Changes Can Be Made

Disclaimer: I do not own Harry Potter… Wish I did… but alas, I don't :D hahaha

A/N: Yo! Finally, it's uploaded XD sorry for tremendous wait… I hope you still find this just as entertaining as it was last year. I was supposed to upload this a few days ago but unfortunately, we had a fire so I got delayed again. Good thing everyone was safe, bad news is that many of our stuff need replacements. Oh well, everything happens for a reason. I may be delayed for a bit, but expect that I will upload the next chapter for both my stories asap. I owe you guys a lot so I will do my best to make it worth the wait.

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Chapter 31: Hogsmeade Weekend

Hogsmeade weekend came faster than Hermione had expected. It was the morning of the very long awaited weekend and Hermione had gotten up earlier than usual to avoid the morning rush to use the showers for she knew that this exciting day would mean that girls would take extra time in the shower to make sure they were pristine for the day with no-doubt their dates. Sighing in absolute peace, she thought over recent events. As a very observant girl, she had noticed a few things as of late. First, she was becoming dangerously comfortable with someone, and this wasn't just anyone… This was a Slytherin named Regulus. She enjoyed her conversations with the younger Black, but what caught her off-guard was that she even began to look forward to seeing Regulus. They would regularly meet each other after dinner to just talk. She found herself more and more relaxed and happy just in those moments with Regulus. While her relations with Regulus seemed to be growing well, simultaneously she noticed another thing: her slowly lacking relationship with the Marauders and especially Sirius. They were dear friends of hers and very important people to her, but it was lost to her why they suddenly seemed more reserved when talking to her. Sirius still flirted playfully with her but she couldn't help this heavy suspicious atmosphere that he and the boys gave her. 'They've begun to suspect me, haven't they?' she asked herself. There was a part of her that wanted to – so badly – confess everything to them, but the more dominant part of her mind argued that it would only be putting them in more danger and be even putting them in danger much earlier than they were expected to – according to her timeline. She even noticed Lily's sometimes curiously serious looks that she would sometimes shoot Hermione. Hermione's nerves thrummed, trying to tell her that something was about to go down. Sighing in defeat, she tried to lose her anxieties as she washed the sleep off her body.

After her much needed shower, she combed out her honeyed tresses and dressed in a comfortable pair of black jeans with a cream-coloured body-fitting plain blouse and a leather jacket. She pulled on her grey flat-heeled boots and inspected her appearance. She looked ready for any adventure. She felt satisfied with her hair left down in their wild curls, she armed herself with her wand and small pouch. The Gryffindor dorm was quiet… on the boys' side… but on the girls…

"My turn, my turn," a petite second year pushed through the huddles of early bird girls crowding around the mirror.

Girls began to flock to showers or mirrors passing accessories, toiletries and reviewing their outfits or looks to ensure they looked perfect. 'No matter what timeline I'm in, girls will be girls,' she smiled lightly to herself.

Hermione left the dorm feeling better than when she woke up. Her mind pre-occupied with her agenda for the day. She ate breakfast alone, hoping she could avoid another awkward meal with the marauders and even Lily. She had a busy agenda today. At the top of her list of things to do today was to visit Professor Dumbledore before the outing. 'So Professor Dumbledore's office it is,' she decided as she downed her glass of orange juice.

She weaved through the slow river of students that made their way to the Grand Hall for breakfast. She mentally went over her to do list for today as she walked.

'1. Get breakfast? Check.

2. See Professor Dumbledore? Pretty much check I guess.

3. Scour Stobraum's Book Store for books on Horcrux.

4. Tail Lucius Malfoy for clues on Tom Riddle's diary.

5. Try to have fun….'

She stopped in her tracks at the last one. 'Fun?' She questioned herself. Could she? Could she really? She pondered on it. Suddenly flashes of torturous scenes from her past came to mind. Guilt gnawed at her heart. Of course she couldn't, she refused to indulge herself. 'You're not here for fun, Hermione. Get a grip,' she reminded herself. She mentally scratched it off the list.

'5. Try to have fun. Today is all about your mission. Don't forget it.' Her cold reminder made the hole in her heart grow like a cancer spreading. As she approached Professor Dumbledore's office her mind remained on her mission. It had to. If she strayed, she would lose her chance to fix the future. After coming up with her mission, she had changed. She wrapped herself in ice and deceived others in the name of her mission. This changed stripped her slowly of the person she once was. Even if she had to sacrifice herself in the process, she would make this mission a success.

