“I
am not a what!” Harry strained. “How many times do I have
to tell you that? I’m not a what. I’m a who. A who. Don’t
call me a what. I’m not a what. I’m a who.” “Yes,
I’m sorry. Forgive me,” Albus said. “I know how
sensitive you are about that.” “I’m
not sensit…” Harry gritted his teeth and pushed Draco
off his lap to pace the floor. “I swear you make me so mad
sometimes…” Harry paced with one hand on his hip. “Why
do you do this? Why? Do you just like me trashing your room?” “No,
of course not. Calm down, Harry,” Albus said. “Calm
down? Look what you did,” Harry pointed to Hermione. “You
see her? She’s a nightmare! And Draco is just as bad as she is
about doing that…that…nosey thing with me. And now you?
Oh god…” Harry growled as he paced. “You do this
on purpose to me. I swear you do. You like to just piss me off and
see how far you can push me before I blow up the school!” Harry
rolled his eyes. “And I’m not a what!” “No,
I know that. You’re not a what,” Albus said with a small
chuckle. “And
it’s not funny. Not funny at all,” Harry said turning his
back on Albus. “One of these days I will just…you
irritate me to death.” “So
what are you?” Draco asked with a grin. All the students
snickered and Harry shook his head. “I’m
not a what! I’m stupid for bringing you here is what I am,”
Harry said. “I’m leaving.” Harry walked and was
almost at the door. “Harry.
Stop,” Albus said firmly. “Come back here.” “No.
You embarrass me,” Harry turned to show his concerned and
almost hurt expression. “You have no idea what these people
think of me already. And why did you mention that? Why?” “I’m
sorry,” Albus said kindly. “I had assumed that since you
did go where you went today, that they would know.” “No.
They don’t know,” Harry said quietly looking to Albus and
the others with his scowl of concern. “And I never intended
anyone to know but you.” “There
is no reason to be embarrassed, Harry,” Albus said. “It’s
just one of those things about you that is interesting.” “I’m
interesting enough,” Harry said. “I
think you’re fascinating,” Draco said with flair getting
rewarded with a shy grin from Harry. “And mine.” Draco
laughed. “Oh
god you’re stupid,” Harry said crossing his arms still
standing near the door. “Tell
us, Harry,” Hermione smiled. “We love hearing about you.” “Oh
you’re so lucky,” Harry said. “Go read a book.” “I’ve
already read all the books about you,” Hermione teased. The
others snickered. “That’s
not funny,” Harry said quietly hanging his head a bit. “Come
over here,” Draco held out his hand. Harry didn’t move.
“Come over here before I kick your ass.” The other
students tensed at Draco’s language in front of the Headmaster. “Draco,
please refrain from such expletives in my presence please,”
Albus asked kindly. “Sure,
sir. Harry? See what you did? You got me into trouble,” Draco
said. “I think you owe me now.” “I
owe you? I owe you nothing,” Harry said. “Yes
you do. I can’t love a what,” Draco said. “You need
to explain to me how a what is a who. And that made no sense.”
Everyone laughed and Harry couldn’t hold back a grin at
himself. “Come on. Please?” Draco asked nicely with that
look that Harry couldn’t resist. “Oh
hell,” Harry stomped over and sat with a flop in the chair and
gave Albus the meanest look he could muster. “You
don’t phase me with that look,” Albus teased with a grin.
Harry leaned back in the chair and crossed his arms again. “You’re
pouting.” “Yes,
I am,” Harry said. “Harry,
we’d like to hear anything that you’d care to share,”
Debbie said sweetly with comfort. “And if you don’t want
to tell us, then…we’ll just ask the Headmaster.”
Harry had to laugh with everyone else at Debbie’s
uncharacteristic display at being a Hufflepuff. “You
need to have that sorting hat fixed,” Harry told Albus. “She’s
a Gryffindor.” “She’s
bordering on being a Slyth,” Draco said. “If she hangs
around you and me too much, she’ll get worse.” “Oh
joy,” Harry said. “Another one to torment me. I can
hardly wait.” “So?
Tell us then,” Ron said in that best friend way. “Tell us
again how weird you are.” “Ron,
I swear I’ll slit your throat if you don’t shut up,”
Harry said. “And
that is part of why you are who you are,” Albus said. “Warring
always. I think you need to tell your friends.” “These
people aren’t my friends. I hate these idiots,” Harry
grinned at them. “Shut
up,” Dean said. “We are friends. So…just…shut
up, Harry.” “See?”
Harry asked. “They’re mean and…just not very nice
people.” “You
better start talking and telling us something before I hex you into
bits,” Draco said. “Like
you could do that,” Harry said. “Fine.
I’ll slice you up with the grankas,” Draco said. “You
did good on those casts today, by the way.” “You
used the grankas today?” Albus asked. “Yeah.
I killed three Randars,” Harry said. “When we were on the
little adventure thing we had today. I scared the piss out of
Neville.” “I
wasn’t too scared,” Neville said. “Well…I
was, but at least I didn’t break anything this time.”
Harry patted Neville’s knee. “You
did good,” Harry said. “I’m proud of you, Nev.
You’re getting better at doing these funky dangerous crazy
things I do. One day you’ll learn not to follow me around.” “We
never learned that,” Ron said to Hermione who shook her head. “Potter,
I’m not known as a very patient person, so…spill it
already. I want to know about the what and who thing,” Draco
said. “Fine.
What do you want to know? Albus will tell you,” Harry said.
“But I’m still not a what. I’m not. I’m a
human and a who.” “We
can see that,” Seamus said. “Can
you?” Albus asked. “Is that what you see?” The
other students looked at Harry closely who stared at Albus with a
glare. “Don’t look at me like that.” “I’m
contemplating how to kill you the least painful way,” Harry
teased. “Are
you saying you’re not human?” Draco asked. “Draco,
you of all people should know I’m human,” Harry said
giving Draco a look. “Sort of.” “You’re
sort of human?” Dean asked and the others laughed except Harry
and Albus. “Are
you?” Debbie asked. “Yes,
I’m human,” Harry said and then paused. “In part.” “Whoa.
Stop,” Draco said. “In part? You’re only part
human? What the hell are you talking about?” Harry closed his
eyes and shook his head for a moment. “Yes.
I’m human in part,” Harry said. “I’m mostly
human, in fact.” “So
what’s the other part?” Hermione asked. “Something
else,” Harry said softly. “You
better start saying more words,” Draco said. Harry gave Albus
the look for help. “Let’s
begin by telling about your birth,” Albus said. Harry nodded a
bit and took off his glasses to rub his eyes as Albus continued. “The
month of July is ruled by the planet Mars who is named after the
Roman god Mars, which is also the Greek God of Ares who is the god of
War. Ares was the son of the great god Zeus and his wife Hera. Ares
was constantly at war and loved to fight for the just and right
cause. He was ruled by his emotional strengths and was a bloodthirsty
warrior with a mighty heart filled with love always ready to defend
and protect those who he loved.” “Gee,
that sounds familiar,” Hermione said. Harry gave her the look
and a sneer. “But
that’s only mythology,” Debbie said. “No.
That is not mythology,” Albus said. “You’ll
love this part, Draco,” Harry said. “You’ll just
love this crap.” “Why
is that?” Draco asked. “You’ll
see. Go on,” Harry told Albus. “Ares
was smitten with the goddess of Aphrodite,” Albus said. “She,
in being the most lovely and desirable of the goddesses, was seduced
the Ares and they were lovers.” “So?
Is that it?” Draco asked. “Do
you not know of Aphrodite, Draco?” Hermione asked Draco who
shook his head. “Aphrodite was the blondest and fairest skinned
of the goddesses. Her cutting wit and quick temper were notorious and
thus none of the other gods would seek her company even though she
was the most beautiful of them all.” Harry gave Draco a look to
which Draco smirked. “Point
taken,” Draco drawled with sarcasm. The others snickered
including Harry. “Ares
and Aphrodite had four sons,” Albus explained. “Three of
those sons became musicians with terrible tempers, but the youngest
son became a warrior like his father and was very kind natured and
good. The youngest son, Anri, was favored over the others by his
father, and the other three became jealous of him. The youngest son
was killed by his brothers and his spirit was sent away from the
realm where the gods dwelt. That spirit was sent to Terra.” “Earth,”
Debbie said. “Yes,”
Albus said. Harry closed his eyes again. “That spirit of Anri
chooses one worthy in which to dwell on earth. One who is filled with
goodness and is kind hearted to others. One who will take up the
fight for those who cannot do so for themselves. But also one with
the power to accomplish such acts.” “I
wonder where that spirit dwells now?” Draco asked in sarcasm
with a smile as the others had. “Harry, would you possibly
know?” “I
think I might have a small idea,” Harry said shortly giving
Draco a look. “Notice
that Anri is short for the name Henry. Which is thus interpreted to
the English name of Harry,” Albus said. “Isn’t that
interesting?” “Oh
yes very interesting,” Harry said as if bored to tears. “So
you’re like possessed by some dead guy?” Ron asked with a
grin that everyone laughed hard and even Harry grinned.
“No,”
Harry said shaking his head. “It’s
also interesting that Ares as the son of Zeus learned to fight with
the weapons of his father,” Albus said. “Lightening
bolts.” “And…”
Draco leaned over to look at Harry’s scar. Harry never moved.
“You bear a lightening mark there Harry. Isn’t that
neat?” “Yeah.
Neat,” Harry said shortly. “But
what about the part human thing?” Dean asked. “Harry
Potter is human,” Albus said. “But he is also fused with
another being who is so much a part of Harry, that they are one.
There is no separate part of Harry and Anri. There is only one Harry
Potter.” “Thank
god,” Draco teased with a grin. Harry rolled his eyes. “There
have been others like Harry in historical texts. Ones fused with the
spirit of a semi-deity,” Albus said. “They are referred
to as the Enigmas. Enigma meaning something that baffles
understanding and cannot be explained or one that is puzzling,
ambiguous, or inexplicable. There were no explanations for the things
those who held the power of being Enigmas could do and they were
feared as monsters or having been under the influences of evils and
demonic forces. They were shunned and forced into solitary loneliness
by their own differences from others. Enigmas are known to have gone
insane by their own tendency to seek out aloneness.” “Are
you quite finished?” Harry asked. “You do realize that
you just told them that I’m insane, right?” “I
said nothing of the sort,” Albus said. “I only said that
ones like you tend to seek to be alone because you feel different and
that could lead to mental disturbances.” “But
you used me and mental disturbances in the same sentence,”
Harry said. “That counts with these people.” Harry
motioned to the students. “They already think I’m a
lunatic.” “You
do tend to be a bit eccentric,” Albus said. Harry snorted his
disapproval. “I’m
normal and just a seventeen year old wizard with difficult hair,”
Harry said with a grin. “And one irritating scar. That’s
it. I’m normal no matter what you all say. So there.” “Fine.
You’re normal,” Neville said. “Yes.
You’re as normal as one could be at being part human,”
Michael said. “And
very normal for a mixture of a part mythological person,”
Debbie said. “You’re
the most normal freak I ever met,” Draco teased. “I
will personally kill you for starting this,” Harry told Albus.
“Why did you do that? You do crap like this just to set me off
on a rampage.” “No,
I don’t,” Albus said. “I do things like this to
remind you of who you are.” “Like
I need reminding of who I am?” Harry asked with wide-eyed
disbelief. “Look at me. Do I look like I need reminding? Hell,
everyone I know reminds me a thousand times a day. I’m trying
to forget who I am. Wouldn’t you?” “No.
