Summer of Year Seven
As Luna's statement hung in the air, Harry's attention was drawn to a snort of suppressed laughter coming from behind him. He turned to see Draco struggling to control his amusement. Harry raised an eyebrow, surprised to find a hint of levity amidst the gravity of the situation.
As his gaze swept across the room, Harry noticed that other members of the group were also fighting back laughter, their expressions a mix of amusement and disbelief. However, it was Narcissa, of all people, who succumbed first. Her laughter erupted, causing a contagious chain reaction that spread through the room.
Amidst the laughter, Harry stood with an incredulous expression, his eyes scanning the room until he finally managed to regain control. He fixed a stern glare on everyone, willing them to compose themselves. However, Hermione, still trying to suppress her own laughter, managed to speak up.
"We should contact the HSE," Hermione suggested, her voice laced with amusement. The statement broke through Harry's shock, and he joined in the laughter, the sound echoing through the room. Confused, the others turned to Hermione, seeking an explanation for her reference to the HSE, the Health and Safety Executive, responsible for workplace safety in the Muggle world. She realized, of the group, only Harry, having grown up with the Dursleys, would be familiar with such an acronym.
Hermione waved it off, dismissing the importance. "Doesn't matter," she said, grinning. "Look at it this way, at least we can eliminate Nott as a suspect." The group nodded in agreement, and with smiles lingering on their faces, they decided to call it a day.
###
Early the next morning Hermione sat at the Way-Back Machine, poring over the next segment of the timeline. An apprehensive feeling gnawed at her as she anticipated the events leading up to the Battle of Hogwarts were likely as unpleasant in the original timeline as in the current.
As she scanned the variations, Hermione's attention was caught by the subtle but noticeable spikes in Luna's timeline. It wasn't as dramatic as the others', but for Luna's typically steady stream, it stood out. Curiosity sparked within her, and she made a mental note to delve deeper into Luna's experiences.
Next, Hermione turned her focus to Neville's timeline, unsurprised to see the multiple spikes throughout. She reasoned that Neville's involvement in the Horcrux hunt, alongside herself and Harry, likely accounted for those variations. Draco, too, had spikes, which she suspected were a result of his taking on Neville's role in the rebellion of the students at Hogwarts.
Pansy and McGonagall also had spikes scattered throughout the year, piquing Hermione's interest. She made a mental note to pay closer attention to their stories and uncover the reasons behind those fluctuations.
However, it was Narcissa's timeline that filled Hermione with worry. The numerous spikes in variation hinted at the impending danger that awaited her. With Lucius and the rise of Voldemort and his Death Eaters into power, Hermione feared that Narcissa would be a prime target for his sinister plans.
Lost in her thoughts, Hermione failed to notice the others trickling into the lab. It was only when Narcissa approached and wrapped her arms around Hermione, placing a soft kiss on her neck, that she snapped out of her reverie.
Smiling at Narcissa's affectionate gesture, Hermione turned to address the rest of the group. Her voice held a mix of determination and caution as she spoke. "This year is likely to be difficult. If at any point you feel the need to skip a memory or take a step back, please know that no one will judge you. We're in this together."
A firm resolve seemed to settle over the group as they exchanged determined glances. With a nod from everyone, Hermione initiated the playback of the first memory, setting in motion their journey through the challenges and mysteries that lay ahead.
###
July 5th 1997
Luna sat at the small dining table in the cozy Rookery, her father Xenophilius by her side. The aroma of Plimpy soup wafted through the air as they savored the peculiar flavors, engrossed in a conversation about the latest magical creatures they had encountered.
Suddenly, a knock interrupted their meal, causing Luna to look up with curiosity. Her father, a twinkle of excitement in his eyes, set his spoon down and made his way to the door. Opening it, he revealed the familiar figure of their old family friend Newt Scamander standing on their doorstep.
"Newt!" Xenophilius exclaimed, his voice filled with delight. "What brings you to the Rookery? It's been far too long since we last saw you!"
Newt returned the enthusiastic greeting with a warm smile. "Xeno, Luna," he nodded, acknowledging them both. "I've just returned from an expedition abroad. I apologize for missing Luna's 16th birthday. I had planned to send her a gift, but being away for the past six months made it difficult."
Luna's eyes widened with excitement as she heard Newt's words. She had always admired the renowned Magizoologist and his remarkable adventures. She jumped up from her seat, the Plimpy soup momentarily forgotten, and hurried over to greet the elder wizard.
"I can't believe you're here, Newt!" Luna exclaimed, her voice filled with genuine delight. "I've missed hearing about your encounters with all the magical creatures. Do tell me about your latest discoveries!"
Newt chuckled at Luna's boundless enthusiasm. "Oh, Luna, you're a true kindred spirit," he said, his eyes twinkling with appreciation. "In fact, I heard through the grapevine that you've been showing great potential as a budding Magizoologist yourself. And as someone with such aspirations, you need to be properly kitted out."
