In that instant, Hermione knew what had to be done. What she had already planned on doing, really. Nobody would believe that Hermione Granger, former Prefect, Head of House, straight-O student would have ever attacked someone in such a manner. It was much easier to believe that Severus Snape, Death Eater, murderer, spy, was responsible for the grotesque maiming of a fifteen year old boy. So easy to cloak herself in what they expected of him. So easy to hide in his reputation. 