Note: The Informis Curse was created solely by me. I looked up the definitions, translated, and created the back-story to the curse myself. It is in no way affiliated with J.K. Rowling. (Recent Edit 02/27/10. Saw an inconsistency with Neville and D.A.D.A class. Please let me know if anything looks out of place. Thanks!)

Chapter 2

You Sicken Me!

Classes came and went. It was the end of the day and I used the opposite route again on my way to potions. I continued with my new routes and wasn't bothered. The plan was going perfectly. Why hadn't I thought of this a long time ago? It would have saved me a lot of grief.

I made myself comfortable in my usual seat and waited for Neville. I couldn't wait to tell him about Draco's defeat in our duel. He would have a good laugh.

Snape was filling in that day because Slughorn had come down with something. One good thing came from it: I wouldn't have to perform any silly demonstrations in Dark Arts.

The class started and Neville hadn't shown, nor had Draco. Strange, neither was the type to miss class. I pouted. I was really looking forward to seeing Neville. Was it possible that I scared him off by being too forward? I definitely could have freaked him out. I wouldn't blame him on that one; I certainly wouldn't boost his popularity.

The absence of both Draco and Neville began to worry me. What if Draco did something to Neville? Why would he? Or… why wouldn't he? Draco didn't have to have a reason to hurt someone, he just did it.

My worry escalated as Draco burst into the class. He was wet all over and looked as if he'd been running. Where was Neville? My stomach twisted at a mental image of Draco holding his head underwater. No! Get that out of your thoughts, Persy.

"Fancied a wash before class Draco?" asked Snape. He got to his feet and walked toward Draco using an inaudible spell to dry him off. "Take a seat." Draco sat down beside Crabbe seemingly out of breath, and ran his fingers through his hair for a few moments. His eyes darted at the door as Neville bumbled through.

"S-sorry I'm late sir… Had a little run in…" he said breathlessly. His right arm and the front of his clothing were wet. He glanced over at Draco as he took a seat beside me and wrapped his arm around my shoulders. I immediately felt my shirt getting damp.

"Neville… What the? …you're wet!" I jerked away from his arm, scrunching my face as I did so, and I could hear Draco snickering on the other side of the room.

"Neville needs to learn to keep his dirty mitts off of other people's property." said Draco. Eh? Other people's property? What was he on?

His laughter roared as Neville did a spell on the affected arm and failed. It caused grass to grow over the entire area, which even I found a little funny. Now with his arm wet and grassy he tried to placing it around my shoulder again. I pushed it off.

"Stop." I lifted my brows sternly and glared at him; he scowled. I was relieved he wasn't hurt, but I didn't want to be wet either. "How about we switch seats and you put your other arm around me?" His scowl transformed into a grin.

"S-sure!" So we switched and he wrapped his arm around me. This lifted my spirits and I smiled, though a feeling washed over me that something had happened between the two that I would soon find out about.

I caught Draco glaring at us and this brought me out of my moment of happiness. He looked as if he were going to turn into a werewolf and rip us to shreds, devouring every sliver of flesh, panting and foul-breathed.

"Enough! …and must I remind you, Longbottom, to keep your hands to yourself?" said Snape. I have to admit, I was a little miffed at Snape for scolding Neville and not Draco, who was obviously taunting us.

"N-no sir," Neville placed both hands in his lap and sat quietly. I felt guilty. I had encouraged him.

Snape whipped back toward his desk. "I'll be pairing you off today. Each pair will work on a potion together that must be completed before the end of class. I'll call out your names and you will switch tables to sit with your partner."

Why was he pairing us off? What was wrong with the person we were sitting next to? I clenched, hoping that Neville and I would be paired up. He was the only person who wanted to work with me. I felt Neville's hand slide down and grip my waist. I quickly jerked away and shot him a glare of disapproval. He was moving too fast for my comfort.

"Longbottom! Do you find it difficult to follow my rules?" Snape yelled. He marched over to our table and stood over Neville condescendingly. He was stern and disapproving as his eyes shifted to me then to Neville. "You and GOYLE will be working together." he said after a long moment. Neville's mouth dropped open and I felt for the first time that Snape was undoubtedly angry with me.

I saw Draco stir in his seat. His eyes clamped shut. That was quite the different expression from a moment ago when he'd been laughing. Since Goyle had already been paired, he was most likely hoping to be placed with Crabbe, but he was obviously dreading the fact he might be paired with some miscreant.

