Disclaimer: Everything belongs to the amazing J.K. Rowling. I own nothing but the plot. And the idea of tap doors that pop up in this chapter...don't think they have them in the HP world yet...

A/N: Like I said, this chapter would be out by July 11th/12th, so here it is!! A few things before it starts: I don't remember if McGonagall or Hagrid are in the OotP, but if they aren't, they are now :) I know there are a couple of people in the Order that I don't mention at the meeting, but I didn't feel like looking them up in the book to find out their names or their positions, sorry, lol. **NOTE** If you haven't read OotP, I wouldn't suggest reading this chapter. I don't outright say who died, but the fact that he/she isn't at the meeting is a dead giveaway....There are also a few other little things, like Tonks and what Bill's doing home, but they're not major book spoilers or anything.

Okay, about the name Lawrence. I know a few of you had objections, lol. But I didn't just randomly pick that off the top of my head. I actually had a reason. ::puts on Hermione voice:: The name Lawrence, derived from English origins, means Crowned with Laurel'. In ancient times, a wreath of laurel was often placed upon the heads of poets, heroes, and athletes, the laurel tree being symbolic of honor and victory. See, I did my homework! Although the name might not sound so hot, the meaning is perfect (for the rest of the story hehe).

Kat: I actually thought about why I included Narcissa in knowing about Draco's spy job after I updated. For the story, it was a dumb move. But I guess it boils down to the fact that everything I do in my life, parents/guardians have to consent to, and I incorporated that into the story. Like I said, not good for the plot. But luckily, I write the story, so Lucius won't find out, I promise, lol. Also, Narcissa wasn't exactly gone, she just put her head in the fireplace to talk to Dumbledore, Snape, and Draco. (Don't really know what that's called exactly) And Lucius wouldn't have been suspicious cause he was on a business trip' to Germany. Hope that patched up your confusions :)

And once again, THANK YOU SO MUCH for all the reviews. They keep me going, seriously.

Alritey, on with the chapter......



The Pain Within
Chapter 11: The Meeting and The Mirror (I know, lame title...but it just sounds cool...ya know, the two M's?)



The next day was nothing short of boring. It droned on mercilessly and Draco was never more relieved to step into the shower at 8:00 that evening. After classes had ended for the day, he locked himself in his room until dinner doing homework, then spent a grueling hour and a half training his Quidditch team in drizzly rain (yes, his team - he was now Slytherin's captain), and then did another hour of homework before finally taking a shower. No wonder he was exhausted. But he didn't know how long this Order meeting thing would las and he didn't want to chance leaving his homework for the last minute.

Upon stepping out of the soothing hot water of the shower, Draco wrapped a towel around his waist (A/N: Authoress would love to expand on this image, but cannot, seeing as this is a family friendly site...) and strode down the hall toward his room. He absentmindedly dressed himself in a pair of tan slacks and a forest green shirt under his Slytherin robes while thinking of the meeting. All day, he had been waiting for the meeting in anticipation and curiosity. Now he felt somewhat nervous. Imagine him, Draco Malfoy, intimidated by a bunch of Gryffindors. As ironic as it was, he felt it all the same. They were going to be the only people he could trust now that he made his decision, and if they didn't accept him, life would be even more of a living hell. He had to stay alert around other Slytherins and his father, but still act like he always had in school so as not to arouse suspicion.

Using a spell, Draco dried his hair but left it ungelled. Another charm made sure that the effects of his Concealment Potion would last another three hours. Once ready, he pocketed his wand and set off for Professor Snape's office.

The Potions Master was seated at his desk waiting patiently for Draco.

I assume you had no trouble exiting the Common Room?

Draco shook his head. Nope. Told them I was going to my first Advanced Potions lesson.

Snape nodded. Good. We will leave the classroom closed in case anyone decides to spy. With a flick of his wand, the heavy door closed. Now, come. Everyone is already there, and Professor Dumbledore explained to them your decision and what you will be doing. Not that it's really anyone's business, they should be thankful for another spy, but I thought it best to forewarn the group since some of them may, he rolled his eyes,

Draco smirked. Gee, who in the world could he be speaking about? He remembered the expressions on a certain two Gryffindors' faces the day before in Potions while their potion was ridiculed. They would probably be ten times worse tonight. Perfect. Quality entertainment.

He watched as Snape locked the office door. His eyebrows furrowed in confusion. Professor, how exactly are we getting to wherever we're going? The Floo system doesn't work within the walls of...

He trailed off as Snape strode over to the far wall and rapped his wand upon it in a rapid succession. Draco's eyes widened as a door appeared.

