Disclaimer: I don't own any of the characters mentioned in this story and
I'm not making a profit from this, so don't sue me. May contain vague
references to Greek mythology, Anne Bishop, and Anita Blake.
Sorry it took me so long to get this chapter finished. I was in Detroit for most of the Holidays and only just got back. Well, I hope you like this chapter. Sweat drop*. Ok, what else? Oh yeah, please review, reviews can help a writer know what she is doing wrong and correct it.
Chapter 2 The door to the study slammed shut and Draco sank to the carpeted floor, trembling with fear. A small smile of relief played on Draco's lips. He had proven that, between Voldemort and himself, he was the more powerful wizard.
Voldemort's power, it seemed, came from his supporters. He fed off all those who bore the dark mark. Each time the dark mark was cast, he gained more power. But there was a draw back to this type of power base. Each time someone bearing the dark mark died, Voldemort would lose a small part of his soul and a lot of power. The key to Voldemort's success as well as eventual defeat, were the elite group known as the Death Eaters. What had scared Draco was that Voldemort didn't seem to realize the full consequences of what he'd done. If Voldemort lost more than half his soul, then he would become well and truly insane.
The formula for the spell Voldemort had cast was well documented in the journal of Artemis, one of Draco's several illustrious ancestors. Zeus, Artemis's father and the King of the Olympians, had used the same spell to establish his power base. Zeus' power mark, though, was not the Dark Mark but a jagged lightning bolt. Artemis had documented in excruciating detail Zeus' fall from sanity and his rather gruesome death at the hands of the God Slayers. Draco caressed the small leather bound volume and slid it back into its special protective case, making a small mental note to have it transferred to his own library later.
***
"Harry!" screeched Uncle Vernon, "Your.friends.are here!" Harry grinned happily as he ran down the stairs, suitcase in tow.
"Harry!" exclaimed Tonks as she hugged him, "Gosh, it's good to see you again!"
"Hey!" he said with a smile, "I didn't know when to expect you so I packed everything ahead of time. How are we leaving?" Tonks smiled and held up a small silver plaque. Harry grinned and just shook his head.
"Don't tell me you turned that award into a portkey?" exclaimed Harry, "I remember that one, I got it in second year for destroying the basilisk."
Tonks nodded happily, "I'd thought you'd get a laugh out of it. Now come on, here, let me get your suitcase. Hermione and Ron will be happy to see you again!" Harry smiled and waved goodbye to a horrified Uncle Vernon. He grabbed on to the portkey. The world swirled around until he was once again in Hogwarts Castle.
"Come along, Harry," said Tonks in a very businesslike manner, "Dumbledore wants to see you right away. Just leave your stuff here and go to his office. I'll take care of the rest. The password is cockroach clusters."
Half an hour later, Harry was once again sitting across from Dumbledore in the now familiar office, a cup of tea in his hands. The portraits of the different headmasters were all sleeping soundly in their picture frames. Harry frowned as he stared at Dumbledore's face. He seemed older somehow and there was a distinctively haunted look to his eyes. Harry wondered if he looked like that sometimes.
"Describe last night's event's again, Harry," requested Dumbledore, "I want to make sure I got everything." Harry sighed and began to tell Dumbledore again about his conversation with Draco.
"Professor?" asked Harry nervously, "What is Malfoy hiding?" Dumbledore sighed and rubbed his temples.
"How many OWL's did you get, Harry?" asked Dumbledore.
"Ten, Professor," he answered with a small nervous smile, "I missed astronomy and History of Magic."
"Draco got all twelve of his OWL's," said Dumbledore, "He is a very strong wizard, Harry. His magical abilities rival even yours and he's also very smart. In fact, I wouldn't be surprised if he is even stronger than you are. He is very good at hiding his strength, you know. Draco is not what he seems to be and if you watch him closely, you will see what I mean."
Harry frowned, "Alright then, Professor, keep your secrets."
Dumbledore smiled mysteriously. Getting up from his chair he removed the sword of Gryffindor from its special display case and laid it in front of Harry.
"I want you to have this Harry," said Dumbledore gravely, "Think of it as a belated birthday present. Use the Room of Requirement to practice in and ask Sir Nick to help you. This blade is a special blade, spelled to ward off almost all spells and capable of cutting through almost anything like it was butter. I have a bad feeling that you will need it soon. The sheath comes with a special holster so you can carry it under your robes on your back. Wear it always, Harry."
Almost reverently, Harry grasped the hilt of the sword and drew it, one inch at a time from its sheath. The blade was just as he had remembered it. It was long, almost 40 inches in length. The thin steel blade was polished till Harry could see his reflection in the metal and the inscription of Godric Gryffindor shone brightly in the sunlight. Gently, Harry ran his fingers against the blade, nicking his finger on the very top of the sword. Blood welled from the wound and spilled onto the blade and hilt. Gently, Harry slid the sword back into its sheath and slid the holster over his shoulders.
"I don't know what to say, thank you, Professor," mumbled Harry.
Dumbledore smiled, "Take good care of it, Harry. Now, I have to ask you to do something for me. I want you to let me use Legilimency on you and let me into your dreams tonight."
"But I don't know whether I'll have the dream again, Professor," objected Harry nervously.
"Harry, you've been having this dream every night, chances are you'll be having it tonight and we need to know what is going on so we can block these dreams," explained Dumbledore patiently.
Harry hesitated before nodding resignedly, "Alright then."
