A/N: So Here we are again, thank you all so much for the kind reviews I'm on fire with these stories it's awesome. Any who, I write my stories to music, and so I have added some lyrics from a song that has influenced this chapter in particular. If your like me and you don't generally like lyrics in a story don't worry it's at the end so they don't really play much part in this. I'm assuming they'll be mixed reviews to this again, but I bet when you get to the bottom of this story you'll forget about this A/N.
As always a big thank you to all those who have stayed with this story, your not the only ones who look forward to the next chapter so do I! I love writing them, especially ones like this. Insert smiley face. To those who have reviewed I want to hug you all, or at least have the power to make Hermione and Bellatrix real! And have a TV series and everything... Wishful thinking I know. Keep up the posting of story guys I'm getting all giddy inside.
I've put my shout outs at the bottom of story, so you guys can read! I''m thoughtful like that... sometimes lol.
Yeah, my editing is crap, I can only offer my apologies.
Disclaimer: I do not own Harry Potter or any of the characters and no money has been made from this. Also the lyrics within this story belong to Imagine Dragons' I am merely enjoying great music and they are not my own and no money has been made from this.
Enjoy...
But Innocence is Gone
And What was Right Is Wrong
Hermione woke the next day to a quiet morning, her eyes blurry she stirs from her slumber, glancing at the light filtering in through her window. She didn't manage to get much sleep the night before as both Bellatrix and she had spent most their time looking at books. They finally called it quits when they heard the first sound of birds waking, eyes weary and strained they parted with a promise of another meeting.
Pushing the covers from her, she sits at the edge of the bed rubbing the sleep from her eyes. Looking at the window she cannot help but smile, the dark witch had looked so beautiful in the full light of the moon last night. The way the light seemed to glow against her skin, a fallen angel for her eyes only. Not once last night did Bellatrix display her usual fierce nature, she never lifted a hand, not a syllable of hate uttered – except once when she stubbed her toe.
Her brow creases in confusion as she rubs her chest, trying to remove the slight pain. Had she pulled a muscle, maybe she needed a drink. Her heart fell as if it was straining. Venturing from her bed, she prepares herself for the day ahead, not once this year had she had normal day. She hopes it will soon change; she could do with a break.
Making her way from the common room, her mind automatically moves to the night before, focusing in particularly on a certain dark witch. It was a daunting moment when Bellatrix informed her that she did not know the cure. Everything she had planned relied on Bella knowing, having the witch so eager to help though was a breath of fresh hair.
It took Hermione a few seconds to realise she was on a collision course, coming to a sharp stop, she raises her eyebrows in surprise at finding Dumbledore standing in front of her.
"Professor," She greets aware of the eyes trained on her.
"Ah Miss Rothstein how are you this morning?" He asks in his usual calm tone.
"Fine thank you, can I help you Professor?" She asks knowing it is unlike Dumbledore to stop for a social chat.
"I needed a moment of your time." He says, before indicating with his arm they should walk. "There is something requiring your attention."
"Of course," Hermione agrees, following the Headmaster through the corridors, she took note that she was not heading towards his office but McGonagall's.
"I hear you were once again visiting Poppy in the hospital ward. I assume your disagreements with Ms Black are finally settled?" Hermione cannot help but cough at the mere sentence glancing worriedly at Dumbledore she swallows. "Do not fear Miss Granger, it is something I expected when you first arrived."
Hermione nods, "One warning Miss Granger before we continue." She turns to look at him. "I would stay away from Miss Black."
"Bellatrix?"
"Yes you have made yourself known to the eldest sister; Bellatrix is not one to let something go. Especially since you managed to get her detention."
She remembers the warning Dumbledore had given her the night she arrived. It is funny to think that I went against Dumbledore's wishes. So lost in her own mind, she does not notice the slightest twinge in her mind. The second she does, she throws all the barriers she can muster up before Dumbledore can dig to deep.
"You promised you would stop reading my mind sir." Hermione growls throwing the wizard a dirty look.
"Indeed I did," Dumbledore, agrees stopping in front of McGonagall's door. "Forgive my curious nature; I merely wanted to ensure you were safe."
"And am I?" Hermione demands, anger slipping into her veins.
"You're defence is much better my dear, I think you find I was correct in ordering your rest."
Hermione finds the slight smile on his lips disturbing; she slinks past him through the open door. On edge, she watches Dumbledore shut the door quietly, her eyes connecting with McGonagall who is holding a letter. Handing the letter over Hermione takes it skimming over the elegant handwriting.
"You said I wouldn't have to see her again." Hermione says crunching the letter in her fist.
"You have a say if you want to meet Mrs Rothstein," Dumbledore reassures.
"Well I don't want to." Is the petulant reply from the young witch.
"However," Dumbledore interrupts moving round the room to pick up a cup of tea.
"However nothing, I don't want to meet the demented bitch!" Hermione hisses.
"Mia!" McGonagall warns.
Dumbledore silences McGonagall's' warning with a wave of his hand sending a reassuring look towards the Professor, before gazing over his tea at the witch who is fuming by the fire place.
"However, we see it necessary that you meet with the parents."
"You've got to be kidding me!" Hermione laughs. "You looked me in the eye and swore that I wouldn't meet them ever again."
"One of us or both will be present." McGonagall says gently.
"Oh that's reassuring, if you forgot you were there last time and they walked me right past you!" Accuses Hermione pointing her finger at the witch.
"They won't be able to talk to you without one of us present."
"You sound like a broken record."
"The Rothstein's believe they may be able to help with the Oblivate curse." Dumbledore says before taking a sip of his tea.
