I know I said I update Friday nights, but I had a lot of school work to finish this week, so I posted tonight. This is all in Bella's perspective, and will have a few flashbacks but not too many.
Katie: Yeah, it's always like that isn't it?
Guest(s): I like doing it, not big deal really.
Cc: I agree.
Mangafreak11: I know more than anyone, and thanks for the support and continued reviews.
Darkshadow-lord: We'll have to see…
Fighting Monsters
Chapter Seven: Homecoming
"There is a kind of magic-ness about going far away and then coming back all changed."
—Kate Douglas Wiggin
Hogwarts, 1996
Weeks before Dumbledore's death
"I didn't do it, I swear," Bellatrix began, arms crossed as she glared at the wizard across from her.
Dumbledore raised an eyebrow, amused. "…and what, dare I ask, are you denying?"
He chuckled as the young witch shrugged defiantly. "Whatever you're here to accuse me of." The wizard watched Bellatrix brush away her thick black locks from her face. "I haven't been able to do my usual pranks, too busy preparing for my future,"
Dumbledore hummed, he knew all too well about her dream of being an Auror; it didn't surprise him as much as he thought, it was a perfect fit. "I know, you and Miss Granger have both been very busy with your studies."
He watched, curious, as the witch straightened up at the mention of the bookworm. "What does Granger have to do with my future?" Bellatrix frowned, avoiding her gaze as she looked around his office.
"You two have gotten close," Dumbledore smiled, not giving anything away as the witch flushed. "…become good friends despite your past." He rose from his desk, nostalgic, as he walked around slowly. "I remember the first time you two were brought into my office, your first year, because you tried to hex her in class for being a know it all,"
Bellatrix couldn't help but snort at the memory. "Yeah, it backfired on me because I had no idea what I was doing. Pushed me back into the wall while knocking her to the floor," She remembered an annoying Potter, ever the hero, calling the headmaster to alert him on what had happened.
"I gave you your first detention that day," Dumbledore smiled, stopping to stand at her side.
The Slytherin nodded, proud. "The first of many,"
Dumbledore laughed softly, agreeing. "I've watched you grow into the young woman that you are today, Bellatrix. I've seen you struggle with your dark urges, and overcome them each time," He continued as the witch looked at him, frowning. "I have to admit, when I first met you, I thought you wouldn't be able to fight the darkness, but, you've proved me wrong,"
"…you don't know it yet, but, you're going to play an important role this upcoming year," Bellatrix watched, intrigued, as the headmaster pulled out a golden compass from his cloak. "I want you to have this,"
Bellatrix raised a brow, grabbing the warm compass from his hand. "Why?" She shook it, huffing when the needle refused to move. "Doesn't even work," She pouted, too focused on the object to see him smile at her response.
"Carry it with you wherever you go, when the time is right it'll work," Dumbledore informed her. "It's not just an ordinary compass; this is special,"
Bellatrix pursed her lips. "How so?" She sighed, boredom sneaking up.
"It offers you direction when you're feeling lost," Dumbledore's response caused her to look up; he smiled, now he had her attention. "It has the power to lead you where you're meant to be at the appointed time,"
Black eyes furrowed, observing the magical object in her hand. "So, it'll give me direction if I get lost…but, where would it take me?"
Dumbledore smiled. "Home,"
Bellatrix sighed as she pulled out the golden compass from her pocket. The memory of the wizard running through her mind as she leaned against an oak tree. She had transported herself to an unknown location in the woods; she just needed to get away from it all.
Despite her feelings towards the elder wizard, Bellatrix had kept the compass with her at every step just as he had requested. She never pulled it out until now, almost forgot it was inside her pocket even. But when she left the golden trio, the compass burned inside her pocket as if it were calling out to her.
And it wasn't like she knew where she was going.
She couldn't go to the Black Manor for obvious reasons, and Hogwarts wasn't safe anymore. And she didn't want to see Hermione chase after Ron, it was too painful. Bella wanted the witch to want her but sometimes in life, you couldn't have what you wanted. She'd have to respect the bookworm's choice, and to save their friendship she had to get over her.
Bella scoffed quietly to herself, teasing the golden compass in her cool palm. "Easier said than done," She sighed, looking around the dark woods around her. "…hope this isn't a final screw you from your grave old man,"
She wouldn't put it past him, she made his life a living hell during her earlier years at Hogwarts.
"How does this work again," Bella mumbled to herself, eyeing the tool. "…it will lead you where you need to be at the appointed time…"
The dark-haired witch took a deep breath, picturing a place she wanted to be that didn't exist. She wanted to go home, but she didn't know where that was.
But maybe the compass did.
"Take me home," Bella whispered, gnawing at her lower lip as the compass remained dormant.
Just as she was about to curse at her misfortune, the compass needle glowed a light green color. Dark eyes widened as she took a careful step forward, gasping as the light continued to shine brighter with each step in the right direction.
"North, it is," Bella whispered as she walked in the direction that caused the most glowing. "…what the," She frowned, the light had begun to dim as she continued walking. "…" Bella took a few steps back, stopping when the light shinned so bright she thought she'd go blind.
"…hope this works," She mumbled, mind turning as she apparated with the green needle illuminating.
A loud crack sounded as she teleported through time and space to an unknown destination. Bella felt her stomach pull at the force apparting caused, letting out a deep breath as she landed in murky water in what appeared to be a wide field.
