Chapter Six: End of the Dream
(A/N Well I finally figured out 3rd-year!!! Yeah!!! Hope you guys like it, though sadly it cannot be as happy as the last chapter. You guys do all know that this cannot end well, right?)
A noise startled Draco. Footsteps in the hallway, coming towards Lucia's room. He scrambled to put the books back into the box, and hurried out the window. The door opened inside, and the soft-falling feet entered. Draco didn't have to see her to recognize his mother.
Narcissa moved past the box, to Lucia's bed. Draco didn't dare move, for from where she sat Mother would surely notice movement. Lucia's bed looked out through the window, for his sister had always enjoyed looking at the view. Wishing that she could join it, instead of being coped up inside. Draco knew how she felt.
Suddenly soft sobs reached his ear. Narcissa was crying on the bed of her little girl, tears flowing for the daughter she had known so little about. No one had really known Lucia. Well, one person had but he didn't matter.
Draco remained still and silent as his mother wept. Finally she slipped back into the hall, and he moved back inside the room. He had never realized that his mother would ever visit this room. He had never been aware that she had so much emotion in her. There was a lot he didn't know about the Malfoy women. But Narcissa would have to wait, for now Draco would concentrate on discovering who his older sister had really been.
*~*~*
Dear Diary,
Well, I'm back on the Hogwarts Express. A new school year has begun. My third-year, a time of more rigorous studies and Hogsmeade expeditions. Not that the studies will be too hard. And I'm not as excited about Hogsmeade as most people. It's just another place to go.
My life is back to normal. This summer was but a dream to me now. I will remember it fondly, but I'll never experience anything like it again. I know this may sound very pessimistic, but its not. I'm just being realistic. For two months Mother and I were like sisters. Now we will return to being strangers.
I know it's foolish, but I can feel my eyes filling up as I write this. It's not a pleasant filling, being on the verge of tears. And quite unexpected. To think I would cry over my mother. It's as ridiculous as her crying over me. I'll just take a moment, to gather my wits about me again. And act like a true Malfoy, which sadly enough I know I am.
Ok, I'm in control again. Just in time to bid you farewell, for I neglected my schoolwork this summer. Of course I finished the assigned work, but I have not been a diligent in working ahead as I usually am. And this year I have to work even harder. Especially because I'm sure the Weasel and the Mudblood, as I unaffectionately call them, are sure to be out for revenge. I have much work to do.
Lucia
*~*~*
Dear Diary,
Over this summer I have developed. And by this I refer not to my magic skills, but to my body. I realize that I am no longer a little girl, but what someone would likely call a "young woman". How cliché, but accurate. If my schoolmates stares are any indication.
It is quite odd, and I've found myself spending more time in front of my mirror, looking at my reflection. I have always had the rather striking Malfoy appearance, but never considered myself anywhere near beautiful. But now I'm seeing at very least a prettiness.
I sound very vain, but why shouldn't I be. All the girls in my year stare enviously at me now. Even some of the older years do. And the guys, well, they are guys after all. Ogling is practically in their genes. Though sometimes is it disturbing. Especially around Bartleby. I sometime catch a rather feral look in his eyes, and it scares me. But on some level I feel flattered, that he's giving me any attention. After all, he is the alpha male for most of Slytherin. Unchallenged by any others below 7th year. Next year he will be the undisputed leader of our house. Well, the male leader at least. Coming from a powerful family really helps at school, as I well know. But Bartleby merely looks, at least when it comes to me. He's busy with all the other girls in Slytherin, but knows better than to mess around with a Malfoy.
The female leader is currently Pamela Locust, a prefect. And she is finally under the influence of our little group. This means we will have a little leeway as far as the rules go. Which we allow us to properly defend ourselves again any Gryffindor retaliation for last year.
Speaking of those "brave" folks of Gryffindor, I was correct in my guess that they would still be out for revenge. A few tricks have been played, minor things such as itching powder and the likes. But nothing has come close to me. And of course, I am the primary target. After all, even if they can't prove it, Weasley and Daniels both know I am behind the little green-skin fiasco. Thinking about that victory still makes me smile.
