I must apologise for the cliff-hanger at the end of the last Chapter (a few
of you shouted at me and I felt bad. I promise I won't do that too often)
Dracohermioneluver: Sorry about the cliff-hanger...forgive me :o( Hopefully having two Chapters will make up for it. And thanks for reviewing so quickly. Yes, Draco can be an idiot, but that's why I love him, and it makes the story more interesting if he screws up a couple of times. :o) Hopefully, he's not as much an idiot in this Chapter.
Thanks Spaced out space cadet (I love your name) and Brittany....You replied so quickly...It's amazing!!!! (And appreciated)
I realised that Draco does seem to drink a lot...Hmm...I hadn't realised when I first wrote this but I think it's working OK...I'm putting the drinking down to the pressure of the mission....well, that and it's fun writing drunken Draco.
As for the losing of his temper I'm going to put that down to a form of pent up sexual frustration (not just the normal sort where any sex is needed...as he gets enough of that....no, this is because it's needed with a certain someone...stay tuned).
I have JUST finished this and wanted to post it up right away, so apologies if bits don't make sense. Let me know and I'll fix them.
N.B. Anything you recognise, I don't own.
Chapter 6-A Test of Loyalty
Draco opened his sleepy eyes and surveyed the room he was in. It was red: All of it. Different shades of crimson, scarlet, ruby and cherry mixed with splashes of gold. Who'd turned his room red?! Why had they turned his room red?! And why had he been asleep in the chair?! What the hell was going on?!
He squeezed his eyes shut and opened them again...hoping the redness would go away. It didn't, so he shut his eyes again and tried to remember what had happened the night before. But his thoughts were interrupted by a humming from the kitchen. There was a girl in his room. Shit: Who was it?! It wasn't that bloody Ravenclaw again was it?! She'd been looking at him with doe eyes recently, apparently hopeful that they'd get together seriously. It wasn't going to happen.
The humming stopped and the voice spoke:
"So you finally decided to wake up then?!"
It was Hermione's voice. Why was Hermione in his room?! Gods his head hurt. Then his mind focused...this wasn't his room...it was Hermione's: the Head girl's room was obviously set out exactly like the Head boy's. Now it made more sense...kind of. Now he just had t figure out WHY he was in Hermione's room.
He scanned the room and noticed his invisibility cloak and two empty mugs on the neat, glass coffee table in front of him. A memory sparked and he groaned as the events of the previous night came flooding back.
"What did I do?!" He asked, not sure if he wanted to know the answer.
A look of hurt and upset appeared on Hermione's face:
"You...you don't remember?!" she muttered.
"Erm....remember what?!" He replied.
"I can't believe you don't remember....you said you'd sobered up and I believed you. You said it was special."
Draco panicked and though on the spot:
"Oh, right." He laughed, "of course I remember, how could I not?! And yes, it was special."
Hermione sighed with relief, walked over and sat beside him, wrapping her arms around his neck. Panicking more, he awkwardly returned the gesture. She rose from the seat and strolled over to the kitchen, picking up the empty mugs on her way.
Draco's mind was racing-what the hell had gone on last night?! Surely he hadn't bedded granger?! Nah, he wouldn't do that...would he. Truth was, he couldn't remember very much about last night. He remembered collapsing, drunk on top of Hermione and then chatting to her about.....a muggle book or something-that thought seemed weird. Then he remembered mention of his father, a hug then....nothing.
"Fuck it." He swore loudly.
He looked at Hermione in the kitchen-was it his imagination or did she look slightly dishevelled this morning?! Oh Gods...surely he'd not. In the chair as well! Not even in the bed.
He smelt fresh coffee and smiled as he saw her walk towards him with a large, steaming mug. She handed it to him:
"So," he asked, "what d'ya want to do now?! After last night?!"
To his surprise she burst out laughing.
"What's so funny?!" he demanded, "and don't say my performance, 'cos I have certainly never had nay complaints." "Oh get over yourself Draco." Hermione giggled. "It's you that's funny."
He frowned at her:
"Explain."
"Nothing happened you goon. I've just been winding you up-quite a good performance I think."
Draco stared at her, unbelieving.
"What?!" he asked, knowing he sounded stupid-the concept of what she had said was perfectly simple really, he just didn't want to believe she'd got one over him...again
"Nothing happened." She repeated, "You collapsed on my shoulder in a drunken stupor, so I left you in the chair to sober up whilst I got some sleep. Lucky for you today's Saturday; although you with a hangover in potion's would be quite funny."
"You evil cow." He said, "I can't believe you just played with me like that."
Hermione, shocked at his anger at her game, took a step backwards, looking truly apologetic:
"Hey," she said, "I'm sorry, I was only messing around."
"Yeah well, it's not very funny to mess around with people's feelings."
He got up and stormed out of Hermione's room:
"Let her stare after me for a change."
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Hours later, Draco was still fuming. Having stormed the castle grounds since marching out of Hermione's rooms, he had wandered the long corridors in a rage.
