Embracing His True Self
Chapter 56
The second he felt those lips on his, Harry's thought ceased entirely, his body however…reacted accordingly. That is to say, very, very willingly as butterflies erupted in his stomach and a low build of arousal lower still. He had dreamed of this, and it took a few seconds for him to realize this definitely wasn't a dream, it was reality a very, very welcoming reality. Those lips, which were always giving out curt advice and demands were so soft but claiming ardently, making a statement.
Voldemort was kissing him. In front of everyone.
"Mine," Voldemort had stated, claiming, demanding, irrefutably. His head protested that he didn't belong to anyone, yet his body betrayed the desire he felt hearing someone claiming him so publicly. His low-grade arousal was changing, the fire burning a little brighter within him. He could feel that Voldemort had a problem similar to his own, as it pressed against his pelvis.
Blinking at Voldemort, his stupidly handsome face filled with smug satisfaction. Noticing that all had gone quiet, except the sound of noise somewhere in the background, a wailing, heartbroken sound, but it was so far away, all he could focus on was Voldemort. This had been the last thing he expected after he fought Bellatrix. Voldemort was after all inexplicably fond of her, its why he hadn't made it a duel to the death. With the added benefit of what he planned…she wouldn't be able to get on anyone's nerves, be entirely useless to everyone around her. Hell, he's expected Voldemort to be furious with her loss of magic…this was the opposite of any and all reactions he'd expected.
"All of you leave!" Voldemort declared, having made his point, that Harry Potter belonged to him, nobody else was to ever put a finger on him. "Greyback, Corvus, Rodolphus, Rabastan, Luna, take Bellatrix to my office and remain there until I return." He was probably best to get everyone out of the room before Harry exploded. That was the thing with Harry, he never knew how he'd react, even having been in his mind and knew him probably better than anyone else did – except for perhaps Barty who was just a friend, at least he better be – so that was saying something. He was fascinating, it was always amusing to see which step he would take, and this was no different.
"My Lord…please," Bellatrix shrieked as Greyback grabbed her, the rest of her words indecipherable as she screeched the rafters in. Slapping Greyback across the face, her nails digging in viciously, not appreciating the manhandling, or the betrayal and abandonment of her lord well at all.
Greyback snarled viciously, furiously wrapping his hands around her long bushy hair and electing instead to drag her out of the room. The screeching turned into screams of pain, as she scrambled to find purchase and unable to do so. All she could do was try and grip his hands in order to get him to let her go, but he didn't budge the slightest.
The Lestrange's followed silently, along with Luna who was looking rather conflicted with Greyback's actions. On one hand nobody deserved to be manhandled in such a demeaning way, on the other hand this was Bellatrix…she'd just tried to kill Rodolphus – a man she was slowly coming to care for immensely – and her best friend in the entire world. She made a mental note never to get on Greyback's bad side, he was still growling lowly as they moved through the corridors.
Only once they were in Voldemort's office did Greyback let her go, after giving her a rough shove. Not that she was in any shape to fight them, as she just lay where she'd been shoved, shaking and shivering. The removal of her magic and the small fight with Greyback, trying to get him to let her go seemed to have drained her utterly.
Rodolphus watched Bellatrix as if she was a poisonous snake ready to strike, keeping Luna ensconced in his arms. Well out of the woman's reach, and if Bellatrix wanted to try to get to Luna, she'd need to go through him. Just as she had hours earlier…had it even been hours yet? It felt like mere minutes, yet at the same time hours if not days. Bellatrix's breathing had relaxed considerably as her body went lax, but he didn't trust it.
"Rodolphus, sit down," Corvus demanded, his tone gruff but his eyes heralded nothing but worry for his son and heir. "You need to rest." He added, when his son stared at him. Was that exasperated embarrassment? Was his son embarrassed by his fussing in front of the heiress? Well, well, this was interesting and very new. He'd never shown that sort of reaction before. Was it because he didn't want to be seen as weak? Or was it because he was in love? Merlin, he could only hope that Luna wasn't going to break his sons heart.
"Here," Rabastan murmured, conjuring up a comfortable green two-seater sofa – or a loveseat as they were sometimes called – that surprisingly didn't look too out of place in the office. This way Rodolphus can keep Luna close and get rest. He could see his legs subtly trembling from where he stood. Rolling his eyes at the gratitude from his brother as he herded them towards the soft seat and groaned as he sat down. Even as he sat, he had Bellatrix directly within his sight at all times.
"We should all sit, we might be here for a while," Corvus informed them, creating his own seat as he sat, making one for Greyback who as always refused to sit. Rabastan did the same, as his father and sat down.
"Well, how about that?" Rabastan muttered, eyes slightly wider than normal, everyone in this room had known it would happen at some point. Their Lord wasn't known for his patience, so it was a wonder it had held this long. To have it done so publicly? "And in front of everyone too…" heck, he'd prefer the warning the Dark Lord had given instead of a Cruciatus Curse any day. So, he didn't particularly mind, still, he couldn't help but wonder if it had been normal back in the day…or if Harry was a special case.
Quite frankly the second option wouldn't surprise Rabastan the slightest.
Greyback snorted loudly, "There was never going to be any other way," Voldemort was a possessive bastard, he'd want everyone to know Harry was off-limits. "If he didn't show it, he would have broadcasted it,"
"He's never been one for public displays of affection," Corvus stated gruffly, not quite arguing with Greyback but at the same time still feeling in a state of disbelief. "He isn't a monk by any means…but he's never done anything remotely like what he just did in there." In fact, all indicators were subtle, he never once broke out of his masks in public and when in privacy…still had masks upon his face. He had been more pleasant since his return, the Tom he'd known a long time ago.
He still failed to see what was right in front of him.
Greyback barked out a disbelieving laugh, "You wanted him to declare every one of his bedwarmers? Power hungry smarmy bastards who agreed with everything he said in order to climb up the ladders and became petulant when it didn't work?" giving Corvus a look of utter disgusted disbelief, as if he couldn't believe the old man wasn't getting what was going on.
Arching a brow, "What are you suggesting?" Corvus asked eventually, rather baffled by Greyback's talk. It was difficult to get him to say more than a few words any given day, he'd more than filled his quota and yet here he was, still talking. It meant he felt strongly more so than any other time in the history that they'd known each other.
Greyback grinned, it was a feral sort of grin, all his teeth showing, "I'll let you figure it out on your own," Giving the sons a look, he reckoned that they had already figured it out, probably as long as he had. Made sense though, his senses gave him an advantage and the boys had been here constantly due to their ill health and of course, need to remain in hiding lest they end up unveiling the plot Harry and Voldemort had worked on in order to get everyone out without anyone the wiser. Senior was barely ever there, busy with the Ministry, the estate and of course, doing missions the Dark Lord ordered. It didn't give him much time with his sons, thus, not so much time in the Dark Lord's presence.
Rodolphus ignored the byplay going on in front of him, just tried to press Luna further into his side. He felt sick just thinking on how close he came to losing her. He hadn't been aware of the counter-spell to that particular spell, if it hit Harry then him or Harry then Luna they could have died. Or worse if Harry had not been there and just a little slower…he couldn't contemplate the idea. He would have died, but it was something he'd gratefully endure to keep Luna alive. The touch of her hand on his back soothing him, back and forth across his shoulder blades.
