Slither

Disclaimer: Ahh, I'm another insane fan of Harry Potter, who is only wishing to show my absolute loyalty to such a brilliant work of fiction by writing an unworthy piece of fan fiction of my own! I do believe that the plot is mine, but everything else goes to JKR!

Chapter 1: The Icy Prince & The Fiery Princess

His footsteps echoed conspicuously through the corridors and announced his presence prior to being seen. Over the course of six years, his power over the student body was evident. Those of whom he felt were unworthy would scurry at the sound of his expensive Italian boots. There were few who did not cower before his gaze. And yet he could never rule sovereign over those bloody Gryffindors.

Arriving fashionably late, Draco Malfoy smirked as he walked in between the tables of the Great Hall that separated Hufflepuff from Ravenclaw and Gryffindor from Slytherin. He walked with a confidence that came with power, and girls in every house could feel a heat burning in their cheeks as he probed an approving eye over them. Draco was not unaware of the effects of his charm, but as he neared the Gryffindor table, he saw that there was always one girl who was left unaffected.

Harry Potter and Ron Weasley stared daggers at Malfoy. They knew that another year, and hopefully the last, had come where they would have to bear his arrogance. In between them sat, Hermione Granger. Turning away from Malfoy, the boys whispered something in her ears that made her erupt in laughter. From each end of the table, Gryffindors smiled at hearing Hermione's melodious laugh. Over the years, they had come to regard her as their own fiery princess. But for Malfoy, the sound was a cacophony of the worst kind. His alluring smirk turned into sneer as he veered towards the Slytherin table.

The Slytherins were not oblivious to the fact it would yield dire consequences to trifle with Draco in this mood. Food was abundant and sweet drinks overflowed in goblets, but they were left untouched until Draco had nodded and taken the very first bite. In his 7th year, Draco had become the icy Slytherin Prince, who ruled his dominion with a cold hand. For six years, he had worked to gain the respect of his housemates. It was with an unspoken word that they became followers to the natural leader.

Hermione eyed the Slytherin table with interest. She was curious about the Slytherins' unerring loyalty in following their leader even with dinner manners. Secretly, Hermione was impressed by the power that Draco commanded. A chill passed through her, and her eyes darkened. If there was one thing that Hermione would never admit even under Veritaserum, it was her attraction to power.
Draco epitomized power.

She was interrupted from her musings by the sounds of Ron's confounded clattering as he strove to stuff absolutely everything into his mouth. At her other side, Harry's green eyes twinkled, a bit in the way that Dumbledore's did, as he also watched Ron eat. Hermione turned to him with mirth dancing in her eyes. Harry slipped his arm around her as he had done so many times before and hugged her close.

The summer following 6th year had been trying and difficult for all of them. Even though they had all witnessed unspeakable things, Harry was glad to see that at least in some ways, they did not change. Ron still had an eager appetite. Hermione's appearance radiated blissful innocence and glowed with knowledge.

Hermione was comforted by Harry's show of affection. She had worried over his health and sanity for months. She returned the hug and pulled Ron into their embrace. Their friendship had never been stronger.

A table away, Draco watched the Golden Trio exude a light that blinded him.

A/N: Yep, another fanfic that I've started. It has a short beginning, but it will grow in time! I hope I actually continue this, but maybe that's wishful thinking! The next update won't be until my thanksgiving break because physics is exceedingly annoying me. Please review to tell me if I should continue this crazy idea. I don't even know where I'm going! 

Also! I need a BETA if I'm to continue this. So, if you're interested..please review and leave me your email!