omG guys!! the next chapter is all yours!!
I'll post the questions for chapter 7 sometime tomorrow, but until then, read and enjoy!! =]


Chapter 6: Escape

Ron was in the Hospital Wing for the next three weeks. He had various broken bones and bruises. Harry had been the only one to visit him. News of what had happened between him and Hermione had gotten around the school fast, and Ron was looking at his final days at Hogwarts. But what was even more interesting, was news of how Draco Malfoy had defended Hermione Granger. That had seemed to have gotten around even faster. Soon, almost everyone had their own version of the story, making Draco laugh and Hermione shake her head.

The only good part about people talking about them was that things couldn’t get much worse. They could finally hang around together in public. With the occasional glare from a disappointed Gryffindor and a disgusted Slytherin, Draco and Hermione spent most of their time with each other, or with Harry and Ginny (who had started seeing each other a few weeks before).

“This is disgusting. Watching them talk to each other like they were equals.”
“Just get over it Pansy.”
Blaise had heard almost every insult in the book from Pansy about Hermione, and he had enough.
“I won’t. I’m not going to allow my boyfriend to hang around with that filth.”
“Pansy! He isn’t your boyfriend! He never was your boyfriend and he’ll never be your boyfriend! When are you going to get that through your thick head?!”

Pansy watched in shock as Blaise walked toward Draco, with Crabbe and Goyle following behind.
“Where do you think you two are going?!”
“We’re not listening to you, you witch.” Crabbe shouted.
Pansy screamed and stomped away in fury, trying to form a full-proof plan in her mind.

“Draco!”
Draco turned his head away from his new group to see Blaise, Crabbe, and Goyle coming towards them. He stood up, making Hermione look up at him, and made his way over in their general direction.
“Yeah?”
“How’re things?” Crabbe asked.
Draco looked at the three of them questioningly.
“How’re things?”
“Yeah, how’re things?”
“Why would you ask me that, Crabbe? Do you think things are great? Do you think I’m happy and fine? What do you bloody think, Crabbe? If you think at all!”

Crabbe had backed away and almost shrunk down in size as Draco advanced on him. Draco was clearly angry at Crabbe and Goyle for following Pansy around for the past few weeks. Blaise shot Crabbe a warning glare for the next time he decided to open his mouth and began talking a quick cover.
“Relax, Draco.”
“They following you around now?”
“Yeah. No big.”
“Everything is big about these two.”
Draco turned around and sat back down next to Hermione, who was laughing with Harry and Ginny. Noticing that he had returned, she looked up at the three, who looked at each other curiously. Deciding that they probably had no where else to go, she looked to Draco who shrugged his shoulders.

“Would you guys like to join us?”
The three smiled and they sat near the circle of friends. Groups of students walked by astonished, whispering as they past quickly. After another hour or so, Draco leaned in and whispered into Hermione’s ear.

“Want to get out of here?”
She looked at him quickly and whispered back.
“And go where, may I ask?”
“I don’t know. Back to the dorm? Somewhere away from all these people.”
Draco had begun kissing her ear and neck lightly, making her gasp quietly.
“Alright, alright. Stop that.”

Draco smirked and stared at her. She looked around and stood up, with Draco following.
“Where you guys going?” Harry asked.
“Draco and I have to meet up with Professor McGonagall to discuss some Prefect matters. We’ll see you guys at dinner.”
“Okay, see you later.”

After everyone said their goodbyes, Draco and Hermione slowly walked up to their common room and plopped onto the couch. Draco started the fire in the fireplace and laid his head back against the couch. Hermione sat next to him and adjusted herself so that her head was resting in his lap. He looked down for a moment, and smirked.

“Yes? Anything I can help you with?”
“What are you thinking about?”
“What kind of a question is that?”
“A very good one. Now answer it.”
“For someone who wants an answer, you’re being a little rude.”

Hermione smiled and looked up at Draco. She could only see his chin so she reached up and pulled his head so he was looking down at her.
“Then I guess I’m acting just like you. Now answer.”
Draco chuckled. “You don’t want to know what I’m thinking about.”
“I wouldn’t have asked if I didn’t want to know.”
“Well, let’s pretend that you didn’t ask and end this conversation.”

Sitting up, Hermione frowned.
“Don’t give me that look. I invented that look and it doesn’t work on me.”
Hermione smiled and moved across Draco so that she was sitting on him with her legs on either side of him. Draco looked up at her and smirked.

“More like me everyday, aren’t we Granger?”
She rolled her eyes and pulled Draco into a kiss. He pulled away and stared at her for a minute.

“What’s the matter?”
“Nothing. What was that for?”
“Do I need a reason?”
Draco smirked. “No.”

