I apologise only slightly for the cliffhanger at the end of the last
Chapter-my argument being that I don't do it very often :o) I also
apologise once more for any spelling and grammar mistakes but this was
written very late at night and I wanted to get it up a.s.a.p. as I won't
get chance to over the weekend; what with work etc. So please forgive me.
The Slytherin Dragon, Sheilalein, quiet-mg, buscemi, Bride of Malfoy, Silverbutterfly, Alison, timebomb87, LeslieGlady, BigRed-2006, Kaydera, lizzy-black19, The Enchantress, sweet_77_thang@yahoo.com, poopieundiez, geo, u8mytwix, regine-terrae, blue-eye-babe-55, Dracohermioneluver, the elven princess, mattiemalfoy and Darklover fading (basiclly everyone who reviewed and hated the cliffhanger a.k.a everybody); THANK YOU SO MUCH! I am thrilled that so many of you took the time to review and as I have already apologised for the cliffy I won't again but your reviews are all greatly appreciated. You're all fantastic and I hope you review again.
Slyffindor; Thank you very much. I tried to keep the characters as true to the books as I could with the narrative I wanted, which was especially difficult with Hermione as she is so much darker here, but I prefer her hat way. I'm not a huge fan of fluff so I tend not to write reams of it. Like you I prefer the darker side of fanfic; the angst and the Gothic influences are so much more interesting and appealing to me (for this I blame my obsession with Tim Burton that I had from a very early age.) Thank you for reviewing and I hope you continue to enjoy the story.
Juxtaposed; Glad to see you back; I knew you hadn't abandoned me, although I have missed your reviews. Which continent you on now then? A hating for Blaise and Pansy? don't get too carried away. Although I wonder if I can make you hate someone else *begins plotting* Hope you enjoy the update.
N.B. None of the characters are mine, I only own the angst filled tune I make them dance to.
Chapter 20-Bloody Valentine
"Draco."
There was a voice, he could hear it.
"Draco." The voice said again.
He knew that voice; why was he hearing it. He was dead, she shouldn't be here.
"'Mi?" He asked gingerly, his throat rasping and aching.
"Yes, it's me."
"What happened? Where am I? Am I dead? Why can't I see you?"
A laugh, soft and gentle;
"Because you haven't tried to open your eyes silly. And no, you're not dead. You're in the hospital wing and to be honest I'm not sure what the hell happened back there. I left the room when you told me to but I didn't just ignore what I knew was going to happen. I knew you and Blaise were going to end up in a duel so I went to fetch Dumbledore, thinking he would be able to stop it before you both got out of hand, but I was obviously too late. Anyway, I was in Dumbledore's office explaining the situation as I knew it when I heard you calling for my help. You sounded so weak and I felt my energy leaving me to go to you then I must have blacked out. When I came to a minute or so later Dumbledore and I made our way to the classroom and found you and Blaise on the floor."
"He was about to use the killing curse on me."
"Yes he was but he didn't. You got there first. It's Blaise that died, not you. You must have said the curse then blacked out. That's how we found you."
"I killed him?"
"Yes."
Draco felt an array of emotions course through his body as he heard of what he had done. He also decided to open his eyes and he saw Hermione sat on the edge of his bed; her eyes were red rimmed from crying but she look full of gratitude that he was alive. He was angry more than anything; at Blaise, at his father and at himself for losing it so much so as to take another life.
"What's Dumbledore going to do about me?" He asked.
"I honestly don't know. He was pissed off, as you can imagine; he's going to have to explain Blaise's death to the government and to Blaise's parents. He'll probably be down to see you soon."
Before the words had finished leaving her mouth the headmaster made his appearance. Hermione excused herself and kissed Draco lightly before exiting the room leaving Draco feeling very small and stupid in the presence of the powerful wizard.
"I'm sorry sir," Draco began but Dumbledore held up a hand to silence him;
"You've left quite a path of destruction behind you Mr Malfoy."
"Yes sir. If you are going to expel me I shall understand. Will I be going to Azkaban?"
"Azkaban Mr Malfoy?"
"Well yes sir, I mean, I killed someone."
"Ah but you forget Mr Malfoy; Blaise was a wanted criminal. The ministry were aware of his involvement with Voldemort and, as with all the Death Eaters, there was a price over his head. Thy are also partially aware of your association with The Order of the Phoenix, although they do not know the full extent of your duties. All of this together does mean that you are, for the most part, in the clear."
Draco's heart celebrated until he fully absorbed Dumbledore's words;
"Partially sir?"
"How will you explain Mr Zabini's demise to your father and Voldemort?"
"I hadn't thought." Drcao admitted, "Although one will be easier than the other. I can quite easily tell Voldemort that Blaise was plotting against Hermione; she is Voldemott's prize Death Eater; his most powerful. Any attempt on her life would not be appreciated by him so he will praise Blaise's death if he knew he were plotting to kill his Raven."
"And your father?"
"My father is a much more pressing matter that I feel only I will be able to resolve. I am due to see him tomorrow night anyway."
"Ah yes, the plan to murder Miss Granger. Do you still feel you are able to complete the task set for you?"
"I have to. There is no-one else."
"A Polyjuice Potion perhaps?"
"No, Lucius knows me and anyone impersonating me would be spotted in an instant."
"Alas, I felt you those would be your feelings." Said Dumbledore, consulting a large, golden pocket watch, "May I suggest you go and see that wonderful girlfriend of yours. It is twelve now, if you are to meet at the manor at seven you should spend some time with her."
"The attack's tomorrow." Draco pointed out.
"No Mr Malfoy; the attack was tomorrow yesterday, however now it is in seven hours time."
