Prisoners of Our Minds

The universe is change; our life is what our thoughts make it.

Marcus Aurelius Antoninus, Meditations

Ron regained consciousness sometime after sunset. He blinked his swollen eyes a few to times to adjust to the overwhelming brightness. A roaring fire warmed the cosy room, and Ron noticed that a soft woollen blanket had been placed over his aching body. In the distance, he heard the movement of cutleries, and voices around the dinner table. It was all so far away to him.

All sense of time had vanished from his mind; there was little he could remember. His last memories included images of Fred and George holding a bucket under his chin, eagerly awaiting the arrival of another belched up sundaes. Once they had collected their fill, they retreated to their room, muttering something about an experiment under their breaths. Ron also vaguely remembered Hermione and Ginny taking turns in nursing him. But when Harry stampeded through the living room, both girls had disappeared to see what was going on, shortly followed by the twins. Ron gathered that there was a meeting in the kitchen for he could hear murmuring through the closed doors. Although he strained catch their words, he could make no sense of the jumbled sounds. Soon after he fell asleep. When he finally awoke, the meeting had dispersed. The sound of voices gave way to the sound of his mother cooking.

Ron placed his head back onto the pillow. It wasn't as cold anymore and the queasy feeling at the pit of his stomach had entirely vanished. On the whole, he was feeling much better. The sweet scent of Mrs. Weasley's chocolate cake wafted into the living room. She's trying to sooth uneasy nerves, Ron thought with a wry grin. She only ever makes chocolate cake when something's wrong. It must be Harry, he concluded. Something's happened. Poor Harry. He's got a real rotten deal. I wouldn't want to be him right now.

Ron could scarcely believe that at one time he had been envious of Harry. He blushed at the memory. Fame was nothing to family and friends. Ron had learnt that lesson. Harry never knew the love of his parents. You-Know-Who had stolen his childhood and his future. Sirius was gone. Nothing could ever mend the loss. There was so much Harry stood to lose. And he could lose it at any moment, Ron thought sadly.

"Why the sad face young man? You aren't dying are you?"

Ron jumped in fright. He looked about the room wildly but could not see anyone. Who said that? His mind questioned.

"I did, up here," the disembodied voice said. Ron followed the voice until his eyes reached the young lady hovering above the fireplace. She was wearing an elegant ball gown. Under the candlelight, Ron could see that the gown was a beautiful shade of mauve. A tight corset wrapped around her slim figure which contrasted eerily with her translucent skin. Soft ringlets framed her delicate face. She glided down to the ground effortlessly and descended upon an armchair opposite Ron. She rearranged her dress neatly as she sat down then looked at Ron expectantly.

"Well? Aren't you going to ask me why I'm here?" she asked looking slightly annoyed.

Ron turned away and pointedly ignored her. You're just a hallucination. I had some belladonna with leech juice. It wasn't a good mix. The other's will come in soon and find me talking to myself. I'm acting daft, Ron thought matter-of-factly.

The young lady pouted. "You're not hallucinating. You can see me because I made myself visible to you."

Ron looked to the couch again to find her still there. He didn't really believe her. How could anyone read his thoughts?

"How did you get in? There are charms on the door and how can you fly?" he asked suspiciously

The girl laughed. "Because, dear boy. I'm dead. I can do whatever I want."

Ron gasped. Then squinted at her disbelievingly. "If you're a ghost then how come you're not grey?"

The girl shook her head. "I'm a spirit, not a ghost. My name is Mina, I was sent on behalf of the Realm of the Dead to speak with you. Now listen. This has to do with your friend Harry Potter."

Ron sat up hastily and gasped. "You can't take him! He's too young to die."

The girl rolled her eyes impatiently. "You need to learn to shut up and listen, Ronald Weasley. I'm not here to take him. I'm here because the dead needs his help."

Ron looked perplexed. "But why speak to me? Why don't you speak with Harry yourself? He's in the other room having dinner."

"I can't speak with him because he can't see me. You mortals can see ghosts because they are neither here in this world nor in the Realm of the Dead. I, on the other hand, crossed the Styx to join the spirits. Mortals can't see me, except for those who have been chosen as intermediaries between the two worlds. A few of us spirits tried to speak with you in Diagon Alley, except there were too many people watching."

Ron remembered seeing emaciated bodies clinging hopefully to Harry. "Why do you want Harry?" he asked suspiciously.

Mina lowered her voice and moved closer towards Ron. "I am constrained by the laws of the dead and so I cannot reveal certain facts that have come to light. Our laws forbid us from interfering in the affairs of the living. For the most part we just observe. However, these are not ordinary times. We face a crisis in both the realm of the living and that of the dead."

"What crisis?" Ron asked, suddenly intrigued.

"Patience you silly boy! The problem with you living folks is that you don't know the meaning of patience."

"Pardon me, but we're not alive for very long," Ron pointed out pertinently.

Mina thought about this. "I suppose that is true. But I am getting to the point I assure you. There is an evil plot, conjured by one that walks among the living. The plot is so heinous that I shudder to imagine the consequences should it come to fruition."

Mina stopped. Ron looked at her expectantly. "And? What is this plot?"

Mina looked at him sadly. "I cannot reveal it to you. But I can tell you that Harry is in possession of this terrible magic and only he can destroy it."

"Harry?" Ron asked disbelievingly. "What is this magic that you speak of?"

Mina looked anxious. "I cannot speak of that either. You must tell Harry to destroy it for there are evil creatures searching for it. It is no easy task. In order to destroy it, you must find the Wand of Light."

"The Wand of Light?" Ron echoed. "What's that?"

"An ancient magic thought to have been lost in the Wizarding Dark Ages. But it is a strong magic that calls to the heir of its creator. You must find that heir. Only the heir can destroy the magic that threatens the decimation of our two worlds."

Ron shook his head. "You're being so cryptic. How do I find this heir?"

Mina leaned forward. "The heir is in Hogwarts. That's all I can say. You must also warn Harry of an impending fight. One that he might not win."

