Maria left Hermione in the common room with the boys and went to the kitchen to ask for some food. Harry had told her how to get in and the house elves were more than accommodating she ate well and then left. Malfoy, Crabbe and Goyle stood in the entrance hall. Maria's eyes pierced into the back of Malfoys head causing him to turn to face her. "Bristol," he regarded her as if she were scum.
"Malfoy, erm lose the dead beats," she said with a similar tone looking between the three of them.
"Ha, no thanks. Well, are you going to tell me what you want or are you going to just stand glaring?"
"He," she forced a small laugh. "Oh, ferret boy are we going to trade insults or are you going to lose the imbeciles."
"What and leave myself unguarded?" he asked.
"But Malfoy, I'm a pathetic little girl. What harm can I do?" she queried.
"Exactly, come on Draco like you said 'she's a rabid dog'." Crabbe said grinning.
"Crabbe come here and say that," she smiled. He sauntered over to her and stood before her.
"You are an inbred rabid dog," he drawled slowly. Maintaining her smile she brought her knee upwards impacting it with Crabbe's crotch. "Oofff." Goyle hurried towards her but stopped when he saw the smile on her face. She quickly changed it to a scowl when she spotted Malfoy hiding a smile.
"Malfoy, watch your back because one day you'll find a knife in it, and there's a good chance I'll be holding it." he was dumbstruck. Maria turned on her heel and headed back to Gryffindor tower. Once inside she collected her books from Hermione and together with Harry and Ron left. Malfoy stood as if waiting for her at the base of the staircase. She simply rolled her eyes and ignored him.
"Bristol," he said as she passed.
"Malfoy, just leave her alone you idiotic git." Ron replied.
Draco passed him a note, "it's from Professor Dolis just give her it."
"Dolis?" Ron asked the blonde.
"Natural magic tutor, Bristol and I are in the same class," the red head frowned and continued on towards the greenhouses for Herbology. Ron gave Maria the note just before the start of the lesson; she simply slipped it into a pocket of her robes and the lesson continued.
Afterwards she took out the note and read it. A second was concealed inside, which she also hid.
'All sixth year natural magic students,
Today's class has been cancelled due to unforeseen circumstances in the Forbidden Forest.
Prof. Holly Dolis'
"Looks like I've got a free next, I'll see you later I'm going to the library," the four split to go to their various different lessons. Maria walked slowly reading the second note.
'Maria,
I'm not sure I should be writing this. The other Slytherins are giving me hell for the ball especially Zabine and Parkinson. I don't want you to be mad with me....'
She didn't want to read anymore and she just screwed it up and pushed it back into her pocket. The library was quiet; Draco wasn't visible so she placed her belongings on a table then went in search of a book on Hogwarts. She found 'Hogwarts: a history' and then returned to the table she flicked to a photograph of the head boy and girl for 1973. He was a Slytherin and she a Gryffindor. They were identified as Lucius Malfoy and Camea Madille. They were smiling and waving, Maria ran her finger affectionately over them and then slammed the book shut. She got up and replaced the book on the shelf, when she returned to the desk there was a small gift box with 'MB' on the card. Puzzled she looked around to see who had left it, no one was around so she placed it in her pocket and left. She ran up to her dorm and pulled a photograph album out. She returned to the common room where Hermione had left her own copy of 'Hogwarts: a history'. Taking that and the album over to the fireplace she sat down and withdrew the gift box. She read the card.
'Maria,
A late Christmas present and apology.
Draco'
She opened the box and inside there was a green snake about an inch high attached to a length of red ribbon. Stunned she gazed at it but left it in the box. She opened the book at the page with the 1973 head boy and girl. She then opened the photograph album and found the same picture in colour. She looked at the girls neck around it was a green snake. Slamming shut both the album and the book she went to find Malfoy, holding the gift. She checked the library and then the lake but finally saw him soaring around on his broom on the quidditch pitch. Maria sighed and sat down, he looked graceful and elegant. He then made a pass around the stands and then stopped looked at her then carried on. She looked at the snake; the green stone was cold in her palm. She placed it into her pocket and pulled out the note continuing to read where she'd left off.
'...I didn't mean what I said. I was stupid; I just wanted Zabine to shut up. Will you still go to the ball with me? Even if you are going to embarrass me.
Draco'
"Will you?" a voice asked from behind her. She looked up at him replacing the letter and withdrawing his present.
"What do you think?" she queried.
"I hope you will, despite the fact I'm a pillock," she smiled.
"Damn right you are, I will attend with you but don't think I've forgiven you," she showed him the snake. "What's this?"
"A jade snake, do you like it?"
"I do, but...." he took it out of her hand and tied it around her throat.
"Jade is thought to be the concentrated essence of love, it's also meant to protect you and bring good luck, wealth, wisdom and longevity. It's a Malfoy tradition to give them to those we care for."
"Oh, thank you. I need to tell you something. It's really important, I'll tell you after the ball." Maria smiled weakly.
"Lesson's will be finishing soon, bye," he turned to leave.
"Thanks, Draco. But I'm not talking to you until the Ball."
"Okay," he leant forward and kissed her nose. "You alright?"
"Yeah, I'd better go back to Gryffindor tower. Bye," he stood and watched her leave.
----------------------------------------
Harry and Ron managed to escape Trelawneys predictions of Harry's premature demise. Ron sat down by the fire kicking off his shoes. He saw something that he'd never seen before; he picked it up and leafed through it.
"What are you looking at?" Hermione asked climbing through the portrait hole.
"A photo album," he said continuing to look through the pages of moving pictures. The girl moved over and peered over his shoulder.
