Disclaimer: Unfortunately I do not own Harry Potter or the characters in it.
Author's Note: I can not believe that I am updating AGAIN! Oh well. Enjoy!
Chapter 3: Doubts
The longer Draco thought about what he had to do, the more his resolve wavered. He supposed this was similar to being asked to murder Dumbledore, but there were a few differences this time as well. First, he would have to be the cause of 3 deaths, instead of just one, since he was sure that Potter was going to be traveling with his friends. Although it was Potter that the Dark Lord requested, he had made it clear that if his friends were with him, they were to be brought back to the manner as well. Secondly, no one had known Draco was a Death Eater when he had been trying to kill Dumbledore. Now, if they saw him, he figured that any of the golden trio could murder him on the spot and not give it a second thought. Also, he only had a month to bring in Potter, whereas he had had a whole year to kill Dumbledore.
There was also the positive change: he would not have to do the actual murdering. Voldemort wanted to kill Potter himself, so he would not be charged with the task of killing him as he was before. Does that still make me a murderer? Draco wondered. If I cause their deaths, but do not hold the wand that does it, have I still killed someone? And then…Why does it matter if I am still a killer or not! Just because I didn't kill the old man doesn't make me weak! That was a mistake. A mistake that will be corrected soon.
Although Draco was unsure of his loyalty to the Dark Lord, he knew that it would only make things worse to be seen as weak. He stood, and paced back and forth between his desk and his bed. I have to do this. I have to do this. What if I can't? The question popped into his mind before he could stop it. It doesn't matter. I won't fail this time. Just as Draco had this reassuring thought, he felt a burning sensation on his left forearm. It felt as though his arm was on fire. Draco dropped onto his bed. Unlike when he had been under the cruciactus curse, Draco could still think quite clearly, although that did nothing to numb the pain. He knew that the only way to stop it was to go with it. This was his chance to find Potter. He didn't know quite yet if he wanted to complete the task, but figured it was better to go now and decide specifics later, rather than curse at himself for missing the opportunity. Without giving himself time to protest, without making any preparations, Draco managed to force himself into a standing position and clumsily turn on the spot. He was engulfed in waves of blackness, and when he finally could see again, he was surrounded in shades of green. A forest. Draco heard voices not far off, and, hoping that it was Potter and his friends, set of quietly in search of his prey.
Author's Note: Another short chapter! I'm sorry! I figure that since this is my 3rd update in 2 hours, that a short chapter is alright, though. Please do not attack me! Reviews are appreciated!