It Started With A Kiss

Disclaimer: See Prologue.

Chapter 7

Returning just in time for dinner, Hermione raced to her room to discover her dress and cloak had been delivered. She put the ring at the bottom of her trunk for safekeeping, and her other purchases on her desk. As she walked down to the Great Hall to join her friends she thought back on the day. It was just too much of a coincidence that everything seemingly fell into her lap. ‘The answers will come in time of that I have no doubt,’ she thought upon entering the Great Hall and sitting at her usual place at the Gryffindor table.


After greeting Ron and Harry she turned and walked down the table to speak to Ginny.


“Gin, can I speak to you later in my room please?” Hermione asked, talking just loud enough for the youngest Weasley to hear her.


“Sure Hermione. We DO need to talk,” Ginny replied, somewhat tersely.


Hermione knew that Ginny was not too happy with her at the moment. She should have talked to her sooner about all that was going on, and she hoped she could repair any damage that she had inadvertently done to their friendship.


Looking up at the Head Table, she saw Severus eating his dinner. He appeared to be talking with Professor Flitwick who seemed rather excited about the discussion.


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Severus sat at his usual place at the Head Table. As Filius entered, he invited his colleague and former teacher to sit beside him. He wasn’t able to show it in the past, but he did admire Filius Flitwick, especially during the last battle, where he fought valiantly.


“Filius! Please sit next to me tonight. I have a favour to ask of you.”


The diminutive professor was taken aback for a moment. Severus rarely requested anyone to join him for dinner. Even as a boy, Severus seemed more comfortable off on his own. “I’d be delighted to join you Severus, thank you,” taking the seat to his right, “What can I do for you this evening Severus?” he inquired.


“You no doubt know about my upcoming nuptials and I have a request to make of you. I…” he hesitated not sure how to word this, as he never had to do something like this before. “I would be very grateful if you would agree take the west position.”


Severus thought that only Albus’ eyes twinkled like mad; he was just proven wrong as he saw the same twinkle in Flitwick’s eyes.


“Severus, I would be honoured. Thank you so much for asking me,” Filius said, suddenly appearing to sit several centimetres taller.


Sensing he was being watched Severus looked out over the student population. His eyes starting at the Slytherin table, he saw Draco talking to Pansy Parkinson. He had decided to ask Draco if he would take the east position. It was traditional to ask family members only, but he had no living family. Draco, being his godson, was the closest thing he had to family. His eyes continued scanning over to the Gryffindor table, where he saw Hermione watching him. A smile flitted across her face, which he acknowledged with a short nod. He would, no doubt, be seeing her later this evening.


Severus was aware that Minerva had taken Hermione to Diagon Alley that day, and he made the trip there also. He went first to his tailor to obtain the required outfit he would wear for the ceremony, though the thought of wearing white made him shudder. His next stop was to Funkle’s Jewelry. He was quite shocked when William showed him the platinum band with runes engraved into it that matched the ones he and Hermione bore.


His final stop was the florist. Tradition required that he fashion a headpiece for his bride to wear at their binding. He stood before the table, and, as Hermione had done, closed his eyes and thought of how he saw her. Reaching out, he picked up a burgundy rose – unconscious beauty. ‘Yes,’ he thought, ‘she is unaware of how beautiful she is.’ Next, he picked up a white daisy – innocence. Definitely, in more ways than one. A vine of ivy – fidelity. As faithful as she was to her friends, he knew he had no need to worry about her ‘wandering.’ Lastly, he chose jasmine-sensuality. He found her innocence sensual. She was unaware of how she affected him. Not the affect her kisses produced, he made sure she was aware of that, the corners of his mouth lifting slightly as he remembered her reaction the first time she felt his erection against her belly. What she was unaware of was the way her hips swayed as she moved, or how she worried her bottom lip when she was engrossed in reading. Those things he found very sensual. He purchased enough of each to fashion the headpiece and made his way back to Hogwarts.


~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~


Hermione was sitting in her room admiring the dress and cloak that Minerva had bought for her. They really are beautiful she thought to herself. She heard a stiff knock at her door. Opening it, she saw Ginny standing there. “Hey, Gin. Come in, please,” said Hermione.


As Ginny entered the room, she looked around and saw Hermione’s wedding dress and cloak hanging from the wardrobe. “So, it’s true; you really are marrying Snape.”


“Yes, Ginny it’s true. I’m sorry I didn’t tell you myself. After the way Harry and my parents took the news, I was a bit apprehensive about telling anyone else.” She said sadly. “The only one who didn’t yell and scream at me, surprisingly enough, was Ron.”


