Disclaimer: All characters presented in the fic are the property of J.K. Rowling. I just like to play with them on occasion
Author's Note: Written for elementaldeity for the dmhgficexchange on livejournal.
Special Thanks: Terri, Inell, Zephyr and especially nakhashmekashefah for the wonderful feed back especially in the eleventh hour.
Chapter Five - The Future?
Over the remaining month, Hermione and Draco had found a comfortable rapport. Where as before their night in the Astronomy Tower, they had spent their time together in order to satisfy whatever mysterious force was calling them together, now they actually looked forward to and enjoyed that mutual time.
Not much changed, both still continued to study independently or catch up on their leisure reading, but the atmosphere was relaxed and devoid of the tension that had been there before. It was as if through some unspoken agreement, they had both confessed that there was something between them too strong to deny; too strong to fight even.
Neither dared to mention the definite change that had occurred between them, nor did they allow it to change how they interacted when amongst the rest of the students.
"Ten points from Gryffindor, Weasley," Draco drawled one day after coming across Ron shoving Harry playfully in the hallway.
Ron tensed at the sound of the Head Boy's voice. Despite his best friends' assurances that Draco really had changed, he still couldn't let go of his suspicions that the Slytherin was not to be trusted.
"For what," he snapped spinning around, his face flushed as his blue eyes bore into silver ones.
A smirk played at Draco's mouth as he replied lazily, "I would think that as a Prefect you would be well aware of Hogwarts' policy against brawling in the corridors."
"Any moron with eyes could see that we were just playing, Malfoy," Ron retorted, trying to pull free from Harry's grip on his shoulder. "Of course if you had any real friends, you might be better equipped to recognize the action."
Draco had perfected the art of masking his emotions and did not allow his face to betray the fact that Ron's words had struck a chord within him, opting instead to retaliate. 'The thick Gryffindor, so loyal, so brave, so easy,' he thought as he replied. "As happy as you and Potter might be in your relationship, I assure you that I have no desire to know the details of your perversions. Ten more points for indulging your indiscretions outside of the privacy of Gryffindor Tower."
"C'mon mate," Harry called, pulling Ron from Draco and trying to avoid the loss of more points or the detention Ron was sure to receive for trying to disfigure the Head Boy in the middle of the hallway. "He's simply jealous that he can't have you for himself," he replied, his voice turning syrupy as he batted his eyelashes over his shoulder at Draco in farewell.
Draco chuckled to himself, 'Who knew that Potter had a sense of humor,' he wondered as he made his way towards Arithmancy. As much as he loathed admitting it, the Weasel had a point. He might not have had friendship like that of the Gryffindor trio, but this year was the first where he found himself alone.
He had known Pansy, Greg and Vincent since childhood, growing up playing with them whenever their parents were called away for some social gathering. They had entered Hogwarts as close friends as anyone within Slytherin House could be.
How ironic it was that the students that had been his friends the longest were the first to turn their backs on him. All four of them had become increasingly involved in Death Eater activity. Though never inducted into Voldemort's ranks, their parents encouraged them to provide as much information as they could about the Headmasters actions.
When Lucius betrayed Voldemort, Draco's three childhood friends had been the ones to deliver the information to Slytherin House. He had little doubt that they were also the one's that provided the information necessary for his capture.
Draco groaned as he heard a husky voice call behind him and the increased foot falls indicating someone trying to catch up to him. Turning slowly, he struggled not to laugh as he greeted the girl who had been, not so subtly, trying to gain his attention since his recovery.
"What is it Millicent," he questioned impatiently, in no mood to listen to her pathetic, fumbling attempts at being coy. "In case you hadn't noticed the time, the next period starts in three minutes."
Millicent shifted her books to her other arm and she shifted her weight nervously to the right side. "Of course Malfoy, I was just hoping that, well I wanted…"
Generally Draco followed the instruction that he'd received all his life. Always remaining cool, regardless of how maddening, annoying, or preposterous the current situation was. His father however had never encountered Millicent Bullstrode when giving him those lessons and the girl appeared too thick to grasp the numerous brush offs he had given her over the months.
"For Merlin's sake Bullstrode, spit it out or shut up. On second thought, don't complete that thought. You're attempts at subtlety are pathetic. I am not interested in studying, eating, going to Hogsmeade, shagging, or any other proposition you have been struggling to present me with," Draco hissed, lowering his voice not for her benefit, but rather to save himself embarrassment.
"Might I suggest you try Crabbe or Goyle? Although I doubt that even those two would be interested. Generally a man is interested in a witch. Perhaps you might have a chance with Longbottom; or Finnegan, if you can get him away from Thomas for long enough."
As he turned to continue on his way to Arithmancy, Draco did not break stride as the witch who had been momentarily dumb struck found her voice again.
"You might want to try and hold on to the few in your house that would still associate with you. The Malfoy name holds considerably less influence these days and you will need allies," Millicent spat at his retreating back.
She was right of course. Draco had considered it as the end of term drew near. The only reason he was able to live in relative peace now was because he was under Dumbledore's watchful eye and had quarters outside of Slytherin House. But when he graduated, that would no longer be the case.
The Death Eater's were no longer active. Those that had been involved either evading capture or aiding the Ministry in exchange for whatever mercy could be found in finding those that were missing. That did not leave Draco in any less danger.
While no one would openly support the cause of their fallen Lord, they would not easily forget Draco's association with their betrayal. Many had lost their lives or that of family due to the information that Lucius provided the Ministry and their memories were sure to be long.
Absently settling down in the back of the classroom, Draco pulled out his parchment and quill. When Professor Vector cleared his voice indicating the start of class, Draco willed himself to put the questions that Millicent had triggered out of his mind.
Arithmancy had been uncharacteristically boring. Generally a fascinating class, examining the science and logic used for crafting spells, today's lesson had been the first in a series of month long revision. Draco, having a near photographic memory, had little patience for those professors that chose to coddle their students.
While it might be popular opinion that Professor Snape was his favorite due to the preferential treatment he received, that was not the case. He had a great deal of respect for any professor that demanded their students take responsibility for their own education, including Professor McGonagall.
As he walked down the corridor, anxious to retreat to the quiet of his common room where perhaps the stress headache that had developed might subside, an angry voice assaulted his senses.
"Hold up Malfoy!"
Draco groaned inwardly, he had grown accustomed to his new found understanding with Hermione. Their interactions always subdued, generally silent, the irritation in her voice would be foreign to him, had he not recognized them from six years of animosity.
