FIC: Impossible (18/30)
Title: Impossible
Author: perfect_pride
Pairing: Hermione/Bellatrix
Rating: NC-17
Disclaimer: It goes without saying that none of the Harry Potter world or its’ characters belong to me, unfortunately. Neither do the lyrics.
Warnings: Mental and physical abuse/torture.
Summary: Bellatrix abducts Hermione and keeps her prisoner, but an ancient magic threatens to change both their lives in ways they never thought were possible.
A/N: This fic begins during the summer months at the start of Deathly Hallows and complies with the events throughout the book. The timeline has been slightly adjusted at the start but it is barely noticeable. It takes into account events from the books and the films, but mainly the books as they are my favourite and provide greater detail. Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2 (film) wasn’t considered as I wrote this beforehand and I feel like the scenes I have written and slotted into the book version work better. I hope that makes sense, if not, please ask. Also, I have tried to keep the characters in-character despite the unlikely pairing. Feedback is welcome. :)
(1), (2) , (3a), (3b) , ( 4), ( 5) , (6), (7), ( 8), ( 9), (10), ( 11), (12), (13), (14), (15), (16)
Sooo, there are a few points I feel it is necessary to mention due to the reviews I've had. As I am following the book version of the Battle of Hogwarts, the kiss between Ron/Hermione will not take place in the Chamber of Secrets. If you want to know where it does take place then please read the book or wait until I post it. I'd imagine people aren't overly enthusiastic about this anyhow though, so I won't comment on it any further. :P
Also, in the book, Polyjuice Potion changes the voice of the imposter in addition to the appearance, so please bear that in mind.
This chapter was very difficult to write, so I hope people like it. I'm shattered after editing it constantly so hopefully you lovely readers will enjoy it. Thanks as always for the reviews!
**
I was blindfolded
But now I'm seeing
My mind was closing
Now I'm believing
Nickelback, I’d Come For You
**
18.
Surprisingly, they hadn’t seen anyone else on their way to the bathroom. They heard shouts and voices coming from other corridors, but fortunately they seemed to miss everything else that was occurring. Nevertheless, Hermione could only hope that Harry had not run into any trouble, and that everything was going to plan. She knew it was unlikely considering their usual level of luck, but it didn’t stop her crossing her fingers all the same.
Even getting into the Chamber had been surprisingly simple; Ron had made a few hissing noises that he claimed Harry had made to get in the previous time, and the Chamber had casually opened right before their eyes. Hermione had been doubtful that Ron’s efforts would be successful, but thankfully she kept her mouth shut, as finally on the fourth or fifth try, the entrance had opened. Together, Hermione and Ron used the broomstick they had brought from the Room of Requirement and flew down to the Chamber, wands lit. They spent a few minutes searching the vast area, and after locating several fangs, they placed Hufflepuff’s cup on the floor, ready to destroy it.
“You stab it,” Ron instructed her. “I’ve already destroyed one and so has Harry, even if he didn’t know what Riddle’s diary really was at the time. Even Dumbledore had a turn before he... you know. So it’s your go.”
Hermione looked apprehensive. “Do you really think I’ll be able to...?” She stopped speaking, overwhelmed with nerves.
“You’re the most brilliant witch I know, Hermione!” Ron said encouragingly, as though there was nothing wrong between them and they were still happily best friends. “I have faith in you.”
Hermione took a deep breath. I can do this, she thought. Ron believed that she could, and he himself had experience of destroying a Horcrux, so he must be right. If he thought that she couldn’t cope then he wouldn’t have allowed her to do it, she was sure of that if nothing else. Lifting the Basilisk fang she held in her hand, she jumped back as the cup started to hiss, and even shake back and forth as though it was aware it was about to be destroyed.
“Before you do,” Ron said suddenly. “You should know it might... well it might show some things that aren’t true to mess with your head. It happened to me.” He blushed, looked down at the floor, and didn’t say anything more.
“What sort of things did you see?” Hermione asked curiously.
“Well it was images of you and Harry... um... you know. Together,” He stammered, and by now, even in the darkness, his face was beetroot red. “And You-Know-Who’s voice.”
Comprehension dawning over Hermione, she decided that the best course of action to take would be to gloss over the moment. Now was not the time to discuss what was and wasn’t happening between her and Ron. “Ok, I understand,” Hermione said briskly, grateful of the warning and deciding that it was best to just get on with the task at hand. “Get ready.”
Lifting the Basilisk fang, she prepared to slam it back down. As though sensing this, a voice boomed from the cup, and then the terrible voice of Voldemort echoed off the walls around them.
“Hermione Granger, I have seen all you are and all that you stand for. Always having to prove yourself worthy to wizards of lesser skill than yourself, tormented for being the cleverest in your year. You work twice as hard as others yet still aren’t good enough in the way that those of purer ancestry are...”
“Stab it, Hermione!” Ron shouted over the voice emanating from the now smoking cup. “Just stab it!”
Enraptured by the cup, Hermione stared, allowing it to continue. The cup knew so much about her that she had to listen to see what it was going to tell her. Ron would have to wait for the moment; it was imperative that she hear the rest of what Voldemort had to say. She was fascinated by every last word that she was hearing, details of her own life revealed to her unlike ever before.
“You have been a fool in believing that my servant will betray me... Bellatrix would never consider leaving me. I am her world, and you have been nothing but a pawn in her games, used only for her own amusement.”
Flames shot out from the cup, and from them the figure of Bellatrix rose, swirling around and cackling. Her eyes were deadened though, and there was no emotion within them, drawing her apart from the real Bellatrix. Even Bellatrix in person showed emotion; acting as an Ice Queen had never really been her forté. She was too loud, too hysterical. This figure of Bellatrix had whiter skin, darker lips, and heavier eye make-up. She was just like Bellatrix, but somehow different, and it was confusing Hermione to the extent where she didn’t know what to believe anymore.
“I love my Lord, Mudblood. How could you be such a fool as to fall for me? I could never want someone with blood as disgusting as yours. Why would I, when I have all that I need with my beautiful Lord? What in the world could make me love you?”
The final question was the catalyst for Hermione; she had heard enough. Semper Amor, she thought savagely, and focusing once more, she prepared herself to move. Smashing the Basilisk fang downwards, there was a terrible screeching noise as the cup shrieked, whined and hissed, before there was silence once more.
“I’m surprised,” Hermione said, composing herself. “I can’t believe how real that was.”
“Yeah,” Ron said, not meeting her eyes, but bending down to examine the cup.
“I knew it couldn’t be... be real,” Hermione continued, stammering.”He called me Hermione instead of Mudblood.” She gave a shaky laugh, trying to defuse some of the tension.
“She called you Mudblood though,” Ron said, avoiding the use of Bellatrix’s name and trying to sound casual. And this Horcrux actually spoke some truth.”
Feeling as though Ron had just kicked her in the face, Hermione blanched. Although she was fairly sure that Ron was trying to hurt her, that didn’t make his cutting words any easier for her to hear. It had been hard enough to hear the Horcrux say such things, but from someone who was supposed to be one of her best friends, the pain multiplied. “That’s... that’s a horrible thing to say.”
Ron shrugged, ignoring her.
Refusing to her allow herself to cry, Hermione pinched her arm in a feeble attempt to control her emotions. She was doing a pretty good job as Ron continued to pretend to examine the Horcrux, (most probably so he didn’t have to face her) when a thought occurred to her. “Do you think this means that Voldemort knows about me and Bellatrix?” Hermione asked panicking. “If he does then we have to warn her!”
“Probably not,” Ron said dismissively. “He can’t sense when we destroy them, can we? The Horcrux was just messing with you like I said it would, even if it did tell us the truth about Bellatrix.”
“Excuse me?” Hermione exclaimed.
“She’s only loyal to Him, and deep down, you know it!” Ron said viciously, now turning to face her.
Understanding that Ron was angry, Hermione stepped forward and placed a hand on his arm. Relief hit her when he didn’t pull away. Now was not the time for them to fight, and so if she had to kiss his arse in an attempt to make him cooperate with her then so be it. She was angry at the way he treated her but she was also mature enough to appreciate why he was acting like a prize idiot. Jealousy. He hated that there was a bond between her and Bellatrix because once upon a time, there had been a bond between them too (even if it wasn’t anywhere near as strong). Previously, she had assumed that Ron was the man she would marry and be with forever, having his children and growing old together, but now she couldn’t imagine it. The love she felt for Ron was platonic, and although she still thought him attractive, he wasn’t enough for her. Not compared to Bellatrix.
“Ron,” she said gently, aware that now was not the time to tell him what she was thinking about. “Please, I don’t want us to fight.” Wrapping her arms around him, she buried her head in the crook of his neck in a companionable gesture. “Can we just get out of here?”
After awkwardly returning the hug, Ron still avoided her eye. However, when he said, “Get on the broomstick then, will you?” it was a softened tone he used, and he pulled her arms around him so that she leant on him as they made their way up and out of the Chamber.
