Well, aint ya'll just fab!! You know how to make a depressed author feel better! I'm quite moved! Anyway, on with a couple of questions posed to me by all you wonderful reviewers:
Rebecca: I'm not sure about any pairings with Buffy, remember she's 21 and Oliver Wood is gone by now, this is their 6th year. The oldest that's not a teacher would be 18. Plus, who's left out of regular characters? But I have my fabulous beta on the case so we'll have to wait and see.
TigerBlak: Thanks for the 3 (!) Reviews. Yes my fic was on ff.net before it was removed the first time by the evil removal of NC17. Then I re posted it as R but it was removed again as it "infringed guidelines" If you can find which one, you're smarter than me, Lady Allylandra, WychFire and Andrew, who have all looked and can't find what it is I've done. So I'll post it once more to tell readers there that I'm also here, on the fantastic aff.net! Hey, the Elementals were never in any Angel show, they are mine!!! The only bit of the fic that is mine!! So use 'em and I'll sue! And, well, that's cliffhangers for ya! I know, I'm evil but I have to keep you in suspense! Only 3 people have any idea about what's going to happen and that's me, Lady Al and WychFire. And I'm the only one who knows the whole thing. And that's how it's gonna stay!!
Massarokas I can identify with Water too (well, she is based on me!) I'm a Cancer sign, which, makes me a Water sign and I'm so typical of the element. Not to boast but I have the best intuition of anyone I know. Plus that sarcastic streak is pure me! Fire, in case anyone didn't know IS Lady Al. End of story. And, didn't anyone ever tell you my dear that patience is a virtue?! There will be some lovely little scenes with Harry/Draco and some with Water/Lucius and a couple of others, making this story more than worthy of it's NC17 rating. But these things take time, and this is a story not a PWP. I have to develop it before the jump into bed and shag like rabbits!
Anon. I've been thinking about setting up Xander with a guy, if not in this one then in the sequel. (Yes folks, I'm planning on a sequel!) And there will be Harry/Draco soon I promise!!
Queen of Curses: yep, I remember you on ff.net! I love Air and Earth. Unlike the other two they're not based on anyone I know, but I do plan to have more of them in the near future. (wow, is it just me or am I creating loads of work for myself?! Oh well, my teachers will just have to suffer!)
Think that's all the questions answered. Thanks also to ANGELa, another 2 Anons Snapdragongrrl, ShiSaiyan, *aMbEr*, MeOnly, COOKE and DarJar for reviewing. You made my day and kept Rhianne well fed as evidenced by this new chapter!
By the way, I thought I'd just clarify timings a bit. I still haven't seen any of the 3rd series of Angel, plus they don't really feature here so everything's as it was at the end of season 2. As for Buffy, the beginning of season 6 is as it is, Buffy is all angsty about dying and everything, but the Elementals appear sometime before the Musical episode (how will become clear as time goes on). Ok, I think that works. Hmm, hope so, I don't want this to be too AU plus I just love Once more with Feeling and really want it in there somewhere. But as for Buffy/Spike, sorry people but no, don't like it, plus I have some one else for Spike. A couple of some ones actually.
Thanks and dedications as always to WychFire, my fab beta reader, Lady Al and Andrew.
Previously:
Water and Draco have gone to Malfoy Manor for Christmas only to discover they're not the only guests. The one and only evil Lord Voldemort is also there, along with Pettigrew. Water speeds up her plan to get information from Lucius and invites him into her room for the night...
Chapter 9
Water turned to face Lucius. He trembled slightly as he came towards her. Deftly guiding him further into the room she stepped back and quietly locked the door behind her. Turning to face Lucius once more she smiled gently and ran a hand down the side of his face. His eyes closed as he lent into the touch. She leaned forward and softly kissed him. She stayed close, her lips barely brushing his, until he opened his mouth to her and let her tongue slide slowly within. He grabbed her suddenly, urgently, and held her close, kissing her with a hungry passion that made her gasp. As he pulled away to breathe she grinned at him. "Nice kiss!" He smiled, somehow bashful, before drawing away slightly.
