The Malfoys' garden was spacious and open, granting Hermione and Draco access to plenty of places to hide. Bellatrix stood in the center of the garden with Draco and Hermione in front of her, her expression fierce as she studied her 'students'. Her master had given her orders and she would make sure they were followed. She couldn't stand the thought of Hermione or Draco being harmed because of their lack of training.
"You shall be practicing disarming," Bellatrix ordered. "Lucius and I will be attempting to stun you and you will be trying to disarm us while also protecting yourselves. Clear?" They nodded their understanding. "Good. You have one minute to prepare. Go!"
The pair took off in a mad dash, heading towards the large bushes and hedges that surrounded the garden. Hermione hunkered down behind a large rose bush while Draco took refuge behind a monstrous hedge.
"What's the plan?" Draco inquired, his eyes narrowed in concentration.
"We split up – divide and conquer. They expect us to be cautious and calculating, so I say that once they find us, we run in different directions. I'll try and distract Bella while you try to defeat your father."
"Aunt Bella has a very sporadic, but fluid style. Be careful. She's rather thoughtful when she's on the hunt," Draco warned, his hand gripping his wand tightly. His knuckles were pale against the darkened wood.
There was silence before Bellatrix's cackle rang out, slicing through the still air. It sent chills down Hermione's spine, but not the kind she had expected. She swallowed hard, trying to clear her mind of anything sexual and steeled herself for battle. She had no plans of losing, especially to Bella and Lucius. She did have her father's tenacity and drive after all. She would not allow herself to be bested, even by Voldemort's most faithful.
Hermione peeked out from behind the bush and stared Bellatrix, who was eagerly searching for the young witch. Lucius was out of sight, so he wasn't her biggest concern at the moment. Making a split-second decision, Hermione slid out of her hiding spot and sprinted towards Bellatrix, taking pleasure in the eldest Black's surprise.
"Expelliarmus!" she yelled as she ran past, nearly disarming Bellatrix who quickly threw up a shield to protect herself.
Cocking her brow, Bellatrix took off after the Gryffindor. She was surprised at the emotions pouring out of Hermione. Who would have guessed that Hermione enjoyed the chase as well? She'd make a fine Death Eater, Bellatrix mused.
Ducking into the nearest opening in the maze-like garden, she slipped behind a tree and waited. Her body was buzzing with anticipation and exhilaration, awaiting the onslaught of Bellatrix's rapid spells. The chase and anticipation was thrilling and Hermione's magic seemed to hum, wanting desperately to connect with Bellatrix's. It was rather frightening, all things considered.
"Come out, come out wherever you are," Bellatrix sang.
Hermione could understand why everyone believed the woman to be mad. She sounded rather crazy when she was hunting, her voice hauntingly beautiful. However, there was no fear within Hermione's body – only excitement.
"Stupefy!" Bellatrix screamed manically, rapidly firing multiple red jets of light in her general direction.
Hermione pressed her back flat against the tree and waited as the spells hit inanimate objects, toppling them over. She made a mental note to repair what might be broken afterwards. She'd hate for Madam Malfoy to be irritated with them for destroying her garden.
Peering around the trunk, her brows knitted with confusion. Bellatrix was gone – vanished without a sound.
"Caught you, little witch," Bellatrix whispered seductively in the Gryffindor's ear, her hands landing on either side of Hermione's head. She squeaked in surprise and stared wide-eyed at Bellatrix. "Apparating is an amazing skill."
Hermione took note of Bellatrix's stance. She didn't seem too keen on stunning the younger girl and she decided to use that to her advantage. She pressed her back up against the bark and tugged Bellatrix closer, her arms encircling Bellatrix's neck. She kissed a delicate path up the woman's neck to her ear.
Bellatrix moaned softly, her head tilting as she gave Hermione more access to her skin. Her lips felt heavenly and her scent was intoxicating. Battle lust was something Bellatrix enjoyed greatly and it seemed Hermione shared that enjoyment as well.
"You know," she mumbled, nibbling at her earlobe, "You really shouldn't let yourself get so distracted." She shoved Bellatrix back slightly, using Bellatrix's surprise to her advantage. "Expelliarmus!"
Bellatrix's wand went flying, landing a few feet from them. "Accio wand," she said, watching with glee as it came to her. Bellatrix was still amazed that she'd been tricked, by a Gryffindor at that! Sneaky, sneaky little witch.
Hearing spells coming from Lucius, she hurriedly chased after the sound. She found Draco and Lucius locked in a battle of spells, Draco deflecting most of his father's. He'd dived out of the way of a few, his hair and face smudged with dirt. She'd stopped behind Lucius, quickly gaining Draco's attention. She gestured for him to stay quiet and waited for an opportunity.
Bellatrix lounged against a bush, watching curiously. She'd been bested and wondered if Hermione and Draco would be able to defeat Lucius. It was nice to see them working together. The Dark Lord would be pleased.
"Expelliarmus," Draco called weakly, though purposefully. He was trying to goad his father into another spell, knowing the man raised his wand fairly high before firing off a barrage of attacks. He was prepared to perform a Protego if Hermione failed.
Lucius raised his wand for another spell and Hermione seized the opportunity. "Expelliarmus!"
Both students watched gleefully as the wand flew from Lucius' grip and into Draco's open hand. He twirled it around in his fingers, smiling triumphantly at his father.
"Well done." Bellatrix clapped. She was rather proud of her nephew and her soulmate. They would be a fine pair of duelists.
"You could have warned me," Lucius groused, glaring playfully at his sister-in-law.
Bellatrix laughed. "And what would be the fun in that?"
Draco returned Lucius' wand and Hermione returned Bellatrix's, teasingly kissing her before turning toward Draco, only to be stopped by a pale grip on her wrist.
"That was a sneaky trick, little witch, but don't try that with others or I'll be very unhappy," Bellatrix warned quietly, her jealousy flaring slightly.
Hermione twisted around to face Bellatrix and replied seriously, "I wouldn't dream of it, Bella."
Satisfied, Bellatrix released Hermione, who sauntered over to Draco. She felt like teasing the eldest Black and she loved knowing she could feel when she succeeded – like now.
"On to our next lesson," Bellatrix said firmly, quickly shaking the fog from her mind. There would be retribution, but later.
(Bellamione)
"Come along," Narcissa said, smiling at her son and Hermione.
Lucius adjusted his tie, soothing out the wrinkles of his robes. The Malfoys had an appearance to keep and being immaculately dressed was a part of that. Narcissa always looked amazing, but he had a bit of issue staying neat, especially after he had just gotten done training his child and the Dark Lord's child.
Bellatrix was standing beside Hermione, holding her hand as usual. Those two had only grown closer. They were practically attached at the hip, some part of their bodies always touching. It was rather sweet. It reminded him of his courtship with Narcissa. He may not have had to court her, but he had wanted her to love him and she did. There wasn't any other woman he had wanted to bear his heir.
"Are you sure going with us is such a good idea?" Narcissa worried, staring at Bellatrix. She couldn't stand the idea of losing her sister to Azkaban again.
Bellatrix glanced at Narcissa. She didn't want to be stuck at the mansion while her family got to shop. She already felt like a caged tiger, trapped all day while her family came and went as they pleased. "It'll be fine, Cissy. I'll stay out of sight."
Hermione stared at her, worry evident in her eyes. She couldn't stand the idea of her soulmate being taken away from her. The past few days with the older woman had been wonderful and she didn't want to lose that. "Bella…"
"It'll be fine, darling," Bellatrix promised, chastely kissing Hermione.
The amount of affection between them had grown rapidly in the few days. They were becoming more comfortable together, causing Hermione to relax and allowing Bellatrix to give more affection (and be possessive, though Hermione found that to be incredibly sexy). She'd never had a problem with Bellatrix's physical nature, but now it was rather soothing and very, very welcome. Hermione had a feeling she'd end up bedding the eldest Black before the three weeks were up and she was completely okay with that.
"Bella," Narcissa sighed, shaking her head, "This is a terrible idea."
Bellatrix glared at her sister. "It will be fine," she repeated forcefully. "No one will even know I'm there."
Narcissa huffed, but said nothing to contest her sister's wishes. She knew there was no way of stopping the woman either. "Draco, you and Hermione stay near each other, understood? The Dark Lord would be very displeased if something happened to either of you."
"Yes, Mum," Draco said, smiling briefly at the Gryffindor. They'd been practicing together for days and Draco had come to find out he quite liked the brunette. She was intelligent and had a darker sense of humor that neither Harry nor Ron knew about. She was quick-witted and charming too. No wonder Aunt Bella is so taken with her. He wouldn't let any harm come to her.
"Alright, children, into the fireplace," Lucius said with authority. "We shall be meeting at one outside of Twilfitt and Tatting's. Narcissa wants to buy some new clothes for you and Hermione for the party, Draco."
Draco nodded, though Hermione grew pale. "Lucius, I…"
The blonde gentleman raised his hand, silencing her comments. "The Dark Lord has supplied us with more than enough money to buy the things you'll need. Also, he shall be meeting with sometime soon about your mother's estate. With you being her only heir, there is much to discuss."
Hermione nodded. She knew the laws. If she were to claim her mother's estate, it would have to come to light whose daughter she was, something she wasn't too keen about.
Draco stepped into the floo and said in a solid voice, "Diagon Alley." He disappeared in the green flames, which seemed rather fitting considering she was in a house full of Slytherins.
Bellatrix took hold of Hermione's wrist and spun her into her arms before giving her a passionate kiss. She released the young girl once she seemed thoroughly dazed. "I'll see you later, love."
"Be safe," Hermione whispered, kissing Bella briefly before disappearing into the floo.
(Bellamione)
Diagon Alley was less crowded than usual, something Hermione was thankful though. She had no illusions that it would get around she'd been seen with Draco after their trip, but she hoped for some reprieve before shit hit the fan as the muggles say. It was quite strange to think she wasn't a muggle-born anymore – that she never really was.
"Where to first?" Draco wondered, his blue eyes landing on Hermione as she arrived.
Hermione wiped the soot from her clothes (she'd chosen muggle clothing in case she ran into anyone she might know) and chewed her bottom lip thoughtfully. "Flourish and Blotts. I was hoping to find a book or two on soulmates and hopefully I could find a nice present for your mother. She seems to rather like reading."
Draco chuckled, walking side-by-side with the Gryffindor. "Mother is rather well-read. It's one of the many things my father loves about here. She loves learning new things. You and her are very similar in some ways."
Hermione took that as a compliment. Narcissa was quite a woman, though Hermione felt no attraction to her. She saw her as more of a motherly figure – a pureblooded woman who could teach her the ways of purebloods and of money. She was beautiful and brilliant; the kind of motherly figure she'd need in this world.
Stepping into the store, they parted ways, though vowed not to leave without the other. Hermione began studying the spines of books. She searched desperately for anything that might mention "soulmates" though it was very unlikely. Flourish and Blotts was probably far too popular to carry a book on old magic such as that.
Hermione sighed. Nothing. She would have to search elsewhere. She knew Bellatrix had a book on it, but it had just given a general basis, but she wanted to know the deeper workings of soulmates and how they worked.
"Draco," Hermione called, hoping the blonde would hear her.
She heard footsteps and Draco was suddenly beside her. "Yes?"
"Do you know of any bookshops that might have anything on soulmates?" she whispered, pursing her lips.
Draco nodded. "Yes. After we get some clothes, we'll go to Borgin and Burkes. I'm sure they would have something on the matter. They are a Dark Arts store, but you'd be surprised about the ancient books they have acquired over the years. I think you'll find what you need."
Smiling, Hermione thanked the young wizard. "Come on, we must find gifts for your family."
(Bellamione)
At one o'clock sharp, the duo stopped in front of Twilfitt and Tatting's. They had plenty of bags, though the shopkeepers were nice enough to have charmed them into floating. They'd rushed over from the Leaky Cauldron (narrowly avoiding getting spotted by Neville Longbottom and his gran), arriving just on time. Narcissa hated tardiness and for her child to be tardy when in her presence was just unheard of. He knew the consequences of being late and knew that no one would want to deal with.
"Right on time," Narcissa noted as she and Lucius strolled, arms linked, over to the duo. "How was your shopping?"
Draco smiled. "I managed to buy everyone a gift, except Aunt Bella. And Hermione found gifts for all of her friends and for our family, but she hasn't decided on a present for Aunt Bella either. After we get some clothes for the party, we were planning to go Borgin and Burkes and hopefully find something for her there."
"I shall go with you," Lucius decided, leaving no room for argument. He didn't want Mr. Borgin to try and trick either of the duo into something they didn't need or intend to buy. Draco was rather good at pinpointing those types of things but Mr. Borgin was sneaky little man.
"We should all go," Narcissa said, peering at her husband for a moment.
Lucius stared back before nodding. "That sounds wonderful."
Hermione bit her bottom lip, "Narcissa, would you help me see if there's anything on soulmates there?"
"Certainly," Narcissa said with a smile. She was rather fond of the Gryffindor and knowing she was willingly asking for help made her maternal instincts kick in slightly. She'd always wanted a daughter, but after Draco, she couldn't have any other children, so she didn't mind the thought of taking Hermione under her wing and helping her.
Hermione grinned, grateful for the help.
"Shall we?" Lucius inquired, gesturing to the shop.
Nodding, the foursome entered the shop, ignoring the curious looks they received. It was mostly purebloods that shopped at Twilfitt and Tatting's, so they didn't know much of Hermione. They were just curious about why she was in the company of the Malfoys, seeing as how they only associated with the highest of purebloods. It made them wonder who she was, exactly.
"I will also be shopping for Bella," Narcissa said quietly. "She chose to stay out of such a well-known store. She didn't want the recognition."
Hermione smiled fondly as she thought of Bellatrix. The woman was mad and wild, but she filled in the parts of Hermione that she hadn't realized was missing.
"We must get Draco a nice suit and Hermione a few dresses, depending on what Bellatrix decides to wear to the party," Narcissa continued firmly. Her sister might end up in her usual corset, meaning Hermione would need a dress to match her soulmate's outfit appropriately. "And shoes."
Hermione sighed. She wasn't a fan of shopping, but she would do as the Malfoy matriarch instructed, even if it meant trying on multiple outfits.
(Bellamione)
Stepping out of the shop, Hermione felt rather confident with her new wardrobe. She still had her muggle clothes and her usual robes, but the new additions complimented her spectacularly. She couldn't wait for Bella to see her.
She turned and absently gazed out, gasping when her eyes landed on familiar red hair. All four of the Weasley children that lived at home were walking down Diagon Alley, chattering amongst themselves. They hadn't seen her – yet.
"Oh no," she whispered, taking little comfort in the Malfoy family surrounding her.
Taking action, Lucius cast a quick Disillusionment charm on the girl, hiding her from the family's sight. She stayed near the middle of them while they walked, keeping her protected at all cost. The extra precaution was unnecessary, but Hermione was grateful for it.
"Oh look, a ferret," Ron mocked as they past the family, a sneer screwing up his features.
Draco snorted his disdain. "I thought you'd be more original than that, Weasel. Can't come up with a good insult without your little mudblood around?" He knew it was a low blow, but it would keep the attention off his family if he still pretended to hate Hermione.
"I'd watch what you say, you git," Ginny snapped.
Hermione felt touched that Ginny would care enough to stand up for her. She hoped that care would still be there once her true lineage came out.
"Come, Draco, we shouldn't lower ourselves to the levels of these blood traitors," Lucius hissed.
Hermione stared with wide eyes as Ron reached for his wand, only to be stopped by Fred who chose to just glare at the Malfoys until they were out of sight.
Once they reached Knockturn Alley, Lucius undid the charm. "I do apologize for upsetting your friends, but appearances you see."
Hermione understood. "I'm not upset with you, Lucius. Or you, Draco."
Draco smiled gratefully at his new friend and the family headed into their destination. He would be searching for gifts for Bellatrix while Hermione attempted to find books on soulmates.
"Ah, good afternoon, Mr. Malfoy," Mr. Borgin greeted, his raspy voice sounding rather creepy. Hermione stepped closer to Draco. Sensing the Gryffindor's discomfort, he stepped slightly in front of her. He was rather thankful Bellatrix wasn't there.
"Draco, why don't you and Hermione go find your Aunt Bella a gift while I talk to Mr. Borgin?" Lucius suggested.
Nodding, Draco took Hermione deeper into the shop. Stopping in front of a bookshelf, he left Hermione to her searching, though telling her she shouldn't touch anything besides the books. He didn't want her accidentally cursing herself.
There are so many interesting books, Hermione thought, running her fingers along the spines. I might be buying more than I realized.
"P…Q…R…" she mumbled, until her fingers landed on the 'S' section.
She combed through the books, her eyes landing on a specific book. Soulmates: The Ancient Magic of Bonding Souls. She swiftly grabbed it and began flipping through it. It was exactly what she was looking for. She spun around, preparing to make her way to the counter when she noticed another book lying discarded on the shelf. It was old and tattered, but it drew her attention.
Dark Bondings. Hermione took hold of it and examined the cover. It had no author and the leathery cover was peeling away, but it interested the girl so she added it to her stack.
"Did you find what you were looking for?" Narcissa inquired, walking to her.
"Yes, ma'am," Hermione replied before handing her findings to the Malfoy matriarch, hoping she would know if the books were worth something.
"Mr. Borgin has a book in the back he will be getting for you as well," Narcissa informed, her eyes tracing the books curiously. "These books may help you find out more. I have never seen either of these books before."
Hermione nodded. "I don't know if there's dark magic involved, but it seemed like worth checking."
"Go find Draco. I will pay for these for you."
The store was chock full of dark items. It was almost palpable the amount of darkness each item produced.
"Did you find what you were looking for?" Draco asked as they happened upon each other.
Hermione nodded. "Your mother found a book for me and I found two others."
"Good," he said, smiling at his friend. "Then you can help me find something for Aunt Bella. I found something that I would give her, but I have no idea what you should get for her."
The duo began looking through the dark items. There were enchanted quills and books on the Dark Arts, but nothing that really stood out. Bella had no use for quills and could learn more from the Dark Lord than any book. Hermione was beginning to lose hope on finding her soulmate a proper gift for the holidays.
"Hermione, look."
She glanced at where Draco was pointing and noticed a necklace. The pendant was pitch black with a vial imbedded into the center, though it was empty. She reached for it, but a pale hand stopped her.
"I would ask Mr. Borgin what that is before you touch it," Draco advised gently.
She took his advice and strolled over to the muttering adults. Lucius seemed rather irritated while Narcissa remained emotionless, her hand resting carefully on Lucius' broad shoulder. Mr. Borgin looked rather scared. He noticed her first and swiftly turned his attention to her. "Yes, Miss?"
"I have a question about one of your necklaces," Hermione said, leading the shopkeeper over to it. "What exactly is it?"
He cleared his throat as the entire Malfoy family seemed to surround the item curiously. "It's a blood pendant. If you give it to someone you love, it will amplify their magic – and yours. But many cannot give it as a gift, because your loved one's magic must be willing to accept yours."
"How do you make it work?"
"You must freely give your blood and fill up the vial and they must accept it. You will be the only one who can remove it from their neck. I believe this is something much too strong for someone of your age, though, miss."
Hermione ignored the man and smiled. It was perfect. "I'll take it."
Mr. Borgin looked to the Malfoy patriarch for help, but the blonde merely nodded. "We'll add that to our purchases."
The older man sighed, but did as he was told. It was a rather pricey purchase and he was glad to have it gone from his shop, but he didn't feel right leaving something of that caliber in a child's hands. She wouldn't realize the severity of what it could do, especially if their magic wasn't compatible.
Mr. Borgin chuckled to himself. At least I'm not selling this to a soulmate. Then again, it's rare for soulmates to even exist anymore. But oh how powerful they would become should a soulmated pair get a hold of one of these… He shook his head. At least he didn't have to worry over that now – or so he thought.