Warning: Danger Will Robinson, Danger!
A/N: I'm too poor to own anything as good as Harry Potter.
Summary: Harry, Ron and Hermione have some VERY nasty things in store for poor, defenseless Draco. Revenge is a bitch, ain't it? Draco's no stranger to humiliation, though. You've met his father. And Snape - well, Snape is neck deep in a plot that's so confusing that he doesn't even fully know what's going on. At least Voldie's pleased with him - for whatever good that'll do.
Thanks:
Thom: *smiles and winks at ya* Thank you so much for reading, hon! It makes my heart sing that you've taken a bigger interest in HP. You're fab ...grrrrrr baby.
Morri: No, of course you're not impatient. *cricket chirps somewhere* Ummmm...yeah. But I like that in a reviewer! Keeps me on my toes and stuff. Keep them vibes a comin'!
The artist formerly known as Joy Took...AKA Stimpy: Thank you for your review! I'm so happy that it's somewhat entertaining enough to catch your interest. It really means a lot to me. I hope the rest is up to par!
FRAN!: Yeah, I kind of did a "180" on ya there...sorry 'bout that! The plot kind of hit me one day, and I couldn't "NOT" do it. Glad you dug it, though! I was hoping Voldie's scene was creepy. It was creepy to me, but then, I get creeped out at most everything. Lol *Screams* What the hell was that?!?! *pants*
FINALLY!!!!
This chapter is dedicated to Ben Cooney, for being my 50th reviewer! (and my 49th, 48th, 51st, 52nd, etc.) Thank you so much, m'dear! The quantity, and quality, of your comments made me beam! This one's for you, hon!
Are y'all prepared for an action packed chapter?? I sure hope so, 'cause that's what you've got.
Onwards and Upwards!
~*~
Later that night...
~*~
Harry had snuck out of the Gryffindor Common room around 10 pm Sunday night. Under the protection of his invisibility cloak, and with the help of the Marauder's Map, he made it to Hagrid's hut by 10:15 - safely, and without a 'Peeves' incident. No one knew he was there, not even Ron & Hermione. They knew he was sneaking out to hypnotize Malfoy, but the details of his assignment were conveniently left out. It was better that way, though. The less they knew of the amulet, the better. With a quick look over his shoulder, Harry creaked open Hagrid's door and sneaked in.
Hagrid had left earlier that week on an assignment from Dumbledore. No doubt a meeting with the Giants was in order...given the fact their allegiance with the Light was crucial to their success. A sad smile made its way to Harry's lips as he looked around the rough-and-tumble cottage. Hagrid was risking his life right now, and here was the-boy-who- lived...breaking and entering so he could effectively humiliate his archenemy. It all seemed so petty.
Harry knew there were more important things to be worrying about than Malfoy, but he just couldn't make himself get involved. Too much of his youth had been wasted in worry. There would be time enough for dangerous missions and life-or-death situations at a later date. Right now, he deserved to have a little fun.
'Stop being so selfish!' The small scrap that was left of his conscience was screaming at him. 'The world is ending, and you're worried about getting off! If your father could see you...'
"Stop it." Harry had closed his eyes and was trying to convince himself that he was fine. That what he was doing was fine. He clenched his fists; Marauder's Map in one hand, invisibility cloak in the other. Both gifts from his father, ironically enough.
"If he didn't want me to use them, he wouldn't have left them for me." That seemed to shut his conscience up.
After waiting a moment or two for a response, and finding none, Harry put down his inheritance and hurried over to Hagrid's bed. Trying his best not to trip over anything, as it was black as pitch in there. Time was of the essence. He had to get into Malfoy's head before that blonde git fell asleep. He chuckled softly, remembering how worried Hermione was that the plan wouldn't work, as she saw no conceivable way for Harry to get close enough to Malfoy to talk to him, let alone put him in a trance.
What she didn't know, and what Harry would never tell her, is that he had a direct path to Draco's subconscious. All he had to do now was hope he could be heard.
After an annoyingly long time of feeling around in the dark, Harry found the bed. It came up past his midsection, and he had to jump a bit to even get on, but he finally made it. An expansive mass of fluffy, soft fur greeted his arrival. A sudden urge to make snow angels took hold of him, but he quickly dismissed it. He'd have plenty of time for fun later...right now, he had some business to attend to.
He hoped he hadn't wasted too much time. He was fairly certain that this would work, but Draco had to be awake for all to go smoothly.
Quickly, but with a bit of reverence, Harry pulled the amulet from his pocket and slid it around his neck...
"Here's to hoping..."
~Swirling~
~Swirling~
~Darkness~
~*~
Draco made his way back to the Slytherin Common room after a rather...enlightening...detention with Professor Snape. All of his anger and resentment towards his professor had been abolished, and promptly re-directed back at himself. How could he have been so ignorant to think that the Head of Slytherin House would defend those... those imbecile Gryffindorks? No...Snape was too much a Slytherin to do anything that rash.
His head shook in disbelief, ashamed at his own stupidity for doubting Professor Snape's loyalties.