Unlike the others, he expressed no shock or satisfaction at being right. Luna had alluded to all this coming into play, and she was as always quite correct. It seemed some things were set in stone, and others could surprise the seer. Which was probably a good thing, there would be nothing worse than the constant knowledge of always being correct. No, he'd known it would happen, knew Harry would soon become another Lord, equal to his Lord, the only thing he hadn't been aware of was the 'when' he'd had a chance to digest it whereas the others hadn't yet. His father was in particular struggling the most, because the Dark Lord he knew would not share power, and it was how it looked the reality was, Voldemort was doubling his power base, making them even more powerful. Making it beyond one hundred percent that they would win this war with such a strong united front.
Corvus refused to be bated by Greyback, instead he ordered refreshments to be brought up for them all immediately by a House-elf.
Harry unconsciously licked his lips, a bad idea, as Voldemort's eyes flared with a feral intense desire that Harry knew was for him and him alone. He could taste him on his lips, and holy shit, his taste was…incredible. He realised he wanted a replay, he wanted those lips coaxed back onto his, not that it would take much. He wanted to run his hands through Voldemort's and see if it was as soft as it looked. Flushing bright red, Harry took a step back as his brain came fully back online again. Bloody hell, what had he been thinking for even going along with it for a second?
"What are you up to?" Harry asked, narrowing his eyes suspiciously, cautiously, why the hell would Voldemort want him? Yes, it was something he'd like, something he'd been dreaming off since he'd seen Voldemort sans the whole snake façade. Which by the way hadn't been up at all this evening, in front of every single one of his followers. "I'm not some sort of prize to be won, just because I bested Bellatrix," in fact the thought of that being why Voldemort was making a move actually hurt, but why the hell would he want to make a move anyway? He'd had absolutely zero interest in him…hadn't he?
Voldemort stepped closer into Harry's personal space, making up for the step he took back just moments earlier. "You believe yourself to be a prize because of your powers?" Voldemort asked, feeling slight disbelief, didn't the boy look in the mirror? He wandered around Harry speaking as he moved.
"I have more than enough power of my own, Harry, I certainly don't need yours." Which was a lie of sorts, he didn't need Harry to be his partner to have his powers, he already had them just by Harry's being on his side. "I already have you on my side, I already have your power at my disposal." Brutal honesty would be needed here, definitely. He was cagy and suspicious of him, and it rather vexed Voldemort.
Harry tilted his head up proudly, "And if I said no?" he challenged him, green eyes flashing at black ones.
If Harry was deliberately trying to wind him up, he was definitely succeeding, "I may be many things, especially in the eyes of the law, but I am no rapist." Voldemort hissed out through gritted teeth, quite frankly it sounded more like the snake language they both could understand than anything else. He'd never had to force a partner to sleep with him, they all did so willingly and with relish and he never left them wanting.
A wry smirk slid across Harry's face, green eyes gleaming ferociously, well, well, it looked as though Voldemort actually just wanted him for him. There could be worse ways to lose his pesky virginity, at least Voldemort didn't care for his 'fame' and it wouldn't be spread across the newspapers with explicit details on display. That and perhaps he could make his dreams a reality, because while he didn't remember most of them in a lot of details…what he did remember could still arouse him like nothing else ever had. When would another chance come up? Quite frankly, so far, Voldemort was the only wizard who actually caught his attention. At least nobody who could make him wake up from a wet dream like the ones he's had in the past. "You might look like you're in your twenties but you're what at least in your sixties…sure you'd be able to keep up old man?" Harry asked, taunting him, sweeping his tongue out again.
Voldemort inhaled sharply, the sly little bloody vixen he was deliberately winding him up. It made the problem in his pants more prominent and what little patience he'd retained vanish entirely. Watching Harry pulverise Bellatrix without losing sweat had been…alluring to say the least. The way he had utterly and mercilessly taken her magic as well…he was perfection at its finest.
Harry's eyes widened and he gave a surprise grunt as Voldemort grabbed a hold of him, and apparated them out of the destroyed dining room. He didn't need to open his eyes to realize they were most probably in Voldemort's bedroom. His mouth was in the process of being attacked by the wizard as he was shoved onto the bed with Voldemort on top of him.
Arching himself up, he wrapped his legs around Voldemort and flipped them over, he wasn't going to be a submissive little plaything, and Voldemort would have to live with that. The surprise that filtered over Voldemort's face indicated he definitely wasn't expecting it.
Kissing him back, distracting the both of them, he groaned at the feel of Voldemort wrapping his fingers through his hair and scraping his scalp in the process. There was something very erotic about it, but those fingers had been the first thing to get his attention. Grounding down against Voldemort, relishing in the arousal swamping him, Voldemort easily adding to it by the guttered groan he let out.
Voldemort realized he was going to come embarrassingly early if he didn't regain control, it had been a long time since he'd had a partner. He'd lost all trust towards the end, even in trusting a partner – as temporarily as they were – in his bed. He had been too busy since his return to even contemplate taking anyone. Then his bothersome attraction to the boy grounding down on him had well…made the thought of taking another somewhat…lacklustre. the enthusiastic participation wasn't easing his problem, judging by the…rather clumsy way he was acting the boy had not had sex yet.
He had to regain control immediately, with that Voldemort twisted them so that he was the one on top yet again. Tightening his hold so that Harry couldn't get out of his hold or try to get back on top. The maddening squirming wasn't helping him regain any control whatsoever.
Harry arched his neck in invitation at the first feel of that mouth biting and nibbling along his jawline. Bloody hell, it was so good, he'd never thought of his neck as an erogenous zone before, but it most definitely was. Harry slid his hands under Voldemort's clothes, gasping at the feeling of muscle under his hand, surprised to feel it. He'd never seen Voldemort undressed, but he'd always thought he was thin and lithe like himself. He couldn't help but roam his hands everywhere he could get them. Biting his lip and trying to keep silent, as he clutched his shoulders. This was a hundred times better than just trying to jerk off himself.
He had definitely gone too long, if those inexperienced hands could reduce him to a near writhing mess. They were exploring him as though they'd never even so much as touched another person before which aroused him further. Harry Potter wasn't just a virgin he was untouched and pure, and he was choosing to allow him to be his first despite their rather less than stellar past. He would give the boy a night he would never forget. Although nobody would be getting to touch him anyway, Harry was his now, he would kill anyone who tried to touch him or have him for themselves.
Harry blinked back to himself at the feeling of his clothes being removed, indecision warring within him. A bolt of panic hit him – not fearful panic just a little anxious panic – at the feeling of Voldemort undoing his trousers. "No," Harry stated, pressing his hand over Voldemort's, none of his panic showing, instead it was a decisive answer. He might be a virgin, and unexperienced, but he knew his own mind and knew better than to let anyone run all over him. That was what being here had taught him, that everything in his life was his own decision. Screw everyone else and their opinions.
To his eternal surprise, Voldemort did stop.
