1971
An Old Friend
Bella followed the man down alleys and streets until he finally stopped in his tracks. She didn't know exactly why he had stopped, but she remained closely behind.
There was a moment of complete silence, then, "I know someone is following me." He said it loud enough for Bella to hear. He spun around and began to walk in her direction. "If you don't come out, I'll be forced to Hex you." He took his wand out.
Bella gulped. Finally, she stepped out from hiding. She walked toward him with her eyes down.
The Death Eater didn't say anything at first.
This is it. she thought. He's going to kill me.
"Bella?" the wizard sounded astounded. "Bella Black?"
Bella looked up at him. Out of nowhere, she recognized the face. "Rodolphus Lestrange?"
The wizard smiled at her.
Bella stepped forward to hug her friend from Hogwarts.
"I didn't know you were living in London." he told her.
"I didn't know you were." she replied coolly. "You haven't responded to any of my owls."
"Bella, I-"
"You were busy, I know."
"Don't be mad, Bella. I just-"
Bella stopped him. "Listen, I know about the Death Eaters."
Rodolphus paused. "Don't tell the Ministry on me, please, Bella."
Bella shook her head. "I wouldn't dream of that. In fact, quite the opposite." She cleared her throat. "I want in."
Rodolphus looked taken back. "Bella, it's not a club. You can't just join. There are strict initiation rules."
"Well, according to the prophecy, you need numbers. I'd like to help."
"But it's dangerous, Bella." Rodolphus argued.
"I can handle it, Rod. Take me to your headquarters. Teach me how to become a Death Eater."
Rodolphus shook his head slowly, disbelieving in the plan, but said, "Alright, Bella. But don't come crying to me when you get killed, or worse, put into Azkaban."
"I won't be, Rod, because you'll be dead or locked up with me."
Rodolphus sighed. "Follow me, Bella."
He led her down more alleys and streets.