Anyways, school is basically normal, accept for the leering I mentioned earlier. But that doesn't really affect me. Though it was amusing to see the Weasel's double take when he first saw me. As I said before, my life has gone back to normal. For better or worse.
Lucia
*~*~*
Dear Diary,
Well, today was our first excursion to Hogsmeade. I took in all the sights, and frankly found it to be as I expected. Not nearly as exciting as everyone thinks it is.
If perhaps I liked candy than Honeydukes would be the place to be. If the Shrieking Shack was genuinely haunted, it might be good for some kicks and giggles at the expense of the Gryffindors. But of course, none of this is true. I don't want my teeth to rot, and I'd bet my wand that there is nothing but dust haunting that old, boarded up wretch of a house. I remember Father saying that when he was at Hogwarts you could hear inhuman howling. Yet another lie he's told me.
So after exploring this poor excuse of a tourist town, I ended up in the tavern, ready to try the famous Butterbeer. And, surprise surprise, I found it just as impressive as the rest of the pitiful town.
I was about to leave when movement in the shadows caught my attention. Sitting there alone was Prof. Snape. So, rather than wander around the town in boredom until the trip was over, I decided to go sit and talk with everyone's favourite Potions Master. Or at least my favourite Potions Master, and Professor. After all, what other member of the staff would cover for me?
So I sat in the dark corner with him, and talked. We talked about many things: lessons, recent events and, in hushed voices, the stupidity of the other students. Especially the stupidity of the Gryffindors and their failed attempts at retribution. Their last endeavor was really laughable. I mean, what kind of idiot do they take me for, levitating a cupcake and expecting me to eat it? You would have to be pretty dense to fall for that!
During our conversation, Snape suggested that I try a Cherry Blast. Apparently it was my mother's favourite drink during her school years. So, since I had nothing better to do, I ordered one. And finally found something worth appreciating in this hovel. A Cherry Blast first hits you with an overwhelming sourness, and then is almost sweet enough to make you sick. It is an amazing experience. And it was nice to know my mother a bit more, even if it's just a useless, random fact about her. Next trip to Hogsmeade I think I'll try to get Snape to tell me more. I have heard some stories, but only those that Father thought best showed Malfoy superiority. And he stopped telling me these stories after Draco was born. Yet another thing that changed after that little ferret was born.
Sometimes I hate my brother so much, for taking away everything that I had. But it isn't his fault. It's Father's. But it's hard to hate Father, because I loved him to the stars and back once. It seems like a lifetime ago though.
Lucia
*~*~*
Dear Diary,
Well, I have a very interesting incident to tell you today, diary dearest. The rumor mill is working overboard, and I'm certain that Bill Weasley is behind it. They have finally found a way to attack me, but I won't give them the pleasure of letting this affect me. In fact, maybe I can make I work for me.
So, here's what happened. Apparently the Gryffindors saw me drinking with Prof. Snape at Hogsmeade. And decided that it would be entertaining to suggest that something more was going on between the Potions Master and me. Of course, this is no proof of any such affair. I know for a fact that Snape is still in love with his ex-fiancée, Circe Dumbledore. Yes, Dumbledore. The daughter of our "beloved" headmaster.
Anyways, as for me I would never for a second consider doing such a thing. I mean, he's the same age as my father!!! The whole idea is so completely preposterous!
But this could work for my advantage. I'm not sure how, but there must be a way. Even if all this does is distract Weasel enough that his grades fall even more below mine. If he is really concentrating on my reaction, I may even be able to surpass him in Transfiguration.
So, I've set my course and it is time to set sail in the chaotic sea known as Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry.
Lucia
*~*~*
Dear Diary,
My plan is going well. I can feel eyes on me all the time, waiting to find some proof that Snape and I have more than a mere teacher-student relationship. I've made sure not to allow the rumor to die, hoping to through off Weasley even more. I wonder if I could even convince him that the rumor is true? That would be a riot!
Luckily, Snape allows this. Since we both know that there is absolutely no foundation of this lie, he doesn't mind perpetuating it. And I relish it, because really it is SO much fun!!! I even have most of the Slytherins now convinced that Snape is my lover. My lover! How incredibly absurd!
