Chapter 55: Hidden in SightNotes:
Hey folks, I'm back!
Thanks for patiently waiting! I might start updating a bit more slowly as I'll be quite busy over the next few weeks, but the updates will keep coming. Probably every few days.
Oh, and guess what? The start of this chapter will contain smut. Yep. It's that time again haha
Enjoy ;)
Chapter Text
"So we have the whole day? No meetings or—"
Bellatrix steals some of Hermione's toast. "Nope. No meetings. No Kalypso lessons. No reading in the archives. No even entering the archives for a month until the three traitors have recorded their lives for future generations. Pronoe's orders." She hops onto a stool. "We're finally free! The madness has stopped. I've even already given Bonesy her potions. All done."
Hermione knocks on the wooden counter. "Don't jinx it! The fates might be listening in!"
Bellatrix frowns at her and then looks around the room suspiciously. What jinx? I didn't cast a jinx
No! No I— never mind. Muggle thing
Bellatrix looks at Hermione's wand in confusion. How is a jinx a muggle thing?
Hermione sighs. Sometimes there's just no point explaining. "So…what do you want to do today?"
Bellatrix grins wolfishly at her. Looks her up and down.
Well…it is tempting. No distractions. Just go back to bed and…
But a free day? Where Bellatrix won't be called away? They do need that if they're ever going to figure out…
Bella…could we maybe…go to Hogwarts?
Bellatrix looks up at the ceiling and groans. "Hogwarts?! Our one day off, and you want to go to school?! Ugh. You are such a Know it All. Do you know the things I could do to you—"
More things than you did to me last night?
Bellatrix had been very happy to have her back. That Hermione got any sleep at all is a wonder. Not that she's complaining. At all. Because fuck, she really is tempted to just grab the witch and—
Oh there's so much more I could do with you Bellatrix smirks, hopping down and walking around the counter. You know I had a lot of time to read whilst you were unconscious. Do you know what hilarious faces Cissy and Snape make when they find you reading about sex magic? And do you know what's even more fun than just reading about—
Hermione strokes her hands around Bellatrix's waist. How about…we go to Hogwarts, give Dobby his scarf, talk to Fawkes, and you do something for Neville to tick that off your list. And then later…you could tell me more about your books?
Bellatrix leans in and kisses her. Licks into her mouth. Tell you? I'm going to teach you. Teach you some spells to use on me. Will you be a good student for me, pet? Learn fast?
Oh— Hermione lets out a whimper, pressing forward into Bellatrix's mouth and tugging her closer. Maybe— maybe they could—
She vanishes the breakfast from the table. Keeps a hold of the connection with her magic, and stands up, lifting Bellatrix up to sit on the counter.
Fuck, since when are you so strong?
Hermione smirks and bites at Bellatrix's lip. No special strength. I'm a witch. Magic
She trails her mouth down Bellatrix's neck, listening to the witch's breathing quicken. Continues lower. Sometimes she loves how low-cut Bellatrix's dresses are. She can just slide her lips across exposed skin. Her teeth.
"So— so no Hogwarts? O—or?" Bellatrix gasps.
Still going. Just thought I'd get a last taste of you before we go. That's alright, isn't it, Bella? She murmurs, lifting up Bellatrix's dress and spreading her legs.
Yes. Yes I—oh
Bellatrix's thighs are warm against her cheeks. It's cold in the kitchen and— she presses kisses to them. Chaste. And then opens her mouth and sucks at soft skin.
Hermione. Don't tease, just—
And Bellatrix's underwear disappears. Well. She gets the hint.
And grabs hold of Bellatrix's legs, pulling her closer. Hermione doesn't want to tease. Not anymore. She wants…
Bella…
Hermione's going to do this fast. Hard and fast. She thinks she knows by now exactly where…
She presses her tongue against her. Firm. Begins the pattern that…and the rhythm…she thinks it was—
Oh fucking— yes! Yes, just— A groan.
Excellent. She continues with that. Hungrily. Aggressively almost. Gods this witch. If only they had time to do this every day. All day. Maybe they don't have to go to Hogwarts.
Yes. Hermione yes, fa— faster
She can do that. Changes position. Sweeps her tongue—
Thighs clamp around her head and a moan echoes around the kitchen. "Hermione! Hermione I— ah oh fuck. Right— yes just—"
Fuck she sounds amazing. And Hermione can feel it. Feel the— oh it feels so good and it's building and—
A hand grips her hair, pulling her closer. Hips thrusting. She must need—
Pressure. Steady and hard over and over and—
Ragged breathing kills the room. Incoherent words. Fuck it's— yes. Yes oh it's— so close what—
What else does Bellatrix like?
Let me hear you, Bella. I love hearing you. And you taste so good. Feel so good. Tell me how to please you. I'll do anything for you. Anything
Bellatrix jerks against her and gasps. Don't stop don't stop don't stop—
It seems to be all she can think. On repeat as she whines and her thighs tremble.
Oh—Ah—oh it's— Bella I can feel it. Oh I can—a—
She— she can't focus she— closer and closer and—
She clings on to Bellatrix to hold herself up as the pleasure hits, groaning. Her legs almost collapse it's— oh it's—
She manages not to fall. Rests her head and catches her breath, moving her mouth away.
And shakily stands up, pressing the heal of her palm against Bellatrix instead as she continues to shudder and pulse. She has to look at her. At Bellatrix laid out on the kitchen counter. She must have fallen backwards.
She looks so beautiful, lying there. Arm thrown over her head and hair fanned out as she fights for breath. She always looks beautiful, but… I love you Hermione whispers.
Bellatrix blinks her eyes open. Looks up at her. Just stares. If it was anyone else Hermione would feel uncomfortable. Self-conscious. But she just smiles softly at Bellatrix. Stares back. Her witch.
Bellatrix grins. Mine. You're all mine. Forever
Hermione sighs. Always peeking in her head. Too curious.
Hermione nods. "Mine. You're mine."
They eventually do make it to Hogwarts. Not as early in the day as planned but…well. It's Sunday. There are more people around later in the morning, easier to blend in. And that will be necessary, because Bellatrix has decided to try out some more metamorphing.
It's a bit of a risk, but she's borrowed some of Hermione's clothes, so she looks like a muggleborn. And she hasn't figured out how to change her height, but she's changed her face completely. And her hair. Her body shape. She really does look like a forgettably plain sixteen-year-old. If Hermione didn't know…She wouldn't.
So of course, Bellatrix is wandering around the greenhouses. Poking at some plants.