"That can't be," she breathed.
"What? Hermione, don't get all cryptic on me. To me it looks like Malfoy," he said stopping turning the pages.
"That picture, I've seen it before," she looked closer. "They were head pupils, that is Lucius Malfoy. I don't recognise the girl though. I think 'Hogwarts: a history' said Malfoy was head boy in 1973."
"Hermione, have memorised that book?"
"Look, Ron. Just because I take an interest in what is around me." Maria entered the room.
"What are you doing with my photo album?" she asked.
"Erm, just looking, we didn't know whose it was." Ron said
"Well, it's mine," she took the book back and left for the dorms holding the snake.
Maria lay on the bed looking at that picture of Malfoy. Draco was more than he was, much more. Yet, they had both given snakes to their Gryffindors. How would she tell Draco? And what should she do about Hermione who maybe already understands? These questions reeled through her mind along with Lucius and Draco Malfoy. An owl landed on her bed with a note. She took it and read.
'Meet me in the forest ASAP M'
She heard a gentle tap on the door but ignored it, followed by a creak as it opened and then a set of footsteps.
"Maria, I'm sorry. I didn't mean to...." Hermione saw her roommate laid on her back wiping away at her eyes. "What's the matter?"
"The picture, everything," she rubbed the snake around her throat. "I suppose you've worked it out."
"What? You have a photography of Malfoys dad and some girl."
"The some girl is my mother, Camea Madille, Lucius is Lucius. You've never wondered how I've not got a French accent and yet I'm from Beauxbatons?"
"No, I don't understand."
"No, I didn't expect you to. I have a French mother; she put me down for Beauxbatons. I've always lived in England just studied in France. I've had the worst day ever. I've argued with my.... with Draco. There is nothing that can make today worse,"
"All it was, was an argument with Draco," Hermione stated.
"Don't tell anyone, but Draco and I are an item. Haven't been long but we are, that is why his comment hurt and why we're going to the ball together. I can't tell you anymore, not that there is much more."
"But, the picture?" she asked the blonde.
"Picture? My mother and his father Lucius Malfoy as head boy and girl. I shouldn't be here 'Moine, maybe not this school but sure as Hell not this house. I'm going for a walk," Maria got up and left grabbing her cloak.
She ventured down to the Forbidden Forest. There was a small campfire burning, she headed towards it knowing exactly what she'd find.
"Maria, my dear," his cold voice drawled.
"Lucius," they smiled at one another, hers more forced than his. "What do you want?"
"Let's not rush this, hmm?" he asked. "How's my son?"
"Draco's fine. He's doing well as far as I can tell. I'm in Gryffindor." Lucius reached over and touched the snake around her throat.
"Your mother's?" he queried.
"No, Draco gave me it earlier today." Maria was aware of how futile it would be to lie to him.
"Hmm, my son seems to have taste when it comes to fine things as well as women," he touched her hair. "You have grown here under that idiot Dumbledore. Now, how is the plan progressing?"
"The plan, Lucius?" she tilted her head. "It's not going to happen, I'm not giving you Harry. I'm not going to give in to you as easily as my mother did," she spat out the words as bullets.
"You know what happened to your father don't you?"
"You killed him, why me for this task? What about Draco? Why not use him?"
"He's my son, in a perfect world he'd be your brother. I wouldn't leave this to him, I trust you to do it. Bring me Potter on Valentines day at midnight," Maria had never seen Lucius this restrained ever.
"How?" she asked.
"Seduce him, you seem good at that. Just deliver him to me. Oh, before you go my son likes you he didn't stop mentioning you all the time he was at home. He doesn't know of course about your task or that you and I know of each other. Be careful with him I am after all his father, if not yours," the man started to retreat in to the darkness. "Your mother is in good health, by the way. Until Valentines Day, adieu."
The fire automatically extinguished and left Maria in almost blackness. Lighting her wand, she left for dinner. Was that a threat? Would he hurt her mother if she didn't deliver Harry? Suddenly, she didn't feel that hungry and returned to the dormitory. The album was still on her pillow, she didn't want to see Lucius Malfoy but she still had to face Draco in potions and natural magic the following day. He looked identical to his father in every way, but what do about Harry?
----------------------------------------
The mornings that followed this problem weighed heavily on her mind. Draco made his usual snide comments during potions directed at Hermione, Ron and Harry. The few that were directed at Maria were usually followed by apologetic glances from him. They met in secret several times to talk and just be together. They also conversed in natural magic as the class consisted of only four. Draco, Maria, Justin Finch-Fletchley and Mandy Brocklehurst. One from each house, so no one cared that touches between the two lasted slightly longer than they should have. The final Hogsmead weekend before the ball was a chance to buy dresses. Hermione was going with Ron as 'friends' and so she and Maria went to the robe shop first.
Maria saw her perfect robes as soon as she stepped through the door; it was at first glance the same blue as her eyes. Hermione found some in a rich green, they hurried to try them on. When Maria stepped out the robes where a grey, the other girl came out looking stunning and Maria's dress turned orange.
"Wow, Maria you have got to wear that it'll kill Draco," Hermione beamed.
"Ron'll not stand a chance with you in those," Maria replied.
"We'll take them," Hermione stated to the assistant and they giggled. They changed back into their regular robes and went to pay.
"Are you buying expensive robes to hide the cheapness that will be under them, Bristol?" a shrill voice growled.
"Parkinson, I am attending with Malfoy aren't. Seems he didn't want you," Maria retorted.
