The rest of the weekend was absolutely dismal. Draco had to travel back to Egypt for work. Monday morning came and after approving of the potions orders he contacted the regional alchemist director to seek a report on the progress. When he got the news that the Ministry was being slow on their end he contacted the Department of International Magical Cooperation.
He offered a generous 'donation' to the department head if he personally signed the forms needed for the Alchemists to enter England and begin foundational groundwork for the building of the Alchemy Centre. With a stipulation that a message would be sent to Draco's regional director to inform Draco of his upcoming transfer. There were some things galleons couldn't buy. But for the most part Draco had seen it could surely do a lot to achieve exactly what he wanted.
He did not act surprised in the slightest when the following Tuesday morning he received an owl from the regional director informing Draco of his transfer and that he would be expected to move back to England at the stated time. He double checked the date on the transfer. It was in fact the Monday following Valentine's Day. Merlin's Beard! He should have 'donated' to the department head, regional director, and the counsel if he had realized it would have been done in this swift of manner.
This news he decided not to give to Hermione in a letter as they wrote correspondences back and forth. He decided it would be best kept a surprise, told in person, and in the right time. His mind drifted to how their relationship would develop once he was close; spending evenings with her in her home, or at his, or at the Potter's, or her parents, or if absolutely necessary…the Weasley's.
He wanted to know the little things about her. Did she have a particular place she fancied reading daily when at home? Was she ticklish? How was she best comforted when upset? Did she have any quirks? He himself had a quirk of speaking his thoughts out loud when alone and focused on something. All those hours in the Room of Requirement fixing the Vanishing Cabinet and his emotions then he supposed had developed a habit of it.
. . . . . . .
It took all weekend and most of her time after work on Monday for Hermione to research (if one can call referencing a few romance novels she had previously read 'research') and making arrangements for the next weekend. The new position of director of the Department of Magical Creatures wasn't that much different than her previous position, except now she had the ability to delegate research and paperwork to those who she thought could do it best. She was familiar with almost all her co-workers in the department and their work; so she felt she was able to assign work to the individuals that would be able to perform best on specific assignments.
It wasn't until Tuesday evening that she was certain that everything was set for Saturday, Valentine's Day, so she decided to write Draco about her promotion and their date.
Dearest Draco,
It was a long weekend of planning, having to pull some strings, but I finally have quite possibly the perfect Valentine's Day date set up for us. I have every faith that it will be the most romantic event of either of our lives. But if not, I won't hold it against you. I'm teasing of course.
Also, I meant to mention this at the ball, but in the heat of the moment, I forgot all about it; you were dancing with the new director of the Department of Magical Creatures at the Ministry! I honestly don't know how that tidbit of information slipped my mind. I guess you just have that kind of effect on me. You make the outside world feel like a blue, like it doesn't exist. For me, that's normally extremely difficult. I honestly haven't felt like this before with anyone. Something about you is different and I can't say I am against such a feeling. I really hope you enjoy what I have planned for this weekend and that you have a good rest of the week.
XOXO Hermione
P.S. Be sure to wear only black, no red or any other colors. You'll understand why this matters later, and be ready by noon Saturday.
. . . . . . .
Wednesday evening he found her letter sitting on his desk in his study at his apartment. "Blimey. It's been three days. I wonder what took her so long?" He said to himself and sat down to read it. A smile spread across his lips as he read the contents. His imagination led him to seeing her face and hearing her voice in his mind's eye, as he read the letter.
He already had his house elf begin to pack up his belongings for the permanent return to England. He didn't have much of anything personal with him truthfully. The apartment came furnished. He had a trunk for his clothing and footwear. He would dispose of any toiletries used. He wasn't sentimental when it came to objects. He supposed being raised by parents who could buy just about anything he wanted, at anytime he desired was to blame for that. No need to feel attached to something when money could buy another, better one.
Knowing sleep wouldn't come until he wrote her back he sat down to write his return letter.
My Dear Hermione,
I was beginning to worry you had forgotten me. Three days with no correspondence has never happened before. I'm teasing, of course. I have every faith that the delay was worth it to solidify your plans for our romantic event. You have me curious.