"Where are you going?"
He stopped uncertain. Slowly she pushed him onto the huge velvet chair, placed at the end of the bed. He stared at her in silent awe. She reached a hand up and took out the silver comb from her hair, letting the curls fall down in hypnotic waves. He raised his hand to slide his fingers through the thick dark locks. Water grinned lazily, allowing herself to be drawn closer to him. One toned leg was swung over Lucius's lap and she straddled him, slipping her hands over his long ice blond hair. Running gentle kisses down the side of his neck, she reached behind her to undo the knots keeping her corset in place. Twisting nimble fingers round the ribbons she swiftly removed the tight garment, revealing her firm breasts. As Lucius leaned forward to run his tongue over her she slid her hands over his cloak, slowly undoing everything until it fell back against the chair. She thought about giving him a love bite, marking him as her territory as she would normally do with any lovers. However, she dismissed the idea. She had to keep this secret from Voldemort who would undoubtedly notice if his whore wore another's mark.
She leaned forward and grabbed Lucius's hands, pulling him upright as she stood gracefully, her lithe body as flexible as a cat. Before he had much chance to react she stripped him of his remaining clothes. Admiring his handsome body with its erection standing proudly she then took off her own trousers and boots. Still Lucius stared dumbly. For fucks sake she thought, does this guy have any reactions? What do I have to do here? Shrugging mentally she reached up and captured his mouth with hers, pulling him back with her towards the bed. Screw foreplay she thought, don't have the time or the patience. Despite the nature of the seduction she was incredibly horny. It had been too long since she'd had anyone, mortal or not.
She twisted around until she was facing the bed with Lucius in front of her. She pushed him down and climbed on top of him. Looking into his eyes, dark with naked longing she gently lowered herself onto him. Damn, you've got to say one thing about mortals, nice size! She waited for a moment to get used the hugeness inside her. If Draco has inherited this from his father Harry is one hell of a lucky guy she inwardly grinned. As she steadied herself to move she as thrown off balance by Lucius's impatient thrust upwards. He'd suddenly come alive and was breathing heavily with desire. Good thing physically but as Water gently probed his mind she found his defences up. Oh well, too bad she thought. Guess I'll just have to concentrate on good sex tonight and get the info I need another time. With that in mind she grinned at Lucius who thrusted upwards again. She grabbed both his hands and pinned him down. She would be in control of this she thought as she began to ride him, slowly at first, teasing him, before moving into a faster rhythm. As she began to enjoy herself she slowly relaxed, loosening her grip on his hands. Suddenly he flipped her over so he was on top and began pounding into her, his passion almost savage in its ferocity. Water gasped both with pleasure and amazement as images poured like a waterfall from his mind into hers until his memories blurred with hers and she couldn't tell them apart. As for the pleasure, well she was a demon! While most mortals would be in screaming pain, she was loving it, demons were like that, pleasure and pain mingling together, becoming one. She came with an intensity that shocked her as Lucius collapsed on top of her, also spent. He was one talented lover she thought wryly. I could get used to this. She leaned across and gently kissed him, sending magick through the connection. As planned he fell instantly asleep and she wandered over to the window, trying to understand the images and memories tumbling around her consciousness.
Harry wandered aimlessly through the castle, his mind on Draco and the kiss of that morning. What had it meant, he wondered? Did it mean that Draco did have feelings for him? He groaned, frustrated. Now he wasn't even sure if he would ever see Draco again. His father could do anything to him before his return. How could he spend the next few days worrying? Suddenly a thought came to him. With a renewed determination he turned and headed down the corridor towards the DADA classroom. Reaching the ancient oak door he paused, hearing voices inside.
"'Ello 'Arry, what you doin' 'ere?"
Harry turned to see the towering form of Hagrid standing behind him. His face was hidden by the huge pile sticks he was carrying.
"I was just seeing if any of the teachers were around" Harry grinned at his friend.
