Disclaimer: I own nothing
A/N: Thanks for those who reviewed. The chapters will start to get longer and will take more time to post, just as a note. By the way, the song for chapter 2 was not titled Wake me up. It is Bring me to Life. Sorry about that. Also, this story WILL contain spoilers for:
Harry Potter and the Sorceror's[Philospher's for UK] Stone
Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets
Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban
Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire
Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix
OMG! I can't believe I messed up so incredibly! PLEASE forgive me for suddenly changing Hermione's brother to Jeremy. I have changed it back to David here. I am so sorry, it's just, my brother's name is Jeremy and I must have gotten very confused. SORRY! :(
Chapter 4: Back at Hogwarts
"Hermione. Hermione wake up!"
A voice was calling out to her. But it wasn't the same voice she kept hearing in her head. This voice didn't belong to the man she loved. It belonged to...
"Ron?" Hermione sat up in bed, and a wave of nausea passed over her. She kept her head down until it passed. Then she looked up. She wasn't in St. Mungo's as she thought she would end up in. She was back at Grummauld Place. And standing over her was one of her best friends in the world.
"Oh, Hermione! You have no idea how much everyone has been worried about me. Especially me." As he said this last bit, his face flushed as red as his hair. If it was possible, he had grown even taller.
God, he must qualify as a Giant now, she thought. She looked around and found many people staring at her. Ginny was there, along with Mrs. Weasley, Tonks, Lupin, Charlie, and... Snape?! What's he doing here? Almost as if he had read her mind, he said, "I happened to be here for a meeting when we realized you were awakening."
Hermione looked around the room, and sadness fell upon her. If Sirius were alive he'd be there too. Smiling at her with his mischevious grin. Welcoming her with open arms. Laughing his bark like laugh. She blinked tears out of her eyes. Not only was Sirius dead. Her parents were as well. So this is what Harry must feel all the time. Knowing he would never see his parents in person again. But at least she had memories. Most of them were bad. But there were good memories. Harry had nothing but the voices that had, at one point, flooded his brain whenever dementors approached. And that was the sounds of them dying. Hermione was lucky that she had memories. Hermione felt so sorry for everyone who had lost someone. She felt sorry for Harry. For herself. For her brother.
Hermione sat up with a gasp. The people who had been surveying her closely jumped.
"What is it Mione?" Ron, who had been getting her a glass of water, ran up to her side. His eyes were wide open, and he took his hand. She shook it off and got up. She was frantic, searching and searching for something. No one knew what though. Except for GInny. Ginny ran up to her best friend and put her hands on her shoulders. She looked into Hermione's eyes and said softly, "Hermione. David is upstairs. We wouldn't let anything happen to him."
Hermione nodded, glad that she had such a great best friend who knew what was going through her mind. She ran upstairs, opening all the doors, until she opened one and David sat on the bed. He looked at her, and smiled, then looked behind the door and frowned. Hermione was puzzled, until a voice floated from behind the door.
"Uh, Hermione? You mind letting me out from behind here?"
Hermione's heart gave an enormous flutter. It couldn't be. It just couldn't. She stepped in and closed the door. Standing there was none other than Harry James Potter. She paused for one millisecond before flinging herself unto him, and hugging him until he couldn't breath. When he started to struggle she let go.
He grinned his adorable grin and said, "Nice to see you too, Mione." Harry looked back at David, and the grin fell off his face. "Uh, I'll be downstairs," and ran out.
Hermione turned around, and found David glaring at her from on the bed. She was startled by the hate and anger visible in his eyes. He walked over and closed the door, and said, "I hate him."
"Hate who?"
"Harry Bloody Potter that's who!"
Hermione stood with her mouth opening and closing like a fish. When she replied, her remarks were incoherent.
"B-but w-w-w-why? H-h-h-how c-c-c-c-c-"
"Stop it Hermione! You know damn well he's the reason Mum and Dad are dead. Unless you want to blame yourself." David flung himself onto the bed and stared at her. Hermione snapped out of her stupor.
"Don't use that language! You are only 11 years old! And this was not Harry's fault. It was Voldemort's! So don't you dare get mad at him."
David stared at her and said, "Okay I see where you are coming from. But think about it. If Harry hadn't been best friends with you, or the other way around, Mum and Dad would still be alive! But I must admit Voldemort is the main reason. Hermione, if Harry doesn't get to that son of a bitch first, I'll kill him when I go to that school of yours and learn all I need to learn."
Hermione had almost forgotten. David had gotten his letter when Hermione's had come. David would be joining them at Hogwarts.
"But I am NOT ready to forgive Harry entirely yet. Though he was a good fellow coming up here to apologize. He didn't have to." David was talking but Hermione was thinking. It would be her 6th year at Howgarts. What would it bring? What would happen that could possibly top all that's happened all ready? Still wondering, she walked downstairs with her brother.
