Chapter 5: Searching of the souls
November 3rd 2006
The study was alive with the swishing of black cloaks giving it the image of a fearful cave of bats fluttering aimlessly about. This was a grisly meeting of lost souls where the adrenaline charged men would come together after their gruesome killings of the night.
Many of the older or more privileged Deatheater had apparated here once Lucius had used the newly enlisted son of McNair, for transforming them into mindless killing machines for Voldemort.
They huddled in a large circle talking animatedly, waving their arms in mock battles and miming with their wands the murders that they had committed. Some were even dancing about on the spot, still full of adrenaline from their kills two hours before.
The door opened quickly with a bang and Lucius swaggered in confidently holding his head high like royalty. Now that Voldemort had put him in charge he was strutting around like the head cock. Everybody paused in their conversations and stood as still as statues eager to hear the accomplishments of the night's deeds.
Everyone hushed as he sat in a chair at the head of the circle, once he had taken his seat, chairs sprouted like roots from the floor. Lucius, being a Malfoy, insisted on having a throne as his chair, much to everyone else's disgust. They gracefully and quickly, sat down; some of the chairs made unhealthy creaks of pain as they did so.
"Welcome my fellow deatheaters." Lucius boomed, "I hope tonight's assassinations, disturbances and, of course, mischief's were successful." He added whilst laughing shortly. Many of them nodded their heads in silent answer, a few of the more insanely- confident men, laughed loudly.
Lucius glanced to his right, normally, sat in the modest seat was Draco. He frowned menacingly at the black velvet chair as though it were shooting daggers, and looked slowly around the haggle.
"Nott." He spat at a man sat 3 seats away,
"How, my friend, did the attack on the Diggorys go? Good I hope for I wish I could of done it myself." He flashed his eyes at the chair next to him as he remembered Dracos stunt.
Nott stood up and walked into the middle of the circle. He was very tall and looked very much like the grim reaper under his foreboding cloak.
"I'm happy to report sir, that it went exceedingly well, perfect in fact. They put up a courageous fight, which was most annoying at first, but I soon enjoyed it as it kept me stimulated, I fought well. And." He giggled insanely like a schoolgirl. "I also taunted them with their sons killing as- well as you suggested."
Lucius smiled insanely at him and clapped his hands in approval, as did everyone else. Nott grinned proudly behind his mask at the applause. He'd finally done something right; For once, his normal clumsy like state had abandoned him tonight.
"Well done Nott, well done indeed."
Nott smiled even wider at the praise. He then nodded his head and sat back down. Lucius looked around the circle again, his sight landed on a podgy man struggling to fit comfortably in the chair he was occupying.
"Parkinson, I have been informed that you failed to intercept a one Pavati Thomas. Now why is this may I ask?" Lucius drawled slowly.
Parkinson widened his eyes in horror and looked at Mcnair across from him, gapping like a goldfish at him he got up nervously and approached the centre.
"We-well Lucius, it was impossible for me to do so. as she is in close contact with my daughter, and sir, if I, or any of us killed one of her friends she would never forgive me."
The older man wrung his hands nervously and itched his wrists. Some of the others shifted in their seats, they knew, from experience, what was coming.
Lucius stood leisurely, making sure to show his muscles as he gripped the arms, they were visible under his baggy robe. He took 2 steps forward towards the short man.
"Is that so? Well." He stared into the terrified eyes of the man before him. There was a flash of a hand, and a flick of a mahogany wand.
"CRUCIO" shouted Lucius. The man before him shuddered and fell to the floor trembling in agony. The observers around the fearful scene stared emotionless at the torture before them, a few were laughing.
This was quite disconcerting; they normally were the people performing this curse not receiving it; McNairs son scooched a little closer to his father.
"Love," hissed the torturer,
"Love is a huge weakness." He smiled slightly as a few specks of blood leaked from the man's mouth.
"You do not let love get in the way of your duties. It makes you venerable to anything.. Including defeat." He flicked his wand sharply at the man writhing about like a spider without legs.
He looked up through his mask, which surprisingly hadn't fallen off, at the man towering threateningly above him.
"Sit down Jacob, NOW!" Spat Lucius harshly.
Parkinson scrambled to his feet despite the pains in his limbs, and slumped back into his chair. The Malfoy glared around the circle, now he wasn't in the mood to continue. It seemed he still hadn't truly forgiven Jacob Parkinson for letting his daughter marry that Potter and not Draco. For Draco to inherit all the Malfoy riches including the estate here and in Spain; he had to be married to a pureblood witch; she had to be a loving and strong wife and provide a suitable heir as well.
"I tire of this meeting." He whispered angrily. He looked at each deatheater in turn before he spoke again.
"Has anybody got anything to add? And yes before you say so Blighton I know about your 'attempted' attack on Mad Eye Moody." He shook his head in annoyance. "YOU Foolish boy you shall be punished severely for your lack of knowledge and intelligence."
The head of Jack Blighton dropped onto his chest grievously. The masked faces looked excitedly around the circle for anyone with a raised hand. To their disappointment, nobody wanted to speak; Lucius' attack on Parkinson was fresh in their minds.
"Good. I know this has been a very short meeting, but I need to talk to my friend Alistair here." Everyone glanced at the bored Zabini before rising.
"KILL, COMMAND, AND CONQUER!" They shouted in perfect unison before apparating.
Alistair zabini sighed resignedly and pulled off his mask. "Need I ask what this is about?" He inquired slightly annoyed. Lucius removed his mask and rubbed his fore head wearily with his fingertips.
"No you don't, but you're son has disappointed me slightly. The last time I asked him to find someone for me he bought them intact, alive or in some cases dead to me at least 5 hours later."
Alistair raised his eyebrows at the blonde man before him. The insufferable bloke had asked his son to give up his spare time to look for his son, and then had the nerve to stand there and criticize.
"My son does a good job every time; he doesn't know how to fail. But you should know of his progress! Honestly don't you read the paper Lucius?"
Lucius frowned at him confused. Alistair rolled his eyes angrily and apparated. He appeared a second later with the day's copy of 'The daily prophet'. Lucius jumped as he thrust it into his hands.
"I think you shall have your son back very soon." He chuckled as the silver haired man before him widened his eyes in shock. The picture of his son dominating the front page became glum as he stared at it.
"So Draco you think you can hide from me? I must admit you must be quite resistant if you failed to appear here once you were all summoned.."
He threw the paper back to Zabini and strode towards his liquor cabinet.
"By all means sit my friend, would you care for a drink Alistair?" He questioned simply looking for the closest bottle of brandy. The greying ebony haired man sat down in the high backed chair opposite the crackling fire.
"Aye go on then Lucius; but none of that muggle brandy, gives me heart burn." He replied whilst tapping his chest. The Malfoy shrugged sharply and poured a glass of wizards fire whisky for his childhood friend and glass of Napoleon brandy for himself.
"Here." He said as he seated himself in the other chair holding out the jade green drink. Alistair took it kindly and had a sip. As he knocked it back the portrait of Narcissa caught his eye. This curiously was like a muggles as it was still and silent. Why did a man who killed muggles on a regular basis have one of their style pictures hanging on the wall?
The woman in the picture had amazing dark blue eyes which sparkled warmly even in the stillness. Her hair was a long curly golden blonde and was pulled back off her face with a lily clip. A few stray ringlets outlined her high cheekbones and warm face, but even though she was smiling beautifully something was hiding deep within the exterior.
"You know I hated you for months when I heard." Sighed Alistair lightly. Lucius followed his trail of sight to his wife.
"What? Why?" he queried whilst knocking back some of his drink.
"When you started dating Narcissa. I Err. I used to have a crush on her." He laughed whilst sipping slowly. Lucius raised his eyebrows at his response.
"I never knew, why didn't you ever tell me?" He demanded calmly. "You never made and gestures that you were interested." The man opposite him laughed loudly sloshing his drink around the glass.
"You're joking aren't you? You would of ripped my head off if I'd done anything! . I just kept my head down and let you get on with it." He sighed dolefully.
"True, true." Said Lucius simply. He stared pensively at the portrait. Although he could never admit it, he longed for his wife. He missed her presence -her calm nature and most of all, her love that she showed him everyday of her life. Alistair sighed grievously; this conversation would never last without lucius getting up set. He drained his remaining whisky, savouring the strong and sweetness of the liquor, and got up.
"I should go, I needed to talk with my son." He rubbed his chin and rummaged around in his pocket for floo powder.
"Ah, of course. Oh! Ask him if he's had any luck locating one Ginny Weasley will you?" He heaved himself up and went once again to his cabinet. The Zabini raised a curious eyebrow.
"Ginny Weasley? Why on earth would you want the ministers daughter?" he asked confused. Lucius slammed the bottle down on the polished wood where it broke into jagged little pieces causing the expensive liquid to trickle down the side of the wooden surface. He swung around spilling a bit of the liquor down the glass.
"The only reason that-that muggle lover got the job was because fudge adored his 'honest conservative nature'. He couldn't of picked another person less suited to the job in my opinion." He barked harshly.
Alistair raised his hands apologetically; he didn't like the look the blonde man was giving him, and he didn't want be on bad terms with his leader.
"Okay, okay. I'm sorry I bought it up. But yes I will ask Blaise for you." Rubbing the powder in his hand, he nodded his head to Lucius.
"Until next time." He heaved throwing the green shimmering flakes into the fire.
