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Chapter Text

The infirmary was in total chaos, Hermione's condition was serious, and after the impact of the curse something had changed about her. Her long, curly hair had become black and straight, and her eyes were a light blue.

Her case was a priority, no one else was so seriously injured, Madam Pomfrey did everything she could to heal her, but her injuries were too serious, and she would be left with a scar that stretched from her chest to her hip.

Many people were confused by her appearance, which was too similar to Professor Snape's to be a coincidence. And after the nurse treated her, she sent someone to bring him to see her to clarify the situation.

"Severus, it's good that you arrived so quickly, we have an unusual situation on our hands," she said.

"What is it? " he said impatiently.

"I think it would be better if you saw it with your own eyes."

When Severus brought his eyes to look at her, he was shocked, the girl looked exactly like him, except for the eyes, blue eyes that could only belong to one person. He was stunned, unable to say anything, the shock was too profound.

Then Albus entered "oh severus, it's a good thing you did join, I can say that I was a little surprised when I saw Miss Granger, or rather miss Snape." he said

"I, I..... I don't ... I didn't know, she never told me anything."

"Oh yes, dear Aurora, I could recognize those eyes anywhere" Albus said sweetly "But you have to decide what you're going to do about this, I don't think the dark lord will be pleased" suddenly getting serious.

"I, I don't know what to say..." Snape said

"you have to go to Him , you can't hide this now that the glamour is broken, and you have to be by her side, it won't be easy" the old man said

"I, ... yes" he raised his Occlumency walls and finally regained his composure. "but he will want to meet her, I can't do this, he will use her in his plans, for merlin's sake, she is Potter's best friend "

"You must Severus, you must, she will help us in our plan, she will be our weapon " the old fool said

"No, I won't let you, I won't let her become another pawn in your game"

"oh, Severus, but it's her choice, and you know she'll do anything to protect Harry"

"I... "

"You will do as I tell you, you will let Tom use it in a way that will help us"

In all their arguing, Hermione regained consciousness.

"Professor....I, what's going on? "

"Miss Granger, it seems you had some glamours put on you, and because of the curse they broke, Hermione dear, you are not muggle born "

"Professor, you are wrong, my parents are muggles, they are dentists, and...you are wrong" the panicked girl said

"I'm afraid not Miss Granger, just look at you a little and you will surely see the truth" Dumbledore said

"I, I, I,.... I look like.... I don't understand,...I, what's going on, sir?"

This time it's Snape who speaks: "Miss Granger, it seems that you have been subjected to a glamour, which was broken as a result of the curse, and your true appearance has been revealed, and it is impossible not to notice that you are my daughter, but to be sure, we can prove this using a potion, Familio Revilo, but for me there is no doubt that you are my daughter"

"I,....yes, I would like the potion"

He left the room quickly and after a few minutes he returned with a potion and a parchment, without saying anything to the girl he took some blood, pricked a finger and applied the potion on the parchment with a droupe of her blood. After a while the names of her parents appeared on the sheet: Severus Snape and Aurora Rosier.

"Is it true, how is it possible to be true Professor? My, my perents are muggles"

"It seems not, Miss Granger," said the Headmaster.

"Miss Gr.....Hermione, I am your father, the potion tells the truth, but, I don't know how. I didn't know Aurora was pregnant, she never told me, ...she died in the first war" Snape said.

"My whole life has been a lie"

"Hermione, your parents are still your parents, and your life so far has been real, you are after all the brightest witch of your age, I'm sure this detail you've found out won't change that," said Dumbledore.

"Hermione, I don't know how you got to the Grangers, but if you want we can find out together, I.. I want to be here for you in whatever form you will allow me to be."

"I'm not sure what I want. For now I want to rest, then I think I'll talk to my parents and see if they can tell us anything about this situation. Could you come with me, sir, if you want? "

"We will do whatever you want, Hermione"

"Great, now that we've established that, Miss Granger, you should continue to rest, tomorrow you can go home to your parents together and see what you find out. Severus, you know where you should go now."

"Yes, Albus. Hermione rest, we will talk more tomorrow." and with that he left.

Chapter Text

Severus was angry, first of all he didn't know how the Dark Lord would react to this incident, and he had to do everything he could to protect Hermione, both from Voldemort and Dumbledore, he couldn't let her become anyone's pawn.

Then he remembered Dolohov, whom he wanted to tear to pieces for what he did to his daughter. That means he has to please the dark lord with something to allow him to do that.

When he appeared at the gates of the manor, he was greeted by an elf who led him to the room where Voldemort was staying.

"My Lord," Snape said, getting down on his knees.

"Severus. What are you doing here?"

"I would like to inform you about the events that took place after the battle at the Department of Mysteries, my lord."

"I have already punished those who failed to bring me that profecy. But, what can you tell me, Severus, what happened?"

"one of the students was hit with a curse by dolohov, it seems that she had some glamours put on her and it proved that this she is my daughter, mine and Aurora Rosier's, i didn't know about her until now. I thought it would be best to let you know about this immediately. "

"A daughter you say, who is this student who turned out to be your daughter?"

"Hermione Granger, my lord"

"Potter's mudblood, well not so mudblood anymore. Ah, she will be useful, yes, you will bring her to me."

"My lord, she is badly hurt, I would prefer her to stay in the infirmary a little longer if you can allow it, my lord"

"Well, so be it, i will allow it, but the moment she is felling better you will bring her to me, no later then the end of the week."

"Yes, thank you my lord"

"You may go now if you don't have anythnig else to report. I look forward to meeting your daughter severus"

And with a stern bow he left, worried, not knowing how best to resolve the situation in which he was stuck.

Chapter Text

The next day Snape went to the infirmary to see Hermione

"Hermione, how are you feeling?"

"I'm better, sir."

"We need to talk about this, but maybe it would be better to talk to your parents first, maybe they can shed some light on how this happened"

"yes, ok professor. Can we go now? I want to know what happened, and then I think I'll have some questions for you"

"Very well, let's go "

They walked together to the gates of Hogwarts so they could appeareted to the Grangers.

"Is this your first time apparating?"

"Yes, sir"

And then he appeared carefully in front of the Grangers house.

"Hermione, we need to be careful how we approach the situation, you look different and it may be a shock to your parents too, if Aurora is the one who hid you, she probably covered her tracks well, it's possible they have a spell on them too"

"I.., yes, sir"

And she went to the door and knocked, her mother opened the door, a little confused.

"Hello. Who are you and how can I help you? I...Hermione?"

It was Professor Snape who spoke. "Hello Mrs. Granger, I am your daughter's Potions Professor. I have come to discuss something with you if you would be so kind as to allow us inside."

"oh, yes, please come in."

"Mrs. Granger, something happened and your daughter was hit with a curse, a pretty strong one, which broke some glamours that were placed on her...."

Mrs. Granger interrupted, "What are you talking about, where is Hermione and how is she, is she okay?"

"Mom, it's me. Professor Snape is telling the truth, I participated in a battle and a curse struck me, when I was transported to the infirmary I looked like this, this is my true appearance"

"Oh dear, I should have recognized you by your eyes," Mrs. Granger said as she went to hug her child. "I'm sorry Hermione, we should have told you the truth a long time ago. One evening 16 years ago, a friend of mine came in scared with a baby in her arms, she told us in a hurry that something had happened and that it was very important that we take care of you, that you were special. She didn't tell us who the father of the child was, we assumed she was the mother. Aurora was a good friend of mine, we had known each other since we were girls, but she rarely came to the neighborhood anymore."

"So you knew and never told me, you let me think I was muggle born to be bullyed by the other children, knowing there was a possibility my parents were wizards. You should have told me since I got my letter, or at least since I was growing up. Why didn't you ever do?"

"My dear, I'm sorry, I know we should have told you, but it was so abrupt, I don't even know what happened to Aurora, I haven't seen her since that day, I'm really sorry."

"so you can't tell me anything else about this situation?"

"I, no, that's all that happened"

"ok, I think I want to go now, Professor. Mom, I think I should collect my thoughts for a while, then maybe we can talk again"

"Hermione, I'm really sorry, but you have to go home, it's almost summer vacation after all. I'm sorry I can't tell you more about the situation, Aurora was a dear friend of mine when we were girls, but after that we didn't really keep in touch, and after that night I never heard from her again."

"She died in 1981," said Professor Snape.

"Ah, I, I'm sorry dear that you won't meet her, she was a very good person"

And with that Hermione stood up and started to walk towards the door, looking at Professor Snape waiting for him to follow her.

"Thank you Mrs. Granger, I will take Hermione back to Hogwarts, but we will keep in touch and see where she ends up staying during the summer holidays. Have a good day."

After they apparated, Hermione noticed that he did not take her to Hogwarts but to an unknown neighborhood.

"This is Spinner's End, my house, I thought it would be best to discuss certain things in private."

"Ok, but I don't really know what to think right now"

"Hermione, I know your mother probably didn't give you the answer you wanted, and I'm sorry, but we need to clarify the situation and see how we proceed from here."

"What do you think, I can't believe you're too excited about this yourself?"

"Maybe, I can say that I didn't expect this, Aurora didn't tell me anything, but I would like to have any role you allow me in your life, I know you already have a mother and a father, but at least let me play a role in your life ass well. I just want to protect you, Hermione, and it's going to be hard."

"I don't even know how I should address you."

"You can address me however you feel comfortable, either Snape or Severus or even father."

"Maybe Severus for now"

"Very well. Do you want me to tell you a little about Aurora?"

"I suppose"

"We were friends in hogwarts, she was there for me during some tough times, this friendship became more at one point, but she didn't support the dark lord, and I made some mistakes, in the end she left, and I never heard from her again, I suppose she did it to protect you, I'm sure she loved you very much. Aurora was a very good person, she always wanted to help everyone, very smart, you could find her all day in the library studying or reading something, but she could also be fun, always knowing how to get you out of a bad mood, she was almost perfect. But her family also put pressure on her, being pureblood, and me halfblood they didn't agree with our relationship, although they were happy with the idea of me being part of the dark lord's inner circle, they would never have let us get married, even if we had wanted to. I cared about her, and I regret it now, that I didn't choose her instead of the dark lord, it was a mistake and I will never forgive myself for, but I want you to know, Hermione, that you are my priority no matter what."

"So you want me to be your daughter?"

"Hermione I wouldn't want anyone else to be my daughter, you're beautiful and smart, even with those idiot friends of yours, you're perfect in my eyes my dear and I'll do anything for you, and I'll want any relationship you'll allow me to have with you"

"okay"

"We need to talk about something more serious now. I spoke with the Dark Lord."

"Are you selling me to your master already? ....I, ....I'm sorry, that was uncalled for"

"It's okay, Hermione, you have to understand that I have to play a role in this war and I can't do anything about it, but I will do everything in my power to protect you from either the Dark Lord or Dumbledore, I will not let you become a pawn in their game."

"What did he say, you know who?"

"He wants to meet you, he knows you're friends with Potter, he'll probably want to take advantage of that, I'll try to prepare you for that meeting, but unfortunately I won't be able to get you out of it, and he won't wait forever. I'd rather you spend the summer here so I can teach you Occlumency among other things."

"I suppose I can do that, and as for spending the summer here, I think it's for the best, I wouldn't want to go home anyway. What does Dumbledore think of it all?"

"The dark lord and Dumbledore are not so different, both will want to use you for their own purposes. Dumbledore was the one who told me to speak to the dark lord about what happened, and he in turn wants to use you. Hermione, I will do anything to protect you, but I don't know if it will be enough, it is a difficult situation, and your connection to Potter does not help the situation. That is why I want to ask you, that when I ask you to do something, that you do it, because I only have your own interest in mind, is that clear?"

"I would do anything for Harry, you know that."

"I know, I'll try to help him too, but you're my priority."

"I will do what you say"

"Good. Now I think it would be best if we returned to Hogwarts, we've been gone for quite some time and I wouldn't want the headmaster to ask any questions."
and with that they apparated away.

After they apparated to Hogwarts and started walking towards Gryffindor tower, Hermione remembered that she had to catch up with her friends.

"Sir, what will I tell my friends?"

"You can tell them the truth, but don't mention anything about the dark lord, I need to talk more with Albus and we'll see how we proceed regarding him, but otherwise you can tell them whatever you want"

"ok, thanks for walking all the way here, I should go see how this conversation goes. I guess I should also write to my parents that I won't be coming home for summer vacation either."

"Yes, that would be best. You can start packing now, we'll be apparating to Spinner's End at the end of the week." and with that he left, leaving Hermione alone in front of the portrait

Chapter Text

Upon entering the Gryffindor Tower, Hermione noticed that most of them had already gone home for the summer holidays, so she went upstairs to the boys' dormitory to talk to Harry and Ron, and maybe even Ginny. When she reached their door she knocked timidly and waited for someone to open it. It was Harry who opened it and he looked at her in confusion.

"Umm, hey, how can I help you? I...Hermione is that you?

"It s me, I have so much to tell you, let me in so I can explain, I guess Ron is here too?"

"Yeah, ok"

"So, it seems i had some glamours put on me and when dolohov hit me with that curse they broke. I woke up in the infirmary with professor Dumbledore and professor Snape who were talking, i was confused about what happened then they gave me a mirror, when i saw what i looked like i panicked, i guess you can see the resemblance between me and someone else. Professor Snape brought a familia rivilio potion and it solved the mystery of my paternity, my biological parents are Severus Snape and Aurora Rosier. It was a shock for me, i didn't know i was adopted. The professors let me rest after that, then today i went home to talk to my parents, apparently a friend of my mother's named Aurora left me with them in a hurry saying to take care of me then she disappeared. So basically my parents have been lying to me my whole life and professor Snape is my biological father and my biological mother has died in 1981. And now I'm very confused and don't know what to do..."

"Hermione, I'm sorry, I'm glad you're okay. Now I understand why we weren't allowed to visit you."

"Who didn't allowed you to visit me?"

"Both Snape and Dumbledore"

"I guess it's understandable considering the situation. I'm so angry at my parents that I agreed to spend the summer with Snape."

"umm"

"Please tell me something about the whole situation."

"You're almost going to tell us they're going to resort you into Slytherin," said Ron, a little annoyed.

'"It's not like I chose this, Ron. I don't know what to do, I'm actually glad I don't have to go home, I don't know how I would have resisted being with my parents after they lied to me my whole life, but I don't think spending the summer with Snape will be very good either, it's too complicated for me to even think about it."

"You can always come to Barrow Hermione, you know that, and you'd definitely be better off than at that git" Ron said.

"I don't think I can, Ron, I think I'll give him a chance too."

"He's been treating you terribly for 5 years Hermione, what chance could you give him, plus he's a Death Eater" Ron said angrily.

"It's not that simple Ron, and you know Dumbledore trusts him" said Hermione

"However, there's still a git, you've got a little more and you're going to tell me that you have to take the dark mark for him, to become a little death eater, you'd like that too, wouldn't you?" Ron shouted, becoming more and more angry.

"Mate, you know it's not Hermione's fault, stop being like that. Hermione, you know I love you no matter what, you're my best friend." Harry said trying to calm down the situation

"Thanks Harry, you know I'll always be on your side no matter what happens between me and Snape."

"I know"

"So, we're just going to ignore the fact that you'd rather spend your summer with that evil git than with us?"

"Ron, you know that's not the case, but it would be best if I stayed with him and handle this situation."

"That's probably what he's saying" after saying this Ron left the room slamming the door

"I..."

"He'll come around eventually, Hermione, I trust you. And ultimately, you want clarity and this whole Snape situation. I may not trust him, but Dumbledore does, so there's probably some good in him, besides the bad things he's done to us so far. But we can't forget that he's a double agent, and I don't know what Voldemort would do after he finds out, I just want you to be safe, Hermione."

"I won't let them use us against each other. You are my brother Harry in everything but blood, and I won't let Voldemort use me against you, no matter what, you know I won't betray you, right?"

"I know, love" then Harry stepped towards her and took her in his arms, placing a kiss on her forehead.

