Warning: Sheesh...you know.
A/N: I'm not getting paid.
Summary: Looks like our boy wonder has another plan in store for ol' Draco...hypnosis you say? Oh yes...and it could be fun. No sign of Snape yet, but I'm sure he's lurking in the shadows...somewhere.
Red: Yeah, I liked the idea as well - Draco's head needed some messing with. Plus, the dream-scenes allowed me QUITE a lot of freedom. *Grin* I'm glad you're enjoying this!
Shadowmistress: *Grins madly and takes your Milkybar* Thanks!! *chomp chomp* I promise, there will be more slash...eventually. I just need it to have a point, you know? Don't get me wrong, I love gratuitous sex as much as the next girl, but I'm trying to get a plot going here. *grins* Keep reading, though! You won't be disappointed.
Morri: You're quite welcome! I'm glad you weren't pissed 'bout the e-mail. I wasn't sure how people would react. "Who the hell is Moira McDUff? And why the hell is she e-mailing me??!?" And man, those vibes...keep 'em coming!
Dragonsbane: La la la la la la? Right on babe. Whatever. *big grin*
Me3gogi: No! Don't leave! You kiss my arse WAY too well for me to want you to leave! *evil grin* I'm kiddin' ya. And you're quite welcome - any excuse not to do homework is a GOOD one in my book. *winks* Love ya too, babe!
Icarus: Wow, my man...what can I say? Your suggestions are HIGHLY appreciated! And, I plan on using them...to the best of my abilities. Somehow I feel like a kid around you...does that make any sense? "Uncle Icarus! Uncle Icarus! Teach me how to write good!!" *grin*
Fran!: You can't do cartwheels? Don't feel too bad, though. I can't whistle. *lowers forehead in shame* Hey, let me know about that Karate, though. I need a good ass-kickin! And no, your nickname is NOT incredibly stupid. Just mildly stupid. *winks* Hey, and thanks for updating!!!
Okay *whew* on with the goods...
~*~
"Hypnosis?"
Harry simply nodded, an impish grin on his face.
"Well, technically, hypnosis is an artificially induced altered state of consciousness, characterized by heightened suggestibility and receptivity to direction. Some of the earliest recordings of hypnosis are found in Egypt. The oldest written record of cures by hypnosis was obtained from the Ebers Papyrus which gives us an idea about some of the theory and practice of Egyptian medicine before 1552 BC..." Hermione took a breath. "Why? What do you want to know about it?"
Harry crossed his arms over his chest, shook his head and chuckled. Ron simply stared.
"What?" A blank look crossed Hermione's face.
"No matter how many times I've seen you do that, I don't think I'll ever get used to it."
It took a moment for Ron's round-a-bout compliment to sink in. A small smile graced Hermione's lips as she blushed and looked down at the floor. She never was very good at accepting compliments.
If only she knew the effect her bashfulness had on the two boys next to her. She would have turned quite a bit redder.
"I'm not interested in history, 'Mione..." Harry grinned. "I need to know how you do it."
She thought for a moment. "Well, from what I can remember from textbooks, you need to get the subject as relaxed as possible..."
"Why?" Ron had taken a seat on the back of the couch and was listening intently - as he SHOULD be listening in his classes, but he never found them interesting enough.
"In a relaxed state, the subconscious is more likely to accept suggestions. The defenses are down."
"So, what you're saying - is to get someone to COMPLETELY relax, whisper something in their ears, and they'll do it?" An evil grin spread across Ron's face. No doubt he was planning something. "That sounds easy!"
"No, RON." Hermione rolled her eyes again. "You can't just whisper something to someone while they sleep and expect them to do it in the morning. They need to be in a trance - that's when the subconscious is more likely to follow a suggestion."
Harry was trying his best not to giggle, as he remembered himself kneeling beside Ron's bed just a few nights ago.
"Actually, it's quite hard." Hermione continued. "And it's going to be even harder for us. We're not trained, and our subject is Malfoy for Merlin's sake! He's never relaxed, not around us anyway." And with that, both Ron and Hermione looked to Harry.
"Let me worry about getting Malfoy relaxed and in a trance," Harry smiled again. "What I need you two to do is think up some horrid ways to embarrass him."
Ron and Hermione looked at each other, eyes narrow and smirking.
"I think we can handle that."
~*~
Dinner passed by quickly - as it always does when you're having fun. Ron and Hermione had come up with some pretty devious suggestions, but neither of them were satisfied with their ideas thus far.
