It was the day after Jane and Lizzy returned home, Mr Bennet let Mrs Bennet know that there would be another guest joining them. A Mr Collins, the man to inherit. When he read the letter out loud it sounded like he had designs on marrying one of the girls while also sounding like an arse kissing sycophant. Maybe he might be a nice man that's worthy of marrying one of the girls if they wanted him. Hepatica wouldn't judge until she met him.
It seemed her first guess was closer to his personality than she thought. He didn't seem a terrible man, just not one she could respect. If one of the girls took a shine to him, she wouldn't begrudge them. He was a short man; his hair was greasy in a way she remembers Snapes being. He flattered everyone, even the unknown Hepatica. Though when he looked at the furnishing of the house it was with an eye of ownership and value. As if Mr Bennet already had one foot in the grave. He spent most of the night talking about his patroness Lady Catherine De Burge, how grateful he was she gave him the incumbent of the rectory at Huntsford. Every second sentence had the great Lady's opinion on the subject in place of his own.
It didn't take more than one evening to see Mrs Bennet start pushing Lizzy's virtues to Mr Collins. But Hepatica could see none of the girls, not even the religious Mary could find it in themselves to like the man enough to even think of being courted by him. Even when he accompanied the ladies into Meryton, the youngest wanted to see the soldiers. The others just liked being out of the house. Hepatica felt lucky she wasn't the focus of Mr Collins affections; he had pretty much ignored her. She was fine with that.
Lydia and Kitty saw Captain Carter and Major Sampson in the distance with a new gentleman, running over to introduce themselves, ignoring Jane and Mary who were trying to get them to act with some comportment. He was soon introduced as a Mr Wickham who was taking a commission as a Lieutenant in the Militia here. He was very charming and flattering to the over-enthusiastic young girls. Lydia was just 15 and Kitty barely 17 they didn't act like women so Hepatica had trouble seeing them as much more than young silly girls still.
They weren't there long before two horses came up to the group carrying Mr Bingley and Mr Darcy, Hepatica only knew that thanks to Mary quietly telling her as they approached. Both men were well dressed, one with a reddish blonde hair and eager face. The other was more solemn in his air, darker haired, though hard to tell from her distance as she couldn't get a good look at him. Bingley dismounted and quickly asked after the group staring at Jane the whole time, who spoke for them, introducing Hepatica and the gentlemen surrounding them. They soon seemed to be lost in their own little world, after Jane remembered to introduce their company. Mr Darcy was about to join them after briefly looking over the group. Hepatica startled when she saw his face. Though she tried to hide it. He looked startled at her too, till his eye caught the something behind her, she saw true anger flash on his face while she was staring, before he looked to her once more, followed by a quick dip of his head and turned around to leave. Hepatica looked behind herself and saw it was Mr Wickham behind her. What a strange reaction. They must know each other with some history. It wasn't her place but the pain and anger in his eyes when he looked behind her had her wanting to ask, even though she didn't know either man really. Mr Darcy's reaction had her questioning how good of a man this Wickham was, especially when the man was now looking at her with something in his eyes that reminded her of how Mr Fudge did when he wanted to use her for his own gain. She will have to look into it, especially the fact of how similar Mr Darcy looked to a certain godfather she had, her original reason to being startled by his appearance. He had such a similar face, the eyes and nose, the Black signature cheek bones. She knew realistically there would be doppelgangers of everyone in the world but it still startled her.
That afternoon she had tried to separate from the girls and Mr Collins on the pretext of visiting their Aunt and Uncle, the girls ended up following her. They were sitting around when Mr Phillips came into the room to steal some biscuits, luckily his office was next door and was able to leave his clerk in charge to enjoy things like this. It was the perfect time.
"Excuse me Mr Phillips. I was wondering if I could get some legal advice off you. If I could book a time to talk to you perhaps, if you're not available at the moment."
"Sure Miss Potter. Have you more information that might help my investigators find family perhaps?"
"Not exactly but it is linked to that."
"I have the time now why don't we go to my home office. Do you need one of the girls to come with you?"
Hepatica looked at the gathered women. "No, I don't believe I need to. We can leave the door open though. I trust you in your own house Mr Phillips." The door to his home office was directly across from the room they were in. With both doors open there would be no impropriety, that was one of the biggest taboos a women could do in this current time frame she saw herself in.
Even if she couldn't get to London to visit the bank right now, she would at least legally get everything she wanted to do set up so it would be there and done quicker when needed.