"I've been unconscious for over a day?"
"Indeed you have Mr Malfoy. Now get some rest and go and pay a visit to Miss Granger."
And with that the sage wizard left Draco alone.
------------------------------------
Hermione squealed as she opened her door to find Draco standing there and he couldn't help but laugh at her as she wrapped her arms around him, almost depriving him of oxygen.
"Hey," he smiled, "you only saw me an hour ago."
"I know, but I was so worried that they wouldn't let you out."
"They didn't have much choice; I have an appointment tonight, remember?"
"Oh Draco, you aren't going through with that surely?"
"I have to. I'm not having someone else take my place? I would never forgive myself if something happened to you that I could have prevented, and I ma the only person capable of standing any chance duelling against Lucius; after all, he did teach me."
Hermione nodded.
"About your father; where was his logic in persuading Blaise to attack me? Surely he didn't know we were together? How could he?"
"The chances are that he knew nothing more than I was having sex with you but the problem for us is that Lucius is a paranoid fruitcake who will kill anything he feels to be a threat. He wanted you out of the way and Blaise, as usual, wanted a quick shag; for them it was the prefect deal. Speaking of which, I have a question for you; why didn't you blast Blaise if when he attacked you?"
"I couldn't." Hermione answered, her voice containing a wavering of sock, "I tried to use my wand but he accio'd it off me, I tried to push him off but he was much stronger than me and when I asked the Gods for their help they would not reply, but I could hear them arguing over whether or not they should help me or if they should allow me to learn things for myself."
"You can speak to the Gods directly?" Draco asked, amazed that such a feat could be achieved.
"I honestly don't know. Sometimes it feels like we could have a conversation directly and at other times it is much vaguer and sometimes they simply turn up randomly."
"You know what? To be honest I don't understand this God thing half the time. They seem to only be allies with you when it suits them and they can't seem to be able to choose a side to fought on overall."
"I know what you mean." Hermione sighed, "Sometimes I just wish they would leave me alone or have done with it."
"Have done with what?"
"Whatever it is they have planned for me. I know I have a role to play concerning them, and now with the Knife of Asriel, concerning everyone else too, and I also guess that the Gods will choose me foe a side; I will not. I just hope it's the right side. However, as for their actual planes for me I have absolutely no idea what part I'm going to play."
"Come here love." Draco said, holding his arms open to his lost looking girlfriend. She gratefully took up his offer and he held her close, savouring every part of her. He couldn't stand it any longer, lifting her face to his he kissed her deeply, pulling her tighter into his embrace and lifting her from the floor.
Hermione wrapped her legs around his waist and kissed him back, her velvety tongue caressing his won as they moved swiftly towards the bed. Once there Draco flung Hermione onto the bed and almost jumped onto her in his eagerness. She laughed as he began kissing every part of her skin he could reach, whilst simultaneously revealing more as he went along. Once her torso was bare Draco kissed his way down to the edge of her jeans.
He looked up at her, his eyes full of wickedness; hers were full of a pleading to not have him stop. And he didn't, slowly he began to trace patterns with his tongue over her smooth skin and he felt he quiver and wriggle beneath him at the sensation, but he was not done yet. Again his eyes met hers, only this time he held them as he ran his tongue rapidly up her body and she let out a slight moan of pleasure, wrapping her long legs around his waist as his lips met hers in a fusion of passion and lust.
Furiously Draco's hands roamed Hermione's body, releasing it from her clothing so their flesh touched. He moaned as her hands felt for him, enclosing around him and stroking, ever so gently to tease him. He teased her back, his mouth kissing and capturing every bit of flesh it could find; all except her lips. She looked at him, pleading and he smirked back; she knew the deal.
She removed her hand and deftly he entered her, his pace fast and furious. Hermione's moans became louder as he worked her frame, his hands caressing her curves and revelling in her beauty. Her fingers clutched at his back and her grip tightened round his waist. She begged him to move faster and to give her more of what she was feeling. He obliged and watched her face contort in ecstasy as he thrust in and out if her fast and building up pace, building up to the climax he had awaited since they had come back together.
He collapsed onto her, his body hot and tired yet satisfied at that which he had just experienced. He felt Hermione's hand brush softly at the side of his face, wiping away the sweaty strands of long, white-blonde hair that stuck to his cheeks and in his eyes. He smiled at the girl beneath him and gently stroked her cheeks, kissing her softly. Her eyes were shining and her cheeks flushed with pink and Draco kissed her again, wanting to taste her over and over again.
A knock at the door interrupted their love and Hermione groaned with annoyance as she called;
"Who is it?"
"It's...it's Ron, Hermione. I need to talk to you."
Another groan from Hermione as she stepped out of bed and into her dressing gown.
"You'd better hide." She whispered to Draco as she went to open the door.
"Um, where?" Draco asked, signalling with his arms around the room.
"Get under the covers and I'll fluff them up a it. With any luck you'll just look like an unmade bed."
"That didn't work with Ginny."
"Yes but Ginny has more sense than Ron."
"It still won't work."
"Fine, put some clothes on and get in the wardrobe; it's big enough."
Hermione threw him his boxers and threw him his clothes. Quickly scrambling into them, Draco climbed inside the wardrobe as Hermione opened the door. From inside his hiding place Draco marvelled at the amount of clothes one person could own; it really was quite extraordinary. As he was considering taking a short stroll through Hermione's dresses, he noticed that he could just about make out Hermione and Ron through a small gap in the closet doors. His nosiness getting the better of him, Draco placed his eye closer to the slit; Hermione was looking a bit nervous at the unexpected visit whilst Ron was shuffling his feet like a small child.
