Author's Notes: Last time Luna talked with Ginny about her suspicions, Dumbledore affirmed that Draco's uneasy feelings were founded; Severus and Lily fought, and subsequently made up. Good news everyone! I found a C2 that specializes in female Harry stories. I personally prefer stories where Harry has always been a girl, not the "turned into" ones that much, but this listing is pretty cool! Check it out! fanfiction (dot) net/c2/9166/1/1/ Thanks to the following people for reviewing: tigersmeleth, Midnight Walker, Sarahamanda, Madam Sorceress, hhhhh, Potions and Snitches, Livinia, Tami, D, and Weirkat! I appreciate your reviews! Enjoy the chapter, and please don't forget to review!
Disclaimer: Harry Potter is the property of J. K. Rowling. I am just playing with the characters at the moment.
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More Than You Think You Are
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Chapter Twenty Two: Dark clouds may hang on me sometimes, but I'll work it out!
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She was the last person he expected to discuss such a sensitive issue with, but at present she was his best and only choice. Hermione Granger was indeed the brightest witch of her age, and was an unknowing participant in an intricate web of deception, power plays, and intrigue that could be traced before her birth. Her innate ability to solve complex riddles and conundrums made her a key figure. As such, he needed her on his side, although Severus never held a doubt in his mind that the young Gryffindor girl would stray from a set path. No, it was her friend, the redheaded young man that was an undiscovered threat to him and his family. As much as he had confidence in his young student, (though he would never divulge such information) she was still a young child.
Having himself been a victim of war as a young boy, Severus had no intention of allowing the same to continue in a new generation. When he had been a fifteen year old boy, he could never have fathomed that the war with Voldemort would last as long as it had. It was because of him and his colleagues' inability to defeat Voldemort while he was rising to power that his own innocence was lost. Now, his daughter and many other students were losing their innocence, losing the ability to deviate what was morally good and true from that which was reprehensible. Severus sighed, clutching the worn book in hands. Gnostics of the Light and Dark had proven quite useful ever since he acquired the book. Thankfully, he had managed to keep the tome from Lucius' slimy hands, but his fellow Death Eater had failed to call him in some time. A soft knock from his office door brought Severus from his contemplative state.
"Enter."
Hermione Granger, looking every bit as nervous and apprehensive as she felt, took an offered seat. He knew that by her inquisitive nature a thousand and one questions were probably running through her mind. Before giving her an opportunity to speak, Severus began without preamble. He needed to tell Hermione about her part in the seemingly never ending saga against evil.
"What I am about to discuss with you must not be divulged anyone Ms. Granger. I know that you are a very capable witch, and despite numerous examples to the contrary, I am confident that you will keep your mouth shut. If you were to tell anyone, you endanger your own life, as well as many others. Now let's get on to the business. I take it that you have been having unusual dreams this past fortnight, correct?"
Hermione gulped, suddenly nervous in the presence of her potions professor. How had Snape known about her dreams? She had not told anyone, not even Ron or Harry about them. She had written a few entries in her journal, but she had kept the book locked at all times, and she would automatically know if someone had been rifling through her private items. Surely Professor Snape hadn't searched through her personal items had he? Biting her lip, Hermione frowned suddenly. The very idea was preposterous. No matter how much Harri and Ron believed that Professor Snape was an untrustworthy man, he still had her trust. Of course these days, Harri was more inclined to be accepting towards the potions master. Thinking of the recent happenings made her feel a certain wistful guilt. She and Harri had yet to really have a heart to heart talk as of late. Of course, the two girls had never really been on the weepy side, and any serious emotional troubles were usually gone over with Ron.
Hermione could not sugarcoat the fact that she was a bit jealous of Ron and Harri's friendship. Harri was privy to Ron's innermost thoughts, with all the pros and few of the cons. Ron viewed Harri like a sister, but without all of the annoying attributed many siblings had. Hermione wished that he could be so comfortable to talk with her the same way he did with Harri. Most of what Hermione felt was a sort of juvenile jealousy, which could easily be remedied once she and Ron addressed the current sexual tension the two had. A sudden snap of wood hitting wood brought Hermione from her wandering thoughts. Professor Snape peered at her queerly, and Hermione inhaled softly, her peachy skin tone, now a ruddy hue. She hadn't said anything aloud had she?
"I apologize Professor, please continue."
"You know, I sincerely hope that I am not asking too much of you by expecting you to pay close attention, am I Ms. Granger? If you'd rather daydream, than listen to what I must tell you then by all means please do so. I certainly know that the next time you are in my class eager to answer questions I can be sure to tune you out."
"It will not happen again sir."
Hermione promised, looking him dead in the eyes. Snape frowned lightly, obviously not believing that she could stick to her promise. She was his only alternative, whether she behaved flighty or focused. He needed Granger, and she needed to pay attention. There were more important things to discuss right now.
"I should hope not."
Hermione coughed slightly, wanting the embarrassing moment to end. With a quick shuffling of his sheaf of papers, Severus handed her a long piece of parchment, glancing at her quietly. The words written on the thin paper, confirmed what she dreamed, but there had to be some sort of mistake right?
"How did you come by this sir? Furthermore, how did you know that I've been having weird dreams these past last few weeks?"
Severus held up a hand to silence her. He had neither the time nor the patience to be peppered with questions. The child before him was the brightest witch of her age. She could bloody well read, and he certainly would not read the document over with her as if she were an illiterate child.
"It would seem Ms. Granger that you play a pivotal role in the prophecy involving my daughter. According to Fawkes and his brethren, you are the messenger of luck and speed who shall save the next to last from taking the path of evil. Your friend Mr. Weasley has the misfortune of being the next to last, an obvious reference to his being the second to last child in his family. Apparently, you will somehow manage to prevent your friend from being tainted with evil. How you will do this, I have no idea."
Hermione marveled at her professor's nonchalance, silently wondering how he could approach the possible dominance of a being so evil with such a lackadaisical attitude. His behavior made her on edge, which in turn made the thin hairs on her neck stick up straight. How was she supposed to respond to this new revelation? It was not as if she didn't trust his judgment, but this was a serious situation. Perhaps Professor Snape was incorrect. Still, ever since she first heard of the strange prophecy entwining her friends and foes, she felt that these types of things should be taken seriously.
"What should I do professor? What if you're wrong? What if the person that the prophecy referred to was someone else? That's all just a simple coincidence."
Hermione scoffed, not wanting to accept what the prophecy meant. She was just good old Hermione, the glue that held their ragtag group together. She was the girl people came to when they needed assistance with research or homework. She was the girl that lived in the library. She solved complex riddles; she was not some messenger that gave luck to anyone.
