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.
Main Relationships: (Hermione/Bellatrix) (Hermione/Narcissa) (Hermione/Andromeda) (Draco/Harry) (Others to be added)
Slight Alternate Universe
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Hermione frowned as she stood outside Flourish and Blotts, studying the window display intently. Her mind was distracted, as it had been since the war. It had been six months since Voldemort was defeated. Six months since Bellatrix had been killed. Six months since she had discovered that not all was as it seemed, her mind was no longer her own. She hadn't told anyone of course, knowing they would believe she was crazy or suffering some form of PTSD from the torture she had gone through at the woman's hands. The only one who knew was her new house elf, which was strangely her only confidant besides the other voice in her mind.
Admit it, it wasn't that bad. It could have been worse. You've seen the things I've done long before you came along.
She grimaced at the woman's voice, not wanting to agree but being unable to. She agreed that it could have been much worse than a cursed dagger carving 'Mudblood' into her creamy skin. However, neither of them knew just what curse that dagger had, though the fact that Voldemort had given it to Bellatrix should have been a clue.
Cackling laughter filled her mind, Very true Muddy. I should have guessed he would find another way to torment me. And using a Mudblood was perfect torture for me.
She grimaced as she shook her head, turning from the shop and heading towards Gringotts, "Torture for the both of us."
Bellatrix laughed again, a sound that she had come to find soothing in the darkest of night. To think that she would find comfort in Bellatrix Black of all people had boggled her mind for the last few months, but they had been forced to share everything. She had seen all of Bellatrix's memories; felt everything the woman had felt. Nothing was a secret between them anymore. Just as she had seen Bellatrix's life, Bellatrix had seen her own. They had so many similarities that Hermione couldn't help but feel emotional when it came to the woman.
Awe I've come to love you too my Muddy. Bellatrix's voice was soft and warm in her mind, soothing her sudden rush of emotions.
Something they both had to come to terms with was feeling each other. They could feel what the other was feeling, overwhelmingly so. Hermione had one too many times lost herself to anger over something little and had to rush away from friends and family to calm them both. It had gotten so bad when Ronald had been drunk one night and called her a mudblood that Bellatrix had somehow taken control of her body and nearly hexed him into next week. Thankfully Ron had passed out in his drunkenness and didn't remember a thing the next day.
She had only gone on a few dates with Ron after the war, but knew it wasn't what she wanted. Ron had never gotten over Fred's death and had turned quickly to drinking to forget that his brother had been killed. All of them had tried to help him over the last six months but until he was ready to deal with Fred's death, they couldn't do much.
George had stopped talking to Ron all together, dealing with his own grief and not needing Ron's problems to contribute to his own. He was running the joke shop on his own now and everything new he created he made in honor of Fred. It was his way of keeping his twin's memory alive and well, while also feeling like he could move on with his life. She and George had grown close over the last six months, so much so that they met twice a week for lunch.
Bellatrix was annoyed with it but understood that the loss the man had was something that she had slightly been responsible for. She had blasted the hole in the side of the castle that allowed her fellow Death Eaters into the corridor that Fred had been in, and she knew that was where he had been killed. The guilt she felt had been all consuming the first few times Hermione met with George, but it was slowly helping the dark witch see that George had forgiven her.
"Life's too short to hold grudges 'Mione." George had said when she asked if he could ever forgive Bellatrix, if she were still alive. He had only shrugged and grinned at her, not knowing that Bellatrix was very much alive and listening, "Fred died fighting for us, for his family and I know he would have some witty comment about it. Something along the lines of wanting Bellatrix to teach him that spell."
Hermione let the subject drop after that as Bellatrix retreated deeper into her mind to process her strange new emotions. Hermione loved showing Bellatrix that things had changed since the war. People, attitudes, places, all had changed because of the war. Lucius was still his egotistical self at the Ministry the last they had seen but Hermione was struggling so much after the war that she had given up on her quest for working at the Ministry for the time being.
She made her way into Gringotts and stopped near the head goblin, a slight satisfaction that Griphook had been killed by Voldemort, which made Bellatrix snort with laughter. No one liked Griphook, the goblin was a nasty being that no one really cared when he disappeared.
There had been a strange new development in the last six months that neither Hermione nor Bellatrix had been expecting. Two months after discovering Bellatrix inside her own body, she received a letter from the Ministry, something that later she made sure no one else knew about. It informed her of her status, blood, and name change. At the time her blood had run cold at the information and sent her and Bellatrix into such a deep research mode that they were even using their newfound mindscape to search through the books that Bellatrix could remember at Black Castle library.
