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

Hermione's dark eyes narrowed into slits. It was a challengea Gryffindor against a Slytherin sort of duel. She was reminded of days that seemed all too far in the past, yet the memories were still just as fresh and vivid as the battle against Voldemort himself. Only this was familiar, a typical battle of wits to see who'd gain the latest house points and, more importantly, to see who would back down first. Of course, Hermione knew she had an edge. She'd hardly lied when she'd said she knew exactly why Draco would be so helpful. Unlike the rest of them, he had an advantage, a severe one that made her doubt if this plan was indeed a good one after all. But they'd been left with little option. Harry had disappeared and he needed to be brought home where he belonged. Ginny just winced, her nerve faltering slightly as Draco glared at them all. She was certain he felt smug despite Hermione standing her ground and calling him out. She turned to look at her curly-haired friend. Not only was she brilliant, she was brave. It was easy to see why Ron was so infatuated. It made her wonder, for a fleeting moment, if someone would ever feel that strongly for her. Yes, she supposed that Harry was the one everyone expected her to end up with. She hadn't missed the way Ron's actions both suggested and encouraged. And then there was Hermione, always hinting. It was enough to make her feel smothered, choked up in a dark closet while fire threatened to burn and smoke threatened to suffocate. But Ginny wasn't sure that her path ultimately led to Harry. Her crush had subsided, yet she continued to play that role. It was easier as the times grew darker, more grim. And now that Harry was gone...a part of her felt relieved. Though she knew she couldn't utter a single word about that. You'll help us, Hermione stated, breaking the silence and ending Ginny's little reverie as she mustered up her courage. All your friends are gone, Malfoy. You've no one left. She glanced around just then, taking in the sight of the manor. Everything was quiet as Hermione did her best to stare Draco down. Ginny glanced about the darkened room and wondered why his mother was nowhere to be seen. She didn't know the witch well, had only seen her on occasion in Diagon Alley. But it was a rare thing for Narcissa Malfoy to not be by her son's side. Especially now, of all times. She bit down on her lower lip, digging deep within her soul to find her inner fire. 'Mione's right, Ginny added in support, forcing herself to stand up straighter. After all, she was a part of Dumbledore's Army. The beloved headmaster might be gone, but his legacy lived on and always would. Hermione smirked at Draco before turning toward Ginny and giving her a nod. Luna just stared up at the ceiling, her blue eyes watching the way the light from Hermione's wand seemed dance with the crystals hanging off the chandelier. She let out a soft sigh and then looked down, her eyes resting upon the mirror. Her expression went thoughtful as she studied the looking glass held by an ornate frame. Something was off, the shadows fell strangely against the reflective glass. Reflective. Luna smiled inwardly as realization struck hard. You'll help, Ginny went on. She brought her hand up, her wand at the ready. How often do you get a rabble of wizards asking for your help? She arched a brow, her fire burning brighter. Especially when that rabble includes Granger. She purposefully left the pleasantries out, honing in on Draco's ego, his pride as they stood there at his mercy. She wasn't sure why Hermione was so confident, but she had a feeling it wouldn't be long before the more secret parts of this plan were revealed. With a flick of her wrist, Hermione lit the room. Luna just giggled. She wondered how the boys were faring outside in the dark. Just think of the praises you'll receive...the Slytherin who found Potter, Ginny said, her voice almost a whisper. As she stood there, she could feel her blood rising to her cheeks, her body becoming warm as her hand gripped her wand tightly. She took a step forward then, her dark eyes taking in the pale shadow. Hermione watched on, her head tilting to the side as she watched Ginny edge closer to Draco. She looked at his mouth, waiting for him to bare his fangs, reveal the one thing she'd managed to uncover. Glancing Luna's way, she noticed that the Ravenclaw was staring intently at the mirror. Of course, she'd figured it out. A sense of pride for being friends with such a smart witch filled her up. Don't worry, Draco, Hermione prodded. Your secret is safe with us.