Shattered
by Adriana
trixielou60@hotmail.com
Disclaimer: Rated R for language and sexual situations. Just thought I'd remind you.
*********************************
turn out the light
just say goodnight,
to yourself
may I remind you
when you find
you're all alone is
when you've
got to be strong
cause that's when
they call you,
in the night
he's got your
picture in his mind
he's got your number
on a paper at his
disposal anytime
From the song, "Save Yourself" by Sense Field
************************************
Chapter 13: Save
Albus adjusted his spectacles and made note of the expectant faces peering at him from around the room. Everybody was present for the meeting, except for Severus, who was still recovering from the effects of the poison. He fervently hoped that this gathering would go better than the last one. He chuckled to himself, remembering Hermione bolting from the room with Severus hot on her heels. Who would have thought that Hermione Granger, of all people, could produce such an unexpected reaction in his Potions Master? While, in many ways, Severus was still a mystery to the Headmaster, one thing was obvious. He had deep feelings for the girl, no matter how hard he tried to hide them.
"Albus. You're daydreaming again," said Minerva accusingly. "Are we going to have this meeting or not?"
"Trust you to cut to the chase, my dear," said Albus. He looked at them from above his crescent lenses. "By now, you all know about Taryn Butler. As Mr. Weasley here, has been in charge of security, I'll let him fill you in on what's going on."
Ron cleared his throat nervously and his freckles seemed to stand out even more than usual. He had been a little apprehensive about coming to this meeting and facing Severus Snape, but to his relief, their confrontation would have to wait for another day. "Butler has been in interrogation all night with Ministry aurors, and they were very successful in obtaining vital information from her," he announced.
"You mean, she was very susceptible to Ministry torturers," ventured Draco with a knowing look. "Tell me, did you call in the Torture Twins? What are their names? Hansel and Gretel?"
"I take it you're referring to our top Ministry Interrogators," Ron said, looking put out. "And for your information, Malfoy, it's Hans and Greta."
"Whatever," Draco muttered. "They're a scary pair, those two."
Ron chose to ignore him. "Butler told us that Voldemort's been very ill. From bits and pieces she was able to gather, she believes that he plans to use Hermione to heal himself."
Hermione frowned thoughtfully. "That doesn't make sense," she said. "Voldemort has plenty of healers amongst his ranks. Thelonius Sleazard turned to the Dark Side years ago and he was a master healer, in his day. Why is Voldemort interested in me?"
Ron looked anxious. "Well now, there's the rub. Upon further, erm, 'questioning', the aurors learned that Voldemort has been reading a very rare book. It's called, 'Arcanus Sentiens' and from Butler's description, it looks very, very old. We've tried to find the book, but so far, we've been unsuccessful. There are only three copies that we know of, and one of them is apparently buried somewhere in the Sahara. We don't know where the other one is."
Draco had been listening quietly to what was being said, and noticed that upon mention of the title of the book, Hermione stiffened suddenly and her face went very pale. It was subtle, but Draco was willing to bet that she knew something about the importance of the book. Years of watching body language as a spy told him that Hermione was very troubled by what Ron was saying, but for some reason, she chose to stay silent.
Interesting.
Albus cleared his throat. "I think that I may be able to help with finding the book. I've got some underground sources, who, for obvious reasons, don't want Ministry aurors poking about. I may be able to open some doors, but I'm afraid I'll have to keep identities a secret." He turned to Ron. "I trust you'll help keep the aurors out of it?"
Ron nodded. "I think I can pacify them. They're really just interested in obtaining the book. If that means sources are kept from them, I believe they'll accept that. No choice, really. My colleagues are a practical bunch."
Remus spoke up. " 'Arcanus Sentiens' means 'Sentient Secret'. Obviously, this has to do with Hermione's status as a Sentient. Do you know anything about this book, Hermione?"
"Only rumors, really. I do know that it addresses how a Sentient obtains his or her powers. Other than that, I really don't know."
"She's lying," thought Draco. "The question is, why?"