"We could get him to bark like a dog..."
"Nah, that's too much like him anyway."
~Silence~
"How about we make him think he's a girl?"
"Again, not too far a stretch for him."
~Silence~
"Convince him he's in love with Snape?"
"RON!"
"What?!"
"You're not helping us by pointing out the obvious!"
"FINE! You think of something, Miss I know everything about Hypnosis and Revenge!"
"I never said I knew everything about revenge!"
Ron and Hermione had turned and were facing each other at the Gryffindor table, faces red - brows furrowed - and making quite a bit of noise. Had they not been yelling quite so loud, they would've heard a certain Slytherin slinking up behind them.
"Having a lovers spat, are we weasel? Mudblood?" Draco's smirk had gotten wider since his evaded expulsion.
"Superb timing, Malfoy - we were just talking about you." Hermione gave him a look.
"Ooooh, nothing good I hope." And with a nerve neither Gryffindor thought he had, Draco plopped down between them - sending Ron and Hermione scooting away as fast as they could without burning their bums.
Ron sneered. "What do you want, Malfoy?"
Draco ignored Ron and focused on Harry, who, at this point, hadn't said a word.
"Why so quiet, Potty? Snake got your tongue?"
Harry smirked...as if to say 'Just enjoying the show.'
Draco raised an eyebrow, his interest peaked.
Ron interrupted. "Are you going to sit there all day?"
"Hardly. I already feel contaminated by your presence." Casually, as though nothing was out of the ordinary about him sitting with them, Draco began poking at Ron's meal with his knife. "I came over to ask you a question."
"If you're asking us to finally let you into our club, I'm telling you for the last time Malfoy - we only accept humans..." Ron about choked at Hermione's comeback.
"I'm hurt, mudblood...really I am." Draco pressed his hand to his heart and sighed. "Actually, I was wondering," He turned suddenly, facing Ron. "What's it like?"
"What's 'what' like?" Ron cocked his head to the side, his tone mocking. "Being poor?"
Draco laughed. "No, silly boy. I've seen your house...I can gather." He lowered his voice. "What's it like? Fucking a mudblood?"
Ron's face turned red. Not from embarrassment, but from fury. He could handle Malfoy insulting his status, or whatever, he'd gotten used to that. But Hermione...oh no. NO one insulted *his* Hermione. His fist was already bent back when Harry finally spoke.
"You should know that already, Draco."
Bemused, Draco turned...his gaze fixated on Potter. "I would NEVER soil myself with a...a half-breed."
"Really?" Harry looked up, mockingly confused. "Cause I thought ol' Voldie would've had you up the ass a couple of times by now. You being your father's son, and all..."
A collective gasp echoed throughout the hall, as the majority of Hogwarts had stopped their conversations by this point. Everyone expected Malfoy to jump over the table at Harry, causing Ron to jump in, giving way to a proper fistfight. However, that wasn't what happened. A calloused hand fell on Draco's shoulder and squeezed.
"Dungeon...NOW."
Draco's face went from rage, to surprise, to humiliation, then back to rage. Professor Snape was leading his prized pupil away by the shoulders, but not without a look from Draco. A look that only Harry knew. 'This isn't over.'
Complete and utter silence reigned as Snape ushered a brooding Draco through the Great Hall and out the main doors. Only after they had closed did conversation break out again. "What the hell?" was the main consensus.
Suddenly, as if rehearsed, both Ron and Hermione spoke.
"I know what we should do to Malfoy."
~*~
Draco was furious. How COULD he? Of all the people to come to Potter's aid, he never would've suspected Snape. The betrayal he felt was only evident in his eyes. The rest of his body was too far gone, enraged with Potter, to even hint at disappointment.
His fists were balled up so tight his knuckles were white - in direct contrast with his face. For the first time in a long time, Draco had a bit of color in his cheeks. He took long strides, shortening the distance between himself and the dungeon. 'Let's get this over with.'
Professor Snape was more than happy to comply, as his pace was far from slow. He had been watching Draco like a hawk ever since their trip to Dumbledore's office; he had barely gotten to the Gryffindor table in time to stop his young protégé from ripping that blasted Potter's tongue right out of his mouth. Unlike what it may have seemed, Snape was in no mood to be doing those Gryffindors any favors.
When they finally reached the door to the potions lab, Draco hesitated - causing Snape to roll his eyes.
"Of course, the Malfoys are used to having things done for them..." It came out as a low growl, but loud enough for Draco to hear.
