A/N: As in my other stories, I don't own any of J.K. Rowling's characters. They're just on another trip through my warped mind! Here it is! The not so long awaited sequel to Caves of Concealment! I hope you all enjoy it as much as CoC. Please remember to review after you read, I like to know what my readers think :)

Once again, summer dawned bright and beautiful. Warm, lazy breezes danced through the grass and flowers, stirring perfumed scents into the air. On a flower-topped hill over looking the Burrow, Ginny Weasley sat in the grass pulling up fuzzy-topped dandelions, blowing them and making wishes. Harry's head lay in her lap, and his emerald-green eyes were closed in sleep. Just as they had last summer, Harry and Hermione were spending their last days of the break at the Burrow.

Ginny smiled, reaching down to run her fingers through Harry's unruly mop of raven-colored hair. She sighed contentedly as the sun shone down, warming her skin and making her drowsy. She looked down at her hand, and the sea-green opal ring seemed to wink at her in the sunlight. Since Harry had slipped it onto her finger last year, Ginny never took it off. It truly did keep her bad dreams away, and after all that had happened on that fateful day in the caves, she was grateful for that. After the dark curse Bellatrix had used on her, Ginny had been in a deep sleep for over a month. Upon waking she had not remembered the incident. After giving her time to recover, Harry had explained everything to her that she had forgotten. Ginny fingered the only other piece of jewelry which she wore at all times; a silver amulet which bore a tree and a raven. It had been this amulet, along with Harry's golden lion amulet half, that had ultimately allowed them to escape from Bellatrix alive.

Ginny frowned a bit, thinking about Bellatrix Lestrange. After she had escaped from the security wing at St. Mungo's, Bellatrix had seemingly disappeared. Members of the Order and Ministry Aurors had been unable to recapture her, and it was assumed she'd made it back to Voldemort. Voldemort and all of his followers had been extremely quiet as of late, which everyone took to mean he was planning something big; something that could ultimately end in the final battle.

Ginny sighed as she remembered that this would be Harry, Ron, and Hermione's last year at Hogwarts. What would she do once they were gone? They were the people she was closest to. Ginny thought about the last part of last year's term, after Bellatrix's attack. It had truly been a golden year, full of happy memories. With Umbridge gone, Harry had been reinstated as Gryffindor's Seeker. Ron had again played as Keeper, and had also been appointed team captain. Since Harry was again the Seeker, Ginny had tried out for an open Chaser position and had gotten it. She, Ron, and Harry had helped lead the team to victory in a particularly nasty match against the Slytherins for the Quidditch Cup. Hermione's screams from the stands had been the most deafening as Harry captured the Snitch for the win. Due to his victory over Bellatrix and their clever research in finding Ginny's cure, Harry, Ron, and Hermione had received awards for special services to the school. Because of their deeds they had also netted quite a few points for Gryffindor, once again securing the House Cup.

Harry and Ginny, and Ron and Hermione's relationships had also grown quite a bit after the incident with Bellatrix. The four often spent long hours talking about what they wanted to do with their futures. It had been discussed many times that marriage was most definitely what lie ahead for both couples. Along with strengthening her relationship with Harry, Ginny had grown closer to Ron and Hermione. Their devotion to finding a cure for her deep sleep had been nothing short of mind-blowing.

Ginny was pulled out of her reverie by the appearance of Ron and Hermione, who were coming at her full speed.

"Our letters from Hogwarts are here, Ginny! Hermione and I made Head Girl and Head Boy!"

"That's great," Ginny said quietly, not wanting to wake Harry. He seemed to be sleeping peacefully for once. Lately he'd been having nightmares about the incident in the caves, and his role in the final showdown against Voldemort. During one of their long talks last year, Harry had told Ron, Hermione, and Ginny about the prophecy. He was the only one who could defeat Voldemort in the end; a prospect which gave Ginny the shivers everytime she thought about it. Harry's nightmares had gotten bad enough that, quite frequently, Ginny would be awakened by his cries of fear. Whenever it happened, Ginny would creep down the hall to where Harry was sleeping. She would slide into bed next to his thrashing body, and use an Engorgement charm on her Sweet Dreams ring to make the band larger. Keeping the ring on her own finger, she would slip the enlarged band over one of Harry's fingers. The two would then sleep peacefully, fingers bound by Ginny's ring.

Hermione, who was also frequently awakened by Harry's nightmares, had made an arrangement with Ginny. On the nights that Ginny went to sleep with Harry, she would tell Hermione before leaving. Hermione would rise early enough that she could wake Ginny and get her back to her own bed before anyone else woke up. Ginny's mum would have kittens if she ever caught Ginny sleeping with Harry!

"Hello, Ginny.....Earth to Ginny!" Ron snapped his fingers in front of Ginny's face.

Ginny shook her head, coming back to the present. "Sorry, Ron, I was just thinking about Harry's nightmares. Congratulations you two."

Ron handed Ginny her letter and she quickly tore it open. Ginny had been made Prefect last year, much to the horror of Fred and George. Most of the books on Ginny's list seemed quite normal, except for the highly advanced books listed for Defense Against the Dark Arts. No doubt the classes would be particularly hard this year, trying to prepare students against attacks by Voldemort and his Death Eaters.

"Wow, I wonder who our teacher will be for Defense Against the Dark Arts this year. These books are quite advanced."

Ron, looking over his list of books, agreed. "I hope they get someone brilliant. Last year's classes were a fiasco."

Dumbledore had been unable to secure anyone for that particular teaching position last year. Classes had consisted of a string of substitutes. Any professor who had a free period doubled as a Defense Against the Dark Arts teacher. Hogwarts students had received Dark Arts lessons from Professor Snape, Professor McGonagall, Professor Flitwick, Professor Sprout, and even a few lessons from Professor Dumbledore. In addition to professors, there was the occasional lesson taught by Order members; Lupin, Tonks, and Mad-Eye Moody mostly.

In Ginny's lap, Harry began to stir. Blinking his eyes against the sunlight he asked, "What's going on?"

"Ron and Hermione have just brought up our Hogwarts letters. They made Head Boy and Head Girl."

Harry pushed himself up to a sitting position and stretched. "Congratulations you two. Ron, I'd hate to be in your shoes when Fred and George find out," Harry said smiling knowingly, as he ripped open his letter and began to read.

"Don't remind me. Hey, Harry, what do you make of those booklists?"

"Looks like we may have a decent Defense professor, judging by these books."

"Do you all want to take a stroll through the woods by the pond?" asked Hermione. "We could put our heads together and make guesses as to who the new professor could be."

"Sounds good to me," answered Ron. "Besides, if I know mum she'll want us out of the house for a while. When Hermione and I left, I heard her bustling around the kitchen saying something about a celebration feast."

"Well, let's humor her," Harry said, getting to his feet and then helping Ginny up. "Let's go for that walk in the woods."

The foursome made their way past the house, where much banging and clanging could be heard. "Sounds like she's really into it," Hermione said, as they crossed the yard and headed for the pond. Once they were in the solitude of the quiet forest she asked, "So does anyone have any guesses?"

Ron shrugged. "Maybe they'll have the real Mad-Eye Moody come teach. He certainly knows enough about the Dark Arts."

"Or maybe Tonks," Ginny suggested. "She'd make a brilliant professor."

Harry walked quietly for a moment before answering. "It's really hard to say exactly who it could be. I think with all that's going on in our world, it'll probably be a member of the Order. Any of them would know plenty to teach us properly."

"Think you'll continue the DA this year, Harry?" asked Ron.

Harry nodded. "Yeah, probably. Dumbledore gave me the okay at the end of last term. We could even put out a sign-up sheet for new members."

"It will certainly be nice to not have to hide our meetings," Hermione observed. The stillness of the woods was suddenly disturbed by an earsplitting cry for help.

"Somebody help poor Zeppie! Zeppie is about to be dog food!" Hermione pulled out her wand, and the foursome ran in the direction of the cries for help.

"Please, please save Zeppie!"

They ran through a dense thicket and into a clearing. In a large elm tree hanging from a low branch, was a house-elf. A large grey dog jumped against the trunk of the large tree, snapping ferociously at the house-elf's dangling feet. It looked as though the dog was about to get his meal, as the house-elf's fingers began to slip.

"Incendio!" yelled Hermione, springing into action. A ball of flame burst from her wand, shooting forward to make contact with the dog's hindquarters. The dog abandoned his quest for dinner, and ran off into the woods yelping in pain. The house-elf's fingers finally gave, and he landed in a heap at the base of the tree. Hermione and the others ran over to him.

"Oh! Are you okay?" Hermione asked, helping the house-elf to his feet and dusting him off.

"Yes, Zeppie is fine now thanks to you miss-"

"My name's Hermione Granger. This is Ron Weasley, Ginny Weasley, and Harry Potter."

Zeppie bowed to each of them in turn, stopping to face Harry. "Of course Zeppie is knowing you. Every house-elf knows of Harry Potter, sir." Zeppie turned back to Hermione, eyes full of adoration. "Missy Hermy, you be saving Zeppie's life."

"Well of course, I wouldn't have wanted to see you get eaten. How did you come to be here, Zeppie?"

"Zeppie was banished from his Wizarding family, Missy Hermy. They is telling Zeppie they don't want him anymore. Tried to hit Zeppie to make him leave, they did. Zeppie apparated to anywhere to get away. Zeppie has been beaten many times, but isn't wanting hit no more. So, Zeppie is ending up here."

"Poor Zeppie!" said Ginny softly. "I bet they would offer you a job at Hogwarts, and they won't beat you there."

"Oh no, Miss Hermy saved Zeppie's life! Zeppie will not be leaving her and will stay and be Missy Hermy's house-elf." Harry, Ron, and Ginny all knew Hermione's position on keeping house-elves as servants, and watched intently to see how she would handle it.

"Oh no, Zeppie, you should be free. And if you go to Hogwarts you'll be given clothes and pay."

Zeppie's face filled with horror. "Oh no, Miss Hermy, don't make Zeppie leave! Zeppie has no where else to go if Missy Hermy won't take him. Zeppie promises to be a good house-elf!" Zeppie's rag-clad form fell to the ground at Hermione's feet. "Oh please, Missy Hermy! Zeppie begs of you!"