"Yes until then." Retorted the Malfoy lazily. Alistair Zabini rolled his eyes at his eldest friend. This was nothing new to him, Lucius Malfoy had always been bad tempered and commanding. 'Poor Draco.' He thought, pitying the younger man wherever he was.
"ZABINI MANSION!" He yelled firmly, and without a backwards glance; he walked in to the acid green flames and out of sight.
In the dark foreboding study Lucius sat quite alone. Staring around the threatening walls, he stopped when he saw a picture of him and his father holding fencing swords. How he'd hated doing the pointless exercise, trying to stab someone with a harmless sword seemed like a pretty pointless thing to do. The pair in the frame scowled and looked around the room they were in. Lucius sighed flatly at the image in his mind
*~* Smack, smack, thump. The soundings of a person being beaten filled the silent corridor. "What (smack) have I told you (smack) about speaking (smack) out of turn!" Yelled his fathers' furious voice through beatings. The face of a young blonde boy appeared, it was bruised and blotchy. He was sitting strapped into a high backed chair; fists kept coming into contact with his chest and head.
The beating of his heart was the last thing he heard before falling unconscious. *~*
"Stupid bastard." He mumbled whilst downing the last of the brandy. He rose and took the picture off the wall; it was in black and white and was fading slightly. The malfoy stroked the glass tentatively and threw it fiercely at the wall.
Instantly a house elf appeared and began work of cleaning the mess, squeaking away in fear as she went. Lucius placed the glass on the counter and locked the cabinet with a security charm. Another house elf was busy cleaning the Brandy from the floor and the wooden surfaces. He cracked his neck and made towards the door to retire in his lonely bed for the remainder of the night.
***
Ginny awoke in the morning to the sound of grumbling, creaking and curses of pain. She glanced at the clock:
'MIGHT AS WELL GET UP.'
She groaned fairly annoyed and got out of the warm pleasing bed. Now freezing cold, she shivered and noticed she was aching heavily from fatigue. The door opposite hers was shut, but indistinguishable mutters were sounding from the other side. Grabbing the handle, she slid the door open. An unusual sight met her eyes.
On the bed lay Draco-normal enough, until you noticed he was bound to the bed with a rope; movement was virtually impossible and he was trying desperately to wriggle his way out of his isolation. He snapped his eyes up to hers when she entered completely and gave her an angry and confused look.
"WHAT THE HELL DID YOU DO TO ME?" he snarled at her sharply. Ginny shut the door and approached the bed.
"I tied you up so you wouldn't try to hurt me again." She replied softly.
Draco softened immediately and grimaced in an Oh-shit way. It seemed he had already forgotten, or had no knowledge of what happened the evening before.
"What do you mean try to hurt you again? I told you I wouldn't unless I had to." He replied sincerely looking up into her chocolate eyes. Ginny surveyed him carefully, unable to tell if he was being truthful. She stared deeply into the blue-grey depths of his eyes and saw no obvious signs of deception.
"Why.did you act like you did last night?" She asked quietly sitting down on the bed next to him.
Draco frowned at her question and closed his eyes, he sighed heavily. Allowing his head to flop comically on onto the pillow, he proceeded to tell her.
"Us deatheaters, we aren't controlled by evil all the time. We have a evil planted deep inside us, it lies dormant most days and we are allowed to carry out our daily business."
He fought to struggle out of his imprisonment, but gave up after a sharp pain in his arm.
"Go on," Ginny prompted.
The blonde man heaved and closed his eyes again.
"But. we are always under control of our master, he possesses our minds so we can do his treacherous tasks."
Ginny stared at him fascinated by his account. Draco opened his eyes.
"Can you untie me now? It is rather uncomfortable you know."
Ginny flashed her eyes from his to the tight binds on his body. She raised a curious eyebrow and shook her head.
"No, not until you tell me how he controls you. You see.last night I saw you trying to fight against. well something." Draco sucked his teeth and frowned at the ceiling.
"No Ginny, now untie me, it hurts." He glanced at her face hoping to find sympathy there; instead he found a cute imploring look.
"Please Draco?" She simpered softly through pouted lips. He frowned at her annoyed by the Ill-give-you-something-good look she was giving him. Ginny smiled as he sighed defeated.
"When Voldemort, or his chosen head crony wants us to do his biding, he does a special spell that only he knows, this is the initiation of evil." He examined her face hoping that was enough. Ginny nodded wanting him to go on.
"The original way of doing this was for Voldemort to touch his finger to the mark and make it turn jet black. Then, we would apparate to his location and do his bidding." Draco looked away from her face to the white ceiling again.
Ginny nodded knowingly, she remembered Harry's account of what happened when Lord voldemort rose again on that fearful night in the graveyard.
"Now that Voldemort . err. isn't around anymore, my father, being the dark lords right hand man and most trusted and loyal of the deatheaters, was the obvious choice to take over from him and, now we are controlled by him."
Draco closed his eyes as though he remembered the pain, the intense memory its self was painful enough, and continued reluctantly.
"When my father calls us he does it very differently. Firstly, he uses his wand. Placing it on the mark, he says 'morsmordrentie'; this sends a small shock wave through our bodies creating mind-wrenching pain and awakens the dormant evil. Instead of turning black, the mark turns green as the spell only works for 3 and sometimes even 4 hours. When we turn, instructions are sent to our minds through the shock wave given to us. After we have completed our mission, or not as the case maybe, we return to my father to talk about the nights successes, and losses."
Draco shuddered as he finished, this, he realised, was the first time he'd told anybody how the deatheaters became their evil selves. He studied Ginny's face. Her brown eyes were sad and scared, she was giving him a look, was it pity?
Immediately, she went into the other room to retrieve her wand, a simple flick and the ropes vanished giving Draco the freedom to move.
He rubbed his arms; hours of being strapped to the bed had left deep imprints in them making them red. Ginny sat down on the bed and hung her head slightly.
"I'm sorry Draco, I didn't realise how much you go through," She looked at her toes unable to look in his eyes.
Draco stopped examining his arms and observed her hunched back, she looked so fragile; her arms were thin and her back and waist were small. He swung his legs over the side of the bed and sat next to her. Rubbing his face, he lent forwards on his knees holding his head.
"You shouldn't be sorry Ginny, it's my fault. If I hadn't arrived on your doorstep at 3.30 then you'd be living normally and not having the pain of lying to your friends and family. Its all my fault." He finished quietly still holding his head.
Ginny glimpsed across at his face; his expression was that of regret and anger. 'Why would he be angry? He surely doesn't care about me.' She shook her head and placed a reassuring hand on his knee. The blonde man peered at her hand then up to her warm face.
"Don't be sorry Draco, remember I let you stay and-" she smiled coyly, "I don't regret it. just yet." She added teasingly.
Draco gave her a-lop sided grin and took her hand in his. They stared at each other for what seemed like hours until Draco snapped them back to reality. He cupped her face gently with his left hand and stroked it softly with the pad of his thumb. Ginny smiled, her eyes watching his lips.
She tilted her head upwards and gazed alluringly into his eyes. Draco smiled and, slowly, covered her mouth. She smiled into the embrace and her eyes fluttered shut, he watched her do so and repeated the action.
They explored each others mouths, hungering for the passion and lust buried deep within their souls. Ginny bought her hands up to his neck and rubbed his nape gently with her fingernails; she grinned into his mouth as shock waves of pleasure went through his body, and a small moan escaped his mouth.
Draco cursed himself; he was supposed to be in control here. Releasing his hand from her face, he sat her sideways on his lap and stroked her back, touching the hidden skin carefully. Ginny shivered at his warm touch.
Then as if she were an electric shock, he pulled away from her and looked at the floor to the right of her. Ginny frowned, slightly disappointed and moved her head forwards to his bruised-red lips. Draco reluctantly turned his head away and placed her back on the bed. The red head gaped at him and stood up to face him, Draco continued to look away. She studied his face, he looked sullen and almost bored; she threw her hands up in frustration.
"I can't believe you Draco Malfoy! One minute you're all over me and the next you don't wanna be in the same room!"
She waited for him to retaliate somehow, but he looked away at the wall as though enchanted by it. She glared at him heinously,
"It isn't anything new." She hissed watching his face. Upon hearing this he snapped his eyes up to hers; there was no emotion what so ever in those silver orbs. Ginny scowled and went over to the window. Why was this man so difficult?
"You don't understand I-"
"That's exactly right I don't understand! Why must you be an insufferable prat all the time!" She exclaimed turning her head and examining the field across from her. Draco stood and walked over to her.
"I haven't forgotten what happened you know." Ginny whispered quietly.
The blonde man behind her bit his lip thoughtfully and reached out for her waist. He recoiled thinking better of it and ran his fingers through his tousled hair.
"Neither have I." He said softly as she turned around.
"Then why do you push me away?" She whispered, her eyes watering slightly.
Draco looked out the window for a moment; he scowled at the rising sun and stared back into her big brown eyes. Illegal images from the past crept into his mind; he studied them momentarily forgetting her.
"Because it was wrong." He replied regretting it instantly. Ginny stared at him in shock.
"Wha-what?" She stammered unable to believe his answer. "But-But you-" Ginny gulped quietly and a tear escaped from her eyes. They turned cold and became alive with fury.
"I won't believe it." She breathed staring into his face. Draco smirked and crossed his arms.