Stumbling with their arms full of Basilisk fangs, they exited the girls’ bathroom and made their way back towards the Room of Requirement. They turned around the corner and through yet another corridor, when they heard raised voices and several bangs coming from what they knew to be a dead end to the right of them. After a quick glance at each other, they wordlessly agreed to see what was happening, and cautiously made their way towards the sound. Other than the people they could hear arguing (though as of yet they couldn’t make out exactly what was being said) this part of the castle seemed to be fairly quiet. It appeared that most or all of the Death Eaters had yet to find their way in; a fortunate occurrence for Hermione, Ron and Harry wherever he currently was.
“I’ll ask you once more, Bellatrix, what are your intentions?” Hermione heard the voice of Rodolphus as she drew nearer. And Bellatrix. She was there with him! Praying that Ron wouldn’t confront the pair, she held onto his arm tightly.
“I don’t know what you mean,” she heard Bellatrix say coldly.
“I think you know exactly what I mean,” Rodolphus replied instantly. “Do not lie to me; I know that you were aiding the Auror, Kingsley Shacklebolt. Why else would you send curses flying towards Thicknesse and then flee the scene?”
Hermione stifled a gasp. Was it true? Was Bellatrix actually helping them? She hadn’t imagined it to be possible, but if she had acted in such a way then it would imply that she was going to betray Voldemort and had already taken steps to do so. It was unfortunate that Rodolphus had discovered what she aimed to do, but hopefully it wouldn’t be too much of a problem as long as Bellatrix kept away from the Death Eaters until they had figured out the best course of action to take. Admittedly, Rodolphus was going to prove to be an issue, but as both her and Ron couldn’t see what was going on around the corner, there was nothing they could do yet.
“You are wrong-”
“Shut up you traitorous bitch!” Rodolphus yelled, and there was a sound as though he had slapped her. “Remember Bellatrix, for once it is I who is in the advantageous position, and you who is bound by magic and unable to move.”
Bellatrix laughed nastily. “I suppose you’re bound to overpower me at least once during the twenty-nine years we’ve been married. Though I did have my back to you and I didn’t even have my wand in my hand so I wouldn’t be too impressed with your achievement.”
Rodolphus hissed angrily, and there was a loud bang. “If you know what’s good for you then you’ll shut your mouth, bitch! When the Dark Lord finds out you’re a traitor to the cause, you won’t be so cocky then.”
“You saw wrong,” Bellatrix stated. “You are a fool, Rodolphus. When the Dark Lord hears that you have prevented me from fighting he is going to be furious!”
“Oh I don’t think so,” Rodolphus said, shaking his head. “Not once I have told him about your betrayal. But I am fair, dear wife. I will not tell him immediately; nothing should distract the Dark Lord this evening. Least of all you. No, I will deal with you once the Battle has been won.”
“And how are you going to explain my absence?!” Bellatrix shrieked. “The Dark Lord will want me!”
Rodolphus laughed. “And he’ll get you,” he said, and the noise of rustling could be heard.
Unsure of what was happening, Ron pulled Hermione behind a statue, so that should Rodolphus exit they would not be seen. From the look on his face Hermione would surmise that he was starting to accept that she had been telling the truth about Bellatrix all along, or at least, that was how it sounded. For Rodolphus to go so far as to bind Bellatrix by magic to prevent her fighting, she must have helped Kingsley. The Death Eaters needed all of their best out fighting, and without a doubt, Bellatrix was the most skilled aside from Voldemort himself.
“Why do you need my hair? Wait, you’re going to pretend to be me? Is that Polyjuice Potion?!” Bellatrix yelled. “Rodolphus, don’t you dare you FUCKING CUNT!”
There was another bang followed by Bellatrix crying out in pain. “BE QUIET!” Rodolphus yelled.
Bellatrix groaned, sounding disorientated. “You... you’ve been planning this for a while, haven’t you?”
“What makes you say that?” Rodolphus asked.
“There’s no logical reason for you to carry Polyjuice Potion,” Bellatrix said, and Hermione could hear the anger in her trembling voice.
Rodolphus laughed. “I forgot how smart you are, Bellatrix.” He cleared his throat. “Yes, the truth is that I was going to do this anyway.”
“Why?!” Bellatrix snapped, sounding as though she was starting to get her focus back.
“Isn’t it obvious?” Rodolphus paused. “I know, you filthy whore! I know about you and the Mudblood, Granger!” Rodolphus hissed.
“What are you talking about?” Bellatrix said, now starting to sound nervous. She wasn’t the only one; Hermione’s heart started thudding even more loudly in her chest, and Ron held onto her tighter, as though Rodolphus knew where she stood and was about to come and attack her.
“Did you honestly think I wouldn’t be suspicious after your illogical outburst when I introduced myself to her? You care about her,” Rodolphus accused. “You actually like her. It’s disgusting. You’ve betrayed pure-blood society to such an extent that you cannot repair the damage you have done to our cause.”
“Of course I haven’t! She’s a Mudblood and I hate her!” Bellatrix protested, and even though Hermione knew she had no choice but to lie, she still felt sad to hear Bellatrix deny their love. The irrational side of her wanted to
“Don’t lie to me!” Rodolphus screamed, louder than before. “I know, Bellatrix! I know because I forced your pathetic little elf to tell me!”
One. Two. Three.
“Wh-What?” Bellatrix stuttered. “What did you do to her?”
Rodolphus ignored the question and continued regardless, “You’re an idiot, Bellatrix; you were too specific in what you forbade her to do. Whilst you may have told her not to tell me, well, things I am obviously unaware of, you didn’t tell her not to tell me other information.”
“Like what?” Bellatrix asked.
Rodolphus laughed. “The fact that the Mudblood sent your elf a Patronus asking you to meet her, and, what was the other point that stupid little creature mentioned? Oh yes, ‘Mistress Bellatrix only wishes to talk to Miss Hermione and be friends!’”
Hermione felt sick at the thought of what unimaginable things Rodolphus had done to Lemmy. Was she ok? Was she even still alive? Hermione had suffered at the hands of Rodolphus’ temper, so what was the guarantee that a vulnerable elf such as Lemmy would have been able to sustain such an attack? If they had not been about to start a fierce battle then Hermione would have rushed to Black Manor to check on Lemmy, but not only did she not have the time, but Bellatrix was in a dangerous situation at the moment, and she couldn’t bear to leave her.
She desperately hoped that Lemmy was safe, wherever she was. The tiny elf had shown so much care for her when she had been held captive by Bellatrix, and risked everything to make Hermione’s imprisonment just that little bit easier. Hermione had to fight to hold back the tears at the thought of what Lemmy had gone through, and admonish herself internally for never having made the effort to say thank you to her for all that she had done.
All that she could do now would be to pay attention to the ongoing confrontation between Bellatrix and Rodolphus and be prepared to intervene if need be. There was no way that she was going to let Rodolphus harm Bellatrix in any sort of way without at least trying to defend the older witch. If Semper Amor was going to be the reason for Bellatrix’s downfall, then it would be the reason for her own too. We’ll stay together forever.
Hermione focused on the conversation once more. “That’s... not true,” Bellatrix said, practically forcing the words out.
“STOP LYING!” Rodolphus shouted. “I had to torture the elf to get that much out of her; I know it’s the truth!”
“If you’ve done anything to Lemmy then I’ll kill you,” Bellatrix snarled. “She is MY property, you bastard!”
“I don’t think now is quite the time to be making threats considering your current situation,” Rodolphus warned.
“Well, why are you even going to use Polyjuice potion to become me anyway?” Bellatrix asked, evidently realising that she was going to get no more information concerning Lemmy out of Rodolphus. As much as Hermione wished she would press the issue, she was smart enough to realise it would be pointless.
Risking a glance at Ron, Hermione saw that his eyes were fixated on the blank wall of the corner behind which Bellatrix and Rodolphus stood. Despite the fact that Ron usually wore his emotions on his sleeve similarly to Harry, on this occasion it was hard to see what he was thinking. There was a look of intense concentration on his face as though he was thinking hard about what to do, but other than that Hermione couldn’t tell whether he was planning to intervene or not. Had they been further back she would have whispered to him, but not only did she not want to risk being overheard, it was also imperative to listen to every word that Rodolphus spoke in case he said anything of use.
“As much as I hate to admit it, the Dark Lord prefers you. He always has, ever since the first time I introduced you. Do you have any idea what that feels like, Bellatrix? To be a respectable pure-blooded wizard who comes second to his insane wife? I am sick of being in the background. I’m the only reason you even know the Dark Lord, and now you have proven that you don’t deserve to be anywhere near him!” Rodolphus replied, seething.
“Yet you’re going to become me to get closer to the Dark Lord anyway,” Bellatrix said dryly. “What an apt solution.”
“I’m going to become you during battle, and then reveal myself. I will explain to the Dark Lord that I had his best wishes at heart, for I know him to rely on you. You’re right in what you said; he will expect you to be present, and we cannot allow for such distractions. As much as I would rather he need me... there will be time for that in the future once I have inform him of your betrayal and Hogwarts is secured once more,” Rodolphus snarled. He gave a sigh before he added, “Speaking of which, I really had better get on.”
There was a pop and then rustling, followed by silence.
A groan. Bellatrix?
