Chapter Text
Time seemed to pass by quickly, and before anyone knew it, it was time to head to supper. After extracting several promises, Poppy reluctantly agreed to let Narcissa leave her domain. Hermione and Narcissa were still locked in a debate over some potion ingredient by the time they reached the great hall. Thankfully, the students were blissfully unaware of the earlier events and still gossiping over Skeeter’s article. As they were taking their seats at the head table, Minerva passed by them and said, “I’m glad to see you've recovered Professor Black. It is my understanding that you will be joining us this evening. I’m sure your professional experience will be most welcome.”
The message was loud and clear. No distractions would be tolerated tonight. Tipping her head slightly in acknowledgment, Narcissa replied, “I’m looking forward to it Headmistress. After all, I can still recall what my first successful transformation was like.” Once Minerva was in her seat, Narcissa turned and saw how amused her young lover was. “You really do bring out everyone's protective instincts.” Suddenly feeling nervous, she asked, “Why were you so determined to be with me while…”
“I remember how afraid and lost I felt when I regained consciousness after everything, and you deserved to see a loving face when you woke. I didn’t want you to suffer from the same anxiety. Just like me, you have no one else.” Hermione softly replied, doing her best to keep her own fears hidden in the dark recesses of her mind. “I know that Harry, Fleur, Minerva, and even Kingsley are family, but they aren’t blood.”
“Thank you,” Narcissa murmured as she covered Hermione’s hand with her own. Trying to change the topic, she looked around and asked, “I wonder where Harry and Fleur are?” As if her words were a beacon, the couple strolled into the hall. Their faces held a look of calm, but their eyes revealed their worry. Something clearly needed to be discussed, but that would have to wait for another time. The last thing she wanted was to distract Hermione with any of this right before a life-altering event. Getting ready to tuck into her meal, Narcissa said, “Since we have already talked of the potion and the ingredients, how about we tackle the transfiguration side.” This ploy worked incredibly well, just as Narcissa expected it to, and kept Hermione distracted for the majority of dinner.
As their supper began to come to a close, a sudden spark of murmurs tore through the hall. Looking up Hermione saw Theo Nott, Blaise Zabini, and Dean Thomas making their way towards the Head Table. Before she could question anyone, Minerva was standing behind her and placing a gentle hand on her shoulder as Harry was making his way over to his former colleagues. Softly clearing her throat, Minerva quickly gained Hermione's attention and said, “We should begin making our way to my office. Since we will have more than enough room, would you like Fleur to come as well? I know you are incredibly nervous and just as excited. I remember my own transformation.”
Suddenly thinking that eating supper was a very bad idea, she searched for Narcissa’s hand. Taking a deep breath, Hermione said, “If she would like to be there, then I have no problem with that.”
“You can say no Hermione,” Minerva murmured as her eyes raked over her young professor's face.
Shaking her head, Hermione stood, pulling Narcissa with her, and said, “It's up to her Headmistress, and I truly mean that. If you could bring her, we will meet you at the gargoyle. I just need a few minutes to center myself.” Not waiting for a reply, Hermione all but dragged Narcissa out of the Great Hall and towards the unused classroom that was quickly becoming the unofficial faculty common room. Ensuring no one would disturb them, Hermione warded the room and said, “I can’t do this. What if I fail?” Dropping her eyes down to the floor, she tried to make herself as small as her voice was as she said, “What if they show?”
Swiftly crossing the room, Narcissa grabbed Hermione’s shoulders tightly and interrupted Hermione’s spiraling thoughts, “First off, you will not fail. You do not know how to. Second, you can do this. You have battled the odds from the moment you stepped foot into this world, and have proven everyone wrong. Finally, even if your scars show, you will always be beautiful. No matter what anyone says or thinks, you are strong, intelligent, loyal, brave, fierce, have a heart of gold, and the list will always go on. All we have to do is to get you to remember this. To realize that this is true.” Watching the tears run free, Narcissa pulled the emotional witch in for a warm embrace. After several tense minutes, the tension finally began to ebb and she pulled back to cup both sides of her face. Running both thumbs over her cheekbones, she asked, “better?”
“I don’t know what I’ve done to deserve you. Thank you.” Hermione sniffed as her eyes began to dry. “It’s crazy how you always know what to say after only being together for a few days.”