"Well you better had Ginny, can't have you getting the wrong idea now can we." He retorted menacingly. Ginny winced at the words escaping his horrifying mouth; truly this man was evil.
"You have no Idea how painful it is to hear you say those words, especially after.that." She hissed. Draco sneered at her and became livid.
"HOW DARE YOU, I THINK IT IS YOU WHO HAS NO IDEA HOW PAINFUL THIS IS! YOU, YOU WHO GREW UP BEING LOVED DEARLY BY YOUR PERFECT FAMILY, WHILST MY INSANE FATHER SUBJECTED ME TO BE TORTURED EVERYDAY. YOU HAVE NO IDEA WHAT I HAD TO GO THROUGH. YOU DON'T KNOW THE FIRST THING ABOUT PAIN." He swallowed hard, anger coursing through his body. Ginny just stared at him frightened and shocked by his unexpected out burst. Several tears fell down her face and she walked past him to the doorway.
"I'm going out today, I don't know what time I'll be back." She sniffed at his turned back. Draco made no sign he had acknowledged her, and continued to stare out the window. Ginny glanced at the untidy bed before leaving the room.
Upon hearing the door click, Draco kicked the bed in frustration with his heel. It creaked noisily at his stress. He sat down on the window seat and stared out into the distance.
'She doesn't understand at all.' He told himself. 'I shouldn't of said I'd stay here. Shouldn't have said I'd stay with her, not after what happened.' He stared at his hands examining them for no apparent reason.
Down stairs, the front door closed and Ginny walked down the garden path to the gate. Opening it quickly, she set off at a fast pace down the road towards the village. He watched her walk down the cobbled lane until she disappeared. Draco grabbed a top and a pair of black trousers and cursed the red head.
He walked down the small landing to the bathroom and had a quick shower.
After cleaning himself thoroughly, he did a simple drying spell with his wand. "Heatenthus." Soaps and shampoos were lying around on the shelf next to the bath. 'Essence of vanilla.' Read a marble white shampoo; reaching for it he flicked the cap.
As he breathed in the scent, images of Ginny's beautiful face flashed through his mind, her long luscious wavy tresses flowing around her. Draco shook his head and forced the image away, to the back of his mind where it belonged.
He flicked the cap back down and walked out of the warm yellow room. His eyes flickered to Ginny's door, yesterday it had been shut, but now it was wide open for the entire world to see. The blonde man strode to the doorway and took in the room.
It was, of course, a soft baby blue with daisy white curtains and a marbled white wooden floor. The ceiling was the best feature; it was enchanted to look like dusk falling. The pinks, oranges, purples and light blues were romantic and calming.
Picture frames sat on the desk opposite the bed; a double he noticed, he took a step inside the room and instantly felt relaxed. The calming colours of the ceiling soothed the mind.
Picking up the nearest picture frame, he examined its contents. A happy and smiling Ginny sat in the middle of six other red heads, which were all pulling faces or poking each other.
'They must be her brothers.' He thought watching the twins give a huge wedgie to a boy in glasses. Under the picture there was a small plaque reading:
'Charlie, Bill, Percy, Fred and George, Ron and Ginny Last summer in Egypt.'
Placing it back on the desk he moved onto the next. In this picture Ginny, Ron, Harry and Hermione were all sitting on a log next to the lake at hogwarts, this was taken he guessed in their seventh year because on Hermiones left hand sat a gold engagement band.
Ginny was blushing slightly at the arm around her waist belonging to the boy who lived. Draco scowled at the black haired boy and put it back with a thump.
He picked up the next one; this picture was in a powder blue frame and was long and thin. Draco instantly recognised it as his graduation ball. Ginny was smiling sweetly and looked happy and care free. The couples surrounding her kept kissing each other and cheering contently.
'I never noticed that before.' He thought as he saw the head of Blaise watch her laugh and smile at Seamus' jokes; he also noticed that he was doing exactly the same.
Frowning he put the picture back and reached for the next, he looked at the one he had just examined and turned it over. An envelope was attached to the back, and what felt like 2 letters lay inside.
Curiosity egging him on, he carefully pulled out the letters. He unfolded the first and recognised it as Blaises handwriting.
Having no decency, he began to skim the loopy writing. Reading it slowly his face became that of amusement, but as he reached the 2nd paragraph he widened his eyes in shock.
Blaise had been meeting her in secret? He had told Draco when he caught him once that he had snuck down to the kitchens for a midnight snack and had been doing so since. Sitting down on the bed he read on.
As he reached the last paragraph, he realised his knuckles were white from clenching the letter. Anger and a dark jealousy ached at his heart. He folded the letter up and reached for the next. A dry red petal fell into his lap, and as he opened it up a handful more fell out.
He eyed them curiously and rubbed a smallish petal that had landed in his hand; it crackled and turned into a reddish powder. Rubbing it on his trousers, he proceeded to read.
Dear Ginny, I hope you are well, as you did not reply to my first letter. I understand it must have been a lot to take in, but it every word and every detail was true. Life for me at the moment is hard. Just yesterday I had to destroy a family of 6; 4 were children under 4 years of age. I often wonder why I let myself become like this but I know I have no choice in the matter.
I wish you were here so I could talk to you. I miss our midnight meetings at the astronomy tower, I could tell you anything- things I couldn't even utter to Draco. Speaking of Draco, something awful has happened to the creep. His mother has bin murdered by Lucius.
Draco had screwed up big time and Lucius had locked him in the dungeons for a month, anyways, Narcissa asked where Draco was and he refused to tell her. She got very upset and they had an argument. Lucius lost all self- control and killed her with a pointy reckoning. When Draco was finally let out, Lucius told everyone that she had passed away. But Draco, as much as I hate to say it, was no fool and informed him that he heard her terrified screams. Lucius threatened him and tortured him once more.
If anybody ever tried to hurt you Ginny.
Anyway, I should finish now. But I just want you to know that I care about you more then anything. Please would you reply a.s.a.p, as I don't know what will happen to me in the future. I just want to know how you feel.
I love you Virginia Weasley, remember that I always have and will.
Yours truly,
Blaise Xxx
Draco curled his lips in a cold sneer as he finished. Stuffing the rose petals in the envelope and folding the letter up he placed the picture back on the desk.
Pure anger coursed through his body, his hands shook and formed fists. Images of Ginny and Blaise laughing at him entered his head.
Needing to vent his rage he kicked the desk; then he realised he wasn't wearing any shoes.
"Ow! Shit!" He cursed rubbing his toe. He sat on the floor and examined the bleeding skin either side of the nail. He glared at the desk as though it had started it.
Something in the desk caught his eyes, a small nail shaped groove was cut into it leaving a golden pine imprint. Frowning curiously he slide over to the desk, you could just-just make out lines in the wood forming a square. His eyes widened in realisation, this was a secret draw.
Pulling it open with his thumbnail, he examined its contents.
An eagle quill, paper, single white rose and some white envelopes lay in the small draw. Picking up the paper, he searched both sides for signs of writing. Presuming them all blank, he picked up the last piece but he noticed that black swirls were dancing on the other side. He turned it over and found, another letter this time written by Ginny.
His eyes flickered to the date on the top: 28th September 2006.
She'd obviously hadn't finished or refused to send the letter. Draco rubbed his fore head and read the 3rd letter that day.
Dear Blaise
In answer to you're first question, I'm well thank you. I don't quite know what to say, you certainly gave me a shock. I had no idea you felt that way about me, really I didn't. Well, I might have had a feeling sometimes during our meetings, but other then that I was totally oblivious.
I remember the platform, I also remember the look that you wore, and it closely resembled that of Ron's when Draco had actually caught the snitch on that foggy day in April. He thought it was the end of the world and held the biggest grudge against Harry for days.
You're not a bad kisser by the way Mr Zabini. (Chuckles). I missed you too, I was lonely for weeks and quite depressed also as everyone around me had someone to love.
I couldn't really believe you when you said you had become a deatheater. Although deep down we both knew that you would eventually because of your family. Your life as a dark servant must be unbearable; I feel for you really I do. I'm glad that I can be of some assistance when you feel life cannot go on, you always seemed to help me to relax when I was around you; must of bin those warm golden eyes.
Your pin that you gave me is with me all the time. I wear it when ever possible; I enjoy the way it sparkles in sun warming up my soul. As for your heart, I keep it in a safe place until you come for it.
Blaise, I don't really know how I feel anymore. I cannot lie to you I never could. I just want you to know that I care for you but I'm not sure how, I think I will need to search my soul for the answer.
I pray that you find a way to break free for your imprisonment and spread your wings he who has the hawk eyes.
Take care my golden eagle.
Yours truly,
Ginny 'Ginger' Weasley XXx
P.S. Your owl is very sweet and it has your eyes.
Upon reading the last paragraph another 3 times Draco had had enough. Jumping up off the floor he stormed out of the room and down the stairs.
An uncontrollable surge of jealousy enveloped him. He knew he shouldn't be jealous but he couldn't help it, he felt something for Ginny. Images of the red head on the night of the graduation ball flashed through his head. The way she fitted into his strong body, the way she smiled at him.
The way she looked at Blaise.
He punched the wall leaving a small indent on the blue surface. Pulling on his boots roughly he cursed his childhood friend and winced as the leather came into contact with his throbbing injury.
Looking around the hallway he stared at the door and opened it, he slammed it shut when he left and looked around the landscape; there was a slight mist on the air and a soft cold breeze.