"Honestly Granger, I though you were smarter than that. You're supposed to be the brightest witch of your age yet you can not even see the crucial part you play. Hermes, as you are aware was the beloved son of Zeus, a clever cunning inventor, as well as the official messenger on Mt. Olympus."
Her dreams had been haunting, but they were portals to a part of her conscience that she somehow managed to overlook. From what the dreams had told her, everyone that she cared about would be harmed in some sick, malicious form. The bright blue eyes she saw staring back at her maliciously belonged to a young man with infamous red hair, light freckles, and a hot temper. If what Professor Snape insinuated was true, then Ron was on the verge of something particularly nasty. This couldn't be real could it? She would never willingly believe that Ron had the potential for such behavior. Not ever.
"I know what you're getting at sir, and I have more faith in him than that. Ron is Harri's best friend. They are closer than siblings, and they love each other. Ron could never, ever be so evil—not even if he tried."
Professor Snape sighed, leaning back in his chair his expression was thoughtful. Hermione had never seen him so calm before. This relaxed man could not possibly be her potions teacher. His behavior felt out of character, and she didn't know if she liked him this way or not. He fumbled with a sneak-o-scope, furrowing his brow as the object failed to change color. Hermione nearly popped her eyes out at his display. Surely he was not trying to test her honesty?
"Yes, the three of you are thick as thieves, aren't you?"
His tone was harsh, and he spoke as if he were perhaps envious of their closeness. Hermione could clearly guess that he probably had never had such devotion from his friends during his time at Hogwarts like she did. Still, there was no need for his bitter tone, or his cold nonchalance. The very thought of Ron becoming a traitor, and it disgusted her deeply. Her brown eyes darkened as a new, darker thought popped into her mind. She, Ron, and Harri reminded him of the James, Remus, Sirius, and Peter. Cold black eyes clashed with whiskey brown ones.
"I assure you Professor, we aren't the Marauders, and Ron is not Peter Pettigrew. I don't know what it is that you hope to accomplish by telling me about my dreams and that prophecy, but Ron would never sell out his friends. I'll never believe that he is capable of such things. Now if you'll excuse me—"
"Ms. Granger, everyone is capable of doing evil. You, me, Ron and yes even Harri. I myself would be hard pressed to see a Gryffindor like Mr. Weasley turn to the dark, but there are some things one cannot ignore. He is very easily manipulated Ms. Granger, he has a short temper, he hates being known as The Girl Who Lived best friend, and he despises playing second fiddle to my daughter. If the right person were to come along and offer him everything he always wanted, I doubt he would turn it down."
Hermione sighed, her eyes downcast. Perhaps what Snape said was true, but he forgot a very important factor in his little theory of betrayal. She slumped back into her chair, fat tears welling in her eyes. Soft sniffling could be heard, but Hermione would not, or could not stop the tears. They escaped her eyes like a stream falls from a waterfall. She wiped her face with the back of hand, meeting the man's eyes.
"Ron may be many things but he has a good heart, he has free will, and he is my friend. I believe in him, I believe in the human spirit, and I believe that he can resist evil temptation. He will not be alone for he will have me as well as your daughter, professor. For you see, even if we are sometimes tainted by malice, avarice and greed, as long as there are people that love us, those that are willing to fight for us… We can survive."
Severus nodded slightly, as if he were silently approving of her opinion. Hermione could care less what the greasy haired man thought. Though he had changed considerably, lurking beneath his cool exterior was a man that himself had been turned to the dark. He had been a spy among Death Eaters, but something had poisoned his heart in the first place. Hermione silently praised Lily for everything she had done to show him that there was life after despair, and that hope could still survive.
"Well you are indeed entitled to your opinion. I merely tell you so that you may ensure Mr. Weasley does not follow that path. You are correct in saying he will not be alone for he will have the staff of Hogwarts behind him. Nevertheless, we must discuss your role. You must be sure not to tell Mr. Weasley anything."
"I'll be honest with you. Professor Trelawney's prediction was rather vague. Don't give me that look Granger, I too doubt her prescience. However, Headmaster Dumbledore sees something in the woman. Besides, Professor Trelawney has been known to make an accurate prediction once in a blue moon. She is after all, the descendant of Cassandra."
If Hermione's jaw could drop to the floor, she was positive that it would have. Had she just heard correctly? Was that fraudulent nutcase that paraded around as a genuine teacher a descendant of the legendary Cassandra, the Greek beauty cursed with the gift of divine omniscience? This little factoid seemed impossible to believe. If what Professor Snape said was true, why hadn't the woman ever been right about any bloody prediction? Perhaps Cassandra's genes had faded, or maybe the gift skipped a few generations. Then again, if that were the case, Trelawney shouldn't have been able to make any predictions at all, not even on rare occurrences.
"Why are you telling me all of this? What can I possibly do anyway? As much as I want to help Ron and Harri, I can't just force Ron to not get attached with the dark arts. I mean do you want me to bloody stalk him?!"
She bellowed inside the large room. The acoustics gave a very large echo, and Hermione could feel her face heat. She hadn't meant to yell at her teacher, but why did she have to know any of this? If Ron found out that she was supposed to spy on him, or that she in anyway doubt his allegiance, he would never forgive her. Her stomach felt sick, as she held back bile.
"Do whatever feels natural for now, Ms. Granger. As your educator I advise you not to do anything drastic, but perhaps we both are blowing things out of proportion. Maybe you can protect Mr. Weasley without hurting him in anyway. Though Professor Trelawney was vague, we can construe her message to mean any number of things. Perhaps being there for your friend is enough. If not, then we shall then take drastic measures."
"I do not know what feels natural. I do not know how to feel, aside from completely helpless. I don't want to let them down. I'm not the stubborn Gryffindor like Ron, nor am I the brave Gryffindor like Harri, sir. I'm not the pinch hitter, professor. When all the chips are down, I'm not the go to girl, but I promise that I'll do my very best to save him sir."
Shocking both Hermione and himself, Severus smiled. Though the little grin was more of a twitch of the lip, Hermione had never seen him so… happy? No, that wasn't it right… He seemed satisfied by her resolve. Just as quickly as the smile came, it was gone as if it had never graced his face. He face was stony once more, and Hermione wondered what made him so thoughtful.
"I'm impressed Granger. I suppose that a Gryffindor's determination can sometimes be in the guise of stubbornness. Maybe there is hope for you yet Granger. Now if you could just relay the message to some of the other ne'er-do-wells in your house, miracles would surely occur."
