Merry Christmas, darlings! You regularly scheduled chapter because we spend the morning lounging about doing nothing.
Chapter Seven: Finding an Old Friend
As Hermione finished her formal education, Voldemort gathered his followers to organize her informal education. Each of her tutors eagerly agreed to continue her education in whatever direction she wished to go in. A few others expressed interest in being added. "If she's amendable, I would like to discuss any other techniques she may have discovered," admitted Corbin Yaxley.
Voldemort nodded before turning his attention to Narcissa, "Do you have a plan for your area?"
"I thought it best to assess her base knowledge, then offer to fill in the gaps." She frowned, "I confess, I am worried about social interactions with her peers. Those bridges will take some time to rebuild."
Bellatrix scoffed, "Tell them to make friendly, or else."
Crabbe, Sr. laughed, "Said by someone who hasn't interacted with teenagers since she was one. That will only cause them to dig in their heels."
"And when Granger finds out it was all forced everything falls apart." Lucius agreed.
Rabastan looked thoughtful, "I know she can hex them, and they can't hex her, but that doesn't stop them from talking. She'll need someplace most of them can't follow."
"What about Lestrange Hall?" Rodolphus suggested. "Miss Granger revised there numerous times, so she has access to the wards, but none of her peers do. Knowing she has a haven might help her deal."
"There were several at the meeting you held earlier that were neutral opinions," offered Rabastan. "They could be encouraged to make contact."
"Graduation isn't for a few more weeks. Some friendlier faces will help with larger social gatherings as we introduce her to society." Narcissa considered the possibilities.
"I'll contact one or two, perhaps make things seem organic." Rabastan offered, "Maybe have them over at the Hall. She'll be more comfortable, they won't."
-oOoOo-
The moment he learned Hermione had returned from Hogwarts, Rodolphus hurried to welcome her. He invited her to join him for dinner. She countered and invited him to join her for dinner, as she had already sent Bee after a plate.
"Lord Voldemort made arrangements for your tutors, I'll let him go over that with you. Rabastan and I want you to know you are welcome at Lestrange Hall whenever you want. The wards are set to recognize you, so you can floo or apparate."
"That's very kind of you, thank him and Mrs. Lestrange for me."
"I feel I should warn you, the Dark Lord deeply wishes for you to remain with us in the wizarding world. He will want you to try to socialize,"
She shrugged, "My original letter was meant to tempt him."
"But your plans haven't changed?"
She studied him before answering. He waited patiently, genuine concern on his face, "Honestly?"
"Yes, please."
"No, they haven't. Right now I feel rather apathetic towards most witches and wizards. People who only know me by reputation were harsh in their judgment. Adults sent a 14-year-old hate mail in the form of howlers and harmful booby traps for going to a school dance with a minor celebrity- because of my blood status! And then an adult reporter smeared my reputation as some kind of gold digging slag. And more hate mail came. People I thought were at least friendly towards me laughed at jokes at my expense. No attempts were made to defend me in my absence. Happily, I was spared the comments made by your lot."
"That is part of why you will have access to Lestrange Hall. You are always welcome. Only those you want will have unfettered access." She smiled at him and let him change the subject back to her NEWTs as they finished eating. She bemoaned the slew of wrong or incomplete answers she had used, sure she had barely passed all of them.
Bright and early the next morning, Voldemort invited Hermione to join him for breakfast in his study. "Ah, good morning, my dear. Please, have a seat." He noted how she spread her napkin and her polite table manners as the house elves served. "All of your tutors are wish to continue. And Corbin Yaxley wishes to discuss the spell you used with your parents and anything else you've rediscovered."
"I'm sure we will have numerous engaging conversations."
"They will be contacting you to arrange a schedule, one that you are under no obligation to keep should you wish to do something else that day."
"Thank you."
"My followers, and soon their school age children have been told you are off-limits, but they are not. You may react to disrespect in any manner you see fit.."
"That is generous of you."
"Had that fool not used you as a common pawn in his game of chess you would have been celebrated and treated with your due from the beginning."
"It does support the idea muggleborns don't steal magic, they are descended from squibs."
"It does. And I shall be contemplating how to deal with the matter before expressing it to my more militant followers."
"When do you plan on revealing my true identity?"
"I do not know. I've considered several different ideas, but fear tipping my hand too soon. Also, I'd like for you to be acknowledged for your brilliance before anyone knows your bloodlines."
"There will always be people who believe my bloodlines are the only reason I am capable of anything. It takes all six of them."
"Very true."