They went back and forth like that for hours. Kissing, arguing, and kissing again. Though neither of them seemed to mind. The kisses, as harmful and innocent as they seemed, had begun turning into needy, passionate ones. Draco roughly kissed Hermione, but Hermione did the same. They didn’t realize what all that might turn into until the next morning, when they woke up in Draco’s room, huddling with each other under the covers for warmth.

*****
“WHAT WERE YOU THINKING?!”
“Mum...”
“HONESTLY, RONALD!! Of all the people you could hit, you hit Harry! Your best friend!”
“Mum…”
“AND THEN! You use a CRUTACIOUS on Hermione?! How could you?! That poor, sweet girl has been nothing but nice and kind to you!”
“Mum…”
“And now this fight with Draco Malfoy! What are we going to do with you Ronald Bilis Weasley?”
“Mum, stop! I have my reasons.”
“There is NO reason, at all, for using an Unforgivable on one of your friends. On anyone for that matter. Your father and I raised you better!”
“I don’t want to hear this Mum.”
“Well, that’s just too bad isn’t it? You’re lucky Hermione’s parents aren’t doing anything legal about this. You’re lucky the school is letting you continue your education at home for the rest of the term.”
“Well then! I’M JUST A LUCKY GUY, AREN’T I?!”
“Don’t raise your voice to me, young man.”
“DON’T TALK TO ME! I can’t stand everyone thinking that Hermione and Malfoy are not a problem! MALFOY?! What in bloody hell are you people thinking?!”

With that Ron ran up the stairs of the Burrow and slammed his bedroom door shut. Molly Weasley still stood in the kitchen, her face red and her anger subsiding. What had gone wrong with him? She made herself busy cleaning and making tea to try and get her mind off of Ron for a while, when she heard an ominous boom come from upstairs. She raced up the stairs, only to find Ron’s door closed and smoke coming out from underneath it. Opening the door, she gasped and ran back down the stairs to call Arthur on the floo network.

*****
The sun shone through the stain-glass windows, shimmering green and yellow light across the room. Draco woke slowly, wincing at the light and silently cursing the sun. He had gone in and out of sleep for the past few hours, thoughts of everything that had happened to him rushing through his mind. He smiled down at the sleeping body huddled in his arms. The memories of the night before flowed through his mind. Him. Hermione. Kissing. Touching. Her body crushing against his. Her skin was so soft. Draco couldn’t have been happier. Just as soon as he thought about this, an owl appeared at his window. Tapping and scratching at it. Carefully moving Hermione so she wouldn’t wake, he went over to the window and opened it.

“Shut it, you lousy bird.”
The black owl squawked loudly and stuck its leg out to Draco.

“Be quiet, damn it!”
He untied the letter and ripped it open, scanning over the words that his mother had written.

My Dear Son,
I hope you’re doing well in school this term. You know how much it would mean to me if you got the rest of your grades up in something other than potions.

Draco rolled his eyes at this.

I got the letter you sent me two weeks ago. About that girl. I’m very happy for you, Draco. Though I am surprised that she is a Muggle. That is actually why I’m writing. You’re father has escaped Azkaban today, with the help of the Dark Lord. He wants to come and get you so you may receive the Dark Mark. Don’t worry too much, I have persuaded him to wait until the school year is over.
Take extra care of her, Draco. If your father was to find out, I don’t know what might happen. You must protect her. Take care and I’ll see you at Christmas.

Love,
Mother

Frustration swept over Draco quickly. Why did his father have to escape now? Of all times! He crumpled up the letter and threw it on the floor. Taking out his wand, he pointed it at the letter.

“Incendio.”

The letter burst into flames, causing the owl to squawk loudly and fly out of the room through the window.
“Damn bird.” He said under his breath. He looked at the burning letter once more and kicked the table in anger.

“Aguamenti.” The command was spoken softly from behind him. Draco sighed and rested his hands on his head.

“I didn’t mean to wake you up.”
Hermione was sitting up in the bed with the blankets wrapped around her.

“No, you planned on burning the room down.”
He turned and gave her a small smile. Hermione frowned and scooted over.

“Come here.”
Draco walked over and lay down on the bed next to Hermione. She lay down next to him and ran her fingers through his hair. Draco closed his eyes and put his arms around Hermione, bringing her closer.

“What did your mother say?” she asked.
He opened his eyes and looked at her questioningly.

“I saw the address on the envelope.”

Draco groaned and threw a pillow over his head and screamed.

“Draco! Calm down! It can’t be that bad.”

Draco ripped the pillow away from his face and stared at her intently. She smiled at him and rubbed his cheek with her hand, wiping his tears away.

“What’s the matter?”

He was silent for a moment, before reaching his hand up to touch hers and sighed.

“My father…has escaped Azkaban. With the help of the Dark Lord.”

Hermione’s smile faded and she looked at him seriously. He closed his eyes and continued to talk.