He stopped and turned to address her. It would do no good to continue on as if he did not hear her. She could follow him anywhere he might choose to safely retreat and he figured any confrontation held in the corridors would be less explosive than if he allowed her anger to grow until they reached their quarters.
"Yes Granger," he returned, hoping that the verbal onslaught that was coming would be swift.
"How dare you take twenty points from my house without just cause? Just because you have a badge that says you're Head Boy doesn't give you the right to walk about…" Her voice trailed off as he winced at the inflection in her voice.
"As much as I empathize with your outrage Granger, it appeared to me as if your friend the Weasel was assaulting precious Potter. Surely you should be happy that I diffused the situation before it got out of hand. He would have only lost ten points had Potter not insinuated that their activities were of a more personal nature. I'm sure the Head Girl would not advocate students allowing their hormones to dictate how students interact in the corridors," Draco retorted calmly as he pressed the fingers of his left hand to his temple.
"You are positively infuriating, you know that Malfoy?" Hermione shook her head as an infuriated laugh left her lips, her arms folded across her chest and weight shifting from side to side. "Ron and Harry have been driving me crazy about how we spend so little time together and I've actually been putting them off because of whatever this is," she hissed at him, lowering her voice and gesturing towards the air between them. "But I believe that my best friends and I are long overdue for an evening together. I do hope that you left the common room presentable, I will be having company tonight."
Draco groaned as Hermione brushed past him. If there was one thing he didn't need tonight, any night really, was the company of Ron Weasley. Potter had become tolerable as he rarely took anything Draco said seriously, but Weasley simply had no appreciation for subtle humor, ready to curse, hex, or punch at the slightest provocation.
Of course, Draco thought smiling inwardly, there was the time that Ron tried to hex him and spent the remainder of the afternoon spitting up slugs. "Tonight could prove interesting," he chuckled before groaning and clutching his head. "Or it could prove to be a painful end to the day," he amended as the pounding behind his eyes returned.
When Harry and Ron arrived later that evening in the common room, Draco attempted to retire to his room for the evening. He had resigned himself that the best way to avoid a full blown migraine was to stay as far away from Weasley as possible. Of course, the cursed bond he shared with Hermione would not allow him to do that.
"Okay 'Mione, I know that you and Harry keep insisting that Malfoy here is a reformed man, but what else is going on? There's only a month left before N.E.W.T.'s and you have yet to set up our revision schedule. You haven't come to Hogsmeade with us at all since Harry here as been released. You spend your evenings studying with Malfoy," Ron stopped as Hermione opened her mouth as if to deny it.
Harry chuckled as he watched her eyes widen. "Well, you might not be studying," he raised an eyebrow in Draco's direction, "but according to the map you are spending the evenings in the common room."
Hermione shot Harry a heated glance, not pleased that her ally had turned on her. "Nothings going on you guys. Malfoy and I just found that we study well together. Honestly Ron, we're in our seventh year," she continued, the frustration in her voice evident, "you should not need me to remind you that you need to study."
"But that doesn't explain why you can't even carve out time to join us for a Butterbeer on the weekends Mione," Ron countered. "C'mon, we miss spending time with you. This is the last Hogsmeade weekend ever, you've got to come."
Hermione sighed. She did miss her friends. Actually she was surprised it had taken Ron so long to say something to her. Generally he said the first thing that came to mind whether he should or not. She looked to Harry who was nodding in agreement. It's not that she didn't want to go. She just didn't know whether she could go. She hadn't spent an entire day apart from Draco since they had rescued him. As it was, the few classes they did not share were barely tolerable.
Sensing her hesitation, Ron sighed. "Mione, I can't believe I'm going to say this. If it makes your decision easier, you can even bring the git. I won't lift my wand or fist all day, I promise."
Hermione bit her lip. Although she knew she shouldn't, she turned to look to Draco. Logic told her that they would be fine for one day, but it wasn't something they discussed.
"Why Weasley, I wouldn't want you to make Potter here jealous now that I'm aware of the nature of your relationship," Draco interrupted her thoughts. "Actually, it would be refreshing to have the common room to myself," he added scowling in Hermione's direction.
She knew it was petty banter with little meaning, but Draco's insinuation that she was behaving like some witch with nothing better to do than sniff behind him struck a nerve within her.
Fixing her face in her own smirk Hermione turned back towards him, "Actually
Draco, I think that I have carried the weight of both of our duties for long enough. As Head Girl, I need to meet with you sometime soon to discuss the graduation festivities and I can think of no better time than Sunday. Shall we say three at the Three Broomsticks?"
Harry coughed a laugh that sounded remotely like "whipped".
As the glare of the two Head Students focused on his own smiling green eyes, he gathered his composure changing the subject.
Draco spent the rest of the evening sitting in a chair by the fire pretending to concentrate on the novel he had opened before him. He was actually listening as the three Gryffindors discussed their plans for next year. Potter was predictably hoping to be accepted into the Auror's training program. Weasley was considering applying alongside Potter, but was really hoping to be recruited for his favorite Quidditch team, the Chudley Canon's.
Draco let out an uncharacteristic snort at that proclamation. True, Ron had improved considerably since his debut on the Gryffindor House team during their fifth year. But he was still no more than an average Keeper. Even if the Quidditch season had not ended prematurely due to the Final Battle, his likelihood to ever be recruited professionally were slim to none.
"Well I intend to get a job at the ministry," Hermione stated. She had seen the look that Ron had given Malfoy and would really prefer to avoid any conflict this evening.
"What's that Granger," Draco interrupted, "not going to follow Potter and Weasley into being the purveyors of justice?"
Hermione narrowed her eyes briefly at the Slytherin before turning back to her best friends. "Actually, I am hoping to work in the Department of Mysteries. Of course, I don't know exactly what they do, but from what Dumbledore has said I imagine that they work with converting raw magical energy into a usable form. I've always been fascinated with the science behind magic."
Ron's mouth gaped as he looked at his friend. "Blimey. We're about to graduate and you want to get a job where you'll be doing more research?"
"Ron, no matter what job you take you will have to do some form of research. In Quidditch, you research the other teams' tactics. Aurors have to research their suspects or the details of whatever case they're working on. Even your brothers conduct research when developing their new product. Just because you're graduating, assuming you take the time to study for your N.E.W.T.'s, does not mean you won't have to think anymore," Hermione chided.