"Wish me luck," Neville said as he hugged me and slid shyly out of his chair. I nodded and smiled empathetic that he walked to the doom of his Slytherin partner. Snape continued to pair off students but didn't catch my attention until he mentioned the latest pair.

"Granger and Crabbe!" Snape said. Hermione was lost in concentration and waving her wand as if she were practicing. She was either ignoring him or too distracted to hear. "A-hem! Granger and Crabbe!"

Her hand froze mid-air and the wand fell to the table. Her mouth gaped in disbelief as she gathered her things slowly to move to Crabbe's table. I was sure I'd be paired with Hermione, but now that her name had been called I was nervous. The only other students remaining were Pansy, Draco, and Blaise. I wasn't sure who I disliked most.

Draco hadn't moved an inch by the time Hermione arrived at his seat. He just sat there lounging. His arms crossed as she began tapping her foot.

"Bugger off Malfoy!" She barked with an impatient look on her face.

"Be careful. She's a mighty yampy bint!" Draco said with a sideways glance at Crabbe.

"Malfoy and Moonbeam!" said Snape. I stared in disbelief. What? Was he out to get me? Two days in a row he'd obligated me to work with Draco. Was he trying to cause a fight? My favorite teacher was making me miserable – and why was he my favorite, again? I was sure Draco would get a kick out of this pairing.

Draco stood proudly and scoffed at Hermione. She rolled her eyes and sat her books on the table. As she was about to take her seat he picked up the chair and promptly swaggered toward me with it.

Hermione stared on with her mouth hanging open and I couldn't help but hold my hand over my own and laugh. I watched as he clunked the chair down opposite the one next to me, sat down in the one he'd stolen and propped his feet up. I tried to contain my laughter but failed miserably.

"I'm pleased to be your entertainment." Draco said. I continued laughing until Snape interrupted the amusement.

"Feet down, Mr. Malfoy. This isn't your common room." said Snape. Draco ignored him and sat eerily silent, staring at me. There was a swift movement behind Draco and quickly Hermione sneaked up behind him. Without making a sound she yanked the chair he was sitting in out from under him. He fell to the floor with a loud crash. That sent me back into my laughing fit. By the time Draco pulled himself up Hermione was already back at her table. He fumed for several seconds and for the first time that I could remember he didn't have a retort. He only sat down beside me red-faced.

"I'm honored to have your entertainment." I squealed. He glared at me with those icy cold gray eyes.

"The filthy mudblood will get hers." He said under his breath.

"Begin!" Snape took a seat at the front of the class and I imagined that he kept glancing at our table. Most of the other students were already digging into their spellbooks but Draco and I said nothing and did nothing.

A wet but familiar object fell in front of me, soaking my potions book. It was the book my father had given me. I glanced at Draco who was now staring at me intently. He wiped his hands on his cloak but didn't break the stare.

"You're welcome," he said.

"Were you expecting a thank you?" I inquired sarcastically.

"Well now that you put it so pleasant." he replied.

"Thank you." I forced out.

"I really quite admire your sincerity."

"I really quite admire your lack thereof," I retorted.

"Longbottom would be the one lacking," said Draco.

"Would he now?"

"You tell me. From my appearance, who do you think found your book?"

"Why would you go to the trouble? You hate me."

"It seemed to be important." He shrugged and stared off to the other side of the room nonchalant. "Also, I thought you might be inclined to do me a favor."

"Me… do a favor… for you? You're having delusions of grandeur."

He shrugged again and lowered his voice as he moved closer to me.

"Get me an ingredient from Snape's cabinet."

"But that's…"

"Shh... Snape's coming. I'll tell you later."

I had to be at least thankful that he brought my book back even in its poor condition. I pushed myself through the class civilly and tried to say as little as possible. Time went fast and we were done before many of the others. He was quite clever and though hesitantly, I found that extremely attractive. Was it possible to be attracted to someone you loathed?

There I was thinking about him again. Though, he didn't make it easy not to. During our session he grabbed my hands repeatedly, guiding me because for some reason he thought I needed teaching. He was a good teacher; I had to give him that. Even if his touch was bringing to surface emotions I didn't understand, he was still the boy who treated me like a peasant. Don't get too friendly, Persy.

Class ended and the students poured out until very few were left. Draco's friends had gone ahead of him except Goyle who was still working on the potion with Neville. Their bickering could most likely be heard in the kitchens. Draco leaned toward me, a little too close for comfort.