Albus seemed satisfied with her answer, though. "Don't worry, Hermione. We'll figure it out," he said smoothly. He got up from his chair to stroke Fawkes' tail feathers before continuing. "So now, the question becomes, what to do with Miss Butler? I believe it prudent that Voldemort thinks she's dead. Otherwise, he'll know that she's been questioned. Any suggestions?"
Draco grinned suddenly. "I think that we should tell people that she and Uncle Severus killed each other during sex. It would do wonders to enhance his reputation," he added.
"You're disgusting, you know that?" Harry couldn't keep the amusement from creeping into his voice.
"Thank you, Potter. That's what I was aiming for."
Albus shook his head and brought them back to the original question. "Erm, interesting suggestion, Mr. Malfoy, but I don't think your uncle would be as appreciative as you think. No, we need something else."
"Well," ventured Minerva tentatively. "What if we say they died in a potions accident? I know that Severus wouldn't like the implication that he'd made a fatal mistake, but even a Potions Master has his bad days," she added dryly.
"That seems reasonable," said Albus. "But we'll have to produce a body for Taryn Butler. And it would have to be convincing. Anyone?"
There was silence for a few moments, then Minerva spoke again, "I have read of a transfiguration technique." She was twisting her hands nervously in her lap. "It involves the use of Dark Magic," she said in a grim tone. "A large animal is used, usually a bear or perhaps a buck. We would then poison it with a botched potion and once the animal was dead, I could tranform it into the likeness of Miss Butler. We could hide the magic from close scrutiny, at least long enough for her family to claim her. It's a good thing that wizarding tradition is such that the body must be buried within twenty-four hours. If we're lucky, her family will opt for cremation, so there would definitely be no trace."
"How do you feel about using Dark Magic, Minerva?" asked Remus. "Are you sure you can emotionally handle it?"
Minerva nodded her head vigorously. "If it meant the end of Voldemort, I would do anything."
"So, it's settled then," said Albus. "Now the question becomes, what do we do with Severus?"
"I can answer that," said a familiar, velvet voice. "I must leave Hogwarts. Immediately."
Startled, everyone turned around to look at the Potions Master. He was dressed in his usual black robes, his pale skin standing out in even greater contrast than usual. He was leaning against the doorframe, arms folded across his chest, and it was obvious he was still very weak.
"Severus," Hermione's voice was firm. "You should be resting in bed." She refused to acknowledge what he'd just said.
"Later," he growled. "I have some unfinished business." Turning to Ron, he withdrew his wand.
Ron's eyes widened, and for a moment, the only thing he could do was to quickly screw his eyes shut to brace himself against the inevitable. It came fast and furiously. An angry, jagged red energy shot from Severus' wand and before anybody could blink, the tall, lanky frame of Ron Weasley was instantly transformed.
Sitting in his place was a small green newt. The only thing identifying it as Ron Weasley was a wiry tuft of red hair perched on its homely, little head.
"A distinct improvement," said the Potions Master, happily.
************************************************
After Ron was turned into a newt, all semblance of order was lost from the meeting. Harry jumped up to shout at Severus and Remus had to prevent him from hexing the Potions Master into oblivion. Albus called for order, but it was a futile gesture. Everyone was talking at once, except for Draco, who'd been reduced to hysterical laughter at the sight of Ron Weasley. "It's not easy being green!" he hooted, gleefully. Ron the Newt, on the other hand, had the presence of mind to look embarrassed before Professor McGonagall took pity on him and turned him back into a human.
During the chaos, Severus had quietly slipped from the room, and now he was nowhere to be found. Hermione suspected that he'd made his way back to his chambers, to lick his wounds in quiet solitude. She was anxious for the meeting to adjourn so she could interrogate him about his little announcement.
When things finally quieted down, Albus once again focused their attention to the topic at hand. "There's one more thing on the agenda," he said. Searching the faces around the room he said, "Severus is right. It's too much of a risk to have him here at Hogwarts. We are going to be announcing his death to the school this morning. No doubt, the news is going to be shocking to the students --"
"But happiness will reign supreme, especially amongst the Gryffindors," added Draco, truthfully. Hermione shot him a dirty look. "Well, it's true," he said to her, defensively.