Ron looked frightened. "We'll protect him," he said boldly. "We won't let anything harm him."

Mina smiled poignantly. "Yes. You and Hermione have been excellent friends to Harry, but sometimes, that's not enough. Harry must look to someone else for protection. Someone he would not have trusted before but must do so now. This person may protect and save him or betray and kill him. Their fates are yet undecided."

"Then wouldn't it be better to not trust this mysterious person?" Ron asked in exasperation.

Mina stood up and approached Ron. She touched his face lightly with her fingertips. Ron shivered. Her touch was so cold that it burned his skin, like liquid fire.

"My dear Ron, I cannot pretend to the foreseeable future, that is up to the Fates. They weave their magic upon this world silently and make decisions that we cannot possibly predict. What has been destined for Harry cannot be changed. We cannot alter the path that is predestined for us, no matter how hard we try."

Mina walked away from Ron to a clearing in the room. "I must go now for my time in this world is limited. Be sure to tell Harry what I have told you. I shall be in touch."

"Wait!" Ron called out. "I have one last question."

Mina looked at him with a raised eyebrow. "What is it?"

"Why me? Why am I an-an intermediary?" Ron asked.

Mina smiled warmly. "Because we know everything there is to know about you. We watched your birth, your first step, your first day on the Hogwarts express where you met the famous Harry Potter. We followed you in all your exploits. You see, the spirits frequently walk among the living and share with you the joys of life. We laugh when you are happy and we cry when you are sad. We've watched you always, Ron, and we know the depth of your heart, the extent of your courage and the source of your fears. The elders of our realm chose you because they saw the goodness in your heart. They greatly admired your loyalty to your family and friends, and your love for all mankind. Very few can boast of such virtues."

Ron blushed a deep shade of crimson at Mina's words. The spirit beamed.

"I must go now Ron. Until we meet again, farewell."

Ron watched as a silver ring of light appeared under Mina's feet. In an instant, Mina disappeared. The living room was eerily quiet. Ron settled back onto the couch and chewed at his lip nervously.

"Ron? I've brought you some chocolate cake. Would you like some?" Ginny asked. She was carrying a plate with a generous slice of chocolate cake on it. Ron smiled at his little sister.

"Yes please," he said eagerly.

"Hermione and Harry are up in your room. They want to speak with you about something." Ginny said. "That's if you are feeling up to it."

"Thanks Ginny. I am," Ron said between mouthfuls of cake. "I have something to discuss with them as well."

Ginny shot him an inquisitively look but did not ask any questions. Ron smiled at her gratefully as she took the empty plate.

"Thanks Ginny," he said again, giving his little sister a quick peck on the cheek before leaving the room.

Ron walked up the stairs slowly. He was still feeling weak from Malfoy's potion. His head spun wildly as he climbed the stairs. Each step became more laborious, but he was determined to reach his room.

Harry and Hermione jumped up instantly at the sight of him.

"Ron! You look so pale! Are you alright?" Harry asked as he helped Ron to a chair.

"Never better," Ron answered lightly. Hermione left to get a cup of ice-cold pumpkin juice.

"Harry. There's something I have to tell you," Ron said to Harry urgently. When Hermione returned with the pumpkin juice, Ron launched into an account of his conversation with Mina.

When he finished both Harry and Hermione looked astonished.

"Did she say anything about this dark magic? What it does?" Harry asked.

Ron shook his head. "No. She wasn't allowed to. All she said was it could decimate two worlds."

"And Harry has it?" Hermione asked again to make sure.

"Yes," Ron answered.

"That's impossible. I don't own anything that's even remotely connected to the dark arts," Harry declared.

The three Gryffindors sat in silence and pondered the cryptic clues.

"Well, it seems we must find the heir," Hermione said finally.

"But how?" Ron asked.

"I'm going to look for references of the Wand of Light in our history books. It mightn't say much, but at least it's a start," Hermione considered.

Ron groaned. I knew this would involve books, he thought gloomily.

"Harry, would you like to help me?" Hermione asked. Harry nodded. "Good, then you can look for dark magic that can threaten the Realm of the Dead. Also, look for dark wizards that have tried to destroy the Realm in the past."

Harry nodded with a gleam in his eye and immediately left to search for books.

"What about me?" Ron asked feeling a little left out.

"You have potions work remember? Snape will not look kindly upon hastily completed work. I recommend that you start working on it right away," Hermione said authoritatively.

Ron sighed and followed her out of the room. Halfway down the stairs Hermione stopped, making Ron crash into her.

"Ow! Keep moving woman," Ron cried. Hermione ignored his comment and turned to face him.

"How can we trust Mina? How do you know that she wasn't sent by Voldemort to throw us off?" she asked. Ron shuddered at the mention of the Dark Lord.

"I don't know. I just trust her. She seemed genuinely frightened," he answered.

"For us?" Hermione asked.

"No, for herself," Ron answered. The elders of our realm chose you because they saw the goodness in your heart. Ron flushed inwardly as he recalled Mina's words. Then he thought of something else.

"Hermione. What were you and Harry going to tell me?" he asked.

Hermione paused then relayed the contents of Harry's dream. Ron felt his mouth widen with shock.

"Your father has contacted Dumbledore," Hermione said to assure Ron. "I heard Dumbledore say that Hagrid is fine. He's busy teaching Gwamp human etiquette."

Ron shuddered at the thought of Hagrid's giant brother. "Dumbledore will keep an eye on Hagrid then?"

"Oh yes. I am sure of it." Hermione nodded. "Besides, we can all keep an eye on Hagrid once school commences."

Ron nodded. Together, Ron and Hermione proceeded down the stairs to join Harry. There was much work to be done. Despite the warmth emanating from the hearth, Ron felt a chill in his bones. Change was in the air. And all might not all work out for the better, he thought.

