Chapter 15 – Bellatrix

Friday morning Harry woke up wrapped around Narcissa. He woke her up with a gentle kiss and then coaxed her into the shower with him. When they were finished, they apparated to Grimmauld place and had breakfast with Amelia and Susan. Harry kissed them both goodbye as they left for the ministry and then an hour later Remus Lupin walked through the fireplace looking as disheveled as ever.

"Harry? What happened to you? You've aged," said Remus in surprise, concern and confusion clearly written all over his face. Harry tried not to get frustrated. He knew it was a strange circumstance and people would be confused and curious, but it was starting to get annoying telling the story over and over. Harry sighed.

"Have a seat Remus. I'll explain what I can," said Harry as he motioned to the loveseat by the fire. He asked Kreacher for tea and some light snacks and then began his story. An hour later he finished, and Remus was staring him in shock.

"That is the most ridiculous story I have ever heard," Remus said. He chuckled. "Sirius and your father would be quite jealous of that adventure, but Narcissa Malfoy - I mean Black? Are you sure you can trust her?"

"She has done nothing but prove her loyalty to me over the last twenty years. I have no reason not to trust her. She may not be loyal to the 'light' but she is loyal to me and she will be the reason I am successful in what I set out to do," said Harry with a finality that kept Remus from arguing.

"Very well Harry, if you are sure…." He started.

"I am," said Harry.

"Okay, so why did you ask me here? I assume there is something else you wish to discuss," said Remus.

"There is. I have found a cure for Lycanthropy. I was hoping you trusted me enough to let me test it on you. I am very confident in the potions abilities and have no concerns about it going wrong. I simply did not have anyone to test it on in Albion and I want to know exactly what happens. It would also be beneficial to be able to provide an example to St. Mungo's when I approach them. Helping me, may mean that you become the face of this work, so you should consider how comfortable you are with that," explained Harry.

"A cure? Truly?" asked Remus in excitement. He didn't think that day would ever come in his lifetime.

"Mostly. Do you trust me to share some memories with you? It will be easier then explaining the decades of research I did," said Harry. Lupin nodded. Harry reached out his hand to Lupin, who took it with only a slight hesitation. As soon as their hands touched, Remus gasped, his mind quickly being flooded with memories. Harry could see Remus' excitement at the idea when he pulled away and he knew Remus would say yes before he even spoke.

"Absolutely Harry. If I can keep control of my mind and contain the change, I would try almost anything," Remus said eagerly.

"Great! The full moon is next Friday. So why don't you come here, and we will test it. I can have appropriate containment in place, just for your peace of mind, but I have no concerns about it working," said Harry. Remus easily agreed.

o - o - o - o - o

Meanwhile, Narcissa and Amelia were talking amiably while they were waiting for the Wizengamot session to begin. Amelia was in her House Bones wizengamot robes, while Narcissa had the House Emrys robes and the newly made House Potter-Black robes neatly folded in her lap. She would be able to put them on once she was successfully inducted.

After today's session Narcissa would singularly have the most votes of any wizard in Britain. Hopefully with the allies she had already gained in House Bones and House Longbottom, others would follow, and they would soon have a wide majority against any opposition. When Augusta came in, she let a rare friendly smirk fill her features and immediately walked over and sat with the two women in Harry's life.

"Amelia. I can't say I'm surprised that young man caught your attention. He is without a doubt the only man your age that is worth your time," said Augusta as she sat down and smoothed out her robes. "The only man of any age really."

"Thank you Augusta. I am waiting for the howler from Minerva when she returns from her holiday and reads the prophet," responded Amelia. "How are Frank and Alice?"

"Wonderful, they are devastated to have missed so much time with Neville, but physically and mentally it is like nothing ever happened, which we are all grateful for," replied Augusta and then she turned to Narcissa. "You are truly a miracle worker Narcissa. I can't thank you enough." Narcissa waved her hand as if swatting away a fly.

"It was the least I could do Augusta. I wish I could repair all of the damage Voldemort has done the same way," said Narcissa.

"Harry and Narcissa will be coming to Longbottom manor for dinner on Tuesday Amelia," said Augusta turning back to her red headed friend. "You are of course invited as well, if you are free that evening."

"I'll do my best. Harry has a bad habit of creating more work for me, but unless something happens, I will plan to be there," said Amelia. "I would love to see Frank and Alice again."

