Title: The Anointed Prince
Author: Decadence
Genre: Romance/Drama/Angst
Rating: R (for later contents)
Setting: Set in a time barely ten years before the birth of magic within humanity.
Summary: Faced with his upcoming crowning, a war, and a royal ball, Prince Draco Romulus Gabriel Malfoy is forced into finding a spouse, someone of the proper breeding and etiquette.
Disclaimer: All character belong to J.K. Rowling, unless stated other wise (i.e. Clarisse and Owen).
Warning: SLASH (DM/HP); Draco will be dominate in the relationship. Also, I forgot to mention this in the first chapter, I forgot until one of my reviewers mentioned it, thank you kind reviewer, but this fanfic will contain MPreg in later chapters.
Chapter Seven: Broken Promises
AN: I am jumping forward in time a couple of days, there are now only three days left before the ball comes to a close.
Emerald green pools opened wide, they saw a foe that remained unknown. It had happened for the past couple of nights now, and Harry had grown weary of such intrusions. He felt as though he was no longer safe. Nightmares plagued his unconscious, though in the morning he could not recall exactly who or what it was that chased him or hurt him in his dreams. The daylight provided no comfort or protection either. The sensation, the shiver that ran down his spin, the trembling in his hands, the feeling of eyes watching him; it followed him from his dreams into his waking hours. It was random, too, at times, he felt fine, and then suddenly the feeling sprang up, the closing of his throat as he sought to speak. He knew naught, of what to make of his condition. He blamed it on tension, he blamed it on the coming war…in the end all his reasons bled together into a confused mass, and his previous diagnosis suddenly seemed hollow compared to the new one. In addition, through it all, each morning of fear and confusion, each night of tears and breakdowns, there was his fluctuation in temperature. It was as if his body was playing some odd game with him. One moment he was cold and the next he was warm, burning up even.
As if my soul was being burned and there is nothing I can do to stop this pain, Harry thought as he slowly rose from his bed.
There were no symptoms physically beyond his shaking. The heat could not be felt by others, he had gone to Seamus once when the heat had been unbearable, but the other lord claimed he felt normal. At times, it became so intense that Harry felt sure that his blood was boiling; it was enough to cause him to drop to the ground gripping his stomach and curling up into the fetal position in a desperate attempt to make the agony cease.
I am just lucky that such heat had not yet occurred in front of the other lords and ladies, no doubt they would love for such a thing to occur to ensure that they get their quota of gossip for the week, Harry thought with distain.
With a sigh at the thought of facing the court yet again, Harry walked into his closet and observed his wardrobe, searching for something comfortable and still acceptable. It seemed that, for all their wealth and high expectations, the nobles had yet to find a style of clothing that met both the comfortable and formal status. Selecting an elegant black shirt, black trousers that made his legs appear longer, and a black robe lined with emerald, Harry ran a hand through his wild hair and moved into his bathroom. In all honesty, he could care less for his physical appearance, it made no difference to him, but for everyone who was not him, they certainly seemed to have an opinion on the matter.
Harry had just finished washing his face and struggling to remove an eyelash from his eye when there was a knock at his door. Forgetting the eyelash for the moment, he glanced out a window, and called out to his visitor.
"It is open!" He waited until he heard the door open and soft footsteps before he spoke again. "Seamus, you know you need not knock. It is not as if you are not allowed to visit me without asking, we are engaged." For the moment, Harry thought. Leaning back across the counter, his back to the bathroom door, he continued his battle with the eyelash.
Outside the bathroom, in the bedroom, Draco gazed about the guest room. It had been a while since he had stepped foot inside a room such as this. When the royal family harbored guests, they were normally ambassadors or true lords and ladies, not just the heirs, as such, Draco very rarely visited the guest rooms. He saw no point in doing so, as he was sure to see them at some point in time throughout the day. However, upon the arrival of the Potter heir, Draco had found his thoughts wondering to the young lord. Often he would be of the mind to visit the kitchens for a quick snack and find himself standing outside of Harry's room. At one point he had been on his way to speak with his parents, only to find his feet led him back to Harry's room. He had had his hand wrapped around the doorknob before he had even realized. It was very curious behavior, if Draco said so himself, there was no explanation that he could conceive of. With such behavior, he was surprised he had held off calling on the lord for the past couple of days, however, now that he was here, he longed to touch everything. The thought of laying upon the bed, of it still being warm from when Harry had laid there tormented his mind for a moment, then Harry spoke, telling the unavailable Seamus that he did not need to knock. Draco scowled and moved over to the bathroom without pausing to consider that he might walk in at an inopportune moment.
Harry stood bent over, elbows resting upon the marble of the counter, poking at his eye. Draco's eyes traveled over the slender arms to the lean shoulders, down to the even slimmer waist and further down, and would have continued if the lord had not moved.