“What happened with Harry and your parents?” Ginny inquired.


“Well, Harry was and still is quite angry about the whole thing. My parents have practically disowned me. It’s all been so insane Ginny. I mean it’s not like I asked the ‘Ancient Ones’ for all of this!”


“The Ancient Ones!” Ginny gasped, her eyes wide with shock.


“Yes,” Hermione said, wondering what her friend knew that she didn’t.


“I think you need to tell me everything that’s happened from the beginning, girl,” Ginny said, making herself comfortable on Hermione’s bed.


Starting from the ‘thank you kiss’ she gave Snape on her birthday, to her talk with Professor McGonagall, Hermione explained everything to her friend.


“So, is Snape a good kisser?” Ginny asked wriggling her eyebrows.


“Ginerva Molly Weasley, that is none of your business!” Hermione cried out.


“Oh come on ‘Mione, you can tell me. You know I won’t tell anyone else.”


Hermione studied her friend apprehensively, “You promise Gin?”


“I promise, I promise now spill!”


“Ok, he is fabulous, Ginny. I’ve never been kissed like that before in my life.” A dreamy look came over Hermione’s eyes.


Squealing loudly Ginny yelled, “I KNEW IT! I KNEW IT! I just knew under that dark, dour, snarky, sarcastic exterior was a smouldering fire just waiting to erupt!”


“So you forgive me, Ginny?” Hermione asked her, sheepishly.


“Of course I do ‘Mione.” Ginny replied, smiling.


“Good, because there’s something I need to ask you, Ginny. The Headmaster said I need two female friends to represent the fire and earth elements…and I was wondering, would you take the fire position?” she asked, hoping Ginny would say yes; she didn’t know who else to ask.


“Would I? Of course I will! It’s a great honour to be asked. Though traditionally, it’s family that such an honour is given,” Ginny explained to her friend.


“You forget Gin. I’m Muggle-born. I don’t have any family in the wizarding world to ask. That reminds me, I have to owl Tonks and ask her if she would take the earth position.”


The two young women spent the next hour talking and laughing. Hermione showed Ginny the dress and cloak Minerva bought for her wedding. Ginny even helped her to make the boutonnière for Severus. When Ginny left to go do her homework, Hermione made her way to the dungeons.


~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~


Meanwhile, up in his office, Albus Dumbledore sat at his desk writing a very important letter. Well, to him it was important. He wanted to give a very special young woman a special gift on her wedding day. Signing the letter he sealed it and went to Fawkes’ perch. “I have a great favour to ask of you old friend. You know where this letter is going, do you not?” Fawkes looked him in the eye and nodded once. Attaching the missive to Fawkes’ leg Dumbledore opened the window. “Thank you my friend. I’ll have a special treat for you when you get back.” With that, Fawkes flew off to London hoping it wasn’t a useless trip.


~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~


Hermione was sitting on the sofa next to Severus, a glass of wine in her hand, as she told him about her day. “I still need to owl Tonks, though. I should do that before I retire for the night I suppose.”


“That would be a good idea. She may have to decline, and you would have to find someone else. There isn’t much time left,” He said.


“Who have you asked, Severus?”


“I talked to Flitwick this evening at dinner and he has accepted. I will speak with Draco tomorrow.”


“Draco? Why Draco?” she asked, curious as to why he would choose Draco Malfoy.


“Draco is my godson, Hermione, he’s the closest I have to family left.”


“I understand Severus. Well at least now I know why Professor Flitwick was excited this evening,” Hermione said taking a sip of wine. She leaned over and rested her head on his shoulder, enjoying this time she had with him.


“I was re-reading the parchment Minerva gave me. The ‘Ancient Ones’ are the guardians of the watchtowers, aren’t they Severus?” she asked, her voice quavering a little.


“Yes,” Severus responded with a slight sigh. “Yes they are.”


“Why didn’t you tell me?” she asked, looking up at his face.


“What, and deprive you the pleasure of researching it for yourself?” He smirked.


“Please answer my question Severus.” Hermione persisted.


“I was not sure you would understand Hermione. You spent your formative years in the Muggle world. Our beliefs must seem very foreign to you, to all Muggle-borns I am sure.” He had suggested to Albus on more than one occasion that they should have a class to teach the Muggle-borns their ways. It was the one biggest chasm that separated the children raised in the Wizarding world and those raised in the Muggle world.


“Still, you should have told me Severus. You could have explained it to me. I’ve always felt that I had to prove to everyone that I do belong here. That just because I’m Muggle-born doesn’t mean I am less of a witch. However, at this moment, I still feel like I’m an outsider.” She moved to get up and Severus brought his arm around her holding her in place.


