Chapter 10: Torture Chambers and Honesty
Bellatrix stood in front of a mirror staring at her reflection. Her Lord had healed her beautifully. She never doubted him and his raw power. He had subjected her to torture more than once, stunned her, burnt her, but now that she had felt his magic with the intent to heal, she wanted more than ever to carry his heir. Her skin and muscle had begun to deteriorate, and her face looked like it was melting off, but then, he waved his wand over it and her skin turned silvery and it had a glow that was glass-like. Her eye was white, a drop of poison had flown off the knife and landed on her cornea, damaging the eye beyond any possibility for repair, but that didn't matter. Her Lord found her beautiful as she was. He desired her, and so, it didn't matter if she looked bad to anyone else.
"Satisfied?" he asked in a bored voice.
"Thank you, My Lord. You honor me with your magic," Bellatrix went down on the floor and kissed Voldemort's naked feet. He frowned.
"We will have time for that later, Bella. We have people to torture," Voldemort motioned for her to get up.
Bellatrix looked like Christmas came early. Voldemort enjoyed torturing people so much that he never shared the privilege with anyone, "Do I get to torture with you, My Lord?"
"Yes, my pet. You have done good work. I shall let you break Lucius. He and his family have proven worthless. To run away like rats down to the sewer... Sickening."
"My Lord, what will we do about the mudblood, the elf, and the missing girls?" Bella asked. She wanted payback.
Voldemort's face turned to one of calculating fury, "If we capture Hermione Granger, we will torture her naked and in the middle of Hogsmeade."
Bellatrix cackled. "Let's make an example out of her!"
"Indeed. I want her mangled dead body in as many newspapers around the world as can be arranged. Tell Scabior to start working on buying the press. I need everyone to see her humiliated and dead! Tell those who have passed our assessment that Dobby the Elf is to be killed on sight as are the two teen whores that were taken away. Hermione Granger has cost us four future children soldiers and two pieces of entertainment for our troops," Voldemort said with venom in his voice.
Blood and other bodily fluids decorated the floor, the walls, and the ceilings of Malfoy Manor. Voldemort and Bellatrix had gone through every single one of the Death Eaters. Lucius Malfoy was barely alive. His Lord had taken out all his frustrations on him. He almost wished to find his family just so he could return the favor. Weaklings the both of them. He should have married Bellatrix when he had the chance. Bloody Rodolphus had gotten there first. Lucius had been glad to see him die. Now, Bellatrix was insane, and she was the Dark Lord's lapdog. But back in the day, she had been fierce. Not beautiful per se, but unapologetically herself which made her attractive to his eyes. She wanted power and she was willing to do anything for it. He could admire persistence and cunning. She was an impressive duelist too. But now that she had tortured him for hours, his thoughts were starting to scatter. He didn't want to end like a vegetable... like those Longbottoms.
"Bella, stop! Please! Give me Veritaserum!"
The witch stopped for a few seconds and smirked. "Are you sure? We can have you spilling all your deepest, darkest secrets..."
Voldemort was standing behind Bellatrix and staring down at him in disgust.
Lucius looked up into the man's eyes, "I have no secrets for My Lord."
"We shall see about that, Lucius," Voldemort sneered. "Bella, dear, get me Severus... Now."
Bellatrix could have swooned at being called dear by him, "My Lord... He is with the Minister right now..."
"Bring the Minister too... It's been a while since I saw him soil his pants live and I could use the amusement."
Bellatrix nodded and left.
Hermione stretched slowly only to have her foot reach something solid and warm that should not be on her bed. She freaked out and sat up swiftly. It was Harry's head. He grumbled but didn't move. Apparently, he fell asleep while sitting on the floor resting his back against the side of her bed. When did he even get here?
"Harry?" Hermione put her fingers through his hair.
"Five more minutes," he mumbled.
Hermione smiled. He looked very cute. His hair was disheveled, and his glasses were about to fall off his head.
"Harry..." she reached over and caressed his hair. He smiled and made contented sounds.
"Mione?" he opened his eyes lazily.
"Why are you on the floor?" she smiled at him curiously and went on playing with his hair.
"Well... I... Last night, after Andi was updated on the situation, she told us what had happened to Luna, and I just..."
"I don't think she should have told everyone," Hermione frowned. "That's private."
"I would agree, but Andi said the only reason she was telling us was that us men need to stay away from Luna. We need to respect her space and not make any sudden movements or scream around her. We don't want her to feel scared here... Fuck... I can't believe anyone would hurt her. She's tiny and kind and sweet... That it was bloody McLaggen makes me want to pummel him into hell... I was just so angry and so scared... I... That could have been you, Hermione," the last sentence was a whisper. "That's why I'm here. I just... I needed to see you... Make sure you were here and safe..."
"You should have just gotten into bed with me, Harry..."
"You were asleep. I would never presume- and I didn't want to wake you," Harry shrugged. "Plus, after our fight, I don't feel like I deserve to be close to you."
Hermione sighed, "Harry James, I already forgave you. You know I can't stay mad at you. Come here."
"Shouldn't we be getting up?" Harry blurted out before he could stop himself. His very soul wanted to bitch slap him for asking that instead of just obeying Hermione as he wished. Hermione rolled her eyes. He really is too noble for his own good.
"The sun is barely starting to come up yet," Hermione offered him her hand and pulled her covers open.
Harry looked conflicted for a second. "Just for a bit?"
Hermione smiled, "Of course. We have things to do, true. But we also need to feel good to do them. Right?"
"Yes?" He wasn't sure if it was a trick question.
"And would you feel better after a good cuddle?"
Harry blushed, "Yes," he nodded his head repeatedly.
"Then, stop wasting our cuddle time and come here," Hermione insisted.