Hermione waged a silent battle over what to do. On one hand, she strongly disapproved of anyone keeping house-elves as servants. But on the other hand, Hermione wanted to do whatever she could to avoid distressing Zeppie even more.

"All right Zeppie, I'll let you come with me, but there are conditions."

"Zeppie will do anything Missy Hermy wants! Missy Hermy is Zeppie's hero!"

"First off, you'll let me make you some new clothes. What you're wearing is horrid. Secondly, you'll take pay for anything you do for me or my friends. I won't call myself your master, but you can be my helper."

"Does Zeppie really have to take clothes and pay?" he asked sadly.

"Yes, Zeppie, it's the only way I'll agree."

"If it means going with Missy Hermy, then Zeppie will say yes."

"All right then, let's get you back to the Burrow so we can get you cleaned up and I can start on your clothes."

As they headed back towards the pond, Ron took Hermione's hand. "Wow 'Mione, I'm impressed. I never thought I'd see you taking on a house-elf. What about S.P.E.W.?"

"Honestly Ronald, I'm not going against any of my principles in doing this. I won't be his master and he DID agree to clothes and pay. Now if I could only convince all of the other house-elves-"

"That's my 'Mione, freeing the world one house-elf at a time!"

Finally they made it back to the Burrow and, upon entering, were immediately confronted by Mrs. Weasley.

"What are you doing in here? I'm not done with the celebration for Ron and Hermione making Head Boy and Head Girl yet," she said. Her eyes then fell on Zeppie. "All right, what have you all been up to and where did this house-elf come from?"

"Mum, a wild dog was trying to eat him and Hermione saved him. His name is Zeppie, and his Wizarding family banished him, so Hermione's going to look after him."

"Missy Hermy is Zeppie's new master. Zeppie will be happy to help out, if Missy Hermy says so." Zeppie looked up at Hermione questioningly.

"Go ahead, Zeppie, this is Mrs. Weasley. You can help her with dinner while I work on your clothes and decide on your pay. And I'm not your master, but you can call me your friend."

"All right you four, upstairs until dinner is done," Mrs. Weasley said. "You come with me, you poor dear. You can have a cup of tea and then help with dinner if you like." Zeppie nodded and followed Mrs. Weasley into the kitchen.

"Let's go up to Ron's room and you three can study while I make Zeppie's clothes."

Hermione, Ron, Harry, and Ginny went up the stairs to Fred and George's old room. Since they were no longer living at home, Ron had moved in to it. The room simply screamed 'Chudley Cannons fan lives here'. The walls were covered with their posters, and the bed on which Ron slept boasted a Chudley Cannons bed set. Harry and Ginny each grabbed a book and settled on the extra bed, leaning against each other back to back. Ron flopped on to his bed, grabbing a book of Quidditch plays he had devised for the upcoming season. Hermione sat next to him, her knitting needles clacking together as she made an outfit for Zeppie out of soft, dark-green wool. By the time Zeppie arrived to announce dinner, she was done.

"Missy Hermy and friends, dinner is done. Where can Zeppie sleep? It is being a long day."

"I'll fix you a bed in Ginny's room, but first, take these," Hermione said, handing Zeppie the small outfit.

Zeppie looked at the tiny green jumper and knit pants. "Oh, Missy Hermy, Zeppie is not deserving clothes this nice!"

"Don't be silly, Zeppie, of course you do. Now come on and we'll get you settled in." After making Zeppie a pallet in Ginny's floor, Ron, Hermione, Harry, and Ginny made their way downstairs.

The kitchen table was laden down with food of all types. There was beef stew, sausages, roast potatoes, fresh bread, and all types of puddings, just to name a few. Standing in the kitchen were Mr. Weasley and Mrs. Weasley, Fred and George, and Charlie and Bill. Mrs. Weasley had summoned them all for the celebration. A large banner with flashing letters which read, 'Congratulations Ron and Hermione' hung from the ceiling. There was a small pile of presents on the sideboard. Mrs. Weasley, seeing Ron's questioning look said, "They're just a few surprises for making Head Boy and Head Girl, dear. Now let's all tuck in!"

Everyone ate until they were ready to burst. Once the plates had been cleared away, Mr. Weasley brought the presents over. There were two for Hermione and two for Ron.

Hermione's first present was from her parents. It was a beautiful gold heart-shaped locket which, when opened, played the song her mum had sung to her when she was a baby. Her second gift was from the Weasleys. They had given her a small, leather-bound journal, and a bright blue fwooper feather quill.

"Oh, they're beautiful! Thank you so much," Hermione said, hugging them each in turn.

While Hermione was hugging his parents, Ron opened his first present. His mum and dad had given him a new Chudley Cannons shirt.

"This is wicked!" he said, pulling the shirt over his head. Bill laid his last present on the table. It was suspiciously long.

"This is from Fred, George, Charlie, and myself...we all chipped in." Ron eagerly tore off the wrappings to reveal.......a Firebolt!

Ron's eyes grew wide. "But, how did you afford it?"

Fred and George explained it to him. "Well, business has been really good at the joke shop."

"And even though we are deeply disappointed that you're Head Boy-"

"DEEPLY disappointed-"

"We didn't want to see you embarrass yourself on the Quidditch pitch this year, seeing as how you're captain."

Harry noticed Ginny's eyes taking in every inch of Ron's new Firebolt. "Ron......do you think I could have a go on it tomorrow?" she asked eagerly.

"Sure, Ginny, no problem."

Mrs. Weasley shook her head, obviously upset that her boys had spent so much on a gift. "I suppose it will do no good to get after you four for spending so much on a broom. And sorry, Ginny, but we're planning on going to Diagon Alley tomorrow to shop for the new term. Your broom ride will have to wait until another day. Now off to bed with you."

The foursome trudged up the stairs. After quick but thorough kisses, the boys headed to Ron's room and the girls headed to Ginny's. Due to their full stomachs and exciting day, they were all asleep in no time.

Later that night, Ginny was awakened by the sounds of a conversation going on downstairs. Crawling out of bed she went to wake up Hermione.

"Hermione.......Hermione wake up," she whispered loudly.

"Wha....what is it, Ginny? Is it Harry again?"

"No, someone's downstairs talking, but it's the middle of the night. Come on."

Ginny and Hermione tiptoed quietly to the head of the stairs and peered down. They could see Mr. and Mrs. Weasley talking to someone, but couldn't see the other person or persons. The adults talked in hushed tones, so Hermione and Ginny only caught a few bits of the conversation here and there.

"-finally just snapped-"

"-found her in a pool of blood-"

"-tried to get him too-"

"-needs a safe place-"

They could see Mrs. Weasley nod her head, and motion for whoever was there to come farther into the house. Professor Snape and Mad-Eye Moody stepped into view. In between them they supported the motionless body.......of Draco Malfoy!

A/N: So that's the first chapter of the sequel. I hope I didn't disappoint! Please review and tell me what you thought!

A/N: Thanks to all of my lovely reviewers who are too numerous to name, you all know who you are. I don't own any of these characters, except for Zeppie. They all belong to J.K. Rowling and are all just on one of my mind trips.

Ginny had to put her hands over her mouth to stifle a gasp. What was Draco Malfoy the conceited ferret doing here in her house? Hermione nudged Ginny and pointed towards their room, as the group downstairs headed closer to their location. Quickly they tiptoed back to Ginny's room, softly shutting the door. Both girls put an ear against the door.

"What I wouldn't give for a pair of Fred and George's Extendable Ears right now," Ginny thought, as they heard the group walking up the creaky steps.

"Are you sure it's all right for him to stay, Molly?"

"Yes of course, Moody........the poor dear. But when he comes to won't he try to escape? He doesn't exactly harbor fond feelings towards my family."

"If it is acceptable, I will stay with him tonight. I may not be family, but I'm certain he trusts me."

"Of course, Severus, if you think it best. There are two beds up in Ron's old room. We'll put you two up there for the night. You can make the decision as to how long you'll stay once he's awakened. Draco can stay for as long as is necessary. Good old Dumbledore put up extra protections around the Burrow since Harry's staying for the rest of the summer," Mr. Weasley said.

"I'm sure Mr. Malfoy will be thrilled to no end to find out that Potter is here as well," Snape said sarcastically.

"We'll take him to get his school things with our lot tomorrow, if he'll be going this year. We'll need a group of Order members to serve as guards."

"Of course he'll be going. There's no place safer for him right now than Hogwarts."

"I'll arrange the guard," Moody said. "We'll be by in the morning."

"Mrs. Weasley.....if you please."

"Oh yes, of course, Severus, right this way."

Hermione and Ginny quickly scurried over to Ginny's bed, hopping onto it.

"What in the name of Merlin is Draco sodding Malfoy doing in my house?" Ginny whispered to Hermione.

"I don't know, but it doesn't sound good. I wonder who they found in a pool of blood."

"Maybe we can find out more tomorrow. Mum will have to give us some kind of explanation as to why he's here. I mean, it's certainly not because he's bosom chums with Ron and came to spend time over the break with him."

"No, Ginny, you're right. As a matter of fact, Ron and Harry will both probably be quite mad to see Malfoy here. We'd better try to get some sleep. We'll need our rest in case we have to break up any fist fights tomorrow."

"All right, Hermione. Night." The girls slept fitfully for the rest of the night, questions swarming through their heads. What was Draco Malfoy doing at the Burrow? And what did all the garbled bits of conversation they'd heard mean? For now they could only wonder.

The next morning, Ginny and Hermione rose early and found their clothes already laid out on their beds.

"I'm going to have to have a talk with Zeppie," Hermione said, pulling on her clothes.

"Do you think we should wake up the boys so they'll be able to eat while they have an appetite? I'm pretty sure they won't be hungry once they find out about Malfoy."

"Yes, Ginny, I think that's a great idea. Let's go." Ginny and Hermione quietly made their way down the corridor to Ron's room. They pushed open the door and walked in. Ginny made her way over to Harry's bed. Reaching down she traced her finger along his cheek.

"Wake up, Harry, come and have breakfast with me."

