Severus teaches the Slytherins how to waltz and discovers someone special returns his affections. Written for a friend.

Yet another requirement is foisted upon Severus in the face of war. Hermione knows there's something going on that hasn't been talked about. In the face of a prophecy that concerns them both, Severus and Hermione must learn to accept each other to truly end the war, but can they fulfill the prophecy in time?

After receiving anonymous letters claiming Snape's innocence, Hermione makes it her mission to obtain proof. But Bellatrix catches Hermione following Snape and she traps them in a unknown house to torture information out of the pair. When it becomes clear no one is coming for them, Snape trusts Hermione with a secret to win the war, if only they can escape. MA rating

"It was decided that I live in darkness. Don't let it take you too." When an unconventional change of events pulls Hermione's life apart, Snape tries to save her from the same fate he had but Snape knows, isolation can't be penetrated by just anything. Impossible circumstances make for impossible friends, what places will they go? Begins Hermione's 5th year.