AN: Welcome to another chapter. Quite a bit happens in this chapter, and it covers a decent span of time. I don't go in depth to much of the Golden Trio's time on the run, but I have some. I own only a few OCs but nothing else. Enjoy!
"The only way I'm leaving is dead
That's the state of my, state of my, state of my head."
State of My Head by Shinedown
Chapter 10
The Delacour's stayed for a week, and our families hung out, going shopping and relaxing around the house and just enjoying ourselves. Fleur returned with them to France to discuss moving to Hogsmeade while I was in school so we could be close and see each other as much as possible.
I stayed behind with my parents, and the distance was overwhelmingly painful. I knew it wouldn't be for long, but I missed my mate. I knew this was only a taste of how it would be during school, and I hated it.
But before Fleur could get back, I received an owl from the Weasley's stating Harry had been caught performing underage magic in front of a Muggle and would stand trial at the Ministry.
Mortified by this development, I quickly sent word to Fleur. She arrived later that evening, and we set out to Number 12 Grimmauld Place, where we were told about the Order of the Phoenix, a secret organization created by Dumbledore to stand against Voldemort. I was actually relieved that Harry and I had been believed.
Luckily Harry had been cleared of his charges and joined us after his trial. We were told that Voldemort was seeking out something to help him against Harry, though we weren't told any details as to what that object might be. It wasn't easy for the members to move about freely, as the minister and the majority of the wizarding world didn't believe us.
Still, we remained with the Order, partly to ensure Harry's safety and give to him a break from the stress he had endured. Also it was nice to be in the company of good friends.
Fleur and I revealed our engagement and pregnancy to everyone. They welcomed it with great surprise and joy. Ginny and the twins harassed us, trying to tease us about our sexual life, as well as figure out how I managed to knock my mate up.
We didn't give any details, partly because it wasn't their business to know, but also because I didn't want the dragon to be let out of the bag yet. I knew that dark times were ahead of us, and I didn't want more people than was needed to know. I trusted the group, but there was no telling what was in store for us. There were ways to get people to reveal secrets.
Fleur and I snuck away once she became irritable. It had been well over a week since we had sex, and she was radiating desire. It had been growing for a few days, disrupting daily activities when she was involved.
So we made our way to my parent's home. I needed to grab my school supplies and books anyways. I had assumed they were at work, so when I spotted the couple in the living room upon arriving, I hesitated. They took one glance at us, sensing Fleur's imminent total loss of control and fled.
I was grateful, though I was utterly embarrassed at being seen so compromised by my parents. Regardless, as soon as they closed the door, Fleur was on top of me. She had me over and over until I was spent, only able to keep pleasuring her until she was satisfied.
Later that evening, I summoned my parent's home after a thorough Scourgify. They appeared apprehensive, not making eye contact as we sat around sipping tea. I told them about Harry's innocence, stating the trial had been a mistake. I didn't want them to know he had been attacked by the Ministry's servants—the terrifying and deadly Dementors.
I wasn't sure if my parents believed me or if they just wanted to pretend that everything was alright. I had tried to sound as optimistic as possible, but my parents weren't fools.
Gathering my school things, Fleur and I returned to Grimmauld Place, earning several smirks from the twins, Ginny, and Tonks. If the twins weren't bad enough, Tonks was just as much a prankster as they were, and the entire place had been set up with various traps to jinx the inhabitants.
Because of this chaos, I couldn't help but be relieved to be leaving. I hated knowing that I would be forced apart from my mate, but I was looking forward to some semblance of peace back at Hogwarts.
We arrived at Platform 9 ¾ with the Weasley's and Harry. Exchanging our farewells, I held Fleur for several minutes, stroking her golden halo, breathing in her sweet scent. My heart ached at having to part. She seemed to be just as pained, pressing her lips forcefully against mine.
There was no lust, no desire in this kiss; just pure love and adoration, trying to convey and express our feelings for each other. Trying to freeze time so we could make this moment together last forever.
To my agony, the sound of the train's whistle pulled us apart. "It's time to board," I said numbly.
Fleur nodded, tears welling in her eyes. I wiped one away as it slid down her cheek, rubbing the pad of my thumb over her soft skin. I kissed her again, hating to see her so upset.
"I'll see you at 'ogsmeade, zough I still 'ate 'aving to be apart from you at all," Fleur murmured.
"I know, love. We will be alright—we are destined for forever. We will manage. I should go so you can head on to your new home. Promise you'll be at the station when we arrive?" I asked, having agreed to meet at the landing before I left for the school for good.
She nodded, and I kissed her again as the final whistle sounded. I scurried along, stepping onto the train, looking back with a sad smile as I waved to my mate. Moments later, the train started to move, departing from the station to make its way to Hogsmeade. I stared out the window, using my enhanced vision to watch Fleur as she disappeared in the distance. Just as I was about to lose her for good, I watched her twist and vanish, apparating to the town near the school.
Ron, Harry, and Ginny tried to distract me by talking about plans to get Fred and George back for all of the trouble they caused. Ron had been the unfortunate victim of the Sardine Hex and spent an entire day bent over a bucket as a multitude of fish poured from his nose.
The twins said this was to keep the slugs company. It was rather humorous, if not foul smelling. I knew Ron would never be able to best his brothers, though he was adamant to try.
When we arrived at Hogsmeade, I left my friends behind, quickly stepping onto the platform to look for my mate.
She was standing by the welcoming sign, a wide grin spreading as she spotted me. I raced to her side, throwing my arms around her as I kissed her deeply. This earned us several looks of curiosity, jealousy, and interest. I didn't care if they were looking at me like I had two heads. I was with my mate once more and was overwhelmed with joy.
"Blimey, 'mione, leave us behind, why don't you?" Ron fussed as the trio made their way over.
I chuckled, "Not sorry, Ron. It's not my fault you're too slow and Fleur is just too irresistible."
She raised her brow, clearly interested in my statement. Ginny rolled her eyes. "Yeah, as much fun as I'm sure it'd be to watch you two shag each other's brains out, I think I'll skip that party. Besides, we need to get going, remember? Something called school?"
Harry frowned. "Come on, guys, let them have their moment. They won't really get to see each other much over the next few years while we're at school and dealing with things."