“Hermione, it was never my intention to make you feel that way at all. I was not even aware you felt that way. You are as much a part of this world as I am, and you have every right to be here. Do not let anyone ever tell you differently.” Placing her head back on his shoulder, he kissed her on the top of her head as she snuggled closer to him.


“So, are you going to tell me, or do I have to ask Ginny?” she asked.


“I’ll tell you what I know thought it is not much. Very little has been written about them. The Ancient Ones have existed since time itself, or so legend says. The Gods gave them great powers and each was given a task. Each has power over a single element: air, fire, water, and earth. It is said when there is a great threat to the magical world, they have been charged by the Gods to bring together two who have the powers to defeat the threat. As you know the last reported time that happened was around the time of the founding of Hogwarts, when Rowena Ravenclaw and Salazar Slytherin were brought together…and now you and I, little witch.” He said lifting her face to his and placing a kiss on her forehead.


Her hand trailed up his chest to his face as she brought his lips to hers. One kiss led to another, and then another. Severus maneuvered Hermione onto his lap, his lips roaming to her neck, taking note as to what made her moan loudest. His hands explored the curves of her hips and thighs as she tried to move closer still to him.


Hermione was enjoying Severus’ attentions as she ran her fingers through his hair with one hand, while the other was exploring his chest and arms. She could tell even through all the layers of fabric he was well muscled. She soon found herself laying down on the sofa, Severus semi on top of her; she could feel his erection against her leg. He certainly felt bigger than Ron or Viktor. His hand soon found its way under her jumper. The touch of skin to skin made her heart beat faster and her temperature rise.


He touched her bra encased breast; her nipple already hard from arousal his earlier ministrations had evoked in her. Moving aside the fabric, his fingers gently moved across her nipple. She moaned his name as her back arched up inviting him to explore more. Hearing his name spoken so seductively from the young witch beneath him brought Severus back to his senses. He was close to taking this further. If he didn’t stop soon, he knew he would lose all control and take her right here.


Looking at her he could see her face was flushed, her eyes half lidded with lust. She looked so tempting his darker side was telling him the hell with waiting ‘Take her now, she is ripe for the picking. Just look at her Severus; you can smell her arousal can you not?’ He shook his head trying to clear his thoughts. “Hermione, we must stop. If we do not I will not be able to control myself,” he told her as he tried to sit up.


“Severus, please,” she begged, holding him tightly.


“Hermione, I promise, once we are married I will not stop. I will make you mine in every way.” He removed her hand from his neck planted a kiss on her palm. “Now, my little vixen, its time for you to go back your rooms.”


“Don’t forget to owl Tonks,” he reminded her as he left her at the portrait of the Fat Lady.


The days flew by faster than Hermione realized. She woke early Saturday morning, even though the ceremony was not until that night. She dressed and made her way to the Great Hall to try and eat something, but with the butterfly colony flying around her stomach she wasn’t sure how much she could eat. There weren’t many in the hall at that hour on a Saturday; most of the students and a few of the faculty tended to sleep in. Severus was in his usual place sipping his morning tea. She couldn’t tell if he was nervous or not since he was not one for showing the world what he was feeling. Hermione thought she was nervous enough for the both of them. Her anxiety wasn’t just for the ceremony, but for later that night. It was what would happen later…much later…when they were alone. Severus excited her greatly. If he hadn’t had the self control that she lacked, she wouldn’t be going to the altar a virgin. She just wasn’t sure she would be able to satisfy him.


Harry and Ron joined her a short while later. “Nervous, Hermione?” Ron asked.


“A little. I hope I don’t flub up my part of the ceremony. That would be so embarrassing.”


“I’m sure you’ll do fine ‘Mione. Just think of it as a test!”


“Very funny Ron. Ha, ha.”


“Look Hermione,” Harry said, eyes fixed on his plate, “you know I’m not too thrilled with this whole marriage to Snape thing, but I’ll be there tonight. Not for him, but for you.” He finished, his eyes moving up to look at his friend of six years.


A brilliant smile appeared on her face, and her arms went around her best friend, hugging him close. “Thank you Harry. It just wouldn’t have been the same without you there.”


Hermione was sitting in her room trying to read to pass some time until she went for lunch. The boys were on the Quidditch Pitch practicing with the Gryffindor team. She was considering going there to watch when someone knocked at her door. Opening it, she found Molly Weasley, Ginny Weasley, and Nymphadora Tonks. All three grinning from ear to ear. “What are you all doing here? The wedding isn’t for at least another nine hours,” Hermione said, looking at the three women, confusion apparent in her eyes.