I could very well hold it against you, if it does not turn out to be the most romantic evening of our lives. I would hold it against you in such a way, that it would give me an idea how to make future romantic evenings unforgettable. It is not often Hermione Granger is bested, now is it?
New director of the Department of Magical Creatures, you say! That is an improvement. Does it come with an office and not just a cubicle? You must have made quite an impression on Mr. Scamander in person and impressed the board of directors with that research paper of yours. I already know everything about you is impressive. Glad to see others recognize it as well. As such, I can't say I am surprised you were promoted. I can't think of another more qualified or deserving than you, truthfully.
He paused to read her last paragraph several times, contemplating how to respond. Finally he continued,
I made Hermione Granger forget the world around her exists? That sounds dangerous; especially when Potter and Weasley are in the same room. It's only a matter of time before something goes array and Hermione Granger is needed to fix it. In all seriousness, I will say something about our relationship is different than others of my past. Every time I am with you, a simple touch, the sound of your voice, the smile on your face, it is as if I am experiencing it for the first time all over again. I refer to the first time I truly saw you with eyes unclouded by hate.
I look forward to spending this weekend with you, whatever you have planned.
D.M.
He sealed the return letter closed with the Malfoy crest and sent it with Aquila on her way for delivery. He smiled when he re read her P.S. of only wear black clothing. This woman was after his heart for sure. He preferred all black suits. It was only when the occasion or his mother demanded his attire varied with a bit of color.
Friday came and he said his formal farewells to his work associates that evening. He wasn't one for farewell parties or sappy goodbyes. A simple farewell was enough for him to those he had worked with for the past two years. He arrived to his Egypt place of residence a final time. His house elf had his trunk ready to go and all other necessities met for his final departure. "Master Malfoy, anything else I can do for you Sir, before we go?" The elf asked.
Draco didn't even recall the elf's name. He had bought him when he got to Egypt and figured he would be here indefinitely. He had given the elf instructions to maintain the apartment when Draco was out and be gone with Draco entered unless he called for him. "What is your name?" Draco asked the creature, who wore what appeared to be old remains of a burlap sack that was used to carry camel feed.
"Abadim, Master Malfoy, Sir." The elf replied.
"Answer me this in truth, do you wish to be a free elf?" Draco asked of him.
The elf shook his head. "Abadim does not wish to be free of service. Master Malfoy may take me with him to serve him elsewhere, or leave me here to serve the next master of this place. Abadim would rather be secure in purpose, than uncertain in a world were all others can outwit Abadim with ease."
Draco thought on this and asked, "And if I give you clothes, will you refuse?"
"I cannot refuse a Master's order. I will accept clothing if Master Malfoy asks me to."
Draco decided to press on, "Do you want to stay in Egypt?"
"I know no other land but this one Master Malfoy."
This conversation was getting frustrating for Draco. Hermione's voice in the back of his mind telling him to free the elf, yet the elf did not want that, nor did Draco desire to take the elf out of his native country. Draco thought on the elf's message of preferring secure purpose over uncertainty in freedom. "Alright, I relieve you of your loyalty to me. Stay here to serve the next master of this place, under one condition. Should you ever desire a transfer or change your mind on freedom, find me and it will be done. I order you, Abadim, to do that."
"Yes, Master Malfoy." Abadim agreed, with a snap of his knobby fingers the creature disappeared. And Draco grabbed his trunk and counted down the hours until he was back on English soil for good.
. . . . . . .
Draco's letter arrived Wednesday morning, just as Hermione sat down at her desk. It was so nice having the large oak desk and large, carpeted office. As she read, she couldn't help but giggle at the thought of the two of them trying to oust romance another. Hermione was early, a habit she wanted to get into as director of the department, so she went to writing her response.
Dearest Draco,
I do apologize for the lateness of my letter yesterday, but don't think that I could ever forget about you. In fact, I spend a lot of my time thinking of you. If we get into a competition on who can plan the most romantic date, I doubt it would end well, if at all. It might be fun, but I have a hunch that one, if not both of our competitive natures, might get in the way of the true reason for the rendezvous, which is of course to make each other happy, feel wanted, and appreciated.
And yes, as Director, I have a very nice office. I am capable of receiving visitors during my lunch break. It's nice to have my own space and a bit of privacy during that time of the day.