"Well, seeing as you are 'ere maybe you can open this door for me? Me hands are a bit full right now."
Harry opened the door and held it open for Hagrid to fit through. He had to turn sideways to fit his bulk and ended up dropping many of the sticks among many "oh dears." Harry followed him in, picking up the sticks as he went. He looked up to see Hagrid put the pile down by Fire, Buffy and Willow who were sitting on the desks.
"Thanks Hagrid," Buffy smiled warmly. "Hey Harry, you ok?"
"Well, I'll be seeing yous lot later." And with that Hagrid rumbled out the room.
Willow winced. "It is going to take us forever to get through this lot."
His curiosity piqued Harry asked, "What are you doing?"
"Carving stakes." Buffy leaned forward and grabbed one of the sticks. It fitted neatly in her hand as she tested the weight. She reached behind her and brought out a small dagger. Drawing it close to the stake she ran the blade over the last inch or so of the end, cutting into the side. Slicing it away from her she twirled the stake around as she cut. Before long the end was carved into a sharp point. She held it up proudly. "See"
"Most of the time any bit of broken wood will do," Willow commented, reaching for a stake of her own, another dagger already in her hand. "But it's nice to have something on you that you'll know will do the job."
"Wanna help?" Buffy asked. "I think it's kinda therapeutic."
Harry shrugged absently and picked up a stake. Buffy drew out another dagger, flipping it over in her hand so she gripped it by the blade. Leaning forward she handed the ornately carved handle to Harry. He ran a light finger over it, picking out the intricate details. He looked up to see Buffy smiling softly.
"Beautiful isn't it? It's part of Giles' personal collection. Most of these knives are. He's got a great collection." She grinned wryly. "Comes in very handy whenever we need to kill yet another demon."
"What's that like?" Harry asked, glad for a momentary distraction from his worry about Draco.
Buffy looked wistful for a moment while Willow glanced at her in concern. "Tiring. And it never stops; you get night after night of having to fight for your life. The world is always about to end. We've stopped, how many Apocalypses now?" She turned to Willow.
Willow frowned. "Well, we've had the Master, the Judge, Acathla.."
"Wait, you've faced Judge? And Acathla?," Fire interrupted.
"Yeah, why?" Buffy asked.
Fire remained quiet for a moment, conflict clearly showing across her face. Buffy frowned in concern. "You ok." Harry leaned forward in interest. Fire shook her head slightly.
"I'm fine. It's just...I knew those guys, that's all."
Buffy blinked. "You knew the Judge? And Acathla?"
Fire turned away. "It was a long time ago." She murmured. "Excuse me." With that she stood and swiftly left the room, her hair flashing as she moved.
"Wow, that was weird." Buffy looked at Willow for conformation. Willow frowned in concentration.
"Well, this certainly deepens the mystery about those guys. How old are they? 'Cause the Judge and Acathla are really, really old. And both lay dormant for ages before Spike and Drusilla awoke them."
"How old are we talking about here?" Buffy's voice shook slightly.
Willow looked grim. "Several millennia at least."
Buffy winced. "Anyway, Harry, why did you come to see us?"
Harry jumped; he'd become so engrossed in watching events unfold before him that he'd forgotten that he'd come with a reason.
"I was just wondering if anybody's heard from Water and Draco?"
Buffy smiled knowingly. She looked across at Willow who matched her smile. Allowing the smile to fade a bit she shook her head. "No, but we weren't really expecting anything. Best to let Water get on with what she has to. Draco will fine." Harry nodded his head miserably; he had so wanted to know if Draco was all right. Buffy looked sympathetic. "It's only for a couple of days Harry. He'll be back before you know it." Harry nodded again, no hint of a smile reaching his face. Buffy sighed and looked across at Willow who shrugged helplessly. "Listen, I know we didn't set any homework over the Christmas break so why don't you help us research the latest demon to hit Sunnydale. Pretty vicious, been targeting young guys, decapitating them and stuff. Could be fun"
A shadow of a grin spread across Harry's face. "Only if I can bring Hermione. If she ever found out that I had access to loads of creepy old books without her there I think she would kill me."