Of course! Tap doors.

Snape told him, opening the door,We would not want random people stumbling upon our room.

And what a room. It was large and rectangular, with two doors leading to smaller rooms off at the corner. Grand tapestries and paintings lined the long windowless walls, making the room seem brighter than it was. Torches projected from the wall at certain intervals and floating candles further lit the room. A large oval table sat primly in the middle of the room, the occupants staring at him.

he said, trying not to smirk at the color coming to Weasley's cheeks. Well the Weasley in his year, at least. There were a couple of other red heads, but he didn't think the entire family was there. There didn't seem to be enough.

Good evening Draco. I happen to like the paintings and tapestries myself, Dumbledore commented as the teen surveyed the room again. They make the room a bit cheerier, don't you think?

Draco shrugged. I suppose.

Dumbledore smiled and, turning to the table, stood. This is Draco Malfoy, and as I told you earlier, he will be assisting Severus in gaining information on Voldemort. He turned back to Draco. Allow me to introduce you to the Order of the Phoenix. And its honorary members, his eyes twinkled as he glanced upon the Gryffindor Golden Trio.

At my right, as you know from your third year Defense Against the Dark Arts class, is Remus Lupin.

Lupin looked more weary than Draco remembered. His sandy hair was streaked with grey and his robes were shabbier than ever, but he managed a warm smile for Draco.

Next to him is Alastor Moody, one of our two Aurors present. There are more, but now that the Ministry is aware of Voldemort's return, are working overtime and cannot attend most of our meetings.

Well, well, never thought I'd see the day a Malfoy joined our side. Better not be any trouble, boy, or else. The magical blue eye bore into Draco, who slightly raised an eyebrow. What was he going to do? He remembered being turned into a ferret two years ago by Barty Crouch Jr. impersonating Moody, but Moody didn't need to know that - didn't want to give him any ideas.

Next to Moody are Arthur and Molly Weasley.

Draco remembered seeing them in Diagon Alley a few times. They both nodded their heads. Draco could tell they were not happy to see him, but what did he expect after he and his father had insulted them and their family multiple times? A welcome sign and a plate of cookies?

Their oldest son, Bill, is next. He works at Gringotts and is keeping a tab on the Goblins.

Draco decided that Bill was the epitome of cool - appearance wise. Sure, he had the traditional Weasley red hair, but it was long and pulled back into a ponytail. In one ear he had a large fang earring and a leather vest could be seen under his robes. Bill grinned and said, Nice to meet you.

He didn't make a crude remark, but spoke to him decently as if their families really didn't hate each other's guts. Yes, definitely the coolest Weasely. Actually, the only cool one.

There was an empty chair next to Bill and Dumbledore continued. Charlie Weasley is also part of the Order, but he works in Romania and is trying to gain support from magic folk out there. Good international relations is always a plus.

A young woman with bubble-gum pink hair sat on the other side of the empty chair. Nymphadora Tonks is our other resident Auror. The woman grimaced at the mention of her name and Dumbledore chuckled. Except she highly dislikes her first name and prefers to be called Tonks only.

Professor, who in their right mind would like the name Nymphadora? Ugh.

Lupin chuckled. Obviously your mother.

Tonks put her head in her hands. Like I said, who in their right mind would like the name Nymphadora, she mumbled.

While Tonks was grumbling, Draco was racking his brain. Tonks. Where had he heard that name before? It sounded so familiar. He gave up as Dumbledore continued.

Of course you know Hermione, Harry, and Ron. I hope you four will be able to put aside your past differences in order to work together. All of you, he said, sending a stern glance in Ron's direction. Ron was known to be the most rash out of the three.

Weasley nodded, but still sent a nasty glare at the Slytherin. Granger had on a disdainful expression, and Potter just eyed Draco curiously. Both nodded reluctantly.

Draco swept his eyes over the three of them. I hope so too, sir. Granger and Potter joined in Weasley's glaring. Draco took a deep breath. Merlin help him.

Next to Ron are his older brothers Fred and George. You may know them; if not, you certainly know of them, Dumbledore said amiably, while the twins' mouths twisted into identical Cheshire cat grins. Draco heard their mother mutter something about ridiculous pranks.

They are not official members yet, though they are more than just honorary, Dumbledore explained.

You already know Hagrid, Professor McGonagall, and Professor Snape from your studies.

Draco gave each a respective nod, even though he couldn't tolerate Hagrid or McGonagall. Snape had taken a seat beside McGonagall and Dumbledore motioned to the seat between Bill Weasley and Tonks.

