Warning- the next few chapters get darker and more intense. If this isn't your cup of tea, turn back. If it is, proceed. Please leave a review. I really would like to know that people are enjoying what I have worked so hard on.

Chapter 15

Little Earthquakes

I wondered what actually caused my sudden inability to consume food. Was it because I've recently fed on human blood again? Or was it because of drinking blood as potent as Voldemort's? I assumed that it was a combination of both.

I had resisted most of the carnal urges lately, and was feeling restless as a result. I was still officially restricted to only express the lust for blood or sex when the Dark Lord granted me permission. I was still appalled by my actions with Lucius last week. After drinking such powerful, toxic blood I held no restraint. I was not looking forward to seeing Lucius again. He would surely gloat over his small victory over me. For which Severus was still quite sore about.

It was Christmas Eve and the few students left behind were excited about Christmas morning. This year I have nothing to celebrate. This is the first Christmas that my parents are gone, and I have no one else in the world. The years I spent with Michael we would go on hunting sprees. Not romantic, I know, but I had no conscience then. My parents would send packages by owl to make sure I had something to open. It was usually jewelry or clothes. But no matter what I knew that someone cared about me. Even though were estranged at the time.

So when I woke on Christmas morning I had to remind myself that this year was so much different. When I remembered and got out of bed, to find under the tree bare, it was no surprise. Although it still hurt. That no one even here has thought of me on this supposed special day.

I forced myself to get dressed and go to the Great Hall for breakfast. The one plus about the holidays is that I could wear my usual clothes. I hated the uniforms. I looked through my clothes and came across Draco's green silk shirt. I had originally intended on returning it, but now I decided to keep it. It's not like he would really miss it anyway. Instead I chose my usual dress, but black today to symbolize my lack of festive spirit.

When I entered the Great Hall everyone seemed louder than usual. I had noticed the suits of armor moving and dancing silently and had assumed someone had cast a silencing spell on them. For which I was grateful.

I sat at the table, noticing that I took the only available seat next to Professor Snape. The students were loudly proclaiming what they received under the tree or in some cases at the foot of their bed. Even Harry was wearing what in my opinion was the ugliest jumper I had ever seen. It was the color of rust with a large tan H on the front.

I poured myself a cup of coffee and sipped. I grimaced at the taste but refused to add anything since I wasn't in the mood for sweet and cream would most likely curdle in my stomach.

"Pouting because you didn't receive a shiny bauble from Mr. Malfoy?" Severus condescending tone caught the attention of those surrounding us.

I gave him a scathing look but still managed to reply sweetly, "No, Professor. I was rather disappointed with your gift though." I batted my eyes innocently. I was clearly telling him to 'Fuck off' while appearing polite.

He scoffed at my rebuttal while the Headmaster looked sternly on. I was getting the impression that Dumbledore did not appreciate my presence lately.

I set my mug down, "I'm not very hungry. I think I will excuse myself to the common room." I stood to leave but was interrupted again by Snape.

"Are you going to sulk all day?"

I did not answer since I had run out of witty comments at the moment. So I turned and left. I hoped I wouldn't be reprimanded for not answering a Professor. But it seemed that Dumbledore intervened on my behalf by reminding Severus that it was Christmas.

I only wished I could forget as I crawled back into my bed and closed the curtains. I gripped my pillow and cried silent tears. I felt more alone now than before. I dismissed the idea of going home as it would only cause more pain. More like throwing salt in an already seeping wound.

Things almost seemed normal at least on the surface. But this was like another slap in the face. It was evident that no matter what, I did not belong here. I retreated to an old practice of mine. I let my control slip so my nails grew longer and sharper and used one to slice into my forearm. I watched as the dark crimson blood surfaced slowly. Then I licked the wound, tasting blood and memories. I sealed my self-inflicted wounds and fell asleep.

I woke to an intrusive poking to my ribs. I growled and batted whatever it was away and snuggled deeper under the covers. Undaunted, the intruder poked me again adding mild shocks.

I flung the covers off and hissed, "What the fuck do you want?"