I'm sure Harry and Ron can handle themselves these days. Back in school one of them had a crazed wizard after his life, so honestly I don't blame them entirely for the events that went awry. In fact, I believe a certain someone who shall remain unmade also gave them quite a bit of trouble. However, that's all in the past and from what I can tell, no one holds any grudges, which is fine by me.
Although don't count out harmless pranks around April 1st. Ron and George tend to go a bit crazy with friends and family. I can't imagine what they would plan for you. Don't worry though; I won't let them do anything too terrible to you.
I can't wait for Saturday. See you soon.
XOXO, Hermione
. . . . . . .
Saturday morning arrived and Draco didn't have the nerve to sit and finish his breakfast without asking Narcissa "Is the tie too formal? Should I go with the collared jumper?" He debated whether to wear his freshly pressed all black suit with a tie and collared black shirt. Or go with a black cardigan jumper.
"You will look dashing either way darling. Dressing formal and appearing superior is far better, than going in casual attire and appearing out of place." Narcissa advised, inclining for him to remain with the suit and tie arrangement. With that he opted for the black collared shirt and tie apparel.
Hermione had said to be ready by noon and he at least was being allowed to greet her at her front door. It was unusual for the girl in the relationship to plan such a romantic and iconic holiday. At least he was allowed to follow a bit of tradition. At her request he wore all black. His hair done with a trim and touch of product to keep it looking styled. He had debated on going with a clean shave look and decided to keep a bit of it on to rid himself of his boyish facial features.
He made sure to arrive early and revisited that same shop where he had purchased that enchanted rose of red a few weeks ago. "Mr. Malfoy, do tell me my rose has not begun to wither already?" the old woman shop keeper asked, having not expected to see him so soon.
"The red enchanted rose is fine, I assure you. My girlfriend was pleased. I am in need of a black rose. Not and everlasting one. Normal life span will do. Perhaps one that can be enchanted to change into white as it sits in a vase and soaks up water. Can you do this?" He asked of the old witch. Draco had used the term girlfriend in referring to Hermione. He sure liked the sound of it off his tongue.
The woman thought for a moment and disappeared to the back room out of view. When she returned to the counter with a single white rose in hand she laid it out carefully. Reciting a charm unfamiliar to him the rose began to change from white to black. Garnishing it with a black ribbon she held it out for Draco to take carefully. "It will turn white as it sits in a vase and partakes of water within. Once it is fully white it will be vibrant for a day then wither."
Draco nodded in approval. "That will do. How much? And don't tell me it will cost a favor. I don't like being in debt and you already have a favor from the enchanted red rose you bestowed upon me last time." He cautioned. She recited a reasonable price and he paid it plus a generous tip. He exited the shop and apparated to Hermione's with three minutes before noon was to arrive. Given the last few at the door meetings being less than ideal circumstances he didn't want to risk missing out this time. He strode to her front door and knocked, flower in hand.
. . . . . . .
"You're going to do what?!" Ginny gasped, covering the ears of the toddler on her lap. Hermione blushed, feeling embarrassed. This wasn't quite the reaction she was hoping for. "Oh come on Gin, it's not that bad." Ginny shook her head, "No, no, I'm saying go for it!" That was the answer Hermione had been expecting. She smiled, "My old question is how to end the night."
Ginny looked at her friend confused. "What do you mean? Isn't it obvious? How else are you to end a Valentine's Date after something like that?" Ginny saw the emotion of confliction pass over Hermione's face. "Unless…you are not ready to go that far?"
"Well, you know I'm not the type of girl who puts out and I really want to get to know him, but…" Hermione trailed off and stared into her cup of tea.
"You really like him, you want him, but you don't want to seem loose or abandon morals, at least not completely. You don't want to make him feel unwanted by you in that manner, but at the same time, don't want him getting bored. Is that about it?" Ginny sat back and bounced James on her knee, looking proud of herself on her assessment.
Hermione didn't know what to say for a moment. She was completely flabbergasted by the accuracy of Ginny's statement. "Yes, how…?"
"Come on, Hermione. We've been friends for how long? I know how your mind works pretty well by now." Hermione gave a short laugh. "I suppose. So do you think what all I have planned will be sufficient?"