With a flourish, Newt reached into his coat pocket and pulled out a small package, carefully wrapped in colorful paper. Handing it to Luna, he explained, "I've had a charm-making friend of mine provide a few upgrades to this gift. I know you'll find it useful."
Excitement radiated from Luna as she unwrapped the gift, revealing a delicate charm bracelet adorned with numerous magical creatures. Each charm seemed to come to life, shimmering with enchantment. Among them, Luna spotted a silver charm resembling a miniature version of Newt's old suitcase.
Her eyes widened with wonder as she looked up at Newt. "Is this what I think it is?" she asked, her voice filled with anticipation.
Newt nodded, his smile growing wider. "Yes, Luna," he confirmed. "In addition to a few other specialized charms like the ability to make it invisible, you just need to press both sides of the charm, and you'll see."
Luna's grin stretched across her face, her heart pounding with excitement. With trembling hands, she followed Newt's instructions, pressing the charm on the bracelet. Suddenly, before her eyes, the charm expanded into a fully functional vivarium case, complete with its own miniature ecosystem and enchantments.
Luna's joy overflowed as she gazed at the magnificent gift before her. It was a dream come true, a tangible symbol of her passion for magical creatures. In that moment, she felt a deep gratitude for Newt and the kindness he had shown her.
"Thank you, Newt," Luna said, her voice filled with genuine appreciation. "This is the most extraordinary gift I've ever received. I can't wait to explore and care for magical creatures of my own."
Newt's eyes twinkled with pride as he watched Luna embrace her new vivarium case. "I have no doubt that you'll do amazing things, Luna," he said warmly.
###
July 5th 1997
In the dimly lit library of Grimmauld Place, Harry, Neville and Hermione huddled together, engrossed in a serious discussion about the daunting task that lay ahead—the destruction of the Horcruxes. Curled up on the couch, Harry and Neville leaned in close to each other, while Hermione settled into a comfortable armchair across from them. The weight of their mission hung heavily in the air.
"So," Hermione began, her voice laced with determination, "we know we need to find the locket, the cup, something of Ravenclaw's, and the snake. It won't be easy, but we have to destroy them to defeat Voldemort once and for all."
Harry nodded solemnly, his gaze fixed on the flickering flames in the fireplace. "It's a lot to handle, especially for just the three of us," he said, his voice tinged with concern.
Hermione leaned forward, her eyes searching their faces. "Should we confide in others?" she asked, her voice carrying the weight of uncertainty. "We could use all the help we can get."
Harry hesitated, remembering the words Dumbledore had spoken to him. "Dumbledore told me not to confide in others," he said quietly, a trace of vulnerability in his voice. "He believed it was best to keep it secret, even from our closest friends."
Neville, his frustration simmering beneath the surface, suddenly sat up straight. "But if Dumbledore hadn't been such a secretive bastard," he burst out, anger etching his words, "the Battle of the Ministry might never have happened! And our Gran... she might still be alive!"
Harry reached out, placing a comforting hand on Neville's back, offering support and understanding. After a few moments, Neville's anger subsided, and he took a deep breath, his gaze meeting Harry's.
Realizing the truth in Neville's words, Harry gently rubbed his boyfriend's back. "You're right," he said softly. "Dumbledore made mistakes. We can't repeat them."
Turning his attention to Hermione, Harry asked, "Who do you think we should tell, then?"
Hermione pondered for a moment, her eyes reflecting a mixture of determination and wisdom. "I still believe we should keep the circle small," she began, her voice thoughtful. "But perhaps we should consider Bellatrix and Minerva as well as Sirius."
Harry raised an eyebrow, intrigued by Hermione's suggestion. "Bellatrix?" he asked, surprise evident in his voice. "Why her?"
Hermione nodded, her expression serious. "Bellatrix may be deeply knowledgeable about the dark arts," she explained. "We shouldn't make her hide any potentially vital information from Minerva. Besides, Minerva is an incredibly smart and resourceful woman in her own right. Having her on our side would be invaluable."
A small smile tugged at the corner of Harry's lips as Hermione continued. "And Sirius," she added, her voice tinged with warmth. "As your guardian, he has the right to know. Plus, I believe he would be willing to unlock the restricted section of this library, allowing us to search for any relevant information on dark magic."
Harry's gaze met Hermione's, his gratitude shining through. "You're right," he said, his voice filled with agreement. "We need their help, and I trust them."
###
July 16th 1997
Minerva, Bellatrix, and Sirius gathered around the worn wooden kitchen table, their faces etched with shock and disbelief. They had just listened to the details of the task Dumbledore had entrusted to Harry, and the lengths to which Voldemort had gone to ensure his immortality.
Minerva, her voice filled with righteous indignation, stood up abruptly, her expression mirroring her fiery spirit. "That Machivellian Blaigeard. Whit the heck wis he thinkin'?" she exclaimed, her voice laced with frustration.
