As soon as the doors were closed, Lucretia rushed in and threw herself on the bed.
At first, Hespera thought she was crying and intended to comfort her but instead, Lucretia pulled her close, her shoulders trembling with mirth, and hugged her.
"Lucretia…" Hespera tried, puzzled by the older girl's peculiar behaviour.
"My dear sister, you did! It was brilliant. I wish you were there to behold the sight of Walburga's face," Lucretia explained in a muffled voice. ''I waited too long for this day and I plan to revisit the memory over and over again. Father has a Pensive, so it won't be a problem."
"What are you talking about?" Hespera tried again, twisting away from her.
"Oh, I'm sorry but I can't help myself," Lucretia choked with giggles.
Finally, she managed to compose herself and smiled. "Guess who I met today? Walburga! I was enjoying an afternoon stroll with Ione Selwyn Malfoy, my friend that I plan to introduce you to later when the horrible trollop barged in and tried to ruin my day as usual. Thankfully, I'm no longer defenceless. I had the right weapon to ruin her. You, my dear sister. The mention of your betrothal and how great you are, how Orion choose you over her was enough to humiliate the harpy. I admit that Ione helped a bit. Sweet Salazar, it was a glorious experience that needs a repeat. I wish you weren't so busy with the preparations for the Wizengamot, otherwise, you would have shared all this goodness with me."
"Really?" Hespera stared at her in fascination, unable to smother her vindictive smirk. "Come to think of it, I regret turning down your invitation. I could always ask Orion for whatever I need later."
Lucretia gave her a meaningful look. ''Of course, you can. Orion will refuse you nothing; he's your most ardent servant."
Hespera tried to scamper off and hide her reddening cheeks. The reference to their budding feelings caused a delicate play of emotions on her face, humour fading to awkwardness.
Lucretia shook her head and gazed at her. "You make him happy. I've never seen my brother this…alive. He seems like a completely different man."
"Orion is a good man," Hespera offered softly.
"That he is. And I will need you to work more on that goodness so I can benefit from it."
"Benefit from it?" Hespera gave her a curious glance.
Lucretia blushed faintly and nodded. Hespera wondered what could make the brazen witch look uncomfortable and only one thought seemed like the right answer.
"Don't tell me you have..."
Lucretia hissed. ''Shhh. We don't know who may barge in,"
Hespera sighed and with a little wave of her hand, set the strongest silencing ward there is.
Lucretia's eyes widened for a split minute. She mumbled. ''You're a tease," before she said a bit too quickly, her hand raised to her heat-infused cheeks. "I'm seeing Heir Ignatius Prewett. We developed feelings for each other since our Hogwarts days and kept in touch all these years. His family is Light and not that powerful, and I'm sure that they're in Dumbledore's pocket that's why I couldn't broach the matter with Father before. Now that I have you, plus Orion, we can convince him to agree to a betrothal."
While Lucretia looked at her expectantly, Hespera's mind was trying to place the name.
She heard it before. He was the last Lord Prewett, Molly, Gideon and Fabian's uncle. After the death of the twins, Charlie should've inherited his title but Molly didn't believe in the importance of representing a Noble family in the Wizengamot, and did not see any good in the Pureblood politics, something Hespera intended to change.
"I'll see what I can do," she said, smiling at Lucretia.
She had never seen the bold girl so anxious and it was endearing. It reminded her that the Dark family that was feared by most was a normal family with men and women that could love deeply and feel longing, happiness and pain.
She remembered her vow before she embarked on this new adventure; she would protect Sirius' family at all costs and assure their happiness.
Walburga and her father were an exception. She was sure that they were plotting something for someone as rotten as Pollux would never accept defeat gracefully.
Cygnus was another matter. He was an unknown that she planned to explore after taking care of the first Wizengamot session.
"Too many plans, too little time Mistress. I suggest you concentrate on tomorrow first. Did you know that Dumbledore never stopped looking for a way to control me? All his talk about Death being the next great adventure is rubbish. He only confronted Gellert Grindelwald after he received information that he usurped the wand from Gregorovitch. He even tricked your father into giving him the Cloak temporarily for inspection, when he knew what Tom intended. The Stone was the only Hallow he didn't want. He couldn't confront Ariana, his guilt was too great. Believe me, The whole issue of his credibility is open to question. He used to be a man with a good vision but had lost the way long ago,"
As if his words needed emphasis, Death repeated softly. "He's a lost cause Hespera, you have to remain unwavering in your stance. The British Wizarding World is counting on you and I need my revenge on Tom Riddle. Don't let your kind heart lead you astray."
'Bloody Hell!' Hespera thought, wondering what the bastard was doing talking to her while Lucretia was scrutinizing her face.