“Oh stop whining; I didn’t knock you out for long. Now, I’m going to leave you here,” Hermione guessed this to be Rodolphus as the fake Bellatrix, eerily sounding like the true Bellatrix. Then, he added casually, “Oh, and I’ll say hello to the Mudblood for you, before I curse her heart never to beat again.”
Hermione shivered, and slid back against the wall. If Rodolphus saw her now then chances were she would die. Evidently he planned to deal with Bellatrix later on, and for the moment, his only target was going to be Hermione. It meant that in battle she would have to be careful and avoid him at all costs, because should he be seeking her out due to a personal vendetta, he would be far more dangerous than if he was merely fighting for the cause. As a Muggle-born she was at greater risk anyway, but after the threat, she would be lying if she said she wasn’t frightened.
“Rodolphus,” Bellatrix said, her voice shaking. “Please. You know that I don’t beg, but I am begging you now. Don’t do this.”
“Too little, too late,” Rodolphus said in Bellatrix’s voice, sounding bored. “Farewell, Bellatrix.”
There was silence for a moment, and then-
“DON’T YOU DARE TOUCH HER! SHE IS MINE!” Bellatrix shrieked having switched to hysterical mode in just seconds. “COME BACK!”
As wrong as it was, Hermione felt her spirits lift. Bellatrix may have been panicking, but in just a simple sentence she had made it clear that it was Hermione she was loyal to. So worried was she that Rodolphus was going to hurt her that she had proclaimed Hermione to be hers. It was a possessive statement, but then Bellatrix was jealous of anything that belonged to her being compromised by someone else. It was selfish, of course, but it also proved how much she loved Hermione.
As Bellatrix continued yelling for Rodolphus to come back, regardless of her shouts, Rodolphus turned and walked past them, a carbon copy of his wife wearing her clothes and boots. Completely ignoring Ron and Hermione, for luckily he hadn’t spotted them, he began running down the corridor, cackling in the same way as Bellatrix did.
For a painful minute or so after, Hermione and Ron stayed silently rooted to the spot just in case he did decide to return, but when there was no sign of him afterward, they exited. Awkwardly, Ron gestured his head for Hermione to go around the corner first to approach Bellatrix. Realising that Bellatrix would probably react better to seeing her than Ron, Hermione handed the Basilisk fangs she was carrying to Ron so that he now had twice as many, and she did as was asked of her, her heart hammering wildly in her chest. This was it; the moment of truth. She was grateful for Ron’s presence because when all of this was over, if they survived he would be able to back her up and state what he too had witnessed. Ron may hate Bellatrix and the idea of them being together, but he would never betray her purely for his own gain. He was a Gryffindor after all.
“Bella,” Hermione said gently as she turned the corner, and gasped as she laid eyes on the older witch. Her face was battered and bruised, and there was a cut on her lip that was steadily dripping blood. She was naked from the waist up, and the only material covering her was a pair of black panties; Rodolphus had evidently taken it upon himself to wear everything else. A surge of fury electrified through Hermione’s veins at the damage Rodolphus had done to Bellatrix when she wasn’t in a position to fight back. Bastard.
“Li-little babe?” Bellatrix stammered, eyes wide in shock. “What are you doing here?”
“Long story,” Hermione said, and she picked up the black t-shirt that Rodolphus had discarded. Forcing herself not to look at Bellatrix’s body, for she knew it would distract her, she added, “But I heard everything, and I know what Rodolphus is doing. Here, you’ll have to put this on for now.”
Bellatrix looked frustrated. “I’m bound magically. Can you...?”
“Yes, of course,” Hermione said, and at that moment, Ron rounded the corner also.
“Wait, Hermione, how do you know that you can trust her?!” he exclaimed. There was a look of distrust in his eyes, and he flittered his glances between the two women, as though he didn’t know who to focus on. Hermione was grateful that his hands were still full of the Basilisk fangs, because she wasn’t sure if he would have tried to curse Bellatrix otherwise. Apparently he was unable to completely discount his feelings and remain impartial the way that he was required to. Even the fact that Bellatrix was practically naked didn’t seem to affect him, such was his hatred for the raven haired beauty.
“What’s he doing here?” Bellatrix demanded, and now she too wore anger in her eyes.
Hermione sighed. “He was with me when I overheard, Bellatrix. You can trust Ron, I promise,” she said, praying she was right. “And Ron, you can trust Bellatrix after what we’ve just heard. You know that.”
“Well how do I know that I can trust him?” Bellatrix protested. “He doesn’t look very happy to see me.”
Ron growled, and he took a step towards Bellatrix. “Considering the fact that you’re a complete nutter, can you blame me?”
Childishly, Bellatrix responded by sticking out her tongue. Then, ignoring Ron completely, she turned to Hermione. “Just... just release me. Please,” she asked, and the mere fact that it sounded like a request and she had asked politely led Hermione to do as she wanted immediately. She only hoped that Bellatrix wouldn’t attempt to curse Ron, because that would no doubt complicate matters.
Fortunately, she didn’t. After Bellatrix rubbed her wrists and dragged the t-shirt over her head, Hermione felt able to properly face her once more. The t-shirt was so long that it was almost like a mini-dress on Bellatrix, but as Rodolphus was so built there was no shape to it, and it hung like an oversized black bag on the raven haired witch. She was apparently unperturbed though, as other than a look of annoyance, she just accepted that she had to wear it without comment. It was probably because of all the years in Azkaban wearing the same clothes day in, day out, Hermione surmised.
She watched as Bellatrix reached over and picked up her discarded wand from the floor, and took hold of Rodolphus’s shoes casting a spell to shape them to fit her own feet.
“He left your wand here?” Hermione asked incredulously, shaking her head at Rodolphus’ stupidity.
Bellatrix rolled her eyes. “He was so preoccupied with abusing me that he obviously failed to notice it fall from my sleeve as he undressed me. He honestly is dumber than a troll at times, though I suppose the Lestranges never were famed for their brains.”
“Thankfully,” Hermione said, grateful that Rodolphus hadn’t had the intelligence to realise how idiotic he was not to check he had left Bellatrix with access to a wand, even if she was restrained. After all, restraints could be broken, especially when it came to magic.
“Why didn’t you stop him?” Bellatrix asked finally, once she had gathered herself together, pulling the cloak left by Rodolphus over her as she spoke. “He’s out there now, pretending to be me. When he goes around cursing everybody in sight, people are actually going to think it is me rather than an imposter!”
Ron mumbled something under his breath that Hermione didn’t quite catch but had the intelligence to realise was offensive. Ignoring him, not wanting to rise to the bait, Hermione focused her attention on Bellatrix and said, “Because intervening would have been too dangerous. Besides, you can’t go back to the other Death Eaters now anyway; things have happened and we’re not sure what they know.”
“What do you mean?” Bellatrix asked suspiciously. “What did you do?”
Hermione shook her head. “I don’t have time to explain, and it’s not important.”
“How is it not important?” Bellatrix said incredulously. “Of course it’s important! And why did you break into my vault? More importantly, how on earth did you manage to disguise yourself as me?”
Hermione shook her head. “It doesn’t matter.”
“It’s important because I need to know what is going on before we go into Battle-”
“Not if you’re on our side it’s not,” Ron interrupted fiercely.
“In case you didn’t hear, I just tried to curse Thicknesse you bloody idiot,” Bellatrix spat. “What other proof do you need? My own husband has just left me here, bound, because he has realised my betrayal.”
Hermione listened to them bicker, wondering what to do now. From her perspective, she was willing to believe Bellatrix, but others wouldn’t so readily listen. Not to mention the fact that there was also a fake Bellatrix running around Hogwarts doing things that Hermione didn’t even want to imagine. Until they had managed to warn everyone of who the real Bellatrix was, they would not stand a chance in forcing people to believe them. Even then, in the midst of war, things would be dangerous. Some people may still attack her believing her to be a Death Eater, or merely as vengeance, such as in the case of Neville, for example.
“Ron, stop, please. Bella, you know that I believe you,” she said sincerely. “But others probably won’t. Incidentally, why did you try and curse Thicknesse?”
Bellatrix rolled her eyes. “Because of you, idiot. Did I not tell you I would betray the Dark Lord for you? Of course, it would probably have helped if I had actually focused on fighting Thicknesse rather than thinking about you at the time, but such things cannot be corrected now.”
If Ron had not been present, then Hermione would have kissed Bellatrix for such a confession, even if it was said in an offensive way, for that was Bellatrix all over. As it was, she fought to suppress her desire, and instead expressed only her gratitude. “Thank you, Bella,” she said earnestly.
“Yes, well,” Bellatrix said impatiently. “As much as I would love to continue this, I need to check on Lemmy.”
Hermione’s heart sank as she remembered. “Are you going to call her?”
Bellatrix nodded. “Lemmy!” she shouted.
Nothing.
“Lemmy!”
Again, there was nothing.
“LEMMY!” Bellatrix screamed.
There was a crack, and Lemmy appeared before them. Hermione breathed a sigh of relief that was soon replaced by panic as Lemmy sank to her knees. She was covered in marks; scratches, bruises and cuts adorned her tiny little body, and she was physically shaking. Taking a deep breath, Hermione fought to keep herself from vomiting. It looked to her as though Rodolphus had spent a long time torturing Lemmy, and that for her part, she had put up as much of a fight as she possibly could before he managed to wheedle information out of her.