Hermione recognized a thinly veiled compliment when she heard one, so she decided to remain silent. Snape was in rare form tonight, and maybe now that he seemed more relaxed, she could wheedle information out of him. Harri had certainly kept mum on everything that had happened over the weekend. She felt like she was losing her best friend, and even worse when she realized that Harri did not wish to confide in her, nor did she trust her.
"That will be all Ms. Granger, goodnight."
Just as she was about to leave, Hermione remembered something that he had mentioned rather nonchalantly earlier in their conversation. She hesitated, wondering if she should bother Professor Snape further. Ron was now a danger to himself and others, so he would have to be watched carefully. Now was the time to clarify things with the Potions Master so that she could do her very best to protect Ron from an undesirable fate.
"How much time do we have until all of this becomes real, until these events are played out I mean?"
Snape silently calculated different times, but both he and Hermione knew that there was no possible way to accurately gauge the time when Ron would become immersed in evil. He could possibly be doing that just now, while everyone was completely clueless. There were too many variables to factor in. Their best bet would be to watch Ron like a hawk, jointly paying close attention to any major changes in habit.
"I'd say in the next month at the earliest. Professor Trelawney's closest reference to time was regarding a part of the prophecy regarding Draco and Harri. Even then, she could not give me an exact date. Besides, when it comes to mystical predictions it seems a bit anti climatic to give an exact date for the events don't you think. The purpose of a fortune teller is to mystify the patron by telling him of grave danger he may face in the coming future."
"A good fortune teller knows how to keep the patron baited so that he continues to come to her for aid. This way, the fortune teller always has a few quarters' ends at least."
Hermione disliked his comparison immensely. This was not a silly parlor trick. Everyone at Hogwarts was in danger, and by association, the rest of the wizarding world. She silently cursed Trelawney's vague predictions. At the very least she could have told them when Ron would become a Benedict Arnold to his friends. What was the point of foretelling future events, if it didn't allow the person to change them? Was that the hint the Divination teacher was giving? Was she implying that human beings did not have the power to change events, because essentially they were predestined?
No, that couldn't be true, could it? Hadn't she and Harri used the time turners to save Sirius Black and Buckbeak? Buckbeak was killed, but because of their actions, they had been able to save the griffin. Or was it that Buckbeak was meant to die and to then be saved by her and Harri? Was that the result of knowing what was going to happen before it did? Hermione groaned, silencing her wandering thoughts. She had neither the energy nor the time to dissect the many aspects of time travel and knowledge of the future. Professor Snape had answered her as best he could and now it was up to her to do what she would with those answers.
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"This is worse than what I initially expected."
Pansy huffed aloud, running a hand through her pale blond hair. In the beginning she had been more than willing to plot against Potter, with the Weasel no less in order to have Draco back in her arms, but now she knew that she could not afford to slip up. When Gregory had given her the message specially delivered from the Dark Lord himself, Pansy knew that if she failed she could possibly die.
She had to succeed in breaking them up, by any means necessary. Once Draco was relinquished from the spell of that conniving Gryffindor harlot, he would thank her for her patience and dedication. A small sigh escaped her pouting lips, at the thought of Draco showing his softer side. She could imagine the kisses and hugs that she was due for. Her cheeks blushed slightly at the promise of a physical relationship with the young man. He oozed sexuality, and she was yearning for a taste.
"What in Merlin's name are you doing, Parkinson?! Pay attention, we're supposed to begin phase one of the plan, or are you so engrossed in wet dreams about Malfoy that you've lost focus?"
Ron snippily asked the Slytherin girl who was at the moment immersed in a daydream. She scowled at him in return, causing her blemished face to look even worse. She was not an ugly girl, but the constant frown etched on her features would never make her a beauty queen. Once again he and his cohort were hidden away somewhere privately, where they could talk freely.
The astronomy tower was the best place at the moment, and luckily Pansy managed to book the tower for the rest of the night. They had both arrived separately and at different times so as to not cause suspicion. The last thing either wanted was people thinking that they were going out. He jotted down their plans on a blank sheet of parchment.
Next to his blank parchment was a sheaf of intricately thought out plans. Ron couldn't help but smirk. He felt like a devious mastermind, willing to do everything to achieve his goal. Looking at his counterpart, he could see that she was useless. Her mind was too wrapped up in that annoying git of a Slytherin. Ron personally could not see what the girls saw in the pale faced, bleach blonde aside from his obvious flaws.
"Bloody hell Parkinson, did you hear what I said at all? You'll never get Blondie away from Harri if your head is stuck in the clouds! Wake up and help me sort out everything! We've got rumors to start!"
Pansy frowned at Ron's forceful behavior completely put off. The Gryffindor had a temper to match his flame red hair. They had plenty of time to ruin Potter and Draco's alleged relationship. She didn't want to be with him anyway, when she could be with Draco on a romantic night like this. Couldn't that moron see that?!
"Alright, you ruddy jerk if I hear one more rude comment from you, I'll curse you so bad your bloody grandkids will feel it! That is to say, if you live long enough to reproduce. There's no need to shout! Besides, you have to get my approval for any rumors you spread. So far, the ones you have come up with are unbelievable and stupid. Relax, Weasley."
"Oh, and I suppose that you think you could do any better? Well let's hear it then!"
Pansy bit her tongue softly, stifling a curse that threatened to fall from her lips. She didn't know if she could take much more of Weasley's annoying behavior. She also had no idea how long she would have to suffer in his presence. She wanted a fool proof plan, so that the effects of their rumors were swift and harsh.
"Rule number one in spreading lies is to make sure that they are indeed effective. Also, they need to be spread quickly like wildfire. You wanted to make everyone think that Potter called Draco ugly and implied that he was gay. That will never work. For one thing everyone in the school knows that Draco's likes girls, and secondly you won't find one girl in this school, your sister and the Mudblood included that finds Draco unattractive."
Ron scowled at her when she insulted both his sister and his crush. He was tempted to smack the little snob, but his mother always taught him that boys did not hit girls. Even obnoxious, conniving, rude little Slytherin bitches like her. Still, she was aching for a knuckle sandwich. He bit his lip absently, determined to keep his infamous Weasley temper in check. If Parkinson made anymore disparaging remarks about his friends and family one more time, he wouldn't be responsible for his actions.
"We should probably make them both feel used and manipulated, to the point that they won't trust each other. You can just leave that to me, Weasley."