"Yes, definitely yes. I'm practically turning green with envy. Harry has to work overtime that day, so I'm stuck by myself with James that night. However, Harry will be taking me at another day to that new, fancy magical restaurant downtown ran by the French witch, Le Dell, I think it's called. What you have planned is brilliant. I am curious though, why did you want to plan the date? It's supposed to be the bloke's treat for the lady, isn't it?"
"And here I was thinking you knew me so well. Besides the fact that Draco planned our previous date of the winter ease gala, I wanted to take a turn. I've always been a bit non-conforming and like to be all knowing and in charge of things; so really it's like a treat for me and Draco."
Ginny gave Hermione a sly look. Hermione looked back at her confused and asked. "What's that look for?" Ginny gave a shrug, "Oh I'm just realizing that one gag gift I got you seems utterly fitting now." Hermione furrowed her brow in momentary contemplation of what Ginny was referring to. "Which gift-oh…oh! No!" Hermione explained as she recalled the riding crop.
"Of course it is." Ginny teased, "You are strong, powerful, and love to take charge. You are totally a dominant personality type." Hermione was blushing, but relaxed a bit, taking a deep breath. "Well, when it put it that way…" Hermione couldn't disagree.
Ginny giggled and James started to cry, signaling that his bedtime was night. "You are getting sleeping my baby boy. I better get going. I wish you good luck tomorrow and have fun!" She said standing up with the toddler in her arms. As she moved to make her departure Ginny turned back to Hermione and said, "Oh and don't be afraid to tie him up in case he gets frisky. Better practice your Incarcerous charm."
Hermione burst into a fit of embarrassed laughter, "Ginny, no. I am not tying up my boyfriend." Ginny grinned and shrugged, "Suit yourself." And with that and a soft pop, the Potters were gone. Of course Hermione was still feeling nervous. This would be the first time she had done something like this for a significant other. But she was determined not to let that get in the way of their romantic evening.
She spent the rest of the evening and the next morning preparing. She made a picnic lunch for them, double checked everything on the list she'd made and got dressed. A sleek black halter top maxi dress was her choice for today. She twirled around in front of the mirror ensuring it appeared flattering and sexy for her date, but modest enough for out in public. She put on a pair of gold hoop earrings, adorned her wrist with a few thin gold bangles and a pair of moderate heel height black pumps to complete the outfit. She cast a gentle straightening charm on her hair, which left it delightfully wavy. A dash of facial cosmetics and crimson lipstick and she was finally ready and not a moment too soon.
A knock on the door made her nearly jump out of her own skin. She immediately looked at the clock, three minutes before noon. "As expected." She thought out loud as she made her way to the front door. Feeling a little playful she didn't open it right away and instead called out, "Who is it?"
. . . . . . .
A smirk crept across Draco's lips when he heard the sound of Hermione's voice ask an utterly playful question. To which he responded, "Feeling coy are we, Hermione? If the door does not open I suppose that means I must leave and come back later." His voice in an equally playful manner.
He knew she would call his bluff if he didn't make a move. So he reluctantly took two very small steps as he pretended to turn about to leave her from within arm reach of her front door.
. . . . . . .
Hermione's ear put up against the door, listened for Draco's response. "Willing to leave is he?" She whispered to herself. "We'll see about that." With a smile that would rival the Cheshire Cat from the muggle tale Alice In Wonderland she opened the door slowly and said, "Well, if you leave now you'll miss out on the big surprise I have for you." She stood there, hips cocked to one side, hands on her waist and gave a faux angry glare. As hard as she tried, however, she couldn't keep it up. It was hard to even pretend to be cross with him when he looked practically edible in that suit of his. "Mmm, Nott's speculation was right; you do look ravishing in an all black suit."
. . . . . . .
Draco had some witty comment about Nott finding him attractive, but his mouth fell short of words for a moment when his eyes fell upon Hermione. Seeing her in the Winter Ease dress had been an awestruck experience. But this tantalizing black dress was bloody brilliant. He gave her a very on purpose once over from head to toe and back up to her face. "What a pleasant surprise indeed." He said when he managed to find his voice. "I have a feeling Nott likely neglected to speculate that you would look ravishing in that dress." He retorted, stepping close and offered her the single black rose to her.