“Mistress Bellatrix,” she said feebly. “Lemmy is sorry for the delay, Mistress. Lemmy is not... not feeling well. Master Rodolphus made Lemmy... he made Lemmy tell him things Lemmy shouldn’t have. Lemmy is so sorry...”
Bellatrix knelt beside her. Worried that Bellatrix was going to try to punish Lemmy, Hermione gently placed a hand on her shoulder. Immediately she was shrugged off by Bellatrix. “That is not my concern at present, Lemmy,” Bellatrix said sharply, but there was no fury in her words as Hermione had expected. “However, I need to know if Rodolphus told you any of his plans?”
Weakly, Lemmy shook her head. “No, Mistress.”
Bellatrix swallowed in acceptance. “Ok.” She turned to Hermione. “She needs treatment. Where can we...?”
“I know what to do,” Ron said surprisingly, before Hermione could even open her mouth. “Kreacher!”
At once, Kreacher appeared, and fixed his round eyes upon Ron. “Master Harry is not here, but Kreacher is to serve him for he is Kreacher’s Master,” he said in the raspy voice that Hermione had not heard in months.
“You can serve me though, Kreacher,” Bellatrix said, and his elf features stretched into shock as he turned to face her.
“Miss Bella is fraternising with a Mudblood?” he said, apparently unable to help himself, despite Harry’s instructions to him not to call Hermione the horrible name. Not that it mattered to Hermione; that was the least of her concerns at the moment.
“Something like that,” Bellatrix said, and she grinned at the look of utter shock on his face. Then, she schooled her features into a serious expression once more. “I need your help, Kreacher.”
Kreacher looked sorrowful. “Master Harry has expressly forbidden Kreacher to help the cause that is responsible for Master Regulus’ death,” he refused.
“This isn’t helping the cause. I just need you to take care of my elf for me whilst we battle,” Bellatrix said, gesturing towards Lemmy. “As you can see, she needs treatment.”
“Kreacher doesn’t know if he should-”
“Well after that, you are free to fight against the cause responsible for Regulus’ death. But you have to help Lemmy first. Take her back home safely for me and use your elf magic to heal her. Can you do that?”
“And Kreacher is free to come back here and battle for Master Regulus then?” Kreacher checked.
“Yes,” Bellatrix said, and simultaneously, Ron and Hermione nodded too.
Swiftly, Kreacher grasped a shaking Lemmy, and before anyone could say another word, he disappeared with a crack.
Hermione immediately took charge now that she knew Lemmy was going to be cared for. “We need to... we need to get back to Harry and then we can decide what to do.”
“What does that mean?” Bellatrix asked. Ron sighed at the question, as he was apparently so good at doing these days.
“It means that it might not be a good idea for you to fight,” Hermione said. “Ordinarily it wouldn’t be so much of a problem but with Rodolphus pretending to be you, it complicates matters.”
“I will not just stand around watching or worse, hiding!” Bellatrix said, discounting Hermione’s words. Then, with a more playful tone, she said with a huge grin on her face, “Besides... the fighting is the best bit!”
Hermione groaned. She couldn’t understand how anyone, even Bellatrix, could act like a fool in the middle of such a precarious situation. Granted, she had no idea of the Horcruxes (and Hermione was almost certain of that) but she still seemed entirely unfazed by the fact that all around her people were battling against Voldemort and that this may even be the final Battle between the greater good and the Death Eaters. Had Hermione been in her precise situation, she would have been quaking in her boots; especially considering the fact that she had now swapped sides.
“Let’s just get back to the others,” Hermione said, as now was not the time to pick a fight with Bellatrix. “If anyone tries to curse or hex you then don’t aim to kill if you can help it Bellatrix, just disarm and secure them. Otherwise no one is going to believe you’re with us no matter what we say.”
“Why would anyone try to curse me?” Bellatrix said innocently, as she walked next to Hermione.
“You know full well why people are going to be targeting you,” Hermione said briskly. “Now come on, we need to get back.” She sped up, and when Ron lagged behind with so many of the Basilisk fangs, she wrenched some of them out of his arms so that he too could speed up. Not that he deigned to say thank you to her, but then, she had learnt to expect such behaviour from Ron.
“What are you carrying?” Bellatrix asked curiously, and she made to grab some of the fangs from Hermione.
“Don’t!” Hermione said. She once again handed the fangs over to Ron, figuring it was better for him to struggle with all of them than for Bellatrix to get hold of one as a weapon. This way she could keep her eyes on Bellatrix and her wand free and prepared for Battle. “Leave them, please. Just listen to me, Bella.”
Bellatrix immediately withdrew her hand, and continued walking without any smart comments. Whether this was because she had realised the enormity of the situation they were in, or simply because Hermione had affectionately shortened her name, Hermione couldn’t say for certain. She did however suspect that it was entirely the latter, because Bellatrix still seemed to be gazing around and not really showing any sign of stress at present.
As they were about to round another corner, Harry appeared from it before them. Hermione was about to explain what had been happening when before she had realised it, Harry had Bellatrix by the throat and had pushed her against the wall, holding his wand up to her. There was a fierce look in his eyes as though he would be willing to do anything to Bellatrix right now should she provoke him hard enough.
“Harry, let her go,” Hermione said firmly. “You don’t understand!”
“What makes you think we can trust her, Hermione?” Harry said, his eyes still fixed on Bellatrix’s. She had looked threatened for a moment, but quick as a flash that had disappeared, her expression now seeping arrogance and disdain. For several moments she watched Harry as though he was filth.
“Let go of me, Potter,” she snarled.
“Give me one good reason, Lestrange,” he shot back at her.
Bellatrix allowed her lips to curl into a wide smile. “Because my dear little babe looks like she is about to curse you out of this castle, that’s why.”
Although Hermione had not been fully aware of her actions, when she paid heed to Bellatrix’s statement, she noted that she had her wand pointed at Harry and no doubt wore an expression of contempt on her face to match. Unaware that she had even adopted this stance, and embarrassed to discover it, Hermione relaxed, looking at Harry sheepishly. “Sorry, Harry. I just... well can you let go of her?” She gave a short explanation as to what had happened in the past few minutes, and the actions of Bellatrix helping Kingsley, and consequently, of Rodolphus binding her. Ron reluctantly jerked his head a few times, briefly nodding to confirm her story.
Hermione recognised that it was the love that Harry felt for her that led him to do as she asked, albeit with a look of disbelief on his face. However, he did following this up by stating firmly to Bellatrix, “She is not yours. She is ours until you prove yourself worthy of her, and you show you’re willing to support us and the Order further. Understand?”
Bellatrix shrugged, looking entirely bored by him. “Whatever. Can we just fight now?”
“Bella...” Hermione sighed, feeling it was appropriate for her to interject before Harry, Ron, or a combination of the two of them cursed her. “Please, stop.”
“Yes, please do,” Ron echoed.
“How did you even get in here?” Harry asked her, voice devoid of all emotion. It was obvious that he was trying to keep a cool head, and for that Hermione was grateful.
“Hog’s Head pub about an hour ago,” Bellatrix said, speaking to Harry as though he were a dimwit. “Did you really think that all the people going in there after curfew wouldn’t be picked up on? I followed a couple of them without being found out and watched them enter through a tunnel before doing the same myself. I used a Disillusionment Charm so that your little friends didn’t catch sight of me... thought it wouldn’t be the best time for a reunion.”
If Bellatrix was telling the truth (and Hermione fully believed she was) then that meant the other Death Eaters would soon be here. Hermione didn’t feel comfortable asking Bellatrix about what her previous fellows were doing, but she supposed that even if Bellatrix was troubling to hide her presence, that didn’t mean she was alone. Although the others may not have entered through the tunnel, (which was quite likely else there would be chaos in the Room of Requirement as the two sides battled to win) every single one of them was probably forcing their way in from the outside.
“Right, well I need to speak to Ron and Hermione alone,” Harry told her. Turning to herself and Ron, he added, “Guys, we need to talk about...you know...” Harry stated, and Hermione caught the meaning behind his words at once. Horcruxes.
“You’re right,” Hermione replied, knowing that Harry didn’t wish to speak about the Horcruxes in front of Bellatrix. “Bella, can you leave us for now? Keep yourself hidden for the moment, and meet us outside the Room of Requirement in twenty minutes or so?”
When Bellatrix nodded her head and walked away silently, Hermione furrowed her eyebrows. She had thought for sure that the older witch would kick up a fuss and demand to know what was going... but maybe she didn’t particularly want to know? Maybe if she wasn’t really loyal to Voldemort anymore and was just here for the fight (and Hermione herself) then the intrinsic details didn’t bother her. Hermione wasn’t sure of her motivations, but she figured that now was not the time for curiosity. From what she had seen so far this evening, the evidence strongly suggested that Bellatrix was on their side. Or rather, on her side. That was all that really mattered for the moment, and Hermione was determined not to make a big deal out of something that would probably just turn out to be nothing.
“Right, now that she’s gone... Where the hell have you been?” Harry shouted.
Hermione sighed again. It was going to be a long night, and she could only hoped that they would live to see the sunrise.
