Work Text:
Hermione was nearly in tears when she stared at her reflection in the large mirror. There were two days that she truly hated and despised, Valentine's Day and All Hallows' Eve. She hated being surrounded by happy lovers when she never had one in her life, and was envious of something she never experienced before. It was heartbreaking enough to be alone, but to have to watch others be happy as they received gifts, tore her heart into a million pieces. She also wished for the same things they had, for someone to love her as much as she did.
Not that she wasn't pretty or didn't have suitors in the past, she had many in her two decades of existence, but a dark secret pushed them at arm's length. It terrified her what would happen once her identity was discovered.
There was one she was quite smitten with. They grew close during their years at Hogwarts and worked together at the Ministry of Magic. Harry Potter was a great friend and Auror. He had asked her on dates, but she turned him down, afraid of losing what they have once he found out what she was.
Being a Witch with Muggle parents were already difficult enough. Now, once every year she had to deal with being a winged creature, and every time she opened her mouth to speak, it came out as song. Her angelic voice gathered many around her until they saw her for what she was, a monster. The look in their frightened faces made her wish that she never had to show herself to anyone.
She wanted to scream and tell them that she was no monster, but only a beautiful harmony fell from her lips. Yet, her legs were yellow, scaly, and thin. Her black feathered wings spread behind her like a hawk in flight. It was majestic underneath her bedroom light. Her unruly brown curls fell pass her shoulders. It framed her pale face, highlighting her freckles across her cheeks and nose. If only she could see the beauty and see pass the creature, but she couldn't see beyond the beast that she thought she was.
There was nothing attractive to be seen as she stared at the mirror. Nothing about what she was seeing made her like herself. She hated that it was mandated to go to the Masquerade Ball because she was employed at the Ministry of Magic. Not everyone was in a festive mood, especially her. She would rather stay home and sulk in misery alone with a bottle or two of wine to keep her company. It would be the perfect night for the Witch turned Siren.
Hermione sighed and gave up any of hope of not needing to attend the Masquerade Ball. She made alterations to an old black cocktail dress with a slash and a swish of her wand to make it backless for her wings, and added lace to the skirt to match the sleeves. It looked more elegant and fitting for the Ball that she did not want to attend. At least she didn't have to pair it with heels. Her talons could scare off any potential suitors, if her wings didn't.
Her reflection made her feel insecure. The creature staring back was not her. She hated her hair that was unmistakably Hermione Granger. It took effort and time for her to straighten it, hoping that it would fool those who knew her.
Taking one last look in the mirror, she flattened her dress, and drew herself a lace inspired mask over her eyes, nose, and cheeks. She sighed after realising that she needed to leave her flat and Floo to the Ministry of Magic, where the annual Masquerade Ball was held.
The lobby was filled upon her arrival. She gave the porter her invitation that was quickly burned with the flame of a candle to hide her identity. "Enjoy your evening." He smiled at her as he offered his hand to help her out of the fireplace.
The hall was enchanted with an Extension Charm, making it larger than usual. It was illuminated in orange and red lights that gave a sense of horror and mystery. There was something eerie about it. The thought of being captured and sent to Azkaban crossed her mind, but the sound of the symphony lightened the mood as many others began crowding the hall.
All around her were creatures like her. Hermione suddenly felt at ease being surrounded by others who didn't stare and judge her for being different. It was the first time she felt she belonged and was welcomed. Many gave her approving smiles as she walked pass them to the tables of food. The centrepiece was an ice sculpture of the Minister of Magic. She scoffed at it, but still picked up a plate and began to fill it. All her worries earlier made her forget to eat. At least she had one thing she could enjoy.
Hermione sat alone on a corner table, eating her first hot meal of the day. The shepherd's pie tasted exactly how her mum made it when she was feeling down. The gravy was savoury as she devoured the last spoonful. It was worth going to the Ball. The bowl of rice with butter chicken was creamy and rich, similar to what she ordered at her favourite restaurant.
Feeling satisfied, she watched as more guests arrived. Many creatures filled the hall and walked about as if they belonged. She envied their confidence, which she lacked. There were a couple of Centaurs, who stole everyone's attention the moment they arrived.
"They're majestic, aren't they," a Unicorn said. Her voice was soft and whimsical. It reminded her of someone she met at Hogwarts. Someone unique and carefree.
Hermione stared at the rare creature, that had shining white mane and a gold braided horn on the crown of her head, between her ears.
Hermione smiled in awe. She had never seen one up close. They were very rare and knew how special of a moment it was. "As are you."
"Same to you." The Unicorn nodded. "You have a beautiful voice."
"Indeed," a Troll agreed.
"Yes," a second added.