Lucia
PS I even forced a reaction from Father! He sent me this letter, saying that this behavior was completely unrespectable and unlike a Malfoy. I wonder who his source at Hogwarts is? I thought at first it might be Snape, but obviously not. Anyways, I burned the letter without replying. Let Father stew in that for a bit.
*~*~*
Draco smiled at his sister's last comments. He had a vague recollection of that year, and knew Lucia had indeed managed to upset Father. But he shuddered at the thought of anyone being in a relationship with Snape. Especially a 13-year-old girl. How repulsive!
(A/N Take that all you Hermione/Snape people. I don't mean to be insulting, but I have never found a realistic story about that couple. Then again, any such pairing contradicts my Snape and Circe stories, so I may be a bit biased. But still, there is such an age gap that is really is rather repulsive. Also hope you guys who are always asking for more of Draco liked the beginning.
And now on to the thank yous (who could have seen that coming! LOL)
Guardian of Lost Souls: I would love to see that multi-coloured mansion too! Also I really liked being able to put the sweet chapter up, because the story is going to get progressively darker as we go on.
Vicious Rebel: I love this story too. It is very dear to me, which is why I update as fast as I can.
Never You Mind: I'm glad you can really see what Lucia is going through, because so can I. I feel very connected to Lucia, for better or worse.
Emma: Of course I plan to continue this story. If not, Lucia would get really pissed off at me! I'm also considering writing a companion piece to it, of events from someone else's POV. But I'm not going to tell you who just yet.
Aurelia: Hey again. I'm glad you like the chapter. Also, I feel your pain about Lucia. But, as I said at the beginning of this chapter, you have to know that it can't end happy. Because trust me, if it did the Harry Potter universe would be different than it is, and I'm not about to go contradicting JK Rowlings anymore than I have to.
Darcel: Thanks for all your reviewing. All of you guys. It is the reviews that encourage me to update faster. Thank you SO MUCH!!! (Sorry Darcel for turning your thank you into a group one)
Jeanne: I hope this chapter lives up to your expectations. Thanks again for the Alan Rickman story, he is a god, even if he is 57!!!)
(A/N Well I finally figured out 3rd-year!!! Yeah!!! Hope you guys like it, though sadly it cannot be as happy as the last chapter. You guys do all know that this cannot end well, right?)
A noise startled Draco. Footsteps in the hallway, coming towards Lucia's room. He scrambled to put the books back into the box, and hurried out the window. The door opened inside, and the soft-falling feet entered. Draco didn't have to see her to recognize his mother.
Narcissa moved past the box, to Lucia's bed. Draco didn't dare move, for from where she sat Mother would surely notice movement. Lucia's bed looked out through the window, for his sister had always enjoyed looking at the view. Wishing that she could join it, instead of being coped up inside. Draco knew how she felt.
Suddenly soft sobs reached his ear. Narcissa was crying on the bed of her little girl, tears flowing for the daughter she had known so little about. No one had really known Lucia. Well, one person had but he didn't matter.
Draco remained still and silent as his mother wept. Finally she slipped back into the hall, and he moved back inside the room. He had never realized that his mother would ever visit this room. He had never been aware that she had so much emotion in her. There was a lot he didn't know about the Malfoy women. But Narcissa would have to wait, for now Draco would concentrate on discovering who his older sister had really been.
*~*~*
Dear Diary,
Well, I'm back on the Hogwarts Express. A new school year has begun. My third-year, a time of more rigorous studies and Hogsmeade expeditions. Not that the studies will be too hard. And I'm not as excited about Hogsmeade as most people. It's just another place to go.
My life is back to normal. This summer was but a dream to me now. I will remember it fondly, but I'll never experience anything like it again. I know this may sound very pessimistic, but its not. I'm just being realistic. For two months Mother and I were like sisters. Now we will return to being strangers.
I know it's foolish, but I can feel my eyes filling up as I write this. It's not a pleasant filling, being on the verge of tears. And quite unexpected. To think I would cry over my mother. It's as ridiculous as her crying over me. I'll just take a moment, to gather my wits about me again. And act like a true Malfoy, which sadly enough I know I am.
