It's my birthday! Have an update!
I do not own Harry Potter
Chapter Seven
Adeline rushed from the stands, going straight to Albus. She whispered in his ear as Remus took point watching the maze while Sirius stood at his back watching the crowd. Albus and Adeline left the area, Albus removing the anti-apparition wards in one area and allowing Adeline to side along apparate. They followed the bracelet, Adie having updated it so she could find Harry easier and apparate directly to the area. They landed in a graveyard, spell fire flying a few yards away.
Adeline watched in horror as Harry's spell hit someone else's, locking in the center. Death Eaters surrounded the area and Adeline gave Albus a nod, the two ducking behind headstones beside each other before they waved their wands over their faces, hiding their identities with a mask and making their hair look different, sure that they couldn't be identified. Adie threw the first spell, hitting two Death Eaters and sending them flying into another one. Adie saw the streak of blond hair under one mask and held in a growl before she noticed Avery looking her way.
She stepped out from behind the headstone, volleying spells back and forth as Albus provided her cover. A smoke filled the area and Adie ran towards where she could see Harry falling to the ground. He disappeared and Albus and Adeline apparated back to the area they left the school from, but not before Adeline saw a man that had once been handsome looking more like a snake. She landed at the school, Albus closing the apparition area as they ran back to the others, finding Harry refusing to leave Cedric's body.
"He's back!" Harry yelled as Albus kneeled beside him. "Voldemort's back! I couldn't leave Cedric! Not there!"
Adeline felt her knees give out as she landed in the mud beside Harry. She pulled him to her chest, hugging him to her and rocking him back and forth as Amos fell in front of Cedric, screaming in pain over his dead son.
"Adie," Alastor whispered. "We need to get him out of here. He needs to be looked over."
Adeline nodded, lifting Harry to his feet. The two began walking with Alastor, his hand on Adeline's elbow as he walked her through the castle.
"Where are we going?" Adeline asked as they passed the third floor.
"My office," he explained. "I want to know what happened and look the boy over myself."
Adeline nodded, a confused expression on her face as she continued moving, slightly in shock after seeing Voldemort alive again. They entered Alastor's office, both taking a seat as Alastor moved through the room. He tossed a rag over, telling Harry to press it against his arm. Adeline watched as Harry rolled up his sleeve, unveiling a long cut that hadn't been noticeable before.
"How'd you know that was there?" Adeline asked, staring at the wound.
"Blood on his shirt," Alastor stated from deeper in the office.
The trunk in the center of the room shook violently, causing Harry and Adeline to both jump and stare at it.
"You wouldn't believe me if I told you what was in there," Alastor stated, throwing things around a bit. "Tell me everything. Tell me about the graveyard."
Adeline's eyes widened, staring at Alastor in shock.
"We didn't mention the graveyard," Harry said, looking confused before realization took over his face.
Adeline stood, her wand falling into her hand as she stood in front of Harry, wand raised. Alastor turned to her, skin bubbling.
"Imagine how we'll be rewarded, Adie," he hissed, tongue flicking out. "I know you were meant to blend in with the side of the light but you exceed expectations. He's very happy with you. We just have to take the boy to him now."
"Expelliarmus!" Albus shouted, bursting through the door.
Adeline was shaking, staring as Severus threw Alastor into a chair, glaring down at him. Remus went straight to Adeline as Sirius went to Harry. Adeline wrapped her arm around Remus' waist, holding him close with her wand still raised, both blocking Harry from view.
"Severus," Alastor smirked, tongue flicking again before Severus poured a potion down his throat.
"Barty," Adie whispered and he turned his head to her, smiling brightly.
"Yes," he grunted out.
"Where's Alastor?" Adeline asked, voice soft.
Barty looked to the trunk and Albus and Severus moved to it, opening it. Adeline kept her wand pointed as Barty's appearance changed back to himself.
"You died," Adeline whispered. "I was at your funeral."
"Father disguised my mother's body as mine and Imperioed me. He kept me a prisoner, Adie," Barty explained. "After Evan didn't return that night, I was so lost. I tried looking for him when I came back but there's no mention of him anywhere."
"He's dead," Adie stated, voice going hard. "I killed him. I'm going to kill you."
Adie lunged forward and Remus just barely caught her. She scratched across Barty's face letting out an annoyed yell at Remus' arms around her waist. Remus held her to his chest.
"His father will give him the kiss before he can tell anyone the truth," Adeline announced. "He won't want anyone to know what he's done, Albus. It'll incriminate him."
"I know," Albus said, moving so he was in front of Adeline and glaring at Barty.
"What do we do?" Sirius asked from behind her, Harry still in his arms.
"I'll call an emergency Wizengamot meeting now," Albus nodded. "I'll take him in. Explain what we saw in the graveyard. Tell them that Voldemort is back."
Adeline's legs gave out at the words, Remus catching her as a small whine left her throat. He carried her bridal style out of the office and towards her own, Harry and Sirius behind them. They walked into their quarters, all of the kids waiting for them. Remus walked pass them though, carrying Adeline to bed. He set her on the bed and waved his wand, changing her into her favorite pajamas. He crawled into the bed beside her, pulling her against his chest and holding her as she fell apart, privacy spells up around the room.
The next morning, Adeline woke up to a full bed. Remus was holding her from behind as Harry was pressed against her chest, Aster pressed against his back. She could feel Padfoot laying across their feet and she sat up slowly, not waking anyone in the process. She rubbed her face and found Draco, Hermione, Ron, Ginny, George and Fred on mattresses on the floor, all cuddled together. She gave a soft smile before turning to find Remus slowly opening his eyes.
He sat up with her, holding her to his chest and kissing the top of her head. Adeline turned, staring into his warm eyes, fear clear in her blue ones. He slowly got out of the bed before helping Adie stand. They waved their wands over themselves, changing their clothes into something more acceptable for the day before leaving the room. They sat on the couch, Remus holding Adie close.
"What are you going to do?" Remus asked, voice a whisper.
"Whatever I have to," she whispered back.
Remus took a deep breath, letting it out slowly. Adie pulled away, looking into his eyes again.
"I can't lose you," he reminded her.
"I can't promise that something won't happen to me," she told him. "Last time it was easier. This time I'm clueless. He might kill me the moment he sees me."
"Then don't go," Remus whispered, looking close to tears. "Please, Adie. Don't leave us. Don't leave me."
Remus pulled Adeline into a deep kiss. She fell into the kiss, feeling something flutter in her chest. Remus laid Adeline down on the couch, leaning over her body. Her arms wrapped around him, holding him as close as she could get him. Privacy charms were thrown up as Remus and Adeline crossed the line they never thought that they would, clothes landing on the floor as they desperately clung to one another.
An hour and a half later, everyone else began waking up. Adeline and Remus were preparing breakfast together as everyone slowly walked into the dining room, all taking seats in the magically extended table and the conjured chairs. Adeline and Remus began putting plates in front of everyone, Adeline telling Harry to eat some toast or porridge before kissing his head. Remus lifted Adie onto the counter, passing her a bowl of yogurt with fruit and granola before leaning against the counter beside her, arm resting on her thigh as he ate his own.
Adeline ate slowly, stomach upset as she watched over the children and Sirius, all in different levels of awake as they ate. Stomach soothers were placed in front of Harry, Aster and Adeline by Winky, the elf being in tune with the threes health and able to tell when they weren't feeling well. Adeline sighed before drinking the potion, setting aside the empty vial as she finished her breakfast. Remus took the empty bowl, placing it in the sink to wash itself before helping Adeline down.
The floo roared and Albus stepped out, joining them in the dining room.
"The emergency meeting went well," Albus whispered to Adeline and Remus as the others listened in. "Barty testified that he found a way out of the prison, no mention of his father's involvement, and was given the kiss. I'm sorry, Adie, for your loss."
"Don't be," she shook her head.
"Adie, I need to ask something of you."
Remus and Adeline shared a look before Adeline nodded to Albus.
"I'll get my journal."
Adeline went to the bedroom, opening the bedside drawer and finding the journal glowing. She sighed as she stared at it, lifting it out of the drawer as Remus stood in the doorway. She flipped it open finding Voldemort in the process of writing.
'Adie. My sweet, sweet Adie. I'm back. Come to my familiar home in three weeks' time. I'll be waiting. I've been waiting for so long.'