Who am I to argue with that logic? Harry thought, and he all but jumped toward his friend. They held each other gently. Hermione had pulled him up until he was resting on her chest like they were on the tent. Once again, he felt an overwhelming sense of peace and safety and, in seconds, he fell asleep. Hermione stayed awake, caressing his hair and back. Both needed this: a space to decompress, where they weren't leaders of the resistance. A bit of time where they could just be Harry and Hermione, best friends turning into hopefully a bit more. Having some time where they could simply enjoy each other's company and be teenagers was much needed for their sanity.
An hour later, Dobby came to the room and warded it so his Master and his sooner-than-he-thought-to-be Mistress could enjoy some rest and quiet. Dobby then went to Lord Black and told him that Harry and Hermione were in her room sleeping and that he had made it so no one would bother them. Sirius pumped his fists up in the air at the news.
"Excellent job, Dobby. My pups deserve it. I'll make sure no one asks any questions."
"Yes, sir," Dobby nodded, as he turned to leave Sirius' room, Padfoot placed a hand on his shoulder to stop him.
"Dobby, are you taller, or am I seeing things?"
"No. You is not seeing things. Mistress gave us more magic."
Sirius frowned. "What? Who? How do you mean?"
"Mistress Hermione. Maki is being too hurts. I and Kreacher did what we is being able. Kreacher is doing more because I is being tired from all the poppings. But Maki needed more. Mistress Hermione is asking Kreacher how to helps and he is telling her about the old ways. How witches and wizards would share their magics with us elvesies," Dobby explained with a look of adoration all over his face.
"And she did that?"
"Yes!" Dobby nodded happily. "She is healing Maki so goods that Maki is floating off the beds and sparkling. And then, Mistress is being so good, so kind, that she is insisting to help Kreacher and Dobby too!"
Sirius nodded, deep in thought. Wasn't her core chipped? She has magic to spare with a chipped core and while on the mend from months of deprivation? Damn, pup. You had to go pick the greatest witch of her age. Wow. I have to ask Andi about this.
"Is Lord Black upset that we is accepting her magic?" Dobby looked a bit scared.
"No, not at all. I am just a bit concerned. You may not know this, but Hermione was hit by a curse a couple of years ago. It did some damage to her core. Andi thinks that it is chipped. We still are not sure what that means. But her being able to help the three of you is remarkable. Did Kreacher accept?"
"Yes, Dobby is thinking he wouldn't... He is calling my Mistress very bad names in the past. But I is thinking Kreacher learned his lesson. He is recognizing her as his Mistress."
"He has?! He called her Mistress?! You heard him?!" Sirius was shocked. That was unheard of.
"I is hearing it myself!" Dobby nodded happily.
"Thank you for telling me, Dobby."
"There is being something else, sir..." Dobby shuffled his feet.
"What is it?"
"I is probably having to ask Master Harry..."
"Don't. Please don't wake him if you think I can help."
Dobby looked doubtful. "Mistress Hermione is saying to Kreacher that we elvesies should be sleeping in a guest room..."
"Ooookay, and what is the problem?"
"That we is not being sure Master Harry will approves."
"Wait, where have you been sleeping, then?"
"The pantry."
Sirius blinked with confusion, "Why?"
"There is being no nesting spaces here, sir," Dobby blushed.
"You and Kreacher have been sleeping in the pantry?"
"Yes, because I is insisting. Kreacher is saying Dobby is bad elf for sleeping inside. He is being House of Black elf for his whole life, and he is never sleeping inside the house," Dobby whispered.
Sirius blinked repeatedly. Walburga was completely unhinged. The very least a loyal servant deserved was decent living conditions. He didn't have good memories of Kreacher growing up. But the poor elf had been under his parents' thumbs hearing venomous words for years. Plus, Sirius was sure that if Kreacher ever did something that went against his parents' wishes, he had paid handsomely for it. His scars were many and quite visible. "I had no idea. But I think Hermione is right. The least that you deserve is to be comfortable and have your own space. Feel free to ask Harry, since he owns the house. But do it later... I wouldn't worry if I were you. What Hermione says, Harry will support."
Dobby smiled. "Thank you, Master Doggie!"
Sirius chuckled. "Please talk to Kreacher about breakfast so it is ready in say half an hour."
"Yes, sir."
Harry woke up warm and comfortable. He was still in the same position. He looked up slowly. Hermione was sleeping still. Harry was entranced. He braced his weight on his arms to be able to see her better. She looked like an angel. Her hair was down in loose curls. The light coming from the window gave her tresses a soft glow. Her lips were slightly parted and rosy, and her long curly lashes rested over her soft freckled cheeks. He wanted to kiss her so badly. As he moved a hair closer, her eyes opened lazily. Her curly lashes framed her chocolate irises and specks of gold seemed to come alive as she smiled at him.
"Hey, handsome," Hemione smiled.
Harry blushed. It was embarrassing how incredible her compliments made him feel. Perhaps he could do the same, "Hey, beautiful," he replied.
Hermione blushed and looked away. "Harry, I think you need new glasses. I must look a fright."
"You look angelic," he whispered. Then, he looked shocked that he had said that out loud.
Hermione looked genuinely touched and kissed his forehead. "Thank you. Come on. We should get up."
Harry followed her in a daze. He could get used to forehead kisses. They make him feel so adored. Not that she... well, they just felt extra special. He had never seen Hermione kiss anyone's forehead like that, and it felt incredible that apparently, only he got those kisses. He wanted all of Hermione's kisses... but right now, this was more than enough.