"That's a load of ball and you know it." Hermione cannot believe what she is hearing the two people who promised to look after her are putting her back in danger. "What do they want?"
"We've told you," McGonagall tries.
"No!" Hermione warns throwing the letter into the burning fire behind her. "What do they want? They do not help especially someone like me! What do you know?"
Hermione knew exactly what they wanted; they wanted to know if she knew what happened to their daughter. They were going to come regardless of Dumbledore's approval, but she would not have it. She did not want to be thrown around like a rag doll, degraded, she was Hermione Granger, and she was a person.
"As you were aware there was a break out from Azkaban." McGonagall informs Hermione, making eye contact with Dumbledore. They do not know I know that is what Dumbledore was after in my mind. Hermione cannot help the internal smile, she may have fooled Dumbledore this time but she would need to practice more to keep up her defences.
"What does that have to do with this?" Hermione asks as angry as possible, what better way to hide her knowledge than through anger.
"Mia Rothstein, the real one escaped from Azkaban the other night." Dumbledore finishes McGonagall's speech. "We fear she may either make an attempt to harm you and the Rothstein's think you may know something."
"So not only was I not informed that the woman I am currently acting as is loose, you forget also to mention that the Rothstein's are coming to see me!" Hermione shouts, unable to control her anger.
"We understand your anger; we were only recently informed ourselves." Minerva tries her best to calm the fuming witch.
"You have a funny way of doing things." The young witch says shaking her head in disbelief.
"The night you duelled with Bellatrix, was there anything out of the usual?" Dumbledore questions her unexpectedly.
Hermione stumbles on the question, she can see the disbelief in Minerva's eyes, followed by hurt, which quickly turns to betrayal, and she deserves the look of disapproval. She had lied to her friend, but it was to protect the other, so she was right in doing so. Wasn't she? Besides, it was her choice to fight Bellatrix, her actions, her consequences.
"You said you were hit by a second year, I knew I shouldn't have believed that story. I will punish Bellatrix accordingly." McGonagall promises.
"Firstly I saw nothing that night, secondly I was the one who challenged Bellatrix to a duel, and if you want anyone to punish it will be me." Hermione declares.
Stunned, McGonagall blinks she knows she should treat Mia like any other, but she also knows that the girl has unimaginable pressure on her shoulders. If I am lenient on her now she may act up again, however she has been through so much. She has every right to be angry. Looking towards Dumbledore, McGonagall sees the conflict in his eyes too. They were at an impasse, they had to set an example, but no student has ever had such a difficult circumstance.
"You leave us no choice," McGonagall begins. "Mia you will have detention with me tomorrow."
Staring at the two Professor's she feels as though they just slapped her. She cannot handle their judging eyes; they have no right to judge her! She has been through hell for this world, stared into the eyes of a hollow deranged woman, looked the devil in the eye and watches her best friend rise from the dead. They have no right to look at her in disappointment. She sees nothing but red, her eyes blur for a second, her wands tingles against her skin. She needs to leave, leave before she does something she regrets.
"I will not stand in the same room as that woman." Hermione says darkly, before walking through the door.
Both Professor's watch the witch disappear through the door. Dumbledore nods his head slightly before stirring his tea as McGonagall tries to erase the darkness she had just seen swirling in the witch's depths.
"That went well I think." Dumbledore confides, just as the door slams shut shaking the whole room. "Very well."
"I think it could have gone better," McGonagall murmurs falling into her chair. "Do you think she already knew of the real Mia?"
"I believe she is hiding something and I have no doubt her and Bellatrix saw Mia the other night." Dumbledore agrees placing his empty cup on the table.
"Well there's no use asking Bellatrix, she's bound to cause a fuss and probably much worse."
"I believe it is best to let them be. None the less we will have to concede the Rothstein's to visit,"
"Mia will not be happy." McGonagall warns.
"No, however we have little choice, let her calm down and speak to her tomorrow." Dumbledore advises making his way out the door.
"Albus, what about the raging witch we just sent into the school?"
"Oh, I have a meeting unfortunately." Dumbledore smiles before vanishing.
"Of course you do, it appears I will have to deal with the angry Mia, and I thought Bellatrix was a handful."
~~~~~ Turn Time ~~~~~
When the day has come, that I've lost my way around…
Feeling the anger burning inside, Hermione tries to concentrate on anything but the conversation she had just had. The noise in the corridor grows louder, deafening almost. A group of Slytherin's occupy a small corner yelling abuse at passing students. Why won't they shut up? Why can't they just give her peace? There's tension building inside her mind, clawing at the walls of the confines of her brain, begging for release. Her hands twitch wanting so badly to hold her wand, to lash out. She should off gone to her room. Practised her magic, hid for a while to control her anger, she should of stayed out of the public's eye. She never should have gone to see Narcissa Malfoy!
So many thoughts clouding her mind, she just wants to eat and surrender to the shadows. Hide in plain sight; she did not deserve any of this. Someone bumps into her and the cloud swarming in her mind grows, the noise builds.
"Oi Rothstein watch where you're going." She does not recognise the voice, she can hear as loud as day. She can feel piercing eyes on her.
Why can't they just leave her alone? If she could see herself in the mirror perhaps she would see the swirl of darkness cloud her hazel eyes, see the demon clawing for release. She stops and turns to the boy gloating behind her.
"Go to hell." She hisses a flash of light sends the boy flying backwards, a shrill scream leaving his lips.
The noise stops, everything stops, finally silence reigns. She is unsure what spell she hit the lad with all she knows is; he isn't dead.
"Anyone else?" She demands, she does not recognise her voice, but she does hear a slight murmur to her right a Slytherin.
