Ties Chapter 4
Chapter 4~ One Fine Day
Hermione woke up early the next morning to the pleasant scent of fresh linens and the embrace of a soft down pillow. The sky outside was the pale grey of predawn. Not wanting to get up, she snuggled back into her covers and was just about to fall asleep again when she sat up with a start. How did she get to bed last night? She had no recollection of leaving her sitting room the previous evening. A knock at the door interrupted her confusion as she stumbled out of her room to the main door. On the other side of the door stood Albus Dumbledore, obviously wide awake and chipper this morning. He smiled pleasantly and said, "Oh good, you are awake."
Hermione rubbed her eyes and attempted to run her hands through her hair. She failed miserably as it was very tangled and sticking out in all directions. "What time is it?"
"It’s not yet seven, but there are plenty of things to attend to this morning. I have a couple questions for you, but then I’m afraid I will have to leave you with Minerva. She will help you get ready."
Still slightly groggy, she showed the headmaster into her room and asked, "Ready? What do you mean?"
With a flick of his wand, Professor Dumbledore conjured a table with a teapot, two cups and a plate of fruit. He poured them each a cup of tea and sat down in one of the white armchairs. "I do believe you received an owl last night indicating that a ministry official would be here this morning. I know this is all happening very quickly, but I have used up most of my favours in this particular department at the Ministry. There was no easy way to postpone. Had you brought something to wear for the ceremony?"
Hermione shook her head. "Nothing special if that’s what you’re asking. I have no intention of dressing up either."
Trapped in Albus’ thoughtful gaze, she couldn’t help feeling a touch foolish for making such a flippant comment. He sipped his tea and ate a slice of watermelon, still fixing her with an appraising look. She had just begun to think he wasn’t going to make any remark about her comment, but then said, "It is, of course, your decision. I will inform you that a photographic record is being kept by the Ministry, whether simply as records or for some other purpose, I do not know. You do not suffer much from vanity, however, this situation might warrant a little. I know that I tend to have a better outlook on life when dressed smartly. Anyway, there are other matters to discuss. I tried to ask Severus if he had any particular location on the grounds in mind, only to find all decisions regarding the wedding deferred to you. Is there any place you would prefer?"
Hermione looked thoughtful for a moment, "Under the Whomping Willow would be most unique," she said with a small grin, "but somehow inappropriate. I suppose the Room of Requirement would be simplest."
Albus picked up the small note of humour, "A good choice, and just what would you require?"
"Nothing fancy. Something chapel like I imagine. Whatever the room comes up with will be fine I’m sure."
Nodding, Albus continued, "I quite agree. Is there anyone you wish to attend? The timing is a bit tight, but we could manage something."
She shook her head emphatically. "No. If they need a witness, then Professor McGonagall can do it. I haven’t told my parents anything, and I don’t intend to just now. It would be too difficult to explain so that they’d understand why. I’ll let them know when I’m ready. I do have a question for you, however."
Dumbledore raised an eyebrow, and gestured for her to continue.
"I’m not familiar with all aspects of magical marriages and traditions. Many Muggle women now keep their own name after they marry. I don’t want to change my name. I am Hermione Granger now and I will still be Hermione Granger this evening. I wish to be acknowledged for myself and also feel that discretion would be best at this time. I’m not ashamed to be marrying, but I am still a student here and Severus is still my professor. Is it possible for me to keep my name? Will the Ministry allow that?" Hermione felt herself rambling, but she felt very strongly about this issue above most others arising from Act 275.
After a thoughtful moment, he replied. "It is highly unusual for a witch to keep her maiden name. At the same time, however, the Ministry has accounted for the fact that most witches in these unions bring with them traditions from the non-magic community. There is nothing in any of the laws surrounding marriage that prohibits a witch from keeping her name. I will speak to the official when he arrives and express your desire to him. There should be no reason for him to refuse, and if he does, it is sufficient reason for a delay. Does that suit you?"