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Dumbledore paced his office. This was his usual past time since Hermione arrived. She was definitely a gifted witch, though thoroughly troubled and traumatized to say the least. He knew she was coming, he almost felt her approach the door. He mentally laid out his plans for his own little excursion to retrieve the Horcrux ring. "Professor?" Hermione chirmed by the door.

"Enter," was his only response. He wore a warm smile as he watched her stride to the chair by his desk. Her eyes were strict, resolute and… lonely. The elder felt his heart fall, 'The poor child…'

Meeting his gaze, Hermione greeted the elder wizard good morning and began the discussion, "Professor Dumbledore, sir, since today is the Hogsmeade weekend, I will be able to pick up more information on the first Horcrux we can take care of: Tom Riddle's Diary."

Dumbledore's mind briefly flashed to the young boy he met many years ago. Guilt stung him deeply, but being well-acquainted with this pain, he quickly dismissed it. "My dear, have you ever heard of the phrase, 'Loneliness kills'?"

"Yes, sir, but-"

"Why is that?" he pushed on.

Hermione, taken aback, paused for a moment. Her eyes dropped to her hands as if contemplating her situation. The Hogwarts headmaster sitting behind his desk, hummed in thought. "You know what I think," he coaxed her from her thoughts, pulling her back to the reality of his office. He smiled kindly, reaching out for her hand. Slowly, she gave her hands to his and squeezed. "My dear, loneliness kills because it suffocates you. Take a moment to look around at the people who, though you've known for only a small time, love you deeply. Self-sacrifice can be admirable in some cases, but the people left behind, the tethers to friends you forcibly cut can crush your soul." His eyes, smiled softly at her, willing her to understand, "Take this time to strengthen those ties you have. You are blessed with friends who can help. Hermione Granger, you are not alone."

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Hermione let those words sink in. 'I am not alone… but I cannot bring them into this mess. No, I cannot. I will not. I can do this alone.' Sighing, she looked back to her kind headmaster, squeezing his hand to convey her appreciation of his words, "Thank you, Professor Dumbledore. But know, we have talked about this. I will not put them in danger. I already have my plan with the Horcrux. Alone. Professor, I know how much you care and I appreciate that, but for now, we should just focus on the mission at hand."

Giving up, the elder wizard, patted her hand and leaned back into his chair. "Don't worry, child. I have almost finished my preparations to retrieve the other Horcrux. In the meantime, just enjoy Hogsmeade."

Hermione gave him an I'll-be-absolutely-fine smile that gave no reassurance to the headmaster. Excusing herself, she bid the professor goodbye. Just as she was about to leave, he called out to her.

"Hermione," giving him one last look he said, "Take time to breathe." Hermione nodded meekly and left, leaving Dumbledore feeling sadder than before her visit.

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On the other side of the school where snakes lay in waiting, a Slytherin blonde continued to seethe. Josanne couldn't get the image of Regulus and Hermione in the courtyard out of her head. 'How dare she!' she internally raved on. She thought of millions of ways to end the Gryffindor today. Hogsmeade Weekend wasn't just for romance, but it was also a great time to mess with witches that got on a Slytherin's hit list. Josanne had devised an ambush that would leave the witch at her mercy.

"Josanne~" called her friend. "Are you ready?"

"Of course," she said with confidence. "Is-"

"Regulus already left," her friend known as Elle cut her off.

Feeling irritated, Josanne stepped out the common room with Elle in her mini skirt, woolly button-down overtop and a black beret. "Are you ready for later?"

Elle smiled, "I've prepared some jinxes to catch her off-guard."

Josanne smirked like the devil, "Everything's in place then. So here's the plan: Nate will bring his boys when she's busy with us. He can knock her out from behind. Then we'll let him and his goons have fun with her."

Elle was surprised. As a fellow woman, she wasn't that heartless. "I thought we were just messing with her."

"We are. The boys will be the one to mess her up."

"Josanne," Elle grabbed her by the shoulder. "This isn't like you."

Josanne snapped, "She was holding my Regulus last night. She deserves it."

"Josanne-"

Before Elle could finish, Josanne snapped. "Either you are with me, or against me," she threatened. Upon Elle's silence, she relaxed, "Thought so. Come on, let's get down to the great hall."