They were silent for several minutes while the other Wizengamot members gawked at them. Nobody could believe the ex-death eater's wife was getting along so well with two of the most well-known figureheads for the light. Everyone in the room knew that if they formed an official alliance, they would be unstoppable. Augusta looked around at her ogling peers and laughed.

"I must say, I look forward to working with you both in the Wizengamot. I was considering passing my seat on to Neville as soon as he came of age, but I might have to hold out a bit longer now. I have a feeling the Wizengamot is about to be shook to its very core. It will be very entertaining to say the least," said Augusta with a chuckle. Narcissa and Amelia laughed politely, but the laughter suddenly died at the darkening look in Narcissa's eyes as someone walked into the room. Amelia turned to see who the look was aimed at, surprised to find Narcissa staring daggers at none other than Albus Dumbledore. 'I will have to ask Harry about this. What is the headmaster involved in?'

'Don't worry, I believe Harry already plans on talking to you about it tonight. You won't have to wait long to get the whole sordid tale.''How did you-''Harry told me he was teaching you. It's a nice skill, isn't it? As you can imagine, we don't have any secrets. It is hard to when you know what the other person is thinking all the time. We could block our thoughts if we wanted but we learned a long time ago that it is easier to just share everything rather than try to keep something hidden. I know Harry will be the same with you. You will never have to worry about him keeping secrets. He is the most honest person I know.'

'Yes, I have noticed that about him.'

'I realize that we will each have our own individual relationship with Harry, and there will be things you will share with him that you may not want me to know. If you don't want him to share something with me, you need to make sure you tell him that. He will keep your trust, but he has to know that is what you want.' Amelia nodded and turned her attention back to Dumbledore.

'So, Dumbledore?'

'May not be as light as he seems.' As the session began Amelia watched Albus with a critical eye given this new information and thought back over her past interactions with him.

"I now call the July 1996 Wizengamot session to order," said Dumbledore as he banged his gavel. All of the Wizengamot members quieted down and quickly took their seats.

"The first order of business, as always, is the induction of new members. Is there anyone present for induction?" he asked. You could tell that it was rare for new members to claim their seats because Dumbledore didn't even look up as he spoke. He was clearly not expecting anyone to respond. Narcissa stood gracefully and walked over to Dumbledore's podium. 'He really didn't expect Harry to claim his seats as soon as he knew about them?'

"I am here to claim the seat of House Emrys, and claim proxy for the seat of House Potter and Black until my son is of age," Narcissa said firmly. The assembly room filled with murmurs. Albus looked up at her in surprise. He was clearly not expecting to hear a woman's voice say those names.

"Lady Emrys? Surely this role would be better suited to your husband," said Albus. Amelia winced as she watched the exchange. 'That will go over well.'

Narcissa turned and smirked at Amelia before glaring up at Dumbledore. 'I think we will get along just fine Amelia.'

"My dear husband is not a lover of politics. I imagine he would rather fight a Nundu than be here. He has asked me to act in his interests, which I fully intend to do," said Narcissa with an icy stare.

"I nominate Narcissa Emrys-Potter-Black to the seat of all three of her houses," yelled Amelia as she stood up.

"I'm sorry Amelia, but I cannot allow that. Since you are dating Lord Emrys, it would be most unfair," said Dumbledore. "Seriously? I can give her my vote once she's on the body, but I can't nominate her. He definitely does not want Harry's influence here. Why? I need to get to the bottom of this.'

'Patience Amelia.'

"Then I will nominate Lady Emrys to this voting body," said Madam Longbottom. "Lord Emrys has yet to take a fancy to me, so there is no relationship to interfere, unfortunately." Amelia and Narcissa both rolled their eyes, while many of the other members chuckled. Dumbledore frowned.

"Very well," said Dumbledore with a scowl. "Is there a second?"

"I will second," came Lord Greengrass' reply. Narcissa gave him a quick nod of appreciation. Dumbledore waited for other objections to be made, but none were forthcoming. Apparently, people were too shocked to respond.

"Then Lady Emrys, you may take your seat. Welcome to the Wizengamot," said Dumbledore reluctantly.

"Thank you, Chief Warlock, I shall endeavor to serve justly," Narcissa said as she sat down next to Amelia.

When the session was over, Greengrass approached Narcissa on her way to her chambers.

"Lady Emrys? May I have a moment of your time?" He asked with a slight bow.

