Title: Salamander Scales
Chapter Five: Finally
Author: Yama Strife
Rating: PG for swearing
Disclaimer: My name isn't J.K. Rowling, therefore, they aren't mine
Summary: We finally find out what's going on in this chapter ^^
Notes: This is Chapter Five. Thank you to everyone who has reviewed so far.
Your comments are so kind. Thank you so much. I'm so sorry this is so late,
but I got grounded, unfortunately, so I wasn't able to type and post this
up. This will be the last chapter for a little while, because school is
starting in a few days, and my computer time is limited. Harry is pretty
OOC in this chapter, and I apologize for that.
This is Slash. Eventual Harry/Draco. Don't like? Don't read. Flames are
welcome, gives me a chance to laugh at your stupidity. You have been
warned.
(There are some slight slashy undertones in this chapter, just because I'm
a jerk and I hadn't put any slash in it up until now. Harry calls Malfoy,
Draco in this chapter too, cause that's so cute in my opinion)
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Harry sat in his plush chair, looking around the room for lack of anything better to do. Dumbledore had not yet arrived to speak to the boys and Harry was having a hard job of passing the time. He was bored and there was absolutely nothing to do in here. He missed Ron and Hermione; he usually found something to do when they were around. Harry slouched down in his chair, the effort of sitting up properly finally getting to him.
Harry was absolutely stuffed to bursting point after consuming not only his own, but Malfoy's breakfast as well. He did this out of boredom just as much as it was out of hunger. He couldn't think of anything else to preoccupy himself with anyway. Besides, Harry had noticed that Draco didn't eat much at breakfast, having glanced in that table's direction in the morning, purely to glare at Malfoy of course. And since he had completely ignored Harry when he'd warned him his breakfast was getting cold, Harry took the liberty of eating it himself. He received a baleful look and rolled eyes as response for this. It wasn't Harry's fault; he hadn't eaten for awhile. And, after all, constant mind numbing pain builds up an appetite.
Harry looked in Malfoy's direction, who was still poised gracefully on the on his deep green bed, reading whatever was contained in the pages of that small black book. His face held a bemused expression and looked abnormally flesh-toned for Malfoy, who usually looked like white floor tile, in Harry's opinion. He chalked it up to the red torches on the wall beside Malfoy's bed.
"What do you want, Potter? I know I'm attractive, but your constant staring is annoying me," said Malfoy bluntly, his eyes never leaving the page of his book.
Harry flushed slightly -glad Malfoy wasn't looking up to see his face turn red- and remembering why he disliked Malfoy so much, he sat up-much to the dismay of his stomach- and said, "I was just noticing your roots are going dark. Forget to dye your hair this week Malfoy?" Harry said, in a sneer rivaling the most impressive of Malfoy sneers.
Malfoy looked up toward his forehead for a split second before realizing that a) he couldn't see his roots and b) he didn't dye his hair to begin with. It was naturally this beautiful silver-blonde colour.
"You're just jealous that not everyone walks around with a black mop attached to their head Potter," he said, smirking. His eyes returned their attention to the book.
Harry bristled slightly, and deciding that this argument could go on forever, and not wanting to take part in it, he shrugged and slouched back in his chair. Resting his cheek on his palm, he focused his eyes on the carpet and let out a loud sigh.
"Would you quit your moaning and groaning Potter? It really is quite annoying, not that I'd expect any different from you." He curled his lip and glared in a manner that could melt the plaster off walls, but Harry was used to getting this look at least three times a day, and it didn't phase him.
"Ah, you can't multitask very well, can you Malfoy? Imagine, using your eyes and ears at the same time. Must be some sort of sensory overload." He shot Malfoy a dirty look before turning his attention to the fire and saying quietly, "What would you know anyway?" He shuffled his feet a bit on the carpet, causing his socks to make floppy tails at the front.
Draco smirked. "Quite a bit actually; more than you'll ever know in any case. Like the fact that you look even more imbecilic when your socks are falling off." He curled his lip distastefully. "But maybe you think that's an endearing look, hmm?" And realizing how much Potter bored him, he picked up his book to continue reading, but not before shooting out, "After all, I can read, and it seems that you haven't mastered that skill yet, otherwise you might be able to entertain yourself in a less aggravating way." He shifted his body so one leg was draped over the edge of the bed, the other still curled under his body.
Harry turned to sit sideways in his chair, his legs hanging over the arm so he could look at Malfoy without craning his neck around painfully. "What are you reading anyway?" Harry asked, curiosity piqued. "It must be horribly interesting for you to keep your nose practically glued to the page." He eyed the black cover, wondering momentarily if it contained Dark magic.