I thought we were going to the kitchens! Hermione hisses through the thread, reluctantly following her in, invisible. I just took us out here to practice not— what are you doing?!
Bellatrix shrugs. "Neville likes plants. I'm here to be nice. It would be weird if I didn't know which plants were—"
"You know Neville?"
Bellatrix and Hermione both spin around. Oh dear. Luna.
Bellatrix smiles awkwardly. "Uhh…not really. But I'd like to. He seems like a nice ki—bloke."
Luna frowns at a spot just above Bellatrix's head and walks closer. "He's very nice. But I'm not sure you're ready to see him yet."
Bellatrix casually folds her arms and raises her eyebrows. "Really? And why's that?" Okay what the fuck is with this kid? Smart women aren't loony…what's her perspective? A seer?
Oh. Hermione never thought of that.
Luna nods dreamily. "He's still finding his shape. And so are you. I'd hate for either of you to settle too soon. You still have some growing to do. Neville does like growing things."
Bellatrix scoffs. Must be a seer. She's definitely seeing something. What is she—?!
Luna is swatting wildly around Bellatrix's head.
"Stop that!" Bellatrix snaps her hands around Luna's wrists. Maybe slightly too fast for the average person. "What are you doing and— and you don't know me so—"
Luna lowers her arms with a sigh. "Wrackspurts. Not nearly as many as before, but still there. I'm surprised you could see at all, there were so many. You can't blame yourself for becoming lost in the dark."
What the—
Bellatrix's eyes widen, and Luna smiles at her. "You're much better at seeing now that you're not hidden. Or are you hidden? You seem to think so. But I don't. You still need some practice."
Oh no.
Bellatrix frowns. Looks down at herself. And sighs. "What did I do wrong? Is it the hair? Has it gone curly again?"
Luna laughs. "Aha, so you're not hiding! That's good. I don't think you like hiding very much. Losing yourself. That's why…you forgot about your voice."
Her voice! Bellatrix had practiced pitching her voice higher earlier but— but she'd completely—
Bellatrix groans. "Oh bollocks. And you recognised me because of that? I only met you once!"
Luna taps her lip, considering this. "Once so far. I'm sure we'll meet again. After you've practiced a bit more."
She skips off out of the greenhouse. "Good luck. And it was nice to see you too, Hermione."
Hermione stares after her in disbelief. Luna can see her? Like actually— or did she mean…
…what?
She turns back to Bellatrix. Who holds out a hand for her to take. Invisibility, please.
Hermione takes her hand distractedly, walking out of the greenhouse. What… I think I never really saw her. Never read her. Like you said, I dismissed her as loony or— well I know she's clever but—
Bellatrix kicks at some grass. She can't be that smart if she lets people steal her shoes. Can't believe I forgot about my voice. What's up with that? Is she right? Am I just…scared of losing myself?
Hermione looks Bellatrix over critically. I don't know. But you're holding everything else. Even your hair. Luna probably has a…secret way of sensing these things
Bellatrix is still sulking. Hermione sighs. Do you still want to find Neville?
Bellatrix shakes her head. You heard Lovegood. Not the right time. I'm not ignoring that advice, she seemed to know some stuff. Let's just get on with this house-elf thing. Not that Dobby will be very pleased to see me. I'd better keep hold of this disguise
Hermione cringes. Probably for the best. "The Hogwarts elves don't like me very much either. We'll just pop in. I would have just called him, but it feels rude ordering him about. I'll take us to the kitchens."
And she pops them away. Hermione sighs. As she thought. Frowning faces. Staring at the scarf.
She directs her attention to one of the older looking elves. "Sorry to just pop in. We're umm…looking for Dobby?"
The elf narrows their eyes at her. "Yous is bringing clothes? You be the hidey-clothes witch. Grimpy be knowing."
Oh dear. "I'm so sorry about that. It's only because Dobby asked. I promise. No clothes for anyone else. Master Spitsy taught me how to be a thinking elf and—"
"You is knowing Master Spitsy?!" A younger elf calls out excitedly. "He is being my master! Before master Dumbledore of course. Master Spitsy be a good elf. He be teaching you?"
"He be my master too!" Another elf squeaks from across the room. "He still be growing the grapevines?"
Hermione nods. Well this is a lot better.
Grimpy's ears prick up, and they walk close to Hermione and Bellatrix. Look them over. And then tut, dusting some flour off their hands. "Dobby be finishing his duties in the common rooms. Yous be sitting and waiting. Grimpy be making hot chocolate. Is being cold today, and yous is not remembering to stay warm. Silly elflings."
Hermione sits down with a chuckle. Pushy, protective elves. No arguing, she's learnt that from Tiggy. And it seems like Bellatrix has too, as she sits down as well. And on a stool rather than a tabletop.
"Thank you, Grimpy. That's very kind of you. We don't want to distract you from your duties but—"
They click their fingers, and two hot chocolates appear before them. "Is not being distracting. Is already being made for breakfast. And Grimpy is…"
They look between Hermione and Bellatrix, eyes bright and curious. "Grimpy is wanting to ask…ah. You is not being a student. No, is too old. You is returning. Is the tricky fates and their threads at work."
Bellatrix stops blowing on her hot chocolate and shifts up in her seat. "You can see the thread too?! What is this connection with threads and elves?! Tiggy mentioned it but—"
Grimpy's eyes widen and they point at Bellatrix. "And you is being Miss Bella! Is having to be you! What is you doing to your face, silly elfling? You is hiding from Grimpy? Because Grimpy be a seeing elf. Be knowing."
Bellatrix groans. I can't hide from anyone! Lovegood's right. I need more practice. And why— does Tiggy blabber about me to everyone?!
She does seem to have a bit of a reputation. A very different one to her reputation with wizards though. Little Miss Bella.
Bellatrix slowly morphs back into herself. Well her face, anyway. Her body isn't the right shape for Hermione's old clothes, so she keeps the teenage body. "I wasn't hiding from you. You know who I am, right? I can't just wander around Hogwarts. Oh. You're not going to tell on us to Dumbledore, are you? Because we're not here to—"
Some elves start to slow in their duties to gawp at Bellatrix, but Grimpy just shakes their head, hovering some potatoes over to peel whilst they talk. "If yous is wanting to harm Master Dumbledore, you be doing it, Miss Bella. Nothing be stopping you. Unlike little Mr Malfoy. Sneaking into the kitchens thinking we not be seeing. Elves is not letting their master be poisoned. No, you is here to be hiding. Elf hiding, with the help of your fated one."
