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Chapter Text

Hermione swung her feet over the edge of her bed, yawning. Her hair, she was certain… looked like Madusa. 

It had a life all it’s own.

Crooks had vanished during her hunt with Harry and Ron. She cried so hard when she couldn’t find him after the battle. 

It was only recently she broke down out of loneliness, and went to a muggle animal rescue. Hermione found a tiny white and black kitten. It was fluffy and sweet, she’d claimed it.

She named her Dawn.

The canyon like separation between herself and Ron, the fight between Ron and Harry… it had torn her apart. She hated it. Her heart hurt. They’d been through so much. 

To survive the war, but not come out the end together? 

It hurt.

She felt betrayed.

Ron was selfish. But, he had his reasons. He had inner problems to work through, she was sure. Lord knew they all did. She kept her distance from his family as well, so now did Harry. 

Maybe they could have made it work, but they decided they didn’t want to. 

She was still trying to decide her path, after Hogwarts many of their classmates were. Some ventured into ministry departments, others married, others had children, but she decided to travel a bit. 

Her parents were restored their memories, and once they’d recovered, decided to join her travels. They needed time together. It was an emotional reunion, they had so much to talk about. She was so sure they’d hate her. 

Her mother held her close, reminding Hermione of when she’d been small. Words whispered in her ear, ‘ we love you  always… nothing could ever change that, we are just so glad you are safe’… and she was relieved. 

Now home, her parents settled in a new house in London. Hermione wished her childhood home hadn’t been destroyed by death eaters. But, donations had been given for reparations to families affected. Hers being one of them. The money set aside bought their new London home with money to spare, so Hermione was glad. 

She’d funded their travel, her own vaults weren’t too shabby from her Order of Merlin First Class Award money, and a donation given from Bellatrix Lestrange’s estate that was awarded to her by the Malfoy’s. 

She’d tried to decline it, but Lucius and Narcissa Malfoy had insisted. 

Their apologies polite and sincere. 

She had not seen their heir however. He did see Harry. She knew they hung out often. Had been while she was away. How that happened, she wondered. Ron was probably furious.

Oh well…

Now to look ahead.

She stumbled into the living room, kitchen, …coffee, she needed coffee.

Smiling to herself, …waving her hand, music began to play.

Janis Joplin rang out, Hermione danced around as she prepared her favorite blend. Grabbing her penguin mug from to cabinet, she turned. 

Boredom would not defeat her, she would make a decision. This week she would leave her flat, and go job hunting. She would do more than delve inside her own head.

She nodded.

Taking her now full mug, she sat to read the Prophet.

Chapter Text

Emily wiped the counter. Customers had been buzzing in and out throughout the morning. 

A steady flow made it go faster.

She had afternoon classes, and less stress at work meant an easier afternoon once she had to endure chemistry and her lab after. Biology and it’s lab the following day, and her figure drawing classes. She wasn’t taking a full load, but it was still exhausting. 

Her new friend visited her at the shop, she seemed interested in taking classes too, but unsure what major to pursue if she did. 

They’d met at a book lecture of an author they both apparently loved. Emily had adored her since. They liked similar music, food, and had amazing discussions. 

Both were single, but not too interested in the bar scene so they went to plays and museums when they had time. 

“hey Mia!” Emily greeted. “you pop next door yet?”

Hermione shook her head, “I was hoping to after I said hello. Are we going to see the new Adam Driver flick this weekend? Or are you buried in a paper?”

”well, if I get my lab packet and my biology test prep done for Monday I can go Saturday. I’m dying to see it!” Emily squealed. 

The girls giggled.

Emily handed Hermione her usual. “Here ya go beautiful! Good luck hunting, I know you’ll find something over there. You always do.”

”thanks, I’ll call you later.” Hermione waved as she ducked out.

Harry and Draco sulked, hungover, they slumped into their chairs for the meeting.

Robards gazed over the new recruits, the room was silent. All the bodies stiff, waiting patiently for news. He stared them sternly. 

“you’ve all made it through… I was certain a few of you would fall flat on your face, but you shocked me in the end. I’m posting the rankings, they’ll be on the wall outside this room. You will be paired with someone who will act as your mentor for the next month. Following that timeframe, if I don’t kick your sorry ass out… you will be paired again with a partner and given a case to start with. A small one.” Robards informed the men staring at him with wide eyes. 

Draco finally took in a deep breath.

He passed…

He had been so sure he wouldn’t.

Fuck you Lucius.

Fuck you Dark Lord.

Fuck you ministry.

Inside he was dancing a jig.

Harry had a stupid grin on his face, so did several others. 

“you are dismissed, report Monday sharply at 7a.m.!” Robards ordered, then stomped out. 

Harry clapped Draco on the shoulder, “drinks on me tonight! We survived!”

With a nod in agreement, the two followed the rest of the recruits turned aurors out. Each inspected the list to see who their mentors for the month would be.

Harry sent Theo a patronus, “head to The Fat Frog! We are celebrating! We are aurors!”

His stag bounced off. 

Draco chuckled. “I’m not singing those Sync boys songs tonight… no matter how many shots you shove at me!”

”we will see, won’t we!” Harry taunted.

That made Draco’s eyes go wide. 

Chapter Text

Hermione open a beautifully decorated green tome. Dark gray edged, with gold filigree swooped leaves and flowers adorned all four front corners. 

“it’s gorgeous…” she muttered to herself. Fingers running along the raised detailing. 

She opened to the title page, then the first chapter. 

There had been no title.

It drew her in, it lulled with magic.

Warm.

”that one is special… really old. Most can’t handle what it holds.” Stephen warned.

He glanced at his brother. 

David grinned. But added nothing. Hermione looked between them, then back to the chapter she’d been examining. It seemed to be a fairytale or a story of some kind? 

Flipping ahead, there were intricate illustrations that appeared hand painted.  The pictures moved, they entranced her. 

Shaking her head, Hermione closed the tome. The parchment smelled old, but she adored it. Holding the thick book to her chest, she turned to leave.

