Adult-FanFiction.org : Harry Potter

Bound	By : goldhorse Category: Harry Potter > Het - Male/Female > Draco/Hermione Views: 126052 -:- Recommendations : 15 -:- Currently Reading : 31
Disclaimer: JK owns HP. Not me. I also don't own any quotes you might recognize. I make no money doing this, I just get the plot bunnies to quit interrupting my sleep.

Chapter List
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AN: Thanks everyone! *blushes* You've made me feel terrific! I have up to chapter 15 written so I should be able to post fairly quickly. Be sure to let me know if you pick up any errors.

Silence was the only thing between the two for the next half hour. What did one say? What could one say? What was done was done and couldn’t be undone as long as they both lived and died it seemed. Where did they go from here?

Draco had thought about this for the last 3 days, ever since he had read it in the book. He remembered that moment. He was in the Room of Requirement, reeling from his last failure and so he decided to read to keep his mind off of things.

Mind bonding is one of the most fulfilling things a couple can do. It can also be the most deadly. One cannot truly prepare for a full bond with a person. The other person becomes them, essentially forming one being. Distances tear at the bond, potentially causing great pain if the bond is weak. Fighting the bond also causes great pain and even loss of consciousness. The best thing to do is accept it. The two bonded are forever linked, in life and death, for one cannot live without the other.

It had chilled him to the bone. The book went on to discuss different types of magic and eventually he stumbled upon something that also made his blood run cold, as if it could grow colder. He passed the book over to Granger, careful to point out the two marked spaces she needed to read. Then he mulled over what else he had read.

There are three types of magic in wizards and witches. The first type is balance. These persons will exhibit normal magic. This is not a measure of how powerful, but a measure of dark and light sides of magic, for there can’t be light without dark. These balanced persons make up 99% of the wizarding world.

The second type is the phenom. These persons also have a certain balance of magic. However, one side is much stronger than the other. The tiny bit of opposite magic keeps them from self-destructing from surges. These phenoms usually gravitate toward each other. Working together, they have a power most balanced magical persons can’t come close to. They are also very alluring to magical creatures. A great number of phenoms are the offspring of a dark magical creature such a vampire or werewolf who has crossed with a wizard or witch. Phenoms make up .99% of the wizarding world.

The third and most rare type of magic is pure. The wizard or witch who possesses a pure magic has only one side or the other, light or dark. There is no balance. The individuals themselves aren’t “good or evil”, but are highly volatile. As a rule, these individuals are bound with magic of the opposite strength. If not bound, they are usually unable to function. Their magic can overpower them and cause them to destroy their very core trying to find some balance. Most of these individuals are unable to make it past their seventeenth year, as this is when their magic comes into full power. In theory, on an extremely rare occasion two opposites will find each other and will bond, usually on accident. Once bonded, their magic can flow between the two and balance out the powers. These individuals can be virtually unstoppable if trained properly. Pure magic makes up only .01% of the wizarding world. Finding an exact opposite has been thought of as a myth. There is only one couple who has been rumored to possess this type of bond, Merlin and Nimue.

Hermione gasped as she read this last passage. The book dropped to the floor with a thud and she sat back heavily against the couch. Draco, realizing that she had reached the end, grabbed the book off of the floor and stowed it away in his satchel. Knowing that she was going to need a moment to reflect, he walked over to lie down on the fur rug in front of the fireplace. It was quite comfortable and soon he had drifted to sleep.

Hermione sat and stared into the fire for at least an hour. It was a lot of information to take in. Dumbledore had said that she had a gold aura and that Malfoy had a silver aura. They were pure, yin and yang, opposites destined for each other. Whatever they were, they were the first since Merlin and Nimue. No one could be sure about the history of those two either. All the tales were different. Nimue trapped Merlin in a cave. She used a spell against him to escape. She loved him to obsession. Who could be sure?

Well, she could be sure of one thing. They were stuck together till death do us part, and apparently, they wouldn’t be parted in death either. She shivered as a tear streaked down her face. She would never be able to settle down with a man she truly loved. She was stuck with Malfoy. As much as she loved Ron and held hope that he’d somehow dump Lavender and sweep her off her feet, she had to face the harsh reality. Her dreams would never come true. She was never one for childish fantasies but it seemed as if a bit more of her innocence ebbed away in that moment of realization.

Malfoy was asleep, she could tell. She took the opportunity to study her lifelong companion. It stung to think about it. She’d known they couldn’t be separated when she had first met with Dumbledore, but to see it in print had made it concrete. His steady breathing rhythm was strangely calming. She felt compelled to move closer. Assuming the bond was pulling her, she sat down beside him and looked down. With his eyes closed, he looked angelic. Although she could see the signs of stress, the dark circles under his eyes and the redness at the corners most likely from rubbing them too many times, he appeared carefree. His pale blond eyebrows arched aristocratically. He had a sharp but seemly nose that suited his face. His lips were slightly parted as he breathed in and out slowly. They appeared plump and soft. She remembered just how soft they were. His chin was sharp, but also suited his face. Once he finished growing, his features would be striking.

Draco slowly regained consciousness and felt Granger looking him over. He decided to play possum until she finished. It was both uncomfortable and flattering to be inspected so closely. Her closeness was also comforting to him. It had taken him three days to come to terms with his fate. It actually seemed a bit rushed at that, but they were running out of time. The book said that if the bond was weak, it would cause pain. They more than experienced that every day, but it didn’t explain how to make the bond stronger. Deciding he’d given her enough time to peruse his person, he slowly opened his eyes. Startled, Hermione scooted back a bit, looking apologetic.

“You are as skittish as a mouse Granger.” He slowly sat up. “So, come to the same conclusion?” When she arched her brow, he continued. “We’re stuck together so we might as well get used to it.”