Ron looked to Harry, disappointed to find no support from his best friend. Sighing in defeat he stood, "Fine Hermione, you win. I need to take my studies more seriously. C'mon Harry, I think Professor Granger is telling us that we should be back in Gryffindor Tower studying."
Laughing at Ron, Harry stood as well. "All right Hermione. But we'll see you Sunday at the Three Broomsticks right?"
Nodding her Head as Harry pulled her into his arms, holding her longer than necessary, Hermione bit her lip as he whispered in her ear, "I don't know what's going on between you and Malfoy and I know he's changed. Just, be careful Mione. He doesn't have to be a Death Eater for you to get hurt."
The weekend passed swiftly, Hermione managed to even convince Draco to join her on her patrols. In truth, she had done little other than direct the prefects since the Final Battle, first caught up with tending to Draco and then later unable or unwilling to leave his company.
When Sunday came, Harry and Ron were calling from outside of the portrait hole nearly a half hour before breakfast.
"Pity that the two of you aren't this enthusiastic about getting to your classes," Hermione chided as she let her friends into the Head suite. The carriages don't leave for another two hours.
Harry cast a sideways glance at Ron before replying. "We know. Ron here wanted to make sure that you didn't disappear before breakfast in an effort to back out. Where's Malfoy, are you still determined to subject us to his presence today?"
Hermione's lips pursed. "That's very funny Harry. Perhaps I should have taken Draco seriously when he told me that you two had something going on," she countered before addressing Ron. "Is Luna coming as well?"
"Well, she said she might meet us later. Apparently she has something planned with my sister that she can't tell me. She's been acting strangely lately."
"No? Lovegood acting strange," Draco drawled from the top of the stairs. "I would think that you were quite accustomed to that. There is a reason most of the first and second years think her name really is Loony."
Hermione and Harry stifled laughter as Ron struggled to remain his composure. "I promised Hermione that I wouldn't get into it with you today. So can we please try to keep this civil?"
Draco started to reply, but Hermione grabbed her cloak and bag and shoved Ron out of the common room before he could goad Ron further. Smiling she looked back through the portrait hole, "we'll meet you outside after breakfast," she asked, allowing the painting to close when he answered with a nod.
Amazingly, the morning in Hogsmeade went relatively well. Their first visit had been to Fred and George's shop. It was still early and the twins who loathed waking early did not offer until well after noon.
When the Gryffindors finally managed to rouse the two shop owners, they proved to be quite hospitable, unwilling to pass up the opportunity to show the Slytherin patron how welcome he was.
Master's of charm and deception, as any successful prankster must be, they engaged Malfoy in idle talk after showing Ron, Harry and Hermione to their flat upstairs to floo the Burrow to discuss the graduation celebration their mum was planning.
When the Gryffindors returned to the shop, George and Draco were arguing animatedly about which team would make the Quidditch Finals.
"I always suspected that you and your brother were a bit nutters, but now I'm convinced. You think that the Fitchburg Finches will actually best Kenmare for a shot at the cup," Draco questioned, his voice unusually loud.
Hermione laughed to herself. It was definitely something about wizards and Quidditch. She had not seen Malfoy raise his voice in the seven years they had attended school together, not even the time Buckbeak attacked him. Apparently even the more refined pure-bloods lost their head when it came to discussing their beloved sport.
"The yanks haven't provided serious competition in the International Quidditch in over a century," he finished shaking his head and laughing in disbelief.
George grinned at his brother, a knowing smile passing between the two. "Of course they haven't Malfoy, but there's another year and I have a sneaking suspicion that some players who might have been involved in questionable activity might decide to head over to the states."
Hermione frowned as she saw the look of disbelief on Draco's face morph into the emotionless mask that he wore so often. Knowing that any discussion of the war and Voldemort tended to be a sore subject with him, she interrupted throwing her arms out to either side as she descended the steps. "Enough! No more Quidditch talk."
Harry licked his lips as he finished chewing, following Hermione downstairs. Holding out a wrapper, he offered Draco a piece of chocolate. "You've got to try one of these Malfoy, they're incredible."
Draco, thankful for the return of his classmates took the wrapper and popped the candy in his mouth. His eyes widened as he resisted the urge to belch. He had never had indigestion problems in his life, yet all of a sudden he felt as if his stomach had filled with air.
"Potter! What… did… you… give… me," he growled, growing angrier as everyone began laughing at him. "Don't make me ask again," he continued as it became apparent no one seemed to feel the need to let them in on his joke.
He took a step forward intending to grab George, who was nearest, by the collar when he was propelled into the air. He raised his hands to shield his head from the impact of the ceiling, but immediately was propelled back to the ground upon contact.
Fred, George, and Ron howled as the collapsed on each other, a mass of red and freckles shaking in their amusement.
"Those are brilliant," Harry exclaimed as he laughed openly, his head following Draco's movements throughout the store as he rebounded off the walls, floors and celing. "What're they called?"
"Bouncing bon-bons," George answered as he swallowed his laughter and stood to watch Draco with Harry. "They did turn out rather well didn't they?"
"Filch is going to be screaming mad when those make their way to Hogwarts," Hermione replied, struggling to maintain a straight face.
"Filch," Draco growled, "How long before…" he started pausing as the side of his face impacted with a display case, propelling him up and towards the front door. "the potion's effects…" he continued, again impacting the ceiling, "wear off?"
"What's your hurry Malfoy," Ron asked as he gained his composure. "I find watching your acrobatics quite entertaining." He watched as Draco's weightless body bounced across the room before he broke out into another fit of laughter. Composing himself long enough to add, "We should charge for this. 'Weasleys' Wizarding Wheezes presents the Amazing Bouncing Ferret'."
At that last statement all four Gryffindors came undone. The memory of Draco being transformed into a ferret three years ago would have been enough to bring almost anyone to laughter. But that, combined with the image of Draco bouncing around the shop was too funny for anyone not to laugh.
Hermione of course, was the first to calm down. "All right, I think Malfoy has had enough. Fred, George, where's the antidote? And don't bother to tell me you don't have one, I know better than that."
Pouting as if Molly Weasley had just taken away their broomsticks, Fred reached in his pocket and handed Hermione a vial with a green potion in it. "Has anyone told you you're a real kill joy Hermione?"
Forcing a smile in his direction accompanied by a curt thank you, Hermione turned back towards Draco, who had gotten caught in the little hallway that led back to the store room.
Hermione walked over to hand Draco the vial, but gasped as it fell from his grip and nearly hit the floor. Luckily, Harry had followed behind her and managed to catch it before it could break.
