Sorry, sorry! It's been too long. I haven't got any excuse for it, just lazy. BUT I hope to finish this story by this summer. I hope. I've got a bit more figure out, so pray to Wizardgod.
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The Dark Lord was indeed awaiting them in the dining room as Narcissa had said. He stood tall and proud, his dark hair showed flecks of grey, his eyes unwavering. He wore a smart robe and held his wand in his hand, ready for use if necessary.
Severus had only met He-Who-Must-Not-Be-Named once before, at the Black girls' house. Bellatrix, Narcissa, and Andromeda's mother and father held a dinner for Slytherins and Alumni every few years to keep up appearances. Severus had felt himself drawn to The Dark Lord. He had heard of the movement from Lucius and Bella who both held him on a pedestal. As a lover of the Dark arts, Severus wanted to know more. He craved knowledge and the power that came with it. Eagerly, he sought after every opportunity.
Now here he stood, in the Malfoy's dining hall to witness what could be a great happening.
Severus clenched his clammy hand in a fist, The Dark Lord welcomed them and invited them to sit down. Bella was on his immediate right, her husband and his brother beside her; Lucius, Narcissa, and Severus on his left. The gawky young man slowed his breathing to match Narcissa's, waiting.
"I," The Dark Lord paused. "Have gathered you all here today because it is today that Lucius Malfoy will enter into the ranks." At this, both he and Lucius stood up.
Even from his seat Severus could hear Bellatrix's hiss, see Narcissa's sad eyes. Himself, he held a straight face as his mind calculated. They were to bear witness to Lucius' initiation.
"Bellatrix, if you'd be so kind," The Dark Lord said, gesturing for Mrs. Lestrange to lead the way. The brothers pulled up the rear, but when Severus made a move to join them, Narcissa put a hand up to stop him.
"Death Eaters only," she muttered, not meeting his questioning eyes.
The five of them went into the other room, and the doors closed behind them.
"Do you ever wish things were different?" Narcissa asked.
Taken aback, Severus' mind faltered. Certainly this wasn't a key conversation one would want to have with the Dark Lord in the next room. He chose to ignore her question. When Lucius started screaming, he jumped a little, and looked at the blonde. She was quietly crying.
"It scares me too," she whispered. "I'm sorry."
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Thoughts?