Snape stood with his wand pointing between my eyes, "I should take points away for your disrespect of a Professor."

"Fuck off, Severus. I'm not in the mood." I pulled the covers back over myself and lay down once again.

"Five points from Slytherin," he said. He didn't seem angry or offended. He had the audacity to be amused.

I flung the covers off once again and sat up to glare at him. "Why must you be so infuriating?"

"I could ask the same of you," he said, sheathing his wand.

I moved to my knees and placed my palms on his heavily buttoned chest. "I've missed you, Severus," I almost purred.

He grasped my wrists, "The only thing you've missed was a warm body in your bed and warm blood in your throat."

I couldn't deny either and said, "Possibly."

"You didn't seem too lonely while you were with Lucius last week."

"That doesn't count."

A sharp bark of laughter ensued from him. "That's convenient."

"It's true. It's not like I had much of a mind or choice at the time."

"That doesn't excuse your behavior."

"I never said it excused it, but it was the reason for it."

"Then what is your excuse; I mean reason for your behavior today?" He turned my wrist upwards exposing a line down my forearm. The line was raised and pink still. I haven't ingested enough fresh blood in order to heal it thoroughly. He looked into my eyes seeking truth.

"It was nothing. Just a scratch."

"You are lying. Try again."

I sighed, "I needed to feel something physical instead of emotional. It is a pain I control. I guess old habits die hard."

"You are beginning to self destruct, Mercy."

"Just beginning? I thought it obvious that I was more than beginning. And what are you now? A Muggle shrink? Why do you care? Especially, since you have been forthright in your abhorrence of me."

"As your Head of House it is my job. Also bearing in mind the delicate position we both hold now. It is my duty to be assured that you can be depended upon."

"Is that all? It's your job and duty?" He just stared at me. I guess that was answer enough.

"Yes, Professor, I can handle it. Now is our little tête-à-tête over so I can go back to sleep?"

"Yes, I believe this concludes our meeting." He turned to leave.

"Severus?" He paused in the doorway. "Thank you."

"For?"

"For reminding me how much of an uncaring asshole you really are."

"You're welcome." He continued out the dormitory without a backward glance.

I tried in vain to go back to sleep and finally gave up. I took a quick shower and dressed in a deep crimson dress. Similar to the ox-blood one I wore on my return from Malfoy Manor when Draco and I spent the weekend there. The neckline was a little deeper than my other dresses and the fit was snug. I had a new mission. I would seek out the Light's 'Holy Grail'.

I would seek him out and conquer him. I would not harm him, I just wanted him. I wanted his friendship, his loyalty, and his trust. The body was a great bonus too.

Since no self serving Slytherin would enter my bed at the moment, it was time to think outside the snake pit, er…box. The best part is that he was forbidden. I would take it easy and slow, so not to scare him off.

I needed someone who wasn't as close to this side of the war. I needed a different perspective. And Harry was bored and lonely right now. I would be happy to entertain him. Although I believed that my intentions would be obvious with the color I was wearing. But I've gathered that the way to a Gryffindor's heart was forthrightness. Deceit and cunning were not assents to them. That was the beauty of it. I was being cunning with the plan of honesty. There are moments like these that I can believe I am coming unhinged.

I finished preparing myself for dinner and walked leisurely into the Great Hall.

I secured a seat next to Harry and waited to pour myself a drink before addressing him. "Hello Harry."

"Happy Christmas, Mercy," he said trying to covertly gaze at my cleavage. Boys were so predictable sometimes.

"Thank you, Harry. Same to you. That is an interesting jumper." I wasn't complimenting it and I wasn't making fun either. But he knew I was trying to be polite by and I was rewarded with a wry smile.

"That is a lovely dress, Mercy. That color suits you," he said.

"You would think so, wouldn't you Potter." Severus sat on the other side of me. He was obviously trying to decipher what my next move was.

"Red is a holiday color. I'm just showing holiday spirit."

"Green is one as well, Miss Xavier. Perhaps you could show house spirit as well."

"Your rivalry of house colors, attitude, or ethics doesn't interest me, Professor."

"I think it is wonderful that you seem so festive now, Miss Xavier. Especially after breakfast this morning."