**
(( CLICK HERE for part 19. ))
Author: perfect_pride
Pairing: Hermione/Bellatrix
Rating: NC-17
Disclaimer: It goes without saying that none of the Harry Potter world or its’ characters belong to me, unfortunately. Neither do the lyrics.
Warnings: Mental and physical abuse/torture.
Summary: Bellatrix abducts Hermione and keeps her prisoner, but an ancient magic threatens to change both their lives in ways they never thought were possible.
A/N: This fic begins during the summer months at the start of Deathly Hallows and complies with the events throughout the book. The timeline has been slightly adjusted at the start but it is barely noticeable. It takes into account events from the books and the films, but mainly the books as they are my favourite and provide greater detail. Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2 (film) wasn’t considered as I wrote this beforehand and I feel like the scenes I have written and slotted into the book version work better. I hope that makes sense, if not, please ask. Also, I have tried to keep the characters in-character despite the unlikely pairing. Feedback is welcome. :)
(1), (2) , (3a), (3b) , ( 4), ( 5) , (6), (7), ( 8), ( 9), (10), ( 11), (12), (13), (14), (15), (16)
Sooo, there are a few points I feel it is necessary to mention due to the reviews I've had. As I am following the book version of the Battle of Hogwarts, the kiss between Ron/Hermione will not take place in the Chamber of Secrets. If you want to know where it does take place then please read the book or wait until I post it. I'd imagine people aren't overly enthusiastic about this anyhow though, so I won't comment on it any further. :P
Also, in the book, Polyjuice Potion changes the voice of the imposter in addition to the appearance, so please bear that in mind.
This chapter was very difficult to write, so I hope people like it. I'm shattered after editing it constantly so hopefully you lovely readers will enjoy it. Thanks as always for the reviews!
**
I was blindfolded
But now I'm seeing
My mind was closing
Now I'm believing
Nickelback, I’d Come For You
**
18.
Surprisingly, they hadn’t seen anyone else on their way to the bathroom. They heard shouts and voices coming from other corridors, but fortunately they seemed to miss everything else that was occurring. Nevertheless, Hermione could only hope that Harry had not run into any trouble, and that everything was going to plan. She knew it was unlikely considering their usual level of luck, but it didn’t stop her crossing her fingers all the same.
Even getting into the Chamber had been surprisingly simple; Ron had made a few hissing noises that he claimed Harry had made to get in the previous time, and the Chamber had casually opened right before their eyes. Hermione had been doubtful that Ron’s efforts would be successful, but thankfully she kept her mouth shut, as finally on the fourth or fifth try, the entrance had opened. Together, Hermione and Ron used the broomstick they had brought from the Room of Requirement and flew down to the Chamber, wands lit. They spent a few minutes searching the vast area, and after locating several fangs, they placed Hufflepuff’s cup on the floor, ready to destroy it.
“You stab it,” Ron instructed her. “I’ve already destroyed one and so has Harry, even if he didn’t know what Riddle’s diary really was at the time. Even Dumbledore had a turn before he... you know. So it’s your go.”
Hermione looked apprehensive. “Do you really think I’ll be able to...?” She stopped speaking, overwhelmed with nerves.
“You’re the most brilliant witch I know, Hermione!” Ron said encouragingly, as though there was nothing wrong between them and they were still happily best friends. “I have faith in you.”
Hermione took a deep breath. I can do this, she thought. Ron believed that she could, and he himself had experience of destroying a Horcrux, so he must be right. If he thought that she couldn’t cope then he wouldn’t have allowed her to do it, she was sure of that if nothing else. Lifting the Basilisk fang she held in her hand, she jumped back as the cup started to hiss, and even shake back and forth as though it was aware it was about to be destroyed.
“Before you do,” Ron said suddenly. “You should know it might... well it might show some things that aren’t true to mess with your head. It happened to me.” He blushed, looked down at the floor, and didn’t say anything more.
“What sort of things did you see?” Hermione asked curiously.
“Well it was images of you and Harry... um... you know. Together,” He stammered, and by now, even in the darkness, his face was beetroot red. “And You-Know-Who’s voice.”
Comprehension dawning over Hermione, she decided that the best course of action to take would be to gloss over the moment. Now was not the time to discuss what was and wasn’t happening between her and Ron. “Ok, I understand,” Hermione said briskly, grateful of the warning and deciding that it was best to just get on with the task at hand. “Get ready.”
Lifting the Basilisk fang, she prepared to slam it back down. As though sensing this, a voice boomed from the cup, and then the terrible voice of Voldemort echoed off the walls around them.
“Hermione Granger, I have seen all you are and all that you stand for. Always having to prove yourself worthy to wizards of lesser skill than yourself, tormented for being the cleverest in your year. You work twice as hard as others yet still aren’t good enough in the way that those of purer ancestry are...”
“Stab it, Hermione!” Ron shouted over the voice emanating from the now smoking cup. “Just stab it!”
Enraptured by the cup, Hermione stared, allowing it to continue. The cup knew so much about her that she had to listen to see what it was going to tell her. Ron would have to wait for the moment; it was imperative that she hear the rest of what Voldemort had to say. She was fascinated by every last word that she was hearing, details of her own life revealed to her unlike ever before.
“You have been a fool in believing that my servant will betray me... Bellatrix would never consider leaving me. I am her world, and you have been nothing but a pawn in her games, used only for her own amusement.”
Flames shot out from the cup, and from them the figure of Bellatrix rose, swirling around and cackling. Her eyes were deadened though, and there was no emotion within them, drawing her apart from the real Bellatrix. Even Bellatrix in person showed emotion; acting as an Ice Queen had never really been her forté. She was too loud, too hysterical. This figure of Bellatrix had whiter skin, darker lips, and heavier eye make-up. She was just like Bellatrix, but somehow different, and it was confusing Hermione to the extent where she didn’t know what to believe anymore.
“I love my Lord, Mudblood. How could you be such a fool as to fall for me? I could never want someone with blood as disgusting as yours. Why would I, when I have all that I need with my beautiful Lord? What in the world could make me love you?”
The final question was the catalyst for Hermione; she had heard enough. Semper Amor, she thought savagely, and focusing once more, she prepared herself to move. Smashing the Basilisk fang downwards, there was a terrible screeching noise as the cup shrieked, whined and hissed, before there was silence once more.
“I’m surprised,” Hermione said, composing herself. “I can’t believe how real that was.”
“Yeah,” Ron said, not meeting her eyes, but bending down to examine the cup.
“I knew it couldn’t be... be real,” Hermione continued, stammering.”He called me Hermione instead of Mudblood.” She gave a shaky laugh, trying to defuse some of the tension.
“She called you Mudblood though,” Ron said, avoiding the use of Bellatrix’s name and trying to sound casual. And this Horcrux actually spoke some truth.”
Feeling as though Ron had just kicked her in the face, Hermione blanched. Although she was fairly sure that Ron was trying to hurt her, that didn’t make his cutting words any easier for her to hear. It had been hard enough to hear the Horcrux say such things, but from someone who was supposed to be one of her best friends, the pain multiplied. “That’s... that’s a horrible thing to say.”
Ron shrugged, ignoring her.
Refusing to her allow herself to cry, Hermione pinched her arm in a feeble attempt to control her emotions. She was doing a pretty good job as Ron continued to pretend to examine the Horcrux, (most probably so he didn’t have to face her) when a thought occurred to her. “Do you think this means that Voldemort knows about me and Bellatrix?” Hermione asked panicking. “If he does then we have to warn her!”
“Probably not,” Ron said dismissively. “He can’t sense when we destroy them, can we? The Horcrux was just messing with you like I said it would, even if it did tell us the truth about Bellatrix.”
“Excuse me?” Hermione exclaimed.
“She’s only loyal to Him, and deep down, you know it!” Ron said viciously, now turning to face her.
Understanding that Ron was angry, Hermione stepped forward and placed a hand on his arm. Relief hit her when he didn’t pull away. Now was not the time for them to fight, and so if she had to kiss his arse in an attempt to make him cooperate with her then so be it. She was angry at the way he treated her but she was also mature enough to appreciate why he was acting like a prize idiot. Jealousy. He hated that there was a bond between her and Bellatrix because once upon a time, there had been a bond between them too (even if it wasn’t anywhere near as strong). Previously, she had assumed that Ron was the man she would marry and be with forever, having his children and growing old together, but now she couldn’t imagine it. The love she felt for Ron was platonic, and although she still thought him attractive, he wasn’t enough for her. Not compared to Bellatrix.
“Ron,” she said gently, aware that now was not the time to tell him what she was thinking about. “Please, I don’t want us to fight.” Wrapping her arms around him, she buried her head in the crook of his neck in a companionable gesture. “Can we just get out of here?”
After awkwardly returning the hug, Ron still avoided her eye. However, when he said, “Get on the broomstick then, will you?” it was a softened tone he used, and he pulled her arms around him so that she leant on him as they made their way up and out of the Chamber.
