They had just finished viewing the last memory, and the tension in the room was palpable.

Draco's face had turned a ghostly shade of white, his normally confident demeanor shattered. He paced nervously, running a hand through his tousled hair. "No, no, this can't be true," he muttered to himself, eyes fixed on the playback screen. "I can't believe it..."

The memory had revealed something unthinkable in the original timeline: Lucius Malfoy capturing Narcissa. Knowing what his mother went through in the current timeline and the knowledge of what she might have endured in the original timeline reality was too much for Draco to bear. He clenched his fists, his voice quivering with denial. "No, no, no," Draco whispered to himself, his voice barely audible. His mind was spiraling, he couldn't accept the truth that the horrors his mother was originally subjected to would likely be worse.

Narcissa's face mirrored her son's distress, the blood draining from her face. Her eyes, usually so composed, were wide with horror. She couldn't bring herself to tear her gaze away from the scene that had just unfolded on the screen.

Hermione exchanged concerned glances with the rest of the group. They had all been through many emotional moments during their investigations, but this seemed different. Draco's reaction was a telltale sign that what they would witness in Narcissa's future spikes was beyond their imagination.

Hermione took a deep breath and decided to take action. She rose from her seat and moved swiftly to stand in front of Narcissa. Crouching down to meet her eye level, Hermione spoke her name in a gentle, inquiring tone, concern etched on her face.

"Narcissa?"

Narcissa blinked as if trying to pull herself back from the depths of her memories of what she had experienced in the current timeline. She shook her head slowly, her voice barely more than a whisper. "Not now, Hermione." With great care, she gently moved Hermione aside, her gaze still distant and haunted. Draco followed his mother, his face etched with concern and determination.

The others in the room exchanged hushed murmurs, realizing the gravity of what they were about to uncover. They filed out of the lab, leaving Hermione alone with the Way Back Machine. She knew that this was a moment of great vulnerability for Narcissa, and she needed to protect her soulmate.

Hermione's fingers danced over the controls, her eyes fixed on the playback queue. She meticulously removed any scenes that involved just Narcissa, ensuring that her soulmate wouldn't have to learn of those painful memories in front of the whole group. As she worked, her thoughts were never far from her love, Narcissa.

###

The next morning, as they gathered around the Way Back Machine once again, Hermione couldn't shake the heavy weight of worry that had settled upon her. The device hummed softly in the background, ready to unveil more of a potentially painful past they were determined to uncover. She glanced at the faces of her friends, each one marked by the strain of the previous night's revelations. Her thoughts were consumed by Narcissa, and she wished desperately that she could find a way to ease her suffering.

Narcissa had been unusually quiet through the rest of the previous evening, her thoughts seemingly lost in the labyrinth of the past. It was only when they retired to their shared bedroom that she found the strength to open up. Curled up in Hermione's arms, she described in chilling detail what had happened to her in the current timeline, the terror of living under the Dark Lord's rule, the constant presence of Death Eaters, and the cruel demands placed upon her as an unmarked resident.

"The Dark Lord's reign was a nightmare," Narcissa confessed, her voice trembling with the memories. "There were so many Death Eaters constantly around the house, and as an unmarked resident, I was constantly under scrutiny. I had to find ways to show my loyalty to them, or else..." She trailed off, unable to speak the words of the unspeakable torture that awaited those who defied the Death Eater mindset. "And that torture... sometimes it was for their amusement."

Hermione listened in horror, her heart aching for the woman she loved. She reached out to gently caress Narcissa's cheek, offering what little comfort she could.

Narcissa had held onto the hope that the variations in the timeline meant that in the original, she was experiencing something better, or at least neutral. But now, with the revelation that Lucius had captured her, those hopes were shattered. She couldn't help but imagine that things were far worse as a captive, considering what she had endured as a perceived follower of the Death Eater mindset.

Tears welled up in Hermione's eyes as she held Narcissa close, sharing her pain and sorrow. It was a profound moment of connection, a reaffirmation of their love and support for each other.

Hermione shook her head to jolt herself out of the haunting memories of their conversation. She knew she couldn't dwell on the past for too long, as there were more memories to explore, and the day ahead would likely be just as challenging for the entire group. With a determined resolve, she returned to the Way Back Machine and began the next set of memories, bracing herself for whatever revelations the past might hold.

###

September 2nd, 1997

Amidst the dense, ancient trees of the forest, Neville, Hermione, and Harry stumbled as they landed, their second consecutive disapparition leaving them disoriented.

"Merlin's beard," Harry muttered, adjusting his glasses and scanning their surroundings. "Where are we?"

Neville glanced around, his expression tense. "I'm not sure, but I think ..."