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Elle wasn't like most Slytherins. She came from a low class family. In fact, most of her family were from Ravenclaw. But just like her house, Elle had a strong desire to bring her family to a better living. Of course, they weren't extremely poor, but she wanted to live a lavish life like she saw so often in the magazines. From an early age, she tried to get close to those of a more influential background. She hated to admit it, but she was willing to do anything to fit in with that crowd. She knew, that if she made the right connections, did the right things and climbed up the necessary ladders, she'd make the right connections to get her to where she wanted to be. Immediately upon being sorted into Slytherin, she began to look for a pack. A highly influential and popular pack. Early on, she found Josanne, a daughter of a very famous and very sought after jewellery designer. After all she has done in the past, Elle's skills in assessing people, identifying weaknesses and being overall observant made it easy for the witch to profile Josanne and slide her way into Josanne's list of top trusted individuals.

Elle used her wit to assist Joasnne in her many plans at defaming those who outshone her and to Josanne, Elle knew that the self-obsessed witch now couldn't do anything without Elle's assistance. She made herself indispensable. Well, a Slytherin was well-known for being both cunning and ambitious. Being with Josanne for six years made it easy for Elle to notice the drastic change that had happened to Josanne. Sure, she was always quite… difficult when it came to Regulus, but as of late, the said witch had become twisted. Her violent tendencies surfaced to make her almost psychotic.

With the new plan forming, Elle was – for the first time ever – nauseated to be involved. She didn't mind messing with some. Changing hair colours, creating warts, revealing embarrassing secrets, so forth, all that was fine with Elle but to cause irrevocable pain and suffering was not something she wanted to do. She knew others in her house were fine with it – with all those willing to join his cause – Elle was not like them. Images of what was to befall the Grace girl churned her stomach.

In the Great Hall, Elle sat picking at her scrambled egg that lay cooling on her plate. She ignored the noise buzzing around her, her appetite ran away as her courage did the moment Josanne shared Nate's role in the plan for later. 'What to do… what to do… come on, think elle.'

Guilt ate away at her conscience. She considered two options. Both would destroy her carefully created and maintained power status in the 6th year Slytherin Posey. However, while one would destroy that and make her a new target of hatred by a certain blonde witch, the other would do that but provide protection. She decided on the latter, since if she goes to Regulus to warn him, Josanne would – if she was merciful – socially murder Elle. 'It's decided then,' she confirmed to herself, slowly concentrating her courage in her heart, 'I'll have to find the head boy.'

This was turning out to be the most stressful Hogsmeade for many.

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Hermione met with the Marauders and Lily to depart for Hogsmeade.

"Now, Hogsmeade can be quite thrilling for newbies," she explained to Hermione. "So you may want to stay with us."

Hermione smiled at the effort her friend was putting in to maintain the normalcy of their previous friendship. As sweet as she was, Hermione was of course one of the brightest witches of the century, or so she was once told by a certain Marauder. She could tell for the past couple of days that things were falling apart. The side glances filled with suspicions from Lily, the silence that echoed between most of the Marauders and her… finally, the stares from Sirius. There were these looks, these stares, that made her feel as if she was a stranger, a suspect. She hated the loneliness that came with all this. But she expected it. Her heart was ready for the thorns, for the pain of her own making. She chose this. Looking at the quiet disposition of the boys, she gave a brief bob in agreement, "I'll come with you for a bit."

"Just a bit?" Lily piped in awkwardly.

A hand wrapped gently around Lily's waist, "It'll be fine, love."

"Don't call me that," she quipped shyly but strangely enough made no attempt at squeezing out of his embrace.

Sirius gave Hermione a slight smile, one that didn't quite reach his eyes. She knew she had hurt him a couple nights ago with her honesty. Well, at least she was honest for a moment, but admitting to lying to someone hurts one way or another. Sighing, Hermione silently tagged along with her five friends.

Hogsmeade was just as it always was. Blanketed in chilly morning air, the atmosphere of joy filled the area. Feigning impressed surprise, Hermione reviewed the big to small cottages that sprinkled the area. The square was just as pretty during the morning as it was in the evening. She listened absentmindedly to the brief explanation of stores and directions.

The first place she was brought to was a pub, one she knew like the back of her hand. "Here it is," Sirius chirped more spirited than he had been for the past few days. "I really need a Butterbeer."

"Have you ever had one, Mi?" her red-headed friend asked.

