A/N: Well, I jumped several years ahead... sorry... but hope it gets interesting ^_^

Damian lounged on the couch in Slytherin common room. No one dared come near him. Part of the reason he supposed was because of his family name and its association with The Dark Lord. However he knew without a doubt that the past seven years in Hogwarts earned him a good reputation as well. True to his word he did not make trouble but that did not mean he couldn't control the others in his house. Everyone recognized his skill with magic and his intelligence. Those who tried to oppose him found soon enough that he could and would retaliate.

He recalled his first year where he had dealt with prejudiced pricks from all over England who tried to embarrass him or were condescending towards him. The snide remarks that intentionally reached his ears were meant to provoke him into foolishness. He had held his posture but made sure the offenders knew the punishment was meted out by none other than Damian himself. Not that anyone could prove it.

As a result, a few of the weaker Slytherins, more especially those who shared his background drew close to him. Well, he couldn't call them friends, perhaps companions would suffice. Damian was content in his books and liked that his reputation ensured a quite atmosphere. The other purebloods seemed to decide that being on good terms was better. After the rocky first year Damian had no problems other than a few minor ones.

He had never been interested in Quidditch, much to brother's disappointment. He also did not participate in other activities. Hogsmead visits were used to smuggle in potion materials and meeting up with Draco. Well, at least until his final year Damian was in relative comfort. Thanks to his meritorious conduct and the leadership skills he displayed, he was chosen as the head for his house. It meant he was responsible for the airheads in his house, whether he liked it or not. He sighed as he recalled diffusing a impending duel earlier today. He felt the need to escape into a slightly mature world.

His eyes darted to the clock and he noted he had some time before his meeting with the prefects. He closed his eyes and drifting in his thoughts of the future. Things with his family's businesses were less than perfect. Draco had discussed some of the issues with Damian as he grew up. Main factor seemed to be a loss of prestige and lack of trust in Malfoy name after the war. He could understand that but the fact that such a feeling existed after over ten years was regrettable. Besides, had they not defected? The primary thought was what he could do to change things. He was unmarked, so to speak. And he knew eyes were on him and what he did in the next few months would have an impact on the wizarding world's impression of the Malfoys. He played with the idea of becoming an Auror but then realized he wouldn't really like meddling; not that he didn't have the skills. It had to be something connected to the ministry. He wanted quiet but the thought of identifying himself with the recluses that were the unspeakable disgusted him. Politics interested him but he doubted his chances there. Besides which ministry was he going to go into? Besides he knew he couldn't settle at some low level job, so his choices were limited. Maybe an Auror was the best choice? Now he was going in circles again. He shook his head and concentrated on the pattern sprawled across the ceiling until it was time to go.

The next day Damian sluggishly made his way to breakfast. He scowled at the food but sat himself at his usual spot and began picking at it. He looked up as the morning owls came in and one dropped a paper in his lap. He shook it open and read front page news. In big bold letters, the paper announced. "NEW HEAD AUROR: HARRY POTTER" Damian raised his eyebrows and continued reading that a new head Auror was chosen after the previous one retired and there was no one more suited than Potter himself. It continued to retell his tale and sing his praises, which filled the entire front page.

Around him, the chatter fell to a hush as everyone read the article but it wasn't long before a louder version of the usual noise replaced the silence. Damian winced and glared at no one in particular. He heard snippets of various conversations and zoned in to one coming from the Gryffindor table. 'If only we knew him! He used to be in our house you know! It would have been easier to get a good job with him on my side' a high pitched girl chattered away. Damian's face split into a slow smile as his mind worked around the idea. His closest friends joined him at the table and he conversed easily and brightly with them, even as the plan swirled into existence in his head.