Harry slowly opened his eyes, a big grin spreading over his face. "Sounds good to me, love. I need my energy for all of that shopping we have to do today. I've got some very important things to look for," he said with a sly smile.

Over by Ron's bed, Hermione uselessly tried shaking him awake. "Ron....Ron wake up! We're going down to breakfast." After about three minutes of shaking, Ron grabbed Hermione around the waist and flipped her over onto his bed. Pinning down both of her hands with one of his and sitting astride her, Ron began to tickle Hermione with his free hand.

"This is what you get for waking a fellow up while he's sleeping so nicely!"

"Ron! Ron, stop!" Hermione said between bouts of laughter. She squirmed and bucked beneath him.

"Ron, stop it," Ginny said, "we need you and Harry to come down to breakfast so we can talk to you."

"I don't know.....I'm rather enjoying this," Ron teased. "But since you mentioned breakfast, I'll stop." Ron ceased his tickling of Hermione, who shoved him onto the floor.

"Ouch, 'Mione, you sure are strong," Ron said, getting up from the floor and rubbing his posterior.

"Well you deserved it! Now come on, let's go eat." The foursome made their way down the stairs and into the kitchen. The table was covered in food; bacon, sausage, pancakes, fried potatoes, and a frosty pitcher of pumpkin juice. Mrs. Weasley turned when they entered, a grave look on her face.

"Mrs. Weasley, have you seen Zeppie this morning?" Hermione inquired. "I need to have a talk with him."

"Yes, Hermione dear, Zeppie insisted on going out and taking care of the animals. I couldn't have stopped him if I had wanted to. But right now you lot had better tuck in. We'll be leaving for Diagon Alley soon, and I have something to tell you." Harry, Ron, Hermione, and Ginny sat and made themselves plates as Mrs. Weasley continued.

"This is going to be a bit of a shock. We received an unexpected visitor late last night." Hermione and Ginny exchanged knowing looks. "The poor dear needed someplace safe to stay....he's really in quite a bit of danger. I can't imagine what last night must have been like for him."

"Who is he, Mum?" Ron asked, shoving a sausage into his mouth.

"Well as I said, it will be a bit of a shock. But please keep in mind that he went through a very traumatic experience last night. Our guest is.....Draco Malfoy."

"Not MALFOY!" Ron protested loudly. He slammed his fists on the table.

"Why is that ferret here?" asked Harry, setting down his glass of pumpkin juice a little too hard. His glass cracked and pumpkin juice began to run in little rivers on the table. Mrs. Weasley grabbed a rag and began mopping it up. She looked to Hermione and Ginny for help, hoping they might have a calming effect on the boys. Hermione and Ginny realized that any misgivings they had of Malfoy's presence were nothing compared to Harry and Ron's anger.

Ginny placed her hand on top of Harry's. "Harry love, please don't get so angry. I'm sure if Mum let him stay, it's for a good reason."

Hermione got up and stood behind Ron, wrapping her arms around him and resting her chin on his shoulder. "And Ron, if something terrible really did happen to him, he probably won't be worried about his usual throwing insults our way. Give your Mum a chance."

"As long as he leaves us alone, we'll leave him alone," Harry said with effort.

"All right," Ron agreed, "but if he so much as utters the word mudblood, I'll give him the business end of my fist again."

Hermione hugged Ron tightly and Ginny squeezed Harry's hand. Mrs. Weasley smiled. "There's my good boys, I knew you could be mature about this."

"Has the guard arrived yet?" came a voice from behind them. The foursome turned to see Professor Snape on the stairs. Ron dropped the bacon he'd just picked up into his pumpkin juice.

Molly scurried around the table. "Not yet, Severus, but they'll be here any minute. Would you or Draco care for any breakfast?"

"No, Mr. Malfoy isn't hungry, but that is to be expected. I find my appetite is also gone, maybe due to the sickening sweetness in here," Professor Snape said, eyeing both couples. "Sentiment turns my stomach."

Several loud pops outside the front door announced the arrival of the guard. Mrs. Weasley opened the door to let in Remus Lupin, Tonks, Mad-Eye Moody, and Kingsley Shacklebolt.

"Wotcher, Molly. Are we ready to go?"

"Yes, Tonks dear, as soon as Severus fetches Draco. Was there any sign of.....him last night?"

"No, nothing," replied Remus, as Snape made his way back upstairs. "We've still got search parties out."

"Well, Arthur is going to meet us at the Leaky Cauldron," Mrs. Weasley explained, as Snape returned with a very subdued Draco. Mrs. Weasley looked at Draco with concern and apprehension.

"If he speaks at all today, it probably won't make sense," Snape explained. "Due to the state he was in when I went upstairs, I had to give him a Calming draught."

"The bacon is pretty," Draco said in a slightly slurred voice. Ron and Harry had to try hard to conceal their amusement.

Snape smirked. "You see what I mean?"

"Right then, since we're all here, let's get a move on," Kingsley said, pulling out an empty butterbeer bottle. Everyone gathered round, Draco being led by Snape, and they touched the Portkey. Their surroundings became a blur, and with the familiar pull behind their navels, the group was gone. Moments later they arrived at the Leaky Cauldron to be greeted by Arthur Weasley.

"Right you lot, we're going to split up into smaller groups. We'll be less of a spectacle that way," he explained.

"I will stay with Mr. Malfoy," Snape offered with a scowl, as Draco twirled around looking down at his robes.

"Does this outfit make me look fat?" he asked Ron and Harry with concern.

"No, no it doesn't," Harry replied with badly concealed amusement, as Ron tried unsuccessfully to suppress his laughter.

"I'll go with you, Severus," offered Moody.

"Molly, Tonks, and myself will take these two laughing boys," said Remus.

"Guess you girls are stuck with us," Arthur said, indicating Kingsley and himself. "Let's all try to meet back here at two." After a quick stop at Gringott's, where Harry grabbed a larger amount of money than usual, the three groups split up.

Ginny, Hermione, Kingsley, and Mr. Weasley finished up their school shopping by noon.

"Would you girls like to go for an ice cream?" Mr. Weasley asked.

"Dad, can I get Harry a birthday present first?" Ginny pleaded.

"All right, where would you like to go?" Ginny scanned the street finally noticing a small, corner shop called Orin's Odds and Ends.

"Let's try there first, I've never seen that shop before." They made their way across the street and entered the little shop.

Orin's Odds and Ends was larger inside than it looked. The air in the shop smelled of old things, kind of dusty, but there was an odd perfumed scent underneath the old smell. Tall shelves lined the walls, and four large display cases took up the center of the shop. Ginny began scanning the shelves, which were covered in items of all sorts. There were cauldrons, goblets, jewelry, bottles of potions.....items to numerous to mention.

After looking around the shop for about twenty minutes, Ginny was about to give up. As she approached Mr. Weasley to tell him they could go, something in the very corner of the back display case caught her eye. Ginny rushed over and gasped excitedly when she saw what it was.

"This! Oh Dad, I have to get this for Harry!" she said pointing excitedly. The shopkeeper behind the case reached in, pulled out the item, and handed it to Ginny. After inspecting it, she was even more sure it had to be Harry's.

"I don't know, Ginny," Mr. Weasley said, "that looks like it's quite expensive."

"Nonsense sir, that item is actually seventy-five percent off. We've had it for so long and just want to see someone get some use out of it." The shopkeeper rattled off the price and Arthur, who was quite surprised at how cheap it was, pulled out the money and paid for it. After carefully wrapping Harry's gift, the shopkeeper handed it to Ginny.

"Ginny, that is exatly the perfect present for Harry," Hermione said, as she tucked away the item she had bought for Ron. Their group headed out of the shop.

About the time Ginny and Hermione were entering Orin's Odds and Ends, Harry and Ron were completing their school shopping.

"Er......Moony? I have a few gifts I need to buy," Harry said. Harry intended to buy Head Boy and Head Girl gifts for Ron and Hermione. He also had a few things in mind for Ginny.

"Sure thing, Harry, where to?"

"First off, Quality Quidditch Supplies." While there, Ron was so busy looking at new Chudley Cannons gear, that Harry had no trouble buying a broom servicing kit for Ron's new Firebolt without Ron seeing. Mrs. Weasley had waited outside the shop, which made Harry's purchase for Ginny easier to make.

After those purchases, Harry said he needed to go to the Magical Menagerie. First Harry bought Hermione a cat brush for Crookshanks that, when used on him would magically repel fleas. He then scanned the shop for Ginny's other present. In a box by the front counter, Harry found a puppy. He looked exactly like a Jack Russell terrier, except for his forked tail.

"That's a crup," the shopkeeper said, approaching Harry. "They make great pets and are very loyal to wizards."

Harry reached into the box and pulled out the crup, which began to lick his hands excitedly. "I think you'll do the trick," Harry said, tucking the wriggling crup in his arms. "What do you think, Mrs. Weasley, will Ginny like him?"

"How could she not like him?" Mrs. Weasley crooned, scratching the crup behind his ears. "I think she'll adore him." Mrs. Weasley was too taken by the puppy's cuteness to scold Harry for spending money unnecessarily. Harry paid for the crup and all of the accessories needed for his care, and they left the shop.

The group which consisted of Draco, Snape, and Moody was taking a considerably longer time getting done. This was due mainly to Draco's state from the Calming draught. Snape and Moody had to keep an especially close eye on Draco, as he kept trying to wander off.

"How many shops do we have left, Severus?" Moody asked with exasperation, as he grabbed Draco yet again.

"I believe Flourish and Blotts is our last stop," Snape answered.

"Thank Merlin!" Moody growled, and steered Draco into the shop. As Snape and Moody gathered his books, Draco pawed through a bin of books on sale. Fishing one out, he took a cover in each hand and began flapping them open and closed. A thin girl with long, blond hair watched him with interest, moving closer.

"Looks like a bird," Draco said.

"Yes, I think so too," said the girl in a soft voice. Draco turned to look at her and smiled.

"Your hair looks like yellow gold," he said.

The girl smiled dreamily. "Why thank you, Draco."

Draco was confused. "You know my name? If you know mine, I must know yours. It's-"

"Luna. Luna Lovegood."

