CHAPTER 6
AN i don't own them!
"Come and let us feast… for this new school year is approaching and we have much to celebrate." Dumbledore's voice rose over the table sending a sudden chill racing up and down my spine as Draco glanced over with a quick grin. So this is how the teachers felt every evening meal. I kept watching my manners as I thought of the several times I had heard my brother and Harry criticize the way Snape chewed with his mouth open. I gazed down the table. The food was just appearing, and Harry, Ron and Hermoine were loading rolls and gravy. Fred and George already had turkey legs, and were (excuse the term) gobbling away. Jason however looked at his empty plate and heaved a sigh.
"Let us pray," he whispered loud enough to be heard over the chewing and silverware clanking. Nearly everyone who had already started to eat turned a tint pinker with embarrassment, while Draco who hadn't yet touched the food calmly nodded.
"Yes, I feel we have much to be thankful for," Draco replied curtly raising his hands from where they had been neatly lying the velvet napkin across his lap. He took one of Jason's hands and I did to follow suit as it carried down the table. It never occurred to me that in my right hand I held Harry's. I realized that only Draco, Jason, Dumbledore, and myself had not started to eat yet.
"As if he even knows how," Ron muttered under his breath.
"You are very right Draco, will you please lead the payer. Any one who would like to add something will be allowed as the prayer makes it's way to you. Go ahead Draco." Dumbledore had chosen to completely ignore Ron's remark, and for that alone I was grateful. As if family rivalry would need to be brought up at a time like this.
"Dear Heavenly Father, may we be eternally yours for the great sacrifices you have made for us, but tonight for the wonderful feast that has been placed upon our table, the end to some old struggles and the birth of love and friendship…" Draco raised his slightly bowed head to peer over the glittering goblets at me. His pale blond hair fell into his silvery eyes. I felt my self go faint as his eyes locked with mine and the only thing that kept me from completely loosing myself was the beginning of Jason's prayer.
"Dear Holy Lord, I wish tonight to thank you for Draco, who is now my brother." The whole table raised their heads to glimpse at the young prodigy sitting among them. Jason's face was smiling and still bowed toward the golden plate. He continued with the voice of an angel, but the words of a holy priest. "…And for Ginny, who has helped me very much."
He stopped ending his speech and watching me intently as if signaling the start of my turn. I felt it as if the words poured straight from heart never having the chance to taste the effect of them on my tongue or allow the feel of them to roll off my lips.
"Dear God Almighty, I wish to thank thee for all of the wonderful happenings of tonight, and to admit to the want for a safety of those currently traveling here, to our school, our sanctuary, and our home. May you be with us at all times." There! Not only had I said my prayer but I had also shared thanks with Draco without the rest of the table having a clue. My head had blurred completely from that point on. I was repeating the words of Draco's prayer… he had used the word love. A smile pushed it's way across my face, and I barley caught myself in time to say 'Amen' as Dumbledore concluded the prayer.
The meal continued on and I tried my hardest not to look at Harry who seemed to be starring at me. The only ways to turn were to A, stare straightforward and into the gorgeous face of Draco (Which I wouldn't have cared except that I didn't really want everyone to know just yet) or B to turn toward Jason.
Obviously, I have decided to spend some quality time with Jason.
***-
I heard Ron's comment on how I wouldn't even know how to pray. It didn't really bother me all that much, as I was too busy with my mind in other places. Though mother never would have allowed me to grow up uneducated in the fact that she would never have let me miss a prayer at meal. Sure over the years at school I've grown a bit lax, not wanting to seem weak to fellow Slytherns, but over the summer I'd come back to the habit and Jason hasn't had the chance just yet to lose manners. He did shock me, however as well as the rest of the table with the importance he put in Ginny and I in his prayer. I could frame that picture of the whole Weasley family (or the kids at least) with their mouths hanging wide. Harry even still had food in his mouth, which was kind of gross.
Ginny thanked the lord for tonight's happenings which I found rather pleasant. Sure I know I shouldn't gloat, but the bewildered faces turned to confused ones with only Dumbledore giving a knowing nod. Dinner was… well it was interesting. Ginny spent the time turned away from Harry and transfiguring all of Jason's food (to his delight). I watched carefully, laughing now and then as Jason would let out delighted squeals as his slice of ham turned lime green, then a purple polka dot, then plaid…
I saw Ron and Hermoine smiling wildly at each other, until the occasional interrupt of 'pass the salt shaker' or 'hand me a roll'. Professor Dumbledore was speaking grandly to the new Defense against Dark arts teacher. Professor Trewanalery fidgeting endlessly, sometimes counting the occupants followed by the muttering of 'unlucky 13… unlucky 13'.
The only person that really didn't seem to be acting themselves was Harry, who unfortunately would not take his eyes off Ginny.
My Ginny.
I continually glared as his eyes repeatedly traced her figure with a new interest. Ginny would glance nervously at him and then with pleading eyes over at me. I felt my lips curl into a frown, unable to sure how much longer I could stand it.
Suddenly something threw us off.
"I CAN'T TAKE THIS ANY MORE. HOW UNLUCKY THAT ON OUR FIRST NIGHT BACK TOGETHER WE SHOULD BE OF THE NUMBER 13. THE FIRST TO STAND SHALL SURELY BE THE FIRST TO DIE!" Professor Trewanalery screeched. To her surprise all of the students rose from their seats at that moment. We couldn't help but laugh.
"Than we shall all die together… united!" Ginny cried in protest, causing all of our goblets to clank in cheers, separating the boundary between the Gryffindors and myself. Jason had to stand on the table to reach, as he forced a heavy golden goblet against Fred and George's. However he didn't sit back down. He walked carefully over the settings and up to a very faint looking Professor Trewanalery. Each step he took made a click as his tiny boots hit the table top.
"Why do you say death at thirteen instead of the birth of new life? Maybe the first to stand will be the first to bring a child into this world." His statement caused a bit of nervous laughter. Ginny and I peered at one another with nervous blushing smiles. Hermoine and Ron both turned red to the tips of the ears. Dumbledore smirked.
"A very true statement," he concluded.
"When shall we be expecting the babies," questioned a no longer sober Flitwick, before having another sip of his wine, hiccuping, and then falling off his chair.
***-
Dinner, though immensely entertaining with the occasional outbursts, was strangely stressful. I had to avoid the eyes of nearly everyone in hopes of not making myself seem different in any ways. I could still feel the burn of Draco's lips against mine every time I raised my goblet to take a swallow.
I looked over at Dumbledore for permission before I took off to the woods afterwards. I was scared and excited at the same time. During the last 24 hours my life had changed so dramatically. I searched the sky to be guided by certain constellations.