“We know dear,” said Molly as all three made their way into her room. “There is so much to do and just enough time to do it all in!”


“Wotcher ‘Mione” Tonks said. “We brought our robes to change into here. Molly is right; there’s a lot to do. So let’s ‘get a move on,’ as the Muggles say.”


“I’ll get her bath ready Mum,” Ginny said.


“Let’s see the dress,” Tonks said heading for her wardrobe. “Wow ‘Mione that’s beautiful!” she said running her hand across the silken fabric.


Mrs. Weasley had Hermione take a bath in special oils, after which she had to apply some more oils to her skin. Ginny and Tonks did her hair, a major task, but they did manage to tame it; bringing the sides up and pinned to the back of her head, the soft curls cascading down her back. Mrs. Weasley applied her make-up, just a bit of liner on her eyes, mascara, blush and gloss on her lips.


“Now dear, where is Severus’ boutonnière so Tonks can go deliver it to him.” Mrs. Weasley asked.


“In that box on my desk.”


Tonks picked up the box and headed for the door leading to the corridor. Walking out, she almost collided with Draco who was carrying a parcel. “Cousin,” he said to Tonks.


“Hi, Draco. Is that for Hermione?” she asked.


“Yes, and I take it that is for Severus.”


“That it is, cousin. Hermione?” She turned back to the room and looked in. “You have a delivery here.”


Hermione came to the door in her bathrobe and saw Draco standing there. “Draco? what brings you here?”


“I’m here to give you this from Severus.” He handed her the package which Molly promptly retrieved from her hands.


“Thank you. Look, Draco I know we never really got along in the past but with Severus being your godfather I thought that maybe we might try to be more civil to each other…for his sake.”


“You beat me to it, Granger. I was going to suggest the same thing. I’m willing to try if you are,” he said, extending his hand to her. She took hold of it and he surprised her by bowing over her hand and lightly kissing her knuckles. “Till later, Hermione.”


“Later, Draco.”


“Lets see how Severus did on this headpiece,” Molly said as she opened the package. “Oh my, how beautiful! He really outdid himself.” Molly and Ginny oohed and ahhed over the headpiece Severus had made for Hermione.


“Oh look here, jasmine…he see you as sensual. Oooooooh ‘Mione” Ginny said wriggling her eyebrows. “Ginerva, stop teasing the poor girl,” Her mother spoke, lightly slapping her arm.


“Ivy – fidelity. He sees you as being faithful.”


“You chose ivy too, didn’t you Hermione?” Ginny asked.


Hermione nodded as Molly continued. “White daisy – innocence, I believe that’s self explanatory; and burgundy rose for unconscious beauty.” Molly sighed. “Who ever would have guessed that man could be a closet romantic.”


The house elves brought in a light lunch for them. A selection of cheeses, fruits and meats. As they sat eating, there was another knock on the door. Hermione opened the door and was surprised to find Professor Dumbledore. “Good afternoon Headmaster.”


“Good afternoon Miss Granger. How are you faring today?”


“A bit nervous, but I guess that’s normal. Please come in the elves brought some food if you care to join us,” she said.


“Thank you but I will have to decline. Like you, I have much to do to prepare for this evening. I stopped by because I have a ‘gift’ for you.”


“Really Professor there was no need…”


“Ahh but I believe this gift is indeed needed.” He stepped aside and Hermione’s mother came into view.


“Mum??” Hermione said her mouth hanging open looking from her mother to the Headmaster and back again.


“Hermione, love, close your mouth dear, you’ll catch flies,” her Mother said.


“But you said…”


“I know what I said dear, but Professor Dumbledore wrote me and pointed out a few things I ‘overlooked’ in my anger. You are my only child; I could never forgive myself if I missed your wedding. I love you dear no matter what.”


Hermione wrapped her arms around her mother and both started to cry. She looked over at the Headmaster and smiled at him thru her tears mouthing a ‘thank you’ at him.


The scene before him warmed Albus’ heart and he was happy he was able to bring at least mother and daughter back together. He returned her smile and gave her a wink. “Well I have much to do, and I’m sure you two have some catching up to do. I will see you both later,” he said, leaving mother, daughter, and friends to finish preparing for the evening ahead.


It was soon time for Hermione to finish dressing. She put on her dress and shoes. Her mother and Molly pinned her headpiece in place. Molly explained to Mrs. Granger the tradition and what each piece represented. She thought it was a lovely tradition, and that her future son-in-law must truly have feelings for her daughter. The only thing left to do was put on her cloak.


“You do have the ring don’t you dear?” Molly asked.


“Oh I almost forgot it!” As she went to her trunk to retrieve it, she placed it in the pocket of her cloak along with her wand.


