"So, you have heard too? Our most trusted spy and your son have betrayed
us." Voldemort hissed, his thin voice laced with a calm anger. Lucius
nodded, coming further into the room. "You know we can do nothing until
August. Our best Death Eaters will be accompanying us to Hogwarts. Trust
me, your son will die. Along with that filthy Mudblood he abandoned us
for." Voldemort breathed deeply, relishing in the thought of impending
death.
"My Lord, I hate to be selfish, but I don't want Draco dead." Lucius was keeping a steady gaze, but his voice was quiet.
"He has betrayed us and our purpose. I allowed him to marry and impregnate that girl on your command, but I will not let him live. He knows the plan and will relay it to Dumbledore; we must rely on our force to overcome them now." Voldemort stood, his robes slipping off his frail shoulders. "He has to die. I'm sorry, Lucius, but we have no choice."
Lucius' blue eyes flickered. "I know he has betrayed us, but he is my only son. Let him live and I swear he will never commit another act against us. I will kill the Mudblood he loves so dearly, and loss of love is enough to make any man obey you." The room fell silent, the air weighted and humid. Voldemort turned away from Lucius, staring at the wall behind him.
"You must promise me that he will never turn traitor against us again. He can live if you promise me that."
Ron woke up, breathing hard. His room in Gryffindor tower was empty, Remus and Sirius obviously having already left. He looked around slowly, trying to find the source of the voices. Realizing it had been another of his dreams, Ron hurriedly grabbed a set of clothes, changed, and rushed down the stairs. A few first years looked at him as though he was insane, and Ron understood why. He was in such a rush that his shirt was backward and his hair was sticking out at very odd angles. He didn't care though; Voldemort was going to kill Hermione. Or Lucius was. Either way she was going to die, and Ron had to prevent that. He stumbled down the hallway and panted the password to get to Dumbledore's office. He banged on the door before collapsing to his knees, still breathing hard. Albus opened the door and pulled Ron inside, placing him in a chair and sitting behind his own desk to wait until Ron's pants had subsided. As soon as it was possible for Ron to talk and be understood, he started ranting about his dream. Dumbledore's face just grew more and more solemn, and by the time Ron was finished, Albus looked as old and tired as ever.
"So? What are we going to do about it? Hermione can't die!" Ron was standing again, practically going mad from all the pressure. He wished Dumbledore would just say something, but he remained silent, and Ron hated silence.
"I don't believe we can do anything, Ron. We'll have to try and plan a way for her to get out, but Voldemort is very powerful. I agree, Hermione can't die. Draco wouldn't be able to raise his son without her. For now, I think you should keep this a secret from Hermione and Draco, try not to worry anyone, and we'll discuss it in due time." Albus paused, sighing. "It's only July third. We have forty-two days."
"That's not enough time," Ron mumbled, nodding to Albus and leaving. He walked slowly down the corridor, deeply consumed in his own thoughts, when he realized that he was hearing Harry's voice coming from a nearby classroom. Frowning in confusion, Ron stood in the doorway of the Defense Against the Dark Arts class. Harry was stumbling over his own words, trying to explain the Imperius Curse to a class of sixth year Ravenclaws and Gryffindors.
"Well, you see, the Imperius Curse is one of the three Unforgivable Curses. It allows the caster to control the mind of the victim.and er.yeah, control them." Harry looked out at his class, his eyes resting on Cosette. She was staring out the window, her delicate fingers twirling a quill. Her intense blue eyes looked away from the window and skirted the front of the room. Although he had just been talking, Cosette remained oblivious to Harry.
"Excuse me, Harry? Could I speak with you?" Ron asked, knocking on the door. Harry looked at Ron gratefully, and excused himself.
"One moment, class. Uh, look at page one twenty-five of your books." Harry rushed to the hallway where Ron was waiting. "Thanks. I was having a horrid time in there."
"I can see that. So, when did the great Harry Potter get a job as the DADA teacher?" Ron asked, playfully teasing Harry.
"Dumbledore asked me to do it. I see why that job is always open. Anyway, what did you want to talk about?" Harry ran a hand through his hair, his emerald eyes glancing into his classroom every so often.
"Well, I had another dream." Ron started. Harry's face tensed with worry. "They're going to try to kill Hermione. I heard Lucius and Voldemort talking about it." Harry sighed, his breathing deep and steady.
"Did you tell Dumbledore?" Harry asked, pushing his hand through his hair again. Ron nodded.
"Yeah, I just came from there. Look, you have to get back to class, but don't tell anyone all right? Dumbledore said not to get too many people worried about it." Ron sighed. "I'll meet you after dinner in the Gryffindor common room, okay?" Harry nodded. Ron waved absentmindedly and went off. Harry went back into his nearly silent classroom.
"So, is everyone clear on that one?" Harry asked, receiving a few nods. "Well then, on to the Cruciatus Curse."
* * * * * * * * * * *
Hermione woke that morning to the soft light filtering through their windows. Draco and her had taken a spare classroom and had Dumbledore convert it into a living area. She stretched and turned to look at Draco. His arm was over his eyes, blocking out the light, and his hair splayed across the pillow. Sighing in contentment, Hermione lay back. I have never felt so rested. Hermione thought, but immediately felt a cold swell of panic in her stomach. She hadn't heard the baby cry all night, and from her experiences baby-sitting for her neighbors over the summer, babies hardly ever sleep through the night-unless something is wrong. She jerked up and shook Draco awake.
"Draco! Draco, wake up! Tristan.I think something might be wrong!" Hermione was wide awake now, and terrified. Draco slowly opened his eyes, but snapped up when her words registered.
"What's wrong with him?" Draco asked, standing and walking toward the crib. Tristan was lying peacefully in the bottom, curled up next to a pillow with his black wool blanket covering him. Leaning down, Draco picked up Tristan and the blanket, and cradled his child against his chest.
"Well, he hasn't cried all night. I've taken care of children before, back home in London, and they cry all the time. I was afraid he had.well, cradle death was an option." Hermione ran her fingertips through Tristan's hair, causing the baby to stir and turn his head.
"Hermione," Draco whispered, handing Tristan to his mother. "Wizarding babies hardly ever cry or fuss. It's an effect of the magic during the mother's pregnancy and the birth." Draco sat down on the edge of the bed, Hermione sitting next to him. He placed an arm around her waist and drew her closer.
"I have so much to learn," Hermione sighed, looking up at Draco's ice blue eyes. "I'm glad you're here to help me." Draco leaned down and kissed her lips softly. Tristan fidgeted in his blanket. Hermione smiled and spread out the black blanket. Tristan now lay on his back, opening his eyes. "Where did we get this blanket?" Hermione asked, fingering the wool.
"I'm not really sure. Pomfrey handed him to us in it, so I'm guessing it's from the infirmary." Draco looked down at Tristan. The baby was reaching up with his hands and feet, grasping the empty air. For a moment, Tristan looked up at his father and their identical eyes met. Hermione watched in silence as Draco brushed the back of his fingertips over the baby's cheek. "Hey, Tristan." He spoke softly. Tristan blinked in recognition. "I'm your father. And this beautiful woman is your mother."
"Welcome to Hogwarts." Hermione said in a breathy whisper. Tristan turned his gaze to Hermione, staring at her for a long while. The family sat in a comfortable silence; the only sound was their breathing. After a few long minutes, Hermione picked Tristan up and carried him to the crib. Placing him on his back, she smiled and turned to Draco.
"Thank you," Draco whispered, moving to place his hands on her hips and kissing her lightly. "For being my first love, my wife, and the mother of my child."
"I love you." Hermione whispered. Draco kissed her more passionately, moving a hand to play with her curls. "More than you can imagine." She exhaled, breaking the kiss for a breath of air. Looking into his eyes, Hermione lay her head against his chest and listened to his steady heartbeat. Every last second.every last day.before the war. It all comes down to the war, she thought. A tear fell from her eye and created a circle of water on Draco's shirt. "Promise me you'll never leave me." She asked, looking back up at his face.