I nodded, thankful for my lone defender. "Thank you, Harry. Besides, Ginny, it's not like you have to deal with separation anxiety—you get to see Harry as much as you like."
The redhead's eyes bulged from their sockets as her mouth fell to the floor. She stammered, trying to come up with a retort but was failing miserably.
Ginny's face was redder than her hair as she burrowed into her hands. Harry on the other hand seemed slightly confused as he looked between me and the youngest girl. Fleur was giggling, knowing I had finally won one over my friend, a truly rare and momentous occasion.
"Ginny's right, zough, you should get going. I'd 'ate to be ze reason you're late and get in trouble," Fleur stated. I didn't mind getting in trouble with her, though I refrained from saying that out loud. Merlin knows Ginny would hold that over my head for the rest of the year.
So instead, I gathered my friends, giving the Veela one last, lingering kiss, keeping myself from deepening it too much, and headed towards the castle.
As we stepped into the Great Hall, I was flooded with a sense of trepidation as I laid eyes on a pink monster. Said monster was revealed to be the new Defense Against the Dark Arts professor—Dolores Umbridge, a senior employee at the Ministry of Magic. I couldn't help but feel the woman was evil in some unknown way.
Her smile seemed too polite, like she would enjoy another's suffering. It didn't take me long to learn that my fears were true, and that the woman was indeed vile. As the year progressed, chaos slowly descended upon the school. Umbridge was much like Voldemort, preaching pureblood supremacy. More than that, she spoke about the utter filth she called those with creature blood.
So when she found out I was dating Fleur, she did her best to change my mind from being with her. Even if I was still garbage for supposedly being a Mudblood, I was still better than an animal. I had made sure Umbridge didn't know about the babies, for fear of something worse coming upon me.
Umbridge had a knack for cruel and creative punishment, using an enchanted quill to mark her disciplined students. Harry had been forced to endure the woman's wrath, and so we set to work creating a way to practice real Defense Against the Dark Arts and rebel in secret against the horrid witch. And so Dumbledore's Army was formed.
As the months past, the twins grew, expanding in Fleur's belly. At the end of November, I received a patronus telling me to go to Hogsmeade immediately.
Overwhelmed with concern, I hurried to Professor McGonagall's office.
"Good evening, Miss Granger, what can I do for you?" my Head of House greeted.
"I received news from town. Something is happening. I need to get there now," I explained anxiously. The woman's brows rose as I told her.
"Do you think it's time?" she asked excitedly.
I nodded, a slow smile spreading across my face. "I think it is. Can you help me?"
McGonagall took out her wand and sent off word to Dumbledore that she would be taking me to Hogsmeade. Moments later, we were side-apparating to the nearby town.
As I hurried inside Fleur's house, I was greeted with Apolline, Nicolas, and a Medi-witch. "How is Fleur?" I demanded anxiously as I entered. "Is she alright?"
Apolline smiled as she greeted me. "Oui, 'ermione, she's well. She's resting in 'er room right now. We were just getting a few zings ready to prepare for ze birth. 'er water broke a bit ago and ze contractions 'ave been growing more frequent."
I raced to my mate's room as McGonagall stepped into the house. I assumed she was there to keep an eye out and protect us.
Entering Fleur's room, I spotted my mate lying on the bed. She had a light sheen of sweat over her body, dressed in something resembling a hospital gown. I studied her for a moment, trying to gauge her wellbeing. Her eyes were closed as her chest rose and lowered slowly. I assumed she had been given a sleeping draught to give her some rest before the exertion of child birth.
She was utterly stunning in this state—the glow of imminent motherhood suited her. I couldn't help but fall even more in love with my soulmate like this. Soon we would be parents.
I made my way to her side, pulling one of the chairs that had been brought in for the event next to her. Sitting down, I reached and took her hand, squeezing it softly. I was glad she was getting some sleep, as I knew she was in for a rough time when things really started.
Apolline and the nurse entered the room a little while later carrying towels and a basin of water. The women smiled at me as I watched them prepare.
As the nurse lifted the gown, I growled lowly, warning her to be careful with what was mine, but also not to harm my family. I wasn't sure if she was aware of how delicate the situation was or not, but I wasn't going to let anything happen to Fleur or our children.
"It's alright, 'ermione, Clara won't do anyzing to 'arm Fleur or ze babies—she was zere when I 'ad Gabrielle. I trust 'er; she will do a good job," Apolline assured.
I nodded, still watching the woman. She smiled softly and started speaking in French. I realized she didn't know English and would have to rely on the older Veela for translation. She explained that Clara was going to check how dilated Fleur was to see how close she was to being able to start pushing.
I couldn't help but tense as the woman worked on my mate, though I knew it was innocent. As she pulled away, she muttered something, which was translated that she was at nine centimeters. It was almost time to begin.
Clara pulled out something to wake Fleur with. Letting the blonde sniff it, her eyes fluttered as she slowly woke up. With her returning consciousness, the pain seemed to return as well, and a low moan escaped. Her face scrunched up with the sensations, and I squeezed her hand again.
"Hey, love, I'm here," I soothed, wanting to do anything to comfort her. I knew there was little I could actually do, which greatly upset me, but I would do what I could.
Dull blue eyes turned to look at me, and a small smile greeted me. "Bonjour, mon amour,' Fleur breathed.
"How are you feeling?" I asked with worry.
She chuckled softly, "Like I'm about to push two kids out of me."
I laughed lightly, "Yeah, I imagine you do. Is there anything we can do to help?"
She shook her head. "Non, just be 'ere with me. And 'elp get zem out soon, s'il vous plait."
"We're almost ready, dear," Apoline stated. "You're going to 'ave to start pushing soon. Can you 'andle zat?"
Fleur nodded, taking a deep breath to steel herself. I admired her strength. It had been something I had loved about her early on. She didn't let anyone or anything stop her. Her determination had served her well during the tournament and would now as she bore our children.
When the time came, grunts of agony filled the room as Fleur pushed on command, squeezing the life from my hand. I didn't allow myself to wince, knowing that her pain was far worse. Seeing her like this, hearing her in so much pain, ripped at my soul.
I knew this was part of the process, but it still upset me. I never wanted her to hurt, but I had inadvertently caused her to experience some of the worst pain imaginable.