"We'll meet by the Quidditch field entrance at five sharp tomorrow evening. Don't be late." He rose from his seat before I had a chance to respond but as I was gathering my thoughts he leaned forward. "By the way, Persy, I hardly hate you."

Nice way to try and save face after you find out you were wrong about someone. That was his point for telling me. Conniving bastard. He was either trying to trick me into humiliation for his defeat or trying to make me think now that I was a pureblood I was accepted. He was manipulative. He wasn't being nice to me. No. He was using my father's book to get me to do his dirty work and recent news to twist my thoughts of him. Well, it wasn't flying.

"You hardly hate me? Why is that? Now that I'm a pureblood we can be best pals? I'll pass, thank you."

He stood there for a few moments in awkward silence then turned and left the room. I stared at my tattered book. It was ruined, sopping even. A whimper escaped now that Draco had gone. The only thing I had of my father was destroyed. I picked it up and shook off a bit of the excess water.

"Let me fix that." said Neville. He used the drought charm which I wished I had thought of first. The charm dried up most of the water though it left my book just a little damp.

Following his lead I used a hot air charm and dried out the leftovers. The book would never be readable again but at least I had it with me. I gave Neville a hug and thanked him. His cheeks blushed to a bright crimson. It was such an adorable reaction that I gave him a peck on the lips.

That night I lay in my bed staring out of my window into the clear, sharp, star spackled sky. I'd wrapped up my father's book in a cotton shawl and placed it permanently in my dresser drawer. It felt as though I were giving it a funeral. I was laying there with the blankets pulled tightly around me. Sleep evaded, though I couldn't be more comfortable.

Draco's image had burnt itself into my memory and his words rang repeatedly in my ears. "I hardly hate you." Did he really think a bit of fake kindness would pull my strings? "I hardly hate you." He was getting under my skin more and more every day. "I hardly hate you." How I wished I could get him out of my life forever. My eyes closed and after a while I finally fell into a restless sleep filled with dreams of confusion and hurried emotions.

I was peering over a cliff at enormous rocks jutting out of violent white waves. Something was attempting to pull me away from the view. The grip was soft and comforting. I assumed it was Neville. My arms flew around his neck and I kissed him deeply. He didn't kiss like Neville. This man was passionate and his scent intoxicating. Who was he? The man of my dreams?

If it wasn't Neville, then who could it possibly be? I stepped back. It was Draco! I stumbled and struggled to keep my balance. Ruddy globs of mud and rocks fell to the waves below. I was going to fall to my death and he was responsible. He was there to kill me! I slipped and the wind took me. Life flashed before my eyes as a hand reached for mine and grasped it.

"I hardly hate you." he said.

I was jolted awake. His words were dwelling with me even into my sleep. What had the dream meant? What did I really think of him? They say your dreams are compiled of your thoughts during the day. If that was true then I'd lived a week in one dream. If the dream had gone any farther would he have let me go? Would I have fallen to a painful death? Would I have woken up at all?

It hadn't dawned on me until half way through my classes the next day that Draco had instructed me to meet him. My mind was preoccupied with those four little words. They'd had an impact on my functionality; that was obvious.

At lunch I sat in a panic, every so often letting my eyes wander to the Slytherin tables. I repeatedly asked myself whether or not I should meet him that evening. No! Why would you even consider that, Persy? I owed Draco nothing and I wasn't about to start doing him favors.

I picked at my food nervously without eating so much as a bite. My fork shook whenever I lifted it from my plate. Should I forget he asked me to – no - told me to meet him? Absolutely. Let the bastard wait. That pompous, self centered…

My eyes wandered to his table again and met with his. They locked for a moment and he smirked. My tongue turned to sand in my mouth and slid down my throat turning quickly into indigestion. I couldn't break my eyes from him, but refused to return his expression.

He winked at me and my jaw clenched; jerk. Draco finally broke the stare and my eyes wandered back to my plate. Talk about nerves, I'd chopped my lunch into tiny bits. Funny, I only then realized we'd had sandwiches. Cutting up a sandwich with a fork, how had I accomplished that? The pesky hair I hated so much fell into my eye and I pushed it away. At that moment I was so irritated I could have shaved my head to get rid of it.

I sat in Potions class wringing my clammy hands together as I waited for Neville. 'Only one more class after this one, Persy. Then head straight for your dorm.' I thought. Slughorn entered and I relaxed a bit. I'd concentrate on class. That would surely help.

"Well, hello beautiful." I turned my head just in time to see Draco sit down beside me.