Mars is bright tonight. Unusually bright.
I spotted the red star and trudged into the forest in that direction. The branches scraped against my arms and legs and the cold wind whipped my cheeks until they turned scarlet. Could I find it? Would I? Would they even be there, or had I been misdirected when they had realized how overly emotional I was? Perhaps if I found them I could start to play the cold stoic type, like Draco had, only showing a empty mask to the outside world. Would Draco even continue to like me after he discovered what I was?
I stopped dead in my tracks thinking over the last question in my head. What if he completely hated me when he found the truth? He might turn his back on me forever, leaving what happened tonight only a very distant memory… no… No… NO!
I hurried forward trying impossibly to erase those thoughts from my mind. Still dashing, I burst into a clearing, with all of them rebuilding their home.
"Ginny, we were expecting you soon," came their hissing whispers.
***-
After watching Ginny race out of the Great Hall, I walked Jason down to the Slythern common room. I let him have the bed across from mine and an extra blanket. He fell asleep nearly the instant he touched the bed. Maybe he knew I had a lot on my mind and needed to be alone.
I stepped out of the dorms and began to pace in the common room. What happened to you Malfoy? For your whole life you've loathed their family, now your more intimately close to one than you've ever been with anyone in your entire life.
I groaned inwardly. A little self punishment wouldn't change how my heart felt about Ginny. I loved her.
And that's final.
I decided that perhaps cursing Potter would make me feel better, more like my old self and pass the time till Ginny came back. Grabbing a large black cloak I made my way noiselessly to the Great Hall hidden mostly in the shadows.
I leaned against the wall as I neared the sniffling Fat Lady. She currently had a cold and was not in the mood to be messed with, so with a dismissive scowl I slid my back down the wall and sat waiting as if simply a part of the night. A minute passed, perhaps an hour, maybe more. I fought back daydreams of passion filled moments intended for Ginny as I rebelled against myself.
Against my heart.
Before I could officially let go and give in to the good, Harry exited the common room.
"You don't really think she's with Malfoy do you?" The emotion in his voice made me laugh. I covered my mouth to help not reveal my hiding place.
"Harry the only reason she would even think of Malfoy for anything is so that she could perhaps hang with Jason… You know she's the youngest in my family and probably liked being with someone younger." Ron was helping Hermoine out of the common room. You obviously don't know your sister very well Ron. Hermoine began to laugh at both of them.
"What if she did like Draco, the slimy git? Is that why we're really out here, to go search for her? For all either of you two know she's in the library teaching her self more stunts like that one she pulled off in the fire place this morning."
"You don't understand." George began from behind them holding a large text book, and sounding knowledgeably and strangely a lot like Hermoine usually did. "The spell she did, was not only far advanced beyond any student at Hogwarts, but if you noticed the whole time her wand was tucked away."
Hermoine blinked twice before responding. "And you spent the day looking all of that up, why?" I noticed Hermoine had changed quite a lot over the summer. Along with a bit of make up came the new attitude.
"Only so we could make wigs that do that so we could sell them at WWW." Came the voice of the other twin, shoving George out of the way.
"World Wide web?" Hermoine questioned.
"No Weasley's Wizard Weazes." They chorused. I had to laugh. I had over heard them talking last year as they left for their house and couldn't help but smirk at the thought of them rebelling against there very mother. Perhaps I am not too different from the Weasleys… What am I saying? Enraged by my very thoughts I cursed Harry so that he could not stand up straight.
The others laughed at first thinking he was trying to be funny and act like a detective bending over to look for clues.
Then with another wave of my wand I had Ron crawling around on the floor as his hound sniffing out the trail. He howled as the others laughed wildly, still simply thinking it was an act. Hermoine let out a squeak and ran in to George as Ron began to stiff her butt.
"Guys quit it. This is really stating to get old now." Hermoine groaned as she sped up her pace running in circles around Fred and George in hopes to keep out of reach of the dog/boy chasing her. I smiled to myself chuckling quietly as I waved my wand to ensure that she would continue running in circles for the next twenty minutes regardless of weather or not Ron was chasing her. Unfortunately George and Fred began to catch on, their eyes searching the dark shadowy corridors for me. I smirked to myself.
One thing that is special about Slytherns is the fact that they are born with the ability to sneak around and not get caught. To throw them off even more I dashed up the stair case across from the portrait that lead all the way to the library and courtyard, then standing up and making each step noticeably loud I hopped down again and right next to them.
"Malfoy! What did you do to them?" My what tempers the Weasley family have.
"Forgive me when I ask, but do what to whom? They look perfectly normal to me." I held back laughter as I looked as if for the first time at the lot of them. "Honestly you give me too much credit, as I was just in the library." Hermoine was just undoing the spell on herself and then the others. Darn!
"Where's cough cough Where's Ginny?" Harry shouted at me.
"I don't know she sped off after dinner and that's the last I've seen of her. Why?"
"Well no duh, she's missing." They really should be nicer to people they are questioning as I know more than they do. I stepped lightly, no longer needing to alert the others of my presence, and moved over to the window. My eyes beheld yet another surprise.
Ginny walked on the other side of the lake beside a Centaur and an Aneth. Most people have never seen an Aneth in their life. Or a Centaur for that matter. I must have cursed wildly at seeing this eye-widening site because Harry and the others rushed over to see what had surprised me so.
"Wh-What exactly is the thing she's talking to?" I smirked at Harry's ignorance. The rest of the group was stuck somewhere between fear and bewilderment. Meanwhile they were rounding the edge of the lake and heading toward the castle. I broke away from the site so that I could be there when they entered.
"Malfoy… Wait!" Harry was producing an invisibility cloak from his robes. Hermoine, who had yelled to me in the first place, looked at me with fearful eyes. "What are you going to do?"
I scowled, nosy lil' Granger Mudbl-no… I would respect Ginny by not calling her friends dirty names.
"I'm doing just what you're about to of course. Which is take a closer look." I glanced one last time at each of them. Harry seemed to have a battle raging in his head.
"Wait Malfoy, you can go with us." I laughed inwardly. I knew the only reasons he wanted me to come were so that he could keep an eye on me and so that I would blow the whole thing.
"That's quite O.K. Potter. You weren't the only one given something important by your father."
That left him even more confused. Truth is father hadn't really given me anything. I had stolen a invisibility amulet from his dark arts storage. I don't usually use it because it takes a long time to catch moonbeams at night to work properly. Quite a distance from him I placed it over my head and hurried up to the great hall. They made quick time and I could hear the footsteps trailing behind me as I silently got to the destination. Ginny hadn't arrived yet, but a round table was set up with the teachers equally placed around it. A couple places had been left for the two creatures and Ginny I supposed.