*

The days of the summer holidays passed quickly. Ginny scarcely knew where the time went. She was out in the yard flying lazily on her broom. Above her, the sky was a pale blue, not a cloud could be seen. It was such a beautiful day that Ginny couldn't bare the thought of staying indoors. Strangely, Harry, Hermione and Ron did not share her sentiment. The three Gryffindors had locked themselves in Ron's room reading books. Ginny had asked about their activity and Harry said something about catching up with DADA classes. Ginny wasn't convinced. For starters they weren't even sure that DADA classes would resume next year. Secondly, she had never seen his brother study voluntarily during the school holidays. They were up to something, and they didn't want Ginny to know.

It's so like them to exclude me, Ginny thought bitterly. It wasn't easy being younger that the trio. Just when she thought the others had accepted her as an equal, something would change the way they felt about her. Whenever some kind of danger arose, she became the little girl they must protect.

I've proved myself, Ginny thought angrily. I fought among them against the death eaters. I mastered hexes as well as the best of them. Yet I am still the outsider as if I can't be trusted. Ginny's mood worsened as she watched the trio walk into the backyard deep in conversation. Look at them. They're so close. How can I ever be a part of that?

Ginny lowered her broom and stopped in front of the others. "Hello," she said putting on a smile.

The others looked at her and grinned, but they had stopped talking.

"You're flying very well," Harry said with a faint smile. Ginny frowned. She knew very well that they weren't talking about her flying.

"Thank you. If you'll excuse me," she said acidly before stalking back inside.

She stomped up to her room and slammed her door shut loudly. Alright calm down, a voice inside her head said. You're not five, you're going on fifteen. Behave maturely. Taking a deep breath, Ginny sat down at her small writing desk and began to sort through her unread owl posts. Dean Thomas had sent her a postcard from Greece. Ginny smiled as she read his familiar writing:

"Dear Ginny,

How are you? I'm missing you lots. Greece is amazing and so beautiful. I wish you were here with me. I hope you liked the Chocolate Corinthian Crumbles I sent you. Today my family and I visited Plato's Academy, a school for witches and wizards much like our own. It's in the north of Greece between two very sharp cliffs. The students there are a bit like us, except they speak Greek. There's even a hawk nosed, shifty looking professor that teaches potions. Probably Snape's long lost brother or something. Anyway, I'm coming back in a few days. Just in time to see my dreaded O.W.L.s. I'm very anxious but I'll be glad to come home. Would you like to meet in Hogsmeade sometime and have a butterbeer? I'd like to see you again very soon. How are things at the Burrow? Please say hello to Harry and Ron for me, and Hermione if she's still around. Well, must go now. The Weird Sisters are playing in Meteora tonight, so that should be cool.

Talk to you soon,

Dean."

Ginny grinned at the thought of seeing Dean again. They were quite good together despite Ron's protests. She remembered Ron's reaction when she first told him of their relationship.

"Ginny! You can't date him. He's my mate!" Ron cried in horror.

"So what? If he's your mate then you must like him." Ginny said sensible.

"Yes, but...but...you're my sister. You can't date!" Ron ranted illogically.

"Why not? Mum said I could," Ginny sniffed.

"If he tries anything..." Ron threatened.

"He won't!" Ginny sighed exasperatedly. "Anyway, you need to leave now. I'm going to Dean's house for a swim this afternoon. Dad is taking me, so I'll need to change."

Ron's eyes widened to the size of saucers. "No Ginny. You can't go!"

"Why Ron?" Ginny asked through her teeth.

"Because it's swimming!" Ron spluttered.

"And?" Ginny asked.

"And it's with Dean!" Ron emphasized.

Ginny snorted impatiently and started to push Ron out of her room. Ron latched onto the doorframe with his fingernails.

"Nothing good ever comes out of swimming!" he warned.

"Oh shut up Ron. Dad and Mr. Thomas will supervise," Ginny assured him.

"Let me come with you!" Ron demanded.

"NO!" she yelled before pushing her brother out of her room and slamming the door shut.

Ginny laughed at the memory of Ron's face. As much as she loved his brother, he could be a royal stubborn git. Ginny made a mental note to ask her mother for permission to go to Hogsmeade.

There was a flurry at the window. Pigwidgeon had landed with a small note tied to his feet. Ginny reached for the window and opened it. Pig hopped about excitedly, feeling proud to have made an important delivery. Ginny tried to calm him so that she could take the note from his leg, but he couldn't stay still. It wasn't until Ginny offered Pig a few owl treats that the little owl settled down. Ginny patted him affectionately before taking the note. It was a brief message from Luna Lovegood. Ginny stared at it in amazement. She hadn't expected to hear from Luna.

"Greetings Ginny,

I hope the summer holidays have been enjoyable for you so far. My dad and I went in search of the Crumple-Horned Snorkacks. We were close upon spotting one on a few occasions but unfortunately they got away. They are very shy creatures you know. Nevertheless, the trip was a nice break for dad and I. My dad told me that Harry is at your house. How is he holding up? I spoke to my mum the other day. She tells me that Sirius is happy. He warns that a battle is approaching; he says we must all be very careful, Harry especially. Sirius says that Harry is in terrible danger. Do you know what Sirius is talking about? Has something happened to Harry? Please let me know if you've heard anything.

See you in a few days,

Luna."

Ginny was shocked. She's heard from Sirius! Ginny thought excitedly. Luna had the reputation of being a bit strange but even she could not create such an elaborate story. Ginny was intrigued. Picking up a quill, she quickly scribbled a reply.

"Dear Luna,

I'm glad that you are having fun. My holidays haven't been too bad. I'm happy to report that no harm has come to Harry, except that he's had another dream. I will tell you about that later. Listen, about you mother, how do you contact her? What else did she say about Sirius? What do you think he meant by Harry being in terrible danger? We must talk soon. Let's meet in the last carriage on the train. In the meantime, please don't tell anyone that you've heard from Sirius. I don't want the news to reach Harry. It might upset him. I'm now eagerly awaiting the beginning of school. I will keep you posted on any developments here at the Burrow.

Best regards,

Ginny."