"You're never going to be able to get it to him in there," Harry mused as Draco bounced back and forth in the narrow passage way. "He is changing direction too fast. "
Harry ducked beneath Malfoy and began shoving him out of the narrow passage way until he finally bounced across the shop, back across the open floor.
"But we can't get it to him in here either," Hermione complained as she chewed her lower lip.
"Give me the vial Hermione," George said walking up to the brunette and holding out his hand. As he caught her wary look he repeated, "Give me the vial." When she didn't show any chance of turning over the antidote, he sighed.
"Look, the only way we're going to get that vial to Draco with any certainty is by tossing it to him. Fred or I are the only one that will be able to anticipate where he's going to be with any accuracy and get the vial there. We did spend the last five years or so knocking his housemates off their brooms with charmed bludgers. I think we can handle this inanimate vial."
"Give it to them already," Draco grunted before he collided with the corner of a bookshelf on the far end of the shop.
When the Draco finally took the antidote, he fell rather awkwardly down to the floor with a grunt. Brushing himself off he, remained silent until they left the shop, save the obligatory threat and promise of torture.
His face set, he followed the Gryffindors down the path towards Honeydukes as they recounted what they were now calling the Amazing Bouncing Ferret incident. After satisfying himself by glaring at a couple of third year Hufflepuffs as they gazed curiously at the unlikely foursome in passing, Draco strode ahead of them, wanting to distance himself from their incessant laughter.
Upon reaching Zonkos, Draco froze as a wizard approached him. The hairs on the back of his neck prickled as a sickingly familiar smell washed over him, Rookwood.
Fumbling nervously inside of his robes for his wand, panic overcame him as the tall wizard stopped before him. 'He must be wearing a glamour,' Draco thought as the unfamiliar face smiled down upon him.
"Master Malfoy, it is good to see that you have recovered."
Draco swallowed his fear as he looked up into the man's cold brown eyes. "I should think so. You were always meticulous in your healing."
The corners of the man's mouth curved up into a deceptive smile. "So you have not forgotten the care that I gave you. I must say that I am pleasantly surprised that you recognize me. Unfortunately, the aftermath of the war necessitates that I disguise myself," he replied quietly as Hermione, Ron, and Harry ran up behind Draco, their wands drawn though held at their sides.
"Are you okay Draco," Hermione questioned. An eerie sense had come over her a moment ago and when she looked up she saw Draco standing tense, his hand inside his robes as if seeking his wand.
The man turned to Hermione and smiled. "Such a lovely companion Draco, although I'm not so sure that Lucius would approve of your choice in friends," he smirked eyeing the scar upon Harry's forehead.
"Given that someone saw fit to alleviate him of earthly concerns, I'm not so sure that it matters," Harry retorted, raising his wand towards the man's chest.
Rookwood's eyes flashed towards Harry and he opened his mouth as if to reply before turning back to Draco suddenly. "It was good to see you again. I imagine that we'll cross paths again soon."
"Was that him," Hermione questioned as she saw Draco's shoulders relax and he withdrew his hands from the pockets of his robes.
Lowering his wand when Rookwood was out of sight, Harry turned to Draco. "Who was he?"
Draco didn't have a chance to respond before Professor Snape was upon them.
"Perhaps you would care to explain Mr. Potter, why I saw you with your wand aimed at another wizard while your two housemates had their wands drawn at the ready," Snape asked, his eyes burrowing into Harry with anger.
Hermione turned from Draco to look up at the Potions Master. "We thought that Draco had been…"
"Professor, Potter was simply trying to defend me. I had mistaken that wizard's identity."
Snape looked back to Hermione before abruptly turning in the direction that Rookwood had taken his leave. Unable to see anyone out of the ordinary, he turned his attention back on Draco.
"Are you quite certain that the Ministry need not be contacted Mr. Malfoy? You are aware that Augustus Rookwood is still at large. I believe we are both well aware that given his history it is not unlikely that he might make an attempt to abduct you again?"
Aware that while his Head of House was unlikely to believe his story, he would not continue to interrogate him if he confirmed his story, Draco answered, "I am certain sir."
Sighing in relief as the Professor Snape took his leave, Hermione walked beside Draco as Harry pulled a stunned Ron ahead with him.
As they walked along in silence, Draco considered the events that had taken place over the year and how they made him feel; the anger he had felt towards Hermione for his father's arrest; the betrayal he felt by Lucius's confessions; the despair he'd felt when captured by Bellatrix and Rookwood; and finally the helplessness he'd felt immediately following his rescue.
Looking over at Hermione as she walked beside him, Draco felt peace. Only days ago he felt as if he were alone in the world. Today, when his life was in very real jeopardy, three individuals that he had tormented over the past six years had rushed to his side prepared to fight for him.
"Hermione?"
Hermione startled when Draco spoke her name. She knew that he didn't mind her company. It was something that she could feel just as surely as she could feel the warmth of the sunshine upon her cheeks. He, however, rarely broke their silence, preferring just to be in her company without the interference of words that could lead to misunderstanding.
"Do you remember when we debated the Goblin Rebellion in the hospital wing," he continued.
She nodded her assent, wondering what would make him think of that at this time.
"I believe that I can now appreciate your reasoning behind the Goblin's brutality," he finished vaguely as his shoulder's relaxed and an eerie smile came across his lips.
Review Responses:
TheManWhoLetTheBoyLive: Glad to see that you enjoy it, hopefully this latest chapter doesn't disappoint. Wow, I'm sorry that I don't recall you, but if I at all encouraged you to write, I'm certainly happy. I know I find this to be quite therapeutic for me!
HGDM lova: Yes, Harry and Hermione are a little more easy going with Draco. And Ron, what can I say. He's a bit more stubborn, but I do love him. In fact, I was feeling so bad for the abuse he takes at times, that I wrote a lil cookie for him and Hermione. I am truly a Ron lover!
TigerLilly1889: Katie if I recall correctly. I'm glad that you loved the last installment. I hope that this one does not disappoint. Hehehehe, I didn't view it as a cliffie, there's certainly a bigger one coming! Glad to see you're still with me, I hope you enjoy the update!
Artemis1860: Smile, yeah you did. I didn't comment to be negative though, I hope it wasn't received that well. Shoot, get your readers where you can :) I'm sorry I haven't had a chance to check your fic out yet, but I do believe that I sent you an email. if you had trouble getting it, I can be reached at gryfforin at gmail dot com. (Why does ff kill all internet addresses, it's really really annoying!)
