Harry Potter and What Really Happened After Voldemort (solvaris & darkangel76)

[darkangel76]

Disclaimer: All main characters are in compliance with site rules.


The sky was unusually dark, the stars that typically twinkled shone down were shrouded in clouds as they made their way across the seemingly endless expanse of pitch. Ginny looked up, dark eyes narrowing as she desperately searched for any signs of light. But it was no use. There was none to be found and it hardly helped that she was standing outside the last place she ever expected to be ever since she recalled her father mentioning the name—Malfoy. She turned her head and glanced at her two best friends, each one flanking her sides as if ready to protect her should something go wrong.

A silly notion. For what could possibly go wrong? Ginny's expression suddenly turned, her nose crinkling slightly as she looked upon both Hermione and Luna. The two had stuck by her side when everything went to hell. So much blood had been spilled, so many lives had been lost. She ran her fingers through her red tresses, a wild strand getting caught behind her ear. How she missed her brother and her father. Their deaths still hitting everyone very hard. Even Dumbledore was gone, the loss of the beloved headmaster of the most renowned school in all of the magical world. Even the boys of Durmstrang had to admit there was something special about Hogwarts.

Now Voldemort was gone. Defeated by the legend of legends and her brother, Ron's, best friend. Ginny had pined for the boy who lived for so long she wasn't sure if what she felt was real or just familiar. With everything turned upside down, it was easy to grasp at the familiar. Holding on with a grip of steel while your wand was brandished and ready to let even the most malevolent of curses.

But it had gotten worse. Nothing was over...it was just beginning.

"Well?" Hermione spoke, interrupting Ginny's small escape to dream land as she thought about the trials and tribulations of life. Hermione's dark eyes glittered despite the lack of light. "Lumos," she said, in a harsh whisper. The tip of Hermione's wand sparked to life, illuminating her face along with Luna's and Ginny's.

Ginny frowned, "Sorry," she said softly. Luna reached out and placed a gentle hand against Ginny's shoulder. Ginny smiled weakly, which only earned a huff from Hermione.

"We've no time for this," Hermione said quickly. It was clear she was anxious, uncertain that this was the best idea. Though she'd thought things through, using her skills in arithmancy to aid her, the smartest witch at Hogwarts had her doubts. "Let's just get this over with. We all want Harry back." At that, Hermione just sighed.

Ginny looked into her friend's eyes. Hermione was so brilliant, yet so blind. She had no idea of her turmoil over Harry's sudden disappearance, the fact that she was grappling with her true feelings for the boy she'd supposedly crushed on during her many years at school. "Of course, we do," Ginny said, trying to sound reassuring.

Luna tilted her head, her blue eyes distant as she took in the two witches every word. Suddenly, she turned her head. She could've sworn she heard a snarffle. Shaking her head and focusing on the moment, she removed her hand from Ginny's shoulder and let it fall to her side. She glanced over her shoulder. Ron and Neville stood a ways off. Her eyes shifted to Neville, lingering a moment or three. The two boys had every right to detest this plan, to hate the favor they'd all have to pay as a result.

Hermione shook her head. "Ron, I can hear you seething from here," she said. Though it was only a guess. However, she knew Ron hated Draco just as much as Harry. The blonde boy had been nothing but trouble for them all and for so long. Hermione looked back at Ginny. "It has to be you," she went on. "You've the least connection."

Ginny sighed knowing Hermione was right. Still, it did nothing to quell her fears. She remembered how awful Draco had been to even her several years back. But they were running out of options and had to act. As it was, Hogwarts had to close early and all of them would resume classes in the fall. She knew her brother and Hermione would need to make up some classes, as would Harry.

Harry. Just where was he...and why? Ginny could only hope that they'd all find out soon.

Without any further hesitation, Ginny reached for the wrought iron door knocker. She could feel the enchantments that had been set into place. It wasn't a surprise. The Malfoys were wanted now, a family fallen. The Death Eaters were angered by them and everyone else loathed them. It was no wonder they needed the protective spells. Ginny knocked on the door, her muscles tense as she waited for the door to open.

 

[Solvaris]

Ron's face went as red as his hair when Hermione called him out on his anger. She knew him too well. He clenched his jaw, and turned to give Neville a I-hate-when-she-does-that look. Neville returned Ron's look with a brief sheepish smile but he turned back to look at Luna. Even from this distance, he could tell she was looking at him rather than Ron. It felt odd to Neville to have drawn attention from such an eccentric woman. He liked and disliked it at the same time. What would Gran say if he brought Luna back to his house to meet her? Neville blushed at the thought. Gran would probably be thrilled with any girl giving attention to Neville.

Both Ron and Neville were clutching their wands nervously, ready to jump in if they were needed. Death Eaters might be showing up any second. As much as the Death Eaters might want to end the Malfoy family, they would surely want all of these members of the DA dead as well. They were practically members of the Order of the Phoenix too. But as tense as they were about Death Eaters showing up, it was nothing compared to the decision they had made about asking Draco for help in finding Harry. There was no way he would agree to such a thing. Ron imagined Stupifying Draco right between the eyes as soon as he showed his pale face. Neville wasn't having as hard of a time as Ron. He just kept remembering how Harry had told him that he was worth twelve of Draco. And so both of them sat silently as the girls reached the door.

Ginny's knock echoed throughout the mansion. The faint unexpected sound reached Draco's ears and he opened his eyes. "Who could that be?" he wondered aloud. Despite the darkness, Draco made his way down the stairs within seconds, stopping himself short feet from the door. A streak of light stretched across the floor from beneath the doorway. It was obviously wand light. Draco closed his eyes and inhaled a slow deep breath. He tilted his head to the side, his expression becoming one of confusion. He breathed in again. He could smell all five of the Hogwarts students outside. Ginny and Ron both smelled of their little hovel they called their home, but Ron's scent had some of his owl Pigwigeon and Ginny's scent was mixed with a nice perfume. Hermione smelled like toothpaste and her ginger cat. Luna's scent was a cocktail of many odd smells he couldn't fathom; a culmination of all the oddities she surrounded herself with in her home. Nonetheless, her smell was familiar. And lastly, there was poor Neville who smelled of his grandmother and of St. Mungo's Hospital. Draco smiled bitterly at his own enhanced senses. The world would never be dark again, his speed was astounding, and he could accurately sniff out who had arrived at his doorstep. But his smile would give away his secret. His top two canine teeth were elongated into fangs. He was a creature of the night now, and he would forever thirst for blood.

He tongued his left fang, his face changing from confused to thoughtful. He'd wanted to suck Ginny's and Hermione's blood ever since he had become a vampire a year ago. He could probably take at least one of them by force if he truly wanted to, but he doubted he would like the events that would follow. All of them were quite skilled in the Dark Arts thanks to that Potter...speaking of which- Draco breathed in a third time. Potter wasn't with them... "Curious..." he whispered. Draco drew out his wand and flicked it towards the door muttering "Alohomora" to unlock it. The protective enchantments drew back like curtains from a window, allowing any who wished to enter inside. He turned away from the door as though unlocking it was enough of an invitation and walked to the living room, taking a seat in one of his many plush couches. He needed to compose himself if he was to resist his lust for blood. He willed his fangs to contract, making them look like normal teeth, if not a little pointier than usual.