When Ginny finished the letter, she whistled for Pig to deliver it. The little owl swooped down on her table, twittering excitedly. Ginny attached the letter to Pig's leg and sent him off. Ginny watched as Pig fluttered away, high into the air until he could no longer be seen. For the first time in her life, Ginny felt an overwhelming sense of dread. She wondered if anyone else could feel the chill in the air. Something is about to happen, something dreadful. Evil is stirring, I can feel it and I'm scared.

*

For over a decade Narcissa had walked the halls of the Malfoy Manor with a shallow sense of pride. She was Mrs. Malfoy. No other woman in the Wizarding world could boast of a higher title. Then came Draco, her joy, her triumph; she had brought another beautiful Malfoy into the world.

But Draco, what have you become? She thought sadly. As the years passed, the flames of her pride turned to ice. The Malfoy name had become detestable to her. She hated name that brought her so much pain and fear. It had robbed her of happiness, and now it was robbing her of her son.

Narcissa strode down the long hall quickly. Lucius had summoned her and he could never be kept waiting. The battered house elf warned her that the Master was in a foul mood. That can't be good, Narcissa thought worriedly as she quickened her step.

She didn't want to see Lucius. More than anything else on this day, she wanted to be with her son, to hold him and comfort him, to tell him that she loved him. She wanted so desperately to sooth his fears, to tell him that they could runaway from this nightmare.

But you can't, her thoughts taunted maliciously. You can't lie anymore because Draco knows the truth: Lucius owns you. You've never been anything more than a slave. You're weak and despicable. You've sold your only son to the devil. You killed him. What sort of a mother are you? You're no mother at all!

"Stop it! Just stop it!" Narcissa whispered savagely. Tears stung her eyes, but she would not cry. Malfoys don't cry. She reached Lucius' study to find the door open. Narcissa walked into the opulent room.

"You called for me?" she asked her husband.

Lucius stood by the window, facing the garden. "Yes," he said without turning around.

Narcissa waited patiently. She knew better than to hurry her husband.

"The Dark Lord requires your company," Lucius said simply. His voice held no emotion.

Narcissa blanched. "When?"

"Now," Lucius said, still not turning around. "He is in the dungeon. He's waiting for you."

Narcissa stood up and patted her hair. "Very well. I will go and see him."

"No," Lucius said. "Go to your room and pack your possessions."

"Why?" Narcissa asked. She had not expected this.

"You will stay with the Dark Lord for an indefinite period of time. He will decide when you can return," Lucius said casually.

Narcissa felt a stab of fear. "Then what of our son? I must tend to him."

"He is no longer your son. He belongs to the Dark Lord."

"He is still my son. Can I see him?"

"No."

"Then I will not go," Narcissa said vehemently.

Lucius finally turned from the window and glared at his wife. "You will do as you are told," he said coldly.

Narcissa glared back at her husband. "You will never have him. You were wrong to think that you could break him. He is stronger than that. He will never consent to your degrading acts. Never!" she screamed.

Lucius looked at her for a moment, then smiled. It was cold and sinister like everything else about Lucius. He walked over to her slowly. "You stupid woman," he said. "Even the strongest man has weaknesses." In an instant he grabbed her hair and wrenched her head back. Narcissa winced but made no noise. "He loves you," Lucius spat, as if it was a dirty thought. "You are his weakness. So long as we have you, he would never dare disobey us."

Narcissa's eyes widened. She began to struggle against Lucius. She cried out and kicked absently at his captor.

"My, my, Narcissa. You have never been so vigorous in my arms before," Lucius snarled. Then he crushed his lips against hers. Narcissa whimpered from the pain. She struggle all the harder against the violation. With a final effort, she kicked Lucius in the shins and ran for the door. She heard Lucius curse behind her.

Run Narcissa! Her mind screamed. She set off for Draco's room running as fast as her legs would carry her.

The door to Draco's room loomed closer. Hurry! Her mind screamed again. Lucius was gaining speed behind her.

"Draco!" she screamed. "Open the door!"

The door swung open. Quickly, Narcissa bolted inside and slammed the door shut. Once inside, Draco waved his wand and locked the door. Narcissa sighed in relief.

"Mother? What are you doing here?" Draco asked. He looked questioningly at her.

Narcissa tried to smile but could only manage a grimace. "Draco. My darling Draco," she said softly as she ran her hand through his hair. He pulled away. Narcissa let her hand drop.

"They've come to take me away. The Dark Lord will hold me as his prisoner. They will use me to get to you. Draco, listen to me. Forget about me. Don't do what they ask of you! Listen to your conscience. Listen to your soul," Narcissa pleaded. "You're different from the rest of them." Draco looked shocked but said nothing. "Promise me Draco," Narcissa cried imploringly. "Promise me you will not follow the path of darkness. Promise me you won't let them take you like they took me." She touched her son's face gently as the tears spilled over onto her cheeks.

"Come out Narcissa!" Lucius snarled at the door. "Draco! Send your mother out."

"Don't go," Draco whispered, holding onto his mother's arm. A look of fear flashed in his eyes. Narcissa smiled at her son. Yes, he is still my son, she thought with a glimmer of hope. I haven't lost him yet.

"I have to go now Draco," she said prying his hand from her arm. "But remember what I have said. Seek help Draco. Go to Dumbledore. He will help you. He will understand. Always remember that I love you my son. Goodbye."

Narcissa walked to the door and whispered an incantation. The door swung open. Outside stood a red faced Lucius. McNair and the Lestranges stood behind him. Lucius grabbed her roughly by the arm and led her away. She didn't struggle. A strange sense of peace had settled around her. She looked like a martyr being led to the gallows, brave and defiant. Narcissa looked back at Draco standing at the doorway and smiled. For the first time in her life, she felt reprieved. The guilt was lifted and she was free.

*

Draco stood in the front foyer of the Malfoy Manor with two trunks by his side. It was the first day of school and Draco was anxious to leave. He paced around the room impatiently as he waited for Lucius. He hated waiting. He hated waiting for Lucius even more. Put it simply I just hate Lucius, he thought grimly.