“Hermione,” Her mother said, her eyes moist with unshed tears. “You look so beautiful. I do wish your father was here, but you know how stubborn he can be. I do have something for you though,” she said, handing her daughter a small box she had taken out of her purse. “This was your great-grandmother’s. She gave it to me on my wedding day, and now I give it to you.”


Hermione opened the box and found a beautiful emerald and diamond necklace. “Am I permitted to wear something like this during the ceremony, Mrs. Weasley?”


“I know of no reason why you couldn’t, my dear. Put it on.”


Anne Granger took the necklace from her daughter, placed it around her neck and attached the clasp. “It goes beautifully with this dress. Remind me to thank Professor McGonagall for taking you shopping. She has wonderful taste.”


Soon Minerva McGonagall was at the door to Hermione’s rooms. She knocked once and entered. “Oh my, you do look so lovely my dear. Wait till Severus sees you he will be speechless,” she smiled at her student as a small tear escaped her eye. “We best be going. You don’t want to be late for your own binding.”


She led them to an area just outside a clearing in the forest. Looking out, Hermione could see the rest of the Weasley clan, Professors Sprout, Sinistra and Vector, Harry, Kingsley Shacklebolt, the Minister of Magic and his wife, and, to her total surprise, Lucius and Narcissa Malfoy! She thought that Severus must have invited them since he had known Lucius Malfoy for longer then she’d been alive.


“Molly and I are going to join the others now, dear. I’ll see you out there, ok?” Her mother kissed her cheek and followed Molly to where the others were gathered. McGonagall instructed Tonks and Ginny what they were to do and where to go stand till they were to enter.


“Now Hermione, you remember where you’re supposed to come in?”


“Yes, Professor.”


Putting a hand to Hermione’s cheek, she said, “I know you’re nervous child, but you’ll get through this just fine. Now, Severus is waiting on the other side of the clearing.” A rustle of leaves was heard behind them turning they saw the Headmaster come towards them, resplendent in his ritual robes.


“Miss Granger, you look absolutely stunning.”


“Thank you, Professor.”


He took both her hands in his and placed a kiss on her cheek. “You’ll do fine. Don’t be so nervous, child. Now Minerva and I must go and get this started.”


Hermione watched them enter the clearing. The guests formed a circle. She was glad Molly Weasley was standing next to her Mum to help her through this. She then saw Professor Dumbledore and Professor McGonagall take their places behind the stone altar, as the Headmaster began the ritual.


“We gladly receive this company this evening, to share the joy as Hermione and Severus are united in marriage. Tonight, under this full moon we will perform not only the traditional binding but also the Elementum Cognationis Nuptiae.” Several guests gasped in surprised when hearing this.


“For those who have joined us here this night that have never witnessed nor participated in our rituals allow me to explain what Minerva and I are about to do,” he said, looking towards Anne Granger. “We are about to invoke the circle. In doing so, we are calling upon the guardians of the elements to join us, protect us, and bless this union. Once the circle is cast none may leave it until it is banished.”


Facing east Albus spoke: "Ancient Guardian of the watchtower of the east, we do summon, stir, and call thee up to protect us in our rite. Come to us now on the cool breath of Autumn's sigh, which heralds the advent of Winter, and the close of harvest time. Breathe into us the spirit of the pure joy of life. So mote it be!"


Draco entered with the incense burner, symbolizing the element of air: "I am everywhere. I fill the fleshy pouches of your lungs. I stir all things from the smallest blade of grass to the tallest tree. I cool you with my breezes, and destroy you with my storms. Without me you would die. Am I not holy, and worthy of praise? "


Facing south Minerva spoke: "Ancient Guardian of the watchtower of the south, we do summon, stir, and call thee up to protect us in our rite. Come forth from the cook fires and smokehouses where food is being made ready for the coming cold months. Kindle within us the flame of spiritual awakening. So mote it be!"


Ginny entered with the candle symbolizing the element of fire: "I live in the guarded embers of campfires, and the torches that light your way in the darkness. I spring from the lightning and the hands of men, I warm you and I destroy you. Without me, you would die. Am I not holy and worthy of praise?"


Facing west Albus continued: "Ancient Guardian of the watchtower of the west, we do summon, stir, and call thee up to protect us in our rite. Come forth from the rainbow hued morning dew that covers the fields, and is soon to be frost. Asperge us with your diadems and water our deepest roots that we may find peace of mind. So mote it be!”


Filius entered with the water vessel symbolizing the element of water: "I rise from the moist crevices of the Earth, I beat on the shores of Her body, I fall from the skies in silver sheets. Without me, you would die. Am I not holy and worthy of praise?"