When he did decide to think about it, he realised he had over reacted to Hermione's joke, but really it was not her he was angry at, it was himself. For being so stupid the night before: allowing himself to get so absurdly drunk and then to try and KISS Hermione Granger. The more he thought about it the more enraged he became.
At dinner he made his way down to the Great Hall. As he entered he became aware of how different he was to the other students; all of whom knew of the appending war, but none of whom fought on either side. And if they did then they did not show it for risk of exposing themselves to the other side.
But none of them were in as much danger as he was-not even Hermione really. He had betrayed his family and everything they stood for. He had done it in secret, knowing that Lucius Malfoy was not someone you wanted to cross if it could be avoided.
He pondered all of this whilst surveying the room, scanning it slowly. His eyes came to rest on Hermione, and he heard her voice in his head:
"You're so selfish-everyone on our side is brave and in danger-you are nothing special."
He shook his head but the words echoed. The Gods knew why it was Hermione's voice he heard. He shook his head again and went to sit with the Slytherins, instantly becoming the Draco they all knew.
He threw himself into a seat in between Crabbe and Goyle and, realising he hadn't eaten since dinner the day before, began piling his plate with sandwiches and pastries.
"Where've you been?" Grunted Goyle.
"Busy." Replied Draco, knowing they would accept that because being Head boy he did have more duties. Well, that and they were thick and would accept whatever he told them. He was right; there were no more questions.
The lunch continued in a series of grunts and brief responses form Draco who kept finding his eyes wandering over to where Hermione was sat. And time and time again he got the idea he was supposed to be doing something.
After his second helping of bakewell tart, Draco saw Snape rise from his seat and remembered where he was supposed to be.
He spoke a hurried goodbye to Crabbe and Goyle and made for the dungeons, not noticing that Hermione' seat was also empty.
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Draco knocked on the door to Snape's personal rooms and entered when told to by the cold voice inside. Once inside he groaned as he saw the potion's master wasn't alone....she was there. Hermione smiled at him but he ignored her and sat down with hem-looking at Snape.
"What has she told you?!" He asked.
"I assume you are talking about Miss Granger: She has said nothing. We were waiting for you-we assumed you would put in an appearance sooner or later."
"Right," said Draco, well, I saw my father last night; he's planning to kill Hermione the week of Voldemort's attack."
Snape stood up and began pacing:
"Shit!" He spat, "this is all we need-more complications. We need a meeting with Dumbledore and perhaps a few others now I think about it."
Draco and Hermione nodded their agreement and the three headed off to Dumbledore's office.
They gave the password ("Acid Pop"), and entered. Dumbledore rose from behind his desk, a look of concern filling his wizened face as he stared at the grim faces of the three in front of him.
"We need to talk to you, and a few other members of The Order, as soon as possible; it is a matter of utmost importance." Said Snape, looking at Hermione as he spoke.
"Why?!" was all Dumbledore asked.
"Lucius has plans to kill me." Hermione interjected before Snape could respond.
"How did you find this out?!"
"I...." began Draco, "I....he told me; last night I went to see him...sorry sir."
"You are forgiven Mr Malfoy. Does anyone else know?! Who was there?!"
"There was only myself and my father there sir...my mother is away doing work for Voldemort." Draco replied, "However, MacNair is aware of the plans, and probably most of the other Death Eaters-most of them were in on it, but I think I've convinced my father to allow me to be present to attack Hermione, and not MacNair...at least that gives us an advantage."
"That is true Draco." Dumbledore responded. "We will hold a meeting tonight. However, not the whole Order: You three, myself, Harry and Ron- they will want to know of course, Remus, Minerva and Mrs Weasley: Unfortunately Mr Weasley is away on business, but I don't doubt that Molly will defiantly want to be aware of progression involving you, Hermione."
Hermione nodded and Snape opened his mouth but Dumbledore interrupted:
"I know what you are about to ask Severus and the answer is simple-I do not wish to disrupt the natural running of the school-despite it being Saturday and the half term, people will notice if the Head master, two heads of houses two students and the Head boy and girl all vanish in the middle of the day with no explanation."
Snape nodded and fell silent and the three turned to leave:
"Mr Malfoy!" Dumbledore called, "I would like a word with you please. Miss Granger, Severus; I will see you here at seven o'clock tonight."
The pair nodded and left. Dumbledore sat behind his desk, propping his chin on his laced together fingers, analysing Draco over his half moon glasses. When he spoke it was softly;
"Mr Malfoy, you are very brave-offering to replace MacNair. You do realise don't you that by doing so you may consequently have to duel...against your father?!"
Draco nodded;
"Yes sir, I understand that."
"Are you prepared for it thought?! Are you still willing to fight on the side of The Order?! Your father is one of the best wizards of the Dark Arts and duelling there is; only Voldemort is a serious threat to him. It is still not too late for you to return to the family you have secretly betrayed: they would be none the wiser. However, if you remain with us they will discover your betrayal."