Casting a quick muffliato on the room, she knew Mrs Phillips and at least Lydia would be trying to listen in it would sound muffled and she knew they couldn't get up and actually come to the door without showing they were actually listening. It was the safest easiest spell for this occasion that she had managed to learn wandless and wordlessly. She could also do a weak stupefy and bombarda as well as a decent lumos.
"Thank you for the time and help transferring those coins to Pounds for me before, I know I have a lot more money available to me. Once I can talk to the bank I use and their representative in London, I know I'll be able to pay the Bennet's back for their hospitality and your services. However, I'd like some help with the legal side of what I wish to achieve. The wording will have to be very specific, so as to protect the girls."
"I'm sure we should be able to do something. Why don't you tell me what it is you want to achieve then I can work on how the wording of the official document."
"I know each of the girls will get £1000 only once Mrs bennet dies. So, I wanted to set up a fund of £40,000 to be split between them as a dowry. Only with very certain conditions though."
"That would give the girls £8000 each!" He exclaimed.
"Yes, but only if the gentlemen come and asks permission from Mr Bennet or male in loco parentis. If she elopes, she forfeits the amount and her portion is then split and added to her sister's dowries. With such a sum especially with people like the Militia in town, it wouldn't be out of the realm of possibility. If it is a compromise either willingly or other, then well I want to say she forfeits it as well. But then that's even worse. If we could word it to being that the husband will only have access to the interest of the amount while the sum is locked away as dowery for any daughters of her body similar to how it would be for them and Mrs Bennet? If they don't marry by the time they are 25 then they have access to the interest of their portion to live on if they wish. Or well, something along those lines. I wish to protect the family that has protected me this past month."
"This is a very generous gift. Are you sure you aren't overexerting yourself with this type of money?" He was taking her seriously but it did seem fanciable for something like this to happen.
"Not at all. I know it wouldn't even touch a quarter of funds available to me. I was unable to get access to it before. And still won't until after Mr and Mrs Gardiner let me return to London with them after Christmas. But I wanted to have the details and the legal parts as sorted as possible before I left. I hope to come back. I know they weren't obligated to let me stay with them for so long. Nor do they expect any sort of thanks like this. After I was healed, they were within their rights to send me away. Even before that. The least I can do is give a bit of comfort to the family.
"Which brings me to the next item I wanted to talk about. I know Mrs Bennet would prefer to stay in the area if the worst should happen to Mr Bennet and was wondering if there were any nice cottages or even a townhouse here for sale? I would rent it out until such a time as Mr Bennet passes before Mrs Bennet does, then she and any unmarried daughters would live in the house as if it was their own. I know it is one of the reasons she seems so extravagant and pushy for marriage. I just want to give some piece of mind."
"It will take me a while to write it up so none of the stipulations can be contested, though I can have the basic documents outlined with proper wording within the week. I will keep an eye out for sales for you as well. We don't need to rush into buying a house yet as I know Mr Bennet is in fine health but I get you want it already established."
"I'm okay if the house needs repairs and any decorating, I'll leave it to Mrs Bennet. I don't want to tell them anything yet. I would like for it to be a Christmas present for them. I figured being as you are in this community you would hear about sales and alike quicker than I would."
"It is a very generous present I'm sure my sister will enjoy it. I will need time to write up the legal contract for the Gift, it won't be legal until I have the account details for the funds. However, I can have it ready to that stage by Christmas for you. As for the house. If you do have the funds, it doesn't seem unreasonable you would invest in a house to live with. Though you are only 18 you're still young and very marriageable."
"If you listen to the gossip, with my horrible deformity on my forehead, it's going to be hard for a man to see past it." Huffing and rolling her eyes at the idea.
"You don't really believe that do you? There are many men that look past a slight scratch on a forehead that's easily covered with hair."
"I know. And I don't, but your wife and Mrs Bennet have talked about it enough. Not that it matters to me. I've lived with it my whole life, I'm just happy to be alive honestly. It's just one more mark to prove I fought and lived. If not for the Bennet's finding me and taking me in when they did. I'm not sure I would be. Heck I never expected to live past the age of 17." Literally, already died at that age once, Hepatica thought to herself. "Please, help me do this one small favour to help them. I'm happy to pay for your time on this project. Keep a running bill. Whatever you need sir. I cannot thank you enough for this help and trust."
"Oh my dear, if I could have had a daughter and she turned out half as kind and generous as you, I would have been very blessed. There is no payment for necessary."
She was determined to not let anything bad happen to these people. Not this time. As much as she was tired of fighting, she would for them. They were willing to help a no body such as she was here.
