A/N: Sorry for the tad of lateness. Not much action in this chapter, but perhaps you all will like this one :D I can't wait to get a little further with this story, I feel excitement! Anyway, thank you as always to all the loyalists (my revised version of course, we don't need a Revolutionary flashback). Enjoy!

Chapter Twenty-Six

I had needed something to keep my mind from relishing in the fact I had actually let Amycus Carrow live on last night without so much as a scratch. I was still conflicted on whether to feel proud or disappointed in myself. Therefore, I had convinced most of the elves to allow me to help around with anything that required my attention. Winston and Dot had decided to teach me how to cook some of the meals. I was relieved that I was not going to have to withdraw my offer if they had suggested cleaning. Cooking was not so much servants work as cleaning was, and perhaps being able to cook for myself could prove useful in the future. I wondered if Hermione would like a home cooked meal. Once I'm sure she got over the initial shock that I could cook more than just the few items we ate when we were on the run. I missed her terribly, but for some reason I feel she will return to me soon. Spring was finally upon us, only a few more months of school and then maybe a summer to reunite. . .it sounded easier said than done of course.

. . . No matter, this morning had been taught how to prepare kipper, eggs, sausage and bacon. None of which was half bad if I do say so myself.

"Pardon Mister Draco," I instantly recognized Dot's scratchy voice behind me, "But have you washed up?"

I gave Dot a half-hearted smile, "Of course, wouldn't want to touch some of my old peers foods without being clean."

It was time to prepare for lunch, and Dot and I exchanged a knowing look as to what I had really wanted to say. I had mulled over the possibility of spitting in some of the Slytherins plates in hopes of someone veil eating it. It was very ironic that I had once been one of these kids, admired by them too no doubt. Now, I was their enemy, an outsider and no longer welcomed amongst them. Though sometimes it seemed I belonged no where, I knew I could make my own way regardless, but at the same time I wasn't really alone.

So there I stood, beside Lea and Dot, learning how to make a delicious sheppard's pie. It had always been one of my favorite dishes at Hogwarts, and I couldn't help but feel a bit excited to finally learn how to make it myself. I had to stifle a laugh as Dot had to continually correct Lea's work but refused to be upset with the little elf because of her sweetness. I suppose I was free to make mistakes without repercussion, being a wizard and all. I'm not entirely sure how I would react to being yelled at by a House Elf, that was after I recovered from the fact it was a House Elf who had yelled at me. That was something, it seemed, that I wasn't going to have to worry about. Besides, though I partially didn't want to admit it, I was enjoying the entire experience. However, I was in the midst of finishing my Sheppard's Pie when I glanced up and saw Luna by the portrait hole. I immediately stopped what I was doing and proceeded to see what news she had for me. As I approached her, she was smiling and trying to speak to every little elf around her, each who stared at her curiously.

"What did they say?" I asked as soon as I was close enough.

"Hello Draco," She said cheerily, "Having fun cooking."

I let out a sigh of frustration, but I held my tongue, "Yes I am. How are you?"

"Very well, thank-you." She gave me a curt nod, "And you?"

"Bit anxious actually." I said sharply.

"Understandable, but I did speak to the DA last night on your behalf." Her tone seemed as airy as usual, but perhaps this was a good sign.

I took her by the arm and led her to my cot, "Please, tell me everything."

"Of course," She took a seat beside me, but continued to watch the elves, "We had to first of course heal Ernie the best we could, poor Ernie. He was quite hurt you know? Most of us have already felt the Cruciatus Curse's nasty sting though, but it was Ernie's first time. Took him nearly an hour to recover from the experience-"

As she continued to ramble on, I felt the prickle of impatience creeping through me. I was glad to hear Ernie made a recovery, but honestly I cared more about the details of what Dumbledore's Army thought of my proposition. But I couldn't bring myself to cut Luna off and order she get to the point I was waiting for.

"Once he was able to stand up again, the meeting properly began. Well, in a way. You see you were practically the only topic discussed last night, once Ernie and I told the DA what exactly happened. Than Dean and I explained the entire Manor incident, and Ginny even admitted to receiving a letter from her mother about you, but she didn't believe it and thus said nothing." Luna continued to explain, I was finally completely interested.

But when Luna mentioned about Mrs. Weasley's letter and how the Weaslette had said nothing to anyone, I felt frustration seep into anger. I tried to reason that had I been in the Weasley girls situation I may have done the same; however, it didn't suppress my anger. Yet, I allowed Luna to continue uninterrupted.