"Not even if I die." Draco murmured quietly. Hermione looked back down, apparently not getting the answer she wanted. "I wouldn't leave you for the world. We'll make it through this. I know we can."
"I hope so, Draco." Hermione said. "I really, really hope so."
* * * * * * * * * * *
The days before the war passed slowly. The seconds seemed to drag on longer, each tick of the clock getting further away from the one before. In a way, the inhabitants were thankful for the languid days. But each minute that passed, each step closer to the time when Voldemort would attack was making them a little uneasier. A tiny bit more unnerved, a little more nervous. The students had gone home July eighth; leaving the castle empty except for those who had been present at Christmas. Tristan was fairing well, not knowing anything of the impending danger. He was one month old; and leaving only three days until August. Hermione had eventually been told of Ron's dream, and instead of going into hysterics, she took it all in stride and they planned out her escape. Draco had been teaching all of the younger wizards and witches most of the dark magic he thought his father would use. Ron was actually grateful that Draco was teaching him; he had never been a particularly talented wizard, and the more spells he knew, the better off he'd be. Dillon, however, was spending most of his time alone, going out at night, staying in the library. He would only speak when necessary; he avoided contact at all costs. As August thirteenth drew closer, the castle filled with tension. Hardly anyone spoke, and they were spread out all over the castle when possible. No one could sleep on the night of August eleventh, nor could they do anything on the twelfth. When midnight struck on August thirteenth, everyone watched the clock until the last note had faded. For a moment, no one spoke or moved. The hall was as silent as a tomb, not one person daring to breathe. Draco finally broke the weighted moment.
"Hermione," he whispered, crossing to her and hugging her tightly against his chest. "Take Tristan and run for the forest, like we planned. When you get to Hogsmeade, get to the Ministry and tell them to send reinforcements."
"I know." Hermione said, savoring the sound of his voice and the feel of his body. "Be careful out there. I'll get to Fudge as fast as I can." Draco leaned down and captured her lips in a short and fiery kiss. Hermione gasped for air and picked up Tristan. Giving everyone a last look, she ran out the doors and into the waiting forest.
"Draco, Harry, Ron, Dillon. Take Cosette, Camille, and Ginny down to the dungeons and wait there." Dumbledore said, his bright blue eyes alive and flickering. "Everyone else, come with me." The two groups separated, walking in opposite directions. Camille clung to Ron, hardly daring to let him go, for fear he would be lost or killed. Cosette remained silent, her cobalt eyes swirling with thought. Dillon led the group, trying to get away, disappearing beyond each corner. Ginny ran ahead, trying to catch up with Dillon, but he seemed to be farther ahead than she thought. Harry fell into step with Draco.
"Hey, Draco." Harry said in a consoling voice. Draco snapped his head up, his face tense and his eyes impassioned with anger. Harry looked at him in confusion and concern. "Are you okay?" He asked.
"Well, my sadistic bitch of a father wants to kill Hermione and take my child, and we're about to battle the best trained wizards in the world. Of course I'm okay." Draco answered sardonically. Harry sighed.
"I'm sorry." He whispered. "I know what it's like."
"You have no idea what it's like, Potter. You may have been brought up without parents, but I had them. I was forced to believe what Lucius wanted me to, do whatever Voldemort said, and live only to become a Death Eater. I had no choice in my life. It was all dictated before I was even born." Draco spat, once again staring at the floor. They reached the designated room and went inside, locking the door with a spell Severus had taught them. "You have no idea what it feels like not knowing whether or not the girl you love has been murdered by your own father." Draco finished, sinking onto the floor. The room fell quiet. Dillon came over and stood above him. Dillon met Draco's piercing stare with no fear in his own eyes, and they sat like that for a long time.
"You can't worry. She'll be fine. Hermione is the most talented witch I have ever met, and she is very capable of taking care of herself. Trust me on this, she will be okay." Dillon said in his deep, rhythmic voice. Draco stood up.
"I hope so." He whispered to himself, walking across the room. Ginny stared at Dillon, taking in every last inch of his body, and stood up herself. She opened her mouth to say something, but there was a loud popping noise from the lock. Soon after, the door burst open. Narcissa, out of breath and holding out her wand, motioned for them to follow. They all walked silently down the hallways, following Narcissa to the North tower. The window overlooked the lake and most of the grounds. Hagrid's house was empty- he had gone to France at the end of the school year to be with his long-time love, Madam Maxime. Dumbledore and Snape were at the window, watching the gates at the end of the long expanse of grass. It slowly opened and about sixty witches and wizards, all hooded and cloaked, walked through. Dumbledore turned to the room, his face grim.
"Well, here goes everything." He said, and walked past them all, down the staircase. Pausing to watch the Death Eaters, Harry soon followed the group moving out of the circular room. They all congregated around the front doorway, each person silent and lost in thought. Dumbledore turned again to address them all.
"We'll fight in pairs. Sirius and Remus, you take the left side closet to the lake. Harry and Cosette, go for Voldemort and his inner circle, but be careful. Ron and Camille, you two will follow Harry and Cosette. Try to keep the other Death Eaters away from them. Severus and Narcissa, you two will go to the right and try to lead some of them toward to Whomping Willow. Draco, go behind them. You'll fight alone. If you hear anything from the forest, go in after Hermione. Dillon and Ginny, you two go closest to the forest and try to keep any Death Eaters out. I'll try to help all of you. If you get hurt, just send up red sparks, or try to get your partner's attention. Look out for each other. And remember, we have one chance to do this right." Dumbledore turned back and opened the door. The Death Eaters has spread out over the lawn, and in the night, they blended in. The moon was a sliver of light in the sky and clouds had blotted out most of the stars. The war had begun.
* * * * * * * * * * *
Sirius and Remus ran out toward the lake. The Death Eaters made no move to harm them just yet, deciding to build the tension instead. As Sirius and Remus drew their wands, about ten cloaked Death Eaters advanced. Glancing one last time at each other, the two friends started tossing curses toward the nameless, faceless figures. A few fell almost instantly, the masks falling onto the ground and exposing the lifeless face of its owner. More advanced toward them, muttering incantations and hexes madly. After mere minutes of fighting, Remus sank to the ground, his face deathly pale, and his eyes squeezed closed. The wizard pointing his wand at Remus was smiling, a sick sort of pleasure evident after he pulled his mask off. Sirius took one look over, but had no time to spare. A Death Eater was advancing toward him, wand raised.
"Take off your mask and let me see your face! Allow me the pleasure of knowing whom I am about to kill!" Sirius cried, his voice ringing with laughter. He watched in silent surprise as the Death Eater removed her mask. Standing before him was his cousin, Bellatrix Lestrange.
"We meet again, dear cousin." Bellatrix drawled, her voice cold and dripping with sarcasm. "Managed to find your half-blood godson?"
"Yes, Bella, I have." Sirius said through clenched teeth. They continued circling each other, neither one speaking. Bellatrix looked away, surveying the scene behind them. Only two Death Eaters had lived through Remus and Sirius' attack- herself and Augustus Rookwood.
"I see my niece has managed to find her way to Hogwarts. She was always a disgrace to our name." Bellatrix smiled. "But at least Rookwood's son tried to help her mother. Pity she died." Her voice showed no trace of sympathy. Sirius, however, had muttered a quiet killing curse, instantly murdering Rookwood, and therefore releasing Remus of the Cruciatus Curse. Sirius motioned for Remus to help someone else, and Remus hesitated only a moment before sprinting in the direction of Harry and Cosette.
"Well, Bella, seeing as we are supposed to be fighting, why don't we get on with it? Rookwood has been killed-yes, if you turn around you should be able to see his body quite clearly- so that leaves you alone." Sirius smirked at her, laughing at her obvious surprise. She turned around to look at Rookwood, and Sirius muttered a fire spell. Her robe flamed up, singing the long, dark hair that fell down her back. Bellatrix shrieked and threw her robe into the lake. A hissing noise emanated from the glassy water, and small clouds of steam rose. Wild with rage, Bellatrix continued to throw curses at Sirius, who dodged expertly and threw some back.