He did respect Harry's decision to go no further today, it was his body and as he had said before, he wasn't a rapist. He didn't need to force his partners to sleep with him, they had all been all too willing. Sure, expecting more than he would ever be willing to give them, it was hardly his fault that they grew to expect more. They were complete fools if they thought for a second, he'd share his power with them. With Harry though…he would share everything. He would go as slow as he needed. The feeling of Harry's lips against his own surprised him. So, he didn't wish to stop, he was just giving clear indications of his line drawn today.
Parting just slightly, he stared down at Harry, desire and satisfaction coursing through him at the desire and need exuding from Harry's body. The hickey's he'd marked into his neck becoming more prominent as time passed. Everyone would see, everyone would know that he had claimed the boy as his.
As if claiming them in front of every single one of his followers wasn't enough.
Nothing would ever be enough.
"You're mine," Voldemort declared passionately, before swooping in, determined to reduce Harry to an incoherent babbling mess.
Harry wrapped his legs around Voldemort, tightening his hold, "And you will be mine," he declared while panting for air as they came up for a much-needed breather. His lips were tingling with slight pain at the claiming, green eyes alight with passion.
All attempts at talking ceased after that, as they both focused on each other. Bodies pressing together, fingers scraping, legs tightening, bodies writhing on each other's hard bulges as passion grew to heights neither had known. Harry because it was all new and Voldemort…who had never truly been so obsessed over another person in this regard before. Eventually the passion grew too great, broken sounds left their lips as they came.
Voldemort unwound them both, leaning against the bed, and was content to watch Harry come undone, the desire to do more, to show him everything was strong. He refused; they had all the time in the world for him to show him all pleasures of the flesh. Harry was probably his first bed partner who had no desire for power, which was ironic in the extreme, since he was going to receive that and a lot more. He would ensure Harry received nothing but complete obedience and respect from his followers. Between the both of them, they would rule over the magical world and make it a world worthy of living in.
Lucius slammed the door closed of the quarters he used while they were living here temporarily as it had been. Face red, embarrassment and humiliation coursing through him. His son, his flesh and blood had fainted at the mere sight of a little blood and their Lord kissing someone. Those around him had seen it, and had found it all too amusing. Which meant it would be around the others within minutes, they would all know. His son was a complete and utter embarrassment!
"Do you think it's true?" Narcissa asked, wringing her hands together, anxiety pouring off her. As she petted at her son, who she'd just given a wet face cloth to. His face was just as red as his fathers, he did not tolerate embarrassment well, and he did not like his father's disapproval which was wafting from him in droves. "Has he taken Bellatrix's magic?" his worry for her sister obvious.
"Yes," Lucius stated seriously, "I have come to realise the boy never says anything he doesn't mean." The boy was infuriating in a way, but also very powerful, very self-aware and smart enough to know what it meant. Which meant that Lucius couldn't help but respect him for that. Although, for the first time, Lucius felt fear when it came to the boy. Fear of the power he was going to gain at the Dark Lord's side, fear of the power he had clearly enough to wipe Bellatrix's magic from her. The power he must have at his disposal to wipe Bellatrix' magical core was…very telling. He certainly wouldn't be going out of his way to even contemplate antagonising the boy again. Not that he had done such a thing for a while.
Narcissa felt tears brimming in her eyes, loathing herself for it, knowing if the situation was reversed Bellatrix would spare not even a single tear for her. The love she felt for her sister was one sided, Bellatrix felt no love for anyone except for the Dark Lord. "What will he do with her?" she was useless to the Dark Lord without magic, and quite honestly…she expected her death to come on swift wings.
"Love…there is nothing we can do about this situation, please don't cry," Lucius said, stalking over and wrapping his arms around her. He hated when she cried, there were only a few instances in their marriage when she had, not including the day Draco was born of course, they had been happy tears. When she found out she could have another child she'd been so heartbroken she had cried for days. He had almost joined her, but remained strong, almost stoic to the point. "I shall ask the Dark Lord for mercy," praying that he would give it to him. He was only going to do it for Narcissa, he personally didn't care for Bellatrix. She was more trouble than she was worth. Having a sister-in-law like Bellatrix wasn't only a hindrance it was an embarrassment.
"No, he will be furious," Narcissa declared strongly, she absolutely refused to allow anything to happen to her husband. She was already losing her sister she couldn't let anything happen to Lucius. "Just leave it alone." Her attention turning abruptly to her son when she noticed he was beginning to rouse.
"Do you understand now, Draco?" Lucius demanded; eyes boring coldly into his sons. "Do you realize why it is a bad idea to antagonise Potter?" wondering if his son even understood what was going on now. It truly was embarrassing and he was actually contemplating the very idea that Draco had some of the Black madness and impulsivity. Surely, he must, since he did nothing, he was meant to no matter how much he threatened his boy.
Draco hunched in on himself, "Is he going to get away with what he did to Bellatrix?" he'd never called her aunt Bellatrix. He barely knew her; she'd spent his entire childhood in Azkaban. He had a few pictures of her, of course, his mother liked to show them to him. He'd been a baby though, so of course, he didn't remember it. They'd been younger, youthful and very different from what they looked like now. Although, Rabastan and Rodolphus had changed since they got out of Azkaban but Bellatrix had remained maddeningly the same.
Lucius closed his eyes, despairing for his son, he didn't understand, "He will get away with whatever it is he wants. Do you not get it? Draco, Harry Potter holds more power than I or Severus do within the ranks." He'd never seen the Dark Lord publicly declare a lover before, he was different from all others. "He will rule by the Dark Lord's side, if Harry hadn't dealt with Bellatrix for what she did…the Dark Lord would have done worse."
"You must stop this childishness at once, Draco, if I find out you have been up to anything…you will not be back here again." Narcissa determined. She wasn't going to lose her son; Harry had given out numerous warnings so far. Even the others were warning her that Harry was losing patience, Severus, Rodolphus even Rabastan for Merlin's sake. No, she would just refuse to bring her son here, no matter how often he begged.
"Why him? Why is it always Potter?" Draco asked, sounding desperate and broken. Why did it always come down to him? He was never going to be anything when it was always down to Potter. In school, it was always him, from bloody house points, fame, ability to do anything he wants to getting off with murder. Not literally of course, but still, it was always him. This was supposed to be his side, where he shone and Potter died in obscurity when the Dark Lord won.
"The world doesn't revolve around you or Potter, Draco, only you are making it feel that way," Lucius stated sharply, honestly his son was still thinking of Potter as a rival in school. "You cannot keep comparing your accomplishments to Potter. It's no way to go about life. You won't be in school much longer." It would be like him trying to compare himself to the Dark Lord and that just would not do.
That was true, Draco thought, Potter wasn't in Hogwarts, yet nothing extraordinary had happened. All he did was spells, homework, quizzes then more homework. He didn't even shine when Potter wasn't there, no, Granger was still holding the number one spot in most classes.
Perhaps it wasn't Potter at all…maybe, just maybe, he was just disappointed in his life. He had expected greatness all his life after all, raised to believe it.
Realization filtered through Draco, finally at long last, he had heard the words that would bring realization crashing down upon him.
Whether it would be enough to keep the delusions from returning nobody knew.
"I must return to my office," and deal with Bellatrix went unsaid but definitely understood between the two of them. "You will accompany me."