* * *
In what seemed like no time at all, the Golden Trio and their companions were on their way to Hogwarts. Ron and Hermione sat with the prefects on the train for a while and then walked to the compartment where Ginny, Neville, Luna, Harry, and David sat. David and Ginny were conversing by the door, and Neville and Luna sat together reading the Quibbler. Harry sat by the window, watching the scenery fly by. Hermione sat next to him, but, sensing that he didn't want to speak, she remained silent.
When they arrived, Hogwarts looked so amazing. It was a splendid relief for Hermione. Until she realized a pair of cold eyes were staring at her. She looked into them and knew whose they were. And she could hear the voice that had been haunting her.
"You know, you'd be pretty bloody gorgeous. If you weren't...."
"Hermione! C'mon!" Harry was pulling her arm and she shook her head of those thoughts. It was impossible to imagine. Her, Hermione Granger, falling for Draco Malfoy? The same bastard who had beaten her and put her into a 5 day coma? Impossible. The voice that haunted her was Harry's. She loved Harry. Even if he didn't love her. She smiled at Harry and got into the carriage with him and Ron.
* * *
Draco stared at the carriage she had gotten into. Damn that girl. Damn her for all the trouble she had ever caused. Damn her for being beautiful. Draco admitted freely that she was beautiful. She was. It was no wonder Ron had loved her since first year. And it was equally true that she was smart. And brave. But she wasn't worth shit in Draco's eyes. He turned and smirked at her brother David. He wondered if he would recognize him. Sure, Draco had had a mask on. But so did the rest of the Death Eaters, and he knew who most of them had been.
David surveyed Draco, and then walked up to him. Ignoring the silence that fell around the two, he whispered to Draco, "I know it was you. I know you were one of them."
Draco was shaken for a bit. Then he retorted, "Prove it." David's face contorted with fury, and then his face was calm. A smile spread across it and slowly transformed into a Malfoy smirk. David then narrowed his eyes and walked past, purposely bumping into Draco. As he did, David said, "Better watch your back."
Draco stood still for a moment, then called out, "I wonder if he'll be as much of a foul Mudblood as his slut sister.
David stopped walking towards the boats, turned, and ran full force towards Draco. Draco's breath left him as he felt David's fist in his stomach. The two rolled on the ground. David was on top of Draco, punching his face over and over. Draco got a right hook to the jaw and threw David onto the ground. Just as Draco raised his hand again, two huge hands pulled them apart.
"Alrigh' now! There ain't gon' be none o' that, ya hear?" Rubeus pulled them apart and dragged David off to the boats. "You ought ter know better than 'at, David." David shrugged Hagrid off and replied heatedly, "I know who he is Hagrid! He's ONE OF THEM!"
Hagrid looked him squarely in the eye. "Draco is just as bad as 'is father. But we don't know if he's one of 'em yet, so keep yer knickers outta a bunch."
David said, "I know it was him! The idiot took his mask off just as they Stunned me. And yes, I know what happened to me," he said to Hagrid's surprised look. "Hermione's been teaching me ever since I showed magical talent. Told me everything I needed to know. Just cause she kept it a secret from you that I was going to Hogwarts doesn't mean she didn't know. Look, it was him! I can remember every detail of his face! He had these silver eyes that cut right through you, and he was pale, with a pointed face. And he had platinum blonde hair that was almost white! Listen Hagrid, I know it was- Hagrid? What's wrong?"
Hagrid's mouth had dropped open in surprise. He started to back away, unsure of what to say or do. For some strange inexplicable reason, Draco Malfoy was standing in front of him, in the same place where David had stood. But it couldn't be Draco. Hagrid could still see him from where he stood. The real Draco was staring at them, and was pushed by Pansy to get into a carriage.
Hagrid looked back in forth between the two and was startled when the fake Draco touched his arm.
"Hagrid," he said in David's voice, "What's wrong?"
"Wha' the hell do ya mean, wha's wrong? Ya look like bloody Draco! I mean, how did ye get a hold o' sum Polyjuice Potion? An' when did ya take a drink o' it! I was watchin' ya the whole time!!!"
"Hagrid, what are you going on about? How can I look like Draco? And what is Polyjuice Potion? Honestly Hagrid, you should lie down."
Hagrid reached inside his pockets and pulled out a small mirror and handed it to Draco. Draco took it and a loud gasp escaped from Draco. He screwed his face up tight and slowly transformed back into David. Hagrid was still staring waiting for an explanation. The first years were staring too. They had all gathered to be taken to the castle, but did not seem to have heard anything of their conversation. They were all staring at David.
"All righ' then. Let's get a move on. Hurry up, we ain't gots all day." Hagrid herded them all into boats. David sat in a boat with 2 girls and another boy. They were all looking at him like he was a freak. David sat looking at the water and at Hogwarts. Man, he thought, I didn't realize I was changing. But you would think in the magical world they'd be used to something like this. There must be loads of people who can change their appearance in the magical world. Right? Right, he answered himself. I'm no different from anyone else here. But how very wrong David turned out to be.