"I'll try to stay out of most of your dreams and just skin through till I find the dream we need. Now, Ron and Hermione are up in the Gryffindor common room. I believe they are rather anxious to see you again."
Accepting his dismissal, Harry left the office and headed up to the Gryffindor tower. Climbing up the stairs, Harry realized that he didn't know what the password was. Luckily, Hermione decided to show up just then.
"Harry!" she cried happily, "You're back! We heard the other's say you'd be back today but we didn't know when!"
Harry grinned as he hugged Hermione, "I've been back for awhile but I was stuck in a meeting with Dumbledore. Let's go into the common room where we can catch up."
"Of course," replied Hermione as she gently brushed Harry's hair out of his eyes. Somehow, Harry found the gesture oddly comforting, like a secret shared between two siblings.
"The password's 'Honeur'," said Hermione as they clambered through the portrait hole, "Ron's down in the Potion's dungeon. Mrs. Weasely's forcing him to get extra lessons with Snape since he got his OWL's back.
"Snape?" asked Harry in a horrified voice, "Why didn't Ron say something?"
"Now Harry!" reprimanded Hermione sternly, "Snape is a great potions teacher, if you pay attention in his class, you know. Besides, Ron needs practice in potions; he barely understands the basics and this year we're learning about dark level potions like love potions and such. You and Ron are going to need all the practice you can get!"
Harry made a face, "Oh well!" It's not like I'm going to major in Potions or anything. I'll be an Auror, what do Aurors need to know about potions anyway? Besides, I did pass the OWL for the class."
Hermione sighed resignedly, "Harry, not all of the dark arts deal with spells, you know. A great chunk of it has to do with potions. You need to do well in the class! I came back early from summer vacation in Italy just to get more one on one time with the teachers!"
Harry stared at her in disbelief, "Sometimes, I just don't understand you, Hermione."
"Same here," replied Hermione, "Oh hey, did Dumbledore tell you any of the rumors circulating about the Malfoy family?"
Harry felt his stomach tighten into a cold ball of dread, "No, he didn't mention anything, what of it?"
"Well, Ron heard Snape tell McGonagall that the new Master Malfoy actually, well, blew Voldemort off," whispered Hermione excitedly, "The guy actually banished Voldemort from Malfoy Manor and told him that the Malfoy's have withdrawn their support. We haven't been able to figure out who replaced that git, Lucius, but who ever it is, is on our side!
Harry shook his head in disbelief, "I can't imagine a single Malfoy who would be on our side. I mean Draco is well.Draco, and Narcissa Malfoy is well-," Harry choked back tears and Hermione looked away uncomfortably.
"Yes," she said hurriedly, "I know, that's why we're all wondering what the hell's going on."
Harry didn't say anything but an edge of doubt had crept into his mind. Was this what Dumbledore meant when he said Draco was not what he seemed to be? Harry doubted it, but still, if it were true, then it would throw a whole new light on things.
***
Artemis froze as she heard the empty clappety-clap of hooves behind her. With out turning around, she asked, "Why have you followed me here, brother?" Do not do this, Artemis," pleaded Pan as he walked up to his sister, "It is not yet time for the boy to know." "Yes, Pan, it is," said Artemis sternly, "Age is no longer an issue here, if he's going to go up against Voldemort, the ceremony must be now, he must be initiated into his true calling if he is to survive the maelstrom he has unleashed." "Then let me approach him," argued Pan, "Let me perform the ceremony, instead." Artemis shook her head, "No Pan, the ceremony will not be as strong if I am not there, after all, I am THE Lady of the Woods." Pan stiffened and his eyes went hard, however his words were reasonable.
"Then allow me to accompany you," persisted Pan, "Look, you are not the only one worried about the future of the Olympian line. We all are!"
Artemis sighed, "Alright then, come on." Like two silent shadows, they glided through the empty streets of Hog's Head and up the country lane towards Malfoy Manor.
Malfoy Manor was hidden in the hills above the village of Hog's Head. The actual building was more of a castle than a manor. Built nearly eight hundred years ago, the castle still had many of the battlements and ramparts that had been the original defense. New extensions had been added over the centuries and the inner courtyard had been torn up to be replaced by a small private garden with a fountain. The outer walls had been expanded to include bigger stables, four pastures and an extensive network of gardens and patches of forest. The outer wall was marble incased stone that gleamed in the moonlight and the gate was tall and imposing of cast black iron, bearing the Malfoy family coat of arms. Both the manor and the lands surrounding it were unplottable, no one could Apparate inside the grounds, all Muggle technology was rendered useless and the entire property was covered with Muggle repelling charms. Anyone with a drop of magical blood would be blocked from setting one foot in the manor unless they had been invited in by one of Malfoy blood. All in all, it was the most secure building in the entire wizarding world.
Artemis and Pan glided silently up to the great gates. Taking her wand out of her pocket, Artemis tapped the unicorn's head on the seal. Immediately, the gates swung inward and they continued their journey through the elaborate maze of gardens.
***
Draco snarled with rage at a cowering Harry. A chill wind blew through the window, making Harry pull the sheets closer around his naked body. Dumbledore sat calmly at the edge of the bed, his hands folded in his lap. Restlessly, almost like a cat, Draco paced the length of the room.
"Draco, please calm down, I'm here to help you," said Dumbledore calmly, "We have to get to the bottom of these dreams and figure out why the two of you are having them."