It looked like despite their little…get together that Voldemort wouldn't change. Surprisingly that put Harry at ease, he wasn't sure how he'd have reacted if the Voldemort had suddenly started asking him things instead of demanding it. He did flush red just imagining everyone's reactions though, they'd know what they'd been up to. He wasn't thick, he could feel the marks adorning his neck, he absently touched them, yes, on full display.
Voldemort's eyes just gleamed in satisfaction, a small smirk making its way onto his features as if he could sense what Harry was thinking. He would make it his mission to always see those sorts of marks on Harry so he might as well get used to it.
"I need to get change," Harry barely finished the words when the feel of magic washed over both of them, getting rid of the damp patch in his underwear. "Well…that took care of that, I would have still preferred to shower." The sweat had dried up on him, leaving him feeling a little…yucky. He didn't like being dirty, not anymore. A great deal of his childhood had been that way, since he had been able to, he had kept himself as clean as possible. Showring at Hogwarts every night – when he wasn't in the hospital wing anyway – and of course bathing or showering here. Although he preferred bathing, there wasn't a bath at Hogwarts – unless you counted the prefects bath which he didn't far too public.
"Later," Voldemort demanded, "Let's go." he wanted this dealt with as soon as possible.
Harry huffed out a sigh, before blinking as he took in Voldemort's bedchambers for the first time. They were similar to his own in design, no surprise there. What also wasn't a surprise was the green and silver Slytherin bedding. Not only was he proud of his house at Hogwarts he was proud of his family line. The Slytherin line. It was clean and orderly, just like his office, he swore Voldemort had a touch of OCD. He was curious about the book he was reading, but the impatient noise Voldemort made Harry huff again. "Alright, alright, Merlin," Harry said smothering his amusement as he swung himself off his bed. Absently rearranging his clothes, so it wasn't too bloody obvious what they had been doing. He placed a glamour on the bite marks adorning his neck and stepped out of the room, only to feel the magic receding.
Harry barked out an amused chuckle, "You're a possessive bastard, wasn't your declaration enough?" there was little to no point to putting up another glamour he knew Voldemort would just remove it.
"I'll have you know my parents were married before I was born, as distasteful as it is," Voldemort declared imperiously, he was in no way a 'bastard' thank you very much. In the magical world such a thing was sordid and dirty, especially in Voldemort's time, not so much these days, like all things the 'badness' or prejudice came and went.
Harry glanced at Voldemort surprised that he would mention his parents instead of getting pissed, but inevitably shrugging his shoulders. He cared no more for his parents than Voldemort truly did. It wasn't the inability to care, it was the fact they'd never known them. Yes, when he'd been eleven, he had pined for them, but he was no longer a child wishing and desiring for parents. Pining for something wasn't the same as missing them, he hadn't grieved like Remus and Sirius had for Lily and James Potter and never would.
The remainder of the walk towards the office was a silent one, but not an uncomfortable one. Things hadn't been uncomfortable between Voldemort and Harry since the beginning. Since Voldemort had figured Harry out, realized what he wanted and had given it to him on a silver platter. His freedom most importantly.
The silence in the room where the Lestrange's were wasn't quite as peaceful, they were tense and alert, deeply uncomfortable. Well, everyone except for Luna and Rodolphus of course, who was as always, content to spend his time with Luna whenever and wherever he could. Despite the fact they were warm, seated and had drank and eaten their fill they were still anxious by the look of it.
They stood the moment the door opened, Luna much slower than the others, not used to how things were done here. Luna though, was watching Harry intently to make sure he was alright. A nod from Harry relaxed her shoulders. She was definitely out of place amongst the others who had tensed further upon the Dark Lord's arrival.
Voldemort made his way over to the unconscious bundle in his office, and did a basic diagnosis on the woman at his feet. As expected, he found her magical core completely gone, shattered beyond repair. Other than that, she was in very ill health, which disheartened him, she should have recovered by this, hadn't she been following Grant's health plan?
"Well, I do believe her…life is in your hands," Voldemort stated to Harry, "What do you plan on doing?" he wouldn't interfere with the duel and deciding her fate would be interfering. She had accepted the duel adding more weight behind it.
"I did what I intended to do," Harry said coolly, having no pity for Bellatrix, she deserved everything she got in his opinion. "What happens next can be up to Rodolphus and you." Deeply curious to see what Rodolphus would decide. Rodolphus gave a choked noise at the declaration.
He stared at Harry with a 'deer in the headlight' look that definitely looked comical on the wizard. "What? Why? Why me?"
"You've had to endure the most," Harry pointed out, "But be warned, anything she manages to pull will go directly on your shoulders. Just because she has no magic doesn't mean she isn't a danger to society." And wasn't that the truth? Anything and everything could be used as a weapon.
Rodolphus stiffened, well, that explained his 'mercy' when it came to Bellatrix. For surely, he knew that he wouldn't wish to see Bellatrix dead not really. He knew that the Dark Lord didn't wish to see her die either, so it didn't leave much in the way of options. "I…I can't see her dead," he confessed, looking pained and angry at the same time. Angry at his weakness for his inability to see Bellatrix gone from his life for good.
Harry merely nodded, waiting for Rodolphus to make up his mind, ambling over and taking a seat. Making himself something to drink and nibbling on the food that had been at some point brought up. "So? What's your alternative?"
"Harry," Luna chided, didn't he realize this was hard for them? of course, he did, he was just protecting her, going to the extreme. She appreciated it, she really did, Bellatrix could have killed Rodolphus if Harry hadn't known the counter-curse.
Rodolphus gripped Luna tightly, she had better learn not to argue with Harry at least not where Voldemort was anyway. He could see that Voldemort wasn't even happy with what she had said so far. "How about keeping her on the grounds here, with the inability to leave her abode…until…"
"Until?" Harry arched a brow.
"Until she can be put in St. Mungo's, she needs someone to take care of her, stop her doing anything…drastic, she's never gone a day without her magic," Rodolphus said, shuddering violently just imagining how she'd feel. "She might try to end her life."
"Which is why you're probably just better off giving her some poison and letting her go," Harry said darkly, perhaps he was doing the wrong thing here.
"I hate to agree, but he is right, son," Corvus agreed one hundred percent with Harry.
"Maybe, but I can't just let her die," Rodolphus argued, "You've asked me to decide, this is what I've decided. In house-arrest spell, with a full-time carer so she can heal and get better. Someone strong enough to withstand whatever Bellatrix might have in store." Glancing at Luna to see how she felt about all this, and found her looking at him with a look that could only be 'starry eyed' or as close as one he'd ever seen before. She obviously approved of his mercy, although truthfully…was it mercy? Or was he just forcing her to endure more torture? Keeping her alive without magic, it was quite frankly worse than what they had done to the Longbottom's.
"Is there a cabin or anything here she can use?" Harry asked eventually, "I've never really looked properly," he added sheepishly when he got a raised eyebrow at his question. He did know there was nothing in the immediate vicinity.
