The Lady and the Tiger
December 3rd 1998
Dear Lily,
I am so afraid now, I do not know what to do. As I suspected the tiger that I own demonstrate signs of being an Animagus.
What frightens me most is that I think that Hermione and Mina are one and the same. According to the information that I have gathered, the tiger appeared the same time as Hermione disappeared. The past weeks I have had the memory of Hermione holding a book of Animagi transfiguration before I was forced to leave the Order. Hermione is a very gifted witch I would not doubt she would be able to master the act of becoming an Animagus so quickly. It would explain how she disappeared into then air; the Ministry and the Order would be looking for the wrong form. The idea sickens me, to be forced to live as an animal, rather than a human being. On the other hand, If she where to reveal herself, the tortures by the Dark Lord that would await her are unimaginable. The only way to know for sure would be to perform Legilamancy on her, proving or disproving the theory. I quite frankly hate the idea of doing it on her. I never performed the spell on anyone I loved or cared for before. The only others that have that gift are Rodolphus, Bellatrix and the Dark Lord. If I ask them the consequences or the price to do it for me would be monstrous. Bugger it All! WHY? Why do I have to loose the only thing that is mine! If I am right, the dark Lord will find out eventually, torturing her slowly to death, along with other perverse ideas of entertaining himself with her. I would loose her and most likely would have to watch her die, broken and abused haunting me forever with her chocolate eyes. It would drive me mad to know that I would see such a beautiful talented girl die in such a horrible way. I do something, I would be violating her, and she would never forgive me, making me loose her anyway! But can I? Can I loose her the way I lost you? I do not think I can handle that, knowing my actions caused the death of another I loved. It is an impossible situation one I will not get out of unscathed. Merlin Help both of us.
Your Friend
Severus
He closed his eyes and put his face in his hands, remembering the dream that compelled him to find the information that he gathered.
Severus was at his desk as usual, working that much harder that he was now headmaster at Hogwarts. He heard a noise behind him, he turned to see her walking in the hallway to his study. She removed her boots and long heavy travel cloak. She went to his fireplace where he had a fur rug by the fire. She lay there trying to get warmed up again it seemed. He still had a hard time believing she was there. Her hairs brushed out and loose his favorite way for her to wear it. She wearing only a slip of some kind, some muggle fashion that passes off as a dress with tiger print on it, white background with gray lines, Not that he was complaining it showed all her soft curves. She wore no make up she glowed naturally, a beauty that came from her that anything else. She had a gold necklace around her neck that he had not seen before with some sort of writing. He was
at his chair at the desk in his usual attire of waistcoat slacks and white shirt. The waistcoat was completely unbuttoned, the white shirt was unbuttoned three buttons. He preferred to be barefoot at home so he was only wearing socks. The study was very comfortable with old armchairs and tables to bring tea. The walls where covered in books, not only spells but of poetry and literature. He found it hard to believe that she was there, in his home like she belonged there.
She looked up and said. “ Sweetheart, you are working too hard come lay down with me for a while.” He smiled a little at the muggle endearment, one that he never got tired of hearing.
“Darling, I can’t Dumbledore is counting on me to proceed with his mission. I have to become headmaster to do that.” She got up from the rug and went to him and sat on his lap stroking his hair.
“ Darling Dumbledore would have wanted us to find happiness in a world of madness. He would be happier that anyone that we had found love in each other. ”
He close his eyes and allowed her warmth and scent to wash over him. Orange and vanilla, a strange but intoxicating smell that always made his brain go dull and blood boil. She smiled at him, communicating her love and consent wordlessly. This innocent act made him loose all control eliciting a lustful growl as he kissed her passionately. She moans in his mouth lust reflecting in her eye pushes of his coat before he to the fur rug before the fireplace that she loves so much. He sits her down and gazes at her, Merlin she is so beautiful. He does not deserve her or her love, but he will try to be worthy of it somehow. He caressed her leg so soft and warm, like silk. It pleased him to know that she enjoyed how he was touching her, reflected in the way she closed her eyes and open her legs a little more as if urging him to continue. He pushed the dress up and over her head with her assistance leaving her in a black lace bra and matching knickers. She unbuttons his shirt and removes it completely running her hands over his chest, making the flames of desire for her even stronger. Her breath was getting to be labored in the throws of lust and need. He was caressing her breast and in moving to kiss her again when he noticed the writing on her necklace, a name, Mina. He stopped dead in his tracks in utter shock. “Don’t stop Severus, please” she begged. When she looked up at him at his shocked expression she was hurt and confused “Sweetheart, what is the matter?” she asked him. “Your necklace says Mina.” Was his reply. “ Of course silly, it is the name you gave me.” He closes his eyes trying to push away the lust and need he was feeling and try to remember calling her Mina at any time. As he open his eyes she was gone, in her place was the head of his beloved tiger.