I think you need to deal with it,” Ron said. “Because you
don’t deal with things. You just…push them aside and
ignore things.” “I
do not,” Harry said. “I can’t ignore anything. I
deal with things on my own.” “Well,
I still don’t care who you are. I still can’t stand you,”
Draco said. “My level of loathing for you has just increased
exponentially.” Harry laughed softly. “You
are just too much,” Harry said. “Draco, I mean it. You
are just terrible.” “You
just said he was great,” Dean said. “Did
you say I was great?” Draco asked with a smile. “No.
It’s a lie,” Harry said. “You
liar,” Hermione said. “I think we know how you feel about
Draco, Harry.” “Whatever.
Are we done with me now?” Harry asked. “Let’s go.” “No.
So that you’re like this part human thing, what can you do with
that?” Ron asked. “Ron…”
Harry whined. “The
mixture lends certain abilities which Harry has mastered,”
Albus said. “Don’t.
Don’t…just…don’t,” Harry said.
“I’m…I’m tired. I need to go to bed.” “It’s
only eight thirty,” Draco said. “So?
I’ve had a hard day,” Harry said. “Let’s just
go.” “You
had a nap,” Hermione argued. Harry clenched teeth. “Fine!”
Harry said. “Oh god you people get on my nerves. What’s
the big deal? You know I can do stuff so let it go.” “But
we want to know why you can do what you do,” Debbie said. “It’s
just that we like you, Harry. You have abilities that we don’t
have. We find that very fascinating.” “She’s
right,” Seamus said. “We know that you do stuff, but…you
hardly ever say anything, Harry.” “We
just want to know about you,” Neville said quietly. “Are
you sure you want to tell them this? It could be a security breach,”
Harry said grasping at anything to shut them up. “I
don’t think your friends will turn on you and go into
Voldemort’s service,” Albus said. “Do you?” “Yes.
Every one of them,” Harry said in a teasing way. “You
guys, I don’t want to talk about this. Let’s just go.” “But
wait a minute,” Ron said thinking. “Does you being an
Enigma have anything to do with your prophesy about destroying
Voldemort?” “No,”
Albus said. “That is a separate occurrence altogether, like
certain other things are separate that Harry can do. His ability for
parseltongue, for instance. That ability was solely for the direct
descendants of Salazaar himself. Harry received that gift from
Voldemort when Harry was cursed as a baby. Another ability is the
fragmenting, another his ability at elemental magic, another of
Dinius fire, another of Fauvore’s wind, and the ability to tap
into the flow of magic.” “I
never heard of those things,” Hermione said. “I know what
fragmenting is, but Dinius fire and Fauvores’s wind?” “Dinius
fire means I can strike,” Harry said. “It’s not
fire at all, really. It’s a fighting thing.” The others
looked confused. “It’s like lightening as a weapon.” “Show
them,” Albus said. “Just don’t destroy my room.” “Are
you sure you want me to do this?” Harry asked. “I will if
you say it’s okay.” “You
may,” Albus said. “Fine.
Sit still so I don’t fry anybody,” Harry said as he
raised his hand and threw it forward as in throwing a forward pass. A
streak of lightening shot forth from his hand and hit the bookshelf
blowing it up in a burst of flames. Harry flung out a hand and made a
fist. The fire and damage were gone. “There. Happy now?” “You
can throw lightening bolts like the Roman god Zeus,” Debbie
said. “You
could say that he was like your grandfather sort of,” Dean
said. Harry gave Dean the how-stupid-are-you look. “Shut
your hole,” Harry said. “It’s just one of those
stupid things I can do.” “What
is that wind thing?” Ron asked with a scowl. “This
is a very interesting gift,” Albus grinned. “Harry has
the ability of unaided flight.” “Oh
god,” Harry said rubbing his temples. “You
told me that,” Draco said. “Without a broom, right?” “Yes,”
Harry said. “But I’m not doing it in here. Forget it.
I’ll show you later or something. Can we go now?” “How?
How do you fly?” Hermione asked. “I
just do,” Harry said. Albus started to chuckle loudly. “And
don’t do that.” “It
was a very interesting day when Harry was practicing that particular
gift for the first time,” Albus laughed out loud. “It was
so funny, Harry. I’m sorry.” “I
hate you,” Harry teased. “You will be the death of me one
day. I hope you’re happy.” “I
am happy. I have never had a student with as many gifts as you,”
Albus said. “And you may have more that we’ve not
discovered.” “Don’t
you even say that to me,” Harry said. “If one more stupid
thing happens to me, I’m just…I will absolutely just….”
Harry flung a hand and threw a burst of lightening up which fanned
out over the ceiling like a spider’s web but it never damaged
anything. “Is
that how you write in clouds and stars?” Draco asked. “No.
That’s elemental magic,” Harry said. “It’s
like…earth control. Control of the elements. It’s hard
to do. Difficult to learn to control especially for me because it
wants to come out naturally from me but I have to hold it in. That’s
why I have to keep a bit of control over my overly emotional nature.
If I get pissed off I can make a storm or something if I’m not
careful.” Harry insulted himself with a sad grin. “Headmaster,
you mentioned tapping into the flow of magic,” Michael asked.
“I’ve read of that before. Could you explain that?” “There
is a constant flow of magic everywhere. Magic can penetrate objects,
persons, the air and every element on the earth,” Albus
explained. “That constant flow of magic is all connected and
carries within it great knowledge of things. When one is able to tap
into that great flow, certain things can be learned and done with
that power. I’m sure you’ve questioned Harry on how he
knows certain things? That’s how he knows them. Harry is a
constant fixture on that flow. As am I.” “So
when you say you just know stuff, that means that…well…you
just know stuff,” Dean said confidently as if it made sense. “Well
duh,” Harry said. “Okay.
So let me get this straight,” Hermione sat up properly
straighter on Ron’s lap. “Here
we go,” Harry said quietly. “The rundown. I’ve been
waiting on this.” “Shut
up, Harry,” Hermione grinned widely at her new knowledge.
Hermione counted off on her fingers. “Let’s get all this
stuff straight. Okay?” “Oh
yes we just have to do that,” Harry said sarcastically. “How
joyful.” “Harry,
lighten up,” Draco said. “Go Herm.” “Harry
was destined by a prophesy to destroy Voldemort,” Hermione
began. “Or
he could kill me,” Harry reasoned with the rest of the
prophesy. “Like
that will happen since you can do al this shit,” Ron said.
“Oops. Sorry, sir.” “Anything’s
possible because I can’t use the…um…” Harry
started. “Just go, Herm.” “We’ll
list your gifts first. You’re a level thirty nine in strength,
you speak parseltongue, you can fragment, you have the gift of
elemental magic, you have Dinius fire, you have Fauvore's wind and
you can tap into the flow of magic,” Hermione said. “Is
that right?” “That
sounds right,” Albus said. Harry nodded just a bit. “Is
that all, Harry?” “Is
that all? Don’t you think that’s enough?” Harry
asked. Everyone in the room laughed softly. “Shut up. I can’t
help it.” “Okay.
Now in the skills department, you use wandless magic, you can use the
grankas, and you know the Diatai,” Hermione said. “Anything
else?” “He
can throw knives,” Dean said. The other students snickered
again. “Anybody
can throw a knife,” Harry said as if it were stupid. “Not
like you can,” Ron said. “Harry
can use a sword,” Albus said. “Can’t you?” It
was a statement. “Yes,
I can use a sword,” Harry said flatly. “And a handgun if
necessary.” Harry noted the looks all around. “I can.
Moody showed me how to fire muggle weaponry. I can also use a bow and
arrow. So what? Anyone can do that.” “With
complete accuracy?” Albus asked. “Yes.
With practice,” Harry said. “I had to practice on the
bow.” “Sure.
For how long until you had complete accuracy?” Draco asked in
sarcasm. “Two
days,” Harry said. “It’s that natural fighting
thing I have. I can use weapons. I’m the perfect killer. That’s
what I am.” “I
thought you said you weren’t a what,” Albus said. Harry
snorted. “Stop
it,” Harry said. “You’re twisting my words. I’m
a who not a what. Are we done?” “Unless
there’s anything else we need to know,” Draco said. “Is
there anything you can’t do?” Dean asked. Harry sat still
for a moment and sighed. “Yes.
I can’t bring back my parents and I can’t make wizards
not choose the dark,” Harry said seriously. “And if I
can’t do those things, then what good is all this other crap
that I can do?” Harry’s serious tone took everyone off
guard and nobody spoke for several tense moments. “That’s
what I thought. Totally useless crap is all it is. So, I’ll
kill Voldemort like I’m supposed to do, and then what will
happen to me? Care to enlighten them on that one?” Harry asked
Albus harshly. “Calm
down,” Albus said kindly. Harry gave a laugh of disgust. “You
know what will happen to me,” Harry spat. “You already
know what they want. And how long until I’m tired of running
from it? From them? The rest of my miserable life?” “What
are you talking about? Running from who? What will happen?”
Draco asked. “Ask
him,” Harry said in a hurt tone pushing Draco off his lap and
walking quickly out the door. “Harry,
wait!” Albus yelled but Harry had left Albus’ quarters. “This
is the same thing that he got upset over before,” Hermione
said. “We were speaking of what will happen after Voldemort and
Harry just…left the room.” “What
will happen, Albus?” Draco asked. “Will Harry be…what
will happen?” “We’ve
discussed it,” Albus said. “The Ministry fears Harry as
much as they do Voldemort. Possibly even more so. Harry holds
tremendous power, Draco. Much more that any wizard that has ever
lived. Harry will rival the great Merlin himself in time and that is
what the Ministry fears. The Ministry will allow Harry to destroy
Voldemort, but then the Ministry will wish to destroy Harry in their
fear of him.” “They
can’t destroy Harry,” Ron said. “Harry is too
powerful to allow it.” “But
he may allow it,” Hermione said in grave realization. Albus
nodded. “If Harry thought that he may pose a threat, or if the
Ministry could convince Harry that he was a danger, Harry, in his
role as a warrior for good would sacrifice himself to save others. As
a martyr.” “And
that is my fear,” Albus said. “The Ministry tries to
impose on me to keep Harry sedated at all times for fear that he may
harm the other students or by some accident he could destroy the
school and kill everyone here. After Voldemort is gone, the Ministry
will be even more persistent in trying to take Harry to control him
and eventually destroy him.” “They
can’t do that,” Draco said. “The Ministry has no
right to kill someone out of fear of their power.” “You’re
quite right,” Albus said. “Harry suspects that even
though he will kill Voldemort, that the Ministry will charge him with
the crime of murder with legitimate cause to send him to Azkaban, or
even impose a death penalty. And…I think he’s right.” “That’s
crazy. Voldemort is a dark evil wizard and needs to be destroyed,”
Seamus said. “And
everyone knows Harry is the one to do that,” Dean said. “Yes.
Giving the Ministry just cause to apprehend him,” Albus said. “But
that’s not fair,” Ron said. “When
has life ever been fair to Harry Potter?” Neville asked. “Oh
god,” Draco said. “I can’t bear to think it. There
is no way the Ministry will charge him will killing Voldemort.” “They’ve
tried already to charge Harry with every crime known,” Albus
said. “And there has never been any definite proof of a crime
and we’ve always managed to find loopholes to get out of his
charges. But with killing Voldemort there won’t be any denying
who did that. The Aurors will bear witness to his destruction and be
forced to testify against Harry at a trial if he’s charged.