Acting as best she could, she frowned thoughtfully with an index finger to her bottom lip, "Hmmm… No, not that I can recall." Lying was almost second-nature. Lies passed her lips more than anything, it was smooth and although it chipped away at herself. The loss of bits of her heart was nothing compared to the loss that she had coming in the future. A small lie seemed harmless, but the truth was that the more you do it, the more guilt you build up inside, and pain you cause yourself and others.

She followed as her gang passed through the weathered doors of the tavern. The interior was an image from her past. Rustic designs in decors and furniture gave warmth to her heart. The dim lights filtered the room in an earthy, jolly glow illuminating the groups of travellers, wizards, witches & others as they drank, ate, joked, argued and gambled. The sound of cheering, bickering, hushed chats and loud drunken stupors brought a smile to the tired witch. 'Just like the good old days.'

"I know it's a bit…" Lily chose her words thoughtfully, "rowdy, it's one of the most popular places in all of Hogsmeade."

"It's warm and wonderful," Hermione smiled.

"Well, now, let's get a seat. Padfoot, order the Butterbeer," James cheered.

"You got it."

Their drinks came quite quickly to their table. Mugs of honey coloured happiness sat before Hermione. The froth at the top giving her warm memories of Harry's first time trying the said drink. Sipping her beverage, she allowed the fizzy, sweet tonic intoxicate her body. Just like Sirius said, she also most definitely needed this. She continued drinking away as she surveyed the room. She stopped listening to the conversations of those at her table and immersed herself in her reminiscence of the memories she had with her best friends. Her eyes landed on some second year Gryffindor boys gulping down on Butterbeer and lightly giggled at the memory of Harry and Ron's Butterbeer contest back in their second year. "Just like them."

"Like who, Mione?"

"Hmmm?" Sirius pulled her from her thoughts.

"Like who?" he repeated.

In a low voice, she answered, "Friends."

"Oh! Were they from your hometown? Where? Are you still in contact with them?" Lily hurdled her list of questions at Hermione.

The said witch chugged down the rest of her butterbeer. Setting the empty mug on the table, Hermione dabbed her mouth with a handkerchief and replied, "Sorry, I have something to pick up for Professor Dumbledore."

"Like what?" asked Peter. He had been the most of the time for the past few days. His simple question matched with his serious face devoid of emotions, cause unease and discomfort to wrap around Hermione, their icy grip tightly squeezing at her heart. She didn't know he could make that face.

"Something between Professor Dumbledore and I," she replied. It came out more defensive and abrupt, which was unintentional. The Marauders and Lily looked shocked. Sighing, she added, "Sorry, look… I've just got to go."

As she stood to leave, a hand dripped her wrist stopping her in her tracks. "Mione, talk to us." No response. She couldn't even bring herself to look him in the eye. Every day was harder than the last for her. "Or at least let me come with you?" Sirius offered as an alternative. He spoke so gently. She knew she was hurting them, but maintaining distance in this matter was the better option.

"This is something I need to do alone. Bye."

With that, she softly tugged her wrist out of Sirius' grip and left her friends stumped and hurt. As Hermione walked through town heading for the only bookstore for the information she needs. As she trudged through the streets, she felt colder than before. This icy chill was different from the natural windy cold that wrapped around one's body. Instead, is more like a rush of ice pumping through her skin making her numb.

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Sirius stared at the door, waiting – no, hoping – for Hermione to walk back in. 'Why is she being like this? What is she involved in?' Biting his lip, those questioned swirled within his mind disturbing and stinging his heart.

"oot... dfoot… Padfoot!" Startled to attention, Sirius looked over the Remus. "I've been calling you for a while."

"He's just upset… we all are," Peter solemnly added.

James sighed & stated what no one else wanted to, "Well, it's settled. Hermione is hiding something big and the Professor Dumbledore knows it."

Sirius looked over to a strangely quiet Lily. Her expression said it all. She looked confused, frustrated, conflicted and hurt. This was turning out to be an awful start to Hogsmeade weekend. "Prongs," Sirius called the boy. As soon as eye contacted was made, a short nod towards Lily was all the communication the boys needed.

"Come on, love," James smiled gently to Lily. "Let's go and check out some of the sights."

A tired smile was her only response.

"Well, while you guys do that, I'll check on Mione."

Sirius was immediate prevented from following his favourite witch. "Mooney what's the big deal?"

"Following her is not going to help the situation," Remus explained. "Maybe if we give her some time, she may come round."

"That or we can just talk to her later in the Observatory," Peter smartly suggested. "Let's not ruin the day further for those two," he gestured to James cheering up Lily. Based on her more genuine smiles that radiated off the head girl, it was definitely working.