She was at a loss for what to feel. All her world was turned upside down again. She gathered that Dumbledore was not as trustworthy as he seemed, but to go to such lengths, and sacrifice as many innocents, to achieve what he wanted was inconceivable.
"Hespera, you look pale all of a sudden. Are you alright? Did Orion tire you with his politics lessons?" Lucretia rubbed her upper arms and she forced a smile.
"I'm fine. I'm just nervous about tomorrow."
Lucretia scoffed. "Why would you be? You are a queen among commoners. You don't have to care about what they think of you, you're holding the reins and they have to listen and obey."
Hespera took a deep breath:''But the Wizengamot is a war zone and as Lady Peverell, my responsibility is great. The hawks will be surveying my every move, waiting for me to fail. I can't lose,not again," her last words were whispered and she doubted that Lucretia heard them.
Lucretia gave her a charming smile, deliberately dispelling the tension. "Just tell them that you're Lady Peverell and be done with it. It lacks subtlety and is something that Father won't probably agree to, but it will hasten the proceedings considerably, won't it? They can't expect you to perfect what they spent years learning in a couple of weeks."
Hespera couldn't smother her snort and Lucretia seemed relieved by the uplifting of her mood.
She brushed at the free locks of hair tumbling over her shoulders straightening them and said. "Politics were never my forte, thank Merlin that I'm not the Heir. All that I yearn for is to build a family of my own, with Ignatius hopefully, and enjoy the simple pleasures this life can offer. Maybe it's due to the family drama I witnessed since I was young, but I want a peaceful life, way removed from the spotlight. You, my dear, are destined for something greater. I remember my genealogy lessons well. The emergence of a Peverell is no small deal. You have to be chosen by the fabled Lordship ring to carry the title and every impostor will die if he forces the bond. There are few Peverells and even fewer who are picked for such honour. Some say that Death is the one who selects you but no one knows. The Peverells' secrets are harder to extract than a freely given drop of blood from a Unicorn."
Hespera shook her head. Leave it to Lucretia to brush against such topics so breezily, but she could hear the truth seeping from her words.
In her past life, she knew close to nothing about the woman other than that she married a Prewett and was a kind aunt to Sirius until Walburga forbade all visits declaring the Prewetts Blood Traitors and unworthy.
"Thank you for everything," she clasped Lucretia's hand. "You've been a great help all these weeks."
"No, thank you for saving Ori from that horrid strumpet. She would've ruined his life," Lucretia scrunched her face and Hespera burst out laughing.
Truer words had never been uttered.
Hespera's thoughts were still coursing too slowly as she followed Lord Black inside the Ministry of Magic. Orion was walking by her side and despite his cold as-ice exterior; she knew that he was looking forward to this session.
Hespera remembered lying on the Forbidden Forest's ground, at the mercy of Voldemort and every Death Eater who crawled behind him and swore that she wouldn't let that happen again.
"I'm ready,'' she whispered.
"I know," Orion breathed calmly and she felt his words playing softly in her ear.
Arcturus stopped abruptly and following his gaze, she understood why. Fleamont Potter, accompanied by Charlus, was heading their way.
"Greetings Lord Black," Fleamont started and Arcturus shook his hand.
"Greetings Lord Potter and thank you for agreeing to my Heir and Lady Peverell's unprompted request for a meeting."
"Lady Peverell is my cousin and the Potter Manor is her home. She's always welcome," Fleamont smiled.
He bowed to her and kissed her hand.
"Thank you." Hespera grinned, relishing in the nearness of her grandfather.
"Euphemia sends her encouragement. I'm sure she's waiting to hear the outcome of this session," he chuckled.
"As is Dorea. I believe that if she didn't has work in St Mungo's today, nothing would've stopped her from joining us," Charlus Potter snickered.
"Why I am not surprised? Dorea never liked Dumbledore,'' Arcturus interjected smoothly.
"And for a good reason as it was revealed," Fleamont gave her a meaningful look and she nodded fleetingly.
"Alphard?" Orion sounded surprised.
Hespera turned as well and beheld the sight of a serene Alphard standing next to Heir Corvus Lestrange.
He greeted the Lords before he kissed her hand. ''Lady Peverell, I believe that today's session is going to be interesting." Mischief flickered in his deep black eyes and Alphard barely managed to stifle his snort.
"And I'm thankful that I am here to witness the show. I…" he stopped abruptly and stiffened.
Hespera looked at him questioningly. However, she didn't have to wait for long. Orion took a step closer to her as Pollux Black, accompanied by Cygnus headed their way.
Pollux's dark grey eyes levelled her up before his eyes sought Arcturus. Hespera was startled when Fleamont stood to her other side as if shielding her.
"Greetings Lady Peverell, Lord Black, Lord Potter, Heir Black, Heir Lestrange, " Pollux drawled nonchalantly and she noticed that he ignored his son and Charlus, who didn't seem bothered.