Stumbling with their arms full of Basilisk fangs, they exited the girls’ bathroom and made their way back towards the Room of Requirement. They turned around the corner and through yet another corridor, when they heard raised voices and several bangs coming from what they knew to be a dead end to the right of them. After a quick glance at each other, they wordlessly agreed to see what was happening, and cautiously made their way towards the sound. Other than the people they could hear arguing (though as of yet they couldn’t make out exactly what was being said) this part of the castle seemed to be fairly quiet. It appeared that most or all of the Death Eaters had yet to find their way in; a fortunate occurrence for Hermione, Ron and Harry wherever he currently was.
“I’ll ask you once more, Bellatrix, what are your intentions?” Hermione heard the voice of Rodolphus as she drew nearer. And Bellatrix. She was there with him! Praying that Ron wouldn’t confront the pair, she held onto his arm tightly.
“I don’t know what you mean,” she heard Bellatrix say coldly.
“I think you know exactly what I mean,” Rodolphus replied instantly. “Do not lie to me; I know that you were aiding the Auror, Kingsley Shacklebolt. Why else would you send curses flying towards Thicknesse and then flee the scene?”
Hermione stifled a gasp. Was it true? Was Bellatrix actually helping them? She hadn’t imagined it to be possible, but if she had acted in such a way then it would imply that she was going to betray Voldemort and had already taken steps to do so. It was unfortunate that Rodolphus had discovered what she aimed to do, but hopefully it wouldn’t be too much of a problem as long as Bellatrix kept away from the Death Eaters until they had figured out the best course of action to take. Admittedly, Rodolphus was going to prove to be an issue, but as both her and Ron couldn’t see what was going on around the corner, there was nothing they could do yet.
“You are wrong-”
“Shut up you traitorous bitch!” Rodolphus yelled, and there was a sound as though he had slapped her. “Remember Bellatrix, for once it is I who is in the advantageous position, and you who is bound by magic and unable to move.”
Bellatrix laughed nastily. “I suppose you’re bound to overpower me at least once during the twenty-nine years we’ve been married. Though I did have my back to you and I didn’t even have my wand in my hand so I wouldn’t be too impressed with your achievement.”
Rodolphus hissed angrily, and there was a loud bang. “If you know what’s good for you then you’ll shut your mouth, bitch! When the Dark Lord finds out you’re a traitor to the cause, you won’t be so cocky then.”
“You saw wrong,” Bellatrix stated. “You are a fool, Rodolphus. When the Dark Lord hears that you have prevented me from fighting he is going to be furious!”
“Oh I don’t think so,” Rodolphus said, shaking his head. “Not once I have told him about your betrayal. But I am fair, dear wife. I will not tell him immediately; nothing should distract the Dark Lord this evening. Least of all you. No, I will deal with you once the Battle has been won.”
“And how are you going to explain my absence?!” Bellatrix shrieked. “The Dark Lord will want me!”
Rodolphus laughed. “And he’ll get you,” he said, and the noise of rustling could be heard.
Unsure of what was happening, Ron pulled Hermione behind a statue, so that should Rodolphus exit they would not be seen. From the look on his face Hermione would surmise that he was starting to accept that she had been telling the truth about Bellatrix all along, or at least, that was how it sounded. For Rodolphus to go so far as to bind Bellatrix by magic to prevent her fighting, she must have helped Kingsley. The Death Eaters needed all of their best out fighting, and without a doubt, Bellatrix was the most skilled aside from Voldemort himself.
“Why do you need my hair? Wait, you’re going to pretend to be me? Is that Polyjuice Potion?!” Bellatrix yelled. “Rodolphus, don’t you dare you FUCKING CUNT!”
There was another bang followed by Bellatrix crying out in pain. “BE QUIET!” Rodolphus yelled.
Bellatrix groaned, sounding disorientated. “You... you’ve been planning this for a while, haven’t you?”
“What makes you say that?” Rodolphus asked.
“There’s no logical reason for you to carry Polyjuice Potion,” Bellatrix said, and Hermione could hear the anger in her trembling voice.
Rodolphus laughed. “I forgot how smart you are, Bellatrix.” He cleared his throat. “Yes, the truth is that I was going to do this anyway.”
“Why?!” Bellatrix snapped, sounding as though she was starting to get her focus back.
“Isn’t it obvious?” Rodolphus paused. “I know, you filthy whore! I know about you and the Mudblood, Granger!” Rodolphus hissed.
“What are you talking about?” Bellatrix said, now starting to sound nervous. She wasn’t the only one; Hermione’s heart started thudding even more loudly in her chest, and Ron held onto her tighter, as though Rodolphus knew where she stood and was about to come and attack her.
“Did you honestly think I wouldn’t be suspicious after your illogical outburst when I introduced myself to her? You care about her,” Rodolphus accused. “You actually like her. It’s disgusting. You’ve betrayed pure-blood society to such an extent that you cannot repair the damage you have done to our cause.”
“Of course I haven’t! She’s a Mudblood and I hate her!” Bellatrix protested, and even though Hermione knew she had no choice but to lie, she still felt sad to hear Bellatrix deny their love. The irrational side of her wanted to
“Don’t lie to me!” Rodolphus screamed, louder than before. “I know, Bellatrix! I know because I forced your pathetic little elf to tell me!”
One. Two. Three.
“Wh-What?” Bellatrix stuttered. “What did you do to her?”
Rodolphus ignored the question and continued regardless, “You’re an idiot, Bellatrix; you were too specific in what you forbade her to do. Whilst you may have told her not to tell me, well, things I am obviously unaware of, you didn’t tell her not to tell me other information.”
“Like what?” Bellatrix asked.
Rodolphus laughed. “The fact that the Mudblood sent your elf a Patronus asking you to meet her, and, what was the other point that stupid little creature mentioned? Oh yes, ‘Mistress Bellatrix only wishes to talk to Miss Hermione and be friends!’”
Hermione felt sick at the thought of what unimaginable things Rodolphus had done to Lemmy. Was she ok? Was she even still alive? Hermione had suffered at the hands of Rodolphus’ temper, so what was the guarantee that a vulnerable elf such as Lemmy would have been able to sustain such an attack? If they had not been about to start a fierce battle then Hermione would have rushed to Black Manor to check on Lemmy, but not only did she not have the time, but Bellatrix was in a dangerous situation at the moment, and she couldn’t bear to leave her.
She desperately hoped that Lemmy was safe, wherever she was. The tiny elf had shown so much care for her when she had been held captive by Bellatrix, and risked everything to make Hermione’s imprisonment just that little bit easier. Hermione had to fight to hold back the tears at the thought of what Lemmy had gone through, and admonish herself internally for never having made the effort to say thank you to her for all that she had done.
All that she could do now would be to pay attention to the ongoing confrontation between Bellatrix and Rodolphus and be prepared to intervene if need be. There was no way that she was going to let Rodolphus harm Bellatrix in any sort of way without at least trying to defend the older witch. If Semper Amor was going to be the reason for Bellatrix’s downfall, then it would be the reason for her own too. We’ll stay together forever.
Hermione focused on the conversation once more. “That’s... not true,” Bellatrix said, practically forcing the words out.
“STOP LYING!” Rodolphus shouted. “I had to torture the elf to get that much out of her; I know it’s the truth!”
“If you’ve done anything to Lemmy then I’ll kill you,” Bellatrix snarled. “She is MY property, you bastard!”
“I don’t think now is quite the time to be making threats considering your current situation,” Rodolphus warned.
“Well, why are you even going to use Polyjuice potion to become me anyway?” Bellatrix asked, evidently realising that she was going to get no more information concerning Lemmy out of Rodolphus. As much as Hermione wished she would press the issue, she was smart enough to realise it would be pointless.
Risking a glance at Ron, Hermione saw that his eyes were fixated on the blank wall of the corner behind which Bellatrix and Rodolphus stood. Despite the fact that Ron usually wore his emotions on his sleeve similarly to Harry, on this occasion it was hard to see what he was thinking. There was a look of intense concentration on his face as though he was thinking hard about what to do, but other than that Hermione couldn’t tell whether he was planning to intervene or not. Had they been further back she would have whispered to him, but not only did she not want to risk being overheard, it was also imperative to listen to every word that Rodolphus spoke in case he said anything of use.
“As much as I hate to admit it, the Dark Lord prefers you. He always has, ever since the first time I introduced you. Do you have any idea what that feels like, Bellatrix? To be a respectable pure-blooded wizard who comes second to his insane wife? I am sick of being in the background. I’m the only reason you even know the Dark Lord, and now you have proven that you don’t deserve to be anywhere near him!” Rodolphus replied, seething.
“Yet you’re going to become me to get closer to the Dark Lord anyway,” Bellatrix said dryly. “What an apt solution.”
“I’m going to become you during battle, and then reveal myself. I will explain to the Dark Lord that I had his best wishes at heart, for I know him to rely on you. You’re right in what you said; he will expect you to be present, and we cannot allow for such distractions. As much as I would rather he need me... there will be time for that in the future once I have inform him of your betrayal and Hogwarts is secured once more,” Rodolphus snarled. He gave a sigh before he added, “Speaking of which, I really had better get on.”
There was a pop and then rustling, followed by silence.
A groan. Bellatrix?
“Oh stop whining; I didn’t knock you out for long. Now, I’m going to leave you here,” Hermione guessed this to be Rodolphus as the fake Bellatrix, eerily sounding like the true Bellatrix. Then, he added casually, “Oh, and I’ll say hello to the Mudblood for you, before I curse her heart never to beat again.”