Her eyes barely connect with his before a full body bind contains him, sending him paralysed to the ground. No one else voices their opinion. Out of the corner of her eye, she sees Tammy exiting the great hall. Do not come near me I cannot protect you. Her mind whispers.
"Mia," A voice whispers, she turns to see Andy standing a few feet away.
Glancing at the witch, she sees something she thought she would never see in a human being looking at her. Fear. Pure fear. By this point, the hall is empty. Only Andy is brave enough to stay, the younger witch takes a small step closer.
"Mia, it's okay." She says in a low voice.
"Not now Andy," Hermione warns her friend.
Nodding, Andy holds out her hand. Frowning Hermione turns to look at her. "It's okay, do you want to get something to eat?" she asks.
Nodding slowly, Hermione steps towards the witch she catches sight of McGonagall entering the scene, she sees the look of surprise and shock spread across her features before her eyes settle on Hermione. Ignoring her, the witch begins to follow Andromeda; a small touch on her arm informs her that Andy is guiding her into the hall.
Finding a seat on the Ravenclaw table, Hermione looks up surprised when Andy sits opposite her. Pouring the witch a drink, Andy settles kind eyes on her friend, ignoring the gossiping voices around them.
"Oh god," Hermione groans, resting her face in her hands, what had she done? She had struck a boy; she had willing caused harm to another human being for no reason. Feeling revolted by her actions Hermione gulps the drink down, refusing to meet the other witch's eyes. "I… I didn't mean for that to happen." She stutters.
"I know," Andy, says softly and low enough not to gain attention. "Eat and will go somewhere quiet to talk."
"Andy," Hermione whispers lifting haunted eyes to her friend. "I'm turning into them." Her voice so hollow it sends shivers down Andy spines.
"I don't know who they are, but I think right now is not the time to judge yourself." Andy advises.
"I feel sick."
"Regret I believe." Andy says wanting nothing more than to hug the witch.
Nodding, Hermione slips toast between her teeth, she cannot taste anything it's all numb to her. Andy does her best not to watch her like a hawk instead she flips through the newspaper occasionally talking about something or another. It becomes a blur to Hermione. What have I done? Her mind whispers replaying the scene in her head. It was just a big blank, she could not really remember exactly what happened, and all she could remember was seeing red. A red cloud covering her sight, she acted on instinct as though she was back at Hogwarts's during the final battle. She feels cold and alone. Who am I? A question she asks herself every day, every time she looks in the mirror she sees someone different.
Looking up from her plate, she sees Andy's lips moving but does not hear any words coming out from them. Swallowing the bile forcing its way up, her eyes slowly track across the room. Time seems to have slowed, she watches owls slowly sweep overhead, and there wings slowly flapping, she sees each feather bristle with the movement. A seventh year laughs so much his pumpkin juice spills from his lips, his eyes close as the drink second by second flies through the air. As though on auto her eyes find the Slytherin table. Her eyes connect with black ones; Bellatrix is watching her, not even trying to hide the fact. Swarmed by her friends, she sits among them the only one moving at normal speed, her eyes say different things, but there is some concern leaking through them. She wonders what her own say.
A crash to her right startles her, and she turns to see an embarrassed Hufflepuff dripping in juice and red. Shivering Hermione, glances at her companion, who is the only one watching her.
"I need to leave." Hermione whispers, not able to deal with the laughter and shouts building in the hall.
"Okay, let's go for a walk." Andy agrees, pushing away from the table.
Feeling the burning gaze of Professor McGonagall, Hermione takes her leave from the room; she ignores as much muttering as possible. They walk as quickly and respectably as possibly from the school, as soon as fresh air hits Hermione's face she takes a lung full. Breathing a sigh of relief, she rotates her shoulders, trying to dispel the tension in them. Wandering down to the lake, Andy wonders what might have caused the other girls anger it could not have been Bellatrix as she walked with Andy to the hall. It was unusual to wake to Bellatrix standing over her bed and a little bit frightening. Yet, her sister merely wanted to walk with her, wanted to talk. She ignored the dishevelled stat her sister was in; obviously, the witch had spent most the night awake. Too happy to have her sister by her side she engaged in any conversation even if it was about hating muggles. Even then, her sister was lacking her usual biting tone.
Andy had to cut their chat short though because she wanted to stop by the library to pick up a book that was when she ran into Hermione. It did not scare her when she saw the look in the witch's eyes; in fact, she had seen it a few times in Bellatrix's eyes.
With a question on the tip of her tongue, she follows the older witch down the path to the lake, watches as Hermione kneels next to the lake. Watches as the girl closes her eyes, as she sees the tension in her shoulder disappears, the first and only tear to slip between her tightly shuteyes. She watches as the pear drop shape tumbles into the tranquil lake, sending ripples out across the vast surface. A drop in the ocean.
Settling near the tree line, Andy is content to let the witch calm down before questioning her. She plays with the thin lines of grass, feeling the moisture between her fingers. She listens to the noise of the castle and the slow murmuring of life within the forest, the chirping of birds in the trees above.
"Ask your questions." Hermione murmurs, finally opening her eyes, she places a burning hand flat against the water surface.
"What upset you?" Andy questions, leaning forward to rest on her knees.
"McGonagall gave me detention."
"What for?"
"The duel with Bellatrix, she was going to give it to your sister but I said it was my fault." Hermione pulls back from the water, deciding to sit cross-legged instead.
"You could have blamed Bella,"
"It was my choice, my fault. That is not all though, they've told me I have to meet with my 'parents'." Hermione cannot help the hiss that slips into her voice.
"But you said that you wouldn't have to."
"Yeah well new circumstances."
