AN: Trigger warnings to many things are present in this story. Don't like, don't read.

I don't own Harry Potter.

All spelling mistakes are my own. There are my own Original Characters in this at times.

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A wave of nausea threatened to claim Hermione as her feet landed back on the ground, her body feeling as if it had just been sucked through a straw. It took a moment for her to open her eyes and take in her surroundings. Potter was doubled over, hands on his knees trying desperately not to vomit. The green grassy fields stretched in every direction around them with a large barn structure towering in front of them a few meters away. She could feel the magic pulsing from the wards that surrounded the area and suddenly understood why they hadn't apparated next to the barn.

Harry frowned, "They chose a barn?"

Hermione snorted, "Look at it this way, if a battle breaks out at least it'll just be the barn that gets burned down, and not all of London."

Harry laughed and McGonagall's eyes sparkled with amusement even as she pressed her pale lips into a thin line, trying to suppress a smile. She shook her head, "Everyone should be here already."

They moved forward and entered the wards, sending a shiver down Hermione's spine. McGonagall flicked her wand at the doors, and they slowly began to swing open, creaking as they moved. A bright ball of white light hung in the middle of the room, above an old wooden rectangular table, chairs placed evenly around it. The smell of hay and dirt reached Hermione's nose and she wrinkled it against the overpowering scent. Soft whispers echoed from both sides of the room, but the voices were muffled, and the words were jumbled together.

She shared an eye roll with Harry at the absurdity of it, a game of 'you stay on your side of the room, and we'll stay on ours' being played out in front of them by adults. They stepped into the room, waiting until the doors closed behind them. The loud snap of the doors closing alerted everyone to the new arrivals and gasps were heard all around.

Narcissa's eyes landed on a young girl across the room, standing beside Minerva McGonagall. She knew who this girl was but her mind was struggling to match the girl she knew with the figure in front of her. Hermione's usually curly hair was straighter, eyes lined with darkness that Narcissa had never seen on her face before, even after the Triwizard Tournament. Her anger was a force that was struggling to be unleashed. She could see a slight glassy eyed look to the usually bright hazel eyes, and it unnerved her.

Hermione's tired eyes took a moment to adjust to the bright light, but as soon as she did, she scanned the left side of the room. Narcissa stood just behind Voldemort, her blonde hair hanging over each shoulder. Hermione couldn't stop her body from moving, her feet breaking into a run at the same time Harry sprinted towards Lupin. Her heart beat painfully hard in her chest as her eyes locked with bright blue, the woman's own nervous energy blazing deeply in their depths.

Hermione's heart clenched in relief that Narcissa was safe, uninjured as far as she knew, and right in front of her. It was a short distance but for Hermione it felt like too far, too long since she's been able to lay eyes upon her let alone hold her. She threw herself into the woman's arms, nearly wrapping her entire body around the woman's soft figure, already unsure if she could let Narcissa go. She buried her face in Narcissa's hair, inhaling the strong scent of perfume and vanilla, and Narcissa. She felt the tears burning her eyes as she squeezed them shut tightly focusing on the feeling of the woman's arms wrapping around her gently but firmly. She bit her lip to stop a sob from escaping her throat when Narcissa's voice began in her ear.

"I'm here honey. You're safe. I've got you." Narcissa's chest was tight, a feeling like a vice grip clenching tightly around her heart. She couldn't deny the shock of seeing Hermione. The girl's cheeks were sunken, dark circles showing how tired she was outwardly. Her arms around the girl proved just how much weight she had lost and Narcissa had to swallow the bite of anger at the feeling of Hermione's ribs protruding underneath her school uniform and robes. She pressed a kiss to Hermione's temple as she felt the girl's silent sob shake her body.

Voldemort's anger rose, seeing a shell of the girl he knew, "Why aren't you stopping this?" He hissed across the room towards Dumbledore.

Dumbledore turned his attention from Harry's pale face, eyes narrowing in anger, "I've been trying. Why do you think I'm here?"

McGonagall raised her hands, "Gentlemen. This is an emotional time for all of us. Now let's sit and try to work this through."

Hermione couldn't let go of Narcissa, refused to let go of her as she whispered in the woman's ear, "Draco. He got a letter about a family emergency, and I haven't heard anything. Umbridge said that Andromeda was called away for the same thing."

Narcissa eased back to look Hermione in the eye, "We are all fine. There was no emergency my Darling. Draco came home frantic as well, but everything is fine. He sent a letter that night, did you not receive it?"

Harry frowned across the room at them where he stood next to Lupin, "We aren't allowed post anymore. Umbridge said everything is being confiscated. She claims we are troublemakers and don't deserve privileges."

Narcissa pulled Hermione back into her arms, needing the girl closer, "I assure you we have letters waiting for you."

Lupin nodded at Harry, "As do we Harry."

Hermione glanced over at Harry, sharing a small smile, "We don't have much time. Let's get this over with." Narcissa guided Hermione to the seat on Voldemort's right before sitting right next to her, pulling her chair closer to the girl. Hermione grinned at Fenrir as he sat beside Narcissa, "Miss me Doggo?"

Fenrir snorted, "Like a dog with a bone." Hermione and Harry chuckled which caused Fenrir to frown confusedly at Harry.

Hermione shook her head, "Alright, can someone please fill us in. Harry and I have been out of the loop for too long." She leaned against Narcissa, needing the closeness, the comfort that only the blonde could give her. She breathed deep and slow, trying to memorize exactly how the woman smelt so she wouldn't forget once she was back at Hogwarts.

Narcissa smiled, wrapping both arms around Hermione and resting her cheek on the girl's head as she listened to Voldemort sigh, "Where to start?"

Dumbledore raised an eyebrow at the Dark Lord, "Well there's the prophecy, Umbridge, the Ministry, who's behind the Ministry."

Voldemort smirked at the old wizard, "Our war, the Order."

Hermione rolled her eyes, "Enough. Right now the Ministry is the bigger problem. Though I'm curious about this prophecy."

Harry nodded, "I agree. What's this about?"

Voldemort and Dumbledore shared a look and Hermione snorted, "Oh look, first five minutes and they're getting along Harry."

Harry chuckled, a smirk pulling at his lips as his eyes widened in mock shock, "Never thought I'd see the day." Voldemort shot Hermione a glare while Dumbledore did the same to Harry, causing both teens to laugh.

McGonagall cleared her throat from a seat behind and away from the table, suppressing a laugh at the same time, "Prophecy."

Dumbledore sighed, "We don't know exactly what it's about, but I believe it's about Harry."

Voldemort shook his head, "A source of mine has been looking into this. I thought it was about Potter too but now I'm not so sure."

Dumbledore frowned, "Why not?"

Voldemort glanced at Hermione, and she nodded at him once, "We share they share."

He nodded before tapping his sharp fingernails on the table, "We have received word from Trelawney that the prophecy could be taken two different ways. The only thing I can figure is that whoever can pick up the prophecy is the actual prophesized."

Dumbledore bowed his head once, "Moody has been removed from the Ministry and is under review. They believe him to be involved in the attack on Arthur Weasley this past week."

Harry frowned, "Mr. Weasley was attacked?"

Moody glanced at Voldemort from his seat beside Lupin, "He was." His voice was gruff, a slight smokers rasp to it, "By a snake."

Hermione frowned suddenly, "Where is Nagini?" A soft hiss echoed through the room and Hermione felt the serpent wrapping around her legs under the table. She smirked, "Never mind."

Voldemort chuckled for a moment before turning back to Dumbledore, "Ah, well, that was Nagini, but she was provoked."

Harry snorted, pulling the attention of Lupin and Dumbledore. He quickly looked over at Hermione and she chuckled, sitting up straight for the first time, "Let's just say Ronald isn't our favorite person right now."

Narcissa took her hand tightly, "What happened that night honey?"

Harry's eyes burned with anger, shocking everyone around the table, "He's changed so much since our time in the Chamber of Secrets. His whole personality is different…" he trailed off.

Hermione and Harry shared a look, both knowing what the other was thinking. They had to be careful with their thoughts, but also their words. Hermione nodded before turning to Narcissa, "I couldn't stop. He attacked Pansy and I just lost it. I didn't mean to."

Harry shook his head, "That's not true. Pansy was calming you down. It wasn't until Ron said what he said about-" he gasped in pain, gripping his shin with a grimace.

Narcissa's eyes darted back to Hermione, "About what Hermione?"

Hermione glared at Harry, "Nothing."

Harry rubbed his stinging shin, "They'll find out anyway Hermione. Tell her or I will."

Hermione sat her hands down on the table, palms against the cool wood. The bright red, slightly swollen scar seemed almost magnified in the bright white light above them. Narcissa's hand gently took hers, blue eyes blazing with anger as she stared at the words. Hermione took a deep breath before speaking, "He said something about the Black sisters and I lost control. I felt anger but it was more than that."

Harry frowned across the table at her, "He shouldn't have said it Hermione." She raised an eyebrow at him and nodded once.

Narcissa shook her head, holding Hermione's hand tighter, "We can't keep letting this happen. Both of them look close to death." Her words were filled with venom and Hermione instinctually leaned into the older woman's body, needing comfort but also wanting to comfort her. Narcissa's arms wrapped tightly around Hermione, pulling the girl tighter against her.

Voldemort glanced up at Dumbledore and the older wizard sighed, "As much as I would like to prevent them from returning, I can't. Harry is being pulled back to the Weasley's. Since Arthur was attacked it's best to keep Harry as a usual member."

Voldemort frowned, "Then Hermione will return home with Narcissa."

Hermione's heart pounded in her chest, "I can't."

Narcissa's eyes nearly bugged out of her head, shock clear in her suddenly higher pitched voice, "What do you mean you can't?"

Hermione glanced at an equally worried Harry, "Ginny and Pansy are still at school. If I leave, they'll pay for it until I return."

Narcissa shook her head, "Hermione you need rest and food." She turned to fully face the girl, "Honey, I can see the damage being done for myself."

Hermione shook her head, "I can't let them pay for something they had nothing to do with. I'm sorry but I can't."

Fenrir growled angrily, "You are a Slytherin Hermine, not a Gryffindor." He shot a heated look at Potter.

Hermione stood quickly, "I am a Slytherin that protects family. Isn't that what a Black does?" she glanced down at Narcissa. "I am a Slytherin with a few Gryffindor tendencies. I can live with that. Can any of you?" She spun from the table, needing a moment of fresh air as she felt her emotions starting to spin out of control. Narcissa launched out of her seat the moment Hermione began to slip out of the barn and followed the girl outside.

Voldemort pinched the bridge of his nose for a moment, trying to calm his anger before looking up at Dumbledore, "I'm doing this for that girl out there. I don't want to work with you, but I will for her. Umbridge needs to be taken down, in every way possible."

Dumbledore nodded, "Agreed. I hear Mr. Potter and Miss Black have started an underground club."

Harry swallowed nervously as all eyes landed on him, "We should really wait for Hermione." Voldemort and Fenrir laughed as they nodded, both willing to wait for their Hermione to return.

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Hermione stood under the cloudy night sky, taking slow deep breaths as she tried to force her anger back into the box she had constructed for it. She hated the idea of everyone willing to sacrifice for her. She was by no means Potter. She would gladly step aside for someone else to take a spell or two, but she couldn't just let her friends get hurt without trying to stop it. If that made her more Gryffindor than Slytherin, so be it. She was still cunning, more than anyone could ever possibly imagine.

"Hermione?" Narcissa's soft voice met her ears against the silent night. "Honey come back inside, its cold out here."

She shook her head, "I needed air."

Narcissa approached her slowly, her heart heavy at the sight of the girl, "I understand that. You've been through so much and I'm so proud of you."

Hermione turned to face the older woman, seeing the pain in her eyes. She cocked her head at the blonde, knowing now more than ever what she was feeling for the woman, "Narcissa…" She could feel tears burning her eyes as she took in the woman's smooth face.

Everything seemed so different now, so much more complicated than it had before, and she thought it had been complicated enough at the time. The uncomfortableness that she had been feeling over the summer paled in comparison to everything she had been feeling for the last few months. Thinking that something had happed to Narcissa, that the family emergency that Draco had been called to was something to do with Narcissa… It had eaten at her all week. Chipping away the already fragile state of mind she had been in. To think she could have lost Narcissa before she had a chance to tell the woman how she feels, how she's always felt, it hurt. It burned inside so much more than what Umbridge had inflicted on her with the Cruciatus curse. This was so much worse, and she hated it, hated the distance.

She wanted to be selfish. She wanted to return home with Narcissa. To see her mate, to see her mother for the first time in her life. She wanted to give up on being strong, on being the brains. She wanted to crawl into Narcissa's arms and cry, beg for the woman to never let her go.

But she couldn't. That isn't who she is. It isn't who a Black family member is.

Instead, she stepped closer to the woman, a tear escaping the carefully constructed prison she had made. She ignored it, needing to say this, to do this now, while she still had a chance. "I love you Narcissa. I'm in love with you and I can't stop it. I can't let it go. I can't let you go. I don't want to." Narcissa's gasp sounded louder than what it was, but Hermione continued, "I need you more than ever before. I spent all week believing that something had happened to you, and it killed me. A part of me wanted to give up, a part of me wanted…" She swallowed thickly but pushed on, "I wanted to fly, again and I knew you wouldn't be there to catch me this time."

She shook her head, tears falling quicker, her breathing quickening with the overwhelming emotions that were finally catching up with her, "I'm so tired Cissy."

Narcissa's tears burst free, her body crushing into Hermione's with a force that she worried would hurt the girl in her current state. Wrapping her arms around Hermione's body she felt the girl shaking, her sobs quiet but tearing into her heart as if some beast was ripping her to shreds. They sank to the ground and still Narcissa only held her tighter. She rocked the girl gently, whispering into the girl's ear softly, "I've got you now. I'm here little one. I love you too my Darling."

She repeated the words over and over, knowing in her heart that Hermione wouldn't hear her anytime soon. Her little one was emotionally and physically exhausted and there wasn't much she could about it. Except hold her. Remind the girl that she was there for her, that she would always be there for her. She kissed Hermione's temple as the girl clutched at her silky blouse, pulling her closer, as if she thought that Narcissa was going to disappear. She held Hermione tighter, afraid that the girl was breaking right in front of her and all she could do was try to hold her together. Her tears flowed silently, never having seen Hermione in this state before.

Nightmares had always been hard. Waking up to a blood curdling scream in the middle of the night had sent Narcissa sprinting down the hall faster than ever before, heart lodge in her throat while her blood pumped through her ears drowning all other sounds. Her wand at the ready she would blow into Hermione's room, ready for an attack to find the girl thrashing in the bed, sweat dripping from her face and hair clinging to her. She would always pull the girl into her arms, her eyes wide and panicked as she shared a horrifying look with Lucius as he stood at the doorway, afraid to enter the room. It would take her a few minutes to wake the girl from the nightmare that seemed to cling to her, not wanting to let her go and Hermione would clutch at her and cry. Most nights Narcissa would have to sleep with the girl just so they both could get some sleep.

But even that wasn't as terrifying as in this moment.

Hermione's sobs slowly began to subside and Narcissa's voice grew firmer, "I've got you my little one." She kissed the crown of the girl's head, "I love you, my Darling. I'm not going anywhere." She continued to rock the girl that had captured her heart long ago, needing to keep contact with her.

Hermione buried her face in Narcissa's neck, arms sliding up around the woman's neck. She had finally gotten everything out. The pain, the worry, the fear that something had been seriously wrong back home. All of it had come flowing from her without warning. It was a relief that Narcissa and the family were fine, but it only made her more angry.

She pulled back slightly, shocked to see the dried tears on the older woman's face, "Umbridge gave the note to Draco."

Narcissa nodded, "She knew in your exhausted state you would jump to conclusions as long as she left it vague enough."

Hermione nodded, "It worked. I've been so tired that I haven't been thinking clearly."

She surged forward and pressed her lips to Narcissa's. The soft feeling of the woman's lips caressing hers was enough to rid Hermione's mind of the emotional fog she had been under all week. She felt Narcissa's tongue swipe at her lower lip, requesting entrance and Hermione didn't hesitate to part her lips. She was done hesitating, done wasting time that she might not have anymore.

Narcissa's tongue dove into Hermione's mouth, plundering the girl's warm cavern in a way she had been dreaming about for the last few months. She couldn't get enough of the way their tongues moved together, dancing a familiar yet exciting number. One that neither really knew the steps to but were learning as they went. She pulled the girl tighter into her while Hermione's hands slid up into her blonde hair, holding her tight against her, afraid she would pull away. Though Narcissa had no intention of pulling away from her little one.

When oxygen became necessary, they parted, resting their foreheads together. Hermione's heart pounded in her chest. Excitement rushed through her body, feeling better than she ever had imagined it to be. She let out a deep breath, "We better get back inside."

Narcissa brushed her nose across Hermione's, "I love you. Don't ever forget that."

Hermione nodded, "I love you too. I guess I just needed a reminder."

Narcissa pulled the girl to her feet, bringing their bodies together, "I will always remind you my dear."

Hermione pressed one more chaste kiss to Narcissa's lips before taking the woman's hand and leading the way back into the barn. The silence was stifling, and she frowned as she retook her seat, pulling Narcissa down beside her, forcing the woman to move the chair flush against her own. Narcissa chuckled but didn't say anything as she kept her arm around Hermione's shoulders.

Hermione frowned at Harry's terrified look, "What's going on?"

Dumbledore sat forward, a small smile on his lips, "Mr. Potter refused to discuss this new club with us until you returned."

Hermione snorted, feeling more relaxed than she had for the last few months, allowing herself to lean into Narcissa's comfort, "Ah, DA. Although I wouldn't have chosen that name."

Voldemort frowned at her, concern apparent as he noticed the red puffy eyes, but Narcissa's smug grin kept him from saying anything. "What is DA?"

Hermione grimaced, letting her distaste be known, "Dumbledore's Army."

Harry snorted at the look of utter disgust that crossed every face across the table, including Hermione's, "It was the only thing I could come up at the time."

Voldemort's lips curled up, "Charming." His sarcasm was not lost on the teenager. "What are you doing exactly?"

Harry smirked, a darkness taking over his usually vibrant green eyes, "Defense Against the Dark Arts. Hermione's brilliant."

Voldemort snorted as Narcissa beamed proudly, bright blue eyes dazzling everyone at the table, "After all this time you expected something less?"

Harry shook his head, a small smile on his lips, "Nothing of the sort. Even a few Hufflepuffs are starting to pick up Hermione's attitude."

Hermione rolled her eyes, trailing her fingers over Nagini's head as the snake slid up her body, "Let's get back to the point, shall we. This prophecy, how do we get it?"

Dumbledore and Voldemort shared a look, but Voldemort spoke, "The Ministry has shut down the Department of Mysteries. Even if we wanted to, we couldn't get to it."

Harry frowned, "When I was there with Mr. Weasley this summer-"

Voldemort at least had the decency to look slightly apologetic, even though Hermione knew he wasn't, "Yes, that was a hasty decision on my part."

Hermione snorted, "Riiiight." Voldemort shot her a glare.

Harry laughed, "Anyway, I saw the door while I was there. I know how to get there once we are in."

Narcissa's head snapped up, "You can't be suggesting that you go into retrieve it. It may not even be about you."

Lupin, who had otherwise been mostly quiet finally spoke, "Narcissa is right Harry. It's too dangerous."

Hermione stared at Harry, a thought passing between them silently and she nodded, "Actually it isn't."

Voldemort's crimson eyes narrowed at her, "Not you too. Potter is daft, you are not."

Hermione nodded, "Exactly."

"Hey…" Harry grimaced at her.

Hermione ignored him, "We won't be in danger because," she smirked at Fenrir, "We won't be alone."

Dumbledore frowned, "What do you have in mind?"

A voice that everyone had forgotten was there, spoke shrilly, "You can't be serious Albus!" McGonagall appeared out of the shadows beside the Headmaster, "They are children for Merlin's sake."

Dumbledore kept his eyes locked with Hermione, "Go ahead Miss Black."

Hermione nodded, "If we can distract the Ministry, like making them watch one hand while the other is grabbing what we need, then we could get two birds with one stone."

Moody eyed her curiously, his magical eye spinning around wildly, "You want to break into Fudge's office?"

Hermione grinned wickedly, a look that Narcissa couldn't deny was all Bellatrix, "Yes. While Harry and I are facing off against Death Eaters," she snorted at the wide smile on Fenrir's face, "we can grab the prophecy. The entire Ministry will think Death Eaters and kids broke in just for the prophecy. While they are focused on the mess we're making, one from each side slips into Fudge's office. Thirty minutes tops, is what they'll have when the fighting starts but it should be enough to get something."

Voldemort shook his head while Dumbledore sat back in contemplation. McGonagall shook her head, "You can't be seriously considering this Albus. They are children."

"Teenagers, who have been at the center of this war from the very beginning Minerva." Dumbledore sighed heavily, his true age showing for once. "I don't like it either, but the children will be safe. Enough harmless spells will be thrown so it looks real enough but they won't do damage."

"And if something goes wrong?" McGonagall snapped, anger not a usual emotion on the well-controlled Professor's face.

Moody cocked his head, "They'll have both Death Eaters and Order members there to protect them. They'll be safer there than at Hogwarts with Pinky." Hermione and Harry burst into laughter, knowing exactly who he was talking about.

When Hermione calmed, she glanced at Narcissa, seeing the woman's wavering hesitance, "Fenrir and Moody can be the ones to slip into Fudge's office. Moody can keep an eye out," she glanced at his roaming magical eye, "while Fenrir has the muscle side if anyone tries to stop them."

Voldemort glanced at Narcissa, seeing the woman's reluctance to allow this. He didn't want to allow it either, but the opportunity was too good to pass up. They all needed this prophecy, but was he willing to risk Hermione in the process? He knew she was skilled and could handle herself, but he didn't trust the Order as far as he could throw them. He didn't trust them to keep the girl safe, but his people would be there… His eyes lit up as a smirk crossed his face.

Hermione grimaced at Voldemort, "Its never good when you get that look. What's going on?"

Voldemort cleared his throat, "Before we agree or disagree, we need some reassurances."

Dumbledore raised an eyebrow at him, "What kind?"

Voldemort smirked, "Some of my people were wrongfully imprisoned in Azkaban and you know it. I want them cleared."

Dumbledore sat back in his seat, his eyes darkening, "Which ones?"

Voldemort grinned as he leaned forward, "Bellatrix Black and Alecto Carrow, for starters. A sign of good faith old friend." His words hissed slightly.

Lupin frowned, "Bellatrix is responsible for the Longbottom's-"

Voldemort's hand slammed down on the table, his anger rising too quickly for his liking, "She was not. That was Rodolphus and Rabastan. She was in the wrong place at the wrong time, trying to stop them. Although she would have had good reason for it." His eyes darted to Hermione then back to Dumbledore, "And you know that."

Harry turned to frown at Dumbledore, "Is that true?" At Dumbledore's nod Harry's eyes darted to Hermione's, his own anger rising at having been lied to this whole time.

Hermione felt her heart stop for a moment. She couldn't believe that her mate had been taken from her for something she didn't do. "What happened?"

Dumbledore shook his head, "Now is not the time-"

Hermione glared at him, the ball of light above them flickering slightly, "Now is the perfect time. We are here to form a truce. Let's lay it all out." She could feel Narcissa holding her tighter, and it helped the anger slowly simmer.

Dumbledore frowned, taking a deep breath, "The night Alecto and Amycus Carrow were first raided, things got heated. Alecto's baby was there, though at the time no one knew she had one. The Longbottom's were two of the Auror's assigned to arrest them, but a fight broke out. No one knew at the time that Bellatrix cared for the young babe but…" He frowned over at Harry, not realizing who Hermione was, "The child was hit with a curse, not a deadly one but enough that it was painful. Alecto was able to escape with the child before they made it upstairs to apprehend her, though Bellatrix and Amycus escaped that night. It was a few months later that Alecto and Amycus were finally caught in Amycus's home, but many believe it's because Bellatrix was already in Azkaban and unable to help. However, the child was not there this time around."

Narcissa held Hermione tighter, seeing the girl's brain processing and tears forming in her eyes. She hated that her sister had been sent to Azkaban for something she didn't do but she also knew that Bellatrix would have made it so much worse. She had a feeling that Bellatrix may not have tortured them, but she wasn't there as innocently as what Voldemort was claiming her to be. She knew Bellatrix would have wanted to do much worse than the Cruciatus curse but had probably been interrupted by the Aurors.

Hermione swallowed her anger, knowing that an outburst would not help the situation. Especially not over something that happened fifteen years ago. Instead, she looked over at Harry and caught his eye, seeing his anger and sorrow for her. He knew that Bellatrix was her mate, and she was the baby that Dumbledore was talking about was only bringing them closer. They had both lost so much over this war, which they still didn't exactly know what it was originally about. But she could see that he was losing trust in Dumbledore, the Order.

Voldemort smirked, smugly, "I want them both cleared. As soon as their free, we will take that as good faith and be more willing to work with you."

Dumbledore frowned down at the table and McGonagall shook her head, "It will be done Albus. They have suffered enough. What happened to the babe?"

Dumbledore shook his head, "I don't know. No one does. She disappeared."

McGonagall shook her head, "I hope she's still alive, but the poor thing might not know anything about where she comes from."

Hermione glanced at Narcissa, but the older woman shook her head. The Order did not need this information yet. Hermione turned back to the table, "Then we need that prophecy, and we can get information from Fudge's office at the same time."

Dumbledore nodded, "I'll do what I can, but it may take another month to get them."

Voldemort nodded, "As soon as we get them, we'll proceed."

Hermione grinned at Harry, "Does that mean we all agree to work together?"

Harry sat forward, "That there is to be no fights between either side until we have resolved this Ministry situation?"

Voldemort and Dumbledore eyed each other for a moment before Dumbledore nodded, "As long as he agrees, I'll agree."

Voldemort glared at him, "I was the one that found this place and had my people waiting for yours to do the wards."

Dumbledore rolled his eyes, "Only because you didn't trust us to do it right."

McGonagall chuckled, "Why is it two teenagers are more mature than you two?" Hermione and Harry grinned at each other.