Hermione nodded. “Yes, I have. I’ve known since Sunday, but seeing in written down kind of made it real. It isn’t fair. We’re never going to find love.”

Draco snorted. “You obviously don’t know much about pureblood life then Granger. We don’t marry for love; we marry for power, money, and blood status. If you fall in love with someone, make sure they are okay with being a mistress.”

“That’s horrible!”

“Maybe, but it’s the bitter truth. If you go against tradition, you risk getting disowned.”

“Um Malfoy?”

“Yes Granger?”

“You’ll be a lot worse than disowned if anyone finds out about us.”

Her words hung in the air like a curse. What were they to do? As she walked toward the couch, she couldn’t help but break in that moment. She’d promised herself she’d never break down in front of anyone ever again. Here she was, breaking down in front of her worst enemy and the one person who was never going away. She made to run but was suddenly jerked off of her course and crushed against a hard body. Fighting to get free was useless. Draco’s arms held her tight.

“Draco, let me go!”

“No Hermione. We’re in this together and we’re going to have to do it together. No more running.”

“W-w-what did you call me?”

“Hermione. That is your name isn’t it? Besides, you called me Draco. I think, given what’s happened, first names are in order.”

“Y-You’re right,” she sniffled.

“What was that? Could you repeat that? I’d like to record it for prosperity.” Malfoy smirked.

With a slight giggle, she lightly smacked Draco on the arm. “You know what I mean. It’s just a big adjustment. We’ll still have to hate each other in public.”

“Naturally.”

They walked back over to the couch to do some more thinking. Before they knew it, Hermione had her head on Draco’s shoulder, his arm draped across her back. He had his head resting on top of hers. It felt comfortable and neither wanted to fight it. They hadn’t felt so well since their predicament started. Perhaps acceptance strengthened the bond.

“Draco?”

“Hmmm?”

“What have you decided about your mission?”

Draco gave a heavy sigh. “Well, I figure that I don’t have much of a choice. I want my mother alive. I don’t want to die but I was willing to sacrifice myself for her. Now you’re going to die if I do and I, well. Now that I’ve sort of gotten to know you, I can’t live with myself knowing that I could be killing you as well. If I become a spy, I’ll have a chance to save all three of us. It won’t be easy though. There is still a chance we could die, but I have to at least try.”

She ignored the fact that he had decided she was now of consequence. “I know, Draco, but now we have an even better chance. It’s lunchtime now. Why don’t we sneak back down to the Great Hall and you can talk to Professor Snape. Work out the details with him. I have a feeling that there is a lot more to this then either he or Dumbledore is telling us.”

“Well, Hermione, when you’re right, you’re right. Don’t tell anyone I said that. We’ll have to find out as we go along I guess. See you in detention Granger!” Malfoy grinned like a Cheshire cat and then whisked out the door.

Hermione gave him a good fifteen minutes before she got up from the couch. The room went pitch black and then a spotlight hit the middle of the floor. There stood a large pole, gleaming in the lights. A rousing beat started playing, lulling her into movement. She smirked as she stalked to the pole, shedding her robes. No one had ever figured out her secret. She loved pole dancing; well any dancing really, but pole dancing was her favorite. She had taken all sorts of dancing lessons as a child and during the summer months, everything from ballet, to ballroom, to salsa.

Pole dancing was a dirty little secret of hers since the summer before 5th year. Her older cousin had invited her over for a week during summer holidays and, seeing her coordination, convinced her to try it. She was much too shy to perform in front of an audience but it was strangely liberating. The different positions stretched her tense muscles and built up her strength. Essentially, it was almost as good as running but without having to venture out into the elements. Besides, she could slow her brain down for once in her life and just feel the music. How she had missed this. However, after the second song, reality called to her and her aching head. She sadly gathered up her robes and made her way down to the Great Hall.

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“Where were you ‘Mione?” Harry had started in on her as soon as she walked in. “And don’t tell me you were in the library because I looked there.”

His emerald green eyes went hard as steel when he looked at her. She was in big trouble and she knew it. Harry was a kind and gentle person but quick to fly off the handle and hardly understanding of some things. Slytherins were one of those things. As far as Harry was concerned, they had no redeeming qualities. He was suspicious of Professor Snape from day one even though the man had proven himself time and time again. Sure, he was shady sometimes but he’d always been on their side when it came down to it. His hatred of Draco, on the other hand, was understandable. He’d always been a prat and never proven any different. He’d even broken Harry’s nose at the beginning of the year.

With a sigh, Hermione did some quick talking, hoping she’d gotten better at lying. “I ran back to the common room to write a return letter.” Here she tried to blush, hoping he would think it was from thinking of her ‘boyfriend’. “Then I went to the owlery and sent it off. Afterwards, I decided to wander around. Really, being locked in a classroom with Snape every night for the past week has been taxing on my nerves. I just needed some time to myself to relax.” She pleaded with her eyes for Harry to understand.

Softening, Harry nodded his head. “Ok, I understand. I know detention with that greasy git is enough to make anyone need a break. He smiled then and Hermione knew she had gotten a reprieve.

“Thanks Harry,” she breathed and then smiled back.

“We’re just worried about you Hermione. I mean, you got attacked just three weeks ago and we want to keep you safe. Has anything happened since you were pulled into that alcove?”

“No, nothing’s happened. Maybe that sock in the stomach deterred them?”

“Well, you do pack quite a punch ‘Minoe!” Harry grinned. “I’m sure the ferret over there could vouch for that!”

She couldn’t help it. She giggled loudly and it was infectious. Soon, half the table burst into fits of laughter. It was the lightest moment she had experienced in a good while. Unfortunately it wasn’t meant to last.

Ginny bent over. “Don’t think for a second I actually believe you. I know that you would have told me first if you had a boyfriend! We need to talk.”

She sobered immediately. “Ok, Gin. Meet me in the common room after my detention and we’ll talk.”