Malfoy ran a hand through his pale hair in frustration, and act normally unseen by a Malfoy. Draco didn't care right now though, considering he had yet to clean and style his silvery blonde locks.
He looked at Harry and saw an accusational expression flit across the darker boy's features for a moment, and he knew what The-Boy-Who-Lived was thinking. He sighed for what felt like the millionth time that morning and rolled his eyes. "Scar-head, you idiot." He shook his head in disbelief. "Do you think I'd be fool enough to brush up on my Dark Arts right under Dumbledore's long crooked nose?"
Harry gasped and his eyes widened. "You mean you really do practice -"
"I was being sarcastic you -"
"-Dark Arts? I mean, we all thought you'd have some training, but-"
"Idiot." Malfoy sighed, "Oh sod off you stupid git."
"-We weren't really sure."
Malfoy had obviously had enough of his company's assertion and stupidity. Harry didn't even notice Malfoy stand up and walk deftly over to him, so lost in his rant was he. Draco wondered how anyone could be idiotic enough to not spot the obvious sarcasm in his voice, but then he realized that this was Potter he was dealing with, and of course he was asinine enough to miss it. Malfoy came to stand in front of Harry, who had moved to sit on his knees to shout at him.
When he finally noticed that Malfoy was standing directly in front of him, he glared fiercely and waved his arms to show just how strongly he felt, along with his continuing rant of, "Kick you out of school" and a mention of "Azkaban" here and there.
Malfoy looked at Harry in a pitying sort of way, feeling as rueful as a Malfoy could manage. He felt sorry that anyone could be so completely daft. With that thought in mind he thrust his hand in between Harry's flailing arms and he flicked Harry right in the center of the forehead.
Harry stopped yelling abruptly and blinked. It seemed that he was in a small state of shock. After all, he surely couldn't have been expecting to be flicked on the head, least of all by Malfoy of all people.
"Oh shut your mouth, you great lump. You look like a fish out of water," He said in his aristocratic drawl. Malfoy turned and stalked back to his bed where he lay down on his back and stared up at the green canopy above his head.
Harry, it seemed, gained back the use of his tongue, after sitting speechlessly for a minute or so, but the only thing he could manage to say was, "What did you do that for?" Blinking rather rapidly and looking quite insulted.
Draco simply said, "You deserved it," in a bored voice, typical of Malfoy.
Harry stood up suddenly; realizing revenge was in order. He stomped over to Draco's bed, no doubt trying to sound as if impending doom were finding its way to Malfoy. But the effect was lost by his softened footsteps, courtesy of homemade Weasley woolly socks. He stood at the side of Malfoy's bed and stared down at the bored looking boy. "What do you mean I deserved it?" He asked indignantly.
Malfoy continued to look at the canopy. "You were blathering on like an idiot, and I was far from annoyed." Draco stated, shrugging. "I mean, honestly Potter, as if I'd practice the Dark Arts." He looked at Harry as though he was a stupid child one has grown tired of baby-sitting.
"Well, you didn't have to flick me," Harry said, touching the offending spot on his forehead. "In fact." He trailed off, a strange glint in his eyes, "I think you ought to be taught a lesson," He continued, leaning in dangerously close to Draco.
Draco blinked, confused as to why Harry was suddenly so close. He tried to back away, realizing he couldn't because he was lying on his back, practically trapped. He could feel Harry's breath on his face, lifting his hair gently, moving and tickling his forehead. He flushed in embarrassment and shifted slightly to his right.
He was preoccupied with hoping that Harry didn't notice the heat building up on his cheeks. So preoccupied he didn't notice Harry raise his hand-
Harry flicked Malfoy on the tip on his pale pointed nose and he darted back across the room before practically diving onto his over-stuffed chair. Draco's flush of embarrassment turned to one of anger as he sat up stiffly and spluttered, "Wha- what in the hell do you think you're doing Potter?" He stood up strode angrily to Harry's side. His hair was mussed in the back and the pink tinge on his face was growing darker. Harry actually found this all quite amusing. Draco drew himself to his full height -Harry would've noticed the boy was on his tiptoes, but he wasn't focusing on his feet- and glared down at Harry, breathing through his nose like an angry bull being teased by a matador. He glared so fiercely, it could've been a new record for intimidation, after all; no one touched a Malfoy and got away with it. Especially when it was an act of abuse (albeit a rather childish one).