Snape had made himself quite clear in his usual 'cloak and dagger' fashion...Draco was being too obvious. So soon after possible expulsion, only a fool would openly threaten the 'victim', and not expect some sort of retaliation. Dumbledore was watching him, obviously, as were numerous other professors. He was under the microscope, it would seem. Thankfully, Professor Snape had been in a 'giving' mood today. Draco highly doubted his father would've been so kind.
He would lay low for a while. Let things 'simmer down' as it were. Patience was a virtue Draco never had the pleasure of knowing...but he would soon learn. If anything, his absence would most likely unnerve his opponents...sending them into fits of paranoia.
The Malfoy smirk found its way back home, and Draco continued on his way.
Once within the walls of the Slytherin Common room, Draco was his old self again. And in a good mood, luckily, he could even tolerate Pansy Parkinson's incessant babblings, which greeted him upon his entrance.
"Draco! I was sooo worried..." She purred and sauntered up to him. "The look on Snape's face...I was sure you were done for!"
Draco looked at her threateningly. "You doubt my abilities, Pansy?"
"No! No, of course not...Drac..." She was backing off him slightly. "It just looked for the worst."
"Hmmph..." Draco smirked in satisfaction. "You obviously don't know Snape very well."
"Then...you're not in trouble?"
"Hardly. Professor Snape and I are working on a potion together; it was simply time to start the brewing process. Really, Pansy." His eyes glowed. "Sometimes I think you'd be better off in Huffle Puff."
"Draco Malfoy!" Pansy looked indignant. "There's no need to be cruel!"
"But I do it so well..." He growled. In one swift motion, he took her in his arms and kissed her; releasing the pent up anger and frustration he had been collecting all day. The way his jaw was clenched, you could almost see his tongue savagely exploring her mouth, their lips painfully crushed together. The muscles in Draco's neck stood taunt, stretched and strained, a beautiful compliment to his severe jaw line.
And then, as suddenly as he had started, he stopped. And walked away. Leaving Pansy wide-eyed and breathless in the entryway.
"What was that about?" Blaise raised an eyebrow as Draco passed, on his way to the dormitories.
"You've heard of a punching bag...?"
Blaise nodded.
"Same results...different technique." Draco resumed his smirk and headed up the stairs.
~*~
After a couple of hours of studying, Draco could hardly keep his eyes open. He wasn't exceptionally tired, but "Home Life and Social Habits of British Muggles" was hardly exceptional literature. Damn his Muggle Studies class. Not only was it a complete waste of brainpower, it was horrifically boring to boot. It was a wonder the wretched creatures didn't bore themselves out of existence by now.
"Survival of the fittest, my arse." Draco grumbled under his breath.
Cattle...the lot of 'em. No real purpose besides menial labor. At least they proved entertaining. His mind wandered back to a tale his father had told him as a child...one of his favorite bedtime stories. Not one you'd find in a children's book - but a first hand account of a particularly engaging Death Raid.
It was the peak of Voldemort's rein. Draco was only an infant, but he claimed he could remember his father's exuberance clear as day. He had rushed in to Draco's room where his mother had been tending to him, and in a rare emotional outburst, he took her in his arms and held her. He then bent over Draco's crib and watched him. For what seemed like hours, he stood there and watched his son. Draco could still remember his smile.
Earlier that day, the Death Eaters, lead by Voldemort himself, had attacked a muggle school. Lucuis never went into too much detail about the raid, but he told Draco about one instance that involved two little boys. (In his youth, Draco had named them "dumb" and "dumber". But now, since maturing, he would call them "Weasel" and "Potty")
Voldemort had been watching his followers torture and kill the school faculty, when a foolish child (Potty) had stood between them and his friend (Weasel). A pathetic attempt at bravery. "Weasel" tried to push his friend out of the way, but "Potty" wouldn't budge. Instead, "Potty" yelled and insulted Voldemort with every curse word feasible in an eight-year-old's vocabulary. Without hesitation, the Dark Lord cursed "Weasel", and he immediately fell to the floor, writhing in pain.
The moral of the story, Draco devised, was that "friendship" was a weakness. Had "Potty" not attracted attention to his friend, "Weasel" probably would've been overlooked. It wasn't the children the Death Eaters were after to begin with, but after they witnessed how fun they were to "play" with, more children soon fell to unforgivables.
That was when Draco's daily "weakness" talks began. He was six.
Sure enough, Draco took his father's words to heart. Never, in his sixteen years of existence, had he given into temptation. It had been difficult at first. The loneliness of an empty childhood, locked away in the Malfoy Mansion without companionship. It would've driven most wizards insane. However, Draco used that solitude to his benefit. He could exist on his own, without the need or desire for friends. Sure, he had Crabe and Goyle - but they hardly counted. They were his...compatriots. They existed for manipulation and labor, nothing more.
Loyalty was the only emotion that had been encouraged in the Malfoy Manor. Loyalty to his family, loyalty to the Dark, loyalty to the pureblood.