 

[darkangel76]

Ginny let her hand slowly drop from the ominous looking door knocker. A part of her hoped that Draco wasn't home, that the door would never open and they'd be forced to come up with a new plan. But, deep down, she knew that was silly. It was rare for Hermione to be wrong in any of her tactical plans. After all, she was Hogwart's smartest witch and, she did a quick glance over at her brother, she'd no doubt it was one of the many reasons Ron was crazy about her. A pang of realization struck her just then.

Harry had never been crazy for her, just as she'd never been truly crazy for him. Perhaps that was why she'd no trouble dating over the years. It was an odd thing for Ginny to be dwelling on since their current actions were all as a result of Harry, a means to find him and bring him home. She should be beyond terrified for his life! And she was in a way, though perhaps not the way her brother and Hermione suspected. But that was neither here nor there. Yes, Voldemort was gone, but that hardly meant there weren't any more Death Eaters skulking about. One thing she did learn in Magical History was that history did indeed repeat itself. It would only be a matter of time before those horrible people found a new Dark Lord. They'd lay low and then rise again.

Life in the magical world would never be safe. Not without Harry and not with him.

"I hear something," Luna whispered, her eyes in a slight daze.

Funny because Ginny heard nothing. Though she was well aware of Luna's eccentricities and peculiar behavior, she knew the blonde witch had great instincts and could both see and hear things most could not.

Hermione suddenly nodded, her body going rigid as she held up a single finger against her full lips. "Shh," she whispered. She then turned to Ron, wishing he was with her. But he was stubborn. Always stubborn and hard-headed and impulsive and...she sighed. And she wouldn't have him any other way.

Just then, the door opened, a cool breeze flowing out and caressing the faces of the three determined witches standing there. Ginny's pale skin broke out into goose bumps almost immediately, her senses reeling. She narrowed her dark eyes and peered into the darkness beyond the door. Hermione grabbed Ginny's hand, meanwhile Luna just started to step forward as if unaware of any potential danger.

"Wait!" Ginny whispered harshly, reaching out to grab hold of Luna's shirt, tugging her back.

Luna tilted her head, blonde hair falling over one shoulder. She frowned slightly, wondering why Ginny would show fear now of all times. As it was, she wasn't sensing any imminent danger. Though perhaps her time in the DA and her involvement in battling Death Eaters gave her a new confidence. It was hard to say. Just then, she looked back at Neville—a fine leader and skilled wizard. He'd shown the entire school that he was meant to be in Gryffindor and no where else. Not just anyone would've jumped to protect those left behind as he did. She was probably alive thanks to him. Pushing her hair back over her shoulder, she gave him a smile snd then turned back toward the door.

"Why wait?" Luna asked. "We're being invited in."

Ginny's breath caught in her throat. "That's precisely what I'm afraid of," she admitted, her voice soft and breathy.

Hermione steeled herself in that moment, ready to take on the world. She took hold of Ginny's hand and linked arms with Luna. She then marched the three of them passed the Malfoy threshold and into the darkened Malfoy Manor.

Ginny shook her head. She didn't like this. And where exactly was Draco? She glanced about the entrance way and nodded when she saw the barest bit of movement in the shadows lurking near an adjacent room. Swallowing hard, she dug deeply for her courage. She then gestured toward the room she was certain Draco—or someone, at the very least—could be found.

Both Hermione and Luna nodded, not a sound coming from either save their soft footfalls. The three slowly approached the room and entered. Ginny gasped, while Hermione's grip on her wand only tightened. How she hated him.

Hermione grit her teeth and nudged Ginny. The red-head stumbled forward, blinking rapidly. "I..." she stammered. "We've come to ask you for..." This was harder than it seemed. "For help."

Luna just giggled softly, her thoughts seemingly elsewhere. But Ginny knew better than to dismiss anything about Luna. She was odd, but almost as brilliant as Hermione and certainly far more intuitive.

"Harry's gone," Ginny went on.

"Disappeared," Hermione corrected. Her words caused Ginny to blush, her heart beating wildly as she stood there before Draco. Never had Ginny felt so small and weak. How she hated it.

"Disappeared," Ginny then said herself for Hermione's sake. "Anyway," she continued, her head turning slightly to give Hermione a glare. "Hermione seems to think you can help us." She thought on the Dark Mark that all Death Eaters bore, both a symbol and a calling and it held many magical purposes she was afraid to even think on.

"Oh," Hermione said smugly, her confidence slowly building. "I know he can."

 

[Solvaris]

Ron and Neville watched the girls enter the ominous mansion. No one had come to invite them in, the door had just opened up for them. That made it all the more creepy and forboding. Ron suddenly felt more foolish about staying behind. He should be in there protecting Hermione from whatever dangers they may encounter. But Ron stayed hidden. Hermione was smart enough to take care of herself. Ron might even get in the way if he were there. Besides, if they all went in then they could be more easily surrounded and fall victim to a surprise attack when they decided to leave. So Ron turned his back to the mansion, his gaze focusing on the moonlit trees and their shadows. Neville noticed Ron's action and turned around more forcefully, as though he had forgotten scanning the shadows was supposed to be his job. As competent as he was with the Dark Arts now, Neville was still a forgetful boy. He'd wished for many years that Rememberalls would tell you what you'd forgotten when the smoke turned red inside it. Neville still had that Rememberall. Harry went through a lot of trouble to get it back from Draco. It felt like ages since that had happened...

Draco smiled at the tension Hermione and Ginny were showing. He could practically feel it emanating from Ginny's body. In contrast, Draco felt that Luna's confidence was a little off-putting, but he knew her confidence was more the type of ignorant bliss. Draco noticed that Hermione had nudged Ginny forward. He was a little confused by this action. He listened to Ginny's pleading. Even then, Hermione couldn't resist correcting Ginny on her word usage. (Insufferable as ever Granger) Draco thought. (So...they want me to help them find Potter do they? They must be desperate to come to me, but how do they know I can help them?) And then Hermione spoke "Oh, I know he can" in a disgustingly smug tone. Draco narrowed his eyes at her. She knew. Of course she knew. She didn't build a reputation for the smartest girl in school by chance.

With the girls standing so close, Draco's enhanced senses could see how fast their hearts were beating. Hermione's was starting to slow, her confidence slowly building, calming her. For a moment, Draco wanted nothing more than to wipe that smugness off of that filthy mudblood's face. Could he reach her before she got a hex off? Probably not. Hermione was one of the few that mastered using spells without saying them aloud, giving her a precious few seconds more to defend herself. If it weren't for that, he was sure he could sink his teeth in her before any of them could say "stupify." Draco kept his eyes narrowed on Grangers. Perhaps he should act the accommodating host? Draco ignored Ginny's plea for now.