It was the first time I had truly gotten a good look at the new DADA teacher. Perhaps it was the faded glow of the great hall or the fact that she was no longer in her fancy robes, but I realized all of a sudden that the women was the same one that had barged into my room the other night. The one with the scar. Yes it was so clear now, and I could only expect her to be the best DADA teacher yet as thinking on what her experience in this field must have been.
My thoughts on the professor quickly diminished however when Ginny and the other two walked through the large.
"Ah Firenze, what business do yeh have here?" Hagrid chortled out raising his glass to the centaur. I was reminded of my encounter with it in my first year. Several of the other professors looked miffed at Hagrid's knowledge and greeting of the creature. Dumbledore just smiled and nodded at him.
I shook my own head to try and rid myself of the woozy feeling that was coming over me from the Aneth. She was standing next to Ginny. Her black hair held a hint of silver in it and her tail was poised much like that of a curious cat. Her pointed years were beckoned outward twitching at the slightest noise, and she was dressed completely in suede looking much like a nymph. I could almost hear Hermione whispering about the creature to the less knowledgeable boys hiding under the cloak next to her.
"Ah and what do we have here?" Her cat like voice, all light and mysterious, echoed through my head as she telepathically entered my mind. "How many do we have? I count 6… does that sound right to you, Firenze?"
The centaur looked around and with a barely noticeable smirk on his face he nodded. The Aneth continued. "What about you Ginny? How many do you see?" I watched as Ginny blushed slightly before glancing in my direction. With that she closed her eyes and a whirlwind funneled gently blowing around her hair. She opened her eyes and turned toward the other creatures each in turn. Smiling defiantly she silently added her voice to the voice of the Aneth inside my head.
"There are seven, you missed the care taker standing on a high balcony peering through to the great hall. 8 if you count his cat hiding under the table."
"Bravo Ginny, now Dumbledore, are you aware of those in your surroundings that are not welcoming their own presence."
"I am, Delvi, their presence though not officially requested it is required… You all may come out." Dumbledore gazed about as Potter removed his cloak and I took off the amulet placing it securely in my pocket. Professor McGonagall looked shocked at the least. In fact all of the professors did, accept for the Headmaster and the DADA teacher, who was still glancing over at Firenze and Delvi, the Aneth. "Come forward, we will make room…" Dumbledore knocked 7 times on the table and 7 places were added as it squeaked loudly and enlarged. I looked underneath it and was surprised to see that in truth it had no supports or legs that touched the ground, but instead simply floated. Though my entire life has been spent in the magic, non-muggle world, things like that still surprise me.
I felt a force pulling on me, and I moved my legs toward it only to keep them from being pulled out right beneath me and ending up on my back. I saw Ginny's hand moving in a circular motion almost beckoning me toward her, the direction I was being pulled. I only noticed that it was her pulling on me with that unknown force when I cut off Harry and took the seat next to her. Though now slightly relieved, she still looked incredibly worried. Underneath the table I took her hand to help ensure her.
***-
It's been a hard enough day as is but to add this to the night, why? Well I got there with Delvi and Firenze and noticed the presence of a few others almost instantly. Delvi claimed there were only 6 of them, but sometimes I think she does that simply to test me. To try and see if I am improving. Thank goodness for Draco's hand. I thought that if I hadn't had that to clutch to I would have fainted from a mixture of stress and over exhaustion.
"Well let's get to business." Dumbledore said and Delvi clasped her hands together and as she opened them a tiny ball of light flew out enlarging it's self and becoming more recognizable as a hologram of our universe. I knew almost instantly why. Another explanation of why me over every other human on this Earth. Draco watched with utmost importance, as did the others though they kept shooting me looks of disbelief. Harry seemed to be questioning the need for Draco to be there, but I was thankful he was. It would make my explanation easier to him later.
"I believe most of you know where the constellation of the serpent is in comparison to the constellation of the eagle…" At this statement Dumbledore and Professor Sinestra the astronomy teacher nodded. "There is a star, the Alpha star, and on the exact moment of Virginia Elyse Weasley's birth the star exploded…"
"That's impossible, it's still there as I was just commenting on it's brightness last night.." Professor Sinestra interrupted. Delvi continued on unfazed.
"The star that is seen and is still thought of as the Alpha star is another that was never discovered due to it's location, which is directly in front of it. However any direct foretelling has to be done by the actual stars brightness and phases." Professor Sinestra nodded her head vigorously excited to hear and learn more. Professor Trewanalery looked shocked beyond belief realizing that all of her speakings of the future could possibly be inaccurate. I had to smile as Ron and Harry sent each other mischievous grins as they noticed their fear struck teacher's face. I too had a reason to look forward to the phony teacher's class, remembering how many classes she had patted my shoulder sadly speaking of how the future would hold the death of someone that perhaps would have become more than a friend.
"The effect is not completely known, even by myself or the other…teachers. Yet it is all part of a prophecy called the Order of the Phoenix." I sighed as she had said this. I knew the rest…that my powers would grow as I learned properly to use them, that I was indeed still completely human even with the powers, that I could continue with my life as perfectly un-normal as it was already except the lessons and a few other exceptions…what! What? WHAT?
I barley even noticed as she began to unveil the other exceptions.
"The very point of the Order of the Phoenix is so that the boy who lived, Harry Potter, shall benefit of her protection. Though she will not need to be with him at all times, or sleep in the same room and be with him at all times. There are many things she hasn't even known that will allow her access to him whenever. The ankle bracelet will not come off her ankle until she dies, Harry does, or the dark lord is diminished. We don't intend for either of the first two to happen. The ankle bracelet will act as a portkey allowing her to apparate to his exact location whenever necessary, thus allowing her to live her life, and him to carry on with his." The meeting continued on with a few questions from everyone. It was nice that Delvi was answering them, at this point I was so flustered.
I closed my mind and visualized cool light gray mountains with a gentle steam and several large trees. As I felt the Draco's warm breath on my neck I added it to the dream escape. Briefly Draco whispered to me "I think there should be more trees." I flashed my eyes open but did not look toward him. How had he read into my thoughts like that? I telepathically asked. Pretending to wipe his mouth with his hand and spoke behind it. "I don't know, but I don't think the others caught it. Widen the river too."
"Your not mad are you, I mean you still like me right?" I was so scared I wasn't really certain I wanted to know the answer. This time I was even more surprised as I heard the answer flow coolly though my head but watched as his lips never opened.
"No--- I think it's more than that." I playfully stepped on his foot under the table, and let out a relieved giggle. I was sent several confused stares at this, so I guess that I must not have interrupted at a very good part.