”I’ll see you boys another day! I’ve found my treasure for today!” Hermione tossed them as she left with a kind wave. 

The Fat Frog was full.

The crowd hopping, lively and singing. Harry found that great since they were there to celebrate. 

They’d talked Chris, Ben, and Seamus into joining them. Now, despite Draco’s protests, Harry had him swaying and singing muggle boy band songs. His tie loose and goofy smile plastered to his face as he did. Theo loved karaoke, though he couldn’t keep tune to save his life. He always picked sad songs. No one knew why.

Chris just kept mumbling how much he loved everybody. 

They played pool. Seamus seemed quite happy to humiliate the pureblood heir, beating him over and over, “ Malfoy I’ll gladly keep taking your money, but you keep missing at this point because dude… you can’t even see anymore.” He laughed hard.

Harry almost fell off his stool. “Ha! I might need to get him home… it’s past 3a.m., we’re all pissed anyway.”

Ben nudged Chris, “weaklings… we aren’t ducking out quite yet, there’s a blonde and brunette over there eyeing us.”

”good luck! We are out!” Draco shouted dramatically, twisting around almost falling. Harry helped him away and out of the pub.

They chatted and joked going down the sidewalk to where they needed to go to apparate home. Not that they should have, but Harry felt like he could. 

When they dropped into their shared flat, both collapsed onto the sofa. Both chuckled. One nodded off to the right, one to the left. 

Draco was snoring in no time, shoes still on. Harry managed to coax his off before he passed out. 

They would definitely feel the alcohol in the morning… well later that morning. 

Chapter Text

Ron threw his mug across his office. 

He’d heard mutual friends talking, yet again about one of Harry’s nights out with Malfoy… it was bad enough his best friend freed him! Testifying on his behalf… talked Hermione into doing so also before abandoning her and their friendship. Ron scoffed.

But, he’d let him share a flat with him!

They trained together!

Socialized together!

Harry turned his back on real friends… for Malfoy! It made Ron sick. He lumbered around fiddling with paperwork. Grumbled, he knew it did no good to be upset. Harry didn’t even give a shit. 

Harry didn’t even contact the other Weasleys! 

He’d walked away from Hermione too! 

Ron groaned, running a hand through his hair, it’d grown out quite a bit. It stayed messy. George kept him as busy as possible, but his mind wandered. He was dating Katie, thankfully she understood his feelings. 

She hated Malfoy as much as he did, felt betrayed too by Harry. 

Neville didn’t know what to think, he and Luna wanted to be neutral. But how could they? It annoyed him more.

Seamus was even hanging out with him because of their auror training together! He’d despised him at Hogwarts!

He would be alone sometime…

As she turned the first few pages, the warmth she’d felt initially seeped toward her.

It was so inviting, calming. 

The images were so detailed, beautiful. She admired the hand painted creatures and people, the talent they demonstrated. The language flowed seamlessly as she read.

Almost feeling lightheaded, she blinked repeatedly. 

Odd, she thought.

Shaking her head, Hermione continued.

In this portion, the witch was searching for her lost knight. His dragon had been stolen by an evil lord. He was missing too now, her father forbid her to search, but she loved him. The young witch would not be kept from his side, and feared his fate. 

She sat on her sofa buried deep. The light seemed dimmer, her heart grew heavy. Hermione yawned wide. When did she grow so exhausted.

Had she been reading that long?

Her eyes began blinking more and more.

Were the pages glowing?

Harry looked at himself in the in the morning, the mirror told him he looked like dirt. He felt like it. He grinned. They’d had fun.

The slytherin probably felt worse. Chris and Seamus slipped Draco more shots than any of them.

They started with their mentors Monday. Everyone was nervous. Harry planned to relax this weekend and train a bit extra with Draco at one of the Malfoy properties. Maybe fly a bit just for fun too. 

The month would whiz by.

They just needed to support each other. The whole group. Give pointers. Harry nodded after trying and failing with his hair.

To new things and hope!

Chapter Text

Draco rubbed his sore muscles, attempted to stretch them out. He liked his mentor, but the rotation was getting to him.

Early mornings… late nights.

He knew in the end it’d be worth it. Potter was still out with his own case, his mentor was just as rigid and grueling. They hadn’t had time or energy to go out at all in two solid weeks. 

The gang was cranky to say the least.

Robards seemed pleased with their progress however, that was good news. 

An owl interrupted Draco’s sulking.

”Well you look familiar, not a sight for sore eyes… no offense.” He gently took the rolled parchment from the owl’s leg. It held his family crest.

The owl happily ate a treat it was offered, and sat staring at him.

”oh so you’re waiting for a response? Great…” Draco grumbled, but reluctantly open the roll. Skimming it, he groaned.

Letting his eyes slip shut, the parchment was let to fall to the coffee table near him. His mother… his father was pulling the mom card.

Dirty trick. 

Viable.

But low down…

Draco loved his mother, it wasn’t that he was trying to hurt her or his father by staying away… he was just…

Trying to figure himself out.

Find his way?

Yes. 

He knew he had the talk to them eventually. But that didn’t make it easier. Or pleasant.

Debating a moment, he got up and snatched a spare piece of paper from Harry’s desk. Scribbling a response, a brief snippet really. He tied it to the owl, and sent it back to his childhood home.

He scratched his chin. It probably wasn’t the answer his father expected, but it was what he was getting.

As he stood there he glanced around. Harry had some old photos on his desk, Draco never noticed them before. One of all the Weasleys, one of just him and Hermione when they were young. The third was of course a bar night with the boys. Draco, Theo, Potter, Seamus, Chris, and Ben. 

Their favorite bar tender had taken it when they celebrated Harry’s birthday. 

Draco grinned.

He should at least encourage Harry to reconnect with Granger. She was back in England, done traveling. Harry was closer to her, Ron was always the more brash, hateful, and selfish of the two. Draco wouldn’t mind her coming back around. 

Might be fun.

He wondered what she looked like now.