Maki woke up feeling better than she could ever remember feeling. She was sleeping on a cloud. It had to be a cloud. It was soft and cool, and oh so comfortable. Was she dead? Was this heaven? Maki thought she could hear water. Perhaps a river or the ocean? She didn't want to open her eyes to see the inside of Malfoy Manor, but after a while, curiosity got the best of her, and she cracked one eye open. What she saw made her open her tennis ball eyes wide. Maki gasped. She was resting on a bed. A real bed! A human bed! There was a glass and a pitcher of water on the bedside table.
Soon enough, Kreacher came in with a platter of fruit. Maki was so glad to see her great uncle. He patiently explained what had happened. Maki realized that she indeed felt stronger, her skin looked healthier, and her legs were longer. She asked Kreacher's permission to go to her Mistress. He acquiesced and walked her there. She needed to learn where everything was. Kreacher went back to the kitchen to make breakfast. He wanted to cook something special as a thank you to Mistress Hermione, but he didn't know what she would prefer so he made a bit of everything. Soon enough, with Dobby's help, a full English breakfast was ready and served.
The first to come to the table were Sirius and Remus. Their animal sides had ridiculously sensitive noses and they were salivating as soon as bacon started to cook. They ate breakfast in awkward silence. Sirius could tell his friend was not okay. Ever since their difficult conversation about Harry, Remus would look at him and look away. Every time he had asked him what was wrong, Moony would shake his head and look elsewhere. When he reached to take Remus's hand, Moony stood up abruptly and left after handing Dobby his plate and cutlery. He took off still holding his mug. Sirius sighed. He suspected what this was about. He needed to make Remus speak before he snapped. Moony had been through too much and a lot of it was Sirius' fault.
Sirius told Kreacher to instruct the rest of the family to join them in the library when they were ready. One by one, each family member came and went upstairs. The last to have breakfast were Harry and Hermione. They walked hand in hand to the library but stopped. Inside, there was a heated argument going on.
"Oh, and just what the hell do you think was a better idea?" Remus yelled.
"I should have gone as myself!" Sirius yelled back.
"Yeah, right... Because Bellatrix wouldn't have made sure you died for good this time?"
"For fucks sake, Moony! We didn't have time! I didn't come back from the veil to risk any of you unnecessarily. I came back to help you and die for any of you when it is necessary! I made my peace with it! Why can't you?!" Sirius yelled.
Harry and Hermione grimaced. That was so not the right question to ask. A loud smack and then a thud sounded, the teens grimaced, and Harry's hand froze, hovering over the doorknob. Hermione shook her head. Harry dropped his hand immediately.
"You selfish bastard! I had to bury James and Lily by myself!"
Hermione's eyes widened. Fuck, I never thought about that! Harry held Hermione's hand a bit tighter and tried to keep it together.
"Love..." Tonks tried to calm down her husband.
"NO. He has to hear this!"
"Remus, I know what you went through-" Sirius began.
"YOU DON'T FUCKING KNOW WHAT I WENT THROUGH, SIRIUS! You were in Azkaban for your sheer inability to control your anger!"
"And I paid handsomely for it! For twelve bloody years!"
"FUCK! You don't understand anything... I..." Remus choked a sob. "I had to face Prongs' son as a stranger! A fucking s-stranger! I was U-Uncle Moo-y! But I was cut off f-from his life! I should have been his g-guardian! Except I couldn't because I was a werewolf and you... You could have raised him... We could have raised him together but no... you went to prison!"
"Moony..." Sirius' voice broke.
"I should have known about the bullshit he went through on his first year! He needed an advocate! He needed protection! When I die, Lily will revive me just so she can kill me again! I would have had him removed from Hogwarts and sent to Ilvermony right away! I would have trained him from the moment he could stand on his own! He would have been safer!"
"Voldemort would still have been out there, son," Ted tried to reason, Harry and Hermione assumed that Remus looked at him so angrily that he went quiet.
"And then, you bloody arse… You escape prison and instead of coming to see me, you go straight to Hogwarts risking apprehension and murder! I was your brother! You had no right to do what you did!"
"Remus," Tonks began. She wished her mother was here. She had an uncanny ability to shut Sirius up. But her duty to her patients kept her away.
"No, Dora. He has to hear this! Harry and Hermione freed you and you bent under Dumbledore's pressure to go back to the house of horrors you escaped as a teen. I told you to move in with me! You would have been safe! And happier! And in constant communication with Harry! And maybe then our boy wouldn't have had to run interference in the Department of Mysteries and battle Death Eaters that ended up almost killing Hermione and actually k-killing y-you!"
Harry gripped Hermione's hand tightly. She returned the squeeze.
"Moony, please!"
"NO! I have already b-buried and mourned my friends once and I refuse to do it again. You are NOT going on any more potential suicide missions. Especially not without me! I will not lose you again! I will knock you out to keep you here if I h-have to!" Remus broke down. "I c-can't lose you a-again!"
Harry and Hermione heard a second thud and earnest crying inside. Both teens wiped their tears with the backs of their hands. As they were about to knock and offer assistance -not that they thought there would be much they could do- Tonks and Ted stepped out. "They are going to need some time alone."
Harry and Hermione nodded. "This was a long time coming, wasn't it?" Harry asked.
Tonks nodded sadly. "Let us go record a message for the P.A. You can come to talk to them later."
"Yeah, but just a warning... I suck at public speaking!" Harry groaned as they walked away.
"We can do it together if you'd like?" Hermione offered.
"Yes, please. Thank you," Harry squeezed her hand.
Harry fidgeted as he thought about what he could say.
"Tonks is ready to capture the memory," Hermione said.
"What should I say?"
"Speak from your heart. Thank them. Encourage them. Tell them we are still fighting"
"Okay. I will try."
Tonks was sitting down looking at a pair of chairs. "Whenever you are ready, kids."