Draco smiled. "Will you be my friend, Luna Lovegood?"

"Certainly, Draco," Luna said airily, the dreamy smile creeping back upon her face.

"Come along, Mr. Malfoy," Snape said, taking Draco by the shoulder. "It's time to go."

"Goodbye Draco, my friend," Luna said waving. Draco broke free of Snape's grasp and ran to her. He grabbed her hand and kissed the back of it quickly.

"Goodbye Luna, my friend." Snape regained his hold on Draco, and he and Moody steered him out of the shop.

Back at the Leaky Cauldron, the groups had rejoined and were eating a late lunch before heading back to the Burrow.

"Where are Dad and Harry?" Ginny asked, noticing their absence.

"They had one last bit of business. They'll be along shortly," Mrs. Weasley explained.

Before leaving the Magical Menagerie, the shopkeeper had informed them that they would need a license for the crup. While being loyal to wizards, crups were highly suspicious of Muggles and Squibs and could become fierce to them. A license was therefore required stating that the crup's owner could handle the animal, even in Muggle areas. Mr. Weasley was positive that Ginny could handle the crup, and seeing as how she was never in many Muggle areas, he was off with Harry to get the license. The license had to be obtained from the Department for the Regulation and Control of Magical Creatures.

Finally, Harry and Mr. Weasley returned. Ginny noticed the small, wiggling mass in Harry's arms and ran over.

"Oooooo, Harry! What is he?" she asked, reaching out to pat him.

"He's a crup, Gin. They're very loyal and protective towards their owners."

"So who's his owner?" Ginny asked, as the crup began to yip excitedly and lick her hands.

"You're his owner, love," Harry said, placing him in Ginny's arms.

"Oh, Harry, do you really mean it? You bought him for me?"

Harry nodded. "What will you call him, Gin?"

Ginny kissed Harry's cheek in thanks. "I don't know......what do you think?"

A/N: The information used in this chapter on crups came from Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them. A reminder: I know Draco is not himself in this chapter, but please keep in mind he's under the influence of Snape's Calming draught throughout their whole Diagon Alley experience. Now, I'm taking a page from pandafan81's book. When you leave a review, tell me what you think the name of Ginny's new crup should be!! Be creative :)

A/N: All of these characters, except for Zeppie the house-elf, belong to J.K. Rowling. I am merely setting up a new stage for them to act upon. Thank you to everyone who gave me suggestions for Ginny's new pet. There were many good ideas and it was a hard choice, but I finally went with the one I thought would be very fitting. Thank you to mrsgeorgeweasley and padfoot36212 for suggesting it, and I hope you all agree that it is the perfect name. Thanks!!!!

"Gin," Harry said wistfully, "maybe you could call him....Padfoot."

"Padfoot is perfect. It's exactly what his name should be," Ginny said understandingly, nuzzling her new pet. "But, Harry, you shouldn't have bought me anything. It's not my birthday." Ginny looked at Harry sternly, waiting for an explanation.

"Well, Gin love, we weren't together last year when you made Prefect. He's a late 'Congratulations on making Prefect' gift."

"All right, Potter, but he's so great that you can call him an early birthday present too. I don't want to see any other presents from you on my birthday, got it?"

Harry's mind worked quickly as he thought of the other gift he'd bought for Ginny. "Don't worry, Gin, I promise that you won't 'see' any birthday presents from me." Padfoot began to squirm and yip excitedly at the smell and sight of food. Ginny walked to the table where everyone else sat eating and grabbed a sausage, feeding it to her hungry little pet. Padfoot swallowed it in one gulp, happily wagging his forked tail.

"Okay everyone, it's time to go. It's been a long day," Mr. Weasley said getting up. Everyone gathered around the Portkey and touched it, again feeling that pull behind the navel as they disappeared from the Leaky Cauldron and reappeared at the Burrow.

"Well, Arthur and Molly, we'll be leaving now that you're all back home safely. We'll see you at the Order meeting next week," Lupin said. "Don't forget, it's a VERY important meeting."

"Don't worry, Remus dear, we won't forget," Mrs. Weasley assured him. In a series of loud pops, Lupin, Moody, Tonks, and Shacklebolt Disapperated.

Snape eyed Draco, who was bent over picking a bouquet of buttercups in the yard. Skipping over, Draco handed the flowers to Mrs. Weasley. "Thanks so much for letting me stay in your home," he said with a smile.

"You're perfectly welcome, dear. Why don't you run along to your room and get some rest." Draco nodded and headed for the house, stopping by Ginny and Hermione.

"Will one of you come read me a story?" he asked of them. Neither Ginny or Hermione knew quite how to respond. Here was Draco Malfoy their enemy, the boy who tormented them every chance he got....asking them to read him a bedtime story. From behind Draco, Mrs. Weasley nodded emphatically, indicating that they should go along with it.

Ginny sat Padfoot down, and he immediately began to explore his new home. "Well.....er, sure," Ginny stammered. Draco flashed them a smile and trotted off into the house. As Hermione and Ginny moved to follow him, they found their way blocked by Ron.

"No, Hermione, I won't let you go."

"Ron, if you're so worried then come with us."

Harry looked at Ron. "She's right, what can he do if we're there?"

"All right, we'll go with you. But he'd better not try anything or he'll have to deal with me," Ron threatened, clenching his hands into fists. "He may be a bit loopy right now, but underneath it all he's still the same old Malfoy." Ron possessively put an arm around Hermione and the four entered the house. Their trip upstairs was slightly delayed as they entered.

The inside of the Burrow was immaculate. Mrs. Weasley had always kept a religiously clean house, but this went even beyond her normal standards. There was not one speck of dust to be found, and everything gleamed like it was brand new.

"Zeppie," Hermione said, shaking her head. "I knew I shouldn't have left without talking to him first."

"Wow!" Ron exclaimed, turning around in amazement. "This is the cleanest I've ever seen this place! Zeppie sure knows what he's doing! Mum will be beside herself....she won't have anything to clean."

"Zeppie! Zeppie, where are you?" Hermione yelled. Zeppie came in from the family room, still wearing his old rags.

"Yes, Missy Hermy? Is you needing Zeppie for something?"

"Zeppie, first off....why are you still in those rags? I spent an entire afternoon making you new clothes. And why did you do all of this cleaning?"

"Well, Missy Hermy, Zeppie is having nothing to do, so Zeppie tidied up a bit. And Zeppie didn't want to ruin his beautifull clothes that Missy Hermy gave him." Zeppie looked down at his feet as he said this. He looked rather like a child being scolded for getting caught with his hand in the cookie jar.

"Is Missy Hermy mad at Zeppie?"

"No, Zeppie, of course not, but I DO want you to put on your new clothes. And you don't have to spend all of your time cleaning. There's so many other things that you could do. For instance, if you like, I can teach you how to knit. I think you'll find it quite enjoyable, and it is kind of like work. You can even take some of the money I pay you and buy some nice wool to make more clothes with."

"Missy Hermy is too kind to Zeppie. Zeppie will do anything Missy Hermy asks of him."

"All right, Zeppie, now will you go change clothes?" Zeppie nodded and ran up the stairs.

"Well, let's go humor Draco," Hermione suggested. She and the other three went upstairs.

Outside Molly and Arthur were talking to Snape, as he was preparing to leave.

"Severus, are you quite sure he'll be all right?"

"I have no way of knowing," Snape said with indifference. "The Calming draught should be wearing off any time. I will leave behind extra in case you find it necessary to sedate him again. When he comes out of it, he could react many different ways. He may be very angry, very quiet, very sad, or hysterical. Do you have the means to control him no matter what?"

"Don't be silly, Severus, of course I do. After having seven children I can handle-"

Mrs. Weasley was cut off by a piercing scream which originated from the attic.

Ron was covering his ears with his hands. "Why is he doing that?" he asked, indicating the screaming Draco. Draco's screams suddenly stopped, and his face took on a look of absolute terror.

"Blood! So much blood; it's everywhere! Why did he do this to you? He.....he's murdered you! What will I do now? Where will I go?" Tears began to slowly trickle down his face.

"What should we do?" asked Ron, as Draco again began his babbling to no one in particular.

"Mum...why won't you move? Why can't I get to you? We have to get out of here before he comes back. Please get up and let me out, Mum, PLEASE!" Draco quickly looked around as if he heard a noise.

"He's here! Hurry, Mum, get up and let me out! He's coming for us.....HURRY!"

"Ron, go get your parents and Professor Snape!"

"No need, Miss Granger. We're right here," Snape said as he and Mr. and Mrs. Weasley entered. Snape pulled a vial from his robes and strode over to Draco, forcing him to drink it. Within minutes, Draco was fast asleep.

"I've just given him a sleeping potion, so he should rest through the night. I will leave some of this behind as well, in case you have need for it. However, I must be going. If you find handling him to be too bothersome, contact someone from the Order and different arrangements will be made. Although from what I hear, he's now your responsibility."

Mrs. Weasley took the vials that Snape held out to her. "Thank you, Severus, we'll manage. I've dealt with difficult boys before."

Snape sneered. "Yes, I'm sure you have," he said, glancing over at Ron. Without another word he strode from the room. A loud pop a moment later assured them that he was gone. Ron, Hermione, Harry, and Ginny all stood quietly still trying to process all Draco had said.

"How much did you hear?" asked Mr. Weasley.

Ginny was the first to be able to recover enough to answer. "Dad....he was talking about blood and someone being murdered. It sounded like he was talking about his Mum."

Mr. and Mrs. Weasley exchanged concerned glances. "Well I guess it can't be put off any longer," Mrs. Weasley said. She walked over to make sure Draco was sleeping soundly. "You four come downstairs. I'll fix you some tea and sandwiches and we'll tell you about it."

Once they had made it downstairs, and everyone was sitting at the table with a steaming cup of tea and a sandwich, Mrs. Weasley continued.

"Now you all know that Lucius Malfoy, along with many other known Death Eaters, has been in Azkaban. A few days before Draco was brought here, Lucius had managed to escape." She paused and took a sip of her tea.

"Apparently Lucius was in Azkaban long enough to snap. He had failed several mental evaluations prior to escaping. Upon his escape, he headed for Malfoy Manor. When he got there...."