Buffy laughed. "Believe me, once you've spent a few solid nights researching several gruesome demons, it kinda loses it's thrill!"
"Oh, I don't know, it can be fun, you learn loads of cool stuff. Like spells to turn your enemies inside out and stuff!" Willow exclaimed, the classic smile of geeker joy lighting up her face. Buffy grinned at her friend's enthusiasm. "Listen, why don't you get Hermione and we'll meet in Giles' office, it's just down the Hall." Harry nodded and turned to leave. Pausing by the door he looked over his shoulder at the two girls. "Thanks."
It should have been a dark and stormy night. If this had been a film the special effects department would be sorting out large forks of lightning to be flashing across the sky while the rain pelted down against the stonewalls. As it was Water was still staring out of the window on a strangely quiet night, watching the frost form on the grass outside. The sky was clear, not even a hint of a dark cloud marring the stars. She smiled softly. Sometimes dramatic effect is just not there she thought wryly. She looked away from the amazing view outside towards Lucius, still asleep on the bed. She stood, her movements lacking some of her usual grace. The frost outside slowed her down, she could feel herself getting heavier, solidifying, as the water in the river outside stopped flowing as it turned to ice. She hated the cold. While she would not turn to a block of ice like the water outside she could feel the loss of graceful water, running free. She shuddered, closing her eyes as she stumbled slightly towards the bed. Feeling with her hands she gently lowered herself onto the silk bed sheets. Swinging her legs around so she could draw her knees up to her chin she sat there for a moment. There was something nagging at the side of her mind, something she could not quite pin down. While she had ignored it while thinking about what Lucius had unknowingly revealed to her, it now pressed against her conscious, refusing to give her peace. Drawing in a deep breath she rose, mentally fighting the effects of the ice. She reached into her bag, still lying there at the foot of the bed where the house elf had left it. She pulled out the elegant silk robe that looked fantastic but was no good at keeping the cold out. Not that she had any clothes suitable for keeping the cold out. Demons were always lacking in the practicality streak. Guess it leaves more room for the vindictive streak, Water mused. Pulling on the robe she opened the huge door to her room. It creaked loudly and she turned, looking worriedly at Lucius. But the effects of her spell stayed and he remained asleep.
Once outside, the door safely closed behind her she took a moment to appreciate the dark beauty of the mansion. She fitted in here she thought, looking at the elegant weapons and suits of armour that served as decoration. She shook her head to clear her mind and followed her own advice, given to Harry a couple of months ago. Stretching out with her conscious she pinpointed the location of the problem. With a small gasp she realised it came from Draco's rooms. Muttering under her breath she disappeared, leaving a small puddle behind her. She reappeared outside Draco's door and had to fight not to hyperventilate. While demons had no need for oxygen, many did simulate breathing and when denied access to the oxygen can get alarmed as a mortal would. The air outside Draco's room was thick with evil. Panic forming in her mind she opened the door softly. Looking inside she saw Draco still awake. In an instant she realised what had happened as he raised his pain filled blue eyes to met her green eyes filed with guilt and remorse.
Hehehe, another cliffhanger! (Ducks flames!) Sorry, Kira insisted that I throw in another one! Her fault, not mine. So review my darlings, reviews give me inspiration! On a more serious note, there is a rumour, following an article in the Scotsman newspaper that Harry Potter fan fiction will be removed fro the internet. Basically these homophobic, small minded, bigoted wannabe Nazi's (can't you just tell I love them!) were complaining about slash in a story originally aimed at children. (Yeah, cos we're all really sick paedophiles not creative geniuses) Ok, I'll get to the point before I go on about the matter, which I've been ranting about for the last two days. What ever happens I intend to keep writing if you want to keep reading. If you want to receive chs send me your email address and I'll send them to you directly. In the meantime lets all pray to whichever god(s) we believe in that this possible infringement of freedom doesn't happen.