Guiding Hermione towards the exit, Narcissa replied, “It’s a simple matter of you remembering who you are. This bond we share, whatever it may be, helps us connect. Now then, we should begin making our way towards the gargoyle.” For now, she would help Hermione focus on completing her final steps for her Mastery. She would have to set up a meeting with Minerva and Fleur to address Hermione’s confidence and to question the amount of power Hermione has at her disposal. Did the attack destabilize her core? Was all of this due to the previous injuries or was it due to the miscarriage? Could there be a possibility that both of these events unleashed a type of wild and elemental magic that was so ancient that the knowledge has long been forgotten?
Noticing that Narcissa’s mind was adrift, Hermione pulled her in for a kiss as they stood before the stairs leading to the Headmistress’s office. “Welcome back,” Hermione murmured, her eyes twinkling with mirth. “Thank you for earlier.”
Cupping the side of her young lover's face, Narcissa lovingly replied, “Your welcome.” Allowing herself to be pulled up the stairs, Narcissa saw the bounce in her steps and chuckled softly. Clearly, Hermione was eager for what was to come and appeared to have recovered from earlier self-doubt. As they crossed into the large office, she saw Minerva and Fleur watching them closely. Instantly recognizing the worry dancing within Fleur's eyes despite her best efforts to hide it, turning her gaze towards Minerva’s, she easily noted that her eyes were filled with pride.
“Good evening you two,” Minerva calmly stated as she invited them to the sitting area near the fireplace. “I thought we could tackle your transformation first Hermione. The Guardian has been instructed to refuse entry to everyone, and I have blocked the Floo. I know you are worried about a few things, and wanted to ensure you had complete privacy.”
Accepting her potion, Hermione chuckled, “Not beating around the bush I see, and not giving me a chance to back out at the last minute.”
“You should never doubt yourself, lass.” Minerva chuckled. “During your time as a student, I made the mistake of underestimating you, and I have corrected myself of that issue, I can assure you of that. Now then, you can either take that potion, or you can meditate first.”
Doing her best to keep her eyes on her mentor, she decided, “If I don’t do this now, then I may never do it. Besides, thanks to all the meditation I have been doing lately, I have a big idea of what will be joining us.” Stepping into the center of the room, Hermione made sure to breathe deeply as she searched the room. The moment her gaze locked on Narcissa’s, she easily read the admiration and encouragement that was beaming from them. Giving her newfound family a small nod, she uncapped the vial and downed the potion.
The vial clattered to the floor and it felt as if her body was suddenly engulfed by flames. As everything began to ache, she hunched over and then fell to the floor. Thank Merlin she remembered to spell her clothing beforehand. Positioned on all four, it felt as if her joints were being pulled apart. She vaguely heard voices, but couldn’t understand them. “Follow the magic lass, don’t fight it. You must be one with the change.” Minerva’s words seemed to break through the fog. Trying to steady herself, she followed the advice of her mentor and stopped fighting. Closing her eyes, she instantly felt her when her body began to morph.
Once the last of her bones began to click into place, she opened her eyes to find that everything was unfocused. Giving herself a little shake, the world finally began to right itself. Looking up, she came face to face with her mentor, whose pride easily showed in the rare smile she was giving. She tried to ask a question, but only a low growl came out, making her and everyone else for that matter, jump out of their skin. Placing a mirror in front of her now former student, Minerva said, “I knew you could do it… and feline as well. I’m so proud of you Hermione.” The words and world seemed to drift away when she looked at herself in the mirror. She was covered in a beautiful, long thick coat with tri-colored fur that was brown, black, and tan. Looking for evidence of her injuries, she noticed the hair was shorter and the color of snow… except for one spot. The inside of her forearm still bared Bellatrix’s work. The only consolation was that it was incredibly difficult to find.
“It’s now time to change back. Once you have completed that successfully, your training will be complete mo nighean.” Minerva murmured, her voice full of pride as she continued to watch her protege. “I’m sure you remember what to do. You must focus on your human form, on your clothing. Be sure to keep your breathing even, and simply allow the magic to work. Let the magic guide you to where you are meant to be.” Easily following the instructions, Hermione slowly changed back into her normal self. Once the transformation was complete, Hermione remained on her hands and knees, panting heavily from the exertion. Feeling two different touches, she allowed them to help her off the floor and onto the sofa. Once she was comfortably seated, she gratefully accepted the tumbler Minerva held out for her as she said, “Well done my dear. That was simply marvelous. In all my years of teaching, I have never had someone as talented as you. Let's take a small break, you assuredly deserve it.”