The day after the shocking dream he came across the knowledge pointing him to his conclusion. While he was trying to decide if to go to the compound immediately or not, the tattoo on his arm began to itch. It was clear that he was needed and the Dark Lord does not like to wait.
***
Remus and Harry were in the library talking when they saw a shaken Ginny and Tonks drag an obviously injured Kingsley between them to the extra room that was set up for medical emergencies.
The women were too shocked to talk but they gave their memory so it could be seen…
“I don’t know Ginny, this information doesn’t sound solid.”
“What choice do we have Tonks? If we can save Kingsley isn’t it worth the risk?”
“You know very well that I would move heaven and earth for Kingsley. It is not that simple however. We are fighting a war, with an enemy with no sense of morals. They could have killed Kingsley and set the trap up to ensnare us. I love him but I also respect him. We both knew the risks involved in this war and we both accept them.”
“Fine don’t come. Kingsley is my friend and I am not going to leave him to be killed or worse”
It was obvious that there were many thoughts and emotions going around in Tonks’ mind. Finally she said “Give me a few minutes to set up precautions. Bloody Hell you are just as bad as Sirius. Kingsley would have my head if I let anything happen to you on account of him”
The water shimmers and changes
The compound was as described, and they were able to find the room where Kingsley was held without much trouble. The only problem was that Greyback, who was not supposed to be there at the time, caught them. They were tied together on a chair while Greyback alerted the guards. Fortunately for them Greyback did not get that far, he was stunned by a cloaked figure. They were shocked but relieved when the figure was Hermione looking pale but otherwise all right. She kneels in front of Kingsley first and checks his pulse. Relived that he was all right she moved to Tonks. She stroked Tonks face, and stared at it as if to memorize her features.
“Hermione, Bloody Hell are you alright?”
“As well as can be expected.” She replies mysteriously before she leaned over to check on Ginny. As she did it was obvious that she was wearing a collar.
“Sweet Merlin” Tonks exclaims. Hermione didn’t realize it showed and pulled the collar of the cloak around her neck tighter, as she did it appeared as though she was wearing some sort of locket.
Before Hermione could reply, another figure entered the room, behind her. “You should not be here,” says the dangerous looking Severus Snape.
“Neither should they.” She replied.
“They can’t catch you here the consequences will be disastrous.”
As he finished the sentence she appeared to loose her balance and he caught her. He was concerned when it appeared that she was bleeding.
“No I will not leave them” she replies weakly fighting him.
She hears the voice of Rabastan Lestrange approaching and she starts to shake.
“You know that they will find many entertaining ways to use Tonks, especially Rabastan Lestrange. Though probably not as entertaining as you are”
“Damn you Snape.”
“We have an agreement?”
It was a deal that apparently needed no explanation. She simply nods her head. Snape puts a knife in Ginny’s hand and a wand in Tonks’s hand. Then takes Hermione in his arms and disappears. They use the knife and wand to escape. Realizing that Kingsley needed immediate help they leave, with the silent agreement to return for Hermione later.
***
Snape was looking down on Hermione Granger in his bed in his new quarters. Funny how the fates worked. He always dreamed of her in his bed, shuddering and moaning his name. She was now in his bed, but there was nothing romantic about it. She was recovering from a sad ailment.