Mrs. Weasley took a deep breath. "-he murdered his wife Narcissa. He didn't use his wand....instead he used a dagger to slit her throat. It looked as though he intended to kill Draco as well, but he couldn't find him and it's assumed he left in a rage."

"But where was Draco when his mother was killed?" Hermione asked.

Mrs. Weasley sighed. "Narcissa had sequestered him in a secret chamber in the manor that Lucius didn't know about. When she heard of her husband's escape and state of mind, she hid Draco in that secret chamber and sealed it using a Fidelus Charm. The charm would keep him in until she or the Secret Keeper came to let him out. Unfortunately, the chamber was behind a two-way mirror, where no one cold see in, but Draco could see out. He could see the whole time his father was killing his mother."

"But, Mum, I don't understand one thing. How did anyone know that much about what was going on?" asked Ron.

Mrs. Weasley looked over to her husband and smiled sadly. "I was with the members of the Order who went to retrieve Draco that night. I had to be. Back when I was a young girl at Hogwarts, way before I dated your father, Narcissa and I were the best of friends. Back then money and social status didn't matter as much to her. When she started dating Lucius, she began to change so much, until she finally stopped speaking to me altogether. That is, until last week. Last week, Narcissa feared for her son's life and turned to the only real friend she ever had.....me. She pleaded with me to remember our past friendship. She begged me to be her Secret Keeper, because she knew no one would suspect me. And now, that's why Draco's here. Narcissa asked me to take care of him if anything should happen to her."

"But, Mrs. Weasley, what about Lucius Malfoy?" Harry asked, sipping his tea.

Mr. Weasley shook his head. "Unfortunately he's still out there somewhere. We have patrols seaching, but no one has seen him. Until he is caught, Draco is not safe. The Burrow seemed like the perfect place to hide him, because to everyone else it would seem like the least likely place he would go."

Ron looked thoughtful for a minute. "Mum, does this mean that Draco Malfoy is going to live with us?"

"Right now we just don't know, although we do know it's what Narcissa wanted. She said as much in her will....a will she kept secret from her husband," Mr. Weasley said. "But it's getting late and you four should probably go to bed. It's been a long day."

After a quick round of good night hugs from Mrs. Weasley, the four tired teens went upstairs. Instead of splitting up however, they all went to Ron's room. Once Ron and Hermione were seated on Ron's bed and Harry and Ginny were seated on Harry's bed, the four talked abut that discussion downstairs.

"Well," Hermione said, "I never thought I'd say this....but poor Draco."

"Even for as awful as he always is, you know he probably really loved his Mum" Ginny said quietly. "I don't even want to think about how it would be to have your mum killed right in front of you like that!" At Ginny's words, Harry's face fell and he looked down at his lap.

"How insensitive am I?" Ginny thought. "Did I really just say that out loud in front of Harry?" Quickly she grabbed Harry's hand. "Oh, Harry, I'm SO sorry....it just slipped out."

"It's all right, don't worry about it," Harry said sadly. "I'm kind of tired. Think I'll go to sleep." Harry took back his hand, rolled over, and lay on his bed facing the wall.

"Oh.....okay. See you in the morning, Harry," Ginny said quietly. Hermione wished Ron a good night and the girls left to go to Ginny's room. Once they were in and the door was shut, Ginny began to berate herself.

"Hermione, how could I have been so stupid? How could I have said something like that with Harry sitting right there?" Tears of frustration and regret began to trail down her cheeks. Hermione grabbed her little friend in a comforting hug.

"Don't beat yourself up about it, Ginny. You just caught Harry a bit off guard when you said it. He knows you'd never intentionally say anything to hurt him. He loves you so much, Ginny. Just give him the night to calm down. I'm sure he'll be over it by morning." Ginny nodded, not really believing, but only hoping. Hermione guided Ginny over to her bed.

"The best thing you can do right now is get some rest. I promise things will all work out in the morning." After Hermione was asleep, Ginny still lie awake in bed, unable to get over her feelings of guilt. When she had tossed and turned for over an hour, she heard the now familiar sounds of Harry having a nightmare.

"This is all my fault," Ginny thought. "But I'm going to fix it." Quietly she slipped out of bed and went over to let Hermione know she was going. Hermione gave her a sleepy nod and set an alarm to wake herself up early.

Ginny slipped out of her room down the hall and into Ron's room. Harry was calling out in his sleep, his body twisted in the blankets from his movements. Ginny climbed into bed next to him, straightening the blankets and arranging them over Harry and herself. After using the Engorgement charm on her ring and slipping Harry's finger into the ring with hers, she settled down resting her head on his chest. Harry's erratic breathing calmed almost instantly, and his yelling and thrashing stopped.

Just as she was about to drift off, Ginny felt Harry's arms creep around her and pull her tightly against him. In his now peaceful sleep, Harry mumbled, "Love you, my Ginny." Ginny smiled and drifted off to sleep, Harry's deep, even breathing ruffling through her hair.

Ginny woke to the feel of Harry's fingers running through her hair. "Did I ever tell you how beautiful these silly purple streaks make you look?"

Ginny smiled and slowly opened her eyes, languidly stretching her well-rested body. As she raised her arms over her head, Harry's hand followed. Ginny realized they were still bound by her ring and sat up to slip it off Harry's finger. After returning the band to it's normal size and slipping it back on, Ginny glanced at Harry nervously.

"Harry, I have to tell you I'm sorry. I should have thought before I opened my big, insensitive mouth. I didn't mean to-"

Whatever Ginny was about to say was cut off by Harry's lips against hers.

"Yay! He's not mad at me!" she thought, as she responded to Harry's kiss with a new urgency. The door to Ron's bedroom flung open and Hermione ran in looking panicked.

"Ginny, wake up! The alarm didn't go....oh, you're awake."

"What's all the noise about?" Ron asked, rolling over and opening his eyes. Hermione realized she was still in her pajamas; a pair of short, cut-off pink sweatpants and a ratty old t-shirt of her Mum's that said 'Co-ed Naked Dentistry~Drilling and Filling is Our Pleasure'. Ron grinned widely and waggled his eyebrows at Hermione as he eyed her appreciatively.

Hermione let out a small, "Eeek!" and ran out the door.

Ron slipped out of bed. "Maybe I should go see if she needs any help changing," he said with a naughty grin.

"You'll do no such thing, Ronald Weasley!" Hermione shrieked from down the hallway. Smiling, Ginny hugged her boyfriend and thanked her lucky stars that he was so understanding.

The next few days passed without much incident. True to her word, Hermione taught Zeppie how to knit. Mrs. Weasley had given him some extra skeins of yarn she had, and Zeppie could now almost always be found knitting new and vibrant clothes for himself. He was currently working on a set of bright red pants and a purple jumper.

Padfoot had adjusted well to his new home, and had surprisingly become fast friends with Crookshanks. They were, after all, both very intelligent animals. Most afternoons they could be found chasing gnomes around the garden, or curled up in a little bundle napping together.

Ron, Hermione, Harry, and Ginny spent lots of time walking and having their now regular talks. The biggest topics of conversation were about Mrs. Weasley's confession of being friends with Draco's mother back in school and how to handle the situation with Draco. They decided it would be best to leave Draco to himself, to allow him to work through his grief in his own way.

Draco stayed shut up in the attic. The only one who ever saw him was Mrs. Weasley. She would take a tray of food and drink up to him three times a day, most of which came back untouched. Mrs. Weasley spent a little time with him each day while he drank his tea, trying to earn his trust. Whether she had been successful or not was information she was keeping to herself.

Finally the day of the special Order meeting rolled around. Mr. Weasley had secured a Portkey to take them to Grimmauld Place. Everyone was ready to leave except for Draco, who Mrs. Weasley was now trying to coax downstairs. After a few moments she descended leading a very quiet, sad-looking Draco. Everyone touched the cut-off electrical plug that Mr. Weasley had turned into a Portkey. With the ever so familiar pull behind the navel, they left the Burrow and appeared at Grimmauld Place. Once the swirling of their surroundings stopped, Harry noticed that the house was quite dark.

All of a sudden the lights flipped on, and Harry found himself surrounded by all of his friends and adopted family.

"SURPRISE! HAPPY BIRTHDAY, HARRY!"

A/N: Hope you all enjoyed this chapter. There was a lot to explain and I hope it all made sense. Thank you to every one who has left a review....You guys are awesome! And a big round of applause for Chelsea the super mod for getting my chapters validated so fast :)

A/N: As always and forever, I don't own J.K. Rowling's characters. I'm just making them do a little dance right now until HBP!!!!

Harry rapidly blinked his eyes to adjust them to the sudden appearance of light. Also, to make sure he was really seeing what he thought he was seeing.

The room was decorated up beautifully with loads of birthday decorations. Shiny silver balloons dotted the floor, perfectly matching the silver streamers that ran from one side of the room to the other. Upon the table sat a large, three-tiered birthday cake decorated with little Snitches and broomsticks. Under a large banner which read, Happy Birthday, Harry, was a rather large stack of presents. And there all around him was everyone in the world that he cared about.

As Harry stood, still unable to say anything, he found himself suddenly flanked by Fred and George Weasley. Each one grabbed one of Harry's arms, and began to drag him through a crowd of smiling people.

"Can you believe it, Fred? Our little Harry's turning seventeen."

Fred sighed loudly. "I know, George. It seems like only yesterday he was learning his first spell." Fred wiped away a fake tear.

"They grow up so fast," sighed George. Harry found himself being deposited into a large chair, where Fred produced a rather garish looking hat. It was shaped like a dunce cap and was bewitched to flash the words, Birthday Boy. Fred promptly slapped the hat over Harry's head as he and George began to sing.

"Duh duh duh duh duh dun, you say it's your birthday! Duh duh duh duh duh dun, it's my birthday too, yeah!"

"All right you too, that's enough," said Mrs. Weasley. "It's time to eat, and your singing is so atrocious that you'll bring poor Harry to tears."

Fred gave George a meaningful glance, and the two again broke out in song. "It's Harry's party, and he can cry if he wants to......cry if he wants to......CRY if he wants to!"