Hermione fell back into her seat as the center of the sofa began to slowly swallow her and mold to her needs. “I cannot take all of the credit. I’ve had the most amazing instructor guiding me along the way.”
“How are you feeling darling?” Narcissa asked while brushing away a rebelling curl from her face.
Unable to stop herself, Hermione found her body leaning into her touch as she softly replied, “Tired and relieved. Does anyone know what I am? I gathered that it is a type of cat, but I must admit that my mind was otherwise occupied.”
“I believe that you are a Linx, but will have to review some of my books to be sure,” Minerva replied while swirling her glass of scotch. “Since we have a moment, I was hoping to speak with you on a more personal matter. Waiting for Hermione’s questioning look (Minerva knew that this would be the case), and a small nod, before continuing, “I know this may seem odd, but what is your take on our relationship?”
Hermione’s brow creased as a frown wormed its way to her lips as she asked, “Why are you asking? Where is this coming from?”
“Humor an old witch mo nighean.”
“Well, we obviously started off as mentor/student, but that easily grew towards friendship. Although, with all that has happened…” The words stuck in her throat as the emotions began to build from deep within. She knew that she had to continue… that the truth had to come out helped push her to continue, “Our relationship has evolved to the point of us being family. I’m sure the ancients would view us as such even if it isn’t official, but I truly feel as if you have become more of a mother to me.”
Letting the breath out that she hadn’t realized she was holding, Minvera’s shoulders sagged in relief. “And I will freely admit that I feel the same way. You have become a daughter to me. I was speaking with the Minister recently, and I was struck by a thought. Now there are quite a few rituals that would be able to assist us, but how would you like to make this official? What I mean is, would you be interested in becoming an actual family? Both in magic and in blood? Like you, I am alone and the last of my line. My estates and family magic will one day be lost, and I truly hope that I can share it with you. I do not want you to feel forced and want to ensure you that do not have to say yes out of any type of obligation. I simply am truly grateful to be a part of your life.”
Reaching across to grab Minerva’s trembling hand, she said, “You’re starting to ramble Min. I can see how nervous you are, and I want you to know that you have no reason to be. We are already family, this would just make things official. Is it safe for me to assume that there is another reason behind such an offer? Ohh, don’t look so shocked… there is a reason I am called the brightest witch of my generation for a reason.”
Before Minvera could reply, Narcissa softly said, “She could help protect you, and it would change your blood status.” A sudden ache stabbed through her heart as she said this. She felt the loneliness slowly begin to creep back in.
Sensing the sudden change, Hermione turned herself slightly and gently cradled Narcissa’s hand as she said, “This will not keep us apart Cissa. Please do not even think that is a possibility.” Allowing Narcissa a moment to compose herself, she then turned to Minerva and replied, “I would be honored to call you family Min. However, I do have a question for you… You do realize that this would essentially have you related to Harry right?”
Minerva smirked as she chuckled, “Who do you think James’s Godmother was?” Before anyone could even comprehend putting a sentence together, she pushed herself to her feet and said, “You seemed to have recovered well. Now then, you will transform at least two more times before we call it an evening.”
Hermione let out a small groan but slowly got to her feet. Once her focus was on her mentor, Fleur leaned over and put a gentle hand on Narcissa’s forearm as she tried to reassure her newfound friend, “Hermione is correct Narcissa. She will always be by your side. Whether you realize this or not, you have become family. Not only will Hermione be there, but so will myself, Harry, and Minerva. Look at it this way, at least you already have such a wonderful relationship with your future mother-in-law. What else is troubling you? I can tell that there is something else occupying your mind.”
“Hermione’s confidence is more unstable than we thought. She seems to hide most of her insecurities well, but I’ve seen this behavior before.” Pausing to look over her shoulder, she saw that Minerva was guiding Hermione through her steps and continued, “Has she always been so powerful? Did she… was her core damaged?”