"Seamus, are you-" The soft voice cut off as emerald eyes caught sight of the prince standing behind him in all his royal glory. Standing, Harry turned around, inclining his head to the heir of Noir. "My prince, I did not-"
"I have told you far too many times, Harry, call me Draco." Draco said, smiling at his flustered companion. One would think that after the last few days, Harry would be used to Draco's impromptu visits. From corning the smaller man in the hallway, to sneaking up on him when he was alone in the library, everywhere that Harry went, it seemed as if it was only a matter of time before Draco appeared. With whispered words and light touches, the prince came with every intention of wooing the emerald-eyed lord. The only problem was that Harry was oblivious to his advances or played the role of a loyal fiancé, even though Draco knew there was nothing romantic between Harry and Seamus.
"When you and I are alone, such as now," Draco said, moving closer to Harry. "I am no longer a prince, and you are no longer a lord, we are simply Draco and Harry, and Harry, that is all that I want. At the moment."
Harry froze as Draco's hand brushed his cheek, the pale fingers trailing around the corner of his eye. Draco's thumb brushed against the bottom eyelid before pulling back, an eyelash resting upon his thumb.
"Make a wish," He said, holding his finger out to Harry, who stared at it before his eyes darted up to Draco's. Harry bit his lip, he thought for a moment, and then he leaned forward slightly and blew lightly upon Draco's extended finger. Draco smiled.
In moments such as this, Harry was forced to admit that he felt...something for the prince. It was only when the arrogance had faded, the smirks had softened into smiles, and the cruel word traps ceased, that Harry felt his stomach stir pleasantly and his lips lift in a true smile. When the rest of the world had its back turned, the prince was truly himself, and it was beautiful.
"Come away with me."
Oh yes, the prince could be quite charming when he wished to be. When Harry thought there was a hidden insinuation, or another scheme about to be revealed, the prince would smile, grasp his hand and pull him closer and whisper tender words to him. When the rest of the world was busy, the prince would sneak up on Harry and attack him in a moments' weakness with brief, gentle touches and words that hinted of promises, of pleasant endings to a fairytale.
"What are you asking of me?" Harry asked, confused by the prince's words. He had almost just answered with a yes, and then he had remembered, the promise he had made, the vow which could not be broken. He remembered the chain that lay wrapped around his left ring finger.
"I am asking if you would join me today," Draco said as he grasped Harry's hand.
"Join you in what?" Harry asked, still confused by the sudden request. Draco smiled.
"It is obvious that you do not enjoy the company of the other lords and ladies, and I want nothing more than to learn more about you, thus, I propose that you come away with me for one day. We shall go out into the city, you can meet my people, and we shall simply enjoy the day." Draco said, his fingers caressing Harry's, marveling at the slender fingers though they were covered in rough spots from the time Harry had spent out in the fields.
"The city?" Harry questioned, watching Draco carefully for any of deception. "You wish for me to accompany you into the city, without any other members of the royal court in attendance?"
"Yes, Harry, I do." Draco said, his thumb running circles along Harry's palm.
"I do not know...Draco..." Harry said, he glanced off to the side and did not see the beautiful smile that spread across Draco's lips at the use of his name. "Seamus will not-"
"No, no one must know of this little outing, not even Seamus." Draco said quickly.
"Draco, Seamus is my-" Harry frowned at his companion.
"Intended, yes, so you continually inform me, as if I needed a reminder." Draco said.
"I just do not see any reason for such secrecy if all we are doing is going into the city for a few hours and-"
"You do not understand, Harry." Draco sighed, his grip tightening around Harry's hand. "You have never visited the court before. You do not know of how they will hound us if we voice our plans. You cannot see how they would follow us or demand to join us. You could not comprehend the excuses they can and will create to be able to partake in our adventure."
Sorrow filled the silver eyes that Harry had come to adore. They showed their sadness at the thought of such a personal day being ruined by the conniving and dangerous members of the court. It was wrong, in more ways than one, Harry knew, to lie to ones' intended. It did not mark a good start to his and Seamus' marriage. Still, the thought of being the cause of such sorrow was far worse, though Harry thought that it should not have been. If there was a way to bring happiness back into those darkening silver depths, then Harry would do it, there was no more time for hesitation, his mind was made up.
"Very well, Draco." Harry said softly.
"Truly, you will come, and you shall tell no one, not even Seamus?" Draco asked. Harry nodded, he caught a brief glance of those silver orbs lightening before two strong arms pulled him into a tight embrace. Harry laughed as Draco hugged him tight. It was almost as if they were friends...
Perhaps we can become more...Harry thought as he returned the embrace.
"Shh...this is the when one must be quiet, Harry." Draco whispered, pulling the softly chuckling lord down the hallway.