Ok, I'm in control again. Just in time to bid you farewell, for I neglected my schoolwork this summer. Of course I finished the assigned work, but I have not been a diligent in working ahead as I usually am. And this year I have to work even harder. Especially because I'm sure the Weasel and the Mudblood, as I unaffectionately call them, are sure to be out for revenge. I have much work to do.
Lucia
*~*~*
Dear Diary,
Over this summer I have developed. And by this I refer not to my magic skills, but to my body. I realize that I am no longer a little girl, but what someone would likely call a "young woman". How cliché, but accurate. If my schoolmates stares are any indication.
It is quite odd, and I've found myself spending more time in front of my mirror, looking at my reflection. I have always had the rather striking Malfoy appearance, but never considered myself anywhere near beautiful. But now I'm seeing at very least a prettiness.
I sound very vain, but why shouldn't I be. All the girls in my year stare enviously at me now. Even some of the older years do. And the guys, well, they are guys after all. Ogling is practically in their genes. Though sometimes is it disturbing. Especially around Bartleby. I sometime catch a rather feral look in his eyes, and it scares me. But on some level I feel flattered, that he's giving me any attention. After all, he is the alpha male for most of Slytherin. Unchallenged by any others below 7th year. Next year he will be the undisputed leader of our house. Well, the male leader at least. Coming from a powerful family really helps at school, as I well know. But Bartleby merely looks, at least when it comes to me. He's busy with all the other girls in Slytherin, but knows better than to mess around with a Malfoy.
The female leader is currently Pamela Locust, a prefect. And she is finally under the influence of our little group. This means we will have a little leeway as far as the rules go. Which we allow us to properly defend ourselves again any Gryffindor retaliation for last year.
Speaking of those "brave" folks of Gryffindor, I was correct in my guess that they would still be out for revenge. A few tricks have been played, minor things such as itching powder and the likes. But nothing has come close to me. And of course, I am the primary target. After all, even if they can't prove it, Weasley and Daniels both know I am behind the little green-skin fiasco. Thinking about that victory still makes me smile.
Anyways, school is basically normal, accept for the leering I mentioned earlier. But that doesn't really affect me. Though it was amusing to see the Weasel's double take when he first saw me. As I said before, my life has gone back to normal. For better or worse.
Lucia
*~*~*
Dear Diary,
Well, today was our first excursion to Hogsmeade. I took in all the sights, and frankly found it to be as I expected. Not nearly as exciting as everyone thinks it is.
If perhaps I liked candy than Honeydukes would be the place to be. If the Shrieking Shack was genuinely haunted, it might be good for some kicks and giggles at the expense of the Gryffindors. But of course, none of this is true. I don't want my teeth to rot, and I'd bet my wand that there is nothing but dust haunting that old, boarded up wretch of a house. I remember Father saying that when he was at Hogwarts you could hear inhuman howling. Yet another lie he's told me.
So after exploring this poor excuse of a tourist town, I ended up in the tavern, ready to try the famous Butterbeer. And, surprise surprise, I found it just as impressive as the rest of the pitiful town.
I was about to leave when movement in the shadows caught my attention. Sitting there alone was Prof. Snape. So, rather than wander around the town in boredom until the trip was over, I decided to go sit and talk with everyone's favourite Potions Master. Or at least my favourite Potions Master, and Professor. After all, what other member of the staff would cover for me?
So I sat in the dark corner with him, and talked. We talked about many things: lessons, recent events and, in hushed voices, the stupidity of the other students. Especially the stupidity of the Gryffindors and their failed attempts at retribution. Their last endeavor was really laughable. I mean, what kind of idiot do they take me for, levitating a cupcake and expecting me to eat it? You would have to be pretty dense to fall for that!
During our conversation, Snape suggested that I try a Cherry Blast. Apparently it was my mother's favourite drink during her school years. So, since I had nothing better to do, I ordered one. And finally found something worth appreciating in this hovel. A Cherry Blast first hits you with an overwhelming sourness, and then is almost sweet enough to make you sick. It is an amazing experience. And it was nice to know my mother a bit more, even if it's just a useless, random fact about her. Next trip to Hogsmeade I think I'll try to get Snape to tell me more. I have heard some stories, but only those that Father thought best showed Malfoy superiority. And he stopped telling me these stories after Draco was born. Yet another thing that changed after that little ferret was born.