“She is simply trying to heal,” Fleur sighed. “The initial attack did cause some damage to her core, as well as to her mind. Due to her instincts that were developed and honed during the war, the fight that was within her seemed to unlock wild and ancient magic. Then when she miscarried, the sudden loss caused even more damage. We do not know if it was simply the loss of the baby, or the loss of Alexis, or due to both. That is why she can be quick to temper. When she feels threatened or anxious, she can barely control herself due to the amount of magic that is attempting to break free. However, you are what she needs. You can keep her grounded like no other, and that is due to the bond you hold. Your souls call to each other for one reason or another. Only you two will know why. I simply sense what is to be.”
Before Narcissa could reply, her thoughts were interrupted by a loud yowl, causing her to jump slightly. In an attempt to apologize for startling her, the Linx rubbed against her legs and began to purr. Butting her head against Narcissa’s hand, and soft smile bloomed across her luscious lips. Watching the Linx cock her head to the side, Narcissa chucked, “I guess you want in on my secret. You will have to let me move though.”
Jumping back, it looked as if Hermione was bouncing in anticipation; clearly remembering what Narcissa promised. Unable to help herself, Hermione let out a loud yowl of impatiens as she continued to tap her paws. Pausing in her steps, Narcissa chuckled at Hermione’s exuberant behavior. Annoyed with her girlfriend's antics, Hermione swiped her claws toward the blonde. “Good things come to those who wait, darling,” purred Narcissa as she leaned down to whisper into the Linx’s ear. A smirk graced her lips as she slowly stood, ensuring Hermione had the best view of her ample cleavage, before giving a sly wink and transforming into an adorable fox with red fur, blond paws, and a black-tipped tail.
The moment her lover’s transformation was complete, Hermione eagerly pounced, causing the two to start rolling around as they began to play. Watching the two of them run around, Fleur couldn’t help but laugh. Waiting for Minerva to be seated, she asked, “They are adorable, non?” This caused Minerva to give a loud snort while she poured herself another drink. “That was a wonderful thing to offer her Min. As much as we are her family, she still feels very much alone. What are your thoughts? Narcissa has some concerns…”
“Aye lass, as do I.” Minerva softly replied, her eyes never leaving her soon-to-be adopted daughter. Using the silence to organize her thoughts, the Scottish warrior continued to watch the hilarious display of a fox launching herself off the side of a chair to get the correct amount of momentum to take down the Linx. “Hermione tries her best to show the world that she is moving forward with her life, and has healed. Just like Narcissa, I can see the truth. I also know that before they came here, Narcissa not only calmed Hermione’s mind, she also helped instill the confidence she needed to complete her transformation.”
“We all know Hermione is still healing. But I must admit, I have concerns that are quite similar to Narcissa’s.” Fleur carefully stated as she reached for her wine glass. “I did my best to explain some things, but I think we are missing something.” Before she could continue she saw her friends making their way back over, and asked, “Finished already?”
Hermione couldn’t help but grin as she wiped away the sweat that collected across her brow. With her studies finally complete, she flopped down onto the empty loveseat and replied, “For now. I figured we could use a short break and a drink. After we’re finished Minerva, would you care for a run through the castle? Perhaps we can startle a few unsuspecting students along the way.” Wagging her eyebrows, she ignored Fleur’s snort and gratefully accepted her recently topped-off glass from Minerva.
“Do I need to review the rules with you once again Professor?” Asked Minerva, who was doing her best to conceal her amusement.
Noticing the Headmistress’s lips twitching, Narcissa interrupted, “Did you actually believe she would follow those rules? All I keep hearing about are these rule-breaking adventures she went on, but no one is sharing the details.”
Hermione’s hand slammed onto her chest with a dramatic gasp as she mocked, “Oh how you wound me Cissa darling! I happen to know the rules inside and out… how else do you think I’m able to get away with so much. All joking aside, did you have a chance to look into the house elves Minerva? And does someone want to tell me why Harry was suddenly visited by not one or two, but three former colleagues?”