"Disgusting," Bella growled, kicking her way out of the small lake as she made her way to shore. "…of course, it's off now," She mumbled as she looked down at the unmoving compass, glow gone. "Where am I?"
She took in the grass fields, pausing as she found an old lake house starring back at her. From the light on inside, she assumed it was occupied with residents. But she couldn't knock on the door, she was in just as much danger as Potter now that she was associated with them.
"…" Bella whipped her wand out quickly as she heard a twig snap from behind. "Expelliarmus!" She shouted, turning around with amazing speed to disarm the offender.
A hiss, followed by a groan, was the response. "Damn it," A deep boyish voice whined.
"Who are you?" Bella growled, holding her wand up as she eyed the figure in the dark; she tried to ignore the cold seeping in through her jeans from the lake water. "…show yourself!"
Another snap was heard from the left, she shifted, as a second figure moved in the dark. "Bella?"
"…Andy?" Bellatrix breathed, keeping her shaky arm up even as her sister's form became more visible. "Is that you?"
She knew it was when her younger sisters face appeared, dark curls framing her face. "It is, wh-what are you doing here?"
Bella dropped her hand, pulling her little sister into a fierce hug. "I…it's a long story. I'll tell you when I get inside," She pulled away, brushing Andy's hair out of her heart shaped face.
"Stop that, you're acting like mum," Andy groaned, brushing Bella's hand away, but smiling none the less.
Bella sighed, turning to the approaching figure behind them. "Ah, then this must be Ted,"
"Guilty," The brown-haired boy raised a sheepish hand, retrieving his fallen wand. "You're definitely a force to be reckoned with, I'd never want to duel against you," He smiled softly, scratching the back of his neck.
He probably felt awkward, the most well-known Slytherin, known for tormenting muggle-born's, was standing in front of him. Bella didn't mess with Ted personally, but she was sure he heard the stories of her going after his friends.
"…you need practice, if you're going to be protecting my little sister," Bella told him stiffly, twirling her wand in between her fingers. "I took your wand far too easily,"
Andy pushed her softly, frowning. "Bella—"
"No," Ted shook his head, long bangs sweeping over his brown eyes. "She's right…we're at war, and I need to get some training in if I want to keep you safe. Maybe, you can teach me a few things while you're here?"
Andy smiled softly, looking between her sister and her boyfriend. She never thought they'd get to the point where they would be on speaking terms.
Bella nodded, pocketing the golden compass with ease. "Speaking of which, where the hell am I?"
"London," Ted confirmed, looking around in the dark for any signs of more intruders. "My family owns one of the lake houses around Cotswold's," He gestured to the cabin, glass windows taking up the entire front side of the building. "Which makes me curious…"
Bella raised a brow. "Curious to what?"
"We have charms protecting this whole area," Andy spoke, eyeing her sister with trepidation. "How did you break through them?"
Bella swallowed, maybe this compass had more power than she thought. "…again, long story,"
Andy frowned, crossing her arms, suspicious. "…what happened, I thought you were traveling with Hermione, and her friends? Did something happen?"
"…it's a—"
Andy growled, interrupting her sister with a glare that could match hers. "I swear, Bella, if you say it's bloody complicated one more time…"
"Look, can we go inside to discuss this?" Bella's voice cracked, all the emotions she'd held in about Hermione were finally breaking through. "…I promise, I'll tell you about everything, but right now I just need some rest. It's been a long couple of weeks,"
Ted snorted. "I bet, you've had a hectic week, running around with Potter, trying to destroy the dark lord and all," He swallowed when Andy gave him a look, he flushed. "What? She's somewhat of a war hero now,"
"…yeah," Andy mumbled, smiling as she thought about it. "This is going to look great on your Auror resume,"
Bella groaned. "Can we please go inside, I'm exhausted. But I promise to answer all your questions, including the ones you have for Potter," She looked at Ted as she spoke. "…maybe I'll get you his autograph next time I see him,"
Ted blushed. "…it'd be worth more if I had all four of you sign—you know what, next time. I'll hold you to it,"
Bella felt her face heat up as she was mentioned in the signing of autographs, as if she were part of the trio. She'd never been seen like this before, as a hero.
"…I keep my promises," Bella said softly, following the duo as they led her to the house.
Hogwarts, 1991
Headmaster's Office
Professor McGonagall shook her head, eyeing the young witches who sat beside each other in the chairs. "Honestly, it hasn't even been a week yet and you two are already causing trouble," She nodded her head towards the boy who lived, as he stood by the door. "…it was a good thing Mr. Potter was there to alert us of this misshape,"
"I just didn't want anyone to get hurt," Harry said, voice soft, as his eyes widened from behind his glasses. "Are you sure you're okay, Hermione?"
Bellatrix scoffed, rolling her eyes at the caring boy. She wanted to vomit when the bushy haired muggle-born smiled, a blush staining her cheeks, as she nodded to him.
"Yes, I'm fine," Hermione ducked her head. "…thank you, Harry,"
"Shouldn't you be in class, Potter?" Bellatrix felt the need to ruin their moment, smirking as Harry cowardly avoided her dark gaze.
McGonagall couldn't help but agree, waving her hand. "Right, Harry, off to class with you. Miss Granger will be there momentarily,"
Harry nodded sheepishly, waving one more time to Hermione, before he sidestepped the approaching wizard. Bellatrix frowned as Dumbledore placed a comforting hand on Harry's shoulder, before closing the door.