"Thank you, Headmaster. But I must say that it is only credit to such a wonderful job as Head of House, as Professor Snape is. He really takes his duties seriously. He made me realize the error of my ways." I was deliberately laying it on thick while using terms from our previous discussion. It caused Dumbledore to chuckle merrily and Snape to grumble and scowl more. Two birds, one stone.

They all believed I was joking or being sarcastic, which was even more amusing. Harry looked skeptical. He knew there was more to my words than what the others perceived. I knew it would take time to seduce Harry. He liked me but he didn't trust me. Not that I blamed him. It was good that he was suspicious as there are many out to hurt him.

No one seemed to notice, other than Severus, that I just pushed my food around a bit. I hated to not be able to eat. I enjoyed real food.

After dinner was concluded, I went to the common room. I sat by the fire trying to get warm. It really was cold in the dungeons. Warming charms only helped so much before I set something on fire.

The day after Christmas dawned overcast and rainy. I received an owl bearing a package and a small note during breakfast. I waited to open it when I was in the privacy of my room. When I opened it, my mouth hung open. It was a beautiful choker. Two rows of diamonds with a sliver clasp in the back. Who could have sent something like this to me? What were their motivations? I opened the small card, written in a familiar hand. Even though I have only seen it once before, I would forever recognize the scribe.

Mercedes,

Happy Christmas. I value our future allegiance and hope you accept this as a token of my favor. Wear it tonight at the ball. Please accept my apologies on Lucius' behalf for his behavior prior to our introduction. His presumption was a grave one and I wish for you both to make peace. Your ability to work alongside one another is of utmost importance.

V.

Well, that answered that question, for the most part anyway. I was positive that the Dark Lord has never bestowed a gift such as this in the past. It was kind of odd. But he obviously thought he could buy my forgiveness. It was a smart move for the most part. It was an ostentatious gift, but I was sure there would be a high price for such favor in his eyes. The jewelry really was breathtaking though.

Tonight was the ball at Malfoy Manor. I was currently getting prepared both physically and mentally. I wore the red gown that I had on last evening and curled my hair into heavy ringlets. I drew strands from my temples and fastened them with a ruby broach at the back of my head. I outlined my eyes in kohl and stained my lips crimson to match my dress.

I grabbed my heavy wool cloak lined in fox fur. I was to meet Snape in the entrance hall and from there we would walk to the outside gates in order to apparate.

When I arrived, Severus was already waiting, attired in fine black linen. His thick wool cloak looked warm. He turned and opened the door without any greeting. I assumed that he just wanted to get this over with, so I followed silently down the path.

When we arrived a house elf took our cloaks and popped away. The same double doors leading to the room the last revel was held were open. The crowd gathered was attired in their finest robes for the celebration. No masks were worn on this occasion. Some of the most prominent figures in pureblood society were engaging in casual conversation.

I only knew a few select faces. I could see recognition in the some of the other attendants' eyes. Most familiar faces were Death Eaters. The youngest in attendance were sixth years of various Houses at Hogwarts. I guess that the younger children were not allowed in society yet as they haven't been properly presented. I was rather surprised that there was no presentation ceremony. Everyone must be familiar with the crowd, all but me.

On the surface this was a society of formality and etiquette. Polished. This was the promise of such a lifestyle being constant if we won the war. They wanted to present themselves as a brotherhood who was pro-Pureblood and anti-Muggle. As with most things the façade was just that, façade. Families and wives turned a blind eye to the darker side of Death Eater politics. The show before me was just their political front.

Tables were set up strategically around the room, decorated in fine china and glass. Placards were set on the tables assigning seating arrangements. This was the typical of an affair in pureblood society. I noticed a small section that would usually be reserved for a live orchestra. It was a one step platform with a black granite chair. The chair closer resembled a throne upon closer inspection. I could accurately assume that the Dark Lord would grace us with his presence this evening.

My own 'coming out' was only a fraction of this as my parents only had a few trusted friends. Also I didn't attend public school and was very lonely. I don't know whether to thank or damn my parents for being so protective. But that is the past. Tonight I have to act like a normal pureblood female whom is only seventeen.