"I think the students are exhausted. They probably can be dismissed." Delvi said to the headmaster who agreed immediately. We stood and walked up the steps and into the halls before I was sent a brief message from Delvi. You big flirt
"Sorry you know how many times I've heard this speech.
Whatever, and your welcome
"Yeah thanks,"
You'd better not be doing anything too bad with that boy.
"Complete invasion of my thoughts is not welcome."
Please, you know that I could send a delightful little message to the Potter boy and then you would respect me.
"Your completely evil, you know that?"
"Now now children, let's not fight." Came the cool and collected voice of Draco, and once again I had to laugh.
See ya Ginny. I gotta finish up here and scram. Good luck with Dragon-boy.
"I heard that!" Draco cried out in fake defense, still not quite use to speaking mentally.
I burst out laughing as did the other Gryffindors not knowing about the whole conversation that had just happened. I sent a goodbye as I watched a show unfold from an embarrassed Draco.
"Shut up Peeves!" He added quick-wittedly as an afterthought. The others began to search the walls and ceiling for sights of Peeves, their laughter quieting. To my surprise Peeves did arrive in all of his glory. Squealing madly he burst through the wall yanking endlessly on poor Nearly Headless Nick's head.
"Foolish students… In corridors. I should tell. A Slythern among Gryffindors. I saw you Malfoy, doing those naughty things with ____" He was cut off as Draco raised his wand and sent a gray cloud of smoke that slammed Peeves through the wall and several corridors down.
"Thanks friend." Nick whispered placing his head back on his shoulders and floating off in the opposite direction that Draco had sent Peeves.
With a quick nod Draco began down the stairs to his dungeon common room. I felt as if part of me went with him, as I really wasn't looking forward to what was about to happen with the others and myself.
"G'night Ginny, I love you," came a faint whisper of his voice through my head.
""G'night Draco, I love you too." What was that? It sounded much like a whoop of excitement from Draco. I let a smile find it's way on to my face.
***-still Ginny's point of view but now back in the common room-
"Ginny, why on Bloody Earth wouldn't you tell us about something like that?" Ron began to harp on me.
"I was sworn to secrecy. I don't tell secrets, even to you." More like especially not to you, I thought to myself as I pictured Draco.
"How long has this been going on, I mean like the training and all?" Harry asked.
"Last summer it became official." I thought back to the day I had been given the bag and it had been explained to me for the first time.
"Do that thing where your hair turns to fire again." Fred commanded. With a heavy sigh my hair burst into flame and I yawned allowing it to change back.
"Can anybody learn how to do some of this stuff?" George asked pulling out parchment and a quill.
"Wait I'm not done questioning you yet." Ron said, looking more than slightly mad.
"Well maybe I'm tired and I am going to bed."
"No Ginny don't yet." Harry cried out with pleading eyes, his hand resting on my shoulder. I brushed it off but reluctantly and sat down crossing my arms defiantly.
George wasn't ready to give Ron the chance yet.
"So you could do that trick with my hair and it wouldn't hurt and it would look the same afterward?" I smiled to myself as Ron glared at his two completely normal seeming brothers. Probably angry that they weren't upset at me at all. I snapped my fingers and the twins' hair lit on fire just as Professor McGonagall stepped through the portrait hole.
She gasped at the twins literally flaming red hair as they smiled and pointed at each other grinning stupidly like two-year-olds. They turned and waved to her and she looked even more close to fainting, so I walked over and blew out the two identical 6 feet tall candles and gave her a reassuring smile.
"The students will be arriving a bit earlier…um tomorrow for their complete safety and I believe there will be several new transfers." When she regained her voice she explained. "Just thought you might like to know. With that she left giving both George and Fred a murderous glance. As she shut the portrait the twins burst out.
"That was great."
"We've got to figure out how to do that."
"Think of spending every transfiguring class with our hair like that."
"Yeah if McGonagall got upset we'd just say we were expressing our 'hot' style."
"OK." Hermione cut in. "That pun was so bad it hurt."
"I'm not done.." Ron began in again but was cut off by me.
"I am. I'm outta here." I picked up my suede bag and headed to the door.
"Where, are you gonna sleep in the forest with the Centaurs and Aneths?" Ron shouted standing in my path. Harry stood up next to him.
"He's right. It's dangerous, Ginny. Stay here."
"We'll follow you where ever you're going, we'll find you Ginny." Ron started up against me again.
"No I really don't think so. Ron you may be older but your not my boss. Maybe I'll go get married to a dragon in the woods and live there for the rest of my life. I don't need to stay right here next to Harry. I've got the bracelet." I pointed down at my ankles. With one last wink to the twins I clicked my heels and stepped right through Harry and Ron leaving them both astounded and dumb struck. With another snap of my fingers I disappeared completely and left. I'm not going to the forest to find my Dragon… I'm going to the Slythern common room.
CHAPTER 7
***-
I checked on Jason momentarily when I returned to the common room. He lay completely asleep clutching his new wand to his chest. His chubby little fingers were wrapped tightly around it. I didn't want to sleep in the dorms to night as I am a restless sleeper who has a hard time with constant reoccurring nightmares of horrid memories of my past, so I headed out with a blanket to the couch. I hadn't but a moment to think when professor McGonagall entered briefly mentioning that the other students would arrive tomorrow as well as a group of new transfers. I know that they will probably be from other schools in fear that any where else they are that they will be in the path of the dark lord. She left and the Bloody Baron entered.
With him I spoke briefly of the troubles with Peeves that I were happening and he happily promised to set Peeves on his track for me. The final knock on the door was Ginny. I opened the door to find her tired and frowning but as she glimpsed my concerned face she smiled, wrapped me in a hug and shut the door behind her.
"You Ok?" I asked gently lifting her up in my arms and carrying her over to the couch that I had been napping on.
"Hard night…Hard day… Hard week… Hard life" She groaned pulling my blanket tighter around her.
"That bad, huh?" I asked pulling her into my arms where I lay. "You want to talk about it?"
"Draco, is secret keeping such a crime, it's not like it was life or death or even close. Why did he have to come down so hard on me for it." She laid her head against my chest, and I realized she was still in her day clothes.
"You can take a shower or a warm bath to get your mind off them." I suggested helping her stand up as she nodded. I directed her to the large dark green tiled bathroom and as she showered I conjured her light blue nightgown that I had seen her wear so many times in the book over summer. She came out wearing only a green towel with my initials on it. I smirked realizing that the Slythern bathroom contained a towel for every Slythern with their initials embroidered on it. I quickly handed her the nightgown as she began to blush and she hurried back into the bathroom to put it on.
She returned once more looking even sleepier but this time smiling a bit.
"Who do you the new arrivals are going to be?" She asked yawning and burying her face into my chest.