"Why do you test my loyalty?!" Questioned Draco, "You forget that I was trained to duel by my father and I am equally matched in ability. I have chosen my side and I will remain loyal to it-even if it does mean betraying my family and duelling with my father then that is what I'll do-they stand for things that I never could."
"But you once did." Pressed Dumbledore.
"I did, but I don't any longer. My mind is made up and shall not be swayed...I will remain with The Order and do what I must."
"I can tell you speak the truth Draco. I simply hope that the truth will not end in sorrow."
"Thank you sir." Draco responded; not quite knowing what else to say.
"You may go Mr Malfoy. I will see you back here at seven o'clock. Please do not be late."
"Yes sir-goodbye."
"Goodbye Draco."
--------------------------
Draco left the Headmaster's office and made his way to the Slytherin common room-he didn't feel like going back to his private rooms: Crabbe and Goyle had shockingly be right for once-he hadn't seen much of any of the Slytherins since before his marking.
He gave the password (Dragon's blood) and walked in. He immediately spotted Crabbe and Goyle, sitting with that vile Pansy Parkinson girl, lounging in the best seats. He went over to join them.
"Y'allright." He slurred, nodding to them and sitting down.
Pansy without delay turned on what she thought was charm and began giving him a very unsubtle third degree.
"Where HAVE you been Draco?! I've missed you SOO much. It's been quite....lonely without you. We'll have to get together and do some catching up. Is it true you've been marked?! Can I see?!"
Draco pulled up the sleeve of his robes and proudly showed off his mark.
"Ooh," she cooed, "It's so pretty. Of course I want to be marked but I'm not allowed 'til I'm 18-like Crabbe and Goyle. It's such a pain. Although I'll obviously still fight alongside the Dark Lord if I can get away with it. Only a few chosen ones are marked before they turn 18...you're so lucky. Is it true that Granger's been marked?!"
"Sit!" Thought Draco. What was he going to do now?! It was obvious Pansy knew the truth but confirming it himself would put Hermione in danger from the Gryffindors and most of the school.
"Yep." He replied simply, hoping the topic would be left at that. It wasn't.
"Hades! I can't believe it. As if. I always thought she was a goody two shoes or something. What about being friends with Potter?! And you two hating each other?! She always seemed to loathe you-why bother if you were always on the same side?!"
Now Draco fully remembered why he had avoided the Slytherin common room-to avoid questions about Hermione's loyalty. He'd have to answer thought- Pansy, Crabbe and Goyle were all staring at him, waiting. He took a deep breath and thought fast.
"Originally we were on different sides but in 5th year, after seeing Black's demise, Granger realised where the true power and glory lay, and she became a spy for our side-remaining friends with Potter as a cover up so she could pass news on through me and my father to Voldemort. Because of her loyalties she was marked early with me. The hate this is still real though-she is such an irritating know-it-all."
"Too true." Pansy smirked.
Draco secretly thanked the Gods that the Slytherins and the Dark Lord were blissfully unaware of the formation of The Order. Luckily the explanation he had given seemed to satisfy them and the conversation quickly turned to Quidditch.
Draco sat quietly thinking-he hoped they wouldn't think any more about what he had told them because his story wouldn't hold up against his father or many of the other Death Eaters.
Although the more he thought, the more he realised how safe he was-Crabbe and Goyle would have forgotten the conversation by tea time and, to his knowledge, Pansy didn't know his father. However, as he zoned back into the conversation he heard Hermione's name. "...marked on her hip apparently, and killed two fully grown and powerful Death Eaters-Nienna and Dinru. Thing is...she did it without a wand. The Dark Lord must think she's special."
"Look!" Shouted Draco suddenly, "you CAN'T talk about her-not to anyone...at all! If her cover's blown then the Dark Lord's plans will be ruined, and if he finds out you did it-and he will-well, I'm sure you don't want to be on his hit list."
Thankfully, that little speech did do the trick, and he heard no more mention of Hermione.
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At five to seven Draco left the common room under the pretence of having to attend a meeting about the Yule ball-he made his way to Dumbledore's office.
On the Charm's corridor he bumped into Hermione, Harry and Ron. Ron gave Draco a look of hatred and Draco sneered back, opening his mouth, ready to make some cutting remark. Harry rolled his eyes:
"Oh please! Give it a rest will you!"
The company of four walked along in stony silence until the reached Dumbledore's office. Draco gave the password and they entered. Inside the office was packed with all the people Dumbledore had said he was going to call.
"Um...professor," Hermione asked, "I thought we were going to Grimmauld place?"
"Change of plan." Dumbledore replied simply, "It's much easier this way. We can't set up too many unofficial portkeys, floo's too risky and not everyone present can apparate."
Draco noticed Ron blush to his roots.
"I see we are all here." Remarked Dumbledore, "Now to business-it appears that there has been a development on behalf of the Death Eaters. Unfortunately for us this proves to be a complication."
A murmur passed around the room and Dumbledore spoke again:
"Mr Malfoy will fill you in, as I feel he is more capable of doing so than I am." He looked at Draco and sat down. Draco stood and told The Order of his father's plan to kill Hermione. When he had finished a million questions came flying his way, all at once. The Headmaster rose and silence fell.