Rebecca: I'm not sure about any pairings with Buffy, remember she's 21 and Oliver Wood is gone by now, this is their 6th year. The oldest that's not a teacher would be 18. Plus, who's left out of regular characters? But I have my fabulous beta on the case so we'll have to wait and see.
TigerBlak: Thanks for the 3 (!) Reviews. Yes my fic was on ff.net before it was removed the first time by the evil removal of NC17. Then I re posted it as R but it was removed again as it "infringed guidelines" If you can find which one, you're smarter than me, Lady Allylandra, WychFire and Andrew, who have all looked and can't find what it is I've done. So I'll post it once more to tell readers there that I'm also here, on the fantastic aff.net! Hey, the Elementals were never in any Angel show, they are mine!!! The only bit of the fic that is mine!! So use 'em and I'll sue! And, well, that's cliffhangers for ya! I know, I'm evil but I have to keep you in suspense! Only 3 people have any idea about what's going to happen and that's me, Lady Al and WychFire. And I'm the only one who knows the whole thing. And that's how it's gonna stay!!
Massarokas I can identify with Water too (well, she is based on me!) I'm a Cancer sign, which, makes me a Water sign and I'm so typical of the element. Not to boast but I have the best intuition of anyone I know. Plus that sarcastic streak is pure me! Fire, in case anyone didn't know IS Lady Al. End of story. And, didn't anyone ever tell you my dear that patience is a virtue?! There will be some lovely little scenes with Harry/Draco and some with Water/Lucius and a couple of others, making this story more than worthy of it's NC17 rating. But these things take time, and this is a story not a PWP. I have to develop it before the jump into bed and shag like rabbits!
Anon. I've been thinking about setting up Xander with a guy, if not in this one then in the sequel. (Yes folks, I'm planning on a sequel!) And there will be Harry/Draco soon I promise!!
Queen of Curses: yep, I remember you on ff.net! I love Air and Earth. Unlike the other two they're not based on anyone I know, but I do plan to have more of them in the near future. (wow, is it just me or am I creating loads of work for myself?! Oh well, my teachers will just have to suffer!)
Think that's all the questions answered. Thanks also to ANGELa, another 2 Anons Snapdragongrrl, ShiSaiyan, *aMbEr*, MeOnly, COOKE and DarJar for reviewing. You made my day and kept Rhianne well fed as evidenced by this new chapter!
By the way, I thought I'd just clarify timings a bit. I still haven't seen any of the 3rd series of Angel, plus they don't really feature here so everything's as it was at the end of season 2. As for Buffy, the beginning of season 6 is as it is, Buffy is all angsty about dying and everything, but the Elementals appear sometime before the Musical episode (how will become clear as time goes on). Ok, I think that works. Hmm, hope so, I don't want this to be too AU plus I just love Once more with Feeling and really want it in there somewhere. But as for Buffy/Spike, sorry people but no, don't like it, plus I have some one else for Spike. A couple of some ones actually.
Thanks and dedications as always to WychFire, my fab beta reader, Lady Al and Andrew.
Previously:
Water and Draco have gone to Malfoy Manor for Christmas only to discover they're not the only guests. The one and only evil Lord Voldemort is also there, along with Pettigrew. Water speeds up her plan to get information from Lucius and invites him into her room for the night...
Chapter 9
Water turned to face Lucius. He trembled slightly as he came towards her. Deftly guiding him further into the room she stepped back and quietly locked the door behind her. Turning to face Lucius once more she smiled gently and ran a hand down the side of his face. His eyes closed as he lent into the touch. She leaned forward and softly kissed him. She stayed close, her lips barely brushing his, until he opened his mouth to her and let her tongue slide slowly within. He grabbed her suddenly, urgently, and held her close, kissing her with a hungry passion that made her gasp. As he pulled away to breathe she grinned at him. "Nice kiss!" He smiled, somehow bashful, before drawing away slightly.