"How suave Weasel." Draco sneered, watching as the scene unfolded before him;
"You OK?" Hermione asked Ron who was looking increasingly nervous by the minute.
"Yeah, I'm fine. I just had to see you that's all."
"What about though? Surely you must have had a purpose for coming to see me?"
"I...erm, well I do but I'm beginning to think that maybe it's not such a good idea anymore."
"Ron, come on. Stop talking in riddles and spit it out. Whatever it is I won't bite your head off."
"You promise?"
"Of course, now come on."
"Can't you guess? It might make it easier."
"Oh come on Ron; how the hell am I supposed to know what you're thinking?"
"You're supposed to be my best friend."
"And I am, but ever since we broke up we've drifted and you've been acted a bit weird. You're doing it right now; you're acting like you did when you...oh"
A look of clarity spread across Hermione's face as it dawned on her what Ron was doing there;
"No Ron." She said, her voice firm but full of sadness for her friend, "you know they answer before we even begin this conversation."
"But why is that your answer? I haven't seen you date anyone else since we broke up so you must have the same feelings or you'd be with someone."
"I said no."
"Are you seeing someone?"
"None of your business!" Hermione said, her voice becoming louder and distressed.
"That's my point," Ron yelled back, "It USED to be my business. Now you have no time for me and are keeping secrets from me."
"Maybe I'm keeping secrets for a reason." Hermione said, her eyes subconsciously flitting to the cupboard.
Unfortunately for Draco, Ron saw her eyes flicker in his direction.
"What's so interesting that's in there? Another secret?"
"Ron, would you just go please? You are so unreasonable when you're in one of these moods."
Ron didn't even answer and Draco gulped as he saw him approaching his hiding place, he considered seeking salvage in the rows and rows of robes behind him but thought better of it. Ron's eyes appeared at the crack in the door;
"Hello chum." He said, with all the charm of a pissed off scorpion, wrenching open the door and dragging Draco out in the most undignified of ways, and Draco found himself considering if there was a dignified way to be dragged out of your girlfriends wardrobe by her ex.
"What the hell are you doing in there Malfoy?" Ron yelled, pulling Draco to his feet and standing only inches from his face.
"Sleeping." Draco shot back, "I was going to use yours but the rats drove me away; I have standards."
"Draco." Hermione pleaded. "Please play nice."
"I will if he does." Draco told her adamantly.
"And why the hell should I? I just found you in her wardrobe." Ron turned to Hermione. "Di d you know he was in there?"
"Yes." Hermione whispered.
Draco inwardly sighed that Ron had moved his attention away from him; he knew Ron wouldn't hurt Hermione, and she was more reasonable than he was. Maybe he'd live through this after all.
"Why was he in there?" Ron was quizzing Hermione, who eyed the floor nervously.
"Because I told him to hide when I knew you were at the door."
"Why's he here in the first place?"
"Because...because...Goddammit Ron I don't have to answer these questions."
"Yes you fucking do Hermione." Ron said, punching the wardrobe and leaving a large hole in it, "We've been friends for years and we've been through everything together and now we are close to facing the biggest thing we will lever come across and we barely talk. I don't want this all to end without us knowing how we both feel."
"I don't love you Ron and you know this. I've told you enough times."
"So who do you love? Him?" Ron spat, nodding his head at Draco.
"Yes." Hermione answered simply, her eyes locking with Draco's.
Ron stood, staring at the two of them and Draco could see his rage building up within him. He decided to try and sort the situation; for Hermione's sake.
"Ron, look, I know you must be highly pissed off at the moment but..."
"Shut up. I'll do the talking peroxide brain, savvy?"
"This is natural moron." Draco said, pointing to his head.
BAM!!! Ron's fist said hello to Draco's cheek, leaving it smarting and sore. Draco stood his ground, seeing splotches of colour and dark where people should have been. He heard a harsh "goodbye" And the slamming of a door.
"Bloody Weasley." He muttered as his vision began to clear.
"You OK?" Hermione muttered, slipping her arm around Draco and guiding him to the bed.
"Not really; I'm getting slightly pissed off that all your friends do is hit me, but I'll live. For the time being anyway."
"Gods Draco, don't' think like that. Tonight will be in your favour. I promise."
Draco said nothing; he had nothing but a feeling that tonight would result in nothing but more complications.
----------------------------------
The time of departure close don Draco much more rapidly than he would have liked and before he knew it he was decked in his finest black robes and was apparating to Malfoy Manor from outside Hogwarts, his fingers crossed behind his back.
His Father greeted him at the door with a brief nod of the head before signalling for Draco to come inside. Lucius Malfoy was rarely one to forget the formalities, even when it came to his own son yet Draco found himself finding this hardly a blessing; he strongly doubted his Father would keep in mind the formalities when it came to Hermione. Once the door was shut Lucius turned to his son and promptly backhanded him across the cheek. Draco stood his ground but felt the anger rise up inside him as Lucius spoke;
"Draco," he began, his icy gaze fixed against Draco's stormy eyes, "you did a very foolish thing last time you were here. Rudeness to me and your Mother will not be tolerated."
"Yes Sir." Draco answered with as much sincerity in his voice as he could muster. "I am sorry, I..."
"Do not apologise. A Malfoy does not apologise. You were in the wrong; you have been punished but if there were not more pressing matters to attend to your punishment would be much more sever. Count yourself lucky this time, but ensure it does never happen again."
"Yes Sir." Draco repeated.
"Good. As for you marriage we will discuss it again, make no mistake about that."