Still, my incredible mate continued to labor, slowly inching our first child out. I dabbed her face, wiping the sweat to keep from getting in her eyes and cool her off.
"You're doing great, baby, just keep it up," I urged. She forced a small nod and continued pushing. Moments later, the head of the first baby crowned. She cried out as the head was fully pushed into view.
I watched in wonder and awe as the nurse helped guide the bloody, wrinkly bundle out with another push from my mate. The newborn started to cry, a gargled sound as it drew its first breaths.
Tears of joy streamed down my face as I was given a small pair of scissors to cut the umbilical cord from our firstborn—a son we had decided to name Damien.
Apolline moved to clear his lungs and clean him off a bit, swaddling him before placing him on a small table that had been covered with blankets to keep him warm. Once she had finished, she returned to help with the second child.
I could feel Fleur's fatigue. She was shaking her head, tears of joy and agony leaving trails on her face.
"I can't do it—it 'urts too much," she cried. "I can't do zis…"
"Yes you can," I urged, brushing her sweaty hair. "You're the strongest person I know, Fleur. You survived the Triwizard Tournament—you can do anything."
Her head continued to shake, another sob crushing my heart.
"Fleur, you're going to 'ave to push again, okay? Only one baby left," Apolline encouraged. "Come on, push for us."
Reluctantly, Fleur complied, squeezing my hand as she scrunched into herself, forcing herself to push past exhaustion. We continued cheering her on, urging her to not give up, that it would be over soon enough and she could rest.
Seven minutes after Damien was born, Isabelle greeted the world. Fleur collapsed after delivering the placentas, breathing heavily as she smiled wearily up at me. I had never been so proud in my life. Of my mate. Of my children. So many emotions coursed through me as I took in the scene.
I wiped Fleur's face, stroking her sweat-soaked hair. "You're so amazing, love. I'm so proud of you. We're mothers!" I stated softly, joyful tears falling from my eyes.
Her smile grew at my statement, and she sighed contently. Moments later, both babies were being handed to us. Fleur sniffled as she brushed the cheeks of the twins.
"Bonjour, mes bébés. Bienvenue dans le monde. Tu es tellement aimé," Fleur breathed. I smiled and kissed her head, in pure heavenly bliss. It had been a long night, but now the world had gained two angelic babies.
McGonagall had gone ahead and dismissed me from classes, telling the other professors (Umbridge) that I had caught an illness from the cold weather. I was thankful that was on Friday, so I would be able to spend the weekend with my family.
Apolline had sent word to my parents and had them apparated here. They were over the moon upon seeing the two infants sleeping peacefully near their mother.
"She did really great," I whispered, smiling proudly at my mate.
"I imagine she did," mum replied. "I'd say it's hard enough pushing one baby out, but two? She's incredibly strong."
I nodded, "Yeah, she is. The strongest person I know."
I had thought I had felt the full extent of love during my time with Fleur. But looking at the trio of sleeping figures before me, I felt like my heart had expanded infinitely just to house the emotions I experienced now. These had been the happiest days of my life, though I knew they wouldn't last.
As I sat watching Fleur feed Damien later, I knew I would have to return to school. That meant I would have to face Umbridge once more. There was no telling what that foul being would do to me for missing class.
To my surprise, the pink witch didn't react to my return, other than to be the one to inform her of any illness or reason to miss in the future. I couldn't believe my luck. Something had to be wrong with this situation.
It wasn't long after that I learned I had been right. Only it didn't have anything to do with Umbridge. Harry had a nightmare, or rather a vision, of Arthur Weasley being attacked by Voldemort's snake in an area at the Ministry of Magic. Informing Dumbledore and McGonagall, they were able to send for help and rescue the man.
With Ron and Ginny's father saved, Harry had been instructed to take Occlumency lessons with Professor Snape, something that came as a surprise to all of us. I knew Harry would work hard to keep the Slytherin Head of House out of his mind.
From there, everything went downhill. Umbridge started to lash out at the other professors, having Professor Trelawney fired, and going after Hagrid's position. The student body was in poor spirits, which only fell more when Marietta Edgecombe entered the Room of Requirements with Umbridge, having revealed the truth about Dumbledore's Army. This was evident by the word "SNEAK" written in boils on her forehead.
Because of this, Dumbledore took responsibility, claiming he created the organization and escaped, avoiding capture. Umbridge took over as headmistress, bringing more destruction to the school. Hagrid had been attacked, forced to flee as McGonagall wound up injured trying to save him. Life had grown completely bleak.
And then Harry had another vision—one of Sirius being tortured by Voldemort. This time, we were caught trying to send word to help the fugitive. Luckily, I was able to use my wits and trick the woman who ended up being taken away by centaurs after Hagrid's half-brother helped us.
With that, we ended up at the Department of Mysteries. To our chagrin, the vision had been a fake, made to throw us off and have Harry retrieve a prophecy for Voldemort.
Chaos erupted as a battle ensued. The prophecy ended up destroyed, and Bellatrix Lestrange took it upon herself to kill Sirius. Harry had disappeared, chasing after the senile witch. We later learned that during this time, Voldemort arrived to kill Harry who was saved by Dumbledore. Before any more deaths could occur, Minister Fudge arrived and saw the dark wizard with his own eyes.
With this news out, the wizarding world became even more cautious. I had Fleur move back to France, not wanting anything to happen to her or the children. When school ended, I visited my parents, lying to them about the events of the past school year. I couldn't tell them the world was in grave danger once more. I wanted them to live in ignorant bliss.
I didn't stay with them long, deciding instead to go be with my mate and babies. They had grown so much in the five months since their birth. Similar as they were, they each had their own quirks. Isabelle took after Fleur with her shining blonde hair and blue eyes, while Damien took after me. At least his chocolate curls were slightly more manageable than mine.
Pushing all thoughts of darkness and fear from my mind, I spent my summer happily. Fleur and I would occasionally go out on dates while her parents watched the twins. Naturally we took full advantage of this time alone.
Fleur surprised me after one date as she pushed me against the wall of our room, holding my hands above my head. Her eyes were glazed with lust as she grinned seductively.
"Why don't we 'ave some fun and switch zings up, hmm?"
