Snide; Thank you. Indeed I did use "buffyisms". I can't help it I LOVE the
show.
Miss Rhapsody; Thank you, I had wondered where you had gone. You were lucky; you got to carry on (I got so much anger for that cliffy). I am sorry you don't like HP/GW pairings. I just never know who else topair him off with.
Dracohermioneluver; where would life be without mush? Thanks for the review.
Sheilalein; There is "huzzah! In the text; the huzzah is a reward for whoever spots which film I referenced in the chapter (it was Love Actually). Thanks for reviewing.
Flawless24; Thank you so much, you are very very kind.
Mintytoothpick; Hannah is not necessarily fat. That section (apart from being plagiarised stolen from Love Actually) is my protest against modern's society obsession with what is a normal or acceptable size for a woman to be. For me that size is a 14ish (UK size) and I imagine Hannah as being so. Curves are sexy (for me the sexiest woman who has ever lived is Marilyn Monroe, she is my ultimate idol and a size 16) and people should remember that everyone is different.
Juxtaposed; I am a HUGE Buffy fan :o) Yum yum goody treats. Hope you think Ron passes it off OK? I really am worried about this but who else could I have? Snape; nope; is needed at the same time as Lucius and I didn't want to use a random who I have hardly mentioned. Ah well, not much to be done now. Any more goodies coming my way? Lol. Thank you for your review.
Raine Malfoy; Ah, so I didn't catch all my typos in my proof-reading *curses*. Thank you for reviewing :o) I love "nNightmare before Christmas". It was my fave film when I was 8 and my Mum was worried it would affect me as it's so weird. I find that amusing.
Egyptstar, lizzieblack19, Big-Red2006, Luthien, beauty-of-asriel, the enchantress, quiet-mg, silverbutterfly, HnDluver, J.Spykz; THANK YOU A MILLION TIMES. I LOVE ALL YOUR REVIEWS. Please keep them coming (think I'm turning into a review addict. Lol). Tickle sex eh? I shall have to bear that in mind. Thank you again.
Chapter 22-The Beginning of the End
Draco stood before the ornate mirror in his room, taking in his appearance. Ever the loyal death Eater he was clothed in deep green dress robes and around his shoulder he wore a black cape lined with dark green silk. The silver clasp and silver chain around his neck completed the outfit and, for the occasion, he had tamed his lengthy hair into a ponytail at the base of his neck, secured with a black, leather thong.
Heaving a resolute sigh he left his rooms to make his way up Dumbledore's office for one final pep talk before apparating to Voldemort's revel. Held this time on the cliffs of Whitby, next to the Abbey and overlooking the cold sea, this revel promised to be the most violent that the young Death Eater had ever attended.
Draco gave the password (Ice Mice) and entered Dumbledore's grand office. The Headmaster stood solemn and pensive behind his desk when Draco entered. Snape was there too as was Hermione. They only awaited Ron's arrival as Lucius. Draco allowed himself a few moments to admire Hermione; he would never tire of looking at her.
Tonight she wore a dress reminiscent of the one from Halloween, all those months before; long, black and sleek, with a slit to the thigh revealing her Dark Mark. Yet this one was even more elegant. The dress was still strapless and the material still encased her every curve, but at the bottom of the dress was a spattering of deep green emeralds that trailed their way up the dress to her hip in random lengths, giving Hermione a celestial sheen as the candles danced off her. A black cape, spattered with diamonds and lined with green was draped around her shoulders, her raven curls fell down her back, apart from the few she had piled upon her head, balancing amongst them a silver tiara, adorned with emeralds, and Draco couldn't help but smile when he noted the Malfoy jewels draped around her neck. Subconsciously his eyes drifted to her hand and there he saw the ring, completing her look. He smiled.
The door behind them banged open and Ron entered, looking slightly flustered as he pulled on a finely tailored black robe.
"Sorry I'm late." He gasped and Draco couldn't help but shake his head and arch and graceful eyebrow at the useless weasel.
"You really are hopeless." He sneered, before marching over to Ron and pulling him up straight to face him.
"What are you doing Malfoy?" Ron spat.
"Dressing you. You look like a House elf."
Ron stood moodily in front of Draco as he arranged the crisp, expensive robes on Ron's shoulders. When he had finished Draco took the vial Snape offered;
"Drink."
Ron drank and Draco averted his eyes as the transformation took place, not wishing to watch his father be reborn.
"Excellent." He heard Dumbledore say and he turned to look at the Headmaster as he addressed them.
"Now, a few things to discuss before you off and away." Dumbledore said, almost cheerfully considering their position at the moment. He turned to Draco, Snape and Hermione as Ron stood to one side. "First of all, this will be the last time I will speak to you three before the battle. The next time we see each other will be the downfall of Voldemort. I can do no more than say it has been an honour to work beside you and I hope that we will overcome all that is thrown at us." He now cast his eyes to Ron who moved closer and Dumbledore addressed them all, "You have been brave and loyal throughout and have overcome many difficulties to be here and I thank you most deeply from the bottom of my old and weary heart. Now, Mr Malfoy, I assume from the wondrous jewels that adorn Miss Granger that the situation between you two has become more serious?"