"Where are you going?"
He stopped uncertain. Slowly she pushed him onto the huge velvet chair, placed at the end of the bed. He stared at her in silent awe. She reached a hand up and took out the silver comb from her hair, letting the curls fall down in hypnotic waves. He raised his hand to slide his fingers through the thick dark locks. Water grinned lazily, allowing herself to be drawn closer to him. One toned leg was swung over Lucius's lap and she straddled him, slipping her hands over his long ice blond hair. Running gentle kisses down the side of his neck, she reached behind her to undo the knots keeping her corset in place. Twisting nimble fingers round the ribbons she swiftly removed the tight garment, revealing her firm breasts. As Lucius leaned forward to run his tongue over her she slid her hands over his cloak, slowly undoing everything until it fell back against the chair. She thought about giving him a love bite, marking him as her territory as she would normally do with any lovers. However, she dismissed the idea. She had to keep this secret from Voldemort who would undoubtedly notice if his whore wore another's mark.
She leaned forward and grabbed Lucius's hands, pulling him upright as she stood gracefully, her lithe body as flexible as a cat. Before he had much chance to react she stripped him of his remaining clothes. Admiring his handsome body with its erection standing proudly she then took off her own trousers and boots. Still Lucius stared dumbly. For fucks sake she thought, does this guy have any reactions? What do I have to do here? Shrugging mentally she reached up and captured his mouth with hers, pulling him back with her towards the bed. Screw foreplay she thought, don't have the time or the patience. Despite the nature of the seduction she was incredibly horny. It had been too long since she'd had anyone, mortal or not.
She twisted around until she was facing the bed with Lucius in front of her. She pushed him down and climbed on top of him. Looking into his eyes, dark with naked longing she gently lowered herself onto him. Damn, you've got to say one thing about mortals, nice size! She waited for a moment to get used the hugeness inside her. If Draco has inherited this from his father Harry is one hell of a lucky guy she inwardly grinned. As she steadied herself to move she as thrown off balance by Lucius's impatient thrust upwards. He'd suddenly come alive and was breathing heavily with desire. Good thing physically but as Water gently probed his mind she found his defences up. Oh well, too bad she thought. Guess I'll just have to concentrate on good sex tonight and get the info I need another time. With that in mind she grinned at Lucius who thrusted upwards again. She grabbed both his hands and pinned him down. She would be in control of this she thought as she began to ride him, slowly at first, teasing him, before moving into a faster rhythm. As she began to enjoy herself she slowly relaxed, loosening her grip on his hands. Suddenly he flipped her over so he was on top and began pounding into her, his passion almost savage in its ferocity. Water gasped both with pleasure and amazement as images poured like a waterfall from his mind into hers until his memories blurred with hers and she couldn't tell them apart. As for the pleasure, well she was a demon! While most mortals would be in screaming pain, she was loving it, demons were like that, pleasure and pain mingling together, becoming one. She came with an intensity that shocked her as Lucius collapsed on top of her, also spent. He was one talented lover she thought wryly. I could get used to this. She leaned across and gently kissed him, sending magick through the connection. As planned he fell instantly asleep and she wandered over to the window, trying to understand the images and memories tumbling around her consciousness.
Harry wandered aimlessly through the castle, his mind on Draco and the kiss of that morning. What had it meant, he wondered? Did it mean that Draco did have feelings for him? He groaned, frustrated. Now he wasn't even sure if he would ever see Draco again. His father could do anything to him before his return. How could he spend the next few days worrying? Suddenly a thought came to him. With a renewed determination he turned and headed down the corridor towards the DADA classroom. Reaching the ancient oak door he paused, hearing voices inside.
"'Ello 'Arry, what you doin' 'ere?"
Harry turned to see the towering form of Hagrid standing behind him. His face was hidden by the huge pile sticks he was carrying.
"I was just seeing if any of the teachers were around" Harry grinned at his friend.
"Well, seeing as you are 'ere maybe you can open this door for me? Me hands are a bit full right now."