Hermione was now a pureblood, The Noble House of Black pureblood line. She was no longer Hermione Granger but Hermione Black and though she wasn't named the Head of Black House she had a feeling that Bellatrix was still the head and somehow the Black ancient magic knew the woman was still very much alive. She had been given access to the Black family Vault which Bellatrix was thrilled over, yet also slightly worried about.
They both knew that they wouldn't be able to keep it secret much longer, but they were already in the process of moving all of Hermione's things into Black Castle. The trip to Diagon Alley was the last thing they needed to do, and they each wanted to check on the Vault and make sure that Bellatrix's interests and incomes were still being respected.
She dealt with the goblin, feeling Bellatrix's annoyance at the way Hermione was being treated by the creature, but she managed to sooth the woman before they both lost control. The trip to the vault had her reminiscing over the time she Harry and Ron had broken into Gringotts with Griphook's help and fleeing on the back of the dragon that had been chained deep beneath the ground.
Once they stopped the goblin sneered at her, "All investments and incomes have been steadily coming in uninterrupted. We'll need the payment to increase the vault size soon as it is becoming filled to its maximum current size."
Hermione nodded, "I'll grab the amount while I'm in there." the goblin only nodded before settling back into the rickety cart to wait for her.
She took a deep breath and moved towards the large vault, holding her hand out to the shimmering mist that covered the archway. The sharp prick to her palm made her hiss quietly as her blood was drawn before the mist encompassed her and drew her deeper into the vault, recognizing her as its owner.
Alright Muddy. On the far left are the three books that should help us figure this out. Take as much gold as you can and don't forget to grab extra for the extension charm for the vault. Oh and grab the necklace on the far right behind the armor stand.
She smirked at the overflowing vault, her sarcastic tone clear as it bounced around the vault, "Yes your majesty. I live but to serve you."
Bellatrix's cackling laughter was the only answer as Hermione began to gather all the requested items and the gold. The fact that she and Bellatrix were actually getting along was something she never thought would happen and while everything she had come across said that Bellatrix would die if they tried to remove her, she couldn't accept it. Wouldn't accept it.
She had grown fond of the older witch, even grown to love her, though she didn't want to dive into that with Bellatrix still swimming around her mind. Even Bellatrix cared about her, more than she ever thought possible but they both were shying away from the feelings, desperate to keep at least one thing hidden from each other.
Bellatrix scoffed, both knowing it wasn't working very well.
She frowned as she found the necklace in question and ran her fingers over the Black house crest, "Why do you want this?"
Bellatrix's soft smile entered her mind before her gentle voice echoed through her mind, It's for you. I want you to wear it. You're my Muddy now and I want everyone to know it. When you're ready to wear it at least you'll have it. Once you put it on however, you won't be able to remove it. Only an original Black can remove it. Me or Cissy.
She couldn't stop the smile that pulled at the corner of her lips, "Never thought I'd hear Bellatrix Black actually cares about someone."
A scoff, We're sharing a body Muddy. You hurt I hurt. Let's just say I'll protect my current body until I get my own back.
Hermione laughed, hearing the lie in the words but not commenting on them. Instead, she wrapped the chain around her neck, "Well then I guess we'll have to figure this out soon so you can take this off me." She latched the clasp behind her neck and felt the warm sensation as the necklace heated up against her chest, recognizing a Black, before it grew cool again.
Bellatrix's voice was low and husky in her mind, I'll never take it off my Muddy. You're stuck with me pet.
She slung her bag over her shoulder as she turned back to the vault door, "I can live with that." She grinned as she exited the vault and climbed back into the cart.
Once back on the surface she paid for the extension before heading back out to Diagon Alley. She made her way back towards the Leaky Cauldron but froze when she spotted a familiar blonde head heading straight for her, the Boy-Who-Lived beside him. She grimaced knowing they had already seen her, and she had nowhere to hide in the middle of the street.
Harry frowned in concern at her, "Hermione! Where have you been?"
She pulled her mask into place and put on a fake smile, "I've been busy Harry. In fact, I'm in a rush right now but we'll talk later." She moved around him, but he caught her wrist.
"Hermione we're all worried about you. You've shut yourself off from everyone. What's going on?" Harry was genuine in his concern.
Hermione shook her head, as Bellatrix's annoyance came through at the boy touching her. No one touched what was hers. Hermione nearly rolled her eyes but quickly caught herself before pulling away from Harry, "I really can't talk now Harry."
Draco caught her arm tightly, the grip hurting slightly, and Bellatrix's anger flared alive as the boy pulled Hermione closer, "Where did you get that necklace? That's Aunt Bellatrix's."