Ginny nodded. “You know you can tell me anything, right? I won’t blab it all over school. You do know that, right?”

“Yea, Gin. I know. I’m sorry, it’s just, well, it’s complicated.”

Deciding to drop it, Ginny went back to laughing with everyone and eating but Hermione had a sense of foreboding so strong she could scarcely eat. So strong in fact, that Draco was compelled to see what was wrong. He grabbed his friends and under the guise of some bullying, stalked over to the Gryffindor table.

“Something funny?” He called out. Locking his eyes with Hermione’s he continued his tirade. “Oh, I see. She is rather tragically hilarious isn’t she?” Hermione suddenly cut her eyes toward Ginny and Draco widened his eyes a bit in understanding. So, the she-weasel smelled something funny. This was not good.

“That’s quite enough, ferret,” snapped Hermione. “If you must know, we were reliving a special time in my life. The first time I hit a boy.” She gave him a pointed glance and he had the courtesy to quail.

“That’s proof that you will never be a lady Granger. You’re too much like your filthy relatives.” He narrowed his eyes and fought the sickness he was feeling. Perhaps it was her sickness, which made him feel even worse. It took everything within him not to apologize to her. They had to keep appearances though, or they both would be in great danger.

Hermione felt the nausea mounting in her stomach. Perhaps they both felt sick about this. It hurt more than words could say but it was a necessity. No one could know and now that Ginny had called her out, it was even more important that they look like enemies. So, she gathered her wits and pressed on, knowing what she said next would seemingly take it too far.

“At least none of my relatives are criminals.” She felt the wave of anger mixed with her sadness and the stronger urge to throw up. It was shredding at her heart and she could hardly bear it. Willing anyone to jump in and stop this, she tried to stop the tears that were threatening to spill.

“You’ll pay for that you filthy,” Draco started in a low flat tone.

“Mr. Malfoy, Miss Granger,” came the strong Scottish accent of McGonagall. “I don’t have a clue why you two insist on fighting so much, but this has gone far enough. Both of you will report to the Headmaster’s office immediately!”

Thanking whatever gods were listening, both of them grudgingly trailed behind the Head of Gryffindor out of the Great Hall to Dumbledore’s office. When they were out of the way of prying eyes, they both looked up and mouthed ‘I’m sorry’. It seemed to calm them both and soon they were looking at the stone gargoyle guarding the headmaster’s office.

“Licorice wands,” McGonagall spoke and the gargoyle jumped back.

The headmaster’s office was just like it was the last time they had visited. They each took one of the plush chairs in front of his desk and waited, trying not to touch each other lest they reveal everything. After all, the fewer who knew, the better hidden they could be. It felt like an eternity before Dumbledore sat behind his desk and dismissed Professor McGonagall. As soon as he was seated, he offered them both a lemon drop, which they declined.

“Before we start on why you both found it necessary to verbally spar in the Great Hall, I must ask you, Miss Granger, if everything is now clear?”

At his pointed glance at Draco, she realized he was asking if they both knew about the bond.

“Oh, yes Headmaster. Everything was made clear this morning.” Her eyes darkened a little. “Everything.”

Nodding his head gravely, he answered. “Ah, yes. Some things are better if you discover them for yourself.”

Draco squirmed a bit.

Dumbledore’s eyes twinkled madly. “Now, to keep up appearances, perhaps it is best to, as the muggles say, let sleeping dogs lie?”

“What?” Draco asked.

Hermione immediately jumped in. “Let sleeping dogs lie is a muggle saying. It means to let the situation be, ignore it if you will, or in our case, just stay away from each other and don’t interact.” Her voice cracked a bit at the end.

“I see,” he said in a flat tone. His hands were itching to hold her and this fact irritated him to no end. He’d never felt that need before. “Headmaster,” he asked. At Dumbledore’s nod, he continued. “Am I to take it that you know about, um, our unique situation?”

“Ah, yes my boy. I believe I am quite aware of the intriguing bond between you both. I understand that you both will need to be near each other to prevent pain but I must ask that you use discretion. I’m sure you both realize the seriousness of your predicament?” At their nod, he continued. “Give me some time to think it over and I am sure we can come up with something to help you out. In the meantime, I have another book you two might want to look over.”

He handed it to them. It was a very small handwritten book. It didn’t have a title and the writing was very small and cramped. It looked like personal research notes. Was it possible that someone else had been through this before?

“Read over everything, take your own notes and record your own observations. Feel free to be yourselves in front of myself and Professor Snape, but no one else. There are also instructions in there for strengthening bonds, although you might hesitate to follow them.” He gave them a wry grin. “Good day to you both.”

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Hermione trudged back to Gryffindor tower after her last detention with Professor Snape. She was tired, sore, and strangely giddy. During their duel, they had discussed the implications of their bond. Malfoy had come in under the guise of asking his Godfather for a favor. The two Slytherins were still a bit stiff around each other but the fact that they were on the same side helped them warm up. She and Malfoy started to team up against the Professor, working faster and harder. Just when they had managed to pin him, he somehow turned up the power and knocked them both flat on their arses.

It was then that something struck her. The book said that phenoms were more powerful than those with normal balanced powers. Professor Snape had always been a dark wizard. It wasn’t just because he had a tendency to be dark though; it was more that dark gravitated toward him. She wasn’t sure why she knew this. It was just a feeling.

Suddenly, a hundred tiny facts clicked into place in her head. Snape was extremely powerful, more so than any other adult she had seen, barring Dumbledore. It was Dumbledore who had said that she and Snape had more in common than she knew. Then there was the man himself. He had inky black hair, onyx eyes, and milky white skin. He moved as if he floated on air and his very presence was foreboding. The greasy bat of the dungeons, he was called. Magical creatures were drawn to phenoms, vampires being one of them. A few things didn’t fit though, like the fact that Snape was most definitely able to walk about in sunlight and he wasn’t sensitive to garlic. It suddenly made all the sense in the world.