Chapter Text

At the end of the week, Snape waited at the entrance to Gryffindor Tower so he could take her home to Spinner's End.

"Hello, Severus"

"Hermione, do you have everything you need?"

"Yes, I think so."

"Good. We must be going"

The walk from Gryffindor tower to the main gate of Hogwarts was silent, no one knowing what to say. As soon as they passed through the gate Severus apparated them away into his home.

"So, let me show you the house a little, as we enter we have a living room, I guess it's to your liking as it's full of books, the kitchen is quite spacious, there's a bathroom and down here, in the basement is my lab I'll show it to you over the summer, if you go up the stairs you'll find a series of rooms, the first one on the right is mine, followed by an office, then on the left is your room, I took the liberty of adding some things to it, I hope you like it, if not, you can change whatever you want"

When Hermione entered her room she was surprised by how much she liked it. The room was spacious and the walls were filled with books from different fields organized appropriately, the furniture was elegant and feminine compared to the rest of the house, the roomy bed, the desk that had all the necessary utensils, and to her surprise, it had a special place set aside that already held some pretty elegant robes and outfits that are worn to formal dinners in the wizarding world.
She turned to him in surprise and smiled, clearly seeing on her face how much she appreciated the gesture.
She took another look at the clothes and noticed how modern they were and they were exactly her size. She had always seen her classmates in clothes suitable for a young witch but she had tried to be proud of her Muggleborn status and wear Muggle clothes, but now that had changed and everyone would eventually find out.

"Thank you," she said in a shy voice.

"I didn't know if it would be to your taste. I hope you like the robes, I thought you might need them in case you can't wear muggle clothes in certain circumstances, but you can always buy others that suit you better."

"They are very beautiful, thank you. And the room is splendid, just to my liking."

"I'm glad. You can look around, unpack and make yourself at home, then I'll wait for you in the living room, we have some things to discuss."  and so he left.

Hermione looked around, appreciating that he had used Gryffindor-specific colors, although he had also slipped a little Slytherin in some places. She leafed through some books, then unpacked her things, took a shower in the adjacent bathroom, changed into appropriate attire, and plucked up the courage to go downstairs.

After seeing her, he immediately motioned for her to take a seat on the couch.
"Would you like some tea or something to eat? "

"I'm not hungry, but I could drink some tea." With that he immediately brought her a cup.

"How do you drink your tea?"

"uh, just a little milk, thanks" then he made her tea without saying anything else. After Hermione had made herself comfortable and had drunk some tea, Snape cleared his throat and addressed her.

"We have some things I'd like to address. I've also spoken to Albus these days, even though I can't say I agree with him, though.He wants you to infiltrate the Death Eaters, first as my daughter, and if the dark lord gives you the opportunity, Albus thinks it's best that you obey his wishes and become a spy for the order."

"He wants me to take the dark mark"

"Yes,"

"I don't know if I can do it."

"To be clear, I don't want this for you, but I don't think the dark lord will give you many options, considering he insisted on bringing you before him, plus you're friends with Potter, you could be an asset to him.The headmaster wants us to take advantage of this, and do everything in your power to get among the Death Eaters, then report everything back to the Order"

"It will help Harry, and he knows I will do anything for him. Obviously that's what Dumbledore would want."

"Hermione is very dangerous, you realize that. I don't want you to put yourself in unnecessary danger for Potter. Unfortunately, there's nothing I can do to stop you from joining the Death Eaters, but you have to realize what it will take to get the mark, you'll have to hurt people, maybe even kill them."

"yes, I know, but I don't care, I'll do whatever I can to help him Harry, I think you know that too"

"Yes, I know you can be stupid from time to time. Your friendship with Potter will eventually kill you if you're not careful."

"I will be careful"

"First I'll have to teach you Occlumency, to be both safe and secure from the dark lord and Albus, so don't think he won't try to get into your head."

"Do you think I can learn if Harry couldn't?"

"I don't doubt it at all, Hermione. Another thing we need to talk about. I'll have to go to Gringotts, and at the ministry, I have to give you access to my account and recognize you as my daughter, which means you have to change your name from Granger to Snape. If you want to convince the Dark Lord that you're on his side, he'll need to see that you've severed all ties with the Muggle world. I also think it would be good to do something about your parents, they should leave England for a while, they won't be safe here"

"I, ...yeah, you're right, I guess we'll do that."

"Hermione, I know it's hard, but you have to make a choice, you can't appear to be on the side of the Order while I'm a spy for them, but if you really think you can't do this, I can hide you and your parents for the duration of the war. I don't see what other options there could be."

"No, I ca do this, I can't hide, I have to help Harry in any way I can. After all, with your help, I'll make it, right?"

"Hermione, you can do anything and I will always support you in any way I can."

"Thank you "
I'm not sure when I'll have to bring you before the dark lord, probably as soon as possible. In the meantime, I'm sure you'll master Occlumency, just be careful not to reveal anything important. But at the same time, you have to be prepared for what you'll see, you'll have to appear obedient, I'll ask you to listen and do only what I say, you'll have to address my as "father", just convince him that now that you have your true identity, you're on his side. You'll address him as "my lord", and otherwise it would be best not to speak to anyone, especially not without being addressed, do you understand?"

"Yes. When will we start Occlumency? "

"Tonight after dinner, in the meantime I will give you a book and ask you to meditate a little, to try to free your mind."

"Okay, I can do this."

"Take this, read it carefully, you can stay here or go to your dorm. I have some things to take care of, I'll see you at dinner."

"Okay, bye Severus"

Chapter Text

Dinner was a quiet affair, after, Severus led Hermione into the living room and explained the basics of Occlumency to her and let her ask any questions she had after reading the book.

"Now, try to keep me out of your head, and if I find an important memory, try to distract me with another one in case you can't get me out."

she nods as he said "Legilimency"

His presence pressed against her thoughts, cold and deliberate, searching for weakness. Hermione clenched her jaw, forcing herself to focus. Memories flickered — the library, her friends, fear — she shoved them down, building walls of logic and control. The pressure grew, but she held firm, pushing him out until the weight lifted. Snape stepped back, eyes dark with something like approval.

"That was perfect for a first try, now see if you can pick which memoirs to watch, trying to distract me from your real secrets."

Hermione braced herself, but this time she had a plan. She didn’t try to empty her mind — she filled it. Memories burst forward in a rush of color: sunlight in the courtyard, the smell of parchment, laughter in the common room. They glittered like shards of glass, bright and harmless, masking the ones she truly feared to reveal.

He moved through them, silent and swift, sensing the trap but unable to find the thread beneath it. The deeper he searched, the more noise she gave him — endless, vivid memories of books, lessons, and the safety of routine.

"I think you could be a natural. But you must be very careful, distraction can hide truth, Hermione but it can also expose it. We'll keep repeating until you get to change certain details in your memoirs, but another day. For today you were perfect, you made me very proud. I don't think I've ever seen anyone resist so well at Legilimency, especially on the first try."

"Thank you very much, Severus." she said happily, knowing she had impressed her father, who usually doesn't compliment easily.

But as soon as she said that, Severus made a strange face, which made her instinctively look at his arm. He was summoned, that could only mean something, the dark lord wanted to see her or had a task for her father and she didn't know which one was worst.

"Hermione. Please go to your room and change into some formal robes. I will go to the dark lord alone, but it is possible that this summoning is about you, so you must prepare for the possibility that I will return to take you with me. Dress appropriately and meditate, free your thoughts."

"ok, please be careful." the girl said, after which her father immediately disappeared.

-

As soon as he apparated to Malfoy Manor, he was welcomed by an elf who led him to the dark lord's study.

"Oh, Severus, how wonderful to see you. Tell me how your daughter is, how has she settled in?"

"My lord, she is very well, she has settled in perfectly at my house and has accepted me completely as her father. "

"How wonderful indeed" after a long pause he said "Tomorrow night you'll come here again and bring her with you so we'll have dinner with the Malfoys, yes?"

"Yes, my lord."

I also need your assistance with a potion. The Restitutio Vir must be perfect. I require precision. My… current form is insufficient.”

"of course, my lord"

"You will have to prepare it by tomorrow at noon when you will need to bring it to perform the ritual, after which you will return for dinner with your wonderful daughter."

"Yes, my lord."

"You may go." and with that severus disappeared.

-

At Spinner's End, Hermione was waiting for Severus on the living room sofa. When he appeared, she suddenly jumped off the sofa and went to meet him.

"We'll have dinner tomorrow night at Malfoy Manor with the Dark Lord. I have a potion to brew tonight."

"What potion are you brewing tonight? "

“An intricate blend of regeneration and deceit. The Restitutio Vir. "

"Wh....."

"Hermione, I'm sure you've heard of it before. Demands balance—one part life, one part illusion. It doesn’t heal; it hides the damage beneath a more acceptable mask.”

"The Dark Lord wants to return to his human form," Hermione says quietly.

"yes, and he wants it by tomorrow at lunch, so I have to hurry, if you want you can accompany me to the lab, but you can't touch anything, just look"

Hermione began to follow Severus as he began to walk towards the lab. Although terrified of what this potion meant, she would assist her father out of pure curiosity.

Severus began to organize everything, take out the ingredients and prepare the potion step by step.

“Phoenix ash for renewal. Basilisk venom for permanence — though diluted, or it will destroy the host. Moondew essence to bind flesh and magic. A drop of the caster’s own blood, to anchor identity. Powdered unicorn bone, for stability of form. And finally, a mirror of true silver — not an ingredient, but the vessel through which the new shape takes hold.”

Hermione watches her father carefully as he prepares the potion, and as he finishes boiling it, then retreats to her room, thinking about what awaits her the next day.

When she wakes up, Hermione is already starting to panic, thinking about the day ahead. She slowly gets ready, takes a shower, changes into a suitable outfit and goes downstairs. She finds Severus reading in the kitchen, while she notices that breakfast is already ready and placed on the table under a spell to keep it fresh and warm.
She sits at the table next to Severus who looks up at her and signals her to eat. While she helps herself to food, Severus also makes her a cup of tea. Only after she has finished eating does Severus begin to speak.

"I'm not sure what he'll ask of you, but you have to be prepared for anything. It's very important to stay calm and composed, as well as keep your Occlumency walls up high. I hope he'll give me some more details in a few hours when I go to him, I expect the ritual to take a long time, so I don't know how much time we'll have to discuss tonight."

"I think I can keep my walls up, I've been practicing non-stop since you taught me. Who else will be at Malfoy Manor?"

"well, he didn't mention it specifically. but it will be the 3 Malfoys, it's possible the Lestranges will be present too"

"Oh, okay. Is there anything else I should know about tonight?"

"Always be on your guard, don't speak unless asked, and always do what I say, and if the dark lord tells you something, you must show him respect, no matter what and fulfill his request. if you don't listen to him the punishment is Crucio for a few minutes maybe more .It depends, so be careful. But mainly, you don't have to give him any reason to do this. Is that clear? "

"I, yes"

"Good"

"Will he want me to take the mark soon?"

"I cant be sure, but nothing can be ruled out, that's why you always have to be careful"

"Does Draco have it?"

"Yes, it was a birthday present, to thank Lucius for his victory at the Department of Mysteries."

"And the Draco wanted it?"

"Draco does what he's told, and anything to make his father proud, but no, he didn’t particularly want it"

"Oh"

"Indeed"

After a few more questions, Hermione retired to her room to read a book, and Severus left for Malfoy Manor.

Chapter Text

He enters the shadowed chamber where Voldemort waits, his serpentine gaze fixed on the vial.

“Perfect,” Voldemort hisses, his voice low, a mixture of anticipation and command. “Place it before the mirror.”

Snape sets the vial at the edge of the polished silver, keeping his own movements precise and controlled. He gestures toward the mirror, ensuring it captures every shimmer of the draught. Voldemort steps forward, his form tense but patient, eyes locked on the reflection.

Slowly, he lifts his pale hands, allowing the vapors to curl around his limbs. Snape watches silently, ready to intervene if the magic falters. The potion seems to pulse, silver mist clinging to Voldemort’s elongated features. Scale recedes, skin smooths, and his visage begins to resemble the human form of his younger years — sharp cheekbones, pale yet flawless skin, piercing dark eyes, and a controlled, almost aristocratic posture.

The air is heavy, charged with both the potency of the spell and Voldemort’s will. Snape observes every detail, noting where the transformation holds and where the shadow of the serpent lingers. The ritual ends with Voldemort standing fully in his reclaimed human form, a silent nod of approval his only acknowledgment before the Dark Lord turns, voice cold and commanding:

“Severus, the next phase begins.”

"Yes, my lord, I am glad I could be of service to you."

"You have pleased me greatly, Severus, I have a surprise for you and your daughter tonight."

"My lord?"

"Oh, Severus, for it to be a surprise you'll have to wait until tonight."

"Yes, my lord."

"How is Hermione doing today, excited for tonight I guess?"

"Of course, my lord"

"Well, I'm sure my surprise will delight her."

"Thank you very much, my lord, for your attention."

"Oh, you are my most loyal servant after all. It's getting late, you should go home, tell dear Hermione that I can't wait to see her tonight. "

"Yes my lord" and with that Snape disappeared in panic

When he got home he found Hermione in the same place he left her. Knocking lightly on the door, he entered, seeing the concern on his face Hermione stood up abruptly.

"What is it, what happened?"

"The potion worked perfectly, the dark lord became human again. The problem is that he was too excited about tonight, he said he had a surprise for us. And I have no idea what it could be, but nothing good you can tell."

"Well, maybe everything will be fine, my walls are well put up, he won't be able to see anything compromising. Neither for us nor for the order. And tonight we'll see what happens. I've already chosen the clothes I'll wear, I guess I need to look like a perfect pureblood rather than a mudblood, so I'll try to be as formal as possible and I will listen to whatever you say, and I will be respectful, and we will be okay "

"I hope so too, Hermione," he said dejectedly, then he approached her and took her in his arms, saying, "just let me hold you for a little while." then he kissed her forehead lightly saying "I can't lose you Hermione now that I've come to have you. You're my daughter, and I want you to have the best life possible. I wish you'd let me take you as far away from the war as possible, but I understand that you want to stay and protect your friends"

"Everything will be fine tonight, I'll be good, he wouldn't have any reason to hurt me, father." at her words, he hugged her a little tighter then let go and left her to get ready for their dinner.

An hour later, Hermione came downstairs, and found her father dressed in Death Eater robes sitting on the couch waiting for her. When he looked up and saw her, all the emotions were visible on his face, seeing his child dressed in pureblood robes, didn't sit well with him, knowing she's so much more than that.

"You are beautiful, my dear. Are you ready to go?"

"I suppose so, but I am nervous"

"Everything will be fine as long as you follow my instructions and everything the dark lord says."

"let's go"

And so they disappeared from Spinner's End and apparated in front of the main gate to Malfoy Manor, where an elf was already waiting for them.
Hermione looked around in amazement, now understanding why Draco was such a snob, if this was where he had grown up. The manor is gorgeous, and the surrounding garden is simply magnificent. When they entered, the atmosphere is heavy and formal, with grand halls lined by portraits of severe ancestors. Dark wood paneling and flickering candelabras give it an oppressive, elegant feel. The drawing rooms are large, with high ceilings and ornate furniture, but everything is polished to a chilling perfection. Shadows gather in corners, and the air always seems charged, as if the manor itself watches its inhabitants.

And after passing through most of the manor they arrived at the room where the dark lord was with the Malfoys and the Lestranges.

"Oh, how wonderful, Severus has arrived with his beautiful daughter. Come dear I have saved the seat on my right, your father can sit on the left"

"Good evening, my lord," Severus said, but the dark lord ignored him, instead he walked behind Hermione and pulled out her chair for her to sit down.

Everyone was shocked by his gesture, and Hermione said softly, "Thank you," barely a whisper.

No one dared to say anything else until the dark lord sat down again. Then he turned back to Hermione and addressed her.

"So tell me, my dear, what do you think about what happened, what's it like to be Miss Snape?"

"I,...very well, my lord, my father helped me settle in very easily."