"I don't need your help," said Draco scornfully, "I've got this all figured out!"
"If you have this all figured out, then we wouldn't be here now," replied Dumbledore reasonably. Draco frowned and stalked towards Dumbledore, letting him feel the full force of his power. Dumbledore didn't flinch.
"Draco, just tell me what you know," repeated Dumbledore calmly, "And while the power show is impressive, it is getting a bit distracting."
Draco stepped back like he'd been stun, and uncertainty flickered in his eyes. Slowly, Draco began to tighten his shields until the magic was completely gone, making Draco seem more like the Draco Malfoy Harry had known for the past five years. He looked like a small, lost child and Harry had the sudden urge to put his arms around Draco and comfort him.
"The cute act isn't working either, " said Dumbledore in an amused voice, "Please Draco, just cut the chase and let's get to the point."
Draco smiled suddenly, "You are good. Voldemort would have fallen for that trick."
"Voldemort has no subtlety," replied Dumbledore, almost dismissively, "He rules only by fear. A true leader leads because he has the confidence and trust of his supporters."
The humor died on Draco's face, "You surprise me, old man. I guess that neither of us are what we pretend to be."
"You could say that, Draco, now are you planning on telling me what you know?" persisted Dumbledore nonchalantly.
"Alright then, " said Draco suddenly with a smile, "Despite everything, I trust you. You really are good."
Taking a seat in the armchair beside the nightstand, Draco proceeded to tell Harry and Dumbledore about the dreams and about the potion he had brewed. Finally, Draco finished the story and the room was silent.
"Could you have brewed the potion wrong?" asked Harry in a small, nervous voice.
"No," replied Dumbledore and Draco at the same time.
"No," continued Dumbledore, "I recognize the potion from its ingredients and the description Draco gave of what happened after the potion was drunk. The potion tells me one important thing, though. The dreams aren't hostile and aren't sent by an outside force."
Draco frowned and Harry looked puzzled, finally, Harry asked, "What do you mean, Professor?"
"It's a special gift for two people to have this bond," replied Dumbledore, "Almost like the tie Harry has with Voldemort but much more intimate. It's like a mingling of two souls and it cannot be blocked by any magical solution I know of. Ask Fred and George about it, Harry. They're the only two people I know who share that kind of tie. It's usually only found between lovers or really close family members, and strong emotions always enhance the connection." Dumbledore stared at them as if the last part was significant somehow.
"I do not have strong feelings for Harry," objected Draco angrily, "And we are not lovers!"
"I never said the two of you were lovers, Draco," said Dumbledore with a smile, "But you do hate each other and that is a strong emotion. My belief is that Harry and you are distantly related." Draco and Harry looked at each other with renewed horror.
"How could I be related to him?" Harry blurted out, "I mean, come on, he's a Malfoy!" Harry spat out the name as if it was a dirty word.
"I agree," said Draco loftily, "There is no way that someone of such poor breeding and even worse magical talent could be a Malfoy. He is half Mudblood."
Dumbledore held up both hands, silencing Harry and Draco's angry protests. "I said might be related," continued Dumbledore, "What I mean is that the House of Malfoy has been around for over two thousand years. During that time, many branches of the family have been excommunicated for one reason or another. Has it ever occurred to you, Draco, that Harry might be a descendant from one of these forgotten branches?"
Draco frowned but nodded unhappily, "It could be possible, although in that case Harry wouldn't be a true Malfoy unless he was re-communicated which means he's technically not a relative. However, what I want to know is how to stop these dreams."
"That is the part where even I'm out of my depth," said Dumbledore unhappily, "Fred and George seem to control their link just fine. It could be that hatred blocks your control over it or that the bond is so new that neither of you are capable of controlling it yet. What I do know is that physical closeness enhances one's control over the link."
"Define physical closeness," interrupted Harry, "I am not going to snog Malfoy if that's what you mean."
Dumbledore smiled, "Nothing that crude, Mr. Potter. I only meant that the two of you must see each other on a daily basis like you do at school, always bumping into each other in classes and in the halls, starting fights and what not." Dumbledore's eyes twinkled when he said that last part, "I think that it would be best if Master Malfoy spent the rest of the summer at Hogwarts."
Draco lifted one eyebrow elegantly, "Would you really trust a Malfoy in the Order of the Phoenix Headquarters?"
"Not normally," replied Dumbledore, "However, you are no longer Voldemort's spy and I do trust you."
"Why would you trust someone like me?" asked Draco in an empty voice, "Don't you know that I could stab you in the back and not feel a moment's remorse?"
"But you won't do that," said Dumbledore evenly, "You were never one to risk losing a potential ally, unlike your father and the Dark Lord."
"Alright then," agreed Draco in a carefully neutral voice, "I will return to Hogwarts early on the condition that I get the empty tower above the Slytherin dungeons as my personal suite."
"Agreed," said Dumbledore briskly, "I shall expect your return in one week. Come on Harry, let's go!"
The room disappeared in a swirl of color and Draco was suddenly lying wide- awake on his own bed. Taking deep breaths, he counted slowly to ten before turning the lights on. The room was filled with the bright warmth of candlelight, making Draco blink in the sudden illumination and shield his eyes until they got used to the sudden light.
Slipping on a robe, Draco padded out into the empty hallway. Slowly, he made his way to the library, when a sudden movement caught his eye. Whipping his wand out, he pointed it at the two shadowy figures in the hall. At once, the chandeliers overhead blazed to life, illuminating the hallway and revealing the two figures to be a young woman and a man.