Adeline felt sick to her stomach as she stared at the journal. She walked back into the dining room, Remus following close behind. She waved her wand over the journal, making it visible to anyone who wanted to read it before placing it on the dining room table. Sirius read the note and his empty plate flew across the room, his magic leaking out as anger coursed through him.
"What does he mean?" Remus asked in a whisper. "I know he was obsessed with you, but this seems much."
"His family home?" Albus asked. "Why not his manor?"
"His manor was forfeited to the ministry when he fell. I showed them where it was. The journal was missing but I assumed it had been destroyed that night. His family has a manor somewhere. I just need to remember where."
Adeline rubbed her face, letting out a low breath before turning to Remus.
"Follow me."
Remus followed Adie to their room, looking confused as Adeline threw privacy spells up.
"Adie," Remus started.
"He was in love with me," she explained. "He kissed me when I went back to secure my position as a spy after Aster was born. I told him there was a mourning period that needed to be respected after Reggie died as a way to hold him off."
Remus stared at Adie in shock before anger filled his eyes.
"You aren't going back," Remus said leaving the room.
"Remy!" Adie called after him, following him back to the dining room.
"She isn't going back!" Remus yelled at Albus.
"I'm guessing you told him?" Sirius asked, seeming unbothered as he read the prophet.
"He knew?" Remus asked, turning to Adeline.
"I told him when I told him everything else," Adeline flinched slightly before Remus' potions appeared on the kitchen counter.
Remus took the potions quickly, leaning forward on the counter and waiting a few moments as the potions took effect. When they had, he stood straight again, staring Albus down.
"She isn't going," he told him.
"Remus, she's our greatest spy," Albus tried, voice soft.
"It's also her choice," Sirius said, still reading the paper.
"Why are you not helping me?" Remus asked.
"Because Adie has already made up her mind," Sirius sighed, setting the paper down, Barty Jr's face on the front page.
Remus turned to Adie, staring into her eyes. They spoke without speaking. Adie gave Remus a pleading look and he closed his eyes, deflating a bit.
"But, he'll kill you," Aster spoke up, having enough of the adults speaking as if they weren't in the room. "He's evil."
"He won't kill her," Severus stated, stumbling into the room.
"Sev!" Adeline yelled, rushing forward.
She led him to the couch, Wobky appearing with potions. Severus took the potions, letting out a sigh as they worked through him. He stared at Adie, sadness in his eyes.
"Avery brought him back," Severus explained.
"Of course he did. How the hell did he get out?" Adeline sighed. "What did he do to you?"
"He didn't trust me when I showed up but I explained that I've been with you this whole time," Severus stated. "He was rather forgiving after that. Thanked me for my services and for protecting you."
"If Uncle Sev is going, why does Mum have to?" Harry asked. "You only need one of them."
Adeline sighed before standing and staring at her children. She locked eyes with Remus again and he gave her a stiff nod. She nodded back and looked to her sons again.
"I'm going because I'm closer to him than anyone else. I'll be able to protect people in a way that no one else can, protect you in a way that no one else can," she explained. "I know how to get rid of him once and for all. I've already started. Albus, Reggie, and I had information that no one else did and, obviously, we missed something. He won't give that information to Severus on a whim. He'll give it to me. He already did in the past. I just need to put the rest of the pieces together."
"What if he figures it out?" Harry asked. "There are pictures of us all over the Prophet. He'll figure it out. He'll know."
"Barty said something," Adie shook her head. "He said that Voldemort was proud of me for blending so well. Do you think he believes that I'm Harry's mentor?"
"That is what he believes," Albus nodded. "Said as much during the trial. He doesn't know that you're his guardian."
"Who's leading the charges against the Death Eaters?"
"No one. They don't want to believe he's back," Albus sighed.
"Fuck," Adeline groaned, rubbing her eyes.
"Language," Aster joked, trying to make himself feel better.
Adeline stared at Aster, chewing her lip. Aster gave her a strange look as Remus caught on to Adeline's thoughts.
"No. Absolutely not," Remus spoke up.
Adeline gave Remus a pointed look.
"I hate when they do that," Aster sighed.
"Get in line," Sirius smirked.
"You aren't teaching him," Remus growled out.
"I taught you," Adeline argued.
"That was different."
"How?"
"We were kids. Stupid kids who were in over our heads. We should be dead a few times over by now."
"But we aren't because I taught you," Adeline shrugged. "They're kids and they're in over their heads. They'll be dead a few times over if I don't teach them."
"Them? You want to teach Harry, too?"
"Well, yes. If I don't, Aster will try teaching him and that'll go horribly," Adeline shivered at the thought.
"No."
"If I want to teach them, I will," Adeline glared, arms crossing over her chest.
"Are you going to tell them the whole truth?" Remus shot back, brows raised.
"That's low," Adeline growled out.
"Truth?" Sirius asked, looking confused.
"Oh! Look! Something you didn't spill to Sirius! We should be used to you keeping secrets by now. Made another one this morning," Remus growled out.
"Shut it," Adeline hissed.
"Or what?" Remus questioned.
"I'm sorry. Do you need another calming draught?" Adeline asked, eyes narrowing.
Remus let out a soft growl before storming out of the room. Adeline watched him go, taking a deep breath and a step back. Everyone stared at her in shock as she calmed herself, no one having seen Remus and Adeline actually argue before. Well, everyone except for Severus, who just watched with a sad look.
"What secrets?" Sirius asked.
"Nothing. Boys, pack your things. We're going home tonight," Adeline growled out, heading towards her sleeping quarters.
She slammed the door closed, leaning against it and breathing heavily. After a few minutes, Adeline waved her wand, her clothes and belongings flying into trunks, Tiffy popping away with the trunks when Adie called for her. Adeline slid down the door, landing on the floor and letting a few tears slip out. When she pulled herself back together again, she waved her wand over her face, making herself presentable before going back to the sitting room.
Everyone else had left at some point, heading to the Gryffindor common room. Padfoot slept curled on the couch by the fire. Adeline gave a soft smile, running her fingers through his fur for a moment before leaving the quarters and heading to the main hall. She avoided every one's eyes as she went, looking forward with her head held high and shoulders back, beyond grateful that it was a Saturday and that not many students were milling around.
'It could have something to do with their dead classmate,' Adeline reminded herself.
She reached the Great Hall, finding the banners that hung over the table to all be black as she headed to her seat beside Severus. Severus gave her a sad smile, taking her hand under the table and giving a soft squeeze. Students began filing in, sitting quietly at their tables. Harry and Aster walked in with their heads down, The Weasley's, Hermione, and Draco with them. People stared at Harry as he went, not even pretending to hide their curiosity.
"I didn't heal his arm," Adeline realized.
"I did," Severus told her. "Remus took you straight to bed. Said you were in shock."
"Yeah," Adeline nodded.
"What secret was made this morning?" Severus asked curiously.
"Remus and I slept together," Adeline whispered.
"You always sleep together," Severus shook his head. "In fact, you were all in one room last night when I left."
"No. I mean we slept together. We woke up before everyone else, went to the living room, and yeah," Adeline explained.
"Has that not happened since he returned?" Severus questioned.
"It's never happened ever."
"I'm sorry, what?" Severus' brows almost reached his hairline.
"Never."
"I thought…"
"Nope."
"Well, seems like I lost a bet with Reggie somehow," Severus said, looking towards the students as a commotion started at Gryffindor table.
"Shit," Adeline hissed, standing with Severus and McGonagall and rushing over to where a few Slytherins had gathered around Harry and his friends.
"What is happening here?" Severus questioned, voice low and dangerous as he stared at his Slytherins.
"Draco, are you coming with us or not?" Zabini asked the blond. "Or did you forget that your loyalties should rest in the Malfoy family?"
Draco glanced at Adeline and Severus, catching them nodding to him. Draco stood, going with the Slytherins, leaving the Gryffindors in shock and confusion. Hermione looked close to tears as she watched him go until Adeline placed a hand on her shoulder. Hermione looked up, remembering what Adeline had told her about not letting people see her cry the year before. Hermione took a few deep breaths, calming herself before beginning a conversation with Ginny about a spell she'd found the other day in the library. Ginny caught on, pulling the boys into the conversation as well.