"Yes Sir." Draco answered, his stormy eyes meeting Hermione's blackened ones.
"Now, as delightful as that is I suspect Lucius would be less than pleased upon hearing this news therefore may I suggest some kind of hostility between the two of you? I am assuming that Voldemort will be most satisfied to hear of the news, but until he tells Lucius to accept it your Father would certainly not approve."
"He didn't Sir."
"I thought as much so Mr Weasley you will act accordingly."
"Yes Sir."
"And you have received both the Occlumency and Legilimens training?"
"Yes Sir, although I had already learned a lot of it from Harry back in fifth year; he though it would be beneficial.""
"Ah, that is good to hear. I congratulate you both on your logical thinking." Dumbledore twinkled, handing Ron a flask, "You must take this and do not, under any circumstances, forget to take it every hour. Do it in a private place. And now you must go. Lucius always arrives early. Good Luck."
And as Draco watched, the pale shaking Lucius next to him appeared to grow physically as he stood tall and cold before apparating to the Whitby cliffs. Draco shivered involuntarily.
"And now you three." Dumbledore spoke once more, "I can do no more than wish you good luck with tonight."
"Thank you." The three of them whispered.
"Draco clasped Hermione's hand tightly and they apparated, Snape soon behind them.
---------------------------------------
Draco heard Hermione gasped as they arrived at their destination, and he couldn't help but marvel at the sight himself; the area surrounding Whitby Abbey had been lit by a thousand black candles, all burning green flames, and the Abbey itself shone with an unearthly green light. Draco surveyed the view below him; the ocean stretched ink black into the velvet darkness, in the small town the vast whalebone gate at the top of the east cliff shone with an ivory light, accenting the dark shadows and around the town Draco saw hundreds of pinpricks of light, shining from the local pubs and hotels.
The three spies turned to Voldemort and knelt before him, noting that Ron stood at his side, looking at them with distaste;
"Nice touch Weasel." Draco thought, before quickly stopping that train of attention, remembering Voldemort's mind-reading ability.
Voldemort nodded to Snape who rose and quickly vanished into the crowd of mulling Death Eaters, all drinking and discussing their victory they were sure they would soon have. Hermione rose without being nodded to. Voldemort did not bat an eyelid at her boldness. Draco remained kneeling as Voldemort surveyed him;
"I hear you have killed one of my followers?"
"Yes My Lord. I am sorry."
"I also heard the reason why you committed such an act and am pleased to note the jewels that adorn My Raven's neck."
"You approve My Lord?"
"I do."
"My Father does not." Draco announced, deciding to make life just a little bit harder for the Weasel; to put him to the test.
"Doesn't he?" Voldemort questioned, his red slits eyeing Ron with disapproval.
Draco noticed Ron shift uncomfortably but maintain a reasonably cold and together exterior.
"My Lord. I was simply wary that the jewels would not accept her. Legend says they will only accept those worthy, those of pureblood."
"Father, you know as well as I that the legend says only those who are worthy. It does not speak of purebloods and mudbloods. Hence my giving the jewels to Hermione."
Voldemort rounded on Ron once more;
"Do you accept this marriage engagement Lucius?"
Ron nodded curtly before asking to be excused. Draco inwardly sighed as he saw him go over to Snape; he was doing alright but too long and the Dark Lord would notice. Voldemort nodded at Draco and he rose to stand beside him, observing the mass of Death Eaters. Bellatrix Lestrange was wearing a lurid green number that showed far more cleavage than Draco thought should be legal on a woman of that age and proportion.
"My loyal followers!" Voldemort suddenly shouted, his arms lifted high in the air, "Tonight is the beginning of our time. For too long we have been in the shadows of the weaker protectors of light, now the moment will be ours and we will be all and we shall rule everything."
His statement was greeted by a large chorus of cheers and war cries as the Death Eaters raised their glasses of hideously strong liquor in the direction of their leader. Hermione flashed the Lord a sexy grin and a flutter of her dark lashes and Draco saw Voldemort's eyes glint as an idea passed through his corrupted mind.
"My children, tonight we will fulfil our needs of lust, drink and blood under the shadow of the great Abbey, where when the sun rises tomorrow morning through the Abbey to show us evil's eyes the first stage in our move will commence, and we shall pay a little visit to the inhabitants of Hogsmeade."
Another cheer greeted this promise and a final flick of the wrist from Voldemort indicated that the revel had begun. A dark shape that Draco had only half noticed upon arrival was revealed to be a large cage, containing a variety of muggles, male and female and all looking scared out of their minds.
Draco looked at Hermione and they nodded to each other; they had to see to Ron. He hadn't killed anything before and the chances were he was hoping to get out of doing so tonight. They worked their way through the mass of followers before appearing alongside Snape and Ron;
"You do know what's coming now don't you?" Hermione whispered to Ron, placing a gentle hand on his arm.