When he arrived at the compound he was greeted by the Dark Lord Lucius Malfoy and the sight of a beaten Kingsley Shacklebolt in Mina’s cadge. Damn it all, why did it have to be Kingsley Shacklebolt? He was one of the few wizards he liked and respected now he probably would have to harm him to maintain his cover. Just then Nott runs in out of breath. The Dark Lord was not happy. “Nott I gave instruction to not be disturbed” Nott falls on his knees. “Forgive me my lord but you did order me to inform you when it was found” Voldermort upset to be disturbed was more excited that the object was found, most likely one of the Deathly Hollows. He leaves orders to guard Shacklebolt when he went away. Malfoy aided him removing Shacklebolt from the cadge and they took him to one of the cells in the compound. He was thankful that he was not forced to hurt Shacklebolt, Hermione would probably never forgive him, and she loved him deeply. While Snape was reviewing the crystal that had footage of his surveillance on Mina he was brought to the realization that Mina didn’t descend on Shacklebolt immediately. This was unusual behavior when she is thrown a toy she would descend on it like any other toy that was thrown in her cadge. She was almost respectful of him, something usually not in the character of his tiger. He then decided that he would take this time to do what he intended to do. He approached her and patted her head. Silently begging forgiveness he says the words
And is overcome with many memories and emotions
Hermione receiving her Hogwarts letter, meeting Harry and Ron on the train, Hagrid in his Hut, meeting Remus for the first time in the compartment, flying on Buckeack with Sirius, walking down the hall with Fred and George to the great hall, meeting Luna on the carriage for the first time, meting Charlie and Bill fourth year, helping Neville with his potions homework once again, meeting Kingsley and Tonks at Grimmauld Place, sharing a room with Ginny and bonding with her, feelings of love and belonging with Mr. and Mrs. Weasley the closest thing to parents she had left, The fight at the Department of Mysteries, fight at Hogwarts school, The deep loss of the beloved Headmaster, Getting Sirius back, her discovery that her relationship was doomed, what Regulus confided in her , then the day that she was taken came forward…
She was awake most of the night, she gave into Sirius once again, then hating herself for not confronting him about what he had done to her. She could not remember if it was her turn to cook breakfast, so she went downstairs anyway. There at the table was Ginny and Harry talking in low voices, apparently having some sort of upsetting conversation. Before she could approach them to ask what the trouble was she noticed in the corner of her eye Sirius in the pantry staring at them with lust in his eyes, at them both. He was still in his pajama bottoms and slippers and little else. She turned around from them before she was seen and ran back to her room. Damn him! Damn the hold he had on her! They barely left each other after being together and he was planning another conquest with her best friends! She had to leave the house she could not stand looking at him right now.
The least she could do was leave the house get away from all the pain. She dressed in her jeans and a blue button down sweater and blue boots. She then Disapparated to the Forbidden Forest, her normal place to get away and turn into something else, to get away from her life where she turned into the form of a tiger. It was the most stable transformation ever. She was so excited, so proud that she finally did it. She would stay awhile before she would contact Professor McGonagall so she could contact the proper authorities for her so she would be able to identify herself on the Animagus registry. She was closing her eyes and enjoying her moment of her accomplishment when she heard a rustling in the trees and the flash of black robes approaching her and her comfortable spot. She did not remember anything other than a flash of white of the stunning spell and the feeling that she was in great trouble.
Hermione must have sensed there was no point anymore to hide herself from him. Before his eyes his beloved tiger morphed into his beloved. Her hair was wild, her clothing now just scraps of material. He put his cloak around her and held her as she trembled. Snape had made a locket in the event that he was correct, one that could disguise her features so she would not be recognized in human form. He put the locket around her neck and held her close as she wept her fear, her grief and confusion. When she finally calmed enough to speak he said, “ It appears we are in a rather dangerous situation Ms Granger. I will help you escape but before I do, I will require the knowledge that was passed to you when our dear comrades felt they needed to unburden their souls”
She just looked at him and asked, “Professor what happened to Kingsley Shacklebolt?”
“Taken to a cell.” Before he could say anything else, she Disapparated in an obvious attempt to find him.
He swore under his breath and went after her, concerned about being discovered he did not have a chance to activate the locket.
“You should not be here”
“Neither should they.” She replied.
“They can’t catch you here the consequences will be disastrous.”
As he finished the sentence she appeared to loose her balance and he caught her. He was concerned when it appeared that she was bleeding.
“No I will not leave them” she replies weakly fighting him.
She hears the voice of Rabastan Lestrange approaching and she starts to shake.
“You know that they will find many entertaining ways to use Tonks, especially Rabastan Lestrange. Though probably not as entertaining as you are”
“Damn you Snape.”
“We have an agreement?”
he hoped that she would understand him, it was not prudent to go in detail where anyone could hear.
She stared at him and nodded. He procured a knife and returned Tonk’s wand to her and took Hermione away.