In a quick gesture from the more-than-annoyed Professor, the door swung open...and Draco sulked in. Immediately, he took his usual seat, not saying a word.
So they sat there in silence...Snape at his desk, Draco in his seat...for what felt like an eternity. Each one more disappointed in the other.
Finally, Draco broke the silence.
"Why?"
Professor Snape had begun grading his third-year's research projects on "Newt Testicles and their many uses".
"If you expect an answer, Mr. Malfoy, I would suggest you rephrase your bumblings into an actual question..."
Draco glared.
"Why, PROFESSOR, did you stop me at dinner?"
"It was time for your detention."
"But..."
"Did I, or did I not, specifically say that you would be spending your detentions with me every night after dinner?" Although it was a question, technically - Snape always had a way of making it into a statement.
"Yes, but..."
"Were you eating?"
"No."
"Then your dinner was finished. Hence, your detention began." He sighed.
Draco still wasn't satisfied. "Sir, forgive me for saying this, but you picked the most un-opportune moment to start my detention."
At this, Snape looked up and met Draco's gaze.
"I disagree, Mr. Malfoy. If anything, I believe I picked THE opportune time to begin."
All the pleasantries Draco was accustomed to when addressing his Professor flew out the window.
"Did you even LISTEN to what he was saying?!?"
Snape had gone back to grading papers. "Contrary to popular belief, I do have a vague conception of what goes on in this castle, yes."
"You heard what he said about me...my father." The rage he felt was evident.
"Yes."
"Then...why?" The hurt in his voice almost caused Severus to wince. Almost.
Snape got up from his desk and made his way over to where Draco was sitting. Placing his hands on the desk, he leaned in till he was only inches away from Draco's face.
"Your stupidity astounds me, Draco. After last night, after EVERYTHING that happened...you have the gall to flaunt about and pick idiotic fights with the ONE boy you should be avoiding like the plague." Snape's voice was low. "Suspicions are high, Mr. Malfoy...I am not the only one watching you. Do not, and I repeat, DO NOT give Dumbledore another reason to expel you." If it was possible, his voice got even lower...
"As I have said before - you've fallen once, and I WILL not be there to help you up again."
Draco looked at him thoughtfully, putting the pieces together.
"Have I made myself clear?"
Draco nodded. "Yes, sir. Perfectly."
Satisfied, Snape nodded in return. "Good. However..." His eyes creased. "I would not make a habit of questioning my motives, Mr. Malfoy...I assure you." A fire flashed in his eyes. "You don't want to know the answer."
Draco nodded...a bit more hesitantly this time.
In an instant, the dark and foreboding atmosphere was gone - and was replaced by Snape's sad attempt at humor. "As FUN as this is, Mr. Malfoy - the rest of your detention will not be quite so enjoyable."
Draco had to choke back a grin... as the past few minutes were FAR from enjoyable.
"What will I be doing, Professor?"
"You will assist me. A certain...individual...has requested that I make him a potion. A highly complex potion, at that. I will need your assistance, as it will take a month to prepare."
"Certainly Sir. What potion will we be making?"
Severus paused a moment. "You will be informed when it is necessary."
"Ahh." He nodded. "I see." A cunning smile made its way to Draco's face. "You can say his name, Professor. I know who it's for."
Severus was stunned, and saddened. Of course Draco knew who it was for, but for him to be so non-chalant about it...had he already given himself over to the dark? His father's son indeed. But before he had a chance to respond, Severus's face contorted in pain as he grasped his arm. The brand he had received so many years ago felt as though it were on fire. He was being summoned. In a quick look, Draco nodded, packed up his things, and made for the door - turning around quickly before crossing through.
"You will send my regards to my father?"
Severus nodded.
"Thank you, Sir." And with that, Draco left.
~*~
Meanwhile...back at Gryffindor Central...
~*~
"This is going to be SO great..."
Ron was bounding around the common room as Hermione wrote down their suggestions. Suddenly, as soon as Draco had left at dinner, ideas for revenge came naturally. Draco's attempt at humiliation only solidified his own demise. Funny how that happens. One horrific idea after another - they all came tumbling out. Harry was enjoying this as much as Ron, but for much different reasons. It made him happy to involve his friends once more. This whole thing had been so secretive - it felt good to have their help...even if they didn't know the whole story.
Hermione was finally finished with the list. She looked up at Harry, who was leaning against the fireplace - his arms crossed over his chest - and beamed at him. No matter how many times she did that, it always seemed to take his breath away. He beamed back.