Sitting back, Minerva quickly dissected her adopted daughter's mental facility. All the signs were there. Chewing on her lip, the tightening around her eyes, the tiny twitch of her fingers. All of these tiny tells point to just how close to the edge Hermione really was. “Unfortunately, the elves were of no help but will be diligent from here on out. As for Harry’s guests, he asked for permission for the visit, and mentioned that they had a few questions about an ongoing case.” Before Minerva could continue, the wards she placed by the gargoyle were triggered. Moving slowly, the headmistress went over to the painting near the door for a whispered conversation. When she turned around, she felt a headache beginning to form. As she pinched the bridge of her nose, she said, “It would seem Professor Potter is here to check on everyone… despite my earlier demands. I left specific instructions that we were not to be disturbed.”
Turning back to check on her professors, Minerva saw that Hermione was playing hostess, ensuring that everyone’s needs were addressed. There was a soft knock on the door, and it was slowly pushed open just enough to allow Harry Potter’s head to carefully peek through. However, greeted by the fire burning brightly within the Headmistress's eyes, her lips thinned to form a thin line. Miraculously he managed to contain the yelp that almost escaped, as he quickly pulled his head back to escape one pissed off Scottish Warrior. Unfortunately for him, Minvera silently but swiftly followed, effectively cutting off his alley of escape. Once she was face to face with her Defense Professor and his guests, she hissed, “I thought I made my stance clear Professor. We were not to be disturbed.”
“It was crystal clear Headmistress. That is why I had my house elf check on your progress. If Hermione was still working, then we would have continued to wait.” Harry carefully replied. Taking a small step forward, Harry did his best not to wilt from her intense gaze as he softly added, “I wanted to tell Hermione what is going on, and thought it would be best if we had this particular conversation in your office… away from any prying eyes. I don’t want her to panic, and she has a right to know. We both know that her reaction will be worse if she finds out that she was purposely being kept in the dark.”
Unable to stop herself. Minerva pinched the bridge of her nose once again and stated, “She is already asking questions. You may be correct, but I have some reservations. Hermione is very anxious at the moment, and I would advise caution. She is a hair’s breath away from losing control. With all that has happened, I’m not sure we should tell her this evening, nor if we would be able to control the outcome.”
Before anyone could formulate a reply, the door behind them suddenly flew open and revealed a very aggravated Hermione. Standing tall with her hand on her hips, she said, “Don’t even think of leaving me out. I know all of you, and that includes Fleur, are planning something big. I am more than capable of taking care of myself, and am made from stubborn stock.” Looking at Harry she said, “You four head on in. I need to have a quick word with the Headmistress.”
The boys gave an audible gulp as they surged to step back from Hermione’s glare and scrambled into the office. Once the two were alone, Hermione was just about to give the Headmistress a piece of her mind when she was brought up short by Minerva stating, “I’m sorry Hermione. You have every right to be angry with me, but I truly was trying to look out for your wellbeing. I never said that I did not want you to know. All I wanted to do was postpone explaining everything until you were more in control.”
Instead of yelling and screaming, Hermione took a deep breath as she tried to absorb what she was being told. Once she was able to reign in her temper, she continued to grit her teeth as she replied, “I appreciate what you were trying to do, but I am perfectly in control. It should be my choice to begin with.”
“Then tell me, did or did not Narcissa have to calm you, to ground you before you came to this office this evening. Were you or were you not ready for someone or thing to attack you while you were asking about Harry’s visitors.”
“I…”
“Do not even attempt to finish lying Hermione.” Minerva softly interrupted. Taking a chance, she took a small step forward to put a comforting hand on her shoulder. “We have known each other for quite some time, and we will be family. You are correct in stating that you are from stubborn stock, but it is not a weakness to admit how anxious you are. You are very close to losing control of your emotions and magic.” Watching her daughter’s shoulders fall, she pulled her in for a rare hug and held her close. “I would never keep you from this Hermione, but I canna help but want to protect you. You dinna ken how much…”
Hermione’s shoulders shook as she finally let go of her anger and hurt. This was just too much. Why was there always some dark/evil witch or wizard trying to attack her? “Thank you Minerva. You were right, about everything. I do understand what you have been trying to do for me.”
“Any time lass. Most of the time, I won’t be able to protect you. However, when you are in my castle, I will always try.” Both witches took a deep breath and pulled away once they were back in control of their emotions. Before Hermione could completely pull away, Minerva grabbed her shoulders and said, “We should rejoin the others. Before we do, I want you to remember something… every single person in that office cares about you. We all want to protect you Hermione. You are not alone in this, nor will you ever be. With that said, you have to let us help you as well.”