"No questions, please." He said calmly, "We can not answer them-Mr Malfoy has given you all the information we have."
"How about at least giving us a date?" Lupin called out.
"Unfortunately Remus, we know nothing more than what Draco has just related to you. We only have a rough time scale with which to work.. We do not know the date of Voldemort's attack or of Lucius': we only know that they will both occur over the Easter holidays, which is a two week break. Other than that there is very little to go on I'm afraid."
Ron stood up:
"How do you know we can trust HIM?! He's a Malfoy! I bet he's just made up this 'plan' to trap us all-he's probably still on Voldemort's side."
"Shut it Weasel." Growled Draco. Dumbledore silenced them both with a glare.
"Mr Weasley, you have every right to ask that question, and I will answer it as I am sure many of you are wondering the same thing." He silently surveyed the room, and Draco noticed the uncomfortable look on many faces there.
"Oh it's so nice to be trusted." He thought.
"I trust Mr Malfoy." Dumbledore began, "because he has told me I can trust him, that he is on the side of The Order, and that he will fight with us to the end. Yes it is true that he is a Malfoy but that does not mean he is the same as them-a family name does not determine who you are-me and my brother share not his passion for goats yet we are related. You have only to look at Sirius Black-may the God's rest his soul-he came from a family much like the Malfoy's-rotten through years of prejudice, yet, just like Draco, he realised family values may not always be the right ones, and sometimes you have to make a choice. Draco has made that choice and has risen above his previous life, and I trust he will never return to it."
Dumbledore's speech seemed to satisfy the company; all except Ron who remained angry and red looking.
"Miss Granger, Severus, Mr Malfoy," spoke Dumbledore, "as you are aware tomorrow is Halloween. No doubt you have all been called to the grand ball at Malfoy Manor, and if at all possible I would like you to find out anything you can-either about Voldemort's or Lucius' attack. I know the latter only applies to you Draco but you must try your best. Any information you can obtain will be most useful to us with regards to planning our counter attack."
The spies nodded and soon after the company departed. Once outside Dumbledore's office Harry and Ron headed back to the tower and Draco and Hermione turned to Snape:
"What do we wear tomorrow night?!" Hermione asked, tentatively.
"Well, the Dark Lord has already told you it's formal, so your normal Death Eater attire is NOT appropriate Miss Granger. You should be elegant and...sexy."
Snape turned to Draco:
"Mr Malfoy, may I suggest either dress robes or smart clothing-the choice is yours."
The pair nodded and Snape left, leaving them alone.
"Look," Draco said, "I'm sorry I stormed out this morning: I over reacted."
"That's an understatement." Hermione laughed, "It's OK though; you're forgiven-you were hangover. If I'd been in the same state you were I probably wouldn't react to well to me either."
"Hey, there are worst things to wake up to." He smiled, blushing slightly as he realised what he'd said, but happy his anger had ceased and he could now talk to Hermione normally again.
She returned his smile, her eyes glinting slightly as she peered mischievously at him from beneath her curls.
"Wana walk me back?!" She asked.
"Why not!" He laughed and they headed towards Hermione's rooms.
"Ron's just trying to protect me you know." She said suddenly.
"From what?! Me?!"
"Partly, but not completely...mainly form this whole situation. He still cares about me, a lot, since...well, you know, and I was practically thrown into this mess involuntarily, and it's a lot of pressure to have; as you know."
Draco nodded:
"I think you're doing really well." He confessed.
"Thanks." She smiled, "Having you helps."
They continued in silence until they reached Hermione's door.
"Well, I guess I'll see you tomorrow night." Said Draco, not wanting to go, but knowing he must.
"Guess so. Thanks for walking me back."
"It's OK: any time."
They stared at each other for a moment or two, silent. Neither of them wanted to go. They both wanted the other one. They both knew it had to end.
Hermione stood on tiptoes and kissed Draco's cheek, before giving the password to her rooms.
She gave him a shy, sexy smile as she closed the door. Leaving him standing in the corridor with a stupid grin on his face.
-----------------------------
Hermione lay n her bed thinking similar thoughts. Her body fitted his so well. And he smelt of cinnamon; strong and safe.
She had felt his hand crawl slightly towards her hip when she'd kissed him, and it had taken all her strength to not move the kiss to his velvet like lips.
She hugged her pillow closer to her and smiled softly upwards.
---------------------------------
Only a few corridors away, Draco lay on his bed, staring at the ceiling, thinking about Hermione-her lips had been soft when she had kissed him. And her hair had smelt of cherry almonds that made him feel intoxicated and want to hold her and never let go.
He sighed and rolled over:
"Soon," he thought, "Soon."
He was happy; for the first time in a long time.