Leaping past a jet of green light, he called out, "Come on Bella! I know you can do better than that!" He laughed once more, but the noise died in his throat. Bellatrix had hit Sirius in the chest with the most deadly curse she knew-Avada Kevrada. Sirius' body crumpled to the ground, his hair falling into his eyes, his arms splayed across the grass. Giving a little shout of triumph, Bellatrix turned around. Remus, who had witnessed the duel, was pointing his wand at her chest. Bellatrix froze as Remus yelled, "Expelliarmus!" Holding Bellatrix's wand in his left hand, Remus advanced, his brown eyes flickering with fury.
"Well, well, well. At last we meet. Although I'm afraid we really won't get to know each other very well," Remus' voice was cold and filled with suppressed anger and grief. "Seeing as I plan to kill you."
"Now, Lupin, don't get unreasonable." Bellatrix began, her voice quivering with fear. She had tried to run, but found her legs bound to the ground, another trick of Remus'.
"UNREASONABLE?" Remus roared, snapping her wand in half. Bellatrix uttered a sound of despair, but dared not speak. "YOU THINK I'M BEING UNREASONABLE? YOU JUST KILLED SIRIUS!" Remus took a deep breath, closing his eyes. Pointing his wand at Bellatrix's heart, he muttered, "You heartless bitch. I don't believe anything will give me greater pleasure than watching you die. Avada Kevrada." Bellatrix crumpled to the ground, her head landing on Sirius' stomach. Remus' eyes filled with tears, but he blinked them away. He ran towards Harry again, his stomach and heart weighted with a cold anguish.
* * * * * * * * * * *
Dillon and Ginny were fighting with their backs to the forest, separated by about ten feet. Dillon kept glancing over his shoulder at Ginny, reassuring himself that she was okay. A hooded figure turned to Ginny and raised his wand, pointing it at the red-haired girl. Ginny's back was turned, away from impending danger, and Dillon could do nothing but stare. As the Death Eater's mouth opened, Dillon shot his wand up and whispered, "Avada Kevrada," shooting a deadly stream of light at Ginny's attacker. The hood fell back as the lifeless figure slumped to the ground, revealing long brown hair. Another Death Eater, the one who had been fighting with the woman, turned to look, and gave a cry of outrage and despair. Dillon turned away from the scene, cringing slightly. Without hearing the footsteps behind him, Dillon raised his wand again, but drew in a sharp breath as a warm pain pierced his back. "An eye for an eye," A cold voice hissed in his ear. Dillon turned slightly and saw the Death Eater who had cried out. Looking further down, Dillon saw a silver dagger in his back.
"And the whole world goes blind." Dillon whispered, his voice ragged. The Death Eater gave one final thrust of the blade and walked away. Dillon slumped to the ground, expecting to feel the hard earth beneath him, but instead fell into a set of arms. Fluttering his eyes open, Dillon saw Ginny leaning over him. Her face was flushed and her eyes were watering.
"Dillon?" She asked, her voice shaking. The blade had pierced through Dillon's chest, leaving a gleaming silver tip exposed. Ginny ran her fingers over it, pricking herself. She let her wound bleed into his, staining his already crimson shirt with her blood.
"It's over Ginny. I lost, but you have to keep going." Dillon whispered. His green eyes were clouding over. At that moment, those vital minutes that passed before Dillon died, Ginny realized she loved him.
"Not without you." Ginny whispered, tears falling down her cheeks. "I love you Dillon."
"I love you too. I always have. Ever since that day last October...you were the only one I wanted." Dillon whispered. He drew in a shaky breath, his face growing pale. Ginny pulled out her wand.
"Turn over, Dillon," She said uneasily. Dillon grasped her wand with a blood stained hand.
"It's over, Ginny. I've accepted my fate. I don't feel anything anymore. The pain is gone, Ginny. Can't you understand that? I don't have any more pain. The only regret that I have is that I never told you I loved you." Ginny let a small sob escape her throat. She leaned down and kissed him, gently at first, but as she tasted the blood in his mouth she grew more demanding. They sat there like that, absorbed in each other for so long, they failed to notice the figure darting into the woods behind them. Dillon pulled away for a moment.
"I love you." He breathed. A trickle of blood found its way out of his mouth and down his chin. Ginny wiped it away, gently stroking her thumb over his swollen lips.
"I love you too." She choked out, her tears flooding her cheeks. Dillon's dark green eyes were glassy and distant. They fluttered closed, his eyelashes sitting on his pale cheeks. Ginny leaned down and kissed his cold lips, finally accepting the inevitable-Dillon was dead.
* * * * * * * * * * *
Severus and Narcissa were surrounded by a group of seven or eight Death Eaters. They were back to back, walking in a slow circle. One of the Death Eaters stepped forward and pulled off his hood.
"Snape." He said coldly. Severus nodded curtly.
"Macnair." He responded. The two men glared at each other in silence, measuring the other up. Narcissa stood in fearful shock, as did the other Death Eaters. Severus and Macnair both had their wands pointed at each other, and proceeded to walk in circles.
"I see you have turned traitor. The Dark Lord expected as much. We were sent to kill you as well as Potter and that Mudblood. Should prove to be entertaining." Macnair spat, looking thoroughly disgusted.
"Pity you won't be around for it." Severus drawled just as coldly. Macnair furrowed his brow in confusion as Severus raised his wand and muttered, "Exsanguis." A black light shone from Snape's wand and penetrated Macnair's chest. As he slumped to the ground, another Death Eater stepped forward. "Ah, Parkinson. As I am to believe, your daughter was a student of mine? I suppose I won't kill you then, although you deserve to die.Petrificus Totalus." Parkinson fell to the ground as well, and the rest of the Death Eaters, obviously enraged, came forward. "Narcissa," Severus hissed, backing away and pulling her with him. "Do you know the Sopio Patronus hex?" Narcissa shook her head, backing away more quickly. "Well, it stuns your opponent. Much like Expecto Patronus, except this works on people. Can you do that?" Severus asked. They had their backs almost within reach of the Whomping Willow.
"I'll try." Narcissa whispered in an uneasy voice. She lifted her wand as Severus raised his, and she whispered with as much conviction as she could muster, "Sopio Patronum!" A silvery occamy(*) sprang from her wand and charged at the Death Eaters. Along side it, she could see a raven. Smiling slightly, she stepped more closely to Severus. Having stunned all of the Death Eaters left, the two animals vanished. Soon after, Draco came sprinting over. He had a gash on his cheek and his shirt was stained with blood.
"What.in the hell.was that?" He panted, placing his hands on his knees and breathing deeply.
"Sopio Patronus. Quite a useful spell, although terribly underestimated." Severus said. Draco eyed him suspiciously, before turning to his mother.
"Are you all right?" He asked. Narcissa was smiling pleasantly, but her cheery mood vanished quickly. A piercing shriek cut though the air, leaving nearly everyone on the grounds motionless and staring in confusion.
"The forest." Narcissa whispered, her hand covering her mouth.
"Hermione." Draco trailed off, pausing slightly before running full- speed toward the towering trees.
* * * * * * * * * * *
"We meet again, Harry Potter."
"Yes, in fact we do. Very observant, aren't you?" Harry spat back. He was feeling quite self-assured with the knowledge that neither of them could hurt the other. Camille, Ron, and Lupin were fighting the surrounding Death Eaters, leaving Cosette and Harry to deal with Voldemort.
"What did you think this would accomplish, Potter? Our wands cannot work against each other. We're connected, you and I. Unless you would have that girl fight for you? Die in your place?" Voldemort's lips curled into a smile, having obviously provoked Harry. "Pray tell, who is she?" He strode over to Cosette, who had her wand raised in defense, but stood stone still.
"Cosette Lestrange." Harry hissed. He was getting rather angry at the fact that Voldemort was inspecting Cosette, and that she wasn't doing anything to stop him. At the mention of her name, Cosette jumped and looked at Harry.
