Dark Days Pass But Are Never Forgotten
by: LogicalRaven
Well, I must admit this past week of review has been amusing. I particular liked Mr. Rumsfield's words of encouragement. For those of you who review every week, thank-you. There is nothing more valued than a loyal reader. I'm not ignoring your questions, I just really can't answer them. If you e-mail me I'll do my best to respond, but I can't promise anything. I finally understand what Rowling must go through. I will answer all your questions soon, you just have to look for them. I'm bringing a few old faces back into the story now.
I hope you enjoy this next twist. The story is fixing to become rather dark again I'm afraid.
If you want to be added to my mailing list: LogicalRavenInsightbb.com
Read and review: Nothing is my own…
A Haunting Past
"She dated Anthony Goldstein you know," Terry said casually as the three boys relaxed on a couch in the library after classes.
Harry closed his eyes, wishing Michael and Terry would quit talking about his upcoming outing with Susan Bones. He was already having second thoughts.
"They dated almost an entire term," Terry continued.
Michael yawned loudly, "He thinks she's a nutter."
"Susan isn't a nutter," Harry said heavily.
"Tell Anthony that," Terry said rather loudly, "She went ballistic when they broke up."
"That's an exaggerate," Michael correct, "She cried, all girls cry."
Terry shrugged, "I'm just calling them like I see them."
"You don't even know Susan," Harry pointed out.
Terry grinned lightly, "I don't have anything against Susan personally. I just am warning you what you might be getting yourself into."
"She can't cry more than Cho did," Harry sighed, wondering why he was even thinking of Cho again.
"Speaking of Chang, I saw her today," Michael said, sounding similar to Parvati in he gossip mode.
"Here?" Harry asked anxiously.
Terry and Michael both let out a loud laugh, "Interested in Miss Chang still, huh Potter?"
Harry's face flushed slightly as he realized how quickly he had jumped into the conversation at the mention of Cho's name.
"Maybe we should warn Susan about what she's getting herself into," Michael jeered as he poked Terry in the side.
"Funny," Harry said bitterly. He quickly began to gather his books; he was ready to make his exit from this particular study session.
"Don't you want to know about Cho?" Michael asked curiously.
Harry paused for a moment and looked at Michael, it was difficult to tell if he was pushing the joke further or being serious. In all the time he had known Michael he still hadn't figured out how to read him.
"I'm serious, I saw her going into O'Riley's office this afternoon," Michael said with a smirk, "I wonder if she was getting sack officially?"
Harry shook his head, and tried to pass the information by as if he didn't care.
"Oh stop playing, Harry. You know you still fancy Chang," Terry accused.
Harry rolled his eyes in a Hermione like fashion as he made his way out of the library and towards his dormitory. He wasn't positive if Susan's class was done yet or not, but he wouldn't mind a few moments alone if she wasn't back yet.
The dormitory was empty to his relief, and he collapsed face first into his bed. It wasn't the most comfortable mattress, it was somewhere between his Head's bed at Hogwarts and his bed in the cupboard at the Dursley.
The Dursley, that was a family he hadn't thought of since Bill and Fleur's wedding. He hadn't seen or heard from his cousin since that incident, but he assumed he was doing well. He had inherited his parents' wealth, and was more than likely flunking his way out of muggle college. Harry had to chuckle to himself as he pictured Dursley carrying on his father's business venture.
"Harry, you're back already?"
Harry opened his eyes as Susan and Noel made their way into the dormitory after their final class of the afternoon. Noel normal bitter expression drew Harry's attention as he rose into a sitting position.
"Hexes and Jinxes let out early," Harry explained.
Susan smiled as she took a seat next to Harry on his bed, "Should we get going?"
Harry returned her smile, but avoid Susan's eyes, "You don't think it is a bit early."
Susan looked at Harry with a confused expression and giggled, "You aren't nervous, are you?"
Harry eyes darted from the floor to the ceiling. His mind kept replaying his conversation with Michael and Terry, but he knew better than to question her about her former relationship just before their first date. Susan gave Harry a quick kiss on the cheek and made a dash to go freshen up for their outing. He followed her with his eyes as she disappeared out of the room.
"You two are adorable, really," Noel said sarcastically, causing Harry to turn his attention to her.
"I thought you liked Susan?" Harry retorted. Noel's coldness had grown in intensity since they had returned from their first mission.
Noel rolled her eyes, "I just think it is pathetic she is letting you use her so willingly."
"Use her?"