"I am truly sorry, Draco, but you are being ridiculous...sneaking around inside your own palace..." Harry smiled as he watched his companion glance around a corner before crossing the hallway to continue on their journey to the back doors of the palace.
"Ridiculous is not the word for such a situation as this, this is...being cautious, one never knows-" Draco cut off as a voiced sounded from a corner up ahead of them. Thinking quickly, Draco jumped over to the first door he could reach, wrenched the knob and pushed the door opened, pulling Harry into the room after him before closing the door softly. Draco stood there, ear pressed against the door trying to hear outside. Harry pressed a hand to his mouth to prevent his laughter. If every outing was as hilarious as this one, then Harry would always accept the prince's offers to abandon the court for a day.
"Is the coast clear, Draco?" Harry asked in a whisper as he grinned at his companion's back.
"I think so...or at least, they should have passed by already..." Draco said, ear still pressed against the door. "Come..." Draco held out his hand behind him, and without hesitation, Harry slid his smaller hand into Draco's.
"This time, be silent...you will never make a good prince if you are unable to sneak around without being found out." Draco said, he never even considered the words he used. Luckily, Harry was too busy sniggering to notice.
"I shall try, Draco." Harry said solemnly once he had gained control of his laughter again.
"Then, here we go." Draco said, and then he pulled the door open and glanced up and down the hallway. Finding it empty, he started off down the way they had been heading, Harry following behind him and glancing back the way they had come. Thus far, they had dodged three members of the court, including Cedric, a couple of servants, and a wearied looking old man that Draco had called Dumbledore.
"Draco, do your parents know of this little...outing of ours?" Harry asked softly as they went.
"Of course they do, what did you think I would leave people such as the members of the court unattended without telling my parents first?" Draco whispered back. "It is not far now...we only have to cross the entrance hall and then we are home free."
It was easier said than done, unfortunately. The entrance hall was large and always, always occupied by at least one person no matter the time of day or night. Someone was always coming or going, and as such the hall would be a difficult obstacle to overcome.
Glancing about the entrance hall, Harry spotted two people he could not identify, making their way toward one of the two curved stairways, two warriors stepping inside to speak to their commander, whose office was off in another hallway, and...
"Seamus..." Harry breathed. Draco turned. Seamus stood with his back to them, speaking to Susan again. Harry tensed when Susan laughed and touched Seamus' arm. Draco tightened his grip on Harry's hand, he was surprised when Harry returned the pressure. "What do we do?"
"This is going to be difficult, but we should be able to pull it off...here is what we do..." Draco whispered, pulling Harry closer and whispering into his ear. Harry shivered faintly as Draco's lips brushed his ear. "When those two warriors have reached the top of the stairs, and the two messengers return to their discussion, you and I will calmly and silently cross the room. Seamus and Susan have their backs to us, if we go quietly, we should be able to make it."
"Are you certain?" Harry asked anxiously, shifting closer to Draco without realizing it.
"Of course, I am the prince after all." Draco said in mock arrogance. He smiled down at Harry, pulling him closer and resting his chin on top of Harry's head as he wrapped his arms around the slender youth. "Can you do it, will you try?"
Harry tensed as the arms enclosed him. For a moment he stood there, tense and afraid of what was happening, concerned that the embrace was too much. He felt as if he were betraying Seamus for a second, and then he sighed. Turning his head, he pressed his cheek against Draco's chest and leant into the taller man. Slowly, Harry felt his body relax and that burning warmth began to flare to life. He let out an uneasy breath as the warmth sang along his veins for a moment.
"I can do it." Harry whispered into Draco's chest. Draco pressed a gentle kiss against Harry's head, unable to prevent the movement.
"Then let us proceed." Draco whispered back. Releasing Harry and glancing around the corner, Draco was silent for a couple of minutes. Then..."Okay, ready...go, quickly."
Grasping Harry's hand, Draco left the safety of their hallway and walked quickly and quietly across the hallway, glancing over to ensure that no one was watching. Harry followed only a step behind the prince, however, he remained facing forward as he could not bear to look at Seamus and know that only a moment ago he had willing leaned into the embrace of another man.
Upon reaching the other hallway on the other side of the entrance hall, Draco picked up his pace slightly, making his way quickly through the kitchens and down a back hallway. As they rushed out of the back doors, Draco let out a loud yell, whirling around and grabbing Harry and lifting the smaller man off his feet. Harry laughed at his companions' actions as Draco set him down and pulled him toward the carriage that stood waiting for them.
As they climbed into the carriage and the door was closed behind them, Draco pulled Harry again over to his side and cupped his cheek. A soft smile graced Draco's lips as he gazed down upon Harry, pressed against his side.
"Thank you, for coming with me," Draco whispered as he leaned down and pressed a tender kiss against Harry's forehead.