“His plan was to come and take me out of school. So I could receive the Dark Mark. Thankfully, though, my mother suggested that he wait until the summer. I, at least, don’t have to worry about it ‘til then.”

“You’re not going to take it, are you?”

“Hermione.” he looked into her eyes. She was almost pleading with him, begging him not too. He sighed and pulled her close.

“What choice do I have? If I don’t take it, then I’m putting my family at risk, and when I say my family I mean my mother. If I do take it, you’re going to hate me forever. Aren’t you?”

“Well…I’m not going to be very happy.”

Draco looked at her and waited for her to continue. When she didn’t he ran his hands over her body and took a deep breath.

“But?”

“But, it’s your mother. And I guess that if getting the Dark Mark keeps her safe and out of harms way, then that’s what you have to do.”

Draco smiled and kissed her forehead.

“I knew you would understand. You do realize that I don’t want it at all, right?”

“Yeah…I know.”

The room was consumed by silence. Draco couldn’t stop thinking about his father. Of course the Dark Lord would break him out; it was only a matter of time before it happened. His father was his best Death Eater. The best in the ‘business’ you could say. Draco scowled at this thought and tried to burn it out of his mind. He would be coming for him, he knew it. He looked to Hermione and fear swept through him. What would happen if Lucius found out about her? Draco shuddered at the thought but he knew he couldn’t keep it from him for long.

‘But I’m going to sure as hell try.’

*****
“Why are you here?”

“I need your help.”

“Why would you need my help?” Pansy asked.

She had been sitting by herself in the Slytherin common room, something she does most often these days, when a mysterious figure caught her attention.

“Because you hate the situation as much as I do. Together, we can tear them apart. Piece by piece. Until there’s nothing left.”

“I don’t know what you’re talking about. What situation? Tear who apart?”

“Don’t play stupid with me, Parkinson. Don’t you want your precious Draco back?”

Pansy gasped at the sound of Draco’s name and stared hard at the figure. How did this person know that she wanted Draco for herself and away from that Mudblood? Thinking about everything the man offered, a sly smile crept onto her face. The man laughed a light, menacing laugh.

“We have a deal?” He spoke calmly.

She looked at the figure and grinned.

“Deal.”

*****
Harry and Hermione were walking the halls together, spending some much needed time with each other. Harry couldn’t help but notice a certain glow about her, it radiated off and seemed to bring a calm happiness to everything it touched.

“Why are you so happy?” he asked smiling.

“Everything’s just been going really well the past few weeks.”

“Things are going well with Draco then, I assume?”

Hermione blushed and smiled.

“Very well.” She replied.

Harry nodded, apparently understanding that that’s all he was going to get out of her. He figured that he didn’t really want to know anymore. He stopped though, when she got this far off look in her eyes.

“What’s wrong?”

“Well, you sort of reminded me of something that I was going to tell you.”

“Okay? What is it?”

“Harry, Lucius escaped this morning.”

Harry’s eyes grew wide and filled with hate.

“How?!”

“Voldemort…” she said quietly.
Fear and anger struck Harry’s heart. The worst that could be expected had happened. And it could only get worse from here. Nothing could be said about what Voldemort would do now that he had his best man back working for him.

“I need to tell McGonagall.”

Hermione nodded and watched as Harry went off, running, towards the Headmaster’s office. She turned once Harry was out of sight, and continued walking down the hall. Thoughts consumed her mind and she suddenly began to worry about Ron.

‘Don’t worry about that ****. He almost killed you with that curse, he’s none of your concern now.’

But still, she couldn’t help but wonder how he was doing. He had never acted out like that before. Towards anyone! Punching Harry, attacking her, getting into a devastating fight with Draco. It just didn’t make any sense. With that thought in her mind, she figured she’d floo Mrs. Weasley, just to make sure all was well.

*****

YAY!!! YAY!!!

Padfoot you are a genius! I must make my story this good so more people will come and read it.

Lucius is back Stupid, stupid, stupid Voldemort!

Okay I'm done!
PAMS!

Jemma
xxx

Awsome!! Great chapter!!!
I luv the constant twists and turns you put in your stories!
But nothing better happen to Draco or Hermione!
I will cry if they do!!
Keep up the great writing!

im a horrible reader
i missed FOUR posts

when i read it
at first i thought
that ron had raped her
i guess ive been watching to much
law & order

why did she make malfoy stop
all though i love ron with all my heart
in this ff he is just an @**hole

awh, thanks so much =]
and I'm sure bunches of people will read it!! i know i will =)

Wow! thanks!!! I never thought of it that way =)
More twist-Es and turn-Es coming!
lol no no, no raping in this story. and Hermione isn't a very violent person, so why would she want Draco to continue ? lol.