"Well they can't, what happens if Rothstein does that thing to you again." Andy winces as she sees Hermione clench her jaw. Perhaps I should not have mentioned it. She thinks to herself.
"I apparently will have Dumbledore or McGonagall with me." Hermione says finally, finishes the topic. "You should head back to class."
Nodding to herself, Andy knows when someone is dismissing her, getting to her feet she brushes herself down. She knows she will have a run in with Bellatrix, knows that there will a barrage of questions. Before taking her leave, Andy does something very bold. She walks over to the witch and hugs her; she feels Hermione freeze against the embrace but ignores it.
"If you need someone to talk to you know where I am." She whispers.
Pulling away Andy begins to head back to the castle when Hermione's voice stops her. "If you see Bella, tell her I'll be late. She knows what I mean."
"If she asks why?" Andy wonders, knowing her sister will be demanding questions.
"Tell her I have detention, I'll speak to her myself. Thank you Andy, I don't know what I'll do without you." Hermione confesses.
"Oh I don't know you'll probably have fun hexing students." She snipes, seeing the slight curl on the other witch's lips.
Hermione listens to the retreating footsteps of her friend; she was still coming to terms of her actions. She stares at the lake, she had so many memories of sitting by the lake, exploring the forest, and she had done so much in her short years. Glancing at the scar on her hand from where the time glass cut her, she traces the sand marks that stain her veins. Unravelling her charm, she stares down at the childish writing on her arm. Such a bold statement. Mudblood.
"Did you know?" Hermione asks the sky, "Did you know I would lose myself in this façade?"
Tracing the letters, she feels some of her own original blood still pumping. "I'm morphing into something I don't recognise. It terrifies me, that I have no control. If you saw me now, would you even recognise me?" Hermione questions, she is not sure who she is asking only wondering if the girl staring up at her from her reflection knows what happened to Hermione Granger.
~~~~~ Turn Time ~~~~~
And the seasons stop and hide beneath the ground
"Psst," the hushed voice whispers. "Bellatrix." Another try to gain the interest of the snoozing dark witch.
Cracking an eye open, Bellatrix studies the grubby face staring at her. Stretching her arms and causing a few in her class to flinch, she rests her arms on the table, cocking her head to the side; she waits for Goyle to continue.
"Did you hear about Rothstein?" He asks knowing he now has her attention.
Rolling her eyes, Bella leans back she had hoped he might have more interesting news than that. "Of course she heard I told her you idiot." Malfoy retorts.
"Well what you going to do?" Goyle questions.
"Nothing." Bellatrix grumbles putting her feet on the table to try to get her comfort back.
"Well she needs a lesson."
"Give her one then." Bellatrix says, smirking at the sight of Goyle sinking into his chair.
"I will," Malfoy, hisses, "I'll give the bitch a lesson she won't forget."
"Leave it Malfoy," Bella mumbles closing her eyes once again.
"If we leave it."
"Nothing will happen," Bellatrix says. "The kid had it coming."
"You don't get it Black, that bitch publicly humiliated me." Lucius spits.
"I humiliate you all the time," Bellatrix shrugs. "Remember when I hexed your towel; you couldn't walk straight for weeks."
Goyle starts laughing, "Ha, that was great… You couldn't even mast…"
"Shut up." Malfoy warns the wizard. "That's different."
"Same thing."
"You're a friend, she protected a mudblood."
"Aww I'm your friend?" Bellatrix coos, smiling sweetly at the wizard. "We should go shopping together, spend some time."
"She humiliated me." Lucius barks slapping his hand down on the table.
"And you should accept it." Bellatrix orders, slamming her fist onto the table and kicking her chair behind her. "She beat you fair and square, don't come crying to me." Bella warns, sending both men death glares.
"Black."
"Malfoy, learn to land on your feet in a duel and you might win one." She scoffs, before pushing the table into the two men, making them jump.
Sending her work to the Professor with a flick of her wand before leaving the classroom, Bellatrix cannot help but wonder if the wizard will go against her wishes. If he does, Mia will sort him out. She agrees with the internal thought, strolling through the halls of the castle, she finds little to interest her. She wonders what might have caused Mia to act so rationally, she seemed so mad it even matched her own madness.
"Bella!" Pausing in her internal monologue, she turns to greet her sister.
"Andy," Bella acknowledges.
"Sorry Bella," Andy says puffing out a few breaths. "You walk fast." She grumbles.
"What do you want Andy?" Bella asks.
"Mia asked me to give you a message."
Ignoring the jealously clawing at her back, Bella nods for the witch to continue. "She says she'll be late, because she has detention."
"Detention?" Bella replies tasting the word on her tongue. "With who?"
"McGonagall I think."
"Thank you Andy." Bella nods, before leaving her sister confused in the corridor.
Anyone who knew Bellatrix would know the look of determination on her face was a bad thing. Taking the stairs two at a time, she finally reaches the floor she wanted. Reaching into her pocket, she notices even the portraits are watching her. She stops outside a classroom that is open slightly, leaning against the door. Her eyes connect with another student; it takes a second before hushed whispers break out in an unusual quiet class. She counts in her head the time it takes for the clicking of heels to approach, before the door to the classroom opens and a wary Professor McGonagall is standing in front of her.
"Miss Black you best have a good reason for interrupting my class?" McGonagall demands.
A sadistic smile creeps on the witch's lips, McGonagall inwardly sighs, and she knows she has just walked into a trap.
~~~~~ Turn Time ~~~~~
When the sky turns grey and everything is screaming…
Hermione tries her best not to sulk as she makes her way to her detention. Never in her life has she received detention for something she has done. It was always Harry fault she received detention, now it was all her fault and it was because of her anger nothing else. Feeling sorry for herself, she pushes the door open to Professor McGonagall's classroom open she stops in surprise. Bellatrix is at the back of the classroom, doodling on a table with her wand.
