Thursday, December 15, 2005
Chapter 16
The Drakon and The Heir
Draco gasped as he saw an image of the Dark Lord standing right in front of him. 'He must have used the teleportation spell...' Draco thought. The teleportation spell was similar to floo-powder, only it was used amongst Deatheaters. What struck Draco odd, however, was Iman standing next to the Dark Lord. 'What on earth are THEY doing here?! Together??!! Certainly the most strangest couple I've seen...' Draco tried to fight back a smirk. "What are you insolent fools doing over there? Get up now!" the Dark Lord commanded respect wherever he went and right now, he did look extremely irritable. Deciding that it wasn't the best time for witty repartee, Draco obediently abided by the Dark Lord's wishes. "Did you just come into contact with someone who possessed Heir blood, boy? Why did it sting tonight? Who were you with?" the Dark Lord pressed for answers. Draco stood very still, trying to calculate his next move. He had no idea Lodina's touch was soo powerful. Just then, Iman spoke. "After the second task, he was no where to be seen my Lord. That's when the rest of us grew worried. When I felt the Mark sting, I felt obliged to inform you Master..." Iman started but was quickly cut-off by Draco. "I was having a walk with my dear Pansy..." Draco started, desperately racking his brain for excuses. "What is she doing over there boy? Explain yourself now! We don't want to get into anyone's bad books now do we? My patience is wearing thin..." the Dark Lord lashed out at Draco. Lying to the Dark Lord was no easy feat. Especially not when Iman was there to sod things in as well. The Dark Lord was also an accomplished Legilimens himself and could tell almost instinctively if anyone around him was lying to him. Draco had been practicing Occlumency to empty his mind so that it would be difficult for anyone to read into his thoughts. Occlumency was particularly useful whenever he had close encounters, such as this, with the Dark Lord. 'What is that fool doing? Didn't I tell him to let Crabbe and Goyle call the shots when I was gone? Must have reflected off his thick skull. We're gonna have a long talk after this!' Draco frowned as he finally found an excuse as to what had happened that night. "Pansy and me snuck out to Hogsmeade for a lil' party after the second task, my Lord. She passed out after three glasses of Gin with Dragon's Blood. As to why the Mark stung tonight, I have no idea, my Lord..." Draco gritted his teeth as he bowed down to the Dark Lord. The Dark Lord eyed Draco suspiciously, but after awhile, he had given in to Draco's alibi. "Very well. I know one of the Deatheaters have come into contact with someone who possesed the blood of an Heir or Drakon; or else, it wouldn't have stung this much. I will get to the bottom of this myself. You know why you're here don't you? You have a task to fulfill and I will be most displeased if it did not unfold according to plan... Crucio!" the Dark Lord hissed as he pointed his wand to Iman who was now writhing in pain as spasms of electric jolts shot up through his body. After a few seconds, the Dark Lord ceased his torture on Iman and spoke in a deathly tone. "This is only but a mere fraction of what I do to those who disobey me. I did not give your father powers just so that his son would ruin my plans. The time for you to prove your worth is drawing near. I suggest you concentrate on what you have to do instead of entertaining yourself." the Dark Lord paused as he gave a bemused but dark smile at Pansy who was lying on the ground. "Yes my Lord. I will not fail you." Draco said as he bowed down once more before the image of the Dark Lord vanished into thin air.
"Just what were you thinking Iman? How many times do I need to tell you that Crabbe and Goyle are in charge in my abscence? You weren't trying to get into the good books of the Dark Lord were you? Coz' from where I was standing it looked as if He prefered you to be his very own punching bag rather than a 'faithful servant'..." Draco smirked as he tried to get Pansy up on her feet. Iman tried to justify his actions but was silenced by Draco. "Help me bring her back to the castle will you? Before Crabbe and Goyle start wondering where we are and summon the Dark Lord as well..." Draco said as the pair of them carried Pansy and left for the castle...
~-~
"OW! Harry! That was my foot!" Ron yelped in pain. Ron never liked going under the invisibility cloak as it meant that they had to thread carefully and silently without bumping into things. "I'm sorry Ron. Have you seen any sign of Lodina yet?" Harry was desperate. He felt responsible for Lodina. She was afterall his god-sister. If she had gone missing, how would he then face Sirius? "Harry! Over there, someone's coming our way! Can you make out who it is though? I can't really see. Your elbow's blocking my view." Ron said irritatedly as he tried to shove Harry away. "Ron! It's Lodina! Quick! We've got to get to her!" Harry said as both of them came out from under the cloak. "Lodina! Where have you been?" Harry said as he rushed towards her. Lodina was soo calm that it made Harry a little tense to see her. "Oh... I was in the dragon's den. I was talking to Agathos. He's really nice, isn't he Harry?" Lodina said with a queer smile on her face. Ron and Harry stood with their jaws gaping wide open. Lodina could communicate with Agathos? She was a Drakon too?
~-~
'I couldn't possibly be related to any of the other Heirs, could I? Daddy would have told me if I was related to any of them!' Lodina thought as she started to make her way back up to the castle. If she weren't related to any of the Heirs except Slytherin, that meant that...'I have Drakon blood?' Lodina got hit by a sudden wave of reality and immediately turned towards the dragon's den. If she really was a Drakon, there was only one way to find out...
"Come my child. I've been expecting you..." Agathos voice resonated in Lodina's head. 'You're talking to me? I can actually hear you? So I am really a Drakon?!' Lodina thought, staring in disbelief at the magnificent Norwegian Ridgeback which was in front of her. "Yes, you are. I could sense you in the forbidden forest. It was you who triggered the curse wasn't it? What's your name child?" Agathos piercing gaze was now fixed upon Lodina. "Er... yea... I'm Lodina. Lodina Verusia Black. And I erm... I think I need to go now. The others might be wondering where I've gone off to, you know... I wouldn't wanna cause any unnecessary panic. I guess I'll just go then..." Lodina started off when she heard Agathos regal voice in her head once more. "Yes. I daresay you've got your answer to what you've been seeking. Besides, I think Harry and his other friend are out there looking for you. I can hear them from here. You better take leave. I bid you adieu." Lodina smiled back at Agathos as she headed out of the dragon's den.
~-~
"You what? Ok. It's official. Harry, she's off her rocker!" Ron said in disbelief. He was convinced that Lodina was just pulling a fast one. "Ron. She's telling the truth. She doesn't know about me being a Drakon. She wasn't there remember? Lodina, what's going on?" Harry was now anxious to hear what Lodina had to say. Lodina bit her lip. "Oh! You know, I was wondering around after the second task had ended and well, i wandered into the dragon's den; and before you knew it... Viola! I was talking to Agathos! Funny actually. We even lost track of time!" Lodina managed a stifled laugh. She tried her best to sound cheerful but alas, Harry could see through her facade. He knew she wasn't being entirely truthful but decided to abandon asking her anymore questions. It was already late and they had to get back up to the Gryffindor Tower before anyone got wind that they were sneaking out of Hogwarts castle.
Back in the Gryffindor Common Room. Harry, Ron and Lodina were greeted by Hermione and Ginny. Lodina repeated what she had told Harry and Ron to both the girls before she decided to retire to bed. The day's events had taken a toll on her and she badly needed some rest. She needed to organize her thoughts which were swirling in her head. As she was climbing the stairs up to her dorm, Lodina remembered something and her eyes lit up as she spoke, "Harry, I was wondering...could I borrow that book Daddy had given you?"
[Tonks was grooving to Queen's We are the Champions| 
~ cynical]
~Nymphadora~
Wednesday, December 14, 2005
Chapter 15
A Deatheater's Fate
'Why did he go running after her?' Pansy thought as she stood there, perplexed. Pansy convinced herself that he probably wanted to make sure Lodina would keep her mouth shut about them being outside of school when they were supposed to be having dinner. Draco could not be falling for Lodina. He just couldn't. He had to fulfill the Dark Lord's wishes. He couldn't have possibly disobeyed His orders, could he? Pansy had the important duty of sticking close to Draco, as close as possible to guide him through his 'task'. The Dark Lord did have his suspicions on the Malfoys, seeing that the Malfoys did have a tendency of acting out of their own will at times. Pansy was also starting to have her doubts on Draco. She loved him all her life. She remembered her childhood days when they would play make-belief quidditch. Draco always had this alluring charm which made most girls fall for him easily. Eventhough it was destined that both of them should be together, Pansy couldn't help thinking how it would have been if Draco had the freedom of choice. Would he choose her to be his girlfriend then? Moreover, Draco didn't seem hacked off at all when he was chasing after Lodina. It was quite the oppostie in fact. Pansy could tell. The way Draco looked at Lodina was very different from the way he looked at her. She could tell that Draco felt the pressing need to go explain himself to Lodina. Pansy knew what had to be done. She loved Draco too much to see him suffer under the hands of the Dark Lord. 'Besides, he's better off with me anyway. That know-it-all Gryffindor doesn't deserve him' she smirked as she put her wand at the Dark Mark on the underside of her arm. 'Draco Darling. This is for your own good. I hope you'll understand...' Pansy thought as she muttered "Serpentia" under her breath. The spell was to darken the Dark Mark. Pansy had learnt it while studying with Draco in the library. All she needed was an essence of Draco which she had already obtained in her first year when she quietly cut off a bit of Draco's fine silvery blonde hair, whilst he was asleep. She had already made it into a pendant and as long as she was wearing that pendant, she would be connected to Draco. But alas, something extremely odd was happening. Pansy started to writhe in pain. The Dark Mark on her arm was now bleeding. The searing pain up her arm made her scream. 'No!! This wasn't supposed to happen!! What's happening??!' Pansy gave a loud shrill and passed out on the ground. Lord Voldermort was getting stronger and he certainly wasn't happy at all...
~-~
"Draco! The Dark Mark! Why is your hand bleeding! Talk to me! What's happening to you?" Lodina wept as she kneeled beside Draco her arms wrapped tightly around him. "I meant to tell you earlier Lodina... I have been marked... " but before Draco could finish his sentence the bleeding on his hand was slowly starting to disappear and the pain subsided. The blood stains on his arm were now totally gone, leaving only the Dark Mark which was clearly visible on Draco's fair skin. Just then, they heard a high-pitched scream. "Pansy!" Draco muttered as he stood up and reached out for Lodina's hand. "We need to find her now!" Draco said as he started to pull Lodina up from where she kneeled. "No. Not her again? What is going on Draco? You're a deatheater and I trusted you? I don't know what to believe anymore!" Lodina was hurt and torn between her love for Draco and the hate she had for the Deatheaters who did the Dark Lord's bidding. "Lodina, please! I'll explain everything. But we need to get to Pansy now. She might be in danger! Well, I don't know for sure. But that scream was definitely hers!" Draco said as both Lodina and him rushed out of the shrine and headed out in search of Pansy. They found Pansy where they had both last seen her, lying passed out on the ground. "We've got to get her to the hospital wing Draco! Can you conjure a stretcher? Or do we have to carry her?" Lodina started off but was cut off by Draco. "No..." Draco's answer was firm. As much as Lodina hated Pansy, she couldn't possibly leave her lying there. 'Why was he acting soo strange?' Lodina thought as she looked puzzled at Draco's sudden change of expression. "No Lodina. No one should know about this. Not Madam Pomfrey, not anyone. I can help her later. But first, I owe you an explanation..." Draco said as he started to unfold the cruel fate the Dark Lord had bestowed upon him...
~-~
"That's odd..." Harry thought out loud at the dinner table. " I know! You'd think the house elves in kitchen would know what we like by now! Blimey Harry! Look at this? It looks like..." Ron made a disgusted face but was quickly cut off by Harry. "Ron, I was talking about Malfoy. Look over at the Slytherin table. Iman and the rest of Malfoy's Slytherin Guard is there. But Draco isn't! Iman is always with Draco! Something's definitely up." Harry said as he sipped more of his pumpkin juice. "Harry, Pansy is not there too. Snape could have loaned them his dungeon. They could be having a snogging session there right now for all we know Harry. Just finish your dinner and stop worrying!" Hermione said from the otherside of the table as she reached out to get a butterknife. At that moment, Ginny walked through the doors of the Great Hall and sat down next to Harry and Ron. "Have either of you seen Dina? I've been meaning to ask her about our Defence Against the Dark Arts assignment, but she isn't in the Gryffindor Tower." Ginny paused and scanned the table for Lodina. "Ok. She isn't here either. Where is she? Wasn't she with you, Hermione?" Ginny asked, concerned. "No, she said she needed to get something and she wandered off on her own shortly after we were driven out of the medic tent." Hermione said and was backed up by a nod from Ron. "That makes it three. Three missing people at dinner." Harry said, now feeling the strong urge to search the grounds for Lodina. She was afterall his god-sister. "Three?" Ginny asked. "Yea, that git Malfoy and that Pansy woman's gone too. Frankly, if I'd known what the elves had prepared for dinner tonight I would have skipped dinner too!" Ron said as he jabbed at his dessert. Ignoring Ron, Hermione looked up at Harry and Ginny. "Not thinking of sneaking out again, are we Harry?" Hermione eyed Harry. "Hermione, Ginny... you girls search the castle. Ron and I will search outside..." Harry said as he pulled Ron along with him. "If we're not back in about 45 min. You know what to do Hermione." Harry nodded at her and kissed Ginny on her forehead before he set off in search for Lodina. As much as the others refused to believe him, Harry had a nagging feeling that Malfoy was behind Lodina's disappearance as well...
~-~
"The Dark Lord had marked me as a child. Ever since I was born, my life had been planned out by the Dark Lord himself. When Harry resisted His killing curse, it only stripped the Dark Lord of his powers. But there are many ways to regain such powers and the Dark Lord was no fool either. He's rising Lodina. And I have to do what he wants me to. I have no choice. My father was a deatheater and now I am too." Draco said as he looked away from Lodina's eyes. He could not bear to see her hurt again. "You're wrong Draco. Everyone has a choice! You don't have to be like this! This doesn't need to happen! We could tell Dumbledore. I'm sure he'd know what to do..." Lodina tried in vain, but it was no use. "No Lodina. This 'task' was given to me. It's my battle now. I have to go through with it. I can't bear to see you hurt again." Draco said as he rested his gaze on Lodina. "Draco, don't you see how much you're hurting me? Harry is my god-brother! I love you, but Harry is a part of me too... " Draco hushed her with a soft kiss on her temple. "Draco. What is this 'task' you've been talking about? It's something to do with Harry isn't it?" Lodina asked. "I can't tell you. Not now. Please trust me Lodina. If I had a choice, I wouldn't have become a deatheater. Not now, not ever. But this is one battle I have to pull through alone...There is one thing that's puzzling me though..." Draco said as he rubbed his arm where the blood had stained the Dark Mark earlier on. "I have no idea why the Dark Mark started bleeding tonight. The pain was more than I've ever felt. This has never happened before... unless..." Draco looked at Lodina. She could see the muscles in his arms tense a little as he held her hand in his. "I remember clearly what my father had told me once. He said that after the Great War, Slytherin had totally destroyed the peace between wizards and dragons. The other three Hogwarts founders had tried to stop him, but it was to no avail. However, they managed to strip him off his powers. The Dragons had placed a curse upon Slytherin for they had heard of a prophesy. A prophesy by a Drakon Seer. The prophesy stated that Slytherin would not totally be defeated for his Heir would come back into power and wreak havoc among the wizarding world. That much is obvious as the Dark Lord is a Slytherin descendant himself. However, the prophesy also stated that Slytherin's heir would only be defeated by one of the Heirs of the Hogwarts' Founders. Problem is, this prophesy was lost and the last part of it was not recorded. So we don't know which Heir would defeat Slytherin's Heir and end Slytherin's doctrines for good." Draco said as he took in a deep breathe. "So what has this got to do with the bleeing on your arm Draco?" Lodina asked, her thoughts swirling in her head. "The Dark Lord's sign, the Dark Mark was actually Slytherin's sign. My father told me that only powerful wizards who have Drakon blood or the blood of the other three Hogwarts' Founders would be able to cause massive pain and even injury by simply touching the Dark Mark. It was a curse the Dragons of Drakonia had placed upon all those who bore Slytherin's Mark. The Dark Lord's 'call' could never be this painful." Draco looked up at Lodina's face, searching for an answer. "Lodina, are you related to one of the Hogwarts founders?" Draco asked her, his eyes transfixed upon hers now. Lodina didn't know what to say. Her father did tell her about their ancestory and that she was indeed related to Slytherin. But she was sure she wasn't related to any of the other Hogwarts Founders, was she? "Draco... I..." Lodina was about to tell him what her father, Sirius had told her when they were both silenced by the rustling of grass not too far away. There were also footsteps and they were drawing nearer to where Draco, Pansy and Lodina were. "Quick! Go now! Before they see us. I can cover for Pansy, but certainly not for you..." Draco said as he briefly kissed Lodina on the lips before he sent her away. Lodina crept back up to the castle quietly, wondering if she was related to one of the other Founders as well. Draco watched her go and quickly turned his attention to Pansy. He saw her pendant glistening in the moonlight. 'So this is why you fainted.' Draco smirked as he pocketed the pendant. 'I can't let you have this anymore, Pansy. Not after what happened tonight.' Draco thought as he started to 'revive' Pansy when..."Well, well, well... I didn't expect to see you two down here." Draco spun around and couldn't believe who he saw standing right in front of him...
[Tonks was grooving to Disturbed's Darkness | 
~ hazy]
~Nymphadora~
Sunday, December 11, 2005
Chapter 14
Lover's Doom
"Potter's gotten himself a girlfriend? Great! Just what I need. To be stuck in the middle of a snogfest!" Draco thought to himself as he left the medic tent. Seeing Potter in love was the last thing Draco Malfoy had wanted to see in a time like this. Why didn't Lodina approach him? Or even congratulate him when he was back in the tent? She didn't even look in his direction for that matter and she acted as if she didn't know him at all! 'GIRLS!" Draco muttered as he wandered off aimlessly to the dragon's den. It was already late in the evening and Draco hadn't realised that it was nearly time for dinner. He made a detour for the castle when... "Draco! My Darling! I was soo afraid for you! You're not hurt are you?" Pansy rushed forward and hugged Draco. "Damn! I should place a tracking charm on her too. Maybe then I'd know when to run away." Draco thought as he cringed in disgust. But, Draco later dismissed that thought, seeing as how a Malfoy never runs away from anyone. Pansy was pretty and Draco didn't mind the attention he was getting at all. However, she just wasn't the one for him; besides, he hated the way she called out his name! Pansy also had an impeccable timing. Everytime she chose to smother Draco with butterfly kisses down his neck, Lodina would be right there watching their every move. As much as it pained him to see the hurt in Lodina's eyes, Draco could not bring himself to ditch Pansy and run after Lodina. It was already foretold that he had to be with Pansy and he did not have the strength to betray his father. The Parkinsons were Deatheaters who were loyal to the Dark Lord as well. Afterall, Pansy had a purpose to fulfill, and even though he despised every bit of her, Draco could not shake Pansy off. Even if he did try, the searing pain on his arm would be unbearable. The Dark Lord would certainly not be pleased if he, Draco, tried to disobey his direct orders. Pansy broke away from the hug and looked at Draco teasingly. "Draco, my love. You look like you're in desperate need of entertainment. Why don't we play a lil' game of bad school girl and naughty headmaster?" Pansy flirted with Draco as she took a step closer to him. Draco stood still. His hair covered his eyes and Pansy could not read his expression. Taking his silence as consent, she lept forward and threw herself at Draco. Draco was caught off guard as he fell backwards, holding Pansy by her waist so that she would not fall on top of him, but she reacted quickly. In one fluid motion, she straddled Draco engulfing him in a kiss. "Where did she learn moves like that? She's like a caged sex-demon!" Draco thought as Pansy pulled him closer. She reached for his shirt and started unbuttoning it, but Draco's hand was quicker as he stopped her from doing so. "Is something wrong?" Pansy asked, perplexed as to why Draco had refused her. "I don't feel up to it tonight Pansy. Maybe another time." Draco said as he straightened himself up. Just then he heard a twig break and a soft whimper. It was Lodina! "Damn!" Draco thought as he stood up, pushed Pansy aside and made as to move toward Lodina. "Don't! Don't come any closer Malfoy! You make me sick!" Lodina spat at him as she made a run for it into the forbidden forest. What was she lingering there for? Draco was pretty sure she had gone back to the castle with Ron and Hermione. Unless... "Draco, you idiot! Of course she wouldn't acknowledge you in the tent. Not in front of Potter and the others. She was waiting to get you alone!" Draco smacked his forehead as he tore after Lodina, hoping she would at least give him a chance to explain everything...
~-~
Why did he do this to her? Lodina wept as she sat on the steps leading down to Lover's Doom. Sirius used to tell Lodina of the numerous trips he, James and Remus made to Lover's Doom, let alone all the times Sirius used to bring her mother there as well. Lover's Doom was situated at the heart of the Forbidden Forest. She remembered it as if it were yesterday. "Why is it called Lover's Doom, Daddy?" Lodina would ask and Sirius would plunge into the long story of how a couple who loved each other very much had killed themselves at the very same spot as where the fountain now resides in, to escape the fates their families had bestowed upon them. It was even said that the fountain was cursed by the father of the girl who had fled with her lover, and whoever drank from the fountain would never love again and would eventually die a most torturous death. This didn't affect the magical creatures that roamed the Forbidden Forest of course. However, Dark creatures refrained from entering Lover's Doom as it was said to be a sanctuary for lovers, except for the whole curse of the fountain bit of course. Some say the ancient magic of love protects all those who seek refuge in that shrine. Lodina dried her eyes as she looked up to see a beautiful unicorn enter the shrine and drink from the fountain. She watched the unicorn as she tried to forget all that had happened that night.
"I knew I would find you here." Draco stepped into the shrine. He inched closer to Lodina. "Malfoy! What are you doing here? I can't seem to get away from you, can I? Oh wait! Why of course! You found me coz' you placed a freaking tracking charm on me!! You low-life creep!" Lodina said as she tried to remove the charm bracelet on her hand to throw it into Draco's face, but to no avail. "What did you do to this bracelet Malfoy?! Why can't I remove it? Is this another way of ensuring that you can keep an eye on me?? Why won't you just leave me alone!" Lodina screamed at him. "Could you stop yelling for a moment and listen to what I've got to say?" Malfoy started but Lodina cut him off. "Just because you're filthy rich, it doesn't mean you can get everything you want Malfoy. You treat people like dirt. Even me for that matter and there I was thinking that you might be the one for me. I thought wrong Malfoy. You're nothing but a perverted..." Lodina was cut short as Draco reached forward and put a hand on her mouth to shut her up. "Lodina, quit yelling and listen to me, will you? I don't love Pansy! She just sort of jumped onto me and I... OW!!" Draco jumped as Lodina bit his fingers. "You filthy rat! I can't believe I actually thought you were the one for me when there you go gallavanting with that slut!" Lodina yelled as she tugged at the bracelet once more. "Get this off me Malfoy. Do it now!" Lodina said murderously as she pointed her wand at Draco. "I can't. It's a bracelet with a binding love charm. No one can remove it. Not unless the person wearing it falls out of love with the person who presented the bracelet." Draco said as he tried to get out of the way of Lodina's outstretched wand-arm. "I don't care what it takes Malfoy. I will drink from this fountain if I have to! I don't want you to hurt me again. I regret ever falling in love with a pompous prat such as yourself!" Lodina said as she dipped her hand into the fountain. Just then, a silver dragon shot out from the bracelet. It covered Lodina's hand and no matter how much she tried to touch the water of the fountain, she could not! "Oh. I placed a part of my magic into that bracelet as well. Nothing can hurt you while I'm alive. It's old magic I learnt from one of my dad's books in the library..." Draco smirked as she watched Lodina tug with all her might at the bracelet. "You arrogant, self-centered bastard!" Lodina said as she reached forward and hit Malfoy in the face. Draco was taken aback. 'Sod it! That was two times in a row a girl has snuck up on me today!' he thought. "Lodina, who taught you to punch like that? Not bad for a girl I'd say." Draco said as he wiped off the traces of blood on his face. "Are you toying with me Malfoy? I won't be afraid to curse you into oblivion if I have to! Just stay away from me!" Lodina said, pointing her wand at Malfoy. "Why are you girls all the same? Why won't you stop yakking and just listen?" Draco had finally lost his composure.
"You started this Malfoy! I would have never looked your way if you hadn't seduced me into liking you!" Lodina spat at him. "ME? Seduce you? Oh please! No one can resist the charms of a Malfoy. Not even you Lodina. Just face the fact and deal with it. You fell for my good looks and charm. End of story!" Malfoy said as he rolled up his sleeves in anguish. "Oh yea? Is that a bet Malfoy? I can resist whatever love potion you put on me." Lodina saw the shock written across Draco's face. "Yes. You think I couldn't smell a love potion when I came across one? I knew you were attempting to put that love potion in my drink. I can resist your so-called 'charms' any day Malfoy. Bring it on!" Lodina flared. "You asked for it Lodina. A Malfoy never walks away from a challenge." Draco said as he moved closer to Lodina and swiftly maneuvered her so her back was against the wall of the shrine.
Draco pinned Lodina's hands to the wall. Lodina yelped in pain as his grip was tight and her bracelet was cutting into her flesh. "Is that painful? Not nearly as painful as how I've been feeling Lodina. You've been ignoring me, insulting me and even trying to 'curse me into oblivion' when all that I've ever done is love..." Draco said as he pressed his lips against hers. He could feel the tension in Lodina's wrists fade away as she slowly surrendered into his arms. Draco pulled her closer and Lodina melted into his kiss. He was too strong for her to resist and she loved him too much to turn him down. She had longed to be in his arms and now she got what she had wished for. She put her arms around his neck as she pushed back into the kiss. Draco pulled away from the kiss as he took a look at her. Her black hair shone beautifully in the moonlight. He held her hair back as he kissed her neck. He bit her softly and heard her moan with pleasure as she called out his name. He cradled her face in his hands and looked deeply into her eyes. She was everything he ever wanted and he wanted that moment to last forever. "Did I hurt you Lodina? I never meant to... It's just that..." Draco said as Lodina put a finger to his mouth and hushed him. She took his arms and placed them around her waist. When she touched the Dark Mark on his arm, a searing pain coursed through Draco's arm. "Oh god! Not now!" Draco winced as he fell to his knees. He was clutching his arm and was now in terrible pain. Lodina was shocked. "Draco! What happened? What's wrong?" Lodina rushed to his side as she cradled him in her arms. "Lodina, I haven't been truthful to you... I..." Draco started but stopped as another rush of pain pulsated through his veins. This time, Lodina reached out and took his arm which he been clutching beneath the other. Lodina gasped as she saw a bloodied Dark Mark etched on the underside of Draco's arm...
**This chapter is dedicated to Cissy and Lodina. May your passion for HP inspire me always... *smilez*
[Tonks was grooving to Nickelback's Far Away | 
~ loved ]
~Nymphadora~
Thursday, December 08, 2005
Chapter 13
The Second Task
Why did life have to be so difficult for him? But there was nothing he could do. He was born into this world for a reason. His destiny was already decided for him the day he was born, the day the Dark Lord had fell. He had been cursed with a responsibility far more dangerous than anyone had ever imagined. He felt like a pawn, being manipulated by strong forces which were the purest of evil. He hated that feeling. Afterall, he was a Malfoy, and Malfoys hated being told what to do, let alone have their destiny pre-planned and carved out in black and white as well. It was the first day of school after the Christmas break and Draco was walking alongside the Great Lake. 'I doubt even the most bravest of us all, our dear Pothead, would be have figured out the clue to the second task.' Draco smirked to himself as he pulled out the golden egg to get another look at it. Draco had help with the egg himself of course, but he was quite sure that Harry had no clue as to what the second task was all about. 'Ah well, Pothead always had his head in the clouds...' Draco thought as he tossed the egg and caught it with one hand. Just then he saw something glimmering from the corner of his eyes. He turned around and his eyes settled on Lodina. She was sitting under the big Oak tree with Ginny. 'What's this? She's wearing my bracelet?' Draco grinned to himself. 'I guess things may not be as difficult as they seem to be, afterall.' thought Draco as he scratched his arm. His arm had become really itchy and Draco was now rubbing it furiously. The more he rubbed the more painful it got. It felt as if Werewolf teeth were sinking deeper and deeper into his arm. As he unbuttoned the cuffs of his long sleeve shirt, Draco could see it becoming clearer and more visible now. The Dark Mark illuminated on Draco's fair skin. It was time. He had to do it soon or everything he had been longing for would be in vain. 'Perhaps I should let Snape know about this. He is afterall, a close family friend..." Draco dismissed this idea immediately as he didn't want to drag others into his own matters. As his father, Lucius always said : Don't get a troll to do a Malfoy's job. Draco had always thought this quote was amusing. "Darling! Where have you been? I missed you at breakfast!" Pansy was rushing towards him. 'Drats. How did she find me here?' Draco wondered as he pulled down his sleeve and buttoned it quickly. There was no stopping it now. It had already begun and whether or not he liked it, he had to act soon or lose it all...
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"Just look at those two! Looking at them makes me feel like puking. I'm definitely voting them for the 'foulest-and-most-loathsome couple award' this year. I've got to say, they've thoroughly earned it. Don't you think so Dina?" Ginny finished her ranting and turned to look at Lodina who seemed to be drifting away in her own trend of thought. "Honestly Dina! You're really aloof these days! You're starting to become like Harry. Drifting off into a world of his own..." Ginny started but Lodina cut her short. "It's nothing of that sort Gin. I was just uptight with our Transfiguration test this afternoon." Lodina lied to Ginny again. Why did that slutty bimbo Pansy have to ruin everything?! "Lets get going to class then shall we? I need to find Harry too. Sirius gave me something to pass on to Harry." Lodina said as the pair of them stood up and walked back to the Hogwarts castle.
"Harry! Hey! Wait up!" Lodina called out to him as she managed to find him amidst the fourth years in the Great Hall. "Hey Lodina, Ginny! What gives?" Harry said as he caught Ginny's eye. He quickly looked away. He couldn't look into Ginny's eyes. Her eyes were soo true and it pained him to think that he still hadn't asked Ginny out. Not even on a lousy date to Hogsmeade for that matter. "Oh Sirius asked me to pass you this book. He said it'll be helpful. No idea what it means though. Anyway, we'll catch ya soon. Gotta go for our Care for Magical Creatures lesson. Ciao Harry!" Lodina said as both Ginny and her moved off to their next class. Harry took another look at the title of the book, 'Drakonia: The History of Dragons and Wizards'. This book must be ancient! Sirius had probably found it in the Black library. He did have a huge collection of rare books in his library. But Harry knew why Sirius had sent the book. He quickly put the book in his bag and joined Hermione and Ron on his way up to Charms lesson.
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"You what?! Harry! I thought you figured out the clue already! There's only one day left till the next task! We're gonna work this egg out even if it takes all night!" Hermione said in disbelief. "Give the poor bloke some air to breathe Hermione! It was Christmas! You didn't expect him to be working on that egg all throughout Christmas did you?" Ron said as he stuffed some chewy balls into his mouth. Harry, Ron and Hermione were in the Gryffindor Common Room figuring out the clue to the next task when Parvati stepped into the portrait hole. "Harry! Just the person I was looking for! There was an owl for you at dinner. But since you weren't there I took it for you. It came with one of the school's barn owls. Here you go! Cheerios!" Parvati said as she handed Harry the note and went up to her dorm room.
Harry,
You might want to put that egg of yours in the water and mull things over IN the water. Hope this helps. Good luck for the next task!
Cheers,
Hagrid
How did Hagrid know that Harry hadn't worked out the clue? Harry read the letter again, out loud so that Ron and Hermione could hear. "Well, what are we waiting for then? Lets move. We could use the Girls' bathroom on the second floor." Hermione winked at Harry. Harry groaned at the mention of that bathroom, seeing that Moaning Murtle was the resident ghost and she seemed awfully fond of him. "Do we really? Is there no place else?" Harry pleaded as Ron chuckled, unable to reply because of the chewy balls in his mouth. "Well, there's always the Boys bathroom Crabbe always frequents. I hear he sings at this time of night. If we're lucky we could even catch him in the middle of his chorus. But only if we hurry now..." Hermione smirked. With another groan, Harry surrendered to the fact that he had to get used to Murtle hanging around while they sorted out the clue to the second task.
Harry, Ron and Hermione got under the invisble cloak and headed out to Moaning Murtle's bathroom, the Marauder's Map and the Golden Egg at hand. There was no sign of Murtle and Harry didn't complain. If all went well, they would have figured out the clue before Murtle came back to the bathroom and haunt Harry. Ron turned the tap on one of the sinks and let the water run till it reached the brink of the sink. Harry took the egg and put it inside the water. He could hear a soft humming sound which sounded beautiful. "Harry, I know it sounds better than Crabbe's singing and all but could you get a move on? We still need to figure out the clue!" Hermione said as she pushed Harry's head into the water. This time, Harry could hear the words of the beautiful song he had heard.
Come seek us where our voices sound,We cannot sing above the ground,An hour long you'll have to look,To recover what we took.
"Well, that's pretty obvious, isn't it? It's underwater. And there's a time limit of an hour. So we've got to figure out how you'll be able to stay underwater for an hour. But what is it that they have taken? And who are 'they' in the first place?" Hermione was pacing up and down the bathroom, racking her head for an answer. "You don't suppose it's the Merpeople in the great lake do you? Charlie was telling me of how Merpeople sing really beuatifully underwater." Ron started off. "Ron! You're a genius! Has anyone told you that?" Harry excalimed. He was closer to cracking the clue than he had ever been an hour ago! "Sure. I get that all the time." Ron said as a matter of factly as they all huddled under the invisibility cloak and crept back up to the Gryffindor Tower.
"Dryfis!" Harry muttered as the portrait hole swung open for the three of them to enter. "So, how do I stay under water for an hour?" Harry thought out loud. The three of them started pacing in the Gryffindor Common Room. "Well, there's the bubble-head charm. But you can't possibly master that charm overnight. It's past O.W.L. standard. There must be an easier way." Hermione said as she twirled her quill in her hand. Just then, Neville came down into the Common Room. "Hey guys! What are you lot doing up so late?" Neville sounded chirpy. "Oh, it's nothing Neville. We're just helping Harry figure out the clue to the next task." Ron said as he stopped pacing and sat back down beside the fire. "It's no use, guys. I think the bubble-head charm is all I've got. If we start practicing now, maybe I'll stand a chance to remain alive underwater for an hour without drowning!" Harry said as he resigned to his fate, slumping down into the chair next to Ron. "I don't know about Bubble-head charms, Harry. But you could always use Gillyweed. Eating a handful of Gillyweed would allow you to remain underwater for about an hour." Neville said calmly. The three of them looked at each other. A sudden wave of relief spread across their faces. "Cheers Neville!" Harry said as he moved closer to both Ron and Hermione. "You know what this means don't you? We've got to get into Snape's storage cupboard. It's the only way." Harry whispered to the two of them. After convincing Neville to get back to bed, the three of them went under the invisibility cloak once more and headed off to Snape's dungeon.
~-~
"Alohamora!" Hermione whispered as the three of them slowly snuck into Snape's Dungeon. The coast was clear. Harry opened the storage cupboard and rummaged through the potion ingredients till he found the Gillyweed. "I hate spiders. Why are there spiders' eyes in Snape's storage cupboard? Why can't it be beetles or something?" Ron made a twisted face as he winced. Ignoring Ron, Hermione motioned towards Harry, "Are you sure you got the right one?" she asked. "Yes. I'm very sure Hermione. Don't worry. Things will turn out fine. If it doesn't you can have my 'prized' possession of books." Harry grinned at her as he shut the cupboard. "Guys..." Ron started but was cut short by Hermione. "Not now Ron! We don't have time to deal with your fear of spiders. We need to get out before Snape.." but before Hermione could finish her sentence, they heard the door of Snape's dungeon open. Quickly, Harry, Ron and Hermione moved under the invisibility cloak and stood at a safe distance.
"Why didn't you come to see me earlier? You realise what this means?" "I just didn't want anyone to be bothered with all of this. That's all." "Now's not the time to be all-valiant Malfoy. If I hadn't seen it myself during Potions lesson...What's that? Did you hear it?" Snape took out his wand. and pointed it to the direction where Harry, Ron and Hermione stood hidden. He couldn't have spotten them, could he? "Professor, it's running late. I reckon I should get some sleep before the next task, and I don't think there's anyone in the room, sir." Malfoy said as he turned around to leave the dungeon. "Malfoy, just remember. I'll be watching." Snape said as he shut the door after Malfoy had left. Harry, Ron and Hermione could hardly believe their ears. There was something going on with Malfoy and it had 'Dark Magic' written all over it. Once the coast was clear again, the three of them crept back up to the Gryffindor Tower, pondering the likely reason as to why Snape had that conversation with Malfoy.
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It was time for the second task. Harry was in the Gryffindor Common Room waiting for Hermione, Ginny and Lodina. "Where are they? You're gonna be late at this rate Harry. I suggest you get a move on. I'll let them know." Ron said irritated. Just then, Hermione and Lodina strolled down the stairs and into the Common Room. "Sorry! We were looking for Ginny. But she wasn't there. I guess she must be at the stands already with Fred and George." Lodina said as the four of them made their way to the stands just beside the Great Lake. Harry had really wanted to just catch a glimpse of Ginny before the second task. He was downcast, but decided that he should just concentrate on the task that lay ahead.
~-~
Draco scanned the stands for Lodina. She was seated beside that know-it-all mudblood and Weasel-boy. She was waving in his direction. But he was sure she was waving at Pothead instead. True enough, Potter waved back to her. Draco hated standing anywhere within ten feet of Harry. On the otherside of Draco, stood Krum and Fluer who were trying to compose themselves. At the sound of the canon. All four of them jumped into the lake. Draco used the bubble-head charm on himself and followed his instincts. He knew he had to get to where the Merpeople lived before Harry. He had to be ahead of Harry at all costs. He didn't want it to happen now. It wasn't the right moment. Besides, the thought of clashing with Harry and losing to him in terms of points disturbed Draco. As he swam deeper and deeper into the depths of the Great Lake, Draco finally caught sight of the dwellings of the Merpeople. He could hear the song getting louder as he swam further into the depths of the Great Lake. Just then, Draco saw a Grindylow. The Grindylow sped towards him. On impulse, Draco drew out his wand. He was about to cast a spell when the Grindylow swam right past him, grazing his arm. Draco was puzzled he followed the Grindylow and found Potter. He was drawing nearer to the dwellings of the Merpeople too. Draco sped off, determined to reach the Merpeople before Harry. Harry saw Draco speeding off and sped forward as well. Both Draco and Harry were neck to neck, when a Hinkypunk reached out and grabbed Harry's webbed feet. 'Webbed feet? He used Gillyweed? He wasn't in Snape's dungeon last night, was he?' Draco thought as he grabbed the opportunity and swam as fast as he could. He was now ahead of Harry and he had finally reached the source of the lovely music. Ginny, Pansy, Cho Chang and another young girl, who looked extraordinarily like Fleur, were held captive by the Merpeople. They were in a sort of stasis state and were floating with their legs tied to some seaweed. Draco looked behind once more to see if Potter had caught up before he cut Pansy free and quickly swam back up to the surface.
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"We have our first champion to finish the task! Draco Malfoy!" Dumbledore said to the cheering crowd as Draco and Pansy took huge breaths, as their lungs felt like bursting from all that water pressure. Lodina looked murderously at Draco. Pansy again? She was starting to think Draco wasn't really serious about her. Draco caught her gaze and he quickly let go off Pansy. He turned to the medic tent and disappeared from her sight. Just then, Dumbledore stepped forward to make another annoucement. "Our second champion is Viktor Krum!" Professor Dumbledore bellowed as the chants and cheers of Viktor Krum filled the stands. "Look at that smarmy git. He thinks he's done it all hasn't he? Saving Cho and all." Ron said as he crossed his arms and gulped down his bottle of butterbeer. "Honestly Ron! Just the other day, you were dying to get his autograph! Fell out of love did you? I guess Fleur was just more feminine." Hermione said as she winked at Ron, whose ears became pink around the edges. Lodina managed a small giggle as well and Ron became flushed. He sat back down and waited for Dumbledore's next announcement. Ten minutes later, Fleur had come up with her hostage. It was nearing the end of the time limit and Harry had still not emerged. The crowd grew tense.
One minute before the end of the time limit. Ginny surfaced with Harry by her side. Hermione, Ron and Lodina started cheering their hearts out as they rushed into the medic tent.
"So that explains why Ginny wasn't in her dorm room." Ron said as he grinned at Harry. "Harry! I'm so gald you're ok. But Harry... you surfaced last. You still did well though. You finished just before the time limit." Hermione said, a little sad that Harry finished last. At that moment, Dumbeldore stood forth again to make the last of the announcements. It was time for the results. "Draco Malfoy receives 48 points for the magnificent use of the Bubble-head charm and coming in first amongst the Champions. Even though Viktor Krum emerged second, we decided to award Harry Potter with the second place.." All of Krum's supporters were now loudly 'boo-ing' as Dumbledore said this. "Now, now. settle down all of you! I had a talk with the Merchieften, and he told me that Mr Potter had reached his hostage soon after Mr Malfoy. But his determination to rescue all of the hostages, and not only his own, made him finish last among the champions. Therfore, in lieu with what the Merchieften had told me, we decided to award Harry with 46 points!" Dumbledore said. "That's great Harry!" Hermione squealled with delight as she hugged Harry. Ron and Lodina congratulated him as well, but their 'congratulatory party' was cut short as Madam Pomfrey chased them out of the tent.
Harry was now alone with Ginny. "What were the odds that they picked me to be your hostage, eh?" Ginny laughed as she tried to lighten the atmosphere. "Ginny..." Harry started out but was hushed by Ginny, herself. She reached forward and kissed Harry on the lips. Harry could feel the warmth radiate through his body as she leaned closer to him. He pulled her closer and his head started to swirl. He had always dreamed of this moment and was enjoying every bit of it, when both of them jerked away from each other after hearing a loud 'thud'. "Oh please! Would you two cut it out already? You're making me sick!" Malfoy spat at Harry, as he stomped out of the medic tent...
[Tonks was grooving to Doris Day's Perhaps, perhaps, perhaps | 
~ reflective]
~Nymphadora~
Tuesday, December 06, 2005
Chapter 12
The Unexpected Present
"What are you doing here Malfoy? How did you apparate? You're not even of age yet? And how did you manage to apparate into MY house? It's unplottable..." Lodina started. Draco drew closer to her and pressed a finger to her lips. "Shh. I'll explain if you stop talking for a bit..." Draco smirked. "Go on then. I'm listening." Lodina crossed her arms and sat back down on her bed. Draco followed suit and sat down beside her. "My father's been teaching me apparition even though I'm not allowed to do it. But there are other 'ways' to apparate without getting a suspension letter from the Ministry. Anyway, enough about that. When I first saw you, Lodina, I knew I had to have you. So I put a tracking charm on you..." but before Draco could finish. Lodina cut him off "You what??!! You put a tracking charm on me? But how? you need like a strand of hair or some part of ME to complete the charm!" "Yes. I did have a strand of your hair. If you remember that night at the Halloween Ball, I did obtain a strand of your hair when I was leaning close to you. I could see the fear in your eyes. I could smell your anxiety. However, you did smell like peppermint that day...." Draco said as he looked deeper into Lodina's eyes. Lodina realised this and quickly turned away. "Sorry, I kinda drifted off for a bit. So that was how I put the tracking charm on you and now, I've tracked you down here. Where is here anyway?" Draco looked around surveying the room. "Never you mind Malfoy! Why on earth would you want to track me down NOW? On the eve of Christmas?" Lodina eyed Draco with utmost contempt. Why was he doing this to her? First he says he likes her. Then he kisses that pom-pom head Pansy in front of everyone in the Great Hall, and now he follows her back to her own house?! "I had to drop off my Christmas present." Draco grinned at Lodina. This made Lodina extremely edgy. "Christmas present? Look Draco. I don't need a present from you. Not now... not EVER!" Lodina eyed Draco with suspicion. "Wow. Now we're on first name basis then? Since when have I become 'Draco' and ceased to become 'Malfoy'?" Draco smirked. "Don't try to get 'smart' with me Malfoy. Are you gonna leave or do I have to scream to get everyone's attention?" Lodina prepared herself to scream. If he wasn't gonna leave she would just have to scream and draw everybody's attention. But that would mean that everyone would now learn the truth! 'Damn! What do I do now?' Lodina thought desperate to get away from Malfoy. Just then Draco drew closer to her. He was now soo close to her that he could now hear her heart beating, faster and faster. "I'd just have to make sure you can't scream then don't I?" Draco said as he drew Lodina close to him and kissed her. He poured out all the feelings he had for her in that one kiss. Lodina was taken aback. She hated Malfoy, but that kiss was exhilarating and as much as she hated to admit it, she enjoyed every bit of it. Draco pushed on and pulled her even closer to him. However, their kiss ended abruptly as Draco pulled away. "I hear someone coming. I guess I'll take my leave then. Goodbye Lodina. I trust we'll meet again." Draco got up and with a soft 'pop' disapparated from the room, leaving Lodina with her thoughts swirling in her head.
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"Dina! Didn't you hear me call out to you? Tonks has snacks down in the Kitchen. I don't know about you, but I'm really starved. You coming along then?" Ginny asked as she stepped into the room. "Oh yea. You go on ahead. I'll just be down in a minute." Lodina said as she mentally prepared herself to face everyone in the house. Meanwhile, Harry, Ron and Hermione were still surprised by what they had just heard up in the room and they were rather silent down in the kitchen. "Ron? You alright mate? You're not eating you pumpkin pastry!" George asked alarmed. "George, you know what this means don't you?" Fred sniggered. "More for US!" both Fred and George said in unison as they reached for the pumpkin pastries in the basket on the kitchen table. Sirius saw the blend looks Harry, Ron and Hermione had on thier faces and approached them. "Come on you three. Lighten up! It's Christmas afterall. Do try to enjoy yourselves a lil' won't you? I assure you, The House may be dark and ancient. But there are definitely no Basilisks or other serpents hidden in some unknown trap door in here." Sirius winked as he turned to hand them a few of the pastries. Feeling considerably better, Ron reached forward and grabbed some pastries for himself. "Yea. He's right you know! It's Christmas Harry! Let's enjoy for a bit. I know you've been on Malfoy's tail all semester but it's time for a break." Hermione said as she smiled warmly at Harry. 'Yea, they're right. Maybe I should give this some rest.' Harry thought as he enjoyed the little tea time snack Tonks had prepared for all of them.
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It was finally Christmas. The Weasleys, Hermione, Harry and Lodina rushed downstairs to the Drawing Room to open their presents. Mrs Weasley had sent everyone of them a sweater with their initials sewn on the front as well as lots of mince pies, as usual. While everyone was unwrapping their presents. Harry caught hold of Sirius alone and pulled him to a corner. "What's the matter Harry?" Sirius asked, concerned. "Oh it's nothing. I just wanted to ask you about the sorting hat. You see, it did want to place me in Slytherin instead of Gryffindor. Do you think that maybe..." but before Harry could finish. Sirius chuckled to himself. "Harry, no. If you're asking me if you're one of the descendants of Slytherin, then the answer is no. The sorting hat does not work that way Harry. It places you into the House you ought to be, based on who you are inside; not on how your blood-line is like. Take me and Lodina for instance. We were both placed in Gryffindor, eventhough we're related to Slytherin himself. Moreover, I knew for a fact that the Potters weren't related to any of the Slytherin descendants. In fact..." Harry was now relieved that he got that off his chest. He was now attentively listening to what Sirius had got to say. "I remember James telling me that his great grandmother was a Drakon too, and that the Potters were descendants of Godric Gryffindor. Now if I remember correctly Harry, you pulled out Godric's sword from the sorting hat when you were battling Tom Riddle in your second year?" Harry nodded his head at once. "Hmm. I have a theory Harry. But it's no more than that. To have pulled out that sword from the hat, one must be a true Gryffindor. I say this in terms of spirit and blood as well. And you being able to hold the sword also proves that you're a true Gryffindor Harry, coz' the sword burns whoever touches it. Only the true heir of Gryffindor would be able to touch it's blade and wield it in battle." Sirius finished and looked at Harry with a warm smile on his face. Harry didn't know how to take in this news. He was related to Godric Gryffindor himself!
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The rest of the Christmas holidays flew by really quickly, and before they knew it, It was time to head back to Hogwarts. Sirius changed back into the great black dog and followed Tonks together with the Weasleys, Harry, Hermione and Lodina to Platform 9 3/4. Just before they boarded the train, Lodina and Harry each gave Sirius a long hug and bade him and Tonks farewell. The ride to Hogsmeade station seemed rather quick as they were discussing the possibilities and consequences of what Sirius had told them over Christmas. Upon arrival at Hogsmeade station, Harry, Ron and the twins decided that they should refill their supply of sugar quills and headed off to Zonko's Jokeshop. Hermione,Ginny and Lodina decided to window shop while waiting for the boys to refill their 'supply'. They strolled along Hogsmeade and stopped by a number of jewelry shops. After the boys had finished their business in Zonko's, the seven of them headed down to Three Broomsticks for a pitstop, to down some of Madam Rosemerta's delicious Butterbeer; they later headed back up to the Hogwarts castle and sat around in the Gryffindor Common room, talking animatedly as they were joined by Seamus and Dean.
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Once in the Gryffindor Common Room, Lodina headed back up to her dorm. It had been an emotionally draining Christmas and she needed to rest badly. She was about to lie on her bed when she saw a small present lying on her bed. It came with a note. Lodina opened the seal and read the note:
My dearest Ice Princess,
Belated Christmas Greetings. I realised I forgot to hand you your Christmas present when we last met. So here it is. I hope you like it.
Love,
D.M.
Lodina couldn't believe her eyes. She tore apart the wrapping on the box, and opened it eagerly. It was the beautiful silver Charm Bracelet she had seen while window-shopping with Hermione and Ginny. She did comment on how lovely it looked and she did express how much she had actually wanted to get that bracelet. Surely, he couldn't have heard that, could he? Besides, she was sure no one else was around them to overhear what she was saying. Lodina examined it further as she ran her fingers down the bracelet. She felt something uneven and turned to look at the underside of the bracelet. There was something engraved in it. It read, "D & L". Lodina knew what it meant. She put on the beautiful bracelet and went to bed with a smile on her face, thinking that things may turn out for the better afterall.
[Tonks was grooving to Brandy's Afrodisiac | 
~ mellow]
~Nymphadora~
Monday, December 05, 2005
Chapter 11
Kreeping in the dark
Harry and Ron got a room to themselves; Fred and George were in the adjacent room and the girls (Lodina, Ginny and Hermione) were in another room opposite to Harry and Ron's. Harry was unpacking his stuff and making himself at home when he heard a loud thump! "Ron! Did you hear that?" Harry asked, perplexed. "Yea, I did. It's probably Fred and George. Living with them long enough, you'd get used to the racket they usually make." Ron said as a matter of fact, and continued unpacking his suitcase. Just then, Harry saw a small shadowy figure moving behind the large closet in the room. As he inched forward to the closet, Harry caught a glimpse of a house elf. The elf was carrying a medallion and kept mumbling to itself as it tried to lug the heavy medallion out of the room. The medallion looked oddly familiar. Wait. This was Harry's medallion! The seal of the Dragon's trust! Why was the elf stealing from Harry's possesions? "Stop! Give that back to me right now! It's mine!" Harry lunged forward and grabbed the elf by it's ears. "Harry! What are you doing?" Ron was shocked to see Harry tugging at the house-elf. "Not now Ron. Just help me will you? He's getting away. He has my medallion!" Harry was now battling with the house-elf with Ron by his side. "What medallion Harry? You've never told me you've got a medallion?!" Ron asked he pinned the House elf down with his elbow. "Not now Ron! I'll explain later..." Harry struggled until he finally managed to snatch the medallion out the elf's hands. At that moment, Sirius burst into the room. "What's all this commotion? I could hear you lot from a mile away! Kreacher? What are you doing up here? I thought I told you to wash the dishes! Ron get off him. It's ok. He's my house elf. Kreacher explain yourself right now!" Sirius bellowed as he stood towering over the elf.
"Kreacher's only taking back his mistress's possessions. Kreacher does not steal. That filthy mudblood in the house. Oh what would my mistress think! How she hated mudbloods. And this half-blood trying to take what is not his..." Kreacher hissed at Harry. "What possession? Harry could you let me see that medallion of yours?" Sirius beckoned to Harry as he unwillingly handed Sirius the Dragon's Seal. "B-but it's mine! The house elf is lying! It stole my medallion while I was unpacking..." Harry started off when Sirius cut him off. "Kreacher, go do the dishes NOW!" Sirius ordered the house elf out of the room. Kreacher left the room muttering softly under it's breath. "Filthy muggle-lover! Half-blood scum! Oh my mistress will not be pleased! Not at all!" the elf said as it scurried out of the room. "Don't mind him boys. Kreacher is used to taking orders from my mom. Even when she died, he still took orders from her painting in the house! Now, Harry, how did you get this medallion?" Sirius asked and Harry obliged. He began to tell Ron and Sirius of his usual trips to Agathos' den, his ability to communicate with the dragons and how he got past the Hungarian Horntail, Horas. Harry also told them about him being a Drakon and how Agathos had given him the Dragon's Seal of Trust. However, he hid his theories about Malfoy being a Drakon, thinking that they might dismiss what Harry would have to say and claim that he was overly obssessed with tracking down every of Malfoy's dodges.
"So you're telling me that Agathos passed you this medallion? And he's a Norwegian Ridgeback you say?" Sirius inquired. Harry nodded. There was a certain glimmer in Sirius' eyes, as if reality had suddenly dawned upon him and everything was finally clear. "Harry, there's something I need to tell you..." Sirius was cut off by Hermione who had heard the loud bangs and shouts from the opposite room. "What's going on then?" Hermione asked, curious to find out what the boys were up to. "Hermione, I think you better sit down too. It's time I told you three the Black Secret..." Sirius started knowing that this was going to be a Christmas full of surprises for the three of them, especially Harry.
~-~
"What are those boys doing? I can hear them from way over here! I'm going to check what's going on!" Hermione fumed as her short nap was abruptly ended by the loud cacophony in the next room. Hermione stomped out of the room leaving Lodina and Ginny sitting on their beds. "So, aren't you gonna tell me what happened the other night at the Ball, Dina?" Ginny asked Lodina, hoping for a satisfactory answer. "Well, it's nothing really. It was the time of the month you know. I was feeling a lil' queasy that's all." Lodina lied and bit her lip while doing so. She hated lying to her best friend. But how was she supposed to tell her what happened? Besides, she was still sorting her feelings out. She couldn't tell Ginny. Not unless she was sure herself about how she felt about Draco. Everytime Lodina felt like telling Ginny what was happening, she'd bungle it all up and say something else instead. 'Not as slick as Dad afterall. I don't think I inherited of much his coolness.' Lodina thought to herself as she resumed unpacking the rest of her clothes. "Well, ok then. If you say so Dina. I'm going over to Fred and George's room for a bit. I simple HAVE to get a box of those 'extendable ears' they've got! We'd never know when those might come in handy!" Ginny winked, as she left Lodina all to herself in the room. Why was Draco affecting her so much? Just then, the image of Draco in his Armani suit appeared in her mind. He did look rather sleek in Armani and he was one of the best looking boys in Hogwarts. 'No! What am I doing? He's a Malfoy! I can't be falling for him!' Lodina desperately tried to get Draco out of her head, but it didn't work. She buried her face in her hands, and sat back up again after a while. Determined not to think of Draco throughout the Christmas holidays, Lodina stood up and headed for the door. Perhaps a nice hot bath would make her forget everything. Just then, Lodina heard a soft 'pop' sound and a shadowy figure materialised in front of her. "Who are you? Show yourself!" Lodina said, wand in hand. The shadowy figure spoke, "Now, now Lodina, is that how you usually welcome your guests? Tsk, tsk." Lodina knew that voice. The figure stepped into the light so that Lodina could get a better view of him. Standing right in front of her was Draco Malfoy...
~-~
"I think I owe you an explanation Harry. Ron and Hermione, it's better you two know about this too, seeing that Harry will fill you in on the details later on anyway..." Sirius started. The three of them were now sitting on Harry's bed, attentively listening to Sirius as he began to unfold The Black Secret. "The Black family has always been a pure-blood family. Any 'outside marriages' to muggles would mean that, that particular member of the family would be ostracized. Back in the olden days, wizarding families and Dragons lived in harmony and there weren't many inter-marraiges between muggles and pure-bloods. The pure-bloods basically married within their own community to strengthen the pure-blood bond. Now, there was this kingdom of Drakonia and only the wizards who lived in Drakonia had the special gift of communicating to the dragons. In the early 8th century, a huge war broke out between the wizards and dragons..." Hermione cut Sirius off, "You're talking about the Great War of Slytherin aren't you?" Ron and Harry stared at Hermione in utter disbelief as they wondered what on earth she was talking about. "Yes Hermione, you're quite right. This war was started by none other than Salazaar Slytherin. Just after Slytherin left Hogwarts, he tried to persuade the dragons to do his bidding, which was to rid the world of any muggle-born wizards and to enslave the half-blood wizards. The dragons had a code about not enslaving any species and they were proud creatures to boot. They adhered to their code strongly and refused to budge. So naturally, Slytherin was outraged that the dragons refused to join him in his 'quest' and thus, waged war against them. Since then, dragons have been seriously misunderstood. Some wizards think dragons are brutal carnivores, while the minority believe otherwise. Now, of the four Hogwarts founders, only Godric and Salazaar were Drakons as they had come from a line of great wizards from Drakonia. The Black family is one of the direct descendants of Salazaar Slytherin. However, that does not mean every one in the Black family would inherit the ability to communicate with dragons. I know I haven't at least. As for you Harry, you're probably a descendant of one of the wizards from Drakonia yourself. Being a Drakon is an extraordinary gift Harry, and no, it isn't a bane." Sirius had finished his tale and left the three of them dumbfounded. "Blimey Sirius. I expected the Malfoys to be the direct descendants of Slytherin!" Ron exclaimed, still bewildered about what Sirius had just told them. "Ah, but Ron... The Malfoys ARE descendants of Salazaar Slytherin as well. You see, The Malfoys married into the Black family and that technically makes them descendants too." Sirius smirked at the three of them. If Harry wasn't shocked at what he had heard before, he was now definitely dumb-struck. There was a possibility that Malfoy could be a Drakon! 'Great... Just Great!' Harry thought. "Ron, Harry, you two might not know this but Godric and Salazaar were both very fond of dragons. Together, they bred dragons in Hogwarts as well. This was before the Great War of Slytherin of course." Sirius continued. "And why wouldn't JUST the both of us not know about this? What about Hermione?" Ron eyed Sirius. "That's because, unlike you, I have read Hogwarts: A History!" Hermione retorted. "Oh! So everyone knows we don't read Hogwarts: A History then?" Ron and Hermione started having a row with each other when Harry butted in. "Stop bickering both of you! And Sirius, what has this got to do with my medallion?" Harry asked still trying to take in what he heard that day and make sense of it all. "Oh yes. The Black family breeds Norwegian Ridgebacks just south of Romania. We own quite a large herd of them in fact. My great uncle Aragus Black was a Drakon himself. He used to be really fond of dragons, and in particular, Norwegian Ridgebacks. In fact, this medallion you're holding onto right now, looks like one of the medallions the Black family possesses. Kreacher probably thought it was the same one. Just before my great uncle Aragus died, one of the Norwegian Ridgebacks gave him the Dragon's seal of trust and that medallion has been a family heirloom ever since. Aragus was very well liked by the Norwegian Ridgeback community of dragons, as he was kind and did not ill-treat them in any way." Sirius smiled down at Harry. "You must be really lucky to have obtained that Harry. Not every Drakon receives the Dragon Seal of trust. Only one who is well-liked by the dragon community would receive such an honour." Sirius finished as he gave Harry a wink before he turned to leave the room. "I trust you lot must be hungry. I'll ask Tonks to whip up a lil' something to eat. I'll call you down when the food is ready." Sirius said as he shut the door behind him leaving three 14-yr old wizards speechless by what they had just heard...
[Tonks was grooving to Creed's Higher | 
~ high]
~Nymphadora~
Friday, December 02, 2005
Chapter 10
A Black Christmas
What was Draco smiling at? There was definitely something fishy going on and Harry was willing to bet his last galleon on it. First, it was the packages Iman and Draco were exchanging at the start of term feast; followed by Draco's 'miraculous' attempt with the Swedish Short Snout; and now, this! Harry thought he saw Draco slip some Love Potion into a vial, but later decided that things may not be what they seem. Agathos was right. He had to stop worrying about Malfoy and start concentrating on the task that lay ahead. Moreover, he had to work out the clue to the second task as well. Seeing that he might not have the same luck as he had in the first task, Harry could use all the help he could get to crack the clue. "Where are you drifting off to again, Harry? You've been awfully aloof ever since we came back to Hogwarts!" Hermione inquired as she packed her bag after Snape's dreadfully tedious and draining lesson. "Yea mate, I'll have to agree with Hermione on this one. You've been acting really weird since the start of term! Is everything alright? Did the Dursleys try anything funny on you last summer?" Ron asked, bemused. "Oh it's nothing. It's just Malfoy. I know you guys have been telling me to get a grip over that twit, but I can't! There's something going on and I know it for sure. I just need an opening, to catch Malfoy in the act.." Harry started when Hermione cut him off. "Well, if it really means that much to you Harry, we'll help. I know you won't rest till you find out what exactly Malfoy's up to, so I guess Ron and I will help." "Yea, Harry. If it really means that much, we'll help. By the way, have you worked out that egg yet? The next task's right after Christmas! I doubt you'd wanna spoil your Christmas by mulling over what's to come, would you?" Ron eyed Harry, with a smirk. "Er, yea. I'm almost done with the egg anyway. Let's all just forget about this. I'm getting hungry. What do ya say we stop by our dorms for some Chocolate Frogs?" Harry asked enthusiastically. It had been a long time since he had a peace of mind and Hermione and Ron made him feel tons better by offering to help him out with the whole Malfoy issue. Harry filled Ron and Hermione in on all that had happened from the start of term feast till Snape's lesson on their way to the Gryffindor Common Room. Harry was determined to nip Malfoy's dastardly plans in the bud, and now that he has his two best friends by his side, nothing was going to stop him from uncovering Draco Malfoy's ploy.
~-~
The next morning, Harry sat next to Lodina, Ginny, Hermione and Ron during breakfast. Just when they were appreciating their 'Draco-free' breakfast, Draco Malfoy along with his Slytherin Guard, which was headed by none other than Iman, strolled into the Great Hall; but instead of taking their seats at the Slytherin bench, the whole Slytherin group made a bee-line for the Gryffindor bench. "Well, well, well. Look what the troll dragged in this morning! If it isn't lil' pothead and his posse" smirked Draco. As if on impulse, the rest of his Slytherin Guard started laughing their heads off at Malfoy's crude remarks. Just then, Draco caught sight of Lodina. She was quietly nibbling her toast, trying her best to avoid eye contact with Draco. "It's now or never. If I could just slip a little bit of this potion into her juice. Lodina will fall for me right now!" thought Draco has he prepared to discreetly pour some of his Love Potion into Lodina's drink. The Slytherin Guard provided a good distraction. Even Lodina was now trying to help Harry and the others fend off the Slytherin's spiteful comments. It was a perfect time for Draco to 'strike'. Just then, Iman turned around and being the great oaf that he was, he tipped over Lodina's glass of juice and ruined Draco's perfect opportunity of casting Lodina under his 'spell'. "Iman, remind me. Just how many times have I told you to turn around carefully without knocking over anything and EVERYTHING in your way?" Draco spat at Iman.
Disgusted at the lack of luck he had had since the Halloween Ball, Draco left for the Slytherin Table.The Slytherin Guard took their leave from the Gryffindor Bench when Draco turned towards the Slytherin side of the Great Hall, puzzled at Draco's erratic behaviour. Harry and the others thought it weird too that Draco had suddenly decided to abandon his ritual tauntings and insult-throwing at the Gryffindors. If only Iman had not been such a careless baffoon everything would have worked out fine for Draco. Getting Lodina to like him was certainly becoming a more difficult task indeed! Draco slumped down in his chair and stared over at Harry and Ron. "Those gits are soo thick sometimes. I don't know what she sees in them! Why is she hanging around those dufuses all the time?" Draco fumed, as he poked his toast with his butterknife. "What was that darling? Did you say something?" Pansy drew closer to Draco, hoping he'd kiss her. Draco hated when she bated her eyelashes and started putting on her 'Pansy-charm'. Her slutty behaviour was such a turn-off, but he was too angry to care. Why didn't Lodina care for him the way he did? Draco reached over and pulled Pansy close to him and engaged in her in such a fiery kiss that all the other Houses were now looking over at the Slytherin bench. Draco poured out all his rage into that kiss with Pansy. He knew she was loving every bit of it, but he didn't care. All he wanted to do was to spite Lodina. Make her see what she was missing. Draco pulled away from the kiss just as fast as he plummeted into it. "My darling! I love you sooo much!" Pansy bated her eyelashes at him once more and turned to get a bite out of her croissant. "Isn't it ironic? I'm just using you to get to Lodina. Oh well. Whatever works for me." Draco thought as he got back to his breakfast, looking straight at Lodina who was still determined to be unperturbed by whatever Draco was doing. "You can try to avoid me now Lodina, but no one can resist the charms of Draco Malfoy..." Draco smirked as he finished the rest of his breakfast and headed off to his first lesson of the day.
~-~
One month had flew so fast and now it was almost Christmas. "Aren't you excited Harry? We're finally going to meet Sirius and his fiance Tonks! I hear Tonks is really bubbly. I can't wait to meet them! It was awfully nice of them to invite all of us over for Christmas." Hermione started. The Weasleys, Lodina, Hermione and Harry were all packed and ready to go. The journey to London was not as long as Harry had expected it to be as they spent most of their time guessing what their Christmas presents would be like. Harry had still no idea about the egg and the clue to the next task, but thought that he should leave it till after christmas. He did have one whole week after christmas before the start of the second task. He knew Hermione will not like the fact that he was procrastinating, but he thought 'Whatever Hermione didn't know won't hurt'. The whole gang was greeted by a familiar sound in platform 9 3/4. Harry could recognise Sirius' bark from a mile away. Seeing that Sirius was still a 'criminal' in the eyes of the ministry, he had to disguise himself as the big black dog when he came to meet Harry and the others. Beside him was a tall lady. Harry was surprised when he first saw her because she looked so cool with her pink short hair and her trendy outfit."Hi! You must be Harry! I'm Tonks. I don't know if Sirius has told you about me.." the lady started off when Lodina rushed forward to give her a hug! "Tonks!! It's great to see you!" Lodina beamed as she pulled away from Tonks. "Hi Tonks! Yea, Sirius did tell me about you, though our conversation did not last for very long due to certain circumstances..." Harry's voice trailed off as he recalled that night in the Gryffindor Common Room when he first found out about Lodina being Sirius' daughter. "Ok then. Is that all of you? Lets get you into the house then, shall we? All of you got your brooms? Good. Let me first cast the invisibility charm on all of you. Then we'd be good to go!" Tonks said as she tapped her wand on Lodina's head, followed by Hermione, Ginny, Fred, George and Ron. When she finally tapped her wand on Harry's head, he felt a tingling feeling all round his body. "Ok then. Now all of you, hop on your brooms and follow me!" Tonks said as she mounted her broom and headed off to a little sub-urban town. Sirius had turned back into his human form once Tonks had cast the invisibility spell on him and he was flying behind the whole lot of them. The journey to Grimmauld Place was very short and upon arrival, Sirius made a swish of his wand which made the whole Mansion materialise in front of them."That's bloody wicked Sirius! You've got to teach us that one!"Fred and George said in unison as they entered the House of Black. It was decorated with Christmas ornaments but still had that old and ancient feel to it. "Well this is it people! The House of Black! Make yourselves at home. Tonks will show you ladies to you room, and I will show you guys to your rooms." Sirius said. "Loccomoto trunks!" yelled Sirius as he directed the suitcases and trunks into their respective rooms. "It's really good to see you Harry, and I'm glad you lot will be spending Christmas here with us." Sirius smiled down at Harry as he gave him a huge bear-like hug. "I'm glad too Sirius. Really glad..." Harry beamed back at him. It was the start of the Christmas holidays and nothing could dampen their spirits now... or so it seemed...
[Tonks was grooving to Metallica's Enter Sandman |
~ sleepy]
~Nymphadora~
Draco gasped as he saw an image of the Dark Lord standing right in front of him. 'He must have used the teleportation spell...' Draco thought. The teleportation spell was similar to floo-powder, only it was used amongst Deatheaters. What struck Draco odd, however, was Iman standing next to the Dark Lord. 'What on earth are THEY doing here?! Together??!! Certainly the most strangest couple I've seen...' Draco tried to fight back a smirk. "What are you insolent fools doing over there? Get up now!" the Dark Lord commanded respect wherever he went and right now, he did look extremely irritable. Deciding that it wasn't the best time for witty repartee, Draco obediently abided by the Dark Lord's wishes. "Did you just come into contact with someone who possessed Heir blood, boy? Why did it sting tonight? Who were you with?" the Dark Lord pressed for answers. Draco stood very still, trying to calculate his next move. He had no idea Lodina's touch was soo powerful. Just then, Iman spoke. "After the second task, he was no where to be seen my Lord. That's when the rest of us grew worried. When I felt the Mark sting, I felt obliged to inform you Master..." Iman started but was quickly cut-off by Draco. "I was having a walk with my dear Pansy..." Draco started, desperately racking his brain for excuses. "What is she doing over there boy? Explain yourself now! We don't want to get into anyone's bad books now do we? My patience is wearing thin..." the Dark Lord lashed out at Draco. Lying to the Dark Lord was no easy feat. Especially not when Iman was there to sod things in as well. The Dark Lord was also an accomplished Legilimens himself and could tell almost instinctively if anyone around him was lying to him. Draco had been practicing Occlumency to empty his mind so that it would be difficult for anyone to read into his thoughts. Occlumency was particularly useful whenever he had close encounters, such as this, with the Dark Lord. 'What is that fool doing? Didn't I tell him to let Crabbe and Goyle call the shots when I was gone? Must have reflected off his thick skull. We're gonna have a long talk after this!' Draco frowned as he finally found an excuse as to what had happened that night. "Pansy and me snuck out to Hogsmeade for a lil' party after the second task, my Lord. She passed out after three glasses of Gin with Dragon's Blood. As to why the Mark stung tonight, I have no idea, my Lord..." Draco gritted his teeth as he bowed down to the Dark Lord. The Dark Lord eyed Draco suspiciously, but after awhile, he had given in to Draco's alibi. "Very well. I know one of the Deatheaters have come into contact with someone who possesed the blood of an Heir or Drakon; or else, it wouldn't have stung this much. I will get to the bottom of this myself. You know why you're here don't you? You have a task to fulfill and I will be most displeased if it did not unfold according to plan... Crucio!" the Dark Lord hissed as he pointed his wand to Iman who was now writhing in pain as spasms of electric jolts shot up through his body. After a few seconds, the Dark Lord ceased his torture on Iman and spoke in a deathly tone. "This is only but a mere fraction of what I do to those who disobey me. I did not give your father powers just so that his son would ruin my plans. The time for you to prove your worth is drawing near. I suggest you concentrate on what you have to do instead of entertaining yourself." the Dark Lord paused as he gave a bemused but dark smile at Pansy who was lying on the ground. "Yes my Lord. I will not fail you." Draco said as he bowed down once more before the image of the Dark Lord vanished into thin air.
~ cynical] 
~ hazy] 
~ loved ] 
~ reflective]
~ mellow]
~ high]
~ sleepy]