Previously on Love Vessel Chapter 12: Change Of Heart

Harry grinned at his best friend. "Oh, okay. I'll be on my way anyway. It's late. Night Malfoy. I'll talk to you tomorrow Hermione."

Blue chose that moment to let out a loud yowl.

Harry glanced from Draco to Hermione. "Alright kneazle. Good night to you too." Shaking his head, Harry dropped one last comment before opening the door. "A blue kneazle Hermione? Crookshanks must be turning over in his grave."

Grabbing Blue up in her arms, Hermione nuzzled her baby while assuring her that miserable old Harry Potter didn't mean anything by his comment.

Draco who had been trying to hold back laughter finally let go. Laughing like someone mad, he asked Hermione what was a Crookshanks and why would he be turning over in his grave.

"Never you mind Malfoy. Time is wasting. Shouldn't you be separating ingredients?"

"Of course you're right Miss Granger. If Crookshanks was a mate to Potter, he was probably a wanker. Now that we have that settled, put my daughter down and let's get started.."

"I want some s-e-x before we start."

Draco stared at his witch. "You're joking right? As much as I want you, I'll forego death this evening. We have work. We'll be up until all hours as it is."

Hermione laughed so loudly she scared Blue. "You should see your face Malfoy. I was kidding. You'll forego death this evening. Haha. Good one. I've saved your soldier from getting a case of the scabs. You should be thanking me."

"Yah, yah, yah, wonderful. Save the jokes for Saturday night. And that timeframe is only if we can appease The Coven."

"Fine my wizard. Let's do this."

/************************************************************************

A/N: Several of the spells you do not recognize may now be considered Canon via Fantastic Beasts 1 and 2.

Chap 13: Revelations

Hermione and Draco began cutting, slicing, mashing and mixing the ingredients, as needed.

"I'm glad we decided to brew here at your flat. Less bothersome than trudging you, Blue and the ingredients from here to Wiltshire."

Trudging? Hermione glanced at Draco to see if he was being a git, but his face wasn't showing any sign of smugness or deception. "I think you mean it. For a second, I thought you were implying that me, Blue and the ingredients were too much for the pureblood area of Wiltshire. Glad to know I was wrong."

Draco stopped cutting and held up the silver knife he had in his hand. "Don't make me use this on you Granger. I'll do it you know, especially since you've already landed half naked with Blue in tow at the door of my Wiltshire flat without problems."

"Yes. I did do that," replied Hermione with a grin. "I must be thinking of another wizard who resides in Wiltshire."

Shaking his head, Draco went back to cutting without responding to the taunt. "You're closer. Would you please check the base? It should have reached the required blood red status by now."

Putting down the plant membranes she had been separating, Hermione checked the small cauldron. "We are on our way. I think the base only requires a few more minutes. It's not quite the red we need. Imagine, even with all these colorful ingredients, our brew will turn a lovely pearl white if done correctly."

"Magical ingredients will do that. Excellent timing. The leeches, fluxweed, and knotgrass are ready. The Re'em blood should sit for twenty more minutes anyway."

"Re'em blood and Lobalug venom? I'm impressed with the Malfoy stores."

"Don't be impressed. Severus had an extremely large store of ingredients at the manor which remains until this day. I don't shout about it, but certain things do come in handy from time to time."

"Ah! Like love potions. Now I see why the witches are always chasing your arse. It's not your charming personality, that's obvious. Has to be the potions. That was all well and good up until yesterday. Since we are now dating, I heartily suggest you stop all the home brewing, or else."

Removing his dragon skin gloves, Draco stepped in front of Hermione. "You do know you're barking, right? I don't need potions. The Malfoy charm and certain other things are all that is needed."

Hermione gave Draco a hard pinch. "I hope those certain other things aren't what I think they are. You think you had scabs on your soldier last night. I will ride you into the mattress until your soldier falls off, then I'll see to that other wizard from Wiltshire."