Realizing that he hadn't gotten across how angry he was, he said, "I loathe you, Potter," in a deep throaty growl. He decided to prove this point by thwaping Harry across the back of the head.
Harry flinched, one eye shut, the other looking up at Malfoy. He brought his hand up to rub the spot Malfoy had just whacked. Harry normally, would've been furious, had he not been mildly amused by the whole fiasco. Malfoy was acting like a prissy, spoiled little girl, not at all the calm and cool demeanor he was used to. He noticed that Malfoy's breathing had quieted, and would've finished this fiasco with an insult or two, like most of their fights, but he couldn't help himself. Harry snorted with laughter.
Malfoy, on the other hand, was not amused in the slightest. "What are you laughing at Potter?" He shouted, stomping his foot -his poised and aristocratic air forgotten. "I hate you, you stupid Scar-head- get out of my sight immediately!" He pointed toward the large wooden doors on the other side of the room.
Harry just doubled over in his chair, tears of mirth pricking the corner of his eyes, and threatening to fall any moment. "Oh my Gawd Draco, you're acting like such a spoiled little girl," he managed to get out between small spurts of laughter.
This was not at all the reaction Malfoy had hoped for. His house elves and any other Slytherin would've been happy to get away from his wrath at this point. They wouldn't laugh openly at his face. He was seriously pissed; no one laughed at Draco Malfoy and got away with it. He grabbed Harry's shoulders and was about to shake some sense into him when those aforementioned doors opened and Dumbledore strolled in.
Draco froze, hands still gripping Harry's shoulders, his face flushed, mere inches from the other boy's, and breathing heavily. He realized how this must look to the older man and the colour, still gracing Draco's face intensified. Dumbledore coughed slightly and smiled. "It's good to see you two getting on well. I was hoping I wouldn't have to call a funeral home, and it seems that they weren't vain hopes at all."
Draco jumped back and put his hands stiffly at his sides, trying his best to look like his superior self, despite the fact that he was embarrassed beyond anything he'd ever felt -aside from the bouncing ferret incident, but Draco didn't like to talk about that. Malfoy cleared his throat and tried desperately to get his thoughts back in order.
Harry straightened up, still emitting small giggles here and there and said, "Oh, yes, we're getting along brilliantly, Professor Dumbledore, sir," with only a slight hint of sarcasm apparent in his voice. Harry risked taking a small glance at Draco and noticed him attempting to suppress small shivers of rage, and smiled again.
Dumbledore watched this exchange with obvious amusement before asking, a small twinkle in his blue eyes, "How are you feeling today Harry?"
Harry snorted, attempting to keep back a laugh threatening to escape and said, "My head is a bit sore, but the chest pains are gone thanks." He rubbed the back of his head again, and Malfoy smirked triumphantly.
"Ah, well then Harry, Draco, our suspicions were indeed correct, and it's a good thing too. If we had diagnosed you improperly Harry, you may have died by now for all we know." He smiled slightly, his beard twitching and Harry was once again reminded that Dumbledore was slightly mad.
"In any case," said Dumbledore, clapping his hands together. "Enough with the formalities, shall we sit down boys?" he pulled a wand out of his deep blue robes and waved it, a large comfortable seat appearing between Draco and Harry's chairs.
After Dumbledore made his way to his chair and sat down, he looked around and asked in a pleasant tone, "I hope you find the furnishings to your liking?" He smiled, "I designed the room myself," he added, obviously proud of himself.
Harry opened his mouth, and was about to comment on how unfunny he thought the theme of snakes and lions was, considering this was the last person he'd want to stuck in a room with -with the exception of Snape, or possibly Lockhart - but Draco sighed impatiently, and both Harry and the Headmaster got the message.
Dumbledore cleared his throat and said, "Very well then," before resting his chin on long interlocked fingers and observing them from under silvery bushy eyebrows.
"As I'm sure you both know, Harry is quite sick, though his attitude would show otherwise," said Dumbledore, a twitch playing on his lips. "The question you both want answered, I'm sure is; 'what exactly is wrong with Harry, and how does this involve you, Mr. Malfoy?' But I think Draco, that you may be able to tell us what happened better than I would. Would you kindly explain what happened yesterday in Potions class?"
Draco's eyes widened and he sat up rigidly. He couldn't believe he was being blamed for whatever was wrong with Potter. He crossed his arms and looked at Dumbledore, a challenge in his eyes. "I don't know what you're talking about. There isn't anything to explain."
Harry broke into the conversation angrily, rage apparent in his eyes. "What did you do in Potions Malfoy? I thought you were acting funny, more so than usual." He shot a venomous look at Malfoy. "What the hell did you do?" He growled.
"I didn't do shit Potter, watch who you're accusing, if you know what's good for you." He shot back. His hands were gripping the arms of his chair so tightly his knuckles were turning white.
"Now, now boys," Dumbledore interjected. 'Watch your language, if you please. And Draco, no one is accusing you of anything, we just want to understand if you know anything about the potion Mr. Potter ingested on Friday." He said calmly, though he was afraid that sparks might start flying out of the rival's' eyes and the room would catch on fire.
"I don't know anything." Draco repeated simply. And he looked as though he meant it, but Malfoys were raised to lie convincingly at the drop of a hat. Harry wasn't convinced.
"Well then, I'll explain the best I can." Dumbledore sighed. "But where to begin."
Draco rolled his eyes.
"Harry, it seems that your fire protection spell worked, but in a different way than intended. You see, the main ingredient in this potion is the Fire Salamander Scales. They provide the outer layer of protection from the fire, you see?"
Harry nodded, understanding thus far, and he leaned forward in his chair so he didn't miss a word.
"It seems that since Draco used personal scales-I'm assuming from a pet Fire Salamander- it had a different effect."
Draco's eyebrows were lost in his hairline, and he gasped quietly. Harry raised his eyebrows and said, "But what does it matter?"
Dumbledore sighed and shook his head. "You see, Harry, you are supposed to use impersonal scales in this potion; meaning scales from a Fire Salamander that you don't know, or have no connection to. Wild Fire Salamanders in other words, so no connection is made between potion maker, and tester."
Harry just shook his head in confusion.
"Let me put it simply."
"Yes, please do." Draco said, rolling his eyes.
Dumbledore ignored this comment and continued. "Because Draco's own scales were used, it created a bond between you and He. The other ingredients took effect and created.shall we say, and "internal fire" of sorts inside of you. That's the pain you were feeling, this 'fire' in your chest. But because Draco's scales were used, it seems they take on a protective property when Draco is around you, and 'extinguish' the fire temporarily, as long as he is around."
Harry began to say something, but Dumbledore help up a hand and continued.
"This is something that has rarely happened in magical history, thankfully, Professor Snape recognized the signs after reading a most interesting article. It was written by a nice old chap, we'd met before during a friendly game of disappearing poker in the old Hog's Head - " He stopped, and noticed Harry and Malfoy sitting, eyes wide in disbelief. He cleared his throat and continued. "So we are all puzzled as to how this can be cured. This is why the two of you are to stay together until we figure out how to fix it." He finished his explanation here, and closed his eyes.
Draco simply said, "Damn it to hell." But it seemed that Harry didn't know what to say. After a moment of heavy silence, he rounded on Draco and said, "Why the hell did you use scales from your precious pet, if you knew you weren't supposed to, you stupid ass?" He was fuming, and his face was flushed with anger.
Draco shrugged. "I wanted to see what would happen. I certainly wasn't expecting bad side effects. Besides, I'm more upset about this than you are. Do you think I ever want to be anywhere near your ugly face Potter? So watch your temper."
"Is there anything you want to ask me, boys?" Dumbledore asked, for once at a loss for words.
"I have a question, sir," said Harry quietly. "Can we change any laws against murdering another wizard temporarily? Because I'm feeling homicidal."
```````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````` Sorry to leave it here, but I hope it was semi-slashy enough. Considering they're still "enemies" in this chapter, I thought it was pretty slashy. Next chapter should be up in probably 2 weeks or so, If I can find the time with school and stuff.
I hope I explained the side effects and the cause for Harry being sick well enough. If you still have questions, ask with that little review button, and I will explain the best I can (unless that part is still supposed to be a mystery ^^)
Review Responses:
Brenna8: Ahh Dumbledore is crazy eh? I hope Dragon nose flicking tides you over for now! "Bad Draco!! Bad!!"
lemonaddict: thanks for waiting so patiently for the update. Next chapter I'll try and get them on the road to friendship, and we'll have appearances from Ron, Hermione and maybe Pansy. So lots of action will take place ^^
PadfootsNoxed: ahh I know..it was kind of a boring chapter, but I'll make up for it with the next few chapters. Hope you like them!
ddz008: Thank you so much!! ::hugs:: I'm glad you're enjoying it so far! In the next chapter we'll get to see the reaction they have better, when it finally sinks in!
pari106: I'm glad you're enjoying it! Thanks! I drew lots of designs of the room before I described it, just so it stays consistent. I may post a link to some of the pictures in upcoming chapters, if anyone wants to see how I've pictured the room in my mind. Thanks for the lovely review!
OnlyHAUNTED: ::giant hugs:: you are such a sweetheart! I almost died laughing your review was so sweet and funny! I'm sorry about all the cliffhangers.it seems no matter how hard I try not to write them, they happen anyway -_- And yes, Draco is going to be very upset and the loss of his social life.but after he realizes he has control of Harry's emotions and physical heath.he may use it to his advantage! Heh heh.
Thanks again! Stay tuned for Chapter 6!
Harry sat in his plush chair, looking around the room for lack of anything better to do. Dumbledore had not yet arrived to speak to the boys and Harry was having a hard job of passing the time. He was bored and there was absolutely nothing to do in here. He missed Ron and Hermione; he usually found something to do when they were around. Harry slouched down in his chair, the effort of sitting up properly finally getting to him.
Harry was absolutely stuffed to bursting point after consuming not only his own, but Malfoy's breakfast as well. He did this out of boredom just as much as it was out of hunger. He couldn't think of anything else to preoccupy himself with anyway. Besides, Harry had noticed that Draco didn't eat much at breakfast, having glanced in that table's direction in the morning, purely to glare at Malfoy of course. And since he had completely ignored Harry when he'd warned him his breakfast was getting cold, Harry took the liberty of eating it himself. He received a baleful look and rolled eyes as response for this. It wasn't Harry's fault; he hadn't eaten for awhile. And, after all, constant mind numbing pain builds up an appetite.
Harry looked in Malfoy's direction, who was still poised gracefully on the on his deep green bed, reading whatever was contained in the pages of that small black book. His face held a bemused expression and looked abnormally flesh-toned for Malfoy, who usually looked like white floor tile, in Harry's opinion. He chalked it up to the red torches on the wall beside Malfoy's bed.
"What do you want, Potter? I know I'm attractive, but your constant staring is annoying me," said Malfoy bluntly, his eyes never leaving the page of his book.
Harry flushed slightly -glad Malfoy wasn't looking up to see his face turn red- and remembering why he disliked Malfoy so much, he sat up-much to the dismay of his stomach- and said, "I was just noticing your roots are going dark. Forget to dye your hair this week Malfoy?" Harry said, in a sneer rivaling the most impressive of Malfoy sneers.
Malfoy looked up toward his forehead for a split second before realizing that a) he couldn't see his roots and b) he didn't dye his hair to begin with. It was naturally this beautiful silver-blonde colour.
"You're just jealous that not everyone walks around with a black mop attached to their head Potter," he said, smirking. His eyes returned their attention to the book.
Harry bristled slightly, and deciding that this argument could go on forever, and not wanting to take part in it, he shrugged and slouched back in his chair. Resting his cheek on his palm, he focused his eyes on the carpet and let out a loud sigh.
"Would you quit your moaning and groaning Potter? It really is quite annoying, not that I'd expect any different from you." He curled his lip and glared in a manner that could melt the plaster off walls, but Harry was used to getting this look at least three times a day, and it didn't phase him.
"Ah, you can't multitask very well, can you Malfoy? Imagine, using your eyes and ears at the same time. Must be some sort of sensory overload." He shot Malfoy a dirty look before turning his attention to the fire and saying quietly, "What would you know anyway?" He shuffled his feet a bit on the carpet, causing his socks to make floppy tails at the front.
Draco smirked. "Quite a bit actually; more than you'll ever know in any case. Like the fact that you look even more imbecilic when your socks are falling off." He curled his lip distastefully. "But maybe you think that's an endearing look, hmm?" And realizing how much Potter bored him, he picked up his book to continue reading, but not before shooting out, "After all, I can read, and it seems that you haven't mastered that skill yet, otherwise you might be able to entertain yourself in a less aggravating way." He shifted his body so one leg was draped over the edge of the bed, the other still curled under his body.
Harry turned to sit sideways in his chair, his legs hanging over the arm so he could look at Malfoy without craning his neck around painfully. "What are you reading anyway?" Harry asked, curiosity piqued. "It must be horribly interesting for you to keep your nose practically glued to the page." He eyed the black cover, wondering momentarily if it contained Dark magic.
Malfoy ran a hand through his pale hair in frustration, and act normally unseen by a Malfoy. Draco didn't care right now though, considering he had yet to clean and style his silvery blonde locks.
He looked at Harry and saw an accusational expression flit across the darker boy's features for a moment, and he knew what The-Boy-Who-Lived was thinking. He sighed for what felt like the millionth time that morning and rolled his eyes. "Scar-head, you idiot." He shook his head in disbelief. "Do you think I'd be fool enough to brush up on my Dark Arts right under Dumbledore's long crooked nose?"