Sighing in defeat, Sirius agreed, but that didn't stop his mind from wandering to his witch. 'Hermione, what are you hiding?' Sirius contemplated as he, Remus & Peter tailed James and Lily through their date.

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Weaving through the familiar streets of Hogsmeade, Hermione knew the exact location of her favourite old bookstore. It housed books of every century tucked away in a shabby looking old brick building that had creaky doors and rusted window louvers. Although it has a musky, dusty kind of smell, it reminded Hermione of the aged papers of the hard-bound books of her father's study back in London. Fond memories of her and Ron stumbling into this shabby place as they explored in second year gave a short burst of emotion in her numbing heart. The entrance bell rang faintly as she entered the door. The two storey building was quiet except for her footsteps. Hermione wandered the first floor near the entrance as she waited for Pibert, the house elf of the store to appear. An old crackly voice sounded behind stacks of books at the counter. Gently moving them aside, she found the elderly house elf, sorting through books.

"Good day, Mr. Pibert," she smiled softly to the elf.

The elf, as usual, was dressed in a plain robe that was oddly NEVER dirty. He looked like any other house elf (not as bright as Dobbie), except for the wrinkles on his face and his squinted blue eyes. Although he looked very, VERY old, Pibert was very efficient. Hermione had found early on that Pibert was usually always the only one to mind the store since his master, Mr. Jean Merchand, a French 'author' (or so he claims) is constantly travelling "in search of works of literary art to share with the world" or so he put it the first time she had met him in her third year. Pibert was mainly quiet, but always kind. Even though Hermione knew that this elf was well over 90 years old, the creature remained faithful and diligent to his paster and work. As she frequented the store over the years, she and the elf became close friends. He would always prepare a new history book or spell book ready for the girl's visit, while Hermione would bring shortbread cookies for the elf.

Huffing –as usual – he looked up to Hermione and said, "Welcome."

Smiling at him once again, she offered him a shortbread cookie she got from breakfast. Pibert looked at her then the cookie then back very quizzically. She giggled, 'Just like the first time.' Breaking the silence, Hermione added, "I heard from a friend that if I need any book that this was the place to go. Is that right, Mr. Elf?"

"…Yes," he answered slowly. "Pibert…"

"I'm sorry?"

"Me."

She smiled as she handed him the cookie. "Nice to meet you, Mr. Pibert. I'm Hermione." He didn't take the cookie, he simply stared at it. "Please take it, I simply cannot eat it right now."

He continued to stare.

"You don't want it?"

Finally, he spoke, "…Can't…"

"Please, Mr. Pibert. I want you to have it."

After a pause, the house elf slowly and cautiously took the cookie from her outstretched hand. "Thank you, Mistress Hermione." He added, "What is it you need, mistress?"

First things first, she needed to find books on Horcruxes. 'He probably wouldn't tell me if I were to just come out and ask him… I mean horcruxes are prohibited in the wizarding community thanks to HIM.' Looking around the reception desk, Hermione searched for the purple stone she would use to call for books. She remembered the first time she had come here when that Mr. Jean Merchand himself had Hermione test out his latest purchase from a wizarding market in Paris: the Accinus stone. Derived from the incantation Accio, the Accinus stone was a lavender rock that was smooth all over and shiny enough to see a reflection of the customer's face. It had speckles of gold dotted within the lavender swirls of colour. Its purpose was simple. It would summon from the shelves any type of book or a specific book when asked. Hermione always thought it looked pretty as it hovered over the silver crescent moon plate that lay upon the desk. Pulling out of her thoughts, she smiled happily at the elderly elf and asked, "May I know where you keep your directory? Just browsing for now."

With a look of suspicion the elf guided her carefully to the second floor where a large table with a large piece of parchment lay across it almost blanketing the table. Swirls of ink danced across the parchment making eerie patterns decorate the page. 'I don't remember this ever being here…' she searched her memory for any record of this parchment covered table in the Merchand Bookstore before, but came up empty.

At her quizzical expression, Pibert went on to explain the mechanics of the tool before her. "Mistress, speak of that which you wish to read, the ink will tell you where." After the cryptic advice, Pibert snapped his fingers and disappeared from view. Curious, Hermione approached the dusty table. As if greeting her, Hermione watched swirls of ink twirl across the page bouncing and pulsing as if it were a Koi fish swimming through tranquil waters.