Adeline let out a sigh as she looked to her sons, watching as they glared at the Slytherin table, reminding her of the looks she used to receive from Sirius and James when she'd sat with the Slytherins in school. She looked to Severus, him seeming to have the same thought. He gave her a nod before going to the Slytherin table. Adeline went back to her seat, sitting and watching carefully as Severus spoke in a low tone to the Slytherins.
When he joined her, they kept their eyes on the Slytherins, making sure they weren't planning anything. Albus stood, speaking of Cedric and telling everyone what had happened. He told everyone of how brave Cedric had been, how loyal and kind. It reminded Adeline a bit too much of when Mattheo had died for her liking so she tuned it out, choosing to watch the students instead.
She saw students from every house crying, Cho Chang sobbing into her friends shoulder. She told Tiffy to take the girl a calming draught now and to drop off a dreamless sleep potion in her room before bed. She saw the potion appear in front of Cho, watching as she drank it slowly. Severus gave her hand a light squeeze, asking Tiffy to do the same for a few other students as well.
Adeline sat on the couch in her living quarters, breathing heavily as she tried to calm herself. Wobky appeared, handing her a calming drought. Adeline drank it, setting the vial down as Harry and Aster walked in.
"Where's Sirius?" Harry asked curiously.
"Did dad not come back?" Aster added on.
"I'm not sure where either of them are. Sirius knows we're going to the cottage though. He'll either be there or be with your dad," Adeline told them. "Are you packed?"
"Yeah," they both nodded.
"Good. Aster, your teachers are sending you your end of year exams by owl. I'll watch you complete them. Harry, you were excused from your exams do to the tournament. Are you packed? Ready to go?" she asked, looking both boys over.
"What's going to happen with Draco?" Harry asked, voice small.
"He'll have to decide that for himself. He can either act like he agrees with the Slytherins or I can hide him with the two of you," Adeline explained. "Sissy hasn't responded to my owl or patronus today so I'm not sure what's happening yet. I do know Lucius was in the graveyard. I knocked him out."
"Was Uncle Lucius really imperioed?" Aster asked.
"No," Adeline shook her head. "He changed over the years though. Realized that his actions and beliefs weren't exactly the best to hold. Neither of them liked that Voldemort went after children during the last war."
"That he went after us," Aster clarified. "I don't think they cared about other kids."
"No, they did not," Adeline nodded, remembering Sirius' child and Bulstrode begging for his life due to his unborn daughter.
"What's going to happen to you?" Harry asked, voice shaking.
"I don't know," Adeline admitted. "Wobky will be with me. If any spells start flying, he will get me out of there immediately. I will come back to you. Always."
Harry and Aster nodded.
"Tiffy will take your things. We can floo from here," Adeline sighed, standing.
She went through the floo first, checking the cottage for anyone present. She sent a patronus, telling Harry and Aster that the coast was clear. They stepped through a moment later, both going up the stairs and to Aster's room. Adeline walked outside, checking the wards. She stopped at the graveyard, staring down at the names.
She let out a soft sob before falling to her knees and finally letting herself cry. She screamed in anger and agony, her magic lashing out and burning the ground beneath her, the graves being kept safe by Wobky's magic from all those years before. She let everything out, head so close to the ground as she bent over crying and screaming that she could almost taste the burnt grass.
She laid on the ground, the sparks slowly burning out as she stayed there. She finally sat up again, the sky completely dark and full moon in the sky. She stared up at it, just watching as it slowly moved through the sky. Adeline made it back to the cottage before the sun came up, falling onto the couch and falling asleep still fully clothed, not caring about her running makeup or how much of a mess she looked.
Harry and Aster found Adeline there the next morning, sharing worried glances before calling for Tiffy. Tiffy clicked her tongue in disapproval, snapping her fingers and changing Adeline into a silk nightie and cleaning her hair and face for her. A blanket floated over Adeline's body, covering her as she trembled slightly in her sleep. Wobky popped in a moment later.
"The field has been fixed," he told Tiffy.
"What happened to the field?" Aster asked, confused.
"Mistress' magic exploded," Wobky explained.
"Exploded?" Harry asked in shock.
"Mistress has very strong core. Sometimes it leaks, sometimes it explodes," Tiffy explained. "Mistress burnt the field. Wobky fixed it."
"Do you know where dad and Sirius are?" Aster asked curiously.
"Master and Mister Black are at Black Manor. They not be coming back," Tiffy said, tears in her eyes as Wobky wrapped her in a hug.
"Cowards," Adeline grumbled, slowly sitting up and rubbing her eyes.
Adeline let out a sigh before looking to the boys.
"We're going to start training today. It's going to be challenging and exhausting. Did you get enough sleep?" she asked them.
"Yes, mum," Harry and Aster both answered.
"Something to hold them through the day for breakfast," Adeline told Tiffy. "Like when I was a child."
Tiffy snapped her fingers, breakfast starting itself.
"Wobky, can you check my potions for me, please? Make sure we're still on track?" she asked.
"Yes, mistress," Wobky bowed before leaving.
"Tiffy, set up an area in the backyard. Make sure it's safe for dark magic," Adeline told her.
"Yes, mistress," Tiffy bowed and disappeared.
"Kreacher?" the elf popped in. "Sirius and Remus are staying in Black Manor. I want you to be kind to them. Take care of them in the way you take care of me. Do you understand?"
"Yes, mistress," Kreacher bowed before disappearing.
"That'll be fun," Adeline sighed before standing.
She waved her wand, changing the nightie into jeans, a long sleeve shirt, and leather boots. She tapped Harry's and Aster's heads with her wand, changing their clothes as well before tapping their heads again and shortening their hair so it was more manageable. The three sat at the table as breakfast dishes were placed in front of them, shrimp and grits, scrambled eggs, toast and jam, sliced melon, bacon, and sausages. Adeline gave them both stomach soothers before they ate and energy potions after.
She led them outside, Tiffy nodding as she finished the area. Adeline taught Harry and Aster how to cast Fiendfyre, both boys passing out once they'd finished and having to take energy potions. They practiced all day until they were both able to hold the spell for thirty seconds without problems. A large supper waited inside for them, along with dreamless sleep.
Adeline checked on the boys before going to bed herself, ignoring the dreamless sleep that was placed beside her. She had nightmares all night, causing her to glare at the potion she should have drank hours ago before getting out of bed. Tiffy had a large breakfast prepared, knowing Adeline would have the boys training all day again.
The next week was spent training and studying. Harry was excused from his exams, but Adeline still made him study as if he wasn't. Mornings were for studying and afternoons were spent training, the boys dueling under Adeline's watch. She taught them dark spells that she'd never taught Remus or the Slytherins, having saved them for herself in case of an emergency. She hated that she was teaching the magic to her sons, but she refused to be the reason they didn't make it through this war.
Harry spent two days reading as Aster took his exams, Adeline observing so he couldn't cheat as they sat in the dining room, eating snacks as he worked. Adeline sent the tests in, grading the potions one for Severus so he wouldn't have to. They both got three days off after that, just spending time in the cottage and flying a bit. The Weasley's and Hermione came over on the third day, making a team so they could play quidditch. Adeline and Hermione sat on the ground, watching as they soaked up some sun.
"We're staying at Grimmauld. Sirius and Remus picked us up from the station," Hermione told her. "Professor Dumbledore asked me to tell you that there's a meeting the day after you're to meet with Voldemort."
"You said the name," Adeline smirked.
"I'm not afraid of him," Hermione insisted.
"I am," Adeline admitted, turning to the girl. "Don't tell the boys."
"I won't," Hermione promised.
"I'm actually quite terrified," Adeline whispered, looking back to the sky. "I'll send them to Black Manor with all of you tonight. I remember where I'm supposed to go. They'll be safe in the manor with Remus and Sirius. They'll protect them if something happens to me."
"Do you think he'll kill you?" Hermione asked.
"I think that I won't be available for the foreseeable future," Adeline sighed. "He'll either torture me, kill me, or he'll be so pleased to see me that I won't be allowed to leave his side."
Hermione shivered at the thought, a frown on her face.
"You know something," Adeline sighed. "Spill it."
"Remus told the Order," Hermione stated. "Fred and George made these listening devices so we can eavesdrop on them. Remus told everyone what Voldemort wants from you."
"What an ass," Adeline sighed.
"Sorry," Hermione flinched.
"Not you," Adeline laughed. "Remus. He's an ass. It wasn't his secret to tell."
"I'm still sorry," Hermione whispered and Adeline turned to the young witch.
"I have books for you," Adeline told her. "I made you a notebook as well. Connects to mine. I'll send everything with you tonight."
That night, Adeline handed Hermione a bag with a feather light charm on it. She hugged Harry and Aster tightly, kissing their heads before sending them through the floo. Once the children were gone, she let out a shaky breath before putting her journal in her pocket with a notice-me-not charm. She grabbed the rose necklace from her jewelry box, slipping it onto her neck before walking back into the sitting room, finding Remus waiting for her.
"Hi," she whispered, looking him over.
Remus didn't say anything, just moved forward and kissed Adeline roughly. Adeline kissed back, deepening the kiss without thought. Afterwards, Adeline fixed her appearance with her wand, doing the same for Remus. He kissed her gently before walking through the floo, leaving her alone. Adeline fixed her makeup to something fitting of a Lady of two houses, her robes black with an emerald green dress beneath, black heels finishing the look. She walked to the apparition point in the forest behind the house, Wobky holding her robes as she apparated away.
Adeline landed on the outskirts of an almost abandoned town. She walked to the shack on the top of the hill, walking through the door and seeing a disaster of a home. She looked around a bit, feeling the pull of dark magic towards the kitchen. She approached the area slowly, making it to the kitchen before someone grabbed her from behind, portkeying her away, Wobky still invisible and holding her robes. Wobky let go when they landed in front of Malfoy Manor.
Avery led Adeline towards the manor and other death eaters. The death eaters began pushing her around as she walked, Avery having to hold her up and catch her a few times. She was spit on a few times and she held in a growl, a snarl on her face as she moved forward. A fist connected with her chin and Adeline kicked someone's knee out, causing them to cry out as they fell to the ground.
Avery led her inside, cursing slightly as he looked over her face. Adeline was led to the drawing room. She looked around, finding other followers inside, all kneeling with their heads down. Severus and Lucius were at the front of the room, fighting the urge to look up. Avery let go of Adeline gently. She stood straight, mask going into place as she looked towards Voldemort. He turned slowly, facing her. They walked towards one another slowly, stopping just in front of each other.
Adeline reached up slowly, running her fingers down his check and holding in the smirk when he leaned into her touch. His fingers brushed the bruise forming on her chin.
"Who?" he growled out.
"Not sure," she shrugged. "I already got them back for it. May have broken a knee."
"I'll deal with him," Voldemort promised stepping around Adeline.
Adeline turned, watching as Voldemort approached Crabbe, who had limped in, where he was kneeling. Crabbe's screams echoed through the drawing room for the next thirty minutes, everyone else remaining silent. Voldemort returned to Adeline's side a moment later.
"Adeline is not to be touched," he reminded the room. "Everything she has done in my absence was planned. She is still your mistress and you will treat her as such. Any questions?"
The last part came out as a hiss, as if just looking at Voldemort didn't seem snake-like enough.
"Yes, my lord," was echoed through the hall.
"Good. Rise."
Voldemort tortured at random. Anyone staring at Adeline for too long or not meeting his eye were held under the longest.
"I have caught a few traitors since my return," Voldemort announced. "Bring them forward."
Adeline watched as Igor was brought forward along with a few lower level Death Eaters, all looking rather beat up. Igor met Adeline's eye, immediately begging for her mercy.
"I hear he gave you a bit of trouble this year," Voldemort whispered to Adeline, handing her a knife. "He's yours."
"Thank you, Tom," Adeline whispered back, making sure no one overheard her.
Voldemort smirked at the name and Adeline stepped forward, hating what she was about to do. An hour later, Adeline was covered in blood and Igor was dead on the floor. Nagini came in to clean up the mess Adeline had made and Voldemort spoke to his followers, reminding them to remember where their loyalties lied.
Everyone was released and Severus approached them.
"There is an order meeting tonight," Severus explained.
"You may both go," Voldemort nodded.
"Write me?" Adeline asked, voice soft.
"I will," Voldemort promised, kissing Adeline's head before sending her away.
Adeline grabbed Severus once they were out of the gate, grabbing Wobky's hand as he apparated them directly into Black Manor. Adeline ran to the bathroom, throwing up. Severus held her hair as footsteps could be heard thundering down the stairs. Adeline leaned back, taking a few deep breaths before standing. They walked out of the bathroom, Severus having sent off patronuses the moment they had landed in the manor.
Order members began walking through the front door as Remus and Sirius stared at Adeline in horror. Walburga's portrait began screaming then, yelling about mudbloods and traitors.
"Oh, shut the hell up! I killed you for a reason!" Adeline screamed, throwing Fiendfyre at the portrait and destroying it.
Adeline let out a few deep breaths before looking around and seeing all eyes on her.
"Are you injured?" Remus asked, approaching her slowly.
"It's not mine," she growled out, moving to the dining room. "No listening in!"
"Yes, ma'am," the kids all said, immediately going up the stairs.
Adeline sighed, going to rub her face when she saw the blood still on her. She waved her wand, the blood disappearing as the rest of the order piled into the room, Albus coming in last. She and Albus locked eyes, Adeline allowing him into her mind so she could show him where the dark magic in the house was. Albus nodded before taking a seat, Severus sitting beside him, Minerva on the other side.
"Sissy wasn't at the meeting," Adeline stated. "Is Draco here?"
"No," Sirius shook his head. "No one has seen Sissy since that night. Dobby picked Draco up from the station."
"No one has seen her? Kreacher?"
Kreacher appeared, bowing low.
"Yes, mistress?" he asked, causing Adeline to shiver at the name.
"Kreacher, do you know where Draco and Sissy are?" Adeline asked.
"Young mister Malfoy is in a chateau in Paris where Lady Malfoy sent him with Dobby. Lady Malfoy is there with him," Kreacher explained.
"Will you check on them for me, please? Make sure they're alright?" Adeline asked, running her finger tips over Kreacher's head lightly.
"Yes, mistress," Kreacher nodded, stepping away from her touch so he could apparate away.
Adeline sighed, rubbing her face before Sirius pressed his hand to the small of her back, pushing her gently towards a chair. Adeline sat down, accepting the bruise balm that Andy passed to her. Sirius took it, rubbing it gently on her chin, glaring at it slightly. Adeline waited until Sirius had finished before speaking.
"Igor Karkaroff is dead," she announced. "He was seen as a traitor and killed for it."
Severus and Adeline had decided a long time ago to not tell anyone if they had to do the killing.
"Why were you covered in blood?" Sirius asked, too observant for his own good.
"It was messy," Adeline sighed, leaning back in her seat. "I was too close."
"What did you mean earlier?" Andy asked, voice small. "When you yelled at Walburga's portrait?"
"Does it matter?" Adeline shrugged.
"You killed both the Black parents," the real Alastor spoke up, eyes roaming over Adeline.
"Technically poison killed Orion and cursed jewelry killed Walburga. Or was it the pillow I held over her face? Who could know really?" Adeline sighed, not caring about the horrified looks she received from multiple people at the table.
"They had it coming," Sirius shrugged, crossing his arms over his chest and leaning back in his chair.
"What gives her the rights to judge, jury and executioner?" Kingsley questioned, looking ready to arrest Adeline right then and there.
"Well, she and Sirius did get tortured on a regular basis by Walburga and Orion did order Dorcas Black and her unborn, Sirius' unborn child, killed," Andy offered, standing behind Adeline and ready to defend her.
Adeline hid her shock at the support well, staring up at Kinglsey with a raised brow. A crack was heard through the room as Kreacher reappeared, Sissy and Draco with him. Andy, Sirius and Adeline moved immediately, going to them and pulling the two into a group hug. Sissy clung to Andy as Draco did the same to Adeline, Sirius just holding all of them the best he could.
"Mum said he's staying at the house," Draco's breath was shaky. "She said we can't go there. Says we have to stay in hiding."
"Breath, dragon," Adeline whispered, running her fingers through his hair. "Shh. You're safe here. We've got you."
Once Draco was calm, everyone backed away slightly, looking one another over for injuries and tears, refusing to look any weaker in front of those around them.
"Lucius is still there," Sissy stated.
"He's alright," Adeline informed her. "Severus and I saw him at the meeting."