Harry gasped and his eyes widened. "You mean you really do practice -"
"I was being sarcastic you -"
"-Dark Arts? I mean, we all thought you'd have some training, but-"
"Idiot." Malfoy sighed, "Oh sod off you stupid git."
"-We weren't really sure."
Malfoy had obviously had enough of his company's assertion and stupidity. Harry didn't even notice Malfoy stand up and walk deftly over to him, so lost in his rant was he. Draco wondered how anyone could be idiotic enough to not spot the obvious sarcasm in his voice, but then he realized that this was Potter he was dealing with, and of course he was asinine enough to miss it. Malfoy came to stand in front of Harry, who had moved to sit on his knees to shout at him.
When he finally noticed that Malfoy was standing directly in front of him, he glared fiercely and waved his arms to show just how strongly he felt, along with his continuing rant of, "Kick you out of school" and a mention of "Azkaban" here and there.
Malfoy looked at Harry in a pitying sort of way, feeling as rueful as a Malfoy could manage. He felt sorry that anyone could be so completely daft. With that thought in mind he thrust his hand in between Harry's flailing arms and he flicked Harry right in the center of the forehead.
Harry stopped yelling abruptly and blinked. It seemed that he was in a small state of shock. After all, he surely couldn't have been expecting to be flicked on the head, least of all by Malfoy of all people.
"Oh shut your mouth, you great lump. You look like a fish out of water," He said in his aristocratic drawl. Malfoy turned and stalked back to his bed where he lay down on his back and stared up at the green canopy above his head.
Harry, it seemed, gained back the use of his tongue, after sitting speechlessly for a minute or so, but the only thing he could manage to say was, "What did you do that for?" Blinking rather rapidly and looking quite insulted.
Draco simply said, "You deserved it," in a bored voice, typical of Malfoy.
Harry stood up suddenly; realizing revenge was in order. He stomped over to Draco's bed, no doubt trying to sound as if impending doom were finding its way to Malfoy. But the effect was lost by his softened footsteps, courtesy of homemade Weasley woolly socks. He stood at the side of Malfoy's bed and stared down at the bored looking boy. "What do you mean I deserved it?" He asked indignantly.
Malfoy continued to look at the canopy. "You were blathering on like an idiot, and I was far from annoyed." Draco stated, shrugging. "I mean, honestly Potter, as if I'd practice the Dark Arts." He looked at Harry as though he was a stupid child one has grown tired of baby-sitting.
"Well, you didn't have to flick me," Harry said, touching the offending spot on his forehead. "In fact." He trailed off, a strange glint in his eyes, "I think you ought to be taught a lesson," He continued, leaning in dangerously close to Draco.
Draco blinked, confused as to why Harry was suddenly so close. He tried to back away, realizing he couldn't because he was lying on his back, practically trapped. He could feel Harry's breath on his face, lifting his hair gently, moving and tickling his forehead. He flushed in embarrassment and shifted slightly to his right.
He was preoccupied with hoping that Harry didn't notice the heat building up on his cheeks. So preoccupied he didn't notice Harry raise his hand-
Harry flicked Malfoy on the tip on his pale pointed nose and he darted back across the room before practically diving onto his over-stuffed chair. Draco's flush of embarrassment turned to one of anger as he sat up stiffly and spluttered, "Wha- what in the hell do you think you're doing Potter?" He stood up strode angrily to Harry's side. His hair was mussed in the back and the pink tinge on his face was growing darker. Harry actually found this all quite amusing. Draco drew himself to his full height -Harry would've noticed the boy was on his tiptoes, but he wasn't focusing on his feet- and glared down at Harry, breathing through his nose like an angry bull being teased by a matador. He glared so fiercely, it could've been a new record for intimidation, after all; no one touched a Malfoy and got away with it. Especially when it was an act of abuse (albeit a rather childish one).
Realizing that he hadn't gotten across how angry he was, he said, "I loathe you, Potter," in a deep throaty growl. He decided to prove this point by thwaping Harry across the back of the head.
Harry flinched, one eye shut, the other looking up at Malfoy. He brought his hand up to rub the spot Malfoy had just whacked. Harry normally, would've been furious, had he not been mildly amused by the whole fiasco. Malfoy was acting like a prissy, spoiled little girl, not at all the calm and cool demeanor he was used to. He noticed that Malfoy's breathing had quieted, and would've finished this fiasco with an insult or two, like most of their fights, but he couldn't help himself. Harry snorted with laughter.