You guys are awesome! I love the posts!! But now, I want you to answer some questions for me so I can start writing the next chapter!!

1. What would you like to happen to Draco and Hermione ? (should they get into a fight about Harry?/Ron?/Lucius?/or the Dark Mark?)

2. Who would you want Pansy's mysterious person to be ?

3. Give me a short description of what you would like to see happen in future chapters.

4. Happy ending? Or love gone wrong ?

There you go!! Answer away and I'll get started on chapter 7 as soon as possible!

--Padfoot

I dont have time to answer, but awesome ppost. PAMS!

i'll answer as soon as i can..anywayz awesome post!!!PAMS!!PAMS!!

1. What would you like to happen to Draco and Hermione ? (should they get into a fight about Harry?/Ron?/Lucius?/or the Dark Mark?)



none of them they are a 2 cute couple

2. Who would you want Pansy's mysterious person to be ?

ummm u decide make it a cliffie


3. Give me a short description of what you would like to see happen in future chapters.

something good some drama & happily ever after

4. Happy ending? Or love gone wrong ?

happy ending!!!!


~kristen~

Quote:

Originally Posted by Sabrina_Snape

Lucius is back Stupid, stupid, stupid Voldemort!

Oi

Great post

Love voldyXOXOXOOX

1. What would you like to happen to Draco and Hermione ? (should they get into a fight about Harry?/Ron?/Lucius?/or the Dark Mark?)
i dont understand the question

2. Who would you want Pansy's mysterious person to be ?
make it a total random character that doesnt have that big of a part just to catch everyone of gaurd, like susan bones or someone like that

3. Give me a short description of what you would like to see happen in future chapters.
drama drama drama and more drama
and please let something be wrong with ron cause he normaly wouldnt do this
and i think he should be good at the end


4. Happy ending? Or love gone wrong ?
suprise me

1. What would you like to happen to Draco and Hermione ? (should they get into a fight about Harry?/Ron?/Lucius?/or the Dark Mark?)

I dont want anything to happen to them!! They are so cute!!!

2. Who would you want Pansy's mysterious person to be ?

Lucius Malfoy!!! he's an accomplished Legimens. I'm sure he'd be able to work out what his son's thoughts are about!!!

3. Give me a short description of what you would like to see happen in future chapters.

A lot of drama and LOVE!! lol nah drama and loads of plot twists!

4. Happy ending? Or love gone wrong ?

HAPPY ENDING!! I dont like love gone wrong! Happens too many times.

I love this story! its so good! Post more soon!

Love always
Jade xxxxxxxxxxxxxx

For those of you that answered, thanks so much!
You guys have given me some great ideas and I have a whole bunch of surprises for you!

I've already started writing the chapter, so it might be up either tomorrow or sometime next week.
Happy reading!

--Padfoot

1. What would you like to happen to Draco and Hermione ? (should they get into a fight about Harry?/Ron?/Lucius?/or the Dark Mark?)

Something about Ron, not the dark mark!

2. Who would you want Pansy's mysterious person to be ?
I agree with someone else, someone completly unrelevent

3. Give me a short description of what you would like to see happen in future chapters.
I'm not sure, surprise me.

4. Happy ending? Or love gone wrong ?

Not love gone wrong, but not a happy ending either.

I'm sorry if this is a little late!! PAMS!

Thanks for posting, love.

Sorry this is so late!!!!

1. What would you like to happen to Draco and Hermione ? (should they get into a fight about Harry?/Ron?/Lucius?/or the Dark Mark?)

Are those the only choices???

2. Who would you want Pansy's mysterious person to be ?
I think it should be Ron cause that would explain what happened at the section of the burrow in chapter 6... Ron went to Hogwarts to get help from Pansy...It would be kinda funny if in the end they got together....


3. Give me a short description of what you would like to see happen in future chapters.

Someone is captured and they need rescuing... like Ginny because of Harry, but Harry is uncouncious in the hospital wing right now, so Hermione has to go save her and Draco has to choose between staying safe by keeping ranks with the death eaters, or helping Hermione save Ginny and staying together with her.... sorry got a little crazy there...


4. Happy ending? Or love gone wrong ?

Totally happy ending!!!!!!


Again sorry its so very very late I just saw the questions so ya.. BYE<3

Awh, thanks love. No, those aren't the only choices, just examples.
and that's one amazing description. That might just happen keep a look-out!

--Padfoot

Here's chapter 7! yay!
It may be a tick short, but I'll try and have chapter 8 out soon. =)
Hope this is what you guys were hoping for.