'Speak of that which you wish to read,' she repeated to herself. 'Obviously, just say aloud what you're looking for and it'll tell you where to go in the store.' Peering down at the parchment, she opened her mouth to speak but cut herself short. What if someone were to hear her? Worries bothered her studious mind. "Books on forming objects with magic to prolong life." It was the safest way of describing a Horcrux. Hermione watched with interest as the ink jumped to life. Moving rapidly, it slashed through the parchment forming thick black letters. She waited anxiously as the words formed. "Too vague. Try again later," she read aloud. A frown creased her forehead, "What is this? A sassy magic 8 ball?" she spitefully bit out.

The ink moved again: YOU'RE THE ONE WHO NEEDS MY HELP. REMEMBER THAT.

Rolling her eyes, she was now dealing with a spelled parchment paper with an attitude. Sighing, she searched the store looking for another soul. Luckily not even Pibert seemed to be around. Gathering her courage, she whispered what she needed, "Books on Horcruxes."

The letters formed instantly: THAT'S MORE LIKE IT. GO TO SECTION F, THIRD SHELF ON YOUR RIGHT, BESIDE THE MUMMIFIED MAYAN HEAD THERE'S THE BLACK BOOK YOU NEED. MIND THE HEAD, SHE BITES AND HAS QUITE THE POTTY MOUTH.

Confused on why Mr. Marchand had a mummified mayan head that bites, Hermione made her way to section F. 'F for Forbidden, duh Hermione,' she almost facepalmed herself. Quickly she spotted the mummified mayan head that seemed to be snoozing away (if the snoring it was doing was anything to go by). It was a small shrivelled up head that she had seen before in a couple of books and documentaries as a child. The darkened, leathery skin was plain except for the eyes. They were sown shut with thick rope like threads and had porcupine like sticks neatly punctured through the skin of its nose. Hanging in a small display case, the outside read:

THE WITCH OF MAYA
FAMOUS FOR: ACCIDENTALLY TURNING HER DOG INTO A CHUPACABRA
DO NOT TOUCH
MAGICLESS BUT VERY MUCH A DEMON

'How can she be still a "very much demon" if she's magicless?' Hermione pondered. Eyes shifting, she noticed that right beside it was the black book she needed. It was thick with an old leather coat wrapping its unused pages. A blanket of dust smothered the title on the spine so to get a better look at it she had to get it down. She reached up for it and pull the book for the shelf. "Hey! You! Birds nest!" a voice cried out angrily. Hermione jumped slightly in surprise. "You bitch! What's a head gotta do to get some sleep without being knocked around!"

Hermione was surprised but still apologized, 'So that's why she's a demon. Could have just put there "magicless and speaks fluent profanity".' She didn't realize that when she had taken the book from the shelf she had unknowingly hit the mayan witch's case. Hermione sighed, exasperated from the earful of swearing she was getting. Giving up on trying to pacify the irate head, she made her way down to the front desk.

Flipping through the contents, she found a few pages on Horcruxes. The pages were filled with information from what it is to how to make them and how they work, but too much to absorb in the meagre minutes she had to wait. 'Art of Black Magic,' she inwardly read the title. Anxiety filled her heart at the thought of smuggling this into the academy. Surely, in the event that she is discovered, Professor Dumbledore would help her out… right? The thought boggled around in her brain for a moment before realizing she wasn't alone. Pibert stared up at her expectantly as he waited – slightly impatiently – for the girl to hand over the book. Hesitantly, bright witch slowly passed the book over. The elf took one glance and his alerted eyes rang warning bells inside Hermione. "Look, I just need it for one section. It's important. Please," she explained.

The house elf said nothing, frozen in place. Conflict danced about his features as he obviously warred with himself on whether this witch should walk away with the book… or without. As a house elf, Hermione knew he couldn't deny a guest of his master (even if that guess was an under aged witch), but she also knew he was a good-natured creature. Reaching over, Hermione channelled her sincerity towards the elf, "Please."

Silence draped the girl and house elf for minutes, neither saying anything, both too cautious of the next step. Finally, the elf spoke up, "Careful." A one word warning that spoke magnitudes of seriousness. Sincerely thankful, Hermione passed over her payment and genuinely sent her gratitude to the elf. The tinkle of the old bell sounded relief throughout Hermione's being. Having completed the starting part of her mission, Hermione set out to find Lucius.