"probably Drumstrang and Buexa
AN i don't own them!
"Come and let us feast… for this new school year is approaching and we have much to celebrate." Dumbledore's voice rose over the table sending a sudden chill racing up and down my spine as Draco glanced over with a quick grin. So this is how the teachers felt every evening meal. I kept watching my manners as I thought of the several times I had heard my brother and Harry criticize the way Snape chewed with his mouth open. I gazed down the table. The food was just appearing, and Harry, Ron and Hermoine were loading rolls and gravy. Fred and George already had turkey legs, and were (excuse the term) gobbling away. Jason however looked at his empty plate and heaved a sigh.
"Let us pray," he whispered loud enough to be heard over the chewing and silverware clanking. Nearly everyone who had already started to eat turned a tint pinker with embarrassment, while Draco who hadn't yet touched the food calmly nodded.
"Yes, I feel we have much to be thankful for," Draco replied curtly raising his hands from where they had been neatly lying the velvet napkin across his lap. He took one of Jason's hands and I did to follow suit as it carried down the table. It never occurred to me that in my right hand I held Harry's. I realized that only Draco, Jason, Dumbledore, and myself had not started to eat yet.
"As if he even knows how," Ron muttered under his breath.
"You are very right Draco, will you please lead the payer. Any one who would like to add something will be allowed as the prayer makes it's way to you. Go ahead Draco." Dumbledore had chosen to completely ignore Ron's remark, and for that alone I was grateful. As if family rivalry would need to be brought up at a time like this.
"Dear Heavenly Father, may we be eternally yours for the great sacrifices you have made for us, but tonight for the wonderful feast that has been placed upon our table, the end to some old struggles and the birth of love and friendship…" Draco raised his slightly bowed head to peer over the glittering goblets at me. His pale blond hair fell into his silvery eyes. I felt my self go faint as his eyes locked with mine and the only thing that kept me from completely loosing myself was the beginning of Jason's prayer.
"Dear Holy Lord, I wish tonight to thank you for Draco, who is now my brother." The whole table raised their heads to glimpse at the young prodigy sitting among them. Jason's face was smiling and still bowed toward the golden plate. He continued with the voice of an angel, but the words of a holy priest. "…And for Ginny, who has helped me very much."
He stopped ending his speech and watching me intently as if signaling the start of my turn. I felt it as if the words poured straight from heart never having the chance to taste the effect of them on my tongue or allow the feel of them to roll off my lips.
"Dear God Almighty, I wish to thank thee for all of the wonderful happenings of tonight, and to admit to the want for a safety of those currently traveling here, to our school, our sanctuary, and our home. May you be with us at all times." There! Not only had I said my prayer but I had also shared thanks with Draco without the rest of the table having a clue. My head had blurred completely from that point on. I was repeating the words of Draco's prayer… he had used the word love. A smile pushed it's way across my face, and I barley caught myself in time to say 'Amen' as Dumbledore concluded the prayer.
The meal continued on and I tried my hardest not to look at Harry who seemed to be starring at me. The only ways to turn were to A, stare straightforward and into the gorgeous face of Draco (Which I wouldn't have cared except that I didn't really want everyone to know just yet) or B to turn toward Jason.
Obviously, I have decided to spend some quality time with Jason.
***-
I heard Ron's comment on how I wouldn't even know how to pray. It didn't really bother me all that much, as I was too busy with my mind in other places. Though mother never would have allowed me to grow up uneducated in the fact that she would never have let me miss a prayer at meal. Sure over the years at school I've grown a bit lax, not wanting to seem weak to fellow Slytherns, but over the summer I'd come back to the habit and Jason hasn't had the chance just yet to lose manners. He did shock me, however as well as the rest of the table with the importance he put in Ginny and I in his prayer. I could frame that picture of the whole Weasley family (or the kids at least) with their mouths hanging wide. Harry even still had food in his mouth, which was kind of gross.
Ginny thanked the lord for tonight's happenings which I found rather pleasant. Sure I know I shouldn't gloat, but the bewildered faces turned to confused ones with only Dumbledore giving a knowing nod. Dinner was… well it was interesting. Ginny spent the time turned away from Harry and transfiguring all of Jason's food (to his delight). I watched carefully, laughing now and then as Jason would let out delighted squeals as his slice of ham turned lime green, then a purple polka dot, then plaid…
I saw Ron and Hermoine smiling wildly at each other, until the occasional interrupt of 'pass the salt shaker' or 'hand me a roll'. Professor Dumbledore was speaking grandly to the new Defense against Dark arts teacher. Professor Trewanalery fidgeting endlessly, sometimes counting the occupants followed by the muttering of 'unlucky 13… unlucky 13'.
The only person that really didn't seem to be acting themselves was Harry, who unfortunately would not take his eyes off Ginny.
My Ginny.
I continually glared as his eyes repeatedly traced her figure with a new interest. Ginny would glance nervously at him and then with pleading eyes over at me. I felt my lips curl into a frown, unable to sure how much longer I could stand it.
Suddenly something threw us off.
"I CAN'T TAKE THIS ANY MORE. HOW UNLUCKY THAT ON OUR FIRST NIGHT BACK TOGETHER WE SHOULD BE OF THE NUMBER 13. THE FIRST TO STAND SHALL SURELY BE THE FIRST TO DIE!" Professor Trewanalery screeched. To her surprise all of the students rose from their seats at that moment. We couldn't help but laugh.
"Than we shall all die together… united!" Ginny cried in protest, causing all of our goblets to clank in cheers, separating the boundary between the Gryffindors and myself. Jason had to stand on the table to reach, as he forced a heavy golden goblet against Fred and George's. However he didn't sit back down. He walked carefully over the settings and up to a very faint looking Professor Trewanalery. Each step he took made a click as his tiny boots hit the table top.
"Why do you say death at thirteen instead of the birth of new life? Maybe the first to stand will be the first to bring a child into this world." His statement caused a bit of nervous laughter. Ginny and I peered at one another with nervous blushing smiles. Hermoine and Ron both turned red to the tips of the ears. Dumbledore smirked.
"A very true statement," he concluded.
"When shall we be expecting the babies," questioned a no longer sober Flitwick, before having another sip of his wine, hiccuping, and then falling off his chair.
***-
Dinner, though immensely entertaining with the occasional outbursts, was strangely stressful. I had to avoid the eyes of nearly everyone in hopes of not making myself seem different in any ways. I could still feel the burn of Draco's lips against mine every time I raised my goblet to take a swallow.
I looked over at Dumbledore for permission before I took off to the woods afterwards. I was scared and excited at the same time. During the last 24 hours my life had changed so dramatically. I searched the sky to be guided by certain constellations.
Mars is bright tonight. Unusually bright.