He spotted the tree in the distance and walked towards it as though hypnotised by the object. His boots crunched along the path creating noise in the eerily quiet lane.
He crossed the cobbled road and did a fence volt over the thin wooden perimeter. The field was long and wide with a small rise in the middle, which was home to the tree. There was meadow hay growing in it and walking normally was virtually impossible with out tripping, but for Draco, whose mind was else where, barely noticed the difficulty.
He reached the tall tree; it was a huge oak with high roots curving into the ground creating grassy banks against the vast trunk. Sitting down under it Draco re-read the crumpled letter in his hand and thinking long and hard about past events.
*
Ginny cursed loudly as she entered the deserted Public house, the argument she had just experienced was still ringing loudly in her ears making her angry, and though she hated to admit it, frightened.
She scanned the silent pub for any sign that her brown haired friend was waiting for her then she realised that she must be in bed like any normal person would on a Sunday morning.
"Morning Ginny." Chimed Madame Rosemerta happily. Big bags were lingering under her eyes.
"Morning Rose." Ginny replied whilst seating her self across from the landlady. The older woman smiled sweetly and took out 2 cups from under the bar followed by a large stripy teacup.
"I see your friend isn't with us this morning." She said whilst pouring out the lady grey tea.
Ginny frowned at the teapot.
"Yes, well he's ill at the moment and cant' go out the house-" she shot harshly. Rosemerta grimaced at her tone and Ginny softened immediately,
"Sorry rose, he's ill. Got a bad throat, can hardly talk." The older woman nodded knowingly.
"Ah I see." She handed Ginny a cup of tea. "Here you go love, I don't mean to intrude, but you look awful, is everything alright?" Queried the landlady.
Ginny sighed and took a sip of the piping hot drink wincing slightly as the boiling liquid burned her throat.
"Everything's just fine, I . had a late night that's all." She heaved whilst stroking the rim of the teacup with a long fingernail.
Rosemerta smiled and nodded her head slowly. Ginny bit her lip thoughtfully.
"Would it be possible to use the fire place Rose? I'd like to speak to 'Mione now rather then later- that's if you don't mind."
"No, no not at all." She instantly produced a red pot on the table. "There you go Gin, take as long as you need I think I smell the eggs burning." she added as the strong smell of rotten egg filled the bar.
Ginny rolled her eyes at her retreating back and went over to the fireplace.
As soon as the red powder hit the copper flames, they turned into a small inferno of crimson red fire. Ginny stepped before them and shouted:
"HERMIONE WEASLEY"
Into the red fire like screen that was the fireplace. About 10 seconds later, the tired weary head of Hermione appeared amongst the dancing flames.
"(Yawn!) Ah morning Ginny." She heaved as a yawn escaped her mouth. Ginny smiled at her friends patience, any other person would of given a lecture about getting a goodnights sleep and yada yada yada.
"Morning Mione. I'm sorry I woke you." She said apologetically. Hermione gave her a-lop sided smile and shook her head.
"Don't worry you didn't, Toby beat you to it. Came into mine and Ron's room again, he's become quite the little escape artist." She chuckled contently and sighed at the 'joy' of motherhood.
"Anyway, I can see you need to talk to me y-" she paused and squinted her eyes examining Ginny's face.
"Have you been crying?" Ginny opened her mouth to speak but the other woman interrupted her.
"I'll be right there Ginny, one mo." The brown haired head disappeared from the fire. Ginny sighed loudly and stepped back as the flames turned from red to the acid green necessary for flooing.
The tall womanly figure of her school friend/sister-in-law appeared in the silent pub bringing a shower of soot and dust with her. Immediately she bought her into a tight hug, knocking the air out of the smaller woman's body.
"Oh Ginny its great to see you! Now you just tell me what's troubling you." She said as her embrace grew so tight Ginny couldn't breathe.
"Only - if -you -let- me- go" Ginny gasped into her untamed hair.
Hermione immediately let go of her and sat down in the nearest booth to the fireplace. She placed her head in her hand expectantly.
"Go on then Gin, I'm all ears."
Ginny smiled sweetly and sat opposite her sister-in-law.
Where should she begin? From the day before when he arrived? from the night of the ball; from her relationship with Blaise. Somehow telling Hermione about that wouldn't help the situation very much.
"Well. firstly- 'Mione you cannot under any circumstances utter another word about this to a soul and secondly, you mustn't freak out."
The woman across from her nodded her head frowning curiously, "Of course I won't tell anyone, and I'll try not to freak out; but it depends on what you're going to tell me."
Ginny nodded slowly and took a deep breath, then another-then another. 'Just tell her Gin, oh well here goes.'
"On Friday night I was sound asleep in my bed when I heard an insistent knocking on the door. I got up and went downstairs to see who it was and what their problem was." She paused so her friend could take this in. Hermione nodded understandingly.
"Well," she continued "I opened the door with my wand raised and, get this- Draco Malfoy was standing on the doorstep with a deep gash in his arm looking absolutely shit scared."
Hermione widened her eyes in shock opening her mouth to preach but thinking better of it, let her continue.
"So I sort of let him in. Then the next minute an auror knocks on the door and asks me if I've had any disturbances because there was a deatheater in the village. I was astonished and even more so when he said his name was Draco Malfoy."
Hermione gasped loudly and Ginny was glad there were no other customers otherwise they'd of been staring at her like she was gone out.
"OH MY GOD! What did you do then, please tell me you booted him out." Ginny looked away from her eyes at the floor, her sister in law gasped again but much quieter this time.
"You didn't?! But then-he's not still there is he?" Ginny looked back into her friend's eyes and slowly nodded her head.
"Yes, um he is actually."
Hermione finally lost it. "I cannot believe you let a deatheater stay in your home! And I'm even more shocked that you let Draco Malfoy into you're house in the middle of the night! Honestly Ginny, he's a dangerous guy and not to be trusted!"
Ginny was about to jump to his defence, but remembering their last encounter avoided it.
"He's not all that bad, and would you mind shouting a bit louder this time, I don't think the people in Australia heard you clearly enough!" She spat hotly. Hermione frowned and rolled her eyes.
"Ginny-" she continued in a softer voice "How can you say that? Draco is nothing more then a killer and a liar."
"But he doesn't want to be anymore. On the night I let him in, he told me he didn't want to be a deatheater anymore, but trailed off before he gave me a reason." Hermione sniffed unbelievingly.
"He also told me, he wouldn't hurt me unless he had to, and I believe him Mione, I really do. He could have killed me by now; taken me hostage but he hasn't. In fact, bar this morning, he's been.well really nice."
The woman across from her gave her a worried look, and took Ginny's hand in hers.
"Are you telling me the truth?" She asked looking her straight in the eyes. The red head stared back at her and answered her-
"Yes. I'm telling you how it is, you know I wouldn't lie about something like this." Hermione gave her a short smile and bit her lip.
"If you say it's true I believe you."
"Good." She sighed and tucked a stray tress of hair behind her ear. "It's like the past's coming back to haunt me Mione, really it is." She rubbed her face softly.
"You mentioned something about 'bar this morning'. What happened this morning?"
Ginny glowered slightly and looked down at the candle on the table. She proceeded to tell the brown haired woman. Leaving out the part about Draco's transformation, she'd defiantly break her promise and tell Ron if Ginny was put into any danger.
"This morning we had an argument." She said quickly pouting comically. Hermione raised an amused eyebrow.
"Care to elaborate?" Asked the older woman whilst holding back a chuckle. The red head sighed and bit her lip.
"I err, well I kissed him.everything was rosy until he sort of, until he urm, stopped and ignored me. When I asked him why? we both got angry and he shouted at me. I got upset and stormed out the house to see you." Ginny looked into Hermiones face for a reaction, she was surprised when she saw a cheeky smile.
"What?" She demanded at the look on her face. Hermione licked her lips and made a straight face and resumed holding her head in her hand.
"So. is he a good kisser?"
Ginny frowned before giggling and leaning back into the bench letting out some of the tension and weariness that had over whelmed her in the last hour.
*
Draco read the letter for the 13th time. He just couldn't get over the fact that he was actually jealous of Blaise.
He'd never noticed her around school before that; apart from when she followed potter aimlessly about and that she was Weasley's sister, but apart from those things she'd bin a nobody.
He put a hand through his rugged blonde hair and smoothed it back out of his face. No woman had ever made him get this worked up before, not one of them, not even when he was in the presence of an enchantress.
Crumpling the letter up and throwing it onto a clump of grass a few metres away, he leant his head back on the tree and fell into the void of the past.
He woke abruptly to the sound of a branch snapping near by, he sat up quickly and scanned the landscape for any sign of a person or animal but there was nothing but fields.
He resumed his reminiscing- until he felt the presence of someone standing near by. Draco opened his eyes and looked straight ahead.
Staring at the space before him, a hand materialised out of thin air and slipped off their camouflage.
The Flaxen haired man gasped loudly as the cold golden eyes of Blaise Zabini bore into his Silver ones.
The ebony haired man smirked and grinned maliciously, "Hello there Dragon."
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
A/N: Dun-dun-dun.. Cliffe!! Heya people! A big hugglez and kiss to everyone that reviewed, you guys rock!! This chapter is really meant to have more in it but its already 15 pages long now and it's dragging on a bit. Chapter 6 is will be in your grasp soon enough don't worry. You can expect more insane plot twists in the coming chappies, and don't worry Tomato soup you'll find out soon enough.