"Thank you," He whispered again, pressing a light kiss on Harry's nose. Harry's eyes were drifting closed slowly at the gentle touches.
"Thank you," Draco whispered faintly as he pressed a delicate kiss to the corner of Harry's mouth. Distantly he heard Harry's breathy gasp, the only thing Draco saw, however, was Harry's flushed face and his lightly parted lips.
"Thank you," Draco whispered as he leaned down and claimed Harry's lips, caressing and teasing, seeking and claiming. Harry sighed into the kiss.
Within the closed confines of a carriage that made its way toward the palace walls and out into the city, secluded from viewers, as the rest of the world remained oblivious, and as Susan Bones attempted to flirt with Seamus, Harry found that emotion that had eluded his first kiss. He found the passion, the love, the tender revelation of desire, and he found them in a single kiss from Draco Malfoy. And as the warmth sought to claim him, and the kiss drew to a close, Harry felt the heat touch Draco softly before withdrawing as if being calmed from a wild fire to a candle flame.
As Draco pulled back, silver eyes alight with desire, and the heat flared to life again, Harry released a shaky breath. Then, those perfect lips, so tender in their conquest, were back, pressed against his, and the heat sang along Harry's flesh and danced over onto Draco's. It sang in delight as it wove itself around them and pulled them closer. It was still present, Harry knew that it would always be there, flickering inside him, calling out to him, but now Harry welcomed the flames that consumed his soul, for they were flames that only Draco could sooth.
"You cannot seriously expect me to believe that you approve of such a....match." Narcissa sighed as she gazed at Draco's godfather. She had not expected Severus to understand, but she had not expected such words from him, such rancor from him. "It is ludicrous, there are many who would be better suited to the title of Draco's spouse beyond the Potter heir. You are allowing your only son and heir to proceed with a spontaneous actions that shall only end in harm for him."
"Severus, when Draco came to us and announced his decision, we were of the same state of mind as you yourself are." Narcissa held up her hand to halt his protest. "However, after several hours of argument, we came to realize that, Draco meant every word he said. He truly feels something for Potter heir, he did not know what at the time, only that it was worth pursuing. He described it as an intense longing for something you cannot have. I am sure you know the feeling, or something along the lines of said feeling."
"Narcissa, I still do not think-"
"Severus, our son has never made decisions of such importance lightly. He treats every decision delicately, for they are of great importance and he understands that. I know that Draco's choice seems odd to you now, but if he has been truthful in his argument and is prepared for the adversity such a union will cause, then Narcissa and I shall stand behind him the entire way, and I know that Draco would appreciate it if you would back him in this as well." Lucius said when Narcissa looked as if she was about to become angry.
"Lucius...you know that I care for Draco, almost as if he were my own son, but for the life of me, I cannot comprehend why he would make such a decision like this...it is, confusing and upsetting. Nothing can be gained from this but the wrath of the court. I am not sure if you are aware of it or not, but many members of the court are set against the Potter heir, and that is before he was being pursued by the prince, when they learn of this sudden change...who knows what will happen..." Severus said softly.
"We know, and measures shall be taken to ensure the young man's safety, even against the court. He shall be watched at all times when he is present amid the court. They are often times very foolish, but not foolish enough to try to harm the prince's intended in front of witnesses." Lucius said.
"Yes, but, did Draco say...why he choose the Potter heir?" Severus asked, still desperate for a logical reason behind the decision.
"Because, Severus, his destiny had already chosen for him, and the only thing the prince could possibly do, was become entranced by the Potter heir in the same way that the young Harry shall soon be entranced by the prince..." Dumbledore said with a chuckle. Over the years, the three key royal officials that grown used to the old man's sudden comings and goings, so none were surprised when Dumbledore appeared out of nowhere.
"What do you mean?" Lucius asked.
"Well, Lucius, it all started with a prophesy that was written many, many centuries ago..."
Harry sighed, gazing out the window of the carriage as he thought of his recent actions. The last time he had done anything close to what he had done today, was that day when he had accepted Draco's offer to dance. It had been innocent enough, but Seamus had still been upset with him. Seamus had dragged him out of the hall and back up to his room, where he had proceeded to demand exactly what it was that Harry had been doing. Of course, explaining that it was merely a dance between two friends, had resulted in even greater anger as Seamus had then demanded how Harry had become friends with the prince. In the end, they had argued and Harry had stormed back down to his room, where he locked himself in and gone to bed without changing his clothes. Since that night, Seamus had kept close watch over Harry, limiting the amount of time that he and Harry spent in the prince's presence. He claimed that he was protecting his intended, but his actions still confused Harry.