"Mr Black," Fleamont offered coolly.
"I believe it had been a while since you joined the Blacks. I hope that this is the start of a solid alliance," Pollux added.
"I have no quarrels with your family Mr Black, quite the opposite. I don't need to remind you that Charlus is married to your sister and now, Heir Black is betrothed to my cousin. I see nothing but a common future for our families," Fleamont replied, his voice carrying the weight of his intention.
Hespera suppressed a let it be said that a Potter would cower in front of a challenge.
It seemed that Arcturus sensed the sour mood associated with Pollux' appearance. He cleared his throat and interceded for everyone. "We shall get inside."
Orion nodded and escorted her inside. Fleamont didn't leave her side while Alphard, Cygnus, Pollux and Charlus headed toward the guests' stands.
Corvus Lestrange, who witnessed the heated exchange amusedly, bowed and took his leave.
Hespera took a deep breath as she stepped into the huge chambers. Memories of her fourth year assaulted her and she reinforced her resolve to never let the injustice she was dealt with see a repeat.
She was not that helpless defenceless girl anymore.
"That's the spirit, Mistress. Show these bastards your might, show them what you're made of," Death murmured in a pleased voice and she swore that she could taste his anticipation.
She wondered how could he have this much free time.
"I'm a Deity, I do as I please. Of course, I don't take care of the menial tasks, I have a horde of minions for that. Not to mention that I am always eager for some mayhem. I see some souls I want to collect soon but it doesn't matter, at least not now. I'm here for you today."
"I'm not sure how to feel about your enthusiasm," Hespera sighed under her breath.
A chill went down her back as she noticed the numerous eyes that followed her, trying to place her.
She ignored her unease and sauntered lazily to the front of the room and stepped in front of the high dais.
The sight of a younger Dumbledore unsettled her, yet she refused to lower her gaze. He was sitting next to Wilhemina Tuft, the current Minster of Magic. On the other side, was Hector Fawley, the Chief Warlock.
She knew that he wouldn't get the title until 1955, which gave her some time to unveil his truth before he gained more power. He has no right to involve himself in other peoples' affairs. She loathed how he liked to give advice and spent so much time considering problems that didn't concern him.
He was already Wizarding Britain's Savior and the unbeatable leader of the Light and it was time to stop him.
She didn't lower her head as she addressed the Minister. "Honorable Minister of Magic, I would like to take my seat officially."
Murmurs and gasps filled the room before silence descended on them.
The Minister managed to recover first. "I believe that all the families belonging to the Sacred Twenty-Eight and the minor Noble families are represented. Do you have your Gringotts' inheritance papers, Miss…"
Hespera didn't answer; instead, she offered the papers she acquired from Gringotts. She recognized the moment Minister Tuft read her name and recognized the coat of arms.
"Lady Peverell," She struggled to pronounce the name.
Hespera noticed the way Dumbledore's face paled. Lord Fawley on the other hand, snatched the parchment and inspected it carefully.
"I see no problem with that. These papers are signed by Director Ragnok," he added.
"And I have my family ring," Hespera raised her hand and chaos started.
"Lady Peverell…"
"Who would've thought that we'd see a Peverell again…"
"Where was she all these years…"
"Did you see her ring? Do you think the legend is true?"
"Silence!" Lord Fawley shouted. He cleared his throat and addressed her. "You may take your seat Lady Peverell, it's your right, and welcome to the Wizengamot."
Hespera nodded but before she could take a step, Dumbledore spoke sounding impressed. "Welcome to the Wizengamot Lady Peverell. However, I can't help but wonder, where have you been all these years? You didn't even join Hogwarts."
Hespera froze, her blood burning like molten lava. She didn't want to start her first session with a confrontation and didn't want to talk to him too soon.
"My whereabouts are not for everyone to know Mr Dumbledore. I can assure you that I had good schooling. Hogwarts is not the only magical school in the world as you certainly know."
He raised his brows as if he wasn't used to people turning down his prying.
"I apologize if I was intrusive, I mean no harm. But I can't help but be surprised by your sudden appearance," he tried smoothly, not fooling her at all.
She gave Orion a side look and he sent her a barely-there smile.
"Dumbledore…" Minister Tuft gritted her teeth. ''I believe…"
Hespera raised her hand. "No need Minister. I am aware of Mr Dumbledore's thirst for knowledge so I am not surprised."
Giving the older man her full attention, she smirked. "Are you sure you never heard of the Peverells? I was informed that you spent years studying my family."
He seemed alarmed by her outburst, but like usual, he waved her off. "The Peverells had always been fascinating. You can't deny that they're the most secretive and eluding Wizarding family."
"But that doesn't give you the right to pry. Our secrets are ours to keep; otherwise, we wouldn't guard them so ardently,"
he smiled wryly. "You are indeed Lady Peverell. All this talk about secrets confirms your identity. I assure you that my intentions are righteous, all I want is to use whatever means to protect the Wizarding World. It's forthe greater good, my dear."