"Forgive my rudeness. I wasn't expecting any company at this hour." Draco's tone oozed with confidence. He muttered under his breath, pointing his wand at the fireplace. The hearth burst with blue fire. He then flicked his wand at the chandelier above, lighting the candles with the same blue flame. Though the room was now well lit, it didn't take away from the ominous feel. The blue light mingled with the grey and green colors of Slytherin House and the dark mahogany wood of his expensive furniture. Draco's face and hands were the lightest things in the room, and so drew the eye. He sat with his legs crossed, his arms spread comfortably along the frame of the couch. "Now...tell me why I should help a mudblood and Weasel King's little sister find scar head." Draco intentionally ignored Luna's presence.

 

[darkangel76]

Hermione's dark eyes narrowed into slits. It was a challenge—a Gryffindor against a Slytherin sort of duel. She was reminded of days that seemed all too far in the past, yet the memories were still just as fresh and vivid as the battle against Voldemort himself. Only this was familiar, a typical battle of wits to see who'd gain the latest house points and, more importantly, to see who would back down first. Of course, Hermione knew she had an edge. She'd hardly lied when she'd said she knew exactly why Draco would be so helpful. Unlike the rest of them, he had an advantage, a severe one that made her doubt if this plan was indeed a good one after all. But they'd been left with little option. Harry had disappeared and he needed to be brought home where he belonged.

Ginny just winced, her nerve faltering slightly as Draco glared at them all. She was certain he felt smug despite Hermione standing her ground and calling him out. She turned to look at her curly-haired friend. Not only was she brilliant, she was brave. It was easy to see why Ron was so infatuated. It made her wonder, for a fleeting moment, if someone would ever feel that strongly for her. Yes, she supposed that Harry was the one everyone expected her to end up with. She hadn't missed the way Ron's actions both suggested and encouraged. And then there was Hermione, always hinting. It was enough to make her feel smothered, choked up in a dark closet while fire threatened to burn and smoke threatened to suffocate.

But Ginny wasn't sure that her path ultimately led to Harry. Her crush had subsided, yet she continued to play that role. It was easier as the times grew darker, more grim. And now that Harry was gone...a part of her felt relieved. Though she knew she couldn't utter a single word about that.

"You'll help us," Hermione stated, breaking the silence and ending Ginny's little reverie as she mustered up her courage. "All your friends are gone, Malfoy. You've no one left." She glanced around just then, taking in the sight of the manor.

Everything was quiet as Hermione did her best to stare Draco down. Ginny glanced about the darkened room and wondered why his mother was nowhere to be seen. She didn't know the witch well, had only seen her on occasion in Diagon Alley. But it was a rare thing for Narcissa Malfoy to not be by her son's side. Especially now, of all times. She bit down on her lower lip, digging deep within her soul to find her inner fire.

"'Mione's right," Ginny added in support, forcing herself to stand up straighter. After all, she was a part of Dumbledore's Army. The beloved headmaster might be gone, but his legacy lived on and always would.

Hermione smirked at Draco before turning toward Ginny and giving her a nod. Luna just stared up at the ceiling, her blue eyes watching the way the light from Hermione's wand seemed dance with the crystals hanging off the chandelier. She let out a soft sigh and then looked down, her eyes resting upon the mirror. Her expression went thoughtful as she studied the looking glass held by an ornate frame. Something was off, the shadows fell strangely against the reflective glass.

Reflective.

Luna smiled inwardly as realization struck hard.

"You'll help," Ginny went on. She brought her hand up, her wand at the ready. "How often do you get a rabble of wizards asking for your help?" She arched a brow, her fire burning brighter. "Especially when that rabble includes Granger." She purposefully left the pleasantries out, honing in on Draco's ego, his pride as they stood there at his mercy. She wasn't sure why Hermione was so confident, but she had a feeling it wouldn't be long before the more secret parts of this plan were revealed.

With a flick of her wrist, Hermione lit the room. Luna just giggled. She wondered how the boys were faring outside in the dark.

"Just think of the praises you'll receive...the Slytherin who found Potter," Ginny said, her voice almost a whisper. As she stood there, she could feel her blood rising to her cheeks, her body becoming warm as her hand gripped her wand tightly. She took a step forward then, her dark eyes taking in the pale shadow.

Hermione watched on, her head tilting to the side as she watched Ginny edge closer to Draco. She looked at his mouth, waiting for him to bare his fangs, reveal the one thing she'd managed to uncover. Glancing Luna's way, she noticed that the Ravenclaw was staring intently at the mirror. Of course, she'd figured it out. A sense of pride for being friends with such a smart witch filled her up.

"Don't worry, Draco," Hermione prodded. "Your secret is safe with us."

 

[Solvaris]

Hermione's comment stung Draco. He truly had no one; no friends behind him and no Death Eaters that supported him. All he had left was his family, and that was as broken as it ever was. His mother had left to be with Professor Snape, and his father went mad shortly after, cursing Snape and swearing that he would hunt him down. Draco was alone, and everyone in the wizarding world knew it. He clenched his jaw with murder in his eyes as he stared Hermione down. Ginny continued to try and convince him. Draco recognized that she was trying to use his own ego against him, and it almost made sense. Not even the great Hermione Granger could find Harry without his help. Lost in thought, he hadn't noticed Hermione using her wand. The room grew brighter as Ginny spoke of the praise he would receive. Malfoy blinked, a little chill going down his spine at the effect the lighting had as his hopes went up. Did the world really just get brighter? He blinked again. No...he knew the truth now, and Ginny's convincing tale missed the mark. Who would praise him exactly? The people standing before him in this room? The people he hated?

Draco reassessed the situation. Luna was now noticing that Draco held no reflection in the mirror, Ginny was closer to him now with a quickened heartbeat, and Hermione's gaze had changed from confident to wary. Hermione said they would keep his secret, and that was the last straw. Draco slowly sat up from the couch, as any sudden movements might cause Hermione to act rashly. "You'll keep my secret Granger?" Draco asked sarcastically. And then his eyes grew hard and he spoke with whisper of a hiss. "Why would you of all people keep a secret for me?" Draco could feel his fangs extending against his will. Ginny's heartbeat sounded so inviting, but he hadn't ever sucked a human's blood before, and he wasn't about to start now. "Back away from me Weasley..." The way Draco said "Weasley" clearly showed his fangs. "I may not have any friends left, but that doesn't mean I'll come join the Potter fan club. So why don't you give me another reason I should find him for you." Draco's grip on his wand tightened. "If I don't like what I hear this time, I'm afraid I'll have to remove you from this house myself."