Loyalty...to Slytherin House. Draco clenched his eyes shut, remembering Professor Snape's disappointment. Never again would he doubt the Head of his House.
Satisfied that he could no longer read another passage from that asinine book, Draco threw it to the floor and got ready for bed. As he slid beneath the covers, Draco subconsciously repeated the mantra his father had taught him so early in life.
He would never be weak. Never.
He turned over onto his side, one hand beneath his pillow. His eyes glanced over to the clock on his bedside table.
10:15
Turning in early was never one of Draco's favorite things to do, but he had potions tomorrow morning. He wanted to be there on time, especially now...considering the day's events. Keeping in Snape's good graces was at the top of Draco's "to-do" list. Besides, he didn't want to miss a moment of the Gryffindor's daily torturing. He had a feeling Snape would be particularly cruel tomorrow - to make up for his apparent "rescue" at dinner tonight. Draco's stomach tightened up at the thought. He'd get his vengeance soon enough. If Snape didn't prove to do a good enough job already. It wouldn't be too difficult. Besides...
Potter was weak. It would be only too easy to exploit his emotions. The daffy bastard wore them on his sleeve for fuck's sake. His love for his friends would be his undoing one-day. It was only a matter of time.
Draco closed his eyes as he drifted off. Laughing quietly, and bitterly, to himself.
~*~
Meanwhile...in Draco's head
~*~
Harry found himself in familiar territory. The same void - the same endless, soundproof eternity of black. A sigh of relief escaped his lips; he had made it in time. Without another thought, Harry propelled himself forward and began his search for the lights. It didn't take too long. Directly below him were the proverbial emotion indicators, melting and flashing in a variety of colors.
To say that Malfoy's head was different than Ron's would be an understatement. As he soared downward, a musky aroma entered his nostrils. While the familiar scent of the Burrow greeted his last arrival, this new aroma was...foreign. It was pungent...reminiscent of a dungeon...with a hint of sandalwood and sweat mixed together.
It was intoxicating.
The thought of experiencing anything less than nausea when dealing with Malfoy was a bit unnerving. But Harry quickly made himself forget the pleasant aroma as he approached the lights. They had gone from a brilliant red, to orange...then yellow...quickly dissipating, changing to green...then finally settling on blue. After a good minute or two of blue, Harry concluded that Draco was about to fall asleep and flew into action.
After clearing his throat, Harry called out into the darkness...
"Listen to my words, Draco...listen and believe..." Harry waited a moment before continuing. He hated the fact this was coming out so melodramatically. "What I say, you will do. There will be no question, no doubt. What I say is truth..."
The lights made no indication that Draco had heard him. Frustrated, but determined, Harry continued.
"When Ron Weasley says the word **Sir**, you will, without hesitation, believe that you're..."
(A/N: Like I'm gonna give it away yet! *tsk tsk* Silly readers!)
After Harry had given his "suggestion", Draco's emotional indicators, or whatever they were, flashed a brilliant gold. Harry grinned. This was working!
"When Hermione Granger says the word **Question**, you will, without hesitation..."
Again, the lights flashed a brilliant gold, and then returned blue.
"When Harry Potter says the phrase **You know you want me**, you will, without hesitation..."
For the third and final time, there was a flash of gold, and then nothing. The blue lights began to fade into darker shades. Navy blue, midnight blue, then finally...a blackish purple color. Draco was dreaming.
Harry could only hope that this would work, but given what he had witnessed, it would. Elated with his success, Harry did a flip - at least, as much of a flip one can do in a void - before slipping off the amulet.
~Swirling~
~Swirling~
~Darkness~
~*~
Harry awoke with a violent bounce. He was back in Hagrid's hut, and all had gone well. A devious smirk made its way to Harry's lips as an equally devious thought occurred to him.
'I wonder...nah...I shouldn't. But still, it would be fun...'
He cackled.
Fifteen minutes and two more trips later, he had packed up his things, slinked on the cloak, and made his way back to Hogwarts. Harry hoped it wasn't too late. He needed to get some sleep, as it was going to be a big day tomorrow. And not just for Malfoy, it seemed...
'This is going to be SO great.'
~*~
You didn't really think I'd leave it there, did you? *grin* I'm not THAT evil. READ ON!!!!
~*~
Both Draco and Harry awoke the next morning with a desire to get to Potions as quickly as possible. And while Draco was a bit more composed, Harry flew back his covers and ran to the showers.
"Umph!" "Ow!"
Not before running head long into an equally excited Ron Weasley first.
"Sorry, mate!" "Didn't see you there..."
"Did you...?"
"...yeah!..."
"Did it...?"
"...yeah!..."
"What are...?"
"...later..."
"First...?"
"...breakfast..."
"Then...?"
Harry grinned.
"Potions."
Ron matched him.
"This is going to be SO great!"
~*~
Harry, Ron, and Hermione sat a bit further away from the rest of the Gryffindors that morning, as there was much to discuss. Trying not to look too obvious, they huddled close to each other...their voices low.
"Alright...here's the plan. Each of us has a word that will trigger the hypnosis. I've tried to make them as inconspicuous as possible. And please, DON'T ask me again how I did it." Harry looked at Hermione, who simply glared back. He sighed. "Mione..." His bushy haired friend drew closer. "Your word is **Question**"
Hermione nodded as Ron snickered.
"That's definitely inconspicuous. She asks him a hundred questions every class!"
It took both Hermione AND Harry shooting him a look to get him to shut up.
"Ron, your word is **Sir**"
It was Hermione's turn to snicker.
"What!?"
"Oh nothing...other than the fact that you've never been able to speak to Snape in a voice louder than a whisper. I doubt Malfoy'll even hear you."
Instead of getting angry, Ron grinned.
"Oh, HE'LL hear me."
"You best make sure he does, Ron." Harry's tone took a turn for the serious. "Cause if this doesn't work, I'll kill you."
Ron grinned again.
"Harry, if this doesn't work, I'll kill MYSELF!"
It was a few minutes before they stopped laughing. It took Hermione's quick thinking to get them back on track.
"Potions starts in a few minutes, boys...I suggest we be on our way."
"Yeah," Ron chimed in. "I for one want to get a good seat!"
"No, we sit where we usually do." Harry was getting up. "We don't want to attract suspicion."
"Right." Hermione agreed as she too got up.
"Fine, but you sit on my right, 'Mione." Ron was packing his bag.
"Why?"
"If I can't move closer, then at least I want a clear view! You're hair is impossible to see over!"
Hermione smacked him a good one. In response to Ron's protests, she claimed it was necessary to appear as if everything was normal. For the sake of the plan...
Both Harry and Ron knew better.
~*~
They were almost to Potions class when a snobbish drawl caught their attention.
"Going to your death so eagerly, Potter?" Draco sneered. "I always DID think you had a death wish. Or is that your parents? I get you confused so easily."
Hermione gingerly wrapped her fingers around both Harry and Ron's arm as she whispered.
"Act normal."
Both nodded.
"I wasn't aware we'd be killing off Harry this lesson, Malfoy...but I wouldn't put it past that freak of a professor you seem to think so highly of."
Ron was cool, calm, and collected. Entirely NOT his normal self. However, Draco was too furious with their cheek at his Professor's expense to notice.
"Professor Snape is more a wizard than your ENTIRE pathetic excuse of a family, weasel...don't go insulting things you have NO comprehension of."
"I had no idea he meant that much to you, Malfoy." Ron snickered. "It's so...sweet."
Afraid Ron would give the game away, Harry grabbed his two friends and made for the door. Not before sending a comment over his shoulder.
"Fuck off and die, Malfoy."
They had just taken their seats when Harry hit Ron on the arm.
"NICE, Ron. Really nice. You almost gave it away."
Ron laughed.
"Please, Harry...he's an idiot. He won't see it coming."
Hermione shushed them as Professor Snape entered the classroom.
He looked as brooding as ever - his robes billowing out behind him, hair barely washed, and eyes cold as ice. He did look slightly more worn than usual, though. Neither Gryffindor had a chance to wonder why as he immediately began class.
"SILENCE." Though there wasn't much chatter to begin with, the room fell even more silent. Only his footsteps could be heard.
"As you should know...though I seriously doubt many of you do..." Snape's gaze flew to the Gryffindor section of the room. They shifted uncomfortably. "Winter break is rapidly approaching. It is during that time that I will be expecting you to do the majority of your research..."
A Slytherin hand popped up before Hermione could react. "Research for what, Professor?"
A cruel smile etched its way onto Snape's face. "I'm so glad you asked, Mr. Malhi. Ten points to Slytherin for an intelligent question." At that, he sat down behind his desk, and to the shock of the ENTIRE class (Gryffindor and Slytherin alike), he put his feet up.
"As it is your sixth year here, you all should be fully capable of creating your own potions. The key word being SHOULD. However, unlike the rest of your professors, I am fully aware of your incompetence. Unfortunately for you, that will not stop me from assigning you an independent study. In which, you will be researching and creating a potion that has yet to exist in the wizarding world."
A collective groan echoed off the dungeon walls.
Snape's smile grew wider.
"Yes. It should prove to be MOST difficult. And, conveniently, it will count for 80% of your overall grade."
The groan got a bit louder.
"SILENCE. It has come to my attention that SOME of you..." Snape's eyes fixated on Draco. "...have already begun on their potions. Such enthusiasm will be rewarded accordingly."
Draco's look of shock melted into a smug grin. His detention...the potion he was assisting in...it all made sense now. Apparently, he no longer had to worry about getting into Snape's good graces.
Professor Snape's attentions were drawn away from his prized pupil by a hand waving incessantly in the air. Exasperated to have to deal with her so early on, he growled his reply.
"YES, Miss Granger?"
Hermione lowered her hand, and tried to keep her best "innocent face" from faltering. Both Ron and Harry exchanged a look.
"Yes, Professor. I have a **Question**..."
~*~
Okay. So maybe I AM that evil. *wicked grin* Hey, you like it? Review! You don't like it? Review anyway!