Chapter 7: Captured

Mother,
I have no intention of failing my classes this year. Things have been easier for me and I guess you can give the credit to ‘her’. I still don’t understand why you won’t just turn father in and end this nightmare. He’s destroying my life and he’s practically destroyed yours. It would make us both happier. Don’t worry too much about her, Mother. I won’t let anything happen to her. She means more than the world to me. And with that being said, I do have a request. Go into hiding. Far away from father. Just get out. I have decided that he’s no longer going to rule my life and I am not taking the Dark Mark. Mr. Lupin and cousin Nymphadora are going to take you in. Do this for me, Mother.
See you at Christmas.

Love, Draco

Shakily, Draco folded his letter and put it in an envelope. This letter was a big risk if his father got this before his mother. He tied the letter onto a small, raven colored owl’s leg tightly and stroked its feathers.

“Don’t let anyone take this except for Narcissa Malfoy. Understand?”

The owl hooted approvingly, proud that it was being given an important job, and flew away. Watching the owl get smaller and smaller, Draco breathed slowly. His attention snapped away from the bird when he saw a dark figure moving across the grounds into the Hogwarts building. Looking closer, he still couldn’t make out the mysterious figure. Curiosity swept over him and he quickly made his way out of the owlry and down the many stairs into the Great Hall. Looking around, he saw nothing but only a few wandering students.

‘Strange,’ he thought. ‘I could have sworn I saw it come through this way.’ Deciding not to worry too much about it, that it was probably just his imagination, he began wandering the halls himself, hoping that he would run into Hermione.

*****
Hermione’s nerves were building up inside her. She hadn’t been able to contact Mrs. Weasley. The thought that she wasn’t home had crossed her mind, but the simple fact that Ron had been sent home for the rest of the term and that Mrs. Weasley didn’t work gave Hermione cause to worry. Thinking that she would try again later, she sat down on the common rooms couch and stared into the fire. She didn’t know what to do with herself.

BANG!
Jumping at the sudden sound, Hermione looked in the direction from where it came. Her room. Fear washed over her quickly. With the news of Lucius Malfoy out of Azkaban, she didn’t know what to expect anymore. ‘That blasted Voldemort certainly keeps you on your toes.’ She thought. She grabbed her wand and cautiously made her way up the stairs to her room. Taking a deep breath she slowly pushed open the door, her wand passing through the frame first.

“Lumos.” She whispered.

The small light emitted from her wand set off a gentle glow, allowing her to see Ginny wrapped in her blankets on her bed. Confused, Hermione turned on the lights in the room and looked at Ginny carefully. She was sitting on her bed, pulling the blankets closer to her, and rocking gently back and forth. Sighing a breath of relief she put her wand down.

“Nox.” She said quietly. Walking over to her bed, she sat down next to Ginny and pulled some of the blankets off of her. Ginny looked cautiously around. When her eyes caught sight of Hermione, she practically threw herself onto her. Giving Ginny light pats on the back, trying to calm her down; Hermione’s mind was a whirlwind of questions.

“Ginny, what’s the matter?”

“My – my dad…”

Eyes growing wide, Hermione stared at Ginny, waiting for her to continue.

“They don’t know where he is. He…went to work…and never came home. And it happened yesterday…when Ron escaped from the house.”

“Ron escaped from the burrow?”

Ginny nodded her head and brought her knees up to her chest. Hermione gave her a small hug of comfort and whispered to her.

“Everything will be alright, Ginny. You’ll see. Until then, you’re welcome to stay here with me.”

Smiling slightly, Ginny laid herself down on Hermione’s bed and closed her eyes. Walking out and closing her door silently, Hermione quickly charmed her room with protection spells. ‘I’m not taking any chances.’ Making her way down the stairs she stopped when she saw a tiny bird sitting on the table in front of the fire.

“’ello!”

Hermione jumped at the bird’s unexpected words and stared at it confused.

“Um, hello?”

“I ‘ave a message for you.”

“Alright…”
“You’re to go to the ‘eadmasters office immediately. And take me with you.”

Processing the information in her head, she quickly bent down to pick up the bird, which hopped onto her finger, and walked out into the hall, quietly shutting the portrait door behind her.

*****
“Where did you hear this from, Mr. Potter?”

“Hermione told me.”

“Are you positive that this is true?”

“It has to be! Hermione told me that Dracos’ mother sent him a letter this morning, telling him that Lucius had escaped prison because Voldemort broke him out somehow!”

“Calm down, Mr. Potter. We’ll be able to figure this out easier when Ms.Granger arrives.”

“What? Why did you call her down? She has too much on her mind to be coming down here!”

“Sit down, Mr. Potter! I don’t have the patience for this.”

Defeated, Harry sat down; his anger and worry boiling over the edge. They sat in silence for a while, with nothing but the sound of McGonagall’s quill running over one parchment after another. The sound became extremely annoying after a while. Harry was praying that Hermione would walk through the door soon. His eyes wandered over to the door as it slowly opened. But to his surprise, it wasn’t Hermione, but Ginny and a small bird.