Ron and Neville hadn't noticed the light coming from the mansion until Hermione made it brighter. They both looked behind them at the house and then looked at each other. "You think that means it's going well?" Ron asked. Neville gave him a worried look. "Or it's a signal to come inside..." he said. Ron shrugged off the suggestion and turned from the mansion again. "Our job is to watch out for Death Eaters." Neville could tell Ron was just being stubborn. Neville didn't want to talk to Draco either, but he was more worried about Luna and the others. Neville, however, didn't argue with Ron. He just decided to keep an eye on the mansion. Maybe Hermione would send them a different sign to have them come in.

 

[darkangel76]

Ginny's dark eyes widened as the light glinted off of Draco's teeth...no, his fangs! She stood there, her breath catching in her throat before she finally managed to swallow. Meanwhile, Hermione kept her gaze entirely fixed upon the Slytherin. Wand held up, she was poised and ready for anything. As it was, Hermione held the best edge when it came to magic and dueling. She'd seen just how far her friend had come—thanks to the DA and, of course, Harry—mastering wandless spells and who knew what else! Ginny knew for sure that if it could be done, Hermione would find a way to do it.

Luna just smiled, her blue eyes drifting back to the mirror. It was obvious where Draco was supposed to be standing, though not so much as a shadow darkened the reflective glass. She wondered just how Hermione had known. She supposed if she hadn't been so infatuated with snarffles the past few weeks, she very well might have picked up on just what it was that Draco had somehow become. But it hardly mattered. Snarffles were far more interesting than the biggest bully at Hogwarts. For a moment, she thought on Neville and how, despite his fears and dislike of Draco, he always managed to stand up for himself. It was a pity that he didn't see his own bravery for what it was, though she knew somewhere deeply buried inside it burned with the fiercest of flames. After all, why else would the Sorting Hat have donned him in red and gold?

Unable to tear her eyes away from the sharp pointed teeth, Ginny had to dig a little deeper for her resolve. Never had she been gladder that her brother had decided to remain outside. Of course, Hermione hadn't been thrilled, but now that she was realizing just how out of her element she felt...she couldn't have been happier about the current circumstance. Out of the corner of her eye, Hermione stood there, proud and confident...the epitome of Gryffindor. And what was she? At that very moment, she had to wonder. But this was Draco...fallen heir to the Malfoy name. His family and status were nothing now in the wizarding world. He was just like the rest of them. Trying to cope and survive.

"She doesn't need to," Ginny finally managed. "None of us do." Her eyes were fixed on Draco's teeth. Completely unaware, she tugged on a stray red tendril that fell over her shoulder. Hermione remained the picture of confidence, her expression urging Ginny on. "You'll help us because you need people. You need to know that you exist for a purpose." She paused just then remembering those biting words he'd spit out at her in Diagon Alley. "That others can look up to you."

Luna started to hum at that moment, the soft melody quite soothing to anyone who cared to listen.

"But if you don't want that, then we don't need you," Ginny tried her best not to wince. She was lying right then and she knew it. "We...we've never needed you."

Hermione wanted to shout out in encouragement as Ginny spoke her share. She was sure that if Ron had seen things with his own eyes, he'd have been proud. And stunned. But the git had to make things difficult, then that was always his way.

Ginny looked at Draco with defiance etched all across her freckled face. She wasn't about to back down now. Not when so much was at stake. Her brother, her best friend...they missed Harry. And, as much as she didn't want to admit it, the wizarding world needed him too. Now, if only Ron and Hermione would ease up a little. But they wouldn't. Not unless she told them news that would rip out their hearts. No. No. It wasn't worth it.

"So what'll it be, Malfoy?" Ginny asked, deliberately addressing Draco by his last name. She licked her lips, the tiny pink tip of her tongue sneaking out so that she could wet them. She felt nervous again, her heart speeding up as a pretty flush washed over her skin. "We won't ask again."

 

[Solvaris]

Draco listened to Ginny's little speech. He knew she was lying. If they could find Harry without him, they would have done so. Draco would have been their last resort. There was too much hatred between them to be forgotten or shoved to the side for a short while. Then Draco's eyes tore from Hermione's to stare at Luna. Her hum of a song was a familiar soothing tone. Unknown to Draco, she was humming the same soothing melody of the phoenix's lament after Dumbledore's death. It was disconcerting to have his anger slowly siphoned away by her song. It made him think of that moment on the tower when Dumbledore offered to protect him, and how it wasn't too late to switch sides. If the other Death Eaters hadn't shown up when they had, he would have accepted Dumbledore's offer. Draco's eyes slowly shifted, looking passed Luna, passed the walls of his mansion, as though he could see that awful place; that tower at Hogwarts. A tear rolled down his cheek as he looked off in the distance, seeing what they couldn't. It was then that Draco decided that he wanted to be more than he was, to stop hiding amongst the shadows. He wanted to be the man that Albus Dumbledore had given him the chance to be.

Draco slowly turned to one of the windows. He held that hope in whatever he had left of a heart, raised his wand slowly and shouted "Expecto Patronum!" A silvery wolf shot out from Draco's wand, passing through the window to carry a message to Ron and Neville. His patronus was quite fitting for who he was. A lone wolf in need of a pack. What Ginny said was true. He needed people. Once the patronus was gone, his wand clattered to the table beside the couch. He looked to Hermione. "I've just sent the boys outside a message to come inside. It's late...and you're welcome to stay the night." He then looked at Ginny, seeing that heart of hers patter away, so inviting... He cringed and forced himself to look away from her. "I'm...going out for a bit...I need to find myself some food..." He stepped to another window, opened the latch, and threw it open. Without looking at them he said "I'll be back soon." He took another step onto the window sill and jumped into the air, transforming into a bat and flying away.

Neville's eyes grew wide and he shook Ron's shoulder with a little more gusto than he meant to. Ron had been nodding off, and so he gasped and shook himself awake, looking to Neville, and then to where Neville's eyes were staring. They both watched as a silvery white light glided across the darkened sky in an arc, coming towards them fast. "What the bloody 'ell is that?" Ron asked in a panicked voice. Neville squinted at it and said "I think it's a patronus! But...it's bigger than it should be..." Ron could soon see that Neville was right. This patronus was a larger animal than any of the girls had. The wolf landed atop a boulder feet away from the pair of them and Draco's voice echoed from it as it spoke. "I guess I shouldn't be surprised that these girls have bigger balls than either of you two. Their courage has earned them a night in my mansion. You're welcome to come inside considering you're their baggage, but don't touch anything! All the house-elves in Hogwarts wouldn't be able to wash your stench off Weasley, and neither of you have enough galleons to buy what you break." Ron growled and picked up a rock to throw at the patronus, but it had already fizzled away into wisps of smoke. Ron muttered and cursed under his breath as both of them shuffled to the mansion with sour expressions on their faces.

 

[darkangel76]

Hermione took a step back, her muscles relaxing, but only just. She knew Draco would see reason. After all, his life was more in danger than anything now that Voldemort was gone and the Death Eaters scrambling to regroup. He was on 'the most wanted' list by both sides and even his own family was in shambles. He'd have been stupid to remain so isolated and hoping for a miracle. There was one thing the Great Wizarding War taught the intelligent witch...and that was that miracles only happen if you seize the opportunity to make them come to fruition. At that, she watched Draco's patronus head outside into the darkened yard where she knew both Ron and Neville were standing guard.