Ron rolled his eyes at the annoying twit of a Slytherin. Did she not see the point in their meeting at all? Could the bloody girl be that slow? He groaned loudly, plopping down on the floor dejectedly. Pansy was useless. No one ever believed any of her rumors, and even if she tried to spread them indirectly, the persons she told wouldn't believe her as far as they could throw her. Besides, unless the gossip mongers she told had something to gain from whatever lies they told, they wouldn't do a damn thing for the girl.
"I don't think so Parkinson. That is the point of this temporarily truce, or have you already forgotten? Any kind of relationship breaking, friendship ruining will be overseen by me. That's all there is too it. Besides, two heads are better than one even if one happens to be a Slytherin."
Pansy smirked giving her temporary companion a very unladylike gesture. She didn't know if she should be impressed or disgusted with Weasley's behavior as of late. Lately, he seemed more sarcastic and caustic towards his friends. Not that Pansy paid much of any attention to the boy mind you. He just seemed less like the good little Gryffindor and more like a true Pureblood. Pansy hadn't missed the argument between him and his sister earlier in the hallway on the way to their secret meeting place. She eavesdropped on their conversation and learned that the youngest Weasel and the loon discovered that they were plotting against Potter and Draco. Although she still believed that her actions were noble. Draco should be damned grateful that she was willing to save him from that half-blood bitch.
"Don't tell me that you're chickening out already Weasley, the game is just getting started. Anyway, I've spoken to a few first years that have seen the two of them together. A few well placed lies here, a little manipulation there, and we both we get what we want out of this deal. Now, I suggest we use Brenda Banyan, a third year Ravenclaw gossip. She worships the ground I walk on, and would be more than willing to take a few candid shots."
Something about her ideas troubled him, but he could not place what it was exactly. He didn't like the implications of the plan. Sure, he was willing to malign, lie, and manipulate, but could he blackmail his friend. Even if they were successful in getting the two to stop dating, if word ever got traced back to him, he and Harri's friendship would be irrevocably damaged. If he went through with this, there would be no turning back. He would have to see everything through. Maybe he should rethink everything, give himself a few days to regroup. If he still wanted to save Harri in this way, then he'd proceed as planned.
"You're having second thoughts aren't you? Weasley you're a wuss! We were supposed to see this plan through. I am not letting all my time spent with you be for nothing! Whether those two know it or not, what they are planning on doing—God forbid if they are doing it already, is wrong! It is not natural for a Slytherin and a Gryffindor to be together like that. Draco can do better than Potter! They would never work! I refuse to stand by any longer and allow this travesty to continue. I'll go it alone if I must, but those two are going to be broken up come hell or high water!"
She bitterly spat, slamming her hands down against the sturdy library shelf. Ron flinched at her behavior. If he walked out so suddenly, she'd probably squeal to Harri. At first he considered that Harri would believe Pansy over Ron, but there was no doubt in his mind that Pansy probably recorded their conversations. She could use her little peons to tattle, and then there was Veritaserum. Ron shuddered silently. He had no doubt in his mind that Pansy would do anything to prove he had something to do with their plan should he back out. If she couldn't have Malfoy, then she'd have the next best thing. She'd bring about the end of his friendship with his best friend. Ron scowled angrily while immersed in his thoughts. Pansy had him by the balls and she knew it. It was his bluff over hers.
"No you idiot, I was merely thinking about what we can do in the meantime as the rumors spread. I was thinking we could prank them both, and blame it on the other. Once the seed of mistrust has been planted, doubt, and fear will surely follow. I want this just as much as you do, if not more so."
He hissed at the irritating blonde, wondering what in the world made her think anyone would want to be with her. Even Malfoy, he knew could not stand her presence for long. Still, at the moment she was a valuable ally. As much as he hated to admit it, he needed her even if it was momentary.
"Good then. For a minute there, I thought you had decided to take the coward's way out. It's on to the next step, Weasley. We have already begun spreading rumors, which of course will be distorted to the point that we will not recognize our own lies. However, I prepared for that. Those two are going to want to meet soon, probably to discuss all the things that have been said about them. They'll devise a plan to dispel the rumors, but here's where we come in. We'll—"
"Let me guess, you want me to be on Harri like white on rice, so that she can't find time to visit with Malfoy? I can't follow the girl everywhere Parkinson! She is a girl, and I am a boy. If you think I'm sneaking into loos and the girls' dorm for this, you're out of your bloody mind!"
Pansy aimed a small book at his head, which Ron easily avoided. He smirked at his attacker, clearly enjoying raising her ire. After all the times those bloody Slytherins tormented his friends, this was small potatoes. Parkinson was lucky that he didn't have anything more malevolent planned.
"Listen you ruddy git, just because you guessed my plan doesn't mean it can't work! All you have to do is keep her impossibly busy, and make her feel guilty at even entertaining the idea of seeing Draco. All the pressure added to the rumors being spread about them, will make her want to break up for sure! Do you think that pea sized brain of yours can comprehend my instructions?"
"Uh huh, whatever. Are we quite through Parkinson? Some of us actually have friends, and mine are currently waiting for me. Let me know if there are any major developments alright? Owl me if you must. I have to go now. Mione and Harri are probably worried sick about me. Well, Mione at least. Harri's probably stuffing her face, or catching up on homework, or—"
"Or, off with my future husband doing who knows what! Just go already. If something major comes up, I'll get in touch. Bloody moron."
Pansy scoffed at the redhead, as he snuck out of the nearly empty library. She waited a few minutes before leaving herself. Thankfully, no one had spotted her. She needed time alone to think, and to scheme. Weasley was turning into more of a bother than of being any real use. Sure they were united in a cause, but what exactly was the point if he was basically useless. She came up with most of the planning, the rumors, and the like. All he did was nod his head like a moron in agreement. Perhaps he would prove to be of use later. He could distract Potter after all, and the girl did trust Weasley.
The walk to her dormitory didn't take long, and Pansy was glad for the solitude. When she entered, a few of the upperclassmen gave her odd stares. Some of them smiled, but others gave her frightened looks or cold glares. She was used to being stared at with open disdain, jealous, lust, and even admiration. This time however, her classmates seemed fearful of her to a point that confused her. Sure she struck fear into the hearts of the losers in the house, but these students met her with strange looks.
"Parkinson, you've got a letter. It's a letter from a messenger of his highness."
Theo Nott said with dark cold eyes. Pansy couldn't tell if he was jealous or angry, but he even seemed scared. These feelings were of course natural. Images suddenly flashed in her mind of her recent behavior. Surely she hadn't done anything to gain her Lord's ire had she? What if he wanted to punish her, maybe to kill her? A very small voice inside her head informed her that he could be sending her praise, but that was too farfetched. If she had earned her master's praise, her family would have written her, right? She held the envelope fearfully.
A growing knot of unease made her stomach feel queasy. She fought to hold down the bile. The envelope was made of thick paper, and it felt heavy in her hands. There were no words on the letter, save for her own name and the recognizable emblem of her master. Only those in service to her lord knew what the frightening snake in green, silver, and red meant. Pansy nodded her thanks to Nott, patiently waiting for him to leave her sight. He left, but took his precious time glaring at her all the way. Perhaps he already knew what the letter contained. His father was in the inner circle after all. Finally gathering up what little courage she felt at the moment, Pansy opened the letter and began to read.
Parkinson, this letter is charmed so that only you may read its contents. I need you to do something for your master. I know that I do not have to explain what shall happen should you refuse me. You are charged with the assignment of befriending Potter. As you are aware, I and my Death Eaters cannot venture unto the school grounds, so it will be impossible to kidnap the girl. I can however, lure her out with your help. Your job is to simply follow my instructions which shall be sent to you via owl post.
I am aware that the girl is heavily guarded and it will be nearly impossible to befriend her quickly. The Potter girl is smart enough to not trust you. However, you are going to be trained this winter break. Should you succeed, (and you had damn well better) you shall be properly rewarded. For the time being, you are to act as you always have, and tell no of this except for the younger Malfoy. I have no doubt that the boy will jump at the opportunity to aid his master and to get back at his most hated enemy. Do not fail me in this girl.
Signed,
L. V.
P.S. You are to be heavily monitored. Do not fail me in this.
The letter fluttered from her hands as if there were a wind in the cold, quiet bedroom she occupied. She was frightened now, more scared than she had ever been in her life. It was truly an honor to be chosen by the Dark Lord himself to perform such a task. Somewhere in between pride and fear, doubt was nestled firmly in her mind. What if she were to fail? Would Lord Voldemort really kill her and her family, should she fail? Though he made it clear in his letter that she was to be trained, Pansy feared for her life. The idea of spending her Christmas vacation in the presence of Voldemort both awed and terrified her.
Pansy knew that eventually she would be made into a Death Eater, and she eagerly awaited the day. Yet, now faced with the idea of meeting him in person for the first time caused her stomach to turn to rot. What if she offended him in some unspeakable manner and disgraced herself and her family? Then there was her big plan with Weasley. She'd have to break it off for now, until she accomplished her goal with her master's approval. Though Pansy would have liked to combine her joint effort with Weasley, by using him to help Lord Voldemort, she could not afford to risk the integrity of her mission. Besides which, if anyone learned of her trickery with Weasley she'd be embarrassed, but also punished by Lord Voldemort. The Weasley family was chock full of Mud-blood lovers and the master would not be pleased when he discovered that she was working with the boy. Sighing angry, she stuffed the letter inside of her bureau, not once thinking about how such a letter managed to break through the school's wards.
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Harri could feel his eyes upon her, and this unnerved her greatly. She and Draco had not spoken for three days, and he seemed determined to ignore her presence. When she did manage to catch his eye, he would glare at her hatefully, as if he wanted to do her bodily harm. She wanted to talk to him, but in between classes getting him alone proved very difficult. Even if she did manage to corner him, what could she say exactly? The last time they spoke to one another, harsh words were exchanged. He probably hated her now, and maybe she deserved it. He only wanted to know what she discussed with Fawkes and his brethren because he cared. Now Draco was angry because she made it seem as if she didn't trust him. Though she barely wanted to acknowledge the feeling, she missed him terribly. She missed meeting him the broom closets, and on the Pitch late at night. Mostly though, Harri missed talking with him about everything and nothing.
Now she sat in the dining hall, staring at him discreetly from across the room with shameful eyes. Why had she been disappointing everyone lately? What was wrong with her that she couldn't be normal, even for a little while? Her mother was finally revived, and with that he spirits were raised considerably. Her mother could tell that something was wrong, though they hadn't had real chance to talk with one another. Harri knew that her mother could see that she missed Draco. No matter how much she liked the Slytherin, Harri loved her mother much, much more. What she had with Draco was probably fleeting anyway. They both had openly acknowledged that whatever they had, a fling, an affair—it wouldn't last forever. Reality would strike soon enough, and with that they would end their clandestine relationship.
"Hello Harri. Could I speak with you for a moment?"
The soft tenor of Neville's voice broke through her thoughts. Seeing that her friend wanted to talk, Harri plastered a fake smile upon her face, motioning for the boy to sit down. He squeezed in between her and a disgruntled Hermione. Harri gave the girl an apologetic smile, knowing that her best friend was upset with Ron at the moment. Lately it seemed as if the three of them were breaking apart. Shaking those silly thoughts from her head, Harri addressed Neville.
"Hi Neville, how are you today?"
He blushed deeply, causing his round cheeks to look like red candy apples. Harri thought it was cute, in a sweet way. Neville's baby fat always made him appear kind and approachable, though she knew her friend hated being a little stout around the waist. Usually he didn't seem so nervous around her, even if he was a generally skittish person. Whatever he wanted to talk about was obviously a bit embarrassing for him. He twiddled with his thumbs, avoiding her eyes altogether.
"I-I'm fine thanks. Harri, I wanted to ask you something really important. Well, you know how the Christmas Ball is coming up? I was thinking that if you don't have a date, and if I don't have a date then maybe we could like, you know, go together… as friends! That is, if it's okay with you! If it's n-not then I can just g-go alone."
Harri stopped eating mid chew. Had Neville just asked her to the Christmas Ball? With everything that had recently happened in her life she hadn't even thought about dances, or any type of fun. Her family had made self preservation the top of her priority list. Granted, she agreed with them. Training to defeat Voldemort was important but she was a teenager dammit! She had earned one night of partying hadn't she? Harri had wanted to go, desperately. She was curious as to why Neville wanted to go to the ball with her. Neville had long since grown his awe of 'the girl who lived.' Once he saw the type of person that she was, they had long since become good friends.
"You want to go with me? Why would you want to do that Neville? You hear how everyone is gossiping about Malfoy and I. You don't want to be linked with someone like me at a time like this, buddy. I don't want to see you get teased worse than you already are."
Neville shook his head in his disagreement. Harri rarely saw him so focused on something. It wasn't as if Neville was a bad guy, she just didn't want his reputation to be further tarnished. Hermione and Ron were forever branded as troublemakers by many in the school, so why should she drag anyone else in as well? Maybe Neville couldn't find another date. He was incredibly shy, and he did have difficulty talking with girls. He always got nervous when talking with Hermione or Parvati in depth. In fact all the other girls seemed to bring out the Wallflower in him, but when he talked to her most of the time he was relaxed. She supposed this was because of her tomboyish behavior. Ever since she arrived at Hogwarts she had become one of the guys.