It’s a closed case and Harry will lose.” “So
he plans on running from the Ministry after the battle with
Voldemort?” Debbie asked. “Harry mentioned running.” “Harry
won’t run,” Draco said. “Harry never runs. He’ll
give in to justice. He always does. Stupid Gryffindor.” “Harry
doesn’t wish to run,” Albus said. “We’ve
discussed the possibility that he could do just that and never be
apprehended, but Harry will tire of his inability to just simply live
his life without always having to hide and be someone he isn’t.
He will lose everything and everyone he’s ever known if he has
to leave us to save his own life.” “What
life? Staying on the run from the authorities is no life,” Ron
said. “Harry would hate that.” “You’re
right,” Albus said. “But neither Harry or myself can see
any way around it. That’s why Harry is upset. He will do the
good, fight a fair fight, take a victory over the darkness, but he
will still lose because he will have to choose either to let the
Ministry apprehend him and risk death, or flee and leave the only
life he’s ever known.” “I
hate this crap,” Ron said. “It’s not right. It’s
not.” “Poor
Harry,” Debbie said sadly. “Don’t
you say that about him,” Draco said with a scowl. “Don’t
pity Harry. Don’t ever do that. I won’t let you pity him.
He won’t have it. Harry will find a way. He will. I just know
it.” “I
hope he finds one soon,” Albus said. “His meeting with
Voldemort is on Saturday. That’s three days, Draco.” “I
don’t care,” Draco said. “He’ll find a way.
We’ll find a way. They won’t take him. I won’t let
Harry let the Ministry take him. I can’t.” “Draco,
don’t worry,” Hermione said. “I’m sure even
at a trial no one would prosecute Harry for killing Voldemort. That’s
insane.” “And
isn’t Harry on the High Five Council? Why can’t he use
that influence?” Neville asked. “Harry
is underage and isn’t an active member until his birthday,”
Albus said. “He is a member, but that won’t help in this
respect. If anything, he could be barred from the Council for even
being charged with a murder and going to a criminal trial.” “Oh
god,” Ron said. “This is stupid. The Ministry wants to
prosecute Harry Potter for killing Voldemort? Do you know how
ridiculous that sounds?” “There
is no guarantee that the Ministry will prosecute,” Albus said.
“But it’s the only way that they’ll ever get Harry
from me and they know that. They want Harry more than anything, and
they will find a way to get him eventually. And he knows that.” “Where
do you think Harry went, Draco?” Hermione asked. “Back
to his hidden room maybe” Draco said. “But…he
could be absolutely anywhere. Albus, do you know where he might go?” “Harry
will go someplace where he can let go as much as possible,”
Albus said. “When upset, Harry will fight. That’s what he
does.” “He’ll
go outside,” Ron said. “That
makes sense,” Hermione said. “Whenever
Harry was upset even at twelve years old, he’d go pick a fight
with you, Malfoy,” Dean said. “Believe
me, I know,” Draco said. “Why do you think I kept Crabbe
and Goyle around? For their interesting conversational skills?” “Headmaster,
is there anything we can do?” Debbie asked. “Anything at
all to help Harry?” “You’re
offer is very kind, Miss McCaulk,” Albus said. “But there
is nothing any of us can do at this point. We are only being swept
along on the current of events that is Harry’s destiny. Harry’s
battle is coming soon. He’s known it his entire life and he is
more than prepared to face any foe.” “Even
the Ministry?” Hermione asked them all. “I
hate it,” Ron spat. “Harry suffers. Every damn time he is
always suffering for something. All the time and I just can’t
stand it.” Ron hit the arm of the chair hard. “What
if someone else killed Voldemort?” Neville asked. “Sure,
Nev,” Dean said. “Like who? You?” “I
would try it to keep the Ministry from killing Harry,” Neville
said with confidence. “Harry’s saved my life more than
once. It’s only fitting that I should do something for him.” “Your
loyalty to your friend is admirable, Neville,” Albus said. “But
only one person has the ability to destroy Voldemort and that is
Harry Potter.” “So
he’s screwed either way,” Dean said. “Oh god. Why?
Why?” “Should
we go try to find him?” Draco asked Albus who sat for a moment. “Give
Harry a bit of time to himself,” Albus said. “He may come
back to me if he needs assistance or if…” At that moment
a loud crash of thunder sounded from Albus’ outside and the
students all turned to the window to see a shower of lightening and
hear two more earth shattering cracks of booming thunder. “I
think he’s a bit upset.” “Oh
god,” Seamus whispered. “This
should be interesting,” Albus said standing. “Come with
me.” Albus led the students from the room and down the corridor
in the opposite direction from which they’d suspected he’d
go. After several turns, Albus led them to the long outside corridor
with open windows Albus peered out the open arcs into the darkness
for several moments and then began to walk again. The students
followed Albus in silence and Draco subconsciously rubbed his wrist
and the words left on his skin as he walked. Hermione noticed and put
her arm around Draco’s shoulders for support as the thunder
outside kept coming in crashing sonic booms. “He’ll
be alright,” Hermione whispered to Draco as they walked. “There
has to be a way to keep him from the Ministry,” Draco said
softly to her holding up his wrist for her to see. “I will not
let Harry go, Hermione.” Draco looked into her eyes and she
could see the hurt and confusion in his own. “I love him. I
can’t let him go.” “I
know you do,” Hermione said giving a squeeze with a small
smile. “Harry is lucky to have you, Draco. We’ll find a
way.” Draco nodded slowly as they walked. Albus peered out over
the lawn as the students gathered around to look out the window. When
the next flashes of webbed lightening crossed the sky, the point of
that lightening was lit upon the lawn. One lone solitary figure stood
in the darkness so far away as the lightening, wind and thunder
abounded in the skies. Harry paced a few feet back and forth in the
distance before he reached down to his shirt hem and tugged his
t-shirt off over his head and threw it hard away from him. “He
hates wearing a shirt,” Albus said shaking his head. “I’m
glad. Harry’s a babe,” Draco said watching Harry. All
heads turned to Draco who never let his gaze leave the one outside.
“You all know that’s true, so live with it.” As
they watched, Harry threw his hands about within the blowing winds
and thunder creating the static electricity of the zigzagging of
lightening which emanated from him in bright bursts. Harry stilled
and held out his arms and the first raindrops began to fall, within
seconds a downpour was sweeping across the lawn and the entire
Wizarding world. “Harry’s
tears are many,” Albus said in a whisper of the sheeting rain.
Still Harry stood in the rain with arms held from him. “That’s
the saddest thing I’ve ever seen,” Ginny said of Harry
standing in the rain. Harry made fists with his hands, raised his
face to the drops from the skies and as if trying to force something
from himself, Harry’s anguished crying scream of misery and
desperation tore at their hearts. The scream was the gripping pain of
one seemingly dying and cursing the heavens and earth in its
unfairness. “No.
I think that was the saddest thing you’ve ever heard,”
Ron corrected in a quiet voice. Harry’s scream echoed over the
lawn and reverberated down the hallways and corridors as the rains
pelted, the thunders rolled and the lightening danced its mockery in
the skies. Harry’s arms fell and he dropped to his bum on the
wet ground and then lay back on the soppy grass in spread eagle style
allowing the soothing drops of water to fall onto his skin to help in
easing his pain. “Can
we go out to him?” Hermione asked. “No.
Leave him for now,” Albus said. “I shall retire to my
quarters. I must ask each of you to keep what you know to yourselves
for now.” All the heads nodded. “Curfew is in one hour.
Good evening to you all.” Albus gave them a short nod and
turned to walk down the corridor again. After several minutes he was
gone and Harry still lay in the pouring rain as the others watched
from afar. “We
could go back to the common room,” Michael said. “We
could go to the Ministry and take down the whole fucking building,”
Draco said as he still watched Harry’s stillness lying in the
rain. “And
that would accomplish what?” Hermione asked. “Nothing.
I would just enjoy that,” Draco said. “The
Ministry would just try to blame Harry for it,” Debbie said.
“Then we’d be stuck right back where we are now.” “I
don’t understand it,” Neville said as they all turned to
him. “Wouldn’t Harry just be defending himself when he
killed Voldemort? That’s self-defense. Could they prosecute him
for defending himself?” The other students stood for a moment
in silent thought. “That’s
not a bad idea, Nev,” Ron said. “I wonder why Albus never
mentioned it.” “It
probably wouldn’t matter,” Hermione said. “The
Ministry will bring Harry to trial anyway. All the judges and court
members work for the Ministry. It’s a frame up.” “So,
what if Harry just doesn’t kill Voldemort?” Debbie asked.
“If Voldemort isn’t killed then Harry won’t go to
trial.” “He
has to do it,” Draco said. “Harry will do it. I know it.
Not destroying Voldemort isn’t an option in Harry’s mind
because he’s destined and he knows it’s just the right
thing to do.” “Then
fuck the right thing to do,” Ron said. “Is killing Harry
the right thing? That’s what the Ministry will try after Harry
does the right thing.” “It’s
irrelevant if Harry kills Voldemort or not at this point,”
Hermione said. “The Ministry will come after Harry regardless
of what he does.” Harry sat up for a few moments and eventually
stood lazily. With a light stretch, He turned and began to walk
toward the other side of the school trudging through the mud and
rain. “Come
on,” Draco said to them as they began to walk quickly in the
direction where Harry would come in. When they turned the last corner
Harry was up ahead in the hallway walking barefoot with no shirt,
soaked from head to toe and leaving wet puddles of water and mud in
the floor on the way. “I
know you’re there,” Harry said as he walked, never
turning to them. “Then
wait up,” Draco said as Harry stopped with his back still to
them. The students hurried along and when they were closer he began
walking again. Little trails of raindrops ran down his back and
chest. “Nice
storm,” Draco said with an attempt at humor. Harry kept
walking, as did the others in silence toward the Gryffindor common
room. “Harry, do you like broccoli?” Harry stopped and
turned to look at Draco with a confused look. “What?”
Harry asked as if it were insane. “Broccoli.
Do you like it?” Draco asked. Harry gave the head tilt of
complete and utter lack of comprehension. “What?
Broccoli? Why?” Harry asked. “Because
sometimes when we have broccoli at meals you eat it and sometimes you
don’t,” Draco asked. Harry squinted in his attempt at
understanding and then gave the confused scowl. “I
eat it when it’s with cheese, but I don’t really care for
it plain,” Harry answered carefully. “Why the hell are
you asking me of broccoli?” Harry gave a tiny grin. “I
just always wondered about it and…I just had to know,”
Draco said as the other students snickered. Harry shook his head
slightly looking at Draco as if he’d turned some unpleasant
shade of green. “You
are so very damn odd,” Harry said. “I will never
understand you.” “And
you still stay around me?” Draco asked. “Yeah.
You baffle the hell out of me,” Harry said. “I have to
stay around you to see what you’ll do next. It’s…very
interesting.” “Oh,
I see. That must be why I stay around you, too,” Draco said.
The point hit home. Draco smirked and Harry realized. “Point
taken, asshole,” Harry said lowly in as he walked on and the
others followed. The ten came to the portrait and through the common
room. Soaking wet and barefoot, Harry led the group up the dorm
stairs as all the others in the common room stared at the silent
group following one wet Harry Potter. When everyone was in the dorm,
Harry knelt at his trunk and threw his soft black trousers, thin
black ribbed long sleeved pullover, black socks and one black knit
cap from the trunk and threw them on the bed next to Draco. Harry
took his underwear in his hand and stood. Draco, Ron and Hermione
surveyed his selection of clothing and Draco held up the shirt. “Interesting
choice of attire. All black?” Draco asked with that knowing
look. “Appropriate,”
Harry said shortly on the way to the bathroom. Hermione grabbed
Harry’s underwear from him as he passed. “Give me that.”
Hermione held it up. “Interesting,
Harry,” Hermione held the blue bikini briefs with a smile.
“Very nice.” “Are
you here to criticize my choice of undergarment?” Harry asked.
“Is that your sole purpose in life? To study me and poke fun at
everything I say and do?” “In
the greater scheme of things, yes. That’s exactly my purpose,”
Hermione said throwing Harry his underwear. Harry shook his head and
entered the bathroom. The shower began to run and Draco flopped back
on Harry’s bed. “He’s
a mess,” Seamus said. “He’s
just pissed off,” Michael said. “I
would be too,” Ginny commented. Draco sat up quickly and came
over to Seamus.
“Stand
up,” Draco said. Seamus stood up and Draco sized him up and
looked to Dean. “Stand up, Dean.” Dean stood up and Draco
sized him up as well. “You’re about my size. Do you have
anything solid black like that?” Draco pointed at the clothing
on Harry’s bed. “Yeah.
I have black trousers and socks,” Dean said. “I
have a black shirt almost just like that,” Seamus said. “Draco,
no,” Hermione said giving Draco the knowing look. “Hermione,
shut up,” Draco said. “Could I borrow your black stuff?”
Seamus and Dean dug through their trunks and drawers. “I
have a black cap like that,” Neville said. “You want it?” “Yes.
Thanks, Nev,” Draco said as Neville dug into his side drawer
and Draco took off his shoes and shirt. “I’m not shy so
if you don’t want to watch me change, then turn your head.” “Oh
yes, I’m sure we will all do that,” Ginny teased. Draco
gave a short laugh. “I
can see where Harry would be all over that,” Dean said of Draco
changing quickly into the all black attire. Just as Draco had retied
his shoes and slipped on the black cap. Harry opened the bathroom
door and came out in blue bikini underwear. Harry spotted Draco in
the all black. “No,”
Harry said shaking his head to Draco as he sat on his bed. “Yes,”
Draco said shortly. “No,”
Harry said slipping on his pants ignoring everyone as he dressed. “Yes,”
Draco said firmly. “What
part of ‘no’ do you not understand, Malfoy?” Harry
asked coldly. “The
N and the O,” Draco said. “I’m going.” “No,
you’re not,” Harry said. “Forget it. You don’t
even have a clue what I’m doing.” “And
as clueless as I am, I’m still going,” Draco said
standing and crossing his arms in defiance with the look of pure
confidence. “You’re
insane,” Harry said. “You have no business where I’m
going.” “Oh
no?” Draco said putting his wrist in front of Harry so that he
could read the words. Harry looked at the ‘Property of HJP’
and Draco gave the snarky eyebrow lift. “That’s
different,” Harry said pushing Draco’s arm away. “Not
to me,” Draco said with full meaning putting the wrist back so
that Harry could see again. “You’re
not going,” Harry said pushing Draco’s arm away as he
tied his soft black shoes. “Yes,
I am going,” Draco argued as all the other students watched
them closely but dared not speak a word. Harry finished with his
dressing and stuffed the cap into his back pocket when he stood. “No,
you’re not going,” Harry said trying to walk around Draco
toward the bathroom. Draco jumped up on Harry’s back and held
on as Harry just stood. Draco wrapped his arms around Harry’s
neck in piggyback style. “Draco? As fond as I am of your legs
wrapped around any part of my body, you are not going.” “Yes,
I am going and I’m not letting go of you until you tell me I
can,” Draco said. The students tried to cover their snickering.
Harry put his hands on his hips and shook his head. “Oh
god you are the most irritating fucker I know!” Harry yelled.
“You have bugged the hell out of me since the first moment I
laid eyes on you! You’re a pretentious and pushy, bossy and
utterly disturbing pain!” “Yes,
I am and I’m still going!” Draco yelled. “Get
off me!” Harry yelled and tried to move. Draco held tight and
wouldn’t let go. “Not
until you tell me that you won’t leave without me,” Draco
said. “No!
You’re not going!” Harry yelled trying to get Draco’s
hands from around him. “Yes,
I am!” Draco yelled. Harry stopped fighting. “I
hate you, Malfoy!” Harry yelled. “Fine!
I don’t give a shit! I hate you, too, Potty! But you’re
not leaving me!” Draco yelled. Harry hung his head and thought
for several long and silent moments. “Fine!
Dammit. You can go. Just let go of me,” Harry said. “I
sort of like this. It’s a turn on, don’t you think?”
Draco asked. Harry snorted and then laughed once. “Why
in hell does it have to be you? Why?” Harry asked himself the
philosophical question. “Why couldn’t it be someone nice
and sweet that doesn’t drive me insane? That would have been
good. But no. It has to be you, Draco. Why is that? Is my mind so far
gone that I have lost the capacity for rational thought?” “Potty,
you’ve never had that capacity,” Draco said sliding down
Harry’s body and off to stand. “And the worst part is
that you’re part Gryffindor which means that you won’t
leave without me because you keep your word.” “We
all can’t be perfect like you are,” Harry said as he
strode into the bathroom. “Very
true,” Draco said going to sit on the bed satisfied that he’d
again pushed around and got what he wanted. “You know I’ll
push you until I get my way. That’s the way the this thing
works, Potter.” “Are
you reminding me?” Harry asked. “You always get your
fucking way, you little shit.” “That’s
right. I do,” Draco called to him. “Especially with you.” “Especially
with everybody,” Ron said. Harry laughed from the bathroom. “One
of these days, Draco, you just wait…” Harry said.
“You’ll be sorry…” “I’m
sorry already,” Draco said. “I’m one sorry ass cold
and just down right mean mother fucker. But the thing is…you
love it. So shut the fuck up and tell me what we’re doing.
Could I be killed?” Harry came from the bathroom and stood with
hands on hips. “A
bit late to be asking now, isn’t it?” Harry asked giving
the look. “You want to play in the big league? Fine. I’ll
show you what it’s all about to play the danger game.” “Fine.
Bring it,” Draco said. Harry nodded. “Fine,”
Harry spat. “Fine!”
Draco yelled and then there was a heavy silence while the two faced
off across the room. Draco crossed his arms in a huff. “We’re
not going to get wet are we? You know what rain does to my hair.”
The students all snickered and laughed. Harry hung his hear and
rubbed his temples with his eyes closed. “Please
god. What have I have I got myself into?” Harry asked no one.
“No. We won’t get wet. But there might be some…”
Harry looked up and sighed a long and defeated wind. “You are a
one infected festering boil of puss on the ass of humanity.” “Don't
talk faster than your brain can process,” Draco drawled the
insult. “The last time I 'debated' with an adversary as skilled
as you was when I tripped over a mentally-ill, drooling slop wad with
a finger shoved up his nose waiting for enlightenment.” “It’s
better for you to be silent and be thought a fool, than to speak and
remove all doubt,” Harry said. “I will rejoice on the day
you learn to shut up. You make silence a wonderful prize to be had.” “When
I want your monkey-brained opinion I'll rattle your cage, you
slobbering gunk,” Draco hurled. “Making
sense isn't your area of expertise, is it?” Harry teased. “I
notice that you never let a good idea interrupt the flow of what you
think is conversation,” Draco said. “And this has been
the most one-sided verbal clobbering since an armless spastic dwarf
launched a head-butting assault on a hippogryff. You’re no
match for me. So crawl back into that hole of the useless and higher
brain functionally challenged and stay there where you belong.”
Harry folded his hands lightly in his lap and started at Draco for a
long time before he slightly grinned and shook his head. “Where
do you come up with that shit? Do you spend days just thinking of
that crap to sling at me when given the opportunity?” Harry
asked. “Of
course not. Don’t be daft,” Draco said. “With you
it’s natural. Insulting every single thing you think, say or do
is a way of life for me as it always has been because in being you,
you just beg to be made fun of. I simply cannot stand you, Potter.”
Harry sat with a flop on his bed. “Do
you all see what I have to put with at being with that?” Harry
pointed to Draco. “At least I have an excuse for being insane.” “You
wouldn’t have it any other way, Harry, and we all know it,”
Hermione said as Draco came over to push Harry back on the bed and
lay flush on him. Each stretched out their arms and laced their
fingers as they began to kiss deeply. “Half
the time they hate each other and the other half they can’t get
enough of each other,” Ginny said. “Is
there any point in trying to understand either of them?”
Michael asked. “No.
Not really,” Ron said. “That’s just what they are.” “I
think you just called them both whats,” Debbie asked. Harry had
wrapped his arms around Draco and they were on their sides wrapped
around each other with their faces buried in the other’s neck
as the others continued to speak of them. “I’m
sorry,” Harry whispered onto Draco’s skin near his ear. “For
what?” Draco asked. “For
being an ass,” Harry whispered. “Harry,
I want you to know that it’s okay to be a bit afraid of what
will happen,” Draco said. “Do
you know what will happen to me?” Harry asked. “The
Ministry?” Draco asked. Harry nodded a bit in their embrace. “I
don’t care what they say, Harry.” “I’ll
have to leave here if I want to live,” Harry said. “Then
I’ll go with you,” Draco said. Harry pulled back to look
into his eyes. “No.
I can’t let you do that,” Harry whispered. “I can’t
let you just run with me away from everything you’ve ever
known. I’ll probably end up homeless for a while until I
can…find something.” “I’m
not letting you go, Harry,” Draco whispered with defiance. “I
want to go with you. I have nothing left if you leave me anyway. I’ll
search for you every waking moment for the rest of my life. I swear
it.” “Draco,
don’t say that,” Harry said in guilt. “You’ve
never lived on the street. You don’t know how…how cold
and hungry it can be sometimes. I won’t let you do that.” “I’m
not asking your permission,” Draco said. “If you go, I’m
going with you. Wherever you are is where I belong.” Draco
showed the wrist again and Harry rubbed the words with his thumb.
“I’m claimed by you and that’s exactly where I want
to be. Promise me that if you have to run, that you’ll take me
with you.” “I
will not promise you that and I won’t allow you to go,”
Harry whined. “Draco, you have so much. Don’t give that
up so easy.” “What
do I have? Money? Wealth? People that say they’re my friends?
What is all that and what good is it if I’m miserable without
you?” Draco asked. “Harry, I love you. I’m. Not.
Letting. You. Go. Not without me anyway.” Harry thought for
several moments. “I
love you, too,” Harry said sadly and then closed his eyes for a
moment of complete and utter sadness at decisions to be made in the
future and Draco held him tightly. “What time is it?” “A
quarter past ten,” Draco said. “We
need to go,” Harry said. “I need to check on a few things
first before we leave the school.” “Fine.
Let’s go then,” Draco said as they pulled apart and stood
up. Harry had to adjust his trousers at the crotch from the result of
such intimate togetherness on the bed. “Damn
you,” Harry said to Draco at the readjustment. “Ron, can
you come with me for a bit? I need to talk to you a minute.” “Fine.
I’ll be right back, Herm,” Ron gave her a quick kiss
before following Harry and Draco from the dorm room, the common room
and down the corridor on the way to the den. “What
a sweet little kiss you gave her,” Draco smirked at Ron. “Yeah,
I got it with Herm,” Ron bragged. “I could have women
around here.” Harry and Draco both snorted an insult. “I
could.” “I
think I got you both beat,” Draco drawled with that cool tone. “Oh
please. You’re full of shit,” Harry said. “I can
get any female in this damn school in an instant.” “Prove
it then, asshole,” Ron said. “Show me what you got.” “You
want to see what I’m talking about?” Harry asked. Ron and
Draco nodded and Harry nodded back to them. “Fine. Watch and
learn, boys. I’ll even let you pick the girl. Pick one and I’ll
have them putty in my hands in seconds.” “This
is too good,” Ron said as he and Draco scanned the hallways for
girls. “Draco, how about Lacey Taylor?” “Oh
god,” Harry said. “Yeah.
Lacey. Go for it, Harry,” Draco said. “She’s
a dog and never has a date,” Harry said. “She’d be
all over me in an instant. Too easy. Give me a challenge.” “Fine.
There’s Ellen Staley,” Draco said. “She’s
been dating Jimmy Moss for almost two years. There’s no way you
could get to her.” “Simple,”
Harry said. “I could get her to kiss me in the hall right now.” “No
way,” Ron said with a soft laugh. Harry stopped and gave them
the challenging sexy look. “No?”
Harry asked. “No,”
Draco shook his head giving Ellen another look. “She won’t
do it.” “You
and Ron hold back here. Watch this,” Harry cleared his throat
and walked slowly toward Ellen and her friend who were speaking in
the hall. Ron and Draco were hidden in the corridor obscured by a
pair of suits of armor. They watched Harry come up and speak with
both girls for a few minutes. Ellen’s friend soon left and
Ellen smiled and laughed with Harry just a bit. The pair spoke for
several minutes and Ellen leaned a bit against the wall. Harry put
his hand on the wall by her head and leaned a bit over her while they
talked. Ellen gave tiny flirty grins and giggles at what Harry was
saying. Then there was that look that Ellen got on her face as she
looked down both hallways quickly to make sure there was no one in
the hall. Ellen then leaned up to give Harry one quick but deep kiss.
After they’d talked for another minute or two, Ellen nodded and
walked down and past Draco and Ron quickly with a look of pure
excitement. Harry crossed his arms with a smirk and waited on the
pair. “How
in the hell did you do that?” Ron asked. “She’s a
prude, man. She won’t even put out with Jimmy.” “I
told you. I’m the man,” Harry said with that crooked sexy
smirk as they walked down the hall. “Let’s
try this one more time,” Draco said as they turned the corner
of the corridor and slowed a bit. Ron and Draco were checking out all
the girls. “Okay. I got it. Someone from Slytherin you’d
never get. And there is Pansy and Blaise.” “I
could get them both,” Harry said. “Right here in the
hall. Right now.” “Hell
no. There is no fucking way,” Ron said. “I
have got to see this,” Draco said. Harry shrugged. “Fine.
Hide and watch,” Harry said. The two moved slowly out of sight
and Harry stretched his neck a bit, put his hands in his pockets and
walked slowly down the hallway letting them see him coming. Both
girls stilled and Harry walked to them slowly. The three began a
conversation and Blaise put her hand on Harry’s shoulder as he
nodded at her. The
conversation lasted a bit and each girl giggled slightly with Harry
until the hallway cleared out. The scene became odd when both girls
put their arms around his waist and he did the same with them. They
had walked a bit down the hallway when Harry turned to Pansy and she
laid a deep kiss on Harry. After that ended Blaise turned Harry’s
head toward her and did the same. Each hugged him lightly and came
back down the hallway breathing heavy and giggling to each other.
Draco and Ron came out of their hiding place to see Harry standing
and waiting on them. Harry shrugged with a smirk. “Piece
of cake,” Harry said to them as the three took up their
original trek to the den. “How
in the world did you do that?” Ron asked. “You
used your Legilimens ability,” Draco accused. “Oh
please, Draco. I never have to do that with females,” Harry
said. “They’re weak. It’s all about the flirt and
what they want. Very easy. Too easy, really.” “Well,
if I was famous and all that, I could do that, too,” Ron said. “You
are famous, Ron,” Harry said. “Your name is listed with
mine everywhere. And…Draco’s is a lot, too. So there.
And both of you know how girls are. They pretend to be so…I
don’t know. They just are. No challenge at all.” “Try
it with another guy then,” Ron said. “I
don’t have time for this crap,” Harry said. “Besides,
I don’t want to kiss anyone. It irritates me just to think I
did that just for a game. It’s not right.” “Ever
the loyal Gryffindor,” Draco said. “I’m
loyal to you,” Harry said giving Draco a sweet grin. “I’m
loyal. You don’t think I’m loyal?” Draco asked. “I
didn’t question you on it,” Harry said. “Yes,
you’re loyal to me. Very noble of you.” The Gryffindor
trait didn’t go unnoticed by Draco. “I
am not noble,” Draco said. “I will never be noble and
never call me noble again.” “Why
not? That’s a good thing,” Ron said. “I
can be regal or royal, but not compared to a Gryffindor in any way,”
Draco said. “You
have some deep-seeded psychological issues you need to resolve,
Malfoy,” Ron said. “You sad little man.” Harry gave
a short laugh. “Draco
is perfect, Ron,” Harry said. “Absolute perfection in
every single way. I adore and worship him with every breath.” “I’m
sure Draco has you on your knees in worship frequently,” Ron
said. “Just
on his knees,” Draco grinned and the three laughed at the
comment as they entered the den. Harry went to the secret drawer and
dug out the bags of drugs and threw them one at a time to Ron. “Ron’s
going to be doing our dirty work, baby,” Harry said tossing the
last baggie to Draco since Ron’s hands were full. “You
know what everything is and what each is worth. Give me my thousand
and keep the rest or…get your perks. Whatever. I don’t
care. Just get rid of it.” “A
thousand? This much is worth at least three,” Draco said of all
the baggies. “I
have about five hundred in it. I’ll make double and Ron can
keep the rest,” Harry said. “I don’t actually care
one way or the other what you do with it, Ron. Just don’t start
using that shit or I will personally kick your ass and then put you
through that detox myself.” “Got
it,” Ron said. “What
about Hemmlett and Danny?” Draco asked. “Hemmlett
can go fuck off and I’ve already told Ron about Danny slinging
the dope for the Slyths,” Harry said. “Draco, if you
could talk to Danny about getting with Ron…or Ron you could
talk to him and tell him I said it was all good, that would be fine.
Just get rid of it all.” “What
about after this is gone?” Ron said. “What then?” “You
want to keep dealing this?” Draco said holding up the bag. “What
do you want to do?” Harry asked Draco. “Whatever
you want,” Draco said. “I’m not tempted by having
it around and if you want to keep up the trade, then…go for
it. If not, then…whatever.” “I
don’t know,” Harry said pacing a bit in thought. “I
don’t want to have to keep going to London for it myself. I
could take one of you with me if you want to take over the operation
as it were. Ron, if you want to keep it up and keep selling, then I
could hook you up with a couple of people I know. You just sell that,
keep out of trouble and if you want to continue it, then we’ll
work on it later. But right now I have to get to work on a few things
before we go from the Floo.” “Where
are you going?” Ron asked. “On
a mission,” Harry said. “I’m not sure exactly what
I’ll do yet, but…I have a good idea. I’d rather
not say in case…well, I just need to keep it on the down low.” “What?”
Ron asked. “Street
talk,” Harry said with a grin. “Keep quiet about it is
what I mean. You want me to shrink that for you?” Ron held out
the bags and Harry shrunk them so that Ron could fit them all in his
pocket. “And no selling to Seamus.” “I
wouldn’t do it anyway,” Ron said. “And nobody can
find out or I’m in deep shit. Hermione would give me hell,
and…well, I can’t get expelled.” “I’ll
take the heat if you get caught,” Harry said. “Tell them
the truth. It’s mine and I wanted rid of it since I’m off
dope. Tell them that I couldn’t have it around me and I needed
to get rid of it. Whatever. I don’t really care. Just be
careful. You don’t have to do this and at any time you want to
stop, you just bring it back to me and I’ll…do something
else.” “Fine.
I’ll keep that in mind,” Ron said. “You two be
careful tonight. I know you’re leaving the school and…well,
doing that dangerous thief thing. Just watch your back.” “We
will,” Harry said. “See you later.” Harry said as
Ron left the den. “Are
you sure it’s a good idea getting him involved in that?”
Draco asked. “He’s your best friend, Harry.” “I
know. I feel a bit guilty about it, but…Ron wanted to do it
for the money,” Harry said. “He needs the cash and he
won’t take anything I offer him. Hell, I’d give him half
of everything I got if he’d take it, but he won’t. It’s
his decision and he’s a grown man.” “You’re
right. He’s an adult,” Draco said. “So. What are we
doing?” “We’re
going to steal the parchments,” Harry said. “Tonight?”
Draco asked wide-eyed. “You
said you wanted to go,” Harry grinned. “But you don’t
have to.” “Will
I be safe and not get caught?” Draco asked. “You
won’t get caught,” Harry nodded. “I’ll make
sure of it. I would never let anything happen to you in my care.” “Which
is all the time,” Draco grinned. “Absolutely,”
Harry said. “You’re my priority. Now, I need to go over
the building schematics again.” The pair went over the plan
very carefully so each knew exactly what to do. Harry explained what
to expect with each ward and what to look for so that Draco
understood completely. They each worked on the parchment
transportation box to perfection and Draco shrunk it and put it in
his pocket. After transfiguring them each a pair of special gloves,
each put them in their pocket. “We have about a half hour until
the house elves arrive…” Harry wiggled his eyebrows.
Draco pulled Harry over onto their bed and they tumbled together in a
jumble of arms, legs and lips. For the remainder of the half hour,
they lay together in kisses and touches of the other talking a bit
about the eventful day and the upcoming plans. The
house elves, Dink and Looty arrived at midnight as expected with a
small flask, a small pouch of flour, and a few raw steaks wrapped in
brown paper. Harry took them and complimented the house elves for
their good work to which they bowed profusely before leaving. “What
on earth? Are you planning to cook?” Draco asked. “No.
You’ll see,” Harry said going over to the corner of the
room and picking up his small black bag and stuffing the things
inside it. “Let’s go.” Harry slipped on his black
cap, took off his glasses and gave himself the eye-correcting spell
before the pair left the den and set off toward the kitchens. They
arrived at the unused part of the kitchen and Harry gave the spell
for the floo to open it up on the network. Each took a pinch of floo
powder and Draco waited. “Back
room Ticker’s,” Harry said before he threw the powder and
flooed away. Draco did the same and Harry was waiting at the other
point. Draco was as silent as Harry as they crept from the closed
business. Harry led through the wizard clock shop crouched until they
reached the back room where they opened a window near the ceiling and
climbed out carefully. When they were out in the alleyway, they
walked silently down several other back alleyways in the shadows
until Harry pointed at the building. There was a security guard
inside sitting at a desk. “We’ll need to fragment from
here and then we’ll be inside at the drop off point.”
Draco nodded as Harry wrapped his arms around him and Harry
fragmented them. They
defragmented, all their pieces coming together at the appropriate
point. Each quickly looked about and Harry pointed in the right
direction. The building was a very modern office building and Draco
kept close as they walked silently creeping about and taking note of
each sound and light source. When they’d turned the last
corner, Harry held Draco back. Harry knelt to dig out the steaks.
Harry took two and handed one to Draco who was clueless of why. Harry
motioned and the pair kept walking with steaks in hand. After the
second corner, Draco understood. Guard dogs. Three of them. Harry
pointed in one direction to Draco and then Harry tossed one steak as
far as he could throw it in the other direction and then the other in
the same direction. Draco tossed the third in the same direction and
the dogs barked and ran toward the meat. Harry and Draco slipped
around the wall in the other direction and quickly entered through a
door there. After
they’d gone through what was almost a maze of rooms and
hallways, Harry stopped at one particular door and cast the unlocking
spell on it. He opened the door but didn’t step inside. Harry
knelt and dug out the small pouch of flour as he peered into the
room. Harry took a pinch in his palm and blew it onto the doorway.
Draco went wide-eyed at seeing the flour particles catch in the small
security beams of light guarding the doorway. Harry gave Draco a tiny
smirk and wiggled his eyebrows at his own genius. Harry did the
pinching flour blow a few times until they knew the correct way to
climb between the beams. Harry went first safely and then gave Draco
the flour. Draco did the pinch and blow to see the streams of light
and climbed through them perfectly. Harry gave him the thumbs up and
they proceeded into the lavishly furnished office to a small
portrait. Each put on their gloves and Harry popped open the portrait
to reveal a lever which he pulled downward. One side of the wall to
the right covered in paneling popped open. Harry picked up the flour
again and went to the opening with the same method of pinching the
flour and blowing on it to reveal the beams, they each entered the
small vault. The parchments were in a sealed glass case. Harry
flicked his wrist and created a small tool and Draco watched
carefully as Harry moved his hand over the glass to break the wards
upon it. With precision, Harry carefully cut along the sides of the
glass and raised the cut portion. Harry laid the glass carefully on
the ground as Draco resized the parchment box they’d
transfigured earlier. With a cast of a spell to disarm any homing
charms on the parchments or any other spells on them, each held a
side of the delicate felt on which the parchments were lain and put
it carefully into their transfigured box. Harry added some spells to
the box to seal it and protect the prize. With a flick of his hands
Harry transfigured duplicate parchments almost identical to the
originals inside the glass box. Again with careful precision Harry
laid the glass top he’d cut back onto the glass box and with a
charm, mended the glass back together so no trace of his cut could be
found. Draco gave him a thumbs up on a great duplicating job. The
parchment box was shrunk and put into Harry’s small black bag
and onto his back. With the flour and blowing technique, they left
the vault. With a small spell to clear away any flour traces they
latched the secret door back. At the door to the office again with
the flour and blow, they managed to maneuver carefully between the
beams of light and exit without incident. Harry cleaned the flour
with a tiny spell and they closed and locked the door again. Harry
led them back down the hallway and they stealthily avoided the dogs
that were on the far side of the long hallway. The pair went back the
way they came until they had reached the fragmenting point where it
was safe. Harry wrapped his arms around Draco again and they
fragmented into the shadows of the alleyway. With the same cat-like
stealth, they managed to come back to the clock shop, climb into the
high window and sneak through to the fireplace. Harry dug out the
small flask and dumped a bit of the floo powder into each of their
palms. Harry stepped into the fireplace and dropped the floo powder. “Hogs
Head back room,” Harry said. Draco paid attention and did the
same. Harry was standing to wait for him. Each entered the Hogs Head
back room and Harry peeped out the door slit to see a full bar. “It’s
too crowded. We’ll just go from here.” Harry took Draco’s
hand and apparated them to the gates of Hogwarts. Harry wrapped his
arms around Draco again and fragmented them to the den. “Wow.
That was a blast. It took less than two hours,” Draco said.
“Good timing.” “We
did well,” Harry said. “Let’s see them.” The
pair pulled out the parchment box and looked over the ancient
scrolls. “I
can’t read it,” Draco said. “It’s in some
form of early Latinician text. Hard to translate.” “Not
with the right spell,” Harry said looking closely at the words.
“We’ll bring Hermione tomorrow and get the exact dialect
so that I can make up a spell for it. We’ll also need to test
the ink to know the components before we change the words.”
They resealed the parchments and put them under the bed with a
concealment charm. “What’s
that other box under there?” Draco asked. “Oh,
um…just stuff,” Harry said. “Some personal records
and…other things I needed. Nothing to worry about.” “I’m
exhausted, Harry,” Draco yawned. Harry took off his cap and
shirt before kicking off his shoes, socks and pants to recline on the
bed in his blue bikinis. “That is so hot. Bikinis on you…oh
hell…you just look like fresh meat to me.” “I
thought you were tired,” Harry said slyly as Draco shed all of
his clothing including his own underwear and slid into bed wrapping
up around Harry’s firm warm body underneath the cool crisp
sheets. “Mmmm. You feel good.” “You’re
so warm,” Draco said with eyes closed. “We’re
criminals.” “Yes,
I guess we are,” Harry said with his own eyes closed rubbing
Draco’s back slowly with his fingertips. “I think we were
both criminals before tonight anyway.” “I
know I am,” Draco said. “Being a Death Eater is sort of a
crime, you know.” “It
is?” Harry asked with sarcasm abound. “How terrible of
you.” “I
thought you said I was great,” Draco teased. “You
are great,” Harry hugged him tightly for a moment. “You
are the best thing to ever happen to me, Draco. And I mean that.” “You’re
the worst thing to ever happen to me, Potty,” Draco drawled in
his sleepy state. “The absolute worst.” “And
what makes you say that?” Harry asked with a grin. “You
changed me,” Draco said falling quickly into sleep. “You
made me different.” “No,
I didn’t,” Harry said lazily in sleep. “Yes,
you did,” Draco whispered. “You made me love you.” “No,
I didn’t,” Harry whispered as his body rested. “You’re
right. I already did that,” Draco slurred as they drifted off
to sleep in each other’s arms. *
* * * * *
The
next morning Draco woke within the safety and warmth of Harry’s
arms wrapped around him. Harry’s forehead was nestled in the
nape of Draco’s neck and his warm even breaths sent tingles
over Draco’s skin. Draco breathed in and savored the feeling of
just lying in the comfort of his lover’s touch and having been
loved by Harry even as he slept. Draco gently rubbed Harry’s
arm that draped over his chest. Smooth tanned skin. Draco slid his
palm under Harry’s and turned it over to look at the little
creases of his palm in amazement of the sheer power in these strong
but gentle hands. Never having been one to put much emphasis or
belief in the reading of palms, Draco knew little of the art, but the
creases in Harry’s palms were definitely different than most.
Upon further study, Draco was amazed and he brought the palm closer
to his face to inspect it. Harry had two lifelines. Draco blinked
hard to make sure he wasn’t seeing double. “There
are two, I know,” Harry said. Draco laughed softly. “That
is so odd, Harry. What does that mean?” Draco asked. “It
means I’m just damn weird, Draco. You know that already,”
Harry said. “I didn’t know you were so interested in
palmistry.” “I’m
not. I know very little of it,” Draco said. “You took
Divination. What did Trelawney say of the twin lifelines?” “The
same thing she always says to me. My horrible death,” Harry
teased. “The woman is obsessed with me meeting some painful and
gruesome end.” “I
think you could safely say that the whole Wizarding world is just a
bit concerned over that as well,” Draco said. “Bullshit.
Nobody is worried about me, Draco,” Harry said. “Nobody
at all. Everyone is worried about Voldemort. Wake up and smell the
coffee, pal. They could care less if I died, just as long as he does.
And that’s the cold hard truth of the matter and you know I’m
right.” “I
know it’s not true with me,” Draco said turning over to
give a quick kiss to Harry’s cheek. “I could care less
about Voldemort and what he does.” “You
know he’d not stop killing until there was no one left,”
Harry said. “As
long as you and I were alive then I wouldn’t care who he
killed,” Draco said coldly. “You
don’t mean that,” Harry said softly. “What about
Hermione? Ron? Seamus? Neville? All the little first years? He’d
kill them all, Draco. I can’t let that happen.” “Why
not?” Draco said almost seriously. “Harry…the
Ministry…” “Draco,”
Harry whispered. “There are things worth giving your life for.
Weren’t you willing to dedicate your life to a service that you
believed in?” “No.
I was never willing to dedicate anything,” Draco said. “Call
me a coward. I don’t care. I’m selfish. So what if I took
this damn mark. I didn’t give a shit as long as I lived and
they left me alone. Once I took the mark, I was never bothered with
it again. No service…no nothing.” “You
have orders now,” Harry said. “You have orders to bring
me on Saturday to Hogsmeade. And you’ll follow through with
those I’m sure.” “Only
because you know about them,” Draco said. “If
you and I weren’t together, would you have asked me to go with
you to Hogsmeade? Would you have initiated a friendship with me?”
Harry asked. “No.
I can’t stand you,” Draco grinned a bit. “Everyone
knows that. Even Voldemort.” “I
wonder if he knows about us now?” Harry asked. “That
could seriously fuck up some plans if he knew we’re sort of
sleeping together.” “He
could care less if I’m fucking you, he just wants you dead,”
Draco said flatly. “That’s
one way of looking at it,” Harry said with a grin at the total
truth. “But
if he knew I was in love with you, that might be just a bit of a
problem. I think there is something in the Death Eater bylaws about
falling in love with Harry Potter,” Draco teased. “But I
was never one to read the fine print of a contract anyway.” “I
think I could safely say that that clause would probably not be in
there,” Harry said. “Voldemort isn’t stupid. He
knows that ones of great power with levels over thirty have never had
mates for life anyway.” “What?”
Draco asked softly in confusion. “What are you talking about?”
Harry blinked at what he’d just said. “Those
wizards who hold power greater than thirty,” Harry restated
trying to explain. “It’s not a rule or a law, but those
like me with great magical strength have never had life partners.
None. Never. Have you never noticed? All the greats never had anyone.
Think about it. Think of all the wizards who have strength over level
thirty. Tom Riddle, Albus, Grandorf, Phinellas, Lauderly, Kringle,
and even Merlin…none were ever married or had a mate. Not
one.” “But
why?” Draco asked in genuine interest. “Great
strength and power is a curse,” Harry said with a sad voice.
“That’s just the way it is. I can’t explain why
wizards over level thirty have never had…well…a person
who was willing to spend a lifetime with them. Albus says that’s
just the balance of what is. He’s mentally prepared me for a
life of solitary aloneness for years. And…now you know I’m
an Enigma who seeks solitude anyway, so…it makes sense,
doesn’t it?” “Hell
no. It’s stupid,” Draco said. “You’re
categorizing yourself with those others and trying to do as they did.
That’s bullshit. I’m here. What does that say?” “That
you’re stupid,” Harry grinned. “I don’t know.