"Honestly, Potter, you can't expect me to be that daft. You aren't seriously interested in Susan Bones," Noel said sharply, "She has a blending personality, she isn't exactly pretty and she has the least amount of talent of any of us."
"Does Susan know you feel this way about her?" Harry asked bitterly, "It might make her reevaluate your friendship."
"I have nothing against Susan. I just think she's being a bit thick, no offense of course," Noel replied, "I'm not afraid to tell Susan what I think about her. In fact she already knows I think she's bland."
Harry blinked at Noel's iciness, "I hate to know what you think about me."
Noel turned her gaze straight towards Harry, "What would you like to know?"
"Like you'd tell me," Harry replied with a snicker.
"Fine, I'll tell you what I think. I think you have an ego problem for one, and I also think that you need to get over Cho before you start trying to date," Noel listed.
"Why am I not surprised," Harry said shaking his head.
"I also, think you are the most talent wizard here, and once you grow-up a bit you'll make a fine Auror," Noel continued slightly louder.
"So I'm not grown-up yet?" Harry asked quickly, finding his temper once again creeping towards the surface.
Noel tutted, "It isn't that you aren't grown-up, you just don't use your God given talents. You get by on luck, and one of these days your luck is going to run out. You don't try and I can't figure out why."
"I try. What do you know about what I've been through?" Harry demanded, his voice growing louder with every syllable.
"Oh poor pitiful Potter, how could anyone ever understand what he's been through," Noel taunted, "Can't handle it when someone doesn't think you walk on water?"
"Do you get a thrill out of fighting with me, because it's rather pathetic the way you try to put everyone else down to build yourself up," Harry retorted.
"If I wasn't surround by idiots!" Noel said acidly.
Harry narrowed his eyes, "And just think, I was beginning to think I had misjudged you."
"You asked me what I thought of you. When I told you, you got all pissy. If you don't want to know the answer, don't ask the question," Noel simply explained.
"I wouldn't want to deprive you of the chance to talk someone down," Harry said loudly, his mind raging.
Noel rolled her eyes, "You are quite possibly the most arrogant person I've ever known. Goodluck on your date tonight, Potter. Don't slip and call Susan, Cho, while you two are snogging."
"What, Noel, jealous?" Harry accused.
Noel snickered in disgust, "I wouldn't have you if you were the last wizard alive."
Harry suddenly found himself on his feet, staring dangerously at Noel with his hand wandering towards his wand pocket.
"Honestly, Potter," Noel said in her snootiest tone, "You really think a lot of yourself."
With that, she walked out of the dormitory and into the corridor of practice rooms. Harry slammed himself down on this bed. Who did she think she was?
"Harry, are you ready?"
Harry narrowed his eyes over towards Susan who had just made her appearance. He forced a smile as he rose to his feet and took off his Auror robe.
"Do you mind if we stop at my place before we head to Diagon Alley? I want to drop off my night bag so I don't have to come back to the Academy afterwards," Harry asked as he tried to push the anger out of his voice.
"Is everything alright?" Susan asked, as Harry forced a fake smile.
"Noel and I just had another disagreement," Harry explained, not bothering to hide the bitterness in his voice.
Susan shook her head, "She's been acting strangely all week."
"I think she thinks I'm using you," Harry replied.
Susan couldn't help but laugh as she continued to shake her head, "Well, you are."
"Huh?" Harry asked, looking slightly puzzled.
"Oh dear, if you don't know it then I'm not going to spell it out for you," Susan laughed.
Harry raised his eyebrows, "I don't understand."
"I'm a rebound Harry…..You're using me to get over Cho," Susan tried to explain, "It's okay, honest. I never foresaw anything happing between us. I'm just looking for a free meal and a quick snog."
Harry couldn't help but laugh at Susan's humor, "I'm not using you Susan. I really think we might make a good match."
Susan's eyes grew wide as she looked at Harry with a nervous expression, "So you don't want to get back with Cho?"
Harry paused for a moment, "I don't want to think about Cho tonight."
Susan blushed slightly, "Alright."
December's eyes flashed with anger as Eros continued his rant.
"She is my pupil. You have no right!" Eros snarled, "I demand to have this case brought before the board."
"Only I can recommend this case go before the board, and I am not doing so. I have decided to take Miss. Chang on as my personal student. I have every right and authority to make such an arrangement. If you have an issue with this new arrangement, I suggest you take it up with the Minister, though he had no authority to revoke the decision," December continued calmly, "Miss. Chang was under the impression that you were attempting to push your relationship past professional boarders."