November 3rd 2006
The study was alive with the swishing of black cloaks giving it the image of a fearful cave of bats fluttering aimlessly about. This was a grisly meeting of lost souls where the adrenaline charged men would come together after their gruesome killings of the night.
Many of the older or more privileged Deatheater had apparated here once Lucius had used the newly enlisted son of McNair, for transforming them into mindless killing machines for Voldemort.
They huddled in a large circle talking animatedly, waving their arms in mock battles and miming with their wands the murders that they had committed. Some were even dancing about on the spot, still full of adrenaline from their kills two hours before.
The door opened quickly with a bang and Lucius swaggered in confidently holding his head high like royalty. Now that Voldemort had put him in charge he was strutting around like the head cock. Everybody paused in their conversations and stood as still as statues eager to hear the accomplishments of the night's deeds.
Everyone hushed as he sat in a chair at the head of the circle, once he had taken his seat, chairs sprouted like roots from the floor. Lucius, being a Malfoy, insisted on having a throne as his chair, much to everyone else's disgust. They gracefully and quickly, sat down; some of the chairs made unhealthy creaks of pain as they did so.
"Welcome my fellow deatheaters." Lucius boomed, "I hope tonight's assassinations, disturbances and, of course, mischief's were successful." He added whilst laughing shortly. Many of them nodded their heads in silent answer, a few of the more insanely- confident men, laughed loudly.
Lucius glanced to his right, normally, sat in the modest seat was Draco. He frowned menacingly at the black velvet chair as though it were shooting daggers, and looked slowly around the haggle.
"Nott." He spat at a man sat 3 seats away,
"How, my friend, did the attack on the Diggorys go? Good I hope for I wish I could of done it myself." He flashed his eyes at the chair next to him as he remembered Dracos stunt.
Nott stood up and walked into the middle of the circle. He was very tall and looked very much like the grim reaper under his foreboding cloak.
"I'm happy to report sir, that it went exceedingly well, perfect in fact. They put up a courageous fight, which was most annoying at first, but I soon enjoyed it as it kept me stimulated, I fought well. And." He giggled insanely like a schoolgirl. "I also taunted them with their sons killing as- well as you suggested."
Lucius smiled insanely at him and clapped his hands in approval, as did everyone else. Nott grinned proudly behind his mask at the applause. He'd finally done something right; For once, his normal clumsy like state had abandoned him tonight.
"Well done Nott, well done indeed."
Nott smiled even wider at the praise. He then nodded his head and sat back down. Lucius looked around the circle again, his sight landed on a podgy man struggling to fit comfortably in the chair he was occupying.
"Parkinson, I have been informed that you failed to intercept a one Pavati Thomas. Now why is this may I ask?" Lucius drawled slowly.
Parkinson widened his eyes in horror and looked at Mcnair across from him, gapping like a goldfish at him he got up nervously and approached the centre.
"We-well Lucius, it was impossible for me to do so. as she is in close contact with my daughter, and sir, if I, or any of us killed one of her friends she would never forgive me."
The older man wrung his hands nervously and itched his wrists. Some of the others shifted in their seats, they knew, from experience, what was coming.
Lucius stood leisurely, making sure to show his muscles as he gripped the arms, they were visible under his baggy robe. He took 2 steps forward towards the short man.
"Is that so? Well." He stared into the terrified eyes of the man before him. There was a flash of a hand, and a flick of a mahogany wand.
"CRUCIO" shouted Lucius. The man before him shuddered and fell to the floor trembling in agony. The observers around the fearful scene stared emotionless at the torture before them, a few were laughing.
This was quite disconcerting; they normally were the people performing this curse not receiving it; McNairs son scooched a little closer to his father.
"Love," hissed the torturer,
"Love is a huge weakness." He smiled slightly as a few specks of blood leaked from the man's mouth.
"You do not let love get in the way of your duties. It makes you venerable to anything.. Including defeat." He flicked his wand sharply at the man writhing about like a spider without legs.
He looked up through his mask, which surprisingly hadn't fallen off, at the man towering threateningly above him.
"Sit down Jacob, NOW!" Spat Lucius harshly.
Parkinson scrambled to his feet despite the pains in his limbs, and slumped back into his chair. The Malfoy glared around the circle, now he wasn't in the mood to continue. It seemed he still hadn't truly forgiven Jacob Parkinson for letting his daughter marry that Potter and not Draco. For Draco to inherit all the Malfoy riches including the estate here and in Spain; he had to be married to a pureblood witch; she had to be a loving and strong wife and provide a suitable heir as well.
"I tire of this meeting." He whispered angrily. He looked at each deatheater in turn before he spoke again.
"Has anybody got anything to add? And yes before you say so Blighton I know about your 'attempted' attack on Mad Eye Moody." He shook his head in annoyance. "YOU Foolish boy you shall be punished severely for your lack of knowledge and intelligence."
The head of Jack Blighton dropped onto his chest grievously. The masked faces looked excitedly around the circle for anyone with a raised hand. To their disappointment, nobody wanted to speak; Lucius' attack on Parkinson was fresh in their minds.
"Good. I know this has been a very short meeting, but I need to talk to my friend Alistair here." Everyone glanced at the bored Zabini before rising.
"KILL, COMMAND, AND CONQUER!" They shouted in perfect unison before apparating.
Alistair zabini sighed resignedly and pulled off his mask. "Need I ask what this is about?" He inquired slightly annoyed. Lucius removed his mask and rubbed his fore head wearily with his fingertips.
"No you don't, but you're son has disappointed me slightly. The last time I asked him to find someone for me he bought them intact, alive or in some cases dead to me at least 5 hours later."
Alistair raised his eyebrows at the blonde man before him. The insufferable bloke had asked his son to give up his spare time to look for his son, and then had the nerve to stand there and criticize.
"My son does a good job every time; he doesn't know how to fail. But you should know of his progress! Honestly don't you read the paper Lucius?"
Lucius frowned at him confused. Alistair rolled his eyes angrily and apparated. He appeared a second later with the day's copy of 'The daily prophet'. Lucius jumped as he thrust it into his hands.
"I think you shall have your son back very soon." He chuckled as the silver haired man before him widened his eyes in shock. The picture of his son dominating the front page became glum as he stared at it.
"So Draco you think you can hide from me? I must admit you must be quite resistant if you failed to appear here once you were all summoned.."
He threw the paper back to Zabini and strode towards his liquor cabinet.
"By all means sit my friend, would you care for a drink Alistair?" He questioned simply looking for the closest bottle of brandy. The greying ebony haired man sat down in the high backed chair opposite the crackling fire.
"Aye go on then Lucius; but none of that muggle brandy, gives me heart burn." He replied whilst tapping his chest. The Malfoy shrugged sharply and poured a glass of wizards fire whisky for his childhood friend and glass of Napoleon brandy for himself.
"Here." He said as he seated himself in the other chair holding out the jade green drink. Alistair took it kindly and had a sip. As he knocked it back the portrait of Narcissa caught his eye. This curiously was like a muggles as it was still and silent. Why did a man who killed muggles on a regular basis have one of their style pictures hanging on the wall?
The woman in the picture had amazing dark blue eyes which sparkled warmly even in the stillness. Her hair was a long curly golden blonde and was pulled back off her face with a lily clip. A few stray ringlets outlined her high cheekbones and warm face, but even though she was smiling beautifully something was hiding deep within the exterior.
"You know I hated you for months when I heard." Sighed Alistair lightly. Lucius followed his trail of sight to his wife.
"What? Why?" he queried whilst knocking back some of his drink.
"When you started dating Narcissa. I Err. I used to have a crush on her." He laughed whilst sipping slowly. Lucius raised his eyebrows at his response.
"I never knew, why didn't you ever tell me?" He demanded calmly. "You never made and gestures that you were interested." The man opposite him laughed loudly sloshing his drink around the glass.
"You're joking aren't you? You would of ripped my head off if I'd done anything! . I just kept my head down and let you get on with it." He sighed dolefully.
"True, true." Said Lucius simply. He stared pensively at the portrait. Although he could never admit it, he longed for his wife. He missed her presence -her calm nature and most of all, her love that she showed him everyday of her life. Alistair sighed grievously; this conversation would never last without lucius getting up set. He drained his remaining whisky, savouring the strong and sweetness of the liquor, and got up.
"I should go, I needed to talk with my son." He rubbed his chin and rummaged around in his pocket for floo powder.
"Ah, of course. Oh! Ask him if he's had any luck locating one Ginny Weasley will you?" He heaved himself up and went once again to his cabinet. The Zabini raised a curious eyebrow.
"Ginny Weasley? Why on earth would you want the ministers daughter?" he asked confused. Lucius slammed the bottle down on the polished wood where it broke into jagged little pieces causing the expensive liquid to trickle down the side of the wooden surface. He swung around spilling a bit of the liquor down the glass.
"The only reason that-that muggle lover got the job was because fudge adored his 'honest conservative nature'. He couldn't of picked another person less suited to the job in my opinion." He barked harshly.
Alistair raised his hands apologetically; he didn't like the look the blonde man was giving him, and he didn't want be on bad terms with his leader.
"Okay, okay. I'm sorry I bought it up. But yes I will ask Blaise for you." Rubbing the powder in his hand, he nodded his head to Lucius.
"Until next time." He heaved throwing the green shimmering flakes into the fire.