She nodded.
"Good. If there is nothing more you need to discuss with me, then I’d best be on my way. There are still plenty of matters that need attending to before nine. I’ll have Minerva come up in half an hour. She is likely more use to you than an old man like myself. In the meantime, I suggest you enjoy some breakfast and perhaps have a bit of a wash. I’ll see you shortly." He stood, smiled at her and left the room.
When the door closed, Hermione sat up straighter and felt better than she had in days. The Ministry could do lots of things to her, but they couldn’t take away her identity. A new sense of determination filled her. If they wanted a show today, then she would give it to them. She picked up the forgotten letter from the previous evening, and found the wand binding vow. While nibbling on apple slices and orange wedges, she went about memorizing the lines. If something was worth doing, it was worth doing properly. When she went to her bathroom, she noted her appearance with mingled embarrassment and horror. Had she really held a conversation with the most respected man in the magical community looking like this? A quick shower and thorough brushing and flossing later, the reflection that looked back at her was far more presentable. Dripping wet, but not something Hagrid might have dragged in from the forbidden forest. Outside the bathroom door she heard Professor McGonagall’s voice.
"Good morning, Hermione. Are you almost through in there?" The stern Gryffindor head of house sounded quite cheerful. Wrapping herself in her dressing gown, Hermione opened the door to a startling sight. Not only was Minerva McGonagall dressed in a youthful looking tartan robe, but she had also brought with her dozens of robes in many colours and styles. The bedroom bore a greater resemblance to Gladrags than a Head Girl’s chambers.
"Oh good," Minerva said when the door opened. "I was hoping you were nearly finished. I figured that you most likely hadn’t packed anything dressy. I’m don’t know what you have for dress robes, but I should have something suitable here for you. They may need a bit of alteration though."
It was beyond Hermione’s comprehension that a woman like Deputy Headmistress McGonagall had a wardrobe filled with colourful robes of all descriptions. The robe closest to her was a lovely dusty rose, and she reached out to touch the soft fabric. Minerva shook her head. "It’s a lovely outfit, but I don’t think the colour suits you. We could charm it temporarily to another colour if you like the style."
The younger woman shook her head in amazement. "Where did you get all these?"
McGonagall smiled. "I was young and fashionable once, but when one reaches a certain age, these sorts of robes," she motioned towards the rack, "are no longer fitting of your station in life. Not all of them are mine. Professor Sinestra and Madam Hooch pulled out a couple as well so that you had plenty to choose from. They might not all fit properly, but I know enough seamstress charms to do the job."
Flipping through the robes, Hermione pulled out a couple that caught her eye and lay them on the bed. When she reached the end of the rack, one in particular stood out. Sleeveless and pale blue with a sheer dark blue over-robe. Hermione lifted it to herself and couldn’t help but smile. "It’s lovely. Not quite white lace and rosebuds, but lovely all the same."
The older woman looked up at the robe in question. "I was quite fond of that one when I was younger. My father hated it. He believed it unsightly for a woman to expose her shoulders. I made the over-robe so he would let me wear it out of the house. Why don’t you try it on. Like I said, we can make some alterations and even charm the colour for a while."
At quarter to nine, Hermione stood in front of the full length mirror, looking at a virtual stranger. A stranger who was about to be married to another almost stranger. Her hair was pinned up in smooth curls on the top of her head. The sleeveless blue robe had fit well and, with a small alteration to the hemline, hung elegantly off her body. The robin’s egg blue material was slightly muted by the over-robe they had charmed to creamy white. Overall the effect was quite flattering.
Glancing out the window revealed a glorious, sunny day. The first one after two weeks of grey weather. Professor McGonagall put a hand on Hermione’s shoulder. "There is a saying, ‘happy the bride the sun shines on.’ It’s as favourable a sign as one might wish for. Later you should get a photo outside by the lake. You may not be pleased about the events of today, but years from now when you are an old woman, you will be happy to have a picture that reminds you of how lovely you looked today. We should go. I expect they are ready for us."