"What've we got?"
"Well," Hermione started down the list, giving her own opinion on each one. It took another half hour before they had finally agreed on three suggestions. (A/N: Not that I'm going to reveal them just yet...silly readers!) They all nodded in agreement. Tomorrow's potions class was going to be a hell of a lot more fun than usual.
"Harry..." Hermione looked down. "You still haven't told us how you're going to pull this off."
"Yeah. What's the plan?" Ron had stopped bouncing off the walls by this point and had finally joined the conversation.
Harry looked at his pleading friends. Pangs of guilt found their way back to his heart, but he dismissed them. They couldn't know. Not yet, anyway.
"I can't tell you."
A collective "WHY?" was his response.
"For your own safety, I can't. If anyone's going to go down for this, it should be me." Harry's look was stern. "I doubt that anyone could trace this back to us, let alone prove it, but I still don't want to take any chances. You know how Dumbledore is..." His voice dropped a bit. "...I don't think I'll get into TOO much trouble."
Ron and Hermione thought about it for a moment. Hermione was the first one to speak.
"Okay. I'll take your word for it..." She paused. "ONLY, and I do mean only, IF you promise to tell us eventually. Once the coast is clear."
"Yeah." Ron chimed in.
"That sounds fair." Harry smiled. "But I'M the one who gets to decide when the coast is clear."
Hermione made a sound of disapproval, but Ron quickly covered it.
"Personally, I don't really care how you do it, mate... just as long as that slimy git gets his come uppins!" At "uppins" Ron began bouncing around the Common Room again.
Both Harry and Hermione cracked up.
"This is going to be SO great..."
~*~
Meanwhile...in a creepy location not too far from the school...
~*~
After alerting Dumbledore of his unexpected summons, Severus went off to Voldemort's meeting-place. He never knew where it was going to be from gathering to gathering. The Dark Lord enjoyed his privacy - which meant keeping his minions in the dark most of the time. Severus was usually among the ignorant, but not this time. He was too deeply involved, much to his disgust.
Severus approached the seated figure, his robes outlined by the emerald fires that burned behind him. In a swift, and rehearsed, motion - he kneeled before the shadowy form, making sure to keep his eyes lowered.
"My Lord. You have called."
A raspy voice answered - it's tone almost too strained to comprehend. The Dark Lord was much weaker than he had thought. Snape tried his best not to smirk.
"Ssseverus. So good of you to come."
"Your will is my duty, my Lord." The pleasantries of being a slave - oh the rapture.
"Yesss...so it is. And how is My will coming along?" Voldemort made a gesture towards Lucius Malfoy, who had been standing back in the shadows. He quickly joined Severus. "I take it the potion has been started?"
"Tomorrow, my Lord - Draco is ready to assist me."
"Excellent." His gaze moved from the potions master to Lucius. "And has our young Draco been informed of his role?"
Lucius, who usually was as smooth as a warthog's backside, had quite a time keeping his voice from stammering.
"He...he has n-not, as of...yet, my Lord." His eyes darted towards Snape. "I was under the impression it was Severus' job to inform him."
"It would do you good not to assume such things, Lucius." Voldemort's gaze had turned cruel. "After all, you are his father. Such joyous news should come from family...not professors."
If the situation had not been so dire, Severus would've cracked a smile.
"Of course, my Lord. My mistake."
"Yes, Lucius. Your mistake." A cracked sneer formed on Voldemort's decaying lips. "Crucio."
After an eternity of agony, Lucius was finally released and slumped to the ground, his body twitching. Every meeting was like this. At some point during the night, at least one person would displease Voldemort - and would have to pay. Severus was the usual target, but he had too big of a part to play for Voldemort to injure him TOO severely. What luck. Voldemort's attentions were soon directed back to Severus.
"You will keep Me informed of your progress, Severus."
"Yes, my Lord."
Suddenly, and madly, Voldemort began clapping. A twisted laugh escaped his lips.
"Do not cower in the shadows, My children! Be of good cheer! For soon your Master will live again, stronger and more powerful than ever..." His gaze returned to Lucius, who was regaining consciousness. "Isn't that right, Lucius?"
A humble gaze was all he could muster.
Chilling laughter was the last thing he heard before he passed out again. Severus dared a glance at the lump of a human Draco called 'father.' Even if he had a chance, and Lucius woke up, Severus doubted he'd mention his son's regards.