Mrs. Weasley boxed the twins' ears and herded them into the dining room with everyone else not far behind. Everyone but Draco Malfoy. He stood listlessly by the foot of the stairs. Ginny and Hermione noticed him and cautiously approached.

"Um....er, Mal-I mean, Draco?" Hermione asked tenatively. "You could come eat too."

"Yeah," Ginny agreed, "I'm sure there's loads of food."

Draco spoke quietly, not looking at either girl. "Not hungry. Just want to lie down."

"There's plenty of rooms upstairs, if you want to be alone," Ginny offered. Draco shook his head. Instead, he walked over to one of the large couches and laid down, not speaking another word. Mrs. Weasley appeared in the doorway.

"You girls had better get something to eat, or Ron will finish it all off." In her hands she carried a tray of food, presumably for Draco. Ginny and Hermione nodded understandingly, and headed for the dining room. If anyone could get Draco to eat, it would be Mrs. Weasley.

In the dining room, the air was more cheery. The food spread upon the table was nothing short of a feast. There was a roast turkey, chicken pie, bangers and mash, and a large assortment of fried and baked vegetables. After a bit, Mrs. Weasley rejoined everyone. Hermione and Ginny looked at her questioningly.

Mrs. Weasley smiled. "He ate a bit. He's upstairs resting."

After everyone was done eating and the table was cleared, Fred and George brought in Harry's presents. They did this by Apparating from the dining room to the living room and back again, until all of Harry's presents were stacked on the table in front of him.

Mrs. Weasley shook her head. "That's quite enough out of you two. Go ahead, Harry dear, open your presents."

Harry had never in his life received so many presents for his birthday. From Mr. and Mrs. Weasley he received....what else....a new Weasley jumper, with a Snitch and broomstick on the front. Ron gave Harry a new set of gloves for Quidditch.

"It's our last year, mate. McGonagall's gotten so used to having that Quidditch Cup in her office. We wouldn't want to disappoint her."

Hermione gave Harry a new set of quills and ink, with a liberal supply of parchment and a new homework organizer. "After all, Harry, it is our N.E.W.T. year. You'll want to be prepared."

There were many other gifts; books, a new 'thicker-bottomed' cauldron, candies of all varieties, and from Fred and George, a large box of their best products.

"It's your last year, Harry. Make us proud."

Remus' present brought tears to Harry's eyes. Encased in a beautiful, wooden frame with gilded edges, was a Wizard photo of Remus, James, and Sirius during their Hogwarts days. Sirius currently had James in a headlock giving him a noogie, while Remus looked on shaking his head. James and Sirius then ganged up on Remus, doubling him over and pulling his robes up over his head. Harry found himself smiling at the photograph Marauders' antics.

"It's the only one I could find without....Peter," Remus said quietly.

"Thanks, Remus. You have no idea what this means to me. It's brilliant."

Finally there was one gift left; Ginny's gift. Anyone who cared to look at Ginny at that moment, would have seen her fidgeting in anticipation. Harry tore off the wrappings and opened the small box. Inside, there was a man's ring. The band was white gold, with intricately carved stars and moons. The stone set in the band was a teal-colored opal. Harry turned the ring over and looked inside the band. Sure enough, the words Sweet Dreams were stamped inside.

"It's for your nightmares, Harry," Ginny said with a smile.

Harry turned the ring over in his hands. "I wonder if it could have been Godric's and just gotten misplaced." Ginny looked at her own ring, remembering that it had once belonged to Rowena Ravenclaw.

"Thanks so much, love," Harry said. "I'll put this in my school trunk so I don't forget it when we go to Hogwarts." Ginny looked confused, and Harry leaned over to whisper in her ear. "Love, I'll save it for when you can't come climb in bed with me and share yours. I want to enjoy that for as long as I can."

The sound of Mrs. Weasley announcing that it was time for cake was blocked out for Ginny. Harry, pretending to still be whispering in her ear, pressed his lips against her earlobe. Shivers ran all the way down to her toes.

"Potter, you don't play fair!"

"Never claimed to," Harry said with a grin, pulling Ginny to her feet so that they could get some cake.

Hermione watched in amazement as Ron polished off his third slice of cake. His appetite never ceased to amaze her. "Ron, if you're through stuffing your face, I have a present for you. But I want to give it to you in private."

Ron's fork clattered to his plate. "Private? You want to give me something in private?" The naughty grin again came over his face, as he hauled Hermione out of the dining room and up the stairs. Ron pulled Hermione into a dark, empty room. "So, what do you want to give me?" Ron asked suggestively.

"Honestly, Ron, I just wanted to give you-"

Ron cut Hermione off quickly, leaning in to kiss her. Slowly he walked her backwards until her back was against the wall. Ron pressed himself fully against her and continued his unrelenting assault on Hermione's mouth. Just as Hermione was beginning to think that the birthday cake taste of Ron's mouth was better than eating it off a plate, someone stepped into the doorway behind them.

"What do you suppose they're doing, Fred my good man?" Hermione and Ron sprang apart to see Fred and George standing in the doorway, wide grins plastered on their faces.

"Isn't it obvious, George old chap? Hermione has apparently misplaced her tonsils, and dear ickle Ronnykins was helping her find them."

"Or maybe, Fred my dear boy, our brother is secretly a dentist, and he was giving her an 'oral' examination."

In the darkness, no one could see the dark blush that had crept up on Ron and Hermione's faces. Ron was so embarrassed and angry, that he couldn't form a coherent sentance.

"You.....we......stop!"

"What Ron is so eloquently trying to say, is that you two are great big prats!" Hermione said through clenched teeth. "I was just trying to give Ron a present."

"A present? Can we have a present too, Hermione?" George asked, while Fred puckered up his lips and made loud smacking noises. This was finally enough to loosen Ron's tongue.

"Just....leave....please! Can't you two ever just be normal? GO AWAY! If you don't, I'll tell Mum about your newest product." Ron was referring to a new candy they were working on that had, thus far, turned out to be quite explosive.

"Well, George, we'd better go. We wouldn't want Ronnie to tattle on us," Fred said in mock horror.

"Yes, Fred. We'll go so Hermione can finish giving Ron his 'present'."

"See you later, tonsil inspector!" Fred and George left, laughing the whole way.

"Why can't I have any normal brothers around? My only two normal brothers are off in foreign countries. What am I stuck with here? A pair of laughing idiots and a traitor."

"Just forget them, Ron," Hermione said, trying to calm him down. "Besides, I really DO have a present for you." Out of her pocket, Hermione pulled a wand holder. It was shaped like a silver dragon, with two rubies for eyes. The dragon's mouth was wide open, and this was where the end of the wand went.

Ron took the holder from her, examining it with great interest. "It's great, 'Mione! Where'd you get it?"

"I got it at the same shop where Ginny found the Sweet Dreams ring for Harry. Actually, I found two of them." Hermione pulled out another holder, which had her wand in it. "See....they match. I thought they would be nice to have....since our wands have a connection with each other."

Ron pulled Hermione into a tight hug. "I love it, 'Mione. I have something for you too, but you can't have it until we get to school."

Finally, the party was over. All of the guests had returned to their homes. Mrs. Weasley retrieved Draco from upstairs, and their group again used the electrical plug Portkey to return to the Burrow. When they arrived, they immediately saw that something was wrong.

The Burrow had been ransacked. Furniture was overturned, dishes were smashed on the floor, and stuck to the wall with a bloody dagger, was a note. Mrs. Weasley gathered Ron, Hermione, Harry, Ginny, and Draco closer to her as Mr. Weasley inspected the note.

He is mine. I WILL claim him.

"Molly, we've got to get them out of here, now. Take the Portkey and get them back to Grimmauld Place."

"But, Arthur, what about you? What if he's still here?"

"I don't think he is. I'm going to make a quick check and then contact the Order. I'll be right behind you."

"Zeppie!" Hermione shrieked. "Where's Zeppie?"

A weak voice came from the closet under the stairs. "Missy Hermy?"

Mr. Weasley opened the closet to reveal Zeppie hunched in the corner. In one arm he held Crookshanks, and in the other he held Padfoot. Zeppie was covered in fresh bruises, and there was a large, deep cut over one of his large, round eyes.

"Zeppie!" Hermione rushed forward to check on her little friend. Harry and Ron came to relieve him of Crookshanks and Padfoot, and Hermione helped Zeppie out of the closet. "Zeppie, what happened?"

"A bad wizard came, Missy Hermy. He hit Zeppie a lot, tried to make Zeppie tell him where the Wheezys were. Zeppie didn't tell him anything! Zeppie got Missy Hermy's cat and Miss Wheezy's dog and Zeppie got away; hid until the bad wizard left. But, Missy Hermy, Zeppie's new clothes....the bad wizard ruined them."

"It's all right, Zeppie. I can make you more. All that's important is that you got away. You probably saved Crookshanks and Padfoot too. If you hadn't have gotten away and hid....he probably would have killed all three of you." Hermione took Zeppie's hand and led him over to Mrs. Weasley.

"Molly, take them all and go now," Arthur instructed. Mrs. Weasley nodded, and she and the rest used the Portkey to return to Grimmauld Place.

Once there, Mrs. Weasley ran to grab things to dress Zeppie's wounds. Ginny cradled a whimpering Padfoot in her arms, while Harry held Ginny in his. Hermione kneeled in front of Zeppie still holding his hand, while Ron stood behind them holding a distressed Crookshanks. As Mrs. Weasley returned with the bandages, Mr. Weasley Apparated into the living room.

"There was no sign of him at the Burrow. Order members are out searching the surrounding area. Tomorrow, I'll go back to the Burrow with some of the other Order members and retrieve anything that we need."

Mrs. Weasley nodded, as she began to dress Zeppie's wounds. "You'll need to bring back their school things. I'm afraid we'll have to stay here until the start of term."

"It's all my fault." Everyone looked over to where Draco stood. "It's all my fault that you're in danger. It's all my fault that he destroyed your house. You should have never taken me in. I didn't deserve it. All I've ever been to your family is cruel. You should have just left me."

Mrs. Weasley quickly turned the bandages over to Hermione. Rushing forward, she approached Draco and put a tenative hand on his shoulder.