His thoughts wondered to his mother as he walked about the barren hall. He hadn't seen her since the day Voldemort took her away. He wondered where she was and what they were doing to her. She doesn't deserve this, he thought sadly. She made the mistake of marrying Lucius and now she's paying for it with her life. It isn't fair.

The coach pulled up in front of the Manor. Four magnificent black stallions stamped their feet noisily as the coachman knocked on the door. The sound echoed through the hollow Manor. Lucius arrived an instant later. He walked into the foyer briskly, shooting Draco a look of disdain as he passed.

"Come," Lucius barked and walked out the door. Draco followed silently. The two Malfoys climbed into the coach, sitting as far apart as possible. Once the trunk was loaded and everything secured, the coachman stirred the stallions to a fast canter.

Silence prevailed for a while before Lucius turned to Draco with a wolfish grin. "Your mother isn't enjoying her stay," he said. "Pity really. The Dark Lord has been most accommodating."

"Where is she?" Draco asked casually.

"The Dark Lord's dungeons. You'll never reach her," Lucius smiled coldly.

Draco returned the cold stare. "What makes you think I care?"

Lucius chuckled. "How sad Narcissa must feel when she hears your words." Draco watched his father as he pocket extracted a parcel from his pocket. It was a silver handkerchief with the initials N.M sown on the side. "Your mother sent you a gift," Lucius said giving the parcel to Draco. "Take a look."

Draco looked at Lucius suspiciously before unwrapping the handkerchief. The content made him sick. He tried not to scream in horror as the sight of his mother's finger greeted him. It was her wedding finger. The wedding band was still attached. Draco had never seen such cruelty, not even from his father.

Lucius chuckled again. "I want the ring, you can keep the rest."

Draco covered the finger with the handkerchief and pocketed it. He stared out the window as the trees whirled by. Hogwarts, he thought hopefully. I'll be safe in Hogwarts. I'll speak to Dumbledore and he will help me. I'll explain everything that's happened. We can still save her.

"We'll send you a piece of her every week," Lucius said cheerfully.

Draco felt faint. "I don't want it," he said coldly.

"Then you know what you must do," Lucius said with a satisfied smile.

Draco's thoughts spun wildly. What can I do? His mind screamed. What choice do I have but to agree?

"Alright Lucius. What do you want me to do?" Draco asked.

Lucius' smile widened, though it never reached his eyes. He extracted a small piece of parchment from his pocket and passed it to Draco.

"These two students attend Hogwarts. The Dark Lord needs you to bring them to him."

Draco looked at the note for a moment then pocketed it. "Does the senile old bat ever do his own dirty work?" Lucius glared at him venomously, but it only achieved in making Draco snort. "Lucius, you should know by now that looks can't kill. Don't strain yourself trying. You always look more constipated than angry."

It was too much for Lucius. He smacked Draco soundly across the face with the back of his hand. "Curb your filthy tongue boy if you know what's good for you!" Lucius paused. The cold glint of malice returned to his eyes. "You know, your mother had your spirit...before they cut her up. I wouldn't want to see that happen to you."

Draco suppressed a shudder. He looked coolly at his father and tactfully changed the topic. "What does Voldemort want with these students?"

"Never you mind. Just deliver them to me by the end of September," Lucius snapped

"How will I do that?"

"You're a sixth year prefect, you will have your own room from now on. There will be a fireplace in your room that is connected to Hogwarts' central floo network. From there, you can floo the students to the Manor. The grates will open at a precise time for the transfer. I will be waiting at the other end," Lucius said.

The coach lurched to a stop along a busy muggle street. Before Draco could open the door, Lucius quickly grabbed his arm and pulled him back inside.

"One last thing Draco. Abandon all hope of defecting to Dumbledore. He will not believe your stories. You're a Death Eater now, evil, ruthless and beyond reprieve." Lucius grinned maniacally as he opened the Daily Prophet. "Your notoriety has preceded you Draco. Allow me read your headline, 'Dark Wizard Murders Muggle Girl in Cold-Blood'." Lucius peered at him with feigned sympathy. "There's an inquiry into the murder. Nasty business murders are wouldn't you say? The Ministry's quite outraged, and so is Dumbledore. He says the murderer should be brought to justice and severely punished. Fudge and other high councillors are even calling for the death penalty. Dear me Draco, quite the predicament you're in. You've committed such a heinous crime, not even Dumbledore will forgive you."

"I was under the Imperius Curse!" Draco growled as his chest constricted painfully. The wave of remorse was suffocating him, drowning him in the unrelenting torrent.

"Ah yes. Poor Draco was under the Imperius Curse. He didn't mean to cut the girl's throat. He wanted to be a Death Eater but he didn't want to kill anyone," Lucius sang condescendingly before that maniacal grin returned. "Can you prove you were under the Imperius Curse? Can you hide the Dark Mark? No Draco, you can't. You are one of us now. You had better remember that."

Draco glared at Lucius before scrambling out of the coach. He's right, Draco thought dejectedly as the stallions galloped away, nearly trampling him and a few shocked muggles in their haste.

I was such a fool to believe that Dumbledore would understand. He wouldn't. Why would he even listen? I can't win this.

Draco sighed and gathered his things. Now he wasn't so anxious to reach Hogwarts. Slowly he headed down the stairs to platform nine and three quarters. Each step felt like lifting lead, and yet he reached to train all too quickly.

"Hey Draco!" a low rumbling voice called out to him. Draco turned to see Goyle lumbering stupidly towards him. Crabbe followed not far behind.

"Oh bloody hell. The circus has arrived," Draco muttered under his breath.

"We heard you became a Death Eater," Goyle began, looking at Draco in awe.

Crabbe nodded his head vigorously. "That's brilliant," he croaked.

Draco felt alarmed that the word had gotten out. He didn't want people to know. Some Slytherins were bound to have heard from their parents, like Crabbe and Goyle. But Draco didn't want other people know his secret, especially Potter and his entourage of fans.

Draco pulled out his wand and pointed it at Goyle and Crabbe menacingly. "That's right," he hissed, "and the Dark Lord's taught me a few neat tricks. Tell anyone about my mark and you'll be fish flakes!"