"Your sarcasm is oozing. What do you want?"

"I figured we did so well working together yesterday, why not again today?" He smirked.

"Neville is my Potions partner." I replied.

"Neville isn't here, now is he?"

"Where is he??"

"Why should I know? He's your mate."

"I would appreciate it if you returned to your own table."

"I'm afraid not."

"I'm not going to meet you."

Slughorn, as well as a few students, glanced over at us and Draco lowered his voice.

"Yes you are."

"Who exactly do you think you are - telling me what I will and will not do?!" I was suddenly very angry but of course he didn't bother to acknowledge this. He pulled his chair up and opened his potions book. "Sniveling…" I whispered.

"Right."

I tried my best to ignore him through the rest of the class. It wasn't hard since it was a lecture day. Neville did come to class but was forced to sit by Goyle since he was late again. I wondered why. It was certainly unusual. He did not become any more animated after class, but quietly went to the front of the room and conversed with Slughorn. He was most likely getting the third degree so I grabbed my things and headed out.

Unfortunately I was followed quickly by Draco. What was it he wanted so badly that he couldn't leave me alone? I sped up and turned quickly down the nearest hall. Maybe I'd lose him.

"I'm not easily avoidable," He said. His hand shot out and grabbed my left elbow bringing me to an immediate halt. I turned on him angrily.

"What do you want? Please tell me so I can be rid of you!" He'd started with a smirk but now it quickly turned to a scowl and I had to hold back a grin at what I'd said.

"It isn't quite that simple."

"Then just leave me be! Find someone else to torture for once." I turned and headed down the hall. Just one more class and I'd be free. In that last class I had my solace, Snape.

As I entered I knew something was different. The desks had been moved and stacked in the back of the room. What was going on? Snape sauntered toward me in his usual elegance.

"Persephone! Just the girl I was looking for!" His hand fell on my shoulder and I gulped.

"Uh… Hello sir."

"Oh, and Draco!" His eyes lifted just above me and I knew Draco was standing barely inches behind. "We've a guest today and I need two volunteers. You two will do perfectly!" Draco moved from behind, glanced at me indifferently, then exchanged an odd knowing look with Snape. What was going on?

I stood in the entrance for a few moments thinking. Something odd was afoot and I wasn't sure if I really wanted to know what. I disappeared into my imagination until a force knocked me to the floor. I turned on my hip spotting a boy that had burst into the class and was now conversing with his friends as if I didn't exist. He didn't even acknowledge that he'd hit me. But why should I expect anything else? I was after all, Phony Persy.

"Say you're sorry you git!" Draco had the boy clamped to the wall - his hand tightly about his neck. "Apologize, you filthy…"

"I'm sorry! I'm sorry!" The boy coughed.

"Louder, simpleton!"

Neville walked in and immediately crouched to help me up. I motioned him back and sat up in front of him, not realizing then that he didn't take D.A.D.A with me.

"I'm sorry!!" The boy squealed and Draco pulled out his wand.

"Not good enough. I saw we turn him into a rat. Eh, Crabbe?" A grunt sounded from a few feet behind him. "Or, maybe I should turn you into-"

"That's enough, Draco. Release the boy." said a voice from behind me. Draco dropped the boy to the floor and a large gloved hand appeared in front of my face. "Are we planning to spend the rest of the day on the classroom floor, Miss Moonbeam?"

I placed my hand in the glove and let it lift me to my feet. Standing in front of me was an absolutely handsome man. His features were chiseled and familiar. Long, platinum hair flowed over his lovely tailored clothes. I knew who he was in an instant, Lucius Malfoy. His smug, regal demeanor made me feel small, as though I were about to be crushed in his path. Though, his actions countered his presence. He lifted my hand and kissed the back of it softly.

"It's a pleasure to meet you, Persephone. Are we all right?"

"Y-Yes, sir."

"Gustav's girl. Yes, I'd know that striped hair anywhere." He lifted a few strands of my hair.

"You know my father?" He laughed and threw a glance at Snape who only raised his brows.

"My dear child, doesn't everyone?"

"Persy, let's go. Class is starting." Neville butted in with a scared glance at Lucius.

"Neville Longbottom. Tell me son. How are your parents? Still in St. Mungos?"

Neville's face turned bright red and I thought for sure he would attack, but he didn't. He let my hand free and joined the other students.

