August the 6th. Azkaban.
Heavy gates of the Azkaban fortress jail opened up a little, letting inside three persons, two of whom were dressed in black robes, with hoods above their faces. For the simple guards and Aurors, they looked like your average Unspeakables, secretive and secluded members of the Ministry, charged with research, exploration and experimentation in various fields of magic.
That including the fields that are considered to be among the darkest and vilest in the society and even among some of the Dark families. Due to the nature of their work, they usually work in secrecy and away from prying eyes, and if need be, they can call upon their vast privileges, granted to them by the Ministry's edicts, to achieve all the needed goals, just like now.
Kingsley Shacklebolt stepped closer to the warden, handing him the order and confirmations from the Ministry, authorizing the presence of the Unspeakables and the nature of their task. The warden looked a little surprised, but not too surprised, as this wasn't the first time he had seen the Unspeakables visit the Azkaban.
In his time, he had watched these seemingly faceless and silent studiers come and go here about half a dozen times already, each and every time pursuing different goals. This time was no different, but what was different was the fact that the Unspeakables required one of his most guarded and dangerous inmates. He looked from the writ and at his old former colleague and friend Kingsley Shacklebolt, before speaking up.
"I'm sorry, Shacks, but are those Unspeakables nuts?" He honestly asked of him, before showing him what was written in the order. "I can understand studying the Dementors, Azkaban itself, even the strange hieroglyphs found in some places here, but this? She was among You Know Who's most trusted lieutenants and still is his deadliest Witch. She may've been quiet and even withdrawn for the past fourteen or so years, but recently… It's like she's turned into a rabid dog. Hell, I've had to order Dementors to bring her food instead of guards, because she'd scare my men worse than Dementors."
"I know, Jack, and believe me, I understand what you mean." Kingsley spoke up. "And that is the thing that those two are here for. We've all heard that after Voldemort fell, Bellatrix Lestrange suddenly went into that apathy and misery, but now, with all the rumors and…"
"Not exactly rumors, Shack." Jack told him, surprising him. "I've seen the Marks on their arms flare up in June, and I know what that means, even if Fudge and his bureaucratic arse lickers are saying otherwise… Does Bones and others know that He's back?"
"She does, and that's why she agreed to cooperate with Unspeakables on this one. They've got a theory or two that the Marks may be used to find out where that bastard is hold up and smoke him out." Shacklebolt explained to him. "I don't know about you, Jack, but I'd prefer to put the bastard down for good this time, and do it before he gets any time to do any damage, instead of having to deal with him when people start dying."
"Hm… Alright, I'll have that woman moved to the isolated chamber on this level. That should give your researchers plenty of privacy, and I'll have my men not snooping around." Jack agreed with Kingsley. "But, if something goes south…"
"I've been ordered to supervise the entire thing, and I still haven't forgotten how to throw a curse." Kingsley assured his friend, who nodded to him.
The warden motioned several of the guards to guide the arrived guests to the chamber, while he went on to order his men to bring the infamous Bellatrix Lestrange there. Soon enough, the trio had made their way into the small chamber, with wooden chairs with restraints, stools and table being the only accommodations there. Once the door into the chamber closed up, and with Kingsley placing a privacy charm on the room, he turned to the Unspeakables and spoke up to them.
"I hope you realize what you are doing, Regulus." The said 'Unspeakable' removed his hood, revealing the head of Regulus Black. "If word gets around that Amelia had given you access here, not to mention to Bellatrix Lestrange, and that you've went in here dressed as the Unspeakables, the Minister will have us all by our balls. And if Dumbledore finds out, and he will, he'll…"
"He'll only learn of a pair of Unspeakables going into Azkaban to conduct their research business, something that happens fairly often in here." Regulus simply stated to Kingsley, who looked at him in curiosity. "Don't look at me like that, Kingsley. House of Black has been at the foundation of Ministry, and we have always had quite a number of good friends in there, many of whom work in the Department of Ministries and archives. If anything comes up, this will be seen as nothing more than a regular Unspeakables' visit, nothing new."
"Still doesn't explain why you've decided to come and visit Bellatrix Lestrange of all people in here." Shacklebolt rubbed his eyes from tiredness. "You've been one of the Death Eaters, Regulus, so you know that she is an utter fanatic and lunatic when it comes to Voldemort and that she has all but abandoned House of Black. Tonks even told me that Arcturus regards her as a little more than a rabid dog that needs to be put down for good, a notion that I happen to agree with."
"And one that I too agree with as well." The second 'Unspeakable' spoke, removing the hood and revealing Cassiopeia Black, who looked with a small glare at her nephew. "That woman had taken part in killing many of our relatives that haven't sided with Voldemort, not to mention that she has played a key part in deaths of both Marius and Dorea. For those that had blood of Black alone Bellatrix has earned an eternal hatred of House of Black, but for my brother and sister, I would personally crucify her and leave here in a desert to die."
"I am well aware of that, Cassiopeia. And I also know that Bellatrix has done more harm to our House than any other traitor of it." Regulus stated to her. "However, unlike the two of you, I have had the chance to see Bellatrix and talk to here, when I was still with Death Eaters. She herself had recommended me to Voldemort, true, but the two of us have always been close, closer than I was to my parents and Sirius. And let me tell you two: that woman that had attacked our family was not Bellatrix Black."
"People change, Regulus. You are the prime example of the phenomena." Cassiopeia simply stated to him, with Kingsley nodding. "Besides, she was always not the correct sort of a Black, not helped with the fact of Cygnus and Druella being utter wastes of magic and atrocious people that they were, even by the standards set by our ancestor Phineas Black. Thank Morgana that Andromeda and Narcissa, to a certain extent, turned out to be alright."
"You don't need to tell me about Cygnus and Druella, I still remember their lunacy, just as I remember my mother's bouts of insanity and madness." Regulus reminded her. "However, both I and Andromeda had always been close to Bellatrix. Hell, Bella was the maid of honor on Andromeda's secret wedding, the very same Bellatrix that later went on to kill more non-magicals than I ate chicken. Cassiopeia, I've known Bellatrix before she joined up, and I've worked with her after she had joined, and I can tell that those were two completely separate and different persons, and I don't mean like she had changed like I did. No, something had happened to Bellatrix that has made her go insane like that, something Rodolphus, Voldemort, or even her parents had done to here."
"You mean that she was put under the Imperious curse?" Kingsley asked of him, with Regulus shaking his head.