"Means nothing, we have an unspoken bond," Maria laughed at Pansy's comment.
"Sure," with that the Gryffindor girls left for The Three Broomsticks. Draco was sat inside with Crabbe and Goyle, Harry and Ron were laughing with Fred and George. Hermione and Maria bounced over to them carrying their boxes.
"Hi, what are you up to?" Hermione asked.
"What gives you the impression we're up to something?" Ron asked.
"We got you drinks," Harry said pointing at two untouched butterbeers. They sat down and smiled.
"Thanks," Maria looked at Fred and then George or was it George then Fred, she couldn't tell.
"We've bought dungbombs, and other supplies," one of the twins said.
"Honeydukes next?" Hermione asked.
"Yes, a sugar fix." Maria drank deeply, feeling the butterbeer slip down. She felt Draco's eyes on her and smiled flicking her hair back over her shoulder.
"Malfoy's watching us," Ron snarled.
"Let him watch," Maria said.
"You're nuts," Ron replied, draining his glass. Everyone laughed and as soon as they'd finished they went to buy sweets and eventually returned to Hogwarts.
----------------------------------------
Harry had managed to get Ron and his brothers to agree to let him take Ginny. The Boys were to meet Hermione and Ginny in the common room and Maria would meet Draco in the entrance hall. Hermione spent hours fixing her hair and make up (while studying) before dressing, as did Ginny. Maria, on the other hand dressed and then enchanted her hairbrush to pile her hair high on her head with a few ringlets framing her face, she similarly enchanted her make up (but she kept on the snake). The girls then ventured downstairs where Ron and Harry looked stunned at the girls, but who had obviously put a deal of effort into their own appearance. They complemented one another and then left for the great hall. Draco stood impatiently in the entrance hall; he had his back to Maria when she came down with the other Gryffindors. She left them and scurried over to him, getting his attention by placing a gentle kiss on his cheek.
"Hi Draco," she smiled. He was wearing black velvet robes fastened with silver snakes.
"Hi, wow, you scrub up well for special occasions," he smirked.
"Thank you, so do you," her robes were the same blue as they were in the shop. He took her arm and led her into the Hall, which was decorated with red hearts. The Weird Sisters were on the stage preparing to sing.
"Would you like a drink?" he asked.
"Sure, erm, a butterbeer please," he disappeared leaving Maria stood smiling. Ron and Harry were looking at her, she could tell that they were thinking: 'what is she doing with him?' and 'what is she going to do?' Thankfully Draco returned and took her to a table. The Weird Sisters struck up an upbeat tune and a few couples including McGonagall and Vector began dancing. After a few songs Maria and Draco were joined by Zabine and Parkinson as well as Crabbe and Goyle who were dateless. Pansy wasn't pleased about Maria being with Draco, she kept touching him and whispering in his ear. Maria was getting annoyed with her.
"Draco, let's dance," she whispered in his ear. He nodded and they moved on to the dance floor. They danced for several numbers before going back for another drink. Draco kept telling her jokes and making her smile.
"Erm, Malfoy can I have a dance with Maria?" it was Ron who looked very uncomfortable.
"Yes but I want her back Weasley," Maria scowled and followed her friend.
"What are you going to do to him then?" he asked.
"Ron, I'm not sure yet. Maybe some ton-tongue toffee or a canary cream," she answered as they danced. "Fred and George provided them of course."
"Malfoy actually looks jealous of us. Ha," her dance partner laughed.
"Ronald Weasley, you leave him to me," she kissed his cheek in a friendly manner and returned to Draco after the dance. "Draco, Ron thought you looked jealous."
"Of Weasley, why would I? He's poor, red headed and is here with a mudblood," he announced blushing slightly.
"Draco Malfoy, you blushed and you know exactly what I meant."
"Hey, lay off. So what, he gets to see you in the mornings and at night. I don't," he pouted and looked sweet.
"Sorry, how about we dance...." a slow ballad began. "Perfect," she pulled him back onto the dance floor and they slowly swayed to the beat as many other couples were doing. He wrapped his arms tighter around her waist and her hands rested lightly around his neck. She tossed her hair away and then looked up at him with large eyes. She pulled him in closer and without a moments thought his lips were on hers and they were kissing in front of everyone. Ron saw them, abandoned Hermione and stormed over to the couple. Wrenching Draco off Maria he stared at the Slytherin and dragged him out into the entrance hall.
"Weasley what the hell is your problem?" he asked when Ron released him.
"What were you doing?" the red head demanded.
"Kissing my girlfriend, what do you think?" he yelled back, the Gryffindor snapped and hit at the blonde.
"Ron, what are you doing?" Maria asked following them. "Get off him."
"He deserved that," Ron growled restraining himself.
"Why? He told you the truth," she knelt down next her fallen partner. "You okay?"
"Yes, Weasley packs a moderate punch." Maria turned and glared at Ron.
"Why did you do that?" she asked helping Draco to his feet.
"He kissed you, I..."
"Look Ron, he's my date and for your information my boyfriend. You had no right doing that. I know you hate him and I was going to tell you later, but this... Ugh," she sighed and leant in to Draco's ear. "Meet me in the astronomy tower, I'll be up soon."
"Goodnight," he kissed her cheek and then left.
"Thanks Ron," she turned to leave.
"Maria, I'm sorry. I suppose I've ruined everyone's night. I just don't want to see you with him," she turned back.
"I'm sorry too, I should have told you. But, I've only been here a short time so why do you care?"
"I care 'cos I'm your friend. I don't want to see you hurt," she smiled.