I spotted the red star and trudged into the forest in that direction. The branches scraped against my arms and legs and the cold wind whipped my cheeks until they turned scarlet. Could I find it? Would I? Would they even be there, or had I been misdirected when they had realized how overly emotional I was? Perhaps if I found them I could start to play the cold stoic type, like Draco had, only showing a empty mask to the outside world. Would Draco even continue to like me after he discovered what I was?
I stopped dead in my tracks thinking over the last question in my head. What if he completely hated me when he found the truth? He might turn his back on me forever, leaving what happened tonight only a very distant memory… no… No… NO!
I hurried forward trying impossibly to erase those thoughts from my mind. Still dashing, I burst into a clearing, with all of them rebuilding their home.
"Ginny, we were expecting you soon," came their hissing whispers.
***-
After watching Ginny race out of the Great Hall, I walked Jason down to the Slythern common room. I let him have the bed across from mine and an extra blanket. He fell asleep nearly the instant he touched the bed. Maybe he knew I had a lot on my mind and needed to be alone.
I stepped out of the dorms and began to pace in the common room. What happened to you Malfoy? For your whole life you've loathed their family, now your more intimately close to one than you've ever been with anyone in your entire life.
I groaned inwardly. A little self punishment wouldn't change how my heart felt about Ginny. I loved her.
And that's final.
I decided that perhaps cursing Potter would make me feel better, more like my old self and pass the time till Ginny came back. Grabbing a large black cloak I made my way noiselessly to the Great Hall hidden mostly in the shadows.
I leaned against the wall as I neared the sniffling Fat Lady. She currently had a cold and was not in the mood to be messed with, so with a dismissive scowl I slid my back down the wall and sat waiting as if simply a part of the night. A minute passed, perhaps an hour, maybe more. I fought back daydreams of passion filled moments intended for Ginny as I rebelled against myself.
Against my heart.
Before I could officially let go and give in to the good, Harry exited the common room.
"You don't really think she's with Malfoy do you?" The emotion in his voice made me laugh. I covered my mouth to help not reveal my hiding place.
"Harry the only reason she would even think of Malfoy for anything is so that she could perhaps hang with Jason… You know she's the youngest in my family and probably liked being with someone younger." Ron was helping Hermoine out of the common room. You obviously don't know your sister very well Ron. Hermoine began to laugh at both of them.
"What if she did like Draco, the slimy git? Is that why we're really out here, to go search for her? For all either of you two know she's in the library teaching her self more stunts like that one she pulled off in the fire place this morning."
"You don't understand." George began from behind them holding a large text book, and sounding knowledgeably and strangely a lot like Hermoine usually did. "The spell she did, was not only far advanced beyond any student at Hogwarts, but if you noticed the whole time her wand was tucked away."
Hermoine blinked twice before responding. "And you spent the day looking all of that up, why?" I noticed Hermoine had changed quite a lot over the summer. Along with a bit of make up came the new attitude.
"Only so we could make wigs that do that so we could sell them at WWW." Came the voice of the other twin, shoving George out of the way.
"World Wide web?" Hermoine questioned.
"No Weasley's Wizard Weazes." They chorused. I had to laugh. I had over heard them talking last year as they left for their house and couldn't help but smirk at the thought of them rebelling against there very mother. Perhaps I am not too different from the Weasleys… What am I saying? Enraged by my very thoughts I cursed Harry so that he could not stand up straight.
The others laughed at first thinking he was trying to be funny and act like a detective bending over to look for clues.
Then with another wave of my wand I had Ron crawling around on the floor as his hound sniffing out the trail. He howled as the others laughed wildly, still simply thinking it was an act. Hermoine let out a squeak and ran in to George as Ron began to stiff her butt.
"Guys quit it. This is really stating to get old now." Hermoine groaned as she sped up her pace running in circles around Fred and George in hopes to keep out of reach of the dog/boy chasing her. I smiled to myself chuckling quietly as I waved my wand to ensure that she would continue running in circles for the next twenty minutes regardless of weather or not Ron was chasing her. Unfortunately George and Fred began to catch on, their eyes searching the dark shadowy corridors for me. I smirked to myself.
One thing that is special about Slytherns is the fact that they are born with the ability to sneak around and not get caught. To throw them off even more I dashed up the stair case across from the portrait that lead all the way to the library and courtyard, then standing up and making each step noticeably loud I hopped down again and right next to them.
"Malfoy! What did you do to them?" My what tempers the Weasley family have.
"Forgive me when I ask, but do what to whom? They look perfectly normal to me." I held back laughter as I looked as if for the first time at the lot of them. "Honestly you give me too much credit, as I was just in the library." Hermoine was just undoing the spell on herself and then the others. Darn!
"Where's cough cough Where's Ginny?" Harry shouted at me.
"I don't know she sped off after dinner and that's the last I've seen of her. Why?"
"Well no duh, she's missing." They really should be nicer to people they are questioning as I know more than they do. I stepped lightly, no longer needing to alert the others of my presence, and moved over to the window. My eyes beheld yet another surprise.
Ginny walked on the other side of the lake beside a Centaur and an Aneth. Most people have never seen an Aneth in their life. Or a Centaur for that matter. I must have cursed wildly at seeing this eye-widening site because Harry and the others rushed over to see what had surprised me so.
"Wh-What exactly is the thing she's talking to?" I smirked at Harry's ignorance. The rest of the group was stuck somewhere between fear and bewilderment. Meanwhile they were rounding the edge of the lake and heading toward the castle. I broke away from the site so that I could be there when they entered.
"Malfoy… Wait!" Harry was producing an invisibility cloak from his robes. Hermoine, who had yelled to me in the first place, looked at me with fearful eyes. "What are you going to do?"
I scowled, nosy lil' Granger Mudbl-no… I would respect Ginny by not calling her friends dirty names.
"I'm doing just what you're about to of course. Which is take a closer look." I glanced one last time at each of them. Harry seemed to have a battle raging in his head.
"Wait Malfoy, you can go with us." I laughed inwardly. I knew the only reasons he wanted me to come were so that he could keep an eye on me and so that I would blow the whole thing.
"That's quite O.K. Potter. You weren't the only one given something important by your father."
That left him even more confused. Truth is father hadn't really given me anything. I had stolen a invisibility amulet from his dark arts storage. I don't usually use it because it takes a long time to catch moonbeams at night to work properly. Quite a distance from him I placed it over my head and hurried up to the great hall. They made quick time and I could hear the footsteps trailing behind me as I silently got to the destination. Ginny hadn't arrived yet, but a round table was set up with the teachers equally placed around it. A couple places had been left for the two creatures and Ginny I supposed.