"I thought that at first too, but after working as an Auror and seeing how the Imperious Curse works, I can tell for sure that she wasn't under the Imperious, but under something worse." Regulus looked at Cassiopeia, who had an interested look now. "I know how you feel about her, Cassiopeia, and I myself would like nothing more than to avenge Aunt Dorea and Uncle Marius, but if there is a chance that Bellatrix hasn't been herself all that time while she did all this…"
"Then we may be condemning another one of Black victims… Ugh, fine, I'll check and see if there is any sense to your words, Regulus." Cassiopeia agreed with him. "Still can't believe you've managed to talk me into it, and without telling a word to Harry, Nymphadora or father for that matter."
"If I had told them about that, they'd dismiss it without missing a beat." Regulus simply stated to her. "Grandfather hates Bellatrix just a little less than he hates Voldemort, while Nymphadora wouldn't have considered my words to be valid, even though she is an Auror."
"And Henry? From what I understand, he is not the type of the person to let go of an opportunity to gain an ally." Kingsley stated.
"And he is also the kind of the guy that knows how to hold a grudge, and has all the reason to hate Bellatrix just as much as my Grandfather does." Regulus told him. "She and Lestranges have taken part in attacking the Potters on that Halloween night, and she had fought against Dorea, according to Harry. In his mind, everyone involved in death of Charlus and sacrifices of Dorea, is an enemy and need to be killed, and Bellatrix is one of them. He may be as smart as Salazar Slytherin, but he can be just as vindictive, and, as Andromeda had mentioned, that can cause him to have a bit of a tunnel vision on things. Better he and the others don't know that we were here and checked Bellatrix, and after we are done here, we can tell them and ask either for a thank you or forgiveness for acting out on our own." The group heard screams and maniacal cackling outside, indicating that the person in question was nearby, forcing Regulus and Cassiopeia pull up their hoods.
The door into the chamber opened up, and three guards led the struggling and cackling form of Bellatrix Lestrange in, forcing her into the chair and strapping her with the restraints, before leaving. Regulus and the others took a closer look at the former Black woman. Her long black hair was dirty, messy and streaks of grey already showed, while her face looked gaunt and even terrifying to a certain degree with her sharp features and large black eyes. Madness and insanity were clearly seen in the eyes of once promising and powerful Black witch.
This was Bellatrix Lestrange, but Regulus had known her before she took the name of her husband, when she proudly wore the name of Bellatrix Black. She was in many aspects, a perfect Black family witch: strong, willful, independent and powerful, ready to serve and help her House. He remembered her being the most strong-willed of the three cousins, comparing her to Cassiopeia and Dorea, but she was also the fierce protector of her sisters. Back in Hogwarts, she would've killed anyone who would've dared to even look funny at Andromeda or Narcissa, but she wasn't cruel. She may've had some of Black's traditional disposition towards non-magicals, but she was never a fanatic or pureblood supremacy advocate. She was smart, cunning, witty and powerful, not insane and rabid like the woman he saw before him.
Her face contorted into a smile as she saw the visitors and spoke.
"My, my, I haven't had a visitor in ages, and instead I get three at the same time." Bellatrix smiled to them, looking at them. "So, here to finally put the dog out her misery, as the guards have called me over the years? Well, you best take your shot now, before the Dark Lord releases me and the others, because after that, I may find you and have my way with all three of you." She cackled a little, licking her lips a little.
"We are not here to kill, Bellatrix." Regulus removed his hood, as did Cassiopeia, though unlike her nephew, she looked at Bellatrix with hatred in her eyes.
"Regulus Arcturus Black, as I live and breathe!" She laughed openly when she looked at her cousin. "I always thought that you had died in a ditch somewhere, but no. And look at you, all tall and grown up, with finally some muscles to show, I bet. Almost nothing like that scrawny little pansy you were back then, who'd throw up at the first sight of blood."
"And you look the very part of a psychotic and deranged lunatic." Cassiopeia commented, drawing the attention of Bellatrix.
"Auntie Cassie, what a pleasant surprise!" Bellatrix looked surprised. "It has been forever since we saw each other, and you look like you haven't aged a day! Tell me, how are Uncle Marius and Auntie Dorea, by the way? Do they send me their love?"
"You know full well where they are, you deranged skank!" Cassiopeia moved her hand to her wand, while Bellatrix cackled, only to be stopped by Regulus.
"Oh, that's right, I've gutted that muggle loving Marius like a pig he was!" Bellatrix laughed even louder. "Did you know that he was crawling on his knees to me, begging for mercy, before I took spilled his guts out? It was so funny to see him kiss my toes when I told him that it would save his life, only to realize that I lied to him! And as for Auntie Dory, she should count herself as someone truly blessed, to have fallen at the hand of the Dark Lord. Perhaps he'll give you the same blessing when he gets to you, Auntie, if I ask him nicely."
"The only thing you and him will get from me is death for what you've done to them!" Cassiopeia was losing her temper and control, only restrained by Regulus. "Let go of me, Regulus! Don't you see? That bitch is simply mad and needs to die, for Marius and Dorea's sakes, so that they may find peace at least!"
"And I've told you why we are here, Cassiopeia, and if I wrong, then I'll personally gut her open for you." Regulus saw that Cassiopeia calmed down a little, letting her go, before turning to Bellatrix, who was looking at him with curiosity.
"So, when you disappeared, you've ran away to this old fossil here, instead of staying and serving the Dark Lord? Regulus, you really are such a disappointment, just like Mommy and Daddy had told me you were." Bellatrix feigned disappointment. "And I had thought that you'd be able to toughen up a little while with me, but there goes me being a caring cousin. But you are here for the reason, and I have a feeling that it has something to do with the Dark Lord. Why don't you loosen up these things and let me go? I'll be sure to let the Dark Lord know that you've helped me and he may forgive you."
"That's out of the question, Bellatrix. And even if I had wanted to return to kiss his toes for forgiveness…" Regulus rolled up his left sleeve, showing Bellatrix the burn where his Mark once was. "I doubt that he'd ever forgive me after I've burned it off. And besides, I've long have chosen to stand against him."
"Oh, Regulus, you damn idiot… When I get out, I will make you wish you had died, for rejecting the gift of the Dark Lord that was bestowed upon you! You will scream mercy and lick his hem, while I make your blood boil! You will eat your own heart for this treachery, you worthless weak-willed worm!" Bellatrix screamed at him, before being silenced by a sound slap from Cassiopeia, forcing the inmate to spit blood out. "Oh, so the old crone still has some fire left in her furnace, eh? Don't worry, I'll make sure to take extra care with you, when I get out."
"You won't be getting out of here any time soon, Lestrange." Kingsley chimed in, only to be met with more cackling. "Regulus, I have to agree with Cassiopeia. She is simply utterly insane, no question about it, and she is insane of her own volition."