"Of course we shouldn't have left you. None of this is your fault...you shouldn't think that way. I was more than happy to take you in. I won't hear any more of this nonsense." Mrs. Weasley put her arm around his shoulders to lead him to the kitchen. "Come with me. We'll get you a spot of tea and a bite to eat."

"There you go, Zeppie, you're all fixed up. Why don't you run along upstairs and get some rest," Hermione suggested. Zeppie nodded tiredly and started for the stairs.

"And Zeppie?"

"Yes, Missy Hermy?"

"Thank you for saving Crookshanks and Padfoot."

"You is welcome, Missy Hermy. Zeppie will go rest now." With that being said, Zeppie made his way slowly up the stairs.

Later that night, after everyone had gone to bed, Ron and Harry sat up talking about the situation with Draco.

"Imagine having your own dad after you, trying to kill you," Ron said quietly.

"I know....and I can't believe I'm saying this, but I kind of feel sorry for Draco."

"Yeah, it's weird to feel sorry for someone you've hated since you met them."

Further discussion of the topic was cut off by an insistant pecking at the window. Harry looked out to see an owl. He opened the window and let the owl in. The owl perched on the end of Harry's bed, and stuck out it's leg. Harry untied the letter the owl was carrying, and it flew off out the window. Harry opened the letter to find it was from Dumbledore.

Harry, I must give my most humble apologies for not coming to your party. I am afraid that I had pressing business that needed to be attended to. I have, however, sent you a token in tidings of your happy day. It should arrive after this letter. Regards, Albus Dumbledore

True to the letter's word, a group of six owls came soaring in through the window, a large package suspended between them. Again, these owls didn't stay around long. Apparently they were all business. As soon as they dropped the package on Harry's bed, they were gone back out the window.

"Well....open it, Harry," Ron said excitedly. Harry opened the box and pulled out a large, stone bowl. It was green in color, and appeared to be made of jade.

"Whoa! Harry, that's a Pensieve!" Ron said, coming closer to examine it. Inside the Pensieve was another letter, which Harry quickly tore open.

Harry, I thought it might be beneficial for you to have one of these of your very own. You will find it handy as we continue your Occlumency and Legilimency lessons this coming term. Again, I wish you a very happy birthday. Regards, Albus Dumbledore

"Wow!" Ron exclaimed, obviously impressed by Dumbledore's gift. "These are really rare, and this one looks expensive!"

Harry had to admit that he too was impressed. Last year when Dumbledore had given Harry lessons, he had allowed Harry to use his Pensieve. This would certainly be more convenient. Harry carefully packed the Pensieve away in his school trunk, placing the box containing the ring from Ginny inside it. Even with the attack on the Burrow, Harry was thinking that he'd never had a better birthday.

The next few weeks passed without much incident. Just as he had at the Burrow, Draco mostly stayed confined to his room, with Mrs. Weasley bringing him up trays of food and tea. His trays didn't come back quite so unfinished, and it looked as though Mrs. Weasley had slowly started to gain his trust.

Zeppie healed from his wounds quite nicely. He and Hermione had spent some time knitting new outfits, and he now had four, slightly mismatched sets of clothes. True to her word, Hermione had begun paying him, and Mr. Weasley had even set up an account for Zeppie at Gringotts. For saving their lives, Zeppie had earned the trust of Crookshanks and Padfoot. When he wasn't knitting or doing odd jobs around the house, Zeppie cold be found playing with the animals.

As school time grew closer, Ginny's sixteenth birthday arrived. Again, Mrs. Weasley went all out to have a lovely party for her. True to his word, there were no presents from Harry in with her other gifts. That was because Harry had a plan.

When he had bought Ginny's other gift, Harry had arranged to have it delivered to him the day before her birthday. As Ginny came out of the dining room in the aftermath of her party, Harry put his plan into action. Grabbing Ginny from behind, Harry tied a blindfold over her eyes.

"Harry, what are you doing?"

"I need to take you somewhere, love. Just trust me." Harry led Ginny out into a gazebo that stood in the flower garden of the backyard. This was where he had put Ginny's other present.

"Okay, here we are," Harry said, steering Ginny in front of the wrapped package. Ginny tried to pull off the blindfold, but Harry stopped her. "No, love, you have to leave it on." After all, he had promised her that she wouldn't 'see' anymore presents from him.

"Potter, what have you done?" Ginny asked, as she fumbled at the wrappings. When she had torn them off, Ginny ran her hands up and down the now exposed gift. With a loud gasp, Ginny tore off the blindfold to look at what sat in front of her. Harry held his breath as he waited for her reaction.

Ginny smiled for a moment, but the smile soon fell from her face. How could he have spent so much money on her?

"Oh, Harry, how could you?" Ginny asked. She hesitated only a second before turning and running as fast as she could back to the house.

Harry inwardly kicked himself. He should have known she'd be mad at him. He should have handled this differently. Harry silently swore to himself, making up his mind to go after her. Before he left the gazebo, he picked up the Firebolt that had been the cause of Ginny's anger.

A/N: Well, another chapter done in this story which will have.....I don't know how many chapters. I hope you all enjoyed it, and I promise to update again soon! All of you who have reviewed.....YOU'RE AWESOME!! If you haven't read, The Draught of Prospicio, by Burrowbrat, you should definitely do it. It's an excellent story! But please review first!!!!

A/N: Hello! I'm just your run-of-the-mill fanfic author who doesn't own J.K. Rowling's brilliant characters. I DO however own the situations in which they now find themselves. So, until HBP, enjoy!!! Draco may seem a bit OoC in this story, but please keep in mind what he's been through as you are reading :) A little less than half of this chapter is from his point of view, but it's necessary for developing the direction I'm taking his character in this story. A great big thanks has to go to Chelsea, THE SUPER MOD! Faster than a speeding Snitch......Able to leap tall fanfics in a single bound!!!

Harry stood quietly in front of Ginny's closed door, the Firebolt clutched firmly in his hand. He took a deep breath, and rapped on the closed door with his knuckles. "Gin? Gin, please let me come in and explain."

The door swung open to reveal a very red-faced Ginny. "What is there to explain, Harry? You've gone and bought me an EXTREMELY expensive gift. How can I ever live up to that? I don't have the money to go around buying YOU such expensive things, so why did you do it for me?" Ginny stalked over to her bed and flopped onto it, waiting for an explanation.

"Gin, I saw the way you looked at Ron's Firebolt. I saw the longing in your eyes. I knew you had to have one." Ginny sighed loudly, not saying anything.

"Listen, Gin, this didn't cost as much as you think it did. I bought it used. It didn't even cost me half the price of a new one. Look at the handle and you'll see what I mean." Harry strode over to the bed and tossed the Firebolt down beside Ginny. Ginny closely inspected the handle and saw a name engraved there.

"Sarah Parkin," Ginny read, running her fingers over the engraved letters. Suddenly, understanding dawned on her. "Sarah Parkin? As in THE Sarah Parkin? Sarah Parkin....Chaser for the Wigtown Wanderers?" Harry nodded.

Sarah Parkin played as Chaser for the Wigtown Wanderers, and was an excellent player. For as long as anyone could remember, there had always been a Parkin playing for the Wanderers. The Wanderers were founded by a group of brothers and sisters who were all Parkins.

"But, Harry, how did you get it?"

"Apparently, Sarah Parkin is now testing out a new prototype racing broom. She donated all of her old brooms to charity. The money raised from the selling of her brooms goes to help children from poor Wizarding families who need help buying their school things, like robes and books."

Harry watched as Ginny's barriers began to dissolve. "And," he continued, "with three of us on Firebolts this year, we could be unbeatable."

Ginny looked thoughtful for a minute. "Did the money you paid for the Firebolt really go to charity?"

"Of course, Gin. You should know by now that I love you too much to lie to you."

Ginny leaned in to press a quick kiss against Harry's lips. "All right, Potter, I accept your gift. It really will help to have three of us on Firebolts, and the money went to a good cause. But don't you pull another sneaky stunt like that again. Next time you try it I'll hex you, love of my life."

Harry pulled Ginny into his arms. "Don't worry, Gin love, I have no intention of sparking your Weasley temper again anytime soon." Harry kissed the top of her head, tucking a stubborn, purple strand of hair behind her ear. "By the way, I've been feeling a bit odd today. I think it might mean that I'm going to have a nightmare tonight," he said with a smile.

Ginny smiled right back at him. "Oh really? Well if you do, we'll just have to take care of it, won't we?"

Ron and Hermione sat on the bed in Ron's room, Hermione trying to get Ron to study. "Ron, classes are going to be really, really hard this year, and we leave for Hogwarts in two weeks. If you don't start preparing now, you'll never be able to stay ahead. Now let's study these advanced Charms incantations."

Ron didn't even glance at the book, instead looking into Hermione's eyes. "But I'd rather study your mouth, Hot Lips." Ron leaned forward to kiss Hermione, who stopped him with a hand on his chest.

"Ronald, although the prospect may seem appealing, you can't snog your way through school. You're Head Boy and you have an example to set, not only with your actions, but with your dedication to your classes as well."

Ron rolled his eyes and breathed a heavy sigh. "Okay, 'Mione, put away your teacher hat. I'll study with you, but I expect a rather good snog fest later." Ron and Hermione set to studying, and didn't notice Draco come to stand in the doorway until he spoke.

"Do you have a piece of parchment I could borrow?" he inquired, his eyes never leaving the floor. Hermione jumped up and fumbled around in her bag, finally pulling out some parchment. She walked over and handed it to Draco.

"Thanks," he mumbled, before turning around and leaving.

Ron's eyes opened wide in amazement. "Did Draco Malfoy just.....thank you?"

Hermione sat back down on Ron's bed, picking up her advanced Charms book. "That was a little unnerving; to have someone who's called me a mudblood for years thank me."

"Ahhhh.....young love. Isn't it sweet, Forge?"

"I say, Gred, I'd have to agree with you." In the doorway Draco had just vaccated, now stood Fred and George.

"OH NO, not you two! GO AWAY!" Ron exclaimed, trying to cut them off before they could get started.

"Why, Forge, I believe our ickle brother and his woman are mad at us!"