"Yes until then." Retorted the Malfoy lazily. Alistair Zabini rolled his eyes at his eldest friend. This was nothing new to him, Lucius Malfoy had always been bad tempered and commanding. 'Poor Draco.' He thought, pitying the younger man wherever he was.
"ZABINI MANSION!" He yelled firmly, and without a backwards glance; he walked in to the acid green flames and out of sight.
In the dark foreboding study Lucius sat quite alone. Staring around the threatening walls, he stopped when he saw a picture of him and his father holding fencing swords. How he'd hated doing the pointless exercise, trying to stab someone with a harmless sword seemed like a pretty pointless thing to do. The pair in the frame scowled and looked around the room they were in. Lucius sighed flatly at the image in his mind
*~* Smack, smack, thump. The soundings of a person being beaten filled the silent corridor. "What (smack) have I told you (smack) about speaking (smack) out of turn!" Yelled his fathers' furious voice through beatings. The face of a young blonde boy appeared, it was bruised and blotchy. He was sitting strapped into a high backed chair; fists kept coming into contact with his chest and head.
The beating of his heart was the last thing he heard before falling unconscious. *~*
"Stupid bastard." He mumbled whilst downing the last of the brandy. He rose and took the picture off the wall; it was in black and white and was fading slightly. The malfoy stroked the glass tentatively and threw it fiercely at the wall.
Instantly a house elf appeared and began work of cleaning the mess, squeaking away in fear as she went. Lucius placed the glass on the counter and locked the cabinet with a security charm. Another house elf was busy cleaning the Brandy from the floor and the wooden surfaces. He cracked his neck and made towards the door to retire in his lonely bed for the remainder of the night.
***
Ginny awoke in the morning to the sound of grumbling, creaking and curses of pain. She glanced at the clock:
'MIGHT AS WELL GET UP.'
She groaned fairly annoyed and got out of the warm pleasing bed. Now freezing cold, she shivered and noticed she was aching heavily from fatigue. The door opposite hers was shut, but indistinguishable mutters were sounding from the other side. Grabbing the handle, she slid the door open. An unusual sight met her eyes.
On the bed lay Draco-normal enough, until you noticed he was bound to the bed with a rope; movement was virtually impossible and he was trying desperately to wriggle his way out of his isolation. He snapped his eyes up to hers when she entered completely and gave her an angry and confused look.
"WHAT THE HELL DID YOU DO TO ME?" he snarled at her sharply. Ginny shut the door and approached the bed.
"I tied you up so you wouldn't try to hurt me again." She replied softly.
Draco softened immediately and grimaced in an Oh-shit way. It seemed he had already forgotten, or had no knowledge of what happened the evening before.
"What do you mean try to hurt you again? I told you I wouldn't unless I had to." He replied sincerely looking up into her chocolate eyes. Ginny surveyed him carefully, unable to tell if he was being truthful. She stared deeply into the blue-grey depths of his eyes and saw no obvious signs of deception.
"Why.did you act like you did last night?" She asked quietly sitting down on the bed next to him.
Draco frowned at her question and closed his eyes, he sighed heavily. Allowing his head to flop comically on onto the pillow, he proceeded to tell her.
"Us deatheaters, we aren't controlled by evil all the time. We have a evil planted deep inside us, it lies dormant most days and we are allowed to carry out our daily business."
He fought to struggle out of his imprisonment, but gave up after a sharp pain in his arm.
"Go on," Ginny prompted.
The blonde man heaved and closed his eyes again.
"But. we are always under control of our master, he possesses our minds so we can do his treacherous tasks."
Ginny stared at him fascinated by his account. Draco opened his eyes.
"Can you untie me now? It is rather uncomfortable you know."
Ginny flashed her eyes from his to the tight binds on his body. She raised a curious eyebrow and shook her head.
"No, not until you tell me how he controls you. You see.last night I saw you trying to fight against. well something." Draco sucked his teeth and frowned at the ceiling.
"No Ginny, now untie me, it hurts." He glanced at her face hoping to find sympathy there; instead he found a cute imploring look.
"Please Draco?" She simpered softly through pouted lips. He frowned at her annoyed by the Ill-give-you-something-good look she was giving him. Ginny smiled as he sighed defeated.
"When Voldemort, or his chosen head crony wants us to do his biding, he does a special spell that only he knows, this is the initiation of evil." He examined her face hoping that was enough. Ginny nodded wanting him to go on.
"The original way of doing this was for Voldemort to touch his finger to the mark and make it turn jet black. Then, we would apparate to his location and do his bidding." Draco looked away from her face to the white ceiling again.
Ginny nodded knowingly, she remembered Harry's account of what happened when Lord voldemort rose again on that fearful night in the graveyard.
"Now that Voldemort . err. isn't around anymore, my father, being the dark lords right hand man and most trusted and loyal of the deatheaters, was the obvious choice to take over from him and, now we are controlled by him."
Draco closed his eyes as though he remembered the pain, the intense memory its self was painful enough, and continued reluctantly.
"When my father calls us he does it very differently. Firstly, he uses his wand. Placing it on the mark, he says 'morsmordrentie'; this sends a small shock wave through our bodies creating mind-wrenching pain and awakens the dormant evil. Instead of turning black, the mark turns green as the spell only works for 3 and sometimes even 4 hours. When we turn, instructions are sent to our minds through the shock wave given to us. After we have completed our mission, or not as the case maybe, we return to my father to talk about the nights successes, and losses."
Draco shuddered as he finished, this, he realised, was the first time he'd told anybody how the deatheaters became their evil selves. He studied Ginny's face. Her brown eyes were sad and scared, she was giving him a look, was it pity?
Immediately, she went into the other room to retrieve her wand, a simple flick and the ropes vanished giving Draco the freedom to move.
He rubbed his arms; hours of being strapped to the bed had left deep imprints in them making them red. Ginny sat down on the bed and hung her head slightly.
"I'm sorry Draco, I didn't realise how much you go through," She looked at her toes unable to look in his eyes.
Draco stopped examining his arms and observed her hunched back, she looked so fragile; her arms were thin and her back and waist were small. He swung his legs over the side of the bed and sat next to her. Rubbing his face, he lent forwards on his knees holding his head.
"You shouldn't be sorry Ginny, it's my fault. If I hadn't arrived on your doorstep at 3.30 then you'd be living normally and not having the pain of lying to your friends and family. Its all my fault." He finished quietly still holding his head.
Ginny glimpsed across at his face; his expression was that of regret and anger. 'Why would he be angry? He surely doesn't care about me.' She shook her head and placed a reassuring hand on his knee. The blonde man peered at her hand then up to her warm face.
"Don't be sorry Draco, remember I let you stay and-" she smiled coyly, "I don't regret it. just yet." She added teasingly.
Draco gave her a-lop sided grin and took her hand in his. They stared at each other for what seemed like hours until Draco snapped them back to reality. He cupped her face gently with his left hand and stroked it softly with the pad of his thumb. Ginny smiled, her eyes watching his lips.
She tilted her head upwards and gazed alluringly into his eyes. Draco smiled and, slowly, covered her mouth. She smiled into the embrace and her eyes fluttered shut, he watched her do so and repeated the action.
They explored each others mouths, hungering for the passion and lust buried deep within their souls. Ginny bought her hands up to his neck and rubbed his nape gently with her fingernails; she grinned into his mouth as shock waves of pleasure went through his body, and a small moan escaped his mouth.
Draco cursed himself; he was supposed to be in control here. Releasing his hand from her face, he sat her sideways on his lap and stroked her back, touching the hidden skin carefully. Ginny shivered at his warm touch.
Then as if she were an electric shock, he pulled away from her and looked at the floor to the right of her. Ginny frowned, slightly disappointed and moved her head forwards to his bruised-red lips. Draco reluctantly turned his head away and placed her back on the bed. The red head gaped at him and stood up to face him, Draco continued to look away. She studied his face, he looked sullen and almost bored; she threw her hands up in frustration.
"I can't believe you Draco Malfoy! One minute you're all over me and the next you don't wanna be in the same room!"
She waited for him to retaliate somehow, but he looked away at the wall as though enchanted by it. She glared at him heinously,
"It isn't anything new." She hissed watching his face. Upon hearing this he snapped his eyes up to hers; there was no emotion what so ever in those silver orbs. Ginny scowled and went over to the window. Why was this man so difficult?
"You don't understand I-"
"That's exactly right I don't understand! Why must you be an insufferable prat all the time!" She exclaimed turning her head and examining the field across from her. Draco stood and walked over to her.
"I haven't forgotten what happened you know." Ginny whispered quietly.
The blonde man behind her bit his lip thoughtfully and reached out for her waist. He recoiled thinking better of it and ran his fingers through his tousled hair.
"Neither have I." He said softly as she turned around.
"Then why do you push me away?" She whispered, her eyes watering slightly.
Draco looked out the window for a moment; he scowled at the rising sun and stared back into her big brown eyes. Illegal images from the past crept into his mind; he studied them momentarily forgetting her.
"Because it was wrong." He replied regretting it instantly. Ginny stared at him in shock.
"Wha-what?" She stammered unable to believe his answer. "But-But you-" Ginny gulped quietly and a tear escaped from her eyes. They turned cold and became alive with fury.
"I won't believe it." She breathed staring into his face. Draco smirked and crossed his arms.
"Well you better had Ginny, can't have you getting the wrong idea now can we." He retorted menacingly. Ginny winced at the words escaping his horrifying mouth; truly this man was evil.