Stepping away from Hermione's pinching fingers, Draco whispered a cheeky reply. "We have about twenty minutes until our next step. I dare you to try. Try riding me into the mattress, if you dare."

"I dare. You know I dare, but I'm not taking any chances with our brew base. However, once we get all the ingredients in the cauldron, you'd better cast a protective spell around that lovely, big dick or I won't be responsible for the outcome. Haha. That's a good one. Outcome."

"Challenge accepted Miss Granger. I'm on to you. Perhaps tonight, you'll be the one with scabs. Now give me a kiss so I can go use the loo." As he walked away, Draco suggested that Hermione start removing her clothes so they wouldn't waste any time."

"These clothes will remain on me until such a time…."

"…Until such a time I charm them off you." Draco called out. "Please check the base brew for readiness as I've suddenly become very needy and very ready."

/*/

Hermione did as asked and checked the base. It was ready. "Come on then. It's time to add the ingredients. I've already lowered the flame."

"Get your gloves love. I don't want anything happening to the lovely hands which will be rubbing this fit body later."

"I've brewed before Mr. Malfoy." Hermione replied as she raised her wand to summon gloves from somewhere in the back of the flat. "Order of immersion counts. Solids first, let the base breathe, liquids last."

"As you have brewed before Hermione, so have I." Draco retorted as he slowly slipped the solid ingredients in one after the other.

The base immediately turned a maroon color and exhibited large bubbles. This was a delicate time in the brewing process, so Draco didn't want to neutralize the bubbles, Instead, he conjured a very thin covering which would keep the bubbles from boiling out of the cauldron but wouldn't come in contact with the brew itself.

Hermione who was watching closely, stood by nodding her head in agreement with the steps Draco was taking. "I will add the liquids as soon as the froth disappears and the brew calms down. It should only be minutes. If you want to take a look at my plan to get the Priestess, Vessel, bloody, miserable witch back, it's laying on the table. Remain calm. The plan isn't as bad as it appears."

Draco glared at Hermione. "Are you speaking about the plan we wouldn't need if you had not untransfigured the nasty bint in the first place? That plan?"

"Yes Draco, that plan," huffed Hermione. "However, I'm sure you don't want to get back into that because I could mention Deidra would still be safely bound if you in all your male superiority hadn't been felled by her tricks. So, shall we stand here blaming each other or shall we proceed? It's up to you."

As usual, at the first sound of dissention between her mum and da, Blue came sauntering into the room, sat back on her haunches glancing first at Hermione then at Draco as if to say, stop it.

Her attention was noted by both Hermione and Draco.

Hermione picked Blue up murmuring that everything was fine. Jumping out of Hermione's arms, Blue next went over to Draco who also assured her that everything was fine. After assurances from her mum and da, Blue let out a loud purr, swished her tail and headed back to her bed.

"I guess she told us." Hermione offered softly, glancing over at Draco. "Let's check the cauldron and get on with it. We'll discuss the plan after. Sound good to you?"

An also contrite Draco responded with a nod. "Yes. Let's get our brew sorted."

/*/

The brew was ready for the next step. As Draco got the liquid ingredients ready, he and Hermione chatted normally about what they could expect from the brew. Once the ingredients were added, Draco proceeded with the stirs. Twenty clockwise, five counterclockwise. The brew remained maroon, but had thickened noticeably.

Replacing the thin cover over the cauldron, Draco remarked they should put a protective barrier around the cauldron in case nosey Blue decided to sniff around. Hermione concurred.

Hermione and Draco sat down on either end of the couch. "Why don't I pour us a drink before we look over my plan?"

Draco was trying to remain composed, but still a bit annoyed at being blamed for Deidra's escape. "I'm going too pass on the drink Hermione. Let's get straight to the plan."

Hermione gave Draco a look, shrugging as she summoned the parchment. "If you don't mind, I'd like you to look it over and offer suggestions."

"As long as your plan won't result in either of us being detained by the illustrious Harry Potter, I'll be glad to offer my opinion."