Before Harry could react, Neville fell to the forest floor, clutching his leg in pain. Harry rushed to his side, his voice filled with concern. "Hermione, help! Neville's hurt! He has been splitched,"

Hermione didn't process Harry's words, her heart was racing, and for a moment, the world blurred around her. Panic gripped her as she realized the gravity of their situation. Lucius Malfoy, the unwanted guest who had accidentally followed them through their apparition, was back at their headquarters with her beloved Narcissa. She muttered to herself, "No, this can't be happening."

It was only when Harry's continued desperate cries reached her ears that Hermione snapped back to reality. Her hazel eyes, filled with fear and determination, darted between her brother's writhing form and her distressed friend. She knew they needed to act swiftly.

"Oh, Morganna!" Hermione's voice quivered as she rushed to Neville's side. "Harry I'll handle this, you focus on setting up protections and the tent."

As Harry began to set up a campsite, Hermione focused on healing Neville's splinched leg, her wand movements precise and steady. She was glad for her over preparing tendencies as she had the healing supplies needed in her bag. Hours passed, and as evening fell, Neville was stable and resting inside the tent, his pain eased.

Hermione sighed with relief and reached for the journal that allowed her to communicate with Bellatrix. With trembling fingers, she traced the familiar runes and whispered the incantation, a soft glow emanating from the journal's pages. She needed to warn her, to tell her to keep everyone away from Grimmauld Place, and more importantly let her know that Lucius had likely captured Narcissa.

###

September 2nd, 1997

The imposing oak doors of the Hogwarts staff room swung open, and the faculty members filed in, taking their seats at the long, polished table. At the head of the table, Headmaster Severus Snape sat with an air of stern authority, his dark eyes scanning the gathered professors. The first staff meeting of the year had begun.

Severus cleared his throat, his piercing gaze sweeping across the assembled staff. "Ladies and gentlemen, thank you for joining me for this meeting. I trust you all had a restful summer."

He continued, his tone betraying none of the inner turmoil that often brewed within him. "Before we commence the new academic year, I must address some changes that have been deemed necessary."

"In light of recent events," Severus continued, "I have decided to make some adjustments to our curriculum." He paused, his gaze unwavering. "Alecto Carrrow will be taking over Muggle Studies. A course which is now mandatory for all students."

Nervous whispers filled the room, as professors exchanged apprehensive glances. Alecto Carrow's appointment to the position of Muggle Studies professor was met with a collective unease, given her notorious Death Eater affiliation and extremist views about Muggles.

Severus pressed on, his voice carrying a weight that seemed to grow heavier with each passing word. "Additionally, after a discussion with Amycus, it has been decided that Defense Against the Dark Arts and Defense will be combined into a single class. Professor Amycus Carrow will teach both. Furthermore, due to guidance from our illustrious Minister of Magic, in order to get society back on track the course will be only available to male students."

The room fell silent as Snape's announcement sank in. The staff's collective anxiety grew, their minds racing with implications of this decision.

Bellatrix Black, her eyes ablaze with fury, stood up from her seat. "You can't be serious, Severus! Aside from the ridiculous notion that women shouldn't be taught defense, I've taught Defense Against the Dark Arts for almost two decades!"

Bella's knuckles whitened as she gripped her wand, her anger simmering dangerously close to boiling over. Minerva McGonagall, seated beside her, subtly grabbed her wife's arm and shook her head, a silent warning against any rash actions.

Severus continued, "However, while you are tenured and cannot easily be dismissed, I have found a new role for you." He paused, his lips curving into a cold smile. "You will teach a new class on household spells, preparing the female students for what is considered 'proper' in society."

Bella's eyes narrowed, her lips curling into a defiant snarl, her anger barely contained. Instead of hexing the headmaster, Bella stormed out of the meeting, her footsteps echoing down the corridor.

###

Hermione's brows furrowed in disbelief as the playback of the staff meeting they had just observed reached its conclusion. With a mixture of frustration and astonishment, she couldn't contain her outburst any longer. "You've got to be fucking kidding me!" she exclaimed, her voice laced with incredulity.

The room fell silent, all eyes turning to Hermione as she fumed. She crossed her arms and began to pace, her anger evident in every step. "Regressing the stupid, already backward wizarding society to the gender norms from the turn of the century?" She scoffed. "It's infuriating! The blatant discrimination, the inequality—it's like they're taking another giant leap backward instead of forward!"

Narcissa, who had been quietly listening, nodded in agreement. "It's beyond disheartening to witness," she added, her voice filled with sympathy for her partner's frustration.

Hermione's anger was not solely rooted in the injustice they were witnessing but also now in concern that in the original timeline that they would not defeat Voldemort and rectify these egregious societal norms.

Harry, who was sitting nearby, used to her impassioned rants about injustice in society, calmly reached out and gently touched Hermione's arm. "It's going to be alright, Hermione," he reassured her. "I'm sure we did everything we could to defeat the Dark Lord and set things right. Now, maybe we should continue with the memories and see what else we can learn."