Bellatrix, couldn't help but inject humor into the tense situations, let out a chuckle. "Oh, it's never good when the Scottish comes out," she quipped, a mischievous glint in her eyes.
Minerva's ire immediately shifted towards her partner, her sharp gaze fixed on Bellatrix. "This is no laughing matter, Bella!"
Before the tension in the room could escalate, Hermione intervened, her voice calm yet commanding. "Let's focus on the task at hand. We have some idea of what we're looking for," she interjected, her eyes scanning the faces around the table.
Harry took a deep breath, gathering his thoughts. "Two of the Horcruxes have been destroyed. We still have to find the locket, Hufflepuff's cup, something of Ravenclaw's, and the snake," he explained, a determined edge to his voice.
With a solemn expression, Harry reached into his pocket and withdrew a worn, golden locket along with the note that it contained. He passed it around the table, the weight of its significance palpable. As the locket and note reached Sirius, his eyes widened with recognition.
"It's Regulus," Sirius said, his voice tinged with emotion. "R.A.B. stands for Regulus Arcturus Black. He ended up doing the right thing."
The table fell into a stunned silence, everyone processing the revelation that Regulus, Sirius's long-lost brother, had played a crucial role in the battle against Voldemort. Bellatrix, her eyes searching for answers, finally broke the silence.
"Kreacher might know something. He was always devoted to Regulus," Bellatrix suggested, her voice surprisingly calm and measured.
Sirius nodded in agreement, a mixture of determination and hope gleaming in his eyes. "You're right, Bella. Kreacher!" he called out, his voice echoing through the halls of Grimmauld Place.
Unbeknownst to the group gathered in the kitchen, Draco was hiding in the corridor near the Kitchen, holding an extendable ear in his hand. He had managed to catch the whole conversation. Draco was standing shocked by what he just heard but knowing Kreatcher would likely detect him, he slowly backed away.
###
July 29th 1997
Sirius, Narcissa, and the four young adults gathered around the kitchen table, enjoying a hearty breakfast in the early morning light. Laughter and conversation filled the air, creating a warm and comforting atmosphere.
Just as they were savoring their last bites, three owls suddenly swooped into the room, their wings flapping in unison. The birds elegantly landed on the table, each bearing an identical piece of mail addressed to Hermione, Neville, and Harry.
Hermione's eyes widened with curiosity as she untied the letter from the owl's leg. Neville and Harry followed suit; anticipation written on their faces. They exchanged puzzled glances before simultaneously breaking the wax seal and unfolding the parchment.
As the contents of the letter revealed itself, Hermione's voice echoed with a mix of surprise and concern. "It's from Scrimgeour," she said, her eyes scanning the words. "He's demanding a meeting with us to discuss the contents of Dumbledore's will. Tomorrow at 8 am at the Ministry."
Neville's brow furrowed, a hint of apprehension creeping into his voice. "What could Scrimgeour want from us? And why so early in the morning?"
Harry's gaze narrowed, his instincts telling him that this meeting held deeper significance. "Dumbledore's will must contain something important," he said, his voice filled with determination. "We need to find out what it is."
Sirius exchanged a knowing look with Narcissa, his eyes conveying concern. "Be cautious," he warned, his voice filled with paternal concern. "Scrimgeour can be a slippery character. Don't let him manipulate you."
###
July 30th 1997
Sirius Black and the three young adults stepped into Scrimgeour's office. Scrimgeour, sitting behind his desk, glanced at them with a steely gaze. "Mr. Black, I must insist that you leave," he said curtly, his voice laced with authority.
Sirius stood his ground, his voice firm and unwavering. "As Harry's guardian, I have a right to be here. Until he comes of age, I will represent his interests," he stated, emphasizing the unbreakable bond between them.
Scrimgeour's eyes narrowed, a flicker of irritation crossing his face. Reluctantly, he acknowledged Sirius's claim and proceeded with the meeting, albeit with a palpable air of displeasure.
Clearing his throat, Scrimgeour reached into a drawer and pulled out a document, the last will and testament of Albus Dumbledore. He began to read from it, his voice formal and detached. "To Hermione Longbottom, I leave my favorite Muggle Puzzle, in the hope that she will find it entertaining and instructive."
Hermione's lips curled into a wry smile. "I suppose the Ministry took the maximum time allowed to thoroughly examine Dumbledore's estate, testing every object for any trace of Dark Magic," she remarked, her voice tinged with a touch of sarcasm.
Scrimgeour, after hearing Hermione's sarcastic remark, reached over and handed her the 11x11x11 Rubik's Cube mentioned in Dumbledore's will.
Hermione's eyes widened as Scrimgeour handed her the Rubik's Cube. Scrimgeour stared at Hermione, his eyes filled with suspicion. "Why would he leave this to you, Ms. Longbottom?" he asked, his tone laden with skepticism.