The knight rode steadily forward into the dark forest. The dragon was hiding. The evil lord had stolen them both, thrusting them into this strange place. His dragon was so scared, he needed his master. 

If only his witch were at his side, her magic could save them both. His heart ached. But alas, it was forbidden by her father. Damon longed for her so.

As he approached a clearing, he found a girl laying within the wild flowers. So lovely, with wild long curls. 

He stepped down from his noble steed. “who are you I wonder?” He asked aloud.

His curiosity got the better of him, kneeling down, Damon touched her freckled cheek. She was alive and warm. 

Human.

Beautiful.

Enchanted, he examined her form. She wore strange clothing, smelled of sweetness. Her nails were painted oddly. She had odd footwear… 

Damon then noticed her wand.

A witch?

He smiled.

Such a gift to stumble upon another witch, a lovely one, since his beloved was being kept from him. 

Was this his new love?

Was she to aide him in finding his dragon?

Defeating the evil lord?

Just as he tried to reach for her again, she vanished from his sight. Leaving only an indentation in the flowers where her body had lain.

He gasped.

Damon twisted and turned looking about the clearing for her. But the beautiful, odd witch was gone.

Hermione woke with a start. 

Her body jerked so hard, she fell into the floor from her couch. Her face and hair were damp. Her breathing heavy, heart racing. Wand held tight in her palm. The book fell into the floor when she did.

The illustration on the open pages showed the knight kneeling in an open clearing of purple flowers of a thick forest. 

She shook her head. 

Yes… she’d been reading, he was still searching for his dragon in the forest they’d been imprisoned in. The witch, his love… had run away from home, defying her father, the king, to try to save them. The evil lord was scheming behind everyone’s backs… but she hadn’t gotten far enough into the story to know what he was up to yet. 

Every time she tries to read the ancient tome she gets so tired, she ends up falling asleep. It was annoying. Maybe she was doing too much.

Hermione picked up the book, closed it. Setting it on her sofa, she retreated to her kitchen to fetch sustenance. She felt so drained.

She really should call Emily, it had been more than a week, almost two since she’d seen her. Blowing her off so often had become a habit, it wasn’t like her. 

A sandwich and soup hit the spot, some milk. She even scarfed a banana. After a shower, Hermione decided bed was best. Perhaps rest would help, she really seemed run down.

Chapter Text

They compared their glasses. Then sipped. Draco had shared the good stuff. The kind Lucius preferred, expensive, fit for a Malfoy.

”a novel you say?” Draco inquired.

Theo grinned. “Yes, I’ve devoted my time to exploring and enjoying, but I’ll not reveal to you bastards yet what I’ll be writing about.”

”fine, fine, keep it to yourself.” Harry chuckled. “but, do not be selfish with the liquor.” 

Theo acted offended. “Wouldn’t dream of it.”

Hermione stared blankly at passersby.

The park was fairly busy, her mind was tossing around how vivid her dreams had been lately. How drained she was all the time. Maybe she needed a B-12 shot? Or an exam at St.Mungo’s.

Her imagination was truly running wild when she read that book, it felt immersive. That was the magic of it she supposed, used your own imagination to make it feel more real. 

She’d gotten an owl from Harry the day before. This morning, an odd owl from Theodore Nott arrived. There was already unread mail on her kitchen table from her parents. She would go through it, along with her other mail eventually. 

Lack of focus maybe, who knows. 

Sighing, a noise caught her attention.

A group a kids were running and throwing a big red ball. They were laughing, looking carefree. Had Harry, Ron, or her… the others… ever really felt that way? 

Or had it always seemed like something was looming?

What could Harry want? He lived with Draco Malfoy, weird. But, he seemed happy according to Neville and Seamus. Draco was different they said. Ron wasn’t around Harry still. 

She vividly remembered Ron’s last words.

He could rot.

But Harry…

Maybe he could help her find herself again.

Chapter Text

“What time is Granger gracing us with her presence?” Draco asked as he scooped a spoonful of puffs.

Harry scowled, “five I believe, I’m making dinner. I’m actually I bit nervous if I’m completely honest. I turned away from her like I did the rest of them… but I don’t think I should have pulled away from her. She was going through a lot trying to repair her parent’s memories, Ron was being such a prick to her… I made her life more stressful. I was selfish.”

The blonde nodded, “we tend to be when we are grieving, growing… picking up the pieces. She probably doesn’t hate you. She isn’t like that. She loved you, still does I’d wager, or she would have just said go fuck yourself. I’d bet Ron would not be getting a nice dinner with our Golden Girl.”

”oh no, definitely not. He didn’t just burn that bridge… he blew that fucker up!” Harry chuckled.

They cleaned up their flat, and team worked dinner later that afternoon. Harry played music while they toiled away, introducing Draco to new rock songs he hadn’t heard yet. 

“I truly have acquired a love of muggle tunes Potter, it’s become an addiction. Much like your silly pub and alcoholic friends.” It made Harry chuckle again.

Smirking, he laid out plates, utensils… lit a center candle.

”now who’s trying to impress?” His green eyes narrowed.

Paling further than normal, Draco smiled. “So maybe I’m aiming to persuade Granger to forgive me too. I don’t mind the idea of her around some… maybe around often.”

The two friends stared a moment. 

Wordless.

Harry offered reassurance.

He understood, knowing the details of Draco’s story. Harry knew Hermione forgiving him, or even at least listening to his apology would mean a lot to the former enemy.

The ham was done, potatoes mashed. Mac and cheese, so utterly cheesy. Draco had fallen in love with the cheesy mess. 

Harry had made a batch of chocolate brownies as well.

Hermione kept waking up in different places.

Her dreams so vivid.

The air pure floral scents or wooded delights. This time however, she found herself by a waterfall. Her nose sensitive to burning flesh. Bodies littered the earth…

Her fear skyrocketed.

The ground rumbled and she couldn’t stand. Falling down, Hermione looked up to see a huge head emerge from the falls.

It’s eyes found her quickly.

She was trembling. Would it torch her… ? eat her… ? 