"Maybe, or maybe she was made that way." Regulus looked at Bellatrix, who suddenly looked at him with some manner of curiosity. "The Bellatrix I knew would die before hurting me, or her sisters, uncles and aunts for that matter. And she'd kill anyone who would've tried to force her into slavery or servitude of any kind, not to mention she wouldn't let anyone dictate her what to do or how to be. Especially if it involved hurting the Black Family."
"Then you must be even crazier than I am, Regulus, because I'd gladly carve out your heart right now and eat it, for what you have done." Bellatrix stated to him, before he took out his wand and paralyzed her.
"You know why we are here, Cassiopeia, so please…" Regulus motioned to her, with Cassiopeia taking out her wand and pointing at Bellatrix.
"I still don't believe the single word you said about her, Regulus, but I'll trust you on this one." She began to chant up the charms and spells with her wand, magic swirling around her.
For twenty minutes, Cassiopeia had run every possible analytical charm and spell that she could on the still form of Bellatrix Lestrange. In normal circumstances, she would've made the woman scream in agony and beg for mercy, for all the pain she had caused her, for taking away her brother as she had admitted right now. And that's not to mention attacking Dorea, her closest friend and sister, the one that she was the closest with. Cassiopeia Black was a vengeful woman, never one to pass up an opportunity to exact her revenge, and Bellatrix Lestrange was quite high up in her list of those that deserved death. The only thing that had stopped her so far was Regulus' idealistic and childish belief that there was something wrong with Bellatrix, that she was not herself. When he had first come to her with this proposal, she was ready to laugh in his face and tell him that he was going mad.
Now, however, she wasn't all that sure, as what the tests have revealed to her showed that Regulus' words had merit. Now that her vindictive side had let go of her mind, the scientist and Black witch began to work their own magic in her mind, formulating conclusions and facts of the data she had gathered. And what she had learned had terrified her, and considering that this the same witch that had delved in Necromancy and some of the darkest arts of magic known to men, that was saying something.
Pulling back her wand, she looked at Regulus with a look of shock, as she spoke to him.
"I never thought that I'd say it, but… You were right, Regulus." She admitted to him, with Regulus and Kingsley looking with surprise at her. "Whatever hunch, gut feeling or instinct you had, they were correct about Bellatrix not being herself. At least, partially you were right in that regard."
"What have you found out? Is it some form of mind control, a mechanism of subjugation through the Mark?" Regulus asked of Cassiopeia, who shook her head.
"No, nothing like that. It is something far worse than that." She stated with a shocked voice, before turning to Bellatrix. "Bellatrix had been subjected to one of the cruelest and darkest rituals that are known to me, a ritual so atrocious, that it has been forbidden for usage before the establishment of the Ministry. Bellatrix has had her mind and real persona, the one you remember, shackled up right inside her, and instead of it, a whole new and different persona was formed, one that was all too eager to serve and believe in the Dark Lord."
"What is that supposed to mean?" Kingsley asked of them, while Regulus paled when he realized what had happened to Bellatrix. "Are you saying that there are two souls in Bellatrix, like with Horcrux? Is she possessed or something?"
"No, she isn't possessed, not in the same way as with other possessed people." Regulus shook his head. "I know the ritual that Cassiopeia just spoke of. It is an ancient and dark ritual, created by the House of Black to enslave our enemies and chosen spouces and take control of them. The ritual binds the real personality of the victim deep inside her mind, before creating above that persona a completely new one. It is like making a whole different person, but with all the memories, skills and abilities, yet completely different character. You could call an Imperious curse on steroids, so to speak, only it is worse. The new persona will obey any and all commands put into the mind and it's basis, while the real one, the original, will be locked up in the mind, unable to get out and watching what is happening. The newly created person will act and live as it was ordered by the ritual's incantations and instructions planted into it. This ritual could only be learned and performed by a member of House of Black, which means…"
"It's both Cygnus and Walburga's work. I recognized their magic in Bellatrix's mind." Cassiopeia stated to Regulus, who didn't look all too surprised. "The ritual had been performed just after her wedding, from what I've learned out of her mind, and that it was performed incorrectly and sloppy, not to mention that their commands and traits they instilled into this new persona had made her go insane like this. Typical Cygnus and Walburga, utter idiots and fools when it comes to finer magic."
"What do you mean by the ritual being performed incorrectly?" Regulus asked of her.
"Exactly what I've meant, Regulus. Had the ritual been done properly, and thank Morgana it wasn't, I wouldn't have been able to simply find traces and memories of it, as it was designed in such a way." Cassiopeia stated to him. "Furthermore, the binding of the real personality of Bellatrix wasn't done properly, which had allowed some of her true self to leak out, and even to take back control of her body for the limited time, before this twisted monstrosity of a persona had regained control. In fact, from what I've read from scans, the real Bellatrix had always had control of her actions whenever she was with her daughter, Cornelia, and she'd never allowed this new persona take control. Along with that, there is the fact that she had protected you from threats and bullying while you were with Death Eaters."
"That she did, true…" Regulus looked at Bellatrix with sadness, before firming up and looking at Cassiopeia. "Now do you believe me, Cassiopeia?"
"I do, and I am sorry for not trusting you, Regulus." She was honest, before turning back to Bellatrix, who was starting to come out of her paralysis. "The Death Mark had also been tied up to the ritual, which is why after 14 years of apathy and inaction, this dark twisted persona reemerged, with the return of the Dark Lord. Before that, it was true Bellatrix, the real and original one, in command of her faculties and body."
"If that was the case, and from I understand now, she'd had to have seen, felt and sensed all that her evil persona done, including torturing, murdering and all in between." Kingsley spoke up. "It must've broke her, when the Dark Lord fell the first time, and not being able to prove her innocence… Shit, and I thought that Henry had it bad, but this is utter…"
"Just one more victim of that damned war and Voldemort. Cassiopeia, you've stated that the Mark was linked up the Ritual, sort of like an anchor for that built up persona, if I understand correctly? If we remove the Mark, will that destroy the persona that is in control of Bellatrix?" Regulus asked of Cassiopeia, who thought about herself.
"Hm… Yeah, that could work, but I'll also have to perform a powerful purging charm on her right after the Mark is gone." Cassiopeia spoke up. "This personality wasn't made properly, like I said earlier, as it is also a parasite of sorts. The Mark is what feeds up this parasite, and the shock from sudden loss of Voldemort had forced the dark persona to lay dormant. This time, it will fight back and may try to assert itself in Bellatrix's mind as the only persona." Regulus and Cassiopeia nodded to each other, before drawing out their wands, right as Bellatrix had regained her functions, having heard it all.
"You bet your lives I will not let you do it to me! That damn mother of a bitch Bella hadn't let me out near Cornelia and had me locked up after Dark Lord fell, but now I'm not letting you do me away for good!" Bellatrix screamed at them while, Regulus slashed open her left sleeve, showing the Death Mark.