Hermione shook her head before sitting forward, "The most important thing right now is Umbridge. The Toad is controlling the Ravenclaw house completely. All of them are acting more and more like the Ministry is the be all end all."

"Imperius?" Lupin asked curiously.

Harry shook his head, "No. Luna Lovegood is like her second. What she says goes, as if it comes from Umbridge herself."

McGonagall pulled her chair closer, "Dolores is also trying to push out more of the teachers. She's got her eyes on Snape because she believes he is a traitor."

Dumbledore frowned, "With Severus out of the castle, Potter and Black will both be more in danger. What about Pomona?"

McGonagall shook her head, "She is traversing a fine line with the woman. Enough to keep her at Hogwarts but not enough that Dolores trusts her. Herbology is safe for the time being."

Dumbledore nodded, his mind quickly working, "Then we can leave messages in the Herbology classroom." His blue eyes darted to Hermione and Harry, "You can grab them during classes, that way we are all aware of what is going on. I'm not able to leave my office without that woman following me. Severus and Sprout will be glad to help and leave the messages without alerting Umbridge or the Ravenclaws."

Hermione nodded, "Do we know why Lovegood is helping her? I mean she never struck me as the evil Ministry type. An airhead yes, but not straight evil."

Fenrir frowned, "Xenophilius Lovegood is a decent man. Runs the Quibbler. He changed when his wife, Pandora, disappeared. She was an extraordinary witch, always coming up with new potions and experimenting with spells. Rumor was a spell backfired on the brilliant woman and she just disappeared. No one knows what really happened because Luna was just a baby, maybe a year old if that."

Hermione frowned, "So she hasn't been seen since?"

Lupin shook his head, "No but there were rumors of sightings of a woman that resembled her a few years after she disappeared, but nothing ever came of it."

Fenrir nodded, "Xenophilius always blamed it on the Carrow's though."

Harry cocked his head at the werewolf, "Why? What did they have to do with it?"

Fenrir sighed, "It was widely known that Pandora was close to Alecto and Amycus." His eyes darted to Hermione before he quickly looked back at Harry, "It was rumored that Luna wasn't even Pandora's child, and that there were problems between Xenophilius and Pandora. Some say Pandora wasn't even married to him but it's all speculation."

Hermione frowned at Fenrir, "While you're at the Ministry, find anything and everything you can about Pandora. If she was as extraordinary as everyone seems to think, I don't think a spell backfired on her."

Harry raised his eyebrows at her, "You think it was on purpose?"

Hermione shrugged, "I don't know but if Luna wasn't hers, what was to stop her from leaving the child alone? If she wasn't married to Xenophilius then why was she pretending to be? I think it bares a closer look. Since we'll be the distraction, you'll have plenty of time to get the information."

Moody shook his head, "I still have access to that part of the Ministry. I can get it while Fenrir breaks into Fudge's office." Fenrir nodded in agreement.

Hermione chuckled, "Well as long as you boys play nice, then you can figure it out on your own." Harry snorted but quickly averted his eyes as both men narrowed their eyes at him.

Voldemort tapped his fingers on the table, "Let's swing back to Arthur Weasley."

Dumbledore frowned, "I don't trust him."

Every head in the room spun in his direction, eyebrows raised. Lupin grimaced, "This coming from you? You have him as a right hand."

Dumbledore nodded, "Keep your friends close, enemies closer. Something doesn't sit right with me about him."

Lupin nodded, sighing heavily, "Some of us agree." At Dumbledore's shocked expression Lupin continued, "He's been disappearing from Grimmauld Place at random hours. He's even been seen leaving his post at times at the Ministry, but no one knows where he's going."

Harry frowned, "What about Molly?"

Moody raised an eyebrow, "She doesn't know anything. She's aware that Arthur has been acting strange. She's tried to talk to him, but he just gets angry and storms out. She's upset obviously."

Hermione frowned, "What about Ronald?"

Harry shook his head, "He's been awfully supportive of his father lately. Fred and George are concerned about his attitude shift. They said he's even worse at home when we aren't around. They think he's hiding something."

Hermione raised an eyebrow at him but didn't comment. Instead, she turned to Dumbledore, "Do they still believe Voldemort sent Nagini after him?" At Dumbledore's nod she glanced back at the Dark Lord, "Keep it that way. Do they know about his meeting?"

Dumbledore shook his head, "The only ones on our side that know about this meeting are in this room. I was leery about anyone finding out just yet."

Voldemort nodded, "My inner circle knows and that's it. Lucius is holding down the fort while we are here, keeping everyone occupied. I didn't want to upset anyone by bringing Bellatrix just yet. Now that we are clear she is innocent, she'll be taking Fenrir's place."