"Thanks, go back inside Hermione'll be waiting. Goodnight Ron," he smiled back and went back to the music and his partner.
----------------------------------------
Maria hurried up to the astronomy tower jumping the trick steps. Inside the small room Draco awaited, the moonlight highlighting his features.
"Hi," he said not turning to face her.
"Hi," she looked confused. "Are you alright?"
"Yes, come here," he commanded. She walked over to the window and looked at him.
"What?" he turned to face her and examined her.
"You're so beautiful, you know that?" Lucius always told her that, 'Lucius, Valentines day, Harry'. Panic suddenly rose through her body, but was quickly quashed by a fierce, passionate kiss from Draco. He forcefully pushed her over, causing her to scream. She landed gently on the ground, the cold stone had been enchanted to be softer, he landed next to her and kissed her again. The passion mounted and when he withdrew for air her lips felt bruised. She blinked and entwined her arms around him; cushioning her head he slowly laid her down gazing into her eyes that glinted in the moonlight. His lips trailed along her jaw line and neck, she moaned lightly and felt his hand slip under her robe. Her eyes closed and she sighed contentedly as his hand massaged her thigh. His mouth moved up back up to her neck where he applied suction. Her eyes fluttered open and grew wide. She screamed slightly causing Draco to stop and look at her.
"You all right?" he asked sitting up.
"Yeah, sorry. Why don't we go down to the lake?" she smiled.
"Why? It's warmer here, no-one'll come in," he looked puzzled.
"No need to leave on my account," another voice drawled.
"Lucius..." she said.
"Father?" the young man queried.
"Hello Draco, Maria," the older stepped out fully. "I thought you were going to give me quite a show then."
"No chance," Maria snarled; Lucius' eyes narrowed at her.
"Where is he then?" the elder asked.
"Not here, I forgot. I couldn't do it,"
"Do what?" Draco questioned.
"Wait outside," Maria stated.
"No!" the young blonde pouted.
"Draco, now" Lucius growled at his son, who stood and left. "Well, you failed."
"I couldn't do it. I'm sorry," she began to shake slightly.
"You're shaking," he touched her cheek. "You have failed the Dark Lord, me and your mother."
"I know, I'll get you Harry soon." Maria looked at him. "Just don't hurt anyone."
"Very well, contact me when you have him for me," he smiled. "Go back to my son."
"Well, we were planning on coming back in here," she replied.
"DRACO!" the man boomed; the boy peered round the door before entering.
In the light from the hall she could see the bruise beginning to appear where Ron had hit him. She stood and as she was about to place a hand over the injury it hit her from behind.
"Crucio!" the pain hit her in the back, she inhaled deeply. Gritting her teeth and clamping her eyes closed she fought against the pain. Tears began falling and the pain intensified, she collapsed to the floor crying and whimpering.
"Please......Lu...cius.....st..o...p"
"Father, stop it you're hurting her." Draco looked at his father.
"Beg me Maria."
"P....l...ea....se,...I'm....s..o...rr...y," his wand moved off her and she fell flat on the floor.
"He doesn't forgive easily, I said you would be punished." Maria fell unconscious. "Oblivisci," Draco's memory faded......
----------------------------------------
Hermione, Ron, Harry and Ginny were enjoying the ball, Ron had however been scolded by both girls for hitting Draco, but Harry applauded him. They returned at midnight to the Gryffindor common room where McGonagall greeted them.
"Miss Granger, Mr Weasley, Mr Potter, please sit down. Miss Weasley time to say goodnight." Ginny smiled at Harry and kissed him gently on the lips while Ron studied them in a big brother fashion. She muttered goodnight to the others then disappeared. "It seems that there has been an accident, Miss Bristol was hurt earlier in the...."
"I'll kill Malfoy," Ron exclaimed loudly.
"Mr Weasley I assure you Mr Malfoy wasn't involved. He in fact helped her a great deal by getting her to Madame Pomfrey so quickly."
"What happened?" Hermione asked quietly.
"We aren't entirely sure, it seems like dark magic. Possibly the Cruciatus curse. You are permitted to visit her tomorrow, however until then no student is allowed out of the dormitories. Understood?"
"Yes, Professor." Hermione answered and the woman smiled and left.
"Malfoy did this, you know his father is a death eater. He's probably well versed in the dark arts." Ron stated.
"Ron, you can't blame Malfoy. McGonagall said that he helped her," the girl countered.
"'Moine did you see what Maria had around her neck?" Harry asked.
"A jade snake, Draco gave her it."
"In that photograph of Lucius Malfoy the girl was wearing one," he explained, Hermione picked up the schools history book and flicked to the picture in question. There in black and white was a snake around Camea Madille's throat.
"That's her mother," the girl said.
"Why is she wearing the same symbol as her mother did?" Ron asked. "And why did Malfoy give her it?"
"He gave her it as a gift, isn't he allowed?"
"He's MALFOY, remember him, blonde, snobbish git in Slytherin?" the red head yelled.
"I know very well who he is, but that isn't the point. He's allowed to give her a present. Anyway, Maria called Lucius Malfoy by his first name like she knows him."
----------------------------------------
Draco looked around the astronomy tower and saw Maria verging on unconsciousness mumbling incoherently. He knelt at her side and pushed her strands out of her face. He stroked the side of her face and then picked her up. He carried her to the hospital wing and placed her on the closest bed. She'd writhed in his arms and now in the bed was perfectly still. He fetched Madame Pomfrey who fussed around asking questions about what had happened. In the end she left her, summoning McGonagall.
"Mr Malfoy, what happened?" she asked.
"I don't know, for the millionth time I have no idea," he snapped.
"Where is your wand?"
"In my dorm, I didn't take it to the ball," he appeared tired and so the professor restrained herself from pursuing her line of questioning, opting to wait until the victim was awake.
"Malfoy, erm lose the dead beats," she said with a similar tone looking between the three of them.
"Ha, no thanks. Well, are you going to tell me what you want or are you going to just stand glaring?"
"He," she forced a small laugh. "Oh, ferret boy are we going to trade insults or are you going to lose the imbeciles."
"What and leave myself unguarded?" he asked.
"But Malfoy, I'm a pathetic little girl. What harm can I do?" she queried.
"Exactly, come on Draco like you said 'she's a rabid dog'." Crabbe said grinning.
"Crabbe come here and say that," she smiled. He sauntered over to her and stood before her.
"You are an inbred rabid dog," he drawled slowly. Maintaining her smile she brought her knee upwards impacting it with Crabbe's crotch. "Oofff." Goyle hurried towards her but stopped when he saw the smile on her face. She quickly changed it to a scowl when she spotted Malfoy hiding a smile.
"Malfoy, watch your back because one day you'll find a knife in it, and there's a good chance I'll be holding it." he was dumbstruck. Maria turned on her heel and headed back to Gryffindor tower. Once inside she collected her books from Hermione and together with Harry and Ron left. Malfoy stood as if waiting for her at the base of the staircase. She simply rolled her eyes and ignored him.
"Bristol," he said as she passed.
"Malfoy, just leave her alone you idiotic git." Ron replied.
Draco passed him a note, "it's from Professor Dolis just give her it."
"Dolis?" Ron asked the blonde.
"Natural magic tutor, Bristol and I are in the same class," the red head frowned and continued on towards the greenhouses for Herbology. Ron gave Maria the note just before the start of the lesson; she simply slipped it into a pocket of her robes and the lesson continued.
Afterwards she took out the note and read it. A second was concealed inside, which she also hid.
'All sixth year natural magic students,
Today's class has been cancelled due to unforeseen circumstances in the Forbidden Forest.
Prof. Holly Dolis'
"Looks like I've got a free next, I'll see you later I'm going to the library," the four split to go to their various different lessons. Maria walked slowly reading the second note.
'Maria,
I'm not sure I should be writing this. The other Slytherins are giving me hell for the ball especially Zabine and Parkinson. I don't want you to be mad with me....'
She didn't want to read anymore and she just screwed it up and pushed it back into her pocket. The library was quiet; Draco wasn't visible so she placed her belongings on a table then went in search of a book on Hogwarts. She found 'Hogwarts: a history' and then returned to the table she flicked to a photograph of the head boy and girl for 1973. He was a Slytherin and she a Gryffindor. They were identified as Lucius Malfoy and Camea Madille. They were smiling and waving, Maria ran her finger affectionately over them and then slammed the book shut. She got up and replaced the book on the shelf, when she returned to the desk there was a small gift box with 'MB' on the card. Puzzled she looked around to see who had left it, no one was around so she placed it in her pocket and left. She ran up to her dorm and pulled a photograph album out. She returned to the common room where Hermione had left her own copy of 'Hogwarts: a history'. Taking that and the album over to the fireplace she sat down and withdrew the gift box. She read the card.
'Maria,
A late Christmas present and apology.
Draco'
She opened the box and inside there was a green snake about an inch high attached to a length of red ribbon. Stunned she gazed at it but left it in the box. She opened the book at the page with the 1973 head boy and girl. She then opened the photograph album and found the same picture in colour. She looked at the girls neck around it was a green snake. Slamming shut both the album and the book she went to find Malfoy, holding the gift. She checked the library and then the lake but finally saw him soaring around on his broom on the quidditch pitch. Maria sighed and sat down, he looked graceful and elegant. He then made a pass around the stands and then stopped looked at her then carried on. She looked at the snake; the green stone was cold in her palm. She placed it into her pocket and pulled out the note continuing to read where she'd left off.
'...I didn't mean what I said. I was stupid; I just wanted Zabine to shut up. Will you still go to the ball with me? Even if you are going to embarrass me.
Draco'
"Will you?" a voice asked from behind her. She looked up at him replacing the letter and withdrawing his present.
"What do you think?" she queried.
"I hope you will, despite the fact I'm a pillock," she smiled.
"Damn right you are, I will attend with you but don't think I've forgiven you," she showed him the snake. "What's this?"
"A jade snake, do you like it?"
"I do, but...." he took it out of her hand and tied it around her throat.
"Jade is thought to be the concentrated essence of love, it's also meant to protect you and bring good luck, wealth, wisdom and longevity. It's a Malfoy tradition to give them to those we care for."
"Oh, thank you. I need to tell you something. It's really important, I'll tell you after the ball." Maria smiled weakly.
"Lesson's will be finishing soon, bye," he turned to leave.
"Thanks, Draco. But I'm not talking to you until the Ball."
"Okay," he leant forward and kissed her nose. "You alright?"
"Yeah, I'd better go back to Gryffindor tower. Bye," he stood and watched her leave.
----------------------------------------
Harry and Ron managed to escape Trelawneys predictions of Harry's premature demise. Ron sat down by the fire kicking off his shoes. He saw something that he'd never seen before; he picked it up and leafed through it.
"What are you looking at?" Hermione asked climbing through the portrait hole.
"A photo album," he said continuing to look through the pages of moving pictures. The girl moved over and peered over his shoulder.
"That can't be," she breathed.
