.
I thought that chapter was really good!I love the stories where Severus is watching out for Hermione.I hope you update soon!
Response from sinbad (Author of Semper Fi, Hermione)
I am very happy you enjoyed the first chapter! I have the first four ready for my beta so you should be seeing more soon. Thank you for taking the time to review, they really make my day and inspire me to keep going. ~sinbad~
Squeeeeeeeeeeeee!!!!Look at you!
Response from sinbad (Author of Semper Fi, Hermione)
Squeeeee!!!! I would not be here without you! 
oooOOOooo...
Sounds like it's getting good...
Keep it up!
Response from sinbad (Author of Semper Fi, Hermione)
Thank you for your kind words! I expect this to be a longish story and I hope you enjoy the ride! ~sinbad~ 