I raised an intrigued brow. "What do you mean by that?"
The Veela pulled out her wand and flicked it, instantly removing our clothes. With another flick, I looked down and was surprised to see a harness around her waist, a small dildo standing at attention.
We had never switched our positions like this before, as I had often remained the dominant figure. I was more than a little aroused at the idea of seeing what it was like to receive such sensations and nodded with approval. I would relinquish control for the evening, allowing my mate to take over like her nature usually demanded.
She started by kissing me softly, slowly growing in pressure and desire. Her tongue brushed against my lower lip, and I opened my mouth, submitting to the Veela. I felt my instincts to fight and reclaim control and pushed them down.
Fleur's hands wandered over my body, squeezing my breasts one moment, pulling my ass into her the next. It was intoxicating.
Plump lips moved to my neck, kissing and nipping at my exposed flesh, causing me to moan. I could feel the dampness between my legs grow, and I started to push Fleur to the bed.
Instead of complying, she bit down hard, sending a pleasurable pain through me. I hissed and pulled back to look at the Veela. She was staring at me with displeasure.
"I'm in control now, 'ermione. I decide when I take you to bed."
I pouted, not wanting to be tortured too much. Still, it was sexy to see this side of her.
She returned to my neck, kissing the area she had bit down on, and I knew it would bruise. It wasn't often that she marked me, though I didn't mind. I had no desire to hide from the world that I was hers, just as she was mine.
After another moment, her hand trailed down my body, moving between my breasts and down my stomach, causing me to shiver with anticipation. I felt her smirk into my neck, clearly enjoying my reactions.
Agonizingly slowly, Fleur moved down, teasing around my lower area.
"Fleur," I pleaded. She quickly cupped my wetness, causing me to moan as I rocked my hips against her. There wasn't any actual contact, no pressure to relieve my desire, and I cried in frustration.
"Not fun being teased, is it, mon amour?" she breathed into my ear.
I whimpered, figuring she was planning to draw my torture out.
To my surprise, I quickly found myself on my back, my ass at the foot of the bed. In the next instant, Fleur's tongue was lapping at me with great fervor, and I was crying out in pleasure. I hadn't expected her to be so forgiving for all the times I had teased her. Then again, she wasn't always kind herself, as she seemed to love pushing me to the edge of release before backing off, driving me to the corner of insanity before giving me my pleasure.
Remembering this, I couldn't help but fear this was what my mate was planning to do to me now.
Pulling back, Fleur licked her lips, savoring my flavor with a moan. She pulled a bottle of lube from the dresser by the bed and slathered the length of the dildo with the slick liquid, wiping her hand along my entrance before plunging in a couple of fingers.
I cried at the intrusion. While Fleur had penetrated me before, I knew I would need to be stretched a bit before I took her toy.
And she didn't disappoint, curling her fingers to hit my spongey insides, sending a jolt of pleasure through my body. I moaned loudly as I gripped the sheets, my hips rocking into her hand. I wanted more, though.
"Touch me, Fleur," I pleaded.
"You don't zink I'm going to let you cum like zis, do you?"
Her tone terrified and thrilled me. I bit my lip, wondering what all she had planned for me.
Satisfied that I was prepared enough, Fleur removed her fingers. I felt my walls tighten, clenching around her intrusion to keep them inside, though I knew I would be filled even more soon enough.
As I expected, Fleur pressed the head of the dildo against my entrance a moment later.
"Don't worry, I'll be gentle," my mate breathed. I gazed up at her with trust while her own eyes darted between my face and opening, unsure which to watch while she took me.
Finally settling on watching me to gauge how to proceed, I nodded for her to continue. With my permission, she eased her hips closer, guiding the object inside of me.
I hissed as I was stretched more than before, taking a moment to adjust to the oh-so-filling sensation. I motioned for her to continue, and she slowly pulled out, pushing back in gently as I relaxed more.
"Merde you're so sexy," Fleur mused. Her eyes were glowing as they took me in, and I blushed. I felt completely vulnerable, but completely at ease at the same time. I trused Fleur explicitly. This made the pleasure reverberate through me, and I was soon crying out as her pace quickened. I knew that we wouldn't switch positions often, so I wanted to enjoy it.
Fleur slowed, and I looked to see if she was truly intending to torture me. I saw her fiddle with something just out of my sight and frowned. A low humming sound filled my ears, and I wondered what my mate was planning.
She smirked upon seeing my confused curiosity, finally revealing what she had. A tiny purple vibrator spasmed in her hand. My eyes widened, unsure what to make of the new gadget.
After Fleur wet the tip, she pressed it directly on my clit, causing me to shudder with pleasure, a long moan to escape my lips. It was a different sensation entirely, not as ragged and personal as her tongue or fingers, but more of a constant intensity.
With the vibrations steadily working on me, my mate continued to thrust, a powerful rhythm forming. The pressure that built within me was strange and concentrated, and my body began to tense before long. My walls clenched around the dildo, savoring the internal friction. As I gripped the sheets, my breath ragged, I felt myself start to come undone.
Seeing this, Fleur sped up, her hips now pounding quickly into me, sending me into oblivion. I screamed out in ecstasy, the overwhelming stimulation rocking me to the core as my mate struggled to keep the vibrator on my clit as I writhed under her. I finally knew what Fleur felt like when I fucked her, and it was mind-blowing. While I still preferred being the one fucking, I wouldn't mind switching up occasionally.
After several moments, I finally started to come down from my high. I was relieved when Fleur removed the vibrator before slowly pulling out. I was definitely going to be sore later, but it was a sweet pain.
The blonde leaned down and kissed me deeply, and I pulled her onto the bed, switching our position as I took the top once more.
She grinned, "Care for ze toys as well?"
I pondered this for a moment before accepting. Once cleaned, I stepped into the harness, looking down at the bouncing dick with a laugh. It was odd to see the protusion and not feel any connection.
Once prepped, I eased into Fleur, setting a steady pace as I placed the vibrator against her swollen nub. I wanted to know if the sensation would be different against my own dick, comparing my fingers versus the toy. I would have to wait to find out, as I was spent for the time being.
So instead, I poured all of my remaining energy into making my mate feel as incredible as she had made me feel.