"There is something…but it would need to be made suitable," Voldemort muttered grudgingly, he felt like he was betraying Bellatrix, betraying her loyalty, she had been so utterly loyal to him that he felt something. It wasn't so much as guilt…but perhaps a general sadness? If he could muster up what genuine sadness felt like he'd suggest it was that. Also, slight irritancy that he was losing someone loyal to him – someone who would do whatever he asked whenever he asked – at the end of the day he'd rather have someone stable like Harry than Bellatrix though. "Until then she goes into the outer dungeons," where Harry had been, it wasn't as cold down there and there was actually a bed. He was not having her roaming around; she was a danger with or without magic.
He had noticed her reaction when he had claimed Harry, and it wouldn't do to have them in the same building for long. He would have the cabin renovated overnight, and get her situated as soon as possible. The band would be easily made, he wouldn't need to use an item either, just imbue it into the Dark Mark, making it impossible to override.
"Well, excuse me, I've got a card game to get to," Harry said, rubbing his hands together gleefully, he was going to enjoy tonight.
Voldemort watched Harry go caught between being annoyed and amused.
"I'm coming," Luna declared immediately, rushing after him.
"Don't you have an unfair advantage, Luna?" they heard Harry tease Luna, her reply wasn't heard as they were too far away.
Corvus coughed to hide how amused he was by both Rodolphus' and the Dark Lord's reactions to their lovers just up and leaving without so much as showing any respect to the Dark Lord or getting their permission.
Well, life wasn't going to be boring that was for certain. It was time to embrace that.
Just as Harry and Luna were embracing their true selves now that they didn't feel the need to stick to the light side.
"I thought you lot wanted a rematch?" Harry asked, leaning against the doorway, watching them listen to the wireless, sounded like a Quidditch match was being played. Although, who it was Harry had no idea, their last names weren't familiar to him. Despite his love for Quidditch at Hogwarts, he was more in it for flying. He knew the names of some Quidditch teams but nothing more and only because he'd heard them in passing.
"Wha…we…er…that is to say, what?" Terrance Higgs spluttered out; his eyes wide.
Harry cocked his head to the side, staring at the group, they looked ready to piss themselves. "Card game? You better have gotten the Fire-whisky, I was looking forward to that,"
"You still want to play?" Terrance blurted out, genuinely taken aback. Glancing at the others as if trying to gauge their reactions as well. They were all just as surprised as he was that Harry was standing there as well.
"I thought your schedule would be rather…busy tonight," Marcus Flint commented, a wicked smirk adorning his face, which made him look more sadistic than amused really given it showed nearly all his teeth. "Not that we would have blamed you,"
"Yes, he is hot like burning, isn't he?" Harry taunted them right back, causing all of them to duck down, staring alarmed at Harry's casual way of talking about their Lord. Half expecting him to turn up around the corner and curse them for discussing him. "I mean those hands…"
Theodore, Blaise, Pansy and Millicent choked on their own spit.
Aiden Pucey squeaked, "The game…" he muttered desperately, "You still want to play?"
Harry laughed, throwing his head back, properly displaying every single bite mark that Voldemort had put on display while marking his territory. "I thought you didn't like starting things you won't be able to finish?" he asked them, they had begun taunting him…what had they expected an innocent virginal flush to overtake him as he stuttered? Oh, no, he rarely let anyone see genuine reactions from him. Maybe Voldemort and Luna and on the odd occasion, Severus but that was the extent of it.
"Just stop, we aren't going there," Marcus stated, shuddering, "Our Lord has the propensity to turn up just as something was said that shouldn't have been…"
Harry just smiled mysteriously; green eyes gleaming with a knowing look. Unlike them, he would know the second Voldemort approached. The mark he still bore acted as a beacon; he would know he was approaching even if it no longer burned him. He could, if he so wished, actually see out of the Dark Lord's eyes temporarily. Although, the last time had been an accident, and it had pissed him off, so it wasn't something he rather wanted to do again. Plus, it had been entirely too dizzying and weird to wish to do so again. The only way it would happen is if Voldemort apparated, but it wouldn't really be sneaking up if he was Apparating now, would it? "Alright," he said, taking pity on them. "I've had Luna set up in the room we used last time…well, with Butterbeer anyway, the real stuff was meant to be bought by you," gesturing towards Terrance.
"Well, luckily I did," Terrance admitted, although not for the reason the original bottle was going to be used for. No, they'd planned on getting bloody hammered after what they had just seen. "You've already cost me ten galleons." He must be mad wanting to lose more but maybe, just maybe the beginners luck had worn off.
"I'm insulted, you thought I'd get beaten?" Harry asked, shaking his head in mock irritation.
"He thought you'd get your ass handed to you," Marcus answered with a smirk, "I had him at twenty galleons you'd win. He shot it down to ten, so at least he had some doubts." Not against selling Terrance out, no Slytherin would be against being smug and superior that they were right all along.
"Love proving everyone wrong," Harry said, shrugging his shoulders, he was aware that they probably weren't the only ones who had placed bets either. "Bring everything down to the room, Barty and Luna are there," he added, "Nott, Parkinson, Zabini you can come if you want," they looked slightly put out, but the surprise on their faces proved they did indeed wish to come.
And with that Harry left the room.
"Well, you coming?" Marcus grunted as he stood, rubbing his hands together, determined to beat Potter tonight.
"I…" Theodore murmured, slightly dazed.
"Draco will be most displeased," Pansy admitted, especially if he wasn't invited.
"You think he won't show up?" Blaise said, snorting a little, he was there when they made the original plans, Draco would take it as invitation, that he too was invited. Although, given that he had been led straight away by his father after the duel maybe he wouldn't get out of his parents sight. "Well, I'm going, it's either that or head home." And he'd rather avoid his mother's badgering on what 'he wanted to do when Hogwarts was done' despite having near perfect grades. So, he would be able to do whatever he chose, he just didn't know what he wanted to do if he was honest.
They found themselves in an empty room, Marcus and the others had already left. Evidently not truly caring whether they chose to come or not.
"Come on!" Theodore urged, as he jogged from the room, in order to catch up with them, since they didn't know where they were set up. It was obviously a room they'd used to play before, but Theo hadn't been there for that, so they didn't know. He definitely wasn't going to try and ask people where they were.
They managed to find the room by barely keeping up so the guys were in their line of sight round ever corner then of course the room. Theo, Blaise and Pansy gaped as they entered, it was an actual games room, with the proper gear and everything. They'd never expected such a sight in the Dark Lord's manor. It made them wonder if he gambled or if it was something to keep the people happy.
"Woah, has this been here the entire time?" Theo asked, there were snacks strewn all over the table, next to where they had all just sat.
Marcus arched a brow, "Of course, it has." He grunted, unimpressed with the insipid words.
"I had no idea this was even here," Theo added, "I mean, I thought I had investigated every room on this level." The one level he was actually allowed to be in. Everywhere else was off-limits.
"That's doubtful, even I haven't investigated everywhere," Harry said wryly. "And I'm here every day." Had been for quite a while. He didn't know about this room until the 'coming-out' party which had coincided with his birthday. So more of a birthday party than a coming-out to the dark side sort of thing.
"Five card draw?" and it was quickly agreed, that was what they'd play.
"Why is it you decided to leave Hogwarts anyway?" Blaise asked.