Hermione maintained her composure, meeting Scrimgeour's gaze with unwavering confidence. "Dumbledore and I once had a discussion about the ingenuity of Muggle puzzles and how we both collected them," she replied calmly. "I believe he saw my passion for solving complex challenges and wanted to encourage that."
Scrimgeour continued to gaze at her, his eyes searching for any sign of deception. Finding none, he continued to read from the will. "To Neville Longbottom, I leave my Pensieve, in the hope that he will remember me when he uses it. That is a valuable object. Why would he have left you an item so rare?" he inquired, his tone demanding an explanation.
Neville cleared his throat, his voice steady. "In the past, I've needed memory aids such as a Remembrall. Dumbledore must have remembered this and believed a Pensieve was a logical next step," he explained, offering a simple yet satisfactory answer.
Scrimgeour waited, hoping for more information, but both Hermione and Neville remained tight-lipped. He shifted his attention to Harry and read from the will once again. "'To Harry James Potter, I leave the Snitch he caught in his first Quidditch match at Hogwarts, as a reminder of the rewards of perseverance and skill.' Why is that, Mr. Potter..." Scrimgeour trailed off, expecting Harry to provide further insight.
Hermione couldn't help but interject, her voice laced with sarcasm. "Oh, it can't be a reference to the fact that Harry's a great Seeker. That's way too obvious. There must be a secret message from Dumbledore!" she quipped, her frustration with the Minister palpable.
Harry, following Hermione and Neville's lead, simply remained silent, taking the Snitch from Scrimgeour's outstretched hand.
Scrimgeour waited patiently, hoping for more information, before finally revealing, "Dumbledore also bequeathed me the Sword of Gryffindor." Sirius, with genuine curiosity, asked where the sword was now.
Scrimgeour's expression turned serious with a hint of anger. "That sword was never Dumbledore's to give away."
###
July 30th 1997
Late in the evening, Hermione quietly slipped into Harry's room, her mind buzzing with thoughts about the peculiar items they had received. However, her entrance was met with a surprise she hadn't expected, though she really should've. In the dimly lit room, she found Harry and Neville engaged in a passionate kiss. Hermione cleared her throat, trying to regain their attention.
Both men blushed intensely, their lips parting as they turned to face her. "I thought we agreed to meet at this time," Hermione said, her voice composed, as she walked over to the chair next to the bed.
Harry and Neville exchanged sheepish glances before giving her a shrug, their embarrassment evident in their eyes. They were taken aback by Hermione's unexpected arrival but quickly composed themselves, ready to discuss the items they had received.
Harry was the first to speak up. "I think Scrimgeour expected something to happen when he handed us the various items," he said, his voice filled with intrigue.
Hermione nodded in agreement, her eyes gleaming with intelligence. "I figured the same. Given the intense look he gave us after we handled each item, especially you, Harry, he must have known about the Snitch's flash memory and anticipated that something would be revealed."
Harry couldn't help but give a mischievous smirk. "Yeah. Luckily, I didn't catch that first Snitch with my hand," he quipped, his green eyes twinkling.
Neville snorted and joined in the playful banter. "It was an interesting use of your mouth. I wonder how many Snitches have been caught that way," he teased, eliciting laughter from the trio. Neville then turned to Hermione. "What about you, Hermione? Did you figure out anything about the puzzle?"
Hermione reached into the bag she had brought with her and pulled out the Rubik's Cube, showing it to them in its solved form. "I believe this may be intended to be used in conjunction with Neville's Pensieve," she explained, her voice brimming with excitement.
With deft movements, Hermione pressed the sides of the cube's four corners simultaneously, causing the top layer to open like a hinge. The cube expanded, revealing a set of memory vials and a children's book nestled within.
Harry's eyes widened in amazement as he took in the unexpected contents. Hermione continued her earlier explanation. "I have figured out why he gave me 'The Tales of Beedle the Bard.' However, it appears that all of the memories are accessible, except for one. I'm unsure why it's currently unavailable. What do you both think? Should we watch the memories?"
The room fell into a thoughtful silence, the weight of the decision hanging in the air. Harry and Neville exchanged a brief glance before turning their attention back to Hermione.
Harry spoke. "Ok, Let's watch the memories. Whatever Dumbledore wanted us to see, it's time we discovered it."
They quickly set up the device, ensuring it was ready for their exploration. Hermione carefully poured the available memories into the Pensieve, her hands trembling ever so slightly. With a shared nod of determination, all three of them leaned forward, submerging their heads into the swirling memories.
As they delved deeper into the Pensieve, the scenes that unfolded before their eyes were far from what they had expected. The memories were a series of Snape's own recollections, painting a vivid portrait of his life. The trio watched intently as the memories depicted Snape's interactions with a young Lily and Petunia, capturing the blossoming of their friendship and the awe of witnessing Lily's magical abilities.