"I have an idea, but I was figuring I could just stay here and...erm, watch."
"Fat chance." Draco snorted, "There is no way on earth you are going to be able to get out of this one. My Father loved his killing and maiming and would have had an especially good time tonight. My advice to you is don't talk to them about anything; don't get attached and, if possible, make your excuses and only perform once in public, after that take them to a quiet, dark corner and use Avada Kedavra then cut them open and smear the spills everywhere. That's the least painful way of doing this."
Ron nodded and Draco noticed the already pale complexion become slightly more ashen before he turned and walked away from them.
"Will he be OK do you think?"
"Who knows?" Snape answered, "Although he has one more challenge to face tonight."
"What?" Hermione asked, but Draco already knew the answer;
"My Mother." He whispered, "There is no way she will miss this revel. Ron knows she's coming and he's nervous; I can tell. The Dark Lord is one thing but my Mother is quiet another, he has to show he is the same man that she has been married to for twenty years, and that won't be any easy feat."
"Indeed Draco, let's just keep or fingers crossed and hope for the best." Snape sneered.
Draco nodded, his stomach churning at the thought of Ron failing in his mission. If he was honest he was surprised they had got this far without the Gryffindor being discovered and was certain they were going to fail at the next post.
Snape quickly excused himself to go and find a young muggle and a dark corner once more and Hermione and Draco were left alone. Draco slid his arm around her slender waist and began kissing her neck. She squirmed and giggled as his lips and tongue tickled her skin.
"Not enjoying the pieces on show tonight my young dragon?" A voice whispered in his other ear and, full of dread, Draco turned to see his mother, clothed in black velvet and dripping with jewels.
"No Mother, I do not much feel like taking in the pleasures of others when I have the best."
Narcissa Malfoy eyed Hermione with open distaste;
"Yes," She smirked, "Your Father has told be all about your choice of bride. Most disappointing but we are not ones to argue with the Dark Lord and if he has blessed this...match then I can do no more than watch you ruin your life."
Draco inwardly breathed a sigh of relief; so Ron had got past his Mother and she had believed him. The Weasel must have been practicing more than they had thought. He had no response to give his Mother other than a cold grin, which she returned before sashaying away to join the Death Eaters in their fun. Hermione nuzzled into him once more;
"Why does she hate me so?" She asked, her voice hinting of sadness and upset.
"Because she has never outgrown the prejudices that were indoctrinated into her." Draco answered honestly, "And if I were you I would stop concerning myself about what she thinks. Anyway, it's time to look sexy; here comes Voldemort."
The Dark Lord approached them and Draco saw again that an evil idea was forming in the warped mind of their leader;
"I am in need of some entertainment tonight." His cold voice declared, "And I think what better entertainment is there than a good old fashioned duel?"
"Oh that is an excellent idea My Lord." Hermione purred, stroking her long, emerald fingernails across the Dark wizard's cheekbones, "do you have anyone in mind?"
"Indeed I do My Raven, I was thinking it had been so long since we all witnessed your power that perhaps you would be obliged to remind us all."
"An excellent idea My Lord, but who will I fight?"
"You will fight your betrothed."
"My Lord?"
"You will fight Draco. I know for a fact that he is an excellent dueller; he has proven that in the last week or so, and I feel it would an excellent fight to watch."
"To the death?" Hermione asked, hiding the fear in her voice.
"My dear Raven where would I be if one of you died? Who would carry my heir for me? No, no, I simply wish to see a bit of a challenging fight for you both; some maiming perhaps, and then I will allow you a choice of someone to kill. You shall be a warm up for each other."
"Yes My Lord." Hermione nodded, waving her wand and transfiguring her elegant dress into black hot pants, leather thigh boots, black bra and a sheer jacket.
The Dark Lord cast an approving eye over her attire before announcing to the Death Eaters what was about o happen and ordering them to make their way into the Abbey courtyard. He then turned and left Draco and Hermione alone.
"He is a complete bastard isn't he?" Hermione said, her voice full of rage and her eyes flashing dangerously. "I can't believe he expects us to do this."
"He knows we will do it though." Draco answered diplomatically, "He knows that there is no way we will disappoint him, I just wonder how much he wants from us. I don't want to hurt you and I know from what I've seen that I don't want to be on the receiving end of your power."
"Maybe we can get out of it." Hermione answered, looking hopeful.
"I doubt it. We're probably best to just grin and bear it."
"But I'm sick of doing that. Can't we rebel? Just this once?"
"You know we can't love. It's not worth the deal that will be made. Come on."
Draco took Hermione's hand and led her into the courtyard of the ancient Abbey. The Death Eaters were gathered around the clearing, all hungry for blood and eager to watch the two youngest and most powerful followers duel with each other before finishing off someone else, and all hoping it would not be them that Draco and Hermione chose to kill.
"Take your positions!" Voldemort called, and Draco turned to stand face to face with Hermione, they each took five steps backwards before bowing to one another and raising their wands into the duelling stance.
"I want some good action from the two of you; I'm not wasting my time on you for nothing. However do not finish each other off, the last thing I need at the moment is one of you dead. You are both more valuable to me and the future when you are alive. Begin!"
Draco and Hermione circled each other, both unwilling to cast the first curse yet equally aware that one of them would have to. Eventually it was Draco who broke the stalemate;
"Serpent Sorcia!" He cried, and a black python with silver fangs erupted from his wand, flying towards Hermione.
She stopped the snake in midair with a flick of her wand and with some well chosen words the snake became a raven, wild and untamed who charged at Draco with a screech. Hermione flashed him a sexy grin; she was playing now. He grinned back; they might as well both have some fun. Draco sent a curse toward the attacking bird and it erupted in an impressive display of feathers and flashes. Hermione looked annoyed that he had killed her attacker and Draco dared a look into her eyes; the playful flashing that had been there had been replaced with a dangerous glow that was spreading throughout her body.
"Bloody hell Hermione, not now." Draco muttered, knowing that his mumblings were futile; if the Gods wanted to help her they would and there was nothing he could do about it.
He decided to shrug her appearance off until the situation became more drastic, instead focusing his mind on the battle at hand. Raising his wand above his head, Draco shouted a curse that would throw Hermione off balance but do her no real damage. The curse hit its target and Hermione fell to the floor, her eyes glaring at his confused through her mass of dark hair. She pulled herself to her feet and took aim, throwing a series of small shocks at him that caused him to dance around in pain. In retaliation he hit her with a variety of mild stinging curses but she not only managed to throw them off, she also sent them back to him. Draco avoided most of them but was caught by one beneath his eye. As his eyes streamed he began to panic; He was fast running out of impressive looking curses that would not severely damage Hermione and if he didn't think of something soon he would have to resort to Dark Magic.
Hermione waved her wand and sent a multicoloured stream of light towards him. Draco ducked the attack and cast Expelliarmus, hoping to render the Gods slightly useless at least for a while. Hermione's wand flew from her hands but she looked only slightly pissed off at this and responded by creating balls of light in her hands and throwing them haphazardly at Draco. A green sphere caught him in the chest and Draco fell to the floor in pain. What the hell was she thinking?
Looking through sweat soaked hair at his girlfriend, Draco pointed his wand at Hermione and cast the body bind. Hermione fell to the floor, flat on her back and Draco stepped over her, lowering his face to hers.
"Calm it down." He whispered, "I know he wants a show but unless you want me dead I suggest you cool it."
"No." Hermione said, but it was not she that spoke. The voice that left Hermione's lips was cold and otherworldly, full of venom and loathing.
Hermione suddenly shook violently, and the curse fell away from her as if it had never been there. She stood to face Draco with her arms outstretched and as her eyes glazed over, unseeing the love that stood before her she spoke words of old and a shining green light emitted itself from her body.
Another flash of green light and Hermione fell to the floor as the light darted through the air, making its way towards Draco's heart. Summoning the powers he had long ago memorised under the scrupulous eye of his Father, Draco raised his arms high above him and spoke the words that would allow the Dark Magic to fill his body. He felt the winds rise, whipping his robes and filling him to the core with the magic of pure evil as the lightning leapt from his fingertips and collided with the oncoming attack. Black met green in a fusion of fire and the air was filled with a million jets of light.
"Impressive." Came the Dark Lord's chilling voice through the clearing smoke. Draco stood and faced his master, casting a sideward glance to see that Hermione had risen from her position on the floor. "You both show striking displays of power. I am curious as to what the offspring of your love and power will do for me."
Draco and Hermione exchanged nervous glances before bowing once more.
"And now," Voldemort continued, "you have free range over who you will dispose of."
Hermione was the first to move, flouncing through the gathering of Death Eaters before stopping and turning to face her lord once more;
"My Lord, I am quite fatigued and I am sure Draco is weary too. Would you mind awfully if we were to not partake in this next battle. I fear myself and Draco would be unable to perform once more to your liking; and we would so hate to disappoint you." Draco noticed that as she spoke she fluttered her eyelids and swayed her way over to the Dark Lord, settling in his lap and stroking his cheek with her long fingers. "And anyway, what if we battle with one of these minors and they defeat us? Where will you be then?"
Draco watched, stunned, as Voldemort practically melted under her touch.
"Very well My Raven, you have your wish, but you will meet me in the depths of teh Abbey later to make up for this disappointment."
Hermione nodded, sticking out her lower lip slightly, like a child who has been told off but only received a minor punishment.
"Yes My Lord, you are most gracious to me and I thank you."
Voldemort nodded in an almost kindly way to her and she slid off his knee to return to Draco's side.
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The revel continued far into the night and soon enough dawn was rising from the east. Voldemort assembled his followers into the Abbey and they stood in silence as the red morning began and the sun rose into the windows of the abbey, turning the glass into two red pinpricks; the eyes of evil. This small gesture by Mother Nature marked the beginning of it all. The beginning of the end. The Death Eaters apparated one by one and Voldemort, Ron, Draco, Snape and Hermione were the final ones to leave the Abbey as the red eyes shone onto the blood that had been shed that night.
Miss Rhapsody; Thank you, I had wondered where you had gone. You were lucky; you got to carry on (I got so much anger for that cliffy). I am sorry you don't like HP/GW pairings. I just never know who else topair him off with.
Dracohermioneluver; where would life be without mush? Thanks for the review.
Sheilalein; There is "huzzah! In the text; the huzzah is a reward for whoever spots which film I referenced in the chapter (it was Love Actually). Thanks for reviewing.
Flawless24; Thank you so much, you are very very kind.
Mintytoothpick; Hannah is not necessarily fat. That section (apart from being plagiarised stolen from Love Actually) is my protest against modern's society obsession with what is a normal or acceptable size for a woman to be. For me that size is a 14ish (UK size) and I imagine Hannah as being so. Curves are sexy (for me the sexiest woman who has ever lived is Marilyn Monroe, she is my ultimate idol and a size 16) and people should remember that everyone is different.
Juxtaposed; I am a HUGE Buffy fan :o) Yum yum goody treats. Hope you think Ron passes it off OK? I really am worried about this but who else could I have? Snape; nope; is needed at the same time as Lucius and I didn't want to use a random who I have hardly mentioned. Ah well, not much to be done now. Any more goodies coming my way? Lol. Thank you for your review.
Raine Malfoy; Ah, so I didn't catch all my typos in my proof-reading *curses*. Thank you for reviewing :o) I love "nNightmare before Christmas". It was my fave film when I was 8 and my Mum was worried it would affect me as it's so weird. I find that amusing.
Egyptstar, lizzieblack19, Big-Red2006, Luthien, beauty-of-asriel, the enchantress, quiet-mg, silverbutterfly, HnDluver, J.Spykz; THANK YOU A MILLION TIMES. I LOVE ALL YOUR REVIEWS. Please keep them coming (think I'm turning into a review addict. Lol). Tickle sex eh? I shall have to bear that in mind. Thank you again.
Chapter 22-The Beginning of the End
Draco stood before the ornate mirror in his room, taking in his appearance. Ever the loyal death Eater he was clothed in deep green dress robes and around his shoulder he wore a black cape lined with dark green silk. The silver clasp and silver chain around his neck completed the outfit and, for the occasion, he had tamed his lengthy hair into a ponytail at the base of his neck, secured with a black, leather thong.
Heaving a resolute sigh he left his rooms to make his way up Dumbledore's office for one final pep talk before apparating to Voldemort's revel. Held this time on the cliffs of Whitby, next to the Abbey and overlooking the cold sea, this revel promised to be the most violent that the young Death Eater had ever attended.
Draco gave the password (Ice Mice) and entered Dumbledore's grand office. The Headmaster stood solemn and pensive behind his desk when Draco entered. Snape was there too as was Hermione. They only awaited Ron's arrival as Lucius. Draco allowed himself a few moments to admire Hermione; he would never tire of looking at her.
Tonight she wore a dress reminiscent of the one from Halloween, all those months before; long, black and sleek, with a slit to the thigh revealing her Dark Mark. Yet this one was even more elegant. The dress was still strapless and the material still encased her every curve, but at the bottom of the dress was a spattering of deep green emeralds that trailed their way up the dress to her hip in random lengths, giving Hermione a celestial sheen as the candles danced off her. A black cape, spattered with diamonds and lined with green was draped around her shoulders, her raven curls fell down her back, apart from the few she had piled upon her head, balancing amongst them a silver tiara, adorned with emeralds, and Draco couldn't help but smile when he noted the Malfoy jewels draped around her neck. Subconsciously his eyes drifted to her hand and there he saw the ring, completing her look. He smiled.
The door behind them banged open and Ron entered, looking slightly flustered as he pulled on a finely tailored black robe.
"Sorry I'm late." He gasped and Draco couldn't help but shake his head and arch and graceful eyebrow at the useless weasel.
"You really are hopeless." He sneered, before marching over to Ron and pulling him up straight to face him.
"What are you doing Malfoy?" Ron spat.
"Dressing you. You look like a House elf."
Ron stood moodily in front of Draco as he arranged the crisp, expensive robes on Ron's shoulders. When he had finished Draco took the vial Snape offered;
"Drink."
Ron drank and Draco averted his eyes as the transformation took place, not wishing to watch his father be reborn.
"Excellent." He heard Dumbledore say and he turned to look at the Headmaster as he addressed them.
"Now, a few things to discuss before you off and away." Dumbledore said, almost cheerfully considering their position at the moment. He turned to Draco, Snape and Hermione as Ron stood to one side. "First of all, this will be the last time I will speak to you three before the battle. The next time we see each other will be the downfall of Voldemort. I can do no more than say it has been an honour to work beside you and I hope that we will overcome all that is thrown at us." He now cast his eyes to Ron who moved closer and Dumbledore addressed them all, "You have been brave and loyal throughout and have overcome many difficulties to be here and I thank you most deeply from the bottom of my old and weary heart. Now, Mr Malfoy, I assume from the wondrous jewels that adorn Miss Granger that the situation between you two has become more serious?"
"Yes Sir." Draco answered, his stormy eyes meeting Hermione's blackened ones.
"Now, as delightful as that is I suspect Lucius would be less than pleased upon hearing this news therefore may I suggest some kind of hostility between the two of you? I am assuming that Voldemort will be most satisfied to hear of the news, but until he tells Lucius to accept it your Father would certainly not approve."
"He didn't Sir."
"I thought as much so Mr Weasley you will act accordingly."
"Yes Sir."
"And you have received both the Occlumency and Legilimens training?"
"Yes Sir, although I had already learned a lot of it from Harry back in fifth year; he though it would be beneficial.""
"Ah, that is good to hear. I congratulate you both on your logical thinking." Dumbledore twinkled, handing Ron a flask, "You must take this and do not, under any circumstances, forget to take it every hour. Do it in a private place. And now you must go. Lucius always arrives early. Good Luck."
And as Draco watched, the pale shaking Lucius next to him appeared to grow physically as he stood tall and cold before apparating to the Whitby cliffs. Draco shivered involuntarily.
"And now you three." Dumbledore spoke once more, "I can do no more than wish you good luck with tonight."
"Thank you." The three of them whispered.
"Draco clasped Hermione's hand tightly and they apparated, Snape soon behind them.
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Draco heard Hermione gasped as they arrived at their destination, and he couldn't help but marvel at the sight himself; the area surrounding Whitby Abbey had been lit by a thousand black candles, all burning green flames, and the Abbey itself shone with an unearthly green light. Draco surveyed the view below him; the ocean stretched ink black into the velvet darkness, in the small town the vast whalebone gate at the top of the east cliff shone with an ivory light, accenting the dark shadows and around the town Draco saw hundreds of pinpricks of light, shining from the local pubs and hotels.
The three spies turned to Voldemort and knelt before him, noting that Ron stood at his side, looking at them with distaste;
"Nice touch Weasel." Draco thought, before quickly stopping that train of attention, remembering Voldemort's mind-reading ability.
Voldemort nodded to Snape who rose and quickly vanished into the crowd of mulling Death Eaters, all drinking and discussing their victory they were sure they would soon have. Hermione rose without being nodded to. Voldemort did not bat an eyelid at her boldness. Draco remained kneeling as Voldemort surveyed him;
"I hear you have killed one of my followers?"
"Yes My Lord. I am sorry."
"I also heard the reason why you committed such an act and am pleased to note the jewels that adorn My Raven's neck."
"You approve My Lord?"
"I do."
"My Father does not." Draco announced, deciding to make life just a little bit harder for the Weasel; to put him to the test.
"Doesn't he?" Voldemort questioned, his red slits eyeing Ron with disapproval.
Draco noticed Ron shift uncomfortably but maintain a reasonably cold and together exterior.
"My Lord. I was simply wary that the jewels would not accept her. Legend says they will only accept those worthy, those of pureblood."
"Father, you know as well as I that the legend says only those who are worthy. It does not speak of purebloods and mudbloods. Hence my giving the jewels to Hermione."
Voldemort rounded on Ron once more;
"Do you accept this marriage engagement Lucius?"
Ron nodded curtly before asking to be excused. Draco inwardly sighed as he saw him go over to Snape; he was doing alright but too long and the Dark Lord would notice. Voldemort nodded at Draco and he rose to stand beside him, observing the mass of Death Eaters. Bellatrix Lestrange was wearing a lurid green number that showed far more cleavage than Draco thought should be legal on a woman of that age and proportion.
"My loyal followers!" Voldemort suddenly shouted, his arms lifted high in the air, "Tonight is the beginning of our time. For too long we have been in the shadows of the weaker protectors of light, now the moment will be ours and we will be all and we shall rule everything."
His statement was greeted by a large chorus of cheers and war cries as the Death Eaters raised their glasses of hideously strong liquor in the direction of their leader. Hermione flashed the Lord a sexy grin and a flutter of her dark lashes and Draco saw Voldemort's eyes glint as an idea passed through his corrupted mind.
"My children, tonight we will fulfil our needs of lust, drink and blood under the shadow of the great Abbey, where when the sun rises tomorrow morning through the Abbey to show us evil's eyes the first stage in our move will commence, and we shall pay a little visit to the inhabitants of Hogsmeade."
Another cheer greeted this promise and a final flick of the wrist from Voldemort indicated that the revel had begun. A dark shape that Draco had only half noticed upon arrival was revealed to be a large cage, containing a variety of muggles, male and female and all looking scared out of their minds.
Draco looked at Hermione and they nodded to each other; they had to see to Ron. He hadn't killed anything before and the chances were he was hoping to get out of doing so tonight. They worked their way through the mass of followers before appearing alongside Snape and Ron;
"You do know what's coming now don't you?" Hermione whispered to Ron, placing a gentle hand on his arm.
"I have an idea, but I was figuring I could just stay here and...erm, watch."
"Fat chance." Draco snorted, "There is no way on earth you are going to be able to get out of this one. My Father loved his killing and maiming and would have had an especially good time tonight. My advice to you is don't talk to them about anything; don't get attached and, if possible, make your excuses and only perform once in public, after that take them to a quiet, dark corner and use Avada Kedavra then cut them open and smear the spills everywhere. That's the least painful way of doing this."
Ron nodded and Draco noticed the already pale complexion become slightly more ashen before he turned and walked away from them.
"Will he be OK do you think?"
"Who knows?" Snape answered, "Although he has one more challenge to face tonight."
"What?" Hermione asked, but Draco already knew the answer;
"My Mother." He whispered, "There is no way she will miss this revel. Ron knows she's coming and he's nervous; I can tell. The Dark Lord is one thing but my Mother is quiet another, he has to show he is the same man that she has been married to for twenty years, and that won't be any easy feat."
"Indeed Draco, let's just keep or fingers crossed and hope for the best." Snape sneered.
Draco nodded, his stomach churning at the thought of Ron failing in his mission. If he was honest he was surprised they had got this far without the Gryffindor being discovered and was certain they were going to fail at the next post.
Snape quickly excused himself to go and find a young muggle and a dark corner once more and Hermione and Draco were left alone. Draco slid his arm around her slender waist and began kissing her neck. She squirmed and giggled as his lips and tongue tickled her skin.
"Not enjoying the pieces on show tonight my young dragon?" A voice whispered in his other ear and, full of dread, Draco turned to see his mother, clothed in black velvet and dripping with jewels.
"No Mother, I do not much feel like taking in the pleasures of others when I have the best."
Narcissa Malfoy eyed Hermione with open distaste;
"Yes," She smirked, "Your Father has told be all about your choice of bride. Most disappointing but we are not ones to argue with the Dark Lord and if he has blessed this...match then I can do no more than watch you ruin your life."
Draco inwardly breathed a sigh of relief; so Ron had got past his Mother and she had believed him. The Weasel must have been practicing more than they had thought. He had no response to give his Mother other than a cold grin, which she returned before sashaying away to join the Death Eaters in their fun. Hermione nuzzled into him once more;
"Why does she hate me so?" She asked, her voice hinting of sadness and upset.
"Because she has never outgrown the prejudices that were indoctrinated into her." Draco answered honestly, "And if I were you I would stop concerning myself about what she thinks. Anyway, it's time to look sexy; here comes Voldemort."
The Dark Lord approached them and Draco saw again that an evil idea was forming in the warped mind of their leader;
"I am in need of some entertainment tonight." His cold voice declared, "And I think what better entertainment is there than a good old fashioned duel?"
"Oh that is an excellent idea My Lord." Hermione purred, stroking her long, emerald fingernails across the Dark wizard's cheekbones, "do you have anyone in mind?"
"Indeed I do My Raven, I was thinking it had been so long since we all witnessed your power that perhaps you would be obliged to remind us all."
"An excellent idea My Lord, but who will I fight?"
"You will fight your betrothed."
"My Lord?"
"You will fight Draco. I know for a fact that he is an excellent dueller; he has proven that in the last week or so, and I feel it would an excellent fight to watch."
"To the death?" Hermione asked, hiding the fear in her voice.
"My dear Raven where would I be if one of you died? Who would carry my heir for me? No, no, I simply wish to see a bit of a challenging fight for you both; some maiming perhaps, and then I will allow you a choice of someone to kill. You shall be a warm up for each other."
"Yes My Lord." Hermione nodded, waving her wand and transfiguring her elegant dress into black hot pants, leather thigh boots, black bra and a sheer jacket.
The Dark Lord cast an approving eye over her attire before announcing to the Death Eaters what was about o happen and ordering them to make their way into the Abbey courtyard. He then turned and left Draco and Hermione alone.
"He is a complete bastard isn't he?" Hermione said, her voice full of rage and her eyes flashing dangerously. "I can't believe he expects us to do this."
"He knows we will do it though." Draco answered diplomatically, "He knows that there is no way we will disappoint him, I just wonder how much he wants from us. I don't want to hurt you and I know from what I've seen that I don't want to be on the receiving end of your power."
"Maybe we can get out of it." Hermione answered, looking hopeful.
"I doubt it. We're probably best to just grin and bear it."
"But I'm sick of doing that. Can't we rebel? Just this once?"
"You know we can't love. It's not worth the deal that will be made. Come on."
Draco took Hermione's hand and led her into the courtyard of the ancient Abbey. The Death Eaters were gathered around the clearing, all hungry for blood and eager to watch the two youngest and most powerful followers duel with each other before finishing off someone else, and all hoping it would not be them that Draco and Hermione chose to kill.
"Take your positions!" Voldemort called, and Draco turned to stand face to face with Hermione, they each took five steps backwards before bowing to one another and raising their wands into the duelling stance.
"I want some good action from the two of you; I'm not wasting my time on you for nothing. However do not finish each other off, the last thing I need at the moment is one of you dead. You are both more valuable to me and the future when you are alive. Begin!"
Draco and Hermione circled each other, both unwilling to cast the first curse yet equally aware that one of them would have to. Eventually it was Draco who broke the stalemate;
"Serpent Sorcia!" He cried, and a black python with silver fangs erupted from his wand, flying towards Hermione.
She stopped the snake in midair with a flick of her wand and with some well chosen words the snake became a raven, wild and untamed who charged at Draco with a screech. Hermione flashed him a sexy grin; she was playing now. He grinned back; they might as well both have some fun. Draco sent a curse toward the attacking bird and it erupted in an impressive display of feathers and flashes. Hermione looked annoyed that he had killed her attacker and Draco dared a look into her eyes; the playful flashing that had been there had been replaced with a dangerous glow that was spreading throughout her body.
"Bloody hell Hermione, not now." Draco muttered, knowing that his mumblings were futile; if the Gods wanted to help her they would and there was nothing he could do about it.
He decided to shrug her appearance off until the situation became more drastic, instead focusing his mind on the battle at hand. Raising his wand above his head, Draco shouted a curse that would throw Hermione off balance but do her no real damage. The curse hit its target and Hermione fell to the floor, her eyes glaring at his confused through her mass of dark hair. She pulled herself to her feet and took aim, throwing a series of small shocks at him that caused him to dance around in pain. In retaliation he hit her with a variety of mild stinging curses but she not only managed to throw them off, she also sent them back to him. Draco avoided most of them but was caught by one beneath his eye. As his eyes streamed he began to panic; He was fast running out of impressive looking curses that would not severely damage Hermione and if he didn't think of something soon he would have to resort to Dark Magic.
Hermione waved her wand and sent a multicoloured stream of light towards him. Draco ducked the attack and cast Expelliarmus, hoping to render the Gods slightly useless at least for a while. Hermione's wand flew from her hands but she looked only slightly pissed off at this and responded by creating balls of light in her hands and throwing them haphazardly at Draco. A green sphere caught him in the chest and Draco fell to the floor in pain. What the hell was she thinking?
Looking through sweat soaked hair at his girlfriend, Draco pointed his wand at Hermione and cast the body bind. Hermione fell to the floor, flat on her back and Draco stepped over her, lowering his face to hers.
"Calm it down." He whispered, "I know he wants a show but unless you want me dead I suggest you cool it."
"No." Hermione said, but it was not she that spoke. The voice that left Hermione's lips was cold and otherworldly, full of venom and loathing.
Hermione suddenly shook violently, and the curse fell away from her as if it had never been there. She stood to face Draco with her arms outstretched and as her eyes glazed over, unseeing the love that stood before her she spoke words of old and a shining green light emitted itself from her body.
Another flash of green light and Hermione fell to the floor as the light darted through the air, making its way towards Draco's heart. Summoning the powers he had long ago memorised under the scrupulous eye of his Father, Draco raised his arms high above him and spoke the words that would allow the Dark Magic to fill his body. He felt the winds rise, whipping his robes and filling him to the core with the magic of pure evil as the lightning leapt from his fingertips and collided with the oncoming attack. Black met green in a fusion of fire and the air was filled with a million jets of light.
"Impressive." Came the Dark Lord's chilling voice through the clearing smoke. Draco stood and faced his master, casting a sideward glance to see that Hermione had risen from her position on the floor. "You both show striking displays of power. I am curious as to what the offspring of your love and power will do for me."
Draco and Hermione exchanged nervous glances before bowing once more.
"And now," Voldemort continued, "you have free range over who you will dispose of."
Hermione was the first to move, flouncing through the gathering of Death Eaters before stopping and turning to face her lord once more;
"My Lord, I am quite fatigued and I am sure Draco is weary too. Would you mind awfully if we were to not partake in this next battle. I fear myself and Draco would be unable to perform once more to your liking; and we would so hate to disappoint you." Draco noticed that as she spoke she fluttered her eyelids and swayed her way over to the Dark Lord, settling in his lap and stroking his cheek with her long fingers. "And anyway, what if we battle with one of these minors and they defeat us? Where will you be then?"
Draco watched, stunned, as Voldemort practically melted under her touch.
"Very well My Raven, you have your wish, but you will meet me in the depths of teh Abbey later to make up for this disappointment."
Hermione nodded, sticking out her lower lip slightly, like a child who has been told off but only received a minor punishment.
"Yes My Lord, you are most gracious to me and I thank you."
Voldemort nodded in an almost kindly way to her and she slid off his knee to return to Draco's side.
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The revel continued far into the night and soon enough dawn was rising from the east. Voldemort assembled his followers into the Abbey and they stood in silence as the red morning began and the sun rose into the windows of the abbey, turning the glass into two red pinpricks; the eyes of evil. This small gesture by Mother Nature marked the beginning of it all. The beginning of the end. The Death Eaters apparated one by one and Voldemort, Ron, Draco, Snape and Hermione were the final ones to leave the Abbey as the red eyes shone onto the blood that had been shed that night.