"I am sorry for the inconvenience Miss Moonbeam. Some wizards just don't know their place." Why was he being kind to me? His only son hated me and I was sure he did too. I couldn't explain what Draco had just done but that didn't make much difference. Maybe he was trying to impress his father by standing up for Gustav's little girl? How did they know that anyway? Streaked hair wasn't all that uncommon. I could be anyone's child. It could be a spell even!

Well, there wasn't any other possible explanation. They were under the impression that I was 'Gustav's girl' and therefore had some connection in the dark arts. That had to be it. "Draco is right. You are quite a gem to look at." His hand grasped my chin roughly, holding my face high. "I'm betting you're brilliant as well."I couldn't think of anything to say. The only thought I had was confusion. A gem to look at? Who was he fooling?

"Thank you… sir…"

"How did we miss your being here for so long? I would think surely that you and Draco would have hit it off years ago." I laughed. I couldn't help it. That was the funniest thing I'd heard in a long time.

"With all due respect Mr. Malfoy, your son and I are far from friends; in fact he's made it point to keep it that way." He raised his brow and I continued. "Furthermore, I haven't spoken to my father since I moved to London. I am of no use to you, but I do appreciate your kindness. I believe I'll leave you at that." Neville was beside me again as soon as the conversation ended. He must have been listening for a break to snatch me away.

"Persy, are you all right?" His arm shot through mine as he glared at Draco's father then at Draco who was now approaching. "Come on." He pulled me away from the duo but I couldn't remove my eyes from them. What were they up to? I didn't trust them. Not one bit.

"Not so fast Mr. Longbottom!" Snape yelled. "She's part of the class today." I shot a quick glance at Neville who now looked defeated.

"I tried," he said.

"It's okay. I'm used to it." I left Neville with the group of students and took my place by Snape's desk. The duo was in a far corner and Lucius was quietly tearing into Draco. I wondered what about. Draco's eyes were big and he looked absolutely terrified. Both of them looked in my direction, Lucius said something and pointed at me. Then Draco marched to Snape's desk and stood next to me; uncomfortably close.

I was beginning to think that Snape didn't like me as much as he'd let on. He certainly was going to great troubles to make my life a living hell lately. I just wanted to disappear. Oh god, someone save me.

Draco's group of friends snickered in the audience. Did they know something I didn't? His father approached the group and they went eerily silent. Even Pansy became subdued.

"We'll be practicing a few things from the writings of Gustav Gutweg," said Snape. "For those of you who do not know of him, he's an expert in the Dark Arts and defense of, who has written many a book." Every Slytherin in the class sat up proud suddenly. Oh, please don't tell these people I'm his daughter. The Slytherins would tease me unmercifully for not inheriting his talents! I clamped my eyes shut. Please.

"Miss Moonbeam is…" I opened my eyes and looked pleadingly at Snape. My lips mouthed a begging 'No.' He hesitated for a moment, locked eyes with Mr. Malfoy, then looked back at me. "Miss Moonbeam is going to demonstrate a few of the spells from Gutweg's book 'The Untold Mysteries of the Dark Arts'. These are spells created specifically by Gutweg himself."

"Sir, are you sure you want me to-" I started.

"Why not, Miss Moonbeam? Draco tells me you've read the book at least 50 times." said Mr. Malfoy. My eyes shot at Draco who stood expressionless. How did he know how many times I'd read it? I only read by the lake when I was completely alone.

"I have read it sir, but I couldn't possibly-"

"Nonsense." said Mr. Malfoy. He came to the front of the class and opened the book – then motioned me over and pointed at my father's most famous spell. "You will demonstrate this on Draco." He didn't wait for my response but returned to his spot beside the Slytherin students.

"…but… Sir, he'll be hurt." There was a sudden uproar from the class.

"Phony Persy thinks she can hurt Draco!" yelled Pansy who was silenced immediately with a slap from Lucius' cane. My eyes dropped to my feet. I was angry. I knew my father's spells better than anyone! He'd taught them to me himself.

"I'll do it," I said.

"Wonderful!"

"…but…" I glanced at Snape. "…this one isn't his most powerful, just his most famous. I've never been one for fame." Snape fought back a grin. I sifted through the book, page by page, and for the life of me I couldn't remember which chapter it was in. My nerves were on end! Why couldn't I find it? I knew this book inside and out!

"She's read the book 50 times?! She can't even find one spell!" yelled out a random Slytherin.

"Here it is." I closed the book and pulled a wide-eyed Draco toward the window. "Stand here and don't move. If you do it will be very painful."

"Indeed." He replied. I rolled my eyes and walked back to the desk, standing beside Mr. Malfoy who must have decided he wanted to be where the action was.

"I bet flowers will fly out the end of her wand!" One boy yelled.

"I wouldn't be surprised if she turns herself into a toad!" The students chuckled again and it was starting to get to me. My nerves were on end. I lifted my wand, placed myself into the correct stance, and stared intently at Draco who was now cringing in anticipation.

"Intorqueo!" I swished my wand. "Arcus!" My wand followed my command with an up and down motion. "Vinculum!" It moved from side to side. "Ligo!" A red and blue globe shot out of the end and hit Draco. He stood immobile for a moment staring at me.

"It didn't do anything!" screamed Pansy. There they were laughing again –oozing with ignorance. Draco suddenly fell to his knees. His arms and legs began to contort.

"Vinculum Ligo!" I yelled. He was now on his stomach. His arms were bent backward, twisting and tying with his legs until his body became one large knot. I placed my wand inside my cloak, walked over to him, and kneeled. "Does it hurt?"

"Well, it's not my cup of tea." he answered.

"…but does it hurt?"

"No."

"Good." I got back to my feet and walked away from him.

"Are you going to leave me like this?"

"I don't see why I shouldn't." I replied. I turned away from him and faced the class. "This is called the Informis curse. It is used in interrogation, imprisonment, and in some horrible instances, torture. It is only allowed under ministry supervision. Gutweg was propositioned to create this curse by the ministry."

"They needed a magical imprisonment for wizards who were freeing themselves from the most complex binding curses." I returned to Snape's desk and opened the book to the page of the curse and passed it around the class."

"In torture, the victim is hit with the Cruciatus first, to make them scream and writhe, then with the Informis. This is called the Constrixi; the pairing of the Cruciatus and the Informis. Why? Because any physical exertion during the casting of the Informis curse will cause the person it is cast on to be locked in that exertion or spell during the time they are under the Informis. If the Cruciatus weren't forbidden I'd gladly show you the effects." I glanced at Draco whose eyes were large with what seemed to be a bit of fear. Draco afraid of me? Ha!

I'd decided it was time to let him out of his bound position. I walked to him and hovered over his body.

"There is only one way to unbind someone from the Informis. It is like a mutated virus, resistant to everything." I placed the tip of my wand on the back of his neck.

"Extrico Obfirmo!" Draco's legs and arms unraveled until he was back in his usual form on the floor. He jumped to his feet and immediately spat venom at me.

"You jumped up little… I should-"

"Draco." said Mr. Malfoy. "Do not take things so personal." Draco fumed. I continued my demonstration with my eyes fixed on him. I wouldn't be surprised if he cast the Cruciatus on me while I wasn't looking.

"As you can see this curse would be excellent against an opponent who has the upper hand. Contorting them keeps them from being able to fight back. Also, the person can only be unbound by the caster of the original curse. That is unless the caster dies or someone of extremely high magic counters it. Only in the death of the caster will it unbind on its own." I took the book from one of the students and turned it to the next page, then handed it to Draco. He huffed as if he were better than what I was teaching.

"I'm going to cast the curse again." I looked into his eyes and felt weakened. . "When I speak the last word, Ligo, you cast this back at me." My eyes fixed with his. "And you must cast it at that exact moment… If not…"

"Yeah, yeah. I'll be hurt. On with it." My lips pursed in annoyance. He wouldn't believe me unless it happened.

"Intorqueo! Arcus! Vinculum Li-!"

"Haud Ligo!" A blue bulbous light hovered between us. I had already known that he was well taught in the dark arts, but he seemed to have studied the book as well. I was proud that my father's work had had an influence, even if it was on him. I thought about his disbelief in my ability to hurt him and this caused anger to build. I did something I didn't think I was capable of.

"Vinculum Ligo!" The ball of light flew toward him and he screamed, falling to the floor and contorting."Now," I said. "While Draco was holding the book he should have read a few lines down where it states a counter to the counter-spell. He should have been on guard." I smiled at my accomplishment until my brain registered what I'd done. I stood motionless for a few seconds and watched his pain. His father hadn't moved, neither had Snape, and his father was smiling! Regret hit me and I ran toward him. It may not have been a crucio but it was painful enough and I didn't truly want to hurt him.