The next night when dining with the Phillips who had invited a handful of officers and other locals along with the Bennet ladies. Mr Wickham managed to sit with Lizzy, Mary, and Hepatica as they mingled after dinner. Lizzy must have noticed the exchange the other day as well, as she brought it up. Hepatica knew Lizzy hadn't forgiven Mr Darcy after his slight at the public assembly last month, she heard all about it from multiple sources while stuck in bed – but she didn't think she would still be looking for things to make him look bad. But as soon as she spoke Mr Wickham took it as encouragement to leap into his sordid tale of how he was wronged by Darcy after Darcy Sr. passed away. He had been bequeathed the next presentation of the best living in the Darcy Gift. Glossing over the fact he hadn't been ordained or even finished the studies as far as they were aware, for if he had then he could have gotten a gift from someone else. He wove a well-crafted story of a jealous Darcy, as his father loved Wickham more, denying what he had been bequeathed out of spite. Lizzy sadly soaked it all up. Hepatica looked at Mary and she was watching Wickham with a thoughtful face. Hepatica herself could tell he was lying. She was glad for the overstuffed cushions on the chair as she was able to subtly get her wand from the holster on her wrist and cast a small Legilemence when he looked to her to gauge how his story was being received.
The dive into his mind had Hepatica's face twisting in disgust involuntarily. He smiled, thinking her face was at what he was saying and took it as more encouragement to elaborate on his tale painting Darcy as a jealous bitter man. Lydia soon pulled him away from the girls. Hepatica was still holding her wand staring at where the man once sat, she subtly put it away up her sleeve again. Lizzy was expounding how 'poor Mr Wickham could be used so'. Even if she didn't know Mr Darcy, she couldn't deny what she saw in Wickham's mind; Hepatica would have denied him the living as well. A scoundrel and rake was not a good fit to be a Pastor. Though Lizzy was working her way up to believing Mr Wickham wholeheartedly. Mary was trying to persuade her not to go telling others until they had facts.
"He was lying." Hepatica stated. Cutting off whatever Lizzy was going to counter with. Hepatica knew her face still reflected her disgust though she hoped it was more controlled.
"How can you say that? He gave us names, particulars, there was honesty in his manor and speech." Lizzy argued.
"He is very practiced. That is for sure. But he is not a good man. I can't explain it but his eyes were lying, Lizzy. More than half of what he said was a bold-faced lie, he saw how you were listening to him so readily he just kept it up. His eyes were telling differently. He loves praying on young women. He knows exactly how to use his charms to get what he wants. Please be careful Lizzy, don't be brought in by his falseness." Hepatica looked over to the group Mr Wickham had joined and saw his gaze on Lydia. Wrinkling her nose at him again. She looked back at Mary who also seemed to notice his tells, agreed. They managed to get Lizzy to agree to not spread any of his tale until there were facts. Whatever happened was between the two men there was no reason they should spread rumours about an honest man.
"The bible does tell us not to judge, lest you be judged. But in this case, I think before we give a verdict, we should watch a bit longer. One conversation about someone else's sensitive topics is not a good reason to judge one or the other." As much as she had tried to stop her with their conversations, Mary still quoted a lot from the bible and made it hard to understand her meaning when not using the right passage or using it in a confusing way. Hepatica raised her eyebrow at her and Mary tried again. "We cannot judge the goodness of one man based of something another has said when we know neither man all that well, they are both barely even acquaintances. It makes us looks bad as people."
"True it is Mary. I agree. There is something about him that makes my skin crawl. He reminds me of a young Tom Riddle. Charming, silver tongued. Persuasive." At their confused look at the name she elaborated, "the man that murdered my family and tried to kill me, he got his power by being just like Mr Wickham in attitude. But I'm resolved enough to watch from a distance for a bit longer before I pass my judgement on the matter of either gentlemen."
"A man has been made practically destitute by someone else's actions; how can you say that he might not be in the right? I truly saw only good in his countenance; he is polite and engaging. There were truths in his words."
"Yes, that's what makes them such good lies. If you wished to be blinded by a trained manipulator and not trust my opinion or that of your own sister, who spends a lot of time listening and watching people and believe a person who couldn't answer any of her questions on scripture, which was the occupation he was meant to have been given and raised for, then that is your business. I just ask not to hurt the reputation of another, on one conversation with a man you just met. The truth always comes out in the end." Hepatica got up to get a drink.