"I'm so glad to hear that." no one knew what to do, the Malfoys didn't even look at her, and Bellatrix was glaring at her.

"I hear from young Mr. Malfoy that you were always first in your year, the brightest witch of your age, isn't that so?"

"I suppose so, my lord."

"Oh, no need to be modest, dear, after all, you're the brains behind the golden trio, or so they say, right?"

Hermione blushed in her panic, not knowing what to say, but the dark lord continued

"But now that you've found out where your true level is, you're on my side, on your father's side, aren't you?"

"yes, my lord, I stand wherever my father is"

"that's not enough" he said harshly

"i,...,i am on your side, my lord"

"And why is that, darling?"

"Because my potential is too great to remain with the order, I can do great things, my lord."

"Oh, I'm just so happy, I hope you make me proud, darling."

"I will my lord"

"How enthusiastic, I'm glad, and I'll make sure you have the opportunity to prove yourself to me. You will be wonderful for me, won't you?"

"I am to please you, my lord."

"Well, I have a surprise for you, a gift, for your father's devotion, but I think it would be a good way for you to prove yourself to me, what do you say, darling?"

"Yes, thank you, my lord."

"Bella, go and get Antonin."

At that, Hermione's heart stopped for a minute, in her panic, she looked at her father, who was looking at her suggestively, in a way that would make her listen and remain calm.

"my darling, get up and come to me"

Hermione stood up without saying anything else, and just then, the doors to the room opened and Bellatrix entered with Dolohov.

"Antonin, Antonin, I still have to thank you, thanks to you I made this discovery, but the curse you hit her with was quite serious, wouldn't you say that, and I specified that no one be hurt, I guess you could see how unhappy this makes me. I was originally planning to let dear Severus do what he wanted with you, but since I've heard how excited Hermione is to follow me, I think it would be a good exercise for her to demonstrate this to me, don't you agree?"

"Yes, my lord"

The Dark Lord came up behind her and began to whisper in Hermione's ear.

"My darling, this man hurt you, I was told about your wound, I'm sure you would want to punish the guilty one, especially if that would please me, wouldn't you?"

"I, yes my lord"

"Great, take out the wand, I think a little Crucio will teach Antonin some lessons, what do you say?

"I, my lord?"

"Come on Hermione, you know what I want from you. You should know that Unforgivable Curses are not so different from the rest, it's the intention that counts, and that shouldn't be a problem, because you want to hurt the man who hurt you first, who marked you with a permanent mark, right?" he said, now standing right behind her, and moving one of his hands to her waist and the other to her wand.

Hermione now looks at her father, who gives her a firm look, suggesting that she must fulfill the Dark Lord's wish.
so hermione pointed her wand at dolohov and began to say the curse.

"Crucio" she said firmly and to her surprise, she succeeded the first time, and Antonin fell to the ground, screaming in agony.

At the sound of Dolohov's scream, the dark lord smiled and began to hold Hermione tighter around the waist, whispering something in her ear.

Severus looked helplessly at the events unfolding around him, wanting to kill the dark lord who had only spoken to his daughter all evening, caressing her with beautiful words, and now holding her with her back pressed against his chest and stroking her waist. The image was imprinted in Severus's head, who could only imagine what the dark lord wanted from his daughter.

After a few minutes the screaming stopped, but after a few words spoken by the dark lord in Hermione's ear, she cursed him again and again and again.

After what seemed an unbearably long time to Severus, the scene stopped, and the Dark Lord led Hermione back to her seat, pulling her chair closer to his, and leaving Antonin on the floor in pain.

"Severus, I am so delighted with your daughter, she pleased me greatly this evening. I think you will have to bring her to the manor more often, after all you can't keep her locked up in Spinner's End, yes? "

"of course, my lord"

"Bellatrix I think you should take the trash out, after all you're the one who brought it here." said the dark lord, and Bellatrix without saying anything stood up, giving Hermione a look that could kill and levitated Dolohov outside

"Severus, what did the old fool tell you regarding this situation?"

"My lord, he didnt say anything, I don't think he considers it such an important aspect, being so focused on Potter."

"And Hermione, your friends, how did they react?"

"I, well, they weren't too pleased, my lord."

"Oh, what a shame. So I guess you won't be very welcome in Gryffindor?"

"I don't believe so, my lord."

"Great, I think there should be a resorting, after all, in the new school year you'll be back as Hermione Snape, right?"

"Yes, my lord, I will take my father's name."

"Well, after the events of tonight, I'm sure you'd be more suited to my house in Slytherin, wouldn't you say the same? I'm sure your father would be proud too"

"Whatever do you think is better, my lord"

"Severus, I'm sure you agree that Hermione needs a resorting?"

"Yes, my lord."

"Then it's settled. I'm sure young Mr. Malfoy will help you settle in."

"Yes, my lord. Everyone in Slytherin will welcome her warmly"

After they had dinner, some more formal discussions took place, after which Hermione and Severus were preparing to leave when the Dark Lord came and asked for a moment alone with Hermione.

"Severus, will you give me a moment alone with your daughter?"

"sure, my lord"

The dark lord led her through the garden, where it was quite dark, carefully, saying nothing for a while. After they had walked far among the roses, the dark lord stopped her by grabbing her waist and looking at her with a fixed gaze.

"my darling, over the summer, i think you'll be spending quite a bit of time at malfoy manor. i want to tell you again what a wonderful surprise you were to me tonight" then he plucked a white rose and handed it to her.

"You will do anything for me, won't you, darling?"

"yes, my lord" she said softly looking at the ground. but he notices this and brings his hand to her chin to make her look up in his eyes.

His hand moved from her chin to her cheeks, now bringing both hands to hold her face fixedly, her eyes fixed on his.

He held her like that for a few moments that seemed more like minutes, then he said

"we should go back, it's late and you need to get home. We wouldn't want your father to worry while he waits, imagining what we could do here in the dark"

she shivered at his words.
and he put his hand back on her waist and began to lead her back. the walk back was done in silence, and when they reached the rest, he squeezed her waist a little tighter, then let her go. Hermione went into her father's arms and they disappeared together.

Chapter Text

When they arrived at Spinner's End, Hermione collapsed into her father's arms and began to cry, not knowing how to process everything that had happened, and Severus began to gently massage her head, trying to calm her down.

"my love, everything is fine, you are fine, you did very well, shhh, leave everything out, you can cry love, everything will be fine, I'm sorry I couldn't protect you, I didn't expect it to be like this with you, I expected him to be indifferent, I think that potion brought a little humanity back to him, otherwise I don't understand, I've never seen him behave like this" severus said slowly

"Sev...., dad, I don't know if I can resist, he was constantly standing over me, behind me, he always found a reason to touch me, and the things he whispered in my ear, I can't...no....I tortured someone, I left them passed out on the ground in so much pain, I don't even recognize me anymore, and all the things I said to him, came so naturally to me, I can't believe what I did" Hermione whispered

"Hermione, my love, you did a great job, you did everything you had to do, you protected my spy cover and you managed to leave there unscathed. Dolohov did a lot of bad things in his life, he wasn't an innocent person to feel sorry for. I understand that the first unforgettable curse is hard, but you'll be okay in the end Hermione, you can do this."

Hermione began to hug her father even tighter, finding comfort in his arms, she cried there for a while, until she recovered and was able to get up, Severus offered her a glass of water, then went up to the bedroom and let her take a long shower to recover, saying that when she was ready to come down he would be waiting for her in the living room, as they needed to discuss everything that had happened this evening.

After several hours of crying in the solitude of her room, Hermione calmed down and went downstairs, where she found her father drinking tea in the kitchen. When he noticed her entering the kitchen, he began to prepare a cup of tea and a small plate of food for her.

"How are you feeling?" Severus asked her seriously.

"I been better, thanks for the tea," she said softly.

"I'm sorry I couldn't warn you about what happened tonight, I didn't expect him to be so interested in you."

"Well, why was that, I never imagined the great Lord Voldemort to be so free with his touches," she said, a little annoyed.

"honestly I really don't know, you're right, until now he didn't allow anyone to be that close to him. he wants something from you, that's clear, and he definitely won't let me figure it out or tell me. he will try to distance himself from you and spend time alone with you, you have to be very careful if he really gets into such a situation. "

Hermione said nothing so he continued.

"What did he want, before we left, when he led you through the garden?"

"Well, he started off by saying that I would be spending a lot of time at Malfoy Manor. Then he told me that I was a nice surprise for him, gave me that white rose. After that he asked me if I would do anything for him, I said yes, but I was looking at the ground so he brought one of his hands to my chin just enough for me to look at him, then he brought his other hand up and held my face lightly, fixing his gaze on me. We stayed like that for a short while, then he told me that we should go back because it was getting late. And that he didn't want you to worry about what we might do alone in the darkness of the garden, after he said that he grabbed me by the waist and took me back to you"

Severus was speechless for a few moments, he never expected the dark lord to have such interests in his daughter, not even for a second. He imagined that he would use her against Potter and then have her as an advantage against him but nothing else.

"I'm so sorry my daughter, I never imagined anything like this. I don't know what his purpose is, and I'm afraid there's nothing I can do to protect you from him. At least the things he suggests, I'm so sorry you're being put in this situation."

"It's okay, I can say that no one expected this. The Malfoys didn't even make eye contact with me. Only Bellatrix was looking at me, sending knives with her gaze. The rest all seemed stunned and speechless."

"I don't know if I can do anything about his advances, I don't know how. And if I tell Albus, he'll tell me that you have to do whatever you can to help the Order, which would mean doing whatever the dark lord wants to get him to trust you, so that you can learn something useful. And I don't want to give you, my beloved daughter, into his clutches, nor do I know what that would mean for you, but I don't think it would be any good. If you were to allow him to make these advances, you would only anger Bellatrix, who is already suspicious of me. She's the only one the dark lord has brought into his bed"

"I don't know how I'll do it either, although I don't really have a choice. And in the end, I'll make any sacrifice if Harry survives."

"Please don't be stupid my daughter, it's dangerous, he's dangerous. And this double life you're going to have to play is hard. It's going to look like you betrayed your friends, who will end up hating you. And I'm sorry for that, I would give anything for you to be happy and safe, but I don't know how I can protect you, other than getting you away from this war, away from the dark lord, safely."

"You know I don't want to disappear, I have to be here and I will do everything I can to stop this war. You know this, I will not abandon my friends, even if it seems like it"

"Yes, that stupid courage that makes you a Gryffindor, unfortunately. I beg you, Hermione, if you are ever in the presence of the Dark Lord alone again, be very careful what you do."

"yes dad, we will survive in the end. I won't let anything happen to you either"

"Don't be stupid Hermione, don't ever give up your life for me. That's my job as a parent to protect you, not the other way around."

"I will not let anything happen to you, or to anyone else I love. No matter what I have to do for the dark lord, I will protect you."

Severus stood up and hugged her tightly, saying softly, "You and that big heart of yours, Hermione. Don't forget to protect yourself too."

"I will dad" Severus began to hold her tighter, his eyes starting to water after hearing her start addressing him as dad.

Chapter Text

"Hermione, I've been thinking, I think I should teach you how to duel both with and without magic," Severus said one day while they were eating lunch.

"Okay, when do we start?"

"As soon as you finish eating, you can come to my rooms, there's a gym on the left, we can practice there, dressed appropriately."

"I'll be there in a few minutes."

"immediately after finishing eating, Hermione went to her room and tried to find something to wear suitable. After she got dressed and tied her hair up so it wouldn't bother her and headed towards severus's rooms"

Severus Snape stood in the center of the room, arms crossed, his expression unreadable. Hermione stood opposite him, her wand trembling slightly in her grip.

“Confidence, Hermione,” he said coolly. “If your hand shakes like that, you might as well hand your wand to your opponent and ask them to hex you first.”

Hermione straightened her back, tightening her hold on her wand. “I’m ready.”

Snape’s lip twitched. “We’ll see. Wand combat is not about cleverness. It’s about instinct. You think too much. In a real duel, overthinking will get you killed.”

He raised his wand suddenly, faster than she expected. “Expelliarmus!”

Her wand flew from her hand before she could even finish saying “Protego.” It clattered to the floor.

“Again,” he said sharply. “Retrieve it.”

She picked it up, breathing hard. This time, she watched his movements, her mind racing to anticipate.

“Protego!” she shouted as soon as his hand twitched. The spell flared between them, catching his hex.

A brief pause. Snape nodded once, almost imperceptibly. “Better. Now, without magic.”

She blinked. “Without—?”

He stepped closer, his tone low but firm. “Magic fails. Wands break. You must still be able to defend yourself.”

He demonstrated — precise, controlled movements, showing how to disarm, block, and dodge. Hermione tried to mimic him, awkward at first, but determined. Each correction came with a clipped word, a raised eyebrow, or a quiet, “Again.”

By the end of the hour, her hair was falling from its bun, her robes wrinkled, and her arm ached. Yet when she met his gaze, she found a rare flicker of approval in his dark eyes.

“You learn quickly,” he said. “But don’t mistake improvement for mastery. We will continue every morning from now on until you master both forms of fighting."

"You should rest a little, in a few hours I want you to repeat some Occlumency. "

"Okay, Dad." she said exhaustedly

After she left, Hermione went straight into the shower, wanting to relax, then changed into some comfortable clothes and lay down on the bed, starting to read a book.
She didn't even realize how quickly time had passed when she saw Severus standing in the doorway looking at her.

"Hey, dad."

"Did you get to meditate a little or did you just read?" he said, smiling at her.

"just reading, time passed faster. but I'm ready, you know I've come to master it very well after so many lessons"

"How modest you are, I praised you a bit too much and it went to your head," he said laughing.

"After so many years without praise, I think so too," she laughed.

"I want you to try again to alter some small details of your memories, it might be useful to you in the future, but I warn you that I will try quite brutally to find out the truth. It would be a good exercise in case the dark lord wants to get into your head."

"Okay dad."

“Remember,” he said, voice smooth but edged, “alter, don’t erase. Truth hidden beneath a plausible lie is stronger than emptiness.”

She nodded once. “I’m ready.”

“Legilimens.”

The word cracked through the silence. Instantly, his presence surged into her mind — sharper this time, probing, ruthless. Images burst open: the common room, Harry laughing, the warmth of home. She twisted them, reshaping details — Ron’s laughter became Malfoy’s smirk, Gryffindor banners shifted to Slytherin green. Each alteration burned like effort made flesh.

Snape pressed harder. Where is the truth,Hermione? his voice echoed through her mind, disembodied and cold. Her pulse thundered, but she forced calm, burying the real memories under layers of false ones — a chessboard, a potion, laughter that wasn’t hers.

Then suddenly, silence.

Snape withdrew, his face unreadable, though a flicker of reluctant admiration passed through his eyes. “Better,” he said quietly. “You lied to me convincingly. If the Dark Lord ever seeks your thoughts… "

Hermione exhaled, trembling slightly but standing tall. “Then we should continue until I can make even you doubt what’s real.” she laughed

For a fraction of a second, the corner of his mouth twitched — not quite a smile, but close. “A dangerous ambition, Hermione, but we will see.” he said seriously.

"I have to go to Malfoy Manor tonight," Snape said suddenly.

"That's why you wanted us to practice so much today."

"I, yes Hermione, i am worried. Especially since there's nothing I can do to protect you from him without blowing my cover as a spy."

"I can take care of myself, you've helped me enough by doing that. I don't want you to blow your cover for me. Plus I don't think he wants to hurt me."

"I guess he doesn't want to hurt you physically, Hermione, look at how careful he is with you, but that doesn't mean he can't hurt you, and you're my little girl, I would do anything to keep you safe, including giving up my role in the war."

"I know, Dad, but there's really no need, I can manage for now, and besides, it's not that long and the school year will start and he can't hurt me at Hogwarts."

"I hope he doesn't call you this evening, but I doubt it, he'll most likely make me come back for you."

"Well, he said I'd be spending more time at the manor, and he hasn't called me yet, so I guess tonight is the night. Be careful, please."

"I will. I must go, be ready for anything" and with that he disappeared.