The streets on the outskirts of Hogsmeade were quiet. She likes the serene tranquillity that accompanied it. All the buzz of life was in the village square where most if not all the other Hogwarts students were running amuck. Stepping into a shortcut she, Ron and Harry would constantly use, thoughts of the Marauders, Horcruxes, the future and mission seemed to fall away as she just allowed herself to relax in this one moment. Everything seemed to be going so well… At least it was for about two whole minutes. "Well, well, Hermione Grace…" a threatening voice dripping with repulsiveness approached from in front. "Funny that we bump into each other here."

Hermione responded in equal disgust, "Josanne."

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Elle silently walked through Hogsmeade with angry witch on the prowl. Elle noted that since arriving at Hogsmeade, the sixth year witch was out for blood in the most obvious of ways. She had gathered her two other 'friends', Lianne & Macy, for the 'prank' (as she put it). Josanne was always problematic, but this was just getting psychotic. As Lianne and Macy fed Josanne's ego by buttering her up with insults about the Grace witch, Josanne had her eyes peeled for the said Gryffindor witch. Elle's eyes, on the other hand, were searching for someone else entirely. 'Come on, where is he? Where is he?' she thought hurriedly. She had to find the head boy before Josanne found Hermione.

Reaching the village square, the witches quickly entered the Three Broomsticks. It was a Hogsmeade hotspot for most witches and wizards. If they wanted to find someone, that's where they needed to go. Upon entering the group searched for Honey-coloured locks. All but one. Elle scanned for platinum blond hair on a tall handsome boy. As if conjuring the said boy out of a grimoire, Elle laid eyes on Lucius Malfoy. He sat surrounded by his usual followers, but he always managed to hold an aura of sophistication and a scowl that could make anyone shy away in fear. Although handsome, no girl had the courage to approach the man who commanded authority. To his right, Elle recognized the disinterest Severus who put most powerful wizards to shame with both his intellect and talent. Suddenly a gasp pulled Elle away from her target.

"Even in this light he looks handsome," Macy gasped out. With a gentle tug at the blond leader, she pulled Josanne away from her search for Hermione to glimpse at her Adonis.

"My Regulus is always good-looking, why should you even be surprised," she tossed at the other witch.

With interest, Elle looked towards Lucius' left. 'He is the most popular boy in sixth year for a reason,' she admired. Sitting with a butterbeer in one hand, Regulus wore a body fitting white V-neck with a black unbuttoned jacket and simple black jeans. Simply dressed, but definitely sporting the bad boy look. Elle wasn't overly interested in Regulus and his family, but she did know that in this moment, he was definitely channelling the Sirius Black vibes, well apart from his cleaner appearance. He didn't have the same roguish charm that Sirius was well-known for, but Regulus had a princely aura in comparison. While the girls admired the boys of their house, Lianne came back with news of a Hermione sort. The Gryffindor witch was noticed to have entered a shabby bookstore on the other side of the village. The group turned to swiftly follow the witch, all except Elle. Unbeknownst to Josanne, Elle had stepped out to follow the boys who were about to leave through the back. Elle knew that with this, she was socially doomed by Josanne. But if all went well, she would be protected by Lucius and his gang. 'Here goes nothing...'

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Lucius sighed exhausted from the useless conversations he was surrounded by. 'Useless remarks from useless people,' he thought irritated by conversations on female figures. Exhausted, Lucius stood to leave. As soon as he rose, the change was instantaneous. The other boys followed suit, loyal dogs that followed their master unconditionally.

With a hand to his head, the headache getting worse, Lucius commanded, "Regulus, Severus, just you two will stay with me. The rest of you, enjoy." Translation: only regulus and severus will come with me, the rest of you bugger off.

The message was clearly understood by the slow slumping in chairs by the rest of his gang.

Exiting through the backdoor, Severus spoke out, "That is why I do not go to Hogsmeade weekends."

Regulus smirked at the comment adding, "Why did you come with us this time?"

"No real reason, but we both know why you came out," Severus replied, his eyes shifting away from his book to glare dangerously at Regulus. The said boy's smirk never waned.

"Regulus, I suggest keeping your distance from that witch," Lucius cautioned while Regulus narrowed his eyes at the head boy clearly displeased with the suggestion. Regarding that matter, Lucius always found the Gryffindor girl's friendship with his friend to be troubling. He knew that Regulus was different than his brother, but he always worried about what other might do in retaliation towards the witch. He pondered over his feelings. Hermione wasn't someone that piqued romantic interest in him, but she was definitely someone who he felt a great need to protect.