The memories continued, weaving through Snape's younger years and his time at Hogwarts. They witnessed the heart-wrenching moment when his friendship Lily shattered, Snape's cruel words branding Lily as a "Mudblood." The memories revealed Snape's anguish upon discovering the prophecy, his desperate plea to Dumbledore for protection for Lily and her family, and his unwavering promise to keep Harry safe, even after Lily's tragic death.
Years of events during Harry's time at Hogwarts played out before them, showcasing Snape's complicated role as both a Potions professor and a spy for Dumbledore. They observed Snape's interactions with Dumbledore, including the fateful moment when Dumbledore asked Snape to kill him, the weight of that burden etched on Snape's face.
The memories culminated in a brief snippet, a moment without context, where Dumbledore inquired about Snape's love for Lily after all this time. Snape's reply echoed in their ears, the single word carrying an immense depth of emotion. "Always."
As the trio emerged from the memory, a stunned silence enveloped them.
###
As the memory came to a close, a curious expression crossed both Harry and Hermione's faces, while the rest of the lab, with the exception of Ginny, looked shocked by what they had just witnessed.
Draco, unable to contain his bewilderment, blurted out, "Wait, he was in love with your mom?" His eyes darted between Harry and Hermione, seeking confirmation.
Harry simply nodded; his gaze distant. "Yes, they were soulmates. Their Patroni matched."
Neville, intrigued by this revelation, chimed in, "But if they were soulmates, why didn't they end up together?"
Harry sighed, his voice tinged with sadness. "Being soulmates is only part of the equation. The couple needs to realize and accept that fact, and then choose to act upon it. In Snape and my mother's case, she couldn't forgive his actions, so she ended up with someone else who was highly compatible with her."
Hermione, who had paused the playback, turned to Harry, her eyes filled with curiosity. "It's interesting how early in the original timeline, we discovered Snape's love for Lily and his role in Dumbledore's death. I wonder what the ramifications of that will be in the timeline."
Shaking her head to clear her musings, she pressed play once again, her finger hovering over the button, ready to continue their exploration of the memories. The group's attention refocused on the screen as they delved further into the timeline.
###
August 1st 1997
At Grimmauld Place, Hermione and Narcissa sat comfortably in the library, engrossed in their respective books. Meanwhile, Harry and Neville were curled up together on the couch, engaged in a spirited conversation about Quidditch, with Draco joining in as well. Laughter and excitement filled the room, creating an atmosphere of warmth and camaraderie.
As Sirius walked into the room, a broad smile spread across his face, mirroring the jovial atmosphere. He settled down on an armchair and joined the Quidditch conversation, adding his own humorous anecdotes and sharing in the joy of the moment.
However, the air of tranquility was abruptly shattered when a patronus in the shape of a lynx materialized before them. The room fell silent, tension replacing the previous lightheartedness, as the urgent message was delivered.
"The Ministry has fallen. The Burrow is under attack," the patronus announced, its voice tinged with urgency.
Immediately, the jovial atmosphere dissipated, replaced by a sense of determination. Hermione, Draco, Harry, and Neville sprung into action, their minds focused on the need to protect their friends and assist in the dire situation unfolding.
Sirius, realizing the gravity of the situation, turned to them, his expression a mix of concern and protectiveness. "No! You must stay safe. Stay here," he urged. "You are their Death Eaters' number one target, Harry, and the rest of you are high value targets as well."
Harry's eyes widened with alarm, his voice trembling with worry. "But Ginny! The Twins!" he exclaimed, the deep love he held for his friends evident in his words.
Sirius nodded solemnly, his voice filled with empathy. "I know, Harry. But you can't be in every fight. I'll go and help make them as safe as possible," he assured him, his voice filled with resolve.
Reluctantly, Harry, Draco, Hermione, and Neville acknowledged Sirius's logic, their hearts heavy with the weight of the impending danger.
###
August 7th 1997
After the attack on the Burrow, Hermione spent as much time as she could in the library, surrounded by a stack of books she had discreetly "liberated" from Dumbledore's office. Sirius had also unwarded a few restricted books, granting her access to valuable information. Completely absorbed in her studies, she was oblivious to her surroundings, her mind focused on her mission.
Unbeknownst to Hermione, Narcissa silently entered the library and approached her. A mixture of curiosity and concern filled Narcissa's expression as she peered at the stack of dark magic books Hermione was engrossed in.
Suddenly, Narcissa's shock broke the silence as she demanded to know what Hermione was doing. Startled, Hermione jumped in her seat, her heart pounding. She quickly composed herself, realizing that her actions had attracted attention.
"What are you doing with these books, Hermione?" Narcissa's voice held a tinge of worry and suspicion.
Hermione took a deep breath, her determination shining in her eyes. "I need to gather information about something Voldy and his Death Eaters have done," she replied, her voice resolute. "I'm determined to protect those I care about, and the only way to do that is by understanding our enemy."