She sighed. "I know. He can be a real bastard sometimes, but to be glad he's dead is appalling."
"Yes, but think of the sympathy factor for me," said Draco cheerfully. "After all, he *was* my uncle. If I play the part of grieving nephew, the girls will be swarming me." He beamed with happiness at the thought.
Hermione rolled her eyes and shook her head at him.
"Be that as it may," said the Headmaster, "I've been thinking about this all night and I've come up with a way to hide Severus until it's time for the final confrontation with Voldemort. For everyone's protection, and for the sake of security, I think it best if his whereabouts are kept secret."
"Even from me?" asked Hermione.
"Especially from you, my dear. It's not safe for you to know. In fact, it's paramount that nobody know of his whereabouts." Albus looked sympathetic. "You'll have time to say goodbye to him, but not much. It's important that we do this quickly."
Hermione's lower lip trembled and she looked to be on the verge of tears. Draco found himself uncharacteristically putting a comforting arm around her.
Albus continued. "My team has been working on the Soul Shattering Spell and that will continue, of course. We're making very good progress. Severus will be able to continue work on the potion and although you won't be there to help him physically, Hermione, I can act as a go-between while you complete it. I know it's not the same thing as being there, but we've no choice, really. Severus will be supplied with a state-of-the-art potions lab and he tells me that he's learned enough from your notes and sessions together to finish what you've both started."
He paused. "I know there's a lot to think about, we've much to do. Minerva, please come with me so we can begin the transfiguration process to simulate the body of Taryn Butler. I'm sure Hagrid can help us find the appropriate animal, although we mustn't tell him the reason we need it. He's terrible with secrets. I'm sure he'll understand our deception, once this is all over."
Minerva was thoughtful. "I'll need to thoroughly examine Taryn Butler for any marks or scars she may have on her body. It's important that the tranformation be completely accurate."
Draco perked up. "You're going to examine a naked Taryn Butler? Can I help? I'm an expert in the field of female anatomy," he added, in what he hoped was a wheedling, persuasive tone.
"No!" shouted McGonagall.
Draco looked crestfallen.
"And on that note, I'd say the meeting is over," said the Headmaster drolly.
Hermione bolted from the room.
*******************************************
Draco entered the Library of Malfoy Manor, whistling a bawdy tune to himself. He'd spent the night Hogwarts and hadn't seen his father in several days. It was easy to get lost in that monstrosity of a house. If Lucius asked on his whereabouts, Draco would inform him that he'd spent the night in Hermione Granger's bed. He could just picture the look of distaste on his father's face. "It's a dirty job, father, but somebody has to do it," he planned on saying.
The library was dark, and the only light illuminating the room came from a cold fire from the fireplace. Lucius' favorite chair was facing away from him, but Draco could see his father's arm, draped elegantly on the armrest.
"Hello, father dearest," said Draco cheerfully. He noticed Lucius' hand clenching before he got up and faced his son.
His face looked like thunder. "You fucking son of a bitch!" he roared. Before Draco could react, his father pointed his wand at him. A thick black energy shot out and the end of it formed a huge fist. It slammed into Draco's face and he went reeling across the floor. He was speechless in astonishment.
"What the hell was that all about?" he shouted. Lucius walked briskly to him and shoved his wand under Draco's chin.
"You think you can betray our Lord and get away with it?" he growled with menace. "I know everything, you stupid, stupid boy. The question is, what do I do with you? I may be merciful and ask you your preference on how you want to die. If you beg me."
"Oh shit," thought Draco. His mind whirled quickly, assessing his situation and instantaneously coming up with a plan of action. Before Lucius had a chance to notice, Draco's eyes had narrowed and he revealed his wand, which he'd been hiding from behind his back.
"Turbotumesco!" he shouted, pointing the wand at his father.
A whirling blue light flew from his wand tip and hit Lucius square in the chest. The older man was lifted from the floor and his body began to swirl like a spinning top. Throwing his weight into the motion, Draco flicked his wand and his father slammed against the stone wall of the library.