"You have no Idea how painful it is to hear you say those words, especially after.that." She hissed. Draco sneered at her and became livid.
"HOW DARE YOU, I THINK IT IS YOU WHO HAS NO IDEA HOW PAINFUL THIS IS! YOU, YOU WHO GREW UP BEING LOVED DEARLY BY YOUR PERFECT FAMILY, WHILST MY INSANE FATHER SUBJECTED ME TO BE TORTURED EVERYDAY. YOU HAVE NO IDEA WHAT I HAD TO GO THROUGH. YOU DON'T KNOW THE FIRST THING ABOUT PAIN." He swallowed hard, anger coursing through his body. Ginny just stared at him frightened and shocked by his unexpected out burst. Several tears fell down her face and she walked past him to the doorway.
"I'm going out today, I don't know what time I'll be back." She sniffed at his turned back. Draco made no sign he had acknowledged her, and continued to stare out the window. Ginny glanced at the untidy bed before leaving the room.
Upon hearing the door click, Draco kicked the bed in frustration with his heel. It creaked noisily at his stress. He sat down on the window seat and stared out into the distance.
'She doesn't understand at all.' He told himself. 'I shouldn't of said I'd stay here. Shouldn't have said I'd stay with her, not after what happened.' He stared at his hands examining them for no apparent reason.
Down stairs, the front door closed and Ginny walked down the garden path to the gate. Opening it quickly, she set off at a fast pace down the road towards the village. He watched her walk down the cobbled lane until she disappeared. Draco grabbed a top and a pair of black trousers and cursed the red head.
He walked down the small landing to the bathroom and had a quick shower.
After cleaning himself thoroughly, he did a simple drying spell with his wand. "Heatenthus." Soaps and shampoos were lying around on the shelf next to the bath. 'Essence of vanilla.' Read a marble white shampoo; reaching for it he flicked the cap.
As he breathed in the scent, images of Ginny's beautiful face flashed through his mind, her long luscious wavy tresses flowing around her. Draco shook his head and forced the image away, to the back of his mind where it belonged.
He flicked the cap back down and walked out of the warm yellow room. His eyes flickered to Ginny's door, yesterday it had been shut, but now it was wide open for the entire world to see. The blonde man strode to the doorway and took in the room.
It was, of course, a soft baby blue with daisy white curtains and a marbled white wooden floor. The ceiling was the best feature; it was enchanted to look like dusk falling. The pinks, oranges, purples and light blues were romantic and calming.
Picture frames sat on the desk opposite the bed; a double he noticed, he took a step inside the room and instantly felt relaxed. The calming colours of the ceiling soothed the mind.
Picking up the nearest picture frame, he examined its contents. A happy and smiling Ginny sat in the middle of six other red heads, which were all pulling faces or poking each other.
'They must be her brothers.' He thought watching the twins give a huge wedgie to a boy in glasses. Under the picture there was a small plaque reading:
'Charlie, Bill, Percy, Fred and George, Ron and Ginny Last summer in Egypt.'
Placing it back on the desk he moved onto the next. In this picture Ginny, Ron, Harry and Hermione were all sitting on a log next to the lake at hogwarts, this was taken he guessed in their seventh year because on Hermiones left hand sat a gold engagement band.
Ginny was blushing slightly at the arm around her waist belonging to the boy who lived. Draco scowled at the black haired boy and put it back with a thump.
He picked up the next one; this picture was in a powder blue frame and was long and thin. Draco instantly recognised it as his graduation ball. Ginny was smiling sweetly and looked happy and care free. The couples surrounding her kept kissing each other and cheering contently.
'I never noticed that before.' He thought as he saw the head of Blaise watch her laugh and smile at Seamus' jokes; he also noticed that he was doing exactly the same.
Frowning he put the picture back and reached for the next, he looked at the one he had just examined and turned it over. An envelope was attached to the back, and what felt like 2 letters lay inside.
Curiosity egging him on, he carefully pulled out the letters. He unfolded the first and recognised it as Blaises handwriting.
Having no decency, he began to skim the loopy writing. Reading it slowly his face became that of amusement, but as he reached the 2nd paragraph he widened his eyes in shock.
Blaise had been meeting her in secret? He had told Draco when he caught him once that he had snuck down to the kitchens for a midnight snack and had been doing so since. Sitting down on the bed he read on.
As he reached the last paragraph, he realised his knuckles were white from clenching the letter. Anger and a dark jealousy ached at his heart. He folded the letter up and reached for the next. A dry red petal fell into his lap, and as he opened it up a handful more fell out.
He eyed them curiously and rubbed a smallish petal that had landed in his hand; it crackled and turned into a reddish powder. Rubbing it on his trousers, he proceeded to read.
Dear Ginny, I hope you are well, as you did not reply to my first letter. I understand it must have been a lot to take in, but it every word and every detail was true. Life for me at the moment is hard. Just yesterday I had to destroy a family of 6; 4 were children under 4 years of age. I often wonder why I let myself become like this but I know I have no choice in the matter.
I wish you were here so I could talk to you. I miss our midnight meetings at the astronomy tower, I could tell you anything- things I couldn't even utter to Draco. Speaking of Draco, something awful has happened to the creep. His mother has bin murdered by Lucius.
Draco had screwed up big time and Lucius had locked him in the dungeons for a month, anyways, Narcissa asked where Draco was and he refused to tell her. She got very upset and they had an argument. Lucius lost all self- control and killed her with a pointy reckoning. When Draco was finally let out, Lucius told everyone that she had passed away. But Draco, as much as I hate to say it, was no fool and informed him that he heard her terrified screams. Lucius threatened him and tortured him once more.
If anybody ever tried to hurt you Ginny.
Anyway, I should finish now. But I just want you to know that I care about you more then anything. Please would you reply a.s.a.p, as I don't know what will happen to me in the future. I just want to know how you feel.
I love you Virginia Weasley, remember that I always have and will.
Yours truly,
Blaise Xxx
Draco curled his lips in a cold sneer as he finished. Stuffing the rose petals in the envelope and folding the letter up he placed the picture back on the desk.
Pure anger coursed through his body, his hands shook and formed fists. Images of Ginny and Blaise laughing at him entered his head.
Needing to vent his rage he kicked the desk; then he realised he wasn't wearing any shoes.
"Ow! Shit!" He cursed rubbing his toe. He sat on the floor and examined the bleeding skin either side of the nail. He glared at the desk as though it had started it.
Something in the desk caught his eyes, a small nail shaped groove was cut into it leaving a golden pine imprint. Frowning curiously he slide over to the desk, you could just-just make out lines in the wood forming a square. His eyes widened in realisation, this was a secret draw.
Pulling it open with his thumbnail, he examined its contents.
An eagle quill, paper, single white rose and some white envelopes lay in the small draw. Picking up the paper, he searched both sides for signs of writing. Presuming them all blank, he picked up the last piece but he noticed that black swirls were dancing on the other side. He turned it over and found, another letter this time written by Ginny.
His eyes flickered to the date on the top: 28th September 2006.
She'd obviously hadn't finished or refused to send the letter. Draco rubbed his fore head and read the 3rd letter that day.
Dear Blaise
In answer to you're first question, I'm well thank you. I don't quite know what to say, you certainly gave me a shock. I had no idea you felt that way about me, really I didn't. Well, I might have had a feeling sometimes during our meetings, but other then that I was totally oblivious.
I remember the platform, I also remember the look that you wore, and it closely resembled that of Ron's when Draco had actually caught the snitch on that foggy day in April. He thought it was the end of the world and held the biggest grudge against Harry for days.
You're not a bad kisser by the way Mr Zabini. (Chuckles). I missed you too, I was lonely for weeks and quite depressed also as everyone around me had someone to love.
I couldn't really believe you when you said you had become a deatheater. Although deep down we both knew that you would eventually because of your family. Your life as a dark servant must be unbearable; I feel for you really I do. I'm glad that I can be of some assistance when you feel life cannot go on, you always seemed to help me to relax when I was around you; must of bin those warm golden eyes.
Your pin that you gave me is with me all the time. I wear it when ever possible; I enjoy the way it sparkles in sun warming up my soul. As for your heart, I keep it in a safe place until you come for it.
Blaise, I don't really know how I feel anymore. I cannot lie to you I never could. I just want you to know that I care for you but I'm not sure how, I think I will need to search my soul for the answer.
I pray that you find a way to break free for your imprisonment and spread your wings he who has the hawk eyes.
Take care my golden eagle.
Yours truly,
Ginny 'Ginger' Weasley XXx
P.S. Your owl is very sweet and it has your eyes.
Upon reading the last paragraph another 3 times Draco had had enough. Jumping up off the floor he stormed out of the room and down the stairs.
An uncontrollable surge of jealousy enveloped him. He knew he shouldn't be jealous but he couldn't help it, he felt something for Ginny. Images of the red head on the night of the graduation ball flashed through his head. The way she fitted into his strong body, the way she smiled at him.
The way she looked at Blaise.
He punched the wall leaving a small indent on the blue surface. Pulling on his boots roughly he cursed his childhood friend and winced as the leather came into contact with his throbbing injury.
Looking around the hallway he stared at the door and opened it, he slammed it shut when he left and looked around the landscape; there was a slight mist on the air and a soft cold breeze.
