Chapter 40: BonesChapter Text
And they're in someone's living room, stood between a coffee table and a fireplace. Presumably in Amelia Bones' house. A small but expensive looking townhouse. Possibly central London from the view out the window. Hermione walks over and closes the blinds.
She doesn't have wards? How did you get here so fast?
Bellatrix starts wandering around looking at…door handles. What?
Normally she does, but we took them down. Well, Yaxley blackmailed some witch into taking them down. Kidnapped her grandson
Oh Merlin.
Is the boy…okay?
Bellatrix walks off up the stairs, and Hermione follows her.
Who knows? Think the kid's a squib. Goes to some muggle school. Didn't have a chance really
Oh how horrible. Well. Nothing they can— the real problem is—
Bellatrix continues checking all the door handles.
What are you doing?
Finding a door that locks. You said she was found in a locked room. So that's the one we have to 'kill' her in. Probably the bathroom
Oh of course!
And are you going to explain it to her, or just knock her unconscious?
Bellatrix stops fiddling with the bathroom lock and straightens with a frown. I was going to just knock her out but…you think I should talk to her? That that's the kind thing to do?
Hmm. Is it too risky? Oh but—
Well it might help if she sees you being nice. Rational. Then when we do eventually wake her up, she can…testify for you. She's a reliable witness
Bellatrix scoffs. Or she'll refuse to miss the next ten years of her life and think I'm crazy
Hermione shrugs, even though no one can see her. She already thinks you're crazy. If she refuses, knock her out anyway
Bellatrix wanders into the bathroom and sits on the edge of the bath with a sigh. "So now we wait. But…here? It wouldn't give me confidence that someone wasn't crazy if they ambushed me in my bathroom."
Hmm…how can she…
Hermione leans against the doorway. What about…if I talk to her first? No, wait, I'm too old. Or…if you don't act threatening. Have a cup of tea or something
Bellatrix barks out a laugh. "I'm always threatening! You just can't see it because... Imagine you came home to the Dark Lord drinking your tea. That doesn't make it better! If anything, it makes it more creepy. No, no I'm going to wait in her living room, catch her with an incarcerous as soon as she walks in, and then just tell her what I'm going to do to her whether she likes it or not."
Well, that's one way to—oh, speaking of Voldemort. Why didn't you tell me how…unstable he is? Bella…he's lost his mind. He forgot— I didn't realise he…
Bellatrix sighs. "It's getting worse. He's not always…that's what's so terrifying. He can be…stable, for days at a time. Weeks. And then when you don't expect it…confusion. Or sudden anger. He's always angry but— he forgets how old I am. I think it's worse with me, because he's known me for so long. He forgets what year it is. With the others…his mind is sharper. He doesn't lose himself. I have to…read what mood he's in. What point in time he thinks it is."
Oh gosh. It's like…dementia. How old is Voldemort? Is it the Horcruxes or…maybe both?"
So…have the others noticed?
Bellatrix shrugs. "No one's said anything. Think Lucius caught something but…he's gone now. Snape probably noticed a while ago. Don't know about the others. Probably not. Anyway, enough of— let's get out of here."
And Bellatrix smacks right into her in the doorway.
Ow! Oh sorry, forgot I was invisible Hermione rubs at her head, watching Bellatrix do the same with a chuckle.
"You need to get your head sorted out, Know It All. I have enough to think about. You can bloody well remember that people can't see you! Now, where are those potions? I didn't just smash them, did I?"
Hermione lets the invisibility fall off of her and hurriedly accios the pouch from her bag. "No, not smashed. Here. Narcissa already thought of that. Gave me this break proof pouch."
Bellatrix stares at her. Oh. White clothes.
And then takes the pouch and looks it over. Feels the material and peeks inside at the potions. "She gave you her favourite one? How the hell did— how did you manage that?! And your clothes! She let you into her potion's lab?"
Her favourite? Who has a favourite pouch?
"It's her favourite? She said I could keep it. I— I don't know, I— she was annoyed with me! Stabbed me with her wand. Pinched me!"
Bellatrix looks up with a raised eyebrow. "Pinched you? That's…why is everything so unpredictable around you? So she pinched you, and then decided to give you her personal potions bag? That she's carried on her since her NEWT charms project?"
Uhh…well not exactly. Anyway, they're wasting time! She takes Bellatrix's arm and pops them downstairs. They need to be ready. What time is it?
Hermione pulls them down on the sofa and looks at the clock. Oh. They still have a while to go.
Bellatrix turns to face sideways on the sofa. And then frowns. "You still look…uncomfortable? What— what did Cissy do?"
"I just— she did something…odd. We— we realised it was better if I hid my thoughts from her, but then…she still wanted to read me. So she… tested me. I still don't know what— but she said I passed!"
Bellatrix snorts. "Passed? You do realise she's not a professor, right? I can't believe— she's such a— what kind of test? An interrogation type thing?"
Oh dear. Well it was—
Hermione sighs. "Just have a look. We have some time to kill. And you've seen all my other memories, so…"
Bellatrix holds up her wand with a grin. "Legilimens."
And they're whizzing through as usual, before falling back to reality on the sofa.
Bellatrix stares at Hermione in shock. What?
"Umm…did I do something wrong?"
Bellatrix's mouth falls open. "Wrong?!" she shouts. "You— she— how did you— she likes you! Trusts you! Even Draco doesn't know about— she smiled at you! Thanked you! What in the world is…"
Bellatrix is on her feet now. Pacing. How odd, has she developed the habit from Hermione?"
"Oh. Well that's nice. I'm glad your sister likes me."
Bellatrix laughs in disbelief. "You're so impossible! It's like you have some kind of…aura, that makes people like you. How do you do that? She joked with you! She— Cissy doesn't have friends. She doesn't make jokes withpeople. Only at them. She doesn't let herself get close to people."
Oh that's so sad. She doesn't have any friends? Nobody?
Bellatrix is still pacing. Hermione claps loudly. "Well? The plan? We don't really have the time for…whatever this is."
Bellatrix's head jolts up. "Right. Right, I can owl Cissy later about whatever the fuck she's up to. Yes. Okay. So, the plan is simple. Tie the witch up, and tell her the Dark Lord wants her dead, but I'm going to spare her. Then she'll try to fight me, and we'll send some convincing spells all over the place. Then, whether she agrees or not, I'll knock her out, lock us in the bathroom, and give her the draught of living death. Once she's unconscious, we can throw some more spells around. Maybe you can use her wand for when they try Priori Incantatum. And then just to be safe I'll bash her around a bit."
Hermione's nose crinkles. Bash her around? Umm…
"It has to look like it was Him, remember? Not you. Does he…do that?"
Oh gods she really doesn't want to know—
Bellatrix starts fiddling around with the ornaments and framed photographs above the fireplace. The pictures squeal in shock and flee their frames. "Maybe you're right. What would he do…probably…it doesn't make sense! Why would she be in the bathroom? Why would he attack her personally? It's only a show of strength if he can perform, has an audience. Just in her house…he wouldn't show off. He'd just kill her instantly. Why do they think it was him? Maybe it was me. They might have just said it was him to give her…a hero's death. As a symbol of strength. No, no I'm not going to act like him. I'm going to—"
The fire roars green, and Hermione vanishes herself with a start.