Hermione shivered, and slid back against the wall. If Rodolphus saw her now then chances were she would die. Evidently he planned to deal with Bellatrix later on, and for the moment, his only target was going to be Hermione. It meant that in battle she would have to be careful and avoid him at all costs, because should he be seeking her out due to a personal vendetta, he would be far more dangerous than if he was merely fighting for the cause. As a Muggle-born she was at greater risk anyway, but after the threat, she would be lying if she said she wasn’t frightened.
“Rodolphus,” Bellatrix said, her voice shaking. “Please. You know that I don’t beg, but I am begging you now. Don’t do this.”
“Too little, too late,” Rodolphus said in Bellatrix’s voice, sounding bored. “Farewell, Bellatrix.”
There was silence for a moment, and then-
“DON’T YOU DARE TOUCH HER! SHE IS MINE!” Bellatrix shrieked having switched to hysterical mode in just seconds. “COME BACK!”
As wrong as it was, Hermione felt her spirits lift. Bellatrix may have been panicking, but in just a simple sentence she had made it clear that it was Hermione she was loyal to. So worried was she that Rodolphus was going to hurt her that she had proclaimed Hermione to be hers. It was a possessive statement, but then Bellatrix was jealous of anything that belonged to her being compromised by someone else. It was selfish, of course, but it also proved how much she loved Hermione.
As Bellatrix continued yelling for Rodolphus to come back, regardless of her shouts, Rodolphus turned and walked past them, a carbon copy of his wife wearing her clothes and boots. Completely ignoring Ron and Hermione, for luckily he hadn’t spotted them, he began running down the corridor, cackling in the same way as Bellatrix did.
For a painful minute or so after, Hermione and Ron stayed silently rooted to the spot just in case he did decide to return, but when there was no sign of him afterward, they exited. Awkwardly, Ron gestured his head for Hermione to go around the corner first to approach Bellatrix. Realising that Bellatrix would probably react better to seeing her than Ron, Hermione handed the Basilisk fangs she was carrying to Ron so that he now had twice as many, and she did as was asked of her, her heart hammering wildly in her chest. This was it; the moment of truth. She was grateful for Ron’s presence because when all of this was over, if they survived he would be able to back her up and state what he too had witnessed. Ron may hate Bellatrix and the idea of them being together, but he would never betray her purely for his own gain. He was a Gryffindor after all.
“Bella,” Hermione said gently as she turned the corner, and gasped as she laid eyes on the older witch. Her face was battered and bruised, and there was a cut on her lip that was steadily dripping blood. She was naked from the waist up, and the only material covering her was a pair of black panties; Rodolphus had evidently taken it upon himself to wear everything else. A surge of fury electrified through Hermione’s veins at the damage Rodolphus had done to Bellatrix when she wasn’t in a position to fight back. Bastard.
“Li-little babe?” Bellatrix stammered, eyes wide in shock. “What are you doing here?”
“Long story,” Hermione said, and she picked up the black t-shirt that Rodolphus had discarded. Forcing herself not to look at Bellatrix’s body, for she knew it would distract her, she added, “But I heard everything, and I know what Rodolphus is doing. Here, you’ll have to put this on for now.”
Bellatrix looked frustrated. “I’m bound magically. Can you...?”
“Yes, of course,” Hermione said, and at that moment, Ron rounded the corner also.
“Wait, Hermione, how do you know that you can trust her?!” he exclaimed. There was a look of distrust in his eyes, and he flittered his glances between the two women, as though he didn’t know who to focus on. Hermione was grateful that his hands were still full of the Basilisk fangs, because she wasn’t sure if he would have tried to curse Bellatrix otherwise. Apparently he was unable to completely discount his feelings and remain impartial the way that he was required to. Even the fact that Bellatrix was practically naked didn’t seem to affect him, such was his hatred for the raven haired beauty.
“What’s he doing here?” Bellatrix demanded, and now she too wore anger in her eyes.
Hermione sighed. “He was with me when I overheard, Bellatrix. You can trust Ron, I promise,” she said, praying she was right. “And Ron, you can trust Bellatrix after what we’ve just heard. You know that.”
“Well how do I know that I can trust him?” Bellatrix protested. “He doesn’t look very happy to see me.”
Ron growled, and he took a step towards Bellatrix. “Considering the fact that you’re a complete nutter, can you blame me?”
Childishly, Bellatrix responded by sticking out her tongue. Then, ignoring Ron completely, she turned to Hermione. “Just... just release me. Please,” she asked, and the mere fact that it sounded like a request and she had asked politely led Hermione to do as she wanted immediately. She only hoped that Bellatrix wouldn’t attempt to curse Ron, because that would no doubt complicate matters.
Fortunately, she didn’t. After Bellatrix rubbed her wrists and dragged the t-shirt over her head, Hermione felt able to properly face her once more. The t-shirt was so long that it was almost like a mini-dress on Bellatrix, but as Rodolphus was so built there was no shape to it, and it hung like an oversized black bag on the raven haired witch. She was apparently unperturbed though, as other than a look of annoyance, she just accepted that she had to wear it without comment. It was probably because of all the years in Azkaban wearing the same clothes day in, day out, Hermione surmised.
She watched as Bellatrix reached over and picked up her discarded wand from the floor, and took hold of Rodolphus’s shoes casting a spell to shape them to fit her own feet.
“He left your wand here?” Hermione asked incredulously, shaking her head at Rodolphus’ stupidity.
Bellatrix rolled her eyes. “He was so preoccupied with abusing me that he obviously failed to notice it fall from my sleeve as he undressed me. He honestly is dumber than a troll at times, though I suppose the Lestranges never were famed for their brains.”
“Thankfully,” Hermione said, grateful that Rodolphus hadn’t had the intelligence to realise how idiotic he was not to check he had left Bellatrix with access to a wand, even if she was restrained. After all, restraints could be broken, especially when it came to magic.
“Why didn’t you stop him?” Bellatrix asked finally, once she had gathered herself together, pulling the cloak left by Rodolphus over her as she spoke. “He’s out there now, pretending to be me. When he goes around cursing everybody in sight, people are actually going to think it is me rather than an imposter!”
Ron mumbled something under his breath that Hermione didn’t quite catch but had the intelligence to realise was offensive. Ignoring him, not wanting to rise to the bait, Hermione focused her attention on Bellatrix and said, “Because intervening would have been too dangerous. Besides, you can’t go back to the other Death Eaters now anyway; things have happened and we’re not sure what they know.”
“What do you mean?” Bellatrix asked suspiciously. “What did you do?”
Hermione shook her head. “I don’t have time to explain, and it’s not important.”
“How is it not important?” Bellatrix said incredulously. “Of course it’s important! And why did you break into my vault? More importantly, how on earth did you manage to disguise yourself as me?”
Hermione shook her head. “It doesn’t matter.”
“It’s important because I need to know what is going on before we go into Battle-”
“Not if you’re on our side it’s not,” Ron interrupted fiercely.
“In case you didn’t hear, I just tried to curse Thicknesse you bloody idiot,” Bellatrix spat. “What other proof do you need? My own husband has just left me here, bound, because he has realised my betrayal.”
Hermione listened to them bicker, wondering what to do now. From her perspective, she was willing to believe Bellatrix, but others wouldn’t so readily listen. Not to mention the fact that there was also a fake Bellatrix running around Hogwarts doing things that Hermione didn’t even want to imagine. Until they had managed to warn everyone of who the real Bellatrix was, they would not stand a chance in forcing people to believe them. Even then, in the midst of war, things would be dangerous. Some people may still attack her believing her to be a Death Eater, or merely as vengeance, such as in the case of Neville, for example.
“Ron, stop, please. Bella, you know that I believe you,” she said sincerely. “But others probably won’t. Incidentally, why did you try and curse Thicknesse?”
Bellatrix rolled her eyes. “Because of you, idiot. Did I not tell you I would betray the Dark Lord for you? Of course, it would probably have helped if I had actually focused on fighting Thicknesse rather than thinking about you at the time, but such things cannot be corrected now.”
If Ron had not been present, then Hermione would have kissed Bellatrix for such a confession, even if it was said in an offensive way, for that was Bellatrix all over. As it was, she fought to suppress her desire, and instead expressed only her gratitude. “Thank you, Bella,” she said earnestly.
“Yes, well,” Bellatrix said impatiently. “As much as I would love to continue this, I need to check on Lemmy.”
Hermione’s heart sank as she remembered. “Are you going to call her?”
Bellatrix nodded. “Lemmy!” she shouted.
Nothing.
“Lemmy!”
Again, there was nothing.
“LEMMY!” Bellatrix screamed.
There was a crack, and Lemmy appeared before them. Hermione breathed a sigh of relief that was soon replaced by panic as Lemmy sank to her knees. She was covered in marks; scratches, bruises and cuts adorned her tiny little body, and she was physically shaking. Taking a deep breath, Hermione fought to keep herself from vomiting. It looked to her as though Rodolphus had spent a long time torturing Lemmy, and that for her part, she had put up as much of a fight as she possibly could before he managed to wheedle information out of her.