"Betting limit per game I'd say ten galleons?" Harry said, putting a limit on this one, the last game he'd played, he couldn't remember a limit being on it, but it had all been adults and completely hammered so they probably hadn't thought of the good idea.
"Fifteen," Terrance suggested.
"Twenty," Marcus argued.
"Alright, eighteen galleons," Harry suggested, that way almost everyone would be happy. Plus, he doubted they were hard up for the money.
They all quickly agreed they were happy with that stipulation.
"I thought the scene in the Great Hall that time would have been explanation enough?" Harry said derisively, clicking his tongue. "Stop there, that's enough for me," he added watching Marcus pour fire-whisky into a goblet. Harry then poured a more than generous amount of butterbeer into his cup afterwards. He didn't want to get completely sloshed through.
Ten sickles were placed in the pot by Harry, who said "Ante up!" and the others added their own money which was in a pouch next to them.
Harry laughed when Theo, Blaise and Pansy barely got more than a gulps worth.
"What? I'm not getting any shit from your parents if they get wind of this, it's that or nothing." Marcus grunted; the Parkinson's were bad enough but Blaise's mother was the absolute worse. Theo's dad was a bit more laid back but he had no idea the kids tolerance so best to be on the safe side.
Harry used magic to deal the cards swiftly, dealing to his left then clockwise to everyone else. Each getting a card until they all had five each.
"Fair enough," Pansy agreed, well aware how annoyed her parents would be if she got drunk. She wasn't going to turn down free drink though. Accepting her cards, a pout showing on her face momentarily before she was 'pokerfaced' again.
Harry of course, noticed it, but he was sitting with a bunch of Slytherins who had been playing since they were young probably. So, he would need to suss out what were genuine tells or what was faked just to make you think the opposite of what they wanted you to know. It would be bad form to read their minds to find out after all…nobody had accused Harry of being good…at least not for a good long while.
Luna giggled behind her own cards, only to be given odd looks from everyone around her. She completely ignored them, used to the looks she received all her life.
"It will be unfair if you win," Harry commented to Luna who was sitting next to him.
"Tell me about it," Barty grumbled. "But it is a good advantage," he certainly would use it so he couldn't blame Luna if she did. Placing two of his cards down and accepting the replacements, as did Marcus, Harry and Luna. The rest seemed happy with what they had. Harry as the dealer of course, went last.
"What happened in the Great Hall?" Terrance asked, genuinely curious as they begun to play the game. Relaxing back, at least they managed to actually get the game off to a start this time, without Malfoy there to complain about his cards. It's like the kid didn't know how to play at all.
"Oh, I withdrew from school, handed my exam results over and walked out. The look on their faces were hilarious." Harry said chuckling in amusement. "I would have loved to have stuck around to have seen the look on Dumbledore's face though, but he can see through my invisibility cloak so I couldn't." genuinely pouting over that fact.
Barty snorted in amusement, only to laugh in glee at the next words.
"He bolted after you, shouting your name so loudly I wouldn't be surprised if the rafters vibrated," Theodore informed him with a smirk, "The entire school was in an uproar, not that I blame you really, she was a wicked bitch."
"That she was," Harry murmured, glancing pointedly at Pansy.
"What? I'm not going to feel guilty," Pansy stated seriously, "I'd rather be on the winning side. Plus, the Ministry had too much control over Hogwarts that year. Do you ever see Dumbledore protecting any of the Slytherins? We did what we had to in order to protect ourselves." The anger and disgust pouring off Pansy was immense. She had a deep hatred of Dumbledore like all Slytherin's inevitably did due to his favouritism.
"He didn't even help his 'Savior' so why the hell would he protect anyone else?" Theodore scoffed as he drank his whiskey laced beer.
They all had their hand, now it was time to bet.
"Severus would have," Harry stated immediately, and without a doubt. For it was him who had protected Harry as often as he was able. He knew it wasn't just because Voldemort had demanded it either. Severus might have hated him to begin with, but that hatred hadn't stopped the protection Severus had given him. "I bet ten sickles," Harry declared putting the coins down, starting low but this wasn't a high stakes game, it was just for fun.
Theodore, Blaise and Pansy were startled by the use of their Head Of House's first name. Sure, they knew it, but they'd never used it or heard anyone their age using it. It conveyed a deeper meaning; they knew their professor was obviously close with Potter.
"Was it all faked?" Blaise couldn't help but ask, "The antagonistic relationship you two had?"
"I'll see your ten sickles," Luna said, before adding more to the pot, "And raise you seven sickles!" which essentially made it a galleon in the pot already.
"That's it?" Pansy scoffed, "I'll see your seventeen sickles for five galleons."
"What do you think?" Harry asked, wondering what on earth they all thought. Despite the conversation going on around them, they were all paying close attention to each person.
"I would say no…but I never thought you'd be here so, what the hell do I know?" Blaise scoffed, shaking his head. "Fold," he wasn't even going to try with these pathetic cards in front of him.
"I just don't get that, I mean seriously, why the hell do you all think that my allegiance was a sure thing at the age of eleven? I hadn't even been in the magical world before then!" Harry said exasperated.
"Other than the fact you're suspected to have faced the Dark Lord at the end of your first year?" Marcus was the one to point that out, as he matched Harry's stake.
"Oh, that's true," Harry conceded, his lips twitching as Theodore added to the pot with a clear disgruntled look on his face for a second.
"What that wasn't just bloody rumours?" Blaise practically squawked.
"I thought Dumbledore just used something pathetic blown out of proportion to award the points, I mean a chess game?" Theodore scoffed, still seething over the loss by the way all these years later.
Barty added to the pot arching a brow as they continued to talk, curious despite himself.
"Actually, say what you like about Ron, that chess game was set up by McGonagall," Harry defended Ron, "At eleven years old…but he's always been good at chess. I think he would do well on the tournament circuit." Win a lot of money at that too. "I'll raise you two more galleons," after putting in the pot, and raising.
"I'm surprised you'd want to defend him after everything he's done," Pansy said screwing her nose up in disgust, "Bloody Weasley's!" absently playing with her coins as Luna went next after Harry, then it was her turn.
"We'll never be friends again, but it wasn't all bad," Harry conceded, "I've never understood the hatred you all have for the Weasleys' though," or the hatred the Weasley's have for all things Slytherin. Blind prejudice is what it was really.
"But you actually faced the Dark Lord? What happened?" Marcus asked, genuinely curious. Although the drink might have something to do with it. It was difficult to believe someone with only the basic of Hogwarts education got the better of the Dark Lord.
Harry cocked his head to the side, staring at everyone who was actually paying close attention despite the game. They honestly wanted to know what went down, the rumour mill had been rampant but nobody had actually believed that Voldemort had been at Hogwarts. Hell, Dumbledore hadn't wanted what really happened getting out and probably fed the rumours. "Voldemort couldn't touch me due to the protection my mother's sacrifice inspired. So, when he did, Quirrell began to disintegrate, it forced Voldemort to flee without the Philosopher stone Dumbledore had stored in Hogwarts to draw him out and see what would happen between us." Harry said simply, shrugging his shoulders.