Hermione let out a huff of frustration but nodded, realizing that dwelling on the injustice wouldn't change the original timeline. She sat down and turned back to the console and started the next memory.

###

September 2nd, 1997

In the dimly lit confines of their chambers at Hogwarts, Minerva McGonagall sat up in their shared bed, her stern expression softened by the glow of candlelight. A book lay open on her lap, her reading glasses perched on the tip of her nose, a stark contrast to the chaos unfolding around her.

Bellatrix Black, her dark mane in disarray and her robes rumpled from her earlier outburst in the staff meeting, paced back and forth, unleashing a torrent of frustrations. "Snape's teaching 'household spells' to mold our young witches into 'proper' ladies? It's a bloody joke, Minerva! And he's chosen me to deliver this nonsense?"

Minerva couldn't help but raise an eyebrow, her voice laced with a hint of amusement. "Well, my dear, you've always had a flair for the dramatic. Perhaps you could teach them household spells in a way that can be used for defense or combat. Turn it into something more...interesting."

Bellatrix paused in her pacing, a manic grin spreading across her face. "You know, Min, that might just work! It's positively wicked! I love it! I could show them how to use the soap spell to 'clean' their opponents' mouths thus preventing them from verbal casting. Or perhaps a conjured feather duster into a cursed weapon."

Minerva chuckled at Bellatrix's enthusiasm, never failing to appreciate her wife's fierce spirit. Before she could clarify she had been jesting, a soft glow emanated from the notebook resting on the bedside table. Both witches turned their attention to the magical journal, its pages shimmering as a message came through.

Their amusement faded, replaced by a shared look of concern. Given the events of the evening thus far, they were certain that the message from Hermione wouldn't bring good tidings.

###

September 3rd, 1997

The first day of classes at Hogwarts had come to an end, and a group of friends, Blaise, Pansy, Daphne, Draco, Ginny, and Luna, had gathered in the Room of Requirement. As they entered the enchanted space, their amazement was palpable.

"Wow, this room is amazing," Ginny marveled, gazing around at the cozy lounge area that had materialized in response to their needs.

Daphne, curled up on a plush chair with Pansy, turned to Draco with an expectant look. "So, are you finally going to explain where the others are?"

Draco nodded, his expression serious. "Yes, I will. Over the summer, I overheard a conversation between our wayward friends and Sirius, Auntie Min and Auntie Bella. They were talking about a mission Dumbledore left for them."

Curiosity filled the room as Draco recounted what he had heard. "They're searching for Horcruxes, objects containing parts of He-Who-Shall-Not-Be-Named's soul. They mentioned four left particular: Slyherin's Locket, Hufflepuff's cup, Ravenclaw's diadem, and his familiar, Nagini. There is a lead on the locket, however I had to stop eavesdropping at that point so that is the extent of my knowledge."

Pansy couldn't help but inject a bit of snark into the conversation. "So, you are thinking we should help this crazy task which includes finding a lost diadem that no one in living memory has seen and has no idea what it looks like? Brilliant."

Luna, ever dreamy and perceptive, chimed in, "Living memory, Pansy. But the Grey Lady, the daughter of Rowena Ravenclaw and the ghost of Ravenclaw House, might know something. We are friendly and I can speak with her."

Ginny, ever pragmatic, voiced a question that had likely crossed all their minds. "Do you think any of these could be hidden within Hogwarts itself?"

The group fell into contemplative silence, pondering the possibilities of the horcruxes being closer than they had ever imagined.

Draco cleared his throat, bringing their attention back to the task at hand. "If there is one here, our friends won't be able to break in and search without likely being caught and sent to the ministry. I think we should start our search tomorrow when we can."

The usually quiet Blaise chimed in at this point "Given Daphne's and my positions as head boy and girl, we have more freedom to explore and gather information. We can lead the search, and the rest of you can help in any way you can. I feel we will need to be extra careful this year."

Seeing the confusion on the other's faces, Daphne explained. "Yesterday we had a meeting with the Headmaster and the Carrows. It was explained to us that the Carrows will be in charge of detentions and other punishments. If the rumors we've heard from fellow snakes are true, the Carrows will be brutal, especially to muggle-borns and those they see as blood traitors, which honestly includes most of this group."

The group nodded in agreement, realizing the practicality of Blaise and Daphne taking the lead.

Draco in an attempt to break the tension, "Alright, then. I think we all agree to follow the two of your leads. Let's meet here at the same time next week to share what we've found. Be careful."

###

As the memories played on the large screen before them, Hermione's curiosity got the better of her. She paused the playback with a random thought and turned to the group. "Out of random curiosity," she began, "who was Head Boy and Girl in this timeline?"