Not even 5 minutes passed and Severus returned, with a sad look on his face.

"Dress up, there's a ball at Malfoy Manor."

When Hermione heard these words, she rushed to her room, did her hair and put on a form-fitting emerald green dress that highlighted her curves, with a small neckline that was also quite formal on her, and she put on some simple jewelry and some fairly high heels but with a simple charm for comfort. She looked in the mirror one more time and then went downstairs to Severus.

"You are beautiful, too beautiful, Hermione, what is going on in your head? Do you want to give me a heart attack? I will have to glare at every man in that room and keep you by my side non-stop. Merlin, I don't even want to know how the dark lord will react."

"You told me it was a ball, how did you expect me to dress?"

"I don't know, not like that." said her father angrily.

"Let's go, I guess we're late anyway."

Severus took her arm and apparated away with her.

The iron gates open with a slow, echoing creak. The path beyond stretches long and dim between tall yew trees that swallow the light. The manor looms ahead, pale against the night, its windows glowing like eyes that never blink.

Inside, marble floors reflect the faint shimmer of candlelight. The corridors are silent, lined with old portraits that seem to follow every movement. At the end, heavy oak doors stand closed, and when they open, the sound of music and murmured voices fills the air—the ball at Malfoy Manor has begun.

As soon as they entered the ballroom, all eyes were on Hermione. The men stared at her in awe, while the women looked on with envy. They were soon greeted by the host of the evening, Lady Malfoy.

"Ah, Severus, Miss Snape, I'm so glad you could make it."

"Thanks for the invitation Narcissa," Severus said simply.

"Miss Snape, I'm sure Severus has some business to attend to tonight. I can take you to my son, Draco, I'm sure you'll feel better surrounded by people your own age."

"How very kind of you, thank you, Lady Malfoy." Hermione said, having no other choice.

She said this to her father and followed Mrs. Malfoy who began to lead her towards the Slytherin group in her year.

"Draco, this is Miss Snape as you know, I will entrust her to you to show her around while her father is busy with the Dark Lord."

"yes mother"

As soon as Narcissa left, all the Slytherins set their eyes on her, without saying anything.

"Well Granger, I can say I never expected to see you here. I was quite surprised when the dark lord had me tell him things about you before the dinner you attended."

"Malfoy, I think I was even more surprised, considering everything that happened that night."

"hmm. I should introduce you to the others, Pansy, Blaise and Theo, I guess you remember them, this is Granger or rather Snape"

"Hermione, love, I must say you look divine tonight," Theo said in a suggestive tone, coming closer to her

Hermione laughed softly "well Theo, you don't look too bad either"

"Theo, take it easy, I don't think the Dark Lord would like you talking like that and certainly Snape wouldn't either."

"What is it Malfoy, can't a man appreciate something beautiful?"

This time Pansy intervened "Granger, ignore Theo, he's a big flirt. But can you tell me what brings you here tonight, and what's up with this new look?"

"Well, I was hit with a curse, I had some glamours on me that broke on impact. My parents are Severus Snape and Aurora Rosier."

"What an adventurous summer you had" Blaise said

"Quite."

"and we're supposed to believe you switched sides so easily?" said Pansy

"Considering my parents lied to me my whole life, and let me believe I was muggleborn. Also my friends didn't react so well when I broke the news to them. i guess so. Anyway it doesn't matter what you think, only what the dark lord thinks"

"Yes, about that. What made the dark lord act like that to you the night you were at dinner?" Said Draco

"I honestly don't know."

"How did he behave?" Blaise asks.

Hermione sighed, "I honestly don't know, I wouldn't have expected him to behave the way he did, I don't even know how to explain it..."

Draco interrupted "to put it briefly, he would have fucked her in front of all of us, that close they were"

"Malfoy what's wrong with you" Hermione said angrily

"It's true Hermione, the dark lord doesn't act like that. He's not that close to people."

"i, well, i don't know, i don't know what he wants"

"Besides you, you mean?"

"Don't say that again, Malfoy, what's wrong with you?" Pansy said, a little worried now. "Hermione come on, it'll be okay in the end." She said sweetly

"No, it won't be, and I don't have much choice."

"Well, school starts soon, I heard there's going to be a resorting, and you'll definitely end up in Slytherin. And we'll have each other's backs. You'll be okay." Said Pansy

Hermione wanted to say something but was interrupted by someone putting a hand on her waist. She turned to look and came face to face with the dark lord.

"Ah, my lord, you scared me." she said in a low voice trying to calm down

"Ah, my darling, you have no reason to be afraid in my presence," he said, squeezing her waist. "I suppose these Slytherins were good company while I had some errands to run?"

"Yes, my lord," she said.

The 4 Slytherins looked surprised at the event happening before them, not daring to say a word.

"Now that you've had fun with your colleagues, you have to come with me, I have a surprise for you," he said firmly.

"Yes, my lord," she said, then with a single quick glance at the 4 Slytherins she left with the dark lord.

He led her first through the ballroom, then led her to the door leading to the garden, walking deep into it. And stopping suddenly when they were surrounded by the flowers and the noise of the ball could no longer be heard.

"My darling, I have a gift for you," he said, then took a small box out of his robe pocket.

"Oh, you really shouldn't have, my lord, thank you very much."

"Nonsense, now open it,"

Hermione opened the small box, which contained a rather simple diamond necklace.

"It is very beautiful, my lord, thank you"

"it's a charmed chain, which will transmit a small vibration when I want to see you, it can also be used as a portkey, you just have to say the word 'portus' and it will transport you wherever I am"

"How thoughtful of you, my lord."

"Yes, turn and let me put it on you"

Hermione did as he commanded, and as soon as the chain touched her skin she felt the magic in it. After he put it around her neck, she could feel his breath near her ear and he whispered to her "you know how beautiful you are tonight Hermione, my gift is just a reward for your beauty, I almost can't help but lay my hands on you, my darling. The chain, you should know, can only be taken off by me, and the moment I put it around your neck, it took the shape of a snake. I thought it would send a signal to all those who would dare to lay their hands on something that is not theirs"

After he finished speaking, abruptly, he brought both hands to her waist, almost towards her stomach, and pulled her close to his chest "Hermione, I think I made myself clear when I said you're mine alone. Only I can do what I want with you," he said in a whisper.

He started to kiss her neck, then stopped abruptly but his hands were still exploring her body. "Say it Hermione, you have to say it," he said, squeezing her waist even harder.

"I am only yours, my lord, only you can do what you want with me"

After saying this, he turned her abruptly and brought his lips to hers. And he began to kiss her aggressively, and his hands began to explore her body more and more.

In her panic, Hermione pushed him very slightly and whispered "my lord"

"Oh, my darling, I understand, it's been an intense evening for you. I should get you back inside, we wouldn't want to worry your father, if he saw you disappear like that." He took her by the waist and began to gently lead her back inside.

"Thank you, my lord."

"With pleasure, my darling"

The walk back inside was quiet, and when they entered, her eyes immediately fell on her father, who was looking at her with a worried look. The dark lord led her gently towards her father. Still holding his hand possessively on her waist, sending a message to everyone there, that she was his possession, and not to be touched. The dark lord carefully laid her down next to her father, kissed her hand lightly, and then left, leaving her alone in the company of Severus.

"Are you okay, my love?"

"Yes, father. We just walked around the garden, we'll discuss the rest at home." she said softly

"Very well"

The rest of the evening passed quickly. She made simple and polite conversation with most of the guests, accompanied by her father, after which they said good evening to the host and disappeared home.

Chapter Text

The dark lord s pov from the begining:

The potion restores Voldemort to his youthful form, Tom Riddle — elegant, lucid, yet still carrying all the darkness of his former self. In his mind, thoughts coil like a snake trying to bite its own tail.

At first, everything is control and analysis. He looks at Hermione as if she were an equation. Snape’s daughter. A brilliant, disciplined mind, but moral to the point of absurdity. A puzzle that provokes him, irritates him, and attracts him all at once. He reads her gestures, her tone, her hesitations. He tries to find her weaknesses, because only through weaknesses can he gain control.

She knows things Snape never told me. Every word, every glance could be a key. If I push her… she might reveal secrets I can use. Perfect.

Harry trusts her. He listens to her. If I can bend her, even slightly, I can reach him. Make him doubt. Make him hesitate. He will crumble faster than he knows.

Her mind is sharp, disciplined… I could test her limits, see how far I can twist her will without breaking her. If I succeed, I own not just her, but the proof that I control strength itself.

And yet… she resists. She resists so beautifully that I am curious. I want to understand why. I want to break it. I want… to keep it close. All of it.

Everything about her can serve me. Knowledge, influence, leverage. Even her loyalty to Potter is a weapon I can sharpen.

Inside, Tom is still convinced that “affection” is a lie people tell to justify their weakness. So any emotional flicker becomes something else: curiosity, fascination, a thirst for knowledge. “I want to know what’s in her head. Why isn’t she afraid? Why does she look at me as if she could understand me?”

Chapter Text

When Hermione arrived home, she collapsed into Severus arms, exhausted and scared from everything that had happened. He held her until she calmed down, then he walked her to the couch and gave her a glass of water.

"Hermione, please tell me what happened"

"I,...I don't know if I can,...better use Legilimency because I don't think I'll be able to explain what happened."

"Ok, my love, please bring the memory to the front. "

As soon as she nodded, he entered her mind. He watched every moment between her and the dark lord intently, which took forever.

Snape steps out of her mind with a dark, tense expression, his breath still heavy, a cold fury simmering just beneath control. His gaze locks on Hermione, trying to convey safety, and his voice, calm on the surface, carries the weight of his paternal protectiveness: “You are safe now, Hermione.” In his mind, plans form swiftly: to shield her from Voldemort, to study the enchanted chain, to find any weakness without putting her at risk. He rests a firm hand on her shoulder, not to restrain her, but to show she is not alone, and that every move he makes from now on will be to keep her safe, no matter the cost.

„Look at me, Hermione. You don’t have to fear him."

"I...I'm not necessarily afraid of him, but more of the situation. I don't think his intention is to physically hurt me, he wants something from me, probably an advantage over Harry."

"Everything will be okay, I will find a way to protect you, no matter what I have to do to get it."

"I'm okay, I'll handle whatever it is."

"I know you can my love." he said kissing her forehead lightly and then added, "you should go upstairs and rest, it's been a tiring day for you. Sweet sleep my daughter."

The next morning, Hermione woke up just as tired, but she still went downstairs, where she was greeted by her father with a cup of tea.

"Morning daughter, how are you feeling?"

"I think I'm better now that I've rested."

"Now that you've finished your Occlumency and combat lessons, I was thinking of continuing to brew some ultimate potions, antidotes. But we will revisit the combat ones from time to time, both with and without magic."

"sounds good"

"Okay, finish your tea and then come to the lab, I'm going to prepare some things right now."

"Okay dad"

When Hermione entered the lab, she could feel her father's serious, unwavering gaze, it felt like she was back in his Potions class.

“Tonight, Hermione,” Snape’s voice cut through the still air like the edge of a blade, smooth yet merciless, “you will learn that knowledge without instinct is worthless. Books will not save you when the curse is already flying toward your heart. Only preparation, precision, and control will.” He moved around the table with silent steps, the flicker of candlelight catching the glass vials laid before her—each one filled with liquid that seemed to pulse with restrained danger.

“This,” he said, gesturing to a vial of smoky silver, “is Vaporis Obscura—a defensive mist that clouds the vision and chokes the senses, granting you a few precious seconds to disappear. The green potion, Coagulatum Vivens, will seal a wound faster than any charm if you find yourself bleeding and wandless. And this amber draft, Spiritus Aeterna, will burn through exhaustion and pain alike, but only for a short while. Abuse it, and it will destroy you from within.”

He paused behind her, voice lowering to a dangerous whisper. “You will brew them from memory, under pressure, without hesitation. I will disrupt you. I will provoke you. Your task is to remain steady, to think sharply while chaos breathes down your neck.” His hand rested briefly on the table near hers, cold and unwavering. “Courage is irrelevant without control, Hermione. Learn that"

Snape circled her like a shadow come to life, the faint rustle of his robes the only sound between them. Hermione’s hands trembled slightly above the simmering cauldron, and he noticed, with the faintest flicker of satisfaction. “Focus, Hermione,” he murmured silkily, then with a sudden flick of his wand sent a burst of noise echoing through the dungeon—a metallic crash as a shelf of empty jars clattered to the floor. She flinched, spilling a drop too soon. He moved closer. “A single mistake,” he whispered at her ear, “and your mixture becomes poison. Imagine it burning through your veins.” He leaned over the cauldron, his gaze sharp as glass. “Do you think your enemies will grant you silence while you work? They will scream, taunt, curse—perhaps die before you. You must remain still while the world collapses around you.” He snapped his fingers, extinguishing the nearest candle, plunging half the room into shadow. “Now, continue,” he said softly. “And do not fail me again.”

In the end, Hermione brewed them all correctly, and when she brought her eyes to Snape's, we could see the pride in his eyes.

"Well, you're my daughter after all, you were meant to be amazing. I get more and more proud of you every day, Hermione. These are some very difficult potions to brew, congratulations." And then he came to her and took her in his arms.

"Thank you , Dad." she said sweetly

"These days we will continue with some useful potions to brew and from time to time with some duels combined with both magic and without"

"I can't believe there are only a few weeks left before we have to go back to Hogwarts. I don't even want to look at my friends and see the hate in their eyes."

"Time flies when you have a lot of things to do"

"I guess so"

After the lesson, Hermione retired to her rooms to relax with a book. Finally, she calmed down, exhausted after today. When she was suddenly awakened by the vibration of her necklace. In a deep panic, she went to her father to tell him.

"Father, he called upon me"

"Oh, get ready, and we'll go together."

Hermione went back to her room and started getting ready, she took a quick shower, did her hair and got dressed in some suitable clothes after which she went down to her father.

"I'm a little nervous, are you sure it's a good idea to come with me, after all, didn't you get a summoning?"

"It'll be okay Hermione, take my hand so we can apparate away"

When they arrived at Malfoy Manor, they were greeted by an elf, who led them to the dark lord.

They were led to the dark lord's study. When they saw them, he had a complex expression on his face.

"Severus, I don't remember summoning you," the dark lord said with a cold look.

"Well, my lord, you can understand that it was a little hard for me to let my daughter go alone."

"yes, well, I wouldn't want you to worry, my loyal servant , but I guess you know she's safe in my hands."

"My lord"

"Severus, you can leave now, I assure you that your daughter is in good hands." said the dark lord smiling

"Very well, my lord," Severus said, as he kissed Hermione on the forehead goodbye, then scurried out of the room.

"darling, you know you didn't need to come with him, maybe I didn't specify, but I meant it."

"I'm sorry, my lord, my father just wanted to make sure I got here okay, nothing more, he didn't mean to be disrespectful."

"Well darling, it's no problem, it just means you have to make up to me, wouldn't you like that?"

"Whatever pleases you, my Lord"

"Oh, how happy this makes me, Hermione darling. Come to me," he said suddenly, rising from his chair.

Hermione did as she was told, and the moment she arrived in front of him, he pinned her to the desk, keeping his hand firmly on her waist.

"Tell me Hermione, what are your expectations for the upcoming school year?"

"I can’t help feeling both excited and restless this year. Sixth year means N.E.W.T. classes, and I have to give everything if I want to keep my options open for the future"

"Yes, I remember that ambition. You know, you remind me a little of myself when I was at Hogwarts."

"Oh, thank you, my lord."

"Would you like to have something else to do besides these courses they have, it would just make me very happy?"

"something like that?"

"I gave young Malfoy a little task, I was thinking maybe you'd like to assist him with it?"

"If it pleases me, my lord, yes."

He took a step closer to her, "You know Hermione, sometimes it's really hard for me to resist you. You understand how much effort I have to put in, don't you?"

"of course my lord"

"Then why do you tempt me every time I see you, my darling?"

"That was not my intention, my lord."