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Eeek...any more sexual tension and they may pop. OK, so they didn't kiss in that Chapter...even though a few of you said they should've done....I'm making you wait...I didn't realise it would be so long. Sorry. But on the good side, I've just checked my hand written Chapters and all I'm gonna say is...tune in next chapter :o)
Slytherin Spirit
Dracohermioneluver: Sorry about the cliff-hanger...forgive me :o( Hopefully having two Chapters will make up for it. And thanks for reviewing so quickly. Yes, Draco can be an idiot, but that's why I love him, and it makes the story more interesting if he screws up a couple of times. :o) Hopefully, he's not as much an idiot in this Chapter.
Thanks Spaced out space cadet (I love your name) and Brittany....You replied so quickly...It's amazing!!!! (And appreciated)
I realised that Draco does seem to drink a lot...Hmm...I hadn't realised when I first wrote this but I think it's working OK...I'm putting the drinking down to the pressure of the mission....well, that and it's fun writing drunken Draco.
As for the losing of his temper I'm going to put that down to a form of pent up sexual frustration (not just the normal sort where any sex is needed...as he gets enough of that....no, this is because it's needed with a certain someone...stay tuned).
I have JUST finished this and wanted to post it up right away, so apologies if bits don't make sense. Let me know and I'll fix them.
N.B. Anything you recognise, I don't own.
Chapter 6-A Test of Loyalty
Draco opened his sleepy eyes and surveyed the room he was in. It was red: All of it. Different shades of crimson, scarlet, ruby and cherry mixed with splashes of gold. Who'd turned his room red?! Why had they turned his room red?! And why had he been asleep in the chair?! What the hell was going on?!
He squeezed his eyes shut and opened them again...hoping the redness would go away. It didn't, so he shut his eyes again and tried to remember what had happened the night before. But his thoughts were interrupted by a humming from the kitchen. There was a girl in his room. Shit: Who was it?! It wasn't that bloody Ravenclaw again was it?! She'd been looking at him with doe eyes recently, apparently hopeful that they'd get together seriously. It wasn't going to happen.
The humming stopped and the voice spoke:
"So you finally decided to wake up then?!"
It was Hermione's voice. Why was Hermione in his room?! Gods his head hurt. Then his mind focused...this wasn't his room...it was Hermione's: the Head girl's room was obviously set out exactly like the Head boy's. Now it made more sense...kind of. Now he just had t figure out WHY he was in Hermione's room.
He scanned the room and noticed his invisibility cloak and two empty mugs on the neat, glass coffee table in front of him. A memory sparked and he groaned as the events of the previous night came flooding back.
"What did I do?!" He asked, not sure if he wanted to know the answer.
A look of hurt and upset appeared on Hermione's face:
"You...you don't remember?!" she muttered.
"Erm....remember what?!" He replied.
"I can't believe you don't remember....you said you'd sobered up and I believed you. You said it was special."
Draco panicked and though on the spot:
"Oh, right." He laughed, "of course I remember, how could I not?! And yes, it was special."
Hermione sighed with relief, walked over and sat beside him, wrapping her arms around his neck. Panicking more, he awkwardly returned the gesture. She rose from the seat and strolled over to the kitchen, picking up the empty mugs on her way.
Draco's mind was racing-what the hell had gone on last night?! Surely he hadn't bedded granger?! Nah, he wouldn't do that...would he. Truth was, he couldn't remember very much about last night. He remembered collapsing, drunk on top of Hermione and then chatting to her about.....a muggle book or something-that thought seemed weird. Then he remembered mention of his father, a hug then....nothing.
"Fuck it." He swore loudly.
He looked at Hermione in the kitchen-was it his imagination or did she look slightly dishevelled this morning?! Oh Gods...surely he'd not. In the chair as well! Not even in the bed.
He smelt fresh coffee and smiled as he saw her walk towards him with a large, steaming mug. She handed it to him:
"So," he asked, "what d'ya want to do now?! After last night?!"
To his surprise she burst out laughing.
"What's so funny?!" he demanded, "and don't say my performance, 'cos I have certainly never had nay complaints." "Oh get over yourself Draco." Hermione giggled. "It's you that's funny."
He frowned at her:
"Explain."
"Nothing happened you goon. I've just been winding you up-quite a good performance I think."
Draco stared at her, unbelieving.
"What?!" he asked, knowing he sounded stupid-the concept of what she had said was perfectly simple really, he just didn't want to believe she'd got one over him...again
"Nothing happened." She repeated, "You collapsed on my shoulder in a drunken stupor, so I left you in the chair to sober up whilst I got some sleep. Lucky for you today's Saturday; although you with a hangover in potion's would be quite funny."
"You evil cow." He said, "I can't believe you just played with me like that."
Hermione, shocked at his anger at her game, took a step backwards, looking truly apologetic:
"Hey," she said, "I'm sorry, I was only messing around."
"Yeah well, it's not very funny to mess around with people's feelings."
He got up and stormed out of Hermione's room:
"Let her stare after me for a change."
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Hours later, Draco was still fuming. Having stormed the castle grounds since marching out of Hermione's rooms, he had wandered the long corridors in a rage.