Why don't you have a seat, Draco, and we will begin.

Draco strode around the table and sat down. Tonks gave him a bright smile to which he semi-returned.

Now that we are all here, I have a new topic to discuss, concerning our younger members, Dumbledore announced. As you already are aware, the threat of Voldemort is increasing. He is gaining more power and followers daily, no doubt trying to build up an army to unleash terror on both the magical and muggle worlds. Now we cannot immediately stop him; it is going to be a long and difficult struggle, he said looking at each of the older members at the table. Which I am sure we are all willing to fight in. But we must be prepared. All of the adults here are fully qualified wizards and, especially Tonks and Alastor, are trained to combat dark wizards. But Harry, Ron, Hermione, Draco, and even Fred and George, who only last year finished school, are not.

One of us could teach them, Professor, Tonks interrupted eagerly. Dark Magic, the spells and curses they might encounter in a duel. The ones that they don't learn in Defense Against the Dark Arts.

And how to duel properly. Lockhart was utterly useless, Snape added crossly. McGonagall looked like she couldn't agree more.

Yes, of course, Tonks, Severus. That is exactly was I was thinking myself. Tonks, you and Alastor, however, are out of the question. The both of you are needed at the Ministry and I am grateful enough that you still attend these meetings. I could not ask you to do more.

Tonks appeared disappointed while Moody didn't seem to care.

It is to my understanding, though, Severus, that you have knowledge of Dark Magic? Snape nodded. Well if you would like, I am sure you could properly prepare our younger members a few nights a week.

Snape almost looked excited to teach his own mini Defense Against the Dark Arts class, even if it would be 83% Gryffindors. But he glanced down at his left arm and said quietly, Professor, you know I would be honored, but I do not know if I'll have time. Meetings are becoming more frequent...

Dumbledore nodded gravely. Quite understandable, Severus. I know you already have a lot on your plate as it is. I believe Remus, Bill, you are up to the task? The two made eye contact and nodded affirmatively. You two have some knowledge on the subject, and if you need to, you can consult books and research information you may not be experts on. In fact, if -

I can do it, sir, a voice interrupted from the other end of the table. Fifteen heads turned to stare at the blond who was leaning back casually in his chair.

Do what, Draco? Dumbledore inquired, eying him curiously.

Teach them about Dark Magic, he replied, gesturing at the five teenagers on the other side of Tonks.

Before Dumbledore could say something, Snape spoke.

Draco, I think it would be preferred if an adult was doing the teaching.

Draco frowned. Yes, but I know more Dark Magic than Lupin and Weasley could ever hope to learn from a few lousy books. I know more than they would want to learn.

Draco, even knowing your father, I doubt you know that much, Snape countered languidly.

Draco's eyes narrowed. Then obviously you don't know him as well as you think you do, now do you? the blond asked icily. Snape looked somewhat appalled at the tone of voice Draco had used. Draco didn't care; what the hell was up Snape's arse?

Draco, I still think you are exaggerating on your knowledge of the Dark Arts. And you are way out -

Don't tell me what I do or do not know! Professor, I have been learning Dark Magic since I was old enough to hold a wand. I know over seventy five spells and curses, not to mention quite a few lethal potions. I could tell you incantations, effects on the victim, counter spells and curses, and, he leaned forward, I could even explain what the victim feels under the curses, considering a majority of them have been used on me, he said quietly. But that's not my point. My point is that I know what I'm talking about, and I could teach them what they will need to know if they come face to face with a Dark wizard. I mean, I live with one.

Snape raised an eyebrow and gave him a venomous stare. Draco angrily glared back before turning to face the Headmaster. Professor Dumbledore, I'm sure Weasley and Lupin are busy doing other important jobs for the Order. I can do this so they won't have to. It's the least I can do.

He wasn't allowed to attend Death Eater meetings because the Dark Lord knew Dumbledore would be suspicious if Lucius kept pulling him out of school. He was supposed to keep his eyes and ears open for dirt on Dumbledore or Potter. So Draco would only be able to spy for the Order when he was at home, which wouldn't be until Christmas break.

Dumbledore looked thoughtfully at the boy. Yes, Draco, you are correct. Remus and Bill are quite occupied with Order tasks. I suppose -

Professor, he has to be able to get along with those he is to work with, and they with him. It's no secret that he, Potter, Weasley, and Granger cannot stay in the same room without insulting or hexing each other, Snape burst in.

Ahh, so that's what was crawling up Snape's arse. It was legitimate, Draco supposed, for it was true. But he was still angry that his Head of House didn't trust that he would forget the past in order to work with the Golden Trio. He didn't need to be their best friend, but he didn't have to be their worst enemy either.