"Incarcerous!"
"Proteg—"
"Expelliarmus!"
A bound and gagged figure falls from the fireplace as Bellatrix lunges to catch a flying wand.
Two in one. Incarcerous and expelliarmus. Brilliant witch.
Madam Bones yells muffled curses into the carpet.
Bellatrix sighs. "Now stop that. I can't understand you, and you need to listen. Your life depends on it. Don't you want to live to see your niece again?"
She stops wriggling and falls silent. Oh good.
"Thank Merlin. So you do have a sensible head on those bony shoulders. Now, can I sit you up, or are you going to try something very stupid?"
Madam Bones rolls onto her back. And widens her eyes on seeing Bellatrix, another muffled sound coming from the gag.
Bellatrix, honestly. You shouldn't gag people and then ask them questions. You did that to me too, you know
She might be able to do wandless magic. I'm not risking it. I just need to see…ah.
"Don't even think about it. We've already shut off the floo anyway. And—"
Bones lunges forwards, almost crashing into Bellatrix's legs, but she manages to jump up onto the coffee table just in time. And growls. "Enough! Can't you see I'm trying to help you?! Argh, why is being nice so difficult?! Do you want me to kill you? Petrificus Totalus!"
The witch falls flat on her back and frozen on the floor. Bellatrix steps back down off the table and crouches to look into her eyes.
And sighs tiredly. "I'm trying to spare you, alright? There's been enough bloodshed. I don't…I don't want to be the monster anymore. But the Dark Lord wants you gone, so I need to talk with you, okay? Calmly."
There's no response. Obviously.
And then Bellatrix's shoulders relax. "Yes. Yes, I can read your thoughts."
More silence. This is so frustrating.
Bellatrix raises her wand. "Rennervate."
And Madam Bones gasps to life. Bellatrix removes her gag. "Good. We don't have much time but…just ask."
Bones clears her throat. "Are you really Bellatrix Lestrange?"
Hermione holds back a laugh. Bellatrix doesn't hold it back. Just chuckles.
"Yes. Swear to Salazar. Isn't the wand a clue? Next question."
"I…you've turned against…him?"
Bellatrix just nods.
"How…what are you going to do to me?"
Ah. A smart witch.
Bellatrix sits down on the coffee table…and then sits on the sofa instead with an exasperated look as the other witch tuts at her.
Really? The fucking table? As if I'm not about to blow apart her house?
Now Hermione does snort. Doesn't matter. No one can hear her.
Bellatrix clears her throat. "Here's the deal. The Dark Lord wants you dead. Obliterated. Splattered about the room. He's not going to stop until that happens. I on the other hand think that doesn't need to happen. That your family has gone through enough. That all this fucking pain needs to end. So. Here's the good news. I'm not going to kill you."
She undoes the incarcerous, and Madam Bones cautiously sits up, rubbing at her wrists.
"And the bad news?"
Okay. Here it comes.
"The bad news…is that you're going to have to play dead for a while. Make him think I did it. Make it…convincing. There'll need to be…a body. Your body. For a few years."
For a long moment the witch just stares at Bellatrix.
And then slowly stands up. Oh dear.
"How do I know this isn't a trick? Why would you…I can't believe…"
Bellatrix doesn't seem too worried. Leans her head back and hovers a coaster into the air. "Fudge is stepping down. You're the next obvious choice. Now there's a target on your back. So. Why the hell wouldn't I kill you unless I'm being nice? Do Death Eaters normally come for a chat on your sofa? This is your only chance. Either fake your death, or he'll send someone else, and your niece will be alone in the world for the rest of her life."
She lets the coaster fall and sits up, holding out the witch's wand. "Hard decision, I know. Please make the rational choice. Something's very wrong if I'm the most sensible person in the room."
Bella, are you sure—
Trust me. It's alright.
Amelia Bones slides her wand from Bellatrix's hand
…and points it at the witch on the sofa.
No! Bella!
Bellatrix folds her arms. Raises an eyebrow.
"You tortured the Longbottoms," Bones says shakily.
"Yes."
The hand trembles. "Your father-in-law, a Death Eater, killed my family. My brother. My parents."
"And now the cowardly bastard's holed up in Northern Ireland somewhere. His wife is dead. His two sons are empty, soulless husks, back rotting in Azkaban. And his daughter-in-law is sat here. On your sofa. Defying orders from a Dark Lord, and trying to right some of the wrongs in the world. You want revenge? Fool them. Live. Make sure little Susan isn't the last Bones above the ground."
Tears gather in Amelia Bones' eyes, a hollow laugh escapes her lips, and she swings her wand around to the left with an anguished cry.
Oh fuck!
Hermione dives for cover as the fireplace explodes. Wood and brick and tile flying through the air.
Bellatrix cackles. "There's a witch after my own heart! That's it! Go out with a bang, let's tear this place apart!"
Hermione hastily struggles to her feet, just in time to see Bellatrix hop onto the coffee table, setting the sofa on fire with a wave of her wand and a whoop.
Bones shakes her head. "You're mad!"
Bellatrix laughs once more and sends some difindos at the walls, slicing through the wallpaper. "Maybe I am. Want to join in? It's fun, I promise. You must have a few spells you've always wanted to try. No one will blame you. Dead, remember?"
"I…you mean…but my things."
Bellatrix spins around and hovers the photographs that are scattered near the fireplace over to the witch, whispering a reparo at them and then a shrinking spell. "Into your purse. Come on. Anything else you want? Chop chop."
Bones blinks and shakes herself, before seeming to come to some sort of decision, sending the photographs into a bag at her hip. "No, no all the valuables are in Gringotts. They'll go to Susan so— alright. Okay, Amelia, just—"
She nods to herself once more, and then brings up her arms. "Saw Dumbledore do this once. Always wanted to try it."
And a flood of water spills from her wand, wriggling through the air like a snake and then coiling, spiralling into sphere that gets bigger and bigger.
"Water?" Bellatrix says with a huff. "It's supposed to look like you're trying to kill me! And you're ruining my fire!"
Bones tuts and continues focusing on the water, which grows and grows. She sends it over the sofa, which extinguishes with a steaming hiss. "Exactly, Lestrange. You're fire. I'm water. Keep up."
And the globe moves from the sofa to crash straight into Bellatrix, enveloping her completely.
Oh fucking bollocking—
Bones lets out a pleased laugh as she begins hovering the spinning globe around the room.
Bella? Are you—
A blurry Bellatrix, now upside down in the ball of water, manages to somersault the right way up.
Oh she just chose the wrong element. Water?
And the ball of water explodes outwards.
Bellatrix falls into a crouch with a grin, and the water forms into a whirlwind. Sends everything toppling to the floor or flying into walls. Water droplets spray through the air as Bellatrix dances at the eye of the storm, seemingly directing it with her mind alone. Her body. The water following her every movement.
Hermione ducks behind the smouldering sofa, peeking over it to watch. Knew it! Water powers!
Amelia Bones stumbles to her feet from the corner of the room and wipes at her face. "Argh! Oh I'm soaked, it's freezing! It's—Ms Lestrange, would you—"
"Come on, Bonesy, keep up. Bombarda maxima!"
The kitchen sink explodes, and even more water floods into the room. Hermione clambers onto the coffee table.
I'm on the table, so don't come up here. Isn't this enough? What if the poli — muggle aurors show up? There have been two explosions now
Hmm…true…
Bellatrix breaks into a sprint and splashes from the room, cackling with laughter. "Come and get me! Maybe I'll have a little look through your bedroom. Borrow some pearls."
There's the sound of heavy feet on stairs.
"Don't you even— Lestrange!" Bones runs after her as more laughter echoes from upstairs. Hermione looks around at the soggy chaos. Well. Wouldn't hurt to…
She explodes an armchair with a grin, watching the stuffing burst and then float though the air.
It is fun.
They do end up in the bathroom, in the end. The head of Magical Law Enforcement sat tiredly and timidly on the edge of the bath. Bellatrix sat on the floor, leaning against a wall.
Hermione secretly in the doorway.
"I…so there's no choice? It's either…sleep until it's over…or death?"
Bellatrix sighs. "Sorry. Fucking sucks, doesn't it. Still. You won't feel it. And if you get see Susan again…get to have a life, a life free of fear and hiding…"
She holds out a clear vial. "It's your best choice. Trust me. I know."
Amelia rubs at her face and laughs sadly. Exhaustedly. "I can't believe I— why do I trust you? Helga's hairpin, what am I doing? It's logical. It's rational. It's…madness! Edgar always said I took reasoning too far. 'You've reasoned yourself into a raisin, Mellie', bet he's laughing down at me right now. Drinking death from the hand of a Death Eater."
She snatches the vial from Bellatrix's hand. Takes off her bag and hands it to her. "Here. It will be suspicious if they find the photographs on me so…I don't know what you plan to…"
Bellatrix stands up and swings the bag across herself. "I'll keep it with you. After the funeral. I'm gonna have to dig up your coffin. No way around it. And rough you up a bit. And we don't have long now."
Madam Bones nods stiffly, and uncorks the vial.
Hermione holds a hand to her mouth. She's doing it. Oh Lord she's doing this. They're doing this.
Madam Bones grits her teeth. "Okay. Alright. Here I— just— if this goes wrong, Lestrange, if I get buried alive for longer than— you're going to get seriously haunted, I promise you that."
Her hand is trembling. She's deathly pale. Brave.
Bellatrix sits down next to her. "I wouldn't expect anything less from the great Amelia Bones," she says softly. Takes her other hand. "Go on now, Amelia. Time to go to sleep."
And the witch's eyes fall shut as she tips the potion into her mouth. Swallows, and lets out a sob, before slumping back into the bath.
Oh Merlin…
Bellatrix runs a hand over her face and through her hair with a sigh. "Okay pet. Out of the doorway with you. It's time."
She gets up and walks over to the door.
I can stay. I can—
Bellatrix pushes her out of the room, firmly but gently, and closes the door with a click.
Bella I—
There's a thudding noise. Bangs and crashes. A horrible crunch.
And the sound of a mirror shattering.
A wet snap.
Hermione can't help it. She covers her ears. Closes her eyes.
It's alright, Bella. She can't feel it. You're saving her. Being kind
But I—it's not— Hermione you don't want to talk to me whilst—
You're saving a life. He made you do this. It's not real. Remember it's not real. We're going to heal her
The…the same as you did for me. I was asleep
Yes. Yes remember that. You didn't feel anything, did you. Woke up right as rain and peeling oranges in mid-air
I was hungry when I woke up. We have to remember to— we need to ask Cissy
Bellatrix apparates into the hallway. "Are you still here?"
Hermione takes her hand. Of course. I wouldn't leave you to do that alone. Sand and sea, remember? And now it's my turn to help us
Bellatrix opens her mouth in question, but Hermione just apparates them straight home. Straight to the kitchen.
She casts a drying spell over Bellatrix. There. Now you need to get something to eat before he calls you back for a debrief. You haven't eaten in…a while anyway
Hermione, what are you—
She lets go of Bellatrix's hand, and apparates straight back to Bones' house. Outside the bathroom. My turn. We have to keep track of her. Make sure they don't…wizards don't have autopsies but…I'll need to make sure...a few protection spells here and there...
What are autopsies? Where are you? What's—
I'm watching over her. My turn to be called away on a mission. Your turn to rest and eat
But I don't want you to see—
Bella. I'm tough. I lived through a war. Violence doesn't scare me. You don't scare me
Silence in her head. And then voices from downstairs. The police.
Chapter 41: Soul-SearchingChapter Text
Three days later, and Hermione is stood next to Bellatrix in one of the spare bedrooms. Looking down at an unconscious Madam Bones on the bed.
"Well pet…at least it…the plan worked."
Hermione just continues staring. Now that it's over, it's kind of just hitting her that—
"We have a body. In one of the bedrooms. A dead-looking body. We're those witches. The ones with the corpse."
Bellatrix cackles, and it morphs into a groan. "Oh gods you're right. I'm definitely the mad aunt now. 'Feel free to stay in the spare room, Draco. Don't mind the body on the bed. She's not dead, promise!'…I think we've crossed a new line, pet. This is strange even for us."
Hermione clears her through. "And umm…Narcissa? The parcel?"
Bellatrix moves some hair out of Bones' face and then tips a potion into her mouth. "More potions coming tomorrow. For now, she's fine. Blood's back to normal, and her bones are starting to heal back up. Won't be long before the bruises fade away."
Well. That's…
She forces her eyes away. Too weird.
"Right then. I'm going to have…a very, very long shower."
Bellatrix wiggles her eyebrows at her, and Hermione groans through a smile. "By myself! Honestly, Bella. We just dug up a— you know what? I don't want to even think about it anymore. Shower and then bed."
"…My room this time?"
Hermione smiles wider. "You don't want your bed to yourself? Because I seem to remember falling off—"
Bellatrix straightens up and folds her arms. "I told you! I couldn't breathe, it was a reflex!"
"I know. A reflex that had me flying onto the floor," she chuckles. "You're lucky my reflexes yelled out an arresto momentum."
Bellatrix ducks her head. "I told you I— maybe you should sleep in your own bed. I don't want to—"
Oh for Merlin's—
Hermione grabs Bellatrix's hand and drags them out of the room and towards a bathroom. "You need to get it out of your head that I'm fragile, Bella. I'm not some china doll that— I can handle falling off a bed. Honestly." She rolls her eyes.
Bellatrix squawks. "I know you're not weak! I just— you should be able to sleep without there being a chance of death! I'm dangerous!"
Hermione stops at the bathroom door. Turns around and leans in the doorway with a raised eyebrow and a smirk. "Well then. If you're that dangerous, then tonight I'd better tie you to the bed."
Bellatrix breathes in sharply. Eyes darkening.
And Hermione shuts the door in her face with a chuckle and a muttered colloportus.
"Wha— Hermione! Open the door!"
Hermione laughs to herself as she gets undressed. She hears a muttered alohomora and then a thud. And some cursing.
She may have modified the colloportus slightly. She's had some time on her hands to read recently whilst watching over a dead body.
"Oh dear, can the dangerous Death Eater not open a door?" she grins, getting in the shower and whispering an incantation at the tiled floor in the centre of the room.
Three, two, one…
Bellatrix apparates into the room, spots her in the shower, and steps towards her.
And finds her arms bound to her sides and her feet stuck to the floor.
"What the fuck?!"
Hermione masks her expression and turns around. "Hmm? Oh that. Well. You want me to be safe, don't you? And I may have gone from reading about grave digging…to burials…to Egyptian tombs. You know, booby traps. I'm sure I'll remember the counter-curse soon."
She closes her eyes and sighs into the spray of hot water. "I think I'll take my time with this shower."
A low chuckle echoes around her head. Well well, look who can take care of herself. There's only one problem, pet
Oh? And what's that?
You want me to take care of you
Oh fuck. When she says— does she mean—
And you don't want me to take care of you, Bella? You wouldn't like that?
Heavy breathing in her head. Which means she's sending the sound through the thread on purpose.
Trying too hard there, Bellatrix.
Silence. Maybe a change of tact is on the way.
And then a sharp breath in her head. Will you take care of me, pet? I've taken care of myself for far too long
Not listening. Showering. In control of this situation.
A moan. Oh! Oh Hermione, please!
Hermione clenches her thighs and fights to steady her breathing. Oh the manipulative— well. She's not letting that distract her from her shower.
She ignores the breathing as it continues, and rubs some shampoo into her hair.
Yes! Hermione I— fuck I want to touch you so badly
Oh sweet Merlin. She—no! She's faking! She just wants to get out of the trap. Prove she's smarter. You won't be tempted by this. Ignore the breathing. And the groaning.
I can't I— fuck, the ache. I need you
Hermione tuts. Continues washing herself, back still turned.
I've taken off my dress
Now Hermione does pause. What? How? Her arms are trapped to her sides.
She washes the conditioner out of her hair and turns around. Empty room.
Bella…where are you?
A groan. On my bed. Come and find me before I come by myself
Oh fuck. Holy fucking—
And pet? Her voice pants.
Hermione takes a shaky step out of the shower.
Yes?
…Next time, don't use my own books to trap me
Bellatrix is still asleep when Hermione wakes up. Which is rather unusual. For once they went to bed at a sensible time, so it's not like her to be lazing about in bed. Too much energy. Once she's awake, she's awake.
But she's not. She's in a dead sleep. Mouth open. It's kind of funny.
And also…
Hermione doesn't really want to admit it, but it's nice so see her…less than perfect. Not that— not that there's anything wrong with sleeping with your mouth open. Not that the witch isn't beautiful. And not that Bellatrix doesn't have flaws.
Because gods, does this witch have…complications. A very shaky past. Some actions that…
Anyway. That isn't the point right now. Isn't the reason that Hermione is feeling a little…
Hermione has always been rather insecure. Felt like she was lacking in social skills and in…just the general ability to navigate the world. And then she went from one socially awkward world to another. And the new one, whilst giving her a reason for why she was different…in some ways set her even further apart from her peers.
All she had was her brain, and her books. And not many people appreciate books. Not her friends, anyway.
But—
Oh gods it's so horrible but—
Hermione is the smart one. How can— who is she, if Bellatrix is always one step ahead? Has always read the same amount as her or more? She's just too—
She knows more, and she's read more. And she can read people, and deceive people. She's the best fighter. The best attacker and the best defender. Can change her eyes and move the sea. Can read Hermione's every thought at a glance and—
A small voice in Hermione's head just keeps on whispering that…
Bellatrix loves Hermione because she's a kind, decent person who helped her and showed her love. That's it. Maybe the first person to be consistently good and nice and kind to her. To promise not to hurt her. Other than that…what does Hermione have?
She isn't the smart one anymore…so who is she?
Oh Merlin and now she's crying. Stop it, Hermione. Now you're useless and crying.
What can— she misses her friends. She misses— oh gods. It's awful but, she misses feeling superior. Saying something clever.
But also she just misses them. She could really do with a hug from Harry right now. A laugh with Ginny. A side eye when Luna says something profoundly strange. A shared look of surprise when Ron says something emotionally intelligent.
Maybe…
Tomorrow is Harry's birthday. Maybe she could just— just go to the burrow and watch. Just for a few minutes. It won't be the same, seeing them so young. She won't be able to talk to them, let alone the real Harry. Adult Harry. This Ginny is only fourteen…
She wipes at her eyes. Right. There's no use spiralling into self-pity. Think. What do you actually need?
Validation. Praise. It's what you've always craved.
Someone to tell you who you are.
Well then. There's only one person to ask.
She lies back down, and gently shakes Bellatrix's arm.
Bella. Bella wake up, I need you
And Bellatrix jolts awake with a start. "What is it? What's wrong? Why—"
She freezes as she looks at Hermione. Reaches out and wipes at Hermione's cheek. Still damp. And the witch's eyes widen in horror.
Oh. Oh she forgot for a moment how much Bellatrix cares about her. Oh no, more tears.
"Hermione? What's wrong? Did I— did I hurt you?"
Oh she is just so sweet and—
Hermione hugs her. Curls into her. No. No you didn't do anything. I'm just—
She breaks off. What can she say? How can she explain without sounding pathetic?
Then what is it? Why are you upset? Tell me what to do
Hermione chuckles wetly. She would if she could. Well she could, but…
I…I don't know who I am. I'm feeling a bit lost. Can you tell me who I am?
Strong arms wrap around her.
…You're Hermione Granger
Hermione laughs against Bellatrix's neck and pulls away. "Okay, no, forget it. I'm fine. Honestly. It was just a— a moment or something. I'm not—"
She sits up against the pillows and wipes at her eyes once more. And then feels Bellatrix climb into her lap, straddling her. Of course.
She moves her hands away, and Bellatrix's face fills her vision. Arms come around her neck, and wild curls block the edge of the room from view.
Bellatrix's dark eyes dart over her face in intense concentration. As if trying to solve the most important question in the universe. "You're…"
She shakes her head with a sigh. "You're warmth…after a long time in the cold. A flame in the dark. Something to hold you steady when the world is spinning. So…you're the sun, I suppose."
Oh. Oh that's so beautiful. Oh now Hermione's crying again.
She throws her arms around Bellatrix. "I— but Bella, you're warm. You're a brilliant burning flame. You're the one who's always standing steady. Holding me up. How can— you're so smart, and kind, and funny and— how could I ever be as amazing as you are? No one's like you. No one's as wonderful as you. That's why I—"
Oh.
Hermione slowly pulls back…and looks up at Bellatrix. Oh.
Bellatrix is smiling at her. So softly. So, so—
She cups Hermione's face. Brushes some stray hair from her eyes, and wipes the tears from her cheeks. Looks into her eyes. "You, Hermione Granger, are the most wonderful person I've ever met. No one is like you. No one could ever compare. And that's why I love you."
Love. She loves her. She does love her. She actually said it. She actually—
I Promise. I love you. I mean it
A startled laugh escapes Hermione's lips. And then she just smiles. She can't stop smiling. Can't stop looking at Bellatrix. The most brilliant witch in the world loves her.
"I love you too, Bella. How could I not? You just— I've loved you for…you make me love you more and more every day. Every time I think I couldn't possibly love you more…you do something else that surprises me. Another reason to love you. I've lost count of the times I've thought about how incredible you are."
And at this Bellatrix seems to freeze. Doesn't know what to do with herself. Almost looks like she wants to hide. Why? Why hide something so beautiful?
"I— that's not— I mean I— you're the one that—"
Hermione can't help but laugh again. Oh the poor witch. She can't even speak.
She takes pity on her, and leans forwards to kiss her. Steadies her stuttering mouth with a firm kiss.
It's true, Bella. I Promise. I mean it. And I'm going to keep saying it until you believe me
Lips part, and then a hot moan vibrates against her mouth. Fuck I love you. Hermione fucking Granger. Don't you dare for one second think that you're not…
Oh. Oh her mouth is so hot it burns.
Bellatrix takes a sharp breath. You're incredible. Impossible. A witch who fell back in time and found me. You've amazed me from the moment I met you. I met you and I fell, can you remember?
And with that, Bellatrix falls backwards onto the bed, pulling Hermione with her.
I met you, and you were a mystery. A puzzle I thought I knew the answer to. And then at every turn, you changed the game
She spreads her legs and then wraps them around Hermione. Raises her arms over her head and exposes her throat. Offers herself up. Hermione can barely breathe.
I thought you would run from me…and you froze. I thought you were a child, but you were a woman. I thought you would cower, and you fooled me. Drugged me. Managed to control me
Hermione cautiously brushes her lips over a pale throat, dumbstruck.
I had to solve you. Came after you. Wanted answers. And you were invincible. Shielded. My magic nothing against you. You were powerful
Hermione swallows. And that…scared you?
Yes. I had to get out. I was terrified. My world shattering around me. But what was more terrifying, was that I was drawn to you. Enticed by you. Persuaded by you. You showed me the truth. The future. The path I was choosing. And you wanted to fix it. To fix me. You believed that we could fix it, together
Oh. Oh so that's what she was thinking. But—
But you hated me then. You knew who I was. I wasn't impossible, I was Hermione Granger
Bellatrix chuckles. Yes. Yes, I hated you. I was scared of you. I…was scared of muggles. I'm still scared of muggles. But when has fear or hatred completely stopped me? Stopped me figuring something out? I had to know everything. And then I did. I couldn't hold myself back. I saw everything about you
About…Hermione? She hadn't just been watching for Voldemort? For information about Harry?
Why? You thought I— you thought I was disgusting
You came to me powerless. With no guises or tricks. No magic or weapon. And wanted my help. To save the world. You chose me to be a saviour. And deep down…that's what I've always tried to be. It was as if you trusted me. I wanted to know why. What you saw in me that I could no longer see in myself
The brave little girl…
Gods she has to kiss her now. Presses down on top of her until their bodies slot together and searches out her lips. Kisses her deeply as lips part happily beneath hers.
A contented sigh. And then I realised that you weren't weak. That you were never weak. That you knew things I would never understand, and would offer them up freely, without a care in the world, with a smile and a soft touch. I wasn't the saviour. I was being saved
Bellatrix's mouth opens wider to her, and Hermione takes the opportunity to explore it. She never has long enough, normally, with the witch too busy with her own curious tongue.
A saviour. Hermione was never the saviour. That was Harry. She was just…the sensible one. The rational one. It was just logic. Reasoning. You were strong, and determined, and always fought for what you wanted. Once I knew you wanted to save the world, I just followed along. I was just a pensieve to back up your ideas. To keep us on track. Same as always
The legs tighten around her, and then arms too. A whimper escapes Bellatrix's lips, and it's the most beautiful sound.
No. No it wasn't logic. Wasn't reason. Wasn't cold. Logically I didn't deserve kindness. I didn't deserve your— you treated me like a friend. You comforted me when I was frightened and lost in the dark. You cared about me…almost from the moment I left your head. The first thing you did, for this monster that crept into your brain and violated your every thought…was get me a glass of water. You were thirsty, so you knew I was too. And you cared for me without thinking. That's who you are. You're good
Has Bellatrix never known kindness? Does she really still think she's a monster? She needs to— Hermione definitely needs to—
She pulls back and looks into Bellatrix's eyes, surprised at how glazed they are. How…
You weren't a monster in my head. Not really. That's why I cared. You surprised me. I thought you were going to be a monster…but you were funny. Curious. Chatty. Your voice was a comfort as I watched some of the darkest parts of my life. Your voice chased the darkness away. That's why I saw you as a…a friend. A trusted companion
Bellatrix squeezes her eyes shut. Gods Hermione, touch me. Take off my clothes. Show me how good you are. Find the goodness in me
She— fuck, Hermione still doesn't quite understand what's going through Bellatrix's head right now. But if vulnerability is now some kind of turn on then—
Vulnerability…and…
Are they really that similar? Praise?
Well. Time to find out. She looks down at Bellatrix. A black nightdress, so…
She crawls back and pushes the dress up Bellatrix's legs. Bella sit up and take this off for me. I want to see you.
Bellatrix slowly sits up. Her hands coming to the bottom of the nightdress. You'll teach me how to be good? You'll show me? The dress comes off over her head and is thrown to the floor. Fuck. Gods she— every time is—
She crawls back on top of her. You're already good, Bella. You're so good. You don't need me to teach you. You love so hard. Your love is beautiful
Bellatrix shudders against the sheets. Yes, yes I love you so much, Hermione, kiss me
Hermione kisses her neck. Her chest. But not her lips. Bellatrix is right, it's so good to hear all the noises. My burning sun. Because you are a sun, Bella. You're a sun too, a star. Just like me. We're the same, Bellatrix
Bellatrix falls still. And then sits up on her elbows. The same? Look at me
And Hermione does. Stills her mouth and looks—oh.
A crooked nose. A blackened eye. Scars.
I'm full of darkness. So much I had to hide it. So much that my scars spilled out and onto you.
She finds Hermione's scar. Runs her finger over it. And then sits up properly.
"I've— I've been desperately hoping that— but I'm too scared to try because if I'm wrong—"
She isn't even looking at Hermione anymore. Ashamed. Gaze lowered.
Hermione pulls the bedding up and wraps it around Bellatrix's shoulders. She has no idea what she's talking about, but maybe this is too much vulnerability at once.
"What is it, Bella? Tell me. Whatever it is, we can figure it out together."
Bellatrix pulls the bedding more firmly around her, and her eyes come up. "If…if I'm going to pretend to hurt people from now on…then…does that mean…did I really hurt you? Is—"
She runs her thumb over Hermione's arm. "Did I do this…is there one of me, or two? Did I always love you…or did this happen in a world where you never saved me?"
Oh. Oh she doesn't know. That's quite the…
But before they…
Hermione clears her throat. "I don't know. I'd like to know that too, but before we— there's something I need to tell you. Something about the thread that Leagore told me and— that I should have told you a few days ago when I found out."
Bellatrix's features flicker and then morph back into her usual form. "What is it? You kept a secret from me?"
Oh no. Oh please don't be upset. She hadn't meant to—
"I didn't mean to keep it a secret. There's just been so much happening and— and I don't even know if it's true. But I think it is. I want it to be true. And it makes sense, it— it might just be a story but it— remember the Chinese story, Bella? People destined to meet and change one another? Soulmates joined by an invisible, invincible thread?"
"Yes— Yes is that—"
"And do you know the Greek myth of soulmates? Of everyone having another half? That the gods tore them apart, but everyone has a lost half a soul somewhere in the world?"
Bellatrix's eyes widen, and then she nods.
Of course. Bookworm.
Hermione wraps her arms around Bellatrix. "Leagore said, that you're my other half. My half a soul. That we were split apart, and the thread is our blood, connecting us. She said that together we're whole. That we were made for each other. Soulmates."
Bellatrix freezes.
"And the thread is— she said it doesn't pull. Doesn't make us do anything. That the reason we found it, found each other, is because we were strong. Saw each other and worked together. You saved me from drowning because you were good. Not because of the thread."
"Half a soul…" Bellatrix whispers. "And I'm not— I'm not the bad half?"
What?!
No no no
She presses kisses over every part of Bellatrix she can reach. No! No, Bella, we're one soul. Everything you are, I am. We're the same, remember? Loyal, kind bookworms who do everything we fucking can to figure things out and protect the people we love. Including each other. I love you. You got stuck on the wrong path, but I've found you. Whatever you have done, I forgive you, and I understand. I understand how for a moment you lost the fight. You're allowed to lose a fight, Bellatrix. No one can be strong all the time. Not even you, the strongest, bravest little girl there ever was
Bellatrix lets out a sharp sob and shakes against Hermione.
And then suddenly pulls back. Crawls backwards off Hermione and accios her nightdress from the floor with a wave of her hand. Pulls it back on over her head. What is— did she say something wrong or—
Bellatrix looks around, frowning, and then tips herself off the end of the bed, headfirst, reaching around under it. What the—
"Aha! Accio wand!"
Oh for the—
Hermione runs her hands through her hair with a smile. Right.
"Bella? Come on, tell me what you're up to."
Bellatrix settles in front of her, legs crossed, with a grin. "Come on, pet. Let's find out who I am. How many of me there are. Because I'm seriously hoping there's two so I can hop universes and yell at her for hurting you."
Hermione barks out a laugh. "Or maybe that there's one, and you've secretly loved me this whole time?"
Now Bellatrix laughs. "See! Either way! We should definitely have a closer look at your head. And…"
She raises her wand, suddenly serious. "And Crookshanks, remember? And don't forget that I love you, whatever this other bitch does."
Hermione nods. Come on, soulmate. Come into my mind
Bellatrix gasps. What? She knows they're soulmates. Hermione just said—
Bellatrix lowers her wand. "Why did I never think of…"
What? What is it?
…can I follow the thread into your head too?
Oh.
Try it. Just…tug at it, like with the call, but keep going
She puts her wand down on the bed, takes Hermione's hand, and Hermione feels a pulling in her mind.
She closes her eyes. Oh.
Oh this is confusing. It's like legilimency…but she's in two places at once. She knows she's on the bed, but also…
I'm going to take us to the Manor, alright pet? I'm going to…see all your memories of the Manor in case there's a—
And they're tied tightly to Harry and Ron in Malfoy Manor.
Chapter 42: Malfoy ManorNotes:Okay folks, it's time!
I'm going book!canon for this, the dialogue etc is not all mine, obviously.
So. Good luck to you all. You're looking in from the edges now.
Chapter Text
They're in the parlour room. Stood on the— on that dark floor and tied to Harry and Ron. In the—
It's alright, pet. You're not really here. You're on my bed, with me, remember?
Hermione cautiously focuses on— Yes. Yes, she can feel the sheets under her. Can feel a hand in hers.
Okay.
And Hermione is spun around, the light of the chandelier shining in her eyes and then blocked by a growling Greyback. "What about the mudblood then?"
Oh no. Oh he looks hungry, salivating. Ugh his teeth are disgusting as he leans close to Hermione and—
"Wait," Narcissa's clipped voice calls out sharply.
He pulls back.
"Yes— Yes, she was in Madam Malkin's with Potter. I saw her picture in the Prophet. Look, Draco, isn't it the Granger girl?" Narcissa says…excitedly? In surprise?
What? Your sister knows who I am. She knew my name from the moment she saw me with you at the cottage
Bellatrix gasps. Cissy's protecting you. How is— she must know— oh. Oh that means this is the same timeline. There isn't two of me. It was me the whole time
Oh goodness. Oh so— so Bellatrix was secretly with an older Hermione the whole time that—
The parlour door opens, and Bellatrix walks in.
I look…tired. Fuck, the war wasn't kind on me. Not as bad as Azkaban but—
"What is this? What happened, Cissy?"
Bellatrix stalks slowly around the prisoners, eyes heavy as she focuses on each of them. And carries on past Ron and Harry to stare straight at Hermione. Right into her eyes.
Are you sure you're acting, Bella? Can you tell?
I don't know…I seem…calmer than usual. Maybe. Can't seem to stop looking at you though, pet
Hermione chuckles as the Bellatrix before them leans in close to her, murmurs to Narcissa even as she gazes at Hermione. You've always been rather intense. Now you know what it feels like
Do you think you're here too? The older you? Invisible in the corner?
Oh. Maybe. Quite likely, actually. She wouldn't leave Bellatrix to do this alone. Anyway, she needs to concen—
"Potter?!" Bellatrix shouts, stepping back from Hermione to get a better look at Harry.
And the calm is gone Bellatrix jokes with a chuckle. Bring on the madness
And she's right. Bellatrix and Lucius begin squabbling over who will call Voldemort, Lucius stopping her from reaching her finger to her arm. To the Mark.
Does he seriously think he's stopping you? You could petrify him in an instant if you wanted to
I know. Pathetic. I must be acting. And look at Cissy sneaking over to Draco. What's she whispering to him about?
Oh. Oh I wish we could walk over and weren't stuck in my body
Sorry pet, if you didn't hear it, we can't. But it's a very nice body to be stuck in. Still a bit too young but—
Bella! Stop it! We need to concentrate on—
On me stupefying some idiots?
Oh right. All of the snatchers are unconscious on the floor. And Bellatrix is pressing the sword of Gryffindor into Greyback's throat. Gosh, she forgot how quickly Bellatrix took them all down. It's impressive.
You're such an amazing fighter, Bella. Three of them down and a werewolf at your mercy
Confusion spreads through her mind. What? What is it?