"You may," returned Narcissa as she continued to walk. Once inside her chambers, she poured two glasses of firewhiskey and then sat down at the ornate desk.

"I would like to speak with you about Draco. Astoria has mentioned that she has been spending a lot of time with your son and has grown very fond of him. Given your new – status – I thought it would be beneficial to set up some sort of official arrangement between them. 'Of course, you did, but I expected no less from you.'

"I assume you know Draco is no longer a Malfoy," said Narcissa.

"I do," he responded.

"He is heir to both the Potter and the Black titles, but he will not inherit the Emrys title," clarified Narcissa. Lord Greengrass frowned slightly but nodded.

"There is also the small point that as the only heir for both houses, he will be responsible for continuing both lines," continued Narcissa.

"So, he will be expected to take two wives," Greengrass said.

"Yes exactly. Will Astoria be okay with that?" Narcissa asked.

"I will insure she is," said Lord Greengrass sternly.

"Very well then, have the papers drawn up and I will look them over," said Narcissa as she dismissed him.

o – o – o – o – o

That evening, dinner was a lively affair at Grimmauld place with Susan and Draco talking animatedly throughout most of the meal. When dinner was finished, Narcissa and Draco went back to Emrys manor while Harry stayed with Amelia and Susan.

They spent a couple hours all together in the lounge, then when Susan went up to bed, Harry and Amelia moved into his private study and cuddled on the sofa. Now that they were alone, Amelia wasted no time in asking about Dumbledore. She described the way he seemed to try and undermine Narcissa the entire time and how it was obvious he didn't want Harry to have a voice in the Wizengamot, but she didn't really understand why. Harry explained everything he had learned about Dumbledore and what he believed the old man had planned for him and the 'greater good'. Amelia was furious by the time he was finished, so he tried to calm her down by explaining his plan.

"I need some information from him about Tom's Horcruxes, but then I was going to place a truth spell on him that I created in Albion, and let you have your way with him," Harry shared.

"What does this truth spell entail?" She asked curiously.

"He can't lie, mislead or withhold information about either me or Voldemort, but only us. He could lie about anything else," said Harry.

"Then I just have to word my questions carefully. What do you want me to do with him?" she asked.

"Whatever you want? I don't know if he's actually done anything illegal or if he's just a manipulative ass, so I guess it depends on what kind of information you get out of him. If there isn't enough to put him in front of the Wizengamot, we could probably get him a room next to Lucius," said Harry.

"Wait, what?" Said Amelia and she turned to him in surprise.

"Oh, I didn't tell you about that?" said Harry with a chuckle. When Harry was done explaining and Amelia was done laughing, she let out a tired sigh.

"I think what bothers me the most is all the loneliness and misery you went through growing up for no good reason. If Narcissa hadn't literally fallen into your bed that night..." Amelia started.

"I know, we'll deal with him. I have to say, I like your fiery spirit, Amelia. Perhaps we should put it to better use," said Harry as he moved to kiss her neck.

"Perhaps," she said with a smirk.

o – o – o – o – o

Saturday morning, Harry woke up to soft, but incessant knocking at the door. He opened his mind to see who was there. When he realized it was Narcissa, he kissed Amelia softly on the cheek and then got up to answer the door. He knew Narcissa wouldn't be here if it wasn't urgent.

When he opened the door, he immediately noticed that Narcissa looked sleep deprived and frantic, but even in her current state she still took a moment to appreciate his naked form before the panicked expression returned.

"She's awake," said Narcissa. Harry nodded and hugged her tightly.

"Everything will be alright Cissy. You know I'll make sure of it. Let me get dressed and I'll be over," said Harry. He kissed the top of her forehead and then shut the door. He quickly pulled on some clothes and then left a note for Amelia before heading to Emrys manor.

The manor was eerily quiet when Harry got there, and a nervous sensation filled his chest as he walked towards the room Bellatrix was in. He opened the door to see Bellatrix frantically looking around the room, her face the picture of hysterical. He noticed she couldn't move or say anything so Narcissa must have put some kind of spell on her.

"I was worried she would hurt herself, and the curses she kept spewing at me were getting old," said Narcissa in explanation. Harry nodded and looked intently at his wife's deranged sister. When their eyes met her expression turned feral and she desperately started pushing against the charm Narcissa had put her under. 'Kill, tear, kill.' Her mind screamed. The familiarity of those words made the hairs on Harry's skin stand up. 'Those words are too familiar.'