When he did decide to think about it, he realised he had over reacted to Hermione's joke, but really it was not her he was angry at, it was himself. For being so stupid the night before: allowing himself to get so absurdly drunk and then to try and KISS Hermione Granger. The more he thought about it the more enraged he became.
At dinner he made his way down to the Great Hall. As he entered he became aware of how different he was to the other students; all of whom knew of the appending war, but none of whom fought on either side. And if they did then they did not show it for risk of exposing themselves to the other side.
But none of them were in as much danger as he was-not even Hermione really. He had betrayed his family and everything they stood for. He had done it in secret, knowing that Lucius Malfoy was not someone you wanted to cross if it could be avoided.
He pondered all of this whilst surveying the room, scanning it slowly. His eyes came to rest on Hermione, and he heard her voice in his head:
"You're so selfish-everyone on our side is brave and in danger-you are nothing special."
He shook his head but the words echoed. The Gods knew why it was Hermione's voice he heard. He shook his head again and went to sit with the Slytherins, instantly becoming the Draco they all knew.
He threw himself into a seat in between Crabbe and Goyle and, realising he hadn't eaten since dinner the day before, began piling his plate with sandwiches and pastries.
"Where've you been?" Grunted Goyle.
"Busy." Replied Draco, knowing they would accept that because being Head boy he did have more duties. Well, that and they were thick and would accept whatever he told them. He was right; there were no more questions.
The lunch continued in a series of grunts and brief responses form Draco who kept finding his eyes wandering over to where Hermione was sat. And time and time again he got the idea he was supposed to be doing something.
After his second helping of bakewell tart, Draco saw Snape rise from his seat and remembered where he was supposed to be.
He spoke a hurried goodbye to Crabbe and Goyle and made for the dungeons, not noticing that Hermione' seat was also empty.
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Draco knocked on the door to Snape's personal rooms and entered when told to by the cold voice inside. Once inside he groaned as he saw the potion's master wasn't alone....she was there. Hermione smiled at him but he ignored her and sat down with hem-looking at Snape.
"What has she told you?!" He asked.
"I assume you are talking about Miss Granger: She has said nothing. We were waiting for you-we assumed you would put in an appearance sooner or later."
"Right," said Draco, well, I saw my father last night; he's planning to kill Hermione the week of Voldemort's attack."
Snape stood up and began pacing:
"Shit!" He spat, "this is all we need-more complications. We need a meeting with Dumbledore and perhaps a few others now I think about it."
Draco and Hermione nodded their agreement and the three headed off to Dumbledore's office.
They gave the password ("Acid Pop"), and entered. Dumbledore rose from behind his desk, a look of concern filling his wizened face as he stared at the grim faces of the three in front of him.
"We need to talk to you, and a few other members of The Order, as soon as possible; it is a matter of utmost importance." Said Snape, looking at Hermione as he spoke.
"Why?!" was all Dumbledore asked.
"Lucius has plans to kill me." Hermione interjected before Snape could respond.
"How did you find this out?!"
"I...." began Draco, "I....he told me; last night I went to see him...sorry sir."
"You are forgiven Mr Malfoy. Does anyone else know?! Who was there?!"
"There was only myself and my father there sir...my mother is away doing work for Voldemort." Draco replied, "However, MacNair is aware of the plans, and probably most of the other Death Eaters-most of them were in on it, but I think I've convinced my father to allow me to be present to attack Hermione, and not MacNair...at least that gives us an advantage."
"That is true Draco." Dumbledore responded. "We will hold a meeting tonight. However, not the whole Order: You three, myself, Harry and Ron- they will want to know of course, Remus, Minerva and Mrs Weasley: Unfortunately Mr Weasley is away on business, but I don't doubt that Molly will defiantly want to be aware of progression involving you, Hermione."
Hermione nodded and Snape opened his mouth but Dumbledore interrupted:
"I know what you are about to ask Severus and the answer is simple-I do not wish to disrupt the natural running of the school-despite it being Saturday and the half term, people will notice if the Head master, two heads of houses two students and the Head boy and girl all vanish in the middle of the day with no explanation."
Snape nodded and fell silent and the three turned to leave:
"Mr Malfoy!" Dumbledore called, "I would like a word with you please. Miss Granger, Severus; I will see you here at seven o'clock tonight."
The pair nodded and left. Dumbledore sat behind his desk, propping his chin on his laced together fingers, analysing Draco over his half moon glasses. When he spoke it was softly;
"Mr Malfoy, you are very brave-offering to replace MacNair. You do realise don't you that by doing so you may consequently have to duel...against your father?!"
Draco nodded;
"Yes sir, I understand that."
"Are you prepared for it thought?! Are you still willing to fight on the side of The Order?! Your father is one of the best wizards of the Dark Arts and duelling there is; only Voldemort is a serious threat to him. It is still not too late for you to return to the family you have secretly betrayed: they would be none the wiser. However, if you remain with us they will discover your betrayal."
"Why do you test my loyalty?!" Questioned Draco, "You forget that I was trained to duel by my father and I am equally matched in ability. I have chosen my side and I will remain loyal to it-even if it does mean betraying my family and duelling with my father then that is what I'll do-they stand for things that I never could."