Hmph, as if that was truly why they remained on the other side of the doorstep! But, she wasn't about to get into a row over that.

Ron. Stubbon git, but Hermione hardly wanted him to change. A life without Ron would be boring, stale. His wit and humor, the way he stood up for what he believed. Each and every trait made her swoon on the inside. She was glad that the worst of the war was behind them, or so she hoped. Selfish thoughts had flowed through her, fear of losing him forever. She remembered how terrified she was when he had to stay in the Hospital Wing for a few days at school the year before. Anything worse would've been her undoing, though she still wasn't sure if he truly realized that.

As the patronus swirled past, Ginny had to wonder just what it was he was doing. Hermione seemed at ease, so she decided his intent wasn't to scare off the boys waiting outside. She let out a tiny breath, a little embarrassed that she'd actually been holding it for a moment. She was still a bit jittery, stunned at the realization of Draco's new life. His entire world was crumbling...no family, hunted and hated and now a vampire. She'd been right to tell him he had no one, but why was she suddenly beginning to feel sorry that she'd said such things? She bit down on her lower lip, her dark eyes watching Draco as he headed toward the window and shifted. For a moment, she could pretend that he was an animagus, only...

He wasn't. He was vampire.

"I think that went rather well," Luna spoke, after Draco had gone.

Both Ginny and Hermione turned toward the Ravenclaw and nodded. "That was good thinking, Ginny," Hermione praised. She flicked her hair and started to head for the door to see to the boys.

Though she appreciated the compliments, Ginny wasn't entirely sure how she'd felt about receiving them. It was clear that she'd hit the mark, triggered something, in Draco. But what? She wasn't used to Draco standing down for anything or anyone. It wasn't his pattern and in many ways, she found it disconcerting, much like she did when he mentioned needing 'food'. The very thought made her shiver, yet made her wonder just how he managed. Still another part was oddly exhilarated at the very notion...just what was wrong with her? And just what happened to him during the war? Somehow, she knew that they'd only begun to scratch the surface. There was more going on than any of them could see. Slowly, she walked toward the window Draco had exited from. Hands gripping the ledge, her eyes peered out into the darkness, focusing on nothing in particular. She tried to find Draco, but he was nowhere to be seen.

 

[Solvaris]

Ron entered the mansion looking livid. He saw Hermione first and his body relaxed a bit, but he was still angry at Malfoy's message. "Where is he? Where is that bloody git?" He had his wand ready. He wanted to hex the bastard so badly. Neville walked in after Ron. He held his wand at his side, but you could tell his wand arm was tense, ready to throw a hex if needed. He did a quick survey of the room, seeing that all three of the girls were alright and Draco was nowhere to be seen. He visably relaxed as well, but not completely. He waited to hear the answer to Ron's question too. He fixed his eyes on the stairs and the floor above, watching for any movement. Since his training in the DA, Neville felt loads more confident than he had been. Draco might have a few tricks up his sleeve that he learned from his Death Eater friends, but Neville was eager to get some payback for what they did to his parents. He would face Draco by himself if he had to. However, both Ron and Neville were still oblivious to the fact that Malfoy was a vampire. Ron eventually saw that Ginny was staring out the window with an odd expression on her face. He took a step towards Hermione and whispered so only she could hear. "What happened? What's going on with Ginny?"

Draco was one with the night. Embracing his predatory nature always made him feel alive. His vision was unimpeded by the darkness and using his newfound agility felt as good as stretching your muscles after a good rest. But as good as it felt to hunt, the hunger was like nothing he had ever felt when he was a human. It gnawed at him, clawed his insides, twisted his thoughts. He shamelessly fed on just about anything. Deer, squirrels, rabbits, rats, yes...even the rats brought brief moments of blissful satisfaction when he was hungry. But Draco vowed never to feed upon human beings. Being a predator wasn't the same as being a monster. Tonight, Draco made sure to drink his fill of blood. Ginny's beating heart still echoed within his mind. He would need to be fully fed before he returned.

Draco had even made a friend during his hunts. He had just fed upon a particularly elusive rabbit when he heard a screech from overhead. He smiled as he saw a hippogriff landing next to him. He stood up straight and gave a bow to the creature, giving it a predatory blink-less stare as well. The creature bowed in return, and then trotted forward to nuzzle it's beak into Draco's shoulder. "Hello there Nightwing...come to clean up my mess again?" Years ago, he had been scratched by a hipogriff called Buckbeak. He had hated the creatures since then, but after becoming a vampire, he had felt more alone than ever. He had found this hippogriff on his first hunt. At first, he had intended to feed upon the creature, his hunger demanded it. But his fear of being scratched again or worse told him that he should trick the hippogriff into trusting him before he attacked. Once he got it to bow to him, he realized that this might be the only creature that could accept him for who he really was. He'd resisted his hunger and let the creature live. Since then, the hippogriff had frequently followed him, devouring the bloodless corpses of animals he left in his wake. "How would you like a nice tasty rabbit?" Nightwing gave a low rumbling screech as if to say "Yes please." Draco smiled, using his vampire speed to run and snatch up the dead rabbit and throw it into the air. Nightwing got on his hind legs and gave a single powerful flap of his wings to lift himself high enough to catch the rabbit in his mouth. He thumped heavily to the ground and feasted on the small snack. Draco chuckled and walked back over to his friend. "Would you say that was payment enough for a ride home?" Nightwing gave another screech in the affirmative, bending down slightly and lifting his wing. Draco smiled and went under his wing to climb onto the creatures back. Nightwing launched himself into the air, Draco giving a laugh that showed his fangs, turning in flight towards the mansion.

 

[darkangel76]

"Relax, Ron," Hermione demanded, her hand reaching up to touch him gently on his shoulder. He was worked up, angry...it was hardly a surprise, though she wondered if it had to do with the Patronus Draco had cast before leaving. "Draco is gone," she continued, her gaze following Ron's. He was looking at his sister. "It...it's a bit difficult to explain," she added. Letting out a soft huff, she knew the news of Draco's vampiric condition wouldn't set well. She'd have to be ready for Ron's reaction.

Luna sighed and turned toward Neville. He was already scoping things out, searching for signs of impending danger. He was the perfect leader for the DA in her eyes. She smiled then and walked over to him, her footfalls light, yet loud in the deafening silence of the dimly lit mansion.

"See anything?" Luna asked, peeking up into Neville's face once she was near him, blonde hair cascading over her right shoulder as her blue eyes looked directly into his.

Hermione pursed her lips. "Ginny is fine," she whispered. "If not for her, we'd have to move on to our Plan B." And she knew as well as everyone else present...there had been no Plan B.