Hermione took one last look in the mirror and gave herself the most encouraging smile she could. She did look good today and perhaps everything would work out alright.
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Severus scowled as the Headmaster entered his rooms and made himself at home. It seemed as if the old man was trying to irritate him as much as possible, though he knew it was his own testy mood that made it feel that way. Pacing back and forth in the confined space of his sitting room, he could feel a sense of foreboding settle upon the castle like the darkening of the sky with heavy clouds before a thunderstorm. In an attempt to settle himself, Severus moved into his dining room to retrieve a strong cup of coffee and was surprised to see brilliant sunshine streaming into the room. Albus stood behind him and admired the morning light.
"Now be honest with me Severus, you aren’t really going to break with tradition today, are you?" Albus said, startling Severus and causing him to spill coffee down the front of his black robes.
Snape cursed as the hot liquid came in contact with his skin. "Damn it! I wish you wouldn’t do that Albus. Anyway, I see no cause for tradition. The Ministry has no respect for it. I highly doubt anyone expects it."
Albus sighed sadly. "What they are doing is a terrible thing, but there is no help for it at this time. It is up to you to make the best of an awkward and unusual situation. I should think you would understand the need to do so by now."
"This is different and you know it!" Severus snarled. "Besides, I should hardly think this meets with any traditions of the other party. I will not play along to keep up appearances."
"Then play along to make this easier on Hermione. She is dreadfully upset about a number of things. Perhaps it is wrong to feign enjoyment, but I don’t see the harm in it." Albus cajoled.
Severus let out a sigh of defeat. "I am more concerned about what will become of Miss Granger when Lucius discovers what we have done."
"It is a concern and all the more reason to do this properly. If something is worth doing..." Albus gave the younger man a pointed look.
"Oh very well," Snape conceded. "I’ll wear the blasted robes."
Dumbledore gave a small smile. "Good. I’m afraid I must go and attend to some things and meet the officials when they arrive. I shall see you on the seventh floor at the Room of Requirement within the hour."
Severus raised an eyebrow, "How oddly appropriate."
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The Room of Requirement was a lovely sight when Hermione opened the door to reveal an open room with an outdoorsy feel to it. In front of her was a small, open fronted gazebo decorated with golden ribbons and fresh flowers. Whomever came up with the decorating ideas was brilliant. Standing under the arched roof was an older Ministry wizard dressed in black robes that looked vaguely clerical. There were a small number of chairs in the room occupied by the Hogwarts staff and standing near the back was a man with a camera who appeared to be from the Ministry as well. When the door closed, everyone turned to look at Hermione. Professor McGonagall moved away and sat down beside Professor Sinestra, then a figure seated by the steps of the gazebo stood up.
She was shocked. Severus Snape moved to the steps and turned to look at her, but she scarcely recognized him. Gone was the forbidding, billowing, black robes and in its place, well fitted, deep red robes. Not Gryffindor red, but intense blood red. His hair was neatly trimmed and cleaner than she had ever seen it and somehow his skin didn’t appear as sallow as it always had before. He looked good and the air around him verily screamed intense as he looked back at her with dark eyes. Most shocking of all was the small, barely noticeable smile that graced his lips. He gave her a barely perceptible nod and she did her best to smile, but barely managed more than he had.
Following the directions Professor McGonagall had given her, she walked purposefully towards the front of the room. Turning to Severus, they drew their wands together and pointed them at each other as if they were about to duel. Then the man at the front began to speak. "Today we bare witness to the binding of two individuals in the rite of marriage. As they move through life together, trust and caring are indeed the most powerful magic they shall ever perform. Here let us witness Severus Snape and Hermione Granger begin their journey of trials and triumphs bound together by the ancient enchantment of trust."
The man nodded to Severus who began to recite,
"I bind myself to you, Hermione Granger,
that we together may achieve what individually we could not.