"You went?" Sissy asked, eyes widening and looking angry. "Adeline, do you understand how dangerous and stupid that was?"
"I was a Slytherin who hung out with Gryffindors. Stupid and dangerous is embedded in my brain at this point," Adeline smirked.
"He didn't even think to try going through your mind, did he?" Sissy smirked.
"Men are idiots," Adeline shrugged. "I had false memories ready just in case and everything."
"Of course you did," Sissy let out a soft laugh, shaking her head fondly.
"So, all of the Blacks are here," Minerva smirked, going to Adeline's side.
"Just about," Adeline sighed, Andy and Sissy looking a bit sad as they remembered Bella's downfall. "All the ones still mostly sane anyways."
"Did anything else of note happen at the meeting?" Albus asked, standing from his seat.
"Well, a few people were tortured, maimed and murdered. A big snake ate some people. Nothing new really. He had all those years to stew and get creative and yet it was rather underwhelming," Adeline pouted.
"How is that underwhelming?" Sirius asked, shaking his head in shock.
"You get used to it," Adeline shrugged, she and Severus not meeting each other's eyes as they thought of Adeline getting sick directly after the meeting. "Oh! The kids have listening devices that they're using to eavesdrop on meetings. Might want to put up a few charms before spilling other people's secrets in a room full of people."
Adeline's eyes were on Remus as she spoke, face blank as she did so. Remus flinched under her gaze, taking a physical step back in the process. Adeline raised a brow before exchanging looks with Severus and Sirius.
"Also, Sirius isn't staying here," Adeline announced.
"What?" Albus asked in confusion.
"You can't come in and start making decisions for everyone," Alastor growled out.
"I missed you, too," Adeline smirked to Alastor. "Barty was much less growly. Rather boring. I thought you were losing your touch, to be honest. Sirius isn't staying here. If anyone has a problem with that, they can duel me for it. Deal?"
No one moved and Adeline smirked.
"So happy we all agree. Siri, your room at the cottage is still there. I added some books to your shelf," Adeline told him.
"Thank you," Sirius whispered, leaving the room immediately, the floo roaring to life in the other room.
"We literally have a muggle home that you could have hidden in and you chose to hide in the house he was tortured in?" Adeline turned on Remus, sneering at him and causing everyone to stare in shock. "What the hell is wrong with you?"
"I didn't know if it was safe there," Remus argued, looking just as angry as Adeline did.
"We have dozens of safe houses, Remus! You could have gone to any of them! I understand not going to the cottage if you were pissed at me but don't act like a selfish dickhead towards others just because of it!" Adeline raised her voice.
"I think the meeting can be dismissed," Severus spoke up, giving pointed looks to everyone in the room.
Everyone dispersed rather quickly, Sissy and Draco heading up the stairs so Draco could see the others. Severus and Albus stayed behind, eyeing the two parents warily as the doors closed. Severus put up his privacy charms and sat back, ready to enjoy the show. Remus and Adeline continued glaring at one another, magic sparking out of both of them. Albus had a shield in front of himself and Severus just in case, but he was rather sure he wouldn't need it at this point, both adults seeming to slowly be calming down as their magic stopped snapping around the room.
"Why would you go back?" Remus asked, deflating a bit.
"You know why," Adeline told him.
"And you taught the kids…"
"They need to know how to protect themselves," Adeline shrugged.
"We're supposed to protect them."
"We won't always be able to. Our parents weren't able to protect us."
"We were orphans before our parents died," Remus rubbed his eyes. "It's different."
"You're right. It is different. We helped raise each other and then we raised them. They are in more danger than we ever were and I refuse to watch them die because I didn't teach them the way we taught ourselves," Adeline's voice was soft.
Remus just nodded in understanding, staring down at the floor. Neither of them had any fight left in them and it was obvious to the other two in the room. Albus lowered the shield and stood, Severus staying by his side.
"I hope the two of you are able to overcome this rift," Albus said sagely. "You are quite the pair and it would be a shame if you lost that."
"We'll be okay," Adeline promised him.
"Let me know if he writes you," Albus gave Adeline a pointed look, reminding Adeline that she hadn't checked the journal.
She pulled it from her pocket, opening it to find a message from Hermione and no one else.
"Nothing," Adeline sighed. "I'll write him tomorrow if he hasn't contacted me."
"Thank you, Adeline," Albus' hand went to her shoulder. "I know this will take a toll on you and I wish there was another way."
"No, you don't," Adeline rolled her eyes with a smirk.
"No, I don't," Albus sighed. "You are our best chance at survival."
"If he figures out that I have Harry…"
"I will do everything in my power to keep you safe," Albus told her.
"Would Severus lose his position if Adeline is found out?" Remus questioned.
"No," Adeline shook her head. "We've always had a plan in place if any of us got caught. It was one of the first things Severus and I discussed."
"The kids are probably wanting to see you," Severus spoke up, eyes locked on Adeline.
Adeline sighed before nodding and leaving the room. Albus left not long after that, flooing to his office for the night. Remus and Severus made their way up the stairs, staring into the room were Adeline sat with the Weasley children, Harry, Hermione, Aster, Draco, and Sissy. Some of the kids were playing a card game as Harry and Aster remained glued to Adeline's side. Draco and Hermione were in a corner reading a book together that looked strangely familiar to Remus but he let it go, knowing Adeline had given Hermione a collection of books to read in her spare time.
Severus gave Remus' shoulder a pat before walking into the room. He whispered a goodbye to Adeline before kissing her head and leaving. Adeline gave Remus a tight smile before looking back to Harry and Aster, speaking softly to them. They nodded, sitting up and scooting across the floor to their friends, joining in on the game. Adeline stood, walking pass Remus and down the stairs, Remus deciding to follow along behind her. Adeline sighed before walking through the floo, stepping aside as Remus came out directly behind her. Sirius stood from the couch as they entered, looking rather nervous.
"You okay?" Adeline asked, looking him over in concern.
"Yeah," he nodded, looking between Adeline and Remus.
"We're good," Adeline promised him, smirking when Sirius relaxed instantly.
"Is Sissy alright?" he asked.
"Kreacher? Will you tell Sissy how to find us, please?" Adeline asked, smirking again when she heard the pop of the elf apparating away. "We'll find out in a bit."
"What about Lucius?" Remus asked, moving to the couch to sit.
"I'm not sure," Adeline sighed, pulling out her notebook and looking over Hermione asking her about a few spells she'd found in one of the books Adeline had sent with her. "We're going to have to write Hermione's parents and ask if we can train her. She's very curious."
"I'm sure the books didn't help," Remus smirked.
"She asked for them," Adeline shrugged. "I'm not going to tell her no when she wants to learn. She's trying to help keep the boys alive along with herself. Merlin knows what they would have gotten into by now had it not been for her."
"Yes because all the things they got into with her help were definitely not troublesome," Remus laughed out.
"Shut it," Adeline smirked, falling onto the couch beside him, Sirius sitting on her other side. "Alright. No word from Voldy, which I want to count as a win but it isn't."
"Do you think Lucius spilled everything to him?" Sirius asked.
"Lucius doesn't know everything that Sissy does," Adeline shook her head. "He may suspect, but it isn't concrete. Besides, after tonight I don't think anyone will be questioning me."
"What happened?" Remus asked.
"Adeline is not to be touched," Adeline dropped her voice, making a ridiculous face in the process and causing both men to snicker. "Still your mistress, all planned, blah, blah, slither, slither. I look like an ugly ass snake now. Fear me!"
Remus and Sirius began laughing, causing Adeline to laugh as well. Sissy stepped out of the floo, staring in confusion as the three tried calming down, only to start laughing again when they made eye contact with one another. Sissy smirked as she watched them, reminded of when they were all younger. Remus recovered first, calming enough that Adeline and Sirius were able to try to copy him, both still smiling a bit too brightly to be taken seriously.
"Hi, Sissy. Would you like any tea?" Remus asked, standing and heading towards the kitchen.
"Tea would be lovely, Remus. Thank you," Sissy sighed, sitting in the chair closest to the fire.
Adeline stood and walked to the chair, sitting on the arm of it and taking Sissy's hand in hers.
"How are you?" Adeline asked, voice soft.
"I'm trying to hold it together," Sissy admitted.
Adeline gave Sirius a pointed look and he stood with a nod.