Author's Note: Written for elementaldeity for the dmhgficexchange on livejournal.
Special Thanks: Terri, Inell, Zephyr and especially nakhashmekashefah for the wonderful feed back especially in the eleventh hour.
Chapter Five - The Future?
Over the remaining month, Hermione and Draco had found a comfortable rapport. Where as before their night in the Astronomy Tower, they had spent their time together in order to satisfy whatever mysterious force was calling them together, now they actually looked forward to and enjoyed that mutual time.
Not much changed, both still continued to study independently or catch up on their leisure reading, but the atmosphere was relaxed and devoid of the tension that had been there before. It was as if through some unspoken agreement, they had both confessed that there was something between them too strong to deny; too strong to fight even.
Neither dared to mention the definite change that had occurred between them, nor did they allow it to change how they interacted when amongst the rest of the students.
"Ten points from Gryffindor, Weasley," Draco drawled one day after coming across Ron shoving Harry playfully in the hallway.
Ron tensed at the sound of the Head Boy's voice. Despite his best friends' assurances that Draco really had changed, he still couldn't let go of his suspicions that the Slytherin was not to be trusted.
"For what," he snapped spinning around, his face flushed as his blue eyes bore into silver ones.
A smirk played at Draco's mouth as he replied lazily, "I would think that as a Prefect you would be well aware of Hogwarts' policy against brawling in the corridors."
"Any moron with eyes could see that we were just playing, Malfoy," Ron retorted, trying to pull free from Harry's grip on his shoulder. "Of course if you had any real friends, you might be better equipped to recognize the action."
Draco had perfected the art of masking his emotions and did not allow his face to betray the fact that Ron's words had struck a chord within him, opting instead to retaliate. 'The thick Gryffindor, so loyal, so brave, so easy,' he thought as he replied. "As happy as you and Potter might be in your relationship, I assure you that I have no desire to know the details of your perversions. Ten more points for indulging your indiscretions outside of the privacy of Gryffindor Tower."
"C'mon mate," Harry called, pulling Ron from Draco and trying to avoid the loss of more points or the detention Ron was sure to receive for trying to disfigure the Head Boy in the middle of the hallway. "He's simply jealous that he can't have you for himself," he replied, his voice turning syrupy as he batted his eyelashes over his shoulder at Draco in farewell.
Draco chuckled to himself, 'Who knew that Potter had a sense of humor,' he wondered as he made his way towards Arithmancy. As much as he loathed admitting it, the Weasel had a point. He might not have had friendship like that of the Gryffindor trio, but this year was the first where he found himself alone.
He had known Pansy, Greg and Vincent since childhood, growing up playing with them whenever their parents were called away for some social gathering. They had entered Hogwarts as close friends as anyone within Slytherin House could be.
How ironic it was that the students that had been his friends the longest were the first to turn their backs on him. All four of them had become increasingly involved in Death Eater activity. Though never inducted into Voldemort's ranks, their parents encouraged them to provide as much information as they could about the Headmasters actions.
When Lucius betrayed Voldemort, Draco's three childhood friends had been the ones to deliver the information to Slytherin House. He had little doubt that they were also the one's that provided the information necessary for his capture.
Draco groaned as he heard a husky voice call behind him and the increased foot falls indicating someone trying to catch up to him. Turning slowly, he struggled not to laugh as he greeted the girl who had been, not so subtly, trying to gain his attention since his recovery.
"What is it Millicent," he questioned impatiently, in no mood to listen to her pathetic, fumbling attempts at being coy. "In case you hadn't noticed the time, the next period starts in three minutes."
Millicent shifted her books to her other arm and she shifted her weight nervously to the right side. "Of course Malfoy, I was just hoping that, well I wanted…"
Generally Draco followed the instruction that he'd received all his life. Always remaining cool, regardless of how maddening, annoying, or preposterous the current situation was. His father however had never encountered Millicent Bullstrode when giving him those lessons and the girl appeared too thick to grasp the numerous brush offs he had given her over the months.
"For Merlin's sake Bullstrode, spit it out or shut up. On second thought, don't complete that thought. You're attempts at subtlety are pathetic. I am not interested in studying, eating, going to Hogsmeade, shagging, or any other proposition you have been struggling to present me with," Draco hissed, lowering his voice not for her benefit, but rather to save himself embarrassment.
"Might I suggest you try Crabbe or Goyle? Although I doubt that even those two would be interested. Generally a man is interested in a witch. Perhaps you might have a chance with Longbottom; or Finnegan, if you can get him away from Thomas for long enough."
As he turned to continue on his way to Arithmancy, Draco did not break stride as the witch who had been momentarily dumb struck found her voice again.
"You might want to try and hold on to the few in your house that would still associate with you. The Malfoy name holds considerably less influence these days and you will need allies," Millicent spat at his retreating back.
She was right of course. Draco had considered it as the end of term drew near. The only reason he was able to live in relative peace now was because he was under Dumbledore's watchful eye and had quarters outside of Slytherin House. But when he graduated, that would no longer be the case.
The Death Eater's were no longer active. Those that had been involved either evading capture or aiding the Ministry in exchange for whatever mercy could be found in finding those that were missing. That did not leave Draco in any less danger.
While no one would openly support the cause of their fallen Lord, they would not easily forget Draco's association with their betrayal. Many had lost their lives or that of family due to the information that Lucius provided the Ministry and their memories were sure to be long.
Absently settling down in the back of the classroom, Draco pulled out his parchment and quill. When Professor Vector cleared his voice indicating the start of class, Draco willed himself to put the questions that Millicent had triggered out of his mind.
Arithmancy had been uncharacteristically boring. Generally a fascinating class, examining the science and logic used for crafting spells, today's lesson had been the first in a series of month long revision. Draco, having a near photographic memory, had little patience for those professors that chose to coddle their students.
While it might be popular opinion that Professor Snape was his favorite due to the preferential treatment he received, that was not the case. He had a great deal of respect for any professor that demanded their students take responsibility for their own education, including Professor McGonagall.
As he walked down the corridor, anxious to retreat to the quiet of his common room where perhaps the stress headache that had developed might subside, an angry voice assaulted his senses.
"Hold up Malfoy!"
Draco groaned inwardly, he had grown accustomed to his new found understanding with Hermione. Their interactions always subdued, generally silent, the irritation in her voice would be foreign to him, had he not recognized them from six years of animosity.
He stopped and turned to address her. It would do no good to continue on as if he did not hear her. She could follow him anywhere he might choose to safely retreat and he figured any confrontation held in the corridors would be less explosive than if he allowed her anger to grow until they reached their quarters.
"Yes Granger," he returned, hoping that the verbal onslaught that was coming would be swift.
"How dare you take twenty points from my house without just cause? Just because you have a badge that says you're Head Boy doesn't give you the right to walk about…" Her voice trailed off as he winced at the inflection in her voice.
"As much as I empathize with your outrage Granger, it appeared to me as if your friend the Weasel was assaulting precious Potter. Surely you should be happy that I diffused the situation before it got out of hand. He would have only lost ten points had Potter not insinuated that their activities were of a more personal nature. I'm sure the Head Girl would not advocate students allowing their hormones to dictate how students interact in the corridors," Draco retorted calmly as he pressed the fingers of his left hand to his temple.
"You are positively infuriating, you know that Malfoy?" Hermione shook her head as an infuriated laugh left her lips, her arms folded across her chest and weight shifting from side to side. "Ron and Harry have been driving me crazy about how we spend so little time together and I've actually been putting them off because of whatever this is," she hissed at him, lowering her voice and gesturing towards the air between them. "But I believe that my best friends and I are long overdue for an evening together. I do hope that you left the common room presentable, I will be having company tonight."
Draco groaned as Hermione brushed past him. If there was one thing he didn't need tonight, any night really, was the company of Ron Weasley. Potter had become tolerable as he rarely took anything Draco said seriously, but Weasley simply had no appreciation for subtle humor, ready to curse, hex, or punch at the slightest provocation.
Of course, Draco thought smiling inwardly, there was the time that Ron tried to hex him and spent the remainder of the afternoon spitting up slugs. "Tonight could prove interesting," he chuckled before groaning and clutching his head. "Or it could prove to be a painful end to the day," he amended as the pounding behind his eyes returned.
When Harry and Ron arrived later that evening in the common room, Draco attempted to retire to his room for the evening. He had resigned himself that the best way to avoid a full blown migraine was to stay as far away from Weasley as possible. Of course, the cursed bond he shared with Hermione would not allow him to do that.
"Okay 'Mione, I know that you and Harry keep insisting that Malfoy here is a reformed man, but what else is going on? There's only a month left before N.E.W.T.'s and you have yet to set up our revision schedule. You haven't come to Hogsmeade with us at all since Harry here as been released. You spend your evenings studying with Malfoy," Ron stopped as Hermione opened her mouth as if to deny it.
Harry chuckled as he watched her eyes widen. "Well, you might not be studying," he raised an eyebrow in Draco's direction, "but according to the map you are spending the evenings in the common room."
Hermione shot Harry a heated glance, not pleased that her ally had turned on her. "Nothings going on you guys. Malfoy and I just found that we study well together. Honestly Ron, we're in our seventh year," she continued, the frustration in her voice evident, "you should not need me to remind you that you need to study."
"But that doesn't explain why you can't even carve out time to join us for a Butterbeer on the weekends Mione," Ron countered. "C'mon, we miss spending time with you. This is the last Hogsmeade weekend ever, you've got to come."
Hermione sighed. She did miss her friends. Actually she was surprised it had taken Ron so long to say something to her. Generally he said the first thing that came to mind whether he should or not. She looked to Harry who was nodding in agreement. It's not that she didn't want to go. She just didn't know whether she could go. She hadn't spent an entire day apart from Draco since they had rescued him. As it was, the few classes they did not share were barely tolerable.
Sensing her hesitation, Ron sighed. "Mione, I can't believe I'm going to say this. If it makes your decision easier, you can even bring the git. I won't lift my wand or fist all day, I promise."
Hermione bit her lip. Although she knew she shouldn't, she turned to look to Draco. Logic told her that they would be fine for one day, but it wasn't something they discussed.
"Why Weasley, I wouldn't want you to make Potter here jealous now that I'm aware of the nature of your relationship," Draco interrupted her thoughts. "Actually, it would be refreshing to have the common room to myself," he added scowling in Hermione's direction.
She knew it was petty banter with little meaning, but Draco's insinuation that she was behaving like some witch with nothing better to do than sniff behind him struck a nerve within her.
Fixing her face in her own smirk Hermione turned back towards him, "Actually
Draco, I think that I have carried the weight of both of our duties for long enough. As Head Girl, I need to meet with you sometime soon to discuss the graduation festivities and I can think of no better time than Sunday. Shall we say three at the Three Broomsticks?"
Harry coughed a laugh that sounded remotely like "whipped".
As the glare of the two Head Students focused on his own smiling green eyes, he gathered his composure changing the subject.
Draco spent the rest of the evening sitting in a chair by the fire pretending to concentrate on the novel he had opened before him. He was actually listening as the three Gryffindors discussed their plans for next year. Potter was predictably hoping to be accepted into the Auror's training program. Weasley was considering applying alongside Potter, but was really hoping to be recruited for his favorite Quidditch team, the Chudley Canon's.
Draco let out an uncharacteristic snort at that proclamation. True, Ron had improved considerably since his debut on the Gryffindor House team during their fifth year. But he was still no more than an average Keeper. Even if the Quidditch season had not ended prematurely due to the Final Battle, his likelihood to ever be recruited professionally were slim to none.
"Well I intend to get a job at the ministry," Hermione stated. She had seen the look that Ron had given Malfoy and would really prefer to avoid any conflict this evening.
"What's that Granger," Draco interrupted, "not going to follow Potter and Weasley into being the purveyors of justice?"
Hermione narrowed her eyes briefly at the Slytherin before turning back to her best friends. "Actually, I am hoping to work in the Department of Mysteries. Of course, I don't know exactly what they do, but from what Dumbledore has said I imagine that they work with converting raw magical energy into a usable form. I've always been fascinated with the science behind magic."
Ron's mouth gaped as he looked at his friend. "Blimey. We're about to graduate and you want to get a job where you'll be doing more research?"
"Ron, no matter what job you take you will have to do some form of research. In Quidditch, you research the other teams' tactics. Aurors have to research their suspects or the details of whatever case they're working on. Even your brothers conduct research when developing their new product. Just because you're graduating, assuming you take the time to study for your N.E.W.T.'s, does not mean you won't have to think anymore," Hermione chided.
Ron looked to Harry, disappointed to find no support from his best friend. Sighing in defeat he stood, "Fine Hermione, you win. I need to take my studies more seriously. C'mon Harry, I think Professor Granger is telling us that we should be back in Gryffindor Tower studying."
Laughing at Ron, Harry stood as well. "All right Hermione. But we'll see you Sunday at the Three Broomsticks right?"
Nodding her Head as Harry pulled her into his arms, holding her longer than necessary, Hermione bit her lip as he whispered in her ear, "I don't know what's going on between you and Malfoy and I know he's changed. Just, be careful Mione. He doesn't have to be a Death Eater for you to get hurt."
The weekend passed swiftly, Hermione managed to even convince Draco to join her on her patrols. In truth, she had done little other than direct the prefects since the Final Battle, first caught up with tending to Draco and then later unable or unwilling to leave his company.
When Sunday came, Harry and Ron were calling from outside of the portrait hole nearly a half hour before breakfast.
"Pity that the two of you aren't this enthusiastic about getting to your classes," Hermione chided as she let her friends into the Head suite. The carriages don't leave for another two hours.
Harry cast a sideways glance at Ron before replying. "We know. Ron here wanted to make sure that you didn't disappear before breakfast in an effort to back out. Where's Malfoy, are you still determined to subject us to his presence today?"
Hermione's lips pursed. "That's very funny Harry. Perhaps I should have taken Draco seriously when he told me that you two had something going on," she countered before addressing Ron. "Is Luna coming as well?"
"Well, she said she might meet us later. Apparently she has something planned with my sister that she can't tell me. She's been acting strangely lately."
"No? Lovegood acting strange," Draco drawled from the top of the stairs. "I would think that you were quite accustomed to that. There is a reason most of the first and second years think her name really is Loony."
Hermione and Harry stifled laughter as Ron struggled to remain his composure. "I promised Hermione that I wouldn't get into it with you today. So can we please try to keep this civil?"
Draco started to reply, but Hermione grabbed her cloak and bag and shoved Ron out of the common room before he could goad Ron further. Smiling she looked back through the portrait hole, "we'll meet you outside after breakfast," she asked, allowing the painting to close when he answered with a nod.
Amazingly, the morning in Hogsmeade went relatively well. Their first visit had been to Fred and George's shop. It was still early and the twins who loathed waking early did not offer until well after noon.
When the Gryffindors finally managed to rouse the two shop owners, they proved to be quite hospitable, unwilling to pass up the opportunity to show the Slytherin patron how welcome he was.
Master's of charm and deception, as any successful prankster must be, they engaged Malfoy in idle talk after showing Ron, Harry and Hermione to their flat upstairs to floo the Burrow to discuss the graduation celebration their mum was planning.
When the Gryffindors returned to the shop, George and Draco were arguing animatedly about which team would make the Quidditch Finals.
"I always suspected that you and your brother were a bit nutters, but now I'm convinced. You think that the Fitchburg Finches will actually best Kenmare for a shot at the cup," Draco questioned, his voice unusually loud.
Hermione laughed to herself. It was definitely something about wizards and Quidditch. She had not seen Malfoy raise his voice in the seven years they had attended school together, not even the time Buckbeak attacked him. Apparently even the more refined pure-bloods lost their head when it came to discussing their beloved sport.
"The yanks haven't provided serious competition in the International Quidditch in over a century," he finished shaking his head and laughing in disbelief.
George grinned at his brother, a knowing smile passing between the two. "Of course they haven't Malfoy, but there's another year and I have a sneaking suspicion that some players who might have been involved in questionable activity might decide to head over to the states."
Hermione frowned as she saw the look of disbelief on Draco's face morph into the emotionless mask that he wore so often. Knowing that any discussion of the war and Voldemort tended to be a sore subject with him, she interrupted throwing her arms out to either side as she descended the steps. "Enough! No more Quidditch talk."
Harry licked his lips as he finished chewing, following Hermione downstairs. Holding out a wrapper, he offered Draco a piece of chocolate. "You've got to try one of these Malfoy, they're incredible."
Draco, thankful for the return of his classmates took the wrapper and popped the candy in his mouth. His eyes widened as he resisted the urge to belch. He had never had indigestion problems in his life, yet all of a sudden he felt as if his stomach had filled with air.
"Potter! What… did… you… give… me," he growled, growing angrier as everyone began laughing at him. "Don't make me ask again," he continued as it became apparent no one seemed to feel the need to let them in on his joke.
He took a step forward intending to grab George, who was nearest, by the collar when he was propelled into the air. He raised his hands to shield his head from the impact of the ceiling, but immediately was propelled back to the ground upon contact.
Fred, George, and Ron howled as the collapsed on each other, a mass of red and freckles shaking in their amusement.
"Those are brilliant," Harry exclaimed as he laughed openly, his head following Draco's movements throughout the store as he rebounded off the walls, floors and celing. "What're they called?"
"Bouncing bon-bons," George answered as he swallowed his laughter and stood to watch Draco with Harry. "They did turn out rather well didn't they?"
"Filch is going to be screaming mad when those make their way to Hogwarts," Hermione replied, struggling to maintain a straight face.
"Filch," Draco growled, "How long before…" he started pausing as the side of his face impacted with a display case, propelling him up and towards the front door. "the potion's effects…" he continued, again impacting the ceiling, "wear off?"
"What's your hurry Malfoy," Ron asked as he gained his composure. "I find watching your acrobatics quite entertaining." He watched as Draco's weightless body bounced across the room before he broke out into another fit of laughter. Composing himself long enough to add, "We should charge for this. 'Weasleys' Wizarding Wheezes presents the Amazing Bouncing Ferret'."
At that last statement all four Gryffindors came undone. The memory of Draco being transformed into a ferret three years ago would have been enough to bring almost anyone to laughter. But that, combined with the image of Draco bouncing around the shop was too funny for anyone not to laugh.
Hermione of course, was the first to calm down. "All right, I think Malfoy has had enough. Fred, George, where's the antidote? And don't bother to tell me you don't have one, I know better than that."
Pouting as if Molly Weasley had just taken away their broomsticks, Fred reached in his pocket and handed Hermione a vial with a green potion in it. "Has anyone told you you're a real kill joy Hermione?"
Forcing a smile in his direction accompanied by a curt thank you, Hermione turned back towards Draco, who had gotten caught in the little hallway that led back to the store room.
Hermione walked over to hand Draco the vial, but gasped as it fell from his grip and nearly hit the floor. Luckily, Harry had followed behind her and managed to catch it before it could break.