She had to think on a way for her to maybe slip some of the Veritaserum into Mr Wickham's drink or something to get him to tell the true versions of things. The vial she had was a Snape concoction so Harry knows it is perfectly brewed (no matter how much she hated the man and he hated her back, she couldn't deny he was a Master at his craft). But it would have to be a time where they could have a conversation about it, not a crowded room like this but still with enough people to hear. She could try for maybe using the Imperious curse but that seemed extreme. Not that Truth serum wasn't also. After seeing his manipulations of so many young women looking to get money from them or just a good time, even what seemed to be Mr Darcy's young sister if the scenes at his forefront while talking were anything to go off. She was tempted to just make him disappear. Hepatica had to remind herself it's not her place to play judge and executioner, but if he owed as much as he seemed to according to his mind, maybe a trip to debtors' prison could help. It might seem sudden but she really liked the people here, and the poor businesses that would suffer if he decided to do here what he did every other place he has stayed, she saw he was running from debtors already. Determined to protect the locals and families that have taken her in. She saw Mr Phillips entering the room, tried to catch his eye when she felt someone coming up behind her, turning to see the face of the man she did not want in this town. She was becoming quite possessive of this township.
"Miss Potter, is it?"
"Yes, Mr Wickham, right?"
"Indeed madam, might I enquire how your evening has been?"
"Fine, thank you sir." Hepatica really didn't feel like continuing talking to a man that reminded her of Riddle before the snake facade so she kept her cup in her hand, shoulders back and moved out of the space he occupied – he was way too close to her personal bubble – and kept her answers short, not offering anything to the conversation he seemed determined to strike up. Luckily, he didn't get too far before Mr Phillips came over to greet them. Giving him a blinding smile in silent thanks. He was able to steer Wickham away from trying to converse with Hepatica, saving her from having to be rude to him to get him to go away. Escorting the young lady to some corner chairs, private enough that they would see and hear people coming up to them but not so private as to be indecent.
Casting a quick Muffliato, so glad to have perfected that one wandlessly. "Thank you, Mr Phillips. He makes me uncomfortable, standing indecently close trying to make it seem we are friends when we aren't even really acquaintances." Hepatica shuddered at the thought.
"Yes I saw that. I may have to speak to my wife about it so she can warm my sister and hopefully the girls. I would speak to Bennet but I know he wouldn't do anything to help them."
"I wish I could deny it, he is a kind man but he does seem to prefer mocking his family and their situation over taking them in hand and guiding them. There was something in Mr Wickham's eyes. He seemed a skilled liar or at least a manipulator and womaniser. I worry, truly. I like it here. I hate to think some of these men that come in red coats could try and hurt anyone here for a good time or worse."
"I will keep an eye out and the local businesses have been on guard knowing how little a Militia officer is paid, they have made sure not to loan too much. On the subject of money, I have finished the documents. I can give you a copy but they won't be final or official until I have the accounts."
"Oh, wow you do great work so quickly. May I have a copy to look over. I'm thinking with Mr Collins here and the way Mrs Bennet is acting it might make the home life easier if she has one less thing to worry about. The poor man has set his sight on Lizzy you see, Mrs Bennet encouraging it."
"Ahh, yes that is not a problem. I met the man briefly and can agree, if he tries for Lizzy he will be turned down quick. My sister will then make life very hard for all around her. Let me get them for you."
Finding a moment to fit the documents in her bag, a place if she was seen doing it could clearly be seen as not being physically possible. Luckily, they were leaving and it was as they were heading out that Mr Phillips handed her the documents so he wouldn't see them disappear either. Hepatica couldn't wait to pay him for his services in some way, his wording of things is truly fool proof. Maybe a nice holiday, Mrs Phillips has barely even been to London let alone a holiday.
Hepatica was practicing common dances with the girls the next morning while Mary and Lizzy swapped out playing. Trying to learn some of the common dances of the time after she was told many people promised to hold Balls. They weren't too difficult, after the morning of dancing she felt comfortable with two and working on the third when Mr and Miss Bingley arrived. Mr and Mrs Bennet soon joined them. Here Miss Bingley gave the official invitation to the Ball in a week, including Hepatica and Mr Collins. Mr Bingley too excited to do more than ask Jane for the first set. Mr Collins had joined them when he heard of his invitation as well. He followed it by giving a speech about dancing when hosted by a respectable man couldn't have any ill intentions. Promptly asked Lizzy for the first two dances. Hepatica knew enough about this time thanks to the girls, that if Lizzy were to refuse it would result in her not being able to dance the rest of the night. So, she reluctantly accepted. He then went on to promise to dance with all his cousins, even their guests (aka Hepatica). The Bingley's didn't stay long, having to visit more houses while the weather was nice.
This gave Hepatica a week to learn the basics of most dances at least, as well as the dress, which wouldn't be so hard to claim she worked on it in the night, but she was at best mediocre with sewing and mending spells so far, slightly better with muggle sewing thanks to her time with the Dursleys and their hate for buying her clothing that fit, though that was much slower option. She had been seen moving freely around the township to not be able to use injury to not dance, though she doubted she would dance all night. The idea seemed more exciting than the Yule Ball she went to in fourth year.
"Well I'm glad I gifted you all those ribbons when we were in Meryton last now."
"Oh dear, yes! Oh but we must get to the shops first thing to get more ribbon to refresh Lizzy and Kitty's shoe roses before the newest best ribbons and lace are gone. Though there is also your dress Hepatica, none of the girls second best dresses would be right for a private ball and there is no time for the Modiste to make something, nor would the dresses already commissioned be right."
"It is okay Mrs Bennet; I've been working on taking apart the dress you found me in and working it to be better suited in today's fashions. The fabric is a durable silk. I'm sure we can make it work for a ball so as not to embarrass you or your family."
That night Lizzy lamented her having to dance with Mr Collins first, moaning about how her mother encouraged it and prayed he wasn't showing preference to her in hopes of proposing. Something she was very vocal about not accepting unless she loved and respected the man. She confessed she was hoping another gentleman might have asked her for the first set, she didn't say the name but Hepatica suspected it was Mr Wickham. Though she had warned Lizzy to edge on the side of caution with Mr Wickham, she knew Lizzy was blinded by being singled out more than once in the last few days by the gentlemen. He had tried with Hepatica first. Why? She couldn't answer but she had promptly shut him down each time and he moved on.
It had been raining since the Bingley's had visited, that was 3 days so far stuck inside. Hepatica had hoped to not have to do this so early but she knew she would have to show Mr and Mrs Bennet the documents she had, if for no other reason than when Lizzy inevitably turned Mr Collins down hopefully Mrs Bennet wouldn't be too distraught. Requesting an audience with them both after dinner if possible, went better than she thought.
Here they were sitting in Mr Bennet's library, "what is it you wanted to talk about dear? Is something wrong?" Mrs Bennet asked.
"Not at all Ma'am, I'm hoping this will be a good conversation, and show how much I've truly valued being here and your help and hospitality. I just ask that you read this first." Passing over the document about the dowry for the girls. Mr Phillips managed to word it in a way she hoped even Mrs Bennet could understand. Mr Bennet reading over her shoulder.
"This… Is this legal?" Mr Bennet gasped. Mrs Bennet was just staring at the paper.
"Yes, I asked Mr Phillips to write it up. I know I have the funds for this gift. It's my way of thanking you for your hospitality and for saving my life. I was going to leave it until Yule as my present to you all, but Mr Collins and Mr Wickham's visits prompted me to do it sooner."
"Mr Collins? What do you mean?" Mrs Bennet asked a slight edge to her voice. A warning Harry would have to plough through.
"I know you want him to choose one of your girls. Mr Bingley will hopefully make a declaration soon for Jane. And I do understand why you would jump to the next eldest. But we both know Lizzy will not marry him just because you encouraged it. She can barely stand being in the same room as him. He feels himself too superior to us to see it. So I wanted to add this second document so you know, when Lizzy inevitably turns him down you are safe from the hedgerows Mrs Bennet if something were to happen to Mr Bennet." She passed over the document that outlined her proposal for buying a house and renting it out on the condition that Mrs Bennet gets preference of residence if Mr Bennet passes first, rent free for the rest of her life, it would be her house to do with what she pleased all she had to pay for was whatever items she wanted and her food bill with her portion. The rest would be covered under Hepatica's name, including the wages of a cook, maid and footman. Mr Phillips would be the executor that would manage payment to staff and alike.
"I.. It's unnecessary, surely. Lizzy will do her duty to the family and I'll be able to stay here… She will… Won't she Mr Bennet?" Mrs Bennet seemed a bit overwhelmed, she clearly wanted to stay in this house and have one of her daughters as mistress, understandable it has been her home for the past 22 years but this document clearly negated her need for it. She wouldn't be thrown out in the street. Mr Bennet just sat back down looking over the dowery documents again.
"I believe Mrs Bennet, that since you set Mr Collins onto Lizzy I am inclined to agree with Hepatica. I will add now I wouldn't consent to any marriage of any of my daughters unless they wanted it too. We would be in your debt Hepatica, with this document."
