AUTHOR'S NOTE -- AN UPDATE: After seeing several reviews questioning the use of the assault on Hermione as a plot device, I felt it appropriate to reply.
First of all, I deliberately kept all references to exactly what happened to her a vague as possible. You will note that at no time is the word 'rape' ever used. It is implied, but never mentioned. The reason for this is simple: I also am uncomfortable with the increase of use of this plot device, and the sometimes graphic descriptions of the act that are often supplied by the author. To date I believe I've read only one fic where the graphic nature of the description was justified by the rest of the story, the rest have been gratuitous in the extreme. I chose not to go there.
Nonetheless, Harry's reaction is pivotal to the story, and this was the only thing I could think of that would drive him, as the title said, berserk. The story is about consequences we face for our actions. The attack had to occur in order to make the plot work, but it happened off camera and before the story began. I wanted to offend as few sensibilities as possible, while still providing the necessary elements to make it all work. Hopefully I have done so. For those who are still offended by my work, I apologize.
Fenris