That night Damian slipped out of his room quietly. He cast charms to conceal his presence as well as muffled any sounds he might make in the next few minutes. Still, he had learned, caution was always advisable. He didn't want his friends to know what he was doing; just knowing the results should suffice for them. Smiling he made his way to the owlery and looked for his own dark feathered owl. His owl always managed to expect his visits and he had to say it pleased him immensely. This night it flew down from its lofty perch in the darkness and glided down onto his shoulder. He slipped a treat to it and held up his arm. It cocked its head and then flew onto the outstretched. Yes, Malfoy owls had to be smart like this. He nodded to himself and fastened the letter to a leg. Damian stroked the owl and fed it some more before he whispered a name with a smile and told it softly, "Go on now. Make sure he reads it." Damian watched the owl disappear out into the inky sky and recast his charms with a smile. He was sure he would sleep well tonight!

HARRY POTTER. The name was practically glaring at him as Harry stared at the triangular nameplate that declared him the Head Auror. He scowled at it and strode to his new high backed chair to test its level of comfort. He raised his eyebrows as it creaked noisily but he supposed it was comfortable enough. Just in case he flicked his wand locking his door to prevent his annoying secretary or anyone else for that matter from coming to… well annoy him.

He sighed and leaned back, relaxing after hours of serving the whims of others. The reporters swarmed him from home to work for a "word". His colleagues looked at him in awe and some in disgust. He supposed some thought he got the position unfairly. Of course to add to his headaches the ministry hierarchy kept calling on him to "congratulate" him although he doubted most of them were happy with the situation. Merlin knows how he ended up here! In his mind the distant voice of Hermione almost whispered that it was a political move. As if he cared about that! He wanted to be running around in the field and hunting criminals like always. Being Senior Auror was nice; taking care of his juniors helping others Senior Aurors and of course catching criminals. He sighed for the thousandth time for the day and clutched at his hair to try and relieve the headache. He was going in circles again.

Deciding he had thought enough for the day, he willed his body to relax and rested his head on the chair and leaned as far as the bloody chair would allow. He thought of Hogwarts and all the fun times there and tried to take his mind off of his useless present. He was remembering Hedwig when he heard a tapping. He chuckled thinking his reminiscing managed to even produce sound. However, the sound got louder and more insistent thus forcing him to slowly peek from under his lashes. Sure enough, there was a dark brown owl tilting its head at an odd angle at him. Its eyes seemed to be admonishing him for not being alert enough. It knocked at the window again, this time with an irritated hoot. Harry got up grudgingly and dragged his hand over his face and sniffed.

He opened the window and the bird flew in without hesitation and perched on his new nameplate. Scowling yet again he reached for the parchment and absently rummaged in his pocket for some treat. All he could find was a few jellybeans. He raised his eyebrows and in a moment of silliness offered it to the bird waiting for it reward. He grinned as the bird looked suspiciously from his hand to his face. It poked one bean and decided it was edible and picked one neatly off his hand and ate it. It amused Harry; he never thought owls would eat sweets, he always assumed they'd like meat and such. He chuckled and dropped the remaining beans near the bird and settled in his chair to read the letter. He only hoped it wasn't Skeeter or someone equally stupid. He needn't have worried.

Dear Mr. Potter,

I truly hope I am not exceedingly forward in my letter to you. However, I could think of no other concerning this.

Harry rolled his eyes. Another idiot who wanted help from the Great Harry Potter.

Allow me to introduce myself.

Oh please do, Harry thought dryly.

My name is Damian Malfoy.

Huh? Malfoy? Harry sat up straight suddenly and nearly startled the bird which ruffled its feathers in protest. He eyed it and returned to his thoughts. Why was a Malfoy writing to him? Draco Malfoy's face swam in front of him and he reread the name. Damian. Did he know a Damian Malfoy? He read on curios.

I am aware you are acquainted with my elder brother, Draco. We have met once before.

Oh. He remembered meeting the little kid years ago.

I assume you know about my family and other details, so I shall not bore you.

So like a Malfoy, Harry thought with a chuckle, though he had never received a letter from one of them before.

I am currently in my final year at Hogwarts and therein stems my predicament. You see, I was considering my future and I find myself extremely interested in being part of a greater cause. I am considering, as you may have guessed, the honorable job of an Auror. However, as you well know, none of my kin are affiliated with the job and I find myself confused over the matter.