Another "Yes Sir." from Draco and Lucius seemed satisfied, stalking away in a billowing of black. Draco took this to mean "follow me." and did so.
Lucius lead Draco into the ground floor smoking room, handing him a double brandy and cigar as they sat down, facing each other;
"I hear you had a clashing with Mr Zabini?" Lucius stated, swirling the liquid around inside his glass.
"Yes Father."
""Please do enlighten me as to why you felt you had to slay a fellow Slytherin, pureblood and follower of the Dark Lord."
"He was spoiling my fun Father."
Lucius nodded curtly, requiring an explanation. Draco continued;
"He was attempting an attack on the mudblood bitch and I feared that, by the apparent strength of his actions, he was intending to completely dispose of her. The though of him stealing our triumph that we have spent so long in plotting annoyed me some what yet when I explained I wanted her to myself he refused to back down, resulting in us duelling."
"Did you, in your haste to attack, happen to ask young Blaise as to the reasoning behind his attacking the whore?"
"I did. He said that he was under your command and promise. Did you ask him to kill her?"
"No, I asked him to pull your affection away from her. It seems obvious that the fool was too easily willing to go further than that. You were right to do as you did. I would have been highly annoyed had our prize been taken away from us."
Draco relaxed slightly upon hearing his Father's response, at least it meant that he did not have to have some form of a showdown over his right to kill Blaise, which would have only added to the complication that the evening already presented. There was half an hour to go before Hermione would be arriving and Draco felt himself becoming more and more agitated; he was becoming less unsure about placing Hermione in such a strong position of danger. It didn't feel right; it felt wrong that she would be there, and the more Draco thought about it, the more he knew what he would have to do, and it filled him with dread.
"What are your feelings towards the mudblood Draco?" Lucius asked, his eyes intently analysing Draco's every move.
Instinctively Draco blocked all thoughts of his feelings for Hermione from his Lucius; there were immense bonuses to having been taught by your own Father. He felt the cold fingers of Lucius claw through his mind, searching for any piece of evidence that could be used to attack Draco with, but he found none.
Defeated Lucius relaxed into his chair and eyed Draco, waiting for a verbal response;
"Would I be here if I had any of the feelings for her you seem to assume I have?"
"Prove that you don't."
"How can I? The proof will be given when she arrives."
"Which should be any time now." Lucius responded, barely containing the glee in his voice. "We should go and prepare for our guests."
They made their way once more into the foyer, Draco's heart thumping in his chest so loud he thought his Father must be able to hear it. His Father positioned himself by the bust of Asriel, to one side of the sweeping staircase that stood opposite the door. He nodded at Draco and he took up a position behind the door; a location which would allow him to attack Hermione from behind.
A minute passed, two minutes, five, ten yet Hermione had not yet arrived; she was late, and Draco and his Father had not exchanged a word. Each was lost in his own thoughts of the evening and the potential outcome.
Draco stood, watching the door, listening to the ticking of the clock and the pounding of his own heartbeat inside his chest. Thoughts swirled around inside his head as he tossed and turned each idea that presented itself to him. He had to choose. He had to make a decision, yet for him there was no decision to be made; it was obvious. But it would pose so many more complications for everyone. The ticking of the clock drilled into his skull and, feeling as though he were in slow motion, Draco wheeled around to face his Father, his wand aimed at his Father.
"What's in your head boy?" Lucius asked, a malicious grin spreading over his face.
"I can't let you do this."
"And why not."
"She's too powerful an asset." Draco attempted to lie, although he knew himself it was useless.
"To whom? The Dark Lord?" He was mocking him, Draco could tell.
"Yes."
"Don't lie to me. You forget how easily I can see your thoughts; it's all there. You love her, you want her, you need to protect her. You are weak and pathetic; disillusioned by the farce they endeavour to pass of as love."
"No I'm not!" Draco shouted, his voice full of the passionate hatred he had felt for his Father for many years. "I am not weak, I am not pathetic but yes I do love her."
The curse flew from his Fathers wand with the speed and grace of it's owner, flying into Draco's chest, causing him to stagger slightly upon impact. Recovering as best he could he shot a stream of silver at his father. Lucius fell backwards onto the smooth, polished floor, looking at Draco through a mass of ruffled white hair and angry eyes;
"So this is what it comes to is it my Dragon? You choose her over your own blood?"
"I do. I have fought for her once this week and I will do so again, every day if I have to until I know she is safe from monsters like you."
"You will not harm me Draco. You can not; I am stronger and you must obey."
Draco did not respond. A stream of blue left his wand and his Father doubled over in pain; the Crucio had been cast.
Draco felt no remorse as his Father stood to face him, his eyes wide and angry.
"You'll regret that boy. This is a fight you can not win."
"I was taught by you, I can kill you."
Lucius threw a rapid stream of Crucios at Draco. He dodge the first two but was struck on the temple by a third, causing strangling pain to rip through his body, nearly tearing him in two. He looked at his Father who was seemingly preparing to gloat over his victory;
"Crucio!" He whispered, catching Lucius off guard.
Once more Lucius fell to the ground, only this time he was slower to rise. Draco stepped over him, kicking the wand from the older wizard's hand. Lucius looked up at him;
"What will you tell your Mother Draco?"
"That you died like the coward you really are." Draco whispered, pointing his wand at his Father's heart and whispering the curse that would end his torment.
A flash of green light and Lucius' eyes dimmed and saw nothing more.
Draco fell to his knees, staring at his Father.
A door opened behind him.
Draco didn't acknowledge the new presence.
Footsteps moved towards him.
Draco did not move.
"Draco?" A voice whispered.
Draco did not say anything.