"Well, he can definitely touch you now," Theodore sniggered, before clapping his hand over his mouth in horror at his own words. Glancing at the doorway as if expecting the Dark Lord to suddenly appear and torture him. "Fold," he added, putting his cards down, he wasn't going to waste any more money on this unsalvageable set of cards.
"That he can," Harry said, a smirk playing across his face. "And you are drunk,"
"No, I'm not," Theodore complained, clearly lying through his teeth.
"Go eat something," Marcus ordered, shaking his head before deciding to summon food for all of them. He really didn't want to get into it with the parents. This might be the biggest mistake he'd ever made. Potter that could outdrink the Slytherins, there was a day he never thought he'd see.
Harry's eyes gleamed into Marcus' as if he knew what the Slytherin was thinking. It was extremely intimidating, not that he would ever reveal that information to anyone.
They all ate not just Theodore as they played out two games, Theodore, Blaise and Pansy were only allowed Butterbeer after their first drink – clearly unable to handle their drink as of yet – much to their consternation. Surprisingly Pansy ended up winning the first game, and the second game went to Marcus Flint, Barty Harry had learned was a very sore loser.
"Well, I'm going to get back to Rodolphus, I owe him some snuggles," Luna declared cheerfully, as if she didn't mind that she had lost two games. She'd had good fun; she wasn't often invited to activities like these with people her own age. She had spent her Hogwarts years being bullied, only Harry had given her a chance…even Hermione and Ron had written her off immediately. Recalling their words to her, she might have looked completely unbothered, but it hurt to be excluded all the time.
Barty and Harry barked out an amused bout of laughter at the looks on Theodore, Blaise, Pansy, Marcus and Terrance's face. Honestly, you'd think Luna had just declared that she usually tap dance's naked on the full moon surrounded by werewolves.
She gave Harry and Barty a wave before she took off without another word to anyone.
"Rodolphus…snuggles?" Marcus muttered in horrified fascination. "Speaking off…what exactly has happened to Bellatrix? I assume she's dead?" Harry didn't seem to be one who took anything lying down anymore.
"No," Marcus and the others were startled to hear that coming from Harry.
"No?" Terrance echoed the word, wincing at the reality of a Bellatrix alive without magic, it was just too horrific to contemplate. It made Terrance have a healthy respect for Harry Potter and a single-minded determination never to piss him off. It was probably the same for all the others, especially seeing as the Dark Lord probably wouldn't do anything about it. "Damn that is just…vicious," death was preferable than living without magic.
"Mmm, Rodolphus couldn't bring himself to kill her," Harry shrugged, giving away the fact he had left her fate in the hands of the Lestrange's' and that they had taken pity on her…the worst kind of pity at that.
"That's hardly a surprise," Barty said, understanding what was going through Rodolphus' head more than any of the others. He was good friends with them, although lately he'd have to say Harry was more of a best friend, but only because the brothers had been focusing on getting better and he had never been in the state they had. He'd had been fed meals three times a day under the Imperius curse after all. It had addled his mind being free so suddenly, but he was still in better shape than the brothers had been.
Someone clearing their throat had them all looking up, Harry was half expecting Voldemort but was pleasantly surprised to see Severus there. "Hey," Harry said in greeting.
"If you have nothing to do, I would like it if you would help me brew a few potions in the lab." Severus stated briskly.
Harry arched a brow, Severus never needed help brewing…unless he had something he wanted to give most of his attention to. He had mentioned his desire to create a potion, so perhaps he wanted to focus on that instead. "Sure," he agreed.
"We can help as well, Professor?" Blaise suggested, next to Draco he was the best potions brewer in his year.
"I think you'd be a danger of blowing up the lab, instead of helping, Mr. Zabini," Severus said dryly, "Perhaps if you were sober the answer would have been different." Which was a lie but he'd rather let his Slytherin's save face. They got enough crap from the magical world just because of their placement, he wouldn't add to it.
"I'm not that bad," Blaise protested.
"I beg to differ, you're slurring your words," Severus said wryly, giving Harry a nod, before leaving the room and its occupants.
Barty and Marcus eyed Severus skewedly, knowing he didn't need help. Nor would he ask for it even if he was working under pressure.
"Best get going," Harry said, his curiosity showing, indicating he too, knew there was more to this than just brewing potions. "Thanks for the game, I'll see you later," and it had been fun, he was beginning to really like spending time with Marcus and Terrance. Although Barty was still the funniest of the lot.
"Definitely have to do it again," Barty stated determinedly but it was the last thing Harry heard as he left the room.
It didn't take Harry long to get down to the dungeons, where Severus was waiting for him. "You definitely don't need help with potions. What's wrong?" if anything he was the one that required inspiration from Severus when it came to certain potions.
"Has anyone given you the talk?" Severus asked, clearly deeply uncomfortable, but the set of his jaw and brow spoke of determination.
"The talk? About what?" Harry asked, frowning in confusion, at the abrupt change of subject.
"Sex," Severus stated bluntly. Truly unsurprised that neither Black or Lupin had thought to inform Harry of such things. They were bordering on immature; they knew nothing about children.
Harry flushed red immediately, "What the hell do we need to talk about sex for?" Harry squeaked out; eyes wider than Dobby's on a bad day.
Severus smothered down his amusement; he had never seen Harry so…embarrassed before. "I'm going to assume you missed out on the talk Poppy gave to boys in your class?" which wasn't surprising given the amount of time Harry often ended up in the Hospital wing.
Harry nodded curtly, glancing at the doorway, almost tempted to make a run for it.
"Don't worry, I'm not going to give you an actual talk," Severus said wryly, the boy would probably die of embarrassment if he did so. "Instead, all I ask is that you read this book, it will tell you everything you need to know, from the mechanism of sex to usual first-time questions people want to know the answer to but rarely ask."
Harry gulped, "Fine," he squeaked out, "I'll read it," too off-kilter to do much of anything let alone run.
"Harry…is this something you want?" Severus asked seriously, leaning against his empty workstation. "That YOU want." Not the Dark Lord, not anyone else, he wanted to be sure Harry wasn't being coerced into it, but he didn't think it to be the case. Merlin knows what he would do if it turned out that Harry didn't want the attention the Dark Lord was paying him.
Harry blinked, a small smile spreading across his face, realizing just how much Severus actually cared for the first time since he'd deflected to the other side. "That's something you don't have to worry about, Severus, I promise." Severus practically deflated like a burst balloon with confirmation. "I very much look forward to exploring…things with him."
"That…that's good," Severus said, clearing his throat, relief shining through his black eyes.
"How about you and I begin working on that tenth incomplete potion idea?" he had no names for any his potions, but the idea behind it was always written down first and foremost. As soon as the war was over for good, the potions would be published. Well, all except for the Metamorphmagus potion, that wasn't something they wanted widely publicized. Severus would get his share of acclamation and money gained, and yes, they were charging for it. The money was in a pouch somewhere in the lab actually.
"Which is your what?" Severus enquired, relaxing steadily, now that this horrific task was over with. He had read through the grimoire Harry had so graciously allowed him entry to. He had expressed interest in quite a few of them, but he hadn't memorised the book, the potion ideas weren't together, Harry scribbled a lot of information down, spells, potions, charms, hexes, dark arts and then potions again, it was all mixed up. Only Harry could ever make any sense of it.