Fated one? Okay— "Can you please tell us about the thread, Grimpy? It's because we're soulmates, isn't it?"
Grimpy glances around the kitchen. Checks that all the elves are on task. And then nods sharply, climbing up to sit opposite them. "Yes. Is being what you wizards call soulmates. Us elves is calling it fated ones. Or threaded ones. Elves is always seeing these threads. From the beginning. From when we is Forest People, thousands of years ago. We is being…rulers of the forests. We sees the roots. The connections. And we is seeing threads."
Hermione sips at her hot chocolate. Finally, some more answers.
Grimpy clears their throat. "Not all elves be knowing this. Not all be wanting to know. But is being the truth. Before we is serving wizards, we is being wise, ancient beings. Hidden deep in the forests, all over the world. Other beings come to us, ask for our knowledge. Because we are seeing. Knowing. We all be seeing threads, where other beings cannot."
Wait. All elves can see threads?! Our thread?! Tiggy and Master Spitsy knew—
The crafty little buggers! So Tiggy— they told you to stay with me! And all those tasks. Spitsy was—
So he was setting us up. I knew it!
Hermione's attention is pulled back to Grimpy as they let out a tired sigh, ears flopping. "So us elves be helping…but also interfering. And one day…is making a terrible mistake. Is getting greedy. Proud. Is thinking we be…superior. We is calling a council. All the elf elders is attending. And they is working together…to try to be pulling the threads. Unravelling."
Uh oh.
"Wizards be paying a lot of money for a thread match. Is trading. Offering much, for help finding their fated ones. But is not always possible if they are being far apart. Elves is wanting to have the power to pull on the threads. Pull people together. This…is going very wrong."
Bellatrix puts down her mug. "You ended up attaching your threads to wizards?"
What? Oh. Is that why elves serve wizards? They have threads to them?
Grimpy laughs. "A thinking elf! But no. No, this is not…well. Is eventually what happens. No, they is trying to pull some threads…is pulling too hard…and is hurting. Threads be tangled. All beings have threads. Elves. Wizards. Men. Goblins. Giants. Merpeople. All is having. Threads is being everywhere. So these ancient forest people is being very dangerous in their pulling. They knows they should be delicate…but they is greedy. They is pulling…and…oh…thousands. Thousands and thousands is dying."
Dying? How horrible. From tugging on a thread? It does hurt if Bellatrix pulls too hard…
"First one half of the fated ones…and then their other halves is dying too. By chance, the worst hurt is wizardkind. We is not knowing if there be a reason, but very few is surviving. Muggles is being mostly okay. Goblins is being mostly unharmed. But the wizards? They is almost extinct. Children is being orphaned. Is a crisis. Us elves is being so ashamed. So ashamed we be hiding. Deep in the caves. Where is our wisdom? We is being foolish."
Foolish is a bit of an understatement. Near extinction? Mass murder?
Hermione clears her throat. Uhh…Bella? You do realise—
I know, I know. Heard it as soon as I said it. Can't believe I was ever so far gone. Maybe I was mad after all…
Hermione reaches over and squeezes Bellatrix's hand as the story continues.
"—so eventually …we is promising our service to these children. To these survivors. Us elves be living a long time, so we is promising. Swearing. Vowing. Until wizardkind is recovered, until their number is growing once more, we will be serving. Sharing our wisdom. Helping them to be surviving. Strong elves. Thinking elves. We ties ourselves to them, in memory of the ties we have broken."
Oh. "So…so when you say clothes bring shame to the elves, you mean…"
Grimpy vanishes the potato peels and begins chopping. "That we is avoiding our duty. Yes. Is not paying for the loss we is causing. We is an honourable people. Proud of being good elves. Thinking elves. Seeing elves. Not selfish, blind elves that is causing harm."
"Grimpy!" An elf hisses. "Why you be telling the witches this? You is—"
"They is already knowing elf secrets. This one be using our magic. This means she be knowing sacrifice. Is a thinking elf. A seeing elf. She be needing to know, what it is to be an elf. And Miss Bella is being her threaded one. You thinks they be keeping secrets from each other?"
The other elf seems to consider this. For a long time. Hermione interrupts the silence. It doesn't make sense, it— "But that was years ago! Centuries, right? Why— you didn't do this. It's not your fault your ancestors—"
"You think we should not remember?" An elf squeaks from near the ovens. "That we should just forget what our ancestors have done?"
"Well no but—"
"You think we do not see the consequences, still, of their actions ?" Another says sadly. "That it is being normal, having only forty, maybe fifty new wizards and witches starting Hogwarts every year? The magic that is being lost…the lives…the knowledge…lost forever…"
A mournful hush falls over the kitchen. Hermione and Bellatrix make eye contact in the awkward silence. Wow. Way to burst in and bring down the mood. Accidental genocide? Uhh…
And with a pop, Dobby appears. "Oh! Miss Hermione! Mis…" he drifts off as he spots Bellatrix. Eyes impossibly wide and as he shrinks back and stills.
Oh. You didn't hurt him, did you Bella?
No! Well…maybe. Yelled or…I might have kicked him. Not— nothing—
All of the elves begin to get back to work. It's quite noticeable that they're avoiding Dobby though. Giving him the cold shoulder.
Well that definitely needs to change.
She walks over to Dobby. "Here. I made this scarf for you. It made me very happy to make it. I'm glad that we're friends."
Bellatrix scoffs. Why are you talking to him like that? You think you'll be able to change centuries of shame and servitude with…friendship? Friendship will make them feel even more guilty!
Dobby is still frozen. Hermione awkwardly reaches her arm back as the scarf just hangs there. Something is definitely wrong.
Bella, do something!
Bellatrix clears her throat, looks down at Dobby uncomfortably. "Sorry about…uhh, whatever I did. I can't remember…did I hurt you, Dobby?"
No reply.
Bellatrix frowns. "It was…before Azkaban. What did…Oh! Oh that's right!" She cackles with laughter.
What?! "Bella! Don't laugh at him! He seems scared to death! You must have—"
Bellatrix hops down off her stool, still laughing. "No, no it was— Dobby, Lucius isn't here. You're a free elf, remember? Lucy's in Azkaban. Draco's off somewhere staring at Potter."
And Dobby unfreezes, letting out a breath. "Oh. Oh this is right. Dobby be forgetting. Miss Bellatrix, you is being back? You is…You is having a thread with Miss Hermione?"
Hermione stares between the two of them in confusion. "You…talked to each other? You know each other?"