"Oh Hermione, I really don't want to punish you, but you can't continue to be ignorant about how men look at you," he said firmly, directly in her ear, taking another step towards her.

"I will be more careful from now on, I beg your pardon, my lord, for my ignorance."

"What sweet words coming from you. What would you do, to show me you're sorry, darling?"

"Whatever pleases you, my lord"

"Oh sweet innocent Hermione, I think you know very well what would please me," he whispered directly into her ear, then he directed his lips to hers, but did not take the step, waiting for her to do so.

Understanding his message, Hermione brought her lips to his. And the moment she took this step, he regained control, pushing her even harder on the desk, and kissing aggressively, letting his hands roam along her body.

The aggressiveness with which he kissed her did not diminish, it became more and more persistent, until one of his hands reached a little between his legs, and in her fear, Hermione pushed away from him.

Seeing her hesitation, the dark lord leaned closer to her ear and whispered, "Tell me, Hermione, has anyone ever had you like I want to have you?"

"No, my lord."

"What a delight, this makes me very happy Hermione," he said as he pressed his body against hers, moving one of his hands to the small of her back.

"You know you can't be anyone else's after I've had you, right Hermione?" he whispered again, leaving his hand on the small of her back to explore her further

"I know, my lord," she said softly as she looked into his eyes.

When the hand on her back reached her ass, he held it tight until he heard a small sound from her. Then he continued exploring her body

Suddenly, he picked her up and placed her on the desk, slightly parted her legs to put himself between them.

Starting to kiss her neck and letting his hands explore her body again, he guided her to arch her back so that she would have a better position.

He didn't stop kissing her until there were marks on her neck, only then did he let go with a smile on his face. After that, he gave her a small kiss on the cheek and then moved away from her.

"We should go to the library, I want to give you something." the dark lord said suddenly, then he took her by the waist and started leading her towards it.

Hermione steps into the library and freezes for a moment, her eyes scanning the towering shelves filled with ancient, leather-bound books. The air smells of dust and candle wax, a rich, heavy scent that makes her heart race with a mix of awe and unease. She runs her fingers lightly over the spines, feeling the weight of knowledge in every volume, and wonders what secrets the Malfoys have kept hidden here. Despite the grandeur and the intimidating quiet, she feels a flicker of excitement, a thirst to explore, to read, to understand, as if the room itself is daring her to uncover its mysteries.

Suddenly he hands her a book but she says nothing.

Hermione’s fingers hover over the worn leather cover, tracing the strange symbols etched along the edges. The book feels heavier than it looks, and a faint, musty scent of old parchment rises as she opens it. On the first page, in elegant, curling script, she reads:

"This volume collects forgotten secrets of runic magic and the subtle manipulation of magical energies. Learn to guard hidden knowledge, to unlock the mysteries of ancient symbols and objects, and to discover the power lying dormant in the connections between magic and mind."

Her heart quickens. Every fiber of her curiosity hums with the promise of knowledge too rare to find in the Hogwarts library. She senses the depth, the logic, the challenge of what lies inside. And yet, beneath it all, there is a whisper of caution, a shadow of something dangerous. Even so, she can’t help but want to delve deeper.

The dark lord watches quietly from across the dimly lit room, his dark eyes fixed on Hermione as she flips the fragile pages. He doesn’t speak at first, letting her curiosity guide her hands. Then, softly, he leans closer.

"Few have the mind and courage to read something like this," he says, his voice smooth, almost coaxing. "Most would close it at the first unfamiliar rune, too timid to uncover its secrets. But you… you have something different. You seek knowledge not for reward, but for understanding. That is rare."

Hermione feels a flush of pride but also unease. There is something in his gaze, a suggestion she can’t quite name, that warns her to stay alert. Still, the thrill of discovery keeps her rooted.

"This book," he continues, "can teach you more than any lesson at Hogwarts. It can show you how magic bends when you understand it fully, when you see the patterns others ignore. Knowledge is power, Hermione, and some truths… only the brave dare to touch."

She senses the double edge in his words, but her mind races, hungry for the challenge. She knows she must tread carefully, yet she can’t resist the allure of the secrets within those pages.

Voldemort leans a fraction closer, his smile faint, almost imperceptible, as if he’s sharing a secret meant only for her. “Many would fear what they cannot control,” he murmurs, “but you… you have the mind to bend it to your will. You could understand more than any wizard your age. Imagine what you could do if you truly mastered the patterns hidden in these runes.”

Hermione feels a shiver—not of fear, exactly, but of being tested. Every word is carefully chosen, teasing her ambition without giving away the trap. He does not offer power directly; he offers a promise, a glimpse of something just beyond reach.

She resists the immediate thrill of obedience. I will not be played, she tells herself, yet her pulse quickens. The knowledge calls, and so does the subtle thrill of Riddle’s attention, the intellectual sparring implicit in his voice.

He tilts his head, watching her, reading her hesitation. “Careful study, focus, patience… those who can wait, who can think and question, rise above the rest. You could rise above everyone here, Hermione. But only if you dare.”

Her mind races, weighing every syllable. The temptation is sharp, tantalizing, but so is the danger. She knows she must extract the knowledge without giving him a foothold, to claim the power of the book without becoming the pawn he wants her to be. A game of intellect begins silently, each aware of the other’s skill and caution, the tension humming between them like a tightly drawn string.

Hermione closes the book slowly, letting her fingers linger on the worn cover as if measuring its weight against her own resolve. She looks up at the dark lord, keeping her gaze steady, and says lightly, “Some things are meant to be understood slowly. Rushing only leads to mistakes.”

The words are innocent enough on the surface, but they are carefully chosen. She tests him, seeing if he will press, if he will try to twist her compliance into something more. A shadow of a smile flickering across his face, intrigued but restrained. He senses her caution, her intellect, and realizes she is not an easy target.

The dark lord inclines his head slightly, his dark eyes gleaming with a mixture of amusement and calculation. “Indeed,” he says softly, “wisdom rarely rushes, and only those who measure their steps truly master what they touch. Most would have grabbed the knowledge and lost themselves in it. You… you are different. Careful, deliberate, strong-minded. A rare combination.”

His praise is precise, almost flattering, but Hermione senses the subtle undercurrent: he is watching for any crack, any hint of eagerness he can exploit. The compliment is a trap wrapped in admiration, and yet, she cannot deny that it makes her think, He understands me, in a way few do.

She nods politely, keeping her composure, allowing just enough acknowledgment to satisfy the social expectation but revealing nothing of her inner calculation. Hermione knows this is a dance: every reaction, every pause, every glance is a move in a silent chess game. She will learn what she can from the book and from him, but she will never let him control her.

Time passed quickly and when it was time to return home, the dark lord kissed her roughly and sent her through the flo to Spinner's End.

Chapter Text

As soon as she got home, she began to read the book she had received carefully, trying to understand all the aspects of it, and the reason why he had given it to her.

Snape later finds her still reading from that book, her eyes filled with emotion and worry.

"Why didn't you come to me as soon as you got back?" he asked a little distantly

"I, I don't know. He gived me this book and I got a little carried away reading it. Besides, I don't really have anything to tell you about what happened."

"Don't you have anything to tell me? I think you can share a few things. You know that's a dark book, right?"

"Well, after you left, we talked for a bit, then he showed me the library in the manor and gave me this book," Hermione said in a whisper.

"Did you just talk? Nothing else?" her father said in a serious voice

"he kissed me, that's all"

"Let me see the memory!" her father said in a commanding voice.

"You have no reason to see it" Hermione said, a little irritated. "There's nothing you can do to change what he wants anyway, if you saw it you'd just feel helpless, you know there's nothing you can do to stop him"

"Hermione, I believe you, I think I would be more at peace if I knew exactly what happened rather than imagining it myself."

"I don't think you'd want to see how much he wants me, dad." Hermione said, now a little calmer.

"I... okay Hermione. Are you sure there's nothing you want to discuss?"

"Yes, Dad, I think I'd just like to finish reading the book for now."

"You know, I don't even agree that he gave you this book, it's very dark," her father said worriedly.

"It's okay, Dad. There's nothing I can't handle."

"If you say so, my love. I'll let you finish your reading, but if there's anything, know that you can come to me and I'll do everything in my power to help you."

"I know, Dad," and as soon as she said that, he left, leaving her alone with her reading again.

A few hours later, Hermione closes the book with a quiet thud, her fingers lingering on the cracked leather cover. The room feels colder now, as if the air itself has absorbed the echoes of the words she’s just read. Her mind races—part awe, part unease.

"It’s brilliant," she murmurs to herself, almost reluctantly. "Dangerously brilliant."

Every page had been like a duel: complex, seductive, written with the kind of intelligence that demands respect. The theories about runes, the connections between intent and magical resonance—some of them were ideas she’d never even encountered before. But beneath the elegance of the writing, she could feel the author’s hunger, a craving for control masquerading as curiosity.

"Control isn’t understanding," she says quietly, frowning. "It’s obsession. It’s the illusion of mastery."

She stands, pacing slowly, as if distance might dull the pull of the book. Her thoughts sharpen. She realizes now what the dark lord had meant to do—how easily he might have trapped her, not through threats or charm, but through intellect. By offering knowledge too tempting to refuse.

Yet she also knows she’s stronger for it. She’s seen the lure, stared it in the face, and stepped back before it could take hold. The book has taught her something vital—not just about magic, but about herself.

She glances at it one last time, then sets it aside. “Knowledge is power,” she whispers, “but only if you control the power—not if it controls you.”

She had intended to go downstairs to her father to discuss the book, when her necklace started to vibrate. So first she got ready, taking a quick shower, fixing her hair and dressing in an elegant gown. Then she went down to her table to announce that she had been summoned.

"Dad. He summoned me again, but don't worry, I'll be careful." she said softly

At her words, he just stood up, quickly took her in his arms, and then let her go, she said softly "portus" and disappeared.

She was surprised when, instead of appearing in his study as before, she appeared in his bedroom. She looked around in amazement, until she noticed him sitting on a chair. Noticing his possessive gaze.

She said softly "my lord" and waited for him to address her. But he was too preoccupied to look intensive at her.

"Come and kneel before me," he said suddenly in a harsh voice.

She did as she was told, surprised by the harshness of his voice. When she knelt down, she noticed the true position she was in, but it was already too late, because he reached out and firmly entangled her hair, lifting her head enough to look him in the eye.

"What a beautiful sight to have you kneeling in front of me, with your face so close to my cock" he said as he brought a hand to her lips, touching the contour of her lips with one of his fingers, then gently parting her lips to insert his thumb into her mouth.

"Don't you agree?" she nodded slightly, speechless.

"How did you like the book I gave you? Did you finished it?" he says. His tone is smooth, conversational, but his eyes are sharp, searching her face for cracks in her composure.

Hermione meets his gaze calmly. "Yes," she answers. "It’s… remarkable work. Brilliantly written. But it’s not what it pretends to be."

His’s lips curl faintly, a flicker of amusement—or perhaps respect. "Pretends?" he echoes, "Knowledge never pretends. It simply reveals. What we see in it depends on what we are willing to understand."

"Or what we’re willing to excuse," Hermione replies evenly. Her voice is steady, but her heart beats faster. She can feel him studying her, trying to see how far she’s been drawn in.

Teh dark lord tilts his head, the faintest gleam of challenge in his eyes. "So you read it… and resisted it. Admirable. But tell me—was there not a part of you that wanted more?"

Hermione’s answer comes slowly, deliberate. "Curiosity isn’t surrender. Knowing something dangerous doesn’t mean you want to use it. It means you want to understand it, so you can make sure no one else does."

For a long moment, silence fills the space between them—thick, charged. Then he smiles, not kindly, but with something like intrigue. "Perhaps," he says softly, "you’re far more dangerous than the book itself."

Hermione doesn’t flinch. She only replies, "Perhaps that’s why you should be careful with what you try to teach me."

His’s smile deepens, but it’s the kind that doesn’t reach his eyes. There’s a flicker of something sharper behind it—interest tinged with irritation. He pulls her by the hair a little closer to him, just enough to lock her eyes with his.

"Careful?" he repeats. "You misunderstand me, Hermione. I don’t offer lessons to those who need protection. I offer them to those who can use what they learn."

His words move like a blade gliding just above the skin—dangerous, testing, intimate. Hermione doesn’t move. She watches him the way one studies a snake, calm but coiled, ready.

"And yet," she says quietly, "even you know that knowledge without restraint destroys everything it touches. That’s why you hide behind riddles instead of truths."

The faint amusement fades, replaced by a colder curiosity. "You think you see through me," he murmurs, "but you don’t. You see only what your conscience allows. You mistake control for morality."

Hermione meets his stare head-on. "And you mistake power for purpose."

For a heartbeat, silence hangs between them—electric, unyielding. Then, to her surprise, he laughs. It’s quiet, genuine, and somehow unnerving.

"You fascinate me," he says simply. "Most minds I encounter break too easily. Yours… resists. It’s beautiful."
Hermione doesn’t respond, but her jaw tightens.

"Get up " he says suddenly

And when she tries to get up, he grabs her by the waist and pulled her on his lap. Not wanting to give her the opportunity to say anything, he kisses her hard, aggressively, and with a fire that cannot be extinguished.
His hands begin to explore her body. And the moment Hermione felt pressure beneath her. He instantly lifted her and slammed her onto the bed next to him, laying on top of her. Letting his hands explore again, he placed himself between her legs and began to kiss her neck, tugging a little on her clothes.

Hermione wanted to stop him, but knowing she couldn't, she slowly started timidly to explore his body with her hands. Hermione immediately felt his heavy length between her legs, he was delighted as she began to return his touches.

He began to slowly undress her, finding the zipper of the dress, he began to pull it down.
Then he looked at her, he could feel both excitement and fear about what was about to happen. So he continued, leaving only her underwear on.
He started kissing her whole body, starting from her neck, where he didn't stop until he left obvious signs of her pleasure, accompanied by moans , then he paid attention to her breasts, each one separately, continuing to leave kisses all over her stomach.
He only stopped when he reached her panties, he had looked into her eyes, he could feel her impatience. So he took those down too, leaving her completely naked.
He started looking at her insistently, then he whispered softly in her ear "so beautiful, and only mine. Say it Hermione. Tell me who you belong to"
She moaned softly at his words and then replied, "I belong to you and only you, my lord."
Satisfied with her answer, he started to kiss her aggressively again, slowly moving his hand between her legs. When he noticed how wet she was, he started to play with her clit and then inserted 2 fingers deep inside her. She moaned loudly when she felt the contact. He laughed a little then continued to pleasure her with his fingers until he felt she was close, and then he stopped. when he felt her struggle towards his fingers to continue the pleasure, he began to whisper in her ear.
"Tell me what you want, Hermione."
"I, I want you, my lord"
"Is that's right? You'll have to be more clear , so that I can do exactly what you want."
"I, I, I want to feel you inside me"
"I think if you begged me you would see how quickly I would do anything for you."
"I,..please my lord, I want to feel you inside me, my lord, please, I want you to put your cock deep inside me"
"Oh, my darling, when you beg me so beautifully I can't refuse you."
He started kissing her violently, and suddenly made his clothes disappear. Suddenly Hermione felt that pressure between her legs. And without warning with a single thrust, he was deep inside her.
After a single moment of pain, Hermione immediately felt the pleasure, and each time he thrust inside her, it grew, until she reached a point where she came instantly, screaming his name. He came at the same moment as her, then collapsed on top of her, whispering things in her ear.
They stayed like that for a while, with her in his arms, until suddenly they both fell asleep.

She woke up a short time later in a panic. She realized that he was awake next to her.

"I hope you slept well, my darling?"

"yes, my lord" she said softly "Maybe I should go home, it's pretty late."

"oh my darling, you don't need to leave, you're welcome in my bed anytime"

"I'm sure my father is worried, I've been away quite a while."

"Nonsense, Severus knows you're with me after all, I see no reason to worry. I said after all that I'd like you to spend more time here."

"I,...yes, my lord"

"You should spend the rest of the evening here, you can come home in the morning."

He pulled her back towards him, pinning her back to his chest, falling asleep again.