"I don't care about any of that Harri. I thought it might be fun. I mean Ron and Hermione are going together, and everyone else is paired off. I assumed you wouldn't mind, but… I understand."
His voice trailed off then, and Harri could see that he was feeling rejected at that moment. It wasn't as if she could go with Draco. They had fought so much lately that even if they weren't who they were, the words they had spoken to one another was still to raw to forgive. It'd be fun to go with a friend, and at least she wouldn't feel awkward about dancing with him. Ron wasn't a choice anyway because he was like a brother, and even though he and Hermione were constantly in squabbles, they cared about one another very much. Seamus and Dean had Parvati and Lavender to escort. Ginny was of course going with Colin. That really did make her and Neville the only unpaired Gryffindors in their circle of friends.
"Okay Neville, you've got yourself a date! Just remember that I hate peonies and forget about roses to. In fact you don't even have to get me a corsage or anything. All we have to do is color coordinate our outfits."
"Really? Wow! Thanks mate, I appreciate this. I really didn't want to be the only one without a date at the Christmas ball."
They would have continued to converse, had not a jelly legs curse been slammed into her back suddenly. Harri groaned from the awkward feel of having her legs moving uncontrollably. She gathered herself up from the floor with the help of Neville and Ron. Hermione glared towards the Slytherin table, where Draco and his clique laughed royally at her expense. Confusion and hurt etched itself unto her face, before she realized that Draco had gone back to being the bloody git she adamantly despised. Hermione ended the spell, and Harri relaxed briefly, before heading over to their table.
"What in the seven hells is wrong with that asshole? What kind of jerk goes around attacking people without due cause?! The professors haven't even done anything! Look mate, Dumbledore is sitting on his ass as if nothing happened. Although Professor Lupin does look a little displeased."
Ron complained, casting his fiercest look at the slimy gits. If those losers thought that they would get away with tormenting his friend they were sorely mistaken. Harri couldn't take much anymore. She was tired of Draco's crass behavior, and she wasn't going to stand for it anymore. When had she become such a weakling that she allowed him to treat her any way he saw fit? Is that what being attracted to him did to her? Did he think that because of her feelings, he could treat her like crap and it would be acceptable?
She pushed past Neville angrily, sidestepping more passersby as she made her way to the Slytherin table. Draco stood to meet her, his face now a cool wall of stone. He now appeared indifferent to everything around him, especially her. They stood barely a few feet apart, and the school watched the show enraptured by what they saw. Of the four professors present, all of them sat back and did nothing, much to the shock of the population. People expected Professor McGonagall at the very least to intervene. The Potter-Malfoy fights both verbal and physical were infamous on the school grounds. If a teacher didn't intervene soon, someone could get hurt.
Surprisingly, both the headmaster and deputy headmistress remained seated. Dumbledore looked thoughtful, while Professor McGonagall was obviously annoyed. She seemed to want to interrupt, but she appeared rooted to her spot. Her father looked as if he wanted to stop a situation he knew would evolve into fight, but he too stayed put. Both Hagrid and Professor Lupin sat with stony faces, as if they were waiting for what she would do next. The only person of importance to her that was missing was her mother, and Sirius. Snuffles could not be found sleeping at Professor Lupin's feet, and her mother was gone as well.
"Why are you at the Slytherin tables Potter? We don't accept filth at this section of the dining hall. You and Weasley might want to get lost while you can still walk."
He threatened smoothly, with an almost practiced ease. Draco's smirk grew wider as her frown grew deeper. Harri crossed her arms defiantly, glaring at the tall blonde squarely in the eye. She was not a coward, and she would not back down from a pompous, wannabe-bully like that jerk. She could play hardball too, and she was going to get him back for the past few days. Still, she had to silently remind herself to not get too carried away. Her mother was alive again and if she found about any fights with Draco, Harri was in trouble for sure. Her father might stand up for her, as he was currently sitting their doing nothing while she and Draco exchanged barbs.
"Just who in the hell do you think you are, Malfoy? I know you threw that curse at me, and everyone in the room saw you. I don't know what your problem is, but you're barking up the wrong tree. If don't want to spend the next few weeks in the hospital wing, I suggest that you back off. If not, then I'll have to teach you a lesson."
Pansy giggled behind Draco, as if they had some juicy secret that everyone but Harri was privy to. Harri's eyes narrowed dangerously at the Slytherin girl's gesture. Just what in the hell was going on around here? Draco openly attacking her in front of teachers, the teachers sitting on their duffs allowing it, as well as the strange vibe she was getting from him. Something was definitely not kosher around here and she wanted to know what it was. Draco's malicious chuckle drew her from her reverie, and leaned in dangerously close, whispering conspiratorially into her ear.
"Oh I'm counting on that Potter. Believe me, I eagerly await it!"
Draco pulled back from her sharply, whipping out his wand he smacked her face. An audible gasp rang from the crowd, but even still the teachers remained glued to their seats. The bitter stinging of her cheek caused by his maple wand brought tears to her eyes. Had he—had he just slapped her?! Harri's mouth seemed stuck in the shape of an "o". She brought her hand to the bruised cheek, silently wishing that her tears were invisible. She didn't know what surprised her more, Draco actually hitting her, or the fact he was smiling as he had done so. Behind him, his group of cronies had long since retreated to the back wall. In fact, many of the other students in close proximity had moved farther away.
"I've been waiting a very long time to do this Potter. I, Draco Matthew Malfoy, hereby challenge you, Harriet Jane Potter to an anything goes, wizard's duel as is my right to do so."
Shock once again rang out in the Great Hall, and the students were beside themselves. Harriet Potter and Draco Malfoy were about to engage in an all out wizard's duel, with the teacher's okay no less! A few of the Muggleborn students had even begun to conjure themselves popcorn, and other movie theatre treats. Ron looked ready to bash heads, and Hermione already had her wand ready. She nodded to her friends, discouraging them from getting involved. The last thing she wanted to do was get Hermione in trouble and ruin her near perfect record. Ron too, didn't need to get in any more trouble this year or Mrs. Weasley would blow a gasket. Besides, she could handle Draco alone anyway.
"'Your right to do so?' What in the hell are you talking about?! What the fuck is wrong with you Malfoy?! How dare you strike me? Just what in the hell were you thinking, you bloody moron?! That hurt, you asshole!! Do you realize how badly that stings?!"
Harri cursed angrily, punching him in the stomach. At the moment, she didn't give a damn about watching her language. Draco had just done the unthinkable. Sure when they were younger, they had gotten into a few physicals brawls. All of that kind of fighting had ceased once she turned thirteen and her body began to develop. Puberty had calmed them both in that regard. Many of the males in the room winced as he fell to his knees. As Draco staggered slowly to his feet, Harri's angry green eyes turned to face the teachers. Her father looked ready to kill; Remus had a face that held controlled rage, while Professor McGonagall appeared to be scandalized. Dumbledore unfortunately didn't seem at all surprised by Draco's actions.
"Why are you all just sitting there?! Draco has just attacked me twice! In fact it was done right in front of your very eyes! Don't just stand there with your mouths open, do something!"
Harri bellowed angrily to the adults at the high table. Before anything could get too out of hand, Professor Lupin rushed down to the Slytherin table. His face was grim, and Harri didn't like the look that he was giving her. She did know that something very, very bad was about to happen. Not knowing what that to expect made her uneasy. He softly mumbled a charm to heal her near swollen cheek, and gave Draco a very disapproving glare. He now stood in between them, as if he instinctually knew that given the chance, Draco would attack again.
"Ms. Potter, I'm afraid that the staff is unable to interfere. It is because of your connection to one another, that Mr. Malfoy feels you are unworthy of him. He has initiated a challenge to you, which I am sorry to say, you may not deny."
Harri eyed Draco peripherally, wondering if he really did feel that way. Regardless, he had hit her! That action was inexcusable and there was no justification for his behavior. Why was he challenging her openly, in front nearly the entire school. Moreover, why couldn't she deny him? It would serve the little prick right for hitting her!
"What do you mean I have no choice? How is attacking me out in the open right in front of you all his right to do so? Professor, can you please explain to me what this is really all about?"
Remus would have given her a very thorough, accurate explanation of Draco's erratic behavior, but Headmaster Dumbledore answered for her. As usual Fawkes was on his shoulder, although he seemed to be behaving a bit off himself. She tried to meet her brethren's gaze, but the phoenix refused to even look in her direction. Dumbledore grabbed Draco's arm gently, and that seemed to calm him somewhat, but he still gave Harri a steely glare. Lupin took her arm, and they escorted the two teens out of the office. Her father would probably join them later, because he had to keep up appearances in front of the students. The walk to the Headmaster's office was swift and silent, the only sounds coming from the footfalls of the people present. They were all whisked inside, taking their seats quickly. Professor Lupin sat in between Harri and Draco, which was very smart idea, judging from the looks being traded between the two.
"Ms. Potter, there is a very simple explanation for Mr. Malfoy's behavior. As you are aware, Mr. Malfoy is the chosen protector of you. In his animagus form he is very, very strong. However, while the human side of Draco has accepted you as his charge, his animagus refuses to accept this. You have just witnessed his hostility to towards. The only way for him to be sated is to fight you as means to determine your worthiness of him. He sees you as beneath him, weak and unworthy of safety that he at the moment is unwilling to provide."
This explained Draco's attacks back in the Great Hall, but there was still a few holes missing. She felt a little better knowing that what had just occurred wasn't really him, but the uncontrollable force inside. Harri couldn't afford to have to watch he back every day until he got over his anger, but she genuinely did not wish to fight him. Surely his animagus could learn to accept what all those prophecies deemed as predestined right?
"Why do I have to fight him anyway? So what if he thinks I'm not worth protecting? I never asked for his help in the first place. Why didn't he tell me any of this himself? I'm going to oblige him simply because he has a grudge against me! If you've got a problem with me, then settle like a responsible, sane person Malfoy!"
Harri bellowed, standing up angrily. Draco rose to his feet, more than willing to take her up on the offer. Dumbledore placed silence charms on them both, and made them stay in their seats—magically. When tempers had calmed a bit, Professor Lupin spoke.
"Harri, you have to understand. Draco really has very little control over his body right now. If he cannot duel you, then he will become a danger to himself and others. The only way to calm the animagus inside is to give him what he wants. He won't kill you, and he certainly won't harm you. He will however continue to challenge and attack you without warning unless you agree."
"If we duel, and I allow him to see how powerful I am will he return to normal? Well, normal for him anyway… I suppose that I have no choice in the matter. I am still angry that once again you all kept something important from me. You aren't going to further allow this to be a spectacle are you professor? I mean you can't seriously expect me to duel Draco in front of the entire school right?"
Dumbledore sighed softly, stroking his beard in quiet thought. Seeing things from Harri's perspective, things were a bit unfair. Then again, neither of them had a choice in the matter. Harri needed Draco despite any claims otherwise. Draco needed to be at his personal best and so did Harri. If the only way to resolve the issue was to have the two finally settle their differences in a monitored duel, so be it. Until they could both fully respect one another, neither would be successful.
"That won't be necessary Harri, but Fawkes and his kindred must be present. As will those who know of your circumstance. You two still do not function well, if at all as a team. In order to achieve our mutual goals we must all flow together in harmony. You both have already experienced what is like to depend on the other for your very life. Now you two must make peace with one another."
Harri scoffed at the old man's excuse, disagreeing completely. No matter what anyone said, she couldn't believe that any unresolved issues she had with Draco would stand in the way of their mutual goals. Though they acted immature and childish when they fought sometimes, they both would hold off any disagreements until after they succeeded. Any fool could see that, so why didn't Dumbledore?
"Headmaster I assure you that I can and will work with Draco. I can stave off any resentment or anger that I may feel for him and still manage to defeat Voldemort. I don't care if Draco hates my guts; we need each other to finish things with Voldemort once and for all. I will not be deterred, not by you, Draco, or anyone else.
Harri seethed, staring Dumbledore in the eyes. Her magical aura flared again, and it caused Draco to growl in annoyance. His eyes had once again taken on that dark onyx hue. His canines were more pronounced, and he seemed to be controlling himself. Harri met his barely controlled anger with a flare of heat that melted the paintings on the walls, and caused the papers in Dumbledore's office to be lit with flames. Draco's own magical signature began to flare, and what was once invisible became noticeable. His signature was now dark red, fluctuating only slightly. Draco was as angry as Harri, and was ready to fight her here and now.
"You're nothing but a weak little girl. If you think that a pathetic phoenix like yourself stands a chance against a dragon, you are more than welcome to try and best me. That is, if you can. Get ready, because I'm going to kick your ass."
Draco really wasn't playing, that dragon inside of him was raring to get started. How could they possibly work together when they were two opposing animagi. Were dragons and phoenixes really mortal enemies? Things sure seemed that way to her. There was no time to overanalyze things however, because if Draco wanted a fight he sure as hell got one.
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He was on his fourth whiskey. Even with the bitter taste sliding down his throat, he could feel nothing. He felt empty, at a time when everyone expected him to be jumping for joy now that Lily had returned from the dead. He was overjoyed by the thought of his friend finally returning to her family that she had left behind. Yet his mind still lingered on his best friend who had been dead for nearly fifteen years. No amount of hoping and praying would ever bring James back from the dead. He held no blood connection to anyone on Earth. When he had died, the last of the Potter line went with him. Sirius would never see his friend in the living world again.
Trying to accept that fact was a bitter pill to swallow. Given that he had fifteen years to come to terms with James' death, recent events had given him a sense of false hope. They had been best friends for years, and it was very hard to get over someone that you loved. He slammed the glass down, watching angrily as it shattered into tiny pieces. That glass was just like his life—everything was shattered and useless. There was a sliver hope in his life with his beautiful goddaughter, Remus, and of course Lily. But they were the only things brightly shining in an otherwise dreary life. He felt angry with himself for being so pathetic and wallowing in self pity, and hopeless because he wondered if he would ever stop feeling this way. Where was his silver lining? He remembered a song Andromeda used to sing, when they were younger. Dark clouds may hang on me sometimes, but I'll work it out…
Had he been anyone other than himself, would his life be such a wasteland. No, he shouldn't think that way. Everyday for his goddaughter was like a fight for her life. She would eventually have to face demons that he could barely imagine himself. Azkaban may have been harsh, but he had survived didn't he? Even if it left him a nearly broken, and feeling desolate, dammit he had survived. That was all he could do for now. He could survive so that deaths like James' and Cedric's and even Lily's would not have been in vain. If he could not live for himself anymore, he could damn sure live for those who had been denied life by that bastard Voldemort. It was all he could do at the moment.
"It's all anyone can I do at the moment."
A voice from the darkness said. Being drunk out his ass unfortunately made him unable to identify the person who had the gall to interrupt him in his drunken stupor. Wasn't it apparent that Sirius wanted to mope in peaceful solitude? He could now hear footsteps, and stepping into the light was someone that he couldn't take seeing at the moment. Smiling softly, Lily walked over to the island bar counter that helped make up the luxurious Black Manor's kitchen. As much as he loved her, Sirius couldn't stomach seeing his friend face right now. She was a painful reminder of what was gone forever.
"Hello, Lily. You aren't reading my thoughts are you? That annoying "sister" of yours does it constantly."
"Sirius, come on now. You know that I never invade the privacy of others like that. Besides, you were broadcasting your thoughts so loudly, that I couldn't help but catch a little bit of what you said. Don't worry though, I can't read thoughts like Fawkes and the rest because my powers have long ago diminished."
He said nothing more, barley letting on that he had heard a word. Sirius simply continued to pour himself another shot of liquor ignoring everything around him. Just as he was about to down the liquid, Lily snatched the glass from his hands, and poured it down the sink. They sat facing one another, both knowing that it was time finally discuss the painful memories that they both shared by bringing it out in the open. Sirius hadn't had to do this in quite awhile. The last time had been two years ago with Remus regarding that fateful night. It wounded him deeply to think that his werewolf friend had once suspected him. He too had been wrong when he honestly believed that Remus was the traitor.
"Sirius, I'm worried about you. You can't drink yourself into a stupor. You have to face facts. James would want you to be happy. He does want you to be happy. James knew what he was asking when he made me tell him of our fate. He still fought valiantly anyway. Don't let his death be in vain by remaining so unhappy. You have to go on with your life!"
Lily whispered in that soft voice of hers, possibly thinking that if she spoke lower the words would hurt less. He reached for the bottle, craving another swig. He normally drank in moderation, but with everything going on around him, the drink was a brief escape.
"Don't you think that you've had enough, Sirius? If you drink anymore you'll get sick."
Her disapproving nature was making him feel guilty. He was a grown man, yet now he sat cowed by a woman much shorter and smaller than himself. People actually had to nerve to think that women were the weaker sex? Ha!
"This last one is for James, Lily. Then I shall have no more."
Lily understood how Sirius. She had been given a chance at life once more, but the James they all loved would never again grace the world. If they were going to toast James, than she too would have a glass.
"If you're toasting James, I'll take that shot."
Just as he was about to swallow another glass, Lily snatched the drink from his shaking hands and downed it herself. He watched in shock as the petite woman chugged a rather large mug of hard liquor. Lily rarely drank when she had been alive, and seeing her drink like this was a shock to his system.
"I just wish that things could have been different, Lily."
"As do I, Sirius. I love James like you do. He was our best friend, and he will forever be sorely missed. We will all meet again, it's inevitable. Death is only the beginning. I know you need time to heal, and I'll be with you every step of the way. All of your friends will. We believe in you."
"I just need you to believe in me, because right now I don't believe in anything. I desperately want to be someone that believes. I know you think that with time I can heal, and I'll get out of this funk. Yet when everybody loves you, you could never be lonely."
Lily said nothing, but gave him her answer as she held him gently. Sirius was scarred worse than she had ever imagined. Even Remus who had always been the peacemaker and the stable member of their little family was hurt in ways she hadn't known. Severus and Lily too, they were just as bad. As she held the crying man in her arms, Lily cursed fate, she cursed destiny and she cursed what she could not control or prevent. The family she had returned to was more jaded than ever. Though her return did ease their spirits slightly, she knew it would take months maybe years for the healing to truly begin. She was resolved more than ever to mend their wounded hearts. These people were her family, and she loved them more than life itself. She didn't care how long it took, the bonds that she shared with her daughter, her lover, and her best friends would be repaired by any means. Those that had wronged her loved ones would feel her wrath in spades.
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Dancing Nancies - Dave Matthews Band
Footnotes: Yes, it has been quite sometime since I last updated. At least I came with an extra large chapter this time! I forgot to bring Umbridge in, but she is bound to make an appearance some time. In the next chapter, the battle between Harri and Draco begins, Nia and Severus discuss his past, Hermione has a secret admirer, Lucius learns that his wife may be harboring feelings for another, Ron is confronted, and shopping for the ball begins! Thank you all for reading this chapter, and please, please, with a strawberry on top review. I'll be honest. If I receive no reviews I take my precious time updating since it makes me think no one cares. Unfortunately, we all don't have support services! Hopefully the next time I update will be swifter. Thanks again for reading, and I'll see you next chapter. Peace.