After her own climax, I flopped down beside the Veela and pulled her against me, peppering her with kisses.
"Zat was really nice, but I zink I still prefer ze real zing."
I chuckled, "Yeah, I think I do, too. I'd like to see how you feel against me with the vibrator, though."
She raised a sensual brow. "I'd be more zan 'appy to demonstrate."
I laughed and rolled my eyes, "I'm sure you would, but unfortunately, I'm out of commission for the day."
"Mmm, per'aps tomorrow zen, non?"
"We'll see, my love."
We drifted off into a light sleep, waking shortly after to visit Fleur's parents so we could retrieve the babies. They were due to be fed, so we stayed to chat with the Delacour family while the twins ate.
The family knew to avoid conversation on the state of the wizarding world in Britain, knowing I was already tense about the situation. I wasn't sure what had been going on, outside of the little information I had received in the letters I got from Ron and Harry.
When my parents asked why Fleur wasn't returning to live at Hogsmeade again, I told them it was so she could be near her family to help with the twins. She promised to visit, wanting my parents to see their grandchildren as well. I was grateful she was including them. We had even gone to visit my birth parents. They were thrilled to see the twins, anxious to know what they would grow up to be.
Returning to school, there was a darkness that hung in the atmosphere. Several students came and apologized to me and Harry, acknowledging that we had been right about Voldemort's return. I wish we hadn't been.
Because over the next year, Harry discovered the truth about Voldemort's soul being split into several Horcruxes, which we would need to destroy in order to be rid of the Dark Lord for good.
And in the end, Professor Snape betrayed us all, killing Dumbledore in Draco's stead in one of the darkest days of our lives. With Dumbledore's death, there was little keeping Voldemort's forces from returning with a vengeance. I was grateful for having kept my true identity a secret, as Muggle-born witches and wizards were attacked, so were creatures with magical blood.
I forbid Fleur from leaving France, using my dominance to make her submit to my demand. I knew she wasn't happy; I wasn't thrilled, either, but her safety and the safety of our children was more important than anything to me.
Because of this, she was only told what I wanted her to know. While I figured the Order would provide more details if she asked, I did my best to keep her from worrying too much.
This included when Harry, Ron, and I made the decision to leave in order to search for the Horcruxes. We set a date, just after Bill was going to marry a co-worker named Chelsea Zohan. She was an American who had traveled to Britain to work as a Curse Breaker at the wizarding bank. It didn't take the couple long to fall in love, especially in these dark times, and decided to tie the knot.
Naturally, Fleur and I had been invtited to the wedding, practically being part of the Weasley family ourselves. Before I went to meet up with my friends and loved ones, I had one last thing to do.
I made my way downstairs for breakfast at my parent's house. I had been forming this plan for some time, and now everything was in order. There was just one thing remaining.
"Good morning, pumpkin," dad greeted, looking up from the morning paper. "How are you? Excited for the wedding?"
I forced a smile, knowing what I was about to do. "Yeah, I really am. It'll be nice to have something good happen. Life's been pretty dull lately, so I'm looking forward to it. Might even get some ideas for mine and Fleur's wedding."
Mum grinned, "Won't be too much longer, now will it? I do expect to be involved in my baby's big day. Promise you'll let us know when you have a date?"
I nodded, "Of course, mum, you both will be among the first to know. I promise."
"Good, I wouldn't allow anything less," she replied and pulled me in for a hug. I swallowed the lump that formed in my throat. I had already packed all of my belongings and retrieved them after we sat down and ate.
As I looked around my old room for the last time, I wiped the lone tear that snuck passed my defences. I was doing the right thing—I had to protect my family. Even though we weren't related by blood, I loved this couple dearly. Being connected to me placed them in unspeakable danger.
So as I returned to the kitchen, I watched my parents as they washed dishes together.
Taking a shaky breath, I raised my wand. "Obliviate," I whispered, erasing myself from their minds. After suggesting they pack up and move to Australia, I fled, finally allowing myself to break.
I cried. I cried for all of my parents, both blood and adoptive. I cried for my mate. I cried for my children, knowing there was an incredibly large chance they would be forced to grow up without me. I cried for my friends who I would likely lose. I cried for all of the darkness that shrouded the road ahead of me. No child should have to endure such chaos and fear.
Once I gathered myself, I rose and apparated to the Burrow. Fleur and I had agreed to meet there, though she wasn't to arrive until a bit later. Part of me was glad she wasn't bringing the twins, though I wished I could see them one last time before we departed.
I made my way to the home, noticing the large white tent out back. There was a sea of chairs for the guests who would be arriving tonight. Red and gold decorated the area, a nod to our school house. I would miss getting to learn and expand my knowledge, but Hogwarts wasn't a safe place now, either, as Snape had taken over, desecrating the sacred position once held by Dumbledore.
Making my way inside, the scene was even more chaotic than usual. Things were flying around, narrowly missing my head as I ducked to avoid being struck.
Redheads were running with set destinations, determined to get everything finished in time for the big event. I chuckled to myself, wondering why they hadn't worked to finish everything sooner so they wouldn't be as rushed and stressed.
Then again, this was the Weasley family—never known for not being frenzied.
Molly noticed me as I wandered further inside and grinned. "Hermione! So good to see you, dear. Would you mind helping Ginny with the gift bags? She should be in the kitchen."
"Of course; I'd be happy to help," I returned with a smile before making my way to find Ginny. The youngest redhead was grumbling in frustration as she transfigured rough gravel into smooth, glistening stones with Bill and Chelsea's names on them, thanking everyone for their attendance and best wishes.
Ginny barely looked up to see who had entered her solitude, doing a double take when she saw me. She beamed for probably the first time in a while as she recognized me, stopping her work to throw her arms around me.
"Thank Merlin you're here, Hermione! Come on, you have to save me. Get me out of here—I'll do anything! I don't care where you take me, just anywhere but here…"
I laughed at my friend. "Sorry, Gin, but I can't do that. I can help you with this, though."
As her face fell, Ginny nodded sadly. "Sure, why not. Might make it more bearable."
She showed me what we were supposed to be doing, and I couldn't help but wonder why she was changing the rocks one at a time. In fact, I was wondering why she was transfiguring and then charming them as well.