"That's absurd. She's delusional; I seriously question whether it is even responsible to allow her to continue with her training. Cho is a serious mental risk and could prove costly to the department if left unchecked. I find it to be a personal insult against my word that you would take her out of my authority. This type of action is unprecedented and unwarranted," Eros continued.
December face sharpened, "Miss Chang made some very serious accusation against your behavior as a mentor. I personally felt this course of action would cause less of an issue than a full out investigation of the situation.
"You know the guidelines as much as I. My word is worth more than Cho Chang's," Eros spat.
December didn't flinch as Eros slammed his palms against her desk, "Three weeks suspension, and when you return, I expect a change in attitude."
"You don't have the authority to suspend me," Eros retorted.
"On the contrary, I do," December correctly, "I am still your superior, and I will not tolerate disobedience or disrespect. You are a fine young man, Eros, and a damn good I Auror. I would hate to see your feeling for Miss Chang to ruin your career."
Eros sighed, "I made a promise. I know that Harry Potter is a favorite of yours, I know you have a personal connection to the boy, but he is destroying her. I've seen her cry over that boy to many times."
"This is a personal issue, Eros. You should never have selected Cho to be your pupil," December said softly, "I know you care for her, but if you truly want to see her happy, let her go."
"Did she honestly say she didn't want me to be her mentor anymore?" Eros asked, "I've been a good mentor. I just lost my head the other evening. She always takes up for him, always."
"She loves him," December said softly, "Take a holiday, you need one."
Eros nodded, "I would still like a conference with Harry. Could you please see to it one is arranged?"
December nodded, "He has the weekend off, but I will talk with his mentor and arrange a conference at the beginning of next week."
"Thanks-you December, please owl me with the specific time and meeting room," Eros finished before leaving the office.
December closed her eyes quickly and let her head collapse into her hands. Eros Raymer would not be so easily beaten. She had no doubt that his meeting with Harry would not be a peaceful one. Also, if Eros brought Minister Fudge into this decision, than her own career could very well be in danger.
She had never been one to deal with stress very well. She pulled out a drawn at the bottom of her desk a removed a very old bottle. She poured a quick drop into her cooling tea before placing it back into its hiding place.
After a long draft of her tea, December cracked her neck and walked over to her fireplace.
"Remus Lupin's," December shouted at she dropped a pinch of floo powder.
She prodded her head as she examined the small flat, searching for that familiar face that always seemed to make things seem so much simpler, "Remus?"
December was just about to concede he wasn't home when she heard footsteps coming from the bedroom.
"December? What a pleasant surprise," Remus greeted warmly, "Would you like to come in?"
December returned his warm smile as she pulled the rest of herself through the fire and dusted off, "I was wondering if I could borrow a friendly shoulder and ear."
"You know I'm always here if you need me," Remus offered as he made his way into his kitchen, "Could I offer you some tea and biscuits?"
"Got anything a little stronger?" December asked.
Remus laughed, "I'm out of butterbeer, but I do have an old bottle of Jasper's Heavenly Tonic."
"Sounds perfect," December sighed, "Oh, Remus, what have I gotten myself into?"
Remus returned a moment later and handed her a cup of swirling green liquid, "I'm afraid you'll have to be a bit more specific."
"I offered Cho an opportunity to by pupil," December said heavily, "It was a spur of the moment decision. I can't stand losing a good student, and she was insistent that she could not work under Raymer any longer."
"I've heard of another decision you made," Remus smiled, "campaign manager?"
"It was a request of Albus Dumbledore. I feel it is my duty to do this for him," December said as she took a drink.
Remus nodded, "You know I support Dumbledore completely. I thought he should have run last time."
"What about Harry?" December questioned.
Remus smiled, "Do you honestly think Harry wants to run?"
December shrugged, "I'm not so sure he doesn't."
"I'll talk to Harry. One of us needs to," Remus offered, "The boy has a lot on his plate right now. Does he know that Cho is your student?"
December shrugged, "I'm not sure how far the news has traveled, but he'll know sooner rather than later."
"Don't you think you should be the one to tell him?" Remus asked.
December laughed, "Why would Harry have a problem with Cho being my pupil?"
"I just think Harry should know about Cho's rejection of Eros Raymer from the source," Remus explained, "Perhaps the two of them can work out their differences."
December blinked at Remus reasoning, "I'm their teacher, not their match maker."