"What? Hermione, don't get all cryptic on me. To me it looks like Malfoy," he said stopping turning the pages.
"That picture, I've seen it before," she looked closer. "They were head pupils, that is Lucius Malfoy. I don't recognise the girl though. I think 'Hogwarts: a history' said Malfoy was head boy in 1973."
"Hermione, have memorised that book?"
"Look, Ron. Just because I take an interest in what is around me." Maria entered the room.
"What are you doing with my photo album?" she asked.
"Erm, just looking, we didn't know whose it was." Ron said
"Well, it's mine," she took the book back and left for the dorms holding the snake.
Maria lay on the bed looking at that picture of Malfoy. Draco was more than he was, much more. Yet, they had both given snakes to their Gryffindors. How would she tell Draco? And what should she do about Hermione who maybe already understands? These questions reeled through her mind along with Lucius and Draco Malfoy. An owl landed on her bed with a note. She took it and read.
'Meet me in the forest ASAP M'
She heard a gentle tap on the door but ignored it, followed by a creak as it opened and then a set of footsteps.
"Maria, I'm sorry. I didn't mean to...." Hermione saw her roommate laid on her back wiping away at her eyes. "What's the matter?"
"The picture, everything," she rubbed the snake around her throat. "I suppose you've worked it out."
"What? You have a photography of Malfoys dad and some girl."
"The some girl is my mother, Camea Madille, Lucius is Lucius. You've never wondered how I've not got a French accent and yet I'm from Beauxbatons?"
"No, I don't understand."
"No, I didn't expect you to. I have a French mother; she put me down for Beauxbatons. I've always lived in England just studied in France. I've had the worst day ever. I've argued with my.... with Draco. There is nothing that can make today worse,"
"All it was, was an argument with Draco," Hermione stated.
"Don't tell anyone, but Draco and I are an item. Haven't been long but we are, that is why his comment hurt and why we're going to the ball together. I can't tell you anymore, not that there is much more."
"But, the picture?" she asked the blonde.
"Picture? My mother and his father Lucius Malfoy as head boy and girl. I shouldn't be here 'Moine, maybe not this school but sure as Hell not this house. I'm going for a walk," Maria got up and left grabbing her cloak.
She ventured down to the Forbidden Forest. There was a small campfire burning, she headed towards it knowing exactly what she'd find.
"Maria, my dear," his cold voice drawled.
"Lucius," they smiled at one another, hers more forced than his. "What do you want?"
"Let's not rush this, hmm?" he asked. "How's my son?"
"Draco's fine. He's doing well as far as I can tell. I'm in Gryffindor." Lucius reached over and touched the snake around her throat.
"Your mother's?" he queried.
"No, Draco gave me it earlier today." Maria was aware of how futile it would be to lie to him.
"Hmm, my son seems to have taste when it comes to fine things as well as women," he touched her hair. "You have grown here under that idiot Dumbledore. Now, how is the plan progressing?"
"The plan, Lucius?" she tilted her head. "It's not going to happen, I'm not giving you Harry. I'm not going to give in to you as easily as my mother did," she spat out the words as bullets.
"You know what happened to your father don't you?"
"You killed him, why me for this task? What about Draco? Why not use him?"
"He's my son, in a perfect world he'd be your brother. I wouldn't leave this to him, I trust you to do it. Bring me Potter on Valentines day at midnight," Maria had never seen Lucius this restrained ever.
"How?" she asked.
"Seduce him, you seem good at that. Just deliver him to me. Oh, before you go my son likes you he didn't stop mentioning you all the time he was at home. He doesn't know of course about your task or that you and I know of each other. Be careful with him I am after all his father, if not yours," the man started to retreat in to the darkness. "Your mother is in good health, by the way. Until Valentines Day, adieu."
The fire automatically extinguished and left Maria in almost blackness. Lighting her wand, she left for dinner. Was that a threat? Would he hurt her mother if she didn't deliver Harry? Suddenly, she didn't feel that hungry and returned to the dormitory. The album was still on her pillow, she didn't want to see Lucius Malfoy but she still had to face Draco in potions and natural magic the following day. He looked identical to his father in every way, but what do about Harry?
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The mornings that followed this problem weighed heavily on her mind. Draco made his usual snide comments during potions directed at Hermione, Ron and Harry. The few that were directed at Maria were usually followed by apologetic glances from him. They met in secret several times to talk and just be together. They also conversed in natural magic as the class consisted of only four. Draco, Maria, Justin Finch-Fletchley and Mandy Brocklehurst. One from each house, so no one cared that touches between the two lasted slightly longer than they should have. The final Hogsmead weekend before the ball was a chance to buy dresses. Hermione was going with Ron as 'friends' and so she and Maria went to the robe shop first.
Maria saw her perfect robes as soon as she stepped through the door; it was at first glance the same blue as her eyes. Hermione found some in a rich green, they hurried to try them on. When Maria stepped out the robes where a grey, the other girl came out looking stunning and Maria's dress turned orange.
"Wow, Maria you have got to wear that it'll kill Draco," Hermione beamed.
"Ron'll not stand a chance with you in those," Maria replied.
"We'll take them," Hermione stated to the assistant and they giggled. They changed back into their regular robes and went to pay.
"Are you buying expensive robes to hide the cheapness that will be under them, Bristol?" a shrill voice growled.
"Parkinson, I am attending with Malfoy aren't. Seems he didn't want you," Maria retorted.
"Means nothing, we have an unspoken bond," Maria laughed at Pansy's comment.
