Malfoy Manor stood dark and imposing on the hill, looking as though it had been untouched by life for generations. Ivy crept along columns outlining the entryway, strangling the old stone. A peacock pecked at the ground in search of seeds.
The carriages bounded along the winding path as they made their way to the front gate. The second carriage, however, carrying only the one passenger, would continue to the back of the estate, near the servants entrance. It would be weeks before the passengers would interact again and life, until that point, continued on as usual.
Lucius Malfoy continued to exert his presence and new position in the Ministry by striding around London and Diagon Alley in his new fur clock and posse of Death Eaters. Narcissa Malfoy continued to hold her weekend brunches for the wives and daughters of influential followers. Draco retreated into his solitary ways, only being lured out by a quick game of quidditch.
The Manor was colossal, with numerous wings, libraries, and parlors. No one could here the screams and nightmares of a young girl. Even vials of dreamless sleep couldn't appease her.
"Wake up, wake up."
Ginny moaned and turned over, nuzzling her head deeper into her pillow.
"Mi- Miss Weasley, you must wake up. Hazel was supposed to have you ready and at lessons by now. Miss Weasley, Miss Weasley. Please, or Hazel will be in trouble."
Ginny opened one eye and peered through her dark hair at the tiny, frail elf who was holding a cup of sweet tea.
Ginny reached out her arm, her eyes avoiding the bruises left on her wrist from the magical bonds. She sat up, her back aching slightly less than normal, which she assumed was due to sleeping on a bed, and took a sip of tea. Ginny coughed as she felt the liquid burn her throat. How long at it been since she had presented with anything other than murky water and bread?
"You must hurry, Miss Weasley. You must hurry." Hazel pulled Ginny out of the tiny cot she had been sleeping on and into a small bathroom. After a quick bath and a few scrubbing charms, Ginny was deemed fit to walk through the servant halls and into an old, unused study. Hazel left with a pop, leaving Ginny alone in the musty room.
From a small window on the wall, Ginny observed the wind whip through the ancient trees and cause leaves to fall to the ground. It must be fall, Ginny thought. She had lost track of the seasons in her cell.
Hazel appeared in the room with a "pop" and left just as suddenly, leaving only a letter. Ginny walked to the desk, flexing her skinny legs as they protested from misuse. Her fingers found the ornate stationary.
Try to behave, it will make the transition easier.
-N