~*~
A/N: I'm not getting paid.
Summary: Looks like our boy wonder has another plan in store for ol' Draco...hypnosis you say? Oh yes...and it could be fun. No sign of Snape yet, but I'm sure he's lurking in the shadows...somewhere.
Red: Yeah, I liked the idea as well - Draco's head needed some messing with. Plus, the dream-scenes allowed me QUITE a lot of freedom. *Grin* I'm glad you're enjoying this!
Shadowmistress: *Grins madly and takes your Milkybar* Thanks!! *chomp chomp* I promise, there will be more slash...eventually. I just need it to have a point, you know? Don't get me wrong, I love gratuitous sex as much as the next girl, but I'm trying to get a plot going here. *grins* Keep reading, though! You won't be disappointed.
Morri: You're quite welcome! I'm glad you weren't pissed 'bout the e-mail. I wasn't sure how people would react. "Who the hell is Moira McDUff? And why the hell is she e-mailing me??!?" And man, those vibes...keep 'em coming!
Dragonsbane: La la la la la la? Right on babe. Whatever. *big grin*
Me3gogi: No! Don't leave! You kiss my arse WAY too well for me to want you to leave! *evil grin* I'm kiddin' ya. And you're quite welcome - any excuse not to do homework is a GOOD one in my book. *winks* Love ya too, babe!
Icarus: Wow, my man...what can I say? Your suggestions are HIGHLY appreciated! And, I plan on using them...to the best of my abilities. Somehow I feel like a kid around you...does that make any sense? "Uncle Icarus! Uncle Icarus! Teach me how to write good!!" *grin*
Fran!: You can't do cartwheels? Don't feel too bad, though. I can't whistle. *lowers forehead in shame* Hey, let me know about that Karate, though. I need a good ass-kickin! And no, your nickname is NOT incredibly stupid. Just mildly stupid. *winks* Hey, and thanks for updating!!!
Okay *whew* on with the goods...
~*~
"Hypnosis?"
Harry simply nodded, an impish grin on his face.
"Well, technically, hypnosis is an artificially induced altered state of consciousness, characterized by heightened suggestibility and receptivity to direction. Some of the earliest recordings of hypnosis are found in Egypt. The oldest written record of cures by hypnosis was obtained from the Ebers Papyrus which gives us an idea about some of the theory and practice of Egyptian medicine before 1552 BC..." Hermione took a breath. "Why? What do you want to know about it?"
Harry crossed his arms over his chest, shook his head and chuckled. Ron simply stared.
"What?" A blank look crossed Hermione's face.
"No matter how many times I've seen you do that, I don't think I'll ever get used to it."
It took a moment for Ron's round-a-bout compliment to sink in. A small smile graced Hermione's lips as she blushed and looked down at the floor. She never was very good at accepting compliments.
If only she knew the effect her bashfulness had on the two boys next to her. She would have turned quite a bit redder.
"I'm not interested in history, 'Mione..." Harry grinned. "I need to know how you do it."
She thought for a moment. "Well, from what I can remember from textbooks, you need to get the subject as relaxed as possible..."
"Why?" Ron had taken a seat on the back of the couch and was listening intently - as he SHOULD be listening in his classes, but he never found them interesting enough.
"In a relaxed state, the subconscious is more likely to accept suggestions. The defenses are down."
"So, what you're saying - is to get someone to COMPLETELY relax, whisper something in their ears, and they'll do it?" An evil grin spread across Ron's face. No doubt he was planning something. "That sounds easy!"
"No, RON." Hermione rolled her eyes again. "You can't just whisper something to someone while they sleep and expect them to do it in the morning. They need to be in a trance - that's when the subconscious is more likely to follow a suggestion."
Harry was trying his best not to giggle, as he remembered himself kneeling beside Ron's bed just a few nights ago.
"Actually, it's quite hard." Hermione continued. "And it's going to be even harder for us. We're not trained, and our subject is Malfoy for Merlin's sake! He's never relaxed, not around us anyway." And with that, both Ron and Hermione looked to Harry.
"Let me worry about getting Malfoy relaxed and in a trance," Harry smiled again. "What I need you two to do is think up some horrid ways to embarrass him."
Ron and Hermione looked at each other, eyes narrow and smirking.
"I think we can handle that."
~*~
Dinner passed by quickly - as it always does when you're having fun. Ron and Hermione had come up with some pretty devious suggestions, but neither of them were satisfied with their ideas thus far.
"We could get him to bark like a dog..."
"Nah, that's too much like him anyway."
~Silence~
"How about we make him think he's a girl?"
"Again, not too far a stretch for him."
~Silence~
"Convince him he's in love with Snape?"
"RON!"
"What?!"
"You're not helping us by pointing out the obvious!"
"FINE! You think of something, Miss I know everything about Hypnosis and Revenge!"
"I never said I knew everything about revenge!"
Ron and Hermione had turned and were facing each other at the Gryffindor table, faces red - brows furrowed - and making quite a bit of noise. Had they not been yelling quite so loud, they would've heard a certain Slytherin slinking up behind them.
"Having a lovers spat, are we weasel? Mudblood?" Draco's smirk had gotten wider since his evaded expulsion.
"Superb timing, Malfoy - we were just talking about you." Hermione gave him a look.
"Ooooh, nothing good I hope." And with a nerve neither Gryffindor thought he had, Draco plopped down between them - sending Ron and Hermione scooting away as fast as they could without burning their bums.
Ron sneered. "What do you want, Malfoy?"
Draco ignored Ron and focused on Harry, who, at this point, hadn't said a word.
"Why so quiet, Potty? Snake got your tongue?"
Harry smirked...as if to say 'Just enjoying the show.'
Draco raised an eyebrow, his interest peaked.
Ron interrupted. "Are you going to sit there all day?"
"Hardly. I already feel contaminated by your presence." Casually, as though nothing was out of the ordinary about him sitting with them, Draco began poking at Ron's meal with his knife. "I came over to ask you a question."
"If you're asking us to finally let you into our club, I'm telling you for the last time Malfoy - we only accept humans..." Ron about choked at Hermione's comeback.
"I'm hurt, mudblood...really I am." Draco pressed his hand to his heart and sighed. "Actually, I was wondering," He turned suddenly, facing Ron. "What's it like?"
"What's 'what' like?" Ron cocked his head to the side, his tone mocking. "Being poor?"
Draco laughed. "No, silly boy. I've seen your house...I can gather." He lowered his voice. "What's it like? Fucking a mudblood?"
Ron's face turned red. Not from embarrassment, but from fury. He could handle Malfoy insulting his status, or whatever, he'd gotten used to that. But Hermione...oh no. NO one insulted *his* Hermione. His fist was already bent back when Harry finally spoke.
"You should know that already, Draco."
Bemused, Draco turned...his gaze fixated on Potter. "I would NEVER soil myself with a...a half-breed."
"Really?" Harry looked up, mockingly confused. "Cause I thought ol' Voldie would've had you up the ass a couple of times by now. You being your father's son, and all..."
A collective gasp echoed throughout the hall, as the majority of Hogwarts had stopped their conversations by this point. Everyone expected Malfoy to jump over the table at Harry, causing Ron to jump in, giving way to a proper fistfight. However, that wasn't what happened. A calloused hand fell on Draco's shoulder and squeezed.
"Dungeon...NOW."
Draco's face went from rage, to surprise, to humiliation, then back to rage. Professor Snape was leading his prized pupil away by the shoulders, but not without a look from Draco. A look that only Harry knew. 'This isn't over.'
Complete and utter silence reigned as Snape ushered a brooding Draco through the Great Hall and out the main doors. Only after they had closed did conversation break out again. "What the hell?" was the main consensus.
Suddenly, as if rehearsed, both Ron and Hermione spoke.
"I know what we should do to Malfoy."
~*~
Draco was furious. How COULD he? Of all the people to come to Potter's aid, he never would've suspected Snape. The betrayal he felt was only evident in his eyes. The rest of his body was too far gone, enraged with Potter, to even hint at disappointment.
His fists were balled up so tight his knuckles were white - in direct contrast with his face. For the first time in a long time, Draco had a bit of color in his cheeks. He took long strides, shortening the distance between himself and the dungeon. 'Let's get this over with.'
Professor Snape was more than happy to comply, as his pace was far from slow. He had been watching Draco like a hawk ever since their trip to Dumbledore's office; he had barely gotten to the Gryffindor table in time to stop his young protégé from ripping that blasted Potter's tongue right out of his mouth. Unlike what it may have seemed, Snape was in no mood to be doing those Gryffindors any favors.
When they finally reached the door to the potions lab, Draco hesitated - causing Snape to roll his eyes.
"Of course, the Malfoys are used to having things done for them..." It came out as a low growl, but loud enough for Draco to hear.