“You’re a phenom,” she breathed. It was hard to get out as she still had the wind knocked out of her.

His eyes shot towards her and narrowed. “You will speak of this to no one. Understood?” He said in a very low tone. It chilled her to the bone.

“Of course not, sir.” Malfoy added his promise of silence as well.

Snape sighed. “How did you guess?”

“Well, sir. It just all fell into place.” Then she stammered. “May I ask you a personal question?”

“What does it matter if I want you to or not?” He snapped. “You’re still going to ask it because you seem to have this annoying habit of sticking your nose where it is not wanted!”

Her lip trembled a bit before she spoke. “I am sorry sir, but I must know. Magical creatures are attracted to phenoms. Are…well, are you a vampire?”

Dumbfounded, Snape simply stared at her a minute. There had been rumors about him being a vampire for years and no one had ever had the courage to ask if it were true. Of course, he didn’t go out of his way to discourage those either. Once again, he was impressed with her courage, if a little annoyed. Then he smirked.

“Well, Miss Granger. What do you think?”

She swallowed hard. “Well, sir,” she began in a whisper. “You must admit that you do resemble one with your pale skin and black eyes.” Snape quirked an eyebrow at her. “But mostly, it is your presence sir. I’ve read about them,” she was interrupted with a snort. Huffing, she continued. “You have the same visual aspects as well as a sense of presence sir.”

Snape stayed silent for a while. It had impressed him how logical her answer was. It wasn’t just based on rumors or fears, but actual research. Of course her answer was logical, how else would she answer. However, if he were going to help train them as Dumbledore had requested, they would need to know.

“This goes no further than this room?”

“No sir,” both she and Malfoy said.

“Very well. No, Miss Granger, I am not a vampire. However, I express attributes of the disease.” Here he paused to gauge their feelings. Draco looked a bit pale but Miss Granger seemed extremely interested. Most people did not accept what he was, so he’d hidden his true self, even from Voldemort who would surely exploit him.

“The closest I can come to an explanation is a daywalker.” Here, Hermione gasped. “Yes, Miss Granger. I am very rare,” he huffed. She lowered her eyes in apology and he continued on. “I don’t have the weaknesses of a vampire. I, of course, can venture out into daylight. I can eat garlic. Crucifixes won’t do anything but annoy me, holy water will only wet my person, and I can obviously see myself in a mirror.” He stated as he pointed to a small mirror on a shelf with his reflection in it. “Of course, I am certain a wooden stake to my heart would kill me just as effectively as anyone else.” Here he smirked.

“Wow,” Hermione couldn’t help but exclaim. Draco remained silent but his eyes were wide and he was still a bit pale.

“Wow, indeed,” drawled Snape. “In addition, I have their strengths. Despite my looks, I have what some might call superhuman strength, speed, and fast recovery. It’s come in handy during my…visits…with the Dark Lord.” With this, he looked pointedly at Draco who looked a bit green at that point. “Although I can’t disappear into mist, I can change into more than one form, three to be exact. However, that is from both being a phenom and a daywalker. You two might discover that you can be a double or even triple animagi.” He hurried on before she could interrupt him again. “I also, as you so eloquently put it, Miss Granger, have the presence of a vampire. If I chose to, I could entice a person to do what I want. It isn’t as strong though; if you don’t want to do my bidding, you can resist it.”

There was silence for a good few minutes before Hermione broke it one last time. “Blood, sir? Do you require it?”

Snape gave a nasty smile. “Ah, the heart of the matter,” he drawled. “No, Miss Granger, I do not require blood to live. However, it works much the same way as your muggle vitamins. I am stronger, faster, and have sharper senses. When consumed, I can heal faster. It also helps me replenish spent magic as well. But no, in answer to your unasked question, I do not feed upon the innocent youths of the wizarding world. I merely require a few drops from a donor, which I mix with a blood replenisher. It is more than enough to sustain me. Anymore asinine questions?”

“Um, just a few sir,” Hermione asked sheepishly.

Snape pinched the bridge of his nose, cursing himself because he had left the door wide open. He waved a hand to signal she should go on.

“I know you more than likely drink your blood from a cup, but you must have a backup plan in case it is needed? Do you have fangs?”

Snape barked out a laugh. “Only you, Miss Granger, would think of fangs as a backup plan for survival.” Then he waved his hand and removed the glamour on his teeth. Perfectly straight gleaming white teeth replaced the nasty crooked yellow ones. His incisors were distinctly sharper. He walked closer to let her inspect them and smirked wickedly when Draco started moving backwards. When he was close enough, he elongated them; starting at the enthusiastic response he got from Hermione.

“They’re beautiful!” She exclaimed before she realized whom she was talking to. She blushed so deeply he was sure she had beaten the Weasley boy in shade. “I’m sorry,” she stammered. “My parents are dentists. I, um, share their appreciation for straight white teeth.”

“I see,” drawled Snape in an amused tone. Then, he leaned in and let his eyes flash indigo for a second before walking away. Hermione squeaked and shut her mouth. Perhaps he should have done that earlier? He moved quickly before she could ask anymore.

“Now, I expect you two to act exactly the same around me. After all, I haven’t changed at all in the last few minutes.”

“No, sir,” they answered in tandem, although Draco still looked a bit sick.

“Good. Now, Dumbledore has appointed me the pointless task of being your babysitter. I am also to train you. Knowing what I am now, you know that I am apparently the only one suited for the job, although I know you will somehow make a mess of this despite my warnings. Once you two are fully trained, you will easily be able to overpower me. I ask that you remain under strict control at all times, for all of our sakes. One foolish move and you could accidentally take out half of Scotland.”