. . . . . . .
It was hard for Hermione to explain it to herself, the feeling of Draco looking at her the way he did. The playful, almost naughty expression on his face; it made her feel downright sexy. She let Draco drink her in and giggled at his quip about Nott. Then he presented the black rose. Careful not to damage it, she smelled it. A beautiful flora scent with a usual but pleasant undertone of cacao aroma. "Oh Draco, it's gorgeous! And no, Nott didn't speculate about me. I merely asked him for insight due to the real surprise later on." She blushed just thinking about what she had planned and tried to hide behind the rose.
. . . . . . .
Draco felt an odd sense of relief when Hermione said Nott had not speculated about her choice of attire for their evening. While he knew Nott was not competition when it came to catching Hermione's attention, part of him wanted to be the only person on earth to see her like this. He had this desire to keep her all to himself. Yet, he also wanted everyone to see her. She looked sexy yet presentable if she had intention of going out in public. She would turn heads and he would be allowed to smirk, knowing they appreciated what was visible; but it allowed Draco the ultimate satisfaction that she was his companion.
When she voiced that she had sought Nott for insight on the real surprise later on, his left eyebrow arched in amusement. "Well aren't you just cheeky. Before we venture off to whatever you have planned…" He said stepping close enough to her, his hand slip around her lower back and pulled her against him as his lips met hers.
. . . . . . .
Hermione allowed for a short indulgence. Her schedule allowed for such distractions, but not too much. She put her left hand to Draco's back and took care not to crush the rose with the other, and held him close as they kissed. His lips were as smooth and kissable as ever.
After a reasonable amount of moments passed Hermione pulled back and put her finger to Draco's lips. "There will be plenty of time for more of that later, I can assure you. However, I don't want to miss our ride to the docks." Just then a new model taxicab pulled up to the curb and honked politely, making its presence known. "Oh, there it is now!" She levitated the rose to the kitchen, then reached for a tiny purse that matched her dress and handed Draco a large picnic basket. "Let's not keep the man waiting. Shall we?"
. . . . . . .
When Hermione pulled back and put a finger on Draco's lips to cease any secondary kiss from occurring, he had to resist the urge to lick or suck her finger. When she promised there would be more time for such interactions later his inner desires subsided.
At the sound of a motor vehicle honking he was offered a large picnic basket to carry. With a single nod he agreed with her statement and took hold of the basket in his left arm; which allowed his right arm to escort her properly to the muggle metal contraption they called transportation. Vaguely recalling muggle studies he remembered that it was proper etiquette to open the door for his date. When she got in he followed. He hadn't much experience in one of these, but he knew enough to put on the safety harness called a seat belt. Brooms didn't require such devices and probably went faster than this metal contraption.
"Good afternoon! To the docks, was it? Please fasten your seatbelts." The cabby asked confirming he had the right destination in mind. He was a well dressed fellow in his mid forties who reminded Draco a lot like Mr. Weasley minus the nice clothing of course. "That is correct." Draco confirmed to him as he put the picnic basket down by his feet on the floor and off they went.
. . . . . . .
As they drove along Hermione looked to Draco and whispered so the driver couldn't hear her. "I hope you don't mind." She mouthed the words 'muggle transportation'. "Where we are going is going to be extremely busy so our usual means of transportation aren't ideal." She of course was referring to apparation, but didn't want to risk the driver overhearing.
"So," The driver said cheerfully, "What sort of romantic plans do you two have for today? If you like, I have a few brochures there in the pocket in front of you. Restaurants, themed hotels, couples spa resorts, if you are interested?" He gave a suggestive chuckle.
Hermione giggled, "Thank you, but we have everything planned out already. But my boyfriend isn't to know just yet."
"Ah, surprises await thee! Lucky man!"
. . . . . . .
Draco gave a simple head nod in understanding of Hermione's hushed statement to him. He wasn't fond of muggle transportation, but he wasn't going to question it if she deemed it necessary to use during whatever she had planned. "Right you are cabby. I am a very lucky man." Draco responded, speaking the whole truth as he caught Hermione's eyes with his own. It was moments like this, catching her stare with his when for a moment it felt like he was living a dream. That any second he would wake up and find himself trapped in the past instead of the present day.