She wondered if she was the only one who noticed how close of an eye Dumbledore kept on the boy.
"So, what seems to be the problem?" He asked, sitting at his desk with a smile.
Hermione was, of course, the first to speak. "She, tried to hit me with a hex! It is against Hogwarts policy to—"
"Be a bloody know it all?" Bellatrix quipped, laughing at the outraged look on Granger's face.
Oh, she'd have fun teasing her. Her reactions were worth it.
"Ladies!" McGonagall hissed, shaking her head as she watched the duo glare at each other. "Now, it's fine to have a little house rivalry, but violence is not accepted. Bellatrix, you must be punished for using your magic, not only to harm a student, but also during your lecture," She straightened her back, preparing to lay down the hammer as Hermione smirked. "For your punishment, you—"
"Will spend the afternoon with me," Dumbledore finished, hands laced out in front of him.
For the entire meeting, he had been sitting back watching with amused eyes. The Slytherin had felt almost uncomfortable with his eyes on her as she taunted Granger.
"What?" Bellatrix groaned, she didn't want to spend a day with him.
Dumbledore smiled at the twelve-year-old. "Come now, Bellatrix, it will be fun to get to know each other, don't you think?"
"No," Bellatrix crossed her arms, ignoring the outraged gasp McGonagall let out but freezing at what sounded like a stifled snort from Hermione.
How dare she laugh at Bellatrix's suffering.
"Well we're going to have a swell time," Dumbledore smiled, clapping his hands in dismissal. "Meet me here after your last class for this whole week,"
Bellatrix bit back an insult, and instead nodded. "Fine," She hissed, stomping out of the office before she cast another spell.
And this time, she had a feeling, it wouldn't backfire.
But she was upset her spell had broken apart in such a way. She had read about them all summer in the books her father gave to her, but she assumed she'd just need more practice. And practice she would.
She'd become a force to be reckoned with.
"…we have our hands full this year, don't we, with those two?" The Professor said, sighing as Hermione closed the door softly. "Miss Granger may not have fought back, but, she had a look in her eyes. A fire,"
Dumbledore nodded. "One that matches Bellatrix's, I know, I saw."
"We should keep them apart, separate them from any classes they have together," McGonagall confirmed.
"No, I think we should do the opposite," He smiled when she gave him a confused look. "Miss Granger brings out the fierceness in Bellatrix, and Bellatrix brings out Miss Granger's fire. I've never seen Hermione so upset, her magic was on the brink of leaking out."
McGonagall frowned. "Isn't that dangerous? The affect they have on each other,"
"Maybe," Dumbledore grinned. "But I'd like to also find out what they can bring out in each other, don't you?"
It would be an interesting seven years.
"Good morning sunshine," Andy teased, watching her older sister walk downstairs after hours of sleep.
Bella groaned, black hair covering most of her face. "Where's Ted, and his family?" She asked, plopping down on the couch beside her sister.
"Ted is out front practicing his magic, and his family is in hiding, we're the only ones here," Andy shrugged. "Thought it'd be safer to keep our distance from them, that way if any deatheater's find us, we won't have anything to lose, or, anyone to protect,"
Bella nodded, closing her eyes as she awaited the questions. "…hmm," She hummed, preparing for the storm.
"You promised you'd answer my questions," Andy began, shifting in her seat as her sister kept her eyes closed. "…how did you find us?"
Bella sighed, pulling out the golden compass from her pocket. "Dumbledore gave this to me, weeks before his death, and told me to keep it with me wherever I go," She allowed her sister to hold it. "I thought it was broken, but, it offers you direction when you're feeling lost. So, I pulled it out and it led me here; must have allowed me to get through the wards too,"
"When you're feeling lost?" Andy gave her the compass back. "Why were you lost, did something happen to with you and Hermione?"
Bella let out a deep breath. "…something like that."
"Okay," Andy said softly, having a feeling her sister would need some time. "What have you four been up to? Ted and I heard about the wedding, were you there?"
Bella nodded, finally opening her eyes to look at the ceiling. "Yeah, that's how I got dragged into their adventure. Hermione pulled me with her, and next thing I knew we were living in the forest for weeks. I'd tell you what we were doing but, if you get captured I don't want them torturing you for answers; it's better to be oblivious,"
Andy swallowed, silently agreeing as she nodded. "Right…well, you can stay with us for as long as you'd like,"
"I shouldn't stay in one place too long," Bella admitted, her heart aching at the thought of staying away from Hermione too long. "…besides, I have to go back to them eventually. They're lost without me, really,"
Andy rolled her eyes. "How do you plan on going back? They're trying to take down the dark lord, you know they aren't going to wait around for you to come back, how will you find them?"
"This compass led me to you, maybe it can lead me to them," She shrugged.
The youngest bit her lip. "Why did you leave?" She sighed when Bella looked away, shameful. "I'm your sister, you know you can tell me anything…I'm worried about you, I haven't seen you in months and then you just drop by—I don't know what to think!"
"And Cissy is stuck at one of our Manor's with mother, and father," Andy shook her head. "…and I don't know how she's feeling, after what she did to Dumbledore—we just, need to stick together."
She tried one more time, voice soft. "…what's going on?"
"I kind of, told Hermione how I felt," Bella licked her lips. "And she kind of doesn't feel the same way," She trailed off with a sigh.