Ginny pushed away from the open window, a chilly breeze brushing against her pale skin. She couldn't see Draco any longer and she wondered just what unlucky witch or wizard would fall prey to the hunger, which no doubt consumed him now that he was vampire. She glanced over at Ron and Hermione, her arms moving up about her middle. She gave herself a small squeeze and took a few steps in her friends direction.

"You might want to sit down, Ron," Hermione said. Ginny just nodded knowing full well how her brother tended to react to things.

"Everything is fine, Neville," Luna said sweetly, her voice almost whimsical. She saw Hermione speaking to Ron, the red-head's face contorted with anger and something more. She then tugged on Neville's robes. "Come on," she said. "You need to hear this too."

As Hermione began her little speech about Draco being a vampire, Ginny found herself lost in thought once more. She looked over at the window and couldn't help but meander over to it. Just what was Draco doing? Who were his victims? She didn't know much about vampires, but now...now she was determined to learn everything she could. Even if she had to do so in secret.

 

[Solvaris]

Once Hermione had put her hand on Ron's shoulder, his anger had immediately begun to boil down. He couldn't stay mad when Hermione was with him. Being with her made him feel like the luckiest man alive. He felt unworthy of her, like he had somehow tricked her into being interested in him. When she told him that Ginny was the reason for their success, he smiled at his sister, proud of her. She'd come a long way from the shy girl she had been.

Neville blushed slightly as Luna approached him. He honestly didn't know how to react to her attentions. He had a hunch that Luna had a crush on him, but with how lonely he felt watching Ron and Hermione together, he assumed that he was overthinking Luna's actions. (Just because she likes to come talk to you doesn't mean she has a thing for you) he told himself. But his eyes weren't really focused on the floor above anymore. He was watching Luna walk over to him in his peripheral vision. When she asked him if he could see anything, he blinked and looked at her. She stared shamelessly at him, and he got lost in those eyes of hers. "Yeah...I see...something." The words came out without his permission. He blushed more deeply and looked away from those fearless eyes, looking around the room as though he hadn't already seen it.

Aside from Ginny, all of them sat together as Hermione explained that Draco was now a vampire. It seemed that Luna already knew. Ron on the other hand was shocked enough for the both of them. "You've got to be joking. You're joking right? Draco's been a pale git since we've met him. There must be some mistake!" But Ron knew Hermione wouldn't joke about this sort of thing. Neville just looked like he was trying to remember if he had seen any signs of Draco being a vampire. "But....wouldn't we have heard of students gone missing or found with bitemarks on their necks?" Neville asked, a confused look on his face. Ron nodded profusely at Neville's question, looking to Hermione for an answer.

Meanwhile, Draco was still on his way back to the mansion astride Nightwing. In a way, it was like a joyride. He would have been back to the mansion by now if he had gone back on foot, but why exert himself like that when he had a perfectly good ride?

 

[darkangel76]

"Are you warm?" Luna asked aloud. Her blue eyes scanned Neville's reddening face. She tilted her head, a quizzical expression etching the smooth skin of her face. "Come on," she said softly, her voice like a singsong melody. Without shame, she reached for Neville's hand and all but skipped over to where Hermione was giving Ron a lecture about creatures of the night.

"Really, Ron," Hermione huffed, clearly exasperated. "Did you sleep through all of Defense Against the Dark Arts or..." her voice trailed and she pursed her lips prettily. "Oh, never mind," she sighed, while waving off the whole thing. Though Ron could be both infuriating and insufferable, she knew her feelings deep down. That tiny warmth was growing right there as they all congregated in Draco's broken home.

A few feet away, Ginny just listened to the exchanges, though she barely registered their talk. Draco was out there. Feeding. Drinking blood.

"Ron," Luna interrupted, her hand still holding onto Neville's, and she just smiled brightly. "I can lend you books in vampires if you'd like."

Ginny's ears rang the moment Luna mentioned books. She perked up and glanced over her shoulder. Knots were forming in her tummy at the idea that she might just come to understand what Draco had become.

"I...I think I'd like to borrow that book, Luna," Ginny spoke.

"Not you too," Hermione interjected.

Ginny's face turned a bright shade of scarlet.

"I give up!" Hermione said as though totally defeated. She tucked a wild curl behind an ear.

" No, 'Mione," Ginny went on. "Not like that, I...I just want to know more about what we're dealing with. That's all."

Hermione's grimace turned into a grin. "You've always been the reasonable Weasley," she stated, her eyes moving to Ron. Despite the small bite in her words, she felt herself turning into mushy goo as Ron just watched them. She had truly fallen. Fast and hard. She would always be Ron's so long as he wanted her.

"I'd be happy to lend it to you, Gin," Luna said, a hint of thrill in her melodic voice.

Ginny gave the blonde a nod and resumed looking out the window. Now she wouldn't be taken off guard by this new 'thing' Draco had become. Or, so she thought. Just how long had Draco been keeping, been living, this secret? She figured she'd be the last to know something so intimate. After all, she was Ron's little sister, a Weasley. And in the eyes of a Malfoy, that made her all but worthless.

 

[Solvaris]

Neville's blush grew worse as Luna noticed his red cheeks, asking him if he was warm. "Uh...yeah. It's quite warm in here, don't you think?" He let Luna lead the both of them over to Hermione and Ron. Rather than answer Ron and Neville's questions, she decided to berate Ron for missing the signs that Malfoy was a vampire, which was a very Hermione-ish thing to do. Neville cringed slightly as Hermione tore into Ron, but Ron was used to this behavior by now. Ron just gave Hermione an apologetic smile. Time hadn't made Ron a better student. If anything, Hermione's help had made him worse, because he knew he could always fall back to Hermione if he missed something important. Luna offered him a book on vampires, but Ron wasn't interested. He'd rather have Hermione summarize the important bits to him...if she could. Sometimes Hermione spoke as though she were reading straight from the book anyway. Neville, on the other hand, was interested. "I'd like to take a look at that after you're done Ginny." His guilty conscience made him glance to Hermione. "Just to refresh my memory" he added, giving her what he hoped to be a convincing smile. Ron folded his arms, looking satisfied from their exchange. "Looks like the book on vampires has been booked. You'll just have to explain vampires to me yourself Hermione." He leaned closer to Hermione and muttered in a low voice so only she could hear. "Maybe some private lessons?"

A screech came from just outside the mansion. If anyone cared to look, they would see that Draco had returned on a hippogriff. He gracefully jumped down from Nightwing's back, patting the creature's beak. He took a few steps away and then turned back to talk to his friend. "Now if I remember correctly, I encountered a deer about 50 yards that way." He pointed. Nightwing spread his legs and gave a loud squawk as if to say "Are you serious?!" Draco laughed. "I knew you'd be interested. If you hurry, it might still be warm. Have a good night my friend." Nightwing gave a pleased sort of chirp, walking close to nuzzle his head into Draco's chest before turning to launch himself into the air once more. Draco waved his goodbye, feeling a small bit of heartache as he watched him go. There was always a chance they might never see one another again, but Draco was optimistic in this regard. With Nightwing's visits becoming more and more frequent, there was no reason to think he would lose his friend. Draco turned to the mansion and sighed heavily, knowing who awaited him inside. He decided to compose himself before going back inside, but found a bit of dried blood on his robes. "Damn it...Tergio!" Draco's spell took some of the blood away, but it had long since dried, and Draco was no good with cleaning spells. He decided to circle around to the outside of his own room, removing the protective enchantments on the window before jumping up to let himself in.

 

[darkangel76]

Almost instantly, Hermione's cheeks turned red. She bit down on her lower lip, words escaping her for once. Ron certainly knew how to make her breathless and he'd barely had to do anything. Ginny hadn't noticed the sudden silence, however. She was too preoccupied looking out the window. Meanwhile, Luna let her palm rest against Neville's as he gave her a look.

Luna giggled softly, her attention on the Gryffindor boy holding her hand. "I'm sure I can help you, Neville," she offered. "I've read the book already and can tell you lots of things." She smiled, her hand giving his a little squeeze as excitement coursed through her. "Then it'll be a breeze reading through it all." She sat back then, taking Neville's hand with her.

Ginny knew her friends were discussing something, but she wasn't overly interested. She was sure Ron was making another pass at Hermione. If only he'd make his move without beating around the bush all the time. Hermione had been pining over her brother for years, while he had his fun with Lavender and the occasional other. But it was always Hermione he'd wanted. Ugh! The two just needed a good snog!

She shook her head at the thought and smiled inwardly. Ginny was envious of her brother and best friend. She could only hope to find something as genuine. Yes, everyone thought she and Harry were destined and a few years ago the idea would have thrilled her. But now? Now, it didn't set so well and all the expectations people had were making her uncomfortable, making her confused. Just who was Ginny Weasley anyway? Sometimes, she swore that even she didn't know.

Lost in thought, Ginny looked out the window. In the distance, she saw something in the sky and heading toward her. Her dark eyes went wide when she realized it was a hippogryff. She swallowed hard and took a small step back so that she was under the cover of shadow. Just then, a tiny breeze caressed her skin. She shivered and then noticed the hippogryff wasn't alone.

"Draco?" Ginny whispered out loud. No one seemed to hear her or pay any attention to her as she stared out the window.

"Hon-honestly, Ron," Hermione teased. Her tummy was all a flutter, as the wall built up around her came crumbling down. She glanced over at Luna, the blonde's words bolstering her confidence. Pity Luna seemed oblivious as to how her actions were affecting Neville. "I suppose you could use the extra help."

Luna grinned and turned to face Neville. She found him to be sweet as he all but admitted that vampires were lost on him. "That settles it," Luna stated, her fingers somehow lacing with Neville's. Ginny finally turned around to see what had gotten everyone in such a flutter. "Hermione will help Ron and I'll help Neville in understanding these beings. And Ginny, you'll have the book on hand. So why don't you see if you can test things out with Draco." She paused a moment. "There might even be information he doesn't know."

"Me?" Ginny squeaked. "Why me? And...Draco?" Her face suddenly felt hot, her freckles popping out against her flawless skin.

Hermione shifted her stance slightly. "You'd be the best one," she added. "Besides, it'll help us understand what we're really dealing with." Luna just nodded in agreement.

"I...I suppose," Ginny stammered.

A part of Ginny was secretly thrilled about the opportunity. After all, she'd already decided to learn all she could about vampires...about Draco. Just then, she heard the soft cry of the hippogryff. She glanced out the window and saw Draco speaking to the beast as if they were long lost friends. She couldn't help but smile at the sight of it. A few years ago, Draco would've been cursing the poor creature. She remembered the story Ron had told her about Draco's encounter with Buckbeak. Watching, she saw the beast take off and Draco moved around to another side of the mansion. It was clear that he had no intention of returning via the same way he'd left.

"If you'll excuse me," Ginny said, her hands trembling. She was going to find Draco. Beat him at his game of hide and seek, and no doubt, 'scare'. "I'm going to search around."

"Good idea," Hermione praised. "We can split up. Ron and I can search the ground floor. Luna, you and Neville can explore the dungeons and..." her voice trailed as she looked at Ginny. The red head had no partner.

"I'll take the upstairs," Ginny interjected just before bolting out of the room and up the stairs.

The hallway was dark, not a soul to be found. But somehow, Ginny was sure that the Slytherin was up there. She felt it in her bones. She felt it in her blood. Slowly, she walked down the dark hall, her eyes resting on a door. It was a good enough place to start. Digging deep and finding her courage, she twisted the knob and pushed it open.

 

[Solvaris]

Ron smiled a special smile to Hermione. He loved when he could catch her off guard like this. For all of her wit and intelligence, he could still give her a few surprises. He felt it was probably the one advantage he had over the other boys; why she fancied him. In that moment of seeing her defenses crack, Ron only had eyes for Hermione. He felt as though they were the only two people in the room. Hermione's glance at Luna brought Ron back to Earth, and he blushed slightly, embarrassed by getting lost in the moment while the others were still in the room. With Hermione agreeing to giving Ron some "extra help" his smile grew more broad. (Yes! I might just get some snogging done tonight!)

Neville was too preoccupied with Luna to notice Ron and Hermione's moment. Luna's grip on Neville's hand was getting more and more intimate, with their fingers becoming entwined with one another. He did his best to keep his cool, but he wasn't sure if he was succeeding. He really was starting to feel hot, his heart seemed to be beating harder than ever. It was more about having the attention of a girl in general than the fact that it was Luna giving him the attention. If anything, he was nervous about what other people might think of him if he started snogging the strangest girl in school. Neville had to admit that Luna was pretty at times. Her long flowing blonde hair, her soft clear skin, those intense blue eyes. But if he had her attention, then it just might mean there was something wrong with him...something other than his usual social awkwardness.

The decision to split up and look around was accepted by everyone. Both Neville and Ron were eager for the opportunity. Ron was looking forward to a chance to snog Hermione in private, and Neville thought the dungeons sounded like just the place to cool off for a bit, even if it meant being alone with Luna. Either way, neither of them were the least bit interested in actually exploring the mansion or learning about vampires. Ron offered his arm to Hermione in a courtly fashion. "Shall we?" Neville, however remained silent, giving Luna a smile and a gentle squeeze of her hand as though giving her permission to lead the way.

Meanwhile, upstairs, Draco was in a bit of a bind. He had taken off his robes to find that none of his other robes were clean. Laundry was meant for house elves or women. Their house elf Dobby had been accidentally released years ago and they hadn't hired another house elf to replace him since. Draco's mother Narcissa had taken up the chore of doing the laundry, but she was gone now too. That left Draco to do his own laundry, which he had flat out refused to do. So Draco sat shirtless, pondering a solution to this problem when he went rigid. Someone was in the hallway just outside his room. His eyes fixed on the door, his enhanced senses telling him that the Weasley girl was coming closer. He slowly backed away, leaving the light of his open window to wrap himself in a cloak of darkness. Even with his pale skin, the shadows would hide him well enough. His unblinking predatory gaze focused on the twisting of the door knob. He stood still as a statue as his door swung open.