"But you once did." Pressed Dumbledore.
"I did, but I don't any longer. My mind is made up and shall not be swayed...I will remain with The Order and do what I must."
"I can tell you speak the truth Draco. I simply hope that the truth will not end in sorrow."
"Thank you sir." Draco responded; not quite knowing what else to say.
"You may go Mr Malfoy. I will see you back here at seven o'clock. Please do not be late."
"Yes sir-goodbye."
"Goodbye Draco."
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Draco left the Headmaster's office and made his way to the Slytherin common room-he didn't feel like going back to his private rooms: Crabbe and Goyle had shockingly be right for once-he hadn't seen much of any of the Slytherins since before his marking.
He gave the password (Dragon's blood) and walked in. He immediately spotted Crabbe and Goyle, sitting with that vile Pansy Parkinson girl, lounging in the best seats. He went over to join them.
"Y'allright." He slurred, nodding to them and sitting down.
Pansy without delay turned on what she thought was charm and began giving him a very unsubtle third degree.
"Where HAVE you been Draco?! I've missed you SOO much. It's been quite....lonely without you. We'll have to get together and do some catching up. Is it true you've been marked?! Can I see?!"
Draco pulled up the sleeve of his robes and proudly showed off his mark.
"Ooh," she cooed, "It's so pretty. Of course I want to be marked but I'm not allowed 'til I'm 18-like Crabbe and Goyle. It's such a pain. Although I'll obviously still fight alongside the Dark Lord if I can get away with it. Only a few chosen ones are marked before they turn 18...you're so lucky. Is it true that Granger's been marked?!"
"Sit!" Thought Draco. What was he going to do now?! It was obvious Pansy knew the truth but confirming it himself would put Hermione in danger from the Gryffindors and most of the school.
"Yep." He replied simply, hoping the topic would be left at that. It wasn't.
"Hades! I can't believe it. As if. I always thought she was a goody two shoes or something. What about being friends with Potter?! And you two hating each other?! She always seemed to loathe you-why bother if you were always on the same side?!"
Now Draco fully remembered why he had avoided the Slytherin common room-to avoid questions about Hermione's loyalty. He'd have to answer thought- Pansy, Crabbe and Goyle were all staring at him, waiting. He took a deep breath and thought fast.
"Originally we were on different sides but in 5th year, after seeing Black's demise, Granger realised where the true power and glory lay, and she became a spy for our side-remaining friends with Potter as a cover up so she could pass news on through me and my father to Voldemort. Because of her loyalties she was marked early with me. The hate this is still real though-she is such an irritating know-it-all."
"Too true." Pansy smirked.
Draco secretly thanked the Gods that the Slytherins and the Dark Lord were blissfully unaware of the formation of The Order. Luckily the explanation he had given seemed to satisfy them and the conversation quickly turned to Quidditch.
Draco sat quietly thinking-he hoped they wouldn't think any more about what he had told them because his story wouldn't hold up against his father or many of the other Death Eaters.
Although the more he thought, the more he realised how safe he was-Crabbe and Goyle would have forgotten the conversation by tea time and, to his knowledge, Pansy didn't know his father. However, as he zoned back into the conversation he heard Hermione's name. "...marked on her hip apparently, and killed two fully grown and powerful Death Eaters-Nienna and Dinru. Thing is...she did it without a wand. The Dark Lord must think she's special."
"Look!" Shouted Draco suddenly, "you CAN'T talk about her-not to anyone...at all! If her cover's blown then the Dark Lord's plans will be ruined, and if he finds out you did it-and he will-well, I'm sure you don't want to be on his hit list."
Thankfully, that little speech did do the trick, and he heard no more mention of Hermione.
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At five to seven Draco left the common room under the pretence of having to attend a meeting about the Yule ball-he made his way to Dumbledore's office.
On the Charm's corridor he bumped into Hermione, Harry and Ron. Ron gave Draco a look of hatred and Draco sneered back, opening his mouth, ready to make some cutting remark. Harry rolled his eyes:
"Oh please! Give it a rest will you!"
The company of four walked along in stony silence until the reached Dumbledore's office. Draco gave the password and they entered. Inside the office was packed with all the people Dumbledore had said he was going to call.
"Um...professor," Hermione asked, "I thought we were going to Grimmauld place?"
"Change of plan." Dumbledore replied simply, "It's much easier this way. We can't set up too many unofficial portkeys, floo's too risky and not everyone present can apparate."
Draco noticed Ron blush to his roots.
"I see we are all here." Remarked Dumbledore, "Now to business-it appears that there has been a development on behalf of the Death Eaters. Unfortunately for us this proves to be a complication."
A murmur passed around the room and Dumbledore spoke again:
"Mr Malfoy will fill you in, as I feel he is more capable of doing so than I am." He looked at Draco and sat down. Draco stood and told The Order of his father's plan to kill Hermione. When he had finished a million questions came flying his way, all at once. The Headmaster rose and silence fell.