It made a strange sound, and to her immense surprise, did neither. It neared her, nudging slightly. Purring.

It….

Liked her?

She tentatively reached up and petting its scales, “well Hi, you are kind of cute I suppose since you don’t seem interested in eating me.” Giving the dragon an anxious smile. “are you his dragon? The knight’s? He’s been looking for you.”

The dragon cocked his head. 

In her mind Hermione heard the name…

Chapter Text

“Iene…” Hermione heard in her head. “My name”

She trembled in his presence. “That’s lovely, Thankyou. I’m Hermione.”

She continued chatting that way with Iene for over an hour, her out loud… him in her mind. 

Hermione felt strange, her body lighter. “I think I’m waking up Iene. Maybe I’ll dream of this place again tomorrow, I’ve been reading an interesting old tome about you, your knight, a witch, and that evil Lord who has you here.”

The dragon growled. 

He felt helpless as she disappeared. Iene realized the powerful witch had no idea she wasn’t actually dreaming.

Hermione turned sideways, lids heavy. Her skin still hot from the dragon’s breath… intense.

How can dreams feel so real?

The book lay open next to her on the bed. Iene sitting there next to though waterfalls, bodies surrounded him. She wondered who those dead bodies were. Hermione hadn’t read far enough to know…

The spell of the prison was keeping the knight from finding his dragon, his witch would be able to guide him. Yet, her father, the King, forbid it? 

So unreasonable!

The evil Lord was cruel.

The King scared of the Lord.

She glanced at the clock, oh!  Crap! She was going to be late!

Narcissa was thrilled.

The short missive from her son was at least something. He agreed to visit her. That was enough. 

Lucius must have contacted Draco recently, guilted him? No… that wouldn’t have done anything. Their son didn’t respond to such tactics. 

Did he… tell him about her?

Maybe.

Giving the girl Bellatrix’s estate, the entirety of her vaults? It was nothing compared to what was owed the child. The pain their family caused the muggleborn.

Draco… he cared what happened, he carried it with him. 

His parents knew. 

Their apologies were done.

Never enough. 

Yet, she’d accepted. Travelled, healed her muggle parents. Then travelled with them as well, repairing that relationship. It was a beautiful thing. 

Narcissa was glad of it.

Secretly she hoped Draco got the chance to apologize himself. He needed that burden released.

He was content in his life with Mr. Potter, completing his Auror training, and finding his own way. They were actually quite proud of him. 

Lucius hoped he would find a place for them again, Narcissa missed her son.

Perhaps the right girl could be part of that return.

Chapter Text

“Hi… I apologize for being a bit late.” She stuttered, as Harry showed her inside the flat with a smile.

He took her coat gently. “No problem at all Hermione. We made some rolls for the meal, they just popped out!”

She glanced around at the term ‘we.’

Harry noticed her nervousness. “Draco selected a wine, or there’s beer of course. There’s also juice and water… we weren’t sure your preference.”

Hermione attempted a smile, but it was awkward. “I don’t drink really, I would prefer water please, but you guys can imbue if you’re wanting to.”

They walked into the living room, which was actually open with the small kitchen/ dining area. She noticed the lovely setup, and candle. It was welcoming. “It’s nice, smells great.”

Harry nodded.

The blonde waiting shifted to pull her chair out, as Harry went to retrieve her water glass.

Conversation went fairly smoothly. Shocking both men. Hermione reminded them of her school self, yet maybe more timid. They ate and talked. When it came time for the brownies, Draco mustered his courage to apologize directly.

He brought up his family’s actions with Bellatrix’s estate. That he was glad they’d done it, that he’d only recently been informed. But, it would never be enough to cover what happened to her. Still, he was sincerely sorry for his own actions throughout school, beyond.

Hermione gave him a warm smile. “Thank you Draco, that means a lot. I forgave you and others a long time ago. I’ve been trying to work on myself, at times it’s difficult. I feel… lost. But, a lot of us do I think.”

Harry nodded from his place, “she’s right, I definitely do. I feel much better these days in part to you and my auror training. There was a time frame when I was really depressed, and felt completely alone in my thoughts. Even surrounded by people…”

Draco knew what they meant. 

“I appreciate it Hermione, you are too kind. If I can ever do anything, please let me or Harry know.” Draco stated.

”yes please.” Harry added. “I want to be in your life again. I regret pushing you away so much.”

She shook her head. “you were in pain, we all were. I’d like that Harry. Draco, I would like to start over.”

As she sat on her bed that night, grinning, Hermione couldn’t help thinking how sincere Draco has seemed.

Damon searched everywhere. No sign of the odd beautiful witch. He was frustrated. He knew she’d been real! 

He slid off his horse, removed his armor. The stream looked cool enough to bathe. The heat was getting to him today. Sighing contentedly, he slipped his naked body beneath the water. 

Lying back, he wet his hair.

Ahhhhh.

Relief.

The sun could be brutal within this lovely prison.

He’d heard his dragon roaring in agony, but could never reach him. It’s like no matter how far he tread, they remained on opposite sides. The landscape shifting.

He heard a splash.

His eyes widened.

Further down stream a figure floated, unmoving.

He swam quickly towards it. As he got closer he recognized her! The odd witch?! She was not trying to swim ?

Eyes closed.

Sinking.

He gathered her in his arms, unworried about his nakedness. She was unconscious anyway.

He carried her to the shore.

She was not breathing.

He did what he’d been taught.

Soon she’d coughed out the water, but was still just breathing lowly. Eyes still closed. Her magic humming beneath her skin. Strong, delightful. He realized her core must be blazing. But, her head keeping her asleep. 

”exhausted? Or something else perhaps?” He muttered out loud. Damon dressed and gathered her onto his horse with him. They needed somewhere to find shelter where he could warm her.

She needed to rest and recover.

The knight wouldn’t allow her to vanish again. Not this time. He pulled his medallion from his neck, and slipped it around hers. Smirking to himself, now she couldn’t escape.

A gift from the King himself.