"No you won't sir, I feel I would still be in your debt even after all this. It's the least I feel I can do. I have to stress the conditions of their doweries are non-negotiable. Especially the one where the man has to ask you or your nominated Loco Parentis permission first. If they elope, they forfeit their dowery and the portion then split between the other girls."
"Surely you do not think one of the girls so silly to do something like that?" Mr Bennet asked. He hardly ever went out with the family so he wouldn't see the way they acted in public.
"I hope I'm just being overly cautious with this but Lydia is one flattering comment away from agreeing to marry the first man that hints at marriage with her, regardless of if he has anything to his name, I could see her saying it would be such a laugh to be first. I just hope her want to flaunt her marriage to her friends and sisters is enough to make it a redundant clause." Mr Bennet nodded, he couldn't deny his daughters, the youngest especially, were rather silly but even he hoped he hadn't done such a bad job that they would elope with the first man that asked.
"Mrs Bennet, you haven't said anything in a while, is there something you're not sure on?" Mr Bennet asked.
Hepatica looked over and saw her hand trembling, she held the document loosely. She got up to walk over to the woman that reminded her of Mrs Weasley. "You… I… Oh my dear, thank you. Oh I think I may need my smelling salts. Oh, £8000 each and a house for myself. I don't think I've felt this free in so long." Mrs Bennet started crying then. Not the over exaggerated emotional tears she usually exhibited but genuine quiet sobs, Hepatica hoped they were tears of relief and happiness. Mr Bennet just watched, a look of shame flashing over his face. Hepatica placed her hand on Mrs Bennet's shoulder and was promptly pulled into a hug face buried into the crook of her shoulder and neck. Mrs Bennet clung to her wetting her shoulder and dress. "I never thought I could be so happy without one or all of the girls being married." She sobbed into Hepatica's shoulder.
"Please Mrs Bennet, please don't push the girls if they don't like the guy Mrs Bennet. I want them married too, but only if it is their choice of husband. This gift is so they and you, don't feel pressured. Please. I just wanted to give you peace of mind." Awkwardly patting Mrs Bennet's back and head.
"What about yourself dear?" Mr Bennet asked, his voice a little rough, "surely you don't have so much available to you that can give this away and not be leaving yourself with little else?"
"At the moment, no I don't have the cash, but once I get to London and talk to my bank about transferring what I do have I know that this amount wouldn't be noticed from the overall amounts. I just can't think of another way of showing my gratitude to you for taking me in when you had no obligation to let me stay for so long." Mrs Bennet kept hugging her though her sobs had lessened to sniffles. "Please say you accept my gift. It's a little early for Christmas but I hoped it will bring you a good one."
"Do we tell the girls?" Mrs Bennet asked coming out of the hug. Her voice still raw but calmed.
"That is up to you. I think they should know and stress the conditions so they can act accordingly. But when you tell them it will soon be known by the whole township, and that could make them targets. Whether that is good or bad depends on the man."
"I understand. Oh my dear, my heart won't stop fluttering."
"Well the townhouse hasn't been picked yet, Mr Phillips is still compiling a list for us to choose from, he should have it done by Christmas, I put the preference into not needing too big of a house, so maybe one of the new townhouses similar to what the Phillips live in, as ideally it will be just you in the house. I imagine there will be most likely repairs and redecorating needed, but we can figure all that out later when it isn't just writing on paper.
"There was one more thing I'd like to talk about. It's just something I've observed since the Militia has been stationed here, there is no denying Kitty and Lydia are very enchanted by them. However, I've learned recently that not all officers are landed gentry like they are supposed to be. Only Captain and higher is it still a requirement to be a landowner or heir of £500 or more a year. I fear with the fact of their doweries they may be targeted by men that don't have anything but their wages coming in from their service, I fear if a Lieutenant or lower tried to ask for their hand – he may be a nice gentleman – but after he has done his service, they will have nothing to their names except the girls dowery. I believe it would be good for you Mrs Bennet as the girls listen to what you say, that if they are looking for a husband in the Militia go for a Major or higher, lower than that and they might as well be destitute."
"Yes, that is true, that lieutenant Wickham himself as admitted he has no home outside of the Militia, oh! I do not want my girls marrying so low. You are right dear; I will stress it tomorrow at breakfast. Yes. But my fluttering's are all over the place, would you walk me to my room Mr Bennet."
The change in attitude in Mr and Mrs Bennet from Hepatica's gift was more than she expected. She just had to follow through with her plan. If nothing else owning a property even if she doesn't live in it could look good in her investment portfolio if that sort of thing was a thing in this time.