"Wouldn't it be easier to just duplicate them instead of what you're doing?" I suggested, examining one of the trinkets. The amount of magic was rather wasteful the way she was working.
Her eyes buldged from her head. "What? Why didn't I think of that! Blimey, 'mione, why didn't you get here sooner and save me all this trouble? It's been a pain in my arse, doing things my way. This is why you're the brilliant one around here. What would we do without you? Other than all die, of course."
I chuckled, "Think nothing of it. You're just too stubborn to think of another way on your own. Once you have your mind set on something, you stick with it. You need someone else to expand your options. But, hey, I'm glad to help. Why don't I finish up? How many do you need?"
"One hundred," the girl replied. I looked at the pile before me. There were probably thirty already finished, so I needed to make about seventy more.
Removing my wand from its holster, I flicked it, silently making each of the rocks form an exact opposite. I did this once more before finishing with the last ten.
"There, how was that?" I smiled, turning to Ginny, who was staring at me with a shocked expression.
"Do you realize what you just did?" she finally managed to ask.
I tilted my head in confusion. "Besides your job? No, what?"
My friend shook her head in disbelief. "You just wordlessly replicated a mass amount of objects without even breaking a sweat! Jeeze, just how powerful are you? Why haven't you been using that power against You-Know-Who's servants? Things could wrap up so much quicker if you just did it yourself."
I frowned, "That really wasn't a big deal. I'm sure you could have done it yourself."
"I can guarantee I couldn't," she objected.
With a sigh, I shook my head. "Whatever. Either way, it's done. Why don't we keep going. What else needs to go into the gift bags?"
We continued working, quickly forgetting my show of magic. I wasn't trying to hide it or show off, I was just going about my life. It was what gave me that vast pool of magic that I was keeping secret.
A while later, long after Ginny and I finished the swag and gone on to other jobs, I felt a familiar presence suddenly nearby, causing me to grin.
I hurried towards the entrance of the house, seeking out the person, tears welling in my eyes as I finally spotted my beautiful mate. She turned to see me as I raced towards her, suddenly beaming with joy.
"Mon amour," she breathed as I reached her, throwing myself at her.
"Fleur, love, I missed you so much," I cried.
She stroked my hair as she tried to sooth me. "Shh, it's alright, 'ermione, I'm 'ere. Everyzing is better now." She knew that wasn't entirely true, though, as I had told her about my plan to erase my parent's memories. She knew that they had forgotten about me, about her, and about their grandchildren by this point.
But I pushed those thoughts from my mind, relishing in the contact with my mate. I had longed for it for a while now. I wished she had been with me earlier when I dealt with my parents, but I didn't want her to have to see me like that, to have to experience my loss with me. That didn't mean she wasn't aware, having felt my pain through the bond. It just wasn't as bad as seeing it first hand.
The world that had let us be, simply existing together as one, was interrupted as reality came crashing down on us.
"Sorry to trouble you, ladies, but we still have some stuff to do. You can smooch later," Arthur stated.
"Right, of course," I replied as I pulled away. "Come on, Fleur, let's go ask Molly what she needs from us." The Veela nodded and followed along after me like a lost puppy, our hands clasped tightly together.
A while later, we were told to get changed and ready for the big event. Since we had helped out, we were allowed to get dressed in the room with the bride and maids. Ginny and Chelsea's friend Sarah were getting to walk down the aisle before the lucky woman.
I went to the bathroom to change, switching into the tux Fleur had sent ahead. It was the same one I wore on our date back in France. I chuckled as I remembered the employee where it was purchased, of how his tone quickly changed upon hearing I was with the Delacour family. If only he knew how close we were now…
Fleur went to change as I returned to the room.
"Hey, Hermione, why don't I help you with your hair?" Chelsea asked as she turned from doing her own hair. "I get how fun such unruly hair can be. That was why I ended up making my own mix to tame it."
I raised a hopeful brow. "Sure, I'd appreciate that. As great as Sleekeazy's potion is, I still need to apply it a few times before it's manageable."
The woman smiled and stood up, allowing me to take her place. I hadn't noticed Fleur return, which was probably a good thing. Because as the bride finished taming my hair after one application of her concoction, I spotted my stunning mate and growled with lustful approval.
The dress clung deliciously to her curves, the perfect amount of cleavage teasing those who looked upon her luscious chest. Her legs were revealed just above the knees, accentuating her appeal. For a mother of two, she was incredibly sexy.
Ginny sighed, breaking me from my trance. I hadn't realized Fleur and I had been gravitating towards each other. "As sweet as seeing you two together again is, please don't forget you're not alone. I really don't feel like seeing you two shagging and getting a preview of what my brother will be doing later."
"Who says it hasn't been earlier?" Chelsea mused, causing everyone but Ginny to laugh.
"Dear Merlin, I don't need that image! Someone please erase my memories," the redhead cried as she fled the room. We continued to laugh after her, knowing she wouldn't tell anyone of her horror.
"Well, she shouldn't have complained about two people in love," Chelsea stated with a triumphant smile.
When the bride had finished getting ready, she was glowing. Her dark complexion literally seemed to shine as she beamed with joy. I knew Bill was going to be speechless when he saw his love.
The wedding was beautiful, and I was taking notes in case I lived long enough for my own wedding. It was interesting to watch the wizarding ceremony that united the two individuals as one. It reminded me of how the bond with the Veela worked, only more public and not as sexual.
Fleur was getting choked up next to me, so I brought her hand up to my lips, kissing it with a gently squeeze. I wasn't sure if she was emotional because of the scene before us or if it was because she was afraid we may not have it for ourselves. The uncertainty upset me, too.
We moved to the reception, where music and food were served to the entertainment for all. The gift bags Ginny and I had put together went over fabulously, which made me happy. Yet another thing to hold on to for later, even if we did something different with the gifts. It was a great way to remember the happy times.
A slow song started, and I rose from my seat, offering my hand to my mate. She blushed and accepted, rising to take my side as we retreated to the dance floor.
I smiled softly as we clung to each other, gazing into deep blue eyes. As I was about to lean in for a kiss, a large, glowing orb pulled my attention.