Hermione jerked away from him as Bellatrix forced herself front and center, taking control of Hermione's body. Hermione's voice became distinctly not her own as Bellatrix hissed into her nephew's face, "If you know what's good for you boy, you'll leave well enough alone."
Hermione reached through her mind and yanked Bellatrix back, retaking control before she glared at Draco and Harry's shocked faces, "Nice seeing you both."
She spun on her heel and apparated back to her apartment before snapping angrily, "What was that? You could have gotten us caught."
Bellatrix's anger was still building, You are mine Hermione. No one is allowed to touch you, not to mention the fact that he was hurting you! I won't allow anyone to hurt you. Body be damned!
Hermione sighed as she leaned on the counter of her nearly empty apartment, "Kreacher!"
The usually angry and hateful elf appeared with a loud pop, "You called Missus?"
"Take the rest of this stuff to the Castle please. Is everything read for my arrival?" She could feel Bellatrix's anxious pacing, knowing the woman was going to be stewing on the event in Diagon Alley for the rest of the night.
Kreacher smiled slightly at her, "Yes Missus."
She nodded with a smile, "Alright. I'll be there in a few minutes." She waited until the elf disappeared before sighing, "Bellatrix, please calm down. You're making me anxious."
Bellatrix growled angrily, I can't help it. You have no idea how hard it is to not curse everyone that thinks they can touch you, let alone hurt you.
She refused to think about what Bellatrix's growl was doing to her and instead focused on calming the woman, "I'm fine. No harm done and I do have an idea. I share your thoughts remember." Bellatrix scoffed, the image of her arms crossing over the woman's corseted ample chest filling her mind. She groaned in frustration, "Not fair."
If you've forgotten, I have to suffer too when you shower. Bellatrix grinned, pride filling Hermione's chest.
She rolled her eyes but didn't comment back, desperately trying to ignore her body's reaction to the woman filling her mind with increasingly naughty images. She shook her head and placed her apartment keys on the counter before taking one last look around the place, making sure she hadn't forgotten anything. Once she was done, she apparated to the large gate at Black Castle.
The large building lived up to its namesake. The Castle was larger than Malfoy Manor and designed in a normal-ish castle like way. The large stones that made up the exterior wall were black and shimmered with runes, ranging from protection to other darker wards. Two towers stood out on either side of the main section of the castle, and she was already curious about what they held. The parapet at the top of the building held crenellations wide enough for two people to stand side by side. The large wrought iron gate swung open as she approached, and she could feel Bellatrix slowly begin to relax as she passed through the protection ward that surrounded the property.
No one without Black blood can get in here. You'll be the safest here. Bellatrix spoke softly in her mind, all traces of anger long gone now that they were safe.
She smiled as she made her way down the rocky path lined with perfectly trimmed hedges, ranging in forms from creatures to people. The wide large stone steps narrowed leading up to the castle entrance and she couldn't help but admire the care with which the place had obviously had over the years. She could feel Bellatrix's nervousness slowly fading the more she admired the Castle grounds.
Entering Black castle was a feat in itself as the door required a blood donation to confirm the subject's relationship status to the Black family. She held her breath for a moment as the door seemed to be assessing her, before the door quickly swung outward to allow her entrance. She stepped hesitantly into the grand entrance foyer, taking in the polished white marble floors, antique furniture that had obviously been there for centuries. A large crystal chandelier hung high above her head, the candles all lit, the flames dancing with the soft breeze that the open door provided.
Double stairs twisted up towards the second floor in front of her with a long corridor stretching underneath the second floor, where a smiling Kreacher was standing. The dark walnut wooden railing lined the second-floor walkway that stretched and disappeared in either direction. Curiosity was slowly getting the better of her as she wondered which corridor led where, until she heard Bellatrix's cackling laughter fill her mind.
Kreacher smiled at her, "This way to the kitchen Missus. Food awaits."
She smirked at the house elf, "As you wish."
She followed the house elf down the hallway and made a right near the end, her mouth gaping as she took in the very modernized kitchen. The white and black, more black than white, marble counters were pristine and shiny, as were the black appliances that dotted the area. She frowned in confusion for a moment, "I didn't think you would have a refrigerator."
Kreacher chuckled, "My Mistress enjoyed ice cream and always requested it be on hand. The kitchen was mostly used by me and to make potions. So really no magic to speak of in here is allowed."
She was impressed and could feel Bellatrix practically preening with the compliments. She rolled her eyes again, "Never ceasing to amaze me, even after all this time."