Harry helped Hermione sit down.
"Hello everyone, I am Harry Potter, and I am still alive, despite what others would want you to believe. I hope you are all as good as can be for the circumstances," Harry said awkwardly.
Tonks smiled indulgently. Only this boy would introduce himself when he was the most known face of the wizarding world.
"Hello P.A. We wanted to send this message to tell you that we haven't been killed, or given up," Hermione added. "We are still fighting, and we are somewhere relatively safe. First, we want you to know that Luna and Cho are with us... We managed to get them out of Malfoy Manor which is the Headquarters for the Death Eaters. Their parents have been notified."
"Yeah, we can hardly believe it either... Just like I can't believe so many of you are standing behind me. I am not worthy of your sacrifice, but I want you to know that it is much appreciated... I-I know a 'thank you' doesn't even begin to cover everything you've gone through..." Harry inhaled deeply and exhaled shakily.
Hermione reached over and squeezed his hand without breaking eye contact with Tonks. "We are truly grateful and so, so very proud of all of you. We know that your families have been hurt or taken because you belong to the P.A. Please send us a message and let us know what you know. Who was taken, by whom, and when? Who was hurt, by whom, and when?" Hermione added. "Make sure only Harry or I can open it."
"We are sending over some supplies with whoever gives you the message. Stay strong and give them hell, but try to stay safe," Harry smiled. "That's the most important thing to me... to us."
Hermione nodded, "We are working on something needed to defeat Tom Riddle. That is all we can say at the moment. Please look after each other and if you need help, contact Professor McGonagall. She has a way to communicate with us. We are so sorry we can't say anything else," Hermione said with an apologetic smile.
"Lastly, we want to say to Daphne Greengrass..." Harry swallowed thickly and felt dumb. How do you thank a person for losing their father? How do you express how sorry you are for their loss?
"Daphne, we have never been close. But we were told about your family's loss. We are very sorry about your father. There is not much we can say that would in any way help you feel better. All we can promise is that your family's sacrifice is noted and that we will do our best to avenge him."
Harry nodded. His eyes were full of tears. "I n-never had the privilege of knowing my father. But it still hurts like a motherfucker not to have him with me. I can't p-possibly imagine what it's like for you when you have t-thousands of memories to miss him for."
Hermione wrapped her arm around Harry's waist in support. "Lord Greengrass' contributions to magical law enforcement and to the field of Transfiguration will live on as we try to build a better society once we get rid of that... bastard. We don't care what house you belong to. You are one of us now and we will fight for and with you. That's a promise."
"Everyone, please be there for Daphne and for each other. Fighting is important, but let's not forget what we are fighting for. Live. Hug your friends. Try to laugh at least a little. We are sending you some things that may help. We will try to update you again soon."
"Mischief Managed," Harry added and winked.
Tonks closed her eyes and extracted the memory with her wand. Then, she opened a vial and placed it there, closing the cap firmly.
"Alright, kids. Anything else I can do for you?"
"Yes. We want to send a message to Neville."
"Whenever you are ready," Tonks sat back down.
Harry paced, trying to find the right words to say, "Neville... you crazy, brave, stupid Gryffindor!" he exclaimed.
"What Harry is trying to say... is that we are so bloody proud of you it hurts," Hermione's eyes were glistening, and her smile couldn't be wider.
Harry sighed. "What you are doing... Fuck. I don't think I could have done that."
"We know why you went to Hogsmeade. I promise that, if Alastor was alive still when the fighting started, he died a bloody happy man knowing that you guys came for him and kicked some Death Eaters' asses," Harry tried not to curse too much but he was bursting with pride. They had seen a copy of The Daily Prophet that Dobby procured.
"We don't know if you were made aware of this, but Ronald betrayed us. He left us during the hunt. We didn't see him for a while and when he found us, he came with Snatchers."
"They didn't see us or catch us because we were behind Hermione's wards. Dobby had just bonded with my family somehow and he was able to find us. He took us away to a safer location. But before we left, we saw that Ronald... Well, Ronald took on the Dark Mark."
The teens shuddered and stayed quiet for a few seconds. "He was going to turn us in to Riddle."
"We were as shocked as you are. If you ever come across him, bear in mind that I managed to obliviate him before we left so he thinks he's eleven years old. He knows little to no magic, and he was cast out by the Weasleys."
"Please be there for Ginny. Tell her we are sorry. She should have had counseling for what she went through with Riddle. We are also sorry about Ron, but there was nothing else we could do. He knew too much to just let him keep his memories."
"We hope you understand..."
"Anyway, you should be so proud of yourself and of everyone fighting with you. The resistance you are creating is marvelous and inspiring. Please let us know what we can do for you. Anything you need, let us know. If Luna and Cho want to leave our side, they will go straight to their parents. We don't want to risk sending them back to Hogwarts."
"We know you want to defend Hogwarts, and we understand that. However, if push comes to shove and you are more prisoners than students, let us know and we will find a way to get you out. Our NEWTS are not more important than our lives," Hermione smiled at Tonks.
Harry turned and looked at Hermione in surprise, "Um... Sorry, who are you?!"
"I know how to prioritize."
"Sure, Miss I'm-going-to-bed-before-either-of-you-think-up-of-a-clever-idea-to-get-us-killed-or-worse-expelled!" Harry chuckled.
Hermione slapped his arm, but she laughed. "I was eleven! You know, Neville... Sometimes I wonder why I even bothered to try to civilize this one..."
"HEY!" Harry looked outraged for a second.
Hermione pecked his cheek and he blushed and stammered.
"You were saying?" Hermione smirked.
"I was not worthy of your genius and compassion... okay?"
"Better," she chuckled.