It was the first time I had truly gotten a good look at the new DADA teacher. Perhaps it was the faded glow of the great hall or the fact that she was no longer in her fancy robes, but I realized all of a sudden that the women was the same one that had barged into my room the other night. The one with the scar. Yes it was so clear now, and I could only expect her to be the best DADA teacher yet as thinking on what her experience in this field must have been.
My thoughts on the professor quickly diminished however when Ginny and the other two walked through the large.
"Ah Firenze, what business do yeh have here?" Hagrid chortled out raising his glass to the centaur. I was reminded of my encounter with it in my first year. Several of the other professors looked miffed at Hagrid's knowledge and greeting of the creature. Dumbledore just smiled and nodded at him.
I shook my own head to try and rid myself of the woozy feeling that was coming over me from the Aneth. She was standing next to Ginny. Her black hair held a hint of silver in it and her tail was poised much like that of a curious cat. Her pointed years were beckoned outward twitching at the slightest noise, and she was dressed completely in suede looking much like a nymph. I could almost hear Hermione whispering about the creature to the less knowledgeable boys hiding under the cloak next to her.
"Ah and what do we have here?" Her cat like voice, all light and mysterious, echoed through my head as she telepathically entered my mind. "How many do we have? I count 6… does that sound right to you, Firenze?"
The centaur looked around and with a barely noticeable smirk on his face he nodded. The Aneth continued. "What about you Ginny? How many do you see?" I watched as Ginny blushed slightly before glancing in my direction. With that she closed her eyes and a whirlwind funneled gently blowing around her hair. She opened her eyes and turned toward the other creatures each in turn. Smiling defiantly she silently added her voice to the voice of the Aneth inside my head.
"There are seven, you missed the care taker standing on a high balcony peering through to the great hall. 8 if you count his cat hiding under the table."
"Bravo Ginny, now Dumbledore, are you aware of those in your surroundings that are not welcoming their own presence."
"I am, Delvi, their presence though not officially requested it is required… You all may come out." Dumbledore gazed about as Potter removed his cloak and I took off the amulet placing it securely in my pocket. Professor McGonagall looked shocked at the least. In fact all of the professors did, accept for the Headmaster and the DADA teacher, who was still glancing over at Firenze and Delvi, the Aneth. "Come forward, we will make room…" Dumbledore knocked 7 times on the table and 7 places were added as it squeaked loudly and enlarged. I looked underneath it and was surprised to see that in truth it had no supports or legs that touched the ground, but instead simply floated. Though my entire life has been spent in the magic, non-muggle world, things like that still surprise me.
I felt a force pulling on me, and I moved my legs toward it only to keep them from being pulled out right beneath me and ending up on my back. I saw Ginny's hand moving in a circular motion almost beckoning me toward her, the direction I was being pulled. I only noticed that it was her pulling on me with that unknown force when I cut off Harry and took the seat next to her. Though now slightly relieved, she still looked incredibly worried. Underneath the table I took her hand to help ensure her.
***-
It's been a hard enough day as is but to add this to the night, why? Well I got there with Delvi and Firenze and noticed the presence of a few others almost instantly. Delvi claimed there were only 6 of them, but sometimes I think she does that simply to test me. To try and see if I am improving. Thank goodness for Draco's hand. I thought that if I hadn't had that to clutch to I would have fainted from a mixture of stress and over exhaustion.
"Well let's get to business." Dumbledore said and Delvi clasped her hands together and as she opened them a tiny ball of light flew out enlarging it's self and becoming more recognizable as a hologram of our universe. I knew almost instantly why. Another explanation of why me over every other human on this Earth. Draco watched with utmost importance, as did the others though they kept shooting me looks of disbelief. Harry seemed to be questioning the need for Draco to be there, but I was thankful he was. It would make my explanation easier to him later.
"I believe most of you know where the constellation of the serpent is in comparison to the constellation of the eagle…" At this statement Dumbledore and Professor Sinestra the astronomy teacher nodded. "There is a star, the Alpha star, and on the exact moment of Virginia Elyse Weasley's birth the star exploded…"
"That's impossible, it's still there as I was just commenting on it's brightness last night.." Professor Sinestra interrupted. Delvi continued on unfazed.
"The star that is seen and is still thought of as the Alpha star is another that was never discovered due to it's location, which is directly in front of it. However any direct foretelling has to be done by the actual stars brightness and phases." Professor Sinestra nodded her head vigorously excited to hear and learn more. Professor Trewanalery looked shocked beyond belief realizing that all of her speakings of the future could possibly be inaccurate. I had to smile as Ron and Harry sent each other mischievous grins as they noticed their fear struck teacher's face. I too had a reason to look forward to the phony teacher's class, remembering how many classes she had patted my shoulder sadly speaking of how the future would hold the death of someone that perhaps would have become more than a friend.
"The effect is not completely known, even by myself or the other…teachers. Yet it is all part of a prophecy called the Order of the Phoenix." I sighed as she had said this. I knew the rest…that my powers would grow as I learned properly to use them, that I was indeed still completely human even with the powers, that I could continue with my life as perfectly un-normal as it was already except the lessons and a few other exceptions…what! What? WHAT?
I barley even noticed as she began to unveil the other exceptions.
"The very point of the Order of the Phoenix is so that the boy who lived, Harry Potter, shall benefit of her protection. Though she will not need to be with him at all times, or sleep in the same room and be with him at all times. There are many things she hasn't even known that will allow her access to him whenever. The ankle bracelet will not come off her ankle until she dies, Harry does, or the dark lord is diminished. We don't intend for either of the first two to happen. The ankle bracelet will act as a portkey allowing her to apparate to his exact location whenever necessary, thus allowing her to live her life, and him to carry on with his." The meeting continued on with a few questions from everyone. It was nice that Delvi was answering them, at this point I was so flustered.
I closed my mind and visualized cool light gray mountains with a gentle steam and several large trees. As I felt the Draco's warm breath on my neck I added it to the dream escape. Briefly Draco whispered to me "I think there should be more trees." I flashed my eyes open but did not look toward him. How had he read into my thoughts like that? I telepathically asked. Pretending to wipe his mouth with his hand and spoke behind it. "I don't know, but I don't think the others caught it. Widen the river too."
"Your not mad are you, I mean you still like me right?" I was so scared I wasn't really certain I wanted to know the answer. This time I was even more surprised as I heard the answer flow coolly though my head but watched as his lips never opened.
"No--- I think it's more than that." I playfully stepped on his foot under the table, and let out a relieved giggle. I was sent several confused stares at this, so I guess that I must not have interrupted at a very good part.