Hermione couldn't help the sadness that coursed through her. She wanted to see her mate, but she also understood that she could have ruffled feathers at the beginning before it could be explained. Narcissa tightened her hold once again and Hermione smiled gratefully up at her, thankful for the comfort.

Dumbledore nodded, "I will only let those I trust completely in on the secret until we can't hide it anymore. If the Ministry is watching the post so closely, we'll need runners. One each."

Voldemort nodded, "Fenrir will by mine."

Dumbledore glanced at Lupin and the man nodded, "Of course. At least we'll be evenly matched."

Fenrir smirked, "Not a chance."

Lupin chuckled, "I've taken you on before old dog."

Fenrir shook his head, "Only once and you were a puppy then."

Hermione rolled her eyes as Harry laughed, "Boys, now's not the time for a pissing match. We are all on the same page finally. Let's keep it that way. There are many differences that we will have to work through in order to keep this peace, but it is doable."

Harry nodded, "We'll ease everyone into it. Allow them to decide if they want to help or not. Until then, we have a plan to put into motion. The only problem I see is how Hermione and I will get out of Hogwarts with Umbridge around."

Hermione stared at Narcissa for a moment, her mind running through options before she finally spoke, "Umbridge's office is the only one with a half working Floo network. However, the Thestrals are tied up near Hagrid's. We would have to get Umbridge away from Hogwarts long enough to floo into the Ministry."

Harry smirked, his eyes lighting up, "Are you thinking what I'm thinking?"

Hermione grinned darkly, scaring everyone in the room slightly, "I am. We'll deal with that when we get back to Hogwarts. In the meantime, keep us appraised of everything. Being left in the dark is… Taxing to say the least." She looked directly at Narcissa.

Narcissa leaned into her, "I promise."

Hermione nodded and took a deep breath, exhaustion pulling at her quickly, "Then I better be getting back. Take care Harry and I'll see you at school."

Harry frowned at her, "I don't have to go Hermione."

She shook her head, "It's better you keep acting as if nothing has changed. I'll be alright."

Narcissa pulled Hermione towards the opposite end of the barn, not wanting to let the girl go. When they were alone near the back of the barn Narcissa pulled Hermione into her arms, "You shouldn't go back."

Hermione nodded, "I know but I need to. The guilt would eat me alive if they were to get hurt. Pansy has helped me so much these last few months."

Narcissa's eyebrow rose, a hint of red coming to her normally pale cheeks, "Yes Andromeda mentioned how… Close. You two are." There was an edge of jealousy in the woman's tone.

Hermione smirked up at her, "Narcissa? Jealous? I never thought I'd see the day."

Narcissa narrowed her eyes at the girl, "You belong to the Black sisters."

Hermione rolled her eyes, "Trust me, I'll never fucking forget it." She held her hand up, the words almost glaring at them, "Narcissa I promise you. Nothing is happening between Pansy and me. I told her." At Narcissa's confused look she continued, "I told her about my mate. I've told her about you. Trust me, she does not want any part of it. I love you."

Narcissa's smile pulled at her lips uncontrollably, "I love you too Hermione. Please be careful and don't do anything rash without Potter there." Narcissa rolled her eyes, "I can't believe I just said that."

Hermione chuckled, "Trust me when I say, he grows on you." She brushed her lips against Narcissa's once more, "I have to go but I'll send a message as soon as I can."

Narcissa held Hermione's hand as they walked towards McGonagall. Voldemort turned to Hermione, "Potter left already. Are you sure you want to go back?"

Hermione shook her head, "Of course not but I can't let Pansy and Ginny get hurt because of me. I'll be alright. A few more months and as soon as they get the all clear, Potter and I will act. Try to hurry it along as much as you can. I need sleep."

Voldemort pulled Hermione into his arms, kissing the top of her head, "Be safe and don't save anyone else. We can't lose you."

She grinned up at him, deciding on sarcasm to lighten the mood, "I'll be fine Pops." He grimaced at the name as she turned to Narcissa and kissed her once more, "I promise I'll come home to you."

Narcissa blinked back the tears, "I'll hold you to that. We all will. I love you."

Hermione stood beside McGonagall and smiled at Narcissa, her first real smile in a while, "I love you too Cissy." Hermione stared into Narcissa's bright blue eyes even as she felt the sudden tug behind her navel, sucking her back to Hogwarts and the hell she knew she would have to deal with until word was sent that it was time.