I forgot to mention before chapter 1, but I figured you all knew anyway... I do not own Harry Potter or any rights to it. That's all JKR's.

Now that's out of the way... on with the story!

Chapter 2

Daily Prophet, May 8, 1998

By: Rita Skeeter

Newly appointed Minister for Magic, Kingsley Shacklebolt calls for volunteers to head up restoration efforts in Diagon Alley and at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry.

After the extensive damage sustained during the now infamous Tom Riddle's campaigns, the once vibrant alley and the premier educational institute are in desperate need of wands and funds to see them restored.

With the dust only just settling after the battle, many families grieving heavy losses, and the wealthiest families of our community on the wrong side of the battle, the question remains as to who will emerge as beacon of healing and change in these times of transition.

I, Rita Skeeter, pledge to keep you abreast of this and other scintillating developments as they happen.

Daily Prophet, May 15, 1998

By: Rita Skeeter

Draco Malfoy, Son of famed and now deceased Death Eater, Lucius Malfoy and Narcissa Malfoy nee Black, was tried yesterday before the Wizengammot.

The young heir and devilishly handsome young wizard sat boldly in the courtroom and proclaimed himself culpable for his actions during the war. Gasps were heard round the courtroom as he told of his willingness to follow He Who Must Not be Named's schemes in order to save his mother from certain demise. It was not without great emotion that this reporter watched on as he spoke of his steadfast devotion to his family's safety.

In a surprising show of unity, Harry Potter, the Boy Who Lived and the Hero of the Wizarding World, spoke passionately about his belief that the young Malfoy be given a second chance to right his wrongs.

Notably absent from the proceedings was one Hermione Granger, who was reported to be traveling (a bold move in these trying times, if you ask this reporter). In her stead, Mr. Potter read a letter she supposedly penned in Mr. Malfoy's defense.

When all testimony had been heard it was the ultimate decision of the Wizengamot to sentence Mr. Malfoy to a period of probation. Conditions of which include mandatory counseling and a return to Hogwarts for completion of N.E.W.T.S.

I, for one, am anxious to see how this delicious young man grows into the formidable wizard he's destined to be.

Daily Prophet, May 17, 1998

By: Rita Skeeter

In a press conference yesterday, just one day after his stunning trial, young Draco Malfoy pledged to commit not only his time, but his galleons to the restoration efforts in Diagon alley and at Hogwarts.

Mr. Malfoy spoke eloquently, the light glinting off his platinum hair and determination sparkling in his hypnotic eyes. He called to action not only his peers, but the whole of the wizarding world, "It is now my duty as head of the Malfoy family to set an example. This family has stood as a pillar in this community for centuries. It is with great sorrow that I admit my part in weakening these foundations, but it is with great resolve that I proclaim my intention to rebuild our world stronger, and more unified than ever before. We are all, Pureblood, Half-blood, Muggleborn - all of us - gifted with magic. As such it is more important than ever that we come together to not only repair the physical damage, but the emotional wounds as well. It is only through hard work and transparency that our world can begin to mend and true peace can take root."

Mr. Malfoy was seen later that same day leading a group of volunteers in Diagon Alley. It seems to this reporter that Mr. Malfoy is sincere in his efforts and is easily positioning himself as one of the most sought after wizards in Britain.

Daily Prophet, June 6, 1998

By: Rita Skeeter

Draco Malfoy celebrated his eighteenth birthday in special fashion yesterday. He, and his friends headed up an effort at Hogwarts to restore their beloved Quidditch pitch.

This reporter was privileged to bear witness to the combined efforts of not only Mr. Malfoy, but his former rivals and now allies, Mr. Harry Potter and Mr. Ronald Weasley. While it was clear there is still a cool acceptance of one another, the goals and stands were repaired.

Mr. Malfoy presented the school with a collection of new brooms, Quidditch balls and protective gear, enough for each house team. When asked his opinion of Mr. Malfoy's philanthropic endeavors, Mr. Weasley was less than eloquent, "He's all right… I guess." But Mr. Potter was much more well-spoken and stated, "It's unfortunate that as children we were put into direct opposition to each other through the manipulation of adults in our lives, but I did not survive the killing curse twice to hold onto old grudges."

Even if Mr. Potter is letting go of old rivalries, he is still open to some healthy competition. Before the group left for the day they tested the new equipment in a rousing and impromptu game of Quidditch.

Daily Prophet, July 24, 1998

By: Rita Skeeter

The elusive Hermione Granger was seen yesterday on the grounds of Hogwarts. Although this reporter was rebuffed at each attempt to get a statement, Ms. Granger was seen working closely with hunky hopeful herbologist, Neville Longbottom, to repair greenhouses and repot plants.

She was later seen briefly conversing with one Draco Malfoy as he organized student and community volunteers assisting in the Great Hall. It did not go without notice that Ms. Granger's face was alight with fascination at Mr. Malfoy's impressive display of magical prowess as he aided Professor Filius Flitwick in recharming the famous ceiling of the Hall.