"Consisto!" Draco said with quiet menace and Lucius was pinned to the wall, his long hair swirling around his face.
"Where the hell did you learn that?" his father managed to utter.
"From 'The How To Be Evil Handbook' . . . Volume Two. Remember that Christmas present you gave me two years ago? I've been practicing." Draco gave him a superior smirk.
He sarcastically continued. "Do you really think I'd betray the Dark Lord? Despite our gene pool, I'm not that stupid. I gave up Taryn Butler for a reason . . . for a much greater purpose. The members of the Order of the Phoenix have completely accepted me and have taken me into their confidence. They think I've turned against you. The good news is that I know now what they have planned for Voldemort. If you're a good little daddy, I'll share the secret with you. But first, Expelliarmus!" Lucius' wand flew into Draco's hand. "Not that I don't trust you or anything," he murmured.
Lucius rubbed his jaw. "Why didn't you come to me with this in the first place?"
"A spy never gives up his secrets unless forced . . . you know that, father. Besides, it wasn't until this morning that I learned of the true extent of their plans," he lied. He leaned forward and with calculated effect he said quietly. "They've come up with a potion and a spell to kill Voldemort. And they're almost ready to use it," he added.
Lucius was instantly interested. "What kind of spell and potion?"
"One that is designed to shatter his soul, father. And I'm coming up with a plan to prevent it from happening. Would you like to help?"
Lucius looked so relieved that he didn't see the brief look of anxiety flicker across his son's face.
"Gods, how am I ever going to save The Plan?" thought Draco.
This was going to change everything.
TBC
*****************************************************
Author's notes: Is Draco going to betray The Order of the Phoenix to save his own skin? Would he really do that? Tune in tomorrow . . . OK, it may take longer then that to play this all out, hehehe.
Again, I can't thank my reviewers enough for their support and encouragement. You guys are the best!
I got the idea for the Torture Twins from the cancelled TV show "Le Femme Nikita". It was one of my favorite programs, in its day. I don't remember the names of the Torture Twins, but I do remember they were German.
by Adriana
trixielou60@hotmail.com
Disclaimer: Rated R for language and sexual situations. Just thought I'd remind you.
*********************************
turn out the light
just say goodnight,
to yourself
may I remind you
when you find
you're all alone is
when you've
got to be strong
cause that's when
they call you,
in the night
he's got your
picture in his mind
he's got your number
on a paper at his
disposal anytime
From the song, "Save Yourself" by Sense Field
************************************
Chapter 13: Save
Albus adjusted his spectacles and made note of the expectant faces peering at him from around the room. Everybody was present for the meeting, except for Severus, who was still recovering from the effects of the poison. He fervently hoped that this gathering would go better than the last one. He chuckled to himself, remembering Hermione bolting from the room with Severus hot on her heels. Who would have thought that Hermione Granger, of all people, could produce such an unexpected reaction in his Potions Master? While, in many ways, Severus was still a mystery to the Headmaster, one thing was obvious. He had deep feelings for the girl, no matter how hard he tried to hide them.
"Albus. You're daydreaming again," said Minerva accusingly. "Are we going to have this meeting or not?"
"Trust you to cut to the chase, my dear," said Albus. He looked at them from above his crescent lenses. "By now, you all know about Taryn Butler. As Mr. Weasley here, has been in charge of security, I'll let him fill you in on what's going on."
Ron cleared his throat nervously and his freckles seemed to stand out even more than usual. He had been a little apprehensive about coming to this meeting and facing Severus Snape, but to his relief, their confrontation would have to wait for another day. "Butler has been in interrogation all night with Ministry aurors, and they were very successful in obtaining vital information from her," he announced.
"You mean, she was very susceptible to Ministry torturers," ventured Draco with a knowing look. "Tell me, did you call in the Torture Twins? What are their names? Hansel and Gretel?"
"I take it you're referring to our top Ministry Interrogators," Ron said, looking put out. "And for your information, Malfoy, it's Hans and Greta."
"Whatever," Draco muttered. "They're a scary pair, those two."
Ron chose to ignore him. "Butler told us that Voldemort's been very ill. From bits and pieces she was able to gather, she believes that he plans to use Hermione to heal himself."
Hermione frowned thoughtfully. "That doesn't make sense," she said. "Voldemort has plenty of healers amongst his ranks. Thelonius Sleazard turned to the Dark Side years ago and he was a master healer, in his day. Why is Voldemort interested in me?"
Ron looked anxious. "Well now, there's the rub. Upon further, erm, 'questioning', the aurors learned that Voldemort has been reading a very rare book. It's called, 'Arcanus Sentiens' and from Butler's description, it looks very, very old. We've tried to find the book, but so far, we've been unsuccessful. There are only three copies that we know of, and one of them is apparently buried somewhere in the Sahara. We don't know where the other one is."
Draco had been listening quietly to what was being said, and noticed that upon mention of the title of the book, Hermione stiffened suddenly and her face went very pale. It was subtle, but Draco was willing to bet that she knew something about the importance of the book. Years of watching body language as a spy told him that Hermione was very troubled by what Ron was saying, but for some reason, she chose to stay silent.
Interesting.
Albus cleared his throat. "I think that I may be able to help with finding the book. I've got some underground sources, who, for obvious reasons, don't want Ministry aurors poking about. I may be able to open some doors, but I'm afraid I'll have to keep identities a secret." He turned to Ron. "I trust you'll help keep the aurors out of it?"
Ron nodded. "I think I can pacify them. They're really just interested in obtaining the book. If that means sources are kept from them, I believe they'll accept that. No choice, really. My colleagues are a practical bunch."
Remus spoke up. " 'Arcanus Sentiens' means 'Sentient Secret'. Obviously, this has to do with Hermione's status as a Sentient. Do you know anything about this book, Hermione?"
"Only rumors, really. I do know that it addresses how a Sentient obtains his or her powers. Other than that, I really don't know."
"She's lying," thought Draco. "The question is, why?"
Albus seemed satisfied with her answer, though. "Don't worry, Hermione. We'll figure it out," he said smoothly. He got up from his chair to stroke Fawkes' tail feathers before continuing. "So now, the question becomes, what to do with Miss Butler? I believe it prudent that Voldemort thinks she's dead. Otherwise, he'll know that she's been questioned. Any suggestions?"
Draco grinned suddenly. "I think that we should tell people that she and Uncle Severus killed each other during sex. It would do wonders to enhance his reputation," he added.
"You're disgusting, you know that?" Harry couldn't keep the amusement from creeping into his voice.
"Thank you, Potter. That's what I was aiming for."
Albus shook his head and brought them back to the original question. "Erm, interesting suggestion, Mr. Malfoy, but I don't think your uncle would be as appreciative as you think. No, we need something else."
"Well," ventured Minerva tentatively. "What if we say they died in a potions accident? I know that Severus wouldn't like the implication that he'd made a fatal mistake, but even a Potions Master has his bad days," she added dryly.
"That seems reasonable," said Albus. "But we'll have to produce a body for Taryn Butler. And it would have to be convincing. Anyone?"
There was silence for a few moments, then Minerva spoke again, "I have read of a transfiguration technique." She was twisting her hands nervously in her lap. "It involves the use of Dark Magic," she said in a grim tone. "A large animal is used, usually a bear or perhaps a buck. We would then poison it with a botched potion and once the animal was dead, I could tranform it into the likeness of Miss Butler. We could hide the magic from close scrutiny, at least long enough for her family to claim her. It's a good thing that wizarding tradition is such that the body must be buried within twenty-four hours. If we're lucky, her family will opt for cremation, so there would definitely be no trace."
"How do you feel about using Dark Magic, Minerva?" asked Remus. "Are you sure you can emotionally handle it?"
Minerva nodded her head vigorously. "If it meant the end of Voldemort, I would do anything."
"So, it's settled then," said Albus. "Now the question becomes, what do we do with Severus?"
"I can answer that," said a familiar, velvet voice. "I must leave Hogwarts. Immediately."