Draco, who had been engrossed in the memories, blinked and then furrowed his brow in thought. "It was me and Pansy," he replied after a moment. "But Pansy must not have been chosen in that timeline because of whatever happened during the summer with her parents." He shrugged. "It was going to be a Slytherin Head Girl, so if Pansy was disowned, that left Daphne, Millicent, and Tracy."

Hermione nodded, taking in the information. "So, Tracy was discounted because she's a half-blood, and Millicent didn't have the grades, leaving Daphne as the obvious choice."

Draco nodded in agreement. "Exactly."

Hermione couldn't help but remark, "Really, in the original timeline, things are making significantly more sense when it came to prefects and Head Boy and Girl. No offense," she added, turning to Draco.

Draco chuckled. "None taken. Thinking about it, Daphne probably would have been a better choice for Prefect over Pansy."

Hermione smirked and commented "Ron never made sense as a Prefect either."

Neville, who had been quietly listening, chimed in at this point. "It's good to see the resistance group start early and with more people," he commented, a note of hope in his voice.

Ginny and Luna added their own nods of approval at Neville's words. Hermione smiled at the co-leaders of the second coming of Dumbledore Army, and then started play on the next set of memories.

###

September 7th, 1997

Seated around a weathered table inside the small tent, Neville, Hermione, and Harry stared intently at the locket before them. It was the last remaining Horcrux in their possession, a heavy burden they were determined to destroy.

Harry broke the silence that hung heavily in the air. "Do any of you have any ideas on how to destroy this thing? We can't rely on basilisk venom this time."

Neville's brow furrowed in thought, but he admitted, "I'm not sure, Harry. The venom was always our surefire method."

Hermione, her eyes focused on the locket, took a deep breath before confessing, "I discovered that Fiendfyre could be used to destroy a Horcrux. Narcissa found me researching Horcruxes and had me explain everything. She told me how all three Black sisters were forced to learn various curses including Fiendfyre from their parents. So I learned from her how to cast the spell but it's not without risks. Fiendfyre is incredibly dangerous to cast but Bella discovered and taught both her sisters that a patronus can be used to contain it, but it's not 100% foolproof."

Harry considered their options carefully. "So, we have two choices. One, we can go somewhere remote, like a deserted island off the northern coast of Scotland, and have Hermione attempt it. Or two, we contact Bella. We know she can control the spell, but it might expose her to the death eaters at Hogwarts as someone helping us. We could lose one of the people searching for Horcruxes independently from us."

Neville, his determination shining through, spoke up, "I say we give it a shot. Hermione thinks she can cast Fiendfyre, and both Harry and I can cast Patronuses to contain it. An uninhabited island sounds like a great idea."

Hermione and Harry exchanged glances, their unspoken agreement evident. Hermione nodded and said, "Alright, then. We'll plan on traveling north to find a suitable location to attempt the destruction."

With their course of action decided, the trio set to work.

###

September 28th, 1997

After three weeks of relentless searching, Hermione finally apparated herself, Harry, and Neville to a desolate, rocky island. The wind howled, carrying the scent of the ocean.

Harry, his brow furrowed, looked around and asked, "Where are we, Hermione?"

Hermione, her eyes scanning their surroundings, replied, "Stac an Armin in the Outer Hebrides. It seemed fitting, as it's uninhabited and has a rather grim history. In 1840, the last Great Auk in Britain was brutally killed here because some idiots thought it was a witch practicing witchcraft."

Harry and Neville exchanged knowing shrugs, long past questioning how Hermione possessed such obscure encyclopedic knowledge.

With determination, Hermione placed the locket on the ground. She turned to Harry and Neville, her voice steady but resolute. "Now, I need both of you to cast your Patronuses and have them circle the locket."

Without hesitation, Harry and Neville obeyed her command. Two majestic stags, identical in form, materialized and began to circle the locket.

Hermione took a deep breath and shouted, "Pestis Incendium!"

In response to her incantation, a magnificent, fiery kraken emerged from the tip of her wand. It roared with an otherworldly intensity as it descended upon the locket, setting both the dark object and the ground within the Patronus circle ablaze.

But as the fire roared, an otherworldly scream burst forth from the locket, a sound that sent shivers down their spines. Neville's Patronus blinked out of existence, and Hermione's iron control over the spell wavered, causing the fire to break free from its confinement.

Reacting swiftly, Neville grabbed both Harry and Hermione, and with a crack, he apparated them away from the island, leaving behind the echoing scream and growing flames.

###

October 14th, 1997

The Hogwarts group had gathered in the Room of Requirement, a brief respite from their relentless pursuit of Horcruxes. As they lounged around, talk naturally turned to their classes, a rare diversion in these trying times.