The cabby chuckled and pulled right into the parking lot 'unloading' zone. The place was bustling, being a Saturday and a holiday more so than usual. "That'll be 22.72 pounds, cash or card?" The cab driver asked as his time and mileage counter was turned off.
. . . . . . .
They looked into each other's eyes for a moment. Hermione almost felt intoxicated with the sensation of being so close to Draco in an ethereal manner. "Oh, he has no idea just how lucky he is." She said with a sly grin.
When they arrived, Hermione paid the driver with her card. She thanked the man and waved goodbye before taking Draco's free arm and leading him towards the docks of the marina. This particular Valentine's Day was uncharacteristically warm for this time of year, so many couples and groups were either on the beach eating, playing and frolicking, or getting ready to set sail. "I'm so excited, I believe you are going to enjoy this!" she exclaimed, displaying her enthusiasm.
She took him to the furthest dock where some of the boats looked rather unseaworthy, except for the one boat that looked practically brand new. There was a sign next to it that said "Whale Watching" in big bold letters. A bearded old man standing on the deck of the boat dressed in a yellow rubber raincoat, hat, and black eye patch that made him look like a seaman from a muggle novel tale.
He was looking out to sea with a small spyglass when he heard the two approaching. He lowered the spyglass and smiled, revealing several gold teeth. "Ar! Ye must be Miss Granger." He said his voice gravelly with age. "You are as punctual as the tide! Welcome aboard the S. S. Meridian; the smoothest sail above or below the waves!" he said with a wink.
Hermione crossed the gangplank, "Thank you very much for agreeing to help us, Captain Nemo."
"No worries, lass. Anything for the famous Hermione Granger and her associates." He said, sounding a little star struck.
. . . . . . .
'The smoothest sail above or below the waves?! Was this captain already tipsy on ale? It was barely one o' clock in the afternoon.' Draco wondered having no desire to 'sail' below waves if that meant being a victim of the sea and not on the boat. He resisted the urge to keep his wand in hand as he followed Hermione onto Captain Nemo's boat. At least the vessel looked high class, even by Malfoy standards.
Captain Nemo pulled in the gangplank and gave and expert pull to the rope that had him tethered to the dock. The sound that followed was the clank of heavy metal chain as the experience seaman raised the anchor from the watery depths.
When the Captain retreated to the helm at the steering wheel Draco looked to Hermione, "Should I have worn a swimming suit? This suit is dry clean only after all."
. . . . . . .
Hearing the slight worry in Draco's voice, Hermione couldn't help the smile forming on her face. However she did her best to put on a hurt look, "Don't you trust me, darling?" Then her smile returned. "Don't tell me my darling dragon is afraid of a little water?" She giggled and took hold of Draco's arm, pulling closer to him. "Don't worry, I know the captain from my Curse Breaking days. You'll be perfectly fine, not a drop of water will touch you."
As she spoke, the captain pulled away from the dock with expert precision. Not a bump, not a wiggle, not a jostle. There wasn't even the normal rocking due to the undercurrent; perfectly smooth just as promised. Then a subtle glittering surrounded the vessel for just a second and the captain spoke up, "Barrier is up, and we be off! We should arrive a few minutes before show time."
"Thank you captain." Hermione said, "Now, let's have lunch, shall we? I wasn't sure what kind of sandwiches to make, so I made several kinds: roast beef and swiss, ham and provolone, turkey and cheddar, all cut into heart shapes. To go along with it I prepared a fruit salad, figs, and a platter sized chocolate cake slice for dessert. How's that all sound?" She looked at Draco quite pleased and proud of her basket full of goodness.
. . . . . . .
"I am not afraid of water. Just cautious of ruining the perfection of attire I arranged for your eyes to behold." Draco quipped in return as they began to set sail. It was indeed a smooth departure. Draco was impressed, even by Malfoy standards. He joined Hermione at a table and began to pull out the number of foods she had prepared for their sea travels. "Prepared as always. I would appreciate the roast beef and swiss cheese sandwich." He stated as he gathered it and a portion of the sides of the fruit salad and figs onto a plate and silverware provided.