Iene raised his maw up, nostrils flaring. She was back! 

Her scent strong! 

Far away… with…?

His knight? With Sir Damon.

He couldn’t be certain whether that was safe of dangerous. This world could twist a man, it had twisted Lord Rothchild. 

The dragon knew the witch couldn’t control where she appeared. King Roland Green took the previous witch to appear as his queen so long ago. Kept within by a medallion. May her soul rest in peace…

Their daughter was being fought over now. She’d presented powers like her mother. 

Lord Zorawar Rothchild and the knight, Sir Damon Cantuival were once friends. Both served the great King, the realm peaceful, happy. It was prosperous, so magical. 

Greed corrupts.

The white dragon lowered his head sadly.

He was the last of his kind, the magic was gone. Most of it. 

The evil Lord in his dark castle, the King’s daughter his victim. The knight held the other portion. Iene very little.

The knight had a mission.

Iene was imprisoned.

The King forbid the princess to follow, her defiance led to her capture.

Iene had hoped he could persuade the knight to rescue the princess with him. Cleanse the realm. Defeat the evil Lord. But, they couldn’t find each other.

Appeared more than once apparently.

Temptation.

The knight senses her powers. The Lord did as well he’s sure.

It won’t be so simple.

Draco lay in his bed. The evening had gone well. Harry even encouraged him to seek Hermione out later in the week for coffee or lunch perhaps. Worst that could happen was she’d say no. 

He had plans already to see his mother. 

So he would, he’d see his mother then later in the week send Granger… no, Hermione, an owl. 

Definately!

Draco let his lids slide down satisfied with his direction for the coming week.

Chapter Text

Draco and his mother met Wednesday after his shift for dinner at a muggle restaurant. He’d been pleased she agreed. 

He had not wanted to go to the Manor.

She had completely understood with no argument.

It had been nice.

She didn’t mention his father, not once. However, Narcissa was cunning and curious. She’d inquired if he’d seen Granger, well ‘Miss Granger.’

He grinned.

Did his mother not think he would wonder?

She knew of his deepest thoughts as a young man, he knew she knew. Her questions weren’t lost on him. 

He told her of the one recent meal that had included Harry. That they had reunited their friendship, that he himself took the opportunity to apologize. He thanked his mother for their apology to Granger, and the monetary gift given.

It was the least they could do.

He told her he hoped to continue building a friendship.

His mother gave him a knowing smile.

But that was Wednesday, and Draco had sent an owl to Hermione Tuesday and Thursday. Both had returned unopened. Very odd…

Was she away?

Wouldn’t the owl just find her wherever she went?

He asked Harry.

Harry’s face twisted a bit in worry. “That is not possible, the owl should be able to find her.”

”do you think she simply sent him back?” Draco asked. That possibility was a bit depressing.

But Harry just didn’t think so, the dinner had gone too well. Her body language wasn’t reading fake or angry.

Draco told Harry he’d check her flat, just a knock. They’d both made sure of where it was for safety reasons. Perhaps for their own sanity. Guilty consciences. She could get be furious later.

Draco found a girl pounding on Hermione’s door.

”Mia! Come on! Please answer, just let me know you’re alive or I’m going to call the damn police! It’s been weeks!” The fierce girl yelled continuing to beat on the door.

Draco walked up.

”are you Hermione Granger’s friend?” He asked. “I actually came to check in on her myself because I hadn’t heard from her this week, but you said weeks?”

She eyed him, “I’m Emily… Mia is my friend. She always came to see me at the coffee shop I work at. She hasn’t been, or gone to the bookstore next it she loves in weeks. She hasn’t answered her cell phone or texts either. She missed our friend nights. I’m really worried, I don’t know her parents, but if they haven’t heard from her… we should call the police.”

Draco cocked his head. 

“I have a key.” He didn’t, but Emily didn’t need to know that little tidbit.

He wandlessly unlocked Hermione’s flat.

So, she’d been absent from her muggle best friend’s life for weeks before attending dinner at Harry’s? Draco found that suspicious. Odds were her parents hadn’t heard from her either.

He noticed how messy the flat was.

But, not really ‘someone kidnapped me’ messy. Just neglected. There was a huge pile of muggle and magical posts on her table. Like she had just been tossing them to the side unopened. 

“several from her parents….” Draco pointed out. 

Emily glanced over to the living room area, “her cell!”

Chapter Text

The ground beneath her was stiff and rocky, even with the blankets. His attempt at comfort seemed futile. But Damon hoped the witch would wake appropriately appreciative. 

He had created a warm fire, fetched a bit a food.

He was trying to patiently let her rest.

That was not his strength. He wanted answers, her name! To feel her powers again. They had reached for him already once! He smirked.

A knight of his caliber descended from greatness, deserved power!

Hermione moaned slightly, rolling from her side to her back. Her eyes clenched. 

Dreaming?

Hurting?

Damon couldn’t risk removing the medallion. It would keep her under control.

Her eyes fluttered.

”where…?” She mumbled. Hermione tried and failed at first to sit up.

Trying again, she managed.

He didn’t move towards her. Watching closely, “you are here with your knight sweet witch.”

She gave him a confused glance, scanned the area. “I don’t belong here… I am not your witch. She is somewhere else.”

Damon nodded, chuckling. “That she is, but magic brought you to me. So yes… you are my witch.”

Hermione froze.

Looking down, she noticed the medallion now. When Hermione attempted to remove it, she couldn’t.

”once placed by the owner, it cannot be removed.” Damon informed her smugly.

”why…? What is this for?” She demanded.

She was now furious.

Within her, her magic fumed and whirled, but couldn’t… access it how she needed to?

No!!!!

She scowled at the knight.

”How dare you!” Hermione closed her eyes, concentrating. Her powers, magic was like breathing to her. She wanted to punish him. But, again… nothing.

Tears formed, fell.

Heartbroken.

”I won’t hurt you witch, I just need you to defeat the evil Lord. To find my dragon. That’s what her purpose was. To give me her powers, to add to my own. To ensure my victory. The King grew too attached to his daughter, and took back his arrangement with me. But, magic sent me you.” Damon seemed so sure of his logic.