"Am I restricted from telling anyone?"
"I would prefer to not have it blurted out to any and all in a moment of temper, but it is your identity, I cannot ask my followers to be open books for you, then demand you keep secrets from them.
"Very well, I won't rub Malfoy's nose in it immediately."
"Most appreciated. Full disclosure: I would very much like for you to join my ranks, but nothing will be forced upon you. And, I promise, anyone approaching you in friendship does so of their own free will. Though, they, too, share my goals related to your membership."
"I appreciate your candor. I recently made a promise to myself to try not to become the bitter old lady living alone because she pushed everyone away."
"A worthy goal indeed."
-oOoOo-
Marcus frowned at his father when he handed him an opened missive, "Is there a reason you've started reading my post?"
"I had to wonder why a quidditch player would receive an invitation to Lestrange Hall?"
"I have no clue. Didn't the letter say?"
"No," his father's curt reply indicated his level of annoyance.
Marcus read the letter, "Rabastan wants to discuss some important manner for the Dark Lord."
"I doubt it is anything useful like stopping this sports nonsense and taking the Mark like a proper wizard."
Ignoring the digs, Marcus looked at the grandfather clock in the corner. "I won't know until I meet with Lestrange." He penned a reply and went to shower and change his clothes.
A pillowcase clad house elf greeted him, "Master Rabby asks you waits for him in the study."
"I'd be delighted."
"This ways." The elf escorted him to a small study on the ground floor.
Marcus examined the multi-level terraced lawn showcased by the large windows. The topiary shapes accented the slopes. A line of trees marked the start of the orchards. A voice startled him, "My grandmother loved gardening. She designed most of the landscaping. You should see the rose gardens." Marcus turned to find Rabastan watching him from the doorway.
"It's lovely."
"Have a seat, Flint." The larger man complied. "Thank you for coming so soon. Forgive the cryptic nature of my letter, but this topic is delicate in nature."
"You can count on my discretion."
"Good man, Do you remember the gathering at Malfoy Manor a couple of months ago?"
"The Dark Lord wanted to know about Granger. My father told me he's declared her off-limits."
"Correct, Miss Granger has become a mystery wrapped in an enigma. Several members of the Inner Circle are tutoring her in dark magic. Right now she claims neutrality, but the Dark Lord wishes to charm her to our side of the conflict."
"Tall order, that, our side hasn't exactly been kind."
"He knows. You, along with others, were noted to have neutral, or in your case, mildly affectionate feelings. Miss Granger is staying at Malfoy Manor and has full access to come here. Lord Voldemort desires that you reconnect with her and facilitate new friendships."
"Who was neutral?"
"A few of your friends: Warrington, Boles, Montague, a homeschooled witch, Vanessa Avery, and a witch who attended Beaubatons, Alexandra Casteen."
Marcus shifted uncomfortably, "I'll be honest, I'm not the smoothest bloke, Boles or Montague are more charming."
"Yes, but you had at least a year of positive interactions. Interactions she ended. You never had a falling out, correct?"
"Yeah, she started avoiding me. So, you want me to break the ice to get her willing to meet the rest?"
"Exactly, no one has to force anything, just keep open minds."
I assume you have some ideas on how to arrange the initial interaction."
"Anyone who knows your father will agree he despises your profession while insisting you live at home so he can enjoy your paychecks. You'll be working with me to improve your dueling skills to get him off your back."
"And she'll be here delving into the dark arts with your brother."
"Precisely, Mr. Flint."
"If you're going to be kicking my arse on the regular, please, call me Marcus."
"Rabastan, or Rab, then." He stood, "I will send you a copy of her schedule."
"Sounds good." They shook hands.
-oOoOo-
Snape sent a note congratulating her on completing her exams and a suggested reading list for furthering her potions knowledge while he was still occupied with the end of school tasks. Her lessons with Dolohov still occurred with Rodolphus present, though she now felt comfortable meeting with Lucius one on one for charms. "Charms classified as dark magic are those geared towards manipulation,"
he admitted to her.
"Why are these spells considered dark and love potions aren't?"
"Love potions are notoriously more difficult to make and easier to identify. Not that these charms are simple. But they do have the potential to be built on. It takes a very strong will, and often direct evidence to the contrary to break."
"Like a physical item jogging a memory?"
"Exactly."
"Yeah, good chance Dumbledore used those," she didn't even try to mask the anger and bitterness in her tone.
"Pity they are so hard to detect until after they are broken," he mused.
"How does one protect against them?"