The woman was young, not past her early twenties by Draco's estimate. Waist length hair fell in soft waves down her back, framing her delicately beautiful face and figure. Her skin was dark; like it had been tanned from being out in the sun too much and her light green eyes were big and set far apart. Her nose was small but perfectly shaped and she would have been doll like but something in the turn of her jaw or the look in her eyes made her seem more jaded than innocent.
The man, if you could call him a man, was definitely the more spectacular of the two. Dark black hair fell in wild curls down to his shoulders. His eyes were a brilliant, vibrant blue in color that stood out against his pale, pale skin. A short straggly beard covered his chin and mouth and thick black eyebrows framed his eyes, giving them a dark, brooding look. But most spectacular of all were the small goat horns peeking out inside his hair and the cloven hooves and furred legs that moved beneath his black wizarding robes.
"Who are you?" demanded Draco angrily, "and how did you manage to get past the wards?"
The woman smiled and stepped forward; hands open before her to show that she was unarmed. Draco stepped back but kept his wand pointed at her. "I am Artemis, the founder of the House of Malfoy," she said in a soft but clear voice, "We have come for you Draco, as you always knew we would."
"How do I know you aren't lying about who you are?" asked Draco suspiciously.
"Look, kid, we got past the wards, only a true Malfoy can do that, what more proof do you want?" asked Pan angrily, "And stop pointing that thing, it makes me nervous." Draco smiled but didn't put away his wand.
Artemis sighed resignedly, "Pan, let me handle this one, alright?" Pan stepped back but glared resentfully at his sister.
"Alright then, Draco, I'll pay your little game," said Artemis, "How do you want me to prove myself?"
Draco's smile brightened, "If you are really Artemis, then you should have a lightning bolt scar on your right forearm where Zeus marked you." Artemis smiled and lifted her sleeve, revealing the jagged scar on her forearm.
"And you brother, if that satyr is truly your brother, Pan, he should have a matching scar." Pan snorted in disgust and pushed up his sleeve to show a brawny forearm. Sure enough, a lightning bolt scar cut across the pale, white skin.
"Satisfied?" asked Artemis as she let the sleeve fall back into place.
"Almost, replied Draco, "I have one more test for you. If you are Artemis then you should be able to take the form of a shadow hound. After all, the shadow hound is Artemis' beast to call."
Artemis smiled. Slowly, before Draco's eyes she began to change. Her brown hair billowed out around her, turning the color of the darkest shadow, a slick silvery gray. Fur spread along her back and Artemis' eyes bled into a beautiful amber color. Suddenly a beautiful shadow hound stood at Draco's side.
Shadow hounds are extraordinarily beautiful creatures, lithe and graceful of shape with long, slender legs built for speed. This one was no exception. Artemis' animal form was typical of any shadow hound except that she was much larger and her fur was tinted with brown as well as silver and gray. Draco swallowed nervously. Reaching out, he gently ran his fingers through the soft fur of the dog's back.
"Alright," replied Draco breathlessly, "I believe you, why have you come, Artemis?" Artemis slowly changed back until she was once again in human form.
"It is time for you to either accept who you are or to deny the gift that has made you the wizard you are," began Artemis seriously, "Draco, I don't know how to tell you this, but you are my Heir, the heir I have been waiting for, for millennia. History is to repeat itself again, and you must play the part I did so long ago. I am here because it is time for you to accept your place as the Lord of the Woods and replace me as the new Hunter."
"What do you mean?" asked Draco suspiciously, "How is history repeating itself, what role is this that I am supposed to play?"
I think you already know, Draco," replied Artemis, "Voldemort, the Heir of Zeus walks the earth again, wreaking havoc on the wizarding world. Listen to me, Draco; Voldemort must die. He is the spirit of a mad god and the Olympians have not the strength anymore to defeat him. But, you do, Draco; you and the heir of Apollo would be able to stop him if you undergo the earth ceremony and claim your place as The Lord of the Woods as I am now The Lady of the Woods. The Fates have foretold your coming since the day Zeus was defeated. They said that the heirs of Apollo and Artemis would become the new God Slayers and defeat Zeus again. Draco, Voldemort knows the prophecy, he knows of your coming. What's more he knows that you are my Heir, he has known since the moment of your birth. He suffered you to exist only because he thought you were on his side. But no more, Draco, will he be content to let you live. You have betrayed him and he fears would you would do next. You must undergo the ceremony if you are to have any chance of defeating him."
Draco scoffed, "He is weak and cannot hurt me. However, you are right, I should undergo the earth ceremony just in case."
Pan frowned and interjected, "Look kid, don't underestimate Voldemort's power. With the strength the dark mark gives him and the support of the death eaters, even Dumbledore is no match for him. I wouldn't be so cocky if I were you."
"Pan, leave him alone," sighed Artemis, "He'll learn soon enough. Draco, meet us tomorrow night at midnight in the forest where the sacred clearing is. Pan, come on, we're troubled the poor boy enough for one night."
Draco blinked in surprise at the empty hallway and shook his head. How the hell did they apparate while still on Manor grounds? There were certain things; Draco had found out, that he did not want to know about. *** End P.S.: Next chapter is going to be very short. I'm sorry about that but, well, I had no choice b/c I had no place to end it but where I did since a lot of stuff is going to happen in chapter 4.