"Mia takes a seat." Professor McGonagall says from behind her desk.
"Um," Hermione pauses unsure what to think of the new arrival. She glances at the few others who have also joined them. Making up her mind she makes her way to sit with Bellatrix, she waits just in case the girl sends her away, when she doesn't she takes a seat.
She does not need to look up to know McGonagall has raised an eyebrow at her seat choice. She looks around the room and realises it's not its normal tidy room. The other few students are glancing at the two witches sinking further into their seats.
"Feels good doesn't it." Bellatrix whispers in her ear, her arm curling round the back of Hermione. "Knowing that we are the two most powerful duellist in the school."
"Are we?" Hermione drawls.
"Well ever since you knocked Malfoy on his arse yes we are."
"And if I beat you?" Hermione asks smirking at the witch.
"You can't," Bellatrix murmurs,
"Ladies." McGonagall's sharp voice causes both girls to jump and look towards their Professor. "Although you both may have no work to complete, it does not give you permission to talk."
Mumbling apologises, both girls withdraw from each other; Hermione rests her head in her arms staring absently at the window, while Bellatrix commits vandalism.
"Why are you here?" Hermione whispers, unable to ignore the question any longer.
"Andy told me you would be," Bella shrugs. "Thought I might as well take this time to share with you what I found." Digging through her bag, she retrieves a book, ignoring McGonagall's wary gaze.
"You got detention so we could study?"
"Yes," Bella replies staring at the other witch as though she was the confusing one.
"How did you get detention?"
"It's not hard," Bella admits, opening to the page she wants before sliding the book in front of Hermione.
"I don't understand we've been through all this before."
"I know but I had an idea in the shower, look here." Leaning against Hermione, she points to a certain phrase in the book. "Patient A11 was entered into St Mungo's with little memory of where they came from. We believe the patient to be subject to a Forgetfulness Charm and subsequently unable to provide any details of themselves except their name." Bella reads the paragraph.
"Bella we read this." Hermione murmurs, loving the sound of the hushed tones of the other witch's voice. I wonder if I could make her talk like that in a different setting… Shaking the improper thought from her mind she realises Bellatrix is staring at her. "What?"
"You zoned out," Bella sighs. "I said listen." Rolling her eyes at Hermione, Bellatrix resumes her reading. "There has been an unfortunate circumstance, another patient escaped from their bonds and attacked patient A11. Using a forbidden curse the patient is now in Azkaban, but by happy circumstance, patient A11 has recovered their memory if not traumatised by the ordeal. We can establish severe torture can break the memory charms. As I finish writing this though, Patient A11 took their life the other day having realised they were the one who placed the charm on themselves, and they have no family left."
"Well that's both tragic and useful," Hermione mumbles. "I can't use a curse to bring their memories back."
"Of course not… Are you sure?" Bellatrix asks.
"I'm not using a curse on them." Hermione replies.
"Okay, okay that's fine but it still helps."
"How does it help? I can't curse them."
"I understand that, however I read it as not torture, but a severe shock will bring their memories back. You wouldn't have to curse them as such perhaps make a potion that could be enough of a shock on its own?" Bellatrix summarises. "Although I can curse them if you want."
"No cursing," Hermione demands.
"Wow alright I get it." Bellatrix grumbles closing the book and slipping it into her bag.
"Ladies, I don't want to have to tell you again!" McGonagall calls.
"We're studying!" Bellatrix replies indignantly.
"Studying?" McGonagall says sceptically, peering over her book at the two girls. "I find that hard to believe, you are both ahead of your classes by three months, what could you be studying?"
"You're at the same level as me?" Bellatrix asks staring at Hermione.
"I thought you knew," Hermione answers.
"No, since when, how come you're that far ahead?" The dark witch demands.
"Because I read a lot," Hermione pouts, unnerved she was the same level as the other witch. "And why didn't you tell me, you said you were studying the other day."
"For my Owls."
"Ladies!" McGonagall interrupts. "I understand you are both fiercely competitive but can you wait until you out of my classroom please before engaging in an argument."
"I don't know that's how I got detention." Hermione drones resting her chin on her arms.
"That's why you have detention?" Bella questions studying the witch next to her.
"Yeah, Dumbledore knew we were out the other night."
"You didn't tell me." Bella says sounding upset.
"I didn't get a chance, this is the first time I've seen you." Hermione replies.
"Why didn't you blame it on me?" Bella demands nudging the witch to get her full attention.
"Ladies!"
"Ow! Hermione grumbles rubbing her side. "Because I was the one who challenged you, my fault."
"Oh for goodness sake." McGonagall fumes, placing her book on the table and moving towards the two witch's at the back of the room.
"You still could have blamed me."
"Why would I?" Hermione asks baffled why the witch is pressing this.
"Because I won, you don't have an axe to grind?"
"Ladies this is your last warning." McGonagall warns reaching their table.
"Why can't you accept I just did something nice?" Hermione questions the dark witch next to her.
"Because it's a lie, people think only of themselves." Bella retorts angrily.
"Yeah well get over it, I did it 'cause I didn't want to go back to fighting, because believe it or not I actually enjoy spending time with you." Hermione says getting to her feet. "And even if it does sound crazy and stupid, but it's true, so get over yourself will you."
Bellatrix watches opened mouthed as the witch storms out of the classroom, McGonagall with the witch's name on her lips lets it slide. She glances down at the confused witch at her table. Oh, gods please do not tell me this is what I think it is. McGonagall begs silently. She watches as the dark witch goes to follow, silently Minerva places her hand on the young girls shoulder.