Seamus will never understand this, Harry thought with another sigh. He had always thought that if anyone ended their courtship that it would be Seamus. Harry had accepted the idea that Seamus might find someone whom he loved and wished to be with, he had resigned him to letting Seamus go. Only now did he discover that it would be him to call it off, as much as it would pain him to do so.
"Harry, if you are upset about the kiss...I understand, I was not within my rights...you are engaged and-" Draco began, fully intending to apologize and beg for forgiveness if only Harry would not hate him for his actions.
"No, Draco...it is not the kiss, the kiss was...it was perfect, I am merely sorry that I must end my engagement with Seamus." Harry whispered, returning his gaze to the passing landscape again. He struggled to contain the tears that were welling up. "I doubt he will understand..."
A warm hand touched his cheek, fingers brushing away the tear that escaped. Harry turned back to his companion. If Harry had had any doubts about ending his engagement, the look in those silver eyes would have ended those doubts. Pride, compassion, love, and desire swirled within the silvery depths, assuring him of Draco's intentions.
"If he cares for you, he will understand that what lies between the two of us is a perfect harmony seldom seen in this day and age. If he cares at all, he will see the emotions that you invoke within me, and the emotions that I invoke in you, and he will understand." Draco brushed away another tear as he continued his soft caress. "If he cares for you, he will see that what I feel for you is more than what could ever form between the two of you, and he will let you go."
A watery smile lifted Harry's lips at Draco's words. He smiled and let out a low chuckle a he gazed back at Draco. Draco smiled down at him and merely continued to touch his cheek.
"Thank you," Harry whispered as Draco leaned down and claimed what now belonged to him, unofficially.
"Come, I shall show you all the decent stores that contain the most beautiful silks and satins in the kingdom. Then we shall go to this delightful bakery that makes the most delicious breads and pastries, you will be questioning how you ever managed without such wonderful food before." Draco said as he led Harry through the crowded plaza of the city square.
All around them bustled the common men and women of Noir. They came from all directions and seemed unaware of royalty among them. It was odd since even when a lord such as Seamus went outside of his house and into town to have a ring fitted the people swarmed him.
"Oh, the people recognize me, its just that, I visit this place so often that they no longer feel the need to greet me with each visit. In all honesty, I kind of had to tell them to ignore my presence and carry on as if I were one of them." Draco explained when Harry asked him about the odd behavior. "Of course, in a moment someone will realize that I am no longer alone and come over to greet and question us, especially as I am holding your hand."
Harry blushed at the last comment, though he made no move to pull away from the prince. Though, sure enough, barely fifteen minutes there, a young lady approached them, inclining her head to the prince as she came closer. Draco smiled at her to assure her that her presence was welcomed.
"Prince, I know how you requested that we ignore your presence, but...my curiosity had gotten the best of me and I find myself wondering who this handsome youth is that accompanies you." She asked in the wispy voice of someone who had dealt with children and is used to soft noises as they do not scare the babies.
"It is fine, and you are right to ask. This is my dear companion, Harry Potter, of the Potter lords down in the southern end of Noir. He is visiting me as his presence was requested at my ball." Draco said lightly. Harry smiled at her, but he felt unsure of himself now, he was unsure if Draco was going to tell her of their relationship or not. He knew it was soon to be announcing anything, but he still wondered.
"I see, my prince. He is just your companion..." She said, then with hesitation she continued. "Will he always remain, just your companion? I do not mean to appear nosy, but I have heard rumors of the Potters and their kindness, their compassion for others...and I wondered if...perhaps..."
"You have no cause for concern, as I intend to fully claim Harry as my spouse, though I will ask you to keep it secret, as all shall come out to the public in due course." Draco said, pressing a kiss to Harry's hand. Harry smiled brilliantly at him, his fears forgotten.
"Of course, my prince, of course!" She cried, delighted. Unable to contain her joy she grasped Harry's free hand within her own and pressed a kiss to it before rushing off down the street.
"Do you trust her not to tell?" Harry asked curiously, watching as the young lady vanished from sight.
"Of course, and even if she does tell, no one would believe her, so either way we are safe until you speak to Seamus." Draco said with a shrug, continuing on his way through the plaza.
"Of course...Seamus..." Harry whispered.
"Harry, it must be done, and I shall go with you if you wish it. You need not do this alone." Draco said with a concerned glance at his companion.
"No, it is fine, I shall tell him, and everything shall be fine." Harry said with a smile. "Now, show me these wonderful shops that I cannot live without..."
"No, it is the food that you cannot live without, the shops are merely brilliant beyond words and beyond description." Draco corrected with a laugh as he pulled Harry into the first shop.
The guards of the palace gates had seen everything at least twice throughout their duties as guards, still, it was surprising sometimes, the things they saw. What had started out as a cloud of dust rising off in the distance had soon become a weary, dirt stained girl looking to be no older than eighteen. She had been riding upon a horse that seemed to be in worse condition that she herself was in.