Facing north, Minerva finished invoking the elements: "Ancient Guardian of the watchtower of the north, we do summon, stir, and call thee up to protect us in our rite. Come forth from the fertile bosom of our Blessed Mother Earth, and nourish us so that our hopes may grow to fruition. So mote it be!"


Tonks entered with the salt vessel symbolizing the element of earth: "I am your Mother. From me come the fruit and grain and animals which feed you. I am your support, and my pull on your bodies keeps you held firmly to me. Without me, you would die. Am I not holy and worthy of praise?"


“Now the circle is cast, and we stand once more in the space between the worlds. This is the time of the blossom and the thorn, the fragrance and the blood. Here, on the night when the moonlight shines strongest, we are gathered to celebrate the union of the Goddess and the God, incarnate in this man and this woman.”


Severus and Hermione entered from opposite ends of the circle and walked to altar in the middle of the circle. Hermione almost stopped in her tracks when she saw Severus in a white loose fitting shirt with matching trousers the boutonnerie pinned to his shirt. His hair was even tied back.


Severus watched as Hermione entered the circle opposite him and almost tripped over his own feet as his eyes fell on her. She looked like a goddess. He could not take his eyes off her. Their eyes met as they walked towards each other and the stone altar in the middle of the circle. Severus felt his heart would stop when she smiled at him. Coming to their places, they turned to face Albus and Minerva.


Minerva spoke first.


”Hermione, please face Severus, and hold his hands, palms up, so you may see the gift that they are to you.”


Hermione took Severus’ hands and felt the warmth radiating from them. She looked at his palms and fingers that were calloused from years of chopping ingredients and preparing potions.


“These are the hands, young and strong and vibrant with love that are holding yours on your wedding day, as he promises to love you all the days of his life.”


“These are the hands you will place with expectant joy against your stomach, until he too, feels his child stir within your womb.”


“These are the hands that look so large and clumsy, yet will be so gentle as he holds your baby for the first time.”


“These are the hands that will passionately love you and cherish you through the years, for a lifetime of happiness.”


“These are the hands that will countless times wipe the tears from your eyes: tears of sorrow and tears of joy.”


“These are the hands that will comfort you in illness, and hold you when fear or grief wracks your mind.”


“These are the hands that will tenderly lift your chin and brush your cheek as they raise your face to look into his eyes: eyes that are filled completely with his love and desire for you.”


Hermione looked up into the eyes of the man she was marrying and smiled thinking how his hands had already wiped tears from her eyes.


Albus then spoke to Severus.


“Severus, please hold Hermione's hands, palms up, where you may see the gift that they are to you.”


Turning his hands to take hers he saw young, supple skin marred only by the calluses where she rolled her quill in between her thumb and forefinger.


“These are the hands that are smooth, young, and carefree that are holding yours on your wedding day, as she pledges her love and commitment to you all the days of her life.”


“These are the hands that will hold each child in tender love, soothing them through illness and hurts, supporting and encouraging them along the way, and knowing when it's time to let go.”


“These are the hands that will massage tension from your neck and back in the evenings, after you've both had a long hard day.”


“These are the hands that will hold you tight as you struggle through difficult times. They are the hands that will comfort you when you are sick or console you when you are grieving.”


“These are the hands that will passionately love you and cherish you through the years, for a lifetime of happiness.”


“These are the hands that will hold you in joy and excitement and hope.”


“These are the hands that will give you support as she encourages you to chase down your dreams. Together, everything you wish for can be realized.”


Minerva and Albus together spoke:


“God and Goddess, bless the hands that you see before you this day. May they always be held by one another. Give them the strength to hold on during the storms of stress and the dark of disillusionment. Keep them tender and gentle as they nurture each other in their love. Help these hands to continue building a relationship founded in your grace, rich in caring, and devoted to reaching for your perfection. May Hermione and Severus see their four hands as healer, protector, shelter, and guide.”


“May I have the rings, please?” Albus asked.


Both Severus and Hermione were stunned to see that they had each chosen the mate of the ring they each picked out.


“By Air, by Fire, by Water, and by Earth do I bless and consecrate these rings.” Albus presented the rings to each direction/element. He then placed them upon the altar.


“These rings, a token of your love for one another, serve as a reminder that all in life is a cycle; all comes to pass and passes away and comes to pass again.”


“May the element of Air bless these rings. Air is at the beginning of all things, the direction of East, and the dawning of a new day. May your lives through the reminder of this ring be blessed with continuing renewal of love.”


The rings rose into the air, a light gust of wind swirled smoke around the rings.