Narcissa agreed in principle but found Hermione's explanation insufficient. "Protecting your loved ones is admirable, but I need to know exactly what you're researching," she insisted, her tone firm.
Hermione sighed, realizing that honesty was the best approach. She carefully chose her words, ensuring she conveyed her intentions clearly. "I'm investigating the existence of Horcruxes and ways to destroy them," she confessed, her voice unwavering. "We know that Basilisk venom and the sword of Gryffindor having been imbued with the venom can vanquish a Horcrux. However, I've been searching for alternative methods, and so far, the only one I've found is Fiendfyre. But I don't know how to cast it."
Narcissa studied Hermione, her eyes searching for any signs of deception. After a moment of contemplation, she let out a deep sigh. "I know how," she admitted, her voice tinged with caution. "But casting Fiendfyre is not to be taken lightly. It's imperative that we approach this with extreme caution and ensure our safety."
Hermione's eyes sparkled with a mix of excitement and gratitude. "Okay, let's go!" she exclaimed, her eagerness evident.
Without hesitation, Narcissa firmly grasped Hermione's hand, and with a practiced motion, apparated them both to a secure location.
###
August 7th 1997
The two women landed in a corridor that Hermione didn't recognize, and confusion filled her expression. Sensing her curiosity, Narcissa anticipated her question and spoke before Hermione could voice it.
"We are in one of the other Black properties," Narcissa explained, her voice tinged with a hint of bitterness. "Our parents brought us here to learn darker spells, believing that as pureblood bigots and wielders of dark magic, all three of their daughters should follow suit."
Hermione nodded silently, a mixture of sympathy and understanding in her eyes. She squeezed Narcissa's hand reassuringly, conveying her support and empathy. Narcissa opened the door before them, leading them into a room where they would delve into the secrets of Fiendfyre.
As they entered, Narcissa continued her explanation. "We learned to cast Fiendfyre here. The room is warded to prevent the fire from escaping. However, there's a method that Bella discovered when she was forced to teach Andy and me. It requires two people working together."
Hermione's curiosity bubbled within her, and she couldn't contain her questions any longer. "How does it work?" she asked eagerly, her eyes fixed on Narcissa.
Narcissa let out a sigh, preparing herself for the complexity of the explanation. "I understand that you, Harry, and Neville are capable of casting a corporeal Patronus," she began. Hermione nodded in affirmation. "If one of you casts Fiendfyre, the other can use their Patronus to circle the fire, containing it and preventing it from spreading until it naturally burns out."
Hermione's shock and awe were evident in her expression. "Why don't they teach this? Why didn't Bella teach us?" she exclaimed, unable to comprehend why such crucial knowledge had been withheld.
Narcissa's gaze softened as she explained. "Dumbledore banned Bella from demonstrating this method after two students attempted it on their own and nearly burned down the astronomy tower. He believed that the knowledge was too advanced for students and preferred to focus on theory rather than execution. Bellatrix, of course, disagreed vehemently. But Dumbledore remained firm in his decision, convinced that he alone understood the complexities of our world."
Hermione nodded, absorbing the information. She was eager to learn and implement this technique. "Okay," she responded with determination. "I can cast my Patronus, and you can teach me the Fiendfyre spell and how to use the Patronus to contain it."
With a surge of determination, Hermione summoned her otter Patronus, its form gliding through the air. But to her surprise, Narcissa didn't cast Fiendfyre. Instead, she looked at Hermione with amazement, realizing that she had found her soulmate. Summoning her own courage, Narcissa called out, "Expecto Patronum!"
Hermione's eyes widened as she caught sight of an identical otter Patronus. Confusion mixed with astonishment as she tried to comprehend the significance of their matching Patronuses. Narcissa, with a focused intensity, locked eyes with Hermione and revealed the truth.
"We are soulmates," Narcissa declared, her voice filled with certainty.
Hermione couldn't believe her luck. The revelation that her longtime crush was her soulmate overwhelmed her with joy. Unable to contain her emotions, she closed the distance between them, capturing Narcissa's lips with her own in a passionate embrace, their souls intertwining in that fleeting moment of connection and love.
###
Draco, unable to bear the sight of his mother in such an intimate embrace, instinctively covered his eyes as the playback continued.
Ginny, her eyes sparkling with mischief, turned to Hermione and playfully remarked, "Original timeline Hermione definitely had some game!" Her comment elicited a round of chuckles from the group.
Narcissa, wearing a broad grin, observed the start of the relationship between Hermione and herself, her eyes gleaming with affection. She couldn't help but feel a sense of pride and joy in seeing their connection unfold. Meanwhile, Hermione felt her cheeks flush with embarrassment at the attention and quickly skipped the rest of the playback, eager to move on.
###
August 14th 1997
Bella entered the library, and her eyes widened at the sight before her—her baby sister, Narcissa, wrapped around Hermione, their lips locked in a passionate kiss. Clearing her throat loudly, she startled the couple, causing them to hastily separate.