"Let her calm down, and then talk to her." McGonagall advises, offering the girl a small smile before walking away.
"Don't touch me…" Bella growls sinking into her chair.
McGonagall smiles at the regular retort from the young witch, Bellatrix were not anything if not predictable at times. Settling at the front of the class, she wonders if she should find Mia, but knows the girl has probably gone somewhere to calm down. She hears an angry hiss from the witch at the back but she soon settles down. Perhaps Dumbledore was right; Mia and Bellatrix might be good for one another.
Confused, upset and mostly angry, Bellatrix tries to understand what just happened. She had just argued with her friend, because said friend was being caring. What is wrong with me? With a loud thump, she drops her head on the table, not only that she has given reassurance to her archenemy, McGonagall. What is wrong with this world?
~~~~~~ Turn Time ~~~~~~
I will reach inside, just to find my heart is beating…
A palm whips through the air connecting with the distorted reflection of the mirror. Shards of glass shatter, they drop to the floor like tears of ice. The sound echoes in the dimly lit room. Hermione stands surrounded by an echo of herself staring back up at her. Each individual piece of mirror, a startling reflection of her current situation.
The simple dripping of water is the background noise of the empty room. Her bare feet graze the ring of glass. She was so tired of seeing her scars; they reminded her of the reasons why she was here in the first place. I left nothing back home.
"This is ridiculous." Hermione sighs, stepping over the mess on the floor.
She walks towards the edge of the giant bath, as though sensing her approach the bath springs to life. Boiling hot water seeps from the ornate taps, steam begins to fill the room. The remaining mirrors begin to disappear behind a fog. She lives for these moments where her reflection disappears and the ugly scars are nothing but a fantasy in a foggy land.
She dips her toe in the water, the bath still not quite full, warm enough though to make her want to dive in. She resists the temptation and steps back from the edge. Sidling back to where the sinks line the wall, she sheds her t-shirt, now happy enough to know her reflection will not taunt her tonight. She places the t-shirt on top of her robe; she glances at her arm the charm was still in place. Nevertheless, she could feel the mark prodding at her skin, reminding her of who she truly is. It is funny I have to hide everything that I truly am, outside and in.
If you knew Bella that I am to be your future captive, would you refrain from scaring me. On the other hand, did you do it intentionally?
Hermione shook her head, she could remember that night as clear as any other night. The look in the future Bellatrix's eyes was not one of recognition. Nothing but fear hid in the depths of the dark witch's eyes. Fear and anger.
I received the fear you marked me forever with. I know if you were angry; I would have died that night. You would have had more joy in torturing me like the Longbottom's. Yet, I live. You took many things from me that night except my life, now I am beginning to wonder if you took that to. I have one question Bella. Who received your anger? You were filled with joy at the time of the battle, so whom Bella, took the aftermath of our actions. We broke into your vault and unwilling but not regrettably we broke you and your masters trust in one another.
I am responsible for what would be an unbearable torment at your Lord's hands. It was my plan. My idea. I got us in and I broke us out. I stole from you Bella. However, it was your fault. If you had not said anything out of fear, I would never had known about it. You brought it in on yourself.
I only lit the fire that would engulf you. If I could save you Bellatrix, I think I would. Do not mistake me for a hero. I have no right to forgive you and I do not think I will ever forgive you. Save you however, may just be a possibility.
"I wouldn't even be in this mood if it wasn't for Minerva." Hermione grumbles aloud. "It's not like we caused too much of a fuss."
You sunk to a lower level.
Hermione outwardly winced; it would appear her conscience was not on her side today. The clinking of glass drew her out of stupor. Realising she would not be bathing in peace today, she lets out a sigh. All she needs now is to turn round and find Bella standing there with that smug look on her face. Knowing she cannot ignore the other presence forever, she turns to see who is willingly invading her peace.
"Tammy?" Hermione says in a mixture of surprise and annoyance.
She was happy the girl was okay since her ordeal, but was not exactly happy that she the girl had chosen now to talk to her. She could barely make out the other girls silhouette in the candle light, however she did not need to see the face to read the Ravenclaw in front of her. The twitching hands were a dead giveaway to how nervous Tammy was. Hermione frowned; didn't Tammy have prefect duty tonight? Then why was she here?
"Mia," Hermione blinks, was it her or did Tammy's voice sound huskier than normal?
Opening her mouth to respond, Hermione finds her personal space invaded. Lips hungrily clash with Hermione's, knocking the wind from her lungs as she stumbles back into the sink behind. Tammy follows her, trapping Hermione between the hard surface of the sink and the still developing body of the girl pressing into her. The kiss is clumsy as Tammy tries to control it, but has little or no experience in such things. Hands grip at her shoulders like a child holding onto a mother, too afraid of being pushed away.
Hermione can tell Tammy is kissing her with all her might. A shiver runs through her, this is not what she wants. She feels Tammy asking for entrance to her mouth, but this has gone on long enough. Breaking the kiss and pushing the girl away, she watches through sharp eyes as the girl stumbles in a daze.
"Tammy," Her tone is warning and she feels slightly bad for making the girl flinch.
"What's wrong?" Tammy asks, tears in her eyes.
"I don't feel anything towards you past friendship."
"But the way you act, you only speak to me, you saved me!" Tammy cries, her voice turning raw, tears streak her face.
"I apologise it was not my intention to lead you on. But you're mistaking gratitude for something else."
"No I'm not I love you!" Tammy steps forward once more. "The moment you came here, I supported you, I stood up for you. You spent time with me when you wouldn't with anyone else. I helped you when no one else would."