"Are you ready?" Harry asked. Narcissa nodded, andHarry walked over and gently placed his hand on Bella's leg. Bellatrix stilled at the touch. Harry scanned her mind and watched as her life flashed before his eyes.

He watched and felt the experiences of a young girl in love with a messy brown-haired boy who always hung out with her cousin Sirius, and then the memories changed so fast that Harry felt himself getting sick, until he was living the fateful day when Bella's father told her about the betrothal agreement with LeStrange. He watched her refuse even as she was tortured endlessly by the Cruciatus curse, matching tears fell from his own eyes as she laid on the floor shaking. He watched as she packed a bag to run away only to have Narcissa meet her in the doorway tears streaming down her face as she explained that Andromeda was gone. He experienced the last glimmer of hope dying out as Bellatrix realized she couldn't leave her youngest sister alone. But still she fought and argued with her father. She was in love, he was even a pureblood. She would not dishonor him. But the deal was done and with a slap to the face for defiance she was sent to her room. Bile filled his throat as he watched her parents and Rodulphus come into her room in the middle of the night with a vial of blood. He watched them complete a complex ritual that would tie Bellatrix to Rodulphus, and given the vial of blood, most likely Voldemort as well, forever. He could feel it as her free will drained from her body, and when the ritual was done her parents turned and left, leaving Rodulphus to do with her as he pleased.

Again the memories shifted quickly as the years passed by in a fog. Harry watched as Bellatrix did Rodulphus and the Dark Lord's bidding, as her body was passed around the death eaters at will. There were rare moments of clarity, usually when she was at her most angry and destructive, so she began to fed on those emotions, urging the destruction and mania to allow herself to feel, allow her to choose, even if only for a moment.

The memories shifted again, and Harry could feel that the effects of the ritual were lessened in Azkaban. He watched as Sirius arrived in the next cell and Bellatrix realized that she could fight the compulsion when it came to those she loved, like Sirius and Narcissa, so she honed this ability and perfected it for when she eventually left Azkaban. She was determined to protect the family she had left. He watched her relationship grow with Sirius as she had a small reprieve from her miserable life so far. Then he watched in horror as she intentionally fired a stunner at Sirius in the Department of Mysteries, and he felt her agony to his very core when Sirius fell through the veil.

Suddenly the memories shifted again, and Harry fell to his knees. He watched the conversation with Rodulphus that followed the death of Sirius and the hours she spent being tortured for her failure. When Narcissa disappeared with Harry he watched Voldemort demand that she find her sister and kill her for her betrayal. When Bellatrix fought the compulsion and refused, he could see the very moment that her ruse was up. Rodulphus knew what she was doing and the torture she experienced became much more physical. Eventually, Harry was forced to pull out of her mind when the pain became to much to bear and he felt her loose consciousness on the cold stone floor in the dungeon.

When Harry opened his eyes, he was not surprised to find himself on his hands and knees. Narcissa was looking at him with a pained expression as tears fell freely from both of their eyes. She had listened to his thoughts while he searched her mind. It wasn't quite the same as experiencing the memories herself, but she knew all to well what he had seen.

"I never knew, your father, the compulsion, her sacrifices for me, Salazar I never knew," she said trembling. Harry stood and pulled her into his arms.

"I don't think she wanted you to know Cissy, she felt it was her duty to protect you, to make sure you were okay. She didn't want you to have to share the burden of knowing," said Harry. Narcissa sobbed into his shoulder.

"All this time, I thought she was….." cried Narcissa

"I know. I can remove the compulsion. I saw how they did it. I just need the exact wording of the counter curse. It was clearly blood magic, it should be in the -"

"Library in Albion?" finished Narcissa as she wiped her eyes.

"Yes," replied Harry.

"Then you should go find it and look it over, figure out what else we need for the ritual. Just make sure you at least stay for breakfast. Ella will be hurt if you don't spend any time with her while you are there," said Narcissa sternly.

"You make it seem like I wouldn't want to spend time with her. I promise I will stay for breakfast," said Harry.

"I just know you. You have that saving people thing remember? I know you feel like this is urgent, but Bella still needs time to recover. She's not going anywhere. There is enough time for you to have a meal with your daughter," said Narcissa.