A pair of arms encircled them around his waist.
nd a slim hand pulled his eyes away from the body of his Fatherike you.e were in slow motion, Draco be uised to plication sDraco wept.
The Slytherin Dragon, Sheilalein, quiet-mg, buscemi, Bride of Malfoy, Silverbutterfly, Alison, timebomb87, LeslieGlady, BigRed-2006, Kaydera, lizzy-black19, The Enchantress, sweet_77_thang@yahoo.com, poopieundiez, geo, u8mytwix, regine-terrae, blue-eye-babe-55, Dracohermioneluver, the elven princess, mattiemalfoy and Darklover fading (basiclly everyone who reviewed and hated the cliffhanger a.k.a everybody); THANK YOU SO MUCH! I am thrilled that so many of you took the time to review and as I have already apologised for the cliffy I won't again but your reviews are all greatly appreciated. You're all fantastic and I hope you review again.
Slyffindor; Thank you very much. I tried to keep the characters as true to the books as I could with the narrative I wanted, which was especially difficult with Hermione as she is so much darker here, but I prefer her hat way. I'm not a huge fan of fluff so I tend not to write reams of it. Like you I prefer the darker side of fanfic; the angst and the Gothic influences are so much more interesting and appealing to me (for this I blame my obsession with Tim Burton that I had from a very early age.) Thank you for reviewing and I hope you continue to enjoy the story.
Juxtaposed; Glad to see you back; I knew you hadn't abandoned me, although I have missed your reviews. Which continent you on now then? A hating for Blaise and Pansy? don't get too carried away. Although I wonder if I can make you hate someone else *begins plotting* Hope you enjoy the update.
N.B. None of the characters are mine, I only own the angst filled tune I make them dance to.
Chapter 20-Bloody Valentine
"Draco."
There was a voice, he could hear it.
"Draco." The voice said again.
He knew that voice; why was he hearing it. He was dead, she shouldn't be here.
"'Mi?" He asked gingerly, his throat rasping and aching.
"Yes, it's me."
"What happened? Where am I? Am I dead? Why can't I see you?"
A laugh, soft and gentle;
"Because you haven't tried to open your eyes silly. And no, you're not dead. You're in the hospital wing and to be honest I'm not sure what the hell happened back there. I left the room when you told me to but I didn't just ignore what I knew was going to happen. I knew you and Blaise were going to end up in a duel so I went to fetch Dumbledore, thinking he would be able to stop it before you both got out of hand, but I was obviously too late. Anyway, I was in Dumbledore's office explaining the situation as I knew it when I heard you calling for my help. You sounded so weak and I felt my energy leaving me to go to you then I must have blacked out. When I came to a minute or so later Dumbledore and I made our way to the classroom and found you and Blaise on the floor."
"He was about to use the killing curse on me."
"Yes he was but he didn't. You got there first. It's Blaise that died, not you. You must have said the curse then blacked out. That's how we found you."
"I killed him?"
"Yes."
Draco felt an array of emotions course through his body as he heard of what he had done. He also decided to open his eyes and he saw Hermione sat on the edge of his bed; her eyes were red rimmed from crying but she look full of gratitude that he was alive. He was angry more than anything; at Blaise, at his father and at himself for losing it so much so as to take another life.
"What's Dumbledore going to do about me?" He asked.
"I honestly don't know. He was pissed off, as you can imagine; he's going to have to explain Blaise's death to the government and to Blaise's parents. He'll probably be down to see you soon."
Before the words had finished leaving her mouth the headmaster made his appearance. Hermione excused herself and kissed Draco lightly before exiting the room leaving Draco feeling very small and stupid in the presence of the powerful wizard.
"I'm sorry sir," Draco began but Dumbledore held up a hand to silence him;
"You've left quite a path of destruction behind you Mr Malfoy."
"Yes sir. If you are going to expel me I shall understand. Will I be going to Azkaban?"
"Azkaban Mr Malfoy?"
"Well yes sir, I mean, I killed someone."
"Ah but you forget Mr Malfoy; Blaise was a wanted criminal. The ministry were aware of his involvement with Voldemort and, as with all the Death Eaters, there was a price over his head. Thy are also partially aware of your association with The Order of the Phoenix, although they do not know the full extent of your duties. All of this together does mean that you are, for the most part, in the clear."
Draco's heart celebrated until he fully absorbed Dumbledore's words;
"Partially sir?"
"How will you explain Mr Zabini's demise to your father and Voldemort?"
"I hadn't thought." Drcao admitted, "Although one will be easier than the other. I can quite easily tell Voldemort that Blaise was plotting against Hermione; she is Voldemott's prize Death Eater; his most powerful. Any attempt on her life would not be appreciated by him so he will praise Blaise's death if he knew he were plotting to kill his Raven."
"And your father?"
"My father is a much more pressing matter that I feel only I will be able to resolve. I am due to see him tomorrow night anyway."
"Ah yes, the plan to murder Miss Granger. Do you still feel you are able to complete the task set for you?"
"I have to. There is no-one else."
"A Polyjuice Potion perhaps?"
"No, Lucius knows me and anyone impersonating me would be spotted in an instant."
"Alas, I felt you those would be your feelings." Said Dumbledore, consulting a large, golden pocket watch, "May I suggest you go and see that wonderful girlfriend of yours. It is twelve now, if you are to meet at the manor at seven you should spend some time with her."
"The attack's tomorrow." Draco pointed out.
"No Mr Malfoy; the attack was tomorrow yesterday, however now it is in seven hours time."
"I've been unconscious for over a day?"
"Indeed you have Mr Malfoy. Now get some rest and go and pay a visit to Miss Granger."