 

[darkangel76]

Hermione just blinked as Ginny dashed out of the room. In a flash of red, she was already bolting up the stairs and swallowed up by the dim lighting even her own wand couldn't reach to illuminate.

"Well," Hermione said aloud, a brow arching as she watched the youngest Weasley leave. "What got her all eager to check things out?" She glanced at the window, but didn't see anything overly interesting at all. The brunette dared to side step just a little for a better peek. Still...nothing. She sighed then.

"I'm sure she just wants to find Harry," Luna said, her blue eyes far off and distant. "We all do," she then added for good measure. "She'll be fine exploring the upstairs." At that, the blonde grinned, her eyes shifting down to look at Neville's hand holding her own as he gave it a squeeze. She had to admit, it felt nice for someone to not shy away for once. She allowed herself a moment before standing up, Neville still holding onto her hand.

Honestly, Luna half expected Neville to protest. After all, he was practically second in command of the DA. Yes, she knew both Ron and Hermione...perhaps even Ginny...were the likely witches and wizards people would expect to rise up to the task of leading, but it had been Neville who'd done it. The trio had gone, disappeared and Ginny had seemed too upset and preoccupied at the time. So Neville had done what none of them could. He faced the challenge and took it on like the Gryffindor he was. He'd protected the school. He'd protected them all. And who was she?

Oh, Luna knew full well who she was. Despite her apparent aloofness, she was well aware that most thought her 'looney'. She'd heard the names people whispered under their breath, seen the odd looks they often times gave her and noticed the wide berth in which most seemed to give her when they passed by. But Neville had never done that. Not once. Whether intentional or not, she appreciated that. In fact, it made her feel the most accepted she'd ever been.

"Shall we go, Neville?" Luna asked as she tugged Neville along. She saw Hermione staring as she edged toward the hallway.

"If you find anything strange, send a spell our way," Hermione offered. Though she was certain the two would be fine. She'd been secretly running a spell searching for traps the moment they'd entered the mansion and nothing appeared to be out of line.

So far.

At that, Hermione turned toward Ron, her dark eyes looking at him with uncertainty. "So," she began. "What should we do first?"

Meanwhile, Ginny was upstairs and ready to explore her first room. She hesitated another moment as her hand twisted the knob and she was about to open the door. "Just do it," she said softly to herself, trying to bolster her confidence, to bring her courage to the forefront. Setting her jaw, she pushed on the heavy wood.

It was harder to open the door than she expected. But Ginny was slowly finding her nerve as she peeked inside and saw...nothing. She wasn't sure what she expected to find. A part of her had hoped to catch Draco unawares, to show him that he wasn't the only one who could pull off a silly scare. He was clearly trying to frighten them all by returning a different way. She was sure of it. Then again...

Ginny looked at the floor feeling ashamed. What did she honestly know about Draco? She hadn't even been aware he'd been turned. Biting down on her lower lip, she wondered what that must've been like. She decided it had to have been a terrible ordeal. Terrifying. Just then, she noticed the crumpled robes on the floor. Her eyes went wide and then shifted right at the window.

Was Draco there? Or was that a mess from another time? Ginny certainly wasn't sure, but it was evidence enough that she'd found a room the blond boy must frequent.

Ginny moved toward the window, her slender fingers gripping the stony edge as she peered outside. The air was so much chillier outside. She shivered and took a step back, her hands rubbing at her arms as the cold air seeped into her bones.

"I'm being silly," Ginny whispered, a small, nervous smile playing on her lips. She felt her cheeks grow warm, the need for answers growing as a strange sensation of fear washed over her. She then walked over to the robes and picked them up, her dark eyes studying the fabric.

Suddenly, Ginny's eyes widened the moment her fingers felt the encrusted blood. She gasped, her heart racing. Dropping the clothing, she frantically glanced around the dark room, wondering if she was truly alone or in a trap ready to be sprung. "H-hello?" she asked, her voice sounding small to her ears. She winced just then, unsure if she was letting her imagination get the better of her or if she'd just truly lost it.

 

[Solvaris]

Hermione's question of "What should we do first?" brought another smile to Ron's face. He pointedly stared at Neville and Luna leaving. Once they were gone, he turned to Hermione and whispered. "What we do first is find somewhere comfortable and private enough to snog until Malfoy gets back....like a bed." He raised his eyebrows a few times to suggest more than just snogging and to be funny at the same time. Ron usually wasn't so forward about getting down and dirty with Hermione, but the relationship was still new. They haven't had the opportunity to go further than snogging yet. Plus, the idea of defiling Draco's noble household was somewhat appealing. He had an image of Draco's father coming home to find that his bed had been used for sex. It would be a small form of vengeance in their little family feud.

Neville let Luna tug him away from the others. Normally, dungeons wouldn't sound so appealing, but the dungeons of a mansion should be safer than the dungeons of a school right? They'd probably just find some pricey artwork and suits of armor. Neville wanted to cool down, and with the dungeons being below ground level, they would be the ideal place to do that. Though Neville wondered if Luna's eagerness to explore the dungeons meant she might try to make a move on him. He could never tell what Luna was thinking. Maybe she thought some non-existent creatures lived in dungeons. Either way, Neville would accompany her and make sure the place was safe. After all, a mansion like this might have some secret passages. Draco could come back at any time and try to attack them down there. So Nevile lit his wand with a "Lumos!" and said "I'll go first Luna" as they descended the steps into the dungeons.

Draco watched the Weasley girl intently as she walked around his room, looking out the window, finding his blood covered robes. He could see that her heartbeat was irregular. It was faster than normal because she was exploring a dark unknown place, but it sped up even more when she found the blood. Such a frightened little lamb she was... Draco found that he was slowly edging closer to her, entranced by her heartbeat. The beat of her heart was like a lovely melody. He knew that if he frightened her, the beat would quicken even more, such a lovely song...provoking a dance of death. Draco longed to hear that song...longed to sink his teeth into her flesh and feel the gush of blood in his mouth, spurts of blood that matched the rhythm of the song... He blinked and stopped himself. He had just fed! Why was he hungry for more blood? Draco backed away, disgusted by the monster he had become. It made him angry. He wished it had never happened; wished he had never been bitten. That anger added to his anger that this blood-traitor brat was invading his personal space. This was his bedroom! She had no right to be in here! Draco finally revealed himself, walking into the moonlight of his window, his pale skin reflecting the light, making the room seem brighter. Since he had become a vampire, Draco's chest had some muscle to it now. It was hairless and smooth, but the moonlight caught the curves of his muscles, making them stand out. He glared at Ginny, malice dancing in his eyes. "What do you think you're doing Weasley?" Once again, the word "Weasley" revealed his fangs. Rage seeped into his next words. "Why are you in my room?"