Nothing…I…I just thought…it wasn't fast enough. I must be distracted
What?! Not fast enough?! It happened in an instant!
Bellatrix looks…bored? Isn't she supposed to be terrified?
"Draco, move this scum outside. If you haven't got the guts to finish them, then leave them in the courtyard for me," she sighs.
And Narcissa storms forward. Furious. Teeth clenched in anger. "Don't you dare speak to Draco like—"
"Be quiet!" Bellatrix shrieks. "The situation is graver than you can possibly imagine, Cissy. We have a serious problem!"
Oh no no no stop shouting, don't scream. That voice. She forgot that Bellatrix sounded so—
Hush, pet. It's okay. It's alright. It's all an act. Don't you recognise Cissy's angry face? Where's the storm, if I was really scared?
Oh. Oh of course. If Narcissa was angry she'd be still. Quiet. If Bellatrix was scared about Voldemort, then—
"The prisoners must be placed in the cellar while I think what to do," Bellatrix simpers shrilly.
"This is my house, Bella. You don't give orders in my—"
Accidental magic bursts from Bellatrix's wand, fire burning a hole in the rug. "Do it! You have no idea of the danger we are in!"
She looks scared. Terrified. Mad.
Narcissa nods, and turns to sneer at Greyback. "Take these prisoners down to the cellar, Greyback."
Hermione chuckles. Still has to be the one giving the orders
Always has. She's been ordering me around since she was three. Too cute for her own good
Greyback grabs them roughly. Or rather grabs Hermione roughly. Tugs her along by her top, uncomfortably close to her—
"Wait!" Bellatrix calls out sharply. "All except…except for the mudblood."
Hermione can feel the fear from her past-self, but inside she's grinning.
You're protecting me! He was touching me and— and you hesitated before saying mudblood
Course I'm protecting you. Couldn't leave it all to Cissy. I'll always protect you
And then Bellatrix pulls out her knife to cut past-Hermione free from the ropes. Oh no.
Hermione takes a steadying breath, pulling out of the memory slightly to squeeze Bellatrix's hand, back on the bed, and then returning.
You okay, pet?
Yes. Yes, I— it's fine. You're saving me. You're not—
She's dragged by the hair onto the floor. Oh but it hurts. Ow it—
A jolt of surprise in her head. Ow, fuck, why did I do that? I could have just grabbed your arm or—
Bellatrix slams her onto the floor. "Where did you get the sword? Tell me!" she practically spits in her face.
Oh no. Oh no.
Hermione. Hermione I'm sorry I—
"I— I don't know! We found it! We just found it in a lake it was—"
"Lies!" Bellatrix growls. "You dare lie to me, filth? Crucio!"
Ah! No no no the pain. It hurts. It just hurts. Bella. Hermione it—
Bella make it stop!
I'm sorry I'm sorry I'm sorry I—
"Crucio!"
She can't breathe. Can't breathe and—
Wait!
Everything freezes.
So dark and cold and…and…a hand? Someone's holding her hand?
It's me. I'm holding your hand, it's me
Bella?
A sigh. Yes. Yes, I need you to be strong and open your eyes
She takes a deep breath, and wrenches her eyes open. Oh. She's being pulled across the room by the hair again.
This…this already happened. You want to watch it again?
A hand squeezes hers. We don't have to…but…Hermione. I don't think it's real. I think it's…a fake memory. Been tampered with.
Oh.
Not real?
How…how do you know? It…it felt real…
Bellatrix sighs again. I know. I felt it too. It was horrible. I'm so sorry I—
Bellatrix clears her throat. I make the wrong wand movement
What?
I say crucio…but my wand does something else. Something I don't recognise but…it's like we practiced. Say one thing, but do another
Oh. So it's a false memory? Can you…can you find the real one?
Silence.
I just need to…a trigger. What…what would I have…
You would have said something kind. You would have— oh! See if you say my name. Say Hermione. You never would have called me that unless—
Brilliant! Yes. Yes okay, so same scenario, different name. Let's see…
There's some strange tugging in her brain, and then the scene flickers. Gets sharper.
Aha! Okay. Okay let's see what I really did. Are you ready?
Yes. Yes, show me.
And they're being dragged to the floor once more, Bellatrix's snarling face filling their vision.
"Lucy, why don't you go and see what Draco's up to out there. If he doesn't have the balls to kill them then I doubt you will, but we don't want them running off, and I need to have a little chat with the mudblood."
"You dare tell me what to—"
"Lucius, dear, please check on Draco. He may need your guidance, and if our Lord is soon to arrive…" Narcissa says softly.
And the sounds of footsteps leaving the room before a door slams shut.
Lucius wasn't there? He didn't see? And Draco…yes of course Draco wasn't there. How did I not realise? He left before—
Bellatrix shoves her down on the floor, straddling her so she can't sit up. "Where did you get the sword? Tell me!" she shouts.
Bella, are you sure this isn't—
"I— I don't know! We found it! We just found it in a lake it was—"
"Lies!" Bellatrix growls. "You dare lie to me, filth? Crucio!"
And a gut-wrenching scream fills the air.
But not from Hermione.
Narcissa is the one screaming in pain.
"Hermione! Hermione!" Ron's voice comes from far below.
It was Narcissa? What did you—
I cast a silencio on you! It was fucking Cissy this whole time!
Hermione feels her past-self try to speak, looking at Bellatrix in confusion. Who smiles mischevously at her. "Tell me! Tell me how you got into my vault! Crucio!"
Narcissa screams once more, and the scene…blurs. Doubles.
That must be the memory charm being put in place. I'm a fucking genius
Hermione chuckles. My idea
Bellatrix scoffs. And look how masterfully I'm—
Can you hear me, Hermione?
What? Of course she can hear her.
Who the fuck was— oh. I'm talking to past-you in your mind? Why? I'm giving you a false memory anyway
"I'm going to ask you again. Where did you get the sword? Where?" Bellatrix growls.
"We found it! We found it! Please!" Narcissa screams in terror, voice high and young and desperate.
She's so convincing. She sounds just like me. Do you think it's part of her metamorphing? Does she know she can do it?
Don't think so. Although Cissy has so many secrets I—
Hello? Mrs Lestrange? How…what's happening? A young shaky voice asks.
Bellatrix's mischievous smile softens. Hello, Hermione. It's alright, love. I know this doesn't make any sense, but it will. It will when you— oh. And hello Hermione and Bella. So you've found the memory. Did I surprise you? Did Cissy?
What?! This is too strange.
I'm fucking talking to myself. Nutter. Gods I'm such a Know it All
And Bellatrix pulls out her knife.
No no no. Not this. Not again.
She slowly pulls up Hermione's sleeve. Don't be scared. It won't hurt, I promise
Okay. Okay it—
"Crucio!" Bellatrix yells.
Narcissa screams, and a numb feeling washes over Hermione's arm.
The Bellatrix crouched over her leans in to whisper in her ear. "Like a local anaesthetic. You won't feel it. Like at a hospital. Just don't look."