Andy shook her head, it couldn't be; she'd seen them together for years, they had something. "Did she say that?"
"No," Bella scoffed when her sister frowned. "But when Ron went missing she couldn't stop mopping, she was heartbroken. Hasn't gotten over him, and I don't want to fight for someone who doesn't want me."
"So, you left, without telling anyone? You can't do that Bella," Andy gave her a look.
The eldest shrugged. "…I needed some space, I'm entitled to it. Look, I accept that she doesn't want to be with me, and I'll be the friend she needs, but I just need time to get over her."
"Get over her?" Andy felt her heart ache. "…I'm not sure she'd want that,"
Bella shook her head. "Maybe I should start thinking about what I want."
She didn't want someone who didn't want her back.
"And what do you want?" Andy challenged.
Bellatrix sighed, shifting as she tried to breeze over the conversation before she started bawling. "…I'd love to find out what this triangular mark means."
Andy frowned. "Triangular—" She grabbed a piece of paper, and a pen, to sketch out a quick drawing. "This mark?"
"Yes," Bella's eyes went wide as she looked at her sister. "Harry, and Hermione, were trying to find out what it meant. It keeps popping up at places we've gone to, what is it?"
"What is it?" Andy frowned as if it were obvious. "It's the sign of the deathly hallows of course,"
Bellatrix sat up. "The what?"
She'd never heard of that before.
"The deathly hallows, I learned about it that summer I spent at Luna's house," Andy shook her head at the memory, snorting. "Mum was furious when daddy gave me permission to—"
Bella snapped her fingers. "I recall, back to the story please."
"Right, well, it's the tale of the three brothers," Andy said, clearing her throat. "Daddy used to read it to us all the time when we were younger."
Bellatrix nodded, recalling the nights spent listening to stories from A tale of Beedle the Bard. "…the deathly hallows," She whispered, thinking back to the story and the figure in front of her. "Give me that pen,"
Andy shrugged, handing it off as she watched her sister figure it out. She was always a fast learner.
"The elder wand, the most powerful wand ever made," Bella whispered, drawing a straight line down on the paper. "…the resurrection stone, and the cloak of invisibility," She trailed off as she finished the drawing, realization seeping in.
Andy nodded, not quite understanding why her sister was freaking out. "Yes, and together they make up the deathly hallows…what's the problem." She frowned as her sister rose from the couch, pacing.
"Together, they make one master of death," Bella hissed, thinking back to Riddle's quest for power. "That's what Riddle must be after…I have to leave—"
Andy shot up, grabbing her sisters hand. "Bella, calm down, what's going on?"
"I know what Riddle is up to, I have to tell the others, they need to know what it means," Bella's mind was running, as she thought back to the mark on the grave they saw in Godric's Hallow. "…the Paverell's" She whispered.
"Bella, you don't even know where they are," Her sister tried to calm her. "And I thought you needed some space? Just stay with Ted and I for another day or two, clear your mind,"
Bellatrix smiled, sad. "This is bigger than me getting over my feelings, Andy. I must go back, and I'm not being rash, this is important…we've always been steps behind him, but this," She gestured to the mark, grinning. "I know where he's going,"
"But," Andy sighed, shoulders dropping as she frowned. "…I haven't seen you in months, or Cissy. I finally have you back, and you're leaving me? I thought we were going to stick together,"
"Winning this war, is going to keep us together," Bella told her, eyes determined as she plucked out the compass once more. "…and when we do win, we'll have Cissy back—"
"She's alone," Andy's response caused her to freeze. "Mum and dad are using her to get on Riddle's good side, and she's trapped at the Manor with all those deatheater's…she's all alone, and we can't do anything to change it,"
Bellatrix rubbed her thumb over the golden compass, hesitant. "…she'll be fine, we're fine—"
"I have Ted," Andy said, eyes red with emotion. "And you have the trio, they're your family too, but Cissy is lost without us. Bella, we already let her slip through our fingers once,"
The dark-haired witch straightened her back, determined. "I promise you, I won't let that happen to our little sister. I'll find a way to protect her,"
"…I believe you," Andy pulled her in by her shoulders, whispering through her thick mane. "Be safe, okay? And no more running off, you need them just as much as they need you," She spoke softly.
Bellatrix pulled away after a long moment, activating the compass. "…I know," She looked down at the bright glowing needle in her hand, it was pointing South this time. "Tell Ted I'll practice with him another time,"
Andy didn't have time to reply as her sister vanished with a loud crack, easily breaking through the wards. She stood there for a moment, even as Ted came tumbling inside with his wand ready for battle.
"What was that?" He asked, looking around curiously.
Andy swallowed. "Bella left, something important came up. Something about warning Harry about the deathly hallows,"
"Oh," Ted lowered his wand, wrapped his arms around her. "…you knew she wasn't staying for long. She has a war to win," He paused. "At least you know she's on the right side this time,"
"That's not what I'm worried about," She whispered, thinking back to her frazzled sister.
Teddy frowned, pulling back to look at her. "Then what's the problem?"
"…she has a compass that takes her where she needs to be, gives her direction," Andy told him what Bella had told her moments ago.
He smiled. "Then it should lead her to Harry,"
"That's the thing," Andy mumbled.
She thought back to the indecisiveness her sister had been giving off. Like she wanted to warn Harry and the others, but at the same time she had to take care of something else first. Bella knew she had an obligation to Harry but wasn't ready to return.