"Please, I must speak to Lord Harry Potter, I bear an urgent message from his parents." She had said. To prove her story true, she pulled out a parchment, but refused to let them read it. "It is for the lord's eyes only."
With weary sighs and prayers to the gods that she was not lying, the guards had assigned one member of their team to escort the young lady inside the palace and to the young lord of whom she sought. However, upon entering the entrance hall, one of the other young lords had intercepted them.
"Hermione! What in heaven's name happened to you, you look terrible...What are you doing here?" Seamus cried as he spotted his friend. Hermione managed a smile for him and explained her situation. "A letter, did something happen to Lily and James?"
"I cannot say, I can tell only Harry, no one else is to know the circumstances with which he is involved." Hermione said.
"I am his intended, his soon to be husband, you know this Hermione, it is my right to know." Seamus said.
"Until you have legally wed to Harry, you have no such right, and might I remind you, that at any time Harry can decide to refuse your offer of marriage." Hermione said stiffly, not liking the way he was speaking to her. She might not be a lady of rank, but she still deserved the proper respect. Her escort chose that moment to intervene.
"Lord Finnigan, do you know the whereabouts of Lord Potter?" He asked politely.
"Harry, oh no, I have not seen him all day, but I am sure he is around here somewhere. Come, we shall find him..." Seamus said, leading Hermione, the guard, and a pouting Susan off to find Harry.
The sun was sinking slowly, its reds fading into purples as if requesting one last wish before the execution of its light. Lunch had past, dinner had come and gone, and still there showed no sign of Harry...or of the prince. Though the king and queen claimed that their son was still within the palace, merely attending to his royal duty.
Hermione sat, silently in one of the chairs. She held herself erect, her back as straight as the walls that surrounded her. It was a comfortable chair, however, when one went from wooden chairs with the occasional cushion, sitting in a lush chair designed for comfort was a bit odd. For the past couple of hours, after the officials had called off the search for her friend after the king had calmly stated that no harm had come to Harry and that he was merely attending to his own personal agenda for the day, Hermione had been trapped within this room. She had paced, she had lain down, and now she was sitting.
Harry, where are you...you never had a personal agenda before...Hermione thought, gazing out of the window at the vast expanse of land that surrounded the palace.
And that was what confused Hermione the most, the fact that her best friend, who had always placed others before him, despite their social status, was suddenly said to be attending to a personal agenda. Hermione sighed, her friend could not have changed so soon, and would not have allowed for such a change to have occurred. It all pointed to only one thing, the king was covering something up.
Something had happened, Harry had left the palace or was being held somewhere within the palace, either way, the king knew of his location and was keeping it secret. Hermione shook her head, royals always seemed to think that they could control everything.
Which they can...Hermione laughed to herself.
Hermione stiffened and rose from her chair when the door opened. A smile broke out upon her face as her walked in. The smiled faded slightly as she took in her friend's appearance for the first time in a couple of months.
Harry was still his slender short self, his hair was still wild, and his skin was still its usually honeyed cream color. However, Harry's aura had changed. He glowed. His eyes were alight with happiness and his cheeks were flushed. The smile that graced his face was beautiful to behold and though she was happy to see his joy, she could not help but wonder what had caused such a change, and if anything else had changed.
"You are clean, Harry...I do not believe I have ever seen you this clean." Hermione said softly in greeting. She laughed as her friend whirled around and bounded across the room, dropping the two bags he had been carrying, he grabbed hold of Hermione tightly.
"Mione, what...what are you...You are here!" Harry cried as he laughed along with her.
"Yes, Harry, I am here..." Hermione said, her arms wrapped around his shoulders as he continued to hold her in a brotherly hug. She was used to his hugs, he often touched people back at home, whether it was on their shoulders or their hands, he was always ready to offer comfort or encouragement.
"Why are you here, Hermione?" Harry asked, pulling away slightly. "Not that I am complaining, on the contrary, I am overjoyed at your presence and hope that you will consider joining me at the dance this evening."
"Harry..."
"Granted, the dance is almost over now, but there are still a couple of hours left, it is enough time for you to meet the other members of the royal court..." Harry paused, glancing around as if to ensure that they were actually alone, then he leaned in an whispered to her. "You would loathe to meet Pansy Parkinson, she is everything that you are not, and I am glad for it. She is obnoxious and openly rude with her comments, she-"
"Harry! I have come on behalf of your parents..." Hermione finally said, interrupting her friend. The smile that had touched his lips vanished instantly as he paled.
"Mum, dad...why, what is wrong? Did, did something happen? Are-ar-are they okay?" Harry asked. He could feel the emotions raging within.