Bella smirked mischievously her eyes gleaming with amusement. "Well, well, this is unexpected," she remarked, her gaze shifting from Hermione to Narcissa. "Cissy, robbing the cradle just a bit, aren't we?"
Narcissa's glare could have frozen hell over, and she instinctively reached for her wand, ready to hex her sister for the snide comment. However, Hermione intervened, placing a calming hand on Narcissa's arm.
"Maybe we should explain," Hermione suggested, her voice calm yet firm. She took a deep breath, casting her Patronus, an otter, into the air. Narcissa sighed and followed suit, her Patronus mirroring Hermione's.
Bella's eyes widened in shock at the sight of the identical Patroni. She had seen Hermione's Patronus in class before, but she hadn't realized her sister also possessed an otter Patronus.
Breaking free from her momentary stupor, Bella managed to find her voice. "You two are soulmates?" she asked, her surprise mingling with genuine happiness. Hermione and Narcissa nodded, their expressions filled with a mixture of happiness and trepidation.
Bella broke into a wide grin, overflowing with joy for her sister and Hermione. She couldn't contain her excitement, "I'm so thrilled for you both! I can't wait to tell Min!" she exclaimed, her enthusiasm overflowing.
Narcissa, feeling slightly embarrassed by Bella's exuberance, decided to change the subject. With a composed demeanor, she spoke up. "Bella, do you have a reason for visiting us today?"
Bella's expression turned serious as she handed Hermione a notebook. "This notebook pairs with a journal that Minerva and I created. It utilizes powerful enchantments and spells, allowing us to pass important news between each other discreetly, especially when traditional communication methods may become compromised."
Hermione listened intently, her mind absorbing the information. "That sounds incredibly useful," she remarked, a mixture of awe and appreciation in her voice. "But how does it ensure security? What if someone else tries to read or write in the notebook?"
Bella's eyes sparkled with mischief as she reassured Hermione. "Rest assured, highest-level warding and security spells have been placed on these notebooks. Only the three of us have the ability to access and comprehend the messages within. No one else will be able to read or write in them, ensuring the utmost privacy and protection."
Hermione's expression softened, grateful for the measures taken to safeguard their communications. "Thank you, Bella," she said sincerely, her eyes meeting Bella's. "This could be invaluable to us."
Meanwhile, Bella turned her attention back to Narcissa, a mischievous glint in her eyes. "So, Narcissa, you're finally using that irresistible Black family charm?" she teased playfully. Narcissa's glare intensified, and she grabbed a throw pillow from the couch, hurling it at her older sister. Bella laughed heartily, reveling in her sister's response to her teasing.
###
September 1st 1997
Draco sat with Hermione, Neville, and Harry a look of determination etched on his face as he voiced his frustration. "Why can't I stay with you and help you on your quest?" he demanded, his voice tinged with both eagerness and desperation.
Harry exchanged a solemn glance with Hermione and Neville before speaking up. "Draco, we appreciate your willingness to help, but the truth is, the three of us are already being targeted by the Ministry and other dark forces. It's safer for you to remain out of harm's way."
Draco's brows furrowed in frustration, his hands clenching into fists. "But I can handle myself! I want to be there for you all," he argued, his voice laced with frustration.
Hermione leaned forward, her eyes filled with concern. "Draco, you need to stay safe. Hogwarts provides some level of protection for you, and if anything were to happen, you can seek refuge with Aunt Bella or Aunt Minerva," she reassured him.
Draco's frustration boiled over, and he abruptly stood up, his chair scraping against the floor. He made his way towards the door, his heart heavy with conflicting emotions. At the doorway, Draco paused, his hand resting on the doorknob, he hesitated, not wanting to leave in that way. He turned back to face Hermione, Neville, and Harry, tears welled up in his eyes as he turned to face the three of them, his voice trembling. "Just... stay safe," he choked out, his words filled with a mixture of love and concern.
###
September 1st 1997
In one of the cozy compartments aboard the Hogwarts Express, Draco found himself surrounded by familiar faces: Ginny, Luna, Pansy, Blaise, and Daphne. As they settled into their seats, Draco couldn't help but notice the undeniable connection between Daphne and Pansy, a clear sign that they had become a couple. That observation brought a secret smile to Draco's lips, a spark of happiness for his friends' newfound love.
Draco initiated the conversation, his voice filled with genuine curiosity. "So, how was everyone's summer?" he asked, wanting to catch up with his friends.
Ginny spoke up first, her voice tinged with a mixture of emotions. "Well, Fleur and I discovered that we're soulmates," she began, a bittersweet smile gracing her lips. "Of course, with the attack on the Burrow, Fleur and most of my family has gone into hiding, except for my prat of a brother who's off gallivanting with his Slytherin friends, without a concern in the world."