Hermione’s eyes teared lip at this show of support. Giving her a genuine smile that seemed to make her eyes sparkle from all the happiness she felt at that moment. Doing her best to prevent the tears from falling, she replied, “Thank you Min, for everything. For not only being my mentor and friend but for offering me a place within your family.”
Before either could add anything, the door behind them cautiously began to creak as it opened. Seeing the two witches so close, the crease in her brow seemed to melt away and a small began to transform her frown into a warm smile as she said, “I just wanted to check on you two. Is everything alright?”
“For Now.” Minerva carefully replied. “If you would please follow me. The sooner we start, the sooner we finish since there are classes tomorrow.” Quickly walking towards her office, using the brisk pace to compose herself.
Narcissa pushed the door open and stepped aside to allow Minerva to freely pass by. As Hermione went to follow, the Potion Mistress reached out and touched her bicep. “Are you sure that you are alright?” She watched as Hermione shrugged her shoulders as she took a deep breath. Clearly, this was going to be an incredibly trying evening, and could only imagine what else was in store for them. She was a few steps behind Hermione and saw a full bottle of Bourbon waiting on the table next to her empty glass.
Narcissa watched as the four wizards winced from her young lover's glare. Clearing his throat to get everyone’s attention, Harry said, “Right, I know you want to know what is going on Mione, all I am asking is that you let me finish what I have to say.” Pausing to ensure she gave him a stiff nod, he continued, “Earlier today Fleur and I walked in on a meeting with the Minister and his cabinet. This was happening while you two were in the hospital ward. I… actually I should say we kicked everyone out except for Kingsley. The first thing we did was scan the room for listening devices. Let’s just say that Shack lit up like a Christmas tree. Once that was taken care of, we were trying to figure out what was happening. For now, all we have is a theory. The mastermind has to be a member of the Minister’s cabinet. Whoever this person is, they have waited for just the right moment to strike. This person has a personal vendetta against you. Blaize, Theo, and Dean are going undercover. They will be our eyes and ears while completing their owner investigation. That is when Fleur and I left this office.”
“And that is where I pick up the story,” Minerva stated, easily commanding everyone’s attention. “To sum everything up, I called Minister Shacklebolt out on his previous behavior, and shall we say, showed him the error of his ways. Although, I wasn’t the one to remind him that apologizing wasn’t just what he needed to do… it was groveling at your feet while on his knees.”
“I never said while on his knees.” Harry interrupted with a smirk. “I’m sure I would have if someone didn’t make me feel like a first year who was caught out of bed after sending off a dragon and then was dismissed from this very office.”
Hermione snorted as she recalled the very incident and said, “Well someone forgot about the invisibility cloak he inherited from his Father.”
“It’s not like we were expelled.”
Before this could go any further, Minerva jumped in and said, “No, but you should have been and Hagrid would have been beside himself if that truly happened. However, if we could focus on why we are here.”
“Wait a moment, that actually happened?” Narcissa asked. “I remember a letter from Draco in his first year. Something about detention…”
Harry squirmed uncomfortably for a second as he confirmed, “We were sent into the forbidden forest to find an injured Unicorn. We found it, and Draco ran for cover as a wraith charged me. Thank the Gods for the Centurs. Firenze most likely saved my life that night.”
“Again, we are getting off topic.” Minerva sternly interrupted. “Hermione, do you have any questions? Anything else to add?”
Staring into the fire, Hermione’s brain was working tirelessly to put the pieces together. Taking a long sip from her tumbler, she felt a soft touch on her arm. “Sorry, I was just trying to name everyone from the Minister’s cabinet. I think you guys are onto something. Whoever this person is, they have been planning for this moment for a very long time. I wonder if the Press Conference will be the moment they strike. Why else would they make it mandatory. Their first job was to get Ronald released and convince Alexis to entrap me. Then the Profit ran that blasted story and put a target on Narcissa. Is it possible for Alexis to be in ca-hoots with Ronald?” Harry shifted uncomfortably in his chair at this, causing it to creak. Meanwhile, either Blaize, Theo, or Dean snorted at this thought, so she went on to explain, “It’s easy for others to think that Ronald is a bit slow. But you have to remember something, he is a chess master. He is more than capable of being an active player in all of this.”