"Anyway, we have to go. Please let us know what we can do to support your efforts and stay as safe as you can."
The teens waved and Tonks closed her eyes and repeated the memory gathering procedure.
Luna stared out the window at the beautiful scenery. She wished she could enjoy the view. However, any slight sound made her jump and tense up. Cho had apologized about five times for scaring her. Luna wondered why Cho was so nonchalant about what happened. McLaggen had forced his fingers inside her and she had screamed then, but now she looked fine.
"How are you... o-okay?" Luna asked in a whisper.
Cho got up slowly and hobbled over to the girl. "I am not. Not really... But Luna, I had been with someone already... Of course, it sucks to be forced to endure something you would never choose... But I imagine it's worse for you."
"Because no one has ever wanted me?" Luna asked, her voice full of pain.
"What? No! No, Luna... The first time something like that happens it should ideally be with someone you like... Someone who cares about you, hopefully, loves you. It should be with someone you respect and who respects your boundaries."
"Was yours Cedric?"
"Yes. He was the only guy I was ever with, voluntarily, that is... and he was wonderful. He was kind, patient, loving, and so terrified of hurting me... That's the difference. We chose each other. We were both learning, and we trusted each other," Cho held Luna's hand.
"It must have been nice. I am never going to have that..." she sighed.
"Luna, don't say that... You are so young. I know it sucks right now, but I promise that it will get better. I hated every second McLaggen's slimy hands touched me with such obvious intent to hurt and humiliate me. But if we don't move past this, he wins. He doesn't get to win. There are many wonderful, kind men out there... like Neville," Cho smiled knowingly at the blonde.
Luna let go of Cho's hand with a sad sigh. "Are you together, then?"
"What?! Luna... Sweetie, I know we are not the best of friends, and that is my fault, but trust me on this. Neville adores you. He only has eyes for you. He is just very shy."
"But you like him... And I am sure he would rather be with you..."
"I liked him a while back. I am not going to lie... But I did try to get closer, and he wouldn't give me the time of day. It was always 'Luna this...', 'Luna that...' Honestly."
"Really?"
"Yes. It was just like when I went on that one date with Harry. It was all 'Hermione says...', 'Hermione thinks...', I mean, he has been head over heels in love with Hermione since always. You and Neville are perfect for each other... Can I make a confession? Keep it just between us?" Cho asked.
Luna nodded with a curious face.
"I think I like Anthony..."
"Goldstein?" Luna blinked.
"Yes... Our parents are friends, and we spent a lot of time together growing up. He sort of asked me out right before we tried to save Moody... Said he had always had a crush on me and that he wanted to explore that with me," Cho smiled.
Luna returned the smile tentatively, "And you said yes?"
"I sort of gave him a peck on the lips," Cho blushed, "so I hope he took that as a yes. Who knows when we will see each other again, though."
"I am happy for you," Luna sighed.
"Luna, I know it seems impossible right now, but you will get better. We need to be grateful that Harry and his people got us out. I don't want to think about the things we would have been forced to do if we were still imprisoned there," Cho shuddered. Luna started sobbing and Cho pulled her in for a hug. "Hey, it's okay. We are safe here."
There was a knock on the door. Luna jumped. Hermione's head popped in. "Excuse me, can we come in?"
"We?" Luna looked scared. She quickly dabbed her tears away with the long sleeve of Draco's shirt that she was still wearing. She refused to undress, and the healer had been quite patient and told her they would move at her pace.
"Harry is with me," Hermione replied.
"But I am totally willing to stay out here if you prefer. I don't want to make you uncomfortable," Harry added.
Luna and Cho shared a look, and both nodded at Hermione. She stepped in followed by Harry. "Did you have any breakfast yet?" Hermione was worried about Luna.
Cho nodded and Luna shook her head.
Harry stepped forward slowly. "Luna... D-Do you think you could maybe drink something?"
"W-Why?"
"Well, I could make you a healthy smoothie so you can keep your mouth as close as possible but still get some nutrition. We don't want you to get sick and-"
Harry was cut off when a blonde blur jumped into his arms. He barely managed not to fall backward.
"T-Thank you, Harry," Luna sobbed into his shoulder. Harry just pressed his hands slightly to the girl's head and upper back and made no motion to tighten his hold.
Hermione smiled with relief, Yes! There is still hope! "Is there anything you don't eat?"
Luna shook her head.
"Okay, then I'll go make you something nice and filling, alright?" Harry waited for her to let go.
"Thank you, Harry," Luna dabbed her eyes with the back of her sleeve.
"Don't mention it... Luna, I am so sorry we didn't manage to get you out sooner..." Harry looked at her blue bloodshot eyes and felt like using McLaggen's head as a punching bag.
The girl shook her head, "I am alive just because you guys got me out."
"Anything we can get you or do for you... please let us know, okay?" Harry tentatively squeezed one of her hands.
She squeezed back, "Thank you. You are a very kind person, Harry."
Harry blushed but left quickly after sharing a smile with Hermione. He had a smoothie to make.
Maki had been listening to the conversation from behind the privacy screens that kept Master and Mistress Malfoy hidden from view. Mother and son were still unconscious. Their injuries would heal faster if they stayed like they were so Maki sat patiently. Was that new girl her new Mistress? The one that healed her and made her stronger? Maki peeked through the space between the fabric of the screen and the tube, making sure he wasn't seen.
Mistress Hermione looked ordinary and quite plain to Maki. She was used to witches and wizards dressed to the nines with impeccable hair and formal shoes. This witch was walking around barefoot wearing a simple sundress. Her frizzy hair was up in a messy bun, and she had no jewelry on, no accessories of any kind. She did have a nice profile and her skin looked healthy. Was that Harry Potter? The one that Dobby loved so much? He sounded as kind as Dobby had described him. Perhaps even kinder. His voice made Maki feel reassured and at ease.