The heat that had remained still all day, calmed by the tender, loving touches shared throughout the trip to city, suddenly flared to life again. It whispered across him, calling to him, asking him to embrace it. Angrily it cried, pounding against his veins in its desperate attempt to be free at last.
"Harry, you need to calm down, you cannot think clearly when you are upset." Hermione said as she tightened her grip on Harry's arms. Harry took a deep breath; distantly he could hear his friend, her words asking him to calm down. Slowly, he pushed away the heat, locking up within himself, as he sat down on one of the twin seats before the fire. His emerald eyes focused on Hermione, seeking an answer, any answer, as long as he knew what had happened.
"Hermione, what happened?" He asked, gripping her hands within his own.
"It is…difficult to explain, Harry." Hermione said. Harry merely stared at her, waiting for her to continue. It might take a moment, but Hermione always managed to get her message across. However, of all the messages Harry might have predicted, the one he received was the farthest from his mind.
"Harry…consider it as a past debt being due…" Hermione whispered.
It was overwhelmingly warm within the room. The creams and pale greens no longer soothed him, the room had changed suddenly, and its walls were closing in, pressing him to his back. The heat rippled around him, as he lay there, staring up at the ceiling with a vapid, vague expression upon his face. His entire body was lax and lay unmoving. Hermione had since ceased trying to speak to her friend, for he no longer responded to any of her words. He was lost, a drift within his thoughts. Hermione had explained everything to him, his mother's fear for his safety, his father's anguish at what he could prevent. Harry sighed; he sought answers that were unavailable to him. The situation was beyond his control now.
It always has been beyond my control, Harry laughed to himself, unaware that his dry chuckle had started Hermione, who sat beside him staring off into space.
From the moment Voldemort had taken his family's land, Harry had known that it was only a matter of time before Voldemort struck against his parents again. His engagement with Seamus had bought him some time, but deep down, Harry had always known that nothing could save him.
"I need a plan…" He thought aloud. Hermione stirred beside him.
"A plan?" She asked softly, gripping his hand.
"Yes, I need a way to negotiate with Voldemort…"
"Harry…"
"No, he wants something from me…there is something…something inside me that he wants…" Harry muttered as he sat up suddenly.
"Harry, what are you saying, you sound confused. Please, Harry, calm down, we shall go to the king and ask him for his assistance and-" Hermione said.
"No! Hermione, my parents went to the king once before, you remember it, you were present at the time…he did not help us then, and he will not help us now. We are alone; we have always been alone…" Harry whispered.
He knew there was something, something that had never been revealed to him. He was harboring something inside himself that Voldemort wanted, but he knew naught of what it was. It was within him, burning at his soul, consuming him…he wanted it gone, vanished from the face of the land, but could not be rid of it. He needed a solution, a way to remove this anomaly from himself, only then would his parents be safe, only then could be truly be happy.
"Harry, I-" Hermione was cut off by the door swinging open forcefully.
"Harry! Thank the gods…I did not know where you were, and I have finally found you, the relief I feel could drown me." Seamus whispered as he crossed the room and wrapped Harry up in his arms, holding him close and kissing his cheek. "Are you all right, you seem pale…"
"I am fine, Seamus…Hermione is here, did you-" Harry began, shifting away from Seamus. He trembled to know that in a moment Seamus would hate him.
"Yes, I greeted her when she first arrived, she was desperate to find you, but you were nowhere to be found, and…Harry, never scare me like that again." Seamus said, turning Harry to face him. "I was worried; I could not find you, no matter how I searched…"
Harry turned away as Seamus leaned in to kiss him. Seamus pulled back, confused. Flashes of the day's events swept across Harry's mind, and he felt the tears brimming to the surface, looking for any excuse to spill over.
"Harry, what…" Seamus froze as Harry took his hand and pressed a small object into his hand. "Harry…I…"
Resting in his hand sat his grandmothers' ring, still warm from Harry's finger. Seamus raised his eyes to stare at the youth who had almost belonged to him. Emerald eyes were filled with tears as they gazed back at him, and those soft lips trembled as they spoke.
"I release you, Seamus Finnigan; from the responsibilities of your engagement to me…I release you…" Harry whispered, his head lowering to conceal his tears.
"I do not understand…surely you do not mean…Harry, why would you…" Seamus froze again, his eyes fastened on the garnets of his grandmothers' ring. In the reflection of the gem he saw Harry smiling happily as he danced, protected forever within the loving embrace of the prince. He saw Harry laughing gently as he exchanged comments with the prince. He saw the looks they cast to each other when they thought no one noticed, he saw their brief touches when he was turned away…he saw their happiness…
Hermione let out a surprised scream as Seamus' hand met Harry's smooth cheek. The sickening crack was brief, but it left a tension in the air, as when lightning strikes and those that see it are left fearing the thunder that will follow. Hermione had no idea of what had happened between the pair, but she knew that Harry would never betray Seamus for another, and he would never return the engagement ring unless he was certain of some new emotion, of the person he was considering to engage with.