"For whatever it's worth, cousin, it's going to hurt you like hell. Liberatio a Vinculo cum Malo!" Regulus said the incantation, as he pointed his wand at the Death Mark of Bellatrix.
The Death Mark let out an ear piercing scream as it dissolved into a close to acid liquid, burning the flesh of screaming Bellatrix, as it left her body. Cassiopeia didn't waste a moment after the Death Mark had dissolved itself, purging Bellatrix's mind out of the parasite and all the waste that her idiotic relatives have put into the girl. After two minutes of the incantations, the struggling and thrashing form of Bellatrix Lestrange calmed down, settling down, as Cassiopeia put away her wand. As the room quieted down, the trio gave Bellatrix some breathing room, before her form began to slowly move again. Her dark eyes looked around her, before she focused up on Regulus, who eyed her with suspicion and readiness, but only until he heard her speak.
"R-Regulus…" The voice of Bellatrix bore now no madness and malice, but was one much like Andromeda's, only sounding broken, tired and hopeless. "Th-thank you, Regulus, Auntie Cassie…" She said weakly, as she began to cry, tears coming out of her eyes.
"Bella, is that really you, the real you?" Cassiopeia asked of her, with Bellatrix nodding to her.
"Yes, I-I am now me again… Oh Morgana, s-so many killed, Marius a-and D-Dorea… A-all of them, I've murdered them all and…" She cried, as she looked with her broken gaze at them. "I hurt so m-many p-people… R-Regulus, p-please, I-I don't want to live with all this… Finish me off, I don't want to…"
"Like bloody hell will I ever do something as stupid as that!" Regulus yelled at Bellatrix, kneeling before her. "Bella, all that has happened: our relatives, those non-magicals and Muggleborns, Marius and Dorea- they weren't your fault and it wasn't you who did it all. It was that thing that was in control of you, she had done it all, not you."
"And do you think that makes it any better?!" She yelled at him with tears. "I remember every face, every single person that had suffered from my hand! I still hear their screams and hear myself cackle at it all, and I still remember that rush of sick sensations when I did all that! I felt, saw and sensed everything that she did, and I remember it all like I did, Regulus! For 14 years it has been with me, 14 years of absolute torture and madness! Please, I beg you, I don't want to go through it anymore and I don't want to deal with it all, all that blood and suffering… Kill me, please! For Cornelia at least! She can't have a mother that has done so many atrocities!"
"No, and she won't have one, because that Bellatrix is now gone, and you are you again. And Cornelia bloody well needs her mother, now more than ever!" Regulus shouted at his shell shocked cousin, with her suddenly looking at him with wide eyes, tears finally stopping and shock stepping away.
"Wh-what do you mean? What has happened to my daughter?!" She now shouted at her with force, her maternal instincts once more kicking back, just as they did when she protected her daughter from the dark persona.
"You want to know? Fine, I'll tell you! She has been knocked up by a guy she loved, yet ran away from her. She had been forced to fake her own death and the death of her child, just to escape the wrath of House Lestrange, not to mention the Weasleys and Dumbledore, who wouldn't let a child of two mortal enemy houses live. She is hiding, all alone, raising her son from Charlie Weasley and probably praying to never be found! And do you know what will happen if Rodolphus or Rabastan get out of here?" Regulus asked of Bellatrix, who knew what will happen.
"They'll find her and kill them both… Cornelia, wh-why she hadn't gone to Arcturus or you, or Cassiopeia?! Why she hadn't gone to Andromeda for help?!"
"She probably knew that the Lord and Lady Lestrange would stop at nothing to kill her child, even risking a war with House Black, so she had faked her death. Not to mention that Weasleys, or rather, Molly Prewett, would've made sure that she was dead, especially with Dumbledore on her side. We only found out just a few days ago, and we are yet to approach her." Cassiopeia spoke up, with Bellatrix looking at her aunt. "House of Black is getting back together, and we are taking a stand against Voldemort and Dumbledore. It is long past time that our enemies had paid for crossing us, and it is about the damn time we've stopped bickering amongst ourselves and poured our might and power towards the right goal. And we need every Black for it, Bellatrix."
"I am not Black, not anymore." She simply stated. "And even if you get together, it'll take more than just our House to defeat those two."
"Which is why we aren't alone in this fight." Regulus stated, drawing her attention. "House Le Fay has risen once more, and Prince Le Fay is of our blood, Bellatrix. We already have an army, power and we have already struck against Dumbledore and Voldemort. We know how to defeat that half-blooded bastard for good, and we are prepared to dismantle the Light Side. You don't want to live the life of misery and torture? Fine, get the fuck over it. We don't need Bellatrix Lestrange, a broken and used up shell of a witch. We need Bellatrix Black, the daughter of House Black and one of the most powerful and gifted Black Witches of this century. We need a woman that has borne a strong child and protected her even against herself, and is prepared to do everything to defend Cornelia and her son. Start being Bellatrix Black, live if not for yourself, than for your daughter and our House. You think that death will wash away your sins? No, it won't, it'll just stop the hurting." Bellatrix looked at him.
"You don't know what you are talking about, Regulus. You didn't do what I have…" Bellatrix told him, with him nodding to her.
"You are right, but I've done my share of bad things. I live with it every day, but I don't live just to remember it all." Regulus told her. "I live to make the best out of my life and all I know, as well as to make things better for those I care about. I know that you don't need forgiveness of others, Bella, but if you want to earn the forgiveness for yourself, to learn how to live past all you've done, then you'll let me get your arse out of this jail, stop moping about and do what is right for your family and yourself. The choice is yours, Bella: stay here and wallow up in despair until you die, or get out there and set things right."
Bellatrix looked into his eyes, seeing that he too has done bad things, and that her cousin still regrets what he has done with Death Eaters. But at the same time, she sensed strength, fortitude, determination and will in him, more than she had ever expected to sense from Regulus. She had always thought that it was Sirius who was one with character, but it looks like it is Regulus that had turned out even stronger. She could still remember in vivid detail all that Bellatrix Lestrange has done and she couldn't help but feel shame and despair, even if she hasn't done it.
However, as her bout of freedom and desperation faded away, her heart once more began to pound with force, fueled by rage, fury, and desire to protect her daughter and avenge her. Her daughter, the only good thing that came from Rodolphus' seed and her womb, had suffered from the hands of Weasleys, left by the father of her child. She didn't feel any hatred or repulse to the child, instead she felt the intense desire to see her grandson. But Charlie Weasley… He had hurt her Cornelia, abandoned her, and he will pay, and so will all those that had hurt her or threatened her.