Maki wasn't used to men who treated women with respect and deference. Harry Potter was the Master of this mansion and yet, he asked for permission before going inside one of the rooms of his house. He told the girls within that if they weren't comfortable, he would leave. That was unthinkable. He had touched the blonde girl as if he feared she would break. He apologized sincerely too. Maki wanted to believe these people really were this kind, but she was used to lies and manipulation all around her. Not to mention fear, violence, and pain. This was so different is scared Maki in a good way.
Her Mistress groaned as Mr. Potter left the room and Maki rushed to her side.
"M-Maki?"
"Yes, I is here Mistress..."
"D-Draco?" Narcissa squinted, trying to focus.
"He is being safe with yous."
"W-Water," Narcissa begged. The light room was blinding her.
"Mrs. Malfoy?" Hermione asked from the other side of the screen. She had been talking to the girls in hushed tones.
"W-Who?" Narcissa looked for her wand desperately.
"Please don't move. You are safe here. Expecto Patronum! Tell Andi Mrs. Malfoy is awake," Hermione instructed her otter patronus.
"A-Andi? M-My Andi?" Narcissa tried to sit up, but it hurt too much, and she realized she was tightly bound to the bed.
"Can I come inside your privacy screen? I mean you no harm. I can leave my wand out here."
"W-Who are you?"
"Hermione Granger."
"Oh fuck..." Narcissa groaned. This is bad. This is really bad, she thought. I am so dead.
Draco sat up bolt right with a scream. "Mom!"
Hermione came in ready to stun him back to bed. He was struggling with the ties keeping him in place with desperation. He looked like a terrified child as he looked around trying to find Narcissa. His skin was paler than ever, the dark circles under his eyes, "Malfoy, I will cut off your ties on that arm if you behave."
He nodded, shaking.
"Diffindo," Hermione whispered.
Narcissa's body was tied to the bed for the most part, but her right arm was out of the ties. "It's okay, Draco. I am here," Narcissa reached out to her son who strained with a pained expression but held on to her hand tightly.
Several sets of hurried steps approached.
"Cissa!" Andi looked to be struggling with her desire to hug her sister. "Harry, may I-?"
The teen nodded. The sisters embraced each other tightly. Draco looked terrified at all the people who were seeing his naked torso and he tried to cover himself up with the blanket. Maki jumped to his bed to cover him while she did a couple of snaps and Draco was dressed with a pajama.
"Lord Black!" Narcissa tried to lower her head in a sort of bow, but her neck stung her badly, so it looked like a nod.
"Lady Malfoy," Sirius nodded.
"W-Where are we?" Narcissa asked Andromeda while the Healer started to double-check her sister's health.
"You are at a safe location. This is a House of Potter property."
Narcissa was openly shocked. That was a rare sighting. She was not the kind of person to display her emotions on her face. Maki handed Draco a glass of water. He drank greedily. His throat felt like it had been rubbed by sandpaper.
"Sirius, the wards are screeching," Harry grimaced as he massaged his temples. He turned away and handed Luna her smoothie. She took it with a serene smile and went to her bed. She knew this conversation was not for her.
"Right. Narcissa, I brought you and Draco here. The only reason why I did that, despite other people's and perhaps even my own better judgement was that your son asked me to. But in order for you to stay, you must give a fealty oath to Harry Potter, Hermione Granger, and myself, just like your son did. Otherwise, we will take you somewhere else and obliviate you."
"Draco?"
"Mother, please. I have had enough. I can't do this anymore. Please do this for me... for you. Here can't be worse than it is back at Lucius' place," Draco replied. His voice was barely a raspy whisper.
Narcissa looked at her son, searching for something that she apparently found, "Lord Black... I don't have my wand," Narcissa said with a frown.
"Andi, her wand," Sirius requested.
Andromeda handed the wand back to her sister. Narcissa did the fealty oath to Harry, Hermione, and Sirius with conviction. Draco was right. She was tired of struggling to stay alive every day.
"You are now under our protection. As soon as you are fully recovered, you both have to start working and training. You have lodgings, food, and a healer at your disposal. However, here, everyone must pull their own weight. We can talk about specifics later. Draco, do you feel good enough to walk around a bit?" Sirius said. He needed to talk to Narcissa alone.
"No. Sorry, but he can't put any weight on his leg," Andi said as she engorgioed a wheelchair she had in her pocket.
Draco tried to move, but every muscle hurt, and his leg was killing him. However, he couldn't disobey. So, he grunted and bit back tears. When he stood, his knees faltered. Hermione caught him by the forearms and noted his skin was ice cold. Draco would have screamed at her before but now she was the boss or well... at least one of them.
"Thank you, Ms. Granger," Draco whispered.
Harry, Luna, and Cho gaped behind Sirius. Did hell just freeze over? Harry thought.
Hermione was equally shocked. This is so weird. But she helped him to the chair, nonetheless, half expecting Malfoy to wipe 'clean' the places she had touched him, but he didn't. Luna approached them slowly.
"D-Draco?"
The Slytherin looked at the girl with apprehension, but he didn't say anything.
"I just wanted to say thank you," she tried to smile.
Draco frowned. He had no idea what this was about, "Why?"
"You gave me your shirt and your robe. You didn't have to do that. I appreciate the risk you took," Luna replied in her usual airy tone. It was then that Draco noticed the girl was still wearing his shirt. He saw a flashback of her naked torso and had to shake his head to clear it.
"It was the only thing I could do," he said with a grimace. "I am sorry."
"I know. Thank you," Luna turned. "Mrs. Tonks, I finished my smoothie. Can I go walk for a bit?"