"I love you," Harry said before he kissed her thoroughly. "Where is your tiara?"

'In my top desk drawer.' Harry nodded.

'See you soon.' Harry went and retrieved the tiara and before he knew it, he was standing in the middle of a familiar clearing. To his surprise, Milcah was standing there watching him in amusement.

"Sorry to say it Harry, but the tiara looks much better on Narcissa," she said with a smirk. Harry chuckled.

"I don't doubt that. It's nice to see you again Milcah, but I'm here on business, so I don't have a lot of time. I need to look over a book in the library. I promised Cissy I would have breakfast with Ella, and Valmoira if she's free, but then I really must get back," Harry explained.

"So you're not here to see me?" Milcah said with a pout.

"Er," started Harry. Milcah laughed.

"It's alright Harry, Narcissa and I had a long chat about things the last time she was here. Besides, I knew when you first came here that whatever happened between us wouldn't last forever, nor would it with Narcissa. I don't expect anything to continue between us now that you've left," said Milcah. "You're from a different world. I understand. I really do, but please know that I'm always here if you need me. I will always cherish the time we spent together and be grateful for the gift you gave me in Valmoira. She is quite something," said Milcah.

"Thanks Milcah. How is that beautiful daughter of ours?" asked Harry.

"Fine, her and Ella are hard to keep up with as always. I'll send her over for breakfast. She would love to see you," replied Milcah. Harry nodded.

"I'd like that," he said as he kissed her cheek softly.

He walked to the castle and found Ella just sitting down to eat. They had a pleasant breakfast together, catching up on each other's lives. When they were nearly finished Valmoira showed up, so Harry hung around for awhile talking with her. Two hours later he finally made it to the library. He thought about the incantation he had heard them chanting in the memory and then the required text appeared on the pedestal. He took the tome and walked down to the conservatory where he and Narcissa used to spend so much of their time and flipped through it. It didn't take him long to find the counter incantation and what he would need for the ritual. He took care memorizing it and then said goodbye to Ella before heading back.

When he got back, he rubbed his head and put the tiara away. 'I don't know how anyone wears that for a long period of time, it is ridiculously uncomfortable.'

He quickly made his way to the room Bellatrix was recovering in and found Narcissa sitting at Bella's bedside while she slept. She smiled at him tiredly when he walked in.

"How is Ella?" she asked.

"Great, she has everything in Albion well at hand, as expected. She is so much like you. I'm proud of her," said Harry. "And thanks for talking to Milcah for me." Narcissa smirked knowingly but didn't respond. They had more important things to discuss right now.

"What do you need for the ritual?" She asked.

"Some of Voldemort's blood, some of Rodulphus's blood, the blood of two members of the Black family and a couple uncommon but not rare potions I'm sure Snape has in stock. We will also need to carve ruins into the floor around the bed. You should probably do that part, you've always been better at drawing ruins than me," said Harry. Narcissa nodded.

"Give me the list of potions and I will go see Snape. We can each give blood as the heads of the Black family. That means, you just need to get the other two blood sources. As soon as we have everything, we can do the ritual." Narcissa said.

"What do we - you know - what do we do after that. I don't know how we - help her - with so much," stuttered Harry, unsure of what to say.

"We'll just have to take it one day at a time, but she deserves her freedom if we can give it to her," Narcissa said. Harry nodded.

"I agree," he said as he walked over to the desk and conjured a quill and parchment to write down what they needed from Snape. After a soft kiss, Narcissa took her leave. Not knowing what else to do, and not wanting Bellatrix to have to be alone, Harry sat down in Narcissa's chair next to the bed and waited for her to return. He looked over at the sleeping witch in sympathy and concern.

When Narcissa returned twenty minutes later, Harry went about 'collecting' the other ingredients they needed. He debated bringing Amelia with him but decided against it at the last minute.

"Be safe," Narcissa said with a kiss as he left the room. Harry apparated to Voldemort's lair and put him under a sleeping charm before Tom even knew he was there. He collected the blood he needed, but then he stopped, staring at Tom's sleeping form for several minutes. In the end, he decided to leave a little souvenir for Tom, to let him know he had been there. A small HP etched on the inside of his forearm. Maybe it was teasing a sleeping bear, maybe he would regret it later, but it felt good to taunt him sometimes. After he was finished, Harry traced Rodulphus' magical signature to a small pool of blood in the middle of the makeshift 'throne room.'