Bit by bit, piece by piece, the shell of the broken and desperate woman fell off, as Cassiopeia and Regulus saw how practically on their eyes magic danced around Bellatrix. Instead of the broken tool came a reforged in determination and purpose woman, once more bearing the name of Black. Regulus didn't need to probe her mind to understand that his cousin was back, as he simply unlocked her binds, letting Bellatrix to rise up. She looked at her family with her dark eyes, before pulling away her unkempt hair and speaking to Regulus.
"I'll live, and I will not let anyone dictate what to do anymore." She said with strength. "Now, Regulus, do please tell that you getting me out of here isn't just hot air. Wizengamot won't ever allow me to leave Azkaban, especially with Dumbledore in charge."
"You are right, as Wizengamot won't budge on your account, but did you know that I was actually trialed and found not guilty by the ICW's Court?" He informed her with smirk, seeing a surprise on Bellatrix's face. "I have made myself a name in the international community, and I've got a couple of friends in the Court. I can have a private trial and hearing organized within 72 hours, and once we lay on the table all the evidence, not even Dumbledore and Ministry combined will be able to stop you from getting out free."
After hearing that, Bellatrix smiled to him, already feeling anxious at the prospect of getting out. Once she was out, she'll not waste time and find out all that has happened while she was away and every detail on what has transpired with her daughter. And after that… She'll be there for Cornelia and her son, her grandson.
August the 11th. House of Black's Mansion. County of Kent.
Arcturus sat in his chair, sipping tea, while also reading the international news, seemingly exuding an aura of relaxation and calmness. That would appear to be the case for anyone who hasn't had the pleasure, or displeasure, depending on whether you enemy or friend of Black family, to know Arcturus Black. The man was known as one of the most strong-willed and smartest persons in the current society and time. He was the man that you most definitely wouldn't want to cross and make an enemy of. And he was also a man that didn't like to wait around, after he had summoned guests to his House.
For over two weeks, Arcturus Black has been ignoring the invitations and petitions to come of House Malfoy. He knew full well why Lucius Malfoy had suddenly decided to take interest in the maiden House of his wife Narcissa, as Arcturus was usually the man to be aware of any significant and insignificant changes a on the magical and political arenas, not to mention being the Head of one of the strongest Noble Houses in Magical Britain.
So when House Le Fay had returned unannounced, Lucius, or rather Voldemort, had realized that Arcturus would know of it, and wanted to use the old man to learn about the newly appeared House. Arcturus understood it all completely, so he had ignored Malfoy, and had enjoyed the show that had happened in the Wizengamot, as Henry had all but in plain speech revealed that Houses Le Fay and Black were allies. The look on Malfoy's face had made Arcturus' day, and the memory still warmed him.
However, even though he could've continued to ignore the Malfoy, Arcturus decided to use the opportunity to send the clear message to Lord Voldemort and Death Eaters, along with possibly reclaim a member of their family. Arcturus didn't give a piss about Draco Malfoy, as the boy was all Malfoy and nothing of Black in his eyes, but Narcissa still could be salvaged. That is, if the youngest of Cygnus' children wished to be salvaged and taken back into the Black family. He knew all too well that the foolish Narcissa had married Lucius Malfoy out of love and that she was loyal to her husband, but she was also loyal to a certain degree to House of Black, and now was time for her to decide. Should she wish it, Arcturus and Henry would accept her, but if not… Then House of Malfoy will crumble with Narcissa being there with it.
He had answered the call of Malfoys and allowed to come today, and since all of House Malfoy was coming, Arcturus decided to answer them by gathering all of House of Black, along with House Le Fay. Of course, not all of Blacks were present, with Faye and her children visiting her family, but Regulus, Andromeda with her husband and daughter, Cassiopeia, Henry and Rose did come, along with their most recent prodigal member returning into the fold. They all awaited them, all preoccupied with their own mundane things, such as Rose and Nymphadora chatting near the windows, while Cassiopeia and Henry discussed their own business, with Ted and Regulus swapping stories from their time in law enforcement. He himself was sitting with Andromeda, who sipped the tea.
A loud pop sounded, making them all turn their head to the arrived house elf. Arcturus almost lazily put away the newspaper and spoke up.
"What is it, Khimer?" Arcturus asked of him.
"Master's guests have arrived, as Master had ordered." The house elf reported. "Should Khimer show them to Master's study?"
"Do so, and have refreshments brought here. Our guests may need some, and inform the Black Mistress that our guests have arrived." Without another word, house elf left, while everyone in the room gathered up.
"Are you sure you what us all here today? From what I understand about these meetings, it's usually conducted between Heads of the Houses only." Ted Tonks spoke up. "Plus, I'm not exactly a Black family member, and I doubt that Lucius will be all too pleased to see his unwanted cousin here, not to mention one that is a half-blood."
"I don't give damn about what blonde ponce likes or not, and you should stop caring about it as well." Arcturus simply stated to Ted. "You are married to Black witch and have father a powerful witch of Black family descent and blood. In my eyes, you are more of Black family member right now than Narcissa, so you will stay here. As for the meeting, it sends the right message to have all of us here for them to see."
"Make it clear as day that House of Black is together and are past whatever grudges that were between us in the past, not to mention that House Le Fay is united with our House." Andromeda stated with a small smile. "And given the fact that Bella is out now, you plan to have Narcissa return to House Black, don't you?"
"It is time she has decided for herself on whose side she is on, as there is a war coming, and I need to be certain that all of Blacks stand as one in the face of our adversaries." Arcturus stated to them all. "Either she chooses to remain with Malfoys, or she'll return to House of Black. Today is the day she decides it."
"What about Draco? I know that he is a ponce just as much as his father, but can't he also be salvaged and reeducated on how to be a proper Black?" Nymphadora asked of Arcturus, who looked at her with a stoic expression. "Look, Gramps, we all know that you don't give two shits about him, but he is a kid and hasn't done anything to our House, and he is of Black bloodline, just like me. Why don't we extend the invitation to him as well? Plus, if he is in, I think that his mommy will follow far more willingly."
"Hm, there is sound point in your words. Very well, but only if he hasn't taken the Death Mark like his father. I won't have any slaves of that half-blooded bastard polluting my House with their presence." Arcturus stated. "And if he has taken it… He'd better burn it off on my eyes, or be gone before I lose my patience."
Just as Arcturus had said that, the doors into the study opened up, revealing the three persons stepping in. Lucius Malfoy, his son Draco and wife Narcissa, all three looked shocked and surprised to see not only members of House Black, but also House Le Fay in its entirety, along with Tonks. Lucius had wanted to talk with Arcturus in a more private manner, to try and gain as much information as possible from the old Lord, but he most certainly didn't expect to see this kind of picture before him. He only now had started to realize that he had been played by Arcturus, who had decided to make it loud and clear for his Lord on whose side he was, along with the fact that Arcturus had unified House Black, which was not good news for him and the Dark Lord.