He finished his meal and ventured to take a bite of the generous slice of chocolate cake that she had brought. "Moist chocolate cake. Well done Hermione. Too dry of cake is rather unpleasant to eat." He commented positively. When he swallowed he opened the bottle of sparkling cider she brought to compliment the meal and dared to ask, "So did my ears deceive me or am I correct in thinking there is a show we are attending after this ship ride?"
. . . . . . .
A warm sense of pride swelled up inside Hermione as they ate. He seemed quite pleased with the food she stressed over. She had bought the finest meats and cheeses she could find in hopes it would satisfy her date's surely refined tastes. She felt especially happy when he complimented her cake. Deserts were especially difficult for her, but luckily Molly Weasley's coaching had paid off. "I'm very glad you like it."
When he mentioned what lay at the end of their sea voyage, she puckered her lips a moment that relaxed into a grin. "It was supposed to be a surprise, but I may as well tell you: the St. Mungo's Charity Thesbian Troup is putting on a play. It's a very popular romance known to muggle and wizard kind alike."
Then Captain Nemo rang a large bell a few times. "We'll be making our descent momentarily." He announced. "Prepare to dive."
"Thank you Captain." Hermione called back. "You sure you are not afraid of the water?" She asked Draco teasing.
. . . . . . .
Draco gave Hermione a sneer at her fear of water remark during descent. Just like take off the descent was flawless. Draco didn't even have this smooth of skill on a broomstick.
. . . . . . .
As they submerged, the sounds of the surface such as seagulls and waves splashing against the boat were replaced by the muffled bubbling of water all around them. They were perfectly dry, protected by the charm surrounding the vessel.
. . . . . . .
The ship was enchanted with a massive bubble charm that allowed them to breathe and stay dry, while the ocean world about them carried on swimming. "Brilliant!" He whispered in awe, relaxing the tension in his shoulders he hadn't realized he braced during descent.
. . . . . . .
Instead of birds flying overhead, fish now surrounded them. Schools of all kinds wound their way around them, some being gobbled up by bigger fish and even sharks. The deeper they went the stranger and more fascinating the sights became. Less light from the surface made it hard to see very far out from the boat, but some creatures made up for the lack of light with bioluminescence.
Before long, a new light source from below came into view. It was a coliseum like structure surrounded by a sphere of air, making it look like a snow globe in the water. Many other vessels made their way towards the bubble.
. . . . . . .
When they came to a full stop at a boarding dock and the Captain came out to present the exit ramp, Draco gave a loose interpretation of a compliment. "Captain Nemo, I can see why Hermione has full trust in your capabilities and expert travel care." Draco voiced, handing the captain a handful of galleons. It took a lot to impress Draco Malfoy; as such he usually rewarded the few who managed to do so. He extended his arm out to Hermione in a very posh manner, desiring to assist her on their way off the ship.
. . . . . . .
They finally docked with several others and Captain Nemo drew the gangplank to let off his passengers. He bowed slightly to Draco. "Only the best for such a fine lady, wouldn't you agree?"
"She is certainly worthy of only the best. Thank you."
. . . . . . .
Hermione giggled, "Captain, you flatter me. Thank you so very much for the ride here. We'll be taking portkey from here, so this is goodbye."
'Welcome to the grand opening of the New Atlantian Amphitheatre' read banners all about the entrance. There was several minutes before the show started, so they made their way to their seats; the private booth just above center stage. The expected din of patrons talking amongst themselves below was silenced by a two way magic barrier so they could speak freely with one another and enjoy the play peacefully. "So, what do you think?" Hermione asked, "Good seats don't always come from money, it's sometimes knowing the right people."
. . . . . . .
They were directed to their private balcony seating. When Hermione asked what her thought as they sat down, Draco grasped her hand and voiced, "Brilliant! You are absolutely brilliant Hermione." He raised her hand to his lips.
He kept a hold of her hand once he lowered it from his lips at the same moment the lights dimmed and the theatre troupe commenced their performance. It was a story he was only vaguely familiar with in name. All detail was lost to him; keeping him equally captivated by the performance, as well as his captivation with the companion beside him.
. . . . . . .
"I think you'll find things turn out quite brilliantly when I'm in charge." Said Hermione as the performance began.