In a quick gesture from the more-than-annoyed Professor, the door swung open...and Draco sulked in. Immediately, he took his usual seat, not saying a word.
So they sat there in silence...Snape at his desk, Draco in his seat...for what felt like an eternity. Each one more disappointed in the other.
Finally, Draco broke the silence.
"Why?"
Professor Snape had begun grading his third-year's research projects on "Newt Testicles and their many uses".
"If you expect an answer, Mr. Malfoy, I would suggest you rephrase your bumblings into an actual question..."
Draco glared.
"Why, PROFESSOR, did you stop me at dinner?"
"It was time for your detention."
"But..."
"Did I, or did I not, specifically say that you would be spending your detentions with me every night after dinner?" Although it was a question, technically - Snape always had a way of making it into a statement.
"Yes, but..."
"Were you eating?"
"No."
"Then your dinner was finished. Hence, your detention began." He sighed.
Draco still wasn't satisfied. "Sir, forgive me for saying this, but you picked the most un-opportune moment to start my detention."
At this, Snape looked up and met Draco's gaze.
"I disagree, Mr. Malfoy. If anything, I believe I picked THE opportune time to begin."
All the pleasantries Draco was accustomed to when addressing his Professor flew out the window.
"Did you even LISTEN to what he was saying?!?"
Snape had gone back to grading papers. "Contrary to popular belief, I do have a vague conception of what goes on in this castle, yes."
"You heard what he said about me...my father." The rage he felt was evident.
"Yes."
"Then...why?" The hurt in his voice almost caused Severus to wince. Almost.
Snape got up from his desk and made his way over to where Draco was sitting. Placing his hands on the desk, he leaned in till he was only inches away from Draco's face.
"Your stupidity astounds me, Draco. After last night, after EVERYTHING that happened...you have the gall to flaunt about and pick idiotic fights with the ONE boy you should be avoiding like the plague." Snape's voice was low. "Suspicions are high, Mr. Malfoy...I am not the only one watching you. Do not, and I repeat, DO NOT give Dumbledore another reason to expel you." If it was possible, his voice got even lower...
"As I have said before - you've fallen once, and I WILL not be there to help you up again."
Draco looked at him thoughtfully, putting the pieces together.
"Have I made myself clear?"
Draco nodded. "Yes, sir. Perfectly."
Satisfied, Snape nodded in return. "Good. However..." His eyes creased. "I would not make a habit of questioning my motives, Mr. Malfoy...I assure you." A fire flashed in his eyes. "You don't want to know the answer."
Draco nodded...a bit more hesitantly this time.
In an instant, the dark and foreboding atmosphere was gone - and was replaced by Snape's sad attempt at humor. "As FUN as this is, Mr. Malfoy - the rest of your detention will not be quite so enjoyable."
Draco had to choke back a grin... as the past few minutes were FAR from enjoyable.
"What will I be doing, Professor?"
"You will assist me. A certain...individual...has requested that I make him a potion. A highly complex potion, at that. I will need your assistance, as it will take a month to prepare."
"Certainly Sir. What potion will we be making?"
Severus paused a moment. "You will be informed when it is necessary."
"Ahh." He nodded. "I see." A cunning smile made its way to Draco's face. "You can say his name, Professor. I know who it's for."
Severus was stunned, and saddened. Of course Draco knew who it was for, but for him to be so non-chalant about it...had he already given himself over to the dark? His father's son indeed. But before he had a chance to respond, Severus's face contorted in pain as he grasped his arm. The brand he had received so many years ago felt as though it were on fire. He was being summoned. In a quick look, Draco nodded, packed up his things, and made for the door - turning around quickly before crossing through.
"You will send my regards to my father?"
Severus nodded.
"Thank you, Sir." And with that, Draco left.
~*~
Meanwhile...back at Gryffindor Central...
~*~
"This is going to be SO great..."
Ron was bounding around the common room as Hermione wrote down their suggestions. Suddenly, as soon as Draco had left at dinner, ideas for revenge came naturally. Draco's attempt at humiliation only solidified his own demise. Funny how that happens. One horrific idea after another - they all came tumbling out. Harry was enjoying this as much as Ron, but for much different reasons. It made him happy to involve his friends once more. This whole thing had been so secretive - it felt good to have their help...even if they didn't know the whole story.
Hermione was finally finished with the list. She looked up at Harry, who was leaning against the fireplace - his arms crossed over his chest - and beamed at him. No matter how many times she did that, it always seemed to take his breath away. He beamed back.