And with that the sage wizard left Draco alone.
------------------------------------
Hermione squealed as she opened her door to find Draco standing there and he couldn't help but laugh at her as she wrapped her arms around him, almost depriving him of oxygen.
"Hey," he smiled, "you only saw me an hour ago."
"I know, but I was so worried that they wouldn't let you out."
"They didn't have much choice; I have an appointment tonight, remember?"
"Oh Draco, you aren't going through with that surely?"
"I have to. I'm not having someone else take my place? I would never forgive myself if something happened to you that I could have prevented, and I ma the only person capable of standing any chance duelling against Lucius; after all, he did teach me."
Hermione nodded.
"About your father; where was his logic in persuading Blaise to attack me? Surely he didn't know we were together? How could he?"
"The chances are that he knew nothing more than I was having sex with you but the problem for us is that Lucius is a paranoid fruitcake who will kill anything he feels to be a threat. He wanted you out of the way and Blaise, as usual, wanted a quick shag; for them it was the prefect deal. Speaking of which, I have a question for you; why didn't you blast Blaise if when he attacked you?"
"I couldn't." Hermione answered, her voice containing a wavering of sock, "I tried to use my wand but he accio'd it off me, I tried to push him off but he was much stronger than me and when I asked the Gods for their help they would not reply, but I could hear them arguing over whether or not they should help me or if they should allow me to learn things for myself."
"You can speak to the Gods directly?" Draco asked, amazed that such a feat could be achieved.
"I honestly don't know. Sometimes it feels like we could have a conversation directly and at other times it is much vaguer and sometimes they simply turn up randomly."
"You know what? To be honest I don't understand this God thing half the time. They seem to only be allies with you when it suits them and they can't seem to be able to choose a side to fought on overall."
"I know what you mean." Hermione sighed, "Sometimes I just wish they would leave me alone or have done with it."
"Have done with what?"
"Whatever it is they have planned for me. I know I have a role to play concerning them, and now with the Knife of Asriel, concerning everyone else too, and I also guess that the Gods will choose me foe a side; I will not. I just hope it's the right side. However, as for their actual planes for me I have absolutely no idea what part I'm going to play."
"Come here love." Draco said, holding his arms open to his lost looking girlfriend. She gratefully took up his offer and he held her close, savouring every part of her. He couldn't stand it any longer, lifting her face to his he kissed her deeply, pulling her tighter into his embrace and lifting her from the floor.
Hermione wrapped her legs around his waist and kissed him back, her velvety tongue caressing his won as they moved swiftly towards the bed. Once there Draco flung Hermione onto the bed and almost jumped onto her in his eagerness. She laughed as he began kissing every part of her skin he could reach, whilst simultaneously revealing more as he went along. Once her torso was bare Draco kissed his way down to the edge of her jeans.
He looked up at her, his eyes full of wickedness; hers were full of a pleading to not have him stop. And he didn't, slowly he began to trace patterns with his tongue over her smooth skin and he felt he quiver and wriggle beneath him at the sensation, but he was not done yet. Again his eyes met hers, only this time he held them as he ran his tongue rapidly up her body and she let out a slight moan of pleasure, wrapping her long legs around his waist as his lips met hers in a fusion of passion and lust.
Furiously Draco's hands roamed Hermione's body, releasing it from her clothing so their flesh touched. He moaned as her hands felt for him, enclosing around him and stroking, ever so gently to tease him. He teased her back, his mouth kissing and capturing every bit of flesh it could find; all except her lips. She looked at him, pleading and he smirked back; she knew the deal.
She removed her hand and deftly he entered her, his pace fast and furious. Hermione's moans became louder as he worked her frame, his hands caressing her curves and revelling in her beauty. Her fingers clutched at his back and her grip tightened round his waist. She begged him to move faster and to give her more of what she was feeling. He obliged and watched her face contort in ecstasy as he thrust in and out if her fast and building up pace, building up to the climax he had awaited since they had come back together.
He collapsed onto her, his body hot and tired yet satisfied at that which he had just experienced. He felt Hermione's hand brush softly at the side of his face, wiping away the sweaty strands of long, white-blonde hair that stuck to his cheeks and in his eyes. He smiled at the girl beneath him and gently stroked her cheeks, kissing her softly. Her eyes were shining and her cheeks flushed with pink and Draco kissed her again, wanting to taste her over and over again.
A knock at the door interrupted their love and Hermione groaned with annoyance as she called;
"Who is it?"
"It's...it's Ron, Hermione. I need to talk to you."
Another groan from Hermione as she stepped out of bed and into her dressing gown.
"You'd better hide." She whispered to Draco as she went to open the door.
"Um, where?" Draco asked, signalling with his arms around the room.
"Get under the covers and I'll fluff them up a it. With any luck you'll just look like an unmade bed."
"That didn't work with Ginny."
"Yes but Ginny has more sense than Ron."
"It still won't work."
"Fine, put some clothes on and get in the wardrobe; it's big enough."
Hermione threw him his boxers and threw him his clothes. Quickly scrambling into them, Draco climbed inside the wardrobe as Hermione opened the door. From inside his hiding place Draco marvelled at the amount of clothes one person could own; it really was quite extraordinary. As he was considering taking a short stroll through Hermione's dresses, he noticed that he could just about make out Hermione and Ron through a small gap in the closet doors. His nosiness getting the better of him, Draco placed his eye closer to the slit; Hermione was looking a bit nervous at the unexpected visit whilst Ron was shuffling his feet like a small child.
"How suave Weasel." Draco sneered, watching as the scene unfolded before him;
"You OK?" Hermione asked Ron who was looking increasingly nervous by the minute.