“So we need to figure out how he could have planned this while locked up,” Dean murmured, more to himself than the room as he was working through his thoughts.
“If the mastermind is from the Minister’s cabinet, then they could have easily bribed someone, or even get someone placed on staff where Mr. Weasley was incarcerated.” Narcissa stated as she picked up her wine glass.
The room continued to bounce ideas around as Narcissa swirled around her drink as she continued to think on the matter. Who would hate Hermione so much, that they would not only destroy her image, but also physically. What she needed was a list of cabinet members, to find out who was responsible for the press conference, and who initiated Ronald Weasley’s release. She was so absorbed with her thoughts, that she nearly jumped when Hermione lightly touched her elbow. “I’m sorry darling, did you say something? I seemed to have been lost within my thoughts.”
“I just wanted to make sure everything was alright.” Hermione replied with a smirk. “Care to clue the rest of us into what had you so preoccupied?” Hermione continued as she looked Narcissa over, making sure that she was okay. The longer she gazed, the more her mind began to jump to conclusions and her anxiety began to jump leaps and bounds. When she felt her heart begin to pound, she took a long sip of bourbon and tried to take a deep breath after the liquor traveled down her throat. Next, she tried to count to ten, taking deep breaths. When her gaze locked with Narcissa’s once more, she noticed her eyes were full of concern. “I’m alright,” she murmured, hoping the lies stuck.
Shifting closer, Narcissa put her arm around Hermione’s shoulders and lowered her head to whisper in her ear, “No you are not. I can see that, and smell your magic in the air.” Acting as if everything was normal, Narcissa moved to place her glass on the table and casually looked around the room. They held everyone’s attention as she said, “It’s getting late. Perhaps we should continue this discussion another time. Seeing as we all have classes tomorrow, we should meet in a few days to go our any evidence that has been collected. If someone could please owl me a list as to who is in the Minister’s cabinet, and who has been in contact with Mr. Weasley, both visitors and those who worked there. I want to go over the names and see if I can recall anything.”
As Hermione was about to argue, Minerva held her hand up and silenced her. “Narcissa is of course correct. It is getting late, and you four have classes tomorrow. We won’t be getting anything else accomplished tonight anyway. I will have the list of Cabinet members for you tomorrow Narcissa. However, I fear your other request may take some time.”
“I will look into the rest of your request Lady Black.” Theo stated as he shuffled to his feet uncomfortably. Narcissa always did make him a little nervous.
“Thank you Theodore.” Narcissa soft replied. “Just out of curiosity, have either of you been in contact with Draco?”
The two young Slytherins looked to each other for an answer and hung their heads. The Woman before them was almost their mother. Narcissa made sure they always knew that she was there for them. Watching her mask falter for a moment broke their hearts. “I’m sorry Lady Black, Draco hasn’t contacted anyone since…” Theo softly replied, resisting the strong urge to look at his feet.
“Thank you gentlemen. I know this may seem odd, but perhaps you could drop the formality and call me Narcissa. You are now respectable wizards despite all you have been through.” Narcissa warmly stated before turning to Minerva to ask, “Do you know if Auror Bailey and Auror Scott are waiting for us?”
“They are at the Gargoyle as a matter of fact.” Minerva replied while watching Hermione closely. “Allow me to walk you to the door. Gentlemen, you are more than welcome to use my floo..” Dean, Theo, and Blaize said their goodbyes quickly and took up Minerva’s offer. The Headmistress followed her Potion Mistress and Transfiguration Mistress, who was reluctantly being led to the door. Before it could open, she put a handout and softly said, “I know you want to keep working Hermione, but Narcissa is correct. It is getting late, and you need to rest. You worked with very advanced magics this evening, and all of that takes a great amount of effort. While you continue to learn from your form, it will still be a bit difficult, as you well know. My recommendation would be to continue to transform for at least 30 minutes a day.”
Hermione pursed her lips and bit back her response. It would not bode well if she spoke without thinking. Instead of saying what was truly on her mind, she replied, “ I plan to when I work out in the mornings. Thank you for your guidance Headmistress, and I shall see you at breakfast.” She turned on her heel to open the door and swiftly began her descent without looking over her shoulder.