"Occulmency shields, like the ones you already possess. Even if anyone here was inclined to, I doubt any of us are strong enough to enslave you. Not that these are commonly known spells anyway."
"They would also have a high addiction rate. Instead of cultivating people, just slip in and compel them to obey."
"You are correct." He considered her for a moment, "Though, I imagine the sense of betrayal is rather intense once the spell breaks."
"I presume it would be." Then she changed the subject. "Do you suppose Mrs. Malfoy would object if I procured a familiar? I left my previous one with the Weasleys, and even if he is still there and alive, I doubt you will be able to retrieve him for me."
"I am sure she won't mind."
"Thank you."
"I believe she is expecting you for tea," he smiled.
"Will you be joining us?"
"No, I have a few errands to run this afternoon. Until next time, Miss Granger."
Hermione remembered formal teas with her grandmother. Vivian Granger demanded perfection, as it was the only way, in her mind, to keep the gossips at bay. Ingrained etiquette lessons caused her to detour to her room and dress appropriately. When she entered the parlor she noticed Narcissa wore the same clothes as she had at breakfast, but she had been dressed for tea that morning. Trying not to feel like a performing monkey, as she had in childhood, Hermione spread the napkin across her lap and began the dance that was afternoon tea.
"Milk?" Narcissa offered.
"No, thank you." Accepting the teacup and saucer, Hermione added one lump of sugar. She moved the spoon back and forth without touching the sides of the cup. Gently she placed the utensil on the saucer. Letting her tea cool, she selected a finger sandwich to nibble on. She settled in for banal idle conversation with her hostess. Once sufficiently cooled, she sipped her tea, making sure to drop her eyes correctly when sipping. Deciding to use the Devon method, she tore a scone in half, applied the clotted cream then the jam. She took delicate bites from the halves.
"Biscuit, Miss Granger?"
"No, thank you, Mrs. Malfoy. I admit to not having much of a sweet tooth, but I prefer the petite fours." She selected one of the fancy iced cakes, eating it in three bites. "Simply divine."
"You aren't fond of sweets? I still have to watch Draco or he'll eat the entire platter."
"My parents were dentists. They didn't approve of sweets, let alone excessively sugary ones."
"Dentists?"
"Teeth healers."
"Ah, are they still dentists?"
"No, they passed away."
Narcissa looked alarmed, "Oh."
"They decided they wanted to follow their passion and help people in poverty stricken areas. Unfortunately, those are also dangerous areas."
"My condolences."
"Thank you." Hermione finished her tea. "And thank you for a lovely afternoon."
"You are most welcome. Thank you for joining me," Narcissa beamed.
"I assume I passed your test?" she asked in a teasing manner.
Narcissa stared stunned for a moment, then let out a laugh, "With flying colors. And I wasn't testing you per se, more getting a baseline for your knowledge."
"I was taught etiquette from a very young age. I am also an accomplished dancer."
The older woman nodded, "I would still like to offer tea and instruction on wizard social norms you might not know."
"Why?"
"One, I thoroughly enjoyed myself this afternoon. Two, I don't want our society to lose a brilliant witch. Three, I do not want anyone trapping you, or manipulating you."
"Very well, next Wednesday work for you?" This began a weekly standing tea filled with friendly talk and laughter.
"Splendid." Hermione began to leave the room. "Will you be joining us for dinner?"
"I'm not sure, I'm off to find an old friend and possibly a familiar."
"Well, happy hunting." Hermione nodded and left the manor.
Landing in the backyard of her childhood home, she looked around. Her father had just restored the garden pond when six-year-old Hermione made friends with Sir Hiss. Her mother had helped her look up her new friend, discovering he was a rainbow snake from Florida. Given his rarity and protected status in America, the Grangers said he could stay so long as he behaved and kept the frog population in check. She smiled sadly remembering the indulgent looks when Hermione solemnly promised her friend would be a gentleman. She made her way to his garden pond, trying to keep her hopes at bay. She hadn't seen the snake for seven years. He might have moved on. "Sir Hiss, are you here?" She heard a soft scrap, then saw the long grass twitch.
"Hiss, little witch, you remembered on this return." The black and brightly colored snake poked into view. "I thought you had forgotten me."
"I did. A bad wizard hid all my memories of you."
"And you have freed yourself."
"And returned to find you," she paused, "we're speaking your language aren't we?"
"We always have, little witch. The bad wizard must have blocked your ability, too."
"Well, he's gone and if you'd like, you can come with me."
"Like the cat did?"
"Exactly like Crookshanks did."
"I would like that very much." The long brightly colored snake raised up. Hermione picked up her friend, his cool smooth skin glided across hers. She smiled fondly at his shining scales, the rainbow sheen gleaming.
"Off to our temporary home." Sir Hiss twined around her firmly. She lowered him to the floor.
He inspected her room, "Another dwells here. I will make this area mine, but would prefer to hunt elsewhere."
"I can take you back to the house, or Lestrange Hall. I'll ask Rodolphus." Hermione summoned Bee. "Bee, this is my friend, Sir Hiss. He may occasionally need your help going out onto the balcony, please."
"Of course, Missy Hermy."
"Thank you." Remembering her promise to be more social, Hermione asked the house elf to ensure her purple sundress was wrinkle free. Leaving Sir Hiss to explore the balcony, she took a quick shower. Bee lingered, looking for eager to help, that Hermione let her arrange her hair. After a quick application of cosmetics, she headed downstairs for dinner.
She returned the smiles of the smattering of gathered Death Eaters. She nodded to Rodolphus when he held out her chair.
"Did you manage to find your friend, Miss Granger?" Narcissa inquired as they began to eat.
"I did, thank you for asking."
"Will you familiar be requiring anything?" asked Lucius.
"No, I have everything Sir Hiss needs right now.
"Sir Hiss?" questioned Yaxley.
"Yes," Hermione nodded, "my childhood pet rainbow snake. He wasn't on the approved pets list so Mum made me leave him at home."
"After dinner, please bring Sir Hiss to my study. Nagini will want to make friends."
"Certainly."
Rodolphus grinned at her, "Sir Hiss?" his tone was teasing.
"When we found him in the garden I had just watched the animated Robin Hood. One of King John's advisors was a boa constrictor named Sir Hiss. At six I had no idea the snake in my yard wouldn't become the snake from the telly."
"Animated? Telly?" spat Bellatrix. "Muggle trash."
"Well, yes, Mrs. Lestrange, I grew up in the muggle world. Things from my childhood would be muggle things. I don't outright despise them, because I don't fear them."
"Are you suggesting the muggle world is superior?" asked Thoros Nott, his tone more conversational than confrontational.
"No, just different. Things that work out there would never work in here and vice versa. There are only two areas where they are superior, in my opinion. But that is easily remedied."
"Oh?" Nott gestured for her to continue.
"Food varieties and entertainment. Muggles have more than music and one sport. They have numerous sports, which they televise. They have television and movies. Ten minutes in any direction from my house in London I can find a restaurant offering a dish from anywhere in the world. But this is a discussion for another time." She dimpled at Narcissa, "The soup is amazing."
After dinner, Hermione collected Sir Hiss, "Voldemort wants to introduce us to his familiar, Nagini."
"The other."
"Yes," she knocked on the study door before entering. "Ah, Miss Granger," he changed to parseltongue, "and Sir Hiss."
Nagini eyed the smaller snake, "You are pledged yourself to the witch?"
"Before she even knew to ask."
"You may share my territory."
"I am honored."
Voldemort watched Hermione, "The matter is settled."
"So it would seem." She addressed Nagini, "Thank you for your generosity."
The larger snake regarded her for a moment, "You speak. That is good. I will visit you."
"As you will." Hermione returned her attention to the dark wizard.
"Did Dumbledore know you were a parseltongue?"
"I honestly don't know. I made a copy of my lineage. You and I both descend down separate paths. One generation had two brothers, Mordred and Kellan Slytherin. Both had daughters. Boudicca married into the Gaunts and eventually leads to you. Fionnula married a Peverell. And through liaisons and marriages lead to me. That's the way I connect to all the Founders."
"And the other famous wizards?"
"Yes. To the best of my knowledge, none of the others had rare genetic abilities."
"I wish to be frank, Miss Granger, I am not a good man. I have more than dabbled with the dark magics. I want immortality and power. One I have achieved, how can I convince you to help me gain the others?"
"I promise nothing, I haven't met enough for your followers for that, but stopping the threat of genocide and violence against muggleborn and muggles would help."
"I will consider it."
"Prove to me you will not become a megalomaniacal despot like Stalin or Hitler. Let me assure myself there is not Himmler, Mengele, or Koch among them. Prove your side is better than the Order." She looked up at him with blank eyes, "Make me care."
He gave her a speculative look and nodded, "Fair enough. You have given me much to think about. Good night, Miss Granger."
"Good night, cousin," she grinned cheekily at his raised eyebrow.