P.P.S.: Thanks to Miss Lesley, RikuNghts, and Lady Theriss for reviewing!
Sorry it took me so long to get this chapter finished. I was in Detroit for most of the Holidays and only just got back. Well, I hope you like this chapter. Sweat drop*. Ok, what else? Oh yeah, please review, reviews can help a writer know what she is doing wrong and correct it.
Chapter 2 The door to the study slammed shut and Draco sank to the carpeted floor, trembling with fear. A small smile of relief played on Draco's lips. He had proven that, between Voldemort and himself, he was the more powerful wizard.
Voldemort's power, it seemed, came from his supporters. He fed off all those who bore the dark mark. Each time the dark mark was cast, he gained more power. But there was a draw back to this type of power base. Each time someone bearing the dark mark died, Voldemort would lose a small part of his soul and a lot of power. The key to Voldemort's success as well as eventual defeat, were the elite group known as the Death Eaters. What had scared Draco was that Voldemort didn't seem to realize the full consequences of what he'd done. If Voldemort lost more than half his soul, then he would become well and truly insane.
The formula for the spell Voldemort had cast was well documented in the journal of Artemis, one of Draco's several illustrious ancestors. Zeus, Artemis's father and the King of the Olympians, had used the same spell to establish his power base. Zeus' power mark, though, was not the Dark Mark but a jagged lightning bolt. Artemis had documented in excruciating detail Zeus' fall from sanity and his rather gruesome death at the hands of the God Slayers. Draco caressed the small leather bound volume and slid it back into its special protective case, making a small mental note to have it transferred to his own library later.
***
"Harry!" screeched Uncle Vernon, "Your.friends.are here!" Harry grinned happily as he ran down the stairs, suitcase in tow.
"Harry!" exclaimed Tonks as she hugged him, "Gosh, it's good to see you again!"
"Hey!" he said with a smile, "I didn't know when to expect you so I packed everything ahead of time. How are we leaving?" Tonks smiled and held up a small silver plaque. Harry grinned and just shook his head.
"Don't tell me you turned that award into a portkey?" exclaimed Harry, "I remember that one, I got it in second year for destroying the basilisk."
Tonks nodded happily, "I'd thought you'd get a laugh out of it. Now come on, here, let me get your suitcase. Hermione and Ron will be happy to see you again!" Harry smiled and waved goodbye to a horrified Uncle Vernon. He grabbed on to the portkey. The world swirled around until he was once again in Hogwarts Castle.
"Come along, Harry," said Tonks in a very businesslike manner, "Dumbledore wants to see you right away. Just leave your stuff here and go to his office. I'll take care of the rest. The password is cockroach clusters."
Half an hour later, Harry was once again sitting across from Dumbledore in the now familiar office, a cup of tea in his hands. The portraits of the different headmasters were all sleeping soundly in their picture frames. Harry frowned as he stared at Dumbledore's face. He seemed older somehow and there was a distinctively haunted look to his eyes. Harry wondered if he looked like that sometimes.
"Describe last night's event's again, Harry," requested Dumbledore, "I want to make sure I got everything." Harry sighed and began to tell Dumbledore again about his conversation with Draco.
"Professor?" asked Harry nervously, "What is Malfoy hiding?" Dumbledore sighed and rubbed his temples.
"How many OWL's did you get, Harry?" asked Dumbledore.
"Ten, Professor," he answered with a small nervous smile, "I missed astronomy and History of Magic."
"Draco got all twelve of his OWL's," said Dumbledore, "He is a very strong wizard, Harry. His magical abilities rival even yours and he's also very smart. In fact, I wouldn't be surprised if he is even stronger than you are. He is very good at hiding his strength, you know. Draco is not what he seems to be and if you watch him closely, you will see what I mean."
Harry frowned, "Alright then, Professor, keep your secrets."
Dumbledore smiled mysteriously. Getting up from his chair he removed the sword of Gryffindor from its special display case and laid it in front of Harry.
"I want you to have this Harry," said Dumbledore gravely, "Think of it as a belated birthday present. Use the Room of Requirement to practice in and ask Sir Nick to help you. This blade is a special blade, spelled to ward off almost all spells and capable of cutting through almost anything like it was butter. I have a bad feeling that you will need it soon. The sheath comes with a special holster so you can carry it under your robes on your back. Wear it always, Harry."
Almost reverently, Harry grasped the hilt of the sword and drew it, one inch at a time from its sheath. The blade was just as he had remembered it. It was long, almost 40 inches in length. The thin steel blade was polished till Harry could see his reflection in the metal and the inscription of Godric Gryffindor shone brightly in the sunlight. Gently, Harry ran his fingers against the blade, nicking his finger on the very top of the sword. Blood welled from the wound and spilled onto the blade and hilt. Gently, Harry slid the sword back into its sheath and slid the holster over his shoulders.
"I don't know what to say, thank you, Professor," mumbled Harry.
Dumbledore smiled, "Take good care of it, Harry. Now, I have to ask you to do something for me. I want you to let me use Legilimency on you and let me into your dreams tonight."
"But I don't know whether I'll have the dream again, Professor," objected Harry nervously.
"Harry, you've been having this dream every night, chances are you'll be having it tonight and we need to know what is going on so we can block these dreams," explained Dumbledore patiently.
Harry hesitated before nodding resignedly, "Alright then."
"I'll try to stay out of most of your dreams and just skin through till I find the dream we need. Now, Ron and Hermione are up in the Gryffindor common room. I believe they are rather anxious to see you again."
Accepting his dismissal, Harry left the office and headed up to the Gryffindor tower. Climbing up the stairs, Harry realized that he didn't know what the password was. Luckily, Hermione decided to show up just then.
"Harry!" she cried happily, "You're back! We heard the other's say you'd be back today but we didn't know when!"
Harry grinned as he hugged Hermione, "I've been back for awhile but I was stuck in a meeting with Dumbledore. Let's go into the common room where we can catch up."
"Of course," replied Hermione as she gently brushed Harry's hair out of his eyes. Somehow, Harry found the gesture oddly comforting, like a secret shared between two siblings.
"The password's 'Honeur'," said Hermione as they clambered through the portrait hole, "Ron's down in the Potion's dungeon. Mrs. Weasely's forcing him to get extra lessons with Snape since he got his OWL's back.
"Snape?" asked Harry in a horrified voice, "Why didn't Ron say something?"
"Now Harry!" reprimanded Hermione sternly, "Snape is a great potions teacher, if you pay attention in his class, you know. Besides, Ron needs practice in potions; he barely understands the basics and this year we're learning about dark level potions like love potions and such. You and Ron are going to need all the practice you can get!"
Harry made a face, "Oh well!" It's not like I'm going to major in Potions or anything. I'll be an Auror, what do Aurors need to know about potions anyway? Besides, I did pass the OWL for the class."
Hermione sighed resignedly, "Harry, not all of the dark arts deal with spells, you know. A great chunk of it has to do with potions. You need to do well in the class! I came back early from summer vacation in Italy just to get more one on one time with the teachers!"
Harry stared at her in disbelief, "Sometimes, I just don't understand you, Hermione."
"Same here," replied Hermione, "Oh hey, did Dumbledore tell you any of the rumors circulating about the Malfoy family?"
Harry felt his stomach tighten into a cold ball of dread, "No, he didn't mention anything, what of it?"
"Well, Ron heard Snape tell McGonagall that the new Master Malfoy actually, well, blew Voldemort off," whispered Hermione excitedly, "The guy actually banished Voldemort from Malfoy Manor and told him that the Malfoy's have withdrawn their support. We haven't been able to figure out who replaced that git, Lucius, but who ever it is, is on our side!
Harry shook his head in disbelief, "I can't imagine a single Malfoy who would be on our side. I mean Draco is well.Draco, and Narcissa Malfoy is well-," Harry choked back tears and Hermione looked away uncomfortably.
"Yes," she said hurriedly, "I know, that's why we're all wondering what the hell's going on."
Harry didn't say anything but an edge of doubt had crept into his mind. Was this what Dumbledore meant when he said Draco was not what he seemed to be? Harry doubted it, but still, if it were true, then it would throw a whole new light on things.
***
Artemis froze as she heard the empty clappety-clap of hooves behind her. With out turning around, she asked, "Why have you followed me here, brother?" Do not do this, Artemis," pleaded Pan as he walked up to his sister, "It is not yet time for the boy to know." "Yes, Pan, it is," said Artemis sternly, "Age is no longer an issue here, if he's going to go up against Voldemort, the ceremony must be now, he must be initiated into his true calling if he is to survive the maelstrom he has unleashed." "Then let me approach him," argued Pan, "Let me perform the ceremony, instead." Artemis shook her head, "No Pan, the ceremony will not be as strong if I am not there, after all, I am THE Lady of the Woods." Pan stiffened and his eyes went hard, however his words were reasonable.
"Then allow me to accompany you," persisted Pan, "Look, you are not the only one worried about the future of the Olympian line. We all are!"
Artemis sighed, "Alright then, come on." Like two silent shadows, they glided through the empty streets of Hog's Head and up the country lane towards Malfoy Manor.
Malfoy Manor was hidden in the hills above the village of Hog's Head. The actual building was more of a castle than a manor. Built nearly eight hundred years ago, the castle still had many of the battlements and ramparts that had been the original defense. New extensions had been added over the centuries and the inner courtyard had been torn up to be replaced by a small private garden with a fountain. The outer walls had been expanded to include bigger stables, four pastures and an extensive network of gardens and patches of forest. The outer wall was marble incased stone that gleamed in the moonlight and the gate was tall and imposing of cast black iron, bearing the Malfoy family coat of arms. Both the manor and the lands surrounding it were unplottable, no one could Apparate inside the grounds, all Muggle technology was rendered useless and the entire property was covered with Muggle repelling charms. Anyone with a drop of magical blood would be blocked from setting one foot in the manor unless they had been invited in by one of Malfoy blood. All in all, it was the most secure building in the entire wizarding world.
Artemis and Pan glided silently up to the great gates. Taking her wand out of her pocket, Artemis tapped the unicorn's head on the seal. Immediately, the gates swung inward and they continued their journey through the elaborate maze of gardens.
***
Draco snarled with rage at a cowering Harry. A chill wind blew through the window, making Harry pull the sheets closer around his naked body. Dumbledore sat calmly at the edge of the bed, his hands folded in his lap. Restlessly, almost like a cat, Draco paced the length of the room.
"Draco, please calm down, I'm here to help you," said Dumbledore calmly, "We have to get to the bottom of these dreams and figure out why the two of you are having them."
"I don't need your help," said Draco scornfully, "I've got this all figured out!"
"If you have this all figured out, then we wouldn't be here now," replied Dumbledore reasonably. Draco frowned and stalked towards Dumbledore, letting him feel the full force of his power. Dumbledore didn't flinch.
"Draco, just tell me what you know," repeated Dumbledore calmly, "And while the power show is impressive, it is getting a bit distracting."
Draco stepped back like he'd been stun, and uncertainty flickered in his eyes. Slowly, Draco began to tighten his shields until the magic was completely gone, making Draco seem more like the Draco Malfoy Harry had known for the past five years. He looked like a small, lost child and Harry had the sudden urge to put his arms around Draco and comfort him.
"The cute act isn't working either, " said Dumbledore in an amused voice, "Please Draco, just cut the chase and let's get to the point."
Draco smiled suddenly, "You are good. Voldemort would have fallen for that trick."
"Voldemort has no subtlety," replied Dumbledore, almost dismissively, "He rules only by fear. A true leader leads because he has the confidence and trust of his supporters."
The humor died on Draco's face, "You surprise me, old man. I guess that neither of us are what we pretend to be."
"You could say that, Draco, now are you planning on telling me what you know?" persisted Dumbledore nonchalantly.
"Alright then, " said Draco suddenly with a smile, "Despite everything, I trust you. You really are good."
Taking a seat in the armchair beside the nightstand, Draco proceeded to tell Harry and Dumbledore about the dreams and about the potion he had brewed. Finally, Draco finished the story and the room was silent.
"Could you have brewed the potion wrong?" asked Harry in a small, nervous voice.
"No," replied Dumbledore and Draco at the same time.
"No," continued Dumbledore, "I recognize the potion from its ingredients and the description Draco gave of what happened after the potion was drunk. The potion tells me one important thing, though. The dreams aren't hostile and aren't sent by an outside force."
Draco frowned and Harry looked puzzled, finally, Harry asked, "What do you mean, Professor?"
"It's a special gift for two people to have this bond," replied Dumbledore, "Almost like the tie Harry has with Voldemort but much more intimate. It's like a mingling of two souls and it cannot be blocked by any magical solution I know of. Ask Fred and George about it, Harry. They're the only two people I know who share that kind of tie. It's usually only found between lovers or really close family members, and strong emotions always enhance the connection." Dumbledore stared at them as if the last part was significant somehow.
"I do not have strong feelings for Harry," objected Draco angrily, "And we are not lovers!"
"I never said the two of you were lovers, Draco," said Dumbledore with a smile, "But you do hate each other and that is a strong emotion. My belief is that Harry and you are distantly related." Draco and Harry looked at each other with renewed horror.
"How could I be related to him?" Harry blurted out, "I mean, come on, he's a Malfoy!" Harry spat out the name as if it was a dirty word.
"I agree," said Draco loftily, "There is no way that someone of such poor breeding and even worse magical talent could be a Malfoy. He is half Mudblood."
Dumbledore held up both hands, silencing Harry and Draco's angry protests. "I said might be related," continued Dumbledore, "What I mean is that the House of Malfoy has been around for over two thousand years. During that time, many branches of the family have been excommunicated for one reason or another. Has it ever occurred to you, Draco, that Harry might be a descendant from one of these forgotten branches?"
Draco frowned but nodded unhappily, "It could be possible, although in that case Harry wouldn't be a true Malfoy unless he was re-communicated which means he's technically not a relative. However, what I want to know is how to stop these dreams."
"That is the part where even I'm out of my depth," said Dumbledore unhappily, "Fred and George seem to control their link just fine. It could be that hatred blocks your control over it or that the bond is so new that neither of you are capable of controlling it yet. What I do know is that physical closeness enhances one's control over the link."
"Define physical closeness," interrupted Harry, "I am not going to snog Malfoy if that's what you mean."
Dumbledore smiled, "Nothing that crude, Mr. Potter. I only meant that the two of you must see each other on a daily basis like you do at school, always bumping into each other in classes and in the halls, starting fights and what not." Dumbledore's eyes twinkled when he said that last part, "I think that it would be best if Master Malfoy spent the rest of the summer at Hogwarts."
Draco lifted one eyebrow elegantly, "Would you really trust a Malfoy in the Order of the Phoenix Headquarters?"
"Not normally," replied Dumbledore, "However, you are no longer Voldemort's spy and I do trust you."
"Why would you trust someone like me?" asked Draco in an empty voice, "Don't you know that I could stab you in the back and not feel a moment's remorse?"
"But you won't do that," said Dumbledore evenly, "You were never one to risk losing a potential ally, unlike your father and the Dark Lord."
"Alright then," agreed Draco in a carefully neutral voice, "I will return to Hogwarts early on the condition that I get the empty tower above the Slytherin dungeons as my personal suite."
"Agreed," said Dumbledore briskly, "I shall expect your return in one week. Come on Harry, let's go!"
The room disappeared in a swirl of color and Draco was suddenly lying wide- awake on his own bed. Taking deep breaths, he counted slowly to ten before turning the lights on. The room was filled with the bright warmth of candlelight, making Draco blink in the sudden illumination and shield his eyes until they got used to the sudden light.
Slipping on a robe, Draco padded out into the empty hallway. Slowly, he made his way to the library, when a sudden movement caught his eye. Whipping his wand out, he pointed it at the two shadowy figures in the hall. At once, the chandeliers overhead blazed to life, illuminating the hallway and revealing the two figures to be a young woman and a man.