"Needless to say, the entire meeting broke out into a frenzy of outbursts. Neville had to try and regain order, which took quite a while. When everyone finally relaxed, Seamus stood and gave a small speech against you. There were a few murmurs of agreement to follow that. . ." Her voice trailed off a bit, and I sighed in compliance," However, I stood up after Seamus to speak for you." Her voice rose with a chipper tone that almost caused me to jump.

"Thanks, but what did you say?" I pressed on the matter.

She was quite for a moment, her almost infectious smile plastered on her face; "That it was quite obvious that the most recent evidence is in favor of your change of sides. That every bit of Seamus's facts of your once cruel, veil and evil ways have not been present in almost a year. And that we have eye-witnesses, including a member of the Order of the Phoenix, who have each explained an account of your newly developed character helping the fight against You-Know-Who. But in the middle of my talking, Neville mentioned that Professor Snape had been the same way once too."

I bowed my head, I knew that fact was going to come up in that meeting. No one really understood Snape, except for perhaps Dumbledore and myself. I knew there was something more to all this, and though I had yet to learn the entire story, I trusted Snape as a good person. I couldn't argue that to anyone though, who would believe all of my stories in his favor? I remained silent, and hoped that there was more to Luna's story.

She took a deep breath, grinning; "Ernie than stood and asked why we should punish everyone who tried to change sides because of one persons mistakes? He said that we should take all the allies we could get, seeing as it was wiser to have more allies than enemies. He announced his agreement with what I had said, and urged we focus on the recent evidence. By this point mostly everyone was confused on the matter, but Ginny finally relented. She said you are to be escorted to the next meeting, where they shall discuss your probation." Luna was now looking at me with a small twinkle in her eye.

I returned a small smile, taking her gesture as a good sigh. I wondered if I was always going to be put on probation for these things for the rest of my life, but I guess I had my past years to thank for that. Still, I knew that Luna was basically informing me that my assistance was being partially accepted by the DA. I was confident I was going to sincerely earn the trust of all those who I had scorned in the past, and that thought alone enticed me. I couldn't wait to help immediately. Luna and I began a question and answer marathon.

"When is the next meeting?" I asked.

"Tomorrow night."

"Where am I being escorted from?"

"The Grand Staircase."

"By?"

"Ernie and Dean."

"When?"

"Eleven in the evening."

"Did they volunteer?"

"Yes actually." She glanced at me happily.

"Did you inform everyone of my detention idea?" I tried to throw her off for a moment of amusement, but she was right with me; "I did, and Ginny said that it will be worked out tomorrow night. Many seemed reluctant to mention that your idea was a brilliant one."

I took comfort in the fact that my idea was considered brilliant to begin with, maybe that was another bit of proof I was here to help.

"Well, I must be off Draco." We both stood as she prepared to depart, "But I am confident I shall see you tomorrow." With that she gave me another hug, which I awkwardly returned.

"You will, good-bye Luna." I assured her.

She made it a few feet before she snapped her fingers and turned around, "I almost forgot to give these to you, sorry." She reached into her robes and pulled out a handful of letters all neatly tied together. "They are enchanted to where only you may open them," She said as she handed them to me, "Good-bye."

I didn't watch her leave; I was far too preoccupied with the letters I was now holding. My pulse had picked up; my heartbeat was in my ear. My hands were tingling as I had a good idea of who these letters where from. I wasn't sure whether to be excited, anxious or more happy than I had been for weeks. I wanted so badly to rip open each letter at once, take them all in at one time. But that would spoil it for me, as odd as it sounded. I couldn't contain myself anymore; I dropped onto my cot and set the letters beside me. With a deep breath I unwrapped the letters and picked up the first one.

I recognized my angel's writing without failure, I wondered for a moment if I was soaring I felt so thrilled.

Draco,

I can't say I'm pleased with what you've done. To leave suddenly and unannounced has created quite the disturbance. Ronald has tried to organize a search party to hunt you down, but of course Harry and I ceased the silly idea. However, I don't know how many times I must tell you that you are not useless. I'm upset with you Draco. I knew you were to leave back there, but not in the manner you did. Not by leaving some stupid little runaway note. No matter, I am certain my anger will fade and your maturity will increase. I do hope that this letter reaches you safely. I don't look forward to worrying about you, but I am sure you feel the same way about my situation. I am confident that all of our efforts will shine through in the end. Please pass my well wishes.