"What've we got?"
"Well," Hermione started down the list, giving her own opinion on each one. It took another half hour before they had finally agreed on three suggestions. (A/N: Not that I'm going to reveal them just yet...silly readers!) They all nodded in agreement. Tomorrow's potions class was going to be a hell of a lot more fun than usual.
"Harry..." Hermione looked down. "You still haven't told us how you're going to pull this off."
"Yeah. What's the plan?" Ron had stopped bouncing off the walls by this point and had finally joined the conversation.
Harry looked at his pleading friends. Pangs of guilt found their way back to his heart, but he dismissed them. They couldn't know. Not yet, anyway.
"I can't tell you."
A collective "WHY?" was his response.
"For your own safety, I can't. If anyone's going to go down for this, it should be me." Harry's look was stern. "I doubt that anyone could trace this back to us, let alone prove it, but I still don't want to take any chances. You know how Dumbledore is..." His voice dropped a bit. "...I don't think I'll get into TOO much trouble."
Ron and Hermione thought about it for a moment. Hermione was the first one to speak.
"Okay. I'll take your word for it..." She paused. "ONLY, and I do mean only, IF you promise to tell us eventually. Once the coast is clear."
"Yeah." Ron chimed in.
"That sounds fair." Harry smiled. "But I'M the one who gets to decide when the coast is clear."
Hermione made a sound of disapproval, but Ron quickly covered it.
"Personally, I don't really care how you do it, mate... just as long as that slimy git gets his come uppins!" At "uppins" Ron began bouncing around the Common Room again.
Both Harry and Hermione cracked up.
"This is going to be SO great..."
~*~
Meanwhile...in a creepy location not too far from the school...
~*~
After alerting Dumbledore of his unexpected summons, Severus went off to Voldemort's meeting-place. He never knew where it was going to be from gathering to gathering. The Dark Lord enjoyed his privacy - which meant keeping his minions in the dark most of the time. Severus was usually among the ignorant, but not this time. He was too deeply involved, much to his disgust.
Severus approached the seated figure, his robes outlined by the emerald fires that burned behind him. In a swift, and rehearsed, motion - he kneeled before the shadowy form, making sure to keep his eyes lowered.
"My Lord. You have called."
A raspy voice answered - it's tone almost too strained to comprehend. The Dark Lord was much weaker than he had thought. Snape tried his best not to smirk.
"Ssseverus. So good of you to come."
"Your will is my duty, my Lord." The pleasantries of being a slave - oh the rapture.
"Yesss...so it is. And how is My will coming along?" Voldemort made a gesture towards Lucius Malfoy, who had been standing back in the shadows. He quickly joined Severus. "I take it the potion has been started?"
"Tomorrow, my Lord - Draco is ready to assist me."
"Excellent." His gaze moved from the potions master to Lucius. "And has our young Draco been informed of his role?"
Lucius, who usually was as smooth as a warthog's backside, had quite a time keeping his voice from stammering.
"He...he has n-not, as of...yet, my Lord." His eyes darted towards Snape. "I was under the impression it was Severus' job to inform him."
"It would do you good not to assume such things, Lucius." Voldemort's gaze had turned cruel. "After all, you are his father. Such joyous news should come from family...not professors."
If the situation had not been so dire, Severus would've cracked a smile.
"Of course, my Lord. My mistake."
"Yes, Lucius. Your mistake." A cracked sneer formed on Voldemort's decaying lips. "Crucio."
After an eternity of agony, Lucius was finally released and slumped to the ground, his body twitching. Every meeting was like this. At some point during the night, at least one person would displease Voldemort - and would have to pay. Severus was the usual target, but he had too big of a part to play for Voldemort to injure him TOO severely. What luck. Voldemort's attentions were soon directed back to Severus.
"You will keep Me informed of your progress, Severus."
"Yes, my Lord."
Suddenly, and madly, Voldemort began clapping. A twisted laugh escaped his lips.
"Do not cower in the shadows, My children! Be of good cheer! For soon your Master will live again, stronger and more powerful than ever..." His gaze returned to Lucius, who was regaining consciousness. "Isn't that right, Lucius?"
A humble gaze was all he could muster.
Chilling laughter was the last thing he heard before he passed out again. Severus dared a glance at the lump of a human Draco called 'father.' Even if he had a chance, and Lucius woke up, Severus doubted he'd mention his son's regards.
~*~