A/N: I'm too poor to own anything as good as Harry Potter.
Summary: Harry, Ron and Hermione have some VERY nasty things in store for poor, defenseless Draco. Revenge is a bitch, ain't it? Draco's no stranger to humiliation, though. You've met his father. And Snape - well, Snape is neck deep in a plot that's so confusing that he doesn't even fully know what's going on. At least Voldie's pleased with him - for whatever good that'll do.
Thanks:
Thom: *smiles and winks at ya* Thank you so much for reading, hon! It makes my heart sing that you've taken a bigger interest in HP. You're fab ...grrrrrr baby.
Morri: No, of course you're not impatient. *cricket chirps somewhere* Ummmm...yeah. But I like that in a reviewer! Keeps me on my toes and stuff. Keep them vibes a comin'!
The artist formerly known as Joy Took...AKA Stimpy: Thank you for your review! I'm so happy that it's somewhat entertaining enough to catch your interest. It really means a lot to me. I hope the rest is up to par!
FRAN!: Yeah, I kind of did a "180" on ya there...sorry 'bout that! The plot kind of hit me one day, and I couldn't "NOT" do it. Glad you dug it, though! I was hoping Voldie's scene was creepy. It was creepy to me, but then, I get creeped out at most everything. Lol *Screams* What the hell was that?!?! *pants*
FINALLY!!!!
This chapter is dedicated to Ben Cooney, for being my 50th reviewer! (and my 49th, 48th, 51st, 52nd, etc.) Thank you so much, m'dear! The quantity, and quality, of your comments made me beam! This one's for you, hon!
Are y'all prepared for an action packed chapter?? I sure hope so, 'cause that's what you've got.
Onwards and Upwards!
~*~
Later that night...
~*~
Harry had snuck out of the Gryffindor Common room around 10 pm Sunday night. Under the protection of his invisibility cloak, and with the help of the Marauder's Map, he made it to Hagrid's hut by 10:15 - safely, and without a 'Peeves' incident. No one knew he was there, not even Ron & Hermione. They knew he was sneaking out to hypnotize Malfoy, but the details of his assignment were conveniently left out. It was better that way, though. The less they knew of the amulet, the better. With a quick look over his shoulder, Harry creaked open Hagrid's door and sneaked in.
Hagrid had left earlier that week on an assignment from Dumbledore. No doubt a meeting with the Giants was in order...given the fact their allegiance with the Light was crucial to their success. A sad smile made its way to Harry's lips as he looked around the rough-and-tumble cottage. Hagrid was risking his life right now, and here was the-boy-who- lived...breaking and entering so he could effectively humiliate his archenemy. It all seemed so petty.
Harry knew there were more important things to be worrying about than Malfoy, but he just couldn't make himself get involved. Too much of his youth had been wasted in worry. There would be time enough for dangerous missions and life-or-death situations at a later date. Right now, he deserved to have a little fun.
'Stop being so selfish!' The small scrap that was left of his conscience was screaming at him. 'The world is ending, and you're worried about getting off! If your father could see you...'
"Stop it." Harry had closed his eyes and was trying to convince himself that he was fine. That what he was doing was fine. He clenched his fists; Marauder's Map in one hand, invisibility cloak in the other. Both gifts from his father, ironically enough.
"If he didn't want me to use them, he wouldn't have left them for me." That seemed to shut his conscience up.
After waiting a moment or two for a response, and finding none, Harry put down his inheritance and hurried over to Hagrid's bed. Trying his best not to trip over anything, as it was black as pitch in there. Time was of the essence. He had to get into Malfoy's head before that blonde git fell asleep. He chuckled softly, remembering how worried Hermione was that the plan wouldn't work, as she saw no conceivable way for Harry to get close enough to Malfoy to talk to him, let alone put him in a trance.
What she didn't know, and what Harry would never tell her, is that he had a direct path to Draco's subconscious. All he had to do now was hope he could be heard.
After an annoyingly long time of feeling around in the dark, Harry found the bed. It came up past his midsection, and he had to jump a bit to even get on, but he finally made it. An expansive mass of fluffy, soft fur greeted his arrival. A sudden urge to make snow angels took hold of him, but he quickly dismissed it. He'd have plenty of time for fun later...right now, he had some business to attend to.
He hoped he hadn't wasted too much time. He was fairly certain that this would work, but Draco had to be awake for all to go smoothly.
Quickly, but with a bit of reverence, Harry pulled the amulet from his pocket and slid it around his neck...
"Here's to hoping..."
~Swirling~
~Swirling~
~Darkness~
~*~
Draco made his way back to the Slytherin Common room after a rather...enlightening...detention with Professor Snape. All of his anger and resentment towards his professor had been abolished, and promptly re-directed back at himself. How could he have been so ignorant to think that the Head of Slytherin House would defend those... those imbecile Gryffindorks? No...Snape was too much a Slytherin to do anything that rash.
His head shook in disbelief, ashamed at his own stupidity for doubting Professor Snape's loyalties.
Snape had made himself quite clear in his usual 'cloak and dagger' fashion...Draco was being too obvious. So soon after possible expulsion, only a fool would openly threaten the 'victim', and not expect some sort of retaliation. Dumbledore was watching him, obviously, as were numerous other professors. He was under the microscope, it would seem. Thankfully, Professor Snape had been in a 'giving' mood today. Draco highly doubted his father would've been so kind.
He would lay low for a while. Let things 'simmer down' as it were. Patience was a virtue Draco never had the pleasure of knowing...but he would soon learn. If anything, his absence would most likely unnerve his opponents...sending them into fits of paranoia.
The Malfoy smirk found its way back home, and Draco continued on his way.
Once within the walls of the Slytherin Common room, Draco was his old self again. And in a good mood, luckily, he could even tolerate Pansy Parkinson's incessant babblings, which greeted him upon his entrance.
"Draco! I was sooo worried..." She purred and sauntered up to him. "The look on Snape's face...I was sure you were done for!"
Draco looked at her threateningly. "You doubt my abilities, Pansy?"
"No! No, of course not...Drac..." She was backing off him slightly. "It just looked for the worst."
"Hmmph..." Draco smirked in satisfaction. "You obviously don't know Snape very well."
"Then...you're not in trouble?"
"Hardly. Professor Snape and I are working on a potion together; it was simply time to start the brewing process. Really, Pansy." His eyes glowed. "Sometimes I think you'd be better off in Huffle Puff."
"Draco Malfoy!" Pansy looked indignant. "There's no need to be cruel!"
"But I do it so well..." He growled. In one swift motion, he took her in his arms and kissed her; releasing the pent up anger and frustration he had been collecting all day. The way his jaw was clenched, you could almost see his tongue savagely exploring her mouth, their lips painfully crushed together. The muscles in Draco's neck stood taunt, stretched and strained, a beautiful compliment to his severe jaw line.
And then, as suddenly as he had started, he stopped. And walked away. Leaving Pansy wide-eyed and breathless in the entryway.
"What was that about?" Blaise raised an eyebrow as Draco passed, on his way to the dormitories.
"You've heard of a punching bag...?"
Blaise nodded.
"Same results...different technique." Draco resumed his smirk and headed up the stairs.
~*~
After a couple of hours of studying, Draco could hardly keep his eyes open. He wasn't exceptionally tired, but "Home Life and Social Habits of British Muggles" was hardly exceptional literature. Damn his Muggle Studies class. Not only was it a complete waste of brainpower, it was horrifically boring to boot. It was a wonder the wretched creatures didn't bore themselves out of existence by now.
"Survival of the fittest, my arse." Draco grumbled under his breath.
Cattle...the lot of 'em. No real purpose besides menial labor. At least they proved entertaining. His mind wandered back to a tale his father had told him as a child...one of his favorite bedtime stories. Not one you'd find in a children's book - but a first hand account of a particularly engaging Death Raid.
It was the peak of Voldemort's rein. Draco was only an infant, but he claimed he could remember his father's exuberance clear as day. He had rushed in to Draco's room where his mother had been tending to him, and in a rare emotional outburst, he took her in his arms and held her. He then bent over Draco's crib and watched him. For what seemed like hours, he stood there and watched his son. Draco could still remember his smile.
Earlier that day, the Death Eaters, lead by Voldemort himself, had attacked a muggle school. Lucuis never went into too much detail about the raid, but he told Draco about one instance that involved two little boys. (In his youth, Draco had named them "dumb" and "dumber". But now, since maturing, he would call them "Weasel" and "Potty")
Voldemort had been watching his followers torture and kill the school faculty, when a foolish child (Potty) had stood between them and his friend (Weasel). A pathetic attempt at bravery. "Weasel" tried to push his friend out of the way, but "Potty" wouldn't budge. Instead, "Potty" yelled and insulted Voldemort with every curse word feasible in an eight-year-old's vocabulary. Without hesitation, the Dark Lord cursed "Weasel", and he immediately fell to the floor, writhing in pain.
The moral of the story, Draco devised, was that "friendship" was a weakness. Had "Potty" not attracted attention to his friend, "Weasel" probably would've been overlooked. It wasn't the children the Death Eaters were after to begin with, but after they witnessed how fun they were to "play" with, more children soon fell to unforgivables.
That was when Draco's daily "weakness" talks began. He was six.
Sure enough, Draco took his father's words to heart. Never, in his sixteen years of existence, had he given into temptation. It had been difficult at first. The loneliness of an empty childhood, locked away in the Malfoy Mansion without companionship. It would've driven most wizards insane. However, Draco used that solitude to his benefit. He could exist on his own, without the need or desire for friends. Sure, he had Crabe and Goyle - but they hardly counted. They were his...compatriots. They existed for manipulation and labor, nothing more.
Loyalty was the only emotion that had been encouraged in the Malfoy Manor. Loyalty to his family, loyalty to the Dark, loyalty to the pureblood.
Loyalty...to Slytherin House. Draco clenched his eyes shut, remembering Professor Snape's disappointment. Never again would he doubt the Head of his House.