I pledge to you my support and love,
and give to you my utmost faith and trust.
As a symbol of this trust,
I offer to bind my wand to yours,
That I may never raise it against you in anger,
That it may never bring harm upon you."
Severus held her eyes while he said these words and she was a bit taken aback by the conviction with which he spoke. Hermione had no doubt that he felt strongly about keeping those vows. Raising her chin slightly she responded,
"I bind myself to you, Severus Snape,
that we together may achieve what individually we could not.
I pledge to you my support and love,
and give to you my utmost faith and trust.
As a symbol of this trust,
I offer to bind my wand to yours,
That I may never raise it against you in anger,
That it may never bring harm upon you."
They brought the tips of their wands together so that they were almost touching and in unison said, "Two wands made one, two lives made whole."
There was a surge from both wands that connected into a bright ball of white light. The light grew brighter and larger until it encircled them both. After a long moment, the light dissipated and they withdrew their wands to return them to their robes. The gathered staff clapped their hands and smiled at them, before the Ministry officiator spoke again. "So let this union begin. You may kiss the bride."
Severus looked up in surprise and gave Hermione a look of trepidation. After having spoken so confidently before, he looked confused now, as did some of those gathered. Hermione too felt a bit unsure. Professor McGonagall had told her just this morning that a kiss was not part of the traditional ceremony. Before she could ponder any further, Severus took her wand hand in his, knelt and kissed its back. Suddenly a flash of red light enveloped them and they could hear the Ministry wizard speak. "Comsummus Bindum ne Adadulta!"
While the red light enveloped them, Severus felt his lips sealed to hand and was unable to move. Slowly the light faded and he was able to let go and stand again. Shock written on their faces, they turned back to the Ministry wizard hoping for some sort of explanation. If he noted their shock, he didn’t show it. He simply raised his head and addressed the gathered staff. "I present to you Mr. Snape and Ms. Granger. Let us congratulate them as they begin their new, loyal journey together."
Severus and Hermione turned away from the Ministry official and faced the crowd. The photographer at the back came forward and snapped a picture before the couple were surrounded by those gathered. Everyone shook their hands and congratulated them on their impressive binding spell. She was told that the intensity, colour and size of the ball of light were indicators of the sincerity of their promise. A large, bright ball was seen as a promise of happiness and success in the future.
A small celebratory luncheon had been planned in the Great Hall, so the few people in attendance slowly began to drift out the door, presumably on their way downstairs. Hermione noticed that Albus and Severus had moved off to a corner and were discussing something while gesturing towards what looked like a letter. The expression on both men’s faces was difficult to discern, but she had little time to worry since she was busy being led outside by Minerva, who was smiling and talking about photos while gesturing at Severus to follow.
Outside, Professor Flitwick took several photos of Hermione and Severus both together and individually. Hermione smiled happily in the sunshine and was undoubtably pleased when Severus leaned over and whispered to in her ear, "You look lovely today."
"Thank you. It was all Professor McGonagall’s doing. Might I add that you look rather dashing yourself. Although I was a little shocked to see you wear red." She nudged him gently, implying a reference towards Gryffindor colours.
A playful nudge was returned, "The practice of wizards wearing red at their weddings is an old tradition dating back to the Middle Ages. Perish the thought of breaking with tradition after all."
"And you expect me to believe you’re wearing that willingly?"
"I had considered wearing traditional robes for today," he paused, then grudgingly admitted, "but, I had chosen not to this morning. Suffice to say, Albus played a hand in persuading me, since you were going to all this trouble yourself."
Hermione glanced at the elderly wizard and shook her head. "Why that sneaky devil."
The slightly amused expression on Severus’ face faded as he followed her gaze and mumbled. "Not quite sneaky enough apparently."
"How so?"
Severus looked directly at Hermione, "After lunch, there is something we need to discuss privately."
A growing sense of foreboding filled Hermione as she walked back to the castle surrounded by cheerful people.
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Chapter 3
Chapter 5