Crabb and Goyle gasped in fear. "You can do that?" Goyle asked in horror.

"You bet I can," Draco replied coldly. Fat stupid lubber, he thought with a surreptitious chuckle. Cheers to Morgana for their thick heads. It makes them so gullible.

With a wicked grin, Draco crossed the barrier and walked onto platform nine and three quarters.

*

Luna Lovegood was waiting in the last compartment for Ginny Weasley when the whistle sounded. The Hogwarts Express was about to depart and yet there was no sign of the Weasley girl. Where are you Ginny? Luna began to wonder when a mop of red hair burst through the door.

"Sorry I'm late!" Ginny gasped between gulps of air. "It was Ron, couldn't find his broom." Ginny staggered to a chair and collapsed ungracefully. Luna looked at her with an amused expression.

"Where are the others?" she asked.

Ginny made a face. "Off researching something. Hermione brought about a hundred books. Mum, dad and the twins had to help her carry it all."

Luna laughed, making her artichoke earrings bob around wildly. She ran a hand through her gritty blonde hair. "I've brought you something," she announced suddenly. She turned to her sack and began rummaging.

"Oh no you didn't have to- what is that?" Ginny asked mid-sentence. She took the strange object and studied it quizzically.

"It's a ceremonial blade," Luna said. "My mother gave it to me before she died. She brought it back from Egypt. The ancient Egyptians used it for the 'opening of the mouth' ceremony. They believed that when a person dies, their soul must be freed from the body. The iron blade is used to prise the dead person's mouth open so that the spirit can pass through."

"That's disgusting!" Ginny said as she hastily handed the blade back to Luna.

"I'm sure it was just a symbolic gesture. They didn't actually prise the mummy's mouth open. After all, the mouth would have been wrapped under all those bandages," Luna said as she twirled the blade between her fingers.

"So why did you bring it?" Ginny reminded her gently.

"Oh right! Sorry I forgot to tell you. I use it to communicate with my mother," Luna said.

"Really? How does it work?" Ginny asked eagerly, her eyes widening with anticipation.

"Well, I don't know how it works," Luna said seriously. "One day I was playing with it and I heard mum's voice."

"Oh," Ginny said looking disappointed.

"We talk regularly. Next time we speak, I'll ask her more about Sirius," Luna said comfortingly.

Ginny nodded. Soon the conversation moved to other matters. Luna eagerly told Ginny of her trek through the marshes of northern England and her near sighting of a Crumple-Horned Snorkack. Then the refreshment trolley arrived and the girls each ordered a portion of chocolate frog and pumpkin juice. Having eaten their fill, Ginny told Luna about Harry's bad dream and the trio's recent strange behaviour. Ginny also recounted her date with Dean in Hogsmeade, where at one point he tried to kiss her but leaned too far and fell face first into a pile of horse manure. As the sky darkened and the train sped closer towards Hogwarts, the girls changed into their robes.

"Um Luna," Ginny said quietly. "I've been having a strange feeling all week. I can't really explain it but...I feel like evil's coming to Hogwarts."

"Or may be it's already there," Luna pointed out.

Ginny's eyes widened in shock. "So you've been having the same feeling?" she gasped.

"Oh yes," Luna said calmly. "Voldemort's gathering strength as we speak. His plots are but a step away from fruition. My mother said we stand to see the end. A timeless evil is stirring. Darkness threatens to engulf us all."

Ginny became silent. She looked particularly pale against her fiery red hair.

Oh dear I've scared her, Luna thought. "Cheer up," Luna said dreamily. "It's not the end yet. Nothing's final until we're dead and even then the Fates negotiate."

Ginny managed a weak smile and nodded.

The Hogwarts Express lurched to a stop. In the distance, the school beckoned. Luna sighed happily at the prospect of another year at Hogwarts. And what an enthralling year it shall be! She mused before they left the carriage.

*

Hermione jumped off the train with Ron beside her.

"First years follow Hagrid. Second years come with us!" Hermione shouted above the rabble. "Come on hurry now!"

" 'ermione!" a voice boomed. "Good ter see ya!"

"Hagrid!" Ron and Hermione yelled in unison. Hagrid approached them grinning.

"Ron. You've grown," Hagrid said as he thumped Ron cheerfully on the back, making the hapless boy cough and stumble. Ron managed a weak smile once he regained his balance.

"Where's Harry?" Hagrid asked glancing around.

"He's still on the train," Hermione said. "He should be out here shortly."

"Well I 'ave ta take the first years up to the castle. Tell him I said hello," Hagrid said with a wave.

"Right, bye Hagrid," Hermione said before turning her attention to the students. "Move along second years! Ron, round them up. Ron? Ron! RON! What are you doing? You're supposed to be collecting second years!" she cried irritably.

Ron looked up from his parchment sheepishly. "I've only written six feet and that's not enough. I've run out of things to say! Do you think you could-"

"NO!" Hermione said firmly before turning back to the second years.

Slowly, the crowd thinned out as the prefects led the students to their carriages. Hermione glanced up at the empty space before the carriage and smiled. Though she couldn't see the thestrals, she wanted them to know she appreciated their presence.

Having ensured that every student was seated within a carriage, Hermione climbed into one with Ron. It was the last carriage and unfortunately occupied. Hermione looked up and gasped in horror. Seated opposite her and Ron were Draco Malfoy and Pansy Parkinson.

She groaned and shotted a pained look at Ron. Please Merlin, help Ron control his temper, she thought desperately. Don't let him rise to Malfoy's bait.

Fortunately, Draco seemed to have sensed her thoughts. He glared at her briefly before turning to stare out the window. That's strange, Hermione thought. He isn't going to taunt us? This isn't Malfoy.

Whatever the reason for Draco's behaviour, Hermione was thankful. She enjoyed the peace and joined Draco in looking out the window.

"Hey Hermione," Ron said with a pleading voice. "Who first discovered the fifteenth property of the erumpent horn?"