Sometimes I hate my brother so much, for taking away everything that I had. But it isn't his fault. It's Father's. But it's hard to hate Father, because I loved him to the stars and back once. It seems like a lifetime ago though.
Lucia
*~*~*
Dear Diary,
Well, I have a very interesting incident to tell you today, diary dearest. The rumor mill is working overboard, and I'm certain that Bill Weasley is behind it. They have finally found a way to attack me, but I won't give them the pleasure of letting this affect me. In fact, maybe I can make I work for me.
So, here's what happened. Apparently the Gryffindors saw me drinking with Prof. Snape at Hogsmeade. And decided that it would be entertaining to suggest that something more was going on between the Potions Master and me. Of course, this is no proof of any such affair. I know for a fact that Snape is still in love with his ex-fiancée, Circe Dumbledore. Yes, Dumbledore. The daughter of our "beloved" headmaster.
Anyways, as for me I would never for a second consider doing such a thing. I mean, he's the same age as my father!!! The whole idea is so completely preposterous!
But this could work for my advantage. I'm not sure how, but there must be a way. Even if all this does is distract Weasel enough that his grades fall even more below mine. If he is really concentrating on my reaction, I may even be able to surpass him in Transfiguration.
So, I've set my course and it is time to set sail in the chaotic sea known as Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry.
Lucia
*~*~*
Dear Diary,
My plan is going well. I can feel eyes on me all the time, waiting to find some proof that Snape and I have more than a mere teacher-student relationship. I've made sure not to allow the rumor to die, hoping to through off Weasley even more. I wonder if I could even convince him that the rumor is true? That would be a riot!
Luckily, Snape allows this. Since we both know that there is absolutely no foundation of this lie, he doesn't mind perpetuating it. And I relish it, because really it is SO much fun!!! I even have most of the Slytherins now convinced that Snape is my lover. My lover! How incredibly absurd!
Lucia
PS I even forced a reaction from Father! He sent me this letter, saying that this behavior was completely unrespectable and unlike a Malfoy. I wonder who his source at Hogwarts is? I thought at first it might be Snape, but obviously not. Anyways, I burned the letter without replying. Let Father stew in that for a bit.
*~*~*
Draco smiled at his sister's last comments. He had a vague recollection of that year, and knew Lucia had indeed managed to upset Father. But he shuddered at the thought of anyone being in a relationship with Snape. Especially a 13-year-old girl. How repulsive!
(A/N Take that all you Hermione/Snape people. I don't mean to be insulting, but I have never found a realistic story about that couple. Then again, any such pairing contradicts my Snape and Circe stories, so I may be a bit biased. But still, there is such an age gap that is really is rather repulsive. Also hope you guys who are always asking for more of Draco liked the beginning.
And now on to the thank yous (who could have seen that coming! LOL)
Guardian of Lost Souls: I would love to see that multi-coloured mansion too! Also I really liked being able to put the sweet chapter up, because the story is going to get progressively darker as we go on.
Vicious Rebel: I love this story too. It is very dear to me, which is why I update as fast as I can.
Never You Mind: I'm glad you can really see what Lucia is going through, because so can I. I feel very connected to Lucia, for better or worse.
Emma: Of course I plan to continue this story. If not, Lucia would get really pissed off at me! I'm also considering writing a companion piece to it, of events from someone else's POV. But I'm not going to tell you who just yet.
Aurelia: Hey again. I'm glad you like the chapter. Also, I feel your pain about Lucia. But, as I said at the beginning of this chapter, you have to know that it can't end happy. Because trust me, if it did the Harry Potter universe would be different than it is, and I'm not about to go contradicting JK Rowlings anymore than I have to.
Darcel: Thanks for all your reviewing. All of you guys. It is the reviews that encourage me to update faster. Thank you SO MUCH!!! (Sorry Darcel for turning your thank you into a group one)
Jeanne: I hope this chapter lives up to your expectations. Thanks again for the Alan Rickman story, he is a god, even if he is 57!!!)