They looked identical and had ginger hair that matched the lights twinkling above them. Hermione knew exactly who they were before they set off confetti bombs that attracted everyone's attention, as it rained down on the crowd. Not much had changed about them. They were still the pranksters, who constantly had professors at the edge of their seats.
The Ball quickly changed moods. Many gathered around in front of the orchestra, and began to dance,
"Now it's truly a party. Have fun," they said in unison and ran before anyone caught them.
"You should be up there." The Unicorn began to nudge her.
"Oh, no." Hermione shook her head. "I couldn't possibly."
The orchestra suddenly stopped playing. The music changed and got louder as the guests began to fill the dance floor, getting the festivities started. It was becoming a real Ball and not just a gathering of creatures. Tables were pushed to the wall to make more room as guests poured in.
The Unicorn's face brightened, and she stomped in place. "It's just like the Yule Ball at Hogwarts."
Hermione didn't respond much. Unlike her other classmates, she didn't get to attend those sort of things. She was afraid of getting too excited and meeting new friends, who will only hate her once they found out her secret. She couldn't stand the thought of it.
"Care to dance, then?" Another interrupted, extending his furry hand in front of her.
Hermione turned her head. A Werewolf with grey fur wearing a black cape and black trousers was suddenly beside her. He was about half a foot taller. "Uh, you're a Werewolf dressed as a vampire."
"Couldn't come to a Ball naked. Minister will have a fit," he joked, causing her to laugh. "Let's dance," he said. His voice was deep, hiding his identity. Not that it mattered.
"I'm not sure," she answered as she turned her head to look at her wings that usually got in the way.
The Werewolf pointed at the Unicorn stomping and her long mane swaying to the beat of the music. She simply enjoyed herself, not caring about what others thought. She smiled and neighed in delight.
"Just one dance," he said.
Hermione agreed and placed her hand in his. It was warm and fuzzy. It was a familiar feeling. She only felt it once before. It was a bittersweet memory. As much as she cared about him, she knew that it was impossible.
The Werewolf led her to the dance floor, followed by the Unicorn, who was happily dancing to her own rhythm. She swayed and bobbed her head. Having her there made Hermione more comfortable as she let him lead. He placed his other hand on her hips and she placed hers on his shoulder.
"Like this." The Unicorn moved her front legs first, then her hind legs forward and backwards as she danced beside them.
"Sorry, I'm afraid that I'm quite terrible at this," Hermione said.
"It's alright," he reassured her. "As am I, but I couldn't pass up your company. You're the first Siren I've met. You have a beautiful voice and wings. All I have is fur," he said, then growled.
"I quite enjoy being a Unicorn."
"I guess it isn't so bad after all," Hermione added as she tried to follow his steps, but like the Unicorn, he moved to his own beat and rhythm.
"Just have fun," he told her. "Tonight is about enjoying our inner monster." He winked and spun her around. Her wings clipped his torso, but he didn't seem to mind.
The Unicorn turned as well and neighed in delight. She stomped her way through the crowd, dancing with anyone who enjoyed her company. No one could turn down a rare creature.
They continued to dance along with the music that filled the hall. Many simply swayed with the music, and moved their bodies with the tempo. For the first time, Hermione was having fun. She realized how much she missed out on.
"Your friend seems to be thrilled about tonight," he said, as he swayed with the music, swaying his partner along with him.
"She's not my friend. We just met tonight, but she's very kind."
"I like your mask," he said as he twirled her around.
"Thank you." She blushed, as she balanced and steadied herself.
The Werewolf pulled her closer and placed his hand on the small of her back. "I would like to meet you again after tonight," he whispered in her ear.
"Oh." Hermione looked up at him. "I'm not sure. I don't even know who you are. I'm sorry." She shook her head and tried to step away, but was caught in his arms.
"When you're ready, Hermione," he said softly.
She stared at him in shock. It was impossible. She did everything she could to hide her identity. It was the last thing she expected after such a wonderful night.
"I don't care that you're a Siren. I've always liked you, no matter what. I hope that next time I ask you on a date, you'll say yes."
There was only one who never gave up and remained by her side. "Harry?"
The Werewolf smiled. "It took you long enough."
"How did you know it was me?"
"I knew the moment I saw you," Harry answered confidently.
Hermione hugged him, and in her excitement her wings spread open behind her. "You have no idea how much I have wanted to tell you."
"Hermione, your wings."
"Oh, right." She looked behind her and closed it.
Harry wrapped his arms around her, and was careful with her wings. "Now we have no more secrets. I hope you'll give us a chance."
She looked up at him. "Yes, of course. I would love to go on a date with you."
"Dates," he corrected.
"I would love that." Hermione smiled. She no longer had regrets about attending the Ball.