It was a fact that men held more power positions than women. And women had to act accordingly. The men and women in this room would receive a shock if they were thrust into the modern Muggle world. Things were so much different, especially of politics in the office as well as the bedroom.

Since my role was that of a Hogwarts student I figured I would be seated with my classmates. Goyle and Crabbe were sitting at a table alone. There were ten empty chairs around them. When I approached their eyes got round as they were fixated on my chest. I just rolled my eyes.

I found my place setting between Draco's placard and Blaise's. This looks to be a fun night, I thought. On Draco's other side was Pansy's placard. I wanted to accidentally burst her placard in flames but I behaved.

I picked up a champagne flute and took a large gulp. Only it was butterbeer. Foul, loathsome stuff, especially when your taste buds are prepared for light, fizzy and dry.

"We don't get the good stuff until we're older. We do get a little for the toast," Goyle offered.

"That's awful." I was scheming. There was no way I was going to make it through this night without something more substantial to drink. "I'll see what I can do."

"The glassed are charmed to only refill with non-alcoholic."

"Damn. Is it only the glasses?"

They both looked at each other and shrugged. Idiots.

I picked my glass up and walked nonchalantly around the ballroom, acting as if I was curious about the rest of the seating arrangements. I leaned over, placing glass down next to another. I picked up a card, examining it, and replaced it. When I lifted my glass again it was the one belonging to the place set I was viewing. As soon as I touched the glass it filled up with bubbly tart champagne.

I drank it down in one gulp and it refilled with the same liquid. Pleased that my plan worked, I returned to the assigned table.

Before I sat, another couple entered the ballroom. My heart sunk into my intestines as I recognized Pansy on Draco's arm. She wore a pink frilly monstrosity with a large portion of lace and crinoline. Draco, god he looked good. His cropped hair was falling alluringly into his eyes. He wore classical black of the highest quality.

I knew it. I thought I was prepared. But upon seeing them together I realized that nothing could prepare for the sight they made. I suddenly felt the need to vomit.

Draco looked regal and Pansy looked smug. I turned before either one could make eye contact with me and drained my glass again. I didn't notice the approach of the woman now standing next to me, watching me shrewdly.

"He doesn't love her," Narcissa spoke softly.

"Does it matter?" I asked. I was trying to fight the tears that threatened to fall. It seemed that with this soft spoken woman, a few words and she could read and draw attention to my emotions.

I felt a kinship with this woman for reasons beyond my understanding. I also pitied her. I felt sorry for her pain and the fact that I would cause her more in the near future.

"No. I guess not," finally came her answer.

"The room looks beautiful. Did you design it?" If I was not mistaken, she glanced at my choker and a pained look crossed her eyes before it was gone. She returned her eyes to mine and smiled, but I could tell that it wasn't real any longer.

"Thank you. Yes, I did. If you will excuse me, Mercedes, I need to mingle."

"Mmm," was my reply. I watched more people flood the room, all fake smiles as well as greetings. I went to sit at my designated table as did everyone else. The first course was about to begin.

Our table was quiet but for the light tinkling of silverware. Blaise was the first to break the ice, "So, Mercy, how is Hogwarts all to yourself?"

"Quiet and rather boring."

"Did you see the necklace Draco gave me, Millie?" Pansy queried as she stroked the emerald pendant.

"I seen it the first time you showed it to me."

I kind of smiled at that. It seemed that Pansy was only trying to draw my attention to it without actually conversing with me.

"It's not very big. Is it?" I cut in.

Pansy glared at me, "It's perfect. One carat and flawless."

'Unlike the owner,' I wanted to say. But someone interrupted my vicious train of thought.

"It's not much compared to what Mercy has on," Millicent commented.

"Family heirloom," I said, slightly uncomfortable.

"Who's family?" Draco grumbled. He obviously already knew, and it confirmed my suspicions as well. The gift may have been sent by Voldemort, but he received it from Lucius. I wondered if Lucius took the jewelry from Narcissa's jewelry box, or had it been in a vault. It was evidently familiar to both Narcissa and Draco.