I humbly hope that you may be able to give some insights to help me make an informed decision. Looking forward to your gracious reply.

Sincerely,

Damian Malfoy.

Harry considered the letter with a skeptical eye. Since when did Malfoys want to be on the good side? Then he hit himself on the head for the thought. He had no right to judge, especially when he did not know the kid. Draco, well he supposed to distinguish the two brothers he had to use their given names, would never entertain such ideas. If he came up to ask, Harry would have to think three times but seeing as the younger brother was so far clean, he saw no reason not to give a few pointers. He pondered the situation and played with the idea in his head.

A sharp rap at the door startled him out of his musings. He rolled the parchment and put it neatly aside and murmured the spell to unlock the door.

"Come in" Harry thought he sounded dignified and important enough. He glanced up as a short woman with unruly brown curls peeked in with nearly adoring eyes. His secretary was an efficient woman but he wished that glow of hero worship would leave her soon. She had been in the past two days, since her assignment, most intrusive into his personal space. Nonetheless, he managed a small professional smile and raised his eyebrow in question.

"Sir, Auror Weasely is waiting to see you"

"Send him in " She nodded and retracted her head. A few moments later Ron strode in purposefully. Though, as soon as the door closed behind him, he broke into the most ridiculous grin yet.

"Hey mate!"

"Hey Ron! What brings you here?"

"Can't I visit?" he sported a hurt look.

"During working hours? No. slacker." Harry could barely hold on his stoic appearance till the end of that line. Then the two best friends snickered.

"How is the new job?"

"Ok" Harry shrugged.

"Really, Harry" Ron raised his eyebrows, "You'd think a prestigious job like this would make one happy…"

"That's because you don't know how boring it is. And irritating, I might add."

"You'll be fine Head Auror. Though it is strange to think of you there."

"No kidding. I can think of several people turning in their graves."

"First would be Snape!" Ron clapped his hands at the thought. "By the way what's with the owl? Got a new one? And did you feed it… jellybeans?"

"It just brought a letter. And yes" Harry looked defiantly, challenging the redhead to comment on his choice of treat.

"From who?" Ron wisely avoided the owl's nibbles.

"You would never guess…" Harry took the rolled parchment and handed it to Ron who read it at least twice before looking up in bewilderment.

"Malfoy had a brother?" he nearly squeaked in disbelief.

"Aparently. Seems as evil as Lucius and Narcissa Malfoy are, they do love their children and have done several things to protect them."

"Well, I am glad they are at least a little human. But, what are you gonna do mate?"

"I was thinking about that when you barged in…"

"Hmph. If you want me gone just say so." Ron huffed.

"You know what I mean, Ron" Harry chuckled.

Ron nodded in acknowledgement, "So what did you think?"

"That I should put my bias aside and at least respond to the brat?"

"What if it's a trap?" He looked worried.

"Come on, Ron! It's a eighteen year old kid. What could he possibly conspire against me?"

"I do recall a certain eighteen year old who… I don't know… Saved The World!" He stressed on the last three words and made Harry wince.

"Point taken." Harry said dryly. "I feel I should at least give him a chance. We do need more Aurors and if some young bloke is willing to consider the job…" he shrugged.

"But it's a Malfoy! You can't be serious! You know how vile Slytherins are, Harry!"

"We don't know if he is a Slytherin, Ron." Harry calmly replied, amused, "Besides, you should know better, considering people like Snape."

"Ugh. Why am I bothering? You already made up your mind!" Harry grinned at him. "Well, you haven't written back as yet? What're you gonna reply?"

"I was thinking of giving him a general outline of the job, including the dangers. It's not like he has decided on the job but if it appeals to him, why not? He will have to pass through several tests and training before he becomes an Auror. I think its fine."

"You make a good argument" Ron mumbled grudgingly.

"What worries me is if Malfoy knows."