The woman was young, not past her early twenties by Draco's estimate. Waist length hair fell in soft waves down her back, framing her delicately beautiful face and figure. Her skin was dark; like it had been tanned from being out in the sun too much and her light green eyes were big and set far apart. Her nose was small but perfectly shaped and she would have been doll like but something in the turn of her jaw or the look in her eyes made her seem more jaded than innocent.
The man, if you could call him a man, was definitely the more spectacular of the two. Dark black hair fell in wild curls down to his shoulders. His eyes were a brilliant, vibrant blue in color that stood out against his pale, pale skin. A short straggly beard covered his chin and mouth and thick black eyebrows framed his eyes, giving them a dark, brooding look. But most spectacular of all were the small goat horns peeking out inside his hair and the cloven hooves and furred legs that moved beneath his black wizarding robes.
"Who are you?" demanded Draco angrily, "and how did you manage to get past the wards?"
The woman smiled and stepped forward; hands open before her to show that she was unarmed. Draco stepped back but kept his wand pointed at her. "I am Artemis, the founder of the House of Malfoy," she said in a soft but clear voice, "We have come for you Draco, as you always knew we would."
"How do I know you aren't lying about who you are?" asked Draco suspiciously.
"Look, kid, we got past the wards, only a true Malfoy can do that, what more proof do you want?" asked Pan angrily, "And stop pointing that thing, it makes me nervous." Draco smiled but didn't put away his wand.
Artemis sighed resignedly, "Pan, let me handle this one, alright?" Pan stepped back but glared resentfully at his sister.
"Alright then, Draco, I'll pay your little game," said Artemis, "How do you want me to prove myself?"
Draco's smile brightened, "If you are really Artemis, then you should have a lightning bolt scar on your right forearm where Zeus marked you." Artemis smiled and lifted her sleeve, revealing the jagged scar on her forearm.
"And you brother, if that satyr is truly your brother, Pan, he should have a matching scar." Pan snorted in disgust and pushed up his sleeve to show a brawny forearm. Sure enough, a lightning bolt scar cut across the pale, white skin.
"Satisfied?" asked Artemis as she let the sleeve fall back into place.
"Almost, replied Draco, "I have one more test for you. If you are Artemis then you should be able to take the form of a shadow hound. After all, the shadow hound is Artemis' beast to call."
Artemis smiled. Slowly, before Draco's eyes she began to change. Her brown hair billowed out around her, turning the color of the darkest shadow, a slick silvery gray. Fur spread along her back and Artemis' eyes bled into a beautiful amber color. Suddenly a beautiful shadow hound stood at Draco's side.
Shadow hounds are extraordinarily beautiful creatures, lithe and graceful of shape with long, slender legs built for speed. This one was no exception. Artemis' animal form was typical of any shadow hound except that she was much larger and her fur was tinted with brown as well as silver and gray. Draco swallowed nervously. Reaching out, he gently ran his fingers through the soft fur of the dog's back.
"Alright," replied Draco breathlessly, "I believe you, why have you come, Artemis?" Artemis slowly changed back until she was once again in human form.
"It is time for you to either accept who you are or to deny the gift that has made you the wizard you are," began Artemis seriously, "Draco, I don't know how to tell you this, but you are my Heir, the heir I have been waiting for, for millennia. History is to repeat itself again, and you must play the part I did so long ago. I am here because it is time for you to accept your place as the Lord of the Woods and replace me as the new Hunter."
"What do you mean?" asked Draco suspiciously, "How is history repeating itself, what role is this that I am supposed to play?"
I think you already know, Draco," replied Artemis, "Voldemort, the Heir of Zeus walks the earth again, wreaking havoc on the wizarding world. Listen to me, Draco; Voldemort must die. He is the spirit of a mad god and the Olympians have not the strength anymore to defeat him. But, you do, Draco; you and the heir of Apollo would be able to stop him if you undergo the earth ceremony and claim your place as The Lord of the Woods as I am now The Lady of the Woods. The Fates have foretold your coming since the day Zeus was defeated. They said that the heirs of Apollo and Artemis would become the new God Slayers and defeat Zeus again. Draco, Voldemort knows the prophecy, he knows of your coming. What's more he knows that you are my Heir, he has known since the moment of your birth. He suffered you to exist only because he thought you were on his side. But no more, Draco, will he be content to let you live. You have betrayed him and he fears would you would do next. You must undergo the ceremony if you are to have any chance of defeating him."
Draco scoffed, "He is weak and cannot hurt me. However, you are right, I should undergo the earth ceremony just in case."
Pan frowned and interjected, "Look kid, don't underestimate Voldemort's power. With the strength the dark mark gives him and the support of the death eaters, even Dumbledore is no match for him. I wouldn't be so cocky if I were you."
"Pan, leave him alone," sighed Artemis, "He'll learn soon enough. Draco, meet us tomorrow night at midnight in the forest where the sacred clearing is. Pan, come on, we're troubled the poor boy enough for one night."
Draco blinked in surprise at the empty hallway and shook his head. How the hell did they apparate while still on Manor grounds? There were certain things; Draco had found out, that he did not want to know about. *** End P.S.: Next chapter is going to be very short. I'm sorry about that but, well, I had no choice b/c I had no place to end it but where I did since a lot of stuff is going to happen in chapter 4.
P.P.S.: Thanks to Miss Lesley, RikuNghts, and Lady Theriss for reviewing!