Bellatrix's smile floated across her mind, I will always do my best for you love.
Hermione felt her heart stutter in her chest at the word but quickly forced it out of her mind. She could feel Bellatrix's hesitance at realizing the word she used and didn't want to make the woman uncomfortable or force her to focus on something neither one of them were willing to admit out loud just yet.
Instead, she hurried across the kitchen to the island counter where stools sat, a plate of food steaming and waiting for her. Her mouth watered as she inhaled the scent, and quickly dug into the meal, "This is amazing Kreacher. Thank you."
Kreacher grinned at her, hanging his head shyly, "I'll admit Missus Hermione, that I never expected to be treated so kindly. My Mistress was…" He frowned, his hands beginning to tug at his large floppy ears.
Hermione quickly reached across the counter and took the old elf's hands, "None of that. She is sorry for how she treated you, but things change and most of the time they are for the better."
Kreacher lowered his hands with a nod, his frown remaining as sadness entered his large round eyes, "I miss my Mistress."
Hermione smiled at the way Bellatrix felt happy and guilty for that, "She misses you too Kreacher and I'm going to try my hardest to figure this out."
Kreacher's head jerked up, "There are some books in the library that may help. I was dusting them as you asked. I can pull them for you." He smiled, bright and happy to have purpose again.
She chuckled and nodded, "That would be helpful thank you." A loud pop filled the room as the elf disappeared.
I thought he would hate me for how I treated him. I still don't think I'll ever get used to how much things have changed Muddy. Bellatrix's vulnerability was showing.
Hermione smiled as she swallowed her bite of roast, "That's what you have me for. I'll always help you." She continued eating, enjoying the happiness that Bellatrix was feeling.
She spent the rest of the day exploring the castle, hearing Bellatrix tell her stories of her childhood with her sisters, or the torture she suffered at the hands of her father. She hated what Bellatrix and her sisters had gone through but that was in the past and neither one of them could change that. She moved from room to room until she came to Bellatrix's bedroom.
It wasn't surprising to see the familiar green and silver of Slytherin house all over the room. The bed sheets were even a deep green with a silver duvet draped neatly over it. Pictures dotted the room, all moving and all of Bellatrix and her sisters. She smiled as she took in Andromeda's smile as the young woman stared at her two sisters.
That's the one thing I regret the most. I never should have turned my back on her. While I did what I had to do to protect her, I wish I could have told her the truth.
Hermione frowned, "What do you mean?"
Bellatrix sighed heavily, When our father found out about Andy's relationship with Ted, I knew what would happen. I begged Ted to take Andy away, to hide the fact that I was going to hurt Andy in order to protect her. I outed her when Ted agreed, and he helped me set everything up only after Ted had a plan to hide Andy in place. I refused to let Andy suffer the same fate I had. Rodolphus was a nasty man and while I'm glad he's now dead, I knew at the time Andy would be betrothed to his brother Rabastan. I couldn't let that happen.
Hermione shook her head, "So all this time you let Andy believe you betrayed her?"
I had to, Bellatrix snapped angrily, her voice becoming shrill, If anyone, especially Voldemort or Dumbledore found out, Andy would have been targeted by both sides. Father would have hunted her down and forced her to wed Rabastan and I couldn't let that happen. Bellatrix heaved a sigh, Cissy was adamant that she follow me and before I knew what was happening she was betrothed to Malfoy. Lucius wasn't as bad as Rodolphus or Rabastan but he's still up there. I couldn't stop it after the fact and Voldemort hadn't told me it was happening until after I returned from my mission two days later. I would have stopped it if I had known…
Hermione took a moment to absorb all the information before she called out to Kreacher. Once the elf arrived, she smiled at him, "Will you please move all my things in here. I'll be leaving in a few and I would like it done before I return."
Kreacher nodded, "Of course Missus. Mistress won't be angry for you being in here private space, will she?" he asked hesitantly.
She waited a moment before Bellatrix grew angry at her for even thinking it. She chuckled as she shook her head at Kreacher, "No. She wants me in here."
Kreacher smiled widely, "It shall be done Missus." He disappeared with a pop.
Bellatrix was suddenly on edge, What are you planning Muddy? I can't make sense of these thoughts. They're going too fast. Anxiety crept into Bellatrix's voice, but Hermione had already made up her mind.
She moved through the castle and hoped that the Floo was still in working order and that she could get to where she wanted to go through it without having to take a million detours. She could feel Bellatrix's confusion and anxiety at the unknown that they were going into. She only hoped that Harry and Draco hadn't beat her there first.