Chapter Text

Hermione woke up confused, for a second she didn't know where she was, not recognizing the space around her. It was only then that she realized that there was someone else in bed with her, and she remembered what had happened the previous night. The dark lord was still sleeping, holding a fixed hand around her waist, possessive. Hermione struggled to free herself from his grip, but because of the movement , he woke up, squeezing her with the hand he held on her waist even tighter, and pushing her closer into him. Suddenly she felt something behind her, and she realized that he was hard, at the same time he began to kiss her neck lightly. The dark lord began to move his hands everywhere, refusing to give her a chance to escape his grip. In a few seconds he was on top of her, he moved his hands together to take hers and held them above her head. He began to kiss her hard on the lips, and then he started to take  his free hand between her legs. Noticing how wet she was already he penetrated her directly without saying anything. Moving inside her and making her moan , he squeezed the grip he had on her hands and began to thrust in her harder and harder, until she cried out in pleasure. When he came he collapsed on top of her, and they sat like that for a long time until he started to speak.

"How are you feeling, my darling?"  he said while gently caressing her waist with his hand

"I am good my lord" she whispered

"Darling, darling, do you feel only good after what I did?"

"I feel very good, thank you, my lord." 

"I'm glad to hear that. We should go get something to eat, come on, get dressed and I think we'll have breakfast here."

He summoned an elf and ordered him to bring us something suitable for breakfast and something to drink. After we ate, he started playing with my hand, then he started talking.

"I've been thinking, there's still a few weeks left and you'll be going back to Hogwarts. I think you should come and stay here until then. After all, I'll miss you while you're at school."

"I..my lord?" she said slowly

"Well, I'm sure your father has no problem with the orders I give him, so I see no reason why you shouldn't be here with me," he said calmly.

"Very well, my lord" she said almost whispering

"Well, it would be best if you went home, and got some necessary things you want, you can leave them anywhere in my rooms."

"yes, my lord, well then, I'll be right back after I get everything I need"

He led her to the floo, then kissed her lightly before leaving.

When she got home, she immediately went to look for her father. Finally finding him in the living room with a sad look on his face.

"Dad, I'm sorry, I hope you weren't worried, but he didn't let me leave until this morning." Hermione said quickly.

"Oh Hermione, I'm just glad you're home. He didn't hurt you, did he?" he said, noticing the marks on her neck and hands.

"First if I need a strong contraceptive potion," she said, a little embarrassed.

He looked at her for a long time, speechless, just nodded and went to the lab to give her a one.

"It will last you a month, Hermione, never forget to take it," he said seriously.

Hermione drank the potion quickly, then looked at her father with a sad expression.

"He wants me to stay at the manor permanently, until I start Hogwarts." Hermione said more in a whisper.

"I'm sorry my love, I don't know what to do about him." her father said softly, hugging her tightly.

"He didn't really give me many options. He just told me that I could go home and get a few things I needed and then come back to him." Hermione said softly.

"fuck, I'm going to kill him Hermione. I swear I will. I just want you to be happy and safe. I'm sorry I can't give you more," her father said with tears in his eyes.

"well, i think i'm pretty safe with him, i don't think he'll hurt me, and i don't think he'll let anyone else do it. i think he considers me one of his possessions"

"that's not necessarily a good thing, love"

"I know, I know, but for now I have no other options. I want you to not do anything rash, Dad, I'll be fine, and anyway, I'll be back at Hogwarts soon, where you can keep an eye on me."

"I don't want you to leave, but I know there's nothing I can do to change his mind," her father said angrily.

"It's okay dad, I'll be okay, even there. I should go upstairs and get some things to take with me," she said, but her father just hugged her tighter and kissed her forehead.

"If an opportunity arises and I can help you, I will do anything for you, my love" he said softly then let her go.

Hermione hurried to pack a bag to take with her to the manor. When she was done, she went back to her father to say goodbye again, then said Portus and reappeared in the presence of the Dark Lord.

"My darling, I see you took your time." he said coldly.

"I.., yes my lord. I didn't mean for it to take so long, but I wanted to say goodbye to my father, considering I won't be seeing him for a while. Forgive me my lord"

"Well, I guess it's okay, but you know I don't like waiting. Now, I'd like to go to the library, I have other texts that I think you might be interested in. Come on." he said, pulling her slightly by the waist towards the exit

They spent a long time in the library. The dark lord presented her with various books, most of them on different but dark subjects. She was intrigued by everything she found out. And becoming more and more interested in what he could teach her, so much knowledge that was yet to be explored.

Chapter Text

Hermione had spent countless days and nights at Malfoy Manor, surrounded by shadows and whispers of forbidden knowledge. The dark lord had taken a particular interest in her mind, guiding her through the pages of ancient grimoires and teaching her to question the limits of magic itself. He showed her books that no one else dared to open, spoke to her about the nature of power, and watched with quiet satisfaction as fascination slowly replaced her fear. Their lessons grew longer, their conversations deeper, until the lines between mentor and something far more dangerous began to blur. Hermione found herself drawn not only to his brilliance but to the rare warmth in his voice when he spoke to her, the sharp beauty of his face when candlelight caught it just right. What began as curiosity turned into a connection she could neither deny nor understand—an entanglement of intellect, temptation, and a love that felt as dark and consuming as the very magic he taught her.

The library was dimly lit, the air thick with the scent of old parchment and candle wax. Hermione sat at a long mahogany table, tracing her fingers over the edge of a blackened book Tom had just placed before her. Its cover was worn smooth, the title long faded, but the weight of what it contained was unmistakable.

“This,” Tom said softly, leaning closer, “is Secrets of the Darkest Art. Few have ever read it. Fewer have understood it.” His voice was calm, but there was that unmistakable undertone of danger, the kind that made her pulse quicken.

Hermione hesitated. “You trust me with this?”

He smiled, the corner of his mouth curving with quiet amusement. “I wouldn’t waste my time otherwise. You have the mind for it. You see beyond fear.”

Their eyes met, and for a moment the silence between them felt alive. She should have looked away, but something in his gaze—sharp, intelligent, almost tender—held her still. Tom reached out and turned the page for her, his fingers brushing hers. The contact sent a shiver through her that had nothing to do with the chill in the room.

“You could do great things, Hermione,” he murmured. “If only you stopped fighting what you are capable of.”

She wanted to protest, to remind him that some lines shouldn’t be crossed. But as he spoke, as his breath touched her skin and the firelight flickered across his face, she realized she wasn’t sure she believed that anymore.

Leaving a small kiss on his cheek, he says, "You can call me Tom."

"Are you serious?" she said, staring at him with wide eyes.

"As if I would joke about something like that, Hermione."

At his words, she turned towards him and began to kiss him passionately. It was the first time she had initiated such contact. And the dark lord could easily feel himself getting lost in her.

Gradually, that rational interest begins to melt into something he cannot control. Hermione becomes a living mirror for him. In her, he sees all the things he has lost: compassion, courage, the power to choose good without asking for anything in return. Every conversation cuts him inside because she makes him hear his own silence.

Then the fracture begins to ache. Tom feels that he no longer sees her as a tool. He wants her close, but he doesn’t know why. He wants her obedient, but he detests it when she stays silent and unbroken. He detests her precisely because he cannot hate her completely. In a hidden moment of honesty, he realizes he is beginning to protect her not out of calculation, but out of fear. Fear of losing something he does not understand.

“It’s a fever,” he tells himself. “A temporary flaw.” But the fever does not subside. He sees her in every dream, in every decision, in every silence that reminds him that, deep down, the man who was Tom Riddle still exists. And he begins to awaken.

The closer the days got to when she had to leave for Hogwarts, the more time they seemed to spend together. Hermione had nothing else to do at the manor but study and spend time with him, and he prioritized it over any other obligation.

Sometime, during these days spent together they forgot what their initial goals were, ending up being consumed by the other person. Their passion grew stronger and stronger, a thin line between dependence, obsession and love, and neither of them was ready enough to find out the truth.

Chapter Text

After a few weeks at Malfoy Manor, Hermione had read most of the books in the huge library, and with Tom's help she had managed to accomplish incredible things. But it was time for Hermione to go home and get ready to go to Hogwarts.

When she got home, she was greeted by her father. She didn't even have time to process what was happening and he immediately took her in his arms, holding her tighter and tighter, afraid she would disappear again.

He began to say slowly: "Are you okay my love, I'm sorry I couldn't visit you. I missed you so much. I'm glad you're okay and finally home. Are you okay? He didn't hurt you, did he?"

"Dad, Dad, I'm fine, I'm not hurt." she said softly

When he finally let go of her embrace, she could see tears in his eyes.

"Dad, I'm serious, I'm really good." she said seriously

"That's very good to hear, my daughter." still with tears in his eyes

"Dad, I missed you too."

"Oh, my love. What did you do while you were there?"

"Well, I read a lot. Tom gave me some books and showed me a lot of interesting things, I learned a lot from him." she said in a whisper

"Tom?!" he said confusedly.

"I...he told me to call him Tom"

"Really? I find it a bit hard to believe, considering he hates his muggle side of the family. What else did you do while you were there to get to this point?"

"I,...I don't know, it just happened, I don't even think he noticed what he was saying. And after that, he didn't contradict me when I kept calling him that, it became a habit." she said blushing.

"You,...you like him." he said suddenly seriously.

"I, I, I,.." she begin to say but was left speechless

"you do" he said in a cold voice

"I, maybe?" she whispered

"Fuck, Hermione. Just fuck. And what do you suppose you'll do when it's time to choose?" he said annoyed.

I, I, I don't know okay? I don't know. I love Harry, you know that. But, I don't know, Tom makes me feel...I, I don't know. I..."

"God, Hermione." he snapped

"I'm sorry, it just happened. But, but I choose Harry, you know that, I choose the Order."

"No, Hermione, I don't know that." he said serious

"Yeah, you know...even though I might feel something for Tom. I can't betray them, Harry in special ."

"Are you sure? And what should we do if you change your mind, if you end up falling in love with him, then what Hermione? I don't know how you could put yourself in such a position. How could you feel this way about him. You don't know what he does? He tortures and kills people! And he doesn't need a reason to do it." he snapped

"I'm sorry, Dad, I don't know, I don't know what I'm going to do." she said with tears in her eyes.

When he noticed her tears, he began to speak softly. "Even though up until now I have stuck to the Order. In the end I will always stick with you Hermione, you are my daughter and I love you. You are my choice, and I will do whatever you want no matter what you choose."

She looked at him, and jumped in his arm at the kind words, saying softly, "I love you too, dad."

He started to squeeze her harder, saying "it's ok my love, it's ok, everything will be fine."

"I'm sorry I put you in this position, dad. You know I care about Harry, but, but...I don't want to see Him dead either."

"It's ok my daughter. Whatever you choose I will be by your side. But you will have to choose at some point, you can't have both."

"Thank you, Dad, for you for everything"

"oh, my love" he said kissing her forehead.

After a while, Hermione went to see if she had everything she needed for Hogwarts. When she went down to the kitchen, her father had prepared dinner for her and offered her a cup of tea. They began to discuss what they would do next school year.

"How will resorting be done?"

"After the first years are sorted, you will be called, the name Hermione Eileen Snape, after which you will be sorted."

"And if I'm not in Slytherin? I don't think I'll be able to stand it in Gryffindor, knowing that half of them will hate me."

"After all the time you've spent with the Dark Lord, I doubt you'll end up somewhere else, maybe Ravenclaw."

"I hope I'll be Slytherins, I don't think I'll be okay anywhere else, not with everything that's happened."

"You'll be okay no matter what. The only thing you should worry about is Albus, especially when you're unsure of your side in the war. And he'll want to know everything that happened between you and the dark lord. So we should decide on something, considering we can't tell the truth."

"Yes, you're right. What do you think would be the best thing to say to him?"

"Well, I think it's best to say that he was quite interested in you at first, but he didn't maintain his interest when he saw that you didn't know anything important. You shouldn't be making any comments about how deep your relationship is or the fact that he told you to call him Tom. In fact, it's best to say that you've only been in his presence a few times and never for too long, lest you tell him that you spent a few weeks with him at Malfoy Manor. If he asks you something, make sure to say everything very simply without revealing anything, and be careful to keep your walls up, because the headmaster will try to get into your head. "

"Okay dad, I can do this. But with Harry, I, I don't know how I'm going to face him."

"It'll be okay, and I don't think Potter will ask you about the Dark Lord. But I hope you're aware that you'll have to choose soon..."

"I know, I know. And I should have supported the Order, but, I just don't know. I guess I got attached after all the time we spent together, and he, he's good to me, attentive, he taught me things, he stayed to explain every detail to me, he answered every question I had. He's so intelligent and handsome. And he made me notice to how much potential I actually have." she said quickly then continued "God I can't believe what I just said, I should stop talking" then she looked at her father embarrassed

"It's okay Hermione, I understand," her father said.

"I'm sorry," she said slowly.

"It's not your fault, I should have warned you how charismatic he is, and how convincing he can be when he really wants something, that's how he attracted all his followers."

"I'm not just one of his followers," she said, a little annoyed in a whisper.

"Aren't you? You look like Bellatrix in her youth. You know? They were lovers, she was thirsty for knowledge and he taught her everything he knows," her father said a little harshly again.

"no, no, no...he doesn't care about her"

"No, he doesn't care. What makes you think he cares about you?"

"The way he behaves. He told me to call him Tom, I don't think he's allowed anyone to call him that since he became Lord Voldemort," she said angrily.

"Yes, be that as it may. But he cannot feel love, Hermione."

"No, you saw him, you don't know what you're talking about!" she almost screamed

"I? I don't know what I'm talking about?! Hermione I've been knowing him since you didn't even exist, if there's anyone here who doesn't know what he's talking about it's you! I find it incredible that you were so stupid as to even start caring about him, but maybe I shouldn t have been so surprized, considering your thirst for knowledge. I guess all he taught you while you were away was the dark arts? right?" he said enraged

"Obviously that's all he taught me. Did you expect anything else? I was just in his presence constantly, what do you think I did all this time?"

"fuck, fuck, fuck Hermione. You were so stupid. I can't believe it. The golden girl of the golden trio ended up betraying the chosen one. Because that's what will happen. You will choose him, the dark lord."

" you said you would support me no matter what..." she began to say

"It's not like I could do anything else Hermione, even when I think you're wrong, I'll always be there for you."

"I haven't chosen him yet, but I'm afraid I will, and it breaks my heart to think about Harry," she said sadly.

"I'm sorry I got angry again Hermione. I love you, I'll do anything for you, anything, even if it means betraying some of my principles. You're more important, you're everything to me, everything. And I'll always love you and I'll always be there for you."

"Thank you dad, I love you too," she said, starting to cry in her father's arms.

Chapter Text

Hermione arrived at Hogwarts full of emotions, being a little anxious to see her friends again, especially about the resorting. When she arrived with her father, he went to stay with the rest of the staff and Hermione was left with Draco Malfoy, waiting for the first years to be sorted, so that she could follow. After the hat had sung its song and finished sorting the first years, Dumbledore stood up to make a small announcement.

"Following some unexpected events, we are happy to welcome our new 6th year student, Hermione Eileen Snape, with open arms. You can come and be sorted. "

After a few words of encouragement from Draco, she finally got up and started walking towards the headmaster. She quickly put the hat on her head, which began to say softly "oh, dear, yes, you will be perfect for Slytherin, I can feel your potential, your ambition and your impatience for learning, simply perfect" and then blurted out "Slytherin". Not surprised by the hat's response, Hermione continued her way back to her place next to Draco who smiled slightly as she sat down. But out of curiosity she looked up and looked at the Gryffindor table who were looking at her suspiciously.

After the opening ceremony was over, she started walking towards the Slytherin common room with Draco, Pansy and Theo.

"So Granger, this is our common room, please don't bring any Gryffindors here, they won't be welcomed. The password for this week is darkness, which you can't share with anyone other than Slytherins. And in the bedroom you'll be staying with me and Daphne. Do you have any questions? " Pansy said

"Don't call me Granger, you can call me Hermione or Snape, nothing else. I have no questions, it's not like I'm new to Hogwarts."