Draco leaning back in a comfortable armchair, couldn't help but grumble, "You girls should be glad you're not in the Defense class. It's a joke. Instead of learning any sort of defense, they're just teaching the Dark Arts and having students practice on anyone who happens to get 'detention.'"

Blaise Zabini, ever the inquisitive one, raised an eyebrow and asked the girls, "So, what exactly is this 'Household Spells' course?"

Ginny Weasley grinned mischievously as she replied, "Well, Professor Black may comply with the type of spells we're using, but she spends a lot more time teaching us how to fight dirty using those spells, both defensively and offensively."

Luna Lovegood chimed in dreamily, "She is getting rather creative. Next week, we'll be learning how to properly protect the 'purity' of the women of the household. After all, it's every mother's responsibility to safeguard her female progeny. It promises to be rather bloody for any men who attempt to corrupt a household."

Draco and Blaise winced at Luna's words, quickly changing the subject. Draco asked, "Has anyone had any luck in the search?"

The girls all shook their heads, expressing their ongoing frustration with the lack of progress. However, Blaise had a tidbit to share. "I overheard in the dorm last night Ron asking Goon-1 and Goon-2 if they knew where 'that Room of Hidden Things Nott was going on about last year' was located. He wanted to see if it had any more firewhiskey in order to help him 'get in some birds' knickers.' " Blaise face showing the disgust he felt at the red-headed prat "No offense Ginny but your brother is scum".

Ginny shrugged. "None taken I happen to agree with your assessment though I would have likely used more colorful language."

Daphne paused for a moment, contemplating. Finally, she arrived at some conclusion, "Alright, everyone, I have an idea, but we need to leave the room for a minute."

Outside, she paced back and forth in front of the wall until, with a subtle shift, a door appeared. The group entered to find themselves surrounded by mountainous piles of objects.

Pansy with an amused glint in her eye, quipped, "Well, this should be fun, won't it?" Her gaze then flickered towards a nearby stack. "Oh look, some firewhiskey."

###

November 2nd, 1997

An hour after curfew, Pansy and Daphne exited the Room of Hidden Things, their search for Horcruxes having yielded no results. Having noticed Daphne's frustration at the lack of progress, Pansy's lips met her girlfriend's neck in a tender kiss, and she whispered, "Don't give up hope. How about I 'cheer' you up once we get back to the dorm."

Lost in their own world, they failed to notice the presence of a looming figure until it was too late. The abrupt collision with Professor Black startled them, causing them to jump apart.

Bellatrix's dark eyes bore into them as she asked, her tone sharp, "What are you two doing out so late?" She glanced at the spot where the door they had just exited had vanished.

Pansy, in her flustered state, blurted out, "We were...um, having...sex?"

Daphne's eyes widened in embarrassment, and Pansy immediately wished she could've come up with a better lie than that.

Bellatrix, however, was no fool. She observed the behavior of the two young witches and sensed that something was amiss. Their response did not match the typical demeanor of students caught post-amorous liaison. Suspicion clouded her features as she ordered, "Follow me."

The trio hurriedly made their way to Bellatrix and Minerva's chambers, where they were instructed to sit. Minerva, surprised by the late-night intrusion, asked, "What's going on, Bella?"

Bellatrix explained her discovery of the girls leaving a room that didn't exist, her tone a mixture of concern and curiosity. She turned her piercing gaze to Pansy and Daphne, "While, I believe you two are having sex" Both girls turned bright red. "I don't believe that's what you were up to this evening. Now, tell me the truth."

Daphne sighed, realizing they had no choice but to confide in the professors. She began to explain about Draco sharing information about the Horcruxes, their ongoing search within the castle, and their recent discovery of the Room of Hidden Things. She mentioned how they had been searching in pairs, Draco and Blaise, Ginny and Luna, and she and Pansy, all in pursuit of either Hufflepuff's Cup or Ravenclaw's Diadem.

Bellatrix grumbled about her meddlesome eavesdropping nephew, and after a silent exchange of glances with Minerva, she made a decision. "Meet us tomorrow evening for 'remedial' lessons," she said, her tone both stern and instructive. "And, Miss Greengrass, you will be showing us this Room of Hidden Things."

###

December 25th, 1997

Disguised under the Polyjuice Potion, Hermione, Neville, and Harry arrived in the quiet village of Godric's Hollow. Their mission was clear: to pay their respects and gather information related to Voldemort's Horcruxes.

As they reached the entrance of the cemetery, Hermione made a decision. She turned to Neville and Harry, her voice soft but resolute. "You two go ahead to the cemetery and visit your parents' grave. I'll stay outside, under the Invisibility Cloak, and keep watch."

Neville and Harry nodded in understanding, grateful for Hermione's watchful eye. They entered the cemetery, and Hermione, hidden from view, kept a vigilant lookout.