"Shite," said Harry. It was clear that Rodulphus had already been eaten by Nagini so his task just got even harder. 'Do you still need the person's blood if they are dead? The book didn't really say what would happen in that case.' Harry sighed. I guess I should get it just in case.

Harry spent an hour tracking down Nagini in the forest nearby. When he found the snake curled up under a large fir tree, he cast a numbing charm on the snake before swiftly beheading her with magic. As soon as Nagini was pierced an agonized scream filled the air as a black cloud rushed out of the snake. 'A Horcrux.'

Harry gathered the smoke and directed it into his own body. He let out a scream of his own at the sensation, that was soon joined by one from inside the house. Then Harry shook his head, as if nothing unusual had happened, but if you looked closely, you could see the two magics battling for dominance in his eyes. After several moments Harry's magic won and the red hue to his eyes disappeared. Harry looked over at the building Voldemort was hiding out in.

"You made Nagini into a Horcrux, really? How unoriginal Tom," said Harry as he conjured a knife and cut open the snake. He searched for Rodulphus' magical signature and then pulled out as much of him as he could find. He collected the blood he needed and then with the job done, he incinerated the remains and apparated back to Emrys manor.

He didn't realize he was covered in blood, flesh, and snake guts until he noticed the disgusted look on Narcissa's face when he appeared in the middle of the room.

"Sorry," Harry said sheepishly as he cast a cleaning charm on himself.

"Do you have what we need?" asked Narcissa as she cast an air freshening charm as well. Harry nodded.

"Rodulphus had already been eaten by Nagini, which was a Horcrux by the way," said Harry as he put all of the 'ingredients' he'd gathered on the table next to the potions Narcissa had gotten from Snape. Narcissa raised her eyebrows at this, but she didn't look surprised.

"He was always unusually protective of that snake. I guess that's why. How do you feel?" asked Narcissa. Harry shrugged.

"Fine," Harry said, but Narcissa could tell he wasn't being entirely honest, and then she noticed that his mind was shut to her and she scowled. 'We don't have time now, but I will make him deal with me later.'

Harry noticed her look, but he didn't say anything. Instead, he told her what ruins to carve into the floor and then set about adding the blood to the potions. When they were both finished Narcissa apparated two of the potions into an unconscious Bellatrix and then they joined hands and Harry started the incantation. Their magic joined and flowed over Bella in gentle waves. Maybe it was their intentions, but the experience was a sharp contrast to the memories Harry had witnessed. The atmosphere felt calming and cleansing.

At the appropriate time, Narcissa and Harry each added several drops of blood to the last potion which was then given to Bellatrix. When the incantation finished, Harry felt a burst of magic reach out for Bella before he could stop it, and he watched in awe as Bella's features softened, her hair turned clean and shiny, her skin smooth and blemish free. A black oozing substance began to trickle out of her mouth and Harry grabbed it, pulling fiercely with his magic until he had gathered it in a ball and then crushed it to dust. At this point, Bellatrix let out a soft gasp and opened her eyes in surprise. Her eyes met Harry's, swirling with arousal from the magic Harry had released and she smiled, not a feral, vindictive smile of rage, but a genuine smile filled with so much good-hearted lightness that it made Harry hold his breath.

"James? It's gone James!" She said before she fell back asleep.

"Oh shite," said Harry for the second time that day. Just as Narcissa yelled "Salazar's snake! Seriously?"

o - o - o - o - o

"We need to talk about this Harry," said Narcissa as they were getting ready the next morning.

"The connection between me and Bellatrix isn't nearly as strong as it is with you and Amelia." huffed Harry.

"The original compatibility with your father must have been very strong, Harry," said Narcissa. "And since you have so much of your father in you, her magic is clearly reaching out to that part of you."

Harry didn't say anything, he could feel his temper rising. He didn't want to talk about this. Not now, not ever really. He knew that what she was saying was only part of the truth. Bellatrix may have had a deep connection with his father, but she also had a deep connection with Voldemort, at least the Voldemort before he put himself through so many dark soul altering rituals. Harry thought that might be why Bellatrix and Narcissa's parents had to involve him in the ritual that bound her to Rodulphus. He could feel the soul pieces inside of him longing for her. He may not have a strong connection with Bellatrix, but Voldemort did and that scared him more than anything. He couldn't afford to lose control.

"So what are you going to do about it?" Narcissa asked.

"Do about it? You aren't seriously asking me to start a relationship with your sister? How many wives do you want me to have Narcissa? Why is this so easy for you? Are you trying to see how many people you can pawn me off to so you don't have to frequent my bed anymore," Harry said harshly. Narcissa winced.

"This isn't you talking Harry, this is Voldemort. We knew it would be easier for the bits of him to take control when you are angry. You don't really believe that," she whispered.

"Don't tell me what I believe," Harry growled as he stepped closer to her. He took a few deep breathes and Narcissa noticed the red swirling in his eyes subside.

"I just want her to be taken care of, to have a chance at happiness, and you are the best man I've ever known," said Narcissa. Harry sighed.

"I will ensure she gets pardoned and has everything she needs to live whatever life she chooses. But, that life cannot be with me," said Harry with finality as he walked towards the door.

"Okay Harry," said Narcissa calmly. "Why have you shut your mind to me?"

"I'm not talking about this now," said Harry, and he slammed the door behind him.

Narcissa stared at the door in concern for quite a few moments before she squared her shoulders and followed Harry down to the kitchen for breakfast. They ate in silence until they were joined several minutes later by Bellatrix.

"Bella? Are you sure you should be out of bed?" said Narcissa frantically as she stood from the table.

"I'm fine Cissy. In fact, I feel absolutely marvelous," Bellatrix said as she spun around. She sighed happily and then sat down on the other side of Harry.

"Lord Emrys, I am very intrigued to know how my youngest sister managed to capture the most powerful wizard in the world instead of me. I had no idea she was that cunning," said Bellatrix with a sly grin. Harry remained silent and continued to ignore her the best he could while he ate his breakfast.

"Well done sister," she said, leaning onto the table to look over at Narcissa on the other side of Harry. "He is stunning indeed." Harry nearly jumped out of his seat when he felt Bella's foot start sliding up his leg. He gripped her foot tightly and turned to look at her. For a moment, it seemed like he would throw her on the table and take her right there, but instead he stood abruptly and walked towards the door.

"I'll leave you two to catch up," he said as he left, not even looking back.

"Be careful," Narcissa said warningly to her sister once Harry was out of earshot.

"What do you mean?" Said Bellatrix as she started devouring the breakfast that Harry left behind.

"I can hear your thoughts Bellatrix, no matter how good your Occulmency is," said Narcissa. "Based on what I am hearing right now, you know exactly what I mean." Bellatrix gasped.

"What? How?" Bellatrix said in shock.

"It is something I learned from the Druid, being an Emrys makes me particularly good at it. But even if I couldn't read your mind, I know you Bella, you value and desire power above all else and there is no one more powerful than him," Narcissa explained.

"You're right, I have felt how powerful he is, and I can't stop thinking about it. The Dark Lord has been terrified of him for a while now, and I didn't understand why, but now I do. Voldemort will lose, at least in his current physical form. But it's not just about the power, he saved me and he is James' son. Why would I not want to put my name in the hat? You are already sharing him with the red head so why not me?" said Bellatrix.

"Harry chose her and he has made it clear that he will not choose you. It makes sense you would fall for him Bella, but he won't handle – this," she said waving her hands over her sister's form, "- well, the flirting, especially so aggressively. He needs time to get to know you, he needs a friend. And he has to know that you understand he is not his father or the Dark Lord."

"But he is," said Bellatrix in confusion.

"He is what?" Asked Narcissa.

"The Dark Lord. Or at least part of him. I can sense it," Bellatrix replied.

"How?" Asked Narcissa with a hint of concern in her voice.

"I don't know, but what does it matter? I have had almost two decades stolen from me. I want to live Cissy," said Bellatrix.

"And you will, Harry will ensure that, but please you must not pursue him," begged Narcissa.

"Sorry Cissy, I can't do that. I intend to convince him," said Bellatrix before she stood and skipped out of the room giving her sister a small wave.

o – o – o – o - o

After the fiasco at breakfast Harry felt like he needed to get away, so he went to Grimmauld place to check on Amelia and Susan. He found Amelia in the study doing paperwork while Susan was hanging out in her bedroom with Hannah.

"Hello beautiful, you look like you could use an excuse to stop working for a little while," said Harry as he walked in and gave her a deep searing kiss.

