Chapter Six- Full Moon Sanctuary

Draco kept up his studies even as the side effects of the full moon's approach became evident. He reasoned that people would attribute his appearance to too much studying and he wasn't about to tell them otherwise.

Snape made sure to give Draco his potion in the week leading up to the full moon. He would keep Draco back in DADA class or summon him to his office. Draco didn't find this month's doses any more pleasant than the previous month, but knew it would be worth not being wild in his sanctuary.

Soon the day of the full moon arrived. Draco went to class like always and did his homework during his free periods. He found it amazing how quickly he managed to get it done and attributed it to his summer studies. I think I now know how Granger does so well in class. Of course with her brain power and ability to memorize our books, I'm not really surprised.

Draco was, however, surprised at his thoughts. The word "mudblood" hadn't crossed his mind when he thought about Granger. He was turning over a new leaf without even resolving to do so. Now that he thought about it, he reasoned that re-orienting his thinking was the thing to do, given the circumstances.

I'll never call Granger or other muggle-borns"mudblood" ever again. I'm a werewolf now and my blood's not better than hers. That being said, I can no longer support Voldemort or his plans to seize power.

Draco quickly swallowed his dinner, grabbed his bag from under the table and headed for the seventh floor, pausing to check for people along the way.

He soon found himself at the end of the corridor where the Room of Requirement sat as a blank wall, waiting to be called on. Draco had spent a fortnight on how to word his request before he figured it out a few days ago. He walked back and forth in front of the wall three times thinking, I need a place to sleep tonight where only Professor Snape and I can get in. He turned around after his third turn to see a plain door in the wall. He pulled it open, went in, closed the door behind him, turned around, and gasped.

He was standing in a room as large as his room at home. A large four poster canopy bed with green velvet curtains stood to his left while a desk and chair were on his right along with a bookcase full of books that stood on the desk's other side. A large fireplace complete with mantle stood on the far end, a fire already crackling away.

A knock on the door pulled Draco's attention from the room and he turned to it. "Who's there?" he called.

"It is me, Draco," came Snape's voice. Draco opened the door a crack, peered out, and then opened it fully to allow Snape inside before closing the door.

"Your wording was wonderful. I watched some students walk by the door without noticing it."

"Thank you, sir."

"And since you have classes tomorrow, I'll come by and wake you."

"Thanks again, Professor."

"It's not a problem. Now, I must go. There's a detention I must supervise. Good night."

Snape departed and Draco turned his attention to the bookcase. There was still some time before moonrise. Most of the books covered charms or spells, a couple covered Potions, and two more covered DADA, but one book drew his attention: A book on lycanthrope!

I haven't seen that book before either at home, the library, or even Flourish and Blott's. Draco removed it, sat as the desk, and flicked through the book. It was full of werewolf facts, etiquette, and everything else he needed to know about being a werewolf.

I wonder if I can take this book out of this room. I'll put it in my bag and see what happens. Draco did so and undressed to prepare for his change.

The next morning went off without a hitch. Snape showed up before breakfast and opened the door to find Draco awake and fully dressed. As they headed down to the Great Hall, Draco said, "Did anyone ask about me, Professor?"

"No. I imagine they will ask you this morning."

Snape turned out to be correct. Once Draco was seated and put food on his plate, Blaise said, "Hey, Draco. Where were you last night?"

"Hospital Wing," Draco replied. "I wasn't feeling well, but Madam Pompfrey gave me a potion and I felt better instantly. She insisted on keeping me overnight, though.'

No one challenged his answer and Draco was grateful. He knew keeping his secret was going to be hard and people would ask questions, but he was determined that no one would learn the truth.