"I'll go help Remus with that tea. Maybe grab something a bit stronger."
Once he was gone, Adeline looked to Sissy again.
"I don't know what to do, Adie," Sissy looked close to tears.
"We'll figure it out," Adeline promised her, giving her hand a gentle squeeze.
"I know he won't bother with me, but Lucius is terrified. I'm terrified for him and for Draco."
"Draco can stay here, Grimmauld, or in the chateaux, as can you," Adeline promised her. "You will always have somewhere safe to go. I'll make sure of it."
"Thank you, Adie," Sissy nodded, breathing a bit easier now.
"Severus is going to speak with Lucius as soon as possible. He's going to try and see where his head is at," Adeline told her.
"He doesn't want to be a part of it," Sissy spoke softly. "He's told me as much through the years."
"Then we'll keep him safe as well," Adeline promised. "Do you know how Avery escaped Azkaban?"
"He was released. They never got him for anything other than conspiracy," Sissy sighed, chewing her lip. "He never truly got his hands dirty, never killed or tortured anyone. His sentence ending would have been on the front page had it not been for Sirius' escape from Azkaban. I didn't even know about it until he appeared at the door with Lucius and the others."
"I'm so sorry, Sissy. I should have kept better tabs on him. If I had known he was out…"
"It isn't your fault," Sissy said, a stormy expression on her face. "No one knew. I think it was supposed to be that way. He hid the moment he was released and went searching for the Dark Lord. I should have found out sooner and told you. I knew you would be the most effected by both of their returns. We all should have known something was happening."
"We did," Adeline sighed, rubbing her face. "We knew when Harry's name came out of that goblet that something was happening. Barty was disguised as Alastor Moody and teaching the students. He wanted to take Harry to the Dark Lord right after we returned with him to the school."
"I saw the news about Barty in the papers," Sissy nodded. "I also know what his father did. The Dark Lord has been boasting about it to everyone in the manor, as if he was the one who did all the work."
"He's an ass," Adeline sighed, glancing at her notebook as it began to glow. "And that'll be him."
Adeline went back to the couch, opening the journal and seeing Tom's handwriting coming through. Sirius and Remus returned with glasses of firewhiskey, each taking a spot beside Adeline.
'How soon can you return?'
'I can be there in the morning. Do you need me to bring you anything?'
'Do you still make your energy potions?'
'I do but I think you may need something a bit stronger, longer lasting.'
'Bring whatever you need to brew. I'll be in Lestrange Manor.'
'I'll be there around noon. I'll have to grab a bit of supplies.'
'I'll see you then.'
"This is the least excited I have ever been about a date," Adeline sighed, leaning back against Remus and taking the glass Sirius offered.
"Remember when you were getting ready to meet Mattheo's parents?" Remus smirked.
"And all of his other siblings," Adeline nodded with wide eyes. "I was a mess. Wait, you weren't there for that."
"Reggie told me," Remus smirked.
"Of course he did," Adeline sighed. "Gossips, the both of you."
Remus let out a soft chuckle and Adeline had to hold in a shiver from how close he was to her ear. She finished her glass and it refilled itself.
"What all do you need for tomorrow?" Sirius asked, reading over the small conversation.
"Potions ingredients, food, a few other things that would be expected from someone of my standing to bring an old ally," Adeline rolled her eyes.
"Great," Sirius sighed.
"Would you like company in the alley?" Sissy asked.
"Sure," Adeline sighed. "You don't need to come with me to the Manor though. I'd rather keep you safe."
"He's staying in Lestrange Manor," Sirius told Sissy.
"Of course he is," Sissy rolled her eyes before standing. "I think I'll go see if Lucius is alone. If he is, I'll stay there, try talking to him about safe houses. If not, I'll go back to Grimmauld and help Molly and Arthur watch all of the children."
"Send word if you need help. I'll be leaving here around nine to get started," Adeline told her.
"I'll meet you at the Leaky," Sissy nodded, departing through the floo.
Adeline relaxed more with Sissy out of the room, melting into Remus a bit more.
"You alright?" he asked, voice soft.
"Not even a little," she sighed, sipping the whiskey.
"Let's get to bed," Remus sighed.
All three stood, heading up the stairs. Sirius turned into Padfoot and jumped onto the bed, making himself comfortable at the end of it. Adeline waved her wand and she and Remus were in their sleep clothes, crawling under the covers. Remus pulled Adeline close, holding her to his chest and making her feel safe. Padfoot crawled up the bed, turning human again and crawling under the covers as well. Remus smirked before waving his wand, causing Sirius' clothes to become sleepwear as well before placing his wand on the bedside table.
Sirius wrapped his arm around Adeline's waist, trapping Remus' arm between them as he leaned into her back. Remus reached over, holding Sirius' and Adeline's hand in his. Adeline smiled as she felt the warmth of both men surrounding her, causing her to nod off quicker than she expected. She woke an hour later as she felt weight shifting in the bed, only to find Harry and Aster crawling onto the bed and making themselves comfortable. The bed expanded and Adeline smirked as she glanced up to see Remus setting his wand down again.
The boys got more comfortable now that the bed was bigger, a pile of limbs around each other and leaning against Sirius' back. Remus gave Adeline a wink before kissing her head. Adeline closed her eyes, falling back to sleep a few minutes later. At seven thirty, Adeline and Remus slid out of the bed, both smiling at the sight of Sirius holding Harry and Aster as they all slept.
The two took a shower together before dressing and heading down the stairs. Adeline went to her potions lab, packing everything she would need by hand as Remus started breakfast for the kids, Sirius, and himself, knowing Adeline would buy breakfast for herself and Sissy at the Leaky. The boys and Sirius were piling into the kitchen at eight thirty, none of them looking awake in the slightest yet. Remus passed Adeline her morning tea before waving his wand and sending tea, juice and breakfast to the table.
Adeline finished her tea, kissed all of the boys on their cheeks, and stepped through the floo. She smiled to Tom, the owner of the Leaky, before sitting in a booth and waiting for Sissy. Sissy smirked as she sat across from Adeline, Lucius sliding in beside her.
"I'm guessing the talk went well," Adeline smirked to Sissy, sipping the tea Tom had already dropped off for her.
"It did," Sissy nodded as Tom walked over.
They ordered breakfast, eating silently before heading into the alley. Lucius offered his arm to both women, escorting them through the alley and smiling as he watched them picking different items together. Once Adeline had everything she needed, she called for Wobky, having him gather a grocery order for her. At noon, Adeline hugged Sissy before taking Lucius' arm and appearing just outside of the wards around Lestrange Manor.
"Last time I was here, I dropped a few dead werewolves off at the Dark Lord's feet and ran off with Reggie," Adeline whispered as Avery began approaching them from inside the wards.
"Well, I'm not Reggie, but I do hope you steal me away if you decided to flee this time," Lucius smirked.
"I'd never leave you behind," Adeline told him as Avery finally reached them.
He held his hand out to Adeline and she took it, letting him pull her through the wards, a shiver running down her spine at the feeling. Lucius came through next, hiding his shiver much better than Adeline had. Avery took his cloak off, wrapping it around Adeline's shoulders before turning and walking away. Lucius and Adeline exchanged a glance before following after him.
Once inside, Adeline began moving around the manor, knowing where everything was. She went to the kitchen first, finding Wobky just arriving with everything. He shook his head and clicked his tongue in disapproval at the dust and rotten goods that were left behind. He snapped his fingers and the spoiled produce was replaced with fresh food, the cold box was brought back up to speed and filled, and the kitchen became spotless. Adeline smiled at the scene, thanking Wobky before moving to the dining room.
Adeline waved her wand, cleaning the space before pulling out containers containing lunch. Avery followed her like a lost dog as Lucius went to speak with Voldemort. Adeline passed Avery a glass with pumpkin juice, remembering how much he had liked it when they were still in school. He accepted the glass, looking down at it before taking a small sip.
"Do you have a wand?" Adelien asked him.
"No," he shook his head. "The ministry put me on a five year probation. No wand allowed."
"I have one for you," Adeline told him, pulling out Peter's old wand. "Belonged to Peter Pettigrew. I took it when he was being taken to Dumbledore."
"Thank you," Avery sighed as he held the wand in his hand.
"I know it's not yours, but it'll help your magic as it comes back to full power. I brought you a few potions as well."