I tried to ignore it and drank some more. I kept thinking of what Narcissa must think. I decided to give it back when I had the opportunity. I was sure the Dark Lord would not be pleased if I did so now. But I was tempted. It wasn't a good idea though. If he requested I wear it at a later date and did not have it, I would be accused of disrespect and being ungrateful if I just gave it back to soon. I affirmed to myself to make amends with Narcissa when this war was over. I doubted Draco would ever forgive what he assumed to be true though.

"What are you drinking?" Blaise asked suspiciously.

"Nothing. Same as you," I said. I knew I wasn't lying very convincingly.

"Mmm," he grabbed the glass out of my hand and drained it.

"Hey," I exclaimed and trying to get it back without making a scene.

"How did you manage that?" he asked.

"I have my ways," I replied elusively.

"She switched glasses," Crabbe interjected.

"Thanks for stating the obvious, Vince," Draco said. "Give me that," he said to Blaise.

"Get your own," I said snatching it back from Blaise.

"Technically, it is," he made to grab it but I held it away. I licked all the way around the rim of the glass. Immature, I know, but I'm acting the part.

"Like that makes a difference. He's already had is tongue down your throat," Millicent said.

"Among other things," Blaise added.

Draco snorted in his glass then scowled. But his reaction paled in comparison to Pansy's venomous look directed to all of us. Pansy wanted to forget about any relationship that transpired between me and Draco. And she loathed the prospect that anyone drew attention to the fact that he hasn't always been hers. To her constant chagrin, a few seventh years brought it up purposely to rub it in for their amusement. So that left me to laugh, because I really didn't have to say much to instigate a Pansy meltdown.

After dessert the china disappeared leaving the glasses for refreshment. A magical orchestra began to play softly, enticing people to dance.

The head of the household was traditionally required to start. Lucius guided Narcissa to the floor. After a few moments, other couples joined the hosts on the dance floor. Draco escorted Pansy and they began as well. He tried to hold her at a respectable distance but Pansy was having none of that and closed in.

"Dance with me?" Blaise held his hand outstretched. I gave him a smile and nodded my assent. Blaise was nice to look at, but he really did nothing for me.

By the time we reached the dance floor, another tune began and most of the guests were dancing as well. Blaise and I finished the song, exchanging pleasantries but as the song ended I excused myself. I walked back to my table and took another drink. I was thankful that I had consumed enough to take some of the edge off, but knowing my physiology, it wouldn't last long.

It was unfortunate that such quality champagne could not quench my true thirst. I have been under strict instruction to abstain and it is going to drive me insane.

A hand enclosed my hip, pulling me back a fraction to press against a tall lithe form. Lucius' scent engulfed me. He pulled the glass from my fingers and placed it on the table in front of us.

"Dance," his one word said softly, tempting. It was a request and a command. The fighter in me wanted to refuse, but another part of me already accepted. I hated my uncontrollable reactions to him.

"I didn't get to thank you for the necklace, Lucius. It was generous of you to think of me." He obviously thought that I wouldn't find out that the necklace came from him and not the Dark Lord.

"I'm sure you can thank me properly, later," he said with his most charming smile in place.

"If you think you are getting anymore than a verbal 'thank you,' you are sorely mistaken," I retorted pleasantly.

His eyes turned dark in anger as we twirled around the dance floor, before he smiled again mischievously. "We'll see about that." He released me as the song ended. He inclined his head slightly before I had a chance to reply. Was that his signature line? He seems to use it often enough.

Either time I was with him, was neither by choice or design. The first time he physically overpowered me. And the second, I was in a powerful blood induced haze.

Another song started, one that I was quite familiar with and my eyes slid shut. I let my head drop and my body swayed to the melody. Soon I was so entranced by the feel of it flowing through me and around me. I failed to notice a hush descend on those gathered and their subservient kneeling. That is until I bumped into someone. I opened my eyes to see whether my response would be an impatient, 'Out of my way.' Or a polite, 'Excuse me'. Only I found myself looking up at the towering man before me, whom we all called Lord.