I shifted, pushing Fleur behind me as my wand slid into my hand, ready to protect her at all costs. Once the orb started speaking, though, I recognized it as Kingsley Shacklebolt. His tone was grim as he announced the fall of the Ministry, resulted from the death of the Minister himself by Voldemort's forces.
This dark revelation sent chills down my spine. Our worst nightmares had been realized, and moments after, Death Eaters swarmed down on the scene.
I pulled Fleur after me as I raced towards Ron and Harry. Once we had united, we side-apparated to Grimmauld Place. There had been no way I would leave my mate behind, something I told the boys as they stared at her.
"That doesn't mean she's coming with us, though," I stated firmly as I looked at the blonde.
She raised a challenging brow. "Well zat might depend on what you all are up to."
"That's not your concern, Fleur," I returned coldly. "I won't have you risking yourself. You need to get home and make sure Damien and Isabelle are safe."
"Zey are. Maman and papa would 'ave sent word if somezing 'appened," she argued.
I shook my head. "No; I don't care. I love you, but I forbid you from coming with us. Don't make me have to force you."
I felt the air thicken with sensuality as Fleur stalked towards me, a seductive look on her face. She was using her thrall to try and sway me. "I wouldn't mind zat, zough I won't give up so easily zis time, mon amour. Let me come with you; you know I can 'elp with whatever you need."
The thrall made it difficult to focus, to stand my ground. I turned to the boys, hoping they would be able to back me up. To my disappointment, even Harry was drooling slightly at the amout of sexual energy my mate was radiating.
Gathering my thoughts, I crossed my arms. "No, Fleur, and that is final. I will not entertain your efforts to seduce me to let you come along. We have a family now; you need to get back and protect them. I won't let you put yourself in danger like this."
The Veela faltered, seeing I was going to stand my ground against whatever she tried.
Reluctantly, she sighed and withdrew her thrall. "Alright, fine. But I am not 'appy about zis. I may not know what you're up to, but if it's zat dangerous, and knowing you all, it is, I can't 'elp but want to protect you, too. It's in my nature."
Relieved she was standing down, I cupped her cheek in my palm. "I know, love, as it's in mine to protect you. But we can't just think about each other anymore—our children matter, too."
She nodded, staying only a little longer for a small makeout session and to wish us well before leaving for home. With that, the boys and I started discussing our plans to hunt the Horcurxes.
We ended up at the Ministry, and, to my horror and rage, before the pink witch, Dolores Umbridge. She had earned the nickname Umbitch after she left Hogwarts, as students were terrified of her hearing it and punishing them.
She had come to possess a locket that had belonged to Salazar Slytherin, only to be used to house part of Voldemort's soul. It made sense for her to wear it, as she now worked for the sadistic man.
After retrieving it and barely managing to escpae, Ron ended up leaving us when he grew furious with no way to destroy the cursed item. I knew it was because he had been affected by the locket's darkness. It didn't help that Harry and I ended up in Godric's Hollow and were attacked by Nagini, manipulating Bathilda Bagshot's corpse, who managed to damage Harry's wand beyond use.
We made our escape, apparating to the Forest of Dean. While I was setting up the tent and gathering supplies, I couldn't help but let my mind wander in my solitude.
I wondered how Fleur and the twins were. I wondered how my parents were; wondered what they were doing now in Australia. I sighed as I sat, poking at the fire I made, my disposition only falling more.
This changed when Harry returned with Ron in tow. I smacked the boy for leaving us behind, which he profusely apologized for. He then revelealed that he and Harry managed to find the Sword of Gryffindor and destroyed the locket, which put me in a better mood.
Letting the past be, we set out to focus on what to do next. I remembered something from the book Dumbledore had left me and opened it, recognizing a symbol drawn on one of the pages as something Luna's father had worn at the wedding.
Deciding this was our next best lead, we traveled to the eccentric man, only to be told about the Deathly Hallows, and what they represented in the real world. I wasn't sold on the idea that there were objects that literally mastered death, but then again, I was a dragon who lived in a world where magic existed.
As we contemplated this discovery, Mr. Lovegood apologized, stating that he had no other option, as Luna had been kidnapped. Saying this, he spoke the unspeakable name, summoning dozens of Death Eaters to our location. We fled, barely managing to escape, but were soon discovered by Snatchers. I had just shot out a Stinging Hex, disfiguring Harry to be unrecognizable, before they spotted him.
This threw the group off, but they recognized me from being in the Daily Prophet as a Triwizard Champion and friend of Harry Potter. Because of this, they decided to take us to Malfoy Manor.
I twisted and fought to break free of my binds to no avail. I knew we were in trouble when I heard the maniacal cackle of Bellatrix Lestrange.
"Well, well, well, isn't this a lovely surprise," the woman grinned darkly as she studied us. Seeing Harry, she faltered. "Who's this?"
The werewolf Greyback shifted. "We think it's Potter, though we can't be sure with his ugly mug."
"Draco! Cissy, summon Draco and have him verify Potter's identy for us," the woman screeched. Her sister complied and brought her blond son into the room. His eyes widened with shock upon seeing us at his house, before flicking uncertaintly at his mother.
"Go ahead, dear, tell us if that's Harry Potter," his mother urged nervously, clearly not wanting to upset her sister.
As the boy slowly started forward, I held back a growl. I didn't want it to seem to obvious that I had altered my friend's image.
Luckily, Draco seemed to act unsure, unable to identify the boy with certainty. This didn't please Bellatrix, who shoved him with rage. "Fine, we will summon the Dark Lord and see what he says."
She rolled up her sleeve to reveal the Dark Mark and went to place her wand against it when she froze. I followed her gaze to the sword by one of Greyback's follower's side. He suddenly looked mortified as her eyes widened with what I could only assume was horror.
"Where did you get that?" Her tone was calm, almost sensible, for the first time since I had encountered her. That snapped as she yelled the question again, stalking dangerously towards the man.
"T-They had it!" he stammered, pointing to us. "It was with their things."
The lunatic turned towards us, her eyes twitching as she seemed to contemplate something. After a moment she seemed to come back to reality.
Straightening up, her mannerisms changed. "Take the boys to the dungeon, but leave the girl. She's supposed to be smart, surely she will know it's best to help us out."
I watched in horror as my friends were taken away, leaving me alone with the lunatic and her puppets. I tried to act tough as I crumbled inside. "What are you planning to do to me?" I demanded with a level voice. I wouldn't let her know how scared I was.