Dobby looks at her like she's mad. "Miss Hermione…you is not being knowing she is a Black? She be—"
Bellatrix tuts, taking the scarf from Hermione. "She knows Cissy's my sister. She's just surprised I didn't kill you or something. No, pet. Dobby here was the only entertainment I had whenever Cissy threw one of her boring lunches or brunches…whatever. I used to mess with Lucy for a bit of a laugh. Here, Dobby. It's taken Hermione bloody ages to make this scarf. So you'd better—"
"Oh is being wonderful, Miss Hermione! Is being Gryffindor colours! Like Harry Potter! Dobby has his own Gryffindor scarf! Oh thank you!"
Dobby looks like he might cry with joy. Hermione smiles at him awkwardly. "It was no trouble. You did so much for me and— I'm sorry, I still don't understand your relationship with Bella. This is— Bella, I know you love Tiggy, but what about all the…you know. Blood purism."
Dobby gasps. "Miss Bellatrix is always being nice to Dobby. Sometimes is being angry. Be shouting. But is giving lots of advice. Yes. Is telling Dobby to wake Master Lucius at five every morning, even if he is seeming angry. And to be giving chocolate to the peacocks. And that syrup is making master's shoes shiny…"
Oh. Oh Hermione can't believe how—
Bella! Oh you are the most despicable—
Bellatrix grins at her. "And that he likes his toast black. That he wants his shower turned to freezing when he washes out the shampoo…"
Hermione holds back a laugh despite herself. "So…why did you freeze, Dobby? When you saw her?"
Dobby looks up from where he's been trying out different ways of wearing his scarf. It droops around his neck in an uneven bow. "Oh. Master Lucius is giving this rule."
Dobby clears his throat and points at Hermione with a glare. "Listen here, elf. If my sister-in-law is even in sight, you are to do nothing. Don't even move. I don't know what she's been saying to you, but this has gone on long enough. You will freeze, and you will wait until she grows bored and walks away, understand?"
Ha. Well. Sounds about right— oh no what's that?
There's a creak from across the room and then some scuffling. Someone climbing in through the secret entrance.
Chapter 56: Always In the CardsChapter Text
Bellatrix grabs Hermione's arm. Invisibility! Quick!
"Bye, Dobby," Hermione whispers, and hurriedly turns them invisible. And then pauses. Pushes Bellatrix away.
What are you doing?! Wha—
Metamorph. You can do it. Don't let Luna get to you
But I—
The person climbs into view, back to them, and Bellatrix morphs into her schoolgirl appearance, glaring slightly to the left of Hermione. You didn't have to—Trelawney? Great. She might give me detention, and then we'll be really screwed
Trelawney looks up from where she's been staring at her feet, and jumps on spotting Bellatrix, hand clutching her heart. "Oh! Oh, you surpr— I— of course, I foresaw a presence waiting for me today. A bad omen for you, my dear. The stranger."
Bellatrix holds back a scoff. Nice save, bug eyes
And then widens her eyes in horror. "Oh how terrible!" she breathes. "Oh Professor, I'll leave right away and— is it safe? I knew I was having a bad day. First I missed breakfast and had to ask the elves— and now— is it serious?"
Brilliant! How does she do that? Think so quickly. Lie so quickly. The acting!
Trelawney steps towards her with a frown, searching Bellatrix's face sadly. "Oh, my dear. I fear the worst. These are dark times. You are in much need of guidance, it must be fate that has brought me to you. Sit. Let me perform a reading. Grimpy, some tea, if you would be so kind?"
Oh dear. Well that didn't work out as planned.
"Oh no, Professor. I really must be—"
"Sit!" Trelawney yells hysterically. "Your very life hangs in the balance, I am sure of it. I do not recognise you, you're in your sixth year? Yes. Yes, your sixth. But you do not attend my class. You have turned your back on divination."
She pushes Bellatrix onto a stool. Rather firmly. Bellatrix balances herself as the stool tips. Oh fuck, wha— how dare she— what is—
The kettle whistles, and Trelawney screams. "Wait! No. No tea. With such bad luck, the water will scold you and—" She begins frantically shuffling cards. "Pick. Quickly. We need to be sure!" She spreads the cards across the table."
Bellatrix huffs, losing the naïve persona slightly. "Just pick? How many?"
Bella! Concentrate! You're supposed to be scared, you want advice!
Trelawney raises her eyes to Bellatrix. "Six. One at a time. If you are to— I believe you have removed yourself from the art of divination for too long. You are…a skeptic, my dear. Far away from the fated and the mysterious."
Hermione snorts. Well that's blatantly wrong. Their lives couldn't be more mixed up in prophecies and fate.
Bellatrix turns over a card.
"The…hierophant."
Trelawney nods wisely. "As predicted. You are feeling desperately in need of my council and spiritual guidance. The next one. Quickly now. This is your wish."
"My wish? Uhh…The Star."
Trelawney takes her hand. "Oh you poor thing. You wish for good fortune. A bright, happy future. It is good that we have crossed paths. Your luck is about to change."
Well that seems…good. A star. And Bellatrix is a star, so…bright happy future?
And Trelawney grasps Bellatrix's other hand too, taking a slow, dragging breath. "The next, is your fear. Ready yourself."
Bellatrix moves to take a card, but Trelawney doesn't let go, clings on. Bellatrix sighs. "Yes, yes I'm ready, Professor." Merlin what a nut. Ow my hands
And she pulls her hand free, turns one over. The Juggler.
Trelwaney flinches, and Bellatrix's eyes widen. The infinity symbol? When we're about to talk to a phoenix? Who's this bloke supposed to be?
"Oh this is worse than even I foresaw. You fear a powerful wizard. Be careful in who you trust, my dear. This wizard faces the rising sun. Is he blinded, or does he see all? A sword within reach. A goblet. He indicates to the sky and the earth. The world in his grasp."
Oh no. Oh that can't be good. And Trelawney is actually a seer so— Is it Dumbledore? Riddle? Who are you scared of Bella?!
I don't know! I didn't think my fear was— I mean, they're both bloody— the sun? A sword? That has to be Dumbledore
She hurriedly takes another card. "What's this— what does the next one mean?"
"It will be what you have on your side. Your streng— The Fool."
"Wha—" Bellatrix's mouth falls open. "The fool?! My strength is a fool?!"
Trelawney shrugs, bangles jangling. "A new beginning, innocence, spontaneity. You are a free spirit on an adventure. A time of confidence and possibilities. It is not unexpected for a young witch such as yourself."
It fits. Even if Trelawney has no idea why…
Bellatrix hesitates above another card. "And this one?"