Emerald eyes stared up at the one person who had promised to care for him, who promised wonderful things, things that were now gone…Seamus had never struck him before. The shock of the moment hurt more than the throbbing bruise that Harry was sure was forming.
"I…I-am…am so sorry, Harry." Seamus whispered, dropping back down onto the bed beside his friend. He knew that Harry would only be a friend now, but he would always be a friend. "I do not know…what came over me…I should not have…I…forgive me. Please, Harry?"
"Seamus…I am sorry to hurt you like this…" Harry whispered, laying his head against his friend's shoulder. He knew that Seamus had not meant to hit him, it was a reaction born of pain and surprise. The flames burned brighter within the fireplace, casting shadows across the room. His left ring finger felt lighter than it should, the warmth within him danced upon the finger in delight at the release of the pressure upon it.
"I told you once, that if you found someone, someone who loved you, whom you loved, that I would let you go…and so I shall…" Seamus whispered, pressing a tender kiss to Harry's red cheek. "I am so sorry for my actions…" Without another word, Seamus left, closing the door behind him, closing the door on any romantic relationship that he and Harry might ever have shared.
AN: Oh, my god…I am so uncertain about posting this chapter. Do not get me wrong, I love writing the Harry/Draco interactions…but I did not know if such a development was too soon or not. If it is, please, please tell me and I shall add another chapter between this one and the previous one.
I felt, that the advance in time was needed, or else the chapters would become repetitive in their information. I wanted Hermione to arrive so that I formally introduce Harry to Dumbledore, Lucius, and Narcissa. In this chapter, Harry began to see that there is something within him that is growing and becoming ever forceful on being released, Dumbledore will help with that. I wrote, at the beginning of this chapter, that Draco and Harry had frequent run ins throughout the days in between chapter six and this chapter, so I hope that their sudden informal relationship was not too sudden or startling a change. In order to move the plot along without running in circles for another couple of chapters, I fast-forwarded the days, there are now only three days left, and those three days will be packed full of revelations, decisions, and of course, Draco/Harry interactions. Please tell me if you liked this chapter or if I should add additional chapters before it. You guys are all wonderful for every comment you have given, they are all appreciated.
Review Responses:
Daishiko: You and your friends all read my fanfic, wow! I am surprised, I can only discuss what I read with select friends, and even they do not read the same thing as I do…Oh well, thank you for your comments, and I hope I continue to make all of you happy.
Rit-Globe: Yes, Harry's magic does have to do with fire; the actual labeling of his magic comes in the next chapter, so I hope you are ready. I am overjoyed that you enjoy my fanfic, I appreciate such kind comments. Thank you.
SuishouTenshi: Mmmm….chocolate…Thank you a thousand and one times over for all of your reviews, they make my day for me. The length of your reviews causes me great joy, for you always have good advice or kind things to say about my writing. My beta is unavailable until January 4, so all my chapters will be reposted with a couple of weeks after that day with all the corrections made. And I was shocked by how much we had in common, from painting and drawing, to languages, though I hope to know seven languages fluently before I die. Anyway, thank you again for your wonderful support and beautiful reviews, I appreciate them so much.
Shinchansgirl: Thank you for your review, it is amazing to find so many people appreciate my writings…beyond my close friends, I figured no one would, so you guys have made me eternally happy. Asking for updates does not annoy me, I may not be able to produce chapters as fast as everyone would like, but I do get them out as quickly as I can. Anyway, thank you very much for your review, it was brilliant.
The Shadow Bandit: To say I am honored by your review, if putting it lightly. I have considered your work to be far beyond my level of writing, and to have you say that you enjoyed my writing is beyond amazing to me. Thank you for your review, even if those words do not begin to cover how much I appreciate your kind words.
NightProdigy: Addicted, really? Wow, that is a wonderful compliment and I appreciate it. Thank you for your comments, thank you for each review you write, and thank you for taking the time to read my fanfic, I appreciate so much. Thank you.
Can You See: I have had numerous ideas for short stories that I have begun writing and never finished (I tend to get distracted easily), and since I have posted this story on Fanfiction, numerous people have encouraged me to continue writing…I believe it is time to continue what I began. I thank you, and everyone else, who have liked my writing and told me so. I thank you for your support and your encouragement. Thank you.
Next Chapter: Harry and Hermione are called down to meet the king and queen, Draco walks in and finds the bruise on Harry's cheek, Dumbledore begins to explain what is going on and why Harry is suddenly feeling as if he is being burned alive, and Trelawney pieces everything together in her vision and makes a surprise visit...