Sincerely,

Hermione.

P.s. Please tell her I said thank-you so much.

I felt a small smirk creep across my face. She was clever to keep my destination hidden, and I assume by 'her' she was referring to Luna. I knew she was going to be mad, and the little jab at my maturity didn't seem to be beneath her either. I profoundly wished that Hermione were seated here next to me, reading the letter beside me. I could almost hear a playful scowl and see her fighting a smile as I apologized. And the more I thought about it, the sadder I became. I hated being away from her for so long, and I truly believed that if I didn't have my current actions to keep my mind busy, I would finally lose that grip on sanity. I sighed to myself as I folded up the first letter and picked up the next.

Dear Draco,

I don't expect you to have arrived at your destination at this point in time, but I am sure you'll read this letter eventually. After discussing with the greedy man (the goblin perhaps?) we have decided that out efforts will need careful planning as well as much traveling. . .Unfortunately, we have reached the conclusion that things may take a while. As upsetting as that news is, we must always remind ourselves of the bigger picture. Especially if we wish to accomplish the brighter future we all seek. I pray time will quickly pass regardless.

Yours truly,

Hermione.

I was clutching the letter tightly, my spirits at a low. The words a while rung repeatedly in my head in the most tormenting manner. I couldn't wrap my head around it all. I almost refused to try and understand. I didn't want to wait any longer, and now I am being told that I must in fact wait longer. I wanted dearly to hit something due to the frustration. I glanced at my already bruised and battered knuckles and recalled the fit I'd thrown in the Headmasters office. So much for an increasing maturity there. But I needed Hermione, her absence was beginning to tear me apart on the inside, the longer I held the letter. I knew she didn't want this either, and I knew she was right. We had duties to fulfill for the greater good and as sick and tired as I was of this fact, I would still abide by it. I took comfort in the fact that Hermione wished the time away as well, surely she missed me as well? I folded the letter and picked up the second to last.

Dear Draco,

I hope you have found the appeasement I have in the fact that spring is near. I am pleased to tell you that a response is expected from you following my next letter. Ask no questions, and merely trust me as always. I miss you terribly Draco.

Forever yours,

Hermione.

It was as if I was on an unsteady tumble of emotions. A trip from near depression to a tinge of hope in mere minutes. Firstly, I was ecstatic to read that she did in fact miss me. And of course I'd be lying to myself if I denied that the departing statement had caused me to smile. I promptly picked up the next letter, but when I unfolded it, a second sealed letter fell from within it.

Dear Draco,

Firstly, happy spring as I am sure you have arrived to your destination by this point. Secondly, the second letter is no mistake and is not meant for you. I know that your situation is a complicated one and therefore will be complex to sort out with others. So I ask that you please deliver the other letter to who it is intended for on my behalf. I am confident that it may make matters a bit easier on you. Finally, regarding my last letter, I am certain you are clear on how to respond to a letter from that place of course.

With love,

Hermione.

p.s. You'll have until the fourth day of spring to respond. Oh, and have I ever told you that your eyes are my favorite color?

I picked up the second letter with the small wax seal. 'Gin' was scribbled above the seal and I knew she was referring to the Weaslette, Ginny. I re-read letter to be sure I was clear on its directions. The part about my eyes, as flattering as it was, confused me a great deal though. After the third time of reading the letter, I shrugged, carefully tucking the Weasely girls letter in my pocket and searched for Snape's journal. I flipped to the back of the little leather book and was grateful to find a blank page. I moved as quickly as I could, folding all of Hermione's letters and placing them alongside Snape's journal under my pillow. I concluded that I would give Weasley her letter at the meeting tomorrow and watch as everyone became astound that I had more proof in my favor.

I moved through the working elves as I searched for Dot. I suddenly remembered that I had left my Sheppard's Pie incomplete, but IO was no longer hungry anyway. The elves were bustling around, cleaning lunch dishes still and preparing dinner. I found Dot overlooking a roast being made.

"Dot!" I called to her, she finished instructing an elf named Rudolph before answering me, "You didn't finish your pie Mister Draco."

I gave an apologetic half-smile, "I know, and I'm sorry. Something vitally important came up."

"Of course Mister Draco, s'okay." She nodded, "What do you need?"

"A quill and some ink. I need to compose a letter." I answered, hoping she could help.

"Hmm," She looked around, "Winston!" Her scratchy voice sounded loudly.

Winston appeared in seconds, expressionless, "Yes?"

"Please find Mister Draco a quill and ink." Dot instructed with an authoritative voice, which Winston simply bowed his head in response too.

"Thank-You both." I could hear the relief in my voice.

/ / / / / / / / /

It had to be nearly one in the morning. It was dark out with a cool breeze gliding through the star-illuminated night. I had made it out of the kitchen and even out onto the Grand Staircase without trouble. Thank Merlin the halls seemed completely empty tonight, or the trip to the West Tower would have been quite the pain. I moved with a fast pace, trying to get the letter sent and be back in the kitchen as soon as possible. As I hurried to the Owlery, I re-read my letter to Hermione in search of imperfection.

Dearest Hermione,

Yes I have reached my destination safely, much to both of our contentment I am sure. I cannot express how absolutely overjoyed I was to receive your letters, though the notion of the extension of our time apart did not please me. However, of course I understand what must be done and thus offer my love and support for each of your actions in this war. Though I ask you grant me the same inclination. I also apologies for my departure the last time we were together. You know I act on impulse too often, please forgive me for this. I will be delivering your letter tomorrow. Thank-you for it by the way, even apart I know I can rely on you. I miss you far more than you know. A day doesn't pass without me thinking about you. I dream of the day of our reunion, and cannot wait until I may wrap my arms around you and know you are with me once more. I do hope we may continue to communicate until we are reunited. When this is all over, and our efforts shine through, I know we will be able to be together. That is why I continue to fight on in the manner I do.

Eternally yours,

Draco

p.s. Hermione, never forget that as many stars as there are in the night sky is how much I love you.

I took a deep breath as I climbed my way to the top of the Owlery, surprised at myself for making it here so easily. Of course I was jinxing myself no doubt, but for now I would take what I could get. Once inside the Owlery, I stood there dumbstruck with no idea what should be done from here. I wasn't sure if I were to use a school owl, burrow a students owl, or if something else magical was going to simply pop up and take my letter.

A loud hoot, which almost caused me to jump, caught my attention. There on the windowsill was a small light silvery grey owl. Its feathers almost shined from the scenery outside, but its large and wide eyes were a radiating hazel. It than dawned on me what the last part of Hermione's letter had meant. Seeing as the color of my irises were practically the same color as the small owl. I found comfort in the fact that could always count on Hermione to be clever. Without hesitation I took out a small piece of chocolate I had gotten from the kitchen and fed it to the owl, delighted that it took the chocolate without a fuss. I tied the letter to its twig-like leg and stroked its feathers a few times. It was a beautiful creature; it had me wondering what its name was. Before I could ponder the issue any longer, it suddenly flew out of the window and into the early morning. I stared after the owl until it vanished into the darkness. I couldn't wait until the little owl returned with an answer from Hermione, and wished I could wait in the Owlery until it returned.

I did in fact sit in the Owlery for possibly hours, simply staring out into the sky, lost in thought. Finally, the beckons of slumber began to call to me as my eyes fell heavy. I slowly and sleepily made my way out of the western tower. Attempting to stay alert to any students who may be wondering the hallways was becoming a difficult task. I made it all the way to the bottom floor, just at the top of the Grand Staircase, but my luck ran out just there.

"M-Malfoy?!" As if I had been splashed with water, my nerves shot through me at the sound of another's voice.

I whipped around to see Crabbe standing there with an expression crossed between baffled and idiotic. I was panicking, zipping through my options as this ghost from my past stared me directly in the face. Before I could process any functioning thought, my impulse quickly overcame me. I didn't remember taking my wand out, but I do remember the wide-eyed look on Crabbe's meaty face as he flew backwards, stunned. I refused to glance back as I hurried to the kitchen. I prayed there was no one else close around to catch so much as a glimpse of me. My mind was instantly cluttered with worries. Would Crabbe remember what he saw when they revived him? But would anyone really believe him? It was Vincent Crabbe, one of the most incompetent of people. Or perhaps things have changed? What would become of me if word got around I was sneaking around Hogwarts? I had only been here a few days as it is!

When I reached the kitchen, I received questioning stares from the elves still up and working. I muttered the only thing I could, "Oops."

…………..

A/N: Not too long, and not too short I think. Summer break is just about up :/, but no more hiatuses! I aim to please! Let me know I have done so lol.