"Your opposition. What you must fight against."
Bellatrix nods. And flips it over.
Strength.
I…being strong is my weakness?
Hermione walks behind her, puts a hand to her back in comfort.
Trelawney clears her throat. "You must be careful, my dear. Do not let your strength overwhelm you. Let your control slip. This card shows that…you have infinite potential and wisdom. Great inner strength. Resilience. Learn to channel this strength, and seek comfort and guidance where you can, so it does not consume you."
Oh no. Again. It fits. How is Trelawney doing this?!
You'll be fine, Bella. We always knew this anyway. We know control is…difficult for you. Take another one. The last one, and we'll get out of here. Go home
Bellatrix swallows uncomfortably. You choose. Pick one for me
Oh. Umm…
Hermione takes a breath, and gestures to a card.
Bellatrix nods. Reaches for it. "This is the outcome, right? The prediction?"
Trelawney nods back, eyes fixed on the card.
Okay pet. Let's see
She flips it over.
The Hermit. Standing alone upon a mountain.
They didn't go to see Fawkes. They went home. Appearing in the library, and just standing there in silence.
They definitely shouldn't have gone to Hogwarts. Now there's just even more…
Hermione pulls Bellatrix to her. Wraps her arms around her. Presses her ear to her chest. Steady heartbeat.
A hand strokes into her hair. Another holds her close.
Bellatrix clears her throat. "Tiggy, can we have some tea?"
Hermione takes a slow breath.
And pulls back. Brushes some hair out of Bellatrix's face. Kisses her cheek. Pulls her over to sit on the sofa.
Bellatrix accios a chair towards them. Charms their shoes to untie themselves. They put their feet up.
Tiggy appears. Hermione hands Bellatrix the chocolate. Pulls the blanket out from under a cushion and spreads it over them both.
There's real tea on the tray too. Bellatrix reaches over and pours a cup. Adds the milk. Gives it to Hermione.
Hermione smiles at her gratefully. Curls to sit up against her. Bellatrix leans sideways too. They gaze into the crackling fire.
Just breathe.
Hermione chuckles, leaning back on her hands as she sits cross-legged on the bed. "How about…red hair!"
Bellatrix whines. "A Weasley? Fine."
And Bellatrix's hair turns a bright ginger. It kind of suits her. Hair loose and curly. Pale skin. She won't tell Bellatrix of course. Looking good as a Weasley will never be a compliment.
"Now…Oh! Change your teeth. We haven't tried that."
Bellatrix runs her tongue over her teeth. And nods. Grins. Ha! A gap between her front teeth. It's kind of sweet.
Bellatrix frowns in thought. "It is a bit harder. Finding the memory. Guess I don't pay much attention to people's teeth."
Oh the teeth have given her a lisp!
Wait. "You have to use a memory? I thought you made it up! Whose teeth do you have?"
Bellatrix shrugs. "You don't know her. She was a couple years ahead of me at Hogwarts. We were on the quidditch team together for a— yes, okay, don't look at me like that. Maybe I know her mouth because— well, she was hot."
Hermione smirks. "You stared at her mouth so much you can still remember it now? In enough detail to— that's quite the crush, Bella. How old were you?"
Bellatrix morphs into herself again. Starts looking in Hermione's wardrobe. "Thirteen. She was…you know…the one who made me realise. Oh. You don't know though, do you? I was the one that— I can't believe your only crush was McGonagall. Did you never have that moment when you were like 'oh shit, I don't want to be like her, I want to straddle her on that broom.'?"
Hermione laughs. That's very specific, Bella
You know what I mean
Well…
She stares up at the ceiling. "No, not really. Not until you kissed me. I was surprised how good it felt. That I wanted to keep kissing you. I completely freaked out afterwards. Spent the whole night stomping grapes."
Bellatrix snorts. "So that's why you were so dirty. Mind you, I was a bit of a mess too. Kissing you and crying. Smooth. Think my mouth knew I loved you before I did. No wonder I was so distracted and got clipped with that difindo.
Difindo?
Hermione looks over at Bellatrix. "You told Narcissa an auror hit you when you were disapparating."
Bellatrix is looking in the mirror. Her eyes flicking through different colours. Lied. An auror did get me. But it was because I was distracted. Didn't move fast enough. Thinking about you
Hermione lies down with a smile. And her stomach rumbles. Guess they forgot lunch.
A hand appears in front of her face. "Come on, know it all. Let's feed that brain. If the phoenix is a no go, we might have to start reading up on centaurs."
Hermione takes her hand. Finds herself flying to her feet. She steadies herself on Bellatrix's shoulder. "Oh so now you want to run off to some horses and talk about the stars? You don't think it's a mad idea anymore?"
Bellatrix presses a quick kiss to her lips. "It was never that bad of an idea. But they do hate interfering witches, so it's a bit of a last resort. I would just ignore all this time travel shit…but…if you never get sent back in time, you'll never find me. What if it's us that's supposed to do it? We have to send you back here to me."
Hermione smiles softly at her. "I know. That's why I did all that research. It wasn't so I could leave you. It was so I can find you. Because in nine years time, that bookworm sat at Hogwarts right now? She's going to go on the maddest, greatest adventure of her life. And it will be hard, but it will be worth it. Because she'll do it with you."
Bellatrix grins at her. Tongue between her teeth. And begins dragging her out of the room. Hermione just lets herself be pulled along.
They were only halfway through lunch when the sudden pain hit, both flinching and Bellatrix rubbing at her arm. The Mark.
So not a free day after all.
And now Hermione is sat in the library. Alone.
It's fine. It's— so Trelawney made a few lucky guesses. All of the cards could have…
And the fact that Bellatrix has been called unexpectedly is normal. Happens all the time.
Called away to a powerful wizard…
Hermione pulls a book towards her, ready to—
And then jerks back. Ow! Oh that was— What was—ah!
Her fingers. They're turning black.
She grits her teeth as sweat breaks out on her forehead. Ow ow
Hermione?! Wha— I can feel— what's happening?!
Dark magic. She forgot about the curses. She hadn't asked Tiggy— she has to—
I'm— cursed— book
Hermione really needs—
Snape! Snape knows how to heal— Is Snape there?
Oh she can feel it in her veins. It's making her sick. She leans her head in her lap. Stop stop stop—
Snape's here. He can't— well he's— Snape isn't an option. What about Cissy?
But it's dark magic. Last time, with the Horcrux magic, Snape used light magic to fight it. It looked like… Can Narcissa cast a patronus?
…no. No I don't think so. Not that I've seen
Hermione struggles to her feet, panting. Well then. Only one option. Looks like she is going to see Fawkes after all. Phoenix tears.
Hermione are you— I'll try to leave. I'll help you I—
Stay there, Bella. Focus on your task. I'll focus on mine
She jerks the invisibility over herself, and follows the pull to Hogwarts. To Dumbledore's office. Please say the headmaster…
He's not there, but neither is Fawkes. No. No please—
She collapses into a chair, shivering. Her fingers burned black. Should she— maybe Slughorn has phoenix tears in his lab. Or Narcissa. She should have gone to Narcissa.
"Please…" she groans to nobody, eyes falling shut. She can't think. "Fawkes. Fawkes if you can hear me…"
A groan of pain through the thread. What is— Hermione
She curls up in the chair. It hurts. It…just…
And a beautiful song comes from the open window. Flapping wings.
Oh. Oh she could cry with relief. She wrenches her eyes open, dragging herself towards the window. Lets the invisibility fall off of her.
And Fawkes swoops in. Lands on the windowsill and looks at her. Tilts his head to the side.
She falls to her knees. Reaches out her hand. "Help me. Please, help me."
Fawkes lets out a mournful croon, and hops over. Leans his head down over her hand.
Hermione grits her teeth. Stays as still as possible as tears slowly gather in the bird's eyes.
Not much longer, Bella. I promise. Phoenix tears. Nearly—
She lets out a sigh of relief as first one tear and then another falls in her hand, and the pain fades. Her skin clears. She takes some slow breaths. Thank Merlin. Oh thank goodness.
"Thank you…" she whispers to the phoenix. He's so beautiful. Bright crimson plumage, just as Pronoe described. And a song so lovely the sun stops to watch. "Fawkes. Do you…can you understand me?"
The bird looks at her. And lets out a trill. Oh it feels…like a weight is lifted. Peaceful. She slowly reaches out to stroke his head. He leans into the touch.
And then there's the sound of a stone staircase turning. Oh no. Is it Dumbledore? He can't—
The untrustworthy wizard. That sees everything. What if he can see through her elf invisibility? She should leave. She doesn't belong here.
And Fawkes flaps up to sit on her shoulder. Claws digging in.
"Fawkes!" Hermione hisses. "Let go! I have to leave! I'm not supposed to be here!"
Fawkes lets out a piercing cry.
She tries to pry his claws from her shoulder, but he just grips tighter.
The staircase has stopped. Someone's going to—
And then she's surrounded by a burning, dazzling white, and Hermione feels her feet leave the ground. Whoa! What is—
She tries to pop away. Out of— whatever is— Is she moving?! Flying?!
Hermione! What are you doing! What is— I'm coming to—
"Fawkes!" Hermione screams. "What are you doing?! What's happening?!"
She tries to close her eyes against the light, but she can't. She can't move. She's frozen. She can't feel anything, just—
LEFT. LEAVE. WILL LEAVE
What was that?
RETURNED. RETURN. WILL RETURN
…Return?
Oh no.
No! No she— she doesn't want to— Bella!
Her magic. She has to— where is her magic?
Nothing— nothing makes sense it—
She can't fight this. She can't think. She can't. She can't. Follow the thread just follow just somehow feel for—
-mio -wh -n't -?- Do- me!
The connection. What's happened to the thread? What's happened to—
And suddenly she's falling. Falling through the air. The light fading.
And with a crash, everything goes dark…
Hermione blinks her eyes open, rubbing her head. Ow. Everything is sparkling.
Where is she…?
Oh no. No no no
The Time Room.
She— she left—
She staggers to her feet. No no no no no
She can't be back in the future. Not now. She wasn't meant to— Bellatrix is—
And a hand grips her arm, tugging at her. "Finally, I thought you'd never wake up. The other you has been gone for bloody ages. Thought we'd fucked it up and— come on!"
Hermione stumbles as she's dragged along towards the circular room at the entrance by…an unknown witch. An unknown witch…tugging at her and swearing?
"…Bella? Is it you?"
The witch laughs, running faster down the final corridor. "Sorry, love. Wrong sister. So don't go getting any ideas. She'd kill me if— No, Bella's the reason for the rush. Hopefully the lift won't take too long."
Wha—
They reach the lift, and the witch slams her hand on the button, tapping her foot impatiently. Hermione tries to catch her breath. And let her brain…wrong sister?
"Andy?"
The witch turns to grin at her. "Well I'm not Cissy," she jokes.
Andy. That grin. It's so Andy.
Hermione just stares. How—
What—
Andromeda laughs again. "I know, you probably have a million questions. I'll tell you as much as I can on the way."
The doors pings open, and she pulls Hermione in with a relieved sigh. "Now. This is when things get complicated…"
Chapter 57: Find Your Way HomeNotes:
It would be mean to leave you on that cliffhanger for too long, wouldn't it?
So here's an early update.
See. Not that cruel ;)
Chapter Text
Bellatrix grits her teeth, forcing her eyes open as the pain courses though her. What the hell kind of book did Hermione touch?! Fuck. It hurts like a bitch.
She holds back a grunt of pain, keeping her expression relaxed and bored. A good excuse for why she's lolling her head in her hands.
Nope. She can't stand it any longer. Groans through the thread, just to let it out. What is— Hermione
What is she doing? What if she's dying and Bellatrix isn't there? She needs to think of an excuse. She has to get to Hermione, it feels like she's dying. She needs to follow the thread and—
Focus, Bella!
She taps her foot under the table. Let's the rhythm slow her racing thoughts.
And focuses back on the room. On Snape, panting on the floor at the Dark Lord's feet. Poor bloke. Mind you. Not that's she's doing any better at the moment. Fuck. Fuck, it bloody—
Not much longer, Bella. I promise. Phoenix tears. Nearly—
And Bellatrix breathes out a silent sigh as the pain fades. Good. Glad that's over. Now she should probably give Snape a hand. The bugger did help Hermione, so she owes him one.
She gets to her feet, making sure her chair scrapes backwards, drawing everybody's attention. She chances a glance at Him. He seems…saner. Flattery then. Reminders of his goals.
"My Lord, if Snape has disappointed you, shamed us, it would be my honour to punish him. He is not worthy of your attention. And you are so busy with your plans. The ministry. Soon the world. Everything is falling into place with your wise leadership," she simpers, swaying closer and in front of Snape to hide him from sight. If they're lucky He might forget all about him.
Hmm. No, not confused enough right now. But he is considering it.