“Ms. Weasley? What are you doing here? And why do you have Septimus?”

The bird looked up when he heard his name and he flew over to McGonagall. Harry looked back and forth from Ginny to McGonagall and her bird. Harry cleared his throat, which caused the headmaster to look over.

“What’s going on, Professor?”

“Mr. Potter, I sent Septimus here to get Ms. Granger for me. He is sort of like Dumbledore’s bird, Fawkes.”

Harry smiled as the memory of the bird flew into his mind. He had always loved that bird, but he never got to see it again after Dumbledore passed because it somehow just disappeared. But new questions were arising and he looked again to Ginny.

“Ginny. Where’s Hermione?”

Ginny never looked up from the floor.

“I don’t know.”

McGonagall set Septimus on the table and sat behind her desk.

“Septimus, if you would please explain what happened.”

“I went down to retrieve Ms. Granger, just like you told me. I waited for ‘er to come downstairs from ‘er room and when she did, I said, ‘ello, I ‘ave a message for you. You’re to go to the ‘eadmasters office straight away.’ That’s what I said. And so we started comin’ down ‘ere. But she ‘eard a noise coming from one of them empty corridors. I told ‘er not to go down it an’ to let Filch deal wit’ it, but she’s a persistent one, she is. So we went down to investigate, when this person just came out of nowhere and grabbed her! She was screamin’ an’ such, but he was too strong for ‘er I guess. I saw some red hair under that cape of his he was wearin’, I did. So I flew back up to her room and got Ms. Weasley over there to help. But when we got there, Ms. Granger an’ that man was gone, so we came up ‘ere.”

There was nothing but silence over the next few minutes as realization swept over Harry. Without another word he ran out of McGonagall’s office and down into the hallway. Looking around, he saw no one. He pulled out a folded piece of parchment. He pointed his wand down at it and looked around one more time.

“I solemnly swear I’m up to no good.”

The Marauder’s Map slowly appeared and Harry let his eyes sweep back and forth over it. When he finally found the name he was looking for, he took a deep breath.

“Mischief managed.”

The writings disappeared and he folded and put the map back into his pocket. Running down the hall, thoughts of where Hermione could be raced in his mind. Thoughts of her being tortured and in pain washed through him, and he slammed right into someone coming around the corner.

“Bloody hell, Potter! What’s your problem?!”

Harry groaned and rolled onto his back. Reaching around for his glasses, he felt a hand grab his arm and pull him to his feet.

“Thanks.”
“Yeah, whatever. Want to explain how this little collision occurred?”

Putting his glasses on, his eyesight came into focus with the blonde haired Slytherin. Running his hands over his messy hair, he collected his thoughts.

“I was looking for you, actually.”
“Well, you found me. So tell me what you need too, because I need to talk to Hermione.”
“Draco, that’s the problem.”
“What do you mean, ‘that’s the problem?’. Why would it be a problem?”

Draco’s voice had become panicky, and his face was slightly worry stricken. Though Harry knew Hermione and Draco were very close, it still surprised him how loving Draco was actually being. Those thoughts aside, he closed his eyes and tried to keep himself breathing.

“She’s not here.”
“Not here?”
“Yeah.”
“What the bloody hell do you mean, Potter?”
“She’s gone, Draco. Someone…took her away.”
“But…”

Draco stopped short as his thoughts whizzed in his brain. He stared at Harry and then ran down the hall towards the common room. With Harry right behind him, he raced into Hermione’s room and stopped. He looked around the room with tear-stained eyes. He failed. He had promised himself he wouldn’t let anything happen to her, and now look what happened. She was gone. Someone took her right out from under his nose. ‘But who could do that? No one can apparate to or from Hogwarts grounds…’

“Harry!”
“What Draco? What is it?”
“We need to go to my house.”
“What? Are you crazy? Your bloody father just escaped and is probably hiding out there with his Voldemort posse. I may be reckless Malfoy, but I’m not stupid.”

“Potter, you’re more stupid than you think. Hermione is there. I just know it. And if you’re too much of a coward to come, then I’m going by myself.”

“Malfoy, don’t. Understand something. You’re just as much as an enemy to Voldemort and your father as I am. You’ve chose your side when you started this with Hermione, and you know it. Are you mentally strong enough to finally stand up to him for her?”

Draco thought this over and suddenly, his courage diminished. He sat down on Hermione’s bed and put his head into his hands. Harry was right. He couldn’t stand up to his father, he wasn’t mentally prepared for the Occlumency that would be performed on him, and he wasn’t physically strong enough to handle whatever his father would throw at him. But he couldn’t let him just take Hermione out from under him. Worries aside, he took a deep breath, grabbed his wand, and walked into the common room. Harry stood at the top of the stairs and watched as Draco made a ring around himself.