And bad news wasn't something that His Lord had liked to receive, and he was not merciful to the messengers of them. The news of House Le Fay reemerging from the past and taking position of power once more were displeasing, especially given the fact that he had only learned of it after the Wizengamot, and not from Lucius Malfoy, who was tasked to learning about it.
But that wasn't the most displeasing thing for his Liege, oh no. What had truly set him off was learning of the fact that Prince Le Fay was also of the Slytherin descent, and has rightfully claimed the title of Lord Slytherin. The very news of that had enraged Voldemort to the point that the very mansion of Malfoy had shook violently. Learning of the fact that he was now rendered to a mere title of pretender, and not even one with the full claim had infuriated Voldemort. He has expressed his fury quite clearly, when he had tortured through Crucio Lucius, along with half a dozen of his Death Eaters' colleagues. And while all of them had taken the punishment, as The Dark Lord saw them all as failures in not seeing the rebirth of House Le Fay, Lucius had received extra attention from his Lord.
He was already threading on thin ice after his debacle with the Basilisk, but after this failure, he had to sacrifice the most valuable thing to him just to prove his loyalty before the Lord. Fortunately for him, Voldemort saw his sacrifice as a fitting tribute, and let him live, ordering him to still establish contact with Houses Black and Le Fay. It was clear as day that Prince Le Fay was no friend to Dumbledore, and if that were the case, then it could be used by the Dark Lord, even if Prince Henry Le Fay was also Lord Slytherin. The Dark Lord understood perfectly clear that having House Le Fay as an ally, even a temporary one, could yield great benefits to them. Just the armies of magical beings of House Le Fay were a far too important resource to pass up, not to mention that all of Werewolves and Vampires owed their allegiance to House Le Fay now, who had in the past fought on the side of the Dark Lord.
Prince Le Fay had kept his word on not obeying Ministry and establishing his own sphere of influence, as he had abolished the Ministry's laws in his lands, concerning the magical races. Through their contacts within the Werewolves' communities and Vampires' courts, they had learned about the oaths of loyalty that both Crawley and Alucard had given to Prince Le Fay, who had accepted them and welcomed to his Council, a governing apparatus that he has apparently created to run his small kingdom in an orderly fashion. And so far, he did appear to be handling things well, with Ministry still not intervening in any fashion, even though Prince Le Fay has already started to gain more and more political ground. Over the past 10 days, four Noble Houses have separately taken oaths of loyalty and vassalage towards House Le Fay. Said Houses were Patil, Jones, Brown and Greengrass. The three first were minor and insignificant, even if they were Light Families, but the last one…
House Greengrass was among the most promising and powerful Neutral Houses in Magical Britain, not to mention that it had wide connections with Noble Houses from other countries. For such a House to declare themselves as vassals of House Le Fay was something unprecedented, even if their lands were located in realm of Le Fay. Lucius couldn't understand what had forced David Greengrass to act like that, but he could understand if Greengrass had wanted to unite the Houses of Le Fay and Greengrass.
There were still no information about Henry Le Fay having a bride or a lover, and it is possible that Lord Greengrass hopes to have his Heiress or second daughter married into the House Le Fay. Still, whatever the reason for his actions, it was clear soon enough many more Houses may flock to Le Fay House, especially if he manages to make an impression on the ball he is organizing. Shaking off the thoughts, he and his family went on ahead to greet their host. He could clearly see that Narcissa had put on her best façade, hiding her true emotions well, while his son couldn't have bothered to do so. He had instructed Draco to behave himself and not make a fool of himself and their family, as well as to keep his mouth shut. Lucius had hoped that his son will be able to follow his instructions.
Having shortened the distance, Lucius bowed to his host, who answered with quick nod, before Head of House Malfoy spoke up.
"Lord Black, it is an honor to be received as guests in your home." Lucius diplomatically spoke, with Lord Black and others not really buying into his sophisticated look. "Forgive me, but I was under the impression that this would be a private meeting."
"Your impressions were incorrect, Lord Malfoy, though one would've understood that this would not be a private meeting between the two of us." Lord Black answered. "You've brought with you all of House Malfoy, however small in numbers it is. The traditions dictate that I respond in kind, and so we have." He motioned for them all to be seated.
"Yes, although perhaps our business is best conducted just between the two of us. After all, such matters can be… tedious for others to bear with us." Lucius noted out. "I am sure that my beloved wife wouldn't oppose to reconciling with her Aunt Cassiopeia, and Draco has expressed his interest in getting to know his Uncle Regulus in a more personal matter."
"Really? I would've thought that Narcissa would first try to chat with our dear Andromeda here and her daughter instead of me." Cassiopeia spoke in an ironic manner. "Besides, unlike Andromeda, Narcissa never were much of an interesting conversationalist in my eyes, especially when given her very limited specter of talents and skills, when compared to her more accomplished and promising older sisters." Narcissa flared up in red when she heard it.
"And Draco will have all the time to get to know in Hogwarts, since I'll be teaching the DADA subject." Regulus spoke in a neutral manner, surprising Draco at that one. "But didn't your little pet Snape report that to you and Voldemort, or did he abstain from mentioning my return, like he has made a habit of?" This caught the three off guard.
"Regulus, my dear old friend, I fail to see whatever you mean by…" Lucius tried to speak up, but was interrupted by Arcturus Black.
"Enough with the pretenses and subplots, Malfoy, you were never too good at it anyway." Arcturus openly stated to him, surprising him. "Did you really think that the return of your Master would go unnoticed by me? I am not your little pet Fudge and I don't ignore the obvious signs of trouble brewing. Now, why don't get straight to the point and deliver whatever the message your owner has ordered you to give to me?" Lucius glanced at the sitting near Arcturus members of House Le Fay, who looked not even a little bit surprised at hearing that Voldemort was back.
"Well, since you've mentioned his name so openly, Lord Black, is it safe to assume that Prince Le Fay and Heiress Le Fay are aware of his return as well?" Lucius asked indirectly of Henry, with Arcturus speaking up.
"Why not ask them directly, or did you blind yourself while kowtowing to your Master?" Arcturus spoke to him, before turning to Prince Le Fay. "Apparently, our guests believe you to be naïve like a child, Henry."
"I am anything but naïve to the realities of modern politics, and I am quite well informed on the fact that two thirds of Death Eaters' supporters and direct members are situated in my realm, Lord Malfoy. Did you know that as the Ruler and Protector of those lands, I may… displace the unwanted wizards and witches out of my realm, should I wish so?" Henry remarked, seemingly without any purpose, before turning his attention to the glaring Draco. "Careful with the glare, boy. You are quite a long way from home, and that little glare of yours can be wrongly interpreted, if not subdued."
"I am not afraid of you, pretender." Draco spat out, with Narcissa looking in shock at her son, while Lucius mentally cursed. "You think that just because you hold the name Le Fay and Slytherin, that you are greater than the Dark Lord? You are nothing more than a one-time pretender, hot air and nothing more, the Dark Lord will easily destroy you and…" Draco was about say more, but he could not, as he was silenced, when he felt his throat being grabbed by an invisible force, while Prince Le Fay simply lifted up his right hand in the air.
"Lord Malfoy, I find your son's lack of faith in my rights and power disturbing." Harry stated, as he continued to choke Draco with his power. "Perhaps it would be best if you were to educate him in proper conduct of himself, lest someone else did it for you."
"Prince Le Fay, please, release him." Narcissa practically begged him, before turning to Arcturus. "Arcturus, please…"
"Prince Le Fay, I shall do as you advice, but do please release my son from whatever this curse is." Harry let out a small sigh, before releasing Draco, letting him to cough. "My Lord doesn't wish for us to have any animosities towards one another. In fact, he is far more interested in establishing more productive and amicable relations between us all."
"Is he?" Harry chuckled at the notion.
"Wouldn't have thought the old snakeface to be one to build bridges with people. Especially with those that have effectively spat in his face in front of the entire Wizarding World." Ted remarked, getting a small glare from Lucius. "Let me guess: he wants to get his hands on House Le Fay's armies, not to mention make sure that most of his bootlickers don't change sides."
"Prince Le Fay, Lord Black, is his presence all that important on this meeting? He is a muggleborn, barely worth more than a fly." Lucius said in an arrogant manner.
"In my eyes, this man holds greater value than your entire sniveling family combined." Arcturus simply stated to Lucius. "He may have roots of non-magical origin, but he has brought strength and powerful magic into House Black through his marriage to Andromeda and birth of their daughter, where's your marriage with Narcissa bore nothing but disappointment and waste of a potentially strong Black witch."
"Why you old, deranged…" Draco was ready to spat more bile, only to be stopped by a quick glare by Arcturus, who spoke to him.
"Quiet, boy. You will talk when you are allowed to, so keep that foul mouth of yours shut and listen. You may yet learn a few things." Arcturus turned his attention back to Lucius. "So, the Dark Lord wants to have us as allies, to fight his battles and see Dumbledore destroyed together with the rest of his Light Side, is that it? And what does your 'generous' Lord proposes in exchange for our services?"
"You will have the ear and appreciation of the Dark Lord, as well as the place in his circle of most privileged supporters, such as me and many others." Lucius spoke up, turning to Prince Le Fay. "The Dark Lord has returned and he has returned stronger than ever, and the days of Dumbledore and his false Messiah, as you've so aptly made clear to all, are numbered, and it would be utter foolishness to resist him. He is willing to make peace and alliance with you, if you make some concessions."
"Such as giving up my Lordship of Slytherin, granting him and his cohorts' full and unrestricted access through my lands and to have their way with anyone they deem to be of not so pure lineage?" Henry asked of Lucius, who nodded to him.
"A relatively small concession, when considering the other options, milord." Lucius stated to him. "You have made your position with Dumbledore and his friends quite clear in Wizengamot, and James Potter, the fool he is, would never shake hands with you, not after how you've dragged him and his House through mud. And given your position, you simply can't remain neutral, so you have no other option, Prince Le Fay."
"Don't I?" Harry chuckled darkly, before speaking up again. "And has your little pretender of a Lord considered that I don't intend to swear any allegiance to either him, or Dumbledore? In fact, I'd much rather have your Lord gone for good and nothing would make me happier than him and Dumbledore gone for good." Harry openly stated to the shocked Malfoys.
"Yo-you can't be serious…" Lucius stated to him in an incredulous manner.
"Oh, but I am dead serious, Lord Malfoy." Henry stated to him. "Your Master has claims on my rightful Lordship, not to mention that the two of us disagree on the matter of non-magicals and wizards and witches of non-magical descent. Along with that, I simply do not trust the man that hides behind a fancy made-up nickname and parades himself as a savior of purebloods and their traditions, when in reality all I see is a mad for power maniac, ready to kill anything and everyone that poses a threat to him and his reign. So as you can see, Lord Malfoy, I won't join up your little afternoon club anytime soon. In fact, let this be the first and last warning: if even a single person, magical or not, whatever origin of him may be, gets hurt because of your actions, I shall make sure to dispatch any and all found Death Eaters with utter ruthlessness and efficiency."
"L-Lord Black, you don't mean to ally yourself with this madman and…" Lucius turned in desperation to Arcturus, who simply interrupted him.
"I already have allied with him and I stand by him, given that he is of Black blood, and your half-breed of a Lord has cost too much to my House and has taken too many members of Black family's lives away." Arcturus stated with stern expression. "Did you really think that I would ever forgive the deaths of many our cousins and nephews, or that I would let deaths of my son, daughter and grandsons go unpunished? He has made an eternal enemy of my House with all these actions, and you can tell him that I, as well as all of us here, will see him pay for all his crimes agaisnt our family."
"You… You all must be utterly insane, if you think that you can stand up to him and even hope to win." Lucius stated to them, rising up. "I will make sure that the Dark Lord knows of your decision, and who knows, he may offer up your life as a gift to Bellatrix once she is released."
"Then be sure to tell him, that his favorite little toy pet has died in Azkaban." A new strong and powerful voice came, forcing the Malfoys rise up and widen their eyes at the sight of the new speaker.
Before them stood none other than Bellatrix Lestrange, dressed in finest robes of House Black, with her long black hair trimmed and washed, face once more displaying the great beauty of the Black witch, while her eyes once more were dark violet color, which looked right at Lucius. She stepped closer to her shocked former colleague, before speaking up.
"What's the matter, Lucius? You look like you've seen a ghost, or is it just too much of a shock to see me in a presentable and sane manner?" Bellatrix asked of him, before turning to equally shocked Narcissa. "Honestly, 'Cissa, I thought you had a better taste in men than this spineless worm. If you needed any guidelines, you could've asked Andy for an advice. Her Ted may not be filthy rich, but he is strong, loyal and knows how to make his wife happy, plus just look at their progeny. If anything, I'd say that our dear Nymphadora here is a true Black witch material, if there ever was one."
"Bellatrix Lestrange… But you are in Azkaban, how are you…" Lucius tried to ask, but said witch interrupted him.
"Bellatrix Lestrange died in Azkaban, a miserable and broken toy that your Master had used for his own devices. I am Bellatrix Black, daughter of House Black and slave to none, especially your Lord and my former husband Rodolphus, thanks to my true family here." She looked at the gathered people behind the Malfoys, before turning to Narcissa. "And that family is willing to take you back, Narcissa, if you want to come back."
"What?! Is this some kind of a sick joke?!" Lucius shouted out.
"Quite the opposite, we are quite serious." Arcturus stated to him. "We had no interest in meeting you, Malfoy, only Narcissa and your son, as they are of Black blood. I shall be plain and brief with the two of you: I offer you to come to House of Black and be sheltered away from the war between Voldemort and Dumbledore, as well as being safe of becoming victims of our war. Renounce Voldemort and his supporters, and you are welcome in our House, but do otherwise…"
"You must be truly insane if you think that we will renounce the Dark Lord, not when he has blessed our House." Draco rolled up his sleeve and showed his Dark Mark, causing Regulus, Ted and Nymphadora to shake their head at him. "Do you see? I was elevated by the Dark Lord himself, chosen as one of his heralds and I shall never turn against him!"
"You idiot, he didn't elevate you. He just leashed you up like a dog, just as he has done with all of us with that Mark." Regulus told him, before turning to Lucius. "A payment for your failures, is it, Lucius?"
"Listen to me, you blonde idiot, you better burn away that damn Mark away, if you don't want to end up dragged into this war." Rose stated to him.
"Shut your mouth, you filthy pretender!" Draco spat out to her. "Our family will never betray the Dark Lord, and you can have me and my mother to betray him! Isn't that right, Mom?"
Narcissa looked down at the floor, before glancing up at her Black and Malfoy family, seeing that they are expecting her to make the choice. Her mind was telling her, that she should cast away the name of Malfoy and return to House Black, the place where she belonged and where she was cared. Her Black witch nature had also told to do so, even if it meant abandoning her son. Yet, her heart told her to remain where she was, with her beloved husband and son, to be there for them, just as she had always done. She understood too well that there was a storm coming, and that her family would be destroyed by it, with her along with them. Letting out a sigh, she looked up to her Black family and spoke up.
"My place is with my beloved husband and son, Lord Black, Prince Le Fay, and I stand by them." She stated with a neutral, near fake expression, getting shocked looks from Rose and Cassiopeia, while the other looked at her with disappointment. "If you may, we shall be on our way. Thank you for your hospitality, Lord Black." She bowed to him, while victorious looking Malfoys left them, with Narcissa following behind.
"It's not too late, 'Cissa. The door is open for you, always." As Narcissa passed her older sister, Bellatrix told her in a whisper. "Don't let Lucius drag you down that rabbit hole, sister. If you ever want to, just come to me or Andy."
"I will, sis." She whispered back, before the Malfoys left the room, while the Black family came closer to Bellatrix.
"Well, that was a waste of time." Nymphadora stated what most of them thought with a sigh. "Then again, she did fall in love with the ponce and she is a mother, so…"
"She did what any loyal wife and mother would do, I can't fault her for that." Arcturus simply stated. "Even if she is married to such a worthless piece of dragon shit as Malfoy, the fact of her being loyal to him out her free will does her honor, to a certain extent."
"I personally can't believe that Malfoy Jr. is now marked up as well." Ted shook his head at that, before turning to Regulus. "Looks like you'll be teaching more Death Eaters than actual Slytherins in Hogwarts pal."
"Looks like it." Regulus nodded to him. "Perhaps it will be more prudent to focus our attention on dealing with Voldemort's Horcruxes, while we have this calm before the storm. The tracking charm should be finished up in a day or two, right?"
"Three days, and it is ready, but we've already gotten our hands on one of Voldemort's Horcruxes." Henry stated, before turning to Bellatrix, who looked at him with curiosity. "The Cup of Helga Hufflepuff that Riddle asked you to store in your vault? You were right to think it was important to him, and we are lucky that he had trusted your former self more than anyone. Ragnok and his Goblins have already purged it clean of any soul in it, and I now have a fancy new cup to drink from." Harry chuckled a little.
"Glad to help, but don't forget your end of the bargain, Henry. You get everything I know about Voldemort and his schemes, as well as everything about the Death Eaters, and in return you do what I want." Bellatrix spoke to him. "Have you finally tracked her down?"
"After we've confirmed that she was alive, it was an easy matter to find her, made even easier when you've allowed us to get a little of your blood, Bellatrix." Harry simply stated to her. "She lives in a small town, surprisingly close to Albion's Hearth, just 37 kilometers to south-east it. According to what Skadhi and her people have reported to me, she runs a tailor's shop there and makes a decent living, along with raising a 4 year old son." Bellatrix looked with gratitude at him.
"She's been right under my nose all this time, and I didn't know about it?! Oh, I am so going to kill her for making me think she was dead all this time…" Nymphadora jokingly stated.
And while her niece was muttering things to herself and other Black family members chuckled at her, Bellatrix smiled at the news about her daughter. Now that she was finally free both from her father's curse and from prison, she could truly be with her family, as it should've been from the start. Small tear streaks flowed out of her eyes, and she wiped them off with her hand, before Andromeda stepped closer and gave her a hanky.
"Thanks, Andy." She used it to wipe her tears. "I just… It has been so long, and I can't help but feel…"
"I know, Bella." Andromeda hugged her older sister. "Just don't be too hard on her. She did love that idiot and it is her son. She'll need not a judge, but a supportive mother."
"I know, and I am barely can hold myself from rushing there already, just to see them." Bella admitted. "But at the same time… I can't help but be afraid, i-if they don't accept me. I have done too many atrocious things to simply not take it into the account. Morgana, I can't even believe still that you all simply accepted me like that, after all that had happened…"
"We all know that you were as much victim as many of us here, Bella. And Cornelia will understand it too, and if she hasn't change from her schooldays, she'll want to have her Mommy back." Andromeda softly told her. "Whenever she visited our home, she'd never stop asking questions about you, the real you and I've always told her what person you really were. Trust me, Bella. She'll be glad to see you."
"I do hope you are right, Andy." Bella softly spoke to her sister.
Phew, another long chapter, but worth it. And there you have it folks. Sorry, but I am a bit tired, so I'll keep it brief. Bellatrix Black is in the good guys' team, another Horcrux is gone, Narcissa stays with Malfoys and Cornelia is alive. Next chapter will be out sooner than usual as I'm in the mood for writing, and since I've strayed a little away from my schedule.
Next time: Reunion of mother and daughter; Ministry and Dumbledore scheme against House Le Fay.