"I think the students are exhausted. They probably can be dismissed." Delvi said to the headmaster who agreed immediately. We stood and walked up the steps and into the halls before I was sent a brief message from Delvi. You big flirt
"Sorry you know how many times I've heard this speech.
Whatever, and your welcome
"Yeah thanks,"
You'd better not be doing anything too bad with that boy.
"Complete invasion of my thoughts is not welcome."
Please, you know that I could send a delightful little message to the Potter boy and then you would respect me.
"Your completely evil, you know that?"
"Now now children, let's not fight." Came the cool and collected voice of Draco, and once again I had to laugh.
See ya Ginny. I gotta finish up here and scram. Good luck with Dragon-boy.
"I heard that!" Draco cried out in fake defense, still not quite use to speaking mentally.
I burst out laughing as did the other Gryffindors not knowing about the whole conversation that had just happened. I sent a goodbye as I watched a show unfold from an embarrassed Draco.
"Shut up Peeves!" He added quick-wittedly as an afterthought. The others began to search the walls and ceiling for sights of Peeves, their laughter quieting. To my surprise Peeves did arrive in all of his glory. Squealing madly he burst through the wall yanking endlessly on poor Nearly Headless Nick's head.
"Foolish students… In corridors. I should tell. A Slythern among Gryffindors. I saw you Malfoy, doing those naughty things with ____" He was cut off as Draco raised his wand and sent a gray cloud of smoke that slammed Peeves through the wall and several corridors down.
"Thanks friend." Nick whispered placing his head back on his shoulders and floating off in the opposite direction that Draco had sent Peeves.
With a quick nod Draco began down the stairs to his dungeon common room. I felt as if part of me went with him, as I really wasn't looking forward to what was about to happen with the others and myself.
"G'night Ginny, I love you," came a faint whisper of his voice through my head.
""G'night Draco, I love you too." What was that? It sounded much like a whoop of excitement from Draco. I let a smile find it's way on to my face.
***-still Ginny's point of view but now back in the common room-
"Ginny, why on Bloody Earth wouldn't you tell us about something like that?" Ron began to harp on me.
"I was sworn to secrecy. I don't tell secrets, even to you." More like especially not to you, I thought to myself as I pictured Draco.
"How long has this been going on, I mean like the training and all?" Harry asked.
"Last summer it became official." I thought back to the day I had been given the bag and it had been explained to me for the first time.
"Do that thing where your hair turns to fire again." Fred commanded. With a heavy sigh my hair burst into flame and I yawned allowing it to change back.
"Can anybody learn how to do some of this stuff?" George asked pulling out parchment and a quill.
"Wait I'm not done questioning you yet." Ron said, looking more than slightly mad.
"Well maybe I'm tired and I am going to bed."
"No Ginny don't yet." Harry cried out with pleading eyes, his hand resting on my shoulder. I brushed it off but reluctantly and sat down crossing my arms defiantly.
George wasn't ready to give Ron the chance yet.
"So you could do that trick with my hair and it wouldn't hurt and it would look the same afterward?" I smiled to myself as Ron glared at his two completely normal seeming brothers. Probably angry that they weren't upset at me at all. I snapped my fingers and the twins' hair lit on fire just as Professor McGonagall stepped through the portrait hole.
She gasped at the twins literally flaming red hair as they smiled and pointed at each other grinning stupidly like two-year-olds. They turned and waved to her and she looked even more close to fainting, so I walked over and blew out the two identical 6 feet tall candles and gave her a reassuring smile.
"The students will be arriving a bit earlier…um tomorrow for their complete safety and I believe there will be several new transfers." When she regained her voice she explained. "Just thought you might like to know. With that she left giving both George and Fred a murderous glance. As she shut the portrait the twins burst out.
"That was great."
"We've got to figure out how to do that."
"Think of spending every transfiguring class with our hair like that."
"Yeah if McGonagall got upset we'd just say we were expressing our 'hot' style."
"OK." Hermione cut in. "That pun was so bad it hurt."
"I'm not done.." Ron began in again but was cut off by me.
"I am. I'm outta here." I picked up my suede bag and headed to the door.
"Where, are you gonna sleep in the forest with the Centaurs and Aneths?" Ron shouted standing in my path. Harry stood up next to him.
"He's right. It's dangerous, Ginny. Stay here."
"We'll follow you where ever you're going, we'll find you Ginny." Ron started up against me again.
"No I really don't think so. Ron you may be older but your not my boss. Maybe I'll go get married to a dragon in the woods and live there for the rest of my life. I don't need to stay right here next to Harry. I've got the bracelet." I pointed down at my ankles. With one last wink to the twins I clicked my heels and stepped right through Harry and Ron leaving them both astounded and dumb struck. With another snap of my fingers I disappeared completely and left. I'm not going to the forest to find my Dragon… I'm going to the Slythern common room.
CHAPTER 7
***-
I checked on Jason momentarily when I returned to the common room. He lay completely asleep clutching his new wand to his chest. His chubby little fingers were wrapped tightly around it. I didn't want to sleep in the dorms to night as I am a restless sleeper who has a hard time with constant reoccurring nightmares of horrid memories of my past, so I headed out with a blanket to the couch. I hadn't but a moment to think when professor McGonagall entered briefly mentioning that the other students would arrive tomorrow as well as a group of new transfers. I know that they will probably be from other schools in fear that any where else they are that they will be in the path of the dark lord. She left and the Bloody Baron entered.
With him I spoke briefly of the troubles with Peeves that I were happening and he happily promised to set Peeves on his track for me. The final knock on the door was Ginny. I opened the door to find her tired and frowning but as she glimpsed my concerned face she smiled, wrapped me in a hug and shut the door behind her.
"You Ok?" I asked gently lifting her up in my arms and carrying her over to the couch that I had been napping on.
"Hard night…Hard day… Hard week… Hard life" She groaned pulling my blanket tighter around her.
"That bad, huh?" I asked pulling her into my arms where I lay. "You want to talk about it?"
"Draco, is secret keeping such a crime, it's not like it was life or death or even close. Why did he have to come down so hard on me for it." She laid her head against my chest, and I realized she was still in her day clothes.
"You can take a shower or a warm bath to get your mind off them." I suggested helping her stand up as she nodded. I directed her to the large dark green tiled bathroom and as she showered I conjured her light blue nightgown that I had seen her wear so many times in the book over summer. She came out wearing only a green towel with my initials on it. I smirked realizing that the Slythern bathroom contained a towel for every Slythern with their initials embroidered on it. I quickly handed her the nightgown as she began to blush and she hurried back into the bathroom to put it on.
She returned once more looking even sleepier but this time smiling a bit.
"Who do you the new arrivals are going to be?" She asked yawning and burying her face into my chest.
"probably Drumstrang and Buexa