Hermione wished she’d never opened that terrible book!

Beautiful and terrible…

What is this place?!

Another dimension?

An alternate realm?

Just a magic place within the book or a real prison?

Were these real people?

Hermione was truly frightened now.

Her mind wandered to Harry and Draco… they had just reconnected with her. Her parents… Emily…

Would anyone realize something was wrong? She’d become so distant with everyone. This knight wanted to take her magic? Would Iene sense her return? 

‘Please Iene help me!’

‘Please!’

Hermione kept saying in her mind to the dragon she prayed heard her.

This prison was designed to keep the knight and dragon apart, but she’d found both of them separate times… maybe… perhaps Iene would still find her? Not necessarily his knight?

It was a long shot.

But Hermione was not going to allow the knight to take anything from her!

Chapter Text

“Take me to that bookstore so I can talk to them as well, you said she goes there a lot. She has been kind of off grid until very recently back home. So I don’t know where to start looking for clues.” Draco explained.

Emily nodded.

David and Stephen enthusiastically told Draco how much they enjoyed seeing Hermione weekly, almost daily. Sarah as well. The Hambrick’s bookstore Virtually Anywhere was one of Hermione’s guilty pleasures apparently. 

Their uncle Cedar boasted about their hidden treasures. 

David sadly regretted that she had indeed not been lately though, it surprised them. She had taken a truly rare tome, very old… she’d been so excited, the last time she had been in, but not since. 

They were so sorry not to be more helpful.

Hermione never had anyone in with her, except maybe Emily. But, Emily was only allowed in the front area. Muggles were only able to shop the non magical portion of their shop. 

Draco contemplated, the irony of the timing wasn’t lost on him.

That tome, her pulling away from others since getting it?

Could it be related.

”David, I am I am going back to retrieve that book from her apartment. I’ll examine the book to see if there’s any curses attached that could be related to her disappearance. It could mean nothing, but I need to be sure.” Draco declared. “See if you can find me the records from where it came from originally. Send me an owl please.”

David had no issue with that.

Draco returned to Emily who was waiting with Sarah in the front of the store.

”I am checking a few more things out. I will keep you posted Emily, try not to worry. I actually work with an elite team of police. The type people don’t typically talk about.” He smirked. “I promise I will find Hermione.”

She seemed satisfied with his promise.

He took down her number.

He did have a cell phone. Potter’s doing. Modern muggle influence.

He returned to her apartment, a kitten that hadn’t appeared previously rubbed along his ankle this time. “Well hello.”

It had a collar on when he picked it up. “Well, you are a little girl apparently… Dawn. Hi, where did your mommy go?”

The kitten jumped from his hands to the floor, running off. It ran towards a back hallway, he followed… it led to he guessed Hermione’s bedroom.

When he entered the bedroom, the kitten was standing on an open book meowing. 

Draco knelt down.

It was old looking, in appearance, as described as David said the time Hermione bought. Humming with magic.

He gave the cute kitten a pat, and smile. Picking up the tome, he noticed on the page… a figure that looked strangely like Hermione?!

Ron was very pleased with himself. He knew everything had gone as planned.

It had been placed…

It’s had been found…

She had been drawn to it…

Entranced… 

Just as promised, she was trapped within the prison she deserved. Katie was pleased, had given him a well deserved evening of enticement to repay him. Ron sighed, Harry was none the wiser. It wasn’t as much fun unless his former friend realized their unification was ruined. 

Now all that mattered was collecting the book, seeing what was happening to her. It would be amusing to watch her suffering. Then burn it. Snuff her out for good!

Ron scowled.

He was done being ridiculed, looked down on. Forgotten.

She would see.

He would see.

And Draco Malfoy… perhaps he could be thrown into the book as well, burned into oblivion at his leisure. 

Ron Weasley had the power now!

”Ron! I need that box brought down from storage, do you mind ? It’s marked for the upcoming sale!” George hollered from the front of their store. Ron had been sitting at his desk. 

Standing, “of course George! Be right there!”

Chapter Text

Hermione was so weak.

She wasn’t sure what the knight was doing to her, but every time he began chanting an incantation… she blacked out, woke weaker.

She kept trying to call for Iene.

The tome’s prison created in this place kept the knight and his dragon separated by that Lord Rothchild. Perhaps that was why Iene was having difficulty finding her. 

Tears slipped from her eyes, she wondered what Harry and Draco… her parents… Emily, what they were doing? How they were? Would she see them again?  Dawn?

She missed her kitten.

The knight was gathering wood for his fire.

Hermione prayed he never came back. His stupid medallion would not let her use her magic to leave… she was tied up and so weak now.  She had thought he was the hero of this story? 

There were multiple villains!

Iene seemed genuinely annoyed at their circumstances, at their greed.

So at least the white dragon was kind.

Draco sat floored.

Hermione was in the book? It seemed… possibly? But how else could her images and his name and others be written in an ancient tome? So, she had been pulled in somehow, at multiple times? And finally, imprisoned by the character she originally thought a hero?

He groaned.

What the… ?

A tapping on her window startled him. Getting up, Draco set down the book. 

The owl offered its leg, it was from David’s shop.

’I couldn’t find an invoice for that tome, it’s like the rest of the shipment for that day all had one. Like it was just dropped into the box once we were already putting them out on the shelves.’ It could have come from anywhere or anyone’

Draco gave the owl one of Hermione’s owl treats.

So, the tome was an addition? Someone slipped it in. He went back to it. Taking his wand, he did several diagnostics. He wasn’t surprised when he found a few charms and spells geared specifically towards attracting a specific person, by blood. Pushing others away. There was an enchantment to pull the specified reader into the tome, again blood bound. So whoever did this, had her blood. They went after her specifically.

Draco clenched his fist.

Who hated her this much? What were they going to do once she was in the tome?

He needed to let Harry know.

”I’ll be needing that death eater !” Ron blasted Draco into the wall. 