I was entranced once again by his eyes and willed myself to look down. I could watch him all day and be amused. He looked to young to actually be the most feared wizard in a few generations. His physical appearance was so deceiving. The tingle up my spine and goose flesh I got when he was near told a different story. This being was very close to Deity-like power. He was in a word, overwhelming.

I stepped back a stride and curtsied to him, "Forgive me, My Lord."

When I glanced back up to his eyes there was a glimmer of amusement, which he did not bother to conceal.

"Would you care to dance, My Lord?"

"Yes, I would. But not to this," he waved his hand and another song came through.

I smiled, thinking that the song was fitting and projected that thought to him. His response was to raise the volume and open his arms to beckon me forward.

We held each other in classic waltz form as he led the movements around the ballroom. "No one has dared ask me to dance for quite some time," he said.

"I am honored that you accepted, My Lord."

The music was loud enough to disguise the murmuring surrounding us. He was an excellent dance partner, which I had no doubt. He was very charismatic, but I had no illusions that this was a very dangerous, powerful wizard. As the song ended, he released his hold of me so I could step back and bow to him.

Draco was standing off to the side, intently watching Mercy. He recognized the two row diamond choker around her neck as Malfoy family jewels. He seethed with anger and jealousy and was so wrapped up in his own turmoil that he failed to notice his godfather standing beside him.

Draco caught a glimpse of him standing there after a few minutes, "Do you think my mother approves of my father's new mistress?" He tried to sound flippant, but Severus caught the jealous undertone.

"She is not for him, Draco. Reign in your emotions, boy, they'll do you no good."

"Why is she wearing Malfoy family jewels then?"

"A Christmas gift. Her only gift. It was not supposed to be obvious where it came from. The Dark Lord wished to give her something and Lucius was supposed to take care of it. Evidently your father has is own agenda, as always."

"So, he does have designs where she is concerned. I knew it." Draco said angrily. Draco stood silent for a few moments, mulling over what Snape had said. Her only gift. Out of all the things he received for Christmas, it was quite sad that this woman, whom he still cared for, had truly no one that could be considered family. No one who loved her unconditionally without expectation.

His father gave gifts with expectations of some sort or another. His mother did love him; therefore his holidays were rather pleasant this year. He in turn, bought a few gifts for his parents and token gift of the emerald pendant for Pansy. Pansy was not happy that he had not bought her an engagement ring and was currently pouting.

It still angered him to see his father embracing his ex-girlfriend, but upon closer inspection, Mercy seemed only polite with his sire. She did not seem friendly or flirtatious like many other women were toward him.

That thought gave him small comfort when the Dark Lord arrived and she seemed entirely comfortable in his arms.

"Now is definitely not the time to get so possessive. Do something about it."

"Like what?" Draco said flippantly. Snape glared in response.

As the song ended, Mercy bowed and backed away a few steps as the Dark Lord addressed the congregation. Taking a proffered flute of champagne he held into the air. "War and Victory are fast approaching," he paused to make sure each person was saluting as well. "To War."

"To War," intoned the flock.

Sometime after the toast, the crowd thinned until only a few remained. Severus was talking in hushed tones with Lucius as he fastened his cloak in preparation to depart. I sat on the dais at the Dark Lord's feet, waiting for his command to be dismissed as well.

Lucius glided toward us, bowing and addressed the Lord, "Will you be joining us tonight, My Lord?"

"Yes, we will," he pointedly looked at me, brooking no argument and stating his command.

"Then let me lead the way, My Lord." After he stood I did likewise and followed obediently. I was apprehensive of what was to come, but made sure that it did not affect my stride or countenance.

He led us to an opulent suite and bid us good night with an extra smirk sent my way. The door closed with a resounding click.

I really wasn't ready for this, and I certainly was not mentally prepared. But I could not back out, for the consequences could be disastrous.

From all the information I had gathered beforehand, it was assumed that he could not perform in this respect. Obviously I had been gravely misinformed.

He stealthily approached me. I wasn't sure where I should rest my eyes. It seemed disrespectful to look in his eyes for any length of time. I also needed to create the impression that I was comfortable with him. I needed to nonverbally state that I was closer to an equal than any other.