She lets the darkness fill her mind as she grins into crimson eyes. Pushes all of her happiest memories deep into her soul, and lets the rage reign. Her need for a better world, where monsters are punished. Her hope for a brighter future, free from hiding. And how much she wants to deliver pain. Because she does. She wants to hurt everyone who ever dared to—
Voldemort smiles back. "Ah, dearest Bella. So loyal. Yes, yes take him from my sight. I have work to do. Plans to make."
And he whirls around, sweeping out of the room and down the corridor to his office, hissing to Nagini as he goes.
She hurriedly grabs Snape before Riddle changes his mind, apparating them to an empty room. Crazy old—
Something's wrong. The thread. It's calling. Is Hermione calling her? But she can't hear her!
It feels so wrong. Something is so— Hermione! What are you doing! What is— I'm coming to—
She accios a handful of potions from Cissy's pouch and shoves them at Snape as he rolls over with a groan. "Take what you need and get out of here before he— sorry, I have to—"
She backs into her mind, and slides along the thread.
And jerks to a stop. Where is…Oh. Dumbledore's office? Right. Phoenix tears. But where's Hermione? Did she do it wrong?
Bella! comes a scream through the thread.
Oh. No, it can't be—
She runs to the window. There's a ball of fire streaming through the sky. Like a meteor. Is that—
"Accio broom!" she yells. Any broom. The closest— Hermione is—
She vanishes the glass, and launches herself out of the window, skidding down the steep turret roof. Hermione! What's happening?
She's reached the edge of the roof. Where is that fucking broom?! There must be plenty of—
She slices off part of the turret and hovers it into the air, jumping onto it and tensing as she finds her balance. She just has to get past the wards as fast as possible. She can still see— if she just— a broom!
She leaps down to meet it, falling a few dozen feet and grabbing it with one hand, swinging on. Shit. If someone sees her— metamorph— who can she— choose anyone that isn't a bloody Death Eater!
The muggle girl from earlier. At least change your face, just—
She keeps her eyes fixed on the ball of flames.
No no no it's too fast. Or is…the flame getting smaller? Or faster? No no no Hermione! Don't leave me! Don't leave. I can't I—
And the flames blink from existence before her eyes.
No.
No.
Hermione?
No answer. Why is there— there's no answer and—
She can feel the broom plummeting to the ground, but she can't bring herself to…
Is she alone? Is that— but— no…
She distractedly pulls the broom up as the forest floor gets dangerously close. Rolls off and onto the ground. Stares up at the sky. Hermione?
Silence. Just silence.
Everything blurs as tears gather in her eyes. This wasn't supposed to…
"Hermione?" she whispers. Just to say it out loud. A last wish. A plea for help.
But of course, nobody comes. Hermione's the only one who ever…
If feels like a knife is stabbing into her chest. She— she can't breathe. This isn't right. It isn't—
"Why!" she yells uselessly, voice breaking. Useless. It's useless and hopeless and—
And she's alone again. All alone.
And—oh.
She sits up.
The secret message. In mermish.
"When I am gone…and you're all alone…remember you can always find your way home," she croaks.
Well…she is alone…
She rubs at her eyes. Looks around. She's in a forest somewhere. Alone. Hopefully not the Forbidden Forest.
Her vision blurs again as the tears just continue to fall. And she gives up.
She grabs the nearest rock, and throws it as hard as she can with a yell. "Bring her back! Do you hear me?!"
She gets to her feet. Glares up at the bloody gods in the sky. "Whoever is doing this to us, putting us through all this shit, you can bring her back right now!"
Nothing happens. What's the use of being a goddess if— a stone isn't enough, it—
She directs her magic at a nearby fallen tree. Remembers what it's like to be thrown violently through the air, and launches the tree with all her might, feeling the magic crackle down her arms. "Bring her back! It's not fair it— we didn't do anything wrong! We—"
She watches the tree crash land. Roll to a stop. Just lie there…very still. Lie still, so they'll go away. Don't even dare to breathe so…
Stop it. Stop it, Bella. Just…
She falls to her knees.
When I am gone…
…and you're all alone…
"But…Hermione's my home. I can't fix this. I can't— I don't know how to—"
It's hitting her. The panic. She's really gone. She's gone and—
No no no she can't be gone. It's just…over?
Like that, it's—
Was that all the happiness she deserved? How is— but she still has to— the timeline.
She has to— she doesn't know what to—
"Please!" she shouts. "Please just bring her back. I'll do anything. Whatever— anything, just—"
She can't do this alone. Without Hermione, she…
Oh.
But she doesn't have to do this alone. She's decided not to be alone anymore.
Perspective. Come on. Your home. What is home? Where is—
"Tiggy!" she cries.
And she barely hears the pop before she's reaching for the elf. Pulling them close. "Tiggy! Tiggy, she's gone! I think— it went wrong it— help me. Tiggy, help me, I don't know— I need to go home but— I—"
The darkness is closing in. It's in her head. What if she loses herself? Hermione said she'd find her but— she can't find Hermione.
She focuses on Tiggy instead. Still there. Always there.
"Okay, Mistress Bella. Tiggy be helping. Be taking you home."
Home? She doesn't know if she can face the library without…
Not the library. Not her bedroom.
A parlour room.
Cissy?
That's what home is?
Narcissa puts down the book she'd been reading, and slowly stands up, eyes flickering over Bellatrix and face completely blank.
Oh no. You're scaring Cissy. She's worried.
She tries to smile reassuringly. And fucking sobs. What is wrong with you, Bella!
Now Cissy definitely looks scared. Oh to hell with—
She wraps her arms around her sister. Breathes her in. She always smells the same. How does she— what is that smell? It's just…Cissy.
"Bella? What on Earth…you have grass in your hair and— mud? What's— are you hurt?"
Hands come around to tentatively touch her back, and Bellatrix is horrified to feel herself start shaking. She's not supposed to— she has to be strong for Cissy, not…
Cissy swallows. "Oh. What— Tiggy, what happened?" Bellatrix breathes a sigh of relief as the arms tighten around her like a vice. Hold her steady.
Steady. Hermione. The pain. It hurts. It just hurts.
"Tiggy is not seeing, but is thinking something be happening to Miss Hermione. She be missing. She be gone."
Gone. She's gone.
Her hands clench in Cissy's robes. "She's gone, Cissy. I tried to help her but— it was too late. I don't— I can't—" she whispers. Terrified of another storm. She doesn't know if she can survive a storm without Hermione.