"…I don't think it will,"
Hogwarts, 1993
Quidditch Field
Dumbledore flinched as he watched Harry fall off his broom. "She's a force to be reckoned with, isn't she?" He said, smiling, as he watched Bellatrix snicker at Harry's fall as they had a practice match.
Hermione would have jumped, having not heard the older wizard walk behind her, but she was too furious. "She's barbaric if you ask me," She huffed, crossing her arms.
"It's part of the sport, Miss Granger, Bellatrix is an excellent Beater," He confirmed, watching her block a Bludger with her bat in her right hand. "…best Slytherin's ever had, if I must say,"
The thirteen-year-old scoffed, face heating up as dark eyes met hers from a distance. "…we all have our own opinions," She mumbled, unable to look away from the alluring gaze.
Things had changed between them, and she didn't know how. She just noticed Bellatrix watching closer than usual. It all happened days after she punched Lestrange in the face for being so daft. The witch was still dreadful, throwing hexes her way daily and calling her names, but, it was almost…endearing?
Hermione knew someone calling her a mudblood, even if she wasn't really a muggle-born, should be an insult. But somehow, when Bellatrix said it, it didn't seem as bad. It was something only the witch could call her.
It made her feel special, despite how sickening that was.
"Are you going to the match this Friday?" Dumbledore asked, watching Hermione closely as she and Bellatrix continued to lock eyes.
Interesting.
Hermione finally broke away from the gaze, nodding. "I have to cheer Harry on, so, yes." She clutched her books tighter to her chest as she watched Bellatrix hit her opponent with a Bludger.
The witch's unruly dark locks were unkept, as always. Her dark eyes were determined, and fierce, as she examined the field in search for her foes. She brought a surprising amount of grace to the sport as she effortlessly flew in the air on her broom.
And the uniform she wore wasn't too bad either.
"I-I have to go," Hermione squeaked, face turning bright scarlet as she turned on her heel. "I have to—study! Goodbye Headmaster," She called over her shoulder, refusing to look back, and denying the thought that had just went through her mind.
Dumbledore raised an eyebrow, shrugging as he turned back to a confused Bellatrix. He curiously watched as sadness seeped in her eyes before anger, followed by a brutal Bludger to the back; aimed at an unsuspecting Ronald Weasley.
"That's got to sting," Dumbledore winched.
"Fuck," Bellatrix cursed, pressing her back against the brick wall with a groan. "Are you serious, I didn't ask to come here, I have to warn Harry and the others," She hissed, shaking the compass viciously. "Come on, now you're not working?" She muttered, shoving the item back into her pocket.
The Black Manor was the last place she wanted to be.
She thought she'd made herself clear with where she wanted to go. But it seemed like she had no choice in the matter, the compass would only send here where she was needed now.
"Thanks a lot Dumbledore," She muttered before taking out her wand, walking up the basement steps which led to the living room.
This was her families favorite Manor; she and her sisters always spend their Holidays here. If there was any place where the dark lord would keep his minions, it could be here.
Bellatrix paused at the sound of two voices speaking, she leaned her ear against the door to listen closer to the voices.
"…you really care about her, don't you?" Bellatrix's eyes widened as she heard Cissy's voice.
Her sister's response was met with a snort. "I'd care about anyone with a body like that—" Bellatrix froze, she knew that pathetic voice anywhere.
"Have you seen her? Everyone in our year has wanted to get with her, but she's too damn stubborn. But once we're married, she'd have no choice but to be mine. Let's see her try to stop me then,"
Bellatrix growled, reminding herself to stay quiet as they continued to speak. "…I always knew he was a pig,"
She remembered how he tried to kiss her after the Yule Ball and felt his hands drift from her hips during their dances. But she wasn't stupid enough to give him what he wanted.
"But the wedding is still on, believe it," Her ex-fiancé said confidently. "Have you seen my idiot brother around?"
Bella frowned as her sister stuttered out an answer. "…n-no, I haven't,"
"Must be out with the dark lord then," Bellatrix sighed, glad that Riddle wasn't residing in her home now. "Do you have any idea where he's gone, by the way? We haven't seen him all week,"
Narcissa replied. "No, but he said he was going to take care of something,"
And Bella had a good idea to what that something was.
"Let's hope he's finally getting rid of Potter and his sidekicks then," Lestrange quipped.
Narcissa answered. "…yeah,"
Bellatrix took five breathes after she heard Rabastan walk upstairs to his guest room her parents had probably given him. When she heard his door shut, she slowly cracked the basement door open to catch a glimpse of her sister sitting on the couch.
"…Cissy," Bella whispered, sighing in relief as their eyes locked.
Her younger sister gaped, jumping up in shock. "B-bella what, are you crazy? Mum and dad have been looking everywhere for you!" She hissed, meeting her sister halfway for a hug. "…where have you been—never mind that, you must leave,"
"I had to make sure you were okay," Bella confessed. "Before anything else,"
Cissy eyed the clock nervously. "Don't worry about me, I'm fine. But you have to get out of here before he comes back—"
"The dark lord is busy with other things," Bella reassured her. "…he won't be back for a while,"
Cissy frowned. "I'm not talking about him—"
The duo shivered as the front door opened to reveal a tall man with a woman on his arm. Cissy swallowed as they breezed through the doors with a purpose.
Bellatrix felt her breath leave her lungs. "…mum, dad," She stumbled over her words, drawing her wand as she prepared for a punishing spell from her mother.