Harry opened the door and held it open for Hagrid to fit through. He had to turn sideways to fit his bulk and ended up dropping many of the sticks among many "oh dears." Harry followed him in, picking up the sticks as he went. He looked up to see Hagrid put the pile down by Fire, Buffy and Willow who were sitting on the desks.
"Thanks Hagrid," Buffy smiled warmly. "Hey Harry, you ok?"
"Well, I'll be seeing yous lot later." And with that Hagrid rumbled out the room.
Willow winced. "It is going to take us forever to get through this lot."
His curiosity piqued Harry asked, "What are you doing?"
"Carving stakes." Buffy leaned forward and grabbed one of the sticks. It fitted neatly in her hand as she tested the weight. She reached behind her and brought out a small dagger. Drawing it close to the stake she ran the blade over the last inch or so of the end, cutting into the side. Slicing it away from her she twirled the stake around as she cut. Before long the end was carved into a sharp point. She held it up proudly. "See"
"Most of the time any bit of broken wood will do," Willow commented, reaching for a stake of her own, another dagger already in her hand. "But it's nice to have something on you that you'll know will do the job."
"Wanna help?" Buffy asked. "I think it's kinda therapeutic."
Harry shrugged absently and picked up a stake. Buffy drew out another dagger, flipping it over in her hand so she gripped it by the blade. Leaning forward she handed the ornately carved handle to Harry. He ran a light finger over it, picking out the intricate details. He looked up to see Buffy smiling softly.
"Beautiful isn't it? It's part of Giles' personal collection. Most of these knives are. He's got a great collection." She grinned wryly. "Comes in very handy whenever we need to kill yet another demon."
"What's that like?" Harry asked, glad for a momentary distraction from his worry about Draco.
Buffy looked wistful for a moment while Willow glanced at her in concern. "Tiring. And it never stops; you get night after night of having to fight for your life. The world is always about to end. We've stopped, how many Apocalypses now?" She turned to Willow.
Willow frowned. "Well, we've had the Master, the Judge, Acathla.."
"Wait, you've faced Judge? And Acathla?," Fire interrupted.
"Yeah, why?" Buffy asked.
Fire remained quiet for a moment, conflict clearly showing across her face. Buffy frowned in concern. "You ok." Harry leaned forward in interest. Fire shook her head slightly.
"I'm fine. It's just...I knew those guys, that's all."
Buffy blinked. "You knew the Judge? And Acathla?"
Fire turned away. "It was a long time ago." She murmured. "Excuse me." With that she stood and swiftly left the room, her hair flashing as she moved.
"Wow, that was weird." Buffy looked at Willow for conformation. Willow frowned in concentration.
"Well, this certainly deepens the mystery about those guys. How old are they? 'Cause the Judge and Acathla are really, really old. And both lay dormant for ages before Spike and Drusilla awoke them."
"How old are we talking about here?" Buffy's voice shook slightly.
Willow looked grim. "Several millennia at least."
Buffy winced. "Anyway, Harry, why did you come to see us?"
Harry jumped; he'd become so engrossed in watching events unfold before him that he'd forgotten that he'd come with a reason.
"I was just wondering if anybody's heard from Water and Draco?"
Buffy smiled knowingly. She looked across at Willow who matched her smile. Allowing the smile to fade a bit she shook her head. "No, but we weren't really expecting anything. Best to let Water get on with what she has to. Draco will fine." Harry nodded his head miserably; he had so wanted to know if Draco was all right. Buffy looked sympathetic. "It's only for a couple of days Harry. He'll be back before you know it." Harry nodded again, no hint of a smile reaching his face. Buffy sighed and looked across at Willow who shrugged helplessly. "Listen, I know we didn't set any homework over the Christmas break so why don't you help us research the latest demon to hit Sunnydale. Pretty vicious, been targeting young guys, decapitating them and stuff. Could be fun"
A shadow of a grin spread across Harry's face. "Only if I can bring Hermione. If she ever found out that I had access to loads of creepy old books without her there I think she would kill me."