Adeline handed over the potions she'd been making less and less for Sirius, his treatments almost complete now.
"The white ones are for at every meal, help you put some weight back on. The other one is to help with the effects of being exposed to dementors for so long. Take one every morning and another at dinner time."
"Adie," Avery whispered, lost for words.
"Don't," Adeline shook her head. "We were friends once, Avery. I did miss you."
Avery sniffled a bit, looking away from her as footsteps could be heard approaching the room.
"Wobky?" Adeline called before passing the basket she was still holding to him. "Make sure the bedrooms that they're staying in are prepared properly. We'll need robes for them as well. Did you find the potions lab?"
"Yes, mistress," Wobky nodded as the doors opened.
"Everything is ready for me?" she asked him.
"Yes, mistress," Wobky nodded.
"Thank you, Wobky," Adeline nodded, turning to face Voldemort with her mask in place.
Lucius and Avery both noticed the mask but said nothing, both bowing their heads as Voldemort approached Adeline.
"Adie," Voldemort smiled, standing in front of her.
"My Lord," Adeline smiled back. "I brought lunch and some groceries. I hope that's alright?"
"Of course," Voldemort nodded. "Thank you."
"Of course," Adeline smiled. "Let's get some food in you. I have a few potions for you as well."
"As well?" he asked curiously, sitting at the head of the table and waving for Adeline to sit to his left.
"I gave Avery potions as well. Figured if you're keeping him close, he needs to be in a better shape," Adeline explained.
"Good thinking," Voldemort nodded.
"Nutrient potion," Adeline said, placing the vial in front of him. "Every meal, please?"
Voldemort nodded, taking the potion before beginning to eat the lunch Adeline had brought.
"I brought Avery Peter Pettigrew's wand to use as well," Adeline said as she sipped her tea. "He'll get more use out of it than Pete."
"Ah," Voldemort nodded with a smirk.
"Little disappointed that I didn't know about that," Adeline raised her brow at Voldemort, smirking back.
"Well, I need to keep a few secrets to myself," Voldemort told her.
"That's no fun," Adeline pouted.
Voldemort just let out a small chuckle before continuing to eat. The rest of the meal was silent, Lucius looking uncomfortable at Adeline's side and across from Avery. Adeline bumped his knee lightly with hers, calming him slightly in the process. Once they finished eating, Lucius walked through the manor with Avery, both men checking over Wobky's work. Voldemort and Adeline made their way to the potions lab and Adeline slid her robe off her shoulder, setting it on a chair and pulling her hair up before getting to work.
Voldemort just watched her, writing notes as she worked in three different cauldrons at once. She made a basic energy potion, passing it to Voldemort the moment it was done to drink then. He did so with no complaints, sighing as he stood taller than he had been. Adeline smiled before continuing the other potions, trying to find ways to make the potion more permanent, something she'd been trying for years and hadn't made any progress on. She doubted she would now either, hoped that her potions would fail for the first time in her life actually.
A few hours later, Lucius and Avery walked into the lab.
"Severus sent word of a meeting," Lucius explained.
Adeline rolled her eyes before stretching.
"Will you be back tomorrow?" Voldemort asked her, voice soft.
"Yes," she nodded. "I'll be back everyday if I can be."
"Okay," Voldemort nodded.
Adeline gave him a soft smile before grabbing her robe and pulling it back on, passing Avery his from earlier. Lucius escorted her out of the manor, the two taking Wobky's hand and appearing in the cottage. Adeline fell onto the couch, exhausted from brewing all day.
"There really is a meeting," Lucius told her and Adeline groaned before standing again.
They stepped through the floo, Lucius ahead of Adeline so he could escort her to the dining room. Once there, Remus stood, offering Adeline his seat so she could rest a bit. Albus continued speaking to Severus, glancing at Adeline and Lucius as they entered the room and looking them over. Severus glanced over to Adeline as she sat beside him and laid her head on the table with a yawn. He reached over, taking her hand gently as he continued speaking with Albus, Adeline smiling softly as Severus gave her a small bit of comfort.
"Why is he here?" Alastor finally asked, glaring at Lucius.
"Because it's my house," Adeline sat up, looking rather alert for someone so exhausted. "Why are you here?"
"It's an Order meeting. He shouldn't be here."
"If I say he should be here, then he should be here. End of discussion," Adeline hissed out, anger clear on her face.
"Is this another 'duel you for it' moment?" Kingsley asked, eyeing Lucius.
"Absolutely," Adeline stood, wand in hand.
Adeline led the crowd to the dueling room, throwing a wink to the kids as she passed them. They followed along as well, smirking as they went and ready for a show. Adeline turned once they were in the dueling room, facing Kinglsey, Alastor, and Hestia Jones. Adeline nodded to Remus, smirking as he moved to her side.
"I thought we were dueling you," Alastor pointed out.
"You want me to duel three highly trained aurors with no back up?" Adeline questioned, brow quirked. "You must have been a Gryffindor."
A few people seemed irked by the comment but said nothing. Sirius held in a snort of laughter from the sidelines, standing slightly in front of Harry and Aster just in case he needed to block a spell, Lucius doing the same for Draco as Sissy, Molly, and Arthur stood in front of the Weasley children.
"Your move," Adeline shrugged to the other three.
Spells began flying and Adeline and Remus smiled widely as they took the three down quickly, not even breaking a sweat in the process. Adeline hadn't even moved, having thrown up a shield the moment Hestia had stepped forward first. Remus had knocked Hestia and Kingsley over with a simple swish of his wand. Alastor had tried breaking the shield but Adeline had been quicker than him, sending a shadow behind him and grabbing his peg leg out from under him.
"Bloody hell," Ron, George, and Fred said together as the duel lasted less than twenty seconds.
"How?" Alastor asked through grit teeth.
"Lucius?" Adeline smirked to her cousin-in-law.
"What do you know about magical cores?" Lucius asked Alastor as he slowly stood back up.
"It's what gives us magic," Alastor shrugged.
"It's stronger and brighter for some people. There are also people who have matching magical cores, making them stronger when paired together," Kingsley's silky voice spoke up.
"Remus and Adeline have matching magical cores," Lucius nodded to them.
"It would be beneficial if we checked everyone's magical cores to see who should be paired off during missions," Adeline spoke up, ignoring the looks of awe they were receiving.
"So, you and Remus are soulmates?" Tonks questioned, looking a bit put out.
"No," Remus shook his head, taking Adeline's hand anyway. "Soulmates are a different thing entirely."
"People can have multiple soulmates in their life. Only one person, if anyone at all, can have a matching magical core. It's much more rare," Adeline explained. "The Shafiq's had a book explaining it. Burned up when the manor burned down."
The few people who knew she was lying remained silent, Hermione's eyes widening before going to normal again. She had the book upstairs with the others Adeline had given her.
"How can you tell who's souls match?" Tonks asked, looking rather curious again.
"Lucius?" Adeline smirked.
"Everyone spread out," Lucius sighed. "Soulmates will have a gold tether to one another if you have one in the room. People with matching cores, we'll tell you. You can't really see your own core, so you can't see who matches you."
Once everyone spread around the room, Lucius performed the spell, careful with his wand movements and pronunciation. The room was bathed in light, everyone's cores shining. Golden tethers shot across the room, connecting multiple people and causing Adeline to smirk.
"Draco and Hermione have matching cores and are soulmates," Adeline announced to the room, pointing so everyone could see the two teenagers. "Extremely rare."
Hermione blushed a bit as Draco smirked at her. Adeline smiled before looking around the room, eyes stopping on the tether that shot out of Remus' chest, connecting to hers.
"That's new," she whispered before noticing that she had two teethers.
She followed the other one with her eyes before stopping on Sirius' face. His eyes were wide, as if seeing Adeline for the first time all over again.
"Oh," she said, taken aback a bit. "Well, that complicates things a bit."
"Complicates things?" Remus smirked.
"Yes. Him and Severus have matching cores."
"What?!" shouts were heard through the room.
Adeline smirked and Remus looked between the two before letting out a loud laugh. Adeline laughed with him.
"Oh, it explains so much," Remus laughed out. "They hated each other so much and I could never figure out why they couldn't best each other. Everything makes so much more sense suddenly."
"Shut it," Sirius growled at Remus.