Hermione was now getting a tiny bit annoyed with Draco's cool demeanor. Hadn't they been joking about sex and riding each other into the mattress? Now it seemed like taunting, joking and being needy were the last things on Draco's mind, so she became arbitrary.

"You know what? It's late. Why don't we plan to look at this tomorrow or Friday? Anyway, it probably needs another review before we discuss anything."

Draco recognized Hermione's tone and was aware they wouldn't get anything accomplished while they were both irritated. Rising from the couch, Draco agreed it was late. Summoning his jumper, he stowed his wand and bid Hermione and Blue a goodnight before leaving a chaste kiss on Hermione's forehead.

/*/

Once Draco left the flat, Hermione was torn between flying into a rage, or getting on with what needed to be done. She chose getting on with what needed to be done. Draco could have his little snit. There really hadn't been any need for him to look over her plan. She had just been trying to be a team player. Her ideas were solid. She was going to get the trifling bitch back to the flat in binds.

The first thing Hermione had to do was get Deidra's approximate location. After that, it would be child's play. Hermione knew she would need to be able to move quickly, quietly and without the hindrance of normal garments. Without hesitation, she summoned a dark blue, second skin onesie with a single pocket which went down the right side of the costume. Removing her normal attire, Hermione waved her wand and effortlessly stepped into her hunting outfit.

Hermione was ready. Her only dilemma was whether to use the Appare Vestigium Charm or the Avenseguim Charm. Hermione lost focus for a second when she thought how this choice was one of the things she wanted to discuss with Draco. Bringing her mind back to the business at hand, Hermione made her own decision. Both were tracking spells, but in thinking it over, Hermione believed Avenseguim was the easier spell. All she needed was something that belonged to Deidra. Then she had it. The bloody witch had come with a scarf wrapped around her neck, but became separated from it when she'd been turned into a bone. Hurrying over to the chair Deidra had occupied, Hermione called out a quick Accio Scarf and it came flying into her hand.

"Let's get this done." She said, directing her words toward Blue. "Mum will be back with the bloody witch in tow if it takes all night."

Waving her wand, Hermione was just about to call the spell when Blue ran to the door purring and yowling.

Draco was back.

Looking suspiciously at Hermione's attire, Draco crossed the room and pulled her into his arms. "I'm not sure I expected such a, such a, sexy outfit, but I knew I couldn't let the night end as it did. What have I missed?"

Hermione laid a sexy kiss on her wizard before answering. "You are absolutely the best boyfriend in London."

Draco chuckled. "I'm fairly certain that wasn't your mindset before I appeared back at the door. What are you up to?"

Hermione did have the decency to blush because Draco was right on the money. She definitely hadn't been thinking best boyfriend a little while ago. "I have looked over the plan and decided I have everything in order, so I intend to follow up."

Draco gave his witch a thoughtful look, but did not dispute her plan to go alone. "Is there anything I can do to help?"

"Take a quick look at what I've laid out. It will be easier if we work together. We'll track Deidra down with her scarf using the Avenseguim Charm while under the Disillusionment Charm. When we find her, she'll probably be using some disguise, so we'll cast:

Homenum Revelio

Confundo

Petrifica Totalis

Incarcerous

Portus

"In that order." Hermione laughed as she dangled one of Blue's small toys from her fingers. "We'll drag the bint back here by the touch of her finger."

Draco was so taken aback all he could do was stammer. "You-I-We….. I've told you this before, but tonight I mean it from the very bottom of my heart. You are amazing. Shall I divest myself of these trousers and jumper? I know that sounds like such a silly question, but you are looking almost naked. That statement sounds even sillier, but it's true. Right now you look naked, with clothes."

Hermione laughed out loud. "We haven't established just where Deidra is hiding so I suggest you remain fully clothed. If you have everything committed to memory, let's cast this Avenseguim and go get The Priestess."

Just before casting the spell, Hermione suggested Draco might want to use a Silencio on Deidra just to insure she couldn't chant any wayward whispers.