His worries were confirmed as a younger Slytherin witch called out to them. "Lucius?"

The three wizards spun to address the girl. "Elle, what is it?" Regulus looked thoroughly annoyed by the girl.

Ignoring the boy, she addressed Lucius directly, "I need your help. It's that Hermione." Both Severus and Regulus immediately tensed, thoroughly interested in what this witch was about to say.

'Hermione? What about her?' Lucius gave her a look that demanded she go on.

"W-well, Josanne wants to punish her. I need you to help stop it."

"What does she plan to do?" hissed an angry Regulus.

The girl named Elle, visibly flinched at Regulus. "Calm down," Lucius said as he stepped towards Elle. "What does she intend to do?"

"She's going to kill me for this…" Elle whispered under her breath.

"You'll be fine, we'll ensure nothing happens to you at school," Severus stepped in. Worry painted his emotionless face as he eagerly pressed the witch to continue.

Nodding, Elle explained, "I thought she just wanted to ambush and prank Hermione with a few jinxes, but she has a plan with Nate. She said she'd let Nate and his boys 'have fun' with the girl."

The atmosphere turned icy cold the moment Elle finished explaining. Regulus leapt forward, grasping Elle's shoulders tightly. Speaking with a tone of rushed anxiety and anger emanated from the boy, "Where is she?"

"A-at a b-bookstore on the other side of town."

"I know that place," Severus had his book away, ready to go. "And I know all the shortcuts."

"Let's go," Lucius called for action. Before leaving, he turned to Elle, "Thank you for your honesty, this will not be forgotten." With that, he and the other two boys raced to find Hermione. They all just hoped that they weren't late.

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Hermione was face to face with a seething Josanne and her posey of the stereotypical mean girls. As if she were in a movie, the villain began her monologue. "You're so ugly."

Hermione rolled her eyes, 'Really? That's the best you can do?' She inwardly threw back at the witch. Silently, Hermione just listened as Josanne went on. She was just too tired to argue with such a hothead.

"I am the one who has always been there for Regulus. I am the one who belongs with him, not you. But I'm a civilized witch, so I'm going to take care of you right now so that my Regulus won't have to suffer another awful day with you bothering him," she went on. "I've watched and watched. You think you can get away with clinging to him like last night? You're so wrong."

Smirking, Hermione fired back, "Wow! You're quite the creepy and delusional stalker! I'm impressed that you're still able to function in high society."

"SHUT UP!" Josanne screeched. She raged on. She and her two other Slytherin friends began throwing hexes and jinxes toward Hermione, attacking her with whatever nasty incantation they had prepared.

After what Hermione had been through in her past this was nothing she couldn't handle. After all, the pain she went through did nothing but harden Hermione, she was now a battle angel ready to go. Instantly, Hermione countered the jinxes and hexes with ease. Feeling confident about the outcome, Hermione kept her winning smirk in place. It wasn't until she felt a sharp prick hit her left shoulder did she realize Josanne was a distraction. The world was soundless for a minute as she her body drop. Suddenly, she was on the ground. A numbing sensation spread like wildfire through her, paralysis gripping her, making her hyperaware of her surroundings. 'Why was I so stupid!' She knew she had gotten too confident, too relaxed, too tired to properly think of her situation. She admitted to herself that she shouldn't have engaged since she was too mentally and emotionally exhausted. Without reviewing her surroundings she had carelessly put herself in a position where she left herself vulnerable. She knew that this was the biggest mistake she had ever made in her life. A chuckle sounded above her. The noise causing chills to scrape down her spine, inciting pure fear brought out by the pure evil and bloodlust emanating from Josanne. Hermione counted her lucky stars that the fear creeping within her was not shown on her face due to the paralysis.

"You throw yourself at MY Regulus. Well I'll make sure you're ruined. Ruined for good."

Hearing footstep approach, Hermione could make out two things. First, these people now right beside her, bending for a better look at the numb witch were most definitely the ones who paralysed her and, second… they were all guys. She could practically smell the testosterone wafting off them. 'Shit,' was the only thing that passed through her mind. She knew exactly what was about to go down.

"Stand back," a commanding voice bellowed in the alley. The big 3 of Slytherin were here.

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A/N: Not my best work, but I hope this will entertain you guys. I will upload the next chapter shortly. Secretly, the next chapter was the one I was most excited to upload, but I'm still not sure how good it will be… But thank you all for the support and for continuing to read this. Stay safe and healthy.