Startled, everyone turned around to look at the Potions Master. He was dressed in his usual black robes, his pale skin standing out in even greater contrast than usual. He was leaning against the doorframe, arms folded across his chest, and it was obvious he was still very weak.
"Severus," Hermione's voice was firm. "You should be resting in bed." She refused to acknowledge what he'd just said.
"Later," he growled. "I have some unfinished business." Turning to Ron, he withdrew his wand.
Ron's eyes widened, and for a moment, the only thing he could do was to quickly screw his eyes shut to brace himself against the inevitable. It came fast and furiously. An angry, jagged red energy shot from Severus' wand and before anybody could blink, the tall, lanky frame of Ron Weasley was instantly transformed.
Sitting in his place was a small green newt. The only thing identifying it as Ron Weasley was a wiry tuft of red hair perched on its homely, little head.
"A distinct improvement," said the Potions Master, happily.
************************************************
After Ron was turned into a newt, all semblance of order was lost from the meeting. Harry jumped up to shout at Severus and Remus had to prevent him from hexing the Potions Master into oblivion. Albus called for order, but it was a futile gesture. Everyone was talking at once, except for Draco, who'd been reduced to hysterical laughter at the sight of Ron Weasley. "It's not easy being green!" he hooted, gleefully. Ron the Newt, on the other hand, had the presence of mind to look embarrassed before Professor McGonagall took pity on him and turned him back into a human.
During the chaos, Severus had quietly slipped from the room, and now he was nowhere to be found. Hermione suspected that he'd made his way back to his chambers, to lick his wounds in quiet solitude. She was anxious for the meeting to adjourn so she could interrogate him about his little announcement.
When things finally quieted down, Albus once again focused their attention to the topic at hand. "There's one more thing on the agenda," he said. Searching the faces around the room he said, "Severus is right. It's too much of a risk to have him here at Hogwarts. We are going to be announcing his death to the school this morning. No doubt, the news is going to be shocking to the students --"
"But happiness will reign supreme, especially amongst the Gryffindors," added Draco, truthfully. Hermione shot him a dirty look. "Well, it's true," he said to her, defensively.
She sighed. "I know. He can be a real bastard sometimes, but to be glad he's dead is appalling."
"Yes, but think of the sympathy factor for me," said Draco cheerfully. "After all, he *was* my uncle. If I play the part of grieving nephew, the girls will be swarming me." He beamed with happiness at the thought.
Hermione rolled her eyes and shook her head at him.
"Be that as it may," said the Headmaster, "I've been thinking about this all night and I've come up with a way to hide Severus until it's time for the final confrontation with Voldemort. For everyone's protection, and for the sake of security, I think it best if his whereabouts are kept secret."
"Even from me?" asked Hermione.
"Especially from you, my dear. It's not safe for you to know. In fact, it's paramount that nobody know of his whereabouts." Albus looked sympathetic. "You'll have time to say goodbye to him, but not much. It's important that we do this quickly."
Hermione's lower lip trembled and she looked to be on the verge of tears. Draco found himself uncharacteristically putting a comforting arm around her.
Albus continued. "My team has been working on the Soul Shattering Spell and that will continue, of course. We're making very good progress. Severus will be able to continue work on the potion and although you won't be there to help him physically, Hermione, I can act as a go-between while you complete it. I know it's not the same thing as being there, but we've no choice, really. Severus will be supplied with a state-of-the-art potions lab and he tells me that he's learned enough from your notes and sessions together to finish what you've both started."
He paused. "I know there's a lot to think about, we've much to do. Minerva, please come with me so we can begin the transfiguration process to simulate the body of Taryn Butler. I'm sure Hagrid can help us find the appropriate animal, although we mustn't tell him the reason we need it. He's terrible with secrets. I'm sure he'll understand our deception, once this is all over."
Minerva was thoughtful. "I'll need to thoroughly examine Taryn Butler for any marks or scars she may have on her body. It's important that the tranformation be completely accurate."
Draco perked up. "You're going to examine a naked Taryn Butler? Can I help? I'm an expert in the field of female anatomy," he added, in what he hoped was a wheedling, persuasive tone.
"No!" shouted McGonagall.
Draco looked crestfallen.
"And on that note, I'd say the meeting is over," said the Headmaster drolly.
Hermione bolted from the room.
*******************************************
Draco entered the Library of Malfoy Manor, whistling a bawdy tune to himself. He'd spent the night Hogwarts and hadn't seen his father in several days. It was easy to get lost in that monstrosity of a house. If Lucius asked on his whereabouts, Draco would inform him that he'd spent the night in Hermione Granger's bed. He could just picture the look of distaste on his father's face. "It's a dirty job, father, but somebody has to do it," he planned on saying.
The library was dark, and the only light illuminating the room came from a cold fire from the fireplace. Lucius' favorite chair was facing away from him, but Draco could see his father's arm, draped elegantly on the armrest.
"Hello, father dearest," said Draco cheerfully. He noticed Lucius' hand clenching before he got up and faced his son.
His face looked like thunder. "You fucking son of a bitch!" he roared. Before Draco could react, his father pointed his wand at him. A thick black energy shot out and the end of it formed a huge fist. It slammed into Draco's face and he went reeling across the floor. He was speechless in astonishment.
"What the hell was that all about?" he shouted. Lucius walked briskly to him and shoved his wand under Draco's chin.
"You think you can betray our Lord and get away with it?" he growled with menace. "I know everything, you stupid, stupid boy. The question is, what do I do with you? I may be merciful and ask you your preference on how you want to die. If you beg me."
"Oh shit," thought Draco. His mind whirled quickly, assessing his situation and instantaneously coming up with a plan of action. Before Lucius had a chance to notice, Draco's eyes had narrowed and he revealed his wand, which he'd been hiding from behind his back.
"Turbotumesco!" he shouted, pointing the wand at his father.
A whirling blue light flew from his wand tip and hit Lucius square in the chest. The older man was lifted from the floor and his body began to swirl like a spinning top. Throwing his weight into the motion, Draco flicked his wand and his father slammed against the stone wall of the library.
"Consisto!" Draco said with quiet menace and Lucius was pinned to the wall, his long hair swirling around his face.
"Where the hell did you learn that?" his father managed to utter.
"From 'The How To Be Evil Handbook' . . . Volume Two. Remember that Christmas present you gave me two years ago? I've been practicing." Draco gave him a superior smirk.
He sarcastically continued. "Do you really think I'd betray the Dark Lord? Despite our gene pool, I'm not that stupid. I gave up Taryn Butler for a reason . . . for a much greater purpose. The members of the Order of the Phoenix have completely accepted me and have taken me into their confidence. They think I've turned against you. The good news is that I know now what they have planned for Voldemort. If you're a good little daddy, I'll share the secret with you. But first, Expelliarmus!" Lucius' wand flew into Draco's hand. "Not that I don't trust you or anything," he murmured.
Lucius rubbed his jaw. "Why didn't you come to me with this in the first place?"
"A spy never gives up his secrets unless forced . . . you know that, father. Besides, it wasn't until this morning that I learned of the true extent of their plans," he lied. He leaned forward and with calculated effect he said quietly. "They've come up with a potion and a spell to kill Voldemort. And they're almost ready to use it," he added.
Lucius was instantly interested. "What kind of spell and potion?"
"One that is designed to shatter his soul, father. And I'm coming up with a plan to prevent it from happening. Would you like to help?"
Lucius looked so relieved that he didn't see the brief look of anxiety flicker across his son's face.
"Gods, how am I ever going to save The Plan?" thought Draco.
This was going to change everything.
TBC
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Author's notes: Is Draco going to betray The Order of the Phoenix to save his own skin? Would he really do that? Tune in tomorrow . . . OK, it may take longer then that to play this all out, hehehe.
Again, I can't thank my reviewers enough for their support and encouragement. You guys are the best!
I got the idea for the Torture Twins from the cancelled TV show "Le Femme Nikita". It was one of my favorite programs, in its day. I don't remember the names of the Torture Twins, but I do remember they were German.