The days leading up to the ball were filled with a solid down pour, nothing too heavy but consistent that threatened to wash the roads out. 5 days so far. Lizzy was playing run and hide from Mr Collins, Mrs Bennet spent the week making sure the girl's shoes and stocking and gloves were all ready for the ball, knowing their new dresses each got earlier in the year were already perfect and in the latest styles. She also seemed quite introspective something even Lydia noticed when she wanted to use Jane's gloves instead of her own and Mrs Bennet refused to indulge her. Mrs Bennet had brought up the whole 'as pretty as the men are to look at don't settle for anyone under a Colonel' speech, upping it even further than Hepatica's suggestion. She had kept quiet about the new doweries so far, as had Mr Bennet. It was up to them to tell the girls how they wished.
Hepatica spent the week inside continuing learning the dances and felt pretty confident she could dance every dance if asked without embarrassing herself and partner too much, though wasn't sure she would want to. Luckily the rain had stopped the day before and dried enough during the next day to be safe to drive over.
The night of the Ball had the house in a loud flutter. Mr Collins and Mr Bennet had retreated to the library while the girls ran around getting ready. Hepatica managed to spell her hair in a similar way to how she had it at the yule ball. She had found a chain of emeralds that could sit in her hair as a backwards diadem or tiara. Her hair a lower bun than was 'fashionable' and her emerald Ball gown redesigned to fit a bit better in the current style. It wasn't strictly the latest fashion it had a few modern changes to it. It flowed easier than the standard style. Long sleeves without much of a shoulder puff as was popular and hugged her figure tighter than was normal. All in all, Hepatica thought she looked good. Adding some mild make-up charm to her face to brighten her lips though still looking natural. She met the gentlemen downstairs to wait for the other ladies. They were lucky the Bennet's had a carriage big enough that only the gentlemen would have to sit above with the driver so as not to need two trips.
Netherfield had been lit up splendidly. Miss Bingley had truly outdone herself. Everyone, even Lizzy who wasn't her biggest fan, agreed she did a great job. They worked their way up the receiving line, Hepatica coming in last place as was her want. When she was in front of her hosts, she couldn't help greeting Miss Bingley warmly and telling her how proud she should be of her achievement and in such a short time span too. The way she straightened up and a genuine smile shined through, suggested that she hadn't had many genuine feeling compliments. The entrance hall, public rooms and ball room were bright, cheery and mostly crowded. The Bennet's had split up by the time Hepatica had made it in the door and divested her cloak, so she wandered around alone until she ran into Charlotte talking to Lizzy and another young gentleman of early 20's. Hepatica had never seen him before but he had a resemblance to Charlotte and seemed close to her so she concluded they must be related somehow. Hepatica soon learned, when she was called over to meet Mr Henry Lucas, the second Lucas behind Charlotte who had just returned from University. He had an easy smile though still blushed a little when Lizzy engaged him.
Casting a quick look to Charlotte she too saw the attraction on Henry's side, Hepatica felt the need to subtly wink at her which was returned with a teasing smile. Hepatica just hoped Lizzy might see it. Charlotte caught her eye as Hepatica felt someone come up behind her, turning to find Mr Darcy standing there. She had seen him briefly before but she still couldn't help the mild gasp escaping, "Padfoot…" Slipped out in a whispered, but heard by the group. "Forgive me sir, you have a startling resemblance to someone I knew, it surprised me."
He seemed as startled by the greeting or lack of before continuing with his original objective. Though now she got a good look he really was the spitting image of Sirius though his eyes were Bluer and he was taller. He seemed to brush off Hepatica's lapse in judgement. Though still was introduced to her and Mr Lucas. He then asked Lizzy for her 3rd set, which was reluctantly given. He left rather quickly instead of lingering to chat though he did glance at Hepatica with furrowed brows. Hepatica wasn't doing much better, she was rattled by the resemblance.
Around her the ball continued, Mr Lucas asked Lizzy for her first set which she had to decline and offer her second. She confessed later that she agreed having not spotted Mr Wickham with the other officers, she hoped she had a set still available for him. Mr Lucas, not dissuaded for long turned to Hepatica and asked if her first set was taken. He hadn't been back in town long and would like to dance with one of his sisters' friends, feeling it safer for him. Hepatica shook herself from her wandering mind and agreed, willing to help him out. Charlotte had her first set asked for by one of the older men in the room.
As the music started and the dance was called Hepatica was glad for the practicing. She didn't see Darcy opening the Ball with anyone, but she did see Mary with the handsome Curate Matthews. Caroline was dancing with a well-dressed gentleman she wasn't familiar with but had seen around, Bingley with Jane, Kitty and Lydia with red coats and poor Lizzy with a simpering Mr Collins.