"Sure," with that the Gryffindor girls left for The Three Broomsticks. Draco was sat inside with Crabbe and Goyle, Harry and Ron were laughing with Fred and George. Hermione and Maria bounced over to them carrying their boxes.
"Hi, what are you up to?" Hermione asked.
"What gives you the impression we're up to something?" Ron asked.
"We got you drinks," Harry said pointing at two untouched butterbeers. They sat down and smiled.
"Thanks," Maria looked at Fred and then George or was it George then Fred, she couldn't tell.
"We've bought dungbombs, and other supplies," one of the twins said.
"Honeydukes next?" Hermione asked.
"Yes, a sugar fix." Maria drank deeply, feeling the butterbeer slip down. She felt Draco's eyes on her and smiled flicking her hair back over her shoulder.
"Malfoy's watching us," Ron snarled.
"Let him watch," Maria said.
"You're nuts," Ron replied, draining his glass. Everyone laughed and as soon as they'd finished they went to buy sweets and eventually returned to Hogwarts.
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Harry had managed to get Ron and his brothers to agree to let him take Ginny. The Boys were to meet Hermione and Ginny in the common room and Maria would meet Draco in the entrance hall. Hermione spent hours fixing her hair and make up (while studying) before dressing, as did Ginny. Maria, on the other hand dressed and then enchanted her hairbrush to pile her hair high on her head with a few ringlets framing her face, she similarly enchanted her make up (but she kept on the snake). The girls then ventured downstairs where Ron and Harry looked stunned at the girls, but who had obviously put a deal of effort into their own appearance. They complemented one another and then left for the great hall. Draco stood impatiently in the entrance hall; he had his back to Maria when she came down with the other Gryffindors. She left them and scurried over to him, getting his attention by placing a gentle kiss on his cheek.
"Hi Draco," she smiled. He was wearing black velvet robes fastened with silver snakes.
"Hi, wow, you scrub up well for special occasions," he smirked.
"Thank you, so do you," her robes were the same blue as they were in the shop. He took her arm and led her into the Hall, which was decorated with red hearts. The Weird Sisters were on the stage preparing to sing.
"Would you like a drink?" he asked.
"Sure, erm, a butterbeer please," he disappeared leaving Maria stood smiling. Ron and Harry were looking at her, she could tell that they were thinking: 'what is she doing with him?' and 'what is she going to do?' Thankfully Draco returned and took her to a table. The Weird Sisters struck up an upbeat tune and a few couples including McGonagall and Vector began dancing. After a few songs Maria and Draco were joined by Zabine and Parkinson as well as Crabbe and Goyle who were dateless. Pansy wasn't pleased about Maria being with Draco, she kept touching him and whispering in his ear. Maria was getting annoyed with her.
"Draco, let's dance," she whispered in his ear. He nodded and they moved on to the dance floor. They danced for several numbers before going back for another drink. Draco kept telling her jokes and making her smile.
"Erm, Malfoy can I have a dance with Maria?" it was Ron who looked very uncomfortable.
"Yes but I want her back Weasley," Maria scowled and followed her friend.
"What are you going to do to him then?" he asked.
"Ron, I'm not sure yet. Maybe some ton-tongue toffee or a canary cream," she answered as they danced. "Fred and George provided them of course."
"Malfoy actually looks jealous of us. Ha," her dance partner laughed.
"Ronald Weasley, you leave him to me," she kissed his cheek in a friendly manner and returned to Draco after the dance. "Draco, Ron thought you looked jealous."
"Of Weasley, why would I? He's poor, red headed and is here with a mudblood," he announced blushing slightly.
"Draco Malfoy, you blushed and you know exactly what I meant."
"Hey, lay off. So what, he gets to see you in the mornings and at night. I don't," he pouted and looked sweet.
"Sorry, how about we dance...." a slow ballad began. "Perfect," she pulled him back onto the dance floor and they slowly swayed to the beat as many other couples were doing. He wrapped his arms tighter around her waist and her hands rested lightly around his neck. She tossed her hair away and then looked up at him with large eyes. She pulled him in closer and without a moments thought his lips were on hers and they were kissing in front of everyone. Ron saw them, abandoned Hermione and stormed over to the couple. Wrenching Draco off Maria he stared at the Slytherin and dragged him out into the entrance hall.
"Weasley what the hell is your problem?" he asked when Ron released him.
"What were you doing?" the red head demanded.
"Kissing my girlfriend, what do you think?" he yelled back, the Gryffindor snapped and hit at the blonde.
"Ron, what are you doing?" Maria asked following them. "Get off him."
"He deserved that," Ron growled restraining himself.
"Why? He told you the truth," she knelt down next her fallen partner. "You okay?"
"Yes, Weasley packs a moderate punch." Maria turned and glared at Ron.
"Why did you do that?" she asked helping Draco to his feet.
"He kissed you, I..."
"Look Ron, he's my date and for your information my boyfriend. You had no right doing that. I know you hate him and I was going to tell you later, but this... Ugh," she sighed and leant in to Draco's ear. "Meet me in the astronomy tower, I'll be up soon."
"Goodnight," he kissed her cheek and then left.
"Thanks Ron," she turned to leave.
"Maria, I'm sorry. I suppose I've ruined everyone's night. I just don't want to see you with him," she turned back.
"I'm sorry too, I should have told you. But, I've only been here a short time so why do you care?"
"I care 'cos I'm your friend. I don't want to see you hurt," she smiled.
"Thanks, go back inside Hermione'll be waiting. Goodnight Ron," he smiled back and went back to the music and his partner.
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Maria hurried up to the astronomy tower jumping the trick steps. Inside the small room Draco awaited, the moonlight highlighting his features.
"Hi," he said not turning to face her.
"Hi," she looked confused. "Are you alright?"
"Yes, come here," he commanded. She walked over to the window and looked at him.
"What?" he turned to face her and examined her.
"You're so beautiful, you know that?" Lucius always told her that, 'Lucius, Valentines day, Harry'. Panic suddenly rose through her body, but was quickly quashed by a fierce, passionate kiss from Draco. He forcefully pushed her over, causing her to scream. She landed gently on the ground, the cold stone had been enchanted to be softer, he landed next to her and kissed her again. The passion mounted and when he withdrew for air her lips felt bruised. She blinked and entwined her arms around him; cushioning her head he slowly laid her down gazing into her eyes that glinted in the moonlight. His lips trailed along her jaw line and neck, she moaned lightly and felt his hand slip under her robe. Her eyes closed and she sighed contentedly as his hand massaged her thigh. His mouth moved up back up to her neck where he applied suction. Her eyes fluttered open and grew wide. She screamed slightly causing Draco to stop and look at her.
"You all right?" he asked sitting up.
"Yeah, sorry. Why don't we go down to the lake?" she smiled.
"Why? It's warmer here, no-one'll come in," he looked puzzled.
"No need to leave on my account," another voice drawled.
"Lucius..." she said.
"Father?" the young man queried.
"Hello Draco, Maria," the older stepped out fully. "I thought you were going to give me quite a show then."
"No chance," Maria snarled; Lucius' eyes narrowed at her.
"Where is he then?" the elder asked.
"Not here, I forgot. I couldn't do it,"
"Do what?" Draco questioned.
"Wait outside," Maria stated.
"No!" the young blonde pouted.
"Draco, now" Lucius growled at his son, who stood and left. "Well, you failed."
"I couldn't do it. I'm sorry," she began to shake slightly.
"You're shaking," he touched her cheek. "You have failed the Dark Lord, me and your mother."
"I know, I'll get you Harry soon." Maria looked at him. "Just don't hurt anyone."
"Very well, contact me when you have him for me," he smiled. "Go back to my son."
"Well, we were planning on coming back in here," she replied.
"DRACO!" the man boomed; the boy peered round the door before entering.
In the light from the hall she could see the bruise beginning to appear where Ron had hit him. She stood and as she was about to place a hand over the injury it hit her from behind.
"Crucio!" the pain hit her in the back, she inhaled deeply. Gritting her teeth and clamping her eyes closed she fought against the pain. Tears began falling and the pain intensified, she collapsed to the floor crying and whimpering.
"Please......Lu...cius.....st..o...p"
"Father, stop it you're hurting her." Draco looked at his father.
"Beg me Maria."
"P....l...ea....se,...I'm....s..o...rr...y," his wand moved off her and she fell flat on the floor.
"He doesn't forgive easily, I said you would be punished." Maria fell unconscious. "Oblivisci," Draco's memory faded......
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Hermione, Ron, Harry and Ginny were enjoying the ball, Ron had however been scolded by both girls for hitting Draco, but Harry applauded him. They returned at midnight to the Gryffindor common room where McGonagall greeted them.
"Miss Granger, Mr Weasley, Mr Potter, please sit down. Miss Weasley time to say goodnight." Ginny smiled at Harry and kissed him gently on the lips while Ron studied them in a big brother fashion. She muttered goodnight to the others then disappeared. "It seems that there has been an accident, Miss Bristol was hurt earlier in the...."
"I'll kill Malfoy," Ron exclaimed loudly.
"Mr Weasley I assure you Mr Malfoy wasn't involved. He in fact helped her a great deal by getting her to Madame Pomfrey so quickly."
"What happened?" Hermione asked quietly.
"We aren't entirely sure, it seems like dark magic. Possibly the Cruciatus curse. You are permitted to visit her tomorrow, however until then no student is allowed out of the dormitories. Understood?"
"Yes, Professor." Hermione answered and the woman smiled and left.
"Malfoy did this, you know his father is a death eater. He's probably well versed in the dark arts." Ron stated.
"Ron, you can't blame Malfoy. McGonagall said that he helped her," the girl countered.
"'Moine did you see what Maria had around her neck?" Harry asked.
"A jade snake, Draco gave her it."
"In that photograph of Lucius Malfoy the girl was wearing one," he explained, Hermione picked up the schools history book and flicked to the picture in question. There in black and white was a snake around Camea Madille's throat.
"That's her mother," the girl said.
"Why is she wearing the same symbol as her mother did?" Ron asked. "And why did Malfoy give her it?"
"He gave her it as a gift, isn't he allowed?"
"He's MALFOY, remember him, blonde, snobbish git in Slytherin?" the red head yelled.
"I know very well who he is, but that isn't the point. He's allowed to give her a present. Anyway, Maria called Lucius Malfoy by his first name like she knows him."
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Draco looked around the astronomy tower and saw Maria verging on unconsciousness mumbling incoherently. He knelt at her side and pushed her strands out of her face. He stroked the side of her face and then picked her up. He carried her to the hospital wing and placed her on the closest bed. She'd writhed in his arms and now in the bed was perfectly still. He fetched Madame Pomfrey who fussed around asking questions about what had happened. In the end she left her, summoning McGonagall.
"Mr Malfoy, what happened?" she asked.
"I don't know, for the millionth time I have no idea," he snapped.
"Where is your wand?"
"In my dorm, I didn't take it to the ball," he appeared tired and so the professor restrained herself from pursuing her line of questioning, opting to wait until the victim was awake.