“Mistress Bellatrix,” she said feebly. “Lemmy is sorry for the delay, Mistress. Lemmy is not... not feeling well. Master Rodolphus made Lemmy... he made Lemmy tell him things Lemmy shouldn’t have. Lemmy is so sorry...”
Bellatrix knelt beside her. Worried that Bellatrix was going to try to punish Lemmy, Hermione gently placed a hand on her shoulder. Immediately she was shrugged off by Bellatrix. “That is not my concern at present, Lemmy,” Bellatrix said sharply, but there was no fury in her words as Hermione had expected. “However, I need to know if Rodolphus told you any of his plans?”
Weakly, Lemmy shook her head. “No, Mistress.”
Bellatrix swallowed in acceptance. “Ok.” She turned to Hermione. “She needs treatment. Where can we...?”
“I know what to do,” Ron said surprisingly, before Hermione could even open her mouth. “Kreacher!”
At once, Kreacher appeared, and fixed his round eyes upon Ron. “Master Harry is not here, but Kreacher is to serve him for he is Kreacher’s Master,” he said in the raspy voice that Hermione had not heard in months.
“You can serve me though, Kreacher,” Bellatrix said, and his elf features stretched into shock as he turned to face her.
“Miss Bella is fraternising with a Mudblood?” he said, apparently unable to help himself, despite Harry’s instructions to him not to call Hermione the horrible name. Not that it mattered to Hermione; that was the least of her concerns at the moment.
“Something like that,” Bellatrix said, and she grinned at the look of utter shock on his face. Then, she schooled her features into a serious expression once more. “I need your help, Kreacher.”
Kreacher looked sorrowful. “Master Harry has expressly forbidden Kreacher to help the cause that is responsible for Master Regulus’ death,” he refused.
“This isn’t helping the cause. I just need you to take care of my elf for me whilst we battle,” Bellatrix said, gesturing towards Lemmy. “As you can see, she needs treatment.”
“Kreacher doesn’t know if he should-”
“Well after that, you are free to fight against the cause responsible for Regulus’ death. But you have to help Lemmy first. Take her back home safely for me and use your elf magic to heal her. Can you do that?”
“And Kreacher is free to come back here and battle for Master Regulus then?” Kreacher checked.
“Yes,” Bellatrix said, and simultaneously, Ron and Hermione nodded too.
Swiftly, Kreacher grasped a shaking Lemmy, and before anyone could say another word, he disappeared with a crack.
Hermione immediately took charge now that she knew Lemmy was going to be cared for. “We need to... we need to get back to Harry and then we can decide what to do.”
“What does that mean?” Bellatrix asked. Ron sighed at the question, as he was apparently so good at doing these days.
“It means that it might not be a good idea for you to fight,” Hermione said. “Ordinarily it wouldn’t be so much of a problem but with Rodolphus pretending to be you, it complicates matters.”
“I will not just stand around watching or worse, hiding!” Bellatrix said, discounting Hermione’s words. Then, with a more playful tone, she said with a huge grin on her face, “Besides... the fighting is the best bit!”
Hermione groaned. She couldn’t understand how anyone, even Bellatrix, could act like a fool in the middle of such a precarious situation. Granted, she had no idea of the Horcruxes (and Hermione was almost certain of that) but she still seemed entirely unfazed by the fact that all around her people were battling against Voldemort and that this may even be the final Battle between the greater good and the Death Eaters. Had Hermione been in her precise situation, she would have been quaking in her boots; especially considering the fact that she had now swapped sides.
“Let’s just get back to the others,” Hermione said, as now was not the time to pick a fight with Bellatrix. “If anyone tries to curse or hex you then don’t aim to kill if you can help it Bellatrix, just disarm and secure them. Otherwise no one is going to believe you’re with us no matter what we say.”
“Why would anyone try to curse me?” Bellatrix said innocently, as she walked next to Hermione.
“You know full well why people are going to be targeting you,” Hermione said briskly. “Now come on, we need to get back.” She sped up, and when Ron lagged behind with so many of the Basilisk fangs, she wrenched some of them out of his arms so that he too could speed up. Not that he deigned to say thank you to her, but then, she had learnt to expect such behaviour from Ron.
“What are you carrying?” Bellatrix asked curiously, and she made to grab some of the fangs from Hermione.
“Don’t!” Hermione said. She once again handed the fangs over to Ron, figuring it was better for him to struggle with all of them than for Bellatrix to get hold of one as a weapon. This way she could keep her eyes on Bellatrix and her wand free and prepared for Battle. “Leave them, please. Just listen to me, Bella.”
Bellatrix immediately withdrew her hand, and continued walking without any smart comments. Whether this was because she had realised the enormity of the situation they were in, or simply because Hermione had affectionately shortened her name, Hermione couldn’t say for certain. She did however suspect that it was entirely the latter, because Bellatrix still seemed to be gazing around and not really showing any sign of stress at present.
As they were about to round another corner, Harry appeared from it before them. Hermione was about to explain what had been happening when before she had realised it, Harry had Bellatrix by the throat and had pushed her against the wall, holding his wand up to her. There was a fierce look in his eyes as though he would be willing to do anything to Bellatrix right now should she provoke him hard enough.
“Harry, let her go,” Hermione said firmly. “You don’t understand!”
“What makes you think we can trust her, Hermione?” Harry said, his eyes still fixed on Bellatrix’s. She had looked threatened for a moment, but quick as a flash that had disappeared, her expression now seeping arrogance and disdain. For several moments she watched Harry as though he was filth.
“Let go of me, Potter,” she snarled.
“Give me one good reason, Lestrange,” he shot back at her.
Bellatrix allowed her lips to curl into a wide smile. “Because my dear little babe looks like she is about to curse you out of this castle, that’s why.”
Although Hermione had not been fully aware of her actions, when she paid heed to Bellatrix’s statement, she noted that she had her wand pointed at Harry and no doubt wore an expression of contempt on her face to match. Unaware that she had even adopted this stance, and embarrassed to discover it, Hermione relaxed, looking at Harry sheepishly. “Sorry, Harry. I just... well can you let go of her?” She gave a short explanation as to what had happened in the past few minutes, and the actions of Bellatrix helping Kingsley, and consequently, of Rodolphus binding her. Ron reluctantly jerked his head a few times, briefly nodding to confirm her story.
Hermione recognised that it was the love that Harry felt for her that led him to do as she asked, albeit with a look of disbelief on his face. However, he did following this up by stating firmly to Bellatrix, “She is not yours. She is ours until you prove yourself worthy of her, and you show you’re willing to support us and the Order further. Understand?”
Bellatrix shrugged, looking entirely bored by him. “Whatever. Can we just fight now?”
“Bella...” Hermione sighed, feeling it was appropriate for her to interject before Harry, Ron, or a combination of the two of them cursed her. “Please, stop.”
“Yes, please do,” Ron echoed.
“How did you even get in here?” Harry asked her, voice devoid of all emotion. It was obvious that he was trying to keep a cool head, and for that Hermione was grateful.
“Hog’s Head pub about an hour ago,” Bellatrix said, speaking to Harry as though he were a dimwit. “Did you really think that all the people going in there after curfew wouldn’t be picked up on? I followed a couple of them without being found out and watched them enter through a tunnel before doing the same myself. I used a Disillusionment Charm so that your little friends didn’t catch sight of me... thought it wouldn’t be the best time for a reunion.”
If Bellatrix was telling the truth (and Hermione fully believed she was) then that meant the other Death Eaters would soon be here. Hermione didn’t feel comfortable asking Bellatrix about what her previous fellows were doing, but she supposed that even if Bellatrix was troubling to hide her presence, that didn’t mean she was alone. Although the others may not have entered through the tunnel, (which was quite likely else there would be chaos in the Room of Requirement as the two sides battled to win) every single one of them was probably forcing their way in from the outside.
“Right, well I need to speak to Ron and Hermione alone,” Harry told her. Turning to herself and Ron, he added, “Guys, we need to talk about...you know...” Harry stated, and Hermione caught the meaning behind his words at once. Horcruxes.
“You’re right,” Hermione replied, knowing that Harry didn’t wish to speak about the Horcruxes in front of Bellatrix. “Bella, can you leave us for now? Keep yourself hidden for the moment, and meet us outside the Room of Requirement in twenty minutes or so?”
When Bellatrix nodded her head and walked away silently, Hermione furrowed her eyebrows. She had thought for sure that the older witch would kick up a fuss and demand to know what was going... but maybe she didn’t particularly want to know? Maybe if she wasn’t really loyal to Voldemort anymore and was just here for the fight (and Hermione herself) then the intrinsic details didn’t bother her. Hermione wasn’t sure of her motivations, but she figured that now was not the time for curiosity. From what she had seen so far this evening, the evidence strongly suggested that Bellatrix was on their side. Or rather, on her side. That was all that really mattered for the moment, and Hermione was determined not to make a big deal out of something that would probably just turn out to be nothing.
“Right, now that she’s gone... Where the hell have you been?” Harry shouted.
Hermione sighed again. It was going to be a long night, and she could only hoped that they would live to see the sunrise.
**
(( CLICK HERE for part 19. ))