Draco was bleeding from a gash in his head. He tried to look up, but a kick to to his stomach and face left him unconscious.

Ron stood over him grinning manically.

” may not be able to add you to it, as it turns out, but you won’t interfere.” The redhead crouched down to grab he book, and obliviated his image from Draco. He could suffer knowing where Hermione was, and that she was lost to him. 

Without knowing who took the book, Draco couldn’t save her. Ron chuckled as he left.

Chapter Text

“They are going to release you, but you can’t just take off.” Harry ordered, his tone carried worry.

Draco nodded, “Potter, I know I’m not at my best. Whoever attacked me got the drop, but I was close. She’s in a damn book! They’ve trapped her! How can we relax?”

”Get it, but we couldn’t find any clues at her flat. They erased your memory. We’re trying Draco! But, you’re my friend too!” Green eyes met grey.

Theo knocked carefully, he and Chris entered slow. “How’s our patient?”

”stubborn, ready to bolt.” Responded the former savior.

Draco sneered. “I just want to get back out there looking for whoever is behind this mess! There has to be some clue they missed. They can’t be that clever.”

Ron sat the tome on his kitchen table. He glared down at it, Malfoy had almost ruined his plans. Harry had even come to the bastards rescue! It was ridiculous.

He couldn’t be bothered to swing by the burrow or the shop anymore.

He didn’t matter?

Soon it wouldn’t matter anyway… she would be drained of her magic by the wizard imprisoned within the tome’s pages… his creations. He was a victim of his own mind. Fighting against himself. Ron thought it was ironic.

Now, Hermione was being killed by a book. He laughed. She’d always loved books more than anything… knowledge.

That love was going to destroy her.

He wandered towards his bedroom to sleep. Katie should be home soon from work, her practice must be running late. 

Damon kissed the witch’s forehead, she was actually quite pleasing to his eye. 

Maybe he would not drain her entirely, she could serve as a concubine, a companion. He doubted the princess was still alive. He refused to remain alone. Lord Rothchild was ruthless, no doubt he sensed this witch as well.

The knight would not share his find!

Iene just needed to find them, protect them. It was why the evil lord kept them separated.

Separation of power.

A loud growl interrupted his silent tirade.

”you found me! Iene, such great tidings!” Damon was thrilled. “I’ve discovered a new witch to aide in triumph over Lord Rothchild.”

The vast white dragon growled again showing his teeth. “I found her… I sensed the witch, she came from beyond here. She is not of this realm.”

Damon gazed quizzically at his dragon, then at the unconscious witch. 

“I am not here to help you knight! I am here to free her from you!” Iene bellowed.

The knight’s eyes widened.

Chapter Text

Draco greeted his father warmly, a fact which shocked the patriarch.

”father, I need your help!” The urgency in his son’s voice told him why now… it was the girl, of course. But, that was fine.

Lucius, offering a comforting embrace, spoke gently. “of course son, anything to aide you… what can I do?”

”it’s Hermione Granger… someone has imprisoned her, inside an enchanted tome, a book using her blood I think… I did diagnostics. It seemed like they used her blood to keep others from being attracted to the ancient tome, but attract her… then periodically pull her into it as she read it, she may have even mistakenly thought herself dreaming until she was completely trapped inside.” Draco scowled, “they are who attacked me at her flat and obliviated me, they wanted me to know she was trapped, and feel hopeless to save her, not remembering their face!”

He saw how forlorn his son felt, how lost.

”Such books are very powerful, not to be toyed with. I am surprised whoever this was is playing with fire. Odds are, there could be others already imprisoned inside that tome. In ancient times, it could be a punishment.” Lucius explained. “It can be quite difficult to extract someone, requiring sacrifices.”

”if someone goes in, do they lose their mind? Their memories?” That worried Draco.

His father shook his head, “not necessarily, time is a factor, it can affect their magic. Madness can be an issue.”

”If more than one is there, the magic of certain types of tomes of this kind will feed off their imagination, create worlds. The witch or wizard could battle against each other for their magic, kill one another. Forgetting who they originally were in that quest.” He went on. 

Draco paled.

Hermione could be in so much more danger.

Who else might be there?

“There are many who have issues with Hermione, but me and Harry both know Ron Weasley hates her… he isn’t intelligent enough or gifted enough to do this?” The young blonde looked perplexed.

The older Malfoy grinned, “you would do well not to assume anything about those who carry hate in their heart. They are unpredictable, he could have stumbled upon it or been given it. He is dating Miss Bell if I’m not mistaken? She isn’t keen on Mr. Potter or Miss Granger either. Or you?”

That was true…

But why punish Hermione?

” I have a contact who might assist, I’ll owl him.” Lucius turned, “will you be at your home or at the ministry?”

”ministry… Harry has some leads he is checking into.” He glanced up at his father. “Thank you.”

Lucius nodded, then exited.

He barely remembered arriving in this god forsaken place. He had no idea how long he’d been here… silently cursing the bastards who’d tricked him.

It had been a nothing place at first, then he found a road. 

Then an orchard.

A little village.

Then a large castle, a kingdom that held a king who recognized his powers as useful and extraordinary. Zorawar met a beautiful woman who he married briefly. And socialized within the king’s court. He’d blessed the princess at her birth. 

Such a beauty as she’d grown into.

At her first signs of magic he was mesmerized.

He wasn’t the only one. 

The king’s right hand, Sir Damon Cantuival. His brave knight. He fancied himself in love with the young princess. He asked for her hand.

Zorawar Rothchild dubbed himself Lord, stepping away from his king. When his king questioned his magical pursuits, interests in the daughter of his leader, he became secretive. The medallion the Queen wore. Caught his eye.

They discussed it’s use.

All out war didn’t break out immediately.

”are you alright witch?” Iene spoke into her mind softly.

Hermione was almost dozing on his back. “Oh! I’m sorry, yes. I can’t remove the medallion… it weakens me so much. It keeps my magic from working.”

” I apologize for not finding you sooner.” He offered.