"Oh yes, Bellatrix's niece." Voldemort said calmly, turning to Cosette. He ran his hand along Cosette's face, and onto her shoulder. "Didn't we kill your brother? Thought he was your traitorous father." He paused, smirking. "Would've died anyway. He was too headstrong for his own good. Much like your godfather." Harry watched as Voldemort turned back to him, and as Cosette relaxed a bit and breathed a sigh of relief.
"You really are a cold hearted bastard, you know that, don't you?" Harry spat. Cosette started to back away slowly towards Remus.
"I am very well aware of that fact." Voldemort approached Harry with his wand down. Harry jerked his up again, causing Voldemort to laugh softly. "You are a stupid boy. I have told you before; we cannot fight against each other. Not with these wands. Eighteen years ago, I put some of me into you with that curse. You are part of me.lurking within you is an evil that even I cannot describe to you. Now, what will it be? A battle between Miss Lestrange and I, or will we find a way around this little.problem?" Voldemort raised a nearly invisible eyebrow, his slitted eyes glittering. Harry stood silent, thinking of an attack, before his thoughts were interrupted once again by Voldemort's cold, thin voice. "Maybe I should make the first move? Avada Kevrada!" Voldemort hissed, pointing his wand at Cosette. The beam of light reflected off a nearby rock and struck Cosette in the chest. She let out a gasp as she crumpled to the ground, her wand dropping to her side. Harry ran over to her, barely remembering to breathe. He could hear Voldemort laughing, but the sound seemed so far away. The world was fogging up, the shapes and colors running together. He kneeled beside her body, grasping her hand. He could barely see the rise and fall of her chest, signaling life.
"She's still alive, but only barely. The reflection dulled the spell's effects." Voldemort said. His voice sounded clearer, and as Harry turned around he realized that his opponent was right behind him. Harry picked up his fallen wand and pointed it at Voldemort.
"You killed my parents. You almost killed Cosette. You've killed hundreds.thousands of people, just because you can." Harry whispered, not quite sure what he was doing. The wand in his hand felt lighter than normal, and his head was spinning. "I hate you." Narrowing his eyes, Harry took three long strides and pushed the tip of his wand against Voldemort's chest. "Exsanguis." He hissed, not knowing why, but instead of the familiar cage of light forming around them, Voldemort's eyes grew wide and he collapsed. Harry stepped back, staring. A faint purple light was glowing from the body. Kneeling next to Voldemort, Harry flipped the body over and stared into the expressionless eyes.
"You killed him. You actually killed Voldemort." A voice from behind Harry said. He whipped around, and met the eyes of Ronald Weasley.
* * * * * * * * * * *
"Hermione." Draco breathed. He stepped into the clearing to come face- to-face with the cold gray eyes of his father.
"Glad you could join us." Lucius said calmly. He was standing in the center of the clearing, one arm wrapped around Hermione's neck and pressing a blade to her throat, the other arm holding Tristan. The baby, surprisingly, wasn't crying, just staring from Lucius, to Hermione, and then to Draco. "We've been waiting."
"What are you doing?" Draco seethed, stepping forward. "What in hell do you think you are doing?"
"Well, dear son, I have come to help you make your decision. You can either choose to take your son home, and I will get the pleasure of killing your wife," Lucius paused, raising an eyebrow and smirking, "Or you can take your bitch and let Tristan come with me. Let him pay service to the Dark Lord."
"You sick bastard!" Draco spat, reaching into his robes for his wand. As Draco was lifting his arm, Lucius pressed the blade into Hermione's throat, causing a thin line of blood to issue from the cut. She gasped, closing her eyes, and Draco froze.
"Good idea to stop. I could just kill the mudblood here and take Tristan, but I'll let you decide. I told you many times Draco, don't fall in love or get attached to anything. Someone might come around with a sadistic choice for you, something like this." Lucius stared at his son, merely laughing. "I don't have very long," He said somewhat irritably after a pause. "Make your choice."
"Take Tristan," Hermione whispered. Her voice was contracted with pain, her eyes never meeting Draco's. "Take him and run." Lucius pressed the knife closer to her neck, staining the metal crimson.
"What a brave little girl. Such spirit." Lucius drawled coldly. Hermione squirmed slightly, but only pressed the blade further into her neck. "If you don't move, it won't hurt as much." He whispered into her ear.
"Let her go." Draco hissed. Lucius turned to his son.
"So, Tristan will come with me?" He asked, smirking slightly. Draco turned to Lucius with cold eyes.
"No, you're going to let both of them go." He said simply. Lucius laughed quietly, the gesture not reflected in his eyes. "I'm serious. Let them go." Draco said again, his tone calm.
"Choose one." Lucius spat back, his patience wearing thin. After a few moments of silence, he took a deep breath. "I don't want to have to take everything away from you.but I will."
"I know." Draco whispered. He ran his hand across his eyelids, thinking, and trying to breathe normally. Lucius sighed and closed his eyes, waiting for his son's answer. "I'm know..." Draco whispered. "Avada Kevrada." Hermione screamed as the blade at her throat dragged across her skin lightly. No longer being supported, she collapsed to the ground, her eyes shut tightly. After a few minutes of heavy silence, Hermione opened her eyes. Her vision was blurred with tears-she could only make out the colors of the leaves and the sky beyond that. She sat up slowly, her head pounding and her heart racing. Draco was standing perfectly still in the center of the clearing, his wand at his side. Following his line of vision, Hermione gasped. Lucius was lying on his back, his gray eyes open and emotionless, his blond hair splayed across the grass beneath him.
"D-Draco?" Hermione whispered, her voice sounding thick and raspy. Draco slowly turned his head and met her gaze. His own blue eyes were unusually calm and clear.
"I killed him." He said simply, his voice steady. "And I don't regret it at all." At that, Hermione rose, her eyes filled with tears, and she ran to him, burying her face in his shoulder. He placed his arms around her shaking body, placing light kisses in her hair. They sank to the ground, Hermione still clutching Draco like she was afraid he would vanish if she dared let go.
'I love you.' She mouthed into his neck.
"I love you too." He whispered. His voice was laced with an emotion Hermione couldn't identify. Regret, maybe? No, that can't be it. He hated Lucius. Shock? She turned over many different ideas in her head, before Draco moved and interrupted her thoughts. He stood and moved over to his father's body. Leaning down, he picked up Tristan. The baby hadn't cried all night, but grasped the collar of Draco's shirt and fell fast asleep.
"What do we do now?" Hermione whispered, still seated on the grass. Draco shrugged.
"Take his body back and see how the others are doing?" He suggested. Hermione nodded, and stood to take the baby. Draco turned back to the corpse and levitated it. They moved through the forest in silence, neither one knowing what to say. As Hermione stepped past the barrier of trees, she gasped, silent tears coming to her eyes. The once serene grounds of Hogwarts were littered with bodies and blood. She scanned her eyes over the scene, finding where Harry, Ron, and the others were standing. Turning to Draco, she smiled weakly. He placed an arm around her waist and moved towards the others.
* * * * * * * * * * *
* * * * * * * * * * * **A/N** yeah, well, sorry about the delay.but there was the long awaited battle scene! Yes, people died. And no, I will not bring them back. I actually wanted to kill off more, seeing as its highly unlikely so many Death Eaters died, and so few of our guys didn't.but I have plans for the others. Sort of a sucky chapter, but I worked so hard on it. A few questions I ask you to ponder: what will happen to Cosette? Will she die? And now that Lucius is gone, what about Narcissa and her lover boy Snape? And what about Ron and Camille? Dillon's dead (I know, what a loss) so what about Ginny, now that she knows she loved him? Sirius went away (an attempt on my part to stay within JKR's context) so what about Remus and Harry? And finally, what will happen to our leading characters, Hermione and Draco?
And now I'm done. So yeah, hope you liked it. Review! And I ask you, look at my info.and vote on a plot. Oh yeah..and if any of you like to draw or anything, Jes thinks we should get some fanart going on this story..so just email me if you want to draw anything, and I'll figure out how.