“Are you coming? Or are you going to just watch as I leave, Potter?”

A look of bewilderment flashed on Harry’s face as that famous Malfoy smirk crossed over Draco’s face. Harry walked down the stairs and into the glowing circle that Draco had created. Gripping his wand tightly, Harry felt the world around him shake. Everything was a blur and the only thing that he could see clearly was Draco. Lights flashed and he could no longer see the common room. Then suddenly, it was gone. The lights stopped and everything stopped moving. His eyes focused more and he looked around the room that they had appeared in.

It was a small, dark room. Green, of course. A small four poster bed was in the center against one of the walls, with just a small side table next to it. There was only one window, and as Harry looked out of it, he could only see the misty, lonely graveyard of Hogsmeade. A flickering light made Harry jump. He pointed his wand nervously in the direction of the movement, but halted. Draco had turned on a small lamp, and he was staring at Harry with wide eyes.

“Prefer the dark, did we?”
“N-no. Sorry. You startled me.”
Draco shrugged his shoulders. “It happens.”

Lowering his wand, Harry walked over to where Draco was sitting and sat next to him.

“So, what do we do now?”
“We wait.”
“Wait for what?”
“Mr. Weasley, of course.”

for Mr. Weasley? At the Malfoys I am soo confused. Great post though. PAMS!!!

that was some intense stuff right there!

awesome Padfoot.

Being confused is the best part

koolio-o great post keep goin pams!!


~kristen

Oh No!!! Poor Hermione!!!!!! It was Ron wasn't it. Septimus said he saw red hair!! Grrrrrrrrrr!!! If anything happens to Hermione .......... *to angry to continue*

Anyway ... great work! Keep it up!

--- Jade xxx

O No! Hermione got captured! But Draco will rescue her! he's so brave!
Great Great post!! Pams!!!!

Here's chapter 8!
Seems like I'm pushing the chapters out like water!
Keep responding!! You guys help me to keep going!
Chapter 8: Truths

“Mr. Weasley? You mean Ron?”

Draco snickered and shook his head.

“Why don’t you just tell me what the weaselette and the bird saw?”

A few minutes went by with Harry repeating what Septimus told them, followed by a long silence as Draco processed the story in his head.

“You said the bird talked about a dark figure?”
“Yeah, apparently, that’s the one that caught Hermione and took her away.”
“I saw someone in a black cloak walking into the school earlier. But when I got downstairs, it was gone.”
“But the bird also said he saw red hair under the hood.”
“Which is obvious.”
“What do you mean? Do you think it was Ron?”
“No. I don’t.”

Harry gave him a curious look and watched as Draco headed into the connecting room. He followed and was amazed. There were books lining the walls all around the room. A small fire was going, along with two big chairs in the center of the room. Walking over to the side of the wall, Harry picked up a book and glanced at the cover. Human Terminology. Harry furrowed his brow and looked over to Draco.

“Umm…”
“What?”
“Human Terminology? This is a muggle book.”
“Your point?”
“Why would you, of all people, have this book? Something from the muggle world?”
“Because, Potter, I happen to find that things from the muggle world are not as pointless as my father had gotten me to believe.”

Shrugging his shoulders, he placed the book back onto the shelf and wandered over to one of the chairs. He plopped down and stared into the fire. He occasionally looked over at Draco, who was sitting in the opposite chair, playing hastily with his wand. The silence was soon broken. They both jumped when they heard a loud bang and a scream from down the hall.

*****
The room was cold and dark. She could feel the moisture of the air on her skin. Where was she? Her body ached and she could no longer find the energy to move her limbs. Slowly opening her eyes, she couldn’t see much. As her eyes adjusted to what little light was in the room, she noticed that there was a small bed in the room. Groaning as she moved her arms to pick herself up off the ground, she made her way over to it, thinking that it was better than staying on the cold, wet ground. The bed wasn’t any better, and she was wondering why she was suddenly confined to this small room. Her thoughts were cut short when she heard a key turning in the lock. With wide eyes, she kept her focus on the door as it slowly opened. She gasped and took a sharp intake of breath. Confusion was the only emotion she could feel at the moment, yet she was glad it wasn’t someone else.

“Mr. Weasley?”

Looking over to the direction that the meek voice came from, Mr. Arthur Weasley smiled slightly and nodded at Hermione.

“Hello Hermione, dear.”
“Wha-what are you doing here?”
“Well, same reason you are, I suppose. How are you feeling?”
“I-I’m a little sore but I’m fine nonetheless.”
“Hmm, yes. That drug did hit you a tick harder than I would’ve liked.”
“Drug?”
“Yes, dear. A drug. To make you pass out. Seems kind of vile when I put it like that, but I’m afraid this is not a comfortable situation.”
“I’m not sure that I understand.”
“There will be things in this world that you won’t always understand Ms. Granger.”

Hermione flinched at the sound of her surname. Mr. Weasley had never used her surname when talking to her. Ever. Something was off about him, but she couldn’t place her finger on it. But she was thankful that he was here.

“How did you get in here, Mr. Weasley?”

Arthur raised his eyebrow and cocked his head to the side. He pointed his finger towards the door, and talked to her as if he was talking to a four year old.

“Right through that door.”

Hermione opened and closed her mouth and stared at Mr. Weasley like he had three heads.

“You mean, you just walked in past all those people out there? Is this the new place for the Order? What’s going on?”
“Always the one to ask so many questions. My dear, I’m afraid this is going to come as a shock to you, but this is not the new place for the Order. We’re at Malfoy Manor, and you are going to soon be in the presence of one Mr. Lucius Malfoy.”
“Malfoy Manor?! Why would you bring me here?! Mr. Weasley, I don’t understand! Why am I here? Why did you…of all people?”
“Hush now. Get some rest. It’s going to be a long day if your energy is depleted.”

Millions of questions were running through Hermione’s mind. Why would Mr. Weasley bring her here? Did Mrs. Weasley know where he was and what he was doing? Hermione couldn’t get the questions out of her head and knew that she wasn’t going to get out of this place any time soon. She could only hope that Harry, Draco, or someone would find her.

Time passed slowly in that tiny room. She was frustrated that she didn’t have her wand, at least then she could conjure up a book to read, or even find a way out. The only thing that she could do was doze off. After about six hours from Mr. Weasley’s visit, the door opened, waking Hermione up from her delayed slumber. The glint of long blonde-white hair was unmistakable, and Hermione’s insides froze. Lucius Malfoy still looked as intimidating as he ever had. He smiled evilly as he looked on at Hermione.

Pulling up a chair, he sat down and crossed his legs.

“Ms. Granger.”
“L-Lucius Malfoy.”

Lucius frowned at the use of his name and took his wand out and pointed it at her.

“I will only say this to you once. Do not use my first name, understand? It is improper and I won’t have a Mudblood saying my name as if it was a useless piece of garbage.”
“But it is just a useless piece of garbage. Much like the owner of it.”

Lucius’s eyes flashed and a blue light flew out of the tip of his wand. The light hit the wall, causing a loud noise of cracking. But it did manage to hit Hermione’s shoulder, which caused her to scream in agony. Smiling wickedly, he lowered his wand and walked up close to Hermione. Getting in close, he leaned in so their faces were almost touching each other.

“I believe we understand each other now, am I correct?”

Hermione nodded fervently and turned her head away. ‘How am I going to get out of this one?’

*****
Draco bounded from where he was sitting and put his ear to the door. He heard a few more banging sounds, probably something hitting against the wall. Then, a small bit of talking. He recognized the voices. Both of them. He took a deep breath and slowly turned the knob of the door.

“Draco! What are you doing?!”
“We need to go out there, Potter! We’re not doing anybody any good by staying cooped up in here.”
“What are we going to do? Walk right out there and Avada Kadavra everyone we see?”
“Why not? They’re no use alive anyway.”
“No. Draco, you can’t do that. I understand that you want Hermione safe. Trust me, I do too. But we’re not going to make things easier for her if we cause this big commotion. We need to plan this out before we make a move.”

Draco thought about Harry’s words and let go of the knob. He hated to admit it, but Harry was right. Hermione was obviously being tortured enough; he didn’t want to make things worse for her. They both sat in silence for a few more minutes before the door opened. Mr. Weasley looked shocked when he saw Harry and Draco, but smiled like he normally would anyway.

“Harry! Draco! How good to see you! Shouldn’t you be at school?”
“Mr. Weasley?”
“Yes, Harry, that’s me. Quite unchanged.”

Mr. Weasley was acting as if nothing was wrong with the scene in front of him. Harry and Draco looked at one another, Harry with a look of confusion on his face and Draco with one of contempt.

“What are you doing here, Mr. Weasley?”
“Oh, well, it’s nothing too important. I just came here to…help out a friend. And now that I have, I was just on my way out.”
“What friend?”
“Why are you asking so many questions, Harry?”
“Why do you keep avoiding answering them, Mr. Weasley?”

Mr. Weasley couldn’t answer. He looked like he was having trouble finding the words, but wasn’t planning on speaking them either. Draco and Harry looked at each other as Mr. Weasley’s face started to turn a light blue. A green light emitted from his head. As it flew towards the window, Harry and Draco walked backwards and out of its way. Watching it leave, they heard a loud thump. Looking over, they saw Mr. Weasley on the ground.

dude!! that was crazy, Padfoot!!!


haha, loved it anyway!