I looked up, finally, and smiling slyly I leaned up to kiss him softly. His lips were almost as cool as my own, but they were in no way human.

He waved his hand down the front of my bodice, each button opening softly in its wake. After being released it fell to my hips. His hand hovered over my breast. The power of his hand as well as anticipation caused my nipples to harden.

He finally caressed them, his touch softer and more gentle than expected. His palms skimmed down my ribs, pushing my gown farther down over my hips to puddle on the floor.

I'm sure he was surprised that I wore nothing underneath, as was my habit. His face only had shown appreciation of my form. I stood before him in nothing except for my customary knee high combat boots. I hate heels of any form. I had to be prepared for anything and dressy shoes were not practical for emergencies. It seemed he did like the boots and left them on.

He led me to the bed, in which I climbed to the center as gracefully as possible. I lay back waiting for his next move. He manually unclasped his outer robe and laid it on the back of a nearby wing back chair. He waved his hand elegantly down his torso and the rest of his clothing shimmered for a second. Then they appeared on the same chair, neatly folded.

He stood in majestic glory next to the bed. His body looked fresh and I guess it really was. No scars marred the flesh. He had just the right amount of hair in all the appropriate places. From what I could tell he had an average size cock. But you never can tell when a man is only semi-erect. He carefully crawled over, until he hovered above me. He leaned down and licked my breast and bit down on the white flesh brutally. I hissed in exclamation of pain. He then bit into my shoulder and positioned himself at the cleft of my thighs. It seemed that even the smallest bit of violence he inflicted upon me aroused him. He threaded his hand through my hair at the back of my head, grabbing a fistful and pulled hard in perfect synchronicity to biting the side of my throat and plunging deep within me. He was definitely larger than I anticipated.

I was scared and wasn't quite ready for his intrusion, I felt him tear me. The shock of the pain and the pleasure intermingled issued a resonating moan from my throat. I like a bit of violence as well. Therefore the combined sensations of violence and the knowledge of who was thrusting inside of me sent small shivers of fear and arousal through my body, lubricating his way.

He continued to thrust his hips, whilst pulling my hair, causing me to arch my body in complete supplication. I planted my feet on the mattress and lifted my hips to meet his thrusts.

The combination of sensations soon sent me over the edge, but the hold he had on my hair prevented me from latching on to him and sinking my extended incisors into his flesh. Without his throat to muffle the sound of my climax, I dug my nails into his back as much as I dared and cried out.

He soon released his mouth from my neck, and loosened his tenuous hold on my hair allowing me to finally sink my teeth in the base of his throat. I greedily drank as he approached his own peak. The strength of his blood sent me over the precipice once more as he climaxed inside of me.

He lay for a few moments regulating his breathing before he tightened his grip once more in my hair and pulled signaling me to end my feeding. He extracted himself from me; rolling to lay beside me as I wiped my mouth to be sure nothing was spilt.

What do you say in a situation such as this? I only have had one person whom to compare this situation to. "Thank you, My Lord." I said what was expected of me. I waited, unmoving, for my next command or dismissal.

"You may go, pet." He waved his hand toward the door, obviously expecting my hasty retreat. I sat up slowly and spotted my gown lying in a heap on the floor. Of course I would not be allowed to sleep until I arrived back in my dormitory. A brief thought flickered through my mind if I could find another room on my own. I quickly dismissed it as I did not want to stay in Malfoy Manor any longer than I had to. I did not relish the thought of a repeat performance of tonight nor a repeat of that final night spent here with Lucius. I also did not want to run into Draco or Pansy this night or in the morning while I was trying to make an inconspicuous exit.

I stood and walked toward my clothes and got dressed. I would leave the standard cleansing charms until I returned, as it would seem disrespectful to do so now with him watching me so intently. Voldemort seemed pleased with my actions and I cautioned a step toward him. Since he was not warring any robes for me to hiss the hem of, I tentatively leaned over and kissed his lips, which he allowed. It may have seemed presumptuous to take such action but I needed to keep a certain toehold on my status. And with the knowledge that if it was unacceptable he would be forthright in forbidding it.

"Mercedes," he said. It was odd hearing my name uttered from his lips.

A trickle of fear shuddered through me. I turned and responded, "Yes, My Lord?"

"You will no longer spend anymore of your free time with Gryffindors."

I wasn't about to disagree with him, but I would not obey this command. They had become my friends and I would not let this egomaniac dictate my life. If I didn't have them anymore, I really had no one. "As you wish, My Lord." I bowed once and retreated.

I left those chambers at a brisk pace and barely restrained my urge to run to the front foyer in order to apparate to the gates of Hogwarts. I had not necessarily agreed to his demand and had not defied it either. My actions must be reported through many various channels. I needed to keep conscious of my actions so there would be nothing negative to report. I just had to be more careful in the future. But I would not willingly comply on this demand.

I turned a corner and Lucius stood there, nonchalantly leaning on a doorframe, his arms crossed. He had obviously been waiting for a confrontation, which I did not feel so inclined. I felt his semen leaking down my thighs. I was positive that my blood mingled with it from the tearing of my tender flesh when he entered me. I really wanted to take a shower. I did not feel like battling a round with Lucius right now.

"My, my, looks as if you have been thoroughly fucked."

"Fuck you, Lucius."

"No, thank you. I've done that already. Maybe next time though. Some would do just anything for a rise in power."

"Tell me about it, Lucius. Don't you have some mistress you need to tend to, instead of aggravating me?"

"Ah, but you would be my favorite mistress."

"Hardly," I rebuked.

"Such a shame, you know, Pansy is such a dead fuck."

"Wow. I didn't think it possible for you to have morals against necrophilia. It does disappoint one to realize that you can't get a woman of your own. Using your son as bait seems tasteless."

He quickly drew his wand and pinned me against the wall, looking as menacing as possible. I started to laugh, which made him tighten his hold on me.

"You are so entertaining, Lucius, really. Your wand - either one - neither frightens nor impresses me. So I suggest you back away now or things will get bloody. And I so look forward to that." I unleashed my reign of control and felt my incisors insinuating themselves in my mouth.

He let go slowly and stepped back, keeping his mask of nonchalance. But I could smell a tiny trickle of fear for a second, before he masked that as well.

I smoothed my dress and walked away. Most would not be foolish enough to turn their back on an insulted Lucius Malfoy, but I wasn't most people. And I was restless. It was my own way of showing him that I did not fear him. Well, maybe just a little. If we were ever to come down to the two of us it would be a close call.

We were at a stalemate; neither of us could take direct action against the other. The Dark Lord wished our cooperation and dissention amongst the ranks was not tolerated. Minor squabbles were typical in order to secure positions of rank and power, but frowned upon just the same. We were supposed to be a unit and act in the best interests of our Lord, not ourselves. I would be punished if I tried to usurp him and he would likewise. We were to set an example and held to the highest standards befitting our rank. With Lucius being his second in command, and I...have no clue where I stand right now. Surely with the addition of consort to my title I should be fairly high. I guess that is a mystery to solve for another day.

No one need tell me these things in order for me to understand. It was commonly known and accepted as law. I had survived once before and learned many tactics of the game. Granted this game is on a much larger scale than Michael was capable of, but the basic rules are always the same.

As I descended the stairs leading to my dormitory I was shoved against another wall with a wand pointed to my throat. This was becoming a habit tonight.

"You know, this whole Death Eater apprehension is getting old."

"Stepping on Hogwarts grounds in the shape you're in set off numerous wards. What have you done?"

"What are you on about? I think you have sustained a few to many Crucio."

"Your presence is radiating his magic. So, I ask again, what have you done?"

"Severus," the voice of the Headmaster resonated in the small stone corridor.

He released me and stepped back, tucking his wand away.

"It has been a long night for both of you. I believe we can discuss this on the marrow."

"Yes, Headmaster," Severus said formally.

"Goodnight Headmaster. Severus," I gave a nod to both wizards before I made my way to Slytherin to shower and sleep.