* * *
Professor McGonagall sat the Sorting Hat atop the stool and stood back. The first years looked apphrensive about it. The whole school was staring at the new blood and each child wondered what they were getting into. Suddenly, the Sorting Hat sprang to life, and the first years listened as though their lives depended on it.
A thousand years or more ago,
This hat first came to rest,
Upon the heads of all new children,
And see which house fit them best.
But just last year I took it upon myself,
To warn you of nearing danger.
We must take after dear Ron Weasley,
And intelligent Ms. Granger.
And better yet, brave Potter,
Who's proved himself every year,
Like these three we must band together,
To protect the school we hold so dear.
So when I sort you into these houses,
Think not of which you hate,
Think dearly of our prized school,
And honor those of late.
Let us honor Cedric,
Who died brave in battle.
If he were here and he knew of the war,
It'd be a task he'd most willingly tackle.
The second war is here,
Please remember those like Sirius Black,
For this year is the year:
There is no turning back.
The Hall broke into applause, and for a second it seemed as though the Slytherins were clapping and smiling at other houses as well. But one look from Draco, Slytherin Prince, and they fell silent, glaring at the people they were told to hate.
David, standing there, did not know that, from a certain angle, he was the spitting image of a very young Tom Riddle. But Albus Dumbledore noticed. Jeremy looked around for his sister, but she was talking to Ron and Harry. No doubt talking about why their names had been mentioned in the Sorting Hat's song. Harry had a most unhappy look on his face, and Jeremy noticed that many people were vying for Harry's attention, convinced once more that he was not the lunatic they had all accused him of, but a hero. Harry was having none of it however. He might get David's respect yet.
"Granger, David!"
David snapped to attention as his name was called, and proceeded up to the Sorting Hat. As it was placed atop his head, he noticed several people looking between him and his sister. David felt his blood boil. He did not want to be known as his sister's brother. He wanted to make a name for himself. He didn't need his sister to command respect. And respect was something David valued most.
"Ahh, and already I can see into your mind."
David was startled to hear the Hat speak.
"Now, now, no need to be alarmed. I am here to see which House would best suit you David. But indeed, where should I put you. You are brave, yes, with plenty of courage. Seeing injustice angers you, does it not? And you are clever, just as clever as your sister, if not more so. Why, that gives us 3 options, of Ravenclaw, Hufflepuff, or Gryffindor. But wait. I see ambition and a thirst to prove yourself dominate you at times. You want people's respect very much, don't you David? I have a question for you then. David, how far would you go to command people's respect?"
David sat there for about 10 seconds, and then replied, "To the ends of the earth."
The Sorting Hat sighed. "You have so many qualities that resemble that of a student that was here long ago. He was the most brilliant student that ever came to Hogwarts. And he was tired of being walked over too. He was tired of being looked down upon. And he went on to do many great things. Horrible things, yes. But great. So here I am faced with a dilemma. Gryffindor or Slytherin. Under normal circumstances I'd place you in the house you truly belong to. But I don't think that that house would tolerate a muggle-born in their midst. But that is not the real reason for which I hesitate to place you there. No doubt you could overcome those people. You are stronger than them. But I hesitate, because I fear for your future. You know the student I just told you about? His name was Tom Riddle. Tom Marvolo Riddle. Now, you memorize that name, and tonight, I want you to decipher it."
"Decipher it?" David asked.
"Yes. You can find out what he turned into by looking at his name. David, I do not want to put you into Slytherin... because I am afraid that you will turn into Tom. That with the Dark influences coming from that house, you will be just like Tom. You are basically half and half. A coin toss if you will. You could be Gryffindor. Or Slytherin. You'd be happy in either one. I am asking you, David, to choose."
David sat there. "You are afraid I will turn into Lord Voldemort?"
The Hat chuckled. "Yes, you are very clever. Did your sister tell you about Tom?
"Why d'you think I need my sister to tell me everything? I am perfectly capable of taking care of myself. And besides, its all that damn Potter's fault my parents died." Tears began to well up in David's eyes, burning there, but he did not wipe them away. He whispered, "I never got the chance to tell them I loved them."
"David, it was nobodt's fault but Lord Voldemort's that your parents died. You could become such a great wizard. You can do things that would rid the world of injustice. Harry never wanted his parents dead. That's what he's famous for. Would you like to famous for your parents' deaths?"
"No. No I wouldn't. Maybe I could learn more about the Dark Arts than Voldemort, and then I could destroy him. Yes, that's what I can do. I'll become a Slytherin and use Voldemort's own Dark Arts against him."
"That never works out David," the Hat said quietly. "Many wizards have done so, only to be killed by others. Choose David. And choose wisely. This could change your entire life."
David sat there, tears rolling down his cheeks, as he thought of his parents. His heart filled with anger. Then he thought of his sister. The one thing he had left in the world. And the anger was replaced with love as he thought of what his sister would say if he was in Slytherin. And he made his decision.
"Well then," the Hat sighed, "Better be... GRYFFINDOR!"
The Hall filled with cheering but the Hat did not leave David's head. It whispered in his ear, "But always remember: You are a true Slytherin." And as these words were spoken, a necklace was placed around Jeremy's neck, and a dagger found its way to his robe's sleeve. For some strange reason, the Sorting Hat had given David gifts.
David walked over to Gryffindor table and sat near his sister. It would be far to dangerous to look at them now. He slid the dagger to his pocket, and was forced to wait until that night to examine it and the necklace hidden under his robe.
* * *
The feast was delicious, and the speech by Dumbledore was encouraging and heart-warming. But David heard none of it. He couldn't wait to get to Gryffindor tower. But as he was exiting, after recieving a huge hug from his sister, he was asked to meet Professor McGonogall in her office. When he arrived, Professor McGonogall was sitting in her chair, and Headmaster Dumbledore was standing next to her.
"Please," Dumbledore said, "Sit."
David sat, nervously fingering the necklace on his neck. Dumbledore watched him curiously, and David stopped.
"It has come to our attention that you are a Metamorphmagus." McGonogall said.
David said with a raised eyebrow, "Bless you."
McGonogall raised an eyebrow as well, while Dumbledore chuckled. He said, "A Metamorphmagus."
David stared for a moment and replied, "I'm sorry, I'm not sure I'm following you. What is a Meta-MightyMorphin-Mutant-whatever it was?"
Dumbledore said in his calming voice, "A Metamorphmagus is someone who can change their appearance at their will. This is incredibly rare, as they are born, not made. They are as rare as Parselmouths. We've only had 3 of those in the whole history of Hogwarts."
"Oh yeah, Voldemort, Harry, and Slytherin himself?" At their nods David continued, "Well what if I were to tell you that I was one too?" Professor McGonogall's reaction was very elaborate. She gasped and spilled her tea on the desk. Dumbledore smiled and cleaned it up. "Well," Dumbledore said, "We'd think it highly phenomonal...if it were true." At David's smirk, he continued. "Well then David, it'd be best if you went to bed. The password, I believe, is Angelo Cadere. Wait a moment David. I think I will walk with you."[A/N: You didn't really think I'd make him a Parselmouth as well as a Metamorphmagus? That would be a bit much. ;) ]
* * *
On the way to Gryffindor Tower, Dumbledore and David talked of many things, ranging from Quidditch, which David found highly interesting, to school subjects. For David, it was a confusing feeling. It was as if he had found an old friend he had forgotten about. As Dumbledore bid him goodnight, David remembered the necklace and dagger. He raced up to his dormitory and sat on his bed, which was illuminated by the moonlight.
The chain was of fine silver, and felt so delicate in David's hands. The pendant itself was also silver. It was of a snake and a dragon, encoiled together in bonds of friendship. The eyes of both were emeralds, and the scales were peppered with emerald chips. To David's surprise, he also found a bracelet and a ring in his pocket. "What the hell?" David thought. "Does the Sorting Hat always give out tons of jewelry? It's like a fucking gift shop." The bracelet was a snake in a Celtic fashion, eating its own tail. The ring was alike, except of an Oriental dragon eating its tail. The dagger shined ominously in the moonlight. It's handle had solid emeralds on it, and the blade was incredibly sharp. Indeed, David cut his finger on it. But blood never bothered him. What captivated his attention was the engraving on the dagger. Salazar Slytherin.
David looked at all the articles of jewelry and discovered the same name engraved on them all. Salazar Slytherin. So why did I get all this, David wondered. Then he thought of the Sorting Hat's words. "You are a true Slytherin." David looked at it all before putting the jewelry on. The ring fit his right ring finger perfectly, and the necklace settled nicely on his chest. He looked at the dagger and carefully wrapped it in an emerald green cloth. Then he gently but it in his boot. He would make a compartment for it in the boot tomorrow, so that he would be ready when the time came to use it.
But why, David wondered, did David know he would use it one day? Thinking about everything he had found out about himself that day, David was puzzled. How could he be David, and at the same time, not know who he was at all? And on this question David slept, unawares that his every move would be watched from this day forward.
A/N: Didja like it? I spent hours on it just for you all. What surprises me is that this chapter is longer than the last two chapters combined! OMG its like 1:20. Im gonna upload it then head off to bed. And sorry about all the jewelry. I got really caught up in the idea. ;) Don't worry they will all serve a different magical purpose. ARGH! Fanfiction.net is not working today! I can't upload! After hours of work! Screw this I'm going to sleep. O wait, if someone can correctly say the meaning of Angelo Cadere, and if they are the first to put this into a REVIEW, then they will get a sneak peek of the next chapter. I'll probably do this with every other chapter, or when I feel the chapter needs a bit of reviewing before I upload it.