"Draco Malfoy? He probably does and is currently hatching a plan as we speak." Ron said dryly.

"Ron…" Harry shook his head. "Even Malfoy would have grown up by now! No, I think Damian might not have told him. He seems to be independent."

"Just saying it's risky." Ron grumbled.

"And when has my life ever been risk free?" Ron sighed and slouched.

Harry, now his mind made up, rummaged in the draw for parchment. Although, his appointment had been decided only a few days back, he was close with his predecessor and knew where most of the things were. He supposed he had to rearrange to his comfort at some point but for now he was satisfied with being functional. He stretched out the parchment on the table and reached for the quill and ink.

Dear Damian,

I am glad that you are taking an interest in the future and am quite honored to help you.

The job of an Auror, like any other in the ministry is a responsible one. Your decision, if you should make it, to join the ranks requires much determination and commitment. I am sure you have already researched the procedures to join the Aurors, so I will skip it. As an Auror, we are required to put our lives on the line, more often than not. The job entails containing the order and peace in the wizarding and oft times the muggle societies. It requires one to solve crimes and capture criminals as well as investigate any disturbances, however minor. I will not deny the fact that danger always lurks in the shadows in this profession. It requires patience and endurance and above all strong will. It can be a rewarding job for those who like helping people or like adventures. The tests won't be easy and your own ability in various fields will get you the opportunity to become an Auror.

To be truthful, more dedicated Aurors are needed and I would welcome youngsters who are interested. However, please consider all possible avenues and be sure of your choice before you make it. I look forward to hear your thoughts on the matter.

A thing of concern though is your brother. I cannot fathom Malfoy agreeing to this plan which leads me to believe he doesn't know yet. I would suggest a talk with your family about the matter. They provide you with more insights than I could.

Harry Potter

"There! All done" Harry beamed at Ron who patiently sat waiting as Harry scribbled on the parchment. He handed Ron the said parchment and leaned back again. Ron skimmed the letter and nodded.

"It will do. Unless he writes back with more questions."

"Well, I suppose he will. In past few years I have learned. All things I wrote are more or less common knowledge. Simply bringing them to light might help. If he is serious then he should have queries."

"Hermoine will be proud Harry."

"Speaking of whom…. Is she joining us for lunch?"

"That's the idea. She said to meet in the next… ten minutes" Ron glanced at the wall clock and grinned.

"Then we better get going." Harry held out a hand and the strange owl hopped onto it and held out a leg. Harry gave it the letter and petted it and told it to take it to Damian. It let out a sound signaling its approval and launched at the window and flashed off into the distance in no time.

Harry and Ron exited the Head Auror's office nodding to the secretary. Harry paused in front of Gina Wilbur and told her where he was going and directed her to finish up her lunch as well. He supposed he needed to at least converse with his secretary at that level.

Despite the late night, Damian woke up early and paced his room until breakfast. It was like he was walking on burning coal as he impatiently waited for the letter from Potter. He scowled at everyone and the first years steered clear of his way all day. He barely paid attention to his classes, causing McGonagall to swat him on his head in Transfiguration. Magical creatures which generally fascinated him, were nearly ignored that morning. It wasn't until after lunch, during his free period, that his dear owl returned with the scroll.

He read the parchment with speed and was inspired to pen a reply.

Dear Mr. Potter,

I am glad to receive your positive reply. I am increasingly interested in the Aurors, I must say. Is it possible perhaps, to visit you at the ministry? In two weeks we shall have Easter break. If it is agreeable to you, please allow me a small visit.

You are right in advising that I speak to Draco. And I shall do so, soon. Do not worry, I will seek permission for the visit as well.

Sincerely,

Damian Malfoy

He proceeded to write to his brother. Draco will not like this and he was surprised that Potter had the insight. It would be best to talk rather than owl, he figured. It would take too long to convince otherwise. And so Damian wrote to Draco.

Dear Draco,

I write to you concerning my future. I would like to discuss face to face in the next few days, if possible. Let me know when.

Yours,

Damian