Satisfied that he could no longer read another passage from that asinine book, Draco threw it to the floor and got ready for bed. As he slid beneath the covers, Draco subconsciously repeated the mantra his father had taught him so early in life.
He would never be weak. Never.
He turned over onto his side, one hand beneath his pillow. His eyes glanced over to the clock on his bedside table.
10:15
Turning in early was never one of Draco's favorite things to do, but he had potions tomorrow morning. He wanted to be there on time, especially now...considering the day's events. Keeping in Snape's good graces was at the top of Draco's "to-do" list. Besides, he didn't want to miss a moment of the Gryffindor's daily torturing. He had a feeling Snape would be particularly cruel tomorrow - to make up for his apparent "rescue" at dinner tonight. Draco's stomach tightened up at the thought. He'd get his vengeance soon enough. If Snape didn't prove to do a good enough job already. It wouldn't be too difficult. Besides...
Potter was weak. It would be only too easy to exploit his emotions. The daffy bastard wore them on his sleeve for fuck's sake. His love for his friends would be his undoing one-day. It was only a matter of time.
Draco closed his eyes as he drifted off. Laughing quietly, and bitterly, to himself.
~*~
Meanwhile...in Draco's head
~*~
Harry found himself in familiar territory. The same void - the same endless, soundproof eternity of black. A sigh of relief escaped his lips; he had made it in time. Without another thought, Harry propelled himself forward and began his search for the lights. It didn't take too long. Directly below him were the proverbial emotion indicators, melting and flashing in a variety of colors.
To say that Malfoy's head was different than Ron's would be an understatement. As he soared downward, a musky aroma entered his nostrils. While the familiar scent of the Burrow greeted his last arrival, this new aroma was...foreign. It was pungent...reminiscent of a dungeon...with a hint of sandalwood and sweat mixed together.
It was intoxicating.
The thought of experiencing anything less than nausea when dealing with Malfoy was a bit unnerving. But Harry quickly made himself forget the pleasant aroma as he approached the lights. They had gone from a brilliant red, to orange...then yellow...quickly dissipating, changing to green...then finally settling on blue. After a good minute or two of blue, Harry concluded that Draco was about to fall asleep and flew into action.
After clearing his throat, Harry called out into the darkness...
"Listen to my words, Draco...listen and believe..." Harry waited a moment before continuing. He hated the fact this was coming out so melodramatically. "What I say, you will do. There will be no question, no doubt. What I say is truth..."
The lights made no indication that Draco had heard him. Frustrated, but determined, Harry continued.
"When Ron Weasley says the word **Sir**, you will, without hesitation, believe that you're..."
(A/N: Like I'm gonna give it away yet! *tsk tsk* Silly readers!)
After Harry had given his "suggestion", Draco's emotional indicators, or whatever they were, flashed a brilliant gold. Harry grinned. This was working!
"When Hermione Granger says the word **Question**, you will, without hesitation..."
Again, the lights flashed a brilliant gold, and then returned blue.
"When Harry Potter says the phrase **You know you want me**, you will, without hesitation..."
For the third and final time, there was a flash of gold, and then nothing. The blue lights began to fade into darker shades. Navy blue, midnight blue, then finally...a blackish purple color. Draco was dreaming.
Harry could only hope that this would work, but given what he had witnessed, it would. Elated with his success, Harry did a flip - at least, as much of a flip one can do in a void - before slipping off the amulet.
~Swirling~
~Swirling~
~Darkness~
~*~
Harry awoke with a violent bounce. He was back in Hagrid's hut, and all had gone well. A devious smirk made its way to Harry's lips as an equally devious thought occurred to him.
'I wonder...nah...I shouldn't. But still, it would be fun...'
He cackled.
Fifteen minutes and two more trips later, he had packed up his things, slinked on the cloak, and made his way back to Hogwarts. Harry hoped it wasn't too late. He needed to get some sleep, as it was going to be a big day tomorrow. And not just for Malfoy, it seemed...
'This is going to be SO great.'
~*~
You didn't really think I'd leave it there, did you? *grin* I'm not THAT evil. READ ON!!!!
~*~
Both Draco and Harry awoke the next morning with a desire to get to Potions as quickly as possible. And while Draco was a bit more composed, Harry flew back his covers and ran to the showers.
"Umph!" "Ow!"
Not before running head long into an equally excited Ron Weasley first.
"Sorry, mate!" "Didn't see you there..."
"Did you...?"
"...yeah!..."
"Did it...?"
"...yeah!..."
"What are...?"
"...later..."
"First...?"
"...breakfast..."
"Then...?"
Harry grinned.
"Potions."
Ron matched him.
"This is going to be SO great!"
~*~
Harry, Ron, and Hermione sat a bit further away from the rest of the Gryffindors that morning, as there was much to discuss. Trying not to look too obvious, they huddled close to each other...their voices low.