The blood was not from a fight of any kind, but a miscarriage. He silently wept for the innocent life lost. The miscarriage was apparently brought on by the stress of the life she led the past four months. It was to young to tell what it was, but it was obvious that the child was Black’s. He never thought he would feel anything but contempt for Black, but oddly he felt a pang of sympathy for him. A father should never loose their child, It went against the natural order of things.
He truly regretted being harsh with her, but in his fear for her he was short, and unfair to make her leave with him. They were now in Malfoy Manor, they were forced to abandon the compound when somehow the Order was informed of the capture of members and came to get them. Malfoy offered his home immediately and they fled there. Snape was suspicious of Malfoy’s reasons to use his beloved home for headquarters. He knew Lucius Malfoy long enough to know when he was forming plans in his mind. It appeared as though Malfoy’s loyalties were shifting and could very well land on his side. He still didn’t trust him and intended to keep an eye on the situation. After he tended to Hermione he activated the locket. The Dark Lord will know about her Animagus status soon anyway, the only hope he had of keeping her alive and unspoiled was to hide her identity. He pulled the covers over her more closely before he went to continue on with his duty.
***
Hermione woke in a strange bed in a strange house that she had never been before. As off-putting as it was, it felt so good to be in a bed again. Then she remembered that she was discovered. She could see Snape approach her, with a strange intensity in his eyes. She never had her mind read she only knew that it could be done when Harry had his read during their fifth year. Before she knew it her life memories flashed in her mind.
Her Hogwarts letter, meeting Harry and Ron on the train, Hagrid in his Hut, meeting Remus for the first time in the compartment, flying on Buckeack with Sirius, walking down the hall with Fred and George to the great hall, meeting Luna on the carriage for the first time, meting Charlie and Bill fourth year, helping Neville with his potions homework once again, meeting Kingsley and Tonks at Grimmauld Place, sharing a room with Ginny and bonding with her, feelings of love and belonging with Mr. and Mrs. Weasley the closest thing to parents she had left, The fight at the Department of Mysteries, fight at Hogwarts school, The deep loss of the beloved Headmaster, Getting Sirius back, her discovery that her relationship was doomed…She was awake most of the night, she gave into Sirius once again, then hating herself for not confronting him about what he had done to her. She could not remember if it was her turn to cook breakfast, so she went downstairs anyway. There at the table was Ginny and Harry talking in low voices, apparently having some sort of upsetting conversation. Before she could approach them to ask what the trouble was she noticed in the corner of her eye Sirius in the pantry staring at them with lust in his eyes, at them both. He was still in his pajama bottoms and slippers and little else. She turned around from them before she was seen and ran back to her room. Damn him! Damn the hold he had on her! They barely left each other after being together and he was planning another conquest with her best friends! She had to leave the house she could not stand looking at him right now.
The least she could do was leave the house get away from all the pain. She dressed in her jeans and a blue button down sweater and blue boots. She then Apparated to the Forbidden Forest, her normal place to get away and turn into something else, to get away from her life where she turned into the form of a tiger. It was the most stable transformation ever. She was so excited, so proud that she finally did it. She would stay awhile before she would contact Professor McGonagall so she could contact the proper authorities for her so she would be able to identify herself on the Animagus registry. She was closing her eyes and enjoying her moment of her accomplishment when she heard a rustling in the trees and the flash of black robes approaching her and her comfortable spot. She did not remember anything other than a flash of white of the stunning spell and the feeling that she was in great trouble.
Snape came into the cell and pat her head in a comforting manner. There was no point in hiding anymore, she was so tired. In the first time in a long time she was herself again, and it felt wonderful. Snape put a strange locket around her neck and put his cloak around her and held her close. She let out all of her fear, grief and frustration. She was afraid of what it might mean for her, and happy that finally she was not alone anymore.
Then it occurred to her to ask about Kingsley. When he replied she out of habit Disapparated to try and find him. To her surprise, not only Kingsley but Tonks and Ginny were held as well. She remembered fighting to stay with them, then making a deal with Snape to save their lives. Things where blurry after that. About an hour later Snape comes to her. With regret in her eyes he informed her of her miscarriage and held her as she cried.
***
Once the order got over their shock they grouped their forces and intended to go in after Hermione. They were in fact too late. Remus was not at all surprised, the Death Eaters were not stupid nor was Voldemort. He could not help but shed a tear for her and Sirius who broke every breakable thing in reach in the house when he returned. Merlin help them all.