"The one to repair the damage done to the Longbottom's," Harry explained, "Dobby?" he called, leaning against the lab table on the other side from Severus. "Can you bring me my grimoire, please?"
"Dobby will be doing that right away," Dobby said popping away, unsurprised that his Master had not waited for him to talk before asking. He knew he tended to blab a lot, but at least his Master Harry didn't hurt him.
"How is your arm?" Severus asked, concerned, his heart had been in his goddamned mouth the entire duel. He had sworn a vow to protect Harry, yet he'd been unable to interfere with the duel, and quite frankly, he hadn't known what the damn consequences would be. To the interference of the duel or worse, letting Bellatrix do anything to Harry. He was undeniably proud of how far Harry had come, the Dark Lord had taught him well enough…but Harry…had definitely trained on his own, and had his own brand of duelling. Which seemed aimed at pissing people off to the extent they couldn't think straight.
"It's fine, Voldemort's done worse during training," Harry shrugged, "I'm just glad she didn't go straight for the killing curse…I doubt I could have survived that,"
"That is very true, but Bellatrix is one for a spot of torture and completely bringing her opponent down. Her need for theatricality was her downfall, something you ought to take into consideration." Severus gave him a knowing look. He had been unsurprised that Harry had used his spell to take care of Bellatrix, he liked to do the unexpected.
Harry just gave him an innocent look before glancing at Dobby when he appeared with a pop. He accepted the book with a nod of thanks and Dobby disappeared once more. Harry immediately begun flipping through his book, until he came upon the one, he'd began when he found out what happened to the Longbottom's. It had admittedly been out of sheer boredom at the time…but if anyone deserved some good luck it was the Longbottom's…it was Neville. "Here it is, I'm pretty sure I've showed you it before."
"It does look familiar," Severus conceded, but they had been focused on the Metamorphmagus potion for quite a while.
"How is Narcissa taking it?" Harry asked, without a hint of guilt. He didn't feel guilty but he did feel bad for Narcissa in an abstract sort of way.
"I am unsure," Severus revealed honestly, as he placed the book in front of him. "I have yet to talk to either of them. Narcissa…despite Bellatrix's…mental instability loves her, not enough to allow her unsupervised time with her son, but enough to allow her to see him, that tells you just how deluded she is with just how far gone her sister actually was."
"Is," Harry corrected him absently, as Severus copied the information on the page and began to write down his own modifications without much thought put into it. Potions came as easy as breathing for him, so it was hardly any wonder. "Rodolphus couldn't bring himself to kill her, and Voldemort couldn't either."
"No, I don't suppose he could, there is one thing the Dark Lord appreciates above all else…loyalty. He rewards loyalty with loyalty, its why he was so desperate to get his followers out of Azkaban as soon as possible."
"Unless that loyalty gets in the way of what he wants," Harry commented idly, not unaware that Voldemort would kill even one of his most loyal followers to get what he wanted at the end of the day. Heck, Harry suspected he'd even kill him – and the Horcrux – if it came to it although considering he had absorbed the rest maybe not.
Severus paused briefly, glancing up at Harry, before nodding just once, "Indeed," was all he had to say on that subject. At least Harry wasn't becoming so utterly besotted that he didn't know what the Dark Lord was truly capable of.
"I doubt very much the Dark Lord will thank you for saving two Order members," Severus commented as they worked, suggestions going back and forth as they worked in sync.
"You actually think the potion will work?" Harry asked dryly, "I have no doubt that Neville's gran has the best people working on a cure and nothing has been worked out yet."
"Then she doesn't employ the right kind of people," Severus sneered at the prospect.
"Perhaps," Harry conceded, reckoning she used American Potion Masters of renown. Not many trusted Severus, despite the fact 'Dumbledore' vouched for him. So, he would have been struck off immediately, he wondered if the witch would come to regret that if they manage to successfully make it. Severus was a prodigy at potions, utterly phenomenal, he understood potions in a way that nobody else did. The Potions Mastery, being the youngest, didn't quite cover it.
And so, they sat on their stools and let their thoughts be known, completely forgetting the time. Not that they had anything to worry about, after all, they had nothing that needed their attention any time soon.
"How about phoenix tears? Would that work on mental damage? However miniscule it is," Harry mused thoughtfully.
"I've only ever heard of it repairing physical damages," Severus replied, "I am unsure of whether it would work against mental illnesses, and the tears are damn near impossible to incorporate into potions it requires a finesse that is near intolerable to accomplish."
"Okay, are there any potions available to deal with mental damage? Brain damage or anything of the sort Even a short amount?" he didn't know every single potion available so excuse him for asking. "Even one that isn't well known or 'illegal' by the Ministry's standards."
Severus frowned, his mind mentally calculating everything he'd ever read. "I believe…" Severus said slowly, "That there are three that I've read about, that might offer us some assistance." Already knowing what Harry was planning, it was quite ingenious really, to incorporate two potions together to make something new. Or using it as a stepping stone in order to accomplish what he wanted. Or making the first potion better, more powerful, much like what he had done with the potion for Remus Lupin and his wolf-y problem.
"But?" Harry asked, if he had the books, he'd already be off like a shot to get them, of that, he was sure.
"I believe you will find them in the Dark Lord's library, I may have one but I am not one hundred percent on that front. It's not something I had a great interest in, potions of that nature are extremely pernickety and I found myself disliking them immensely." Severus admitted, he had sold and bought more books than he could remember, so that one may have been one of the many sold for something more up his street.
"Not your preferred area, gotcha," Harry agreed, "Well I'll just ask…"
A pop interrupted their conversation.
"You are required to go to Masters private study at once," the House-elf reprimanded, and without waiting for a reply she disappeared.
Harry and Severus stared at where the House-elf was incredulously before glancing at the time. Severus arched a brow while Harry's eyes widened, bloody hell, it was well past dinner time, so past dinner time that it was nearer supper. "I guess we better go, I forgot we'd set up a meeting tonight." Harry sighed, "I'll find the books tonight, and read through them." Glancing at his clock, it was nearing time for him to get some rest, it was just passing midnight.
Severus tapped the paper in front of him then another, appeared before the pages glowed blue. "Any alterations made, will show up on both copies," he explained, as he closed the book and handed one copy of the parchment and the book back to Harry.
"Nobody finds out about this conversation," Harry warned him, flushing red, despite himself. "No one." He tried to sound as threatening as possible, but the reality came across as an embarrassed youth.
"Best not keep the Dark Lord waiting," Severus replied in lieu of an answer.
Harry groaned, the Slytherin that Severus was…there was no way he'd agree to keep it to himself. He'd just added to the ammunition, like some sort of Gryffindor. Muttering under his breath, he and Severus left the dungeons – taking with them the grimoire, the book that had Harry flushing further and parchment – and despite the general disgruntlement and delight on Severus' part, it was with a dramatic flair and general amusement that followed them up. Shoving the books in his cloak pocket - charmed to house more than just mere sweets or his wand - he did not want anyone to see that book thank you very much.
It warmed Harry that someone cared to bother about something like that. Never having had a parental figure, this day would stick with him for all time.
R&R