Luna and Blaise joined the conversation with their characteristic calmness. "Not much happened for me," Luna confessed, her dreamy gaze drifting off into the distance. "Although, Newt paid us a visit at the beginning of the summer. It was quite fascinating."
Pansy leaned in, a serious expression on her face. "I had a massive confrontation with my parents," she confessed, her voice a blend of defiance and sorrow. "They wanted me to join the Dark Lord and bear his mark. I couldn't bear the thought, so I ran away from home and sought refuge with Daphne for the entire summer." Daphne responded by embracing Pansy tightly, wordlessly offering her unwavering support.
Breaking the somber mood, Daphne posed a question that lingered on everyone's mind. "Where are Harry, Hermione, and Neville?" she inquired, her eyes searching Draco's face for answers, seeking a glimmer of truth.
Draco's countenance turned serious, and he took a moment to gather his thoughts before responding. "I don't possess all the details, but what I do know is that they won't be returning to Hogwarts," he began, his voice resonating with purpose. "They have embarked on a mission entrusted to them by Dumbledore, and I will explain further when we reach the school. I think I know of a place where we can talk securely."
###
September 1st 1997
Snuggled up in the cozy library, Hermione and Narcissa indulged in the solace of books, seeking refuge from the overwhelming storm of emotions caused by Draco's return to Hogwarts and the uncertain outcome of Hermione, Neville, and Harry's mission the following day. As the hour grew late, Hermione turned to Narcissa with a trembling voice. "Narcissa, my love," she said, her gaze unwavering, "I have a request that may seem unconventional."
Narcissa's brows furrowed in confusion, but she nodded, encouraging Hermione to continue.
"I wish to make love with you tonight," Hermione murmured, her voice barely audible, her cheeks flushed with a mix of vulnerability and determination.
Narcissa's eyes widened in shock, a myriad of emotions swirling within. She opened her mouth to speak, but Hermione raised a hand gently, silencing any objections.
"Please, let me explain," Hermione implored. "The weight of this impending mission to the Ministry in hopes of securing the locket bears heavily on me. I fear even if we succeed it will be with a price, and I fear leaving without experiencing the depths of our love."
Tears welled in Narcissa's eyes as she grasped the depth of Hermione's plea. She nodded and stood, her voice choked with emotion. "I understand." Reaching for Hermione's hand she led the young woman up the stairs intending to make love for the first time in either of their lives.
###
September 2nd 1997
Hermione and Harry, having just left courtroom ten with the group of muggleborns waiting to report to the Muggle-born Registration Commission, were met with a grave warning from Neville. His voice carried a sense of urgency as he informed them, "The Ministry knows we're here. They're closing off the fireplaces. We need to move quickly if we want to escape."
Harry, his eyes scanning the surroundings, quickly formulated a plan. "Everyone, go through the remaining open fireplaces and get to safety," he ordered, his voice firm yet filled with concern.
Amidst the chaotic frenzy, a figure emerged from the throng. It was Lucius Malfoy, accompanied by a group of workers. His cold voice cut through the air as he barked orders, commanding them to seal off all the fireplaces.
As Neville made his escape with Mary Cattermole through one of the remaining open fireplaces, Harry felt a surge of adrenaline. He knew the danger they were facing, and he had to protect Hermione and himself.
Within the pandemonium, Malfoy's gaze locked onto Harry. With a malevolent smirk, he unleashed a curse their way, narrowly missing Harry as he snatched Hermione's hand and yanked her away.
Feeling the urgency and the proximity of danger, Harry knew they needed to act swiftly. Back in the lavatory, Malfoy appeared in the cubicle behind them.
Without hesitation, Hermione made a split-second decision. She grasped both Harry and Neville, their bodies pressed together, and with a determined focus, she disapparated, vanishing from the scene, only for Malfoy to cunningly hitch a ride along.
###
September 2nd 1997
Alone in Grimmauld Place, Narcissa found herself pacing back and forth, her worry for Hermione and the other two young teens consuming her thoughts. The weight of uncertainty pressed upon her, and her anxiety grew with each passing moment.
Abruptly, a resounding crack of apparition shattered the silence, snapping Narcissa out of her restless trance. Hope surged within her, her heart skipping a beat. Could it be Hermione and the others returning?
Driven by anticipation, Narcissa dashed towards the front door, thrusting it open just in time to catch a fleeting glimpse of familiar figures on the doorstep before they vanished once more. Leaving behind someone who should not be there.
Alarmed, her eyes widened as she found herself staring at Lucius, standing before her with a cold, calculating expression etched on his face. Before she could react, Lucius swiftly cast the incarcerous spell, ensnaring her in tight ropes and rendering her helpless.
Narcissa's eyes filled with a mixture of fear and defiance as she watched Lucius step over her restrained form. His smirk dripped with malice as he spoke, his words laced with a sinister promise. "Oh, Narcissa, we're going to have much more fun than the last time we were alone," he taunted, his voice dripping with venom. "You were warned of the consequences for keeping my son from me."