Looking to her partner she smiled at him receiving a blush but smile back. Clearly shy. Then the dancing started. Hepatica moved fluidly enough to not look like she had only learnt the dance in a week. Unlike Mr Collins who was guided by an embarrassed Lizzy.
Hepatica and her partner had some pleasant conversation during the dancing with some laughs included. She had managed to get out of him, he had always had a crush on the out-spoken best friend of his sister. He had hoped when he hadn't heard about it from his family, she was still unengaged. By the second dance they had turned to common interests and the love of the area, he was a pleasant man to get along with. She wished him luck in his endeavours at the end of the dance when he walked her over to Charlotte and Lizzy and their partners, Charlotte was to dance next with Mr Collins after being introduced, though he did manage to get the third set out of Hepatica as she was closest.
By the fourth set she was able to have a moment to breath, Mary had come to the balcony with her. The air was cool. Surprisingly not too cold for late November. Mary was humming the newest piece she was practicing and hoped to perform it tonight, while sitting beside her on the bench, the sound of music from inside not nearly as loud out here. She didn't have a sweet voice like it was said Hepatica did. But it was still pleasant to listen to. It was Hepatica's way of teaching Mary to get the rhythm of the new piece she was learning, so when she played it flowed easier. It was a technique Hepatica was shown years ago.
Hepatica wasn't very proficient but all the times she was left in the care of Mrs Figg had given a simple understanding and technique along with enjoyment of the practice. Mrs Figg decided to teach her from a young age. It was her escape. Even if the house smelled of cabbages and had too many cats. She was a good teacher, even if she was a squib, she had made her way with her music for many years. Performing all over the country until arthritis set into her fingers and the piano sat collecting dust until Hepatica became a regular visitor for her free lessons, well lessons in trade of Hepatica's skills in house cleaning and cooking. The playing and singing were the only good things she remembered about her childhood. It was those techniques and story that had her showing little tricks to Mary to help her playing. Learning new pieces together this past month, Mary was good at the piano she just usually pushed too hard on the keys for the piece she was playing and missed the timing a bit by reading the page instead of feeling the music. Even Mrs Bennet and Lydia who were Mary's strongest opposition in playing constantly, though technically correct had no feeling and usually sounded flat before, noticed the different and complimented her on her playing a few times.
Resting her head on Mary's shoulder, Hepatica tried to clear her head properly at seeing Sirius' doppelganger by practicing her Occlumency. The Blacks were very traditionally pureblood prejudice, there was no way even a squib would have survived with enough money to marry their way into a well-off family such as the Darcy's seemed. Was there? It had to be coincidence. She would have to probe for information one day if given the chance, maybe even warn him about Wickham.
"Who was this person that Mr Darcy reminded you of?" Mary asked quietly after long moments of near silence, Mary had been close enough to see the interaction, coming over to greet the girls.
"He reminded me of my Godfather, my father's best friend. We called him Padfoot. He acted like an excited dog most of the time. So loyal to his family or those he considered family. He died when I was fifteen." Harry replied. Lost in the memory of that night in the department of Mysteries. She had gotten good at giving truths though not many details. Though Mary had managed to get Hepatica to tell a little more details to over their playing of the piano. She had almost become a confidante.
"Were you close to him?"
"I hardly knew him." She whispered into the still of the night, at Mary's questioning look she elaborated. "He was there when I was a baby, I was told he and my father were neigh inseparable when they were in school together. I have faint memories of a Pa'foo' and Moomy. Just like the faint memories of the night my parents were murdered. It wasn't until I was thirteen and at school that he introduced himself to me, I was told he was the reason my parents were dead, that he had sold them out to Him but turns out it was their other friend so he had stayed away all those years I was put in hiding here in England, he didn't even know where I was put to try and get custody of me. Even offered to take over custody of me once the truth was out. But nothing came of it, the Headmaster wanted me close to him, I guess. I saw him a few times after that, he would send presents when he could and letters. Then the mad man attacked me and a group of friends, we were lured out to a trap. It was meant for just me but they wouldn't let me go alone. Padfoot died that night I don't remember much but that's what I was told after." Her voice wobbling at the end.
Mary placed her arm around in support while Hepatica worked on the breathing exercises the mind healer gave her back home. Compartmentalising the trauma so it didn't overwhelm her.
Little did they know, their conversation wasn't private, Hepatica didn't put a silencing charm around them, she had tried to limit magic as much as possible so they didn't try to burn her at the stake or hang her as the bible said to do to witches.