Auriga and Lucius had quickly run towards the backyard of Malfoy Manor and upon reaching it, hid behind a shrub.

"I'm scared..."

"Listen, Auriga!" Lucius held up a finger to her. "You're going to learn that you don't have time to be scared."

She nodded at his words and poked her head out from behind the shrub. "I don't see them anywhere, Lus. They must be inside."

Lucius grabbed her wrist. "Do as I say. Stay quiet."

They walked half the distance to the back door when a shrill voice spoke.

"Lucius Malfoy, I am very disappointed in you."

Both children froze in horror; Auriga dropped the picnic basket. Standing before them was Mrs. Malfoy.

She had to be the complete opposite of her son. Her hair hung in tight black curls and was pushed behind her ears. Her sapphire eyes were the only prominent feature about her face, contrasting against her pallid, ghostly complexion. Both hands were at her hips, her feet slightly apart. She looked furious.

She turned her head slightly towards Auriga. "I'm sure your parents will say the same. Come."

She turned on her heels and started towards the front of the house. Lucius and Auriga frowned at each other.

"Come!" she repeated tersely, without looking back.

Auriga picked up the picnic basket and joined Lucius who was already following his mother. Abril took them to the front yard where Lucius's father was talking with the Minister for Magic, Nobby Leach.

"Your son."

Lucius slowly walked forward, a knot forming somewhere in his throat.

Auriga watched the scene from the sidelines, fearing not for herself but for her best friend. The Minister nodded curtly at Mr. Malfoy, then disapparated. Lucius stood there cowering, waiting for his punishment. But it never came.

"You have a letter," the deep voice of Abraxas stated.

"Yes, father."

"Bring it to me."

Lucius walked over to Auriga and pointed at the basket she held in her hands. His face was paler than usual, as if all the life were drained out of him. She gave him a reassuring smile and placed the envelope in his hands.

Lucius handed his father the envelope. After a few moments, he spoke.

"Very well then. I expect this needs celebration. Auriga," Mr. Malfoy turned to face her. "Your parents expect you home."

"Yes, sir." She half-walked/half-ran towards Strangway Manor, leaving the Malfoys to themselves. Once the Malfoys were back in their home, Abraxas turned from stern to livid.

"Lucius," he said, a sneer forming upon his lips, "You lied to your mother and I. I expect you know that lying is a very bad thing to do and shall be dealt with punishment most severe."

"Father?"

"CRUCIO!"

He watched his son fall to his knees, screaming in unfathomable agony. Only when he saw a tear escape Lucius's eye did he lift the Unforgivable Curse.