Dear Lily,
I am so afraid now, I do not know what to do. As I suspected the tiger that I own demonstrate signs of being an Animagus.
What frightens me most is that I think that Hermione and Mina are one and the same. According to the information that I have gathered, the tiger appeared the same time as Hermione disappeared. The past weeks I have had the memory of Hermione holding a book of Animagi transfiguration before I was forced to leave the Order. Hermione is a very gifted witch I would not doubt she would be able to master the act of becoming an Animagus so quickly. It would explain how she disappeared into then air; the Ministry and the Order would be looking for the wrong form. The idea sickens me, to be forced to live as an animal, rather than a human being. On the other hand, If she where to reveal herself, the tortures by the Dark Lord that would await her are unimaginable. The only way to know for sure would be to perform Legilamancy on her, proving or disproving the theory. I quite frankly hate the idea of doing it on her. I never performed the spell on anyone I loved or cared for before. The only others that have that gift are Rodolphus, Bellatrix and the Dark Lord. If I ask them the consequences or the price to do it for me would be monstrous. Bugger it All! WHY? Why do I have to loose the only thing that is mine! If I am right, the dark Lord will find out eventually, torturing her slowly to death, along with other perverse ideas of entertaining himself with her. I would loose her and most likely would have to watch her die, broken and abused haunting me forever with her chocolate eyes. It would drive me mad to know that I would see such a beautiful talented girl die in such a horrible way. I do something, I would be violating her, and she would never forgive me, making me loose her anyway! But can I? Can I loose her the way I lost you? I do not think I can handle that, knowing my actions caused the death of another I loved. It is an impossible situation one I will not get out of unscathed. Merlin Help both of us.
Your Friend
Severus
He closed his eyes and put his face in his hands, remembering the dream that compelled him to find the information that he gathered.
Severus was at his desk as usual, working that much harder that he was now headmaster at Hogwarts. He heard a noise behind him, he turned to see her walking in the hallway to his study. She removed her boots and long heavy travel cloak. She went to his fireplace where he had a fur rug by the fire. She lay there trying to get warmed up again it seemed. He still had a hard time believing she was there. Her hairs brushed out and loose his favorite way for her to wear it. She wearing only a slip of some kind, some muggle fashion that passes off as a dress with tiger print on it, white background with gray lines, Not that he was complaining it showed all her soft curves. She wore no make up she glowed naturally, a beauty that came from her that anything else. She had a gold necklace around her neck that he had not seen before with some sort of writing. He was
at his chair at the desk in his usual attire of waistcoat slacks and white shirt. The waistcoat was completely unbuttoned, the white shirt was unbuttoned three buttons. He preferred to be barefoot at home so he was only wearing socks. The study was very comfortable with old armchairs and tables to bring tea. The walls where covered in books, not only spells but of poetry and literature. He found it hard to believe that she was there, in his home like she belonged there.
She looked up and said. “ Sweetheart, you are working too hard come lay down with me for a while.” He smiled a little at the muggle endearment, one that he never got tired of hearing.
“Darling, I can’t Dumbledore is counting on me to proceed with his mission. I have to become headmaster to do that.” She got up from the rug and went to him and sat on his lap stroking his hair.
“ Darling Dumbledore would have wanted us to find happiness in a world of madness. He would be happier that anyone that we had found love in each other. ”
He close his eyes and allowed her warmth and scent to wash over him. Orange and vanilla, a strange but intoxicating smell that always made his brain go dull and blood boil. She smiled at him, communicating her love and consent wordlessly. This innocent act made him loose all control eliciting a lustful growl as he kissed her passionately. She moans in his mouth lust reflecting in her eye pushes of his coat before he to the fur rug before the fireplace that she loves so much. He sits her down and gazes at her, Merlin she is so beautiful. He does not deserve her or her love, but he will try to be worthy of it somehow. He caressed her leg so soft and warm, like silk. It pleased him to know that she enjoyed how he was touching her, reflected in the way she closed her eyes and open her legs a little more as if urging him to continue. He pushed the dress up and over her head with her assistance leaving her in a black lace bra and matching knickers. She unbuttons his shirt and removes it completely running her hands over his chest, making the flames of desire for her even stronger. Her breath was getting to be labored in the throws of lust and need. He was caressing her breast and in moving to kiss her again when he noticed the writing on her necklace, a name, Mina. He stopped dead in his tracks in utter shock. “Don’t stop Severus, please” she begged. When she looked up at him at his shocked expression she was hurt and confused “Sweetheart, what is the matter?” she asked him. “Your necklace says Mina.” Was his reply. “ Of course silly, it is the name you gave me.” He closes his eyes trying to push away the lust and need he was feeling and try to remember calling her Mina at any time. As he open his eyes she was gone, in her place was the head of his beloved tiger.