"Yeah, I'm fine. I just had to see you that's all."
"What about though? Surely you must have had a purpose for coming to see me?"
"I...erm, well I do but I'm beginning to think that maybe it's not such a good idea anymore."
"Ron, come on. Stop talking in riddles and spit it out. Whatever it is I won't bite your head off."
"You promise?"
"Of course, now come on."
"Can't you guess? It might make it easier."
"Oh come on Ron; how the hell am I supposed to know what you're thinking?"
"You're supposed to be my best friend."
"And I am, but ever since we broke up we've drifted and you've been acted a bit weird. You're doing it right now; you're acting like you did when you...oh"
A look of clarity spread across Hermione's face as it dawned on her what Ron was doing there;
"No Ron." She said, her voice firm but full of sadness for her friend, "you know they answer before we even begin this conversation."
"But why is that your answer? I haven't seen you date anyone else since we broke up so you must have the same feelings or you'd be with someone."
"I said no."
"Are you seeing someone?"
"None of your business!" Hermione said, her voice becoming louder and distressed.
"That's my point," Ron yelled back, "It USED to be my business. Now you have no time for me and are keeping secrets from me."
"Maybe I'm keeping secrets for a reason." Hermione said, her eyes subconsciously flitting to the cupboard.
Unfortunately for Draco, Ron saw her eyes flicker in his direction.
"What's so interesting that's in there? Another secret?"
"Ron, would you just go please? You are so unreasonable when you're in one of these moods."
Ron didn't even answer and Draco gulped as he saw him approaching his hiding place, he considered seeking salvage in the rows and rows of robes behind him but thought better of it. Ron's eyes appeared at the crack in the door;
"Hello chum." He said, with all the charm of a pissed off scorpion, wrenching open the door and dragging Draco out in the most undignified of ways, and Draco found himself considering if there was a dignified way to be dragged out of your girlfriends wardrobe by her ex.
"What the hell are you doing in there Malfoy?" Ron yelled, pulling Draco to his feet and standing only inches from his face.
"Sleeping." Draco shot back, "I was going to use yours but the rats drove me away; I have standards."
"Draco." Hermione pleaded. "Please play nice."
"I will if he does." Draco told her adamantly.
"And why the hell should I? I just found you in her wardrobe." Ron turned to Hermione. "Di d you know he was in there?"
"Yes." Hermione whispered.
Draco inwardly sighed that Ron had moved his attention away from him; he knew Ron wouldn't hurt Hermione, and she was more reasonable than he was. Maybe he'd live through this after all.
"Why was he in there?" Ron was quizzing Hermione, who eyed the floor nervously.
"Because I told him to hide when I knew you were at the door."
"Why's he here in the first place?"
"Because...because...Goddammit Ron I don't have to answer these questions."
"Yes you fucking do Hermione." Ron said, punching the wardrobe and leaving a large hole in it, "We've been friends for years and we've been through everything together and now we are close to facing the biggest thing we will lever come across and we barely talk. I don't want this all to end without us knowing how we both feel."
"I don't love you Ron and you know this. I've told you enough times."
"So who do you love? Him?" Ron spat, nodding his head at Draco.
"Yes." Hermione answered simply, her eyes locking with Draco's.
Ron stood, staring at the two of them and Draco could see his rage building up within him. He decided to try and sort the situation; for Hermione's sake.
"Ron, look, I know you must be highly pissed off at the moment but..."
"Shut up. I'll do the talking peroxide brain, savvy?"
"This is natural moron." Draco said, pointing to his head.
BAM!!! Ron's fist said hello to Draco's cheek, leaving it smarting and sore. Draco stood his ground, seeing splotches of colour and dark where people should have been. He heard a harsh "goodbye" And the slamming of a door.
"Bloody Weasley." He muttered as his vision began to clear.
"You OK?" Hermione muttered, slipping her arm around Draco and guiding him to the bed.
"Not really; I'm getting slightly pissed off that all your friends do is hit me, but I'll live. For the time being anyway."
"Gods Draco, don't' think like that. Tonight will be in your favour. I promise."
Draco said nothing; he had nothing but a feeling that tonight would result in nothing but more complications.
----------------------------------
The time of departure close don Draco much more rapidly than he would have liked and before he knew it he was decked in his finest black robes and was apparating to Malfoy Manor from outside Hogwarts, his fingers crossed behind his back.
His Father greeted him at the door with a brief nod of the head before signalling for Draco to come inside. Lucius Malfoy was rarely one to forget the formalities, even when it came to his own son yet Draco found himself finding this hardly a blessing; he strongly doubted his Father would keep in mind the formalities when it came to Hermione. Once the door was shut Lucius turned to his son and promptly backhanded him across the cheek. Draco stood his ground but felt the anger rise up inside him as Lucius spoke;
"Draco," he began, his icy gaze fixed against Draco's stormy eyes, "you did a very foolish thing last time you were here. Rudeness to me and your Mother will not be tolerated."
"Yes Sir." Draco answered with as much sincerity in his voice as he could muster. "I am sorry, I..."
"Do not apologise. A Malfoy does not apologise. You were in the wrong; you have been punished but if there were not more pressing matters to attend to your punishment would be much more sever. Count yourself lucky this time, but ensure it does never happen again."
"Yes Sir." Draco repeated.
"Good. As for you marriage we will discuss it again, make no mistake about that."
Another "Yes Sir." from Draco and Lucius seemed satisfied, stalking away in a billowing of black. Draco took this to mean "follow me." and did so.