Draco knew to what Hermione was referring, but took the dig in stride. "Cute Granger cute. Just call the spell on the bloody scarf so we can get going."

"As you wish." Holding up the scarf, Hermione pointed her wand calling out, Avenseguim. For several seconds, the spell kept the scarf floating in the air as if someone was holding it, then it started to move. As the scarf moved, so did Draco and Hermione.

/*/

Harry James Potter had been on his way home before stopping at Hermione's house, but had to make a detour to the Leaky Cauldron after the visit. He needed a strong drink. Something much stronger than what he had at home. His best friend, and adopted sister was dating the foul oaf Draco Malfoy. Harry definitely needed the strongest ale to help him wrap his head around the news.

Hannah came over and began wiping the spot directly in front of Harry. "Having a bad day Harry?"

Harry pulled a face. "Shows does it?"

"Most certainly does. You look like you lost your best friend. "Hannah replied, placing another ale in front of Harry. "Which of your highly paid Aurors is acting up today? My money is on Randy or Michael. Can't take either of those boys anywhere."

Harry grinned at Hannah. "Randy and Michael are fine, and I'll thank you to leave two of my best Aurors out of this. I've had a bit of a shock tonight. I just need to drink until I fall off this stool."

Hannah fanned herself with her hand. "I believe my ears are deceiving me. Something has shocked the unshakeable Harry Potter." Leaning in, Hannah made a cheeky comment. "You can tell me. I'm a pub owner. I'll never tell another soul except …"

Harry cut across Hannah. "It's not that serious Hannah, honestly. Just something I need to wrap my head around."

Leaning in even further, Hannah offered a risqué remark. "You don't have to tell me now Potter, but I'll get it out of you when I work my magic on you tonight." Hannah stepped back. "Speaking of over paid Aurors. Hello Michael."

Harry turned and raised his glass to Michael Corner. "Ah, company. Have one on me Michael."

Michael raised his eyebrows at Hannah. "Is the Head Auror slurring his words? I'll have what Harry's having. Looks like you might have to Apparate your wizard home tonight."

Hannah smiled as she placed an ale in front of Michael. Harry not so much.

"Watch yourself Corner. Hannah is not ready for everyone to know she is dating the fabulous me. How do you know our business?"

"I know a lot about a lot boss." Michael took a sip of his drink and gagged. "What the bloody hell is this shite?"

"Language Michael, language. My witch isn't used to foul, fucking language being spoken in her presence."

Hannah shook her head as she moved away to serve another customer. "Three ales and you're mumbling nonsense. You're shut off."

"Ale? Ale?" Michael sputtered, pushing the drink away from him. "I thought only sots and tossers drank ale. It's disgusting. When you have a chance Hannah, I'll take a good old Ogden's."

"Listen mate. I've had a shock tonight. Let me wallow in my ale misery."

"I'm not even going to ask. Something that deep must be intensely personal." Winking at Hannah, Michael joked that she should not put his boss in such a state.

"Nothing to do with me Mr. Corner. You of all people should know Harry doesn't need any help making himself miserable."

"True. Now that I've finished my real drink, I'll be on my way. Goodnight. Goodnight boss. I'll see you in the morning."

"Goodnight mate. I'll be leaving right behind you." Gesturing for Hannah to lean in, Harry left a quick kiss on her lips before rising from the stool. "I'll be spending the night upstairs in your flat. I'd say I'll wait up, but I believe my eyes are closing as I stand here."

"Money on the bar please. This isn't a charity."

Harry grinned at his witch. "I don't have any money. I was hoping we could take it out in trade."

"HARRY?" Hannah growled, looking around. "Keep those thoughts to yourself. This is my place of business after all."

Tapping the side of his nose, Harry headed to the stairs. "See you in a bit."

Hannah sighed. Even though she wanted to be discreet about her relationship with Harry until they were sure of each other, at the rate he was going, she might as well shout it about." Glancing at her Wonder Witch Watch, Hannah willed the time to pass faster.

/*/

Hermione and Draco had a bit of good luck. The trail set by the scarf was very clear and easy to follow. Within twenty minutes of leaving Hermione's flat, they had Deidra's location down to feet. Her trifling arse was hiding in Hessay Village, North Yorkshire.

"Disillusionment Charm on," recited Hermione. "Keep an eye out for a kneazle or cat. Deidra seems to favor felines for her purposes. If we see one, we'll cast the Homenum Revelio. If she's being true to form, her true body will appear. Which means what?"

Draco was surprised at the question because Hermione seemed to have taken everything upon herself.

"Checking my memory, are you? If she appears, we'll immediately call Confundo then Petrifica Totalis, Incarcerous, and last, you'll call a Portus to get us home. Additionally, I will cast Silencio at first sight of her. Just in case."

Hermione smiled to herself. "By jove I think he's got it. To Draco, she whispered a well done.

Draco wished he could see Hermione's face to determine if she was being an arse, but thanks to their Disillusionment Charms, he'd have to believe she wasn't.

"Scraggly looking kneazle three metres to our left. Go!"

Dropping the Disillusionment, Hermione and Draco cast spells at the same time. In the few seconds it took Deidra to realize she'd been undone, Draco had called out the silencing spell while Hermione called out the rest. In less than five minutes, Deidra was silenced, confunded, stunned, bound and on the way back to Hermione's flat where she was promptly dropped on the floor.

"I deserve a kiss for all this hard work."

Moving quickly, Draco crossed the room and pulled Hermione into his arms. "I'll give you a kiss, but your outfit is giving me ideas." The kiss was deep and long. Stepping back, Draco proposed his own plan. "Why don't we get the witch who will soon be getting her due, straightened away. Then we can get ourselves straightened away. I am looking forward to being ridden down into your mattress."

"Excellent idea Mr. Malfoy as long as you return the favor."

"You may plan on it. Before we get down to our first set of business, I'd like to revisit the look on Potter's face after you told him we are dating. He nearly shite himself. It felt good to let him know I'm not Lucius and will not be shaken by threats from some piece of shite Auror."

Hermione laughed. Harry had acted the arse. "That's Head Auror piece of shite to you. On the other hand, he is my best friend, so I'll need you to keep that animosity under control. Sound fair?"

"Sounds more than fair as long as he keeps his animosity under control. One more kiss before we get Deidra sorted, after which, you can get me sorted."

Reaching up to place her arms around Draco's neck, Hermione crushed her lips against Draco's.

After the kiss, Hermione tried to step away but Draco pulled her back into his arms. I'll be very nice to Potter if we get Deidra squared away in under five minutes."

With a cheeky wink, Hermione swung her wand to lift Deidra from the floor using the Follow Me spell. "Come on then, Miss didn't get away with shite. Your residence for the next several days will be the study from which you escaped. If you have to pee, feel free to go in your knickers. I'm sure The Coven won't mind the smell."

Draco grinned at Hermione's irreverent humor as he hurried to the bathroom.

"Was that quick enough for you boyfriend?" Hermione called after him.

"You did stretch it out a bit, but I won't complain because there's a mattress down the hall calling our names." Draco called back.

Blue walked up and wrapped herself around Hermione's legs.

"Yes love, Your da is talking about giving me s-e-x. Be a good girl and just go with it."

Blue walked across the room to sit and stare at the bathroom door as if she was going to voice an opinion on the matter.

Draco almost stepped on Blue when he came out of the bathroom. "Watch out young lady. Da almost stepped on his pretty girl. It's very late. Time for good girls to be in bed."

Without so much as a purr, whimper or growl, Blue padded across the room and climbed into her bed.

Hermione was giggling uncontrollably as she grabbed a surprised Draco by the hand. "You and your way with women. You might want to turn that Malfoy charm down a bit."

"Surprised the shite out of me." Draco replied, as he allowed himself to be dragged to the bedroom. "A female who understands she's not the boss of me."

Hermione laughed out loud.