I was denied entrance to the library, where Ms. Granger focused to remainder of her efforts.

Harry Potter and Ronald Weasley, who both recently entered the Auror Academy, were absent from yesterday's proceedings. Neither were available to comment by owl, regarding Ms. Granger's mysterious disappearance after the final battle as well as rumours of her short-lived relationship with the youngest Weasley son.

Did Ms. Granger abandon the wizarding world and her friends in this great time of need? Did she break the heart of the delightful Ronald Weasley? Who will she get her clutches into next? This reporter is committed to finding out the truth.

Daily Prophet, September 2, 1998

By: Rita Skeeter

The Hogwarts Express departed for a new year at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry yesterday. Most notable among the famous train's occupants were that of Mr. Draco Malfoy, returning to school as a condition of his probation, and Ms. Hermione Granger.

Mr. Malfoy was seen on the platform assisting younger students with their trunks and greeting former classmates, from all houses as they entered. His mother, Narcissa Malfoy nee Black, was present to see him off.

Ms. Granger was polite if distant with others as she remained buffeted by the Weasley family and one Mr. Harry Potter. No romantic overtures occured between Ms. Granger and Mr. Weasley, but one Ms. Ginevra Weasley was positively outrageous in her display of affection for Mr. Potter before being reluctantly separated to board the train.

Although access is restricted to students while at Hogwarts this reporter will be diligent in uncovering the activities of the most watched witches and wizards in Britain.

...

Pansy gently folded her copy of the Prophet and rested it in her lap beneath the table; her face a placid mask as she clenched her hand around the ridiculous periodical. It had been one article after another like this since the battle.

She took a quiet, but deep breath to center and resumed eating.

"... so I said to her, 'That's not my wand, but if you keep your hand there, you'll certainly see some magic!'" Pansy eyed Theo Not distastefully as he roared with laughter at his quip, her friends encouraging him. She found his new behavior disgusting. His father would be mortified to know what his son was getting up to after the war, but Thoros Nott was dead, and his son went back to telling his bawdy story; Draco, Blaise and Daphne laughing along.

So many of the great heads of house had perished or been subjected to long sentences in Azkaban. Pansy's own parents were now permanent residents of the odious prison. They were staunch, loyal supporters of the Dark Lord and refused to be cowed in their beliefs. Pansy had not been tried, having never actively participated in any Death Eater campaigns. She was, however, recommended for counseling.

A dreamy voice drew her from her thoughts, "Theodore, I couldn't help but overhear." Everyone on that end of the table turned toward that batty Lovegood girl. "I'm interested in studying all kinds of magic, perhaps we could meet later and discuss it?"

Theo choked out a harsh breath, but recovered as he wiped his mouth and rose from the table. That Looney witch just followed his movements with those blank orbs as he approached her and drew her to his side with an arm around her shoulders, "Why wait? I've got time now." He urged her form the Great Hall and she left willingly, Theo throwing an exaggerated wink over his shoulder.

Pansy rolled her eyes and pushed her plate away, she was nauseated at their behavior. All summer long she watched as they drifted further and further from their proud heritage as Purebloods. It was all Pansy had left. Her family's home was repossessed by the Ministry in short order of her parent's incarceration, and she was reduced to living in a dank Knockturn Alley flat. Did any of her former friends care? Not when they were busy extolling the virtues of equality and brotherhood, or whatever rot it was that was spilling from Draco's mouth.

"You know who's looking especially fit?" Blaise leered. Pansy scoffed silently, as she watched Draco shrug, his eyes alight with mischief, "Granger." Her nausea increased ten fold as Draco glanced over at the Gryffindor table. Granger was, of course, nose deep in a book, her ridiculous hair, as usual, in complete disarray.

Pansy went back to tuning Draco, Blaise, and Daphne out as they discussed the finer points of the opposite sex. She was tired of talking. Her summer was spent talking, talking… talking. The counselor she was assigned was a chatty bugger, but thank Merlin, he was an easy sell. The reformation drivel that featured in the Prophet daily was a veritable buffett of talking points that she could dish up to manipulate her way through each session, along with a healthy side pairing of stray tears topped off with a generous serving of cleavage. He signed off on her mental wellness and fitness for integration in this brave new world. Pansy was disgusted with herself, but the end justifies the means.

"All I'm saying is that I wouldn't be opposed to a little more house unity." Daphne nudged her in the ribs with a playful giggle, "What do you think, Pans, maybe one of the fine cerebral lads from Ravenclaw, or do you fancy something a bit more bold…" She tapped her lips with her forefinger, her perfectly groomed eyebrows arched in consideration, "A brash Gryffindor perhaps? Or a sweet doting Puff?" Daphne dissolved into giggles.

Pansy forced a tight smile onto her lips. "Well, as fun as that sounds, I must get to class."

As Pansy walked out she missed the concerned furrow of Draco's brow.

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