What does that say about you?” “That
I love you,” Draco said. “That’s all. Nothing could
make me not love you, Harry. Nothing you could ever do or be could
make me stop loving you. I’m just that damn stubborn.” “Have
you ever considered how impossible this thing is between you and me
is?” Harry asked. “There are so many reasons why this
shouldn’t work it’s insane. For starters we have a curse
between our family names of Malfoy and Potter. Secondly we’ve
never got along at all anyway. Third I hold a destiny to kill one who
you’ve vowed to serve as a Death Eater. Fourth you’re a
pureblood who is expected to do that breeding thing to preserve your
family heritage to produce heirs. Fifth is that I’m never
expected to have someone because of the strength thing. Sixth is that
we’re both males anyway and not expected to take permanent
lovers. Seventh is that we…” “Hold
on. So what if we’re both males,” Draco said. “Males
marry.” “No
they don’t,” Harry said as if it were stupid. “Yes,
they do,” Draco said. “Males marry. That’s a fact.” “Like
who? Name two that have,” Harry said. Draco thought and thought
for several long moments and couldn’t come up with a single
example. “See?” “That
doesn’t mean they can’t,” Draco said. “There
is no law against same gender marriages.” “Are
you asking me to marry you?” Harry teased with a grin. “No.
I can’t stand you,” Draco said. “I hate you,
Potty.” “I
hate you, too, ferret,” Harry said with all the love he
possessed. “And it’s just after seven in the morning
so…if you’re going to classes today, you need to get up
and get dressed.” “What
about training today? Won’t I be with you?” Draco asked. “I
have no idea,” Harry said. “I was going to dress and go
to breakfast. I never know what they want me to do. I just do it when
they tell me to. That’s another thing about me. I’m a
slave around here. Like some servant boy. All the professors. All the
time. Harry fix the beams, Harry fix the wards, Harry do this or
that. It’s much easier to have me do it because I use fused
spells. I can cast all the spells at once instead of one at a time.” “How
do you do that?” Draco asked. “I
never even think of spells anymore,” Harry said. “Or…very
rarely do I have to. I use my mind to think of what needs to be done
and wave my hand and it’s done. Very simple. There’s a
long and complicated explanation that would take me about a week to
make you understand it, but…it works, so…that’s
good enough for me.” “I
suppose we need to get up and get dressed,” Draco groaned. “I
don’t want to leave this spot. Let’s stay in bed all
day.” “I
would love that,” Harry said with a smile. “I could make
love to you all day. All day long I could spend intimately worshiping
you. Oh god I’d love that.” “I
think I can definitely say that I’d love that, too,”
Draco said slyly. “Let’s do that.” “We
can’t,” Harry said sadly. “I need to be seen this
morning in case the news has hit that some strange parchments were
stolen so that I’m not a suspect. You understand.” “Oh
yes. The criminal has to look innocent,” Draco said. “Use
your mind blocking I taught you to keep that thought of what we did
out of your head,” Harry said before Draco slid his hands over
Harry’s chest, down his stomach and abdomen to trace that sexy
fine line of dark hair from his navel to his blue bikinis. “What
are you doing?” Harry asked knowing the plan all along. “I’m
seducing you,” Draco whispered leaning in to kiss Harry’s
neck slowly which he eagerly allowed wrapping his arm tighter around
Draco to pull his body closer intertwining their legs. Draco’s
kisses trailed over Harry’s neck, collarbone and over his
sculpted chest to tease one sensitive nipple. “Hmm…oh
god that feels so good,” Harry whispered as he closed his eyes
to enjoy the sensations. Draco used his tongue in that skilled way to
trail a line downward to the blue bikinis and nuzzled his face there
at Harry’s bulging erection trapped within. “See what you
did?” “I
think I’ll take a closer look,” Draco said before he
freed the pulsing tool and licked it hungrily. “Oh
fuck,” Harry said. “Exactly
my plan,” Draco said with a grin. “Will you top?” “You
don’t want to top?” Harry asked. “I’ve
told you that I prefer you topping me,” Draco said. “You’re
damn good and I can’t get enough of you.” “Same
here,” Harry said. “Let’s
make this quick. We need to get to breakfast. I’m starving,”
Draco said taking Harry’s whole cock into his hot waiting mouth
and giving several long quick strokes. Harry wound his fingers of
both hands in Draco’s hair to assist in the task for several
minutes of white hot pleasure sprinkled with several gasps and
throaty moans from himself. “Hell
yeah…do it…come on, baby…you are so good…”
Harry said lustfully, enjoying the morning blow. After several more
minutes of the sweet torture, Harry pulled Draco’s mouth from
him and sat up to kiss him hard while moving over to lie atop Draco’s
thin frame. Draco automatically spread his legs and wrapped them
around Harry’s waist. Within minutes, Harry’s lubed
fingers had prepared Draco’s body for the act. With gentleness,
Harry pushed his thick cock into Draco’s small opening giving
Draco’s body a moment to adjust to the stretching and setting a
slow pace to ease deeper with each gentle thrust forward “Yes…oh
yes, Harry…” Draco hissed at the pangs of the painful
pleasure. “You’re a lot thicker than anyone that I’ve
ever been with, but oh god it feels so good. You fill me up so fully
that…oh god…oh god yes…damn that’s good…do
it…push all the way in.” With a hold onto Draco’s
arms, Harry gave what was asked and he pushed slowly but forcefully
into the constricted depths of the tight heat until his cock was
buried to the hilt. “Oh fuck…Harry, yes!” “Draco…oh
god yes…” Harry moaned before he withdrew almost
completely and paced those long and even strokes of friction with his
hips. Each time Harry would pull almost completely out and then delve
with a thrust as deep as possible giving maximum pleasure to them
both. “You
are so fucking good…” Draco said lolling his head back
and forth at the mind numbing stimulation. “You’re the
best, baby…oh do it…fuck yes…take me…” “I
am taking you,” Harry said with a gasp. “You’re
mine and I’m laying claim on you. Marking you as my own…”
Draco was thin and Harry’s hands were able to wrap around his
hips easily. With drawing out just a bit, Harry leaned back, lifted
Draco’s body, and with combined effort of pushing his cock
forward and pulling Draco back to him, maximum depth could be
reached. “Oh yeah…come on, my dragon…push back…”
Draco assisted by pushing himself downward and impaling himself on
Harry’s girth again and again and again until each was sweaty
and feeling the need. Harry put his hand in Draco’s for a
second and slid their palms together leaving a slick lubricant over
Draco’s palm. “Give me what I want, baby…like I
like it…” Draco loved Harry to be in charge, so he
wrapped his own hand around his stiff bobbing cock and began to
stroke it long and quick. “Yeah…like that…oh
yeah…that’s so damn good…” “Harry,
I’m close…” Draco warned. “Oh fuck yes…” “You
want it rougher?” Harry asked. Draco nodded quickly and with a
slight reposition, Harry leaned forward pulling Draco’s legs up
on either side of him. Draco was so limber that his body was easily
bent to Harry’s will. Harry braced his arms on either side and
began to thrust hard into the body below at a quicker pace. “Yes…oh
yes…do it…” Draco was taking the pressure of
Harry’s sheathing into him and stroking himself into a frenzy.
“Harry…I’m going to come…” “Me,
too…come with me…let’s come together…”
Harry breathed hard as he worked for the goal. Draco winced and began
to labor under his panting breaths. Harry could feel the squeeze of
Draco’s tightening anal cavity knowing they were both close.
The feeling of the tightness around his cock was intoxicating and he
began to growl with each forward thrust. Harry bit his lip at the
gnawing in his groin that threatened to spill at any moment. Draco’s
light groaning whimpers told of the sweeping wave that was soon to
burst. “Yes…Harry,
yes…I’m ready…oh god…here I come…”
Draco let forth a yelp and Harry growled with slamming into Draco’s
body hard as they both spurted their semen in the same instant. Harry
pounded into Draco’s body until each had drained themselves of
every drop that their bodies would allow. Both were breathing heavy,
trembling slightly at the force of orgasm and covered in a light
sweaty sheen when they stilled. Harry collapsed onto Draco’s
chest with a breathing moan of pleasure as his mind spun in that
lingering after effect of orgasmic bliss. “You are so damn
good. Oh hell, Harry, you are so just fucking good.” “You
make it good,” Harry said. “You are the perfect lover, my
dragon. I will never want for more than what you give me.” They
lay together savoring each other for long moments until Draco lifted
Harry’s head from his chest to place a tiny kiss on his lips. “We
need to get to breakfast,” Draco said. “You criminal.” “You’re
a criminal, too,” Harry grinned crookedly. “You’re
right. Let’s get up.” The pair went to the bathroom and
quickly bathed in the hot water, brushed their teeth and hair. Draco,
as always made the comment about Harry’s totally untamable
hair, and they dressed in their clothing that the house elves
routinely left for them. Harry wore faded jeans and a dark navy short
sleeve pullover with a beige stripe across the chest. Draco wore a
school uniform. “You
bastard,” Draco said. “You never wear school robes
anymore.” “I
can’t train in them,” Harry said. “I have to wear
something else. I usually train in regular clothes unless I’m
just practicing on my own and then I wear just cut off jeans and
nothing else.” “Oh
god…I know you look hot in that,” Draco gave a moment to
the imagery. “You ready?” Harry nodded and the pair left
the den. They walked down the corridors speaking of the upcoming
training of the day until they passed a few windows. “Rain.
Damn. Did you do that?” “No,
I didn’t do that,” Harry laughed. “Would you prefer
a sunny day?” Harry asked as they entered the Dining Hall. “Yes.
I would actually,” Draco said. “Really?
I could do that for you if you want,” Harry said as he stopped.
Draco also stopped. “Well,
why aren’t you doing it then?” Draco asked as if it were
implied. “You
want to sit with me for breakfast?” Harry asked. “Sure,”
Draco followed Harry over to the table. “And you need to take
away this damn rain. You know I hate it. Rain and dampness does
nothing for my hair.” “Are
you complaining about the rain?” Hermione asked as they sat. “Yes.
Harry needs to fix it,” Draco said. “I simply can’t
have my hair get all…frizzy because of it.” “So
the elements are at the whim of your fickle hair?” Ron asked. “Absolutely,”
Draco said. Harry laughed as they piled up their plates to eat. Harry
began eating his eggs and toast. “Harry. Change it.” “What?”
Harry asked. “Are you serious?” “Hell
yes I’m serious,” Draco said. “Do you think I’m
just playing around? This is my hair we’re talking about here.
I’m very serious.” “Oh
for the love of…” Harry said and he looked up to the
enchanted ceiling of the Dining Hall. Harry looked around and with a
wave of his hand the rains stopped, the clouds parted and the sun
began to shine brightly. “I shudder to think of the things you
could have me do.” “Holy
hell,” Seamus said looking into the bright sunlight filtering
down into the hall. “Harry
Potter,” Albus called. Harry looked up and Albus gave him the
stern look at changing the weather. Harry pointed to Draco. Albus
only shook his head at the silliness and began to eat again. The
Gryffindors who knew that Harry had changed the weather all
snickered. “See
what you did?” Harry asked quietly Draco before shoveling in a
mouthful of bacon. “I get in trouble enough by myself without
you helping.” “I
didn’t do anything,” Draco said. “You did it.” “You
made me,” Harry said. “It’s your fault.” “You’re
right. I did that,” Draco said. “So what? “ “So
what? You’re controlling the earth now or something?”
Dean asked. “Yeah,
he does,” Harry said. “Good thing Draco didn’t want
me to blow up the earth today, huh?” Harry ate his food and
gave them all a chewing grin. “Yeah.
Good thing,” Ron said sarcastically with shaking his head at
the truthfulness. “Could
you do that? Could you blow up the earth?” Seamus asked. “Sure.