Malfoy, on the other hand, was not amused in the slightest. "What are you laughing at Potter?" He shouted, stomping his foot -his poised and aristocratic air forgotten. "I hate you, you stupid Scar-head- get out of my sight immediately!" He pointed toward the large wooden doors on the other side of the room.
Harry just doubled over in his chair, tears of mirth pricking the corner of his eyes, and threatening to fall any moment. "Oh my Gawd Draco, you're acting like such a spoiled little girl," he managed to get out between small spurts of laughter.
This was not at all the reaction Malfoy had hoped for. His house elves and any other Slytherin would've been happy to get away from his wrath at this point. They wouldn't laugh openly at his face. He was seriously pissed; no one laughed at Draco Malfoy and got away with it. He grabbed Harry's shoulders and was about to shake some sense into him when those aforementioned doors opened and Dumbledore strolled in.
Draco froze, hands still gripping Harry's shoulders, his face flushed, mere inches from the other boy's, and breathing heavily. He realized how this must look to the older man and the colour, still gracing Draco's face intensified. Dumbledore coughed slightly and smiled. "It's good to see you two getting on well. I was hoping I wouldn't have to call a funeral home, and it seems that they weren't vain hopes at all."
Draco jumped back and put his hands stiffly at his sides, trying his best to look like his superior self, despite the fact that he was embarrassed beyond anything he'd ever felt -aside from the bouncing ferret incident, but Draco didn't like to talk about that. Malfoy cleared his throat and tried desperately to get his thoughts back in order.
Harry straightened up, still emitting small giggles here and there and said, "Oh, yes, we're getting along brilliantly, Professor Dumbledore, sir," with only a slight hint of sarcasm apparent in his voice. Harry risked taking a small glance at Draco and noticed him attempting to suppress small shivers of rage, and smiled again.
Dumbledore watched this exchange with obvious amusement before asking, a small twinkle in his blue eyes, "How are you feeling today Harry?"
Harry snorted, attempting to keep back a laugh threatening to escape and said, "My head is a bit sore, but the chest pains are gone thanks." He rubbed the back of his head again, and Malfoy smirked triumphantly.
"Ah, well then Harry, Draco, our suspicions were indeed correct, and it's a good thing too. If we had diagnosed you improperly Harry, you may have died by now for all we know." He smiled slightly, his beard twitching and Harry was once again reminded that Dumbledore was slightly mad.
"In any case," said Dumbledore, clapping his hands together. "Enough with the formalities, shall we sit down boys?" he pulled a wand out of his deep blue robes and waved it, a large comfortable seat appearing between Draco and Harry's chairs.
After Dumbledore made his way to his chair and sat down, he looked around and asked in a pleasant tone, "I hope you find the furnishings to your liking?" He smiled, "I designed the room myself," he added, obviously proud of himself.
Harry opened his mouth, and was about to comment on how unfunny he thought the theme of snakes and lions was, considering this was the last person he'd want to stuck in a room with -with the exception of Snape, or possibly Lockhart - but Draco sighed impatiently, and both Harry and the Headmaster got the message.
Dumbledore cleared his throat and said, "Very well then," before resting his chin on long interlocked fingers and observing them from under silvery bushy eyebrows.
"As I'm sure you both know, Harry is quite sick, though his attitude would show otherwise," said Dumbledore, a twitch playing on his lips. "The question you both want answered, I'm sure is; 'what exactly is wrong with Harry, and how does this involve you, Mr. Malfoy?' But I think Draco, that you may be able to tell us what happened better than I would. Would you kindly explain what happened yesterday in Potions class?"
Draco's eyes widened and he sat up rigidly. He couldn't believe he was being blamed for whatever was wrong with Potter. He crossed his arms and looked at Dumbledore, a challenge in his eyes. "I don't know what you're talking about. There isn't anything to explain."
Harry broke into the conversation angrily, rage apparent in his eyes. "What did you do in Potions Malfoy? I thought you were acting funny, more so than usual." He shot a venomous look at Malfoy. "What the hell did you do?" He growled.
"I didn't do shit Potter, watch who you're accusing, if you know what's good for you." He shot back. His hands were gripping the arms of his chair so tightly his knuckles were turning white.
"Now, now boys," Dumbledore interjected. 'Watch your language, if you please. And Draco, no one is accusing you of anything, we just want to understand if you know anything about the potion Mr. Potter ingested on Friday." He said calmly, though he was afraid that sparks might start flying out of the rival's' eyes and the room would catch on fire.