Hermione sighed, feeling slightly annoyed that he had interrupted her thoughts. "Ron, you had ample time to look up that information back at the Burrow. Why didn't you?"

"Because," Ron said, scratching his head for an excuse. "I had to practice for Quidditch."

Hermione rolled her eyes. "Well it's too late. I can't help you." From the corner of her eye she saw Ron stick his tongue out at her.

"Scipio Africanus," Malfoy drawled lazily, not turning from the window. "In 204 BC."

Hermione gaped. Ron nearly dropped his quill. He's right, she marvelled. He must have read 'An Encyclopaedic History of Potions'. She hadn't expected that from him.

Ron narrowed his eyes suspiciously. "No one asked you ferret face," he growled before whispering to Hermione, "Is he right?"

Hermione nodded.

Draco snorted. "Of course it's right. I'm the one who inflated you remember?"

Ron turned the colour of a ripe tomato at the humiliating memory. Oh no, Hermione thought woefully.

"Shut up Malfoy you evil git! You're a bloody prat with a Death Eater father that should be in Azkerban and a mother who shouldn't have given birth to you in the first place!" Ron screamed hysterically.

Draco became very quiet and very pale. "No, it is you who shouldn't have been born. That way your older brothers might have been brought up on three meals a day."

Oh Malfoy! Don't say that, Hermione's mind pleaded.

"It's alright Ron. Breathe," Hermione said soothingly. But it was already too late. Ron launched himself at Draco with fists flying. Pansy shrieked and leapt out of her seat. Ron and Draco clawed, thrashed, punched and bit one other until Hermione interceded.

"Oh Merlin's beard," Hermione sighed. "ABSCISUM!"

A blast of blue light separated the two dazed boys. With a quick wave of her wand Hermione tied their hands together. There. That'll teach them, she thought with a satisfied grin.

She crossed her arms authoritatively. "Since you two can't behave like civilised wizards, I am forced to separate you and keep you this way until we reach Hogwarts."

The two boys glared at one another but said nothing. Hermione settled back into her seat and fished out a book from her bag. Just as she was about to begin reading, Pansy Parkinson smacked the book out her hand.

"Hey!" Hermione yelled angrily. "What was that for?"

Pansy narrowed her eyes at Hermione like an aggravated bulldog. "Let him go," she growled, pointing at Draco.

"No," Hermione said. "Unless he promises not to attack Ron."

"I make no such promise," Draco drawled.

"Well there you have it," Hermione said. "He remains bound."

"Stupid filthy mudblood!" Pansy howled. "You don't know what you're doing! He's going to kill you when he's free. You don't know him. He's changed over the summer. He's become-"

"A loving boyfriend who can't stand the thought of being parted from the most beautiful girl in Hogwarts." Draco purred as he eyed Pansy seductively.

An expression of shock crossed Pansy's face, but a triumphant gleam soon took its place. She slid closer to Draco and placed her hand on his thigh. "Drakey you poor thing, you leave it to Pansy to make it all better. I'll make the mudblood unbind you, you'll see. Stay here for now my pet."

"Like I have a choice," Draco said softly, his voice laced with acid.

"ERGH!" Ron wailed. "Please Hermione let us go, I don't want to watch this! Oh my eyes for Morgana's sake!"

Hermione sighed and muttered, "finite incantatem."

Pansy crawled into Draco's lap as Ron leapt over to join Hermione. "Not a moment too soon Hermione," Ron whispered.

The carriage stopped abruptly, putting a merciful end to Pansy's shameless display.

"Thank Cliodna!" Ron cried before jumping out of the carriage. "Second years this way! Come on! Hurry up! Hogwarts calls. You there don't straggle."

Hermione stifled a giggle. "Thank Cliodna," she echoed as she left the carriage. Before she broke off into a run after Ron, another voice pervaded her thoughts. "Thank Cliodna indeed," he murmured.

What could he possibly mean? Hermione thought quizzically as she watched Draco stalked off in the opposite direction. Hermione shrugged and left to find Ron.

She met up with Ron and the second years a short while later. Together, they travelled across the lake and up the stairs to the Great Hall. The room was rapidly filling with incoming students. Having completed their duty, Ron and Hermione joined Harry at the Gryffindor table.

Most of her housemates were already there, busily chatting to their neighbour. Gossip flew back and forth rapidly, making Hermione's head spin and swell. Pavarti Patil and Lavender Brown were scrutinising the 'Ten Most Eligible Teen Wizards' in Teen Witch Magazine. Every once in a while, Lavender would smile seductively at Seamus Finnigan, who had returned from Brazil with a tan and bleached blonde hair. Ginny joined Dean at the other end of the table, much to Ron's dismay. Neville was showing Harry a new crab plant that scuttled side ways before the Creevy brothers started assaulting Harry with cameras and questions.

"What was the Department of Mysteries like Harry?" Collin chirped.

"Tell us about fighting the Death Eaters, were you scared?" Dennis piped up.

Harry looked trapped. "Err..." he said. The Creevy brothers looked like they were about to explode from the excitement. Hermione quickly scuttled out of her seat to Harry's aid.

"Alright, sit down you two. The sorting will begin shortly. You must be seated for that," Hermione interjected firmly.

The Creevy brothers looked seriously putout but complied with their prefect. They knew better than challenge Hermione, after all, she gave out detention at the tip of a quill. The Creevys sat down quietly at the other end of the table.

"Thanks Hermione," Harry whispered sincerely.

Hermione smiled. "Anytime."

The noise in the Great Hall dropped to silence when Dumbledore stood up at the head table.

"Welcome students, to another year at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Without much further ado, let the sorting begin!" Dumbledore declared with a clap of his hands.

Like every other year, Professor McGonagall led a group of frightened first years into the centre of the hall. The batted old Sorting Hat sat on a wooden stool awaiting the students. McGonagall told the students the procedure briefly. A few looked sceptically at the old Hat. Hermione grinned. Any moment now and it will sing. That'll really surprise them.

Almost on cue, the Hat leapt to life and sung the most unexpected song:

A new era dawns here today,

Light or darkness may pave the way.