It was always from her mother; her father was more of the cold shoulder or I'm disappointed in you type of discipliners.
"Bellatrix," Druella didn't seem shocked, never did. "…it's so good to see you, darling," Her eyes widened as her mother pulled her into a hug, her sharp perfume burning her lungs.
Cissy gaped. "It is?"
Her mother nodded, brushing Bella's hair out of her face with the first warm smile she's had in a while. "Of course, it's great to see anyone who is courting the dark lord's niece,"
"W-what?" Bellatrix flushed, outraged at Riddle for assuming such things. "He told you about that?"
Cygnus stepped forward, causing his wife to move away to stand by their youngest. "I must admit, Bella, I was disappointed when you skipped out on the planned wedding. And when you disappeared, I was so worried about you,"
"But then the dark lord told me what great plans he had for you," Bella blushed, she had never seen her father so proud of her; it was nice. "And you're with his niece, Miss…Hermione Granger, was it?"
Bellatrix nodded. "The dark lord, who else has he told?"
"Just the family dear," Her mother confirmed, smiling bright; it was a strange look on her mother, happiness.
Her father placed two large hands on her shoulder, black eyes bright. "I remember Hermione, you too would always go at each other's necks. You even sent her a few books during the summer, correct?"
Bellatrix nodded.
"Brilliant thinking, dear," Her mother quipped. "Letting her know you were interested from the start, you two will be a powerful couple,"
Bella frowned, recalling how rude her mother was to Hermione when they first met. "You didn't seem to like her when we first met during my first year,"
Druella's happy face cracked, only slightly, as her lips twitched. "Yes, well, I look forward to being properly introduced to her whenever you see each other again—"
"I didn't know," Bella's voice rose, speaking over her mother. "…I had feelings for her even when I thought she was a muggle-born," She locked eyes with her father as she spoke.
He nodded, a soft smile gracing his thin lips. "But you can't deny the energy you felt towards her. Her magic was able to call out and draw you closer," Cygnus dropped his hands. "It doesn't matter who she was when you met her, all that matters is that you got to know the real her, and what's better is that you accepted both sides of her,"
Bella felt her heart speed up, as she nodded. "…I think she'd love to meet you," She told her father, before looking away as the compass burned in her pocket.
I want you here.
"What was that?" Bellatrix whispered, fighting to keep her magic at bay as it tried to leak out.
Her father furrowed his brow. "Your magic is reacting to something," He paused for a moment before offering a soft smile. "…she's calling for you, isn't she?"
"I have to go," It felt like her body was going to burn up if she didn't leave soon. "…dad," She began, pulling out the compass to reveal the brightest green glow yet.
He pressed a kiss to her forehead, nodding. "I understand, just go,"
Bellatrix gave a final look to her sister before apparating.
Hermione need her.
Hogwarts, 1994
Bellatrix groaned, leaning against the corridor walls. "I told you, I, didn't, do, it," She hissed at Mad-Eye.
"I don't believe you," He grumbled. "You've been pulling pranks since the first day you got here, and I know you had something to do with trashing my classroom,"
The fourteen-year-old was just about to retort when a soft, almost shy, voice spoke from behind. "Actually, Bellatrix is telling the truth, it wasn't her,"
Bella looked up, shocked, as Granger came to her rescue with Dumbledore at her side. Brown eyes met with black before they awkwardly broke apart, twin blushes rising on each witch's face; much to Dumbledore's amusement.
"Can you prove that theory?" Mad-Eye asked, continuing to glare at the Slytherin.
Hermione nodded. "I saw Lestrange and his goons leave your class room, they were upset with the grades you gave them, I heard them plan to wreck your class,"
Dumbledore nodded in agreement. "She's right, Lestrange was forgetful and didn't clear out the spells he used with his wand." He held his hand out to Bella who hesitantly gave him her wand. "…ah, Miss Black has only used common spells she was supposed to learn in class,"
Bella quickly took her wand back, smirking at Mad-Eye. "Seems like you owe me an apology,"
Hermione bit her lip to hide a smile as Mad-Eye grumbled out a half-ass sorry.
"Now that everything is settled," Dumbledore clapped his hands. "You two should be off to dinner,"
Bellatrix jumped at the chance to leave, breezing past Hermione. The bookworm waved goodbye at her elders before jogging to catch up to the dark-haired witch.
"You're welcome," Dumbledore heard Hermione taunt.
Bella's response was heard just as they turned the corner. "Be quiet,"
Mad-Eye shook his head, confused. "I really thought Black had something to do with this. Lestrange asked her if she wanted in on the prank, and I was sure she was going to agree,"
"Bellatrix isn't the same overeager first year who pranks her professors, not anymore," Dumbledore smiled softly, thinking back to the advanced spells Bellatrix had previously cast with her wand; he assumed she was practicing before she was accused.
"…she's changed,"
He didn't believe it could be done. Her first and second year, it seemed like she was hopeless and would fall into the system. But during her third year, something had changed the way she viewed herself. She stopped causing too much trouble and focused on her studies more.
"And what's up with Granger helping clear Blacks name?" Mad-Eye questioned.
Dumbledore grinned. "Bellatrix has an important quidditch match this week, Miss Granger probably didn't want Miss Black to miss it,"
Hermione had changed too. Often, he would catch her defending Bellatrix's honor.
Mad-Eye shivered. "The worlds gone mad, it must be if those two are getting along,"
"I believe everything is as it should be," Dumbledore quipped.
"Bella!" Harry's voice called out to her as she landed behind the duo. "You came back, but, how did you find us?" He asked, confused, and shocked.
Bellatrix pocketed the compass and settled for her wand. "Long story," She licked her lips, eyeing the protection spell placed around the land. "…is Hermione in there?" She asked, taking a step closer.
Harry nodded in confirmation. "It's Salazar Slytherin's Manor," He said, watching her eyes widen in surprise.
"Yeah, we think there could be another Horcrux inside," Ron confirmed, eyeing her curiously. "But we can't—"
She didn't think twice as she jumped through the field, Hermione's magic protecting her. The bookworm wanted her here, so she knew she wouldn't be harmed if it stayed that way.
But just as she landed, suddenly, the Manor began to quake from the inside out. Bella struggled to climb the steps as the ground beneath her feet began to shake. She didn't have time to look for her, she'd have to use her magic to find Hermione.
"Where are you, Mione," Bellatrix whispered, following the sudden pulse of magic.
She knew it was Hermione's because it overwhelmed her. It was almost too much, but at the same time it wasn't enough.
Bellatrix found herself running downstairs towards a dimly lit cellar. She felt her knees buckle as the sight of Hermione, life being drained from her, appeared on the floor. A growl reached her throat as the Dementor fed off Hermione like a lunch, draining her energy.
Bella quickly conjured up a happy memory before pointing her wand, and shouting. "Expecto Patronum!" Causing a great amount of light to shine in the dark room.
A hiss sounded from the black figure, and suddenly the grip on Hermione's leg was gone. The witch could breathe again.
Hermione crawled to her knees, huffing in deep breaths as her lungs began to catch up with her. Bella smiled as Hermione frowned, confused as she caught a glimpse of Bella's dangerous black panther Patronus on the prowl.
Brown eyes watched as the beast roared at the Dementor that had tricked her.
"I can't believe I felt for that," She heard Hermione whisper, watching the black figure morph into nothingness.
Bella swallowed thickly, emotions rising to her throat, as she picked up the cup the bookworm had been reaching for. "You're lucky I got here in time," She began, feeling her heart quicken as the witch turned to face her. "…you were so pale when I found you, there was barely any life there," She whispered.
Seeing Hermione like that, it caused so much fear.
Hermione swallowed, looking up as Bellatrix reached out to pull her up. "I…h-how, what are you doing here?"
She tried not to smile. "You asked me to come in," Bella shrugged when she received a confused look. "Well not orally, your magic called out to me and allowed me to pass through the shield." She waved her hand to explain.
Hermione frowned, accepting her wand as the witch passed it to her. "Then why did the alarm go off?"
"This I assume," The dark-haired witch held up the taunting Horcrux. "Riddle must have Dementors lined up to protect things he cares about, but I could be wrong—"
"No, you're right, you're brilliant." Bella's eyes widened, heart skipping a beat, as Hermione closed her eyes and tried again. "I mean—it's brilliant, the Dementor trap I mean—"
"I got it," Bella couldn't stop the playful smirk from rising to her face, causing Hermione to roll her eyes.
"You're insufferable, you know that?" Hermione asked, turning to walk up the rest of the steps.
Bella snorted. "You missed me," She teased, joking.
"…I did," Hermione confessed softly, surprising her with honesty, as she glanced at the dark-haired witch as they walked upstairs to the living room.
Bella cleared her throat awkwardly, avoiding the rush Hermione's response gave her, holding up the cup. "So, you've found another Horcrux. And it just so happens to be inside Salazar Slytherin's Manor, how'd that happen?"
Hermione frowned as the other witch tried to deflect the conversation. "We went to talk to my father," She nodded when Bella's eyes widened in shock. "Yeah, it was Ron's idea. He thought maybe my father knew something, because he and Riddle were so close, thought we'd overlooked something,"
"He has good instincts," Bella grinned, observing the cup as they reached the living room. "Don't tell him I said that," She added quickly.
Hermione smiled, pure joy written all over her face. "Of course not, we can't let anyone know you're a decent human being,"
"Glad we understand each other," Bella grinned, holding the door open for the witch. "…are you coming, or do you plan on staying in this Manor?" She raised an amused brow.
Hermione hesitated, she could feel her magic trying to pull her back. "Yeah, it's just, a lot to take in,"
Bella knew the feeling. The need to take a moment to calm down when everything around you was moving so fast.
"…come on," Bella mumbled, gesturing to the open door. "You taking the cup triggered an alarm, and I'm sure Riddle will be on his way soon. And I don't think we need that right now,"
She watched Hermione nod, as she gave a final glance to the Manor.
A heavy groan was released from the dark-haired witch as she stretched in the cot within the magical tent. Bellatrix let out a sigh before starring up at the ceiling in thought.
After returning to the golden trio, they welcomed her with somewhat open arms. Harry couldn't wait to hear about her journey, even Ron seemed a little excited, but Hermione kind of stayed in the back. Bella would catch her eyes every now and then, but the bookworm would always look away sheepishly.
"You're up," Bella jumped, huffing as Hermione made herself known. "…you've been out for hours," She mumbled from where she sat at the wooden table, book in hand.
Bellatrix sat up, brushing back her mangled hair. "The apparating takes a lot out of me when I use the compass," She muttered.