“May the element of Fire bless these rings. Fire is the passion within your love, the spark of love itself, the heat of anger, and the warmth of compassion. It is the direction of South, the heat of midday. May your lives through the reminder of this ring be blessed with continual warmth.”


Fire appeared and surrounded the rings.


“May the element of Water bless these rings. Water nourishes and replenishes us, the waters of emotion and harmony pour vitality into our lives. It is the direction of West, the afternoon and evening. May your lives through the reminder of this ring be blessed with fulfillment and contentment.”


Water appeared and engulfed the rings.


“May the element of Earth bless these rings. All life springs from the earth and returns to the earth, the direction of North, the nighttime. May your lives through the reminder of this ring be blessed with strength and solidity.”


The rings gently settled back onto the stone altar.


“May the Lord and Lady bless these rings, the symbol of union, with happiness, wholeness, and love.”


Minerva spoke the next words. “I consecrate these rings with the element of Air, the breath of life. I consecrate these rings with the element of Fire for the warmth of love. I consecrate these rings with the element of Water to wash them clean. I consecrate these rings with the element of Earth for solidity and stability.”


Albus and Minerva together said, “Air for hopes and dreams; Fire for the spark of love; Water for harmony and healing; and Earth for strength. May these rings be so Blessed.”


Albus then picked up a very elaborately decorated dagger.


“We stand here not only to witness Severus and Hermione’s binding by cords and rings but also by blood.” He handed the dagger to Severus.


Severus: “With this blood I ask the Gods to bless this union.”


He drew the dagger across his right palm just enough to draw blood. He handed it to Hermione, and she mimicked his words and actions.


Hermione: “With this blood I ask the Gods to bless this union.”


She handed the dagger to Minerva as they took each other’s hand bringing their palms together so the blood could mingle. Then spoke the words together that would call upon the old magic.


“With this blood I bind my life to yours.”


They felt the power of their magic’s mingling as a bright light engulfed their clasped hands. The light faded and when they separated their hands no trace of the cut that was made could be seen.


“Severus and Hermione, you have vows to exchange with each other, please speak them now.” Albus said.


Hermione took a deep breath, this was one of the parts she dreaded, and she hoped she didn’t flub the words she memorized.


I am woman, cherish me.
I give life to all things.
It is I who bring bounty,
from the green things in the fields
to the wild creatures in the forest.
I am light and laughter;
I am Brigid, mother of all.


Severus in turn spoke his part.


I am man, respect me.
I bring death to all things.
It is I who am the reaper;
I am the Lord of the Hunt
and lord of the fields.
I lead the dead to the Summerland;
I am Herne, father of all.


Then together, in perfect unison they spoke.


Love and honor us.
Together we are life and death,
Darkness and light,
Joy and sorrow,
Order and chaos.
We are summer and winter,
Spring and autumn.
We are growth and decay,
Youth and age,
Night and day,
Female and male.
Wherever one of us walks,
the other will be not far behind.
This is the way of things.


“At this point we will perform a traditional six cord binding,” Minerva said. “Severus, Hermione you each have three plain cords, please hold them tightly and think of what you would like to bring to the marriage.”


Both took out the cords they each had brought with them. Holding them as instructed Hermione and Severus looked into each other’s eyes thinking what they each wanted to bring to their unexpected marriage. After a few moments Albus spoke.


“Please hand us the cords so we may all see what each of you hopes to bring into your union.”


Severus handed his to Albus and Hermione gave hers to Minerva.


Minerva picked up the first cord of Hermione’s holding it up for all to see she spoke.


“Red, which signifies will, passion, strength, fertility, courage, health, vigor, lust, danger.”


Picking up the second cord, she continued.


“Pink which signifies unity, honour, truth, romance, happiness, healing, familial or emotional love, friendship, affections, unselfish emotions, spiritual healing, banishing hatred.”


Holding up the third, she concluded


“Gold which signifies: the sun, male energy, wealth, financial wisdom, conscious mind, attracting happiness, activity, intelligence, unity, longevity, prosperity, strength.”


Albus picked up the first cord of Severus’ holding it up for all to see he spoke.


“Green which signifies: finances, fertility, luck, success energy, charity, growth, rejuvenation, prosperity, nurturing, beauty, health, ambition, counteract greed and jealousy, plants kingdom including herbal healing.”


As Minerva did, he held up the next cord.


“Black which signifies: strength, empowerment, wisdom, vision, success, pure love, negation without reflecting, banishing evil or negativity.”


Then he held up the last cord.


“Silver which signifies: purity, the moon, treasure, values, female energy, the unconscious mind, creativity, inspiration, vision, and protection.”