"Of course. Why don't you kids," she looked at Harry and Hermione. "Show them around the house?"
Harry looked ready to protest but Hermione's hand found his and her fingers intertwined with his own and he decided to shut up. "Absolutely, come on girls. Draco-"
Maki cleared her throat, "Can Maki comes too?"
Hermione smiled. "Yes, of course. I am glad you are doing better, Maki. Perhaps you can help Draco move around so he can come with us," she proposed. She was certain Draco wouldn't accept anyone else, maybe his mother, to push him around. He was too proud and too suspicious of everything and everyone.
Draco was trying hard not to look impressed. The house was everything Malfoy Manor was not. It was light and so airy with open doors and windows. He could see that the skies outside were a bright light blue. The furniture was high quality and looked comfortable with pops of color and gold accents. As a Slytherin, he had an embarrassing secret. He much preferred yellow gold over silver or white gold. He would never say that out loud, but gold was warm and just looked nicer, more expensive. Silver could be a little dull unless it was constantly polished.
Cho held on to Luna they walked. She still needed the support. Harry and Hermione walked close to each other ahead of everyone else.
"This is the kitchen and through that door is the pantry."
"What are all those shiny things?" Luna asked looking at the stainless-steel appliances.
"They are machines that are powered by electricity and help non-magical people do things in the kitchen," Hermione explained. Harry let go of her hand to explain.
"What is elektrarcity?" Maki asked perplexed. She immediately looked like she wanted to hit her head for speaking.
"It's a form of energy. You know how wizarding homes have candles?" Hermione asked.
Maki nodded, thankful that the witch seemed happy to answer questions... even from an elf.
"Well, we have this," Hermione went to the switch and turned on the lights.
Draco looked up and around, surprised. So, that's what those glass-covered things on the ceilings were for: muggle lights. They just had to press a button? Convenient. Hermione pressed the other side of the switch, and they were turned off.
"We always keep the lights off during the daytime."
"Yeah, so... Um, this is a blender, a toaster, a fridge, of course, an oven, a coffee maker, and a juicer," Harry said pointing at each.
"Should we learn how to use them? The appliances, I mean," Cho asked. "So, we can help?"
Hermione shrugged. "I would think it's a good idea for you to learn, but I don't think Kreacher or"
Kreacher appeared next to Hermione. "Mistress calls Kreacher?"
Harry looked shocked. When did that happen?
"Oh, hi. I was just mentioning that I thought you and Dobby wouldn't want us, humans, messing around the kitchen. However, if you ever do, we are more than happy to make a timetable and distribute all the cooking and other household tasks," Hermione explained all of this with a tentative smile. Tonks had told her that elves were very territorial about their tasks and offering them help could be offensive. "We don't want you to be overworked. You need your rest too."
Kreacher nodded, "Mistress is most kind. Kreacher thinks Dobby, Maki, and Kreacher can manage without help," he smiled at her.
"Alright. If that ever changes and you are tired or need additional help, let me know and we will figure it out together, is that okay?" Hermione offered.
"Yes, Mistress," Kreacher vanished after he bowed.
Harry looked at Hermione questioningly, but she just mouthed 'Later.'
They went through the house and Draco gasped when they reached the big wrap-around porch. He could see the ocean and a white sand beach.
"Are you okay?" Harry asked Draco. "Should I get Andromeda?"
Draco looked startled that Harry sounded genuinely concerned about his wellbeing. Is the world coming to an end?
"N-No, I am fine. Thank you... I just..."
Hermione looked at him curiously then smiled. "Is this your first time seeing the ocean?"
Draco turned to her scared. "How do you know that?"
"Just a hunch," Hermione shrugged. "Do you want to get closer? We can levitate you to the shore."
Draco inhaled shakily. He tried to stay proud and conceited, but it was the ocean! His father hated anywhere sunny. It was absurd that they lived on an island, and he had never had a chance to see the ocean around it. Every time they went on holiday they would go via portkey and strictly to land-locked places, especially cold mountain locations. If they ever were somewhere with water, it was a river. "I... Yes, please."
Hermione took out her wand and made the chair levitate steadily as they all walked down to the beach. At some point, Luna chuckled to herself and ran to the water, jumping in. Cho laughed softly at her childlike enthusiasm and followed the girl still limping a bit. Draco was trying hard not to get emotional. But this was his dream. He never thought it would be realized in these circumstances, but it was perhaps even better than he thought it would be because he was safe. His father wasn't there. Voldemort wasn't there. It was a beautiful house and people were, surprisingly, being much kinder to him than he knew he had any right to expect.
"Do you want to sit on the sand, Malfoy?" Harry offered.
"I... I don't want to be a bother," Draco muttered. His pride wouldn't allow for any other response.
"Put your arm around my neck," Harry said without thinking.
Draco looked at him with wide eyes and blushing furiously.
"Well, that's something I never thought you would say to Malfoy," Hermione snorted with an amused spark in her eyes.
"Ugh, you are right. That sounded bad... God... Just do it," Harry bent over a bit and Malfoy did put his cold arm around him. Harry lifted Malfoy making sure not to put any pressure on the Slytherin's hurt leg. Harry lowered him to the sand where the water would soon come and touch his legs. "You okay?"
Draco nodded. He wanted to ask to be left alone, but he didn't want to seem ungrateful. After all, he had made an oath.
"Come on, Harry. Malfoy needs some space," Hermione pulled Harry away.
The blond was truly grateful that Granger had moved the both of them away. He really needed that. Cho and Luna were splashing each other, giggling. Draco felt tears fall from his eyes. He was alive. His mother was alive. They were safe and the cool, foamy, crystalline water lapped at his feet gently. Soon enough, he was sobbing into his hands, as quietly as he could. Maki produced tissues for him and vanished. When Master Draco was upset, he tended to lash out and Maki was scared she would get the worst of it.