"Alright...here's the plan. Each of us has a word that will trigger the hypnosis. I've tried to make them as inconspicuous as possible. And please, DON'T ask me again how I did it." Harry looked at Hermione, who simply glared back. He sighed. "Mione..." His bushy haired friend drew closer. "Your word is **Question**"
Hermione nodded as Ron snickered.
"That's definitely inconspicuous. She asks him a hundred questions every class!"
It took both Hermione AND Harry shooting him a look to get him to shut up.
"Ron, your word is **Sir**"
It was Hermione's turn to snicker.
"What!?"
"Oh nothing...other than the fact that you've never been able to speak to Snape in a voice louder than a whisper. I doubt Malfoy'll even hear you."
Instead of getting angry, Ron grinned.
"Oh, HE'LL hear me."
"You best make sure he does, Ron." Harry's tone took a turn for the serious. "Cause if this doesn't work, I'll kill you."
Ron grinned again.
"Harry, if this doesn't work, I'll kill MYSELF!"
It was a few minutes before they stopped laughing. It took Hermione's quick thinking to get them back on track.
"Potions starts in a few minutes, boys...I suggest we be on our way."
"Yeah," Ron chimed in. "I for one want to get a good seat!"
"No, we sit where we usually do." Harry was getting up. "We don't want to attract suspicion."
"Right." Hermione agreed as she too got up.
"Fine, but you sit on my right, 'Mione." Ron was packing his bag.
"Why?"
"If I can't move closer, then at least I want a clear view! You're hair is impossible to see over!"
Hermione smacked him a good one. In response to Ron's protests, she claimed it was necessary to appear as if everything was normal. For the sake of the plan...
Both Harry and Ron knew better.
~*~
They were almost to Potions class when a snobbish drawl caught their attention.
"Going to your death so eagerly, Potter?" Draco sneered. "I always DID think you had a death wish. Or is that your parents? I get you confused so easily."
Hermione gingerly wrapped her fingers around both Harry and Ron's arm as she whispered.
"Act normal."
Both nodded.
"I wasn't aware we'd be killing off Harry this lesson, Malfoy...but I wouldn't put it past that freak of a professor you seem to think so highly of."
Ron was cool, calm, and collected. Entirely NOT his normal self. However, Draco was too furious with their cheek at his Professor's expense to notice.
"Professor Snape is more a wizard than your ENTIRE pathetic excuse of a family, weasel...don't go insulting things you have NO comprehension of."
"I had no idea he meant that much to you, Malfoy." Ron snickered. "It's so...sweet."
Afraid Ron would give the game away, Harry grabbed his two friends and made for the door. Not before sending a comment over his shoulder.
"Fuck off and die, Malfoy."
They had just taken their seats when Harry hit Ron on the arm.
"NICE, Ron. Really nice. You almost gave it away."
Ron laughed.
"Please, Harry...he's an idiot. He won't see it coming."
Hermione shushed them as Professor Snape entered the classroom.
He looked as brooding as ever - his robes billowing out behind him, hair barely washed, and eyes cold as ice. He did look slightly more worn than usual, though. Neither Gryffindor had a chance to wonder why as he immediately began class.
"SILENCE." Though there wasn't much chatter to begin with, the room fell even more silent. Only his footsteps could be heard.
"As you should know...though I seriously doubt many of you do..." Snape's gaze flew to the Gryffindor section of the room. They shifted uncomfortably. "Winter break is rapidly approaching. It is during that time that I will be expecting you to do the majority of your research..."
A Slytherin hand popped up before Hermione could react. "Research for what, Professor?"
A cruel smile etched its way onto Snape's face. "I'm so glad you asked, Mr. Malhi. Ten points to Slytherin for an intelligent question." At that, he sat down behind his desk, and to the shock of the ENTIRE class (Gryffindor and Slytherin alike), he put his feet up.
"As it is your sixth year here, you all should be fully capable of creating your own potions. The key word being SHOULD. However, unlike the rest of your professors, I am fully aware of your incompetence. Unfortunately for you, that will not stop me from assigning you an independent study. In which, you will be researching and creating a potion that has yet to exist in the wizarding world."
A collective groan echoed off the dungeon walls.
Snape's smile grew wider.
"Yes. It should prove to be MOST difficult. And, conveniently, it will count for 80% of your overall grade."
The groan got a bit louder.
"SILENCE. It has come to my attention that SOME of you..." Snape's eyes fixated on Draco. "...have already begun on their potions. Such enthusiasm will be rewarded accordingly."
Draco's look of shock melted into a smug grin. His detention...the potion he was assisting in...it all made sense now. Apparently, he no longer had to worry about getting into Snape's good graces.
Professor Snape's attentions were drawn away from his prized pupil by a hand waving incessantly in the air. Exasperated to have to deal with her so early on, he growled his reply.
"YES, Miss Granger?"
Hermione lowered her hand, and tried to keep her best "innocent face" from faltering. Both Ron and Harry exchanged a look.
"Yes, Professor. I have a **Question**..."
~*~
Okay. So maybe I AM that evil. *wicked grin* Hey, you like it? Review! You don't like it? Review anyway!