* An occamy is a feathered, winged snake up to 15 feet in length. It is native to the far east and India, and its eggs are pure silver. (thank you, harry potter lexicon!)
"My Lord, I hate to be selfish, but I don't want Draco dead." Lucius was keeping a steady gaze, but his voice was quiet.
"He has betrayed us and our purpose. I allowed him to marry and impregnate that girl on your command, but I will not let him live. He knows the plan and will relay it to Dumbledore; we must rely on our force to overcome them now." Voldemort stood, his robes slipping off his frail shoulders. "He has to die. I'm sorry, Lucius, but we have no choice."
Lucius' blue eyes flickered. "I know he has betrayed us, but he is my only son. Let him live and I swear he will never commit another act against us. I will kill the Mudblood he loves so dearly, and loss of love is enough to make any man obey you." The room fell silent, the air weighted and humid. Voldemort turned away from Lucius, staring at the wall behind him.
"You must promise me that he will never turn traitor against us again. He can live if you promise me that."
Ron woke up, breathing hard. His room in Gryffindor tower was empty, Remus and Sirius obviously having already left. He looked around slowly, trying to find the source of the voices. Realizing it had been another of his dreams, Ron hurriedly grabbed a set of clothes, changed, and rushed down the stairs. A few first years looked at him as though he was insane, and Ron understood why. He was in such a rush that his shirt was backward and his hair was sticking out at very odd angles. He didn't care though; Voldemort was going to kill Hermione. Or Lucius was. Either way she was going to die, and Ron had to prevent that. He stumbled down the hallway and panted the password to get to Dumbledore's office. He banged on the door before collapsing to his knees, still breathing hard. Albus opened the door and pulled Ron inside, placing him in a chair and sitting behind his own desk to wait until Ron's pants had subsided. As soon as it was possible for Ron to talk and be understood, he started ranting about his dream. Dumbledore's face just grew more and more solemn, and by the time Ron was finished, Albus looked as old and tired as ever.
"So? What are we going to do about it? Hermione can't die!" Ron was standing again, practically going mad from all the pressure. He wished Dumbledore would just say something, but he remained silent, and Ron hated silence.
"I don't believe we can do anything, Ron. We'll have to try and plan a way for her to get out, but Voldemort is very powerful. I agree, Hermione can't die. Draco wouldn't be able to raise his son without her. For now, I think you should keep this a secret from Hermione and Draco, try not to worry anyone, and we'll discuss it in due time." Albus paused, sighing. "It's only July third. We have forty-two days."
"That's not enough time," Ron mumbled, nodding to Albus and leaving. He walked slowly down the corridor, deeply consumed in his own thoughts, when he realized that he was hearing Harry's voice coming from a nearby classroom. Frowning in confusion, Ron stood in the doorway of the Defense Against the Dark Arts class. Harry was stumbling over his own words, trying to explain the Imperius Curse to a class of sixth year Ravenclaws and Gryffindors.
"Well, you see, the Imperius Curse is one of the three Unforgivable Curses. It allows the caster to control the mind of the victim.and er.yeah, control them." Harry looked out at his class, his eyes resting on Cosette. She was staring out the window, her delicate fingers twirling a quill. Her intense blue eyes looked away from the window and skirted the front of the room. Although he had just been talking, Cosette remained oblivious to Harry.
"Excuse me, Harry? Could I speak with you?" Ron asked, knocking on the door. Harry looked at Ron gratefully, and excused himself.
"One moment, class. Uh, look at page one twenty-five of your books." Harry rushed to the hallway where Ron was waiting. "Thanks. I was having a horrid time in there."
"I can see that. So, when did the great Harry Potter get a job as the DADA teacher?" Ron asked, playfully teasing Harry.
"Dumbledore asked me to do it. I see why that job is always open. Anyway, what did you want to talk about?" Harry ran a hand through his hair, his emerald eyes glancing into his classroom every so often.
"Well, I had another dream." Ron started. Harry's face tensed with worry. "They're going to try to kill Hermione. I heard Lucius and Voldemort talking about it." Harry sighed, his breathing deep and steady.
"Did you tell Dumbledore?" Harry asked, pushing his hand through his hair again. Ron nodded.
"Yeah, I just came from there. Look, you have to get back to class, but don't tell anyone all right? Dumbledore said not to get too many people worried about it." Ron sighed. "I'll meet you after dinner in the Gryffindor common room, okay?" Harry nodded. Ron waved absentmindedly and went off. Harry went back into his nearly silent classroom.
"So, is everyone clear on that one?" Harry asked, receiving a few nods. "Well then, on to the Cruciatus Curse."
* * * * * * * * * * *
Hermione woke that morning to the soft light filtering through their windows. Draco and her had taken a spare classroom and had Dumbledore convert it into a living area. She stretched and turned to look at Draco. His arm was over his eyes, blocking out the light, and his hair splayed across the pillow. Sighing in contentment, Hermione lay back. I have never felt so rested. Hermione thought, but immediately felt a cold swell of panic in her stomach. She hadn't heard the baby cry all night, and from her experiences baby-sitting for her neighbors over the summer, babies hardly ever sleep through the night-unless something is wrong. She jerked up and shook Draco awake.
"Draco! Draco, wake up! Tristan.I think something might be wrong!" Hermione was wide awake now, and terrified. Draco slowly opened his eyes, but snapped up when her words registered.
"What's wrong with him?" Draco asked, standing and walking toward the crib. Tristan was lying peacefully in the bottom, curled up next to a pillow with his black wool blanket covering him. Leaning down, Draco picked up Tristan and the blanket, and cradled his child against his chest.
"Well, he hasn't cried all night. I've taken care of children before, back home in London, and they cry all the time. I was afraid he had.well, cradle death was an option." Hermione ran her fingertips through Tristan's hair, causing the baby to stir and turn his head.
"Hermione," Draco whispered, handing Tristan to his mother. "Wizarding babies hardly ever cry or fuss. It's an effect of the magic during the mother's pregnancy and the birth." Draco sat down on the edge of the bed, Hermione sitting next to him. He placed an arm around her waist and drew her closer.
"I have so much to learn," Hermione sighed, looking up at Draco's ice blue eyes. "I'm glad you're here to help me." Draco leaned down and kissed her lips softly. Tristan fidgeted in his blanket. Hermione smiled and spread out the black blanket. Tristan now lay on his back, opening his eyes. "Where did we get this blanket?" Hermione asked, fingering the wool.
"I'm not really sure. Pomfrey handed him to us in it, so I'm guessing it's from the infirmary." Draco looked down at Tristan. The baby was reaching up with his hands and feet, grasping the empty air. For a moment, Tristan looked up at his father and their identical eyes met. Hermione watched in silence as Draco brushed the back of his fingertips over the baby's cheek. "Hey, Tristan." He spoke softly. Tristan blinked in recognition. "I'm your father. And this beautiful woman is your mother."
"Welcome to Hogwarts." Hermione said in a breathy whisper. Tristan turned his gaze to Hermione, staring at her for a long while. The family sat in a comfortable silence; the only sound was their breathing. After a few long minutes, Hermione picked Tristan up and carried him to the crib. Placing him on his back, she smiled and turned to Draco.
"Thank you," Draco whispered, moving to place his hands on her hips and kissing her lightly. "For being my first love, my wife, and the mother of my child."
"I love you." Hermione whispered. Draco kissed her more passionately, moving a hand to play with her curls. "More than you can imagine." She exhaled, breaking the kiss for a breath of air. Looking into his eyes, Hermione lay her head against his chest and listened to his steady heartbeat. Every last second.every last day.before the war. It all comes down to the war, she thought. A tear fell from her eye and created a circle of water on Draco's shirt. "Promise me you'll never leave me." She asked, looking back up at his face.
"Not even if I die." Draco murmured quietly. Hermione looked back down, apparently not getting the answer she wanted. "I wouldn't leave you for the world. We'll make it through this. I know we can."
"I hope so, Draco." Hermione said. "I really, really hope so."
* * * * * * * * * * *
The days before the war passed slowly. The seconds seemed to drag on longer, each tick of the clock getting further away from the one before. In a way, the inhabitants were thankful for the languid days. But each minute that passed, each step closer to the time when Voldemort would attack was making them a little uneasier. A tiny bit more unnerved, a little more nervous. The students had gone home July eighth; leaving the castle empty except for those who had been present at Christmas. Tristan was fairing well, not knowing anything of the impending danger. He was one month old; and leaving only three days until August. Hermione had eventually been told of Ron's dream, and instead of going into hysterics, she took it all in stride and they planned out her escape. Draco had been teaching all of the younger wizards and witches most of the dark magic he thought his father would use. Ron was actually grateful that Draco was teaching him; he had never been a particularly talented wizard, and the more spells he knew, the better off he'd be. Dillon, however, was spending most of his time alone, going out at night, staying in the library. He would only speak when necessary; he avoided contact at all costs. As August thirteenth drew closer, the castle filled with tension. Hardly anyone spoke, and they were spread out all over the castle when possible. No one could sleep on the night of August eleventh, nor could they do anything on the twelfth. When midnight struck on August thirteenth, everyone watched the clock until the last note had faded. For a moment, no one spoke or moved. The hall was as silent as a tomb, not one person daring to breathe. Draco finally broke the weighted moment.
"Hermione," he whispered, crossing to her and hugging her tightly against his chest. "Take Tristan and run for the forest, like we planned. When you get to Hogsmeade, get to the Ministry and tell them to send reinforcements."
"I know." Hermione said, savoring the sound of his voice and the feel of his body. "Be careful out there. I'll get to Fudge as fast as I can." Draco leaned down and captured her lips in a short and fiery kiss. Hermione gasped for air and picked up Tristan. Giving everyone a last look, she ran out the doors and into the waiting forest.
"Draco, Harry, Ron, Dillon. Take Cosette, Camille, and Ginny down to the dungeons and wait there." Dumbledore said, his bright blue eyes alive and flickering. "Everyone else, come with me." The two groups separated, walking in opposite directions. Camille clung to Ron, hardly daring to let him go, for fear he would be lost or killed. Cosette remained silent, her cobalt eyes swirling with thought. Dillon led the group, trying to get away, disappearing beyond each corner. Ginny ran ahead, trying to catch up with Dillon, but he seemed to be farther ahead than she thought. Harry fell into step with Draco.
"Hey, Draco." Harry said in a consoling voice. Draco snapped his head up, his face tense and his eyes impassioned with anger. Harry looked at him in confusion and concern. "Are you okay?" He asked.
"Well, my sadistic bitch of a father wants to kill Hermione and take my child, and we're about to battle the best trained wizards in the world. Of course I'm okay." Draco answered sardonically. Harry sighed.
"I'm sorry." He whispered. "I know what it's like."
"You have no idea what it's like, Potter. You may have been brought up without parents, but I had them. I was forced to believe what Lucius wanted me to, do whatever Voldemort said, and live only to become a Death Eater. I had no choice in my life. It was all dictated before I was even born." Draco spat, once again staring at the floor. They reached the designated room and went inside, locking the door with a spell Severus had taught them. "You have no idea what it feels like not knowing whether or not the girl you love has been murdered by your own father." Draco finished, sinking onto the floor. The room fell quiet. Dillon came over and stood above him. Dillon met Draco's piercing stare with no fear in his own eyes, and they sat like that for a long time.
"You can't worry. She'll be fine. Hermione is the most talented witch I have ever met, and she is very capable of taking care of herself. Trust me on this, she will be okay." Dillon said in his deep, rhythmic voice. Draco stood up.
"I hope so." He whispered to himself, walking across the room. Ginny stared at Dillon, taking in every last inch of his body, and stood up herself. She opened her mouth to say something, but there was a loud popping noise from the lock. Soon after, the door burst open. Narcissa, out of breath and holding out her wand, motioned for them to follow. They all walked silently down the hallways, following Narcissa to the North tower. The window overlooked the lake and most of the grounds. Hagrid's house was empty- he had gone to France at the end of the school year to be with his long-time love, Madam Maxime. Dumbledore and Snape were at the window, watching the gates at the end of the long expanse of grass. It slowly opened and about sixty witches and wizards, all hooded and cloaked, walked through. Dumbledore turned to the room, his face grim.
"Well, here goes everything." He said, and walked past them all, down the staircase. Pausing to watch the Death Eaters, Harry soon followed the group moving out of the circular room. They all congregated around the front doorway, each person silent and lost in thought. Dumbledore turned again to address them all.
"We'll fight in pairs. Sirius and Remus, you take the left side closet to the lake. Harry and Cosette, go for Voldemort and his inner circle, but be careful. Ron and Camille, you two will follow Harry and Cosette. Try to keep the other Death Eaters away from them. Severus and Narcissa, you two will go to the right and try to lead some of them toward to Whomping Willow. Draco, go behind them. You'll fight alone. If you hear anything from the forest, go in after Hermione. Dillon and Ginny, you two go closest to the forest and try to keep any Death Eaters out. I'll try to help all of you. If you get hurt, just send up red sparks, or try to get your partner's attention. Look out for each other. And remember, we have one chance to do this right." Dumbledore turned back and opened the door. The Death Eaters has spread out over the lawn, and in the night, they blended in. The moon was a sliver of light in the sky and clouds had blotted out most of the stars. The war had begun.
* * * * * * * * * * *
Sirius and Remus ran out toward the lake. The Death Eaters made no move to harm them just yet, deciding to build the tension instead. As Sirius and Remus drew their wands, about ten cloaked Death Eaters advanced. Glancing one last time at each other, the two friends started tossing curses toward the nameless, faceless figures. A few fell almost instantly, the masks falling onto the ground and exposing the lifeless face of its owner. More advanced toward them, muttering incantations and hexes madly. After mere minutes of fighting, Remus sank to the ground, his face deathly pale, and his eyes squeezed closed. The wizard pointing his wand at Remus was smiling, a sick sort of pleasure evident after he pulled his mask off. Sirius took one look over, but had no time to spare. A Death Eater was advancing toward him, wand raised.
"Take off your mask and let me see your face! Allow me the pleasure of knowing whom I am about to kill!" Sirius cried, his voice ringing with laughter. He watched in silent surprise as the Death Eater removed her mask. Standing before him was his cousin, Bellatrix Lestrange.
"We meet again, dear cousin." Bellatrix drawled, her voice cold and dripping with sarcasm. "Managed to find your half-blood godson?"
"Yes, Bella, I have." Sirius said through clenched teeth. They continued circling each other, neither one speaking. Bellatrix looked away, surveying the scene behind them. Only two Death Eaters had lived through Remus and Sirius' attack- herself and Augustus Rookwood.
"I see my niece has managed to find her way to Hogwarts. She was always a disgrace to our name." Bellatrix smiled. "But at least Rookwood's son tried to help her mother. Pity she died." Her voice showed no trace of sympathy. Sirius, however, had muttered a quiet killing curse, instantly murdering Rookwood, and therefore releasing Remus of the Cruciatus Curse. Sirius motioned for Remus to help someone else, and Remus hesitated only a moment before sprinting in the direction of Harry and Cosette.
"Well, Bella, seeing as we are supposed to be fighting, why don't we get on with it? Rookwood has been killed-yes, if you turn around you should be able to see his body quite clearly- so that leaves you alone." Sirius smirked at her, laughing at her obvious surprise. She turned around to look at Rookwood, and Sirius muttered a fire spell. Her robe flamed up, singing the long, dark hair that fell down her back. Bellatrix shrieked and threw her robe into the lake. A hissing noise emanated from the glassy water, and small clouds of steam rose. Wild with rage, Bellatrix continued to throw curses at Sirius, who dodged expertly and threw some back.