Draco had held himself for as long as he could. “If we could do that, why can’t we take out the Dark Lord?”

Snape sighed. “It isn’t that easy. There are other things at work keeping him alive, more so than just his current mortality. I’m sure Miss Granger is well aware of this.” Hermione nodded her head as a tear rolled down her face. “I suggest you two carve some time out to speak openly with one another. By the time your bond is cemented, you won’t be able to have secrets anyway.”

They both gasped in surprise.

“You have no idea what you have done, do you?” At the shaking of their heads he sighed, sounding deeply put out. “You will be able to function like one person. You’ll be able to function separately, of course, but hiding things from one another causes pain. It’s much like the pain you experience now when you two are separated. However, for the sake of you both, you need to work more on your occlumency and legilimency. When the time comes, you will actually be able to help the other in blocking your minds. You’re bond will know no bounds. You best get used to this idea now.”

Then they started discussing Draco’s role as a spy in the Dark Lords ranks. It was decided that the less she knew about their plans, the better, so Malfoy had stayed after she left. This left her mind whirring and she ended up at the Fat Lady’s portrait far before she had time to process everything.

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Ginny pounced on her before she could even close the portrait door. Staggering backwards, she let out a yelp. Soon, both Harry and Ron came running and helped her back through the portrait. Still dazed, it took her a few minutes before she realized that everyone was speaking to her.

“Mione!?” they all said together.

“What? Oh, I’m sorry. I think Snape might have rendered me a trifle bit deaf, not to mention my arse is going to smart for weeks.”

They all snickered and then settled down.

“So, Mione,” started Harry. “How was your last meeting with the greasy bat of the dungeons?” Everyone started laughing but all Hermione could think of was the indigo flash in his eyes.

“It was tiring Harry. He’s a cruel taskmaster,” she answered, rubbing her bum. However, she wasn’t quick enough to hide the faraway look she’d just had in her eyes. Ginny caught her attention and motioned to the girl’s side of the dorms. Figuring it was time to sink or swim with Ginny, she quickly dismissed the boys.

“You know, I’m really tired. I think I’ll just head up to bed, okay?”

“Sure Mione, see you in the morning?” Harry asked.

“Yes, of course.” She smiled. She hoped it came off as genuine and not hollow like she felt. What does one say about the events of the night? By the way Harry, I just learned that the one teacher that you absolutely do not like is a daywalker. He even drinks blood! Stifling a giggle at that thought, she trudged upstairs. She could just imagine Ron’s reaction. “Blimey, the greasy bat of the dungeons really IS a vampire!”

Feeling a bit lighter, she walked into her room. Ginny was right behind her and closed the door swiftly before placing silencing and locking charms on the door. She had seen Lavender sneak down with Ron and knew that Pravati was off with some Ravenclaw that her sister had introduced her to.

“All right, Hermione. Spill it.”

“It’s complicated Gin.”

“So complicated that you can’t tell your best friend?”

Hermione sighed heavily. “Oh Gin,” tears started streaming down her face. “You have no idea how bad I want to tell you what is going on, but I can’t. My tongue is tied three different ways.”

Ginny looked crushed. “You know I would keep your secrets,” she whispered.

“I know Gin. I took an oath, though, several actually so I honestly am physically unable to tell you. I do trust you implicitly though. Please know that.”

Ginny nodded her head sadly. “You shouldn’t have to keep it all bottled in.”

“I know, but I don’t have a choice. Besides, I’m not alone, not really, not in this, not ever again.” With those words she burst into sobs and Ginny comforted her until she cried herself to sleep.

Ginny was determined to find out what was wrong with her best friend. She figured that if Hermione couldn’t tell her, she could tail her and find out that way. Oaths didn’t cover someone eavesdropping. She’d find a way to help her friend, one way or another.

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Sunday morning before breakfast, Hermione found herself in Dumbledore’s office. She had been awake since three A.M. pouring over the book he had given them. When she came to the part that said she would have to give herself to Malfoy to cement the bond, she went ballistic and stormed into his office.

There was no way she was giving Draco Malfoy her virginity. The bond could be held over and strengthened by touch, but it was only a temporary fix. Once cemented, the bond would hold over longer distances and lengthier time periods. However, it wasn’t known just how far or how long. Once bonded, most mates didn’t want to leave each other at all.

That was preposterous. She would NOT be hanging all over Draco like that simpering twit Pansy. She was her own woman and she would NOT be bent by a bond’s will. The pain in her head suddenly flared and the next thing she knew, Dumbledore was smiling down at her. She was on the floor.

“My dear, I think you might now know what happens if you try to fight it?”

Hermione groaned. “This is the most barbaric thing I’ve ever heard of Headmaster.”

“Be that as it may, Miss Granger, you must make this sacrifice or live in such horrible pain forever. I have sent Professor Snape to check on Mr. Malfoy. We do not know if refusal on one’s part will affect the other.”

Hermione gasped. She hadn’t even thought about how Draco had felt. How could she be so selfish? Still, the thought of being bedded by the Slytherin Prince gave her goose bumps. He didn’t get his reputation by word of mouth alone. Draco Malfoy was a playboy. She wasn’t like that. Casual sex had never even been considered on her radar. She was planning on giving herself to her future husband.

Her future husband. That thought made her insides cold. She could never marry. She had thought so before but the book clearly stated that once bonded, they couldn’t seek out another. She didn’t know if that meant carnally, but it specifically stated matrimony to others. Their bond would dissolve all attempts at others, not to mention it would be horribly painful.

Before she knew it, Dumbledore had helped her back into her chair and Dobby had popped in with a nice cup of hot tea.

“Here Miss. Dobby mades it especially for you.”

“Thank you so much Dobby.”

Dobby beamed and then popped out with a loud crack.