The day after the shocking dream he came across the knowledge pointing him to his conclusion. While he was trying to decide if to go to the compound immediately or not, the tattoo on his arm began to itch. It was clear that he was needed and the Dark Lord does not like to wait.
***
Remus and Harry were in the library talking when they saw a shaken Ginny and Tonks drag an obviously injured Kingsley between them to the extra room that was set up for medical emergencies.
The women were too shocked to talk but they gave their memory so it could be seen…
“I don’t know Ginny, this information doesn’t sound solid.”
“What choice do we have Tonks? If we can save Kingsley isn’t it worth the risk?”
“You know very well that I would move heaven and earth for Kingsley. It is not that simple however. We are fighting a war, with an enemy with no sense of morals. They could have killed Kingsley and set the trap up to ensnare us. I love him but I also respect him. We both knew the risks involved in this war and we both accept them.”
“Fine don’t come. Kingsley is my friend and I am not going to leave him to be killed or worse”
It was obvious that there were many thoughts and emotions going around in Tonks’ mind. Finally she said “Give me a few minutes to set up precautions. Bloody Hell you are just as bad as Sirius. Kingsley would have my head if I let anything happen to you on account of him”
The water shimmers and changes
The compound was as described, and they were able to find the room where Kingsley was held without much trouble. The only problem was that Greyback, who was not supposed to be there at the time, caught them. They were tied together on a chair while Greyback alerted the guards. Fortunately for them Greyback did not get that far, he was stunned by a cloaked figure. They were shocked but relieved when the figure was Hermione looking pale but otherwise all right. She kneels in front of Kingsley first and checks his pulse. Relived that he was all right she moved to Tonks. She stroked Tonks face, and stared at it as if to memorize her features.
“Hermione, Bloody Hell are you alright?”
“As well as can be expected.” She replies mysteriously before she leaned over to check on Ginny. As she did it was obvious that she was wearing a collar.
“Sweet Merlin” Tonks exclaims. Hermione didn’t realize it showed and pulled the collar of the cloak around her neck tighter, as she did it appeared as though she was wearing some sort of locket.
Before Hermione could reply, another figure entered the room, behind her. “You should not be here,” says the dangerous looking Severus Snape.
“Neither should they.” She replied.
“They can’t catch you here the consequences will be disastrous.”
As he finished the sentence she appeared to loose her balance and he caught her. He was concerned when it appeared that she was bleeding.
“No I will not leave them” she replies weakly fighting him.
She hears the voice of Rabastan Lestrange approaching and she starts to shake.
“You know that they will find many entertaining ways to use Tonks, especially Rabastan Lestrange. Though probably not as entertaining as you are”
“Damn you Snape.”
“We have an agreement?”
It was a deal that apparently needed no explanation. She simply nods her head. Snape puts a knife in Ginny’s hand and a wand in Tonks’s hand. Then takes Hermione in his arms and disappears. They use the knife and wand to escape. Realizing that Kingsley needed immediate help they leave, with the silent agreement to return for Hermione later.
***
Snape was looking down on Hermione Granger in his bed in his new quarters. Funny how the fates worked. He always dreamed of her in his bed, shuddering and moaning his name. She was now in his bed, but there was nothing romantic about it. She was recovering from a sad ailment.