She called out 'Tonks Residence' clearly and felt the familiar rush of green flames swallow her. Bellatrix's anger was burning in her chest as she stumbled out of Andy's fireplace, shaking her head against the rage. Don't you fucking dare tell her anything Muddy! She doesn't need to know now. It's too late anyway.
She straightened up and dusted soot off her robes as Tonks entered the room, "Hermione!" The woman's bright pink hair shifted to a bright excited green as the woman wrapped her arms around her tightly, "Where have you been? We've been looking all over for you lately."
She smiled at the woman, ignoring the jealousy that Bellatrix was projecting to her, "I need to speak to your mother."
Tonks frowned at her, her hair slipping back to pink, "She's really worried about you Hermione. I think-" Tonks's eyes widened for a moment before her hair shifted to a blazing red, "Who put that on you?"
Hermione frowned before following Tonks's eyes to the necklace resting against her chest. She shook her head, "None of your business." She swallowed thickly as she struggled with Bellatrix's anger and her own annoyance, "I need to speak with Andy, it's really important."
Tonks frowned and opened her mouth to speak but Andromeda Tonks entered the room, her worry plastered on her face, "Hermione, dear where have you been. I just spoke to Harry and Draco."
She curled her lip in disgust, Bellatrix's voice speaking through her, "They need to mind their own business." Hermione mentally scolded Bellatrix before shaking her head, "I need to speak with you privately."
Tonks shook her head, her hair still a bright red, "How about you tell us who put that necklace on you first?"
Andromeda frowned as she finally noticed the necklace, "Hermione?"
Hermione rubbed her temples, a headache quickly surging forward as Bellatrix's anger rose even more, "It's not what you think. Please Andromeda there's something I need to tell you."
Andromeda frowned, taking a step back from her, "You never call me that."
Tonks pulled her wand out and aimed at Hermione, "Who are you?"
"Oh, for the love of Merlin," Hermione snapped, her own anger surging forward, "I came here to tell you that Bellatrix and Ted planned everything that happened. You were going to be betrothed to Rabastan and Bellatrix refused to let that happen. Ted knew the entire time and once he had a place to hide you, they put the plan into motion. Bellatrix never betrayed you and only did what she did to save you. Unfortunately, she couldn't do the same with Narcissa."
Hermione felt the pain searing her mind and Bellatrix's voice was suddenly concerned, Hermione what's happening? Are you alright?
She shook her head and looked back over at Andromeda, "When you're ready to listen you can send me an owl."
Andromeda frowned, "Hermione you're bleeding."
She felt the trickle under her nose, and she quickly brought her fingers to it, finding blood on her fingertips when she pulled away. She frowned, "Owl me when you're ready to listen."
She spun on her heel and rushed back into the fireplace, calling out 'Leaky Cauldron' as she dropped the floo powder. Once she was back home, she stumbled into Bellatrix's bedroom and collapsed on the bed, falling unconscious before her head hit the pillow.
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Hermione awoke to Kreacher frowning down at her, "Missus, there's an owl for you."
Bellatrix's voice was rushed and laced with worry in her mind, Hermione, are you alright? I've been so worried. You've been out for two days. I hate not being able to help you.
She grinned before climbing out of bed and hurrying to the closed window where the annoyed owl was waiting. She frowned as she took the letter from the owl's leg and asked Kreacher to get it a treat. She tossed the letter onto the bed and entered the large ensuite, sighing happily at the overly large tub on the left side of the room under a floor to ceiling window.
I always loved the prefect tubs at Hogwarts. Bellatrix's smile entered her mind as the words almost caressed her soothingly. She enjoyed her soak, letting the hot water sooth her tense muscles. Bellatrix's soft soothing voice a constant stream in her mind, the woman desperate to help her relax since she couldn't help ease anything physically.
Once she was dressed in a pair of loose black sweats and a t-shirt she sat on the bed and finally pulled the letter out, recognizing Andromeda's handwriting.
Hermione,
We are all worried about you dear. Please tell me what's going on. Harry and Draco said you weren't acting like yourself. Nymphadora and I saw that for ourselves. We are worried about you. How did you get that necklace, let alone who put it on you? Please don't shut us out anymore. We only want to help. We tried looking for you at your flat, but the manager said you no longer live there. Please tell me what's going on. Please come to me Hermione. Let me help you.
Yours always,
Andromeda
Hermione smiled at the letter, knowing that Andromeda was worried and wouldn't be pushing so much if she wasn't truly concerned. She fell back on the bed and stared at the ceiling. She had worked so hard over the last six months to keep this from everyone, deciding it was best that no one knew about it. She didn't want Bellatrix to be hunted down or imprisoned back in Azkaban, not when she had worked so hard to help the woman heal. She also didn't want to be taken from Bellatrix once she did figure out how separate them.