"Extrico Obfirmo!" His body released but he lay motionless. A shriek sounded from Pansy's direction but she didn't come to his rescue. I figured Draco's father was restraining her. "Are you all right?" I turned Draco over. He was unconscious. Oh no! What did I do? "Draco!" I leaned over him, tapping his face with my hand. Guilt washed over me and I felt heartsick. What if he had to be in the hospital wing for days and it was all my fault? I brushed the hair out of his face and attempted to wake him again. "Draco…"

"I can't breathe with you hovering over me woman!" I rocked backward angrily and he sat up.

"Prick! You scared me half to shit!" I punched his shoulder hard and he slid his hand over the affected area.

"It's heartwarming to know that you care." He grimaced.

"Ugh!"

"See father? She likes me after all." What an ass! I lifted my wand to his neck.

"You're hallucinating."

"Am I?" He winced.I jumped to my feet, picked up the book, and carried it back to Snape's desk.

"Is that good enough Professor?"

"Amazing, Miss Moonbeam." Mr. Malfoy clapped. "Magnificent! Gustav himself couldn't have done better."

"Thank you Mr. Malfoy." I glanced at Snape who nodded at me to take my place with the other students. Quickly I joined Neville and clamped my arm through his. Again I wondered what he was doing in D.A.D.A.

Draco's father glanced our way and sneered at me. What a moody family. One minute congratulating and the next sneering at you.

Snape interrupted between demonstrations and urged students not to use magic they did not fully understand and that this was merely for show. We were not permitted to use the Informis or any other curse without consent of the Ministry.

He kept Draco at the front of the room for a few of Mr. Malfoy's own examples from the book. It seemed that they knew every one of my father's spells inside and out.

"This Gutweg guy is a genius." whispered Neville.

I swelled with pride. Yes, my father was a genius. Oh, how I missed him. I thought about him for a few minutes. Maybe once I left school I could go find him in Germany. I believed he would have been proud to see my display against Draco.

"What are you doing here?" I whispered back.

"I switched classes so I could be with you." He smiled. My stomach knotted. To be with me? I was a little impressed but the fact that he was changing classes for me didn't sit well. I decided to brush it off and accept that he was just very sweet.

Once Mr. Malfoy finished his demonstrations with Draco he sent him to join the group of students and called Neville up. The poor boy was terrified and I for him. Why would he be calling Neville? He didn't know up from down in that classroom and was probably regretting his switch now.

As soon as Draco joined the group of students he pushed to the back and stood uncomfortably close to me again. Warm breath hit my ear and a hand rested softly on my back. I jerked away.

"Don't touch me." I whispered.

"Quidditch field. 5 sharp." Draco commanded.

"No." I forced a little loudly through my teeth. Two Hufflepuff girls turned around, shooting awkward looks at us and as they turned back he slid his hand over my hip, tightening it almost painfully.

"You'll be there." He grunted. I pried his fingers from my hip and flung his hand backward.

"Touch me again and I'll-"

"Cast a Constrixi?"

"Yes, as a matter of fact. Keep in mind what it can do."

"Ah, but don't you remember? We aren't permitted."

"I'll take my chances." I escaped him and pushed close to a group of Gryffindors. He wouldn't bother mingling there. I was right. He slinked into his group of friends and left me be.

Lucius lectured for the remainder of the class, keeping Neville as his guinea pig. I was relieved that I didn't have to act out any more spells, though I did feel bad for Neville. The Informis had exhausted me. All I wanted was dinner and bed, and I wasn't sure if I even wanted to bother with dinner.

As class ended Neville grabbed my hand and hurried me out of the class. I could feel Snape and Mr. Malfoy's eyes on us as we exited. Why had they chosen my father to use as an example? Why me? Why Draco? …and why Neville? It didn't add up, but class was over and the day would be over soon. We closed in on the Great Hall that was now booming with students and I felt a small bit of relief.

"Since when do you know so much, Persy?" Neville asked. "You scared me back there."

"He's my father."

"Lucius Malfoy is your father?!" He looked utterly shocked and I couldn't help but laugh.

"No, you goof! Gustav Gutweg is my father."

"Oh."

"Please don't spread it. My mother would be very angry if she found out anyone here knew. My father doesn't even know I'm here and I'm nowhere near as great as him. Every Slytherin in school would tease me!"

"I'd say you were quite fantastic. Malfoy's father even complimented you – now that's something. The Malfoys don't compliment anyone, even their own."

"Neville, please don't tell anyone."

"Don't worry, mum's the word, doll."