With courage and fortitude you shall face

Great evils and danger that haunt this place.

Diligently learn your lessons well,

Your skills will save you, as time will tell.

Within your houses you will see

Great friendship to treachery change with ease.

But patience children and have faith,

All things have their time and place.

So trust this old hat from centuries gone,

For my decisions have ne'er been wrong.

Four Founders built the Hogwarts School,

Each observed the proper rules,

Except Salazar Slytherin had a change of heart

And forged a weapon to tear two worlds apart.

Godric Gryffindor, noble and true,

Created the Shield of Eilonhue,

No creature could harm Godric the Brave,

Except those that dwell beyond the grave.

Rowena Ravenclaw, witty and bright,

Gave one mortal the Wand of Light.

Unimaginable powers this wand can cast,

To change the course of future and past.

Helga Hufflepuff, so kind and caring,

Created an elixir for the dying.

Those of pure heart cherish this gift,

The vile abuse it to make evil swift.

Slytherin's weapon was so cunning and cruel,

That I cannot reveal its powers to you.

It's hidden within these very walls,

To death and pain this weapon calls.

Now the sorting must begin,

In one of the four houses I'll place you in.

Friends and foes you must unite,

To survive this dangerous final fight.

The Hall fell into a stunned silence. Hermione noticed her heart rate quicken with every word. Teachers and students alike were speechless. That's most unexpected, Hermione thought in awe. The Hat sang of the Wand of Light. It belonged to Rowena Ravenclaw! Ravenclaw's heir must possess its powers. Hermione looked at Harry and Ron. Both boys looked at her with excitement dancing in their eyes.

MacGonagall cleared her throat and adjusted her glasses. The silence broke as the sorting began.

"Atkins, James," MacGonagall called.

"Gryffindor!" the Hat yelled. The Gryffindors cheered as the boy joined the table. The process continued until every first year was sorted into his or her respective house. Regular bouts of cheering and clapping broke out at the Gryffindor table when a new member joined the house.

But Hermione paid no attention to the sorting. Her mind was preoccupied with the Hat's song. So we must find the heir of Ravenclaw, she mused, tapping at the table absently. But who could it be? And where do we start?

"Hermione, Hermione? Hermione! The library's burnt down! Not a book, parchment or scroll left! Terrible business!" a voice cried hysterically.

"WHAT?" Hermione screamed suddenly, coming out of her thoughts. To her dismay, the whole Gryffindor table was laughing at her. A sly looking Ron gave her a cheeky wink.

"That got her attention." Dean Thomas added with a grin.

"Oh you two," Hermione huffed with a similar grin.

The Hall quietened again as Dumbledore tapped his goblet. "When there is nothing to say then one should be quiet. So let the feast begin!"

Plates of the most delectable food appeared before the students. Some of the first years gasped in delight. Hermione watched in amazement as Ron and Seamus dug into their food like ravenous wolves. Honestly, you'd think they'd never eaten, she thought with a shake of her head.

To her right, Harry was picking at a pea absently. Hermione looked on with a worried expression. "Harry, you must eat," she whispered.

He ignored her and continued to attack the pea. After a while she gave up and returned to her own food with a sigh.

"What do you think Slytherin's weapon is?" he asked thoughtfully.

"What?" Hermione asked, feeling she had been caught off guard.

"You know. The Hat said Slytherin had a weapon. It couldn't tell us what it is. What do you think it might be?" Harry questioned.

"I don't know," Hermione answered. "It could be anything. We could look up Slytherin in the library tomorrow. We could also search the Encyclopaedia of Dark Arts and see whether any artefacts of note appear." Hermione paused and tried to remember information on the Founders she had come across in Hogwarts a History. "You know," she continued. "I seem to recall something about the powers of the Founders being in harmony together. The power of one could destroy the power of another. I will check tomorrow. I hope no one's taken Hogwarts a History out of the library."

Ron snorted, spraying gravy through his nose. A few Gryffindor girls shrieked in disgust. He tried to ignore their angry muttering and said, "It's Hogwarts a History Hermione, no one's read it except you."

Hermione threw a pea at Ron's head and hit him square between the eyes. Harry laughed sincerely. It's the first time I've heard him laugh this summer, Hermione beamed.

As the conversation steered towards Quidditch, Hermione's eye wandered around the Hall. She saw Dumbledore smiling down on his students from the head table. When he saw Hermione looking at him, he gave her a wink and a small nod, as if to say, "welcome back". Hermione smiled and gave a small wave. She saw the Hufflepuffs chatting merrily with the Fat Friar. She heard the Ravenclaws heatedly debating the ethics of veritaserum and grinned with approval. But unexpectedly, her gaze was pulled towards the Slytherin table. Someone was watching her. She turned and saw Draco staring directly into her eyes. Why is he watching me? What does he want? She thought curiously. With the blink of an eye, Draco was no longer watching her. Hermione shook her head in frustration. She must be imagining things.

Back on the Gryffindor table, the boys were still animatedly discussing Quidditch. "Honestly Harry, you should go for captain. You've got enough experience. You're the best seeker we've ever seen. We could be great with you as captain." Ron stated.

"You're implying we're not great already?" Harry asked with a sly grin.

"Of course he's not." Ginny piped up. "But we could be unbeatable!"

"I don't know," Harry said shaking his head. "It's a lot of work. I'm having trouble keeping up with school. It would mean extra practices..." Harry's voice trailed off.

"Come on mate. You know you want to!" Seamus encouraged.

Harry grinned. "Yeah. Yeah I do. Alright, If no one wants to challenge me for the position then I guess I'll be happy to take the role of captain. But I cannot make outlandish promises of success! You'll all have to work hard."

The boys grumbled jokingly, "Work hard? That wasn't part of the deal."

Harry stuck out his tongue. Ron laughed and threw a handful of roasted peanuts at Harry in return. Soon the Gryffindor table was ablaze with laughter and cheers. Hermione smiled. She felt warm and safe in Hogwarts. It's good to be back, she thought happily.