"I have an idea that the sort of break you would suggest is actually something that would end up making more work for me," laughed Amelia.

"Well, yes there is something that has come up that will likely add to the paperwork load, but I had something much more enjoyable in mind first," Harry said as he kissed her neck softly, trailing his tongue along her jawline before apparating them both to the bedroom.

"So, what is this task you need me to do that will involve more paperwork," said Amelia a couple hours later as they ate lunch.

"Bellatrix is awake, and..." Harry sighed. "It was horrible really - her life had been - I can't even imagine. She had no free will Amelia. Her parents put her under a really dark family compulsion charm that allowed Voldemort and Rodulphus to control her and use her in any way they wanted. Would you like to see the memories? I can show you, but I warn you it is not pleasant."

"It would be easier to make a decision about what to do next if I saw it for myself, instead of hearing about it from a third party. I would have suggested a pensieve, if you didn't have the ability to share things so easily," replied Amelia.

"Very well," said Harry as he reached across the table and grabbed her hand. By the time the memories finished Amelia had paled significantly and was gripping Harry's hand so tightly it made him wince.

"It will take some sly maneuvering, but I will work on getting her pardoned with as little public knowledge as possible. After that, we will just have to keep her safe from the vigilantes. She may not have a normal existence for awhile, or be able to go out much, especially alone, but at least she will be free from ministry prosecution," said Amelia.

"It's a start, thank you Amelia," said Harry.

"Is it possible to talk to her?" Amelia asked. Harry stiffened slightly but his expression didn't change.

"If you think it would help," he said neutrally. Amelia said it would, so after lunch they floo'd to Emrys manor. They walked into the kitchen to see Narcissa and Bellatrix still finishing lunch.

"Hello Amelia,"' said Narcissa kindly. Bellatrix immediately turned at this and eyed the Head of the Department of Magical Law Enforcement critically.

"Ah, the girlfriend," she said with a widening smile.

"I hoped we could talk. I have some questions before I start working on your pardon," said Amelia as she looked in Bella's direction. Bellatrix let out a child like giggle.

"Of course," she said. "I'm always available for a little girl to girl." Bellatrix stood and grabbed Amelia's hand before she pulled her out of the room. Harry quickly excused himself from Narcissa's presence and waited in his office for Amelia to finish.

That night, Narcissa cornered Harry in the lounge after he returned from Grimmauld Place.

"I want to know why you have blocked me from your mind, Harry. I thought we agreed to not do that," said Narcissa softly, trying to gauge his temper. Harry sighed heavily, but he didn't get upset which she was grateful for.

"I'm sorry Cissy, I just – absorbing the Horcrux felt about how I expected it to, but it is more determined than I thought it would be. I didn't want you to have to deal with the internal battle going on in my mind while also dealing with helping your sister," justified Harry as he came over and grabbed her by the hip, pulling her close.

"But I can't help you if I don't know what you are going through. There may come a time when it is critical that I know how the struggle is going, for your own safety, you can't shut me out," said Narcissa as she wrapped her arms around his neck. "I love you more than anything else in this world Harry, I won't judge you or think you are weak. You have to trust me." Narcissa kissed him soundly.

"You know I do," said Harry returning the kiss hesitantly. Narcissa's eyes opened in surprise as Harry's thoughts flooded into her.

"Take what you need Harry, I'm not afraid of you hurting me, at least not in a way I wouldn't enjoy. If it becomes too much, I will stop you, but please let me help. Take what you need from me," said Narcissa as she crashed their lips together. When she opened her eyes again, she was naked and tied to the headboard of their four-poster bed.

"Bella wasn't just compatible with your father, she is compatible with Voldemort as well, isn't she?" asked Narcissa as they laid in bed that evening.

"Yes, how did you know that?" Harry asked in return.

"She can sense the pieces of Voldemort's soul in you, it's the only explanation I can come up with," responded Narcissa. Harry didn't say anything, so she continued. "You're concerned about that connection."

"I can feel a strong pull to her, but I know it's not mine. Every time she is around, I can feel Voldemort's magic trying to take over, reaching out to her. It is – difficult to fight I suppose. I am worried that I will lose control, that the urge to be with her will become to much and in that moment, he will take over," said Harry. "I know I promised you that I would be strong enough to overpower Voldemort, but I never accounted for Bellatrix. She's an unknown component and I don't know what it will mean.