"Always straight business," Remus said heavily, "Would you mind if I talk to Harry than?"
December looked at Remus slightly puzzled, "I don't have a problem with you speaking to Harry about Cho if you feel the need to get involved in Harry's personal affair."
"Why the sudden change in direction my dear December?" Remus asked, "If I am not mistake you were the one who told Harry he should move on, now you don't want to make suggestions into his love affairs."
"The advice I gave Harry was strictly on a professional level. If he had kept brooding over his break-up than he wouldn't be able to face the challenge in front of him," December defended, "I have never been one to pry in the love affair of others."
Remus laughed loudly, "What about the time when you got into a hexing contest with Sirius. If I remember correctly it was Mikel Thatcher who you two selected for your target, and let me push a bit further, you selected your specific target because he was Lily's current love interest and you thought she'd be happier with James."
"Honestly," December flushed, "It wasn't like that at all. I simply didn't like Mikel, dirty rotten lying prat. I hear he's laid up in St. Mungo. Something about a backfired memory charm."
"Courtesy of Harry and Ron none the less," Remus pointed out, "It was fate I'm sure. James would have been proud of his son for getting revenge on Lily's old flame."
"Old Mikel Gilderoy Lockheart Thatcher, I really hated that guy," December sighed, "I'm definitely going to have charged brought against him if he ever regains his memory."
"I'll talk to Harry, but I still think it wouldn't hurt if you had a word with him yourself. At the very least you should talk to him about your role in Dumbledore's campaign," Remus said as he attempted to bring the conversation back into focus.
December nodded, "You are right. I don't want him thinking I've betrayed him."
It was a warm evening and Diagon Alley seemed to be the place to be. The crowded streets were swarming with wizards and witches looking for a little weekend excitement.
Harry and Susan turned down one of the little turn offs and headed in the direction of a little pub called the Horn Tooth's Inn.
"It looks charming, I can't believe I've never seen it before," Susan explained as the two approached.
Harry glanced at the name of the alley they had turned off into, "I don't think I've ever been in this alley before."
"There it is. The Horn Tooth," Susan pointed out.
The small bar looked very similar to the Three Broom Sticks, but smaller with dirty windows. It appeared to be almost empty except for a few elder wizards sitting near the bar, drinking mulled beer.
"Not a very popular place," Harry said quietly to Susan as they made their way to the bar to order their drinks.
The young purpled headed bar keeps gave the two a cheeky smile, "What can I get you mates?"
Harry noted the strong Australian accent and understood the purple hair. Australian wizards and witches were known to be a bit eccentric.
"I'd like a butterbeer," Harry said as he glanced at Susan.
"Butterbeer aye?" the witch asked, "Got something a bit taster is you're interested. I created it myself."
Susan shrugged, "Alright."
Harry followed suit and the barkeep retuned a moment later with two mug of foaming red liquid.
"Let me know if you mates like it or not," the barkeep said as she went to check on the only another occupied table in the Inn.
Susan smiled at Harry; "Want to get a table?"
Harry nodded as they two walked over to a deserted corner with their drinks. It was odd being in a pub sharing a drink on a date. Harry drank the foam off the top of his mug and let out a cough.
"Don't like it?" Susan asked.
Harry forced a smile as he set the mug back onto the table, "I was expecting something a bit sweeter."
"So, tell me something about yourself," Susan began as she took a sip of her own drink.
Harry looked at her skeptically, "What is there to know about me? You can find a good history of Harry Potter in any library these days."
Susan laughed, "There has to be something. What is something nobody else knows?"
Harry tried to think of something, but his mind drew a blank, "Honesty, my life is an open book. It's rather boring actually."
"You grew up with muggles, right?" Susan tried approaching from a different direction.
Harry frowned as he thought of the Durleys, "Yea, but they're dead now."
Susan face apologized, "Who's your favorite Quidditch team, I know you like Quidditch."
Harry laughed, "I honestly don't really have one. I suppose the Canons, but only because they're the only team I know much about. Well, I know a little about the Tornadoes…"
"That was Cho's team. I've seen the pin on her robe," Susan finished a Harry's voice trailed off.
"What about you? Do you have a favorite Quidditch team?" Harry asked hoping to drive the conversation away from himself.
Susan frowned, "I never really understood Quidditch. The only games I ever attended at Hogwarts were the Hufflepuff games, and that was only for house spirit."
"Oh," Harry replied heavily, "What about your family?"