"This isn't love this is mistaken feelings. You never stood by me, you ran away at seeing Bellatrix. You ran away when McGonagall came to see what all the commotion was. Don't you dare stand there and pretend you care. You loved the attention of being with someone famous. It made you feel good; you felt like you mattered other than being a mudblood for all to see." Did I just say mudblood?
"That's not true…" Tammy stammers.
"Not true?" Hermione laughs, who did this girl, think she was kidding. "You're no different than the other sheep that trailed after me."
Hermione feels regret weigh at her heart when facing the shattered girl in front of her. She may have gone too far, but if she did not stop this infatuation now, then it would just cause problems later.
"Tammy, I'm not the person you think I am."
"You are you're different from all the others." Came the hoarse reply.
"Am I? You don't know a single thing about me."
"You don't hurt people."
"I hurt you. Since being here I've hurt a lot of people, they just don't realise it."
"No you're different." Tammy repeated trying to convince herself.
She moves forward closing the gap, but Hermione puts her arm out to stop her. A surprise gasp escapes Tammy's lips as she catches sights of the scars on Hermione's torso. She stumbles back on her own accord, horror written all over her face.
"That can only be caused by a crucio." She murmurs.
Hermione hums in agreement, not bothering to look at her scars she knew they were there. Disgust flickers across Tammy's face as she stares at the scars before looking Hermione in the eyes.
"You use unforgivable curses." Wait isn't it obvious I was the one cursed. "I've seen the state of your room, I've seen that book."
"Tammy…" Hermione says stepping forward.
"Don't come near me, I was wrong. You are just like them you are all the same. You, the Malfoy's, the Black's. You disgust me."
Shocked, Hermione can only gape in wonder, how did this happen? When did she sink to the level of the likes of Malfoy?
"Now that's not very nice Eames," Bellatrix voice rings out, echoing in the bathroom making both girls jump and step away from one another.
"Black," Tammy murmurs not meeting the eye of the dark witch.
Bellatrix saunters into the room, her eyes sweep over Hermione's barely clad self, before turning back to the other Ravenclaw. Grinning, Bellatrix cannot believe her luck at walking on such a scene.
"I thought you loved Rothstein," Bella taunts the blushing girl.
"You heard that?" Tammy stammers sinking under the gaze of the Slytherin.
"Quite a romantic speech, Eames. Declaring your undying love for a pureblood. It's comical to think filth such as you would even think a pureblood would batter an eye lid at you."
"That's enough," Hermione snaps, knowing Tammy is seconds from bursting out crying.
"Come now Rothstein you just broke her heart and now you want to play the hero." Bellatrix cackles.
"I'm not a damn hero!" Hermione thunders, surprising both witches. Why did everyone think she was a hero? "And you do not love me," She continues pointing her finger at the crying witch. "You mistake gratitude for a feeling you have no comprehension of, take your infatuation somewhere else. Do I make myself clear?"
Tammy nods shrinking away from the furious witch.
"Good now get out!"
"Mia," Tammy whispers.
"OUT!" Hermione bellows, startling the witch so much she flees without a second glance.
Hermione watches the witch flee before turning sorry eyes on to her own body. She takes small steps to the broken glass on the floor, until she feels the reassuring bite of glass against the skin on her feet. A disassembled person stares back up at her through hollow eyes and she wonders when her own reflection became her enemy.
A warm hand on the base of her back startles her, Bellatrix leans against her, peering over her shoulder at the empty mirror. Hermione watches as the small pieces of glass levitate into the air, slowly clicking into place. She swallows at seeing her body, grimaces at the marks on her body, her eyes automatically trails the scars. Am I truly a monster? She wonders.
"Ignore the girl," Bella whispers into her ear.
"She's right though, I'm hideous."
"No you're beautiful," Bella murmurs nuzzling the witch's neck. "I can make you shine." She continues.
Transfixed, Hermione follows the dark witch's hand glide across her torso. She expects the scars to disappear, expects the witch to hide them. Instead, Bella traces them with delicacy that causes Hermione to shiver. The sensation of Bella running her fingers down her body makes her squirm, and she leans further back into the embrace.
"Don't hide from me," The husky tone of the dark witch causes Hermione's insides to dance out of control. "Dance with me."
"There's no music," Hermione chuckles.
"There is," Bella replies placing her hand over Hermione's heart. "You just have to listen close."
The doors to the bath slowly close; as Bella slips her arms around Hermione, taking the lead, she guides the witch slowly, sensually. The warmth of the dark witch causes Hermione's brain to turn to mush; there is a thundering noise in her ears as all blood rushes around her bed. A noise makes laugh in joy as a music begins to play.
"How?" Hermione asks she could not see any device that was playing music, where was the noise coming from.
"It's a trick I learned." Bella shrugs. "It's the music in your mind amplified by your wand, just go with it."
Shaking her head at the unexpected witch, Hermione listens to the rhythm of the song. The soft melody of violins, the soothing almost erotic playing of the pianos. She feels the beat playing against her side as Bella keeps in tune. Resting her head against the dark witch's shoulder Hermione sighs, enjoying the intoxicating sense of the witch in her arms. It felt safe, spice and something else she could not place.
"Bella," Hermione breathes. "What are we doing?"
"Dancing in the moon light." Bella answers winking at the witch before spinning in her arms. "I wanted to thank you, for not getting me detention."
"You still got detention."
"Yes," Bella confirms stopping the dance placing her hands on the witch's shoulders as she stares into Hermione eyes. "Because I wanted to see you."
"You've seen me," The words slip between Hermione's lips as her eyes glance down at her own body.
"Yes," Bella repeats before grinning. "Well I want to see a lot more." Taking a step closer, her lips hover above Hermione's own. "Perhaps another day though…" She murmurs, causing Hermione to blink repeatedly. "You need a bath."
A sharp shove sends Hermione into the bath behind her. Water envelopes her in a warm hug as bubbles swallow her as a long lost friend. Breaking the surface she coughs up bubbles opening her mouth to yell at the dark witch another wave engulfs her as Bellatrix lands in the bath with a splash. Spluttering, Hermione wipes the water from her eyes and looks for the elusive witch in the bath. A hand on her ankle tugs her under; she manages to catch her breath as she plunges into the depths of the scented bath.
Dark eyes find hers beneath the surface, as a warm hand cups her face. Hermione tightens her grip on Bella; she had never been a fan of swimming ever since the Triwizard tournament. However, here, she feels connected, as her only sense that is working is her eyes. She swallows at seeing Bellatrix dressed in a similar state as her. Her eyes take in every curve, wishing they were above water to see her in all her glory. Soft lips press against hers and she falters its mesmerising. She feels as though she is flying, all her senses are gone. She can only feel the feel of the witch's lips, she clutches tighter to the dark witch before realising she's human… she needs air.
Guiding the witch in her arms to the surface, Bella watches as Hermione takes deep breaths, shivering as Hazel eyes observe her through half lidded eyes. She swallows knowing she has just willingly placed herself in a vulnerable position. As soon as she has air in her lungs, Hermione lunges at the dark witch, managing to keep them above water. Pressing the witch against the side of the tub, her hands circle Bella's shoulders as their lips touch.
So lost in the moment, Hermione does not register the puckered skin under her finger tips straight away, when she does she pulls back smirking slightly at the witch who still is lost in the moment. She gasps at seeing small scars decorate the dark witch's body. When Bella finally comes to, she knows her darkest secret is out, waiting anxiously she studies the other witch.
"What happened?" Hermione asks finally finding her voice.
"A lot of things, I deserve most of them."
"No one deserves this Bella." Hermione growls, angry that someone would think they deserve this kind of torture.
"Hey," Bella coos, gently forcing the witch to meet her eyes by cradling her chin. "You have your own scars I have mine."
"Tell me about them," Hermione requests tracing one scar on the shoulder that reminded her of a star.
"One day," Bella promises, "Just not tonight."
Nodding, Hermione smiles, unable to hide the blush that creeps onto her face. Here she is in a bath half-naked with another woman. When did I become gay? She asks herself. Bellatrix smiles at the cute smile gracing Hermione's lips.
"Don't go shy on me," Bella laughs, attacking the witch. "I might just have to torture you."
"Don't you dare!" Hermione warns paddling back away from the prowling witch, she cannot help the small smile on her face at seeing the amused glint in Bella's eyes.
"I think tickling is a very effective way."
"Bella," Hermione shouts, just as Bella launches herself.
In all her time at Hogwarts's, this is the only time Hermione has truly felt welcomed and at peace. Resting in between the arms of a certain dark witch. She has lost so much, perhaps though, she could redeem herself, by fixing the witch behind her. She was not the only tortured soul in the tub. She feels Bella rest her head on her shoulder knowing the witch is staring the reflection of the moon on the lakes surface. Warmth touches her heart and she feels herself truly relax.
"I don't want to go back." She whispers to herself sleepily, wanting to crawl into bed to sleep.
"You have to go back. You live in a different dorm." Bella mumbles. "Even though I think you should be in Slytherin."
"Not what I meant." Is the haunting answer, as the witch cuddles into the embrace?
"I won't go back to fighting you; I'm more than happy to side with you."
Still not what I meant, but you have no control over the other one. Hermione thinks sadly. "You'll willingly put yourself in harm's way to associate with me?"
"Hardly harm's way, besides, people fear you just as much as they do me."
"What about Malfoy? You have a reputation to uphold and he'll want revenge."
"It will be fine," Bellatrix, promises, sealing it with a kiss against Hermione's pulse point. "Just have faith in me."
Hermione does not answer the request and Bellatrix did not expect her to. They sit there for some time before shrivelling into prunes becomes too uncomfortable, dressing quietly they make their way back to their dorms. Bellatrix steals a quick kiss before disappearing in shadows, leaving a smiling Hermione to follow the trail to her own dorm.
What have I done?
I have fallen for her… And there is no escape. Throwing herself down on her bed, she curls into her cushion staring at the moon.
Bella wanders the dark tunnels to her dorm, panic riding through her veins.
What have I done?
I let her in… She could be my downfall…
Or my greatest ally.
Finding her bunk, she settles against the headboard before rolling on to her side before falling asleep watching the moon.
Oh, you tell me to hold on
Oh, you tell me to hold on
But innocence is gone
And what was right is wrong
'Cause I'm bleeding out
So if the last thing that I do
Is to bring you down
I'll bleed out for you
So I bare my skin
And I count my sins
And I close my eyes
And I take it in
And I'm bleeding out
I'm bleeding out for you (for you)
A/N: So who saw that coming? Yeah, well i enjoyed it :P Love to hear your thoughts guys. If you excuse me this skint author is going to order food in and then prowl through fanfiction, I bid you good night.
Thank you to: White-walker89: it was not my intention to make it sound dirty, but if it helps I was going to name this chapter the 'morning after', so I think I have dirty mind as well.
A big thank you to chrisdenvl: yes that would be a bad thing if the time affected her (have you read my drafts?), you should like this chapter.
Also to psychotic-innocence because it's fun giving shout outs lol.
Sarronxo: is this enough for you or do you need more chapters? ;)