It wasn't long before Hermione noticed a small woman approaching Neville and Harry. The trio exchanged words, and then, to Hermione's surprise, the woman led the two young wizards away from the cemetery.

Worry gnawed at Hermione as she trailed behind, just out of range. When the pair entered a nondescript house on the quiet street, Hermione hurried to catch up and joined the boys inside.

Upon entering the house, Hermione found Neville downstairs but no sign of Harry. The unmistakable smell of decay hung in the air, and a sense of foreboding washed over her. Something was not right.

She grabbed Neville's arm urgently, pulling him upstairs with her as they searched for Harry. Their hearts pounded in their chests as they reached a room, the door slightly ajar.

Inside, they found Harry, cornered by a giant snake. Nagini, hissed menacingly, preparing to strike.

Without hesitation, Hermione shouted, "Pestis Incendium!" Her wand ignited with fiery magic, and she cast the spell directly at the snake.

Harry, sensing the danger, dove toward the two in the doorway, and in an instant, the trio Apparated from the scene, escaping the deadly clutches of Nagini. The snake and the room they left behind engulfed in cursed flames.

###

December 26th, 1997

As Bella and Minerva enjoyed a quiet breakfast in their chambers, the enchanted journal resting nearby, it suddenly heated up. Minerva, engrossed in the pages of the Daily Prophet, hardly noticed, but Bellatrix seized the journal, eager to see what message had arrived from Hermione.

Absent-mindedly, Minerva commented on the article she was reading, "It seems there was a terrible incident in Godric's Hollow. Someone burnt down an entire block before the Aurors could contain the cursed fire."

She glanced up from the paper to see Bellatrix's shocked expression and journal held open in her hands. Concern etched into her features, Minerva asked, "What's going on, Bella?"

"The snake is dead," Bellatrix replied tersely, "but that girl is a menace."

Minerva furrowed her brow, puzzled by Bellatrix's cryptic words. "What do you mean?"

Bellatrix's voice held a mix of frustration and worry as she explained, "Hermione was the one who started the fire in Godric's Hollow. Narcissa should never have taught her that spell. We need to get another method of Horcrux destruction to her before she manages to burn down the whole of Scotland."

Minerva, contemplating the situation, realized there was only one solution. She leaned in and said firmly, "We'll have to steal the sword."

Bellatrix nodded in agreement, and Minerva, with a determined expression, added, "Are you up for some reconnaissance?"

Bellatrix nodded once more, and together, they prepared for their mission. Minerva transformed into her animagus form, and Bellatrix followed suit, turning into a small black mouse.

###

As the memories played on, a sudden eruption of laughter from behind made Hermione pause the playback. She turned to see Ginny with tears of amusement rolling down her cheeks, struggling to get a few words out between fits of laughter. "A cat... with a mouse," Ginny managed to utter, her voice filled with mirth.

Narcissa, wearing a sly smirk, chimed in. "It's especially amusing given that the 'mouse' likely pursued the 'cat' in that relationship." Her comment set off a wave of laughter throughout the room, and even Hermione couldn't help but crack a smile.

After the laughter subsided, Harry, with a mischievous glint in his eye, decided to change the topic. "On a side note," he began, "all those in favor of obliviating Hermione of how to cast Fiendfyre once we revert the timeline?"

Hermione's glare could have withered a tree, as she watched as every hand in the room shot up, including Narcissa's. With a huff of exasperation, Hermione turned and started the next memory, choosing not to dignify Harry's proposal with a response.

###

December 30th, 1997

In the dimly lit expanse of the Room of Hidden Things, Daphne, Bellatrix, Minerva, and Pansy combed through the endless piles of forgotten artifacts. An hour into their search, Daphne's voice rang out, a note of excitement in her tone. "I think I've found something!"

Bellatrix swiftly turned her attention toward Daphne's discovery, her wand raised as she cast a dark magic detection spell, causing the object to alight with a sinister glow. Her sharp eyes locked onto an ornate diadem perched precariously on a nearby cabinet, and with a wave of her wand, she levitated it to the ground in front of them.

Pansy, her heart racing with anticipation, couldn't contain her excitement as she asked, "Is that it? Is that the Diadem?"

Minerva, her eyes locked on the object before them, confirmed its identity. "Yes, Pansy. That it is. Now we just need to steal the Sword of Gryff—"

Before Minerva could finish her sentence, the sword appeared out of nowhere, materializing in the air before them. It clanged loudly as it hit the ground at Minerva's feet, causing the others to step back in surprise.

Minerva, realizing that their unexpected fortune had rendered her previous statement obsolete, simply said, "Never mind. Back up, everyone."

With a determined expression and a warcry that would make any Highland warrior proud, Minerva seized the sword, bringing it down with a powerful swing that cleaved the Horcrux in two. The room seemed to shudder as the malevolent presence of Voldemort's fragment was obliterated.