"No questions, please." He said calmly, "We can not answer them-Mr Malfoy has given you all the information we have."
"How about at least giving us a date?" Lupin called out.
"Unfortunately Remus, we know nothing more than what Draco has just related to you. We only have a rough time scale with which to work.. We do not know the date of Voldemort's attack or of Lucius': we only know that they will both occur over the Easter holidays, which is a two week break. Other than that there is very little to go on I'm afraid."
Ron stood up:
"How do you know we can trust HIM?! He's a Malfoy! I bet he's just made up this 'plan' to trap us all-he's probably still on Voldemort's side."
"Shut it Weasel." Growled Draco. Dumbledore silenced them both with a glare.
"Mr Weasley, you have every right to ask that question, and I will answer it as I am sure many of you are wondering the same thing." He silently surveyed the room, and Draco noticed the uncomfortable look on many faces there.
"Oh it's so nice to be trusted." He thought.
"I trust Mr Malfoy." Dumbledore began, "because he has told me I can trust him, that he is on the side of The Order, and that he will fight with us to the end. Yes it is true that he is a Malfoy but that does not mean he is the same as them-a family name does not determine who you are-me and my brother share not his passion for goats yet we are related. You have only to look at Sirius Black-may the God's rest his soul-he came from a family much like the Malfoy's-rotten through years of prejudice, yet, just like Draco, he realised family values may not always be the right ones, and sometimes you have to make a choice. Draco has made that choice and has risen above his previous life, and I trust he will never return to it."
Dumbledore's speech seemed to satisfy the company; all except Ron who remained angry and red looking.
"Miss Granger, Severus, Mr Malfoy," spoke Dumbledore, "as you are aware tomorrow is Halloween. No doubt you have all been called to the grand ball at Malfoy Manor, and if at all possible I would like you to find out anything you can-either about Voldemort's or Lucius' attack. I know the latter only applies to you Draco but you must try your best. Any information you can obtain will be most useful to us with regards to planning our counter attack."
The spies nodded and soon after the company departed. Once outside Dumbledore's office Harry and Ron headed back to the tower and Draco and Hermione turned to Snape:
"What do we wear tomorrow night?!" Hermione asked, tentatively.
"Well, the Dark Lord has already told you it's formal, so your normal Death Eater attire is NOT appropriate Miss Granger. You should be elegant and...sexy."
Snape turned to Draco:
"Mr Malfoy, may I suggest either dress robes or smart clothing-the choice is yours."
The pair nodded and Snape left, leaving them alone.
"Look," Draco said, "I'm sorry I stormed out this morning: I over reacted."
"That's an understatement." Hermione laughed, "It's OK though; you're forgiven-you were hangover. If I'd been in the same state you were I probably wouldn't react to well to me either."
"Hey, there are worst things to wake up to." He smiled, blushing slightly as he realised what he'd said, but happy his anger had ceased and he could now talk to Hermione normally again.
She returned his smile, her eyes glinting slightly as she peered mischievously at him from beneath her curls.
"Wana walk me back?!" She asked.
"Why not!" He laughed and they headed towards Hermione's rooms.
"Ron's just trying to protect me you know." She said suddenly.
"From what?! Me?!"
"Partly, but not completely...mainly form this whole situation. He still cares about me, a lot, since...well, you know, and I was practically thrown into this mess involuntarily, and it's a lot of pressure to have; as you know."
Draco nodded:
"I think you're doing really well." He confessed.
"Thanks." She smiled, "Having you helps."
They continued in silence until they reached Hermione's door.
"Well, I guess I'll see you tomorrow night." Said Draco, not wanting to go, but knowing he must.
"Guess so. Thanks for walking me back."
"It's OK: any time."
They stared at each other for a moment or two, silent. Neither of them wanted to go. They both wanted the other one. They both knew it had to end.
Hermione stood on tiptoes and kissed Draco's cheek, before giving the password to her rooms.
She gave him a shy, sexy smile as she closed the door. Leaving him standing in the corridor with a stupid grin on his face.
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Hermione lay n her bed thinking similar thoughts. Her body fitted his so well. And he smelt of cinnamon; strong and safe.
She had felt his hand crawl slightly towards her hip when she'd kissed him, and it had taken all her strength to not move the kiss to his velvet like lips.
She hugged her pillow closer to her and smiled softly upwards.
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Only a few corridors away, Draco lay on his bed, staring at the ceiling, thinking about Hermione-her lips had been soft when she had kissed him. And her hair had smelt of cherry almonds that made him feel intoxicated and want to hold her and never let go.
He sighed and rolled over:
"Soon," he thought, "Soon."
He was happy; for the first time in a long time.
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Eeek...any more sexual tension and they may pop. OK, so they didn't kiss in that Chapter...even though a few of you said they should've done....I'm making you wait...I didn't realise it would be so long. Sorry. But on the good side, I've just checked my hand written Chapters and all I'm gonna say is...tune in next chapter :o)
Slytherin Spirit