I thanked him as we entered the hall for dinner. He smacked a quick kiss on my lips and we parted. Dinner went on without a hitch. As I was feeling better emotionally, I had a bit extra to eat which left me a little nauseous. Surprisingly no one mentioned what I'd done in class. To tell the truth I was a little disappointed, but then again I was transparent.

After my meal I sped toward my common room as fast as my feet could take me. I wasn't meeting with Draco. What could possibly make him think I was dumb enough to do that? Something odd was going on and I wasn't about to put myself in a situation where I'd be alone with him. Who knew what he planned to do?

Not much farther and I would be in my room, in my comfortable bed. I knew I'd sleep that night but would probably have nightmares again – nightmares of that silvery-haired ghoul known as Draco. I turned the next corner sharply to the next hall and picked up my pace.

Who was I kidding? I probably wouldn't be able to sleep at all. My mind was racing me and I couldn't seem to catch up.

"On your way to the Quidditch field?" A voice called out. I stopped abruptly and shot my gaze behind me. Draco was leaning against the left wall with his arms crossed.

"Yes. That's exactly where I'm going. The Quidditch field is in my dorm." I said sarcastically. He pushed away from the wall and began to walk toward me.

"Is that an invitation?" He grinned. I felt my face blush.

"Absolutely not!"

"Why not? Are you scared, Persy? Scared of me? What do you think I will do?"

"I'm not scared of you in the least."

"You are. Admit it."

"Leave me be." I backed away, hitting the wall of the next hallway. I turned and left him as quickly as possible.

"How dare you walk away from me!" He yelled. How dare I? Who did he think I was; some servant to be talked down to? Ha! He could yell all night if he wanted. "Persy!" His hand locked around my arm and jerked me back, facing him. I pried at his hand. It was like stone set around my arm.

"Take your hands off of me!" I yelled. He laughed. The bastard laughed!

"Me take orders from you? Ha! We'll talk."

"Talk? To me? I'm sure. Do you have some sick Malfoy version of a crush?" I mustered the most repulsed look I could imagine.

"Yes." He sneered. "That's exactly what it is. I have a crush on you. Now, now Persy if it were that simple I'd have had you right and good already." His eyes were measuring me.

"Don't look at me like that. I'll-!"

"You don't have it in you. You wouldn't cast it. Silly girl, you care about me." His other hand grabbed my free arm and I turned my head away from him. "Look at me." He growled.

"You're wrong! I would cast it and gladly. I hate you!" I spat. One of his hands flew from my arm to chin and he turned my face to his.

"That's a bit better." He smirked, lowered his lips to mine and kissed me. I fought him and his other arm wrapped around me preventing my escape. My hands pushed at his chest and I squirmed, kicked him, and smacked him. His lips softened and butterfly kissed my cheek. His arm loosened and caressed my back. Why wasn't I using this opportunity to escape?

I felt the wall behind me again and his lips on mine. His mouth was strong and his scent was scintillating. I found my fingers sliding into his soft hair -encouraging him. What are you doing, Persy? Have you lost your mind?!

His arm enveloped my waist and he pushed me against the wall. A grunt of satisfaction escaped him and I knew that any longer in his arms and I'd be his own personal clay to mold – and after that his own personal project to humiliate.

Sense was coming back to me slowly. I needed to think of something to get away from him immediately. There had to be a way out.

"Persy…I…" His eyes paused on mine then he kissed me again and I had a thought. Bite him! Bite him Persy! If you want to stop him bite him! I bit down on his lip hard until he released me. "Ah! You foul little bitch…"

"You're not humiliating me tonight!" I yelled. He wiped his lip and approached me angrily. I grabbed my wand. "Try me, Draco. I'll do it!"

"Fine, you want this the hard way? You want to pretend you hate me? Great! I fancy a good chase!"

"A chase? What's your motive, Draco? Hmm? Your pride must run deep to still be trying to get me back for winning the duel."

"Right. That's it - the duel. I couldn't care less about some childish duel, Persy."

"Then what?"

"There isn't a point in telling you, is there? You'll make up your own sad theory about anti-Christ Draco who is out to ruin your life. Run to bed then. You sicken me!" He turned on his heel and sped away from me with his cape flowing behind.

I felt sudden regret. Why? If I had let him continue kissing me who knows what would have happened? It would probably be all over the school the next day. I couldn't let myself get into a situation like that. He wouldn't have any trouble ensnaring me with the conflicted feelings I was developing toward him. Damn me for wanting to kiss him again. Damn me for allowing him to kiss me in the first place! Damn him!