Local anaesthetic?! When did you learn about that?!
I haven't! Well not yet. Doctors numb you with something called anaesthetic? Oh. Oh bollocks time travel is confusing. Did I just learn that from myself?
I…what are you going to do to me? Why are you—are you pretending to hurt me? Why? Past-Hermione whispers cautiously.
Bellatrix gently pushes Hermione's head to face away from her arm. She must be cutting into her, but she's right. They can't feel anything. As promised.
She's still very close though. Right on top of Hermione, hair falling around them and close enough to whisper. "You know what you did to your parents? To keep them safe?"
A sudden fear fills Hermione as her past-self panics.
How did you know? What—
"Sshh. It's alright. They're safe. Nobody else knows. It's just— I'm protecting you, the same way you protected them," Bellatrix whispers, and then pulls back.
"You are lying, filthy mudblood, and I know it! You've been inside my vault at Gringotts! Tell the truth, tell the truth!" she shrieks. And then winks.
Remember that, love. Gringotts. Go have a nosy around
Gringotts? What…you want me to go in your vault?
Narcissa walks into view. A bored expression on her face. And screams in agony.
The Bellatrix in their head snorts. Such a sense of humour, Cissy
And then Narcissa's voice whispers into their head. Enjoying the show, Bella? Yes. Yes, I know you're in there too. And Miss Granger, of course
Oh there are just too many voices now to—
Mrs Malfoy? You're…you're a legilimens too? And who— why—
Questions, questions, questions. Bella, the girl is just like you
Well of course she has a lot of questions! Past-Hermione must be confused out of her mind!
"What else did you take? What else have you got? Tell me the truth, or I swear I shall run you through with this knife!" Bellatrix growls, knife forgotten on the floor.
The knife…do you still have it, Bella? I haven't seen it in…since the cottage
I…I know how much you…I took it out of my purse. Left it in my wardrobe. So I wouldn't accidentally scare you
Oh.
Thank you. But you might have to start carrying it around again now that—
Bellatrix leans closer again, and Narcissa screams some more. Painfully now. Raw and desperate and crying.
"We need your help now, Hermione— what else did you take, what else?! Answer me! Crucio!— Lucius is coming back, so you're going to have to pretend. Tell me the sword's a copy. Act scared. Like Cissy did, alright? Just whilst I finish the memory charm."
Memory charm? Oh. So I won't remember. You want me to think— you're pretending to hurt me. Even to me
Such a bright witch. Yes. Yes, I'll lift the silencio, alright? Just trust us. Please
And the doors slam open as Lucius and Draco walk into the room.
"How did you get into my vault?" Bellatrix snarls, eyes crazed. "Did that dirty little goblin in the cellar help you?"
And from under her ducked head she surreptitiously points her wand at Hermione, cancelling the silencio.
"We only met him tonight!" Hermione shouts shakily, and Bellatrix nods. "We've never been inside your vault…"
Well done. Keep going. It's a copy
"It isn't the real sword. It's a copy! Just a copy!"
Bellatrix scoffs. And then screeches. "A copy?! Oh a likely story."
"But we can find out easily!" comes Lucius' voice. "Draco, fetch the goblin. He can tell us whether the sword is real or not!"
Fast footsteps as Draco makes an escape, and Narcissa begins a murmured conversation with Lucius.
And Bellatrix frowns in concentration, before giving a sharp nod and making a complicated wand movement.
There we are. This will all be forgotten now love, I'm sorry. And it's going to knock you out a bit. Just remember I…
And her words blur out as everything turns foggy and grey. Sleepy. She can't think. She just wants to close her eyes and—
And they're falling onto Bellatrix's bed.
Oh.
"So…it was all…you made it up. Recreated the whole thing and…and you didn't hurt me. You told me what— I helped you to—"
"You didn't even scream. You never even— we did it. I didn't hurt you I—"
Hermione shakily sits up. Stares at her arm. So it…it was mental torture this whole time. Not physical. She was shaky from the memory charm and the thought of it, not…
It was all fake? She never had to be scared?
And of course it was all mental. Everyone knows that Bellatrix— she uses crucio. Tortured people mentally, not physically. Taunts them and baits them and…
"But…then where on earth did the original idea to cut me come from? How did you…have the memory of…my memory of…a fake memory that you made. Based on a fake memory. Why do I have this fucking scar?"
She looks up at Bellatrix, who is…crying?
No no no no
Bella, Bella what's wrong?
Hermione. Hermione I was so scared that— but you're okay. I can't believe— I thought I'd hurt you. I was your— your worst fear and—but I still caused you so much pain. Why did I— I'm sorry I—
She crawls forwards and grabs Hermione's arm, clearing her throat. "Why did I do this? Why did I ever— did I…I think…you can't get rid of it? Nothing gets rid of it?"
Hermione tucks some hair behind Bellatrix's ears and wipes the tears from her cheeks. "No," she whispers. "No, it won't go away."
Bellatrix nods, and lies down on her stomach, bringing the arm close to her face to look at it closely. At the scar. "Maybe…if I'm not mad then…then what's the method to the madness? There must be a— a different perspective."
A different…
But what other…
Oh. "Tiggy?"
Bellatrix looks up with a start, and Tiggy appears.
"Yes, Miss Hermione? Is you…is yous both alright?" Tiggy looks them both over with squinted eyes. Oh. They are both quite tearful.
"Yes. Yes, we're fine we— do you know anything about this scar? Do you notice anything…unusual?"
She moves around to sit on the edge of the bed and show them.
Tiggy looks at it. And then looks at Bellatrix. And rubs their chin.
"Tiggy is allowed to be touching this?"
Hermione smiles, and feels Bellatrix's chin rest on her shoulder to watch curiously. "Yes, yes it's fine."
Tiggy runs their finger over the word. And chuckles. "Oh there is being something unusual, yes."
Really?!
Bellatrix shifts excitedly behind her, almost pushing her off the bed. "What is it, Tiggy? Tell us! Right now!"
Tiggy smiles. "Is being some kind of message, Mistress. Tiggy is not being able to read this, but is recognising this. Oh yes. Is being a message in mermish."
What?! Mermish?!
She turns around to gape at Bellatrix. "You speak mermish?! What does it say?!"
"No! No, I never learnt mermish. I must learn it later. In the future. I— I thought about it, but I never had the time and— do you speak it?"
Hermione scoffs. "You're the one that's a mermaid! I learnt the basic phonetics once over a fishing rights dispute, but then they refused to meet in person and I got a translator to—"
She stares down at her arm. Hidden mermish? "Where, Tiggy? Which symbols?"
Tiggy tuts. "Is not being looking! Is being listening. Feeling. No, the word is just being making you look. Making you remember."
Bellatrix jumps off the bed and starts rifling through her wardrobe, before throwing something at Hermione. A wetsuit. Ah.
"Back to the lake? Before breakfast?"
Bellatrix turns around with a whine. "Breakfast? But there's a secret message! On your arm!"
Hmm…well…she is curious. And—
Her stomach growls.
Bellatrix groans. "Fine. Breakfast. But then the lake."