Narcissa pulls back. Stares into her eyes. "She left you?" she murmurs steely. Oh Cissy. So protective. And…coming into her head?
Bellatrix frowns. Clears her throat. "Cissy…what are you doing? You hate the dark."
Sit down, Bella
She finds herself sitting.
Good. Now, no more secrets
She feels Cissy peeking around, trying to search out some deeper thoughts. Memories.
But—
And no arguing. The dark won't stop me. I'm a Black, Bella. And I want answers. So just let me in. Show me everything
Bellatrix can't help but snort. She's not sure her sister will want to see everything she's been doing with Hermione.
Narcissa perches next to her on the sofa, pinching her brow with a drawn-out sigh. And the presence in her head pulls back a little.
Not that! No, skip that. Show me everything I need to know
Oh. No. No it's too dangerous. There's too much— she has to at least protect Cissy from…
She closes her eyes, and makes the darkness thicker. Suffocating. Cissy retreats.
"No, Cissy. I'm not— I'll just tell you. I'll tell you what I can."
A tut.
She looks up. Basilisk stare.
"Fine. Then tell me."
She tells her most of it, but leaves out the secrets that aren't hers to tell. Snape. The elves. The merpeople. Just tells her about fixing the timeline. About the bones in the bed. About her own future death. What will happen to all of them in the future. How they were trying to stop it. To fake it. And how Hermione…has probably been taken back to the future. Without her.
And she tells her about the thread. About how they used to talk. About— about how much it hurts now to…
She feels like half of her is missing. And it is. Her mate. Her soulmate. Her love.
A constant ache.
Did they do something wrong? Are the fates teaching her a lesson? Did she fuck it up?
Is this because she did all those horrible things?
Oh. Where are they? When did they go to…is this Cissy's bedroom? She's never been allowed in Cissy's room. But that is her hairbrush on the dresser. Her hand mirror.
Narcissa pushes her towards the bed and pulls the covers back. "Get in bed, Bella. You're exhausted. Just sleep."
Sleep? How can she sleep when—
A blast of magic sends her flying into the bed. The blankets fall over her. They're warm.
Cissy glares down at her. Straightens her posture. Clenches her jaw. Holds her head high. A Black.
Narcissa nods sharply. "Right. Bella, I'm going to fix it. Figure it out."
Bellatrix smiles at her stubborn little sister. That's not her job. It's Bella's job to—
It's my turn, Bella. Let me help you. Give some of it to me. Just a little. So you're not taking it all
Oh. Bellatrix shuffles deeper into the bedding, rubs the soft material between her fingers. "What are you going to do?"
Narcissa sighs. "Something we should have done a long time ago. You trust me, don't you Bella?"
Of course she trusts her. Completely. She nods.
"Good. Then let me do what has to be done. And get some sleep, before I drug you again."
Hmm. She might mean that.
Bellatrix hurriedly shuts her eyes. Rolls over and buries her face in the pillow.
Pretends Hermione is next to her. I miss you
No reply. Obviously.
Okay then. Get some sleep. Hermione was right, there's always a choice. She doesn't have to take it all. Doesn't have to figure things out by herself. To be alone.
And that doesn't make her weak. It doesn't.
She's so strong that strength is her fucking weakness. She can give up some control.
She sits up in the bed. Cissy has left.
It's fine.
Is it? What is Cissy doing? She said she'd do what has to be done…
But for what? To fix the timeline? To…
She lies back down. It's fine. She trusts Cissy. She's smart. And careful. The aurors came to look around the manor last week thanks to Potter's tip off, and Cissy didn't even blink as they searched the whole house. Even with an unconscious Hermione lying under her greenhouse. In a secret potions lab. With a Death Eater.
And hid all of the more questionable books in the library. And there was definitely a mirror missing in the East Wing. She's always thought that mirror was suspicious— what's up with that? And—
Focus.
Nope. Can't. And it's mid-afternoon, she's not even tired. Why does Cissy want her to sleep?
…in her bedroom. Why Cissy's—
She knew Bellatrix wouldn't be tired. Knew she wouldn't sleep. Knew she'd get curious and look around…
And get distracted. She's playing for time.
Cissy?! What are you doing? Where are you?
No reply. So not in the house. Or not listening. Or ignoring her.
Fine. "Tiggy?"
Tiggy appears. And glares at her. "You is supposed to be sleeping."
Ugh. Why is everyone— "It's daytime! I'm not tired. And— and tell me where Cissy is. What's she doing?"
Tiggy rubs their chin. So trying to lie. "Nuh uh, Tiggy…no getting out of it. Tell me exactly where Narcissa is right now and what she's doing!"
Tiggy sighs. "Is in the study…writing a letter."
Well that wasn't so hard.
She apparates to the study.
Or she would. Except there are wards stopping her. Fucking Cissy.
You warded your own bedroom?! Who does that?! Who wards people in like some…Zabini's the black widow, not you! You trap people in your—?
Don't be ridiculous, Bella. It's a locking ward. It works both ways. Only I can go in or out. It is for protection
Bellatrix tugs at the door handle, muttering every counter-warding spell she can think of.
And for trapping unsuspecting victims like some spidery—ow!
Yep. The wards bite back. That's so Cissy. She thinks she still has a bite mark on her shoulder from—
I never bit you. Don't be so dramatic. It's just so you will actually rest for more than five minutes
Get out of my head! Surface thoughts only, you know that. Or do you want me looking a bit deeper the next time your eyes meet mine?
You just try to look deeper, Bella. Try. I look forward to it
Bellatrix flinches back at the tone. That is not a voice to fuck with. She never has actually dared to look too far into Cissy's head. It's…
Anyway. Surface thoughts only. That's the rule.
Cissyyyy, come on! What are you doing? Tell me!
No reply.
Fine. But if Cissy has a diary in here somewhere, she is reading it! And she might try her toiletries in the en-suite. Rearrange the—
Yes, Bella. What a good idea. Touch all of my belongings. It will be…fun
Bellatrix backs up towards the bed. Climbs in. Pulls the covers up. The bed is safe. As for everything else…
She looks over at the hairbrush. Just sat there.
Suspicious.
Maybe she could get some sleep. She didn't get much sleep last night.
Her heart tries to pull itself apart again, and she takes a shuddering breath. Hermione. Gone. She only just got her back and—
I know you can't hear me…but I'm going to talk to you anyway, okay pet? Just— just listen. So I was at the meeting today, and then suddenly I felt…
She talks into the thread. Talks and talks. It helps a little bit.
And she's not sure when, but at some point, she falls asleep.