When he arrived at the compound he was greeted by the Dark Lord Lucius Malfoy and the sight of a beaten Kingsley Shacklebolt in Mina’s cadge. Damn it all, why did it have to be Kingsley Shacklebolt? He was one of the few wizards he liked and respected now he probably would have to harm him to maintain his cover. Just then Nott runs in out of breath. The Dark Lord was not happy. “Nott I gave instruction to not be disturbed” Nott falls on his knees. “Forgive me my lord but you did order me to inform you when it was found” Voldermort upset to be disturbed was more excited that the object was found, most likely one of the Deathly Hollows. He leaves orders to guard Shacklebolt when he went away. Malfoy aided him removing Shacklebolt from the cadge and they took him to one of the cells in the compound. He was thankful that he was not forced to hurt Shacklebolt, Hermione would probably never forgive him, and she loved him deeply. While Snape was reviewing the crystal that had footage of his surveillance on Mina he was brought to the realization that Mina didn’t descend on Shacklebolt immediately. This was unusual behavior when she is thrown a toy she would descend on it like any other toy that was thrown in her cadge. She was almost respectful of him, something usually not in the character of his tiger. He then decided that he would take this time to do what he intended to do. He approached her and patted her head. Silently begging forgiveness he says the words
And is overcome with many memories and emotions
Hermione receiving her Hogwarts letter, meeting Harry and Ron on the train, Hagrid in his Hut, meeting Remus for the first time in the compartment, flying on Buckeack with Sirius, walking down the hall with Fred and George to the great hall, meeting Luna on the carriage for the first time, meting Charlie and Bill fourth year, helping Neville with his potions homework once again, meeting Kingsley and Tonks at Grimmauld Place, sharing a room with Ginny and bonding with her, feelings of love and belonging with Mr. and Mrs. Weasley the closest thing to parents she had left, The fight at the Department of Mysteries, fight at Hogwarts school, The deep loss of the beloved Headmaster, Getting Sirius back, her discovery that her relationship was doomed, what Regulus confided in her , then the day that she was taken came forward…
She was awake most of the night, she gave into Sirius once again, then hating herself for not confronting him about what he had done to her. She could not remember if it was her turn to cook breakfast, so she went downstairs anyway. There at the table was Ginny and Harry talking in low voices, apparently having some sort of upsetting conversation. Before she could approach them to ask what the trouble was she noticed in the corner of her eye Sirius in the pantry staring at them with lust in his eyes, at them both. He was still in his pajama bottoms and slippers and little else. She turned around from them before she was seen and ran back to her room. Damn him! Damn the hold he had on her! They barely left each other after being together and he was planning another conquest with her best friends! She had to leave the house she could not stand looking at him right now.
The least she could do was leave the house get away from all the pain. She dressed in her jeans and a blue button down sweater and blue boots. She then Disapparated to the Forbidden Forest, her normal place to get away and turn into something else, to get away from her life where she turned into the form of a tiger. It was the most stable transformation ever. She was so excited, so proud that she finally did it. She would stay awhile before she would contact Professor McGonagall so she could contact the proper authorities for her so she would be able to identify herself on the Animagus registry. She was closing her eyes and enjoying her moment of her accomplishment when she heard a rustling in the trees and the flash of black robes approaching her and her comfortable spot. She did not remember anything other than a flash of white of the stunning spell and the feeling that she was in great trouble.
Hermione must have sensed there was no point anymore to hide herself from him. Before his eyes his beloved tiger morphed into his beloved. Her hair was wild, her clothing now just scraps of material. He put his cloak around her and held her as she trembled. Snape had made a locket in the event that he was correct, one that could disguise her features so she would not be recognized in human form. He put the locket around her neck and held her close as she wept her fear, her grief and confusion. When she finally calmed enough to speak he said, “ It appears we are in a rather dangerous situation Ms Granger. I will help you escape but before I do, I will require the knowledge that was passed to you when our dear comrades felt they needed to unburden their souls”
She just looked at him and asked, “Professor what happened to Kingsley Shacklebolt?”
“Taken to a cell.” Before he could say anything else, she Disapparated in an obvious attempt to find him.
He swore under his breath and went after her, concerned about being discovered he did not have a chance to activate the locket.
“You should not be here”
“Neither should they.” She replied.
“They can’t catch you here the consequences will be disastrous.”
As he finished the sentence she appeared to loose her balance and he caught her. He was concerned when it appeared that she was bleeding.
“No I will not leave them” she replies weakly fighting him.
She hears the voice of Rabastan Lestrange approaching and she starts to shake.
“You know that they will find many entertaining ways to use Tonks, especially Rabastan Lestrange. Though probably not as entertaining as you are”
“Damn you Snape.”
“We have an agreement?”
he hoped that she would understand him, it was not prudent to go in detail where anyone could hear.
She stared at him and nodded. He procured a knife and returned Tonk’s wand to her and took Hermione away.