Dumbledore was about to say something, in Draco's favor, Draco hoped, but another voice spoke up.

Professor, the four of us promised at the beginning of this meeting we would put aside our differences to work together. We won't insult each other, thus not provoking fights, so we should be able to work peacefully together.

Potter's right, Severus, McGonagall agreed. I think they are mature enough to realize the severity of current situations and finally stop their rivalry.

Severus shot daggers at her. Figures she would back Potter up. He didn't know why, considering he was backing up Draco (which was strange in itself), and she wouldn't have the opportunity to complain about him anymore. Maybe the world was just out to get him.

If it makes you feel better, we could take turns standing in on their meetings. There is enough of us so it wouldn't be too much for each of us to do it every so often, Remus suggested.

Dumbledore smiled. Excellent idea, Remus. Is that alright with you, Severus?

Yes, the world was definitely out to get him. He was outnumbered so he just shrugged. I suppose, he answered, giving Draco, Ron, Hermione, and Harry stern glares.

Then it's settled, Dumbledore said. You can do it, Draco. You, Harry, Ron, Hermione, Fred, and George can use the extra Order room over there on Friday at 7:00. Does that interfere with anyone's Quidditch practice?

Draco shook his head, as did Harry and Ron.

I can volunteer to be there. I'm off duty by 6:00 that day.

Thank you Tonks. Just don't volunteer too much. You do need some time to sleep and eat, Dumbledore chuckled.

Tonks smiled and promised she wouldn't and then the meeting continued. Dumbledore then spoke, in general terms, about what else needed to be done as far as safety and precautions were concerned. Draco paid attention, but had a small smile on his face. He didn't understand why McGonagall, Lupin, or especially Potter had supported him, but he didn't care at the moment. All that mattered was some of them somewhat trusted him. That was a start. Maybe it wouldn't be too bad after all. And where in Merlin's name had he heard the name Tonks before? It was really irritating him now whenever someone said it.

At 11:00, the meeting ended. Mrs. Weasley ordered the Gryffindor Trio to bed at once. After all, it was very very late. They and McGonagall exited through a tap door connected to McGonagall's office. Mr. and Mrs. Weasley, Lupin, Tonks, Moody, the twins, and Bill, all departed through a tap door on the opposite wall Draco and Snape had come through. Dumbledore and Hagrid used one that appeared under a painting of an upset witch who kept dabbing at her puffy blue eyes with a lacy handkerchief. Judging from her clothes, Draco guessed she was from Middle Age upper class. Probably just lost her husband in some war, he thought as he and Snape entered Snape's office through their tap door. Doesn't really boost the morale of the Order, now does it?

After Snape curtly bid him good-night and headed off to wherever his sleeping quarters were, Draco spun around and quietly began his journey to the Third Floor Corridor. He stopped several times and hid because he heard footsteps, but after checking for teachers or Filch and finding no one, he continued.

Once in the mirror room, he sat down and immediately was totally entranced by the images. Somewhere in his pool of delirium, he felt anger that the mirror life wasn't true. Why couldn't it be? He saw it, right there in the mirror. Why? Why? He never wanted something so badly in his life. He crawled closer to the mirror until his nose almost touched the glass and just sat there. He wanted to be as close to that life as he could get. He was unaware of anything except the now up close, blurred, images and the ache of longing reverberating through him. Which is why he never heard the door open and close, or the footsteps behind him. He reached up and touched his father's smiling face, disappointed when all he felt was cold glass. He moved his hand to touch his own content face.

he whispered. He had both hands on the mirror groping for what he could never have and kept whispering why?' when he was hoisted up by his arms and dragged away from the mirror.

he asked angrily. Why can't it be true? I saw it. It's right there! I saw it! He said frantically, struggling to run back in front of the mirror, still not realizing he was being held by another human being. It's right there, I saw it, he mumbled, calming down a bit, But yet it's not true.

Course it's not.

Draco whipped around and his eyes widened as he wrenched his arm out of the other person's grip.

Get your bloody hands off of me, Potter! What the hell are you doing here?

The raven-haired boy glared. I wouldn't have touched you, Malfoy, except I was afraid you would go mental in front of the Mirror of Erised again.

I did not go - wait, what did you call it?

The Mirror of Erised. That's what it's called, Harry called over his shoulder as he walked over to the wall and sat down next to a silvery cloak and a ratty piece of parchment. Did you figure out what it does yet?