She appreciated the kind dragon. 

“the knight said Lord Rothchild will want my magic too, so I’m not safe anywhere now I suppose.” Her voice sounded defeated.

”Someone drew you here with your blood, you need someone to pull you out. Or you can call someone to you, only a soulmate can be called however. They could pull you out without your blood using that connection.” Iene told her patiently. “But, it has to be done in a certain place… a certain way. You need that medallion off.”

Her eyes widened, “I don’t know if I have one… a soulmate.” tears grew at their edges.

Chapter Text

Seamus shrugged.

He downed his clear liquid.

”it must be serious, what’s wrong?” Theo insisted, beginning to truly worry.

”Harry and Chris think it was Ron… but that is just, that’s just so wrong. She was their friend for so long.” He stared at the bar’s counter. “she saved them over and over, loved them as brothers. Well, until it was too painful for her… even then Hermione didn’t hate them completely, if Ron has anything to do with her going missing? It’s ….shit with Malfoy!”

Theo now, well… when Draco was concerned he understood.

Seamus was lost in his confusion and anger. “I know man, we will find her. My father is checking on something for me. I’ll let Draco know, you know, if he hears anything. If she is where we think, we will need more information. We also can’t tip Weasley off.”

The man agreed.

Teamwork it was.

Theo patted Seamus on the shoulder, their group was loyal. Hodgepodge though it was.

Hermione might appreciate that Gryffindors and Slytherins became friends. He smiled.

Iene was an egg when brought into the tome. Linked to a young powerful queen. She was a great witch in her prime. He belonged to her, her family. As his siblings had been paired before him.

But, at 13… she was tricked into putting on the medallion that became her death sentence, and the key to her imprisonment. It led to her daughter’s eventual similar fate. 

The jealous Hag who’d initially tricked her, she was now long since dead. Iene wondered what happened after his original master was brought within. He’d seen her memories as her paired dragon. 

Seen the King here take her in.

His kingdom welcome her. 

As she aged, he grew obsessed… he recognized the medallion as his own. He used it to control her magic. Pull it from her. 

Then the dark wizard arrived. 

The princess was born.

Iene mourned the loss of his queen, his witch. Now her daughter as well. He promised himself he must protect this young witch who was sent here too. Lord Rothchild could not have her nor the knight. 

Honor was at stake.

In her memory, Iene swore it.

Hermione lay resting against Iene’s side. Breathing softly. Thought muted by the medallion, he could sense her potential power. 

She must have a mate beyond their prison.

Fate would never create her without making one.

Chapter Text

“Is this a sign we should celebrate?” The blonde inquired hopeful.

Harry looked up, “actually he does, …did have a suggestion, but not a full proof one… I need to steal that book back. George can slip me into Ron and Katie’s place. Mr. Crowson says there’s mention of calling to those within.”

”my father referred to something similar, he was checking with a contact of his about it.” Draco offered.

The older wizard interrupted, “Lucius very well may have someone who knows what I know… your friend has been entranced, entrapped. It used to be a very popular punishment. Blood can be used, sacrifices… but they have to be done certain ways, in certain places, the incantations correct or you’ll call to the wrong soul that’s within. It is best if the soulmate calls for whom you seek.”

Both young men stood silently staring, wide eyed.

Did Hermione have one?

“A soulmate?” Draco asked weakly. 

The old man nodded. “It must be, or you won’t free her. You will either pull out another witch or wizard accidentally, or be pulled inside yourselves as forfeit for trying to cheat the tome of its prize. Whoever trapped her was probably uneducated in its entire history and consequences, or they wouldn’t have dabbled.”

Would Ron Weasley be punished for this by the tome’s magic if they got her out safely?

It was an intriguing thought.

Safety was the next issue.

”how do we find out if she has a soulmate and who it is if she does?” Harry pleaded, he felt desperate at this point. 

Hermione felt a stirring in her chest.

It scared her.

“Iene? Do you know how I can get this off?” She cried, her sadness and anger evident. 

The white dragon looked solemn. “It is quite simple lovely witch… to get the medallion to unhook from your neck, you must die. Your heart has to stop beating.”

Chapter Text

Harry, nodded.

He knew his sullen friend felt slightly defeated. Who could her soulmate be? It definitely wasn’t Weasley. Harry was more family than love potential…

They knew of of no else she…

Draco sighed.

”well then, shall we gentlemen?” Mr. Crowson gestured. He offered to guide them through the process of trying to find her soulmate through a spell. It was old and possibly wouldn’t work, but they were willing. 

An hour later, they were within the walls of her flat again, surrounded by her most precious things. Draco’s eyes scanning her photos… her memories. Her scent followed him every step.

Harry was just as nerves wracked.

The older wizard set out herbs they didn’t recognize, spoke words they couldn’t pronounce. His hands raised as they stood frozen. 

“come forward, both of you… I need an offering to assist.” He beckoned. They drifted closer.

Each offered a palm.

He withdrew a bronze blade from his coat. A slide of his blade drew blood from each wizard, it dripped steadily onto Hermione’s living room floor. It disappeared almost as quickly as it hit the floor however.

Harry gasped.

Draco’s eyes widened.

Mr.Crowson continued to chant. Blue light  drifted up from where the blood vanished. They could smell what they swore was fire burning, but they saw no flames.

The light moved slowly, starting to float toward the window. Then, suddenly… Draco screamed, falling to the ground.

”what’s wrong with him?!” Harry Knelt fast at Draco side. 

The older wizard didn’t seem concerned or surprised. “As I thought…”

Harry turned to him confused.

Draco contorted again. “Hermione!” He wailed. 

His veins were alight, turning bright blue. Harry noticed, realizing what was happening. “He’s… oh! It worked! And Draco is her soulmate!”

”he is. This part will pass in a few moments, it is strong magic, ancient. It reaches deep within the wizard or witch. He loves her very much. He will be able to call to her. Or he will be able to go in to retrieve her himself safely, and bring them both out.” Mr. Crowson went on. 

Harry felt victorious.