“Now, Miss Granger. I knew that this would upset you but unfortunately, it must be done. If it isn’t, passing out on the floor could be the least of your problems.”

“How so?” she whispered, tears starting to flow down her cheeks.

“Well, think of a bond as a force, if you will. This force, once invoked will not stop until it meets its end. This end is of course the cementing of your bond. The first effect is pain. Have you noticed a sudden need to be close to or touching Mr. Malfoy in whatever way possible?”

Hermione nodded. She remembered the feeling of needing to be in his arms yesterday. It had felt so right just sitting there, his arms around her, her head on his shoulder. She felt safe and warm. There wasn’t a pain anymore. Her body and mind could finally relax.

“Well, the bond will go further.” Dumbledore continued. “It can have the potential to virtually take over. You might start walking toward class and find yourself running toward Mr. Malfoy against your own free will. I am sure you agree that it would be unacceptable?”

Once again she nodded. “But sir, I.” Then she stopped. It sounded horribly childish and selfish that she was so concerned about saving her virginity for marriage. Not to mention the fact that it was horribly embarrassing to be discussing this with her Headmaster. However, she believed so strongly about it that it was literally making her sick.

“It is alright Miss Granger,” Dumbledore interrupted with a kind smile. “No one will fault you for your moral values.”

With that statement, Hermione blushed redder than a tomato. It really was perfect timing because Professor Snape and Draco happened to walk through the door at the exact same time. Snape smirked at her and Draco looked extremely put out, rubbing the back of his head.

“What happened, Granger?” He asked. Hermione blushed furiously then. If she had been wearing anything but robes, it would be visible all the way to her belly button, she thought.

“Ah, so she knows?” Snape quirked an eyebrow at Dumbledore.

“I’m afraid so, Severus,” he answered which was followed by a deep chuckle from Snape.

Hermione wished she could crawl under the chair. It was so embarrassing and still Draco had no idea. He was still rubbing the back up his head. He must have been standing and hit it when she refused the bond. He probably blacked out as well.

“Someone want to fill me in?”

Hermione rose from her chair and took the book from Dumbledore, who was smiling gently with a vicious twinkle in his eye. She handed Draco the book and then gently kissed the back of his head while reciting the pain spell. Immediate relief spread through his body and he sat heavily in the chair that she was just occupying.

“Read that quickly,” she said and then made her way into the back of the Headmaster’s office where Fawkes was trilling a slow soothing tune. It made her feel comforted and a little less embarrassed.

Draco took a look at his godfather and the Headmaster and then cracked the book open. Speed-reading was his forte and soon he was to the part that obviously had Hermione so upset. It made sense. He’d have to bed her. Of course she would be against that. He was against that. He was still warring with himself over the fact that she was a mudblood. No. She was a muggle-born. She got her magic by some miracle and he’d just inherited his.

He closed the book silently and placed in on Dumbledore’s desk, still contemplating it. Sex was sex. He’d perfected the art of fucking people he couldn’t stand. Of course, that included several heavy magical barrier spells, a potion, a strong stomach, and plenty of scrubbing until he was raw afterwards. One mustn’t forget liberal amounts of alcohol before and after the act. Blurred vision was often his best friend.

Glancing over at Hermione brought a new feeling to his stomach. Somehow, he didn’t think he’d need all that with her. She was sitting in a chair listening to Fawkes. Her tiny hands were folded up under her chin. Her face was heart shaped and blemish free. Her eyes were pure gold when she was angry and light amber when she wasn’t. Her lips were plump and pouty, but not obscenely so. She was no conventional beauty by any means, but somehow, she was absolutely breathtakingly beautiful. Her bushy hair seemed to be a thing of the past as it hung in wet ringlets about her head. She had obviously forgotten to dry it in her haste to rush to Dumbledore for help.

Help. So, it was obvious she didn’t want him to touch her. Well, that wasn’t right was it? She’d let him hold her yesterday. It was a glorious moment. The world felt right and she felt so good in his arms. Then it hit him. How could he be so stupid? Hermione Granger was a virgin.

He’d remembered her breaking down in the ROR, talking about never finding their true loves. She must have been saving herself for marriage. Shite! The book said they wouldn’t be able to marry anyone else. Well, they could try but who would want to go through all of that pain? No wonder he blacked out. She must have refused the bond. That answered that question then.

For once in his life, Draco was wrestling with whether or not to do the right thing. If Granger wanted to save herself for marriage and the only person she could marry was him, he stopped dead in his tracks. They would have to be married. NO!

Both students blacked out again.

“Albus,” Snape growled. “We can’t risk this happening every time one of them even thinks the word no toward the other.”

“I know, Severus. We are entering very shaky ground. Teenage hormones are very unpredictable.”

Snape sighed and revived them both.

“You don’t want to either, do you,” came the whispered question from Hermione.

Draco snorted. “It isn’t that Granger, trust me.” Then he smirked and sent a heated gaze at her, which caused her to blush again. “It’s just, sudden. I say we think on it for a few days. Does that appease everyone?” He looked around as they nodded. “Good, then I say give us a snog to tide us over and then I’m going to head down to breakfast.”

“What?” Hermione shrieked.

“Touching strengthens it right?” Draco asked softly.

She nodded. “Yes, touching works.”

“Well, kissing would be a step beyond.” Draco said logically. “It isn’t like we haven’t before. Why not lessen the pain any way we can?”

Hermione couldn’t argue with the logic. She nodded and swallowed loudly.

With that, they both stood up and walked to the middle of the office. Hermione wasn’t sure what she was feeling. It had to be a mixture of anger at the situation, outrage that Malfoy was being so nonchalant about the whole thing, and highly embarrassed at the thought of having to snog in front of Professor Snape and Headmaster Dumbledore. The swirling of mixed emotions was brought to a halt once Draco placed his lips on hers.

Dumbledore and Snape looked on in awe as the two seemed to forget they were being monitored. Silver and Gold lights merged to form a brilliant white light as the two joined. It was so bright the two had to look away. Dumbledore nodded his acceptance as Snape shook his in disbelief.

The kiss was absolutely perfect. Euphoria passed through each other as lips met in warm delight. Draco was lost to this kiss, a feeling he had never known before. Apparently, it wouldn’t be hard for his body to accept this at all. He shifted so his hardening member wouldn’t brush up against her and give himself away. Slowly, he pressed his tongue against her lips, seeking entrance. She gave it instantly and the kiss deepened. Each explored the other’s mouths as if trying to memorize every inch. Time seemed to stand still. The sound of someone clearing their throat shook them from their bliss.

Each sprung away as if they had been burned. They righted their clothes and Draco took a flying leap out the door, making sure to cover his erection as he left. This earned him a wicked smirk from Snape. He growled under his breath and stalked off to the Great Hall, robes billowing. Dumbledore chuckled at the resemblance to his godfather.

“See Miss Granger,” he turned and smiled at her. “Things will work themselves out.”

“Maybe, Headmaster,” she started as a tear fell down her cheek. “But I’m not sure how easily I will be to live with the fact that I am going to betray my friends, and especially myself.”

At his nod, she left as well.

“Albus, I hate to say it, but I do feel sorry for the girl. She is the only one to not look down upon my condition.”

“Ah, so they know?” Snape nodded. “Well, she is truly a gift then. Watch over them Severus. They might very well be our last hope of keeping everyone else alive.”

Snape nodded and left.

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What on earth was Hermione doing in the same office with Malfoy, Snape, and Dumbledore? She’d have to do some more stalking that was for sure. She hurried back to Gryffindor common room to replace Harry’s cloak.

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Breakfast was a quiet affair. Hermione had managed to make it back to the common room just as Harry and Ron emerged. Ginny was waiting for her with a look that screamed, “We need to talk”. The fact was that she didn’t WANT to talk. She wanted to cry some more. Her thoughts were shattered as Lavender bounced into the common room.

“Good morning Won-Won!”

Ron flushed as Harry and Ginny started snickering. Hermione rolled her eyes as she turned to go to the Great Hall. Ginny leapt beside her.

“I saw you this morning,” she whispered. Hermione paled. “I’m going to find out so you don’t have to tell me. I promise I won’t breathe a word to anyone. It must be important considering who is involved.”

Hermione started hard into her eyes and nodded her head. It was all she could manage. A tear slowly ran down her face and she swiped furiously at it. Ginny gave her a sympathetic look and slipped her arm around her friend. Ginny didn’t have a clue why she was comforting her but Hermione accepted it freely. It was nice to have someone concerned about her.

“Hermione, what’s wrong.” She jumped as Harry whispered in her ear.

“Really Harry, I am fine.” Her voice wavered.

“No, you’re not Hermione. You haven’t really been the same since you ran into Malfoy in the bathroom.”

Harry’s intense look of concern made her heart break just a bit more. She fought against the tears that threatened to burst. “I told you, he didn’t do anything. We just happened to be at the same place at the wrong time. I don’t know who attacked me.”

“Mione, you know we are here for you. I love you like a sister.”

That did it. She burst into great sobs. “I-I l-love you too Harry. You are like my brother. It really isn’t about that. It’s personal, but thank you.”

Harry glanced over at Ginny, who mouthed for him to drop it for right now. Harry nodded over Hermione’s head, obviously worried but he decided to drop it for her sake.

Hermione noticed that Lavender was smirking at her as she sobbed heavily. Seeing her hanging all over the man she loved and could now never have completely broke her. She fell to her knees and couldn’t move anymore. The pain was almost unbearable and she fought it, trying to think of Draco in a good light. Blackness started looming as she fought and the only thing that was keeping her from the ground was Harry and Ginny.

“Mione?” Ron asked and the sound of his voice, the concern she heard made her last bit of concentration slip from her. The last thing she heard was her concerned friends calling to her.

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Something was terribly wrong. Draco felt anguish and it wasn’t the type of feeling he felt on a whim. Something was wrong with Hermione then, which couldn’t bode well. If she happened to refuse the bond, he’d pass out again. Frantically, he tried to catch his godfather’s eye. He resorted to legilimency.

“GODFATHER”

“What?” Snape snapped in his mind.

“Something is wrong with Hermione! I mean Granger.”

“Covering in your mind is pathetic. What’s wrong with her?”

“I don’t know, but if I don’t go to her soon or at least get out of here I have a feeling that I will be receiving my second concussion for the day.”

“Very well.” Snape abruptly cut off the connection and stormed down to the Slytherin table. “Mr. Malfoy, come with me.” He gave a deadly glare to everyone at the table and Draco played the part, looking a bit green.

He didn’t have to try hard. The pain had hit him. However, it felt like she was trying to fight it. He hoped she held out long enough for him to get to her. He could feel her getting closer as they hurried down the hall.

“She’s just around the corner.” He rasped out. Suddenly the world went black. The last thing he felt was his godfather catch him before he fell.

Grumbling, Snape drug Draco over to the wall and disillusioned him. It wouldn’t do for anyone to see the two passed out at the same time. Rumors were already flying; they didn’t need any more. He stalked around the corner to find Potter and Ginny Weasley gently lowering Hermione to the floor as Ron Weasley was screaming her name.

“Mr. Weasley! As it appears that Miss Granger has passed out, I can assure you that screaming at her will do no good!” He snapped.

Ginny’s eyes widened at the sight. Perhaps Hermione, Snape, and Malofy were all linked somehow. If they were, Harry and Ron would have kittens. Suddenly, she saw why Hermione was so perplexed. It was a good thing that she was there and she could just barrel over the boys. Of course, they probably wouldn’t see the connection.