"Very well, Snape."

"So Hermione, love, how do you like being a snake?" Theo asks amusedly.

"Well, I can't say for sure yet, but it will definitely be better. I don't think I would have been very well received in Gryffindor after everything that happened," said Hermione seriously.

"We snakes have each other's backs," Draco said seriously.
"especially you, princess" he said smiling

"And why is that? It's not like you like me." Hermione snorted.

"Well, I think it was more of an order, that no one from Slytherin or any other house should lay a hand on you, princess," Draco said amused.

"Order, order from who?" Hermione asked confusedly.

"Don't pretend you don't understand what I am saying, Hermione. I know better than anyone what you did this summer," Draco said

"oh, I, I didn't think he would do something like that, I'm perfectly capable of taking care of myself on my own" Hermione said a little annoyed.

"Well, princess, we don't really have a choice. I cant take my eyes off you, in case something happens to you, so I guess we'll be spending quite a bit of time together." he said, moving a little closer to her.

"Well, I can tell you clearly now, that's not going to happen. I'm perfectly capable of taking care of myself and it's not like He's going to find out if you do or not, I'm perfectly safe especially with my father here. So you can do whatever you want, you don't need to worry about me."

"Oh, no, princess, when I have an order, I must carry it out." he said seriously

"Fine, if you don't have anything better to do, just follow me everywhere." she said angrily.

"I take my orders seriously, princess," he said, almost clinging to her as he advanced a lot towards her.

They stared into each other's eyes for a long time until Theo cleared his throat, and upon hearing that sound they abruptly moved away from each other.

"I'll see you around, princess" and with that the three of them left, leaving Hermione alone in the middle of the common room.

Chapter Text

Hermione's first day at Hogwarts went very well until she met Ron.

"So that's it from now on? You're leaving us for some snakes. Or dear daddy made you switch houses? I can't believe they betrayed us. That you left Harry and me after all we went through " Ron yelled at her

"Ron, you know that's not true. I would never betray Harry. And with the way you're acting right now, I don't know how welcome I would have been in Gryffindor." she said dryly

"Don't blame me for this. And didn't lie. You switched sides. Do you think I don't notice how you act around snakes? Do you think I don't see how you're best friends with Draco Malfoy, who's treated you like shit for so long?"

"I made peace with them to be okay for everyone now that we live together in the dungeon. What do they want me to do? Start fighting with them?"

"So you admit that you made peace with them, that you are on their side."

"No, I didn't say that. I said we decided to live together in peace without arguments and fights. And now that I'm not Muggleborn, most of them leave me alone. It's not like I'm friends with anyone."

"Now I know you're lying. I've seen how Malfoy treats me, don't lie to me. I've seen with my own eyes how he's always around you. What, now that you're not a mud are you good enough for him?"

"You are unbelievable Ron, you don't know how far from the truth you are. If he decided to be civil with me, it doesn't mean we are friends."

"Like hell. You're so fake Hermione, you don't even know how to lie anymore. Tell me how you spent this summer, how many Death Eaters did you become civil with?"

I spent the summer just with my father Ronald."

"Well, he falls into the same category. I guess now that you're his daughter he doesn't punish you anymore when you have the answer to everything. Tell me what dark arts did he teach you?"

I don't understand why you're acting like this. I didn't do anything wrong, Ron. I just chose to know him as my father, it's not like I could have done anything else. Considering that since the glamours broke we look identical."

"Oh, you wanted to know him. Tell me, did you meet anyone else? Did he take you to see Voldemort? Or don't tell me you already have the Dark Mark?" he snapped and grabbed her left arm violently, trying to lift her hand so he could see her forearm.

That was the moment when Draco walked down the corridor and see the whole scene. He ran towards him and punched Ron in the face, gently taking Hermione in his arms.

"Are you okay, princess? Or do you want to go to the infirmary?" he asked gently.

"I'm fine. Ron didn't hurt me, it was just a misunderstanding." Hermione said in a whisper.

"There's no need to lie to me, I saw everything that happened. Weasley, 20 points from Gryffindor and you'll have detention, I'll talk to Professor Snape, I'm sure he'd want to punish you personally for manhandling his daughter," Draco said

At his words, Ron raised his wand towards him, but he didn't even get to say the words, because Hermione was faster and cursed him with a spell in return.

"Ron, leave us alone, i haven't done anything wrong, neither has draco. you can find the way to the infirmary on your own, but the effects of the spell will probably wear off by then. draco let's go please"

At her words, Draco slowly slipped his hand up to her waist and began to lead her towards their common room, leaving a very angry and confused Ron behind.

"Thanks for helping me. I don't know what's gotten into Ron," she said softly.

"Anything for you, princess. And no need to thank me, I'm glad you gave me a reason to hit that asshole." he said smiling

"He didn't mean to do what he did, it was really a misunderstanding," she whispered.

"Hermione. And he laid hands on you, no one is allowed to do that." he said seriously "and you'll probably be left with bruises, I saw how hard he grabbed you. He should thank me for not beating him until he couldn't get up for what he did" I said again, more annoyed now

"It's okay, I'll ask my dad for some bruise paste and it'll be gone in a day or two."

He, still with his hand on her waist, squeezed her a little, and approaching her, he began to whisper in her ear. "Oh princess, if he dares to lay a hand on you again, I'll cut his hands and anyone else's."

"Draco, you won't do that " she said seriously.

"Oh, but of course I will," he said now a little closer to her and with his arm tighter around her waist.

"Draco."

"Oh, princess, every time I hear you say my name, I don't want to let you go," he said in her ear.

"Draco. I don't think such statements would do you much good."

"On the contrary, princess, my job is to always be by your side."

"I don't think the dark lord would appreciate how close you are, or the fact that your hand has been on my waist for an inordinate amount of time. "

"oh oh princess, I'm just here to protect you."

"really?" she asked, looking up into his eyes and then down to his lips.

When Hermione realized what position she had gotten herself into, she quickly backed away and said quietly, when there was so little space left between them that if one moved a little they could have kissed.

"Draco, be careful what you do, especially if the Dark Lord finds out. He doesn't like others touching what's his." She said seriously

"Princess, are you scared for me?"

"I just don't want anything to happen to you because of me."

"We'll have to tell your father what happened" he said suddenly when they reached the common room.

"We don't need to tell him anything, because nothing happened.I'll just get some bruise paste from him myself. "

"Oh, no, Hermione, you may not need to tell him, but I have to."

"Come on, Draco, it was just a little misunderstanding, nothing bad happened. Let's not exaggerate. You won't tell him anything either."

"unfortunately it's not possible"

"So what, from now on you'll stand behind me like a shadow and report everything that happens?"

"something like that princess"

"No, you have two options. Either we'll be friends and you won't report anything. Or we're not friends and I'll make your life hell. You choose."

"Come on Hermione, you know I can't disobey orders."

"It's not like you're not fulfilling it, you'll stay around me to protect me but you won't report what I don't want you to."

"I don't know what to say, Hermione. One small omission could get me killed."

"I, fine, do whatever you want then, but leave me alone," she said angrily, walking towards her bedroom.

When she got to her bedroom, she noticed that she was alone in the room, so she assumed it was the perfect time to take a long shower and then get into bed to read something.

Chapter Text

After dropping Hermione off in their common room, Draco walked over to Snape's office. Knocking lightly on the door, he waited for confirmation that he could enter.

"Enter," Snape said in a harsh voice.

"Sir, you told me to let you know if anything happened. It seems Hermione got into a little argument with Ron Weasley, he kept yelling at her, until he grabbed her hand quite violently, I think he was trying to see if she had the Dark Mark. I cursed him a little then took Hermione back to the common room." said Draco

"Why didn't my daughter come to tell me?" Snape said.

"She insisted it was just a little misunderstanding and that we didn't need to tell anyone, but the way he grabbed her hand I think she's going to get some bruises." Draco said

"Thanks for letting me know, Draco. You can give her this for the bruises." Snape said as he handed him a small container.

"Well, sir, I don't think she would want it from me. Hermione made it quite clear to me that if I'm telling you, we no longer have any kind of friendship or civilized relationship. But I know I can't disobey the Dark Lord's orders, sir," Draco said with a hint of annoyance in his voice.

"You did well, Draco. Hermione's anger will pass. Go give it to her."

"Yes, sir" said draco then left the room and started walking towards the common room.

When he got there he found Hermione with an annoyed expression, reading a book on the sofa by the fire.

"so I guess you told him" she said

"Orders are orders, Hermione, I think you know that. I didn't do it to betray you, I did it to help you." he said, approaching the couch.

"Well, I don't need that kind of help, Malfoy."

"Come on, princess, don't be so spoiled. Now give me your hand," he said harshly.

"For what?" she asked angrily.

"Do as I tell you, Hermione," he said harshly again.

"Fine" she said, then held out her hand.

"I told you that bastard would leave you with a bruise." he said as he started to spread the paste on her wrist.

"It's barely noticeable, it's nothing," she said quietly.

"I should have cursed him until he forgot his name. I promise I will if he ever lays his filthy hands on you again." he said quietly in a dangerous tone

"I don't need you to protect me, Draco. Between my father and the dark lord, my life is already completely under control," she said quietly.

"I can't comment on what's going on between you and the dark lord, but your father loves you, I'm sure you know that," she said.

"I'm sure he does, but this situation leaves me completely out of options. I'm sure you've noticed that."

"No one has any options when they serve the Dark Lord Hermione, everyone does as they are told, or there are serious consequences."

"I don't serve him, otherwise he would have marked me by now. There's something different between us," she said quietly.

"something different..." Draco said.

"He showed some interest in me. Don't pretend you don't know what I've been up to all summer."

"Are you referring to training or the fact that he calls you my darling?" Draco said in a tone between concern and amusement.

"I can say that everything is different. And, I don't think he would punish me for a small mistake, only if I did something really terrible. Which I wouldn't do knowing that it would put the people I care about in danger." she said quietly

"Well, that's his favorite form of punishment, punishing someone you care about in front of you," Draco said

"What do you really know about what happened between me and him?"

"well, on your first meating when you were at the manor, he seemed fascinated by you, he talked to you all evening after all. After you came back for the ball, you disappeared quite a bit with him, and there were some rumors circulating around the hall. And the way he took you away from us then. Well, I think you remember the comment I made then. And the fact that you spent a few weeks of the summer at the manor, and I didn't see you at all, I can say that was worrying. My parents didn't tell me anything, I even talked to the elves, they didn't say anything either...." draco said quickly not having time to breathe

"While I was at the manor, he trained me in various dark arts, but most of the time we... "she started to say, but stopped in shame

"So he fucked you," Draco said.

"I...yes" Hermione said quietly.

"I can say I'm surprised. But who would have thought that the golden girl would end up fucking with the dark lord" Draco said, but there was something in his voice she couldn't understand

"Well, it's not like I could have put it off any longer, and in the end he was pretty gentle with me," she said in a whisper.

"Seriously? I really didn't expect that," he said amused, then continued more seriously, "I'm glad it didn't hurt you, Hermione."

"Thanks Draco. And I understand why you had to tell my father what happened, I know that orders are orders, and that you can't disobey them. I was upset for a moment, but I want us to be friends," she said quietly.

"We're friends Hermione, I'll try to take better care of you from now on. Use that paste for a few days until your bruises go away. And if anyone gives you any trouble, you know you can call me anytime," he said, then got up from the couch and went to his bedroom.

Chapter Text

The next few weeks at Hogwarts were quiet. She was always surrounded by Slytherins, who became her new friends, and by Draco, who began to spend every free moment with her. Hermione had a few attempts to talk to her old friends, but after the incident with Ron, everyone labeled her as the bad guy, even Harry, who refused to talk to her and maybe that was for the best, not wanting to give
the Dark Lord any reason to use her against him.

It is now Monday morning when she received a note. It was from Dumbledore, who wanted to see her as soon as possible. First period was Defense Against the Dark Arts with her father, so it wasn't a problem if she was late. So she started walking towards his office, telling her roommates to let her father know that the headmaster had summoned her.

When she entered his office, he was seated and he was looking at her with a worryingly fake smile. So she raised her walls as high as she could, knowing what he would try to do.

"Professor, you wanted to see me," she said.

"Yes, Miss Snape. I wanted to see how you're doing this school year, I understand it's hard considering everything that's happened."

"Well, I mostly focused on studying, with the NEWTs getting closer. And in Slytherin it's okay, I've integrated well." she said

"Oh, I'm glad to hear that, my dear." he said smiling

"Is that all, sir?" she said, almost trying to get up.

"No, unfortunately not Miss Snape. I want you to tell me what you did this summer." he said seriously now

"Well, mostly I tried to understand and get to know my father better." she said, avoiding the question, knowing exactly that wasn't what he wanted to ask

"It's good to hear that you're getting along better with Severus, it must have been hard for him too, going from being your teacher to being your father. And I understand that Tom was quite interested in you." he said and then he tried to gently get into her head, but he couldn't get past her walls.

"Well, I can say he was a little interested at first, but after he saw that I didn't know anything useful, he lost interest, knowing that he couldn't use me."

"And how many times have you met with him?"

"Well, I was in his presence twice, once at the beginning of the summer, we had dinner at Malfoy Manor and then at a ball, but I can't say I talked to him or spent any time with him, I was just in his presence," she said.

"He didn't approach you about anything? He was definitely curious about you."

"No, I think if he had anything to find out he would have talked to my father, like I said, he wasn't really interested in me, so he left me be" she said.

"Even though it's nice to hear. I would like to ask you something, my dear." said the headmaster

"What can I help you with,sir? " she asks

I know you already know quite a bit about the Order of the Phoenix, I would like to make you an official member, and your main role would be as a spy, I'm sure you could find some way to get close to Tom, after all you have a reputation for being attracted to knowledge." said the headmaster smiling

"Sir, you know I want to help Harry, the cause itself, I just don't know how much I could do, I don't think I'll be able to get close to you-know-who, and after all, I thought my father was spying for the order." she said

"He does, dear, but I'm sure you can contribute just as well, maybe even better. Tom loves to corrupt young souls and I'm sure you're smart enough not to fall into his trap."

"I'm not sure what to say, maybe I should talk to my father first, so you know what to expect before I make such a decision." said Hermione

"Well, dear, in the end, we will never know how much trust we can have in Severus, you know how he has behaved all these years. You are a reliable source, I am convinced that you will never betray your friends." said the headmaster, smiling slightly at her

"So, you want me to do this alone. Without anyone knowing. I'm sure you know that this year I can't be with my friends and that I have to make peace with the Slytherins. If I do this I'll be completely alone without any help or support."

"I know, my dear, but I'm sure you'll do whatever you have to to help Harry, no matter the consequences." He smiled at her again.

"I...can I think about it before making a decision, sir?"

"Sure, but I want the answer as soon as possible. But be careful what you tell your father about this meeting, I think we'd better keep it a secret from him "

"I'll let you know, Headmaster." Hermione said, then stood up and left, aware that the discussion was over.

She didn't even realize how much time had passed. When she arrived at her father's classroom, she noticed that she had arrived right at the end of the lesson.

When they were the only ones left in the classroom, Hermione cast a silencing spell and began to say "he wants me to become a spy for the Order without you knowing"

"He what?" her father said angrily

"Initially he asked me how I was feeling about the new school year, after what I did on vacation, how things were with the dark lord, I told him that I had been in his presence twice then at dinner and at the ball, but we didn't really talk, he talked more to you if he wanted to know something. Then he told me that he wanted me to do something, to spy, when I said that I wanted to talk to you before making a decision he told me that we can't know how much trust we should have in you and that we'd rather keep it between us. I told him that I wanted some time to think, then I left" said hermione

"fuck, manipulatin fool" said her father angrily

"I can't really say no to him anyway, can I?" she asked

"No, you wouldn't really have any choice. If you said no, he'd interpret it as if you'd switched sides. You'll have to do it, but we have to tell the Dark Lord too. The best thing to do is write him a letter telling him everything that happened and ask him what to do. Then we'll see what we can tell them all."