"Should we go talk to him?" Harry asked out of politeness. It was the last thing he wanted to do, but perhaps Hermione disagreed.
"Honestly, I think he needs his mom," Hermione winced.
"I'll go see if she can be brought here," Harry offered.
"Thank you. I don't want to leave the girls alone."
Harry nodded. "I understand. I am rubbish with crying people, anyway."
Dudley approached them slowly. "I didn't mean to pry but I caught the end of your conversation."
"Oh?" Hermione asked curiously.
"It doesn't look like he is much of a danger in his wheelchair, but if he tries something against the girls, I will fuck up his other leg, Harry," Dudley promised.
Harry chuckled. "Thanks, I appreciate that."
Hermione squinted at Dudley.
"I am not saying you need defending... It's just... sometimes there are unsavory things that need to be done but you shouldn't have to do it. I know you can possibly kill him in more... um... creative ways with your wand, but you are a lady and after all, you are the queen of the castle," Dudley nodded at Harry who blushed furiously as he shook his head, trying to make his cousin shut up. "So, you need to be safe at all times." Dudley looked at Harry with confusion.
Hermione, who hadn't heard Harry threaten Dudley at Gringotts blushed. "Thank you, Dudley, I appreciate that. Come, I should introduce you. Just keep your distance from the girls."
Harry was glad Hermione didn't comment on what he said to his cousin and he apparated to the porch.
Minerva McGonagall had to add whiskey to her tea. Dobby had come to her and given her two memories. He said that her lions indicated she could watch both. Dobby lent her one of the pensieves he had purchased on Harry's orders while he went to pick up other things. Minerva was shocked. One pensieve was terribly expensive, but two? Dobby informed her that Hermione encouraged Harry to start throwing money at the problem and she couldn't help but agree. It made her feel much more at ease that her kids had a full-time healer and a few responsible adults to keep them safe. During her Transfiguration class, Minerva gave a startled Neville detention. The Gryffindor came to her office as agreed, but he was quite nervous. Finding her sipping her tea, he cleared his throat.
"Professor?"
"Come in and shut the door behind you."
"May I make sure you are Neville Longbottom?"
Neville nodded, feeling a bit attacked. The professor handed him a dagger. As a pureblood, Neville had done this before, but it confused him that his Head of Hogwarts House was asking him to do it. Such things were usually only done at Gringotts. A few drops fell into the parchment the professor handed him and a family tree formed which indeed showed he was the heir of House of Longbottom.
"I apologize, Mr. Longbottom, but I have something for you. I needed this assurance before I could give it to you because it contains privileged information that cannot fall into the wrong hands."
"Something for me?" Neville frown. "Is it Luna? Cho? Please tell me they are okay."
"They are stable. Here you go. This vial contains a memory for you specifically. The other one is for all the P.A. members," Minerva explained.
"Thank Merlin!"
"I will give you some privacy."
She went to her room and closed the door. She had already seen the memories, but she expected that Neville would prefer some space.
When Minerva came back out, Neville was dabbing his eyes with a handkerchief. Dobby popped back into the office and Neville almost blew him apart.
"I is Dobby, Harry Potter's elf, sir!"
"Oh! OH! I am sorry, Dobby!" Neville put his wand back in his holster. "Have you seen Luna? How about Cho? Are they okay?"
"Dobby is not being sure he can tell yous much. They is as okay as can be," the elf replied.
"What does that mean?" Neville frowned.
"Mr. Longbottom, beyond your role at P.A., do you care for Ms. Lovegood?"
Neville blushed but nodded rapidly. "Of course. She's my best friend."
Minerva narrowed her eyes at him.
"Yes, I have feelings for her," Neville whispered.
"I see. Augusta will need to get ill," McGonagall said with a calculating glint.
"Excuse me?"
"It's the only reason I can see for me to excuse you from Hogwarts so you can go see Ms. Lovegood. You must make sure Augusta is actually is sick. Some of those Messrs Weasley products will help, I am sure. Then, Dobby can come and bring you to where she is."
"I will contact her tonight."
"Floo call her through my fireplace after dinner. I don't have to tell you that all mail is opened before you get it."
"I know. While we can set something up," Neville turned to Dobby and took off his sweater. "Take this to her, please."
"Yes, sir," Dobby reduced the size of the pensieve and popped away.
"Now leave. We can't have anyone know I am helping you. Take the bag with you and keep it safe. Mr. Potter was most generous with all that he sent."
"Yes, Professor."
Neville turned to leave, but he suddenly turned back and hugged the professor tightly.
"Mr. Longbottom?" the professor was perplexed.
"Thank you," Neville pulled away with a watery smile.
"Whatever for?"
"For trusting me and for never giving up the fight. You could have left. With all due respect, you are a badass witch, and I am honored to be your student. Thank you for bringing me news on Luna."
Minerva smiled. "No, Neville. I couldn't have. A lioness never leaves her cubs behind."
Neville hugged her again, even tighter, and then left as he usually did -quickly and quietly. As he walked down the hall with his head down, as the Carrows demanded, he drew a circle on the back of the P.A. galleon to summon the group to the Room of Requirement. They needed to watch their memory. Knowing that Luna was safe took a huge boulder off his chest. He was glad Cho was okay too. He had no idea how to talk to Ginny, but he knew that Daphne would appreciate Harry's and Hermione's words. The memory within the vial was worth more than all the gold a niffler could dig out at Hogwarts.
A/N: Thank you for reading! I appreciate your kind comments, follows, and favorites. I hope you are safe and healthy wherever you are. -Lux-