"Oh, James is rolling in his grave," Adeline laughed, causing Remus to laugh again.
She wiped tears from her face from laughing so hard before looking around the room, eyes stopping on her boys.
"Well, I'll be damned," she said, hands going to her hips.
"What?" Remus asked, following her line of sight while still smiling. "Well, I'll be damned."
Harry and Ginny were staring at each other with wide eyes, both blushing furiously. Fred and Aster were looking anywhere but at each other, their golden tether shining rather brightly. Ron and George were laughing of course, reveling in the embarrassment the two boys showed.
"Of course it's a prankster and a redhead," Adeline groaned, rubbing her eyes.
"Both rolled into one," Remus smirked. "Takes completely after his father in that regard."
"Wait, what?" Sirius asked, confused.
Remus and Adeline's eyes both widened, giving each other panicked looks before turning to Sirius.
"What do you mean?" he questioned, voice low and dangerous.
"Let's just say that if Harry didn't look so much like James, I wouldn't know who his father was," Adeline offered, backing up into Remus when Sirius looked ready to hex her.
"It's not that uncommon for pureblood couples to take lovers," Remus offered and Sirius stepped forward. "Nope."
Remus held Adeline in front of him like a shield.
"Coward," Adeline gasped.
"You're his soulmate! He's less likely to kill you!" Remus stated.
"What in the past has ever told you he wouldn't gladly turn his wand on me?" Adeline demanded. "Use Tonks as a shield! He's her cousin! Definitely won't kill her."
"Hey!" Tonks yelled out, mock offended and enjoying the show that was unfolding.
"Let them be," Andy told Tonks, watching as Adeline and Remus slowly backed away from Sirius.
"My baby brother was with who?" Sirius demanded.
"Well, your baby brother and all others involved were consenting adults," Adeline tried, back pressed to Remus' chest, his arms wrapped around her.
"And Remus is holding you because?" Sirius questioned.
"Twenty galleons on Sirius," George offered.
"Twenty on Remus," Ron countered.
"Forty on mum," Aster smirked.
"Deal," Fred laughed.
"Well, you see, consenting adults and all that," Remus tried.
"You said it was new. What did the two of you do?" Sirius demanded.
Adeline bit her lip hard to keep from answering 'each other' as the answer. Sirius caught the movement, raising his brow at her.
"Adie," he growled out as Remus' back hit the wall, giving them no where to run. "What are you laughing at?"
"Nothing," she shook her head. "Nothing at all. How about we see who else should be paired together?"
"Albus and Minnie are already doing it," Sirius told her.
Adeline looked over to see that, sure enough, Albus and Minerva were moving people around in pairs, keeping their heads slightly turned to watch Sirius advance on the other two.
"Aren't you a Gryffindor?' Adeline asked Remus.
"The hat wanted me in Slytherin. You were supposed to be a Gryffindor," Remus reminded her.
"And obviously I am smarter than a dingy old hat," Adeline told him, throwing a glare over her shoulder.
"Oh, I know," Remus gave her a fond smile, eyes shining.
"You're together," Sirius gasped out, taking a step back.
The two stared at him, saying nothing, which gave him the answer.
"For how long?" Sirius asked, glaring at Adeline.
"Not very," Adeline shrugged.
Sirius just raised his brow and looked to Remus.
"Since Voldemort came back," Remus admitted and Adeline had to keep herself from sending her elbow into his gut.
"Wait, you're finally together? And mum has two soulmates?" Aster asked, eyes wide.
"But we planned the wedding," Harry complained as he and Aster put themselves in front of Sirius, blocking him from their parents.
"We've been waiting years for this!" Aster complained loudly. "Me longer than Harry!"
"You were supposed to get married at Hathor cottage in the backyard! Mum was going to wear silver!" Harry continued.
"It was going to be midday in the Spring!"
"Dad was going to cry at the alter!"
"Which we were going to make out of fallen branches from the forest!"
"And we were going to weave ribbons and flowers through it!"
"And mum was going to have a flower crown!"
"And we were going to walk her down the aisle together!"
"Boys!" Adeline yelled, causing them to stop rambling about the wedding that actually sounded rather sweet. "Merlin, if I have to hear another word about this wedding."
"It actually sounded rather sweet," Remus offered, chin on her shoulder.
"Oh, not you, too," Adeline groaned, the boys starting up about the wedding again after hearing Remus' words. "Now they'll never stop."
Adeline could feel Remus chuckle reverberate through his chest against her back, his breath ghosting her skin. She shivered slightly before stepping out of his embrace and around the boys. They followed her though, continuing to complain and describe the wedding together.
"Well, this was lovely. So happy that we can CONTINUE THE MEETING NOW!" Adeline yelled the last bit, causing the adults to start moving and the kids to groan in annoyance.
Lucius canceled the spell, smirking as he walked beside Adeline.
"Not. A. Word," Adeline told him through gritted teeth.
"How about a few words?" he smirked.
"I'll kill you myself," Adeline pointed a finger at him before pointing to the dining room. "Go."
"Need to wait for your lovers?" Lucius smirked, running when Adeline went to slap his arm.
"I'm going to kill your husband," Adeline told Sissy, who bit her lip to keep from laughing.
"Let me know before you do," she smiled. "I'd like to take out a large life insurance plan on him beforehand."
"Deal," Adeline smirked, watching as everyone else passed her to get into the dining room. "Where do you think you're going?"
"To the meeting of course," Harry shrugged, continuing.
Adeline grabbed his shirt, pulling him back to her.
"No," she told him, turning him back towards the other kids. "Upstairs you all go. I will be warding the door myself. If you need to know something, I will tell you. I promise. Now go."
Harry groaned as he went back to the others. He and Aster began whispering back and forth between each other, no doubt trying to find a way to trick Adeline and Remus into marriage somehow before Sirius could get to Adeline. She rolled her eyes before walking into the dining room. She shut and locked the doors behind her, performing Severus' privacy charm before taking the seat between Severus and Remus. Both took her hand under the table and she sighed, leaning back and feeling tired again.
Lucius explained why he and Adeline were called to the Dark Lord's presence before Adeline explained that all she'd done all day was brew with Voldemort watching her. Avery had given them very little information, too afraid or too loyal to give anything away. Lucius did mention Avery feeling rather grateful towards Adeline for the potions and food she'd taken them, along with the other household supplies.
"You took them food and supplies?" Kingsley questioned.
"Well, yes," Adeline rolled her eyes. "I was raised by pureblood supremacist. As the lady of two ancient houses, certain things are expected of me. I'm just happy that offering the use of my own house elves went out of style a hundred years ago. I never would have left any of them behind with him."
Adeline left out that the last time he'd borrowed a house elf from someone, Reggie had died. Remus and Severus both must have been thinking the same thing though as they squeezed her hands a bit more tightly. She gave them a gentle squeeze back, sitting up a bit more.
"I think that, if I can get Avery alone, I can use him without him realizing it," Adeline spoke up.
"No," Severus and Remus immediately argued.
"Thank you so much for your input," Adeline rolled her eyes, looking to Albus. "He wouldn't even realize he was giving me information. I know how to manipulate him."
"Do it," Albus nodded. "Alastor, do you have any news from inside the ministry?"
"Crouch is desperate to show everyone that Harry and you are liars," Alastor offered. "If you don't fill the Defense position in a week, he's going to have his assistant fill the role."
"That pink thing?" Adeline asked, wrinkling her nose.
"Dolores Umbridge," Alastor nodded.
"She's terrible," Lucius sighed. "I can manipulate her a bit though."
"Anyone else find it rather terrifying that they both offered to manipulate people one after the other?" Hestia spoke up.
"As heads of houses, we've been trained since birth to manipulate others to our advantage," Lucius defended. "And then Adeline went and trained Severus and Remus as well."
"Speaking of, I found an in with a few werewolf packs," Remus spoke up. "I can go speak with them. Convince them to fight with us when the time comes."
"I can brew potions ahead of time for you to take to them," Adeline nodded.
"How did you find an in with werewolves?" Andy questioned.
"Well, I am one, so there's the in," Remus shrugged.
Everyone stared in shock at Remus as Adeline simply smirked.
"How many potions do you think you'll need?" Adeline asked him.
"Twenty or so," he told her, not caring to look at anyone else in that moment.
"When do you leave?"
"When the school year begins."