"Oh, no…" Death snickered.
Keeping her calm was a gruelling endeavour, but Hespera, like always, managed.
She raised her chin, resting the hand embellished by her rings atop the other. The Resurrection Stone glinted against her pale skin and she perceived the way Dumbledore seemed enthralled by it.
"The Wizarding World is not your responsibility Mr Dumbledore. Every witch and wizard worthy of their names will defend it until their last breath. As for my family, I advise you to quit your research at once. In fact, I believe I need assistance from my dear cousin Lord Fleamont Potter to confirm a matter of utmost importance.''
Everyone was flabbergasted by her strange behaviour, but she didn't care.
With the grace of a panther, Fleamont stood by her side.
"And you will always have any assistance you need from me, Lady Peverell," he said dryly.
"Thank you," Hespera smiled and turned back toward Dumbledore. "Not long ago, Director Ragnok asked you to give back an item that belongs to my family and you refused. What's your reason, Mr Dumbledore? Everyone knows that family heirlooms should be kept in the goblins' custody until the rightful Heir emerges and claims them. Exceptions can be made, but only if the Lord or Lady of the family is the one to bequeath such honour to some cousins or branches of the main family."
Fleamont gestured loosely to their surroundings. "I suggest you answer truthfully, Mr Dumbledore. I can ask for a Truth Oath if you don't cooperate and you know that you can't refuse."
"I…" Dumbledore looked affronted.
"What's going on here?" Minister Tuft said in a strong voice, sounding exceedingly annoyed.
"I need something back from Mr Dumbledore and he will give it to me now," were Hespera's heated words.
"I stole nothing from you Lady Peverell. How can I when this is the first time I met you?" his face was blank as he took a speculative pause before he added. "Everything I have was bought with my own money orwonfairly."
"Some things can never be owned. Mainly family Heirlooms," came Fleamont's unhesitating reply.
Honor was the Potters' middle name and no one could question it.
"Mr Dumbledore, I don't want to resort to extreme measures but you're forcing my hand. My patience has limits," she was so serious while trying to manage everyone in her sphere.
It was an ungodly temptation to make everyone see the new her, the Hespera Peverell that didn't shy from using force to get what she wanted.
She could, if she wished, make them all bow and knowing that made it all the more difficult to stay put.
The tenacious connections she had formed with the Blacks and the others in her family in the past weeks, the extent she would go to take care of them…
It appealed to her on an instinctual level and made her feel invincible.
She was aware of the argument that broke between some Light and Dark Lords witnessing the battle of wills between her and Wizarding Britain's Savior, but she didn't deem it worthy of her attention.
"Make your choice," she smiled, handing Dumbledore one last chance.
She used to respect the man, no, to worship him. He was her hero, her mentor. But seeing him like that, all greedy and lying…It showed her a facet she never wanted to know.
Was everything a lie?
Was his interest in her mainly because she was the child of the prophecy?
Dumbledore finally stood and all joviality left his twinkling eyes. "I can't help but feel threatened, Lady Peverell. I don't know what prompted this stance but I can't accept it."
She heard Fleamont's sigh before he took a step forward. Hespera hold him with a raised hand and shook her head.
"Do it, he's not worthy of your time," a new voice came from behind her and warmth seethed in her heart as Orion took her other side.
"Heir Black, what are you doing here?" Lord Fawley snapped.
"I am here as Lady Peverell's betrothed," Orion answered coldly and despite the circumstances, she noticed the shock that coloured Dumbledore's face.
"Lady Peverell. I think…" Dumbledore started again.
"Your funereal," Hespera mumbled, then raised her hand seeking the last Hallow.
The Elder Wand flew from his robes' pocket and soared her way. He tried to summon it with his wandless magic, but no one could separate a Peverell from his birthright.
Hespera swore that she heard Death's sigh in her head.
She knew that she didn't need a wand anymore, her magic was finallyfree;a breathing and thinking entity that flowed down her veins, with her life force.
She was naive before. She thought of magic assomethingto call for when in need, to struggle to control and guide according to one's situation. But Death's lessons, and the whole trial she went through, showed her how wrong she was.
Magic was a crucial part of every Wiccan, like air and blood, they needed it to live and thrive. It was woven with their souls, it was their blessing and their pride.
She closed her fingers around her wand and heard its thrilled whispers.
How many lives had been lost for the Death Stick? How many wars were waged to control it? How many Peverells were slaughtered?
But no more. She would guard it with her life and no one, buther Heirwould have it when she joined Death one last time.
"As you wish, Mistress," was Death's pledge, and she smiled ignoring the chaos surrounding her.
All Credits Go To: NinaMaya-AO3