"Okay dad. Can I ask you something?"

"What is it?"

"I know we haven't talked about this before, I'd like to know what made you join the dark lord then switch sides?" she said shyly.

"Always curious. I don't really like to talk about it, but I guess I can make an exception given the circumstances. When I was a child, I didn't have a very good childhood, my father was an alcoholic who despised my mother because she was a witch. When I grew up, that hatred passed to me. During my childhood, I had a very good friend, her name was Lily, we met before Hogwards, she was a muggleborn witch. We were friends over the years, but, when I was in slytherin and started to get closer to my housemates, I became a little bastard, things that created some problems between us. When some of her housemates made fun of me, she defended me, but I was too angry and ashamed of what was happening and I called her a mudblood. Since then, our friendship has completely broken, but I was in love with her. In the end, she wanted nothing to do with me, she married Potter, and I became a Death Eater because of my hatred for my father. Finally, I heard a profecy, which I know you are familiar with. At the time, I was not aware that it was about her, her child, so I told the Dark Lord what I heard. When I found out what I had done, I went to Dumbledore and begged him to help her. I promised him anything, and because of that I became a spy." said her father

"That's why you hate Harry so much, because he looks just like his father, who was mean to you, except for his eyes, but I guess that didn't help you either. I am sorry." she said quietly

"It's ok, it happened many years ago. i just still regret what happened very much. and Potter just reminds me of those mistakes, of the fact that i am the reason for his parents death. I know it's not right the way i behaved with him, but i can't be seen favoring gryffindors when i should be a death eater. "

"That's why you seemed so devastated when I told you I couldn't choose a side, because I would have made you betray Lily again, and yet you would have broken every principle for me," she said in a whisper but with tears in her eyes.

"Hermione, I would do anything for you, you are my daughter" he said, then took her in his arms.

"I love you, Dad. I know I said I couldn't choose. And on the one hand, it's true, I've grown attached to Tom, to what he can give me, to the power and the knowledge. But if he wins, a lot of people I love will die. So I don't know. I don't want the Light to die, but I don't think I want Tom to die either. But in the end, I think I'll do what you think is best for us, Dad. But the Light is the right side anyway, and no, I can't betray Harry either, he's more important than my own selfish desires. So maybe I can choose a side after all." she said softly in his arms

"Hermione, right now all I care about is you. You are my priority. And in the end, i believe we are in the middle, and when we see where it is most favorable, we will be there, until you make a final decision." her father said while playing with her hair

"I think you're right, dad. Maybe it would be better if we stayed in the middle for a while until we see the situation more clearly," she said finally, getting out of his embrace.

"It's time you went and wrote that letter for the Dark Lord while you still have time before lunch." he said, and she nodded and then left the room heading for her bedroom.

Chapter Text

Tom,

I had a discussion with Dumbledore today. He asked me some questions about my summer and about you, nothing compromising. Then he suggested that I join the Order and try to get close enough to you to spy on you, without my father knowing, Dumbledore says he is not trustworthy. I haven't given him an answer yet, not knowing how you would like me to proceed. I would appreciate it if you would answer me as soon as you can so that I know how to handle Dumbledore.

Yours,
Hermione

After Hermione put some protective spells on the letter, she sent it with a random school owl.

After that, she went to the library wanting to spend some time alone, after everything that had happened, when suddenly she felt something slip into her robe pocket, although no one was in the hallway. Confused, she had just felt something, so she reached into her pocket and noticed a small note. "7th floor tonight at 8 H" she was surprised for a second, but then she realized that it was probably from Harry, who had the invisibility cloak. So she continued on her way, eagerly awaiting the evening.

///

It was quite difficult for her to escape the snakes, as the snakes were in her company the nonstop. This time she told them that she just needed some time alone and that she was going for a short walk and that she would be back soon. She started walking towards the 7th floor, being careful not to be seen by anyone, when suddenly she felt a presence behind her, so she quickly turned around.

"I, Dad, what are you doing?" she asked

"No, Hermione, the better question is, what are you doing walking around the corridors alone at this hour?" her father said.

I, I have something to do, so if I could go..." she started to say

"What exactly?" he said impatiently

I, .... I am meeting someone..." she said quietly

"Oh, what's the point in it?" he says sharply.

"To talk.."

"Hermione, tell me what you're doing right now." her father said, annoyed by her attempts to avoid his questions.

"Harry left me a note saying he wanted to see me," she says.

"Oh, and you think it's wise to do this? Have you forgotten everything that happened? Or what did you support until now? Or have you changed your mind again?" her father asked sharply.

"I don't know dad, I just want to see him and talk, okay? Can I go or do you want to keep yelling at me?" she said quietly

"Fine. But you should know that I have the answer to your letter. Tomorrow morning before breakfast, come to my office."

"Okay dad" and with that she turned and continued her way to the 7th floor.

When she got there, she found Harry standing on the floor. And she started to say softly "Sorry I'm late, I met Severus in the hallway on the way here and I couldn't leave sooner" she said quietly

"It's okay Hermione. How are you? I'm sorry we haven't had a chance to talk before, but you were always surrounded by snakes, and I wanted to catch you once you were alone," he said

"I've been better, but I'm okay. How are you?" she said quietly.

"I'm sorry for what Ron did." he said in a whisper, slowly moving towards her, wanting to take her in his arms

"Oh Harry, you know I never blamed you for what Ron does." she said firmly and went to hug him.

After a few minutes of holding her in his arms, he said softly, "Tell me how it really is. I'm sure a lot has happened this summer."

She cast a silencing spell and then said, "You should learn Occlumency Harry."

"I'm not very good as you know." he said

"Well, I learned perfectly over the summer, maybe I can help you. If you're willing to study seriously." she said firmly

"ok. Now answer my question, what happened, and I want the truth."

"Well, I can't tell you the truth until you learn, I want you to have a mind protected from anyone, especially Dumbledore. He's told me some things that make me doubt him." she said quietly

"Like what?" Harry said a little irritated.

"That he would want me to infiltrate the Death Eaters without my father knowing. I would die instantly without assistance." she said angrily

"Why would he want that, if he's already spying on Snape for him?" Harry asked confusedly.

"He says Severus can't be trusted and that I would never betray the cause. But it would be a suicide mission to try to do something like that without someone having my back. Besides, without assistance I wouldn't know what to do or say. And if I got so close to the inner circle that I had access to useful information I would have to do terrible things, as you can imagine. And Dumbledore thinks it's best if I do all this alone. It's impossible even for me. I told him I'd think about it tho."

"He's crazy if he wants you to get to the inner circle, that would mean you'd have to torture or kill someone. I'm not stupid, I can imagine how initiations are done. I'm glad you don't have the dark mark though."

"yeah, so be careful, don't take everything for granted from Dumbledore, I at least don't trust him." she said

"But what are you going to do about his proposal? I hope you're not thinking of doing anything like that?"

"I haven't made a decision yet. However, I will do what I think is best for everyone. You know I want to help you, Harry."

"You may want to help, but I don't want you to sacrifice yourself for me." he said angrily.

"It's not all for you Harry, it's for everyone's good. Anyway, you can't tell Dumbledore that I told you, the conversation had to stay just between the two of us."

"Don't do anything stupid, Hermione. You're supposed to be the smart one among us."

"I know, and I'll take care of it."

After a short pause, Harry asks quietly, "Have you met Voldemort?"

"A few times" she said quietly

"He didn't hurt you, did he?" Harry asked, a little scared for the answer.

"No, he didn't hurt me. I can take care of myself, Harry, if not my father does. I know it may not seem like it, but he really does care about me. I don't want you to worry, I'm relatively safe."

"Relatively?" he asks quietly.

"No one is safe, and i am now considered a stranger or enemy by both sides. I know it's not just Ron who believes those things, Harry. And it's true, i've had to do some things i wouldn't normally have done, because when you're in a room full of death eaters and the dark lord himself, you don't really have a choice when you get an order..."

"I'm sorry." Harry says quietly, surprised by what she said.

"It's okay. I know I have a role to play, when I'm with them, I can't seem friendly with you, that's why I've never approached you. And every Slytherin has a relative in His circles, so I have to act like I'm disgusted by my muggle parents and that I've completely accepted that I'm Snape's daughter and that I'm acting like a death eaters child would, otherwise I could put myself or the people i care for in danger."

"I can't even imagine how hard it must be. And what's it really like, being Snape's daughter?" he asks quietly.

"He cares, he really does. And I feel bad every time he's put in a position where he can't help me. When we're with other Death Eaters or the Dark Lord and he can't help me when I am given an order. I can see the pain in his eyes, and it breaks my heart that he's putting himself in so much danger trying to protect me as much as he can. He's one of the inner circle, but there are still people above him, and he has to keep his cover while his heart breaks for his daughter. And that breaks me more than what I have to do sometimes," she said softly

"I can't even imagine Snape like this. I'm sorry Hermione, for everything you have to endure. But I was serious when you first told me the news, we won't let them tear us apart, you're my sister, I know that." he said, hugging her tightly.

"Thanks Harry, I can't tell you how relieved I am that you said that. For a while I thought you were of the same opinion as Ron..." she began to say

"Oh, Hermione, you are my sister in everything except blood, I love you so much, nothing can change that. even if you had betrayed me, I would have loved you just as much.. no matter what, you are my family." he said after which he kissed her forehead and held her tighter in his arms

"I love you too!" she said softly with a few tears in her eyes.
"But I have to tell you, I did some things, Harry, that were unforgivable. I... I thought maybe that was what I was supposed to do, but, I don't know, I was a little lost for a while, but I'm sorry and I hope that if you ever find out what I've done, you'll forgive me." she said in a whisper.

"You can't do anything that would be unforgivable in my eyes, love, and you know you can always tell me anything, and it won't change anything between us. " he said, gently wiping the tears from his eyes.

"He's interested in me, very interested. I don't know why, but over the summer I met Him a couple of times officially, after which He started showing me things Harry, it was dark magic, I know it was, but it made me feel so good when I was performing it, all the knowledge He gave me, and for a little while I was lost in it. My father compared me to Bellatrix, he said I acted like a younger version of her. But in the end, I could never betray you, no matter how many things He tries to do to convince me. It will never be enough to keep me away from you, from my brother. I'm sorry." she whispered with tears in her eyes

"Fuck Hermione. It’s ok, ok. We’ll be ok. Have you performed any Unforgiven?” he asked

"I, I, just once, on Dolohov, the first time I met Him. He said it was some kind of test for my loyalty. That I should be able to perform Crucio without any problems because of what Dolohov did to me. And, I couldn't say no, I was in a room full with death eaters, I had nothing else to do. So I did it. But, only then. I'm sorry "

"Oh, well. I guess Dolohov deserved it, and I wanted to kill him for what he did to you, so I'm not mad or disappointed or anything at you, and if there weren't other innocent people involved, I'm sure your soul is intact, so its ok. I'm sorry you went through this, I know how hard it was for you. But you'll be okay."

"Thanks for not being upset, no one knows I used that curse except my father and the rest of the Death Eaters and I'd rather it stay that way, but I really felt the need to tell you."

"I'm glad you told me, I'm glad you weren't hurt. And you're finally safe now, while we're at Hogwarts." he said softly

"Do you know that no matter what happens and the rest of the things I've done, I would never betray you? You're my brother and I love you. I'm sorry we have to keep up appearances so it seems like we can't stand each other right now, but that will keep us safe ."

"I know, it's okay, I know the truth, I know you wouldn't betray me and that you are always here for me, sister." he said kissing her forehead again and caressing her hands inside him

"Come on, we should go. I don't want any snakes asking questions, and it's already pretty late. But I want to set up some hours for you to practice Occlumency, okay? Monday and Thursday? " she said.

"Ok, it's ok. let's go" he said after which they each started walking towards their respective common room

Chapter Text

When Hermione arrived in the common room it was quite late and she didn't expect anyone to be awake, so she entered slowly and started walking towards her bedroom, when suddenly she heard someone clearing their throat. So she turned towards the sound and was surprised to see Draco.

"Draco, hi, why are you awake?" she asked

"The better question is where have you been so late, you left after dinner saying you were going out for a short walk..."

"And why are you so curious about what I did?" she asks.

"You seemed to know I had my orders, so where have you been?"

"I went to my father's," she said simply.

"oh, really, curious, considering that when I asked him if he knew where you were he seemed very confused and then he went off to look for you..." he said now a little irritated

"I went for a short walk and then I met my father and stayed with him," she said again.

"You're not a very good liar Hermione, the truth now!" Draco said firmly.

"Who do you think you are to give me orders? The truth is, it's none of your business what I did, so leave me alone," she said angrily.

"No, no, princess, we've already come to an agreement on this idea, when I ask you something, you answer honestly and then you can do whatever you want, it's that simple" he said walking towards her and lightly slamming her back against the wall, catching her between the wall and himself.

"We have no such agreement Draco, now let me go, I don't think the Dark Lord would be happy with the way you're treating me. You probably think you have power over me, but you don't. I'm also amazed that you allow yourself to treat me like this after you found out the true relationship between me and him." she said provocatively

"If you think that because he fucks you, he cares about you then you are wrong Hermione. I have clear orders from him to know where you are 24/7 regardless of the consequences, so I don't care what you imagine is happening, but between us I have the power and I always obey orders, so maybe you should watch how you behave, until the dark lord says otherwise, I am in control here, so I'll ask you one more time. where have you been?" he said now very close to her, and with one hand gripping her waist quite tightly.

"Draco, I thought we were over this and that we were friends, why are you acting like this?" she said confused, trying to free herself from his grip.

"I'm just fulfilling my duties, princess," he said firmly, looking deep into her eyes

"Get away from me," she almost screamed. "Maybe the dark lord doesn't care, but my father, wouldn't accept the way you're treating me. So let me go," she said angrily.

He just tightened his grip and whispered in her ear "Oh, my sweet princess, maybe Snape cares, but he, like me, has his orders, and he wouldn't do anything against the orders the Dark Lord gave, so you only have one option here Hermione, tell me."

"My father knows where I've been, so I don’t need to tell you to" she said quietly.

"On the contrary, if your father knows I don't see any problem in sharing, after all he is as much a Death Eater as I am, even more so, so tell me" he said, now bringing both hands to her waist

"I don't understand how you can go from nice and understanding to cold and violent so easily, Draco," she said quietly, now looking deep into his eyes.

"The circumstances change, come on princess, don't make me resort to other methods, tell me so we can both continue with our evening." he said angrily.

"Okay, I was with Harry. Now let me go and don't ever touch me again. If you do, I will not hesitate to use all the black magic spells the dark lord taught me on you." she said then pulled out of his grip and quickly left for her bedroom, leaving Draco alone in the common room.

When she arrived in the bedroom, she initially thought the other girls were sleeping but she was surprised to see that Pansy was awake and looking at her with big eyes.

"Are you okay? Draco was a little angry today and I heard some screaming from downstairs." she said softly

"Nothing is okay anymore, and it never will be. My life has changed radically and everyone wants something from me, and I'm starting to get a little tired of it." Hermione said in a whisper.

"I'm sorry love, but there's nothing you can do. I know it's complicated. Leaving your old life behind for one that's not what you imagined. And the fact that everyone is pulling you to their side and you're stuck in the middle doesn't help. You'll have to decide what you want to do when the time comes." Pensy says slowly, getting up from her seat and walking towards Hermione.

"I can't do this anymore. I just can't..." Hermione started to say but was interrupted by Pansy who took her in her arms and started to say softly "Come on Hermione you are the brightest witch of our age. You can do anything"

"It's complicated. And now Draco has also upset me. I don't even understand when he changed. A little while ago he was calm and kind and now he's slammed me into the wall when I didn't tell him what he wanted..." Hermione said disappointedly

"fuck, I'm sorry, I really don't know what got into him" said pansy, also surprised by draco's actions

"It's okay, I just want to rest, I've had a long day. Good night Pansy." Hermione said softly, then went to her bed