With that done, Albus spoke the next words of the ritual.


“I bid you look into each others eyes.”


“Hermione, will you honor him?”


“I will.”


“Severus, will you honor her?”


“I will.”


“Will you each seek never to give cause to break that honor?”


“Yes,” Severus and Hermione said together.


“And so the binding is made. Join your hands.” Severus took her hands as before right-to-right and left-to-left and the red chord was draped across their hands.


“Hermione, will you share his dreams?”


“I will.”


“Severus, will you share her dreams?”


“I will.”


“Will you each dream together to create new realities and hopes?”


“Yes.”


“And so the binding is made.” The green chord was draped across the couple's hands.


“Hermione, will you share his laughter?”


“I will.”


“Severus, will you share her laughter?”


“I will.”


“Will both of you look for the brightness in life and the positive in each other?”


“Yes.”


“And so the binding is made.” The pink cord across their hands.


“Hermione, might you ever burden him?”


“I might.”


“Is that your intent?”


“No.”


“Severus, might you ever burden her?”


“I might.”


“Is that your intent?”


“No.”


“Will you share the burdens of each so that your spirits may grow in this union?”


“Yes.”


“And so the binding is made.’ The black cord was draped across their hands.


“Hermione, might you ever cause him pain?”


“I might.”


“Is that your intent?”


“No.”


“Severus, might you ever cause her pain?”


“I might.”


“Is that your intent?”


“No.”


“Will you share each other's pain and seek to ease it?”


“Yes.”


“And so the binding is made.” The gold cord was draped across the couple's hands.


“Hermione, might you ever cause him anger?”


“I might.”


“Is that your intent?”


“No.”


“Severus, might you ever cause her anger?”


“I might.”


“Is that your intent?”


“No.”


“Will you together take the heat of anger and use it to temper the strength of this union?”


“Yes.”


“And so the binding is made.” The silver cord was draped over their hands.


“The knots of this binding are not formed by these cords, but rather by your vows. For as always, you hold in your own hands the making or breaking of this union.”


Albus reached to knot the cords together when something unexpected happened. The cords, as if guided by an unseen hand, knotted themselves and then what happened next shocked everyone who witnessed it. The cords seemingly melded together forming a single braid. Minerva grasped Albus’ arm. Neither had ever witnessed nor heard of such a thing happening. Gasps and murmurs were heard from those around them in the circle. The ones most affected by this event were the bride and groom. Each looking at the other, the cords then at Albus and Minerva as if seeking an explanation for what was occurring.


“I’m not quite sure, Severus.” He said softly as the younger man looked to him for answers.


Once Minerva and Albus had their wits about them again Albus took the braided cord off their wrists and continued. He placed the rings on to his wand and extended it toward the couple.


“Severus and Hermione, please take the rings and place them on each others finger.”


Hermione took Severus’ hand and put the ring on it with a small light it magically altered to fit his finger. Severus in turn placed Hermione’s ring on her finger and it did the same.
Turning to face Albus and Minerva as they concluded the ceremony.


Albus spoke first. “Like a stone should your love be firm. Be close, yet not too close. Possess one another, yet be understanding.”


Then Minerva spoke. “Have patience with each other, for storms will come, but they will go quickly. Be free in giving of affection and warmth. Have no fear, and let not the ways or words of strangers give you unease, for the Gods are with you, now and always.”


Together they spoke the last words. “As the Gods are witnesses to this rite, we hereby announce to all present that you are husband and wife.”


Albus smiled brightly as he said, “Severus, you may now kiss your bride. All Hail Hermione and Severus!”


Severus looked at his new wife and, bringing her into his arms, he placed a gentle kiss on her lips.


Hermione could feel her heart beat rapidly in her chest as Severus kissed her for the first time as husband and wife.


Albus spoke once more as he and Minerva banished the circle.


“Ancient Guardians of the watchtowers of the east, south, west and north. We give thanks for your protection and for your blessings on this couple. Hail and farewell!


Thanks to my wonderful Betas Keela and takemeaway for taking the time today to get this done. A great big box of Godiva chocolates for both of you!


To all my wonderful reviews a special Thank You! I never imagined this little fic I adopted would take off as it has done. All of your kind words and encouragement help keep me motivated.


Elementum Cognationis Nuptiae – Elemental Blood Marriage according to Notre Dames English to Latin translation site.

To see images of the dress and cloak Hermione wore go to the following site
www(Dot)twinrosedesigns(dot)com/futurefantasy(dot)html for the dress
www(Dot)twinrosedesigns(dot)com/cloaksforsale(dot)html for the cloak