Buffy laughed. "Believe me, once you've spent a few solid nights researching several gruesome demons, it kinda loses it's thrill!"
"Oh, I don't know, it can be fun, you learn loads of cool stuff. Like spells to turn your enemies inside out and stuff!" Willow exclaimed, the classic smile of geeker joy lighting up her face. Buffy grinned at her friend's enthusiasm. "Listen, why don't you get Hermione and we'll meet in Giles' office, it's just down the Hall." Harry nodded and turned to leave. Pausing by the door he looked over his shoulder at the two girls. "Thanks."
It should have been a dark and stormy night. If this had been a film the special effects department would be sorting out large forks of lightning to be flashing across the sky while the rain pelted down against the stonewalls. As it was Water was still staring out of the window on a strangely quiet night, watching the frost form on the grass outside. The sky was clear, not even a hint of a dark cloud marring the stars. She smiled softly. Sometimes dramatic effect is just not there she thought wryly. She looked away from the amazing view outside towards Lucius, still asleep on the bed. She stood, her movements lacking some of her usual grace. The frost outside slowed her down, she could feel herself getting heavier, solidifying, as the water in the river outside stopped flowing as it turned to ice. She hated the cold. While she would not turn to a block of ice like the water outside she could feel the loss of graceful water, running free. She shuddered, closing her eyes as she stumbled slightly towards the bed. Feeling with her hands she gently lowered herself onto the silk bed sheets. Swinging her legs around so she could draw her knees up to her chin she sat there for a moment. There was something nagging at the side of her mind, something she could not quite pin down. While she had ignored it while thinking about what Lucius had unknowingly revealed to her, it now pressed against her conscious, refusing to give her peace. Drawing in a deep breath she rose, mentally fighting the effects of the ice. She reached into her bag, still lying there at the foot of the bed where the house elf had left it. She pulled out the elegant silk robe that looked fantastic but was no good at keeping the cold out. Not that she had any clothes suitable for keeping the cold out. Demons were always lacking in the practicality streak. Guess it leaves more room for the vindictive streak, Water mused. Pulling on the robe she opened the huge door to her room. It creaked loudly and she turned, looking worriedly at Lucius. But the effects of her spell stayed and he remained asleep.
Once outside, the door safely closed behind her she took a moment to appreciate the dark beauty of the mansion. She fitted in here she thought, looking at the elegant weapons and suits of armour that served as decoration. She shook her head to clear her mind and followed her own advice, given to Harry a couple of months ago. Stretching out with her conscious she pinpointed the location of the problem. With a small gasp she realised it came from Draco's rooms. Muttering under her breath she disappeared, leaving a small puddle behind her. She reappeared outside Draco's door and had to fight not to hyperventilate. While demons had no need for oxygen, many did simulate breathing and when denied access to the oxygen can get alarmed as a mortal would. The air outside Draco's room was thick with evil. Panic forming in her mind she opened the door softly. Looking inside she saw Draco still awake. In an instant she realised what had happened as he raised his pain filled blue eyes to met her green eyes filed with guilt and remorse.
Hehehe, another cliffhanger! (Ducks flames!) Sorry, Kira insisted that I throw in another one! Her fault, not mine. So review my darlings, reviews give me inspiration! On a more serious note, there is a rumour, following an article in the Scotsman newspaper that Harry Potter fan fiction will be removed fro the internet. Basically these homophobic, small minded, bigoted wannabe Nazi's (can't you just tell I love them!) were complaining about slash in a story originally aimed at children. (Yeah, cos we're all really sick paedophiles not creative geniuses) Ok, I'll get to the point before I go on about the matter, which I've been ranting about for the last two days. What ever happens I intend to keep writing if you want to keep reading. If you want to receive chs send me your email address and I'll send them to you directly. In the meantime lets all pray to whichever god(s) we believe in that this possible infringement of freedom doesn't happen.