Leaping past a jet of green light, he called out, "Come on Bella! I know you can do better than that!" He laughed once more, but the noise died in his throat. Bellatrix had hit Sirius in the chest with the most deadly curse she knew-Avada Kevrada. Sirius' body crumpled to the ground, his hair falling into his eyes, his arms splayed across the grass. Giving a little shout of triumph, Bellatrix turned around. Remus, who had witnessed the duel, was pointing his wand at her chest. Bellatrix froze as Remus yelled, "Expelliarmus!" Holding Bellatrix's wand in his left hand, Remus advanced, his brown eyes flickering with fury.
"Well, well, well. At last we meet. Although I'm afraid we really won't get to know each other very well," Remus' voice was cold and filled with suppressed anger and grief. "Seeing as I plan to kill you."
"Now, Lupin, don't get unreasonable." Bellatrix began, her voice quivering with fear. She had tried to run, but found her legs bound to the ground, another trick of Remus'.
"UNREASONABLE?" Remus roared, snapping her wand in half. Bellatrix uttered a sound of despair, but dared not speak. "YOU THINK I'M BEING UNREASONABLE? YOU JUST KILLED SIRIUS!" Remus took a deep breath, closing his eyes. Pointing his wand at Bellatrix's heart, he muttered, "You heartless bitch. I don't believe anything will give me greater pleasure than watching you die. Avada Kevrada." Bellatrix crumpled to the ground, her head landing on Sirius' stomach. Remus' eyes filled with tears, but he blinked them away. He ran towards Harry again, his stomach and heart weighted with a cold anguish.
* * * * * * * * * * *
Dillon and Ginny were fighting with their backs to the forest, separated by about ten feet. Dillon kept glancing over his shoulder at Ginny, reassuring himself that she was okay. A hooded figure turned to Ginny and raised his wand, pointing it at the red-haired girl. Ginny's back was turned, away from impending danger, and Dillon could do nothing but stare. As the Death Eater's mouth opened, Dillon shot his wand up and whispered, "Avada Kevrada," shooting a deadly stream of light at Ginny's attacker. The hood fell back as the lifeless figure slumped to the ground, revealing long brown hair. Another Death Eater, the one who had been fighting with the woman, turned to look, and gave a cry of outrage and despair. Dillon turned away from the scene, cringing slightly. Without hearing the footsteps behind him, Dillon raised his wand again, but drew in a sharp breath as a warm pain pierced his back. "An eye for an eye," A cold voice hissed in his ear. Dillon turned slightly and saw the Death Eater who had cried out. Looking further down, Dillon saw a silver dagger in his back.
"And the whole world goes blind." Dillon whispered, his voice ragged. The Death Eater gave one final thrust of the blade and walked away. Dillon slumped to the ground, expecting to feel the hard earth beneath him, but instead fell into a set of arms. Fluttering his eyes open, Dillon saw Ginny leaning over him. Her face was flushed and her eyes were watering.
"Dillon?" She asked, her voice shaking. The blade had pierced through Dillon's chest, leaving a gleaming silver tip exposed. Ginny ran her fingers over it, pricking herself. She let her wound bleed into his, staining his already crimson shirt with her blood.
"It's over Ginny. I lost, but you have to keep going." Dillon whispered. His green eyes were clouding over. At that moment, those vital minutes that passed before Dillon died, Ginny realized she loved him.
"Not without you." Ginny whispered, tears falling down her cheeks. "I love you Dillon."
"I love you too. I always have. Ever since that day last October...you were the only one I wanted." Dillon whispered. He drew in a shaky breath, his face growing pale. Ginny pulled out her wand.
"Turn over, Dillon," She said uneasily. Dillon grasped her wand with a blood stained hand.
"It's over, Ginny. I've accepted my fate. I don't feel anything anymore. The pain is gone, Ginny. Can't you understand that? I don't have any more pain. The only regret that I have is that I never told you I loved you." Ginny let a small sob escape her throat. She leaned down and kissed him, gently at first, but as she tasted the blood in his mouth she grew more demanding. They sat there like that, absorbed in each other for so long, they failed to notice the figure darting into the woods behind them. Dillon pulled away for a moment.
"I love you." He breathed. A trickle of blood found its way out of his mouth and down his chin. Ginny wiped it away, gently stroking her thumb over his swollen lips.
"I love you too." She choked out, her tears flooding her cheeks. Dillon's dark green eyes were glassy and distant. They fluttered closed, his eyelashes sitting on his pale cheeks. Ginny leaned down and kissed his cold lips, finally accepting the inevitable-Dillon was dead.
* * * * * * * * * * *
Severus and Narcissa were surrounded by a group of seven or eight Death Eaters. They were back to back, walking in a slow circle. One of the Death Eaters stepped forward and pulled off his hood.
"Snape." He said coldly. Severus nodded curtly.
"Macnair." He responded. The two men glared at each other in silence, measuring the other up. Narcissa stood in fearful shock, as did the other Death Eaters. Severus and Macnair both had their wands pointed at each other, and proceeded to walk in circles.
"I see you have turned traitor. The Dark Lord expected as much. We were sent to kill you as well as Potter and that Mudblood. Should prove to be entertaining." Macnair spat, looking thoroughly disgusted.
"Pity you won't be around for it." Severus drawled just as coldly. Macnair furrowed his brow in confusion as Severus raised his wand and muttered, "Exsanguis." A black light shone from Snape's wand and penetrated Macnair's chest. As he slumped to the ground, another Death Eater stepped forward. "Ah, Parkinson. As I am to believe, your daughter was a student of mine? I suppose I won't kill you then, although you deserve to die.Petrificus Totalus." Parkinson fell to the ground as well, and the rest of the Death Eaters, obviously enraged, came forward. "Narcissa," Severus hissed, backing away and pulling her with him. "Do you know the Sopio Patronus hex?" Narcissa shook her head, backing away more quickly. "Well, it stuns your opponent. Much like Expecto Patronus, except this works on people. Can you do that?" Severus asked. They had their backs almost within reach of the Whomping Willow.
"I'll try." Narcissa whispered in an uneasy voice. She lifted her wand as Severus raised his, and she whispered with as much conviction as she could muster, "Sopio Patronum!" A silvery occamy(*) sprang from her wand and charged at the Death Eaters. Along side it, she could see a raven. Smiling slightly, she stepped more closely to Severus. Having stunned all of the Death Eaters left, the two animals vanished. Soon after, Draco came sprinting over. He had a gash on his cheek and his shirt was stained with blood.
"What.in the hell.was that?" He panted, placing his hands on his knees and breathing deeply.
"Sopio Patronus. Quite a useful spell, although terribly underestimated." Severus said. Draco eyed him suspiciously, before turning to his mother.
"Are you all right?" He asked. Narcissa was smiling pleasantly, but her cheery mood vanished quickly. A piercing shriek cut though the air, leaving nearly everyone on the grounds motionless and staring in confusion.
"The forest." Narcissa whispered, her hand covering her mouth.
"Hermione." Draco trailed off, pausing slightly before running full- speed toward the towering trees.
* * * * * * * * * * *
"We meet again, Harry Potter."
"Yes, in fact we do. Very observant, aren't you?" Harry spat back. He was feeling quite self-assured with the knowledge that neither of them could hurt the other. Camille, Ron, and Lupin were fighting the surrounding Death Eaters, leaving Cosette and Harry to deal with Voldemort.
"What did you think this would accomplish, Potter? Our wands cannot work against each other. We're connected, you and I. Unless you would have that girl fight for you? Die in your place?" Voldemort's lips curled into a smile, having obviously provoked Harry. "Pray tell, who is she?" He strode over to Cosette, who had her wand raised in defense, but stood stone still.
"Cosette Lestrange." Harry hissed. He was getting rather angry at the fact that Voldemort was inspecting Cosette, and that she wasn't doing anything to stop him. At the mention of her name, Cosette jumped and looked at Harry.