She tilted her head as she studied me for a moment. In the next instant, I was on the floor, writing under a Crucio that had only lasted a second. The agony was unbearable. I instantly thought back to my first time transforming into my Dreki form. It felt like so long ago, a few years back. So much had happened in that time.
I wasn't sure which hurt worse, the countless minutes it took my body to literally break and be put back together, or the split second I had been under the Unforgivable Curse.
"Where did you get the sword?" she finally asked as I started to get over the shock of the spell.
"From a stone," I replied sarcastically.
I felt my body being torn apart once more, lasting several seconds this time. With this length, I realized this torture was far worse than my shift.
"Where did you get the sword!"
I glared up at the woman, gritting my teeth as she towered over my crumpled form. She would have to do better than that. So I spit at her feet, showing my opinion of the wicked witch. I knew I would die anyways, so why not piss her off and make it worth it?
The wild-haired woman only grinned, her features twisted with darkness.
"I will ask you one last time, Mudblood," she stated, sending another curse at me before continuing. "Where. Did. You. Get. That. Sword. It'll be easier if you just tell me. I promise to put you out of your misery. It's not like you're worth anything anyways, filthy Mudblood."
I shook my head, twitching from the curse. I steeled myself, expecting another round of agony, but was surprised when the witch turned and left the room.
As I lay on the floor, I tried to gather my wits, unsure of what tortures Bellatrix had planned for me. I knew I had to fight her with every fiber of my being. There was no way I could reveal anything to her. I had made sure to lock my memories away to keep them from being viewed. They would literally have to get me to talk, and I wasn't planning on doing that.
When the witch returned, I noticed she was carrying a dagger that radiated dark magic. I didn't miss the terrified look on Narcissa's face just before her sister plunged the knife into my abdomen.
I bit my tongue to keep from crying out as the pain coursed through me. I could feel the dark magic swirl around the wound, and I knew for certain that this object was cursed. With the witch who had produced it, there was no telling what it would do to me.
I soon figured it out as the intense pain remained instead of subsiding slightly after several moments.
"Where did you get the sword? Stop being a stupid Gryffindor and tell me. Your superior is asking you a question, Mudblood, so answer me!" the woman screamed right in my ear. I winced, as it was enhaced with my abilities.
Somehow I mustered the strength to fight back. "You're going to have to do better than this if you think I'm going to tell you anything. I've endured worse, I'll promise you that."
Fury flashed in the dark eyes that bore into me before returning to the crazed pleasure the woman got off on as she toruted me. "Very well, Muddy, we'll see just how much you can endure before I take your sanity."
This time, as I was struck by the Unforgivable Curse, the pain seemed amplified, even more excruciating than before. I deducted that the dagger plunged into me was a conduit of sorts, working to increase the intensity of the pain.
I wasn't sure how long I had been under the Crucio Curse before it stopped. I gasped for air, my throat raw from screams I had tired to hold back and failed. My mind felt shaken, and I knew that I had to be careful, that I had to focus on keeping thinking of my friends and family, of my reason for fighting.
In the next instant, the dagger was being yanked out of my side. Bellatrix was squatting next to me, muttering incoherently as she slowly, methodically cut my flesh like a piece of meat.
If I hadn't been so shaken by the curses inflicted upon me, I was certain that I would be crying out at her current torture. All I was aware of, though, was the mind-numbing agony. It was easy to see how people lost their minds to this torture.
Seemingly satisfied with her artwork, Bellatrix plunged the dagger back into me, this time my right upper thigh was the unfortunate recipient.
Standing back up, she took a step back before unleashing a volley of different curses, ending with another Crucio. With each new spell she used, the duration it lasted grew longer. At this point, I wasn't sure I could tell her anything even if I wanted, the pain was too much. I couldn't even muster the strength to try to transform to fight back, though that would surely end me as well.
Think. I have to think and keep my mind. Think about my friends. Think about Fleur. About Damien and Isabelle. About all of my parents. I have to survive this so I can bring the Granger's home. They will want to see their grandchildren, my own kids, again. I want to see them again. I miss Fleur. I love her. We're going to get married one day. Think about our wedding. What I want it to be like.
I managed to smile as I thought about the future I wanted, the future I knew I wouldn't get to see, but forbid myself from acknowledging.
"You think this is fun, Mudblood?" Bellatrix growled. "I'll show you fun."
With that, the woman yanked the dagger out once more and crawled on top of me, holding me down, though I didn't know why. It wasn't like I could get up or fight back. My body was spasming uncontrollably from the curses.
In the next instant, the lunatic had secured my left arm and dug in. I cried out, forgetting my family momentarily, as it felt like I was being carved. Never in my life could I have imagined I would be in this situation, experiencing the horrors inflicted upon me. Never could I have imagined such suffering could be endured and survived. I wanted so desperately for this witch to grow tired and finish me. I wanted to beg for death, but I wasn't able to find my voice, save for the screams that burned my lungs.
"See! Isn't this fun!" the woman bellowed as she jammed the dagger back in me before unleashing her longest Crucio yet.
I knew several minutes had to have past, though I didn't care. My body arched, twisting and contorting with the shocks that rippled through me. Even as I did my best to think of my beloved mate, I could feel her slipping from me. Maybe if I just caved, gave in to the blankness that threatened to consume me, the pain would recede, and I would just disappear. Maybe death would finally welcome me if I let go…
Suddenly, the curse stopped, though my convulsing continued. I heard several screams, my own tormentor's included. I was too far gone, too exhausted and disoriented from fighting to be aware of what was happening. I didn't even care, so long as someone finally ended my suffereing. That was all I cared about.
To my despair, I instead felt the uncomfortable tug of apparition. I had no idea who was with me or where we were going, but I had no energy to care. As I crumpled on the new surface, something coarse, I felt like I was being stabbed with countless needles where the surface made contact with my tingling flesh, causing me to cry out once more.
The last thing I heard before darkness finally consumed me, was someone crying out. It sounded panicked, and appeared to have an accent. As I slipped into reprieve, the last thing I thought of was Fleur. If only I had been able to see her one last time. If only we had been able to marry and live happily with our children…