Want to see?” Harry asked with a head tilt. “Um…no,”
Seamus said. “Please don’t do that today.” “You
were late for breakfast,” Neville said. “Yes.
I was intimately worshipping my Slytherin god this morning,”
Harry said. “Oh
for heaven’s sake, Harry,” Hermione scolded. “You
don’t have to tell us that.” “No,
we could have probably guessed it,” Ron said.
“He
did good,” Draco laughed softly. “Oh hell yes he did. You
should worship me more often. Constantly, in fact.” “I
do occasionally have to eat and sleep,” Harry said with a grin.
“I know that’s hard for you to believe, but yes I do
require rest at times. Sorry to disappoint you.” “Draco,
are you coming to classes today?” Hermione asked. Draco
shrugged. “We’re having a demonstration in Arithmancy
today. Professor Sinistra has invited Marcus Gettingar to our class
with his work on the Rounez Properties of Varigates.” “How
intriguing,” Draco said with wide eyes. “You
can go if you want,” Harry said. “You’re not
required to train with me. I don’t mind if you want to hear
about that…that whatever the hell Hermione said.” “My
poor thing,” Draco said cupping Harry’s cheek. “There
are some things you’ll just never know.” “And
some things I don’t give a crap about knowing because they mean
nothing,” Harry said. “These
theories are very important, Harry,” Hermione said. “Tell
me then if they are so important will they help you survive if you
were dropped into the forest for a week?” Harry asked. Hermione
and Draco looked to each other. “No,
but they work on the principles of…” Hermione said. “So
what good are they?” Harry asked. “Anything that doesn’t
help you in some way to improve your skills to live is a waste.
Period.” “Spoken
like a true warrior,” Ron said with a grin. “It’s
the truth,” Harry said. “All that crap about theories on
this and that are just nonsense. What use is a theory? If you can’t
learn something practical to use, then it’s a total waste of
time.” “You
are such a simpleton,” Draco said. “The learning and work
on the theories of others helps develop the mind and expand the
thought processes. It’s an enlightenment of learning and
understanding.” “But
what good is it?” Harry asked. “Will it help you
survive?” “Not
everyone is fighting each day just for survival,” Draco said
truthfully. Harry shrugged and ate his food. “You don’t
even understand me at all do you?” “No.
Actually I don’t,” Harry said. The whole group was
involved now. “I
love learning about potions and their history, development and uses,”
Hermione said. “And
I like the histories of great battles,” Ron said. “And
I enjoy working with flowering plants and planting,” Neville
said. “I
like muggle studies,” Dean said. “It’s
simple, Harry. We enjoy learning about things we’re interested
in and enjoy. Not just learning survival skills all the time,”
Ginny said. “I
suppose you all would have that luxury,” Harry said. “Well,
what are you interested in?” Seamus asked. “Breathing,”
Harry said. “I sort of like it.” “We
didn’t mean it like that,” Draco said. “What do you
want to learn about? What…like, what is your favorite
subject?” “Subject?”
Harry thought for a moment and shrugged. “I don’t know. I
don’t have one. I’ve not been involved in a class in a
long time.” “But
what subject was your favorite?” Seamus asked. “Astronomy,”
Ron said. “Harry loves Astronomy.” “You
do?” Draco asked.
“I
guess,” Harry said. “I liked Care of Magical Creatures, I
suppose.” “Tell
me, Harry. If you had a choice of any profession or career, what
would it be? And don’t say an Auror because you’re
already Auror trained,” Hermione said. Everyone waited to hear
this answer. “I
have no idea,” Harry said. “I really don’t. I never
thought about it. It doesn’t matter anyway because I can’t
have that.” “Why
not?” Dean asked. “You can have a career. You could be a
teacher of DADA. You’ve already done that.” “That’s
right,” Ron said. “That’s what I was always telling
him.” “That
would be great for you,” Draco said. “I
think you all are missing a very important matter,” Harry said.
“It’s a bit hard to teach from Azkaban or if you’re
dead. Consider that for just a minute. And let’s not discuss
it. I’m just not in the mood today.” “Good
enough,” Ron said. “Pass me the toast.” Harry
flicked a finger and the plate levitated to Ron and settled in front
of him. “Lazy.” “Harry,
I was lying in bed last night thinking about you and Voldemort,”
Hermione said. “Eww
gross,” Neville said. “Not
like that, stupid,” Hermione said and the table all laughed. “Actually
I can see that,” Draco said. Harry gave Draco the look. “Think
about it. He’s a Slytherin with great power, he’s
irritating and has that totally domineering personality, he’s
the ultimate Death Eater and wants you dead.” “Yeah.
It’s a wonder you’re not head over heels in love with the
guy,” Ron laughed. “Fuck
you,” Harry said. “Oh
god. How did this come about? I was only trying to say that I was
considering the fact that you are destined to destroy him,”
Hermione said. “There are other ways of destroying someone than
killing them.” “And
how is that?” Draco asked. “He’d
escape Azkaban in a moment, and no binding curse could hold him
longer than a few weeks,” Harry said. “Besides, he has to
die and that’s the end of it. I’ve already had this
discussion a million times and the only option is for me to kill the
fucker.” “If
there was some way to keep him in a hold or prison so that he
couldn’t escape then your problem with the Ministry would be
irrelevant,” Hermione said. “Is there no way to
possibly…put him in a sort of stasis or…just…anything?” “Herm,
I’ve worked on that for months with the High Five Council,”
Harry said. “They can’t think of anything to hold a level
thirty five wizard indefinitely. There are ways to do a semi fragment
on him and put his magical signature with his fragmented state into a
Fendi crystal orb to contain him. The only problem with that plan is
that I’d have to do it myself by wrapping my arms around him
and I just don’t feel like hugging the guy. The other thing is
that there are only two empty Fendi crystals in the world and both of
them are being used for other purposes by members of the High Five
Council. I could get one, but…killing him sounds so much
easier and…more frankly more enjoyable.” “And
I’m sure Voldemort would welcome a hug from you,” Draco
said. “Exactly,”
Harry said. “But
it is possible,” Hermione said. “Anything
is possible, but putting him in that crystal won’t happen,”
Harry said. “Albus says that the balance of evil to light has
to tip in our favor and killing him is the only way. So that’s
the end of it.” “But
if you could put him in the crystal then you could get…”
Hermione started. “Hermione,”
Harry threw down his fork. “Let it go. I have orders to do it.
I’ll kill the fucker and that’s the end of it. Please.
Please, just drop it. Okay?” Harry asked with the pleading
look. Hermione nodded and Harry finished off his toast and jam. “This
is why you eat in your room, isn’t it?” Draco asked. “Yes.
They drive me insane,” Harry said. “Aren’t
you supposed to be insane anyway with that…enigma thing?”
Seamus asked. Harry dropped his fork again with a clink and Draco
laughed. Harry threw out his hand and made the circular blade of a
razor sharp granka and slammed it into the wood of the table beside
Seamus’ plate. Everyone at the table jumped. “I
will slice you into shreds if you open your mouth again,” Harry
said. “Yes,
honey, that makes you sound so much more sane,” Draco said
rubbing Harry’s back. Harry lowered his head to the table with
a thunk and gave a soft laugh. “It’s
not me. I swear it’s not me that’s crazy,” Harry
sat back up. “It’s these idiots that make me do stupid
shit like that because they won’t leave me the hell alone.” “But
you’re not supposed to be alone or something,” Neville
said. “Right? You’ll go for real insane if you’re
alone all the time.” “Yeah.
Isn’t that what Dumbledore said?” Dean asked. Draco and
Hermione laughed softly. Harry just shook his head in irritation as
the owls came swooping into the Dining Hall with the morning mail.
Little packages, letters and scrolls were dropped to the students.
Hermione got her version of the Daily Prophet and opened it. “Shut
up. Just shut the hell up,” Harry said. “I’m fine.
See how nice and calm and normal I am? I’m just sitting here
trying to eat my breakfast and then you very irritating people start
on me and I freak out. It’s not me. It’s you making me
crazy with your badgering.” “You’re
right,” Draco said. “We do make you crazy.” “Damn
straight,” Harry said in agreement with a firm nod. “See?
I told you I’m normal.” “Yes.
You’re normal for a criminal,” Hermione said as she
turned the front page of the Prophet around to show Harry his picture
with the headline: Harry Potter Charged.” “Oh
hell,” Harry said. “What is that?” Draco laughed
with Ron and Seamus over the story as Hermione began to read the
story. “Harry
Potter was charged with obstruction of justice during an attempted
break out by Death Eaters from Azkaban prison on Sunday evening.
Ministry officials report that the boy who lived illegally broke
through several wards and wreaked havok during the Auror planned
defenses. Potter’s neglect was blamed for the escape of one
band of five Death Eaters and the continued disappearance of one
Auror squad who are now believed to be captives of the escapees.
Minister of Magic, Cornelius Fudge commented, “Potter will be
dealt with for his crime and brought into custody of our policing
squads and serve a sentence for his unwarranted involvement.”
Albus Dumbledore, who serves as Potter’s legal guardian, was
unavailable for comment. The Daily Prophet has learned that an Auror
escort took Potter, along with Dumbledore, to the Minister’s
office where Potter was detained and questioned over the incident.
Minister Fudge further commented that Potter should be considered
dangerous and has urged the current Headmaster of Hogwarts to keep
Potter under more strict confinement and under medical care for his
obvious mental instability. Further action on this charge is pending
further investigation.” “Oh
my god,” Draco said. “What a bunch of bullshit.” “No
it’s not,” Harry said and everyone turned to him. “What
do you mean?” Neville asked. “Everything
in that article is true,” Harry said. “Every word. I
think that’s the first true article they’ve ever printed
on me.” “None
of that shit is true,” Ron said. “Yes,
it is. Read it again,” Harry asked. Hermione re-read the
article slowly to them all again and each listened more carefully.
After she was finished she put down the paper slowly. “You
aren’t responsible for the disappearance of the Auror squad,”
Draco said. “If
I’d have been there earlier, they’d still be here,”
Harry said. “I should have gone sooner. It’s my fault.” “You
can’t blame yourself for that,” Ron said. “If
I had been there and not acting a fool at some party then yes, those
Aurors would not have been taken. It’s my fault, Ron,”
Harry said. “I’ll get them back. I just have to figure
out how to do it. That’s all.” “So
what if you’d been there earlier? You may not have been able to
do anything,” Draco said. “Draco,
please,” Harry said. “I could have stopped it if I was
there and you know it.” Harry folded his arms on the table and
put his head down on them. “But I had to go off running to a
party like an idiot and not doing what I was needed to do. I’m
stupid. Stupid, stupid, stupid.” “Harry,
that’s enough,” Draco said firmly with irritation. “I
won’t let you blame yourself because a group of highly trained
Aurors couldn’t keep themselves from being captured. That’s
what’s stupid. It’s not your job to go around saving
people that need to be able to take care of themselves. You have one
duty. One. Kill Voldemort. That’s it. You can’t save the
whole damn world.” “No?”
Harry raised his head. “Is that what you think? I don’t
think you can see the scope of what I’m trained to do, Draco. I
am the house of cards.” Harry stood from the table and walked
out of the Dining Hall and turned in the direction of training room
one leaving the students speechless at his words.
http://www.ficsavers.com
Tomorrow Will Come
Chapter 14: Chapter 14
By: Kimberjingle
Chapter 14:
What Harry Really Is, The Secret Mission, In The News