###

January 4th, 1998

On a cold, windswept beach near St. Andrew's Castle in Scotland, Hermione paced back and forth, her breath forming frosty clouds in the brisk air. She had arrived moments earlier, and was now waiting for the arrival of Minerva.

Suddenly, a loud crack of Apparition echoed across the desolate beach, and Hermione spun around to see Minerva standing there, a sword strapped to her back. Relief washed over her, and she rushed toward the older woman with a cry of, "Aunt Min!"

The two embraced tightly, finding comfort in each other's presence. After a moment, they separated, and Minerva began passing items over to Hermione. She handed her a bag of supplies and a piece of parchment containing the location of a safehouse, instructing Hermione to burn after showing it to Harry and Neville.

Finally, Minerva reached over her back to the main reason for their meeting—the Sword of Gryffindor. She handed it to Hermione, her eyes filled with determination. "With this, when you find the Cup, you can destroy it." Pausing for a moment and before continuing with a wry tone, "without burning the world down."

###

March 20th, 1998

In a dark and foreboding dungeon of Malfoy Manor, the echoing screams of Harry and Neville filled the air as they desperately called out for Hermione. Their pleas were met with indifference as they were unceremoniously tossed into a large holding cell.

As their eyes adjusted to the dim light, Harry's gaze darted around the cell, taking in the unexpected company. Luna, Dean, Olivander, and a goblin shared their prison, their faces mirroring the same confusion and fear that gripped Harry and Neville. Neville's cries for Hermione persisted in the background, his desperation palpable.

Suddenly, from the adjacent cell, a distressed croak pierced the air, followed by a pained exclamation of Hermione's name and an anguished cry. Harry's heart clenched as he turned to see a shocking sight. Chained to the wall, a dirty, bruised, and emaciated figure of Narcissa Black stared back at him. Harry realised she clearly had been through hell since her capture last September.

The shock of their circumstances weighed heavily on Harry, but he knew they had to act. Ignoring the sounds from upstairs, he took a deep breath and steadied himself. "We need a plan," he declared, his determination unwavering. "We need to get our wands, rescue Hermione, and find a way out of here."

Luna, her ethereal presence calming in the midst of chaos, stepped forward. She pressed a charm on her bracelet, causing a vivarium case to expand. With a flourish, she opened it, revealing a mischievous Niffler inside. Luna picked up the creature and spoke with all seriousness, "Indy, I need you to head up the stairs and collect all the wands you can find. If you see anything else of interest, feel free to grab it as a reward."

Harry couldn't help but raise an eyebrow at Luna's choice of name. "Indy?"

Narcissa's voice, weak but sardonic, drifted from the other cell. "It probably sounds better than Henry Jr."

Luna beamed at Narcissa, pleased she understood the reference. Neville, however, turned to the group, his expression defeated, and asked, "What good is that creature going to do?"

Harry's eyes suddenly lit up with realization, and he exclaimed, "That's it, Neville, you're a genius. Kreacher!"

In response to Harry's summons, the aged house-elf, Kreacher, apparated into the dungeon. He appeared somewhat disheveled but was ready to assist. "How may Kreacher serve Master Harry?"

Harry turned to Luna and inquired if there was enough space for humans in her vivarium case. Luna responded with an affirmative nod, and Harry wasted no time instructing everyone to get inside.

Neville and Dean worked together to assist Ollivander, who was unable to move on his own. The urgency of the situation spurred them into swift action.

Before Harry descended into the vivarium case himself, he gave Kreacher a set of specific instructions. "Take this case to Shell Cottage, Kreacher. Then, return while maintaining your invisibility, and grab Indy and Hermione. Take them to Shell Cottage as well. Finally, if you can, make one more trip and bring Narcissa."

Narcissa's voice, filled with concern, suddenly rang out, "No! Harry, I can't leave. Death Eater's control Hogwarts. Lucius will hurt Draco if I'm not here."

Harry nodded solemnly, understanding the gravity of her situation. "Keep safe, Narcissa, to the best of your abilities. I'll have Kreacher watch out for you and come if you call him." He smiled at her sadly. "Don't die, Hermione would kill you."

With those words, he descended into the vivarium case, joining the others as they made their escape.

###

March 20th, 1998

Hermione lay on the cold, unforgiving ground, her body still twitching from the most recent cruciatus curse and bleeding from the multiple cutting curses she had endured so far. Rodolphus Lestrange stood over her, his sinister eyes filled with malice as he demanded to know where she had obtained the Sword of Gryffindor and if she had dared to enter his vault.

To the side, the loathsome figures of Lucius Malfoy and Augustus Rookwood watched with twisted satisfaction, clearly relishing her suffering. Each Crucio curse inflicted upon her had pushed Hermione to the brink, and she feared that her mind was beginning to shatter under the relentless torture.