"I don't know anything." Draco repeated simply. And he looked as though he meant it, but Malfoys were raised to lie convincingly at the drop of a hat. Harry wasn't convinced.
"Well then, I'll explain the best I can." Dumbledore sighed. "But where to begin."
Draco rolled his eyes.
"Harry, it seems that your fire protection spell worked, but in a different way than intended. You see, the main ingredient in this potion is the Fire Salamander Scales. They provide the outer layer of protection from the fire, you see?"
Harry nodded, understanding thus far, and he leaned forward in his chair so he didn't miss a word.
"It seems that since Draco used personal scales-I'm assuming from a pet Fire Salamander- it had a different effect."
Draco's eyebrows were lost in his hairline, and he gasped quietly. Harry raised his eyebrows and said, "But what does it matter?"
Dumbledore sighed and shook his head. "You see, Harry, you are supposed to use impersonal scales in this potion; meaning scales from a Fire Salamander that you don't know, or have no connection to. Wild Fire Salamanders in other words, so no connection is made between potion maker, and tester."
Harry just shook his head in confusion.
"Let me put it simply."
"Yes, please do." Draco said, rolling his eyes.
Dumbledore ignored this comment and continued. "Because Draco's own scales were used, it created a bond between you and He. The other ingredients took effect and created.shall we say, and "internal fire" of sorts inside of you. That's the pain you were feeling, this 'fire' in your chest. But because Draco's scales were used, it seems they take on a protective property when Draco is around you, and 'extinguish' the fire temporarily, as long as he is around."
Harry began to say something, but Dumbledore help up a hand and continued.
"This is something that has rarely happened in magical history, thankfully, Professor Snape recognized the signs after reading a most interesting article. It was written by a nice old chap, we'd met before during a friendly game of disappearing poker in the old Hog's Head - " He stopped, and noticed Harry and Malfoy sitting, eyes wide in disbelief. He cleared his throat and continued. "So we are all puzzled as to how this can be cured. This is why the two of you are to stay together until we figure out how to fix it." He finished his explanation here, and closed his eyes.
Draco simply said, "Damn it to hell." But it seemed that Harry didn't know what to say. After a moment of heavy silence, he rounded on Draco and said, "Why the hell did you use scales from your precious pet, if you knew you weren't supposed to, you stupid ass?" He was fuming, and his face was flushed with anger.
Draco shrugged. "I wanted to see what would happen. I certainly wasn't expecting bad side effects. Besides, I'm more upset about this than you are. Do you think I ever want to be anywhere near your ugly face Potter? So watch your temper."
"Is there anything you want to ask me, boys?" Dumbledore asked, for once at a loss for words.
"I have a question, sir," said Harry quietly. "Can we change any laws against murdering another wizard temporarily? Because I'm feeling homicidal."
```````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````` Sorry to leave it here, but I hope it was semi-slashy enough. Considering they're still "enemies" in this chapter, I thought it was pretty slashy. Next chapter should be up in probably 2 weeks or so, If I can find the time with school and stuff.
I hope I explained the side effects and the cause for Harry being sick well enough. If you still have questions, ask with that little review button, and I will explain the best I can (unless that part is still supposed to be a mystery ^^)
Review Responses:
Brenna8: Ahh Dumbledore is crazy eh? I hope Dragon nose flicking tides you over for now! "Bad Draco!! Bad!!"
lemonaddict: thanks for waiting so patiently for the update. Next chapter I'll try and get them on the road to friendship, and we'll have appearances from Ron, Hermione and maybe Pansy. So lots of action will take place ^^
PadfootsNoxed: ahh I know..it was kind of a boring chapter, but I'll make up for it with the next few chapters. Hope you like them!
ddz008: Thank you so much!! ::hugs:: I'm glad you're enjoying it so far! In the next chapter we'll get to see the reaction they have better, when it finally sinks in!
pari106: I'm glad you're enjoying it! Thanks! I drew lots of designs of the room before I described it, just so it stays consistent. I may post a link to some of the pictures in upcoming chapters, if anyone wants to see how I've pictured the room in my mind. Thanks for the lovely review!
OnlyHAUNTED: ::giant hugs:: you are such a sweetheart! I almost died laughing your review was so sweet and funny! I'm sorry about all the cliffhangers.it seems no matter how hard I try not to write them, they happen anyway -_- And yes, Draco is going to be very upset and the loss of his social life.but after he realizes he has control of Harry's emotions and physical heath.he may use it to his advantage! Heh heh.
Thanks again! Stay tuned for Chapter 6!