"The what?" Hermione frowned, confused.
"The compass," Bellatrix managed to pull it from her pocket, holding up the golden tool. "…Dumbledore gave it to me before his death, said it would give me direction whenever I felt lost," She shivered when their fingers brushed as Hermione took it from her. "…it led me back to you…to all of you," She corrected.
Hermione observed the compass, shaking it. "Why isn't it working?"
"Maybe you're exactly where you need to be," Bella whispered, flushing.
Hermione rolled her eyes, surprising Bella as she tossed the compass back at her. "Don't—don't do that,"
Bellatrix gaped, furrowing her thick brows. "W-what am I doing?"
"This!" Hermione growled. "You can't say something sweet like that after leaving me—us, like that. I'm so angry with you, how could you do that? We were worried…"
Bella sighed, sitting up, she knew this was going to happen eventually. "I know, I'm sorry,"
"You promised me you would stay with me," Hermione's voice cracked.
Bella felt her heart crumble. "Hermione, I just needed some space,"
She watched Hermione's eyes widen, taking a step back, just as the tent flaps opened. Bella kept her eyes on the bookworm even as Harry and Ron waltz in after checking on the wards.
Harry felt the tension in the room, hesitating. "…you're awoke,"
"Yeah," She looked away from the frazzled witch, she knew Hermione would continue to berate her later when they were alone. "I was just telling Hermione how I found you guys,"
Hermione crossed her arms, nodding. "Dumbledore gave her a magic compass, it gives you direction when you're feeling lost,"
"Like my illuminator," Ron muttered.
Bella shrugged. "A little like that,"
Harry reached out for the golden tool, in awe. "…Dumbledore gave you this, to find us?" Harry asked, holding up the compass with glee.
Bellatrix shook her head, sheepish. "Not to find you guys, just to lead me where I'm meant to be at the moment." She licked her lips. "I didn't know where I wanted to go at first, but I knew I wanted to be somewhere that felt like home…so, it led me to Andy,"
She saw Hermione's eyes widen. "You saw Andy, where was she, how's she doing?"
"She's living with Ted in a muggle house somewhere in London," Bella told her. "I stayed the night and left when I figured out what the deathly hallows were; I wanted to find you guys, to tell you as soon as possible,"
Harry nodded eagerly. "The symbol, that's what it means,"
"The invisibility cloak, the resurrection stone, and the elder wand," Bellatrix said, watching Hermione dig out the drawing for reference. "…together, they make one ultimate master of death. I assume it's where Riddle is going,"
Harry's eyes widened. "He's going to take the elder wand from Dumbledore's grave,"
"Maybe he already has it," Ron suggested.
"He doesn't," Bella shook her head. "I went to the Black Manor, and I heard Cissy talking to Lestrange—"
Hermione's head shot up at the mention of her ex-fiancé. "What? Why were you even there?" She hissed.
"I tried to find you guys, but it led me back to Cissy instead," Bella licked her lips, feeling like she needed to reassure the witch. "Lestrange asked when Riddle would return, so I assume he's still out there,"
Harry nodded. "This gives us an upper hand, we can destroy the Horcrux…that will be our first move,"
"And then we just look for the others," Bella shrugged, seemed simple enough.
Until it wasn't.
Hermione nodded. "I'll start doing some research, find out where we should go next,"
"Sounds like a plan," Ron grinned, gesturing to the cup Hermione had found in the vault. "We can destroy this Horcrux with the sword," He turned to exit the tent, shouting over his shoulder. "I'll go get it now!"
Bella watched him leave, frowning when she caught Harry smiling at her. "…what?" She snapped.
Harry's smile only widened. "Do you know what this means?" He held up the golden compass, continuing when she shrugged. "…this means Dumbledore knew we'd need you someday, he planned to have you travel with us long before we did,"
"You belong here, Bella," Harry whispered softly, carefully returning the compass to her. "…try not to forget it,"
Before she could reply, Ron stumbled inside. "It's gone!"
"What?" Hermione, Harry, and Bella shouted at the same time.
Ron ran a hand through his ruffled hair. "It isn't in my bag, it's gone,"
Bellatrix sighed, just as they took a huge step forward they took two more back.
"Now what do we do?" Ron growled.
Harry paced. "We'll figure something out, we always do,"
"Hogwarts," Bella said, catching their attention. "Didn't you guys say there was a Basilisk fang somewhere inside the Chamber of Secrets? We can go there to get rid of the cup,"
Hermione sighed. "…it's dangerous, but, we're running out of options. I think we have to,"
"…I suppose so," Harry sighed, looking between his friends warily.
"Hogwarts, it is," Bella muttered.
Far across the sea, a powerful spell was cast up into the sky to declare the new age of magic. The dark lord smiled, as he ran his fingers across the most powerful wand in existence.
"Now, nothing can stop me from doing what needs to be done," Riddle's thoughts quickly fell to his brother, the only person who would have any clue on where to find the Horcrux he kept in the vault at Slytherin Manor.
The same Horcrux that had been stolen during his quest for the wand. He didn't know who stole it. The only ones who could enter the Manor were him, his brother, and his dear niece.
She could be protecting it for him, keeping it safe from Potter. He was sure that her friends had left her after discovering the truth about her family.
"My niece will be at my side as we fight," Riddle snarled, thinking to the one thing standing in his way.
Then, Potter wouldn't stand a chance.