Snape noticed Miss. Weasley’s expression of shock and then understanding. Damn. She knew something. Hopefully she could keep her mouth closed and her mind open.

“Now, what happened?” he drawled.

“She said wasn’t feeling well, Professor, and then she started crying. I’m not sure if she was in pain or what but she fell to her knees and then she passed out.” Ginny answered for everyone.

“Very well, Miss Weasley. I will take her to the hospital wing. All of you get to breakfast!” He snapped.

“We’d like to go with her, sir.” Harry started.

“How touching. However, I can assure you I am more than capable of escorting Miss Granger to the hospital wing. You may visit her after breakfast when Madam Pomfrey has assessed what is wrong!”

Harry’s eyes blazed with anger and for a moment, he was transported to that unfortunate day when he had accidentally insulted Lily. It enraged him. “GO NOW,” he bellowed. After they scuttled out of site, he disillusioned Hermione and levitated her over to where Draco was still lying. He then levitated them both to the hospital wing. Glad that Poppy was nowhere to be found, he released the disillusionment and revived both of them.

Seeing where she was, she immediately sat up and started apologizing. “Oh Draco I am so sorry. I tried to fight it, honestly I did and then Ronald broke my concentration and the next thing I know I woke up here. Did anyone see you?”

“No Granger,” Draco groaned. “I felt something wrong and Professor Snape and I were coming to get you before this could happen. Apparently, we were too late.”

Snape cut in. “This is all very touching but you two had better get a handle on yourselves before people get even more suspicious than they already are! I’m going to get Madam Pomfrey. Draco, say you have a stomach ache and vanish the potion before you take it. Miss Granger, your friends already know that I took you up here for fainting. Blame it on lack of food or something. Then one of you had better get out of here before someone discovers you together!” With that, he stalked out the door.

“I really am sorry,” Hermione whispered and then started crying again.

“Damn it Hermione, enough with the waterworks. I know you were trying to fight it or we’d have both dropped like rocks long before we did. Just try to keep it together so we can talk this over properly.” She nodded her head. “Now, we’ll need a way to talk to each other without anyone knowing.”

Hermione gasped. “Hold on a second.” She pulled one button off of her blouse. She looked at Draco and he pulled one button off of his shirt and gave it to her. Then she charmed them both.

“They now have a protean charm on them. Just hold it in the palm of your hand and think of a time and place you want to meet. It will appear on mine and warm to let me know there is a new message and vice versa.”

“Good job, Granger,” he said as he winked at her.

Her stomach fluttered again. WHY was her stomach fluttering? She wasn’t actually attracted to Draco was she? She was just stuck with him right? That kiss though, it shook her to her core. Could she possibly get used to the fact that they were to be together for eternity?

Draco noticed her reaction. It was a good sign, maybe. He was still reeling from the implications of their bond but perhaps it wouldn’t be so bad. She really was quite intelligent, and he found he didn’t mind being around her. In fact, the longer he was around her, the less he thought of her blood status. He felt the bond pulling them closer all the time. First it was glimpses of her feelings and now they could completely take over his feelings. What else would happen if the bond were cemented?

His feet grew a mind of their own and he rushed over to her and picked her up, cradling her in his arms. The both sighed and he leaned down to kiss her.

“Ahem!” Madam Pomfrey’s voice broke through their moment. He quickly put her down and strode back over to his bed. “Feeling better are we?” Pomfrey asked, a twinkle in her eye.

“Yes ma’am,” Draco answered. “I had a bit of a stomach ache but it seems to have cleared. I’ll just go then, shall I?”

“Sit down Mr. Malfoy. I’ll be the judge of that.” She set to prodding around and when she didn’t feel anything out of place and her diagnostics came back normal, she gave him a stomach-settling potion and sent him on his way. When she went to put the vial away, he snuck a quick kiss on Hermione’s forehead and headed out.

He just barely managed to run around the corner as her motley crew arrived at the hospital wing. Breathing a sigh of relief, he made his way back to the ROR to work on the cabinet some more and think things over. He didn’t notice the raised eyebrow that a certain red head gave him.

“Hermione! How are you?” Harry’s voice was enthusiastic voice as he passed through the doors.

Madam Pomfrey cut in. “I’ll let you know in a bit Mr. Potter. I’m about to look her over.”

“Really, Madam Pomfrey. I feel much better. I didn’t eat much last night and I think I just need a bit of food.” He stomach growled to punctuate her statement.

Satisfied with her explanation, Madam Pomfrey left with the instructions that she was sending up a tray and Hermione would be dismissed only after she had eaten every bit.

“Hermione, why haven’t you been eating?” Harry asked her.

“You know me Harry. I just got so caught up with my work and other things that I just forgot. I promise I’ll take better care of myself. I’ll meet you all out on the quidditch pitch after I eat okay?”

“Sure thing, Hermione,” Ron said and he and Harry bolted out the door for the pitch. Harry gave a glance back over his shoulder, as if making sure she really was okay.

Dobby popped in with a tray and Hermione set to eating as Ginny sat beside her. “So, you are somehow connected to Professor Snape and Draco Malfoy?” She started. Hermione froze with her mouth open, holding a piece of toast in front of it. “Don’t answer either way. I saw Malfoy coming out of here right before we walked in. Don’t worry though,” she continued as she saw her friend pale. “I don’t think the boys saw. I wish you could tell me. This would be so much easier, but I promise I’ll stand beside you no matter what. I trust you and your judgment, and the fact that Dumbledore knows only makes me more confident.”

Hermione nodded, chewing her toast thoughtfully. “Thank you for not freaking out Gin. It’s going to be…difficult for a while. I’m going to need you.”

“No problem,” Ginny said, giving her a bright smile. “Now, I’d better get out on the pitch before they come back up here!” She bounced out of the room, leaving Hermione to her thoughts.
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