"My auntie Amelia is amazing. Order of Merlin second class," Susan stated proudly, "I want to work with her in the Ministry someday. Auror training looks wonderful on a resume. You can normally name your position once you've completed it."
"So you don't want to fight against dark wizards?" Harry questioned.
Susan laughed, "Me? Oh heavens no."
"So you aren't going to work as an Auror?" Harry pushed.
Susan nodded, "I want to get into politics. Maybe work a little with wizarding law, sit on the court."
"I've been taught by my auntie that you should always be fair and impartial. I want to make positive that every wizard and witch has fair and equal treatment under the law. My auntie Amelia told me that the Ministry of Magic did terrible things to suspected Death Eaters during after you know who's first defeat," Susan explained.
"You can say Voldemort's name now. He's dead," Harry remarked, noticing for the first time that Susan had never said Voldemort's name.
Susan shuttered slightly, "I prefer not to thanks. Some wizards and witches aren't comfortable when hearing that name uttered, and how do we actually know he's dead? Everyone thought he was dead the last time, and it turned out he was just dormant for awhile."
"Everyone didn't think Voldemort was dead last time. Hagrid told me he thought Voldemort was alive before I even came to Hogwarts," Harry corrected.
Susan frowned, "Please, can you stop saying his name?"
Harry took a large gulp of his drink, "Do you have any brothers or sisters?"
Susan continued to frown, "I had a younger sister and elder brother, but they were murdered with my parents."
Harry felt a heavy lump develop in his throat, the conversation just kept moving from bad to worse.
"So, why did you and Cho call it quits?" Susan asked as few tense moments of silence passed between them.
Harry shook his head, debating whether or not he wanted to discuss Cho with Susan, "It was a combination of several things."
"I read the article in Witch Weekly. She seemed to care about you a lot," Susan comments as she finished off her drink.
Harry frowned, "I hated that article. We had several rows because of it."
"Is it true you proposed marriage to her?" Susan asked.
Harry laughed nervously, "No, that was one of those brilliant ideas concocted by my campaign manager."
"So you're running for Minister of Magic?" Susan pushed.
"Are you writing a book?" Harry asked, as Susan stared at Harry intently.
Susan blushed slightly, "No, its just so many rumors are going around. I was just curious. I'm sorry, I didn't mean to pry."
"It's okay," Harry offered, "No, I'm not running for Minister of Magic. The Order of Merlin elected me to represent them in the upcoming election, and they hired me a campaign manger to handle my affairs. He's the one who told the Daily Prophet that Cho and I were getting married. It almost got me killed."
"Really? How?" Susan said as her eyes grew wide.
"Ambassador Chang, you know Cho's father. No sooner had the article been printed, he was trying to hex down my door. He never approved of me dating his daughter," Harry explained, "I can't imagined what she must be going through now that we've parted. I imagine she's hearing all kinds of 'I told you so'."
"Did you break it off or did she?"
Harry frowned as he finished off his own drink, "Again it's complicated. I was so frustrated with all the publicity that I wasn't thinking straight. I mean with the article in Witch Weekly already…."
"Go on," Susan urged as Harry stopped short.
"It's my fault, but Cho always over dramatized everything. I'm not even sure if I should be telling you this," Harry stumbled.
Susan touched Harry's arm as if to reassure him, "Go on, this is really interesting."
"We had a chat about our relationship over a bottle of fire whiskey. I don't remember much about that night, but that morning…"
Susan suddenly let out a fit of giggles, "So you two, did it?"
Harry looked like a deer in the headlights, "I'm not sure. Neither of us could really remember what happened. All I know is my trousers were on the floor and they should have been on me."
"So she broke-up with you because you took advantage of her?" Susan deduced.
Harry shook his head, "No, it wasn't like that at all."
"So why did the two of you break-up?"
Harry took a deep breath, "Like I've told you, I don't really know what happened. She started freaking out and I told her we should just forget about it."
"You didn't," Susan gasped, "Oh Harry, please tell me you didn't say that."
Harry sighed, "I know, Hermione has already told me what an idiot I was."
"You really were. Have you tried to apologize?" Susan asked.
Harry shook his head, "The next time I saw her she was flirting with Raymer. I haven't seen her or spoken to her since that day."
"So you think she's dating Master Raymer?" Susan continued as she made a motion to the bar keep for a couple refills.
Harry shrugged, "That is the way it appeared to me."
Susan shook her head, "Wow, you two have to talk to her about this."