In the midst of her agony, Hermione's vision blurred, and she could have sworn she saw a Niffler attempting to abscond with the Sword of Gryffindor. The surreal sight left her disoriented and questioning her own sanity.

Moments later, the Niffler and the sword disappeared from view. The sudden shift in reality indicated that it had all been a cruel hallucination, a manifestation of the torment she endured. Her mind was indeed breaking under the unbearable strain of the Cruciatus Curse, just like her parents.

As despair threatened to consume her, an invisible hand grabbed hold of her arm, and she felt the unmistakable pull of Apparition. In that moment, as the world around her shifted, she heard Rookwood's chilling comment to Lucius, "Imagine the fun we could have with her if we get the Dominion..."

###

April 15th, 1998

Sitting at a table cluttered with an array of two dozen wands, Harry couldn't help but marvel at Indy's efficiency. Breaking the silence Harry remarked, "Well, there's no doubt Indy was efficient."

Neville, his eyes focused on one particular wand, pointed it out and said, "This one is similar to Rodolphus's wand, and we have the hair from Hermione. We could impersonate him and break into the bank."

Just as they were discussing this daring plan, Fleur, who had been on the stairs and overheard their conversation, rushed into the room, her expression one of grave concern. She loudly and vehemently objected, "Absolutely not! You cannot break into Gringotts, no matter the reason. It would likely start another Goblin war if you did."

Harry knew their plan was desperate, but he also understood the urgency. He replied, "We have to, Fleur. There's one of He-Who-Shall-Not-Be-Named's Horcruxes in the Lestrange Vault. We can't beat him until it's destroyed."

Fleur's anger flared, and she began cursing in French. "Ce putain de salaud! Ce ignoble fils de pute!" She caught herself realizing she was close to losing control to her Veela and explained that she had a better idea.

With a calmer tone, she started to explain, "The Goblins, much like the Veela, have a strong aversion to any magic that perverts the soul. They will want to help destroy the perversion that is the Horcrux. I agree you will need to be careful smuggling yourselves into Gringotts but once there explain yourself to the goblins and they will help destroy the horcrux."

Not realising Bill and Hestia had walked into the room, the trio jumped when they heard Bill add "Plus, as Fleur loudly shouted, avoiding another war with the Goblins is a good idea."

Harry, Hermione, and Neville exchanged significant glances, fully comprehending the benefits of following the advice they had been given, and nodded their assent. The group of six then sat down and began hashing out a new plan.

###

May 1st, 1998

Bill Weasley, carrying a 'new' briefcase in hand, walked purposefully into work that morning. He headed straight for the executive suite of Gringotts where Chief Warwick, the head Goblin, conducted his affairs. Upon arrival, Bill knocked on the door, and at Warwick's call to enter, he opened the door and stepped in. The Chief Goblin looked up, clearly annoyed.

"What's the point of this interruption, Weasley?" Chief Warwick demanded, his tone laced with irritation.

Bill placed the briefcase on the floor and, without a word, opened it. To Warwick's astonishment, moments later, a figure emerged from the case—Griphook.

"Brother! I thought you were lost for good," Warwick exclaimed, a hint of emotion in his gruff voice. Turning his attention to Bill, he continued, "Curse Breaker Weasley, you have done us quite the..."

Before Chief Warwick could finish his statement, three more figures stepped out of the case—Harry, Hermione, and Neville. Bill introduced the trio, explaining their roles in saving Griphook and laying the groundwork for the matter they urgently needed to discuss with the Goblin Nation.

Harry, displaying his characteristic determination, began to share the crucial information. "He-Who-Shall-Not-Be-Named has a horcrux stored in the Lestrange vault," he declared. The words had a profound effect on the goblins present, igniting a sense of anger and unrest that rippled through the room.

Hermione then continued, "We were hoping that the goblins would assist us in destroying the Horcrux." She paused for a moment, reached into her satchel, and pulled out the Sword of Gryffindor. With a determined expression, she added, "If you don't have your own method to destroy Horcruxes, the sword is capable of it now, as it is imbued with Basilisk Venom."

Hermione carefully placed the sword on Warwick's desk, "Either way, this sword is ultimately the property of the goblins and should be returned to you regardless of your decision."

Chief Warwick cleared his throat and addressed the group. "I thank you for respecting Goblin culture and bringing this matter to our attention. The Goblin Nation will of course aid you in the destruction of this abombination." Without a moment's hesitation, he gave the order for the seizure of the contents of the Lestrange Vault and the destruction of the Horcrux.

###

Hermione's eyes were fixed on the screen, watching the events at Gringott's. She furrowed her brow in thought and muttered to herself, "Huh. Why didn't we think of that?"

Harry chuckled and replied, "Well, that was certainly less exciting than escaping by dragon back."