Lucius lead Draco into the ground floor smoking room, handing him a double brandy and cigar as they sat down, facing each other;
"I hear you had a clashing with Mr Zabini?" Lucius stated, swirling the liquid around inside his glass.
"Yes Father."
""Please do enlighten me as to why you felt you had to slay a fellow Slytherin, pureblood and follower of the Dark Lord."
"He was spoiling my fun Father."
Lucius nodded curtly, requiring an explanation. Draco continued;
"He was attempting an attack on the mudblood bitch and I feared that, by the apparent strength of his actions, he was intending to completely dispose of her. The though of him stealing our triumph that we have spent so long in plotting annoyed me some what yet when I explained I wanted her to myself he refused to back down, resulting in us duelling."
"Did you, in your haste to attack, happen to ask young Blaise as to the reasoning behind his attacking the whore?"
"I did. He said that he was under your command and promise. Did you ask him to kill her?"
"No, I asked him to pull your affection away from her. It seems obvious that the fool was too easily willing to go further than that. You were right to do as you did. I would have been highly annoyed had our prize been taken away from us."
Draco relaxed slightly upon hearing his Father's response, at least it meant that he did not have to have some form of a showdown over his right to kill Blaise, which would have only added to the complication that the evening already presented. There was half an hour to go before Hermione would be arriving and Draco felt himself becoming more and more agitated; he was becoming less unsure about placing Hermione in such a strong position of danger. It didn't feel right; it felt wrong that she would be there, and the more Draco thought about it, the more he knew what he would have to do, and it filled him with dread.
"What are your feelings towards the mudblood Draco?" Lucius asked, his eyes intently analysing Draco's every move.
Instinctively Draco blocked all thoughts of his feelings for Hermione from his Lucius; there were immense bonuses to having been taught by your own Father. He felt the cold fingers of Lucius claw through his mind, searching for any piece of evidence that could be used to attack Draco with, but he found none.
Defeated Lucius relaxed into his chair and eyed Draco, waiting for a verbal response;
"Would I be here if I had any of the feelings for her you seem to assume I have?"
"Prove that you don't."
"How can I? The proof will be given when she arrives."
"Which should be any time now." Lucius responded, barely containing the glee in his voice. "We should go and prepare for our guests."
They made their way once more into the foyer, Draco's heart thumping in his chest so loud he thought his Father must be able to hear it. His Father positioned himself by the bust of Asriel, to one side of the sweeping staircase that stood opposite the door. He nodded at Draco and he took up a position behind the door; a location which would allow him to attack Hermione from behind.
A minute passed, two minutes, five, ten yet Hermione had not yet arrived; she was late, and Draco and his Father had not exchanged a word. Each was lost in his own thoughts of the evening and the potential outcome.
Draco stood, watching the door, listening to the ticking of the clock and the pounding of his own heartbeat inside his chest. Thoughts swirled around inside his head as he tossed and turned each idea that presented itself to him. He had to choose. He had to make a decision, yet for him there was no decision to be made; it was obvious. But it would pose so many more complications for everyone. The ticking of the clock drilled into his skull and, feeling as though he were in slow motion, Draco wheeled around to face his Father, his wand aimed at his Father.
"What's in your head boy?" Lucius asked, a malicious grin spreading over his face.
"I can't let you do this."
"And why not."
"She's too powerful an asset." Draco attempted to lie, although he knew himself it was useless.
"To whom? The Dark Lord?" He was mocking him, Draco could tell.
"Yes."
"Don't lie to me. You forget how easily I can see your thoughts; it's all there. You love her, you want her, you need to protect her. You are weak and pathetic; disillusioned by the farce they endeavour to pass of as love."
"No I'm not!" Draco shouted, his voice full of the passionate hatred he had felt for his Father for many years. "I am not weak, I am not pathetic but yes I do love her."
The curse flew from his Fathers wand with the speed and grace of it's owner, flying into Draco's chest, causing him to stagger slightly upon impact. Recovering as best he could he shot a stream of silver at his father. Lucius fell backwards onto the smooth, polished floor, looking at Draco through a mass of ruffled white hair and angry eyes;
"So this is what it comes to is it my Dragon? You choose her over your own blood?"
"I do. I have fought for her once this week and I will do so again, every day if I have to until I know she is safe from monsters like you."
"You will not harm me Draco. You can not; I am stronger and you must obey."
Draco did not respond. A stream of blue left his wand and his Father doubled over in pain; the Crucio had been cast.
Draco felt no remorse as his Father stood to face him, his eyes wide and angry.
"You'll regret that boy. This is a fight you can not win."
"I was taught by you, I can kill you."
Lucius threw a rapid stream of Crucios at Draco. He dodge the first two but was struck on the temple by a third, causing strangling pain to rip through his body, nearly tearing him in two. He looked at his Father who was seemingly preparing to gloat over his victory;
"Crucio!" He whispered, catching Lucius off guard.
Once more Lucius fell to the ground, only this time he was slower to rise. Draco stepped over him, kicking the wand from the older wizard's hand. Lucius looked up at him;
"What will you tell your Mother Draco?"
"That you died like the coward you really are." Draco whispered, pointing his wand at his Father's heart and whispering the curse that would end his torment.
A flash of green light and Lucius' eyes dimmed and saw nothing more.
Draco fell to his knees, staring at his Father.
A door opened behind him.
Draco didn't acknowledge the new presence.
Footsteps moved towards him.
Draco did not move.
"Draco?" A voice whispered.
Draco did not say anything.
A pair of arms encircled them around his waist.
nd a slim hand pulled his eyes away from the body of his Fatherike you.e were in slow motion, Draco be uised to plication sDraco wept.