Harry laughed nervously, "I'm not sure this conversation is one I'm suppose to have on a first date."
"Do you love her?" Susan asked ignoring Harry's comment.
Harry was taken back by the question, "Of course I love Cho. We were together for so very long."
Susan nodded, "I'm going to help you win her back."
"I don't think Cho and I need to get back together," Harry explained, looking down into his drink as he spoke.
"Nonsense. You love her, and she loves you. Since you were so stupid you've got to do something amazing to win her back. How about…"
"You aren't listening, I don't want to get back together with Cho. I asked you out to get over her," Harry said looking rather annoyed he had even decided to talk about Cho Chang.
Susan smiled politely, "I may be completely off, but I don't think you mean that. You should see the way you face lights up when you mention her. You don't want to be here with me tonight."
"I do," Harry whispered, but he didn't really believe his own words.
Susan pursed her lips, "If you really want to get over Cho than kiss me."
Harry's head popped up, "Err…"
"Don't want to?" Susan badgered, "Just a kiss. What could it hurt? Who knows you might actually like it."
Harry's mouth suddenly felt exceptional dry as he attempted to take a sip of his drink, which drizzled down his front.
"Just talk to her," Susan said taking Harry's hand sympathetically.
Harry frowned, "I don't think she wants to talk to me."
"Then we'll arrange it so she doesn't have a choice. Weren't you in on the scandal that locked Ron and Hermione in a broom closet?" Susan replied, "Trust me, if Cho loves you she'll want to talk to you."
Harry sighed, "I didn't ask you out because I wanted to talk about Cho."
Susan smiled, "It's okay, Harry. Just between you and me, I don't think we would have worked out. You aren't really my type."
Harry laughed lightly, "So I'm being dumped."
Susan shrugged, "Can I ask a favor of my X-boyfriend?"
"Ask away," Harry said as he took another long drink.
Susan face curled mischievously, "Do you think Terry Boot would go out with me?"
Harry almost chocked on his drink, "Terry? Your interested in Terry?"
Susan looked slightly off struck by Harry's response, "What's wrong with Terry?"
Harry wiped his mouth with a napkin, "I think he might be interested in someone else, that's all."
Susan looked at Harry skeptically, "This doesn't have anything to do with Anthony does it?"
Harry lowered his head, "He just made mention that you took the break-up a bit hard."
"That was in forth year," Susan sighed, "Honestly…"
"I can talk to him, if you'd like," Harry offered, hoping she wouldn't like the idea at all.
Susan blushed, "Oh would you? I really like him, I have for awhile."
Harry sighed, "Some date, huh?"
Susan giggled a she lifted her glass, "Cheers?"
Draco Malfoy took a long stretch as he rose from his bed. The bed of his childhood, the bed he had called his own for so many years. The Malfoy's Manor was exceptional, and it showed every detail of the history of their family. It's floor and walls were covered in beautiful woodcarvings, depicting the battles and victories of the Malfoy family. The halls smelled like expensive oils and minerals. Every inch of the house was a celebration of their pureblood and wealth.
Narcissa Malfoy was sitting at the kitchen table with her cup of coffee as her son entered into the room. He had shown up the night before last, released from Azkaban prison on a technicality. Her expression was her usual crinkled face. Her nose pinched as if she were inhaling a foul odor.
"Morning mother," Draco greeted as he placed a quick kiss onto her cheek.
She nodded curtly, "Coffee?"
"No," Draco rejected as he took a seat across from her and began to butter a sweet roll.
Narcissa took a long sip of her coffee and focused her cold eyes on her son, "I suspect you are curious of your father's whereabouts. We've basically lost everything, and our prestigious family name and heritage is in shambles. If that Potter is elected, he'll surely finish us off by stopping what little dignity we have left into the ground."
Draco sneered at the mention of the name Potter, "Father is plotting against Potter isn't he? He's going to restore honor to our family name."
Narcissa laughed loudly, "Your father is a disgrace, and the name of Malfoy is shamed. He failed, and the idiot is probably lying in a ditch somewhere. I haven't heard from your pathetic father Draco, and it would better for you and me if he never returned."
"Mother, how can you say such things?" Draco fumed.
Narcissa frowned and glanced around the room nervously. It was as if she where afraid someone was listening, "You can't stay here. The Ministry officials already suspect I worked in league with the Dark Lord. I'm hanging on in shame, my son. If I'm taken into Azkaban the Blacks are destroyed forever. My dear Aunt wouldn't be too please that her two sons are dead and her family name is shamed. My sisters are dead, and the Black family fortune is in the hands of Harry Potter. It is time I worry about my blood instead of the blood I married into."
"Mother?" Draco asked looking slightly taken by her rambling.
"A week, that is all the time I can give. I want anything connecting me to the Malfoy name a far away from me as I possibly can," Narcissa snapped as she took another long sip of her coffee.
Draco rose from his seat and gave his mother another quick kiss on the cheek; "I'll be in town if you need me. I need to find employment it appears."
"Your fathers fortune is still in Gringotts, he made sure I had no access to it," Narcissa said sharply, "If you can get past the goblins, it's yours."
Malfoy pushed his way out of the kitchen and into the main parlor. The trims of green gave the room an eerie glow. Draco could see the bush that his captors were hiding in. They were invisible of course, they'd never risk open exposure.
Mad-Eye would not be happy with Draco's news. His entire hope of locating his father had rested with his mother. Narcissa Malfoy had no more of an idea on where to find Lucius Malfoy than Draco did.
He pushed open the front door to the grand house and faked a cough, the signal that he was coming out with information.
It was late afternoon and the weekend was fast approaching. The Academy was empty except for a few dedicated rank 11 trainees who were preparing for their final assessment. Cho gave a quick yawn as she wrote down a few more lines for her Ancient Runes assignment. She had always done well with that particular subject. It made sense to her because she had been reading Chinese characters since she was a child.
"Still working Chang?"
Cho forced a quick smile as Penny Yale peered over her shoulder. Penny would soon be joining the Auror ranks. She was approaching her thirties having joined the Academy training program after her career as a Dragon caretaker had left her with a rather unsightly disfigurement of her face.
"I'm behind," Cho replied as she copied down a few more symbols and attempted to decipher them.
Penny shrugged, "Never really understood Ancient Runes. Suppose it has its purpose."
"Suppose so," Cho answered flatly, socializing was still painful, and she was afraid that someone might ask her about Eros or Harry.
"Happy weekend. Do try to have bit of fun, instead of locking yourself in the library the entire time," Penny lectured before departing with her arm full of books.
Cho sighed as she was once again left alone in silence. She could think of a million things she'd rather be doing, but all of them seemed too risky. Cho wasn't to sure how long she could avoid those she rather not see, but she was determined to do her best to make it as long of a period of time as possible.
The last group of students left chatting to themselves about their weekend plans, and Cho was left in the library alone with her books and her thoughts. It wasn't pleasant company and it only took about half and hour before her thoughts over took her desire to hide.
The corridors were as barren as the library. She followed the corridor up towards her classes' dormitory. She didn't expect anyone to be there, everyone she knew had the weekend off and would have already left.
Cho found the dormitory as she expected. She settled her books onto her desk next to her bed and rubbed her hands over her sore eyes. She wouldn't cry, not now. As much as she tried to fight it, her emotions took over, and she found herself sprawled out over her bed in tears.
"Cho?"
Cho startled as the voice broke through. She wasn't sure how long she had been weeping, but her pounding head told her it had been longer than she had expected when this episode began.
"Are you alright?"
Cho lifted herself up from her bed and she caught sight of her friend and Healer trainee, Mario Fortez. She had known Mario since she was a baby. Both their father had worked as Ambassadors. Mario's father was the Ambassador to France from England, and Mario had attended school at Beauxbaton.
Cho ran her sleeve across her eyes and took a deep breath, "I'm fine. What are you still doing here?"
"I forgot my study manual for my Healing Charms class," Mario replied as he took a seat on her bed.
She found herself wishing he would just leave with his Charm book. She was tired of being the weak one. She was tired of being the one who needed comforting.
"I'm fine," Cho said a little more loudly, "I was just taking a nap."
"It's okay you know. If you need to talk…" Mario started.
Cho eyes grew narrow as her heart was reminded of Eros's offer if she ever needed to talk, "I don't."
"Are you sure you're okay?" Mario asked again.
Cho rose off her bed, "I was just tired. I'm fine."
"I didn't mean to make you mad. You were just crying…"
"I wasn't crying," Cho protested, "I've had a long day and my eyes are weak from reading."
Mario nodded in defeat; "I'm going to my parents for dinner tonight. I'm sure they'd love to see you."
"I have plans," Cho lied.
Mario gave Cho a sympathetic smile; "I'll see you Monday then."
"Have a good weekend," Cho offered, though her voice lacked emotion.
Mario picked up his book from his desk, "If you change your mind, just drop by."
"If my plans change I will," Cho said as her legs gave slightly, almost causing her to fall.
Mario fumbled through his bottom desk drawer and tossed Cho a small vial of clear liquid, "Put that in your eyes, it will ease the redness the straining caused."
"Thanks," Cho muttered as she caught the vial, her seeker reflexes still keen.
"Welcome back," with that he left.
Cho fell to her knees the moment the door closed, leaving her alone again.
"What is wrong with you?" Cho asked herself as a few tears trickled down her face. She didn't even notice when the door opened again.
Luna narrowed her eyes, but nobody could see the foul look that was detailed across her once dreamlike face. There was nothing Luna detested more than unwizard like creatures in her world. They were beneath her, and socializing with them was a shame.
Still, she and another Death Eater who she didn't know walked in close proximity to the Vampire high priest, Darthanynia. The ancient creature with his pasty white skin seemed not to notice or not to care about Luna's disgust. Perhaps Darthanynia felt the same way about wizards, perhaps to him wizards were disgusting creatures who were beneath him.
"Lucius is looking forward to discussing our new agreement. It is important that we keep the alliance between our causes," the Death Eater who was unknown spoke.
Darthanynia released a sound that sounded more like a hiss, "I'm only here to listen to your argument. The Dark Lord is dead, from what I can see you have nothing to offer."
"We are still strong, even without the Dark Lord," Luna argued, feeling a growing disgust growing inside her.
The trio walked slowly into a dark room. They entered the throne room, where Voldemort had once sat during the peak of his reign.
"Darthanynia, welcome," Lucius Malfoy greeted as he rose from his seat and gave an elegant bow towards the ancient creature.
Darthanynia smirked as only a vampire could, "I hope you are not wasting my time. Life if difficult since your master fell. The power holders in your world are not very forgiving."
Lucius made a quick swoop with his dark cloak and nodded, "I assure you that the matter of our alliance is no waste of your time. Without us and our cause, your clan of traitors will be destroyed in a matter of years."
"Your proposition?" Darthanynia hissed, flinching his ever-hungry fangs.
Lucius blinked slowly as he retook his throne, "Our enemies believe they have won, they believe the war is over. The idiots who worked for Dumbledore and his Order have already disbanded. It is time to strike; it is time to take back what is ours. Our enemies might have won the battle, but they have not won the war yet."
"And you believe yourself worthy to take the place of Lord Voldemort?" Darthanynia asked in a low amused voice.
Lucius flinched slightly at the vocalization of his master's name. He narrowed his eyes, insulted a creature below him would dare to speak the name of the most power wizard who ever lived.
"I do not believe myself worthy. I am merely carrying on my master's noble work until he returns to us," Lucius said acidly.
Darthanynia tongue danced across his stark white teeth and her burning red eyes glistens with delight, "You want my clan to feed again?"
"Harry Potter, the boy must be taught a lesson," Lucius revealed.
"Impossible, the boy is untouchable," Darthanynia laughed.
"Perhaps," Lucius agreed lightly, "But those around him, those that are close to him are less protected."
"I will not risk the lives of my clan for such a risky meal," Darthanynia said shaking his head so his white hair trickled down his back, "Unless you offer something more valuable than blood."
"Cho Chang, do you remember?" Lucius asked.
Darthanynia eyes flashed with anger and grew a deep burning crimson, "Beautiful, I would have made her my queen at one time. She denied my gift. I haven't the time to fool with someone who is so ungrateful."
"She is to be Potter's bride," Lucius revealed, "How devastated Potter would be if his bride was to fall victim of a terrible accident."
Darthanynia eye's turned back towards Lucius, "I will consider it."
"You made a promise to my master. We honor the Dark Lord's promise. Will you still honor yours? When we emerge victorious in this war you will be grated your freedom from the wizarding world. You will be allowed to feed on all the muggles you can digest."
"When the comes, it will not your permission that will grant us freedom, it will be ours that grants you yours," Darthanynia said slowly, "Chang will die before the next full moon."
This chapter has been one of the most enjoyable to write. I wanted to keep going, but I decided to leave it here. I'm not ignoring questions you might have. I read every review. The biggest one is whether or not Harry and Cho were sexual involved. I can't answer that just yet. You'll know soon enough. To answer questions would be to ruin the story. Be Patient, and the answers will come.
Thanks again for all the support…
NEXT UPDATE: 05-30-04 at the latest