The blood was not from a fight of any kind, but a miscarriage. He silently wept for the innocent life lost. The miscarriage was apparently brought on by the stress of the life she led the past four months. It was to young to tell what it was, but it was obvious that the child was Black’s. He never thought he would feel anything but contempt for Black, but oddly he felt a pang of sympathy for him. A father should never loose their child, It went against the natural order of things.
He truly regretted being harsh with her, but in his fear for her he was short, and unfair to make her leave with him. They were now in Malfoy Manor, they were forced to abandon the compound when somehow the Order was informed of the capture of members and came to get them. Malfoy offered his home immediately and they fled there. Snape was suspicious of Malfoy’s reasons to use his beloved home for headquarters. He knew Lucius Malfoy long enough to know when he was forming plans in his mind. It appeared as though Malfoy’s loyalties were shifting and could very well land on his side. He still didn’t trust him and intended to keep an eye on the situation. After he tended to Hermione he activated the locket. The Dark Lord will know about her Animagus status soon anyway, the only hope he had of keeping her alive and unspoiled was to hide her identity. He pulled the covers over her more closely before he went to continue on with his duty.
***
Hermione woke in a strange bed in a strange house that she had never been before. As off-putting as it was, it felt so good to be in a bed again. Then she remembered that she was discovered. She could see Snape approach her, with a strange intensity in his eyes. She never had her mind read she only knew that it could be done when Harry had his read during their fifth year. Before she knew it her life memories flashed in her mind.
Her Hogwarts letter, meeting Harry and Ron on the train, Hagrid in his Hut, meeting Remus for the first time in the compartment, flying on Buckeack with Sirius, walking down the hall with Fred and George to the great hall, meeting Luna on the carriage for the first time, meting Charlie and Bill fourth year, helping Neville with his potions homework once again, meeting Kingsley and Tonks at Grimmauld Place, sharing a room with Ginny and bonding with her, feelings of love and belonging with Mr. and Mrs. Weasley the closest thing to parents she had left, The fight at the Department of Mysteries, fight at Hogwarts school, The deep loss of the beloved Headmaster, Getting Sirius back, her discovery that her relationship was doomed…She was awake most of the night, she gave into Sirius once again, then hating herself for not confronting him about what he had done to her. She could not remember if it was her turn to cook breakfast, so she went downstairs anyway. There at the table was Ginny and Harry talking in low voices, apparently having some sort of upsetting conversation. Before she could approach them to ask what the trouble was she noticed in the corner of her eye Sirius in the pantry staring at them with lust in his eyes, at them both. He was still in his pajama bottoms and slippers and little else. She turned around from them before she was seen and ran back to her room. Damn him! Damn the hold he had on her! They barely left each other after being together and he was planning another conquest with her best friends! She had to leave the house she could not stand looking at him right now.
The least she could do was leave the house get away from all the pain. She dressed in her jeans and a blue button down sweater and blue boots. She then Apparated to the Forbidden Forest, her normal place to get away and turn into something else, to get away from her life where she turned into the form of a tiger. It was the most stable transformation ever. She was so excited, so proud that she finally did it. She would stay awhile before she would contact Professor McGonagall so she could contact the proper authorities for her so she would be able to identify herself on the Animagus registry. She was closing her eyes and enjoying her moment of her accomplishment when she heard a rustling in the trees and the flash of black robes approaching her and her comfortable spot. She did not remember anything other than a flash of white of the stunning spell and the feeling that she was in great trouble.
Snape came into the cell and pat her head in a comforting manner. There was no point in hiding anymore, she was so tired. In the first time in a long time she was herself again, and it felt wonderful. Snape put a strange locket around her neck and put his cloak around her and held her close. She let out all of her fear, grief and frustration. She was afraid of what it might mean for her, and happy that finally she was not alone anymore.
Then it occurred to her to ask about Kingsley. When he replied she out of habit Disapparated to try and find him. To her surprise, not only Kingsley but Tonks and Ginny were held as well. She remembered fighting to stay with them, then making a deal with Snape to save their lives. Things where blurry after that. About an hour later Snape comes to her. With regret in her eyes he informed her of her miscarriage and held her as she cried.
***
Once the order got over their shock they grouped their forces and intended to go in after Hermione. They were in fact too late. Remus was not at all surprised, the Death Eaters were not stupid nor was Voldemort. He could not help but shed a tear for her and Sirius who broke every breakable thing in reach in the house when he returned. Merlin help them all.