Draco glared at him. Of course I know what it does, he said exasperatedly. It shows a perfect life.

Harry wrinkled his nose. Err - not exactly. I guess you didn't read the engravement above the mirror.

Read it? It's written in some made up language, how the hell am I supposed to read it?

It's not made up, Harry stated. It's pure English. You just have to read it backwards.

Draco spluttered.

Go ahead. Just do me a favor and don't look into the mirror, please. I don't want to have to pry you away again.

Draco narrowed his eyes at Harry before storming over to the mirror and looking up. The inscription read: Erised stra ehru oyt ube cafru oyt on wohsi.

Draco read aloud and then put in the proper spacing. I show not your face but your hearts desire.

So all he really, truly wanted was his father to love him.

Mirror of Erised. Mirror of Desire, get it?

Draco walked back over to Harry. Yes, I get it, Potter, he spat. Is that why you came here, to tell me about some stupid mirror?

No. I came here to tell you that you have to stop coming here, he said from the ground.

Draco looked violated. Excuse me? And who the hell do you think you are to tell me what I can and cannot do?

Harry stood up. You don't understand what that mirror does to you, do you? You didn't see how you acted a few minutes ago, like you couldn't live without that mirror. And last night, had I not followed you, you would have never made it back to the dungeons by yourself.

Draco stared at him. That's how I got back? But I never saw you.

Harry lifted the silver cloak. An Invisibility Cloak. That explains the shimmer and the breeze, and the footsteps tonight.

You will waste away in front of that mirror, Malfoy. It will take your sanity. It gives you neither knowledge of truth. Just desire. You need to stay away from it.

Draco was stunned. How did you know all that?

Professor Dumbledore caught me sneaking up to visit it first year. He explained how it worked and told me not to come back. It was moved for a while, but then returned here, he said.

Draco said, at a loss for words. What did you see? he asked curiously. You know, when you looked in the mirror.

Harry's green eyes bore into his own. My family, he said simply. Draco didn't know why he hadn't guessed that before.

What did you see?

Draco looked down at the floor. My father...actually caring. He shrugged and raised a blond eyebrow at his enemy. Speaking of which, since when do you care enough to stalk me and tell met to say away from a mirror, Potter? Why would you care if I went insane?

At the beginning of term, I honestly would not have, he smirked. But now, I don't know. You've changed.

Draco's eyes blazed with anger. Oh, so now that I'm on the good side, Potter decides he'll be nice, is that it?

No it's not, Malfoy, Harry glared. His voice lowered. I saw you, that morning when Snape brought you in to the Infirmary. I had an accident in Herbology that morning so Madam Pomfrey had to clean me up. Anyway, Snape barged in carrying you, and I have to admit, I was shocked. You were all bloody and cut up and -

So you pity me? Look, I don't need your-

Would you shut the hell up and listen? Harry growled.

Draco folded his arms and glared furiously, but allowing Harry to continue.

I also heard Snape's conversation with Madam Pomfrey. He said you had done the cuts yourself, but the bruises were from something, someone, else, and he was sure that it wasn't someone at school. It got me thinking, and to cut to the chase, I realized your life isn't as perfect as you like to make it seem. That maybe we had all underestimated you.

Draco stood there, shell-shocked.

Of course, that doesn't make up for the cruel remarks or tricks you've played on me or my friends in the past years, but it does shift the perspective.

Draco still stood there, trying to overcome his shock.

Didn't know you thought so deeply into things, he finally said.

The Gryffindor rolled his eyes and walked over to collect his things. Yea, it's a dangerous habit sometimes.

Draco's head spun. Never would he have thought he would be having a civilized conversation with his arch nemesis. Never did he think he would have this opportunity again...

Potter, I think we need to start over.

Harry turned and stared at him.

I mean, it won't erase the past five years, but it might make the next two easier.

Harry nodded.

Draco looked at him. My name is Draco Malfoy. He held out his hand, unknowingly holding his breath.

Emerald eyes met sapphire as Gryffindor joined hands with Slytherin.

Harry. Harry Potter.



~*~*~
Ahh! Yay, they're sorta friends!! Hope that wasn't too sappy or lame. May I repeat, this WILL NOT be a slash fic between Draco and Harry. Now that that's clear, please feel free to review.

**Coming July 18th or 19th: Draco becomes a teacher...finally figures out where he knows the name Tonks...and has some words with a certain red head....**

Quick Question: Did anyone see Pirates of the Caribbean?? Three words for Johnny Depp and Orlando Bloom: OH...MY...GAWD!! Awesome, AWESOME movie, I suggest you go see it after you review my story :)