He spotted the tree in the distance and walked towards it as though hypnotised by the object. His boots crunched along the path creating noise in the eerily quiet lane.
He crossed the cobbled road and did a fence volt over the thin wooden perimeter. The field was long and wide with a small rise in the middle, which was home to the tree. There was meadow hay growing in it and walking normally was virtually impossible with out tripping, but for Draco, whose mind was else where, barely noticed the difficulty.
He reached the tall tree; it was a huge oak with high roots curving into the ground creating grassy banks against the vast trunk. Sitting down under it Draco re-read the crumpled letter in his hand and thinking long and hard about past events.
*
Ginny cursed loudly as she entered the deserted Public house, the argument she had just experienced was still ringing loudly in her ears making her angry, and though she hated to admit it, frightened.
She scanned the silent pub for any sign that her brown haired friend was waiting for her then she realised that she must be in bed like any normal person would on a Sunday morning.
"Morning Ginny." Chimed Madame Rosemerta happily. Big bags were lingering under her eyes.
"Morning Rose." Ginny replied whilst seating her self across from the landlady. The older woman smiled sweetly and took out 2 cups from under the bar followed by a large stripy teacup.
"I see your friend isn't with us this morning." She said whilst pouring out the lady grey tea.
Ginny frowned at the teapot.
"Yes, well he's ill at the moment and cant' go out the house-" she shot harshly. Rosemerta grimaced at her tone and Ginny softened immediately,
"Sorry rose, he's ill. Got a bad throat, can hardly talk." The older woman nodded knowingly.
"Ah I see." She handed Ginny a cup of tea. "Here you go love, I don't mean to intrude, but you look awful, is everything alright?" Queried the landlady.
Ginny sighed and took a sip of the piping hot drink wincing slightly as the boiling liquid burned her throat.
"Everything's just fine, I . had a late night that's all." She heaved whilst stroking the rim of the teacup with a long fingernail.
Rosemerta smiled and nodded her head slowly. Ginny bit her lip thoughtfully.
"Would it be possible to use the fire place Rose? I'd like to speak to 'Mione now rather then later- that's if you don't mind."
"No, no not at all." She instantly produced a red pot on the table. "There you go Gin, take as long as you need I think I smell the eggs burning." she added as the strong smell of rotten egg filled the bar.
Ginny rolled her eyes at her retreating back and went over to the fireplace.
As soon as the red powder hit the copper flames, they turned into a small inferno of crimson red fire. Ginny stepped before them and shouted:
"HERMIONE WEASLEY"
Into the red fire like screen that was the fireplace. About 10 seconds later, the tired weary head of Hermione appeared amongst the dancing flames.
"(Yawn!) Ah morning Ginny." She heaved as a yawn escaped her mouth. Ginny smiled at her friends patience, any other person would of given a lecture about getting a goodnights sleep and yada yada yada.
"Morning Mione. I'm sorry I woke you." She said apologetically. Hermione gave her a-lop sided smile and shook her head.
"Don't worry you didn't, Toby beat you to it. Came into mine and Ron's room again, he's become quite the little escape artist." She chuckled contently and sighed at the 'joy' of motherhood.
"Anyway, I can see you need to talk to me y-" she paused and squinted her eyes examining Ginny's face.
"Have you been crying?" Ginny opened her mouth to speak but the other woman interrupted her.
"I'll be right there Ginny, one mo." The brown haired head disappeared from the fire. Ginny sighed loudly and stepped back as the flames turned from red to the acid green necessary for flooing.
The tall womanly figure of her school friend/sister-in-law appeared in the silent pub bringing a shower of soot and dust with her. Immediately she bought her into a tight hug, knocking the air out of the smaller woman's body.
"Oh Ginny its great to see you! Now you just tell me what's troubling you." She said as her embrace grew so tight Ginny couldn't breathe.
"Only - if -you -let- me- go" Ginny gasped into her untamed hair.
Hermione immediately let go of her and sat down in the nearest booth to the fireplace. She placed her head in her hand expectantly.
"Go on then Gin, I'm all ears."
Ginny smiled sweetly and sat opposite her sister-in-law.
Where should she begin? From the day before when he arrived? from the night of the ball; from her relationship with Blaise. Somehow telling Hermione about that wouldn't help the situation very much.
"Well. firstly- 'Mione you cannot under any circumstances utter another word about this to a soul and secondly, you mustn't freak out."
The woman across from her nodded her head frowning curiously, "Of course I won't tell anyone, and I'll try not to freak out; but it depends on what you're going to tell me."
Ginny nodded slowly and took a deep breath, then another-then another. 'Just tell her Gin, oh well here goes.'
"On Friday night I was sound asleep in my bed when I heard an insistent knocking on the door. I got up and went downstairs to see who it was and what their problem was." She paused so her friend could take this in. Hermione nodded understandingly.
"Well," she continued "I opened the door with my wand raised and, get this- Draco Malfoy was standing on the doorstep with a deep gash in his arm looking absolutely shit scared."
Hermione widened her eyes in shock opening her mouth to preach but thinking better of it, let her continue.
"So I sort of let him in. Then the next minute an auror knocks on the door and asks me if I've had any disturbances because there was a deatheater in the village. I was astonished and even more so when he said his name was Draco Malfoy."
Hermione gasped loudly and Ginny was glad there were no other customers otherwise they'd of been staring at her like she was gone out.
"OH MY GOD! What did you do then, please tell me you booted him out." Ginny looked away from her eyes at the floor, her sister in law gasped again but much quieter this time.
"You didn't?! But then-he's not still there is he?" Ginny looked back into her friend's eyes and slowly nodded her head.
"Yes, um he is actually."
Hermione finally lost it. "I cannot believe you let a deatheater stay in your home! And I'm even more shocked that you let Draco Malfoy into you're house in the middle of the night! Honestly Ginny, he's a dangerous guy and not to be trusted!"
Ginny was about to jump to his defence, but remembering their last encounter avoided it.
"He's not all that bad, and would you mind shouting a bit louder this time, I don't think the people in Australia heard you clearly enough!" She spat hotly. Hermione frowned and rolled her eyes.
"Ginny-" she continued in a softer voice "How can you say that? Draco is nothing more then a killer and a liar."
"But he doesn't want to be anymore. On the night I let him in, he told me he didn't want to be a deatheater anymore, but trailed off before he gave me a reason." Hermione sniffed unbelievingly.
"He also told me, he wouldn't hurt me unless he had to, and I believe him Mione, I really do. He could have killed me by now; taken me hostage but he hasn't. In fact, bar this morning, he's been.well really nice."
The woman across from her gave her a worried look, and took Ginny's hand in hers.
"Are you telling me the truth?" She asked looking her straight in the eyes. The red head stared back at her and answered her-
"Yes. I'm telling you how it is, you know I wouldn't lie about something like this." Hermione gave her a short smile and bit her lip.
"If you say it's true I believe you."
"Good." She sighed and tucked a stray tress of hair behind her ear. "It's like the past's coming back to haunt me Mione, really it is." She rubbed her face softly.
"You mentioned something about 'bar this morning'. What happened this morning?"
Ginny glowered slightly and looked down at the candle on the table. She proceeded to tell the brown haired woman. Leaving out the part about Draco's transformation, she'd defiantly break her promise and tell Ron if Ginny was put into any danger.
"This morning we had an argument." She said quickly pouting comically. Hermione raised an amused eyebrow.
"Care to elaborate?" Asked the older woman whilst holding back a chuckle. The red head sighed and bit her lip.
"I err, well I kissed him.everything was rosy until he sort of, until he urm, stopped and ignored me. When I asked him why? we both got angry and he shouted at me. I got upset and stormed out the house to see you." Ginny looked into Hermiones face for a reaction, she was surprised when she saw a cheeky smile.
"What?" She demanded at the look on her face. Hermione licked her lips and made a straight face and resumed holding her head in her hand.
"So. is he a good kisser?"
Ginny frowned before giggling and leaning back into the bench letting out some of the tension and weariness that had over whelmed her in the last hour.
*
Draco read the letter for the 13th time. He just couldn't get over the fact that he was actually jealous of Blaise.
He'd never noticed her around school before that; apart from when she followed potter aimlessly about and that she was Weasley's sister, but apart from those things she'd bin a nobody.
He put a hand through his rugged blonde hair and smoothed it back out of his face. No woman had ever made him get this worked up before, not one of them, not even when he was in the presence of an enchantress.
Crumpling the letter up and throwing it onto a clump of grass a few metres away, he leant his head back on the tree and fell into the void of the past.
He woke abruptly to the sound of a branch snapping near by, he sat up quickly and scanned the landscape for any sign of a person or animal but there was nothing but fields.
He resumed his reminiscing- until he felt the presence of someone standing near by. Draco opened his eyes and looked straight ahead.
Staring at the space before him, a hand materialised out of thin air and slipped off their camouflage.
The Flaxen haired man gasped loudly as the cold golden eyes of Blaise Zabini bore into his Silver ones.
The ebony haired man smirked and grinned maliciously, "Hello there Dragon."
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
A/N: Dun-dun-dun.. Cliffe!! Heya people! A big hugglez and kiss to everyone that reviewed, you guys rock!! This chapter is really meant to have more in it but its already 15 pages long now and it's dragging on a bit. Chapter 6 is will be in your grasp soon enough don't worry. You can expect more insane plot twists in the coming chappies, and don't worry Tomato soup you'll find out soon enough.