I won't let anyone take you from me pet. There will be hell to pay if anyone so much as tries, Bellatrix's voice held the threat strongly and Hermione was slightly reassured.
She sighed and made her way down to the library, deciding to spend the day researching. She knew the ritual to bring Bellatrix back was going to be consuming, in more ways than one, but she was reluctant to bring anyone else in on it. Bellatrix would be weak when returning and would need as much help as she would in the days after the ritual, if Hermione survived it. That thought alone sent Bellatrix into a panic and it took most of the night to calm the woman enough for them to sleep.
The next week she spent most of her time in the Black library, writing and researching. It was quiet and peaceful and for that she was grateful while she worked. Something that Harry and Ron had never understood during their time at Hogwarts. She always worked better in the silence of the library, surrounded by the musty smell of old books and parchment. It was calming in a way, and she had been pleased when Bellatrix confessed that she felt the same way.
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By the start of the following week, she was tired. She had spent two days not sleeping as she finally had a breakthrough. She knew what the ritual would entail and had a list of the ingredients she would need before performing it. Thunder shook the castle as the rain poured, beating against the windows as Hermione bounced between three different tomes. Bellatrix was silently contemplating, giving Hermione a chance to focus, and wondering if this would actually work without hurting either of them.
Kreacher appeared with a pop startling both Hermione and Bellatrix, "Missus someone has come through the floo."
She frowned, "I thought it was sealed?" She moved towards the door.
Kreacher nodded, "Against everyone but a Black."
She slipped out into the long dark corridor, gripping her wand tightly in her hand. Bellatrix's wand was tucked away in the ankle holster attached to her leg, a backup as Bellatrix refused to allow her anywhere without double protection just in case. She had only had to use Bellatrix's wand a few times, but it reacted to her just as it did Bellatrix. She moved barefoot and silent down the corridor, extinguishing all lights with a silent wave of her wand. Flashes of lightning lit the castle through the open windows, illuminating everything for a few moments before throwing it back into darkness.
Her heart pounded in her chest, Bellatrix's unease and worry flaring hotly in her chest. Blood rushed through her ears as a loud crack of thunder echoed throughout the empty castle. She strained to hear anything as she pressed her back against the wall, her wand raised slightly as she peeked around the corner into the study, where the floo was. A flash of lightening lit up the room brightly and there was no one.
Kreacher tugged on her sweats, speaking quietly, "No one left."
She nodded and whispered, "Find them."
The sound of his bare feet slapping gently against the marble floors was the only sound until it faded away. She grimaced as she eased up the staircase in the entrance foyer, trying desperately to remember which steps creaked. Once on the second floor she turned right and kept her back against the wall, moving quickly yet silently down the dark corridor, checking each room as she went.
Her adrenaline was the only thing keeping her from completely freaking out as the storm raged outside, the silence filling the gaps between loud claps and rolling thunder. She could hear Bellatrix whispering in her mind to be careful, to ready a few spells or curses before checking a room, and to keep Protego on the tip of her tongue in case they were crept up on. She listened both to Bellatrix and the castle, hoping that she wouldn't be snuck up on but wanting to be ready just in case.
She neared what used to be Narcissa's bedroom, hearing a soft shuffle coming from the open door, a door that she hadn't opened since the first time she had arrived at the castle and Bellatrix gave her a tour. She raised her wand and moved towards the darkened doorway; readying Stupefy so she could cast it soundlessly. Just as she approached the door a loud crack of thunder shook the castle and a hex clipped the wall near her head, putting a hole in the wall.
She dropped to one knee and spun around the open doorway, sending her silent Stupefy at the shadow darting across the room. Bellatrix whispered a curse just as another blast caused Hermione to roll further into the room, trying to avoid the falling door as it was ripped from the hinges. She rose to her feet, wand aimed perfectly and the curse that Bellatrix readied flew at their target.
The shadow ducted and rushed forward wrapping arms around Hermione's waist, knocking the wand from Hermione's hand. Hermione's back hit the floor hard, knocking the air from her lungs for a moment as the shadow above her pressed a wand to her throat, the tip digging into her skin. She felt the adrenaline and fear from both her and Bellatrix collided, causing to jerk her entire body around. The shadow was dislodged, and she snatched Bellatrix's wand from the ankle holster as she surged to her feet.
A wand aimed directly at her face as she aimed Bellatrix's curved wand at the shadow in front of her. A soft gasp echoed through the room, "Bella?"
Hermione frowned as Bellatrix's voice shouted through her mind, Cissy!
A flash of lightning lit the room and Hermione stared into the utterly shocked face of Narcissa Malfoy. She shook her head as the light disappeared and silently lit the candles in the room. Narcissa lowered her wand quickly as Hermione rubbed her aching neck, moving towards the open door, "Didn't anyone ever tell you to knock?"
Narcissa hissed angrily, "What the hell is a mudblood doing here?"
Bellatrix surged forward, taking control of Hermione, spinning to grip her sister's neck tightly, "Do not call her that."
Hermione had half a mind to let Bellatrix deal with her sister but knew the woman's anger wouldn't do anyone any good. She forced herself back into control and quickly released Narcissa, shaking her head against the slight pain that Bellatrix's possession usually caused. She could see the fear in Narcissa's eyes before she turned away from her, snatching her wand off the floor even as she repaired the damage that Narcissa's spells and curses had done.
She exited the bedroom without a word and made her way back towards the stairs, "Kreacher!" the elf appeared right next to her with a loud pop. She smiled at his fearful expression, "Everything is fine. It's Narcissa Malfoy."
Kreacher relaxed visibly as he glanced behind them, seeing the woman for himself, "Would you like me to remove her and her access from the property Missus?"
Hermione paused at the top of the stairs for a moment, letting the question float to Bellatrix for an answer. She felt Bellatrix shrug and she sighed as she shook her head, "No but I want you to make sure no one else can get in here. Black or not."
Kreacher nodded, "Right away Missus." His loud pop echoed throughout the castle.
Hermione descended the stairs feeling Narcissa's eyes on her as the woman followed silently. She reentered the library and moved towards the window, rubbing her eyes as she stood in front of it. Rain pelted the glass as the wind whipped around the castle, the trees waving violently in the storm.
Narcissa hovered nearby, fear radiating from the woman, "How did you get in here?"
Hermione scoffed, "Does it matter?"
Narcissa frowned, "Draco and Harry told me about what happened at Diagon Alley and Andy has been a mess since you haven't responded to her. No one knows where you are. At least that has been solved."
Hermione's body tensed, "Good now you can run back and tell everyone you know where I'm at. Run along now." Bellatrix snorted but remained silent, curiosity burning as to why her sister was in their childhood home once again.
Narcissa frowned at the girl's tense body. There were dark deep circles under the young woman's eyes, the lack of sleep obvious in every movement and word the girl made. She felt her heart ache at the sight, having seen it on many faces after the war. She had always been attracted to the young woman, the day in Malfoy Manor when she was forced to watch her eldest sister torturing the poor thing still weighing heavily on her. She ached to reach out to her, to comfort her. She hadn't quite believed Andy when the woman explained to all of them what had happened that day when Hermione had randomly shown up in her house.
Even Tonks had been concerned and her niece was someone that just rolled with the punches. To see both her sister and niece as concerned as they were, on top of Draco and Harry's worry, it had been intriguing. Now she understood their concerns were valid and needed. This girl was not the same girl she had once been but the reason as to why was not easily discernable.
Narcissa frowned as the girl crossed her arms over her chest, tense and ready to drop from exhaustion, "Do you want me to tell anyone?"
Hermione scoffed, "I just want people to leave us in peace." Narcissa didn't miss the plural to that statement but let it go while she focused back on what the girl was saying. "I haven't done anything to anyone. I did my part during the war now why won't every just leave me in peace." Hermione shook her head, feeling Bellatrix trying to sooth her inner turmoil.
Narcissa had a strange feeling that Hermione's seclusion had nothing to do with the war, but she couldn't be positive. Draco had suffered after the war, dealing with how he had been tasked with killing Dumbledore but not able to, dealing with his true feelings for Harry Potter after tormenting him all those years. She had watched Draco go down a dark path, unable to help her only son while Lucius ignored everything. Lucius had changed after being in Azkaban and the only reason they were even still married was because Lucius didn't want to go through the pain of a wizarding divorce. Narcissa wouldn't feel it and Lucius wasn't strong enough to survive the ripping of the bonds, archaic and barbaric as they were.
She frowned at Hermione, seeing the girl recede into herself, as if listening to something that only she could hear. Narcissa hesitated before speaking, "I won't tell anyone if you promise me somethings."
Hermione's head snapped around to face her, anger dancing in very dark eyes, "I don't owe you anything." Her voice was dark and dangerous and Narcissa instinctually took a step back. "I remember staring into your eyes while I was tortured. You did nothing to help me so why now? You think I want your help? You think you can make up for what you did?"
Bellatrix's voice was tense and sad in Hermione's mind, I tortured you Muddy, not her. She was as powerless to stop me as you. I would take it all back if I could, you know that, but please don't take it out on her. Please love, don't drive her away.
Hermione felt the desperation in Bellatrix's voice and that word, that one word was enough to sooth her quickly as she watched the fear dance in Narcissa's eyes.
Narcissa frowned down at the floor before taking a deep breath and holding her head high, "You don't but I'm asking you to promise me that you will call on me if you need anything. Call on me if you just need someone to talk to, someone to be angry at. Call me if you can't sleep." Narcissa swallowed against her dry throat, "Call me if you need relief of any kind. Let me help you if you won't let Andy or Tonks or your friends."
Hermione frowned as she studied the woman. Long blonde hair draped perfectly over each shoulder as deep blue eyes pleaded with her. Her sharp jaw and high cheek bones set her apart from her sisters more than the hair did. The woman was sophisticated elegance walking and knew how to use it to her advantage. She commanded attention the moment she walked into a room and held it for the entire time she was in it. She was strong and unrelenting in her demands, the epitome of power that others only dared to desire.
Hermione knew all this, and she felt herself being drawn to the woman, as if being pulled into Narcissa's atmosphere by an unseen force. To be allowed in her orbit was something that Hermione could only dream of, but here the woman was. She was there offering her a place, offering her something so powerful that she was struggling to deny it. She wanted it, needed what Narcissa was offering but how could she trust this woman after everything she had been through.
She could feel exhaustion creeping into her mind and Bellatrix tried to help her relax, Let her help us. She only wants what best for us. I can see the pain in her eyes Hermione. I can see her struggle. She doesn't have anyone. She wouldn't dare ask her son for help and Lucius, as we both know, is as useless a husband as he is a man. Maybe we can convince her to get a divorce, maybe force Lucius to go through with it if we can guarantee him life afterwards.
Hermione scoffed at Bellatrix, turning back to the window, "Spineless is an understatement."
Narcissa frowned as she watched Hermione's body slowly begin to relax, speaking to someone or something that Narcissa couldn't see. She felt the fear invade her body as Bellatrix came to mind. She had seen Bellatrix lose herself, especially after Azkaban. Bellatrix had never been the same and now she was watching it happen to Hermione. A young woman who didn't deserve it just as much as Bellatrix hadn't deserved it. She refused to stand by this time. She may have been unable to help her sister, but she would help Hermione in every possible way.
Bellatrix's cackling laughter filled Hermione's mind, That's my little Gryffindor. Let's save my sister and then us, shall we? I have a few tricks up my sleeve that will get Lucius to bow down to every request we have. I know all about his mistress's, and the misters he keeps company with.
Hermione snorted, grimacing at the thought, "I could have lived without knowing that." She had honestly forgotten that Narcissa was in the room.
Until the woman spoke, "Knowing what?"
She jumped slightly before her eyes darted to the blonde. She frowned shaking her head, "Nothing sorry. Lost in thought."
Bellatrix chortled, Whose thought? Yours? Mine? Ours? Can we even tell the difference anymore?
Hermione struggled to stop the laugh, but a slight chuckle escaped anyway. She sighed heavily as Narcissa frowned at her, "I've not slept in a few days. I apologize."
Narcissa frowned at her, "Then you need to sleep. Please allow me to help you."
She hesitated for a moment, listening to Bellatrix agree first. She nodded, "I promise to call if I need anything, but I don't want anyone else here. This is my home and I like my privacy."
Narcissa frowned for a moment before nodding, knowing not to push. The Black Castle never would have let Hermione in if it didn't recognize some sort of family bond in the girl. So instead, she nodded, "I will only tell them I have spoken to you and that you wish for some privacy at this time. I'll be at the Manor if you require anything."
Hermione nodded and watched Narcissa hesitate for a moment before leaving the room. She listened to the sound of the floo carrying Narcissa away before she relaxed completely, "This ought to be interesting."
Bellatrix's laughter filled her mind, The fact that you have the hots for two of the Noble and Ancient House of Black sisters?
Hermione scoffed as she exited the library, "Do not."
You can't hide from me my little Muddy. I know you inside and out now, Bellatrix purred into her mind.
This was one time she really hated this arrangement, which only made Bellatrix laugh excitedly. She rolled her eyes as she showered then climbed into bed for the first sleep in two days, resigning herself to not call on Narcissa unless absolutely necessary.