"You're never going to be able to get it to him in there," Harry mused as Draco bounced back and forth in the narrow passage way. "He is changing direction too fast. "
Harry ducked beneath Malfoy and began shoving him out of the narrow passage way until he finally bounced across the shop, back across the open floor.
"But we can't get it to him in here either," Hermione complained as she chewed her lower lip.
"Give me the vial Hermione," George said walking up to the brunette and holding out his hand. As he caught her wary look he repeated, "Give me the vial." When she didn't show any chance of turning over the antidote, he sighed.
"Look, the only way we're going to get that vial to Draco with any certainty is by tossing it to him. Fred or I are the only one that will be able to anticipate where he's going to be with any accuracy and get the vial there. We did spend the last five years or so knocking his housemates off their brooms with charmed bludgers. I think we can handle this inanimate vial."
"Give it to them already," Draco grunted before he collided with the corner of a bookshelf on the far end of the shop.
When the Draco finally took the antidote, he fell rather awkwardly down to the floor with a grunt. Brushing himself off he, remained silent until they left the shop, save the obligatory threat and promise of torture.
His face set, he followed the Gryffindors down the path towards Honeydukes as they recounted what they were now calling the Amazing Bouncing Ferret incident. After satisfying himself by glaring at a couple of third year Hufflepuffs as they gazed curiously at the unlikely foursome in passing, Draco strode ahead of them, wanting to distance himself from their incessant laughter.
Upon reaching Zonkos, Draco froze as a wizard approached him. The hairs on the back of his neck prickled as a sickingly familiar smell washed over him, Rookwood.
Fumbling nervously inside of his robes for his wand, panic overcame him as the tall wizard stopped before him. 'He must be wearing a glamour,' Draco thought as the unfamiliar face smiled down upon him.
"Master Malfoy, it is good to see that you have recovered."
Draco swallowed his fear as he looked up into the man's cold brown eyes. "I should think so. You were always meticulous in your healing."
The corners of the man's mouth curved up into a deceptive smile. "So you have not forgotten the care that I gave you. I must say that I am pleasantly surprised that you recognize me. Unfortunately, the aftermath of the war necessitates that I disguise myself," he replied quietly as Hermione, Ron, and Harry ran up behind Draco, their wands drawn though held at their sides.
"Are you okay Draco," Hermione questioned. An eerie sense had come over her a moment ago and when she looked up she saw Draco standing tense, his hand inside his robes as if seeking his wand.
The man turned to Hermione and smiled. "Such a lovely companion Draco, although I'm not so sure that Lucius would approve of your choice in friends," he smirked eyeing the scar upon Harry's forehead.
"Given that someone saw fit to alleviate him of earthly concerns, I'm not so sure that it matters," Harry retorted, raising his wand towards the man's chest.
Rookwood's eyes flashed towards Harry and he opened his mouth as if to reply before turning back to Draco suddenly. "It was good to see you again. I imagine that we'll cross paths again soon."
"Was that him," Hermione questioned as she saw Draco's shoulders relax and he withdrew his hands from the pockets of his robes.
Lowering his wand when Rookwood was out of sight, Harry turned to Draco. "Who was he?"
Draco didn't have a chance to respond before Professor Snape was upon them.
"Perhaps you would care to explain Mr. Potter, why I saw you with your wand aimed at another wizard while your two housemates had their wands drawn at the ready," Snape asked, his eyes burrowing into Harry with anger.
Hermione turned from Draco to look up at the Potions Master. "We thought that Draco had been…"
"Professor, Potter was simply trying to defend me. I had mistaken that wizard's identity."
Snape looked back to Hermione before abruptly turning in the direction that Rookwood had taken his leave. Unable to see anyone out of the ordinary, he turned his attention back on Draco.
"Are you quite certain that the Ministry need not be contacted Mr. Malfoy? You are aware that Augustus Rookwood is still at large. I believe we are both well aware that given his history it is not unlikely that he might make an attempt to abduct you again?"
Aware that while his Head of House was unlikely to believe his story, he would not continue to interrogate him if he confirmed his story, Draco answered, "I am certain sir."
Sighing in relief as the Professor Snape took his leave, Hermione walked beside Draco as Harry pulled a stunned Ron ahead with him.
As they walked along in silence, Draco considered the events that had taken place over the year and how they made him feel; the anger he had felt towards Hermione for his father's arrest; the betrayal he felt by Lucius's confessions; the despair he'd felt when captured by Bellatrix and Rookwood; and finally the helplessness he'd felt immediately following his rescue.
Looking over at Hermione as she walked beside him, Draco felt peace. Only days ago he felt as if he were alone in the world. Today, when his life was in very real jeopardy, three individuals that he had tormented over the past six years had rushed to his side prepared to fight for him.
"Hermione?"
Hermione startled when Draco spoke her name. She knew that he didn't mind her company. It was something that she could feel just as surely as she could feel the warmth of the sunshine upon her cheeks. He, however, rarely broke their silence, preferring just to be in her company without the interference of words that could lead to misunderstanding.
"Do you remember when we debated the Goblin Rebellion in the hospital wing," he continued.
She nodded her assent, wondering what would make him think of that at this time.
"I believe that I can now appreciate your reasoning behind the Goblin's brutality," he finished vaguely as his shoulder's relaxed and an eerie smile came across his lips.
Review Responses:
TheManWhoLetTheBoyLive: Glad to see that you enjoy it, hopefully this latest chapter doesn't disappoint. Wow, I'm sorry that I don't recall you, but if I at all encouraged you to write, I'm certainly happy. I know I find this to be quite therapeutic for me!
HGDM lova: Yes, Harry and Hermione are a little more easy going with Draco. And Ron, what can I say. He's a bit more stubborn, but I do love him. In fact, I was feeling so bad for the abuse he takes at times, that I wrote a lil cookie for him and Hermione. I am truly a Ron lover!
TigerLilly1889: Katie if I recall correctly. I'm glad that you loved the last installment. I hope that this one does not disappoint. Hehehehe, I didn't view it as a cliffie, there's certainly a bigger one coming! Glad to see you're still with me, I hope you enjoy the update!
Artemis1860: Smile, yeah you did. I didn't comment to be negative though, I hope it wasn't received that well. Shoot, get your readers where you can :) I'm sorry I haven't had a chance to check your fic out yet, but I do believe that I sent you an email. if you had trouble getting it, I can be reached at gryfforin at gmail dot com. (Why does ff kill all internet addresses, it's really really annoying!)