“Please make sure she actually gets some rest.” Minerva sighed as she turned to face Narcissa. “You were correct in stopping us, and I know you sensed her unease as well.”
“She will be alright Minerva,” Narcissa replied with a soft warmth in her tone as she cataloged the worry that plagued the Headmistress. “If she is going to be upset with anyone, it most likely will be me. I will make sure she doesn’t work on anything else this evening.”
The two quickly wished each other good night, and Narcissa went to join Hermione and the Two Aurors at the bottom of the stairs. As she reached the last few steps, she saw the Aurors standing off to the side with their arms crossed and their eyes continued to follow Hermione’s every movement as she paced back and forth while muttering to herself. When Hermione walked past the stairs, Narcissa stepped down and easily caught her clearly worked-up lover. Bringing the little witch into a warm embrace, she held her close with an iron grip and said, “I’m sorry darling. Before you blow up at me like a cauldron full of porcupine quills, how about a little run back to our apartment. I’m sure our guards won’t have a problem with meeting us there. Besides, we may get lucky and you will get a chance to find some poor unsuspecting student out of bed.”
Pulling back slightly, Hermione gazed deeply into her lover’s stormy eyes. While thinking, ‘Perhaps Narcissa is right.’ Running always clears her mind, allowing her focus to be clear. Right now it felt as if a hurricane had taken up residence with the way her thoughts were whirling around and her anxiety pulled her in several directions at once. Trying to pull away, she felt Narcissa’s grip tighten, and barely managed to hide her smirk as the pureblood’s possessive side began to show. Hearing the stones behind her begin to move, she was suddenly struck with what she thought was a brilliant idea. “Fine, we can run through the castle. But there is one thing I have to do first.” Pulling her lover back into the shadows, she looked up and saw that the Aurors had already left. When Narcissa went to question what was going on, Hermione put a finger to her lips before giving her a quick peck. Pushing their bodies further into the shadows, Hermione quick and silently transformed into her newly found form.
Less than a minute later, Harry led Fleur down the last of the steps, and into the hallway. Both were equally distracted by their intense and hushed conversation, missing the two animals that were hidden in the shadows. Hermione’s butt wiggled as she waited for just the right moment to pounce. Once they were a few steps away from the stairs and began to make their way down the hall, Hermione began to slowly creep out of the shadows.
The couple stopped for a moment and wrapped each other up tightly. It looked as if they were attempting to support each other. Hermione slowly and silently stalked down the hall. Fleur must have sensed her and managed to turn Harry so that his back was to Hermione. That was the moment she was waiting for, and Hermione lept from the shadows with a loud yowl that reverberated off the stone walls. She managed to bounce off his back perfectly and easily land on her feet.
Harry jumped quite a few feet in the air and let out a scream while fumbling for his wand. Meanwhile, Fleur and Narcissa were driven to tears as they watched the Man Who Conquered scream like a girl. Even Hermione was rolling around on the floor while still in her form. Once Harry was able to maintain control of his wand, he began to cast a series of stinging hexes at Hermione while saying, “That was not that funny Mione!” Hermione made it look easy with the way she was dodging his hexes, almost as if she was dancing. After a minute of casting, Harry panted as he continued to watch the Lyinx carefully through narrow eyes. He clearly wasn’t going to be able to hit her. “Fine, I see how it is. Anything else to add? Besides being a horrible sister who likes to drive her brother crazy…”
Quickly giving herself a good shake, Hemione easily transformed with a shit eating grin on her face as she replied, “Constant Vigilance?” Unable to continue, her shoulders shook with silent mirth. “I couldn’t resist Harry. I would apologize, but we both know that I won’t mean it. Besides, I just needed the distraction. I didn’t mean to make you jump that high, or let out a shriek like that. Is it truly my fault you sounded like a girl?”
“I most certainly did not sound like that.” Harry huffed and began to turn away. “I wasn’t expecting to be attacked. Since you seem to be doing alright, then I shall leave you two to your little jaunt back to your rooms.”
“Harry wait…”
Instead of replying, Harry began to make his way down the hall and away from the group. Once he was several feet away, he turned back and said, “By the way Mione, I’m so incredibly proud of you.”