"Oh yes, Bellatrix's niece." Voldemort said calmly, turning to Cosette. He ran his hand along Cosette's face, and onto her shoulder. "Didn't we kill your brother? Thought he was your traitorous father." He paused, smirking. "Would've died anyway. He was too headstrong for his own good. Much like your godfather." Harry watched as Voldemort turned back to him, and as Cosette relaxed a bit and breathed a sigh of relief.
"You really are a cold hearted bastard, you know that, don't you?" Harry spat. Cosette started to back away slowly towards Remus.
"I am very well aware of that fact." Voldemort approached Harry with his wand down. Harry jerked his up again, causing Voldemort to laugh softly. "You are a stupid boy. I have told you before; we cannot fight against each other. Not with these wands. Eighteen years ago, I put some of me into you with that curse. You are part of me.lurking within you is an evil that even I cannot describe to you. Now, what will it be? A battle between Miss Lestrange and I, or will we find a way around this little.problem?" Voldemort raised a nearly invisible eyebrow, his slitted eyes glittering. Harry stood silent, thinking of an attack, before his thoughts were interrupted once again by Voldemort's cold, thin voice. "Maybe I should make the first move? Avada Kevrada!" Voldemort hissed, pointing his wand at Cosette. The beam of light reflected off a nearby rock and struck Cosette in the chest. She let out a gasp as she crumpled to the ground, her wand dropping to her side. Harry ran over to her, barely remembering to breathe. He could hear Voldemort laughing, but the sound seemed so far away. The world was fogging up, the shapes and colors running together. He kneeled beside her body, grasping her hand. He could barely see the rise and fall of her chest, signaling life.
"She's still alive, but only barely. The reflection dulled the spell's effects." Voldemort said. His voice sounded clearer, and as Harry turned around he realized that his opponent was right behind him. Harry picked up his fallen wand and pointed it at Voldemort.
"You killed my parents. You almost killed Cosette. You've killed hundreds.thousands of people, just because you can." Harry whispered, not quite sure what he was doing. The wand in his hand felt lighter than normal, and his head was spinning. "I hate you." Narrowing his eyes, Harry took three long strides and pushed the tip of his wand against Voldemort's chest. "Exsanguis." He hissed, not knowing why, but instead of the familiar cage of light forming around them, Voldemort's eyes grew wide and he collapsed. Harry stepped back, staring. A faint purple light was glowing from the body. Kneeling next to Voldemort, Harry flipped the body over and stared into the expressionless eyes.
"You killed him. You actually killed Voldemort." A voice from behind Harry said. He whipped around, and met the eyes of Ronald Weasley.
* * * * * * * * * * *
"Hermione." Draco breathed. He stepped into the clearing to come face- to-face with the cold gray eyes of his father.
"Glad you could join us." Lucius said calmly. He was standing in the center of the clearing, one arm wrapped around Hermione's neck and pressing a blade to her throat, the other arm holding Tristan. The baby, surprisingly, wasn't crying, just staring from Lucius, to Hermione, and then to Draco. "We've been waiting."
"What are you doing?" Draco seethed, stepping forward. "What in hell do you think you are doing?"
"Well, dear son, I have come to help you make your decision. You can either choose to take your son home, and I will get the pleasure of killing your wife," Lucius paused, raising an eyebrow and smirking, "Or you can take your bitch and let Tristan come with me. Let him pay service to the Dark Lord."
"You sick bastard!" Draco spat, reaching into his robes for his wand. As Draco was lifting his arm, Lucius pressed the blade into Hermione's throat, causing a thin line of blood to issue from the cut. She gasped, closing her eyes, and Draco froze.
"Good idea to stop. I could just kill the mudblood here and take Tristan, but I'll let you decide. I told you many times Draco, don't fall in love or get attached to anything. Someone might come around with a sadistic choice for you, something like this." Lucius stared at his son, merely laughing. "I don't have very long," He said somewhat irritably after a pause. "Make your choice."
"Take Tristan," Hermione whispered. Her voice was contracted with pain, her eyes never meeting Draco's. "Take him and run." Lucius pressed the knife closer to her neck, staining the metal crimson.
"What a brave little girl. Such spirit." Lucius drawled coldly. Hermione squirmed slightly, but only pressed the blade further into her neck. "If you don't move, it won't hurt as much." He whispered into her ear.
"Let her go." Draco hissed. Lucius turned to his son.
"So, Tristan will come with me?" He asked, smirking slightly. Draco turned to Lucius with cold eyes.
"No, you're going to let both of them go." He said simply. Lucius laughed quietly, the gesture not reflected in his eyes. "I'm serious. Let them go." Draco said again, his tone calm.
"Choose one." Lucius spat back, his patience wearing thin. After a few moments of silence, he took a deep breath. "I don't want to have to take everything away from you.but I will."
"I know." Draco whispered. He ran his hand across his eyelids, thinking, and trying to breathe normally. Lucius sighed and closed his eyes, waiting for his son's answer. "I'm know..." Draco whispered. "Avada Kevrada." Hermione screamed as the blade at her throat dragged across her skin lightly. No longer being supported, she collapsed to the ground, her eyes shut tightly. After a few minutes of heavy silence, Hermione opened her eyes. Her vision was blurred with tears-she could only make out the colors of the leaves and the sky beyond that. She sat up slowly, her head pounding and her heart racing. Draco was standing perfectly still in the center of the clearing, his wand at his side. Following his line of vision, Hermione gasped. Lucius was lying on his back, his gray eyes open and emotionless, his blond hair splayed across the grass beneath him.
"D-Draco?" Hermione whispered, her voice sounding thick and raspy. Draco slowly turned his head and met her gaze. His own blue eyes were unusually calm and clear.
"I killed him." He said simply, his voice steady. "And I don't regret it at all." At that, Hermione rose, her eyes filled with tears, and she ran to him, burying her face in his shoulder. He placed his arms around her shaking body, placing light kisses in her hair. They sank to the ground, Hermione still clutching Draco like she was afraid he would vanish if she dared let go.
'I love you.' She mouthed into his neck.
"I love you too." He whispered. His voice was laced with an emotion Hermione couldn't identify. Regret, maybe? No, that can't be it. He hated Lucius. Shock? She turned over many different ideas in her head, before Draco moved and interrupted her thoughts. He stood and moved over to his father's body. Leaning down, he picked up Tristan. The baby hadn't cried all night, but grasped the collar of Draco's shirt and fell fast asleep.
"What do we do now?" Hermione whispered, still seated on the grass. Draco shrugged.
"Take his body back and see how the others are doing?" He suggested. Hermione nodded, and stood to take the baby. Draco turned back to the corpse and levitated it. They moved through the forest in silence, neither one knowing what to say. As Hermione stepped past the barrier of trees, she gasped, silent tears coming to her eyes. The once serene grounds of Hogwarts were littered with bodies and blood. She scanned her eyes over the scene, finding where Harry, Ron, and the others were standing. Turning to Draco, she smiled weakly. He placed an arm around her waist and moved towards the others.
* * * * * * * * * * *
* * * * * * * * * * * **A/N** yeah, well, sorry about the delay.but there was the long awaited battle scene! Yes, people died. And no, I will not bring them back. I actually wanted to kill off more, seeing as its highly unlikely so many Death Eaters died, and so few of our guys didn't.but I have plans for the others. Sort of a sucky chapter, but I worked so hard on it. A few questions I ask you to ponder: what will happen to Cosette? Will she die? And now that Lucius is gone, what about Narcissa and her lover boy Snape? And what about Ron and Camille? Dillon's dead (I know, what a loss) so what about Ginny, now that she knows she loved him? Sirius went away (an attempt on my part to stay within JKR's context) so what about Remus and Harry? And finally, what will happen to our leading characters, Hermione and Draco?
And now I'm done. So yeah, hope you liked it. Review! And I ask you, look at my info.and vote on a plot. Oh yeah..and if any of you like to draw or anything, Jes thinks we should get some fanart going on this story..so just email me if you want to draw anything, and I'll figure out how.
* An occamy is a feathered, winged snake up to 15 feet in length. It is native to the far east and India, and its eggs are pure silver. (thank you, harry potter lexicon!)