A/N: Thanks for those who reviewed. The chapters will start to get longer and will take more time to post, just as a note. By the way, the song for chapter 2 was not titled Wake me up. It is Bring me to Life. Sorry about that. Also, this story WILL contain spoilers for:
Harry Potter and the Sorceror's[Philospher's for UK] Stone
Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets
Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban
Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire
Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix
OMG! I can't believe I messed up so incredibly! PLEASE forgive me for suddenly changing Hermione's brother to Jeremy. I have changed it back to David here. I am so sorry, it's just, my brother's name is Jeremy and I must have gotten very confused. SORRY! :(
Chapter 4: Back at Hogwarts
"Hermione. Hermione wake up!"
A voice was calling out to her. But it wasn't the same voice she kept hearing in her head. This voice didn't belong to the man she loved. It belonged to...
"Ron?" Hermione sat up in bed, and a wave of nausea passed over her. She kept her head down until it passed. Then she looked up. She wasn't in St. Mungo's as she thought she would end up in. She was back at Grummauld Place. And standing over her was one of her best friends in the world.
"Oh, Hermione! You have no idea how much everyone has been worried about me. Especially me." As he said this last bit, his face flushed as red as his hair. If it was possible, he had grown even taller.
God, he must qualify as a Giant now, she thought. She looked around and found many people staring at her. Ginny was there, along with Mrs. Weasley, Tonks, Lupin, Charlie, and... Snape?! What's he doing here? Almost as if he had read her mind, he said, "I happened to be here for a meeting when we realized you were awakening."
Hermione looked around the room, and sadness fell upon her. If Sirius were alive he'd be there too. Smiling at her with his mischevious grin. Welcoming her with open arms. Laughing his bark like laugh. She blinked tears out of her eyes. Not only was Sirius dead. Her parents were as well. So this is what Harry must feel all the time. Knowing he would never see his parents in person again. But at least she had memories. Most of them were bad. But there were good memories. Harry had nothing but the voices that had, at one point, flooded his brain whenever dementors approached. And that was the sounds of them dying. Hermione was lucky that she had memories. Hermione felt so sorry for everyone who had lost someone. She felt sorry for Harry. For herself. For her brother.
Hermione sat up with a gasp. The people who had been surveying her closely jumped.
"What is it Mione?" Ron, who had been getting her a glass of water, ran up to her side. His eyes were wide open, and he took his hand. She shook it off and got up. She was frantic, searching and searching for something. No one knew what though. Except for GInny. Ginny ran up to her best friend and put her hands on her shoulders. She looked into Hermione's eyes and said softly, "Hermione. David is upstairs. We wouldn't let anything happen to him."
Hermione nodded, glad that she had such a great best friend who knew what was going through her mind. She ran upstairs, opening all the doors, until she opened one and David sat on the bed. He looked at her, and smiled, then looked behind the door and frowned. Hermione was puzzled, until a voice floated from behind the door.
"Uh, Hermione? You mind letting me out from behind here?"
Hermione's heart gave an enormous flutter. It couldn't be. It just couldn't. She stepped in and closed the door. Standing there was none other than Harry James Potter. She paused for one millisecond before flinging herself unto him, and hugging him until he couldn't breath. When he started to struggle she let go.
He grinned his adorable grin and said, "Nice to see you too, Mione." Harry looked back at David, and the grin fell off his face. "Uh, I'll be downstairs," and ran out.
Hermione turned around, and found David glaring at her from on the bed. She was startled by the hate and anger visible in his eyes. He walked over and closed the door, and said, "I hate him."
"Hate who?"
"Harry Bloody Potter that's who!"
Hermione stood with her mouth opening and closing like a fish. When she replied, her remarks were incoherent.
"B-but w-w-w-why? H-h-h-how c-c-c-c-c-"
"Stop it Hermione! You know damn well he's the reason Mum and Dad are dead. Unless you want to blame yourself." David flung himself onto the bed and stared at her. Hermione snapped out of her stupor.
"Don't use that language! You are only 11 years old! And this was not Harry's fault. It was Voldemort's! So don't you dare get mad at him."
David stared at her and said, "Okay I see where you are coming from. But think about it. If Harry hadn't been best friends with you, or the other way around, Mum and Dad would still be alive! But I must admit Voldemort is the main reason. Hermione, if Harry doesn't get to that son of a bitch first, I'll kill him when I go to that school of yours and learn all I need to learn."
Hermione had almost forgotten. David had gotten his letter when Hermione's had come. David would be joining them at Hogwarts.
"But I am NOT ready to forgive Harry entirely yet. Though he was a good fellow coming up here to apologize. He didn't have to." David was talking but Hermione was thinking. It would be her 6th year at Howgarts. What would it bring? What would happen that could possibly top all that's happened all ready? Still wondering, she walked downstairs with her brother.
* * *
In what seemed like no time at all, the Golden Trio and their companions were on their way to Hogwarts. Ron and Hermione sat with the prefects on the train for a while and then walked to the compartment where Ginny, Neville, Luna, Harry, and David sat. David and Ginny were conversing by the door, and Neville and Luna sat together reading the Quibbler. Harry sat by the window, watching the scenery fly by. Hermione sat next to him, but, sensing that he didn't want to speak, she remained silent.
When they arrived, Hogwarts looked so amazing. It was a splendid relief for Hermione. Until she realized a pair of cold eyes were staring at her. She looked into them and knew whose they were. And she could hear the voice that had been haunting her.
"You know, you'd be pretty bloody gorgeous. If you weren't...."
"Hermione! C'mon!" Harry was pulling her arm and she shook her head of those thoughts. It was impossible to imagine. Her, Hermione Granger, falling for Draco Malfoy? The same bastard who had beaten her and put her into a 5 day coma? Impossible. The voice that haunted her was Harry's. She loved Harry. Even if he didn't love her. She smiled at Harry and got into the carriage with him and Ron.
* * *
Draco stared at the carriage she had gotten into. Damn that girl. Damn her for all the trouble she had ever caused. Damn her for being beautiful. Draco admitted freely that she was beautiful. She was. It was no wonder Ron had loved her since first year. And it was equally true that she was smart. And brave. But she wasn't worth shit in Draco's eyes. He turned and smirked at her brother David. He wondered if he would recognize him. Sure, Draco had had a mask on. But so did the rest of the Death Eaters, and he knew who most of them had been.
David surveyed Draco, and then walked up to him. Ignoring the silence that fell around the two, he whispered to Draco, "I know it was you. I know you were one of them."
Draco was shaken for a bit. Then he retorted, "Prove it." David's face contorted with fury, and then his face was calm. A smile spread across it and slowly transformed into a Malfoy smirk. David then narrowed his eyes and walked past, purposely bumping into Draco. As he did, David said, "Better watch your back."
Draco stood still for a moment, then called out, "I wonder if he'll be as much of a foul Mudblood as his slut sister.
David stopped walking towards the boats, turned, and ran full force towards Draco. Draco's breath left him as he felt David's fist in his stomach. The two rolled on the ground. David was on top of Draco, punching his face over and over. Draco got a right hook to the jaw and threw David onto the ground. Just as Draco raised his hand again, two huge hands pulled them apart.
"Alrigh' now! There ain't gon' be none o' that, ya hear?" Rubeus pulled them apart and dragged David off to the boats. "You ought ter know better than 'at, David." David shrugged Hagrid off and replied heatedly, "I know who he is Hagrid! He's ONE OF THEM!"
Hagrid looked him squarely in the eye. "Draco is just as bad as 'is father. But we don't know if he's one of 'em yet, so keep yer knickers outta a bunch."
David said, "I know it was him! The idiot took his mask off just as they Stunned me. And yes, I know what happened to me," he said to Hagrid's surprised look. "Hermione's been teaching me ever since I showed magical talent. Told me everything I needed to know. Just cause she kept it a secret from you that I was going to Hogwarts doesn't mean she didn't know. Look, it was him! I can remember every detail of his face! He had these silver eyes that cut right through you, and he was pale, with a pointed face. And he had platinum blonde hair that was almost white! Listen Hagrid, I know it was- Hagrid? What's wrong?"
Hagrid's mouth had dropped open in surprise. He started to back away, unsure of what to say or do. For some strange inexplicable reason, Draco Malfoy was standing in front of him, in the same place where David had stood. But it couldn't be Draco. Hagrid could still see him from where he stood. The real Draco was staring at them, and was pushed by Pansy to get into a carriage.
Hagrid looked back in forth between the two and was startled when the fake Draco touched his arm.
"Hagrid," he said in David's voice, "What's wrong?"
"Wha' the hell do ya mean, wha's wrong? Ya look like bloody Draco! I mean, how did ye get a hold o' sum Polyjuice Potion? An' when did ya take a drink o' it! I was watchin' ya the whole time!!!"
"Hagrid, what are you going on about? How can I look like Draco? And what is Polyjuice Potion? Honestly Hagrid, you should lie down."
Hagrid reached inside his pockets and pulled out a small mirror and handed it to Draco. Draco took it and a loud gasp escaped from Draco. He screwed his face up tight and slowly transformed back into David. Hagrid was still staring waiting for an explanation. The first years were staring too. They had all gathered to be taken to the castle, but did not seem to have heard anything of their conversation. They were all staring at David.
"All righ' then. Let's get a move on. Hurry up, we ain't gots all day." Hagrid herded them all into boats. David sat in a boat with 2 girls and another boy. They were all looking at him like he was a freak. David sat looking at the water and at Hogwarts. Man, he thought, I didn't realize I was changing. But you would think in the magical world they'd be used to something like this. There must be loads of people who can change their appearance in the magical world. Right? Right, he answered himself. I'm no different from anyone else here. But how very wrong David turned out to be.
* * *
Professor McGonagall sat the Sorting Hat atop the stool and stood back. The first years looked apphrensive about it. The whole school was staring at the new blood and each child wondered what they were getting into. Suddenly, the Sorting Hat sprang to life, and the first years listened as though their lives depended on it.
A thousand years or more ago,
This hat first came to rest,
Upon the heads of all new children,
And see which house fit them best.
But just last year I took it upon myself,
To warn you of nearing danger.
We must take after dear Ron Weasley,
And intelligent Ms. Granger.
And better yet, brave Potter,
Who's proved himself every year,
Like these three we must band together,
To protect the school we hold so dear.
So when I sort you into these houses,
Think not of which you hate,
Think dearly of our prized school,
And honor those of late.
Let us honor Cedric,
Who died brave in battle.
If he were here and he knew of the war,
It'd be a task he'd most willingly tackle.
The second war is here,
Please remember those like Sirius Black,
For this year is the year:
There is no turning back.
The Hall broke into applause, and for a second it seemed as though the Slytherins were clapping and smiling at other houses as well. But one look from Draco, Slytherin Prince, and they fell silent, glaring at the people they were told to hate.
David, standing there, did not know that, from a certain angle, he was the spitting image of a very young Tom Riddle. But Albus Dumbledore noticed. Jeremy looked around for his sister, but she was talking to Ron and Harry. No doubt talking about why their names had been mentioned in the Sorting Hat's song. Harry had a most unhappy look on his face, and Jeremy noticed that many people were vying for Harry's attention, convinced once more that he was not the lunatic they had all accused him of, but a hero. Harry was having none of it however. He might get David's respect yet.
"Granger, David!"
David snapped to attention as his name was called, and proceeded up to the Sorting Hat. As it was placed atop his head, he noticed several people looking between him and his sister. David felt his blood boil. He did not want to be known as his sister's brother. He wanted to make a name for himself. He didn't need his sister to command respect. And respect was something David valued most.
"Ahh, and already I can see into your mind."
David was startled to hear the Hat speak.
"Now, now, no need to be alarmed. I am here to see which House would best suit you David. But indeed, where should I put you. You are brave, yes, with plenty of courage. Seeing injustice angers you, does it not? And you are clever, just as clever as your sister, if not more so. Why, that gives us 3 options, of Ravenclaw, Hufflepuff, or Gryffindor. But wait. I see ambition and a thirst to prove yourself dominate you at times. You want people's respect very much, don't you David? I have a question for you then. David, how far would you go to command people's respect?"
David sat there for about 10 seconds, and then replied, "To the ends of the earth."
The Sorting Hat sighed. "You have so many qualities that resemble that of a student that was here long ago. He was the most brilliant student that ever came to Hogwarts. And he was tired of being walked over too. He was tired of being looked down upon. And he went on to do many great things. Horrible things, yes. But great. So here I am faced with a dilemma. Gryffindor or Slytherin. Under normal circumstances I'd place you in the house you truly belong to. But I don't think that that house would tolerate a muggle-born in their midst. But that is not the real reason for which I hesitate to place you there. No doubt you could overcome those people. You are stronger than them. But I hesitate, because I fear for your future. You know the student I just told you about? His name was Tom Riddle. Tom Marvolo Riddle. Now, you memorize that name, and tonight, I want you to decipher it."
"Decipher it?" David asked.
"Yes. You can find out what he turned into by looking at his name. David, I do not want to put you into Slytherin... because I am afraid that you will turn into Tom. That with the Dark influences coming from that house, you will be just like Tom. You are basically half and half. A coin toss if you will. You could be Gryffindor. Or Slytherin. You'd be happy in either one. I am asking you, David, to choose."
David sat there. "You are afraid I will turn into Lord Voldemort?"
The Hat chuckled. "Yes, you are very clever. Did your sister tell you about Tom?
"Why d'you think I need my sister to tell me everything? I am perfectly capable of taking care of myself. And besides, its all that damn Potter's fault my parents died." Tears began to well up in David's eyes, burning there, but he did not wipe them away. He whispered, "I never got the chance to tell them I loved them."
"David, it was nobodt's fault but Lord Voldemort's that your parents died. You could become such a great wizard. You can do things that would rid the world of injustice. Harry never wanted his parents dead. That's what he's famous for. Would you like to famous for your parents' deaths?"
"No. No I wouldn't. Maybe I could learn more about the Dark Arts than Voldemort, and then I could destroy him. Yes, that's what I can do. I'll become a Slytherin and use Voldemort's own Dark Arts against him."
"That never works out David," the Hat said quietly. "Many wizards have done so, only to be killed by others. Choose David. And choose wisely. This could change your entire life."
David sat there, tears rolling down his cheeks, as he thought of his parents. His heart filled with anger. Then he thought of his sister. The one thing he had left in the world. And the anger was replaced with love as he thought of what his sister would say if he was in Slytherin. And he made his decision.
"Well then," the Hat sighed, "Better be... GRYFFINDOR!"
The Hall filled with cheering but the Hat did not leave David's head. It whispered in his ear, "But always remember: You are a true Slytherin." And as these words were spoken, a necklace was placed around Jeremy's neck, and a dagger found its way to his robe's sleeve. For some strange reason, the Sorting Hat had given David gifts.
David walked over to Gryffindor table and sat near his sister. It would be far to dangerous to look at them now. He slid the dagger to his pocket, and was forced to wait until that night to examine it and the necklace hidden under his robe.
* * *
The feast was delicious, and the speech by Dumbledore was encouraging and heart-warming. But David heard none of it. He couldn't wait to get to Gryffindor tower. But as he was exiting, after recieving a huge hug from his sister, he was asked to meet Professor McGonogall in her office. When he arrived, Professor McGonogall was sitting in her chair, and Headmaster Dumbledore was standing next to her.
"Please," Dumbledore said, "Sit."
David sat, nervously fingering the necklace on his neck. Dumbledore watched him curiously, and David stopped.
"It has come to our attention that you are a Metamorphmagus." McGonogall said.
David said with a raised eyebrow, "Bless you."
McGonogall raised an eyebrow as well, while Dumbledore chuckled. He said, "A Metamorphmagus."
David stared for a moment and replied, "I'm sorry, I'm not sure I'm following you. What is a Meta-MightyMorphin-Mutant-whatever it was?"
Dumbledore said in his calming voice, "A Metamorphmagus is someone who can change their appearance at their will. This is incredibly rare, as they are born, not made. They are as rare as Parselmouths. We've only had 3 of those in the whole history of Hogwarts."
"Oh yeah, Voldemort, Harry, and Slytherin himself?" At their nods David continued, "Well what if I were to tell you that I was one too?" Professor McGonogall's reaction was very elaborate. She gasped and spilled her tea on the desk. Dumbledore smiled and cleaned it up. "Well," Dumbledore said, "We'd think it highly phenomonal...if it were true." At David's smirk, he continued. "Well then David, it'd be best if you went to bed. The password, I believe, is Angelo Cadere. Wait a moment David. I think I will walk with you."[A/N: You didn't really think I'd make him a Parselmouth as well as a Metamorphmagus? That would be a bit much. ;) ]
* * *
On the way to Gryffindor Tower, Dumbledore and David talked of many things, ranging from Quidditch, which David found highly interesting, to school subjects. For David, it was a confusing feeling. It was as if he had found an old friend he had forgotten about. As Dumbledore bid him goodnight, David remembered the necklace and dagger. He raced up to his dormitory and sat on his bed, which was illuminated by the moonlight.
The chain was of fine silver, and felt so delicate in David's hands. The pendant itself was also silver. It was of a snake and a dragon, encoiled together in bonds of friendship. The eyes of both were emeralds, and the scales were peppered with emerald chips. To David's surprise, he also found a bracelet and a ring in his pocket. "What the hell?" David thought. "Does the Sorting Hat always give out tons of jewelry? It's like a fucking gift shop." The bracelet was a snake in a Celtic fashion, eating its own tail. The ring was alike, except of an Oriental dragon eating its tail. The dagger shined ominously in the moonlight. It's handle had solid emeralds on it, and the blade was incredibly sharp. Indeed, David cut his finger on it. But blood never bothered him. What captivated his attention was the engraving on the dagger. Salazar Slytherin.
David looked at all the articles of jewelry and discovered the same name engraved on them all. Salazar Slytherin. So why did I get all this, David wondered. Then he thought of the Sorting Hat's words. "You are a true Slytherin." David looked at it all before putting the jewelry on. The ring fit his right ring finger perfectly, and the necklace settled nicely on his chest. He looked at the dagger and carefully wrapped it in an emerald green cloth. Then he gently but it in his boot. He would make a compartment for it in the boot tomorrow, so that he would be ready when the time came to use it.
But why, David wondered, did David know he would use it one day? Thinking about everything he had found out about himself that day, David was puzzled. How could he be David, and at the same time, not know who he was at all? And on this question David slept, unawares that his every move would be watched from this day forward.
A/N: Didja like it? I spent hours on it just for you all. What surprises me is that this chapter is longer than the last two chapters combined! OMG its like 1:20. Im gonna upload it then head off to bed. And sorry about all the jewelry. I got really caught up in the idea. ;) Don't worry they will all serve a different magical purpose. ARGH! Fanfiction.net is not working today! I can't upload! After hours of work! Screw this I'm going to sleep. O wait, if someone can correctly say the meaning of Angelo Cadere, and if they are the first to put this into a REVIEW, then they will get a sneak peek of the next chapter. I'll probably do this with every other chapter, or when I feel the chapter needs a bit of reviewing before I upload it.