"Well, we'll have to remedy that, Gred my good man."

"They look like they could use a good laugh, Forge."

"You're quite right, Gred."

"Rictusempra!" they said at once, flicking their wands at Ron and Hermione. Twin jets of light hit Ron and Hermione at the same time. They fell to the floor laughing, holding their sides as they rolled around.

"HA HA HA!" Ron laughed. "You two are the biggest prats in the...ha ha...world. You two are so...hee hee hee....dead!"

Fred looked at George in horror. "Oh no, George! Please don't be dead!" Fred began to frantically check George's wrist for a pulse.

"Oh, Fred! You can't be dead either! Who will run the joke shop with us both gone?" George checked for Fred's heartbeat, as Ron and Hermione continued to laugh riotously on the floor.

"Finite Incantatum!" Mrs. Weasley yelled from the doorway, aiming her wand at Ron and Hermione. Immediately their laughter stopped. She then rounded on Fred and George, who were still checking each other for a pulse.

"WHAT are you two doing here still? Don't you have a joke shop to run?"

"Don't you even care that we're dead, Mum?" Fred asked with mock surprise.

"We just came to see our brother, the future dentist," said George.

"Drilling and filling are their pleasure," Fred said seriously.

Hermione's eyes went wide. "When did they see me in my pajamas?" Hermione wondered.

Ron, wondering the same thing, jumped up from the floor. "All right, have you been spying on Hermione?"

Fred and George held up their hands defensively. "No little brother, we swear!"

"It was completely by accident that we saw Hermione in her pajamas last night!" Fred said innocently.

"Yeah, it was completely by accident that we saw you snog her senseless before she went to bed!"

"That's enough!" Mrs. Weasley shouted. "You two, OUT!"

"That's all right," George said, heading for the door. "We were leaving anyways."

"Yeah, we've got our funerals to plan," Fred said, following his twin out the door.

Once the twins were gone, Mrs. Weasley turned to Hermione and Ron. "All right you two, do I need to cast a Chastity charm on you both?"

"Mum, I swear it was only a little goodnight peck!" Mrs. Weasley raised her eyebrows at him.

Hermione was quick to back Ron up. "He's telling the truth, Mrs. Weasley. Fred and George are just trying to get him into trouble."

With Hermione supporting Ron's story, Mrs. Weasley seemed satisfied. "All right, I'll take your word for it. But I'll be keeping a sharp eye on you two! Always remember, I can cast that charm in a second!"

Molly Weasley stood at the kitchen sink rinsing vegetables for dinner. "What am I going to do with Fred and George?" she wondered. "Those two are going to run me straight into the loony bin."

Her thoughts were interrupted by an eagle owl flying in through the window. Mrs. Weasley detached the letter it was carrying, and fed the owl a bit of fried bacon before it flew back out the window. She sat down at the kitchen table, tore open the envelope, and began to read.

Mrs. Weasley,

I had some things I wanted to say to you, but couldn't seem to bring myself to do it in person. For years, I've had to be a certain kind of person. It didn't matter who I really was. My father brought me up to be everything a Malfoy should be....emotionless, cruel, and calculating. From the time I could speak, he began telling me tales of the greatness of Voldemort and his Death Eaters. He molded and shaped me to one day follow in his footsteps and become a Death Eater. I now see what kind of man he really is. Not a man....but a monster. I don't know when or if I'll ever come to terms with what has happened to my mother. I only know that I don't want to be like my father. Right now, I don't really know who I am anymore. Am I the cold, cruel person my father is? I fervantly hope not. I cannot change anything I've done in the past. All of the things I've done and said to you and your loved ones....it can never be taken back. I still don't fully understand why you've taken me in. I've never given you any reason to like me, much less tolerate my presence. Due to these terrible circumstances, I've realized that my life is now changing. For the first time in my life, I can live how I want to live, and make my own choices. I know that I choose to not be the person I once was. I want the chance to become someone better. Your taking me in is giving me that chance. I've put your family in harm's way, and all you've done is try harder to support me. Whatever your reasons are for taking me in, I thank you. After the way things have gone in my life so far, I've never been able to put my trust in anyone. Yet everyday, you keep trying. I can't promise that I can change overnight, but I wanted to let you know that I AM trying. Some days it's just very hard. Some days all I can think about is what I've seen. Some days...I think it would be easier if he'd killed me too. I hope you can understand all I've said. I hope you can continue to try and have faith in me. All of your support has meant so much.

Sincerely,

Draco Malfoy

Molly Weasley was crying freely by the time she finished the letter. Wiping her eyes with a kitchen towel, she stood and slipped the letter into the over-sized pocket of her apron. "No matter what I have to do, I'll keep trying until I get him through this."

Draco stood in the doorway to the dining room, watching Ron and Harry play Wizard's chess. As Ron's bishop smashed another of Harry's pawns, Draco heard a small voice inside of him. He'd heard this voice for a while now; since the night his mother died. He realized that it was the voice of his own true personality; the personality he'd always kept neatly tucked away.

"You know you wish they'd invite you to play. Why don't you go over and ask?"

"No, I'm not ready to fully listen to you yet. I need more time," Draco thought to the voice.

"Well, you're just being stubborn. While you're taking your time, you are missing out on life."

Draco might not have been ready to ask to play chess with them, but he did feel the need to say something to Ron and Harry. Slowly, he walked over to where they sat, locked in their battle of wits.

"Potter? Weasley?"

Ron and Harry turned from their chess game, giving him their attention. "Malfoy, do you need something?" Ron asked.

"Well, I have something I wanted to say." Draco nervously shifted his weight from one foot to the other. "I'm not saying I want to be your friend or anything. But I thought that maybe we could come to an agreement. I won't go out of my way to bother you or your friends anymore, if you'll do the same for me."

"You're lying to yourself," the voice said. "You wish you had friends as loyal and true as Potter and Weasley. Admit it, any so-called friends you have are only that because you bully them. You know you don't have any real friends. Why don't you do something about it."

"No! I told you, I'm not ready!" Draco told the voice. Harry and Ron watched as Draco silently argued with himself. Harry finally answered him.

"All right, Malfoy, we'll agree to that." Ron nodded his agreement.

"Okay, it's a deal," Draco said quietly. "And....you can call me Draco."

Before Ron or Harry could say anything else, he quickly sped from the room. "They can call you Draco?" the voice asked. "Well, that's an improvement."

The next two weeks passed quickly. Draco, Ron, and Harry had thus far stuck with their agreement. Draco had begun spending less time in his room, opting instead for sitting in front of the fireplace reading a book. The only person he spoke to very much was Mrs. Weasley. It was obvious that she had been able to scale the wall that Draco had built up around himself.

Zeppie was very distressed that Hermione was leaving for school. He was worried about being away from her and his new friends, Crookshanks and Padfoot. It had taken a lot of convincing, but Hermione had finally talked him in to staying with Mr. and Mrs. Weasley. Or so she hoped.

The morning of September first dawned bright and beautiful. The sun shone brilliantly in the clear-blue sky, chasing away the early morning chill. School trunks and pet cages had been packed into the two Ministry cars Mr. Weasley had aquired for the trip to King's Cross. Several Order members were there to act as a guard. Sightings of Lucius Malfoy had been reported in Hogsmeade, so they were taking no chances. The trip to Platform 9 3/4 was uneventful. However, as the group began to board the train, a strange, black owl intercepted Draco. He dropped the trunk he'd been carrying and detached a letter from the owl's leg. As he read it, he sat down heavily onto his trunk.

Don't worry, Draco. I haven't forgotten you. I WILL come for you.

Mrs. Weasley ran forward, taking the note out of Draco's hands and reading it. Anger flooded into her eyes. "Don't worry, dear. He'll never be able to touch you. We're all making sure of that." She squeezed his shoulder encouragingly. "Come on, dear, let's get you safely onto that train."

On board the train, Ron, Hermione, and Ginny headed for the Heads and Prefects meeting. Harry sat in a compartment waiting for them, with Neville and Luna.

"So how was your summer, Neville?" Harry asked, patting Crookshanks and Padfoot who were both asleep in his lap.

"It was great," Neville said excitedly. "Gran was so proud of how I did in my studies last year, that she bought me my very own greenhouse to grow plants in. You should see my Mimbulus mimbletonia, it's gotten huge!"

Luna smiled dreamily. "My dad and I spent most of the summer backpacking through Wales. We were looking for a Blue-crested Willawomp. They're very rare, and quite breathtaking to behold."

Harry and Neville snickered a bit, but Luna didn't seem to mind. Neville suddenly got serious. "Harry, I heard that Draco Malfoy was with you and the Weasleys this summer. How did that happen? I heard Gran say something about his parents, but when I asked her about it she told me to go grow something in my greenhouse. It must have been pretty bad."

Harry nodded gravely. "His father escaped from Azkaban and killed his mother. He tried to kill Draco too, but couldn't find him. He's been in hiding with the Weasleys ever since."

"Harry, did you just call him Draco instead of Malfoy?"

"Yeah, Neville, I did. He's changed a lot since his mum died. We're not friends or anything, but we have an understanding. He's not going to bother us as long as we don't bother him. He's the one that asked us to call him Draco."

Luna jumped up suddenly, the dreaminess in her eyes replaced by something that looked like urgency. "Oh! I've just remembered, there's someone I need to find. I'll see you two later!" The euphoric smile returned to her face and she departed from the carriage, leaving behind a bewildered Harry and Neville.

At that time, Draco was seated in a compartment with some of his fellow Slytherins. So far, he'd simply sat back listening to the mind-numbing conversation. That was until someone addressed him directly.

"So, Draco, what's up with your Dad? I heard about him killing your Mum," Goyle said with his usual eloquence.

"Yeah," Crabbe continued, "and where were you all summer?"

Draco looked up from the book he'd been reading. "I'd really rather not talk about it, if it's all the same to you."

Crabbe and Goyle looked taken aback for a minute. "Sure, Draco, whatever you say. What about Potter and his friends? What have you got planned for them this year?"

"Nothing. I've got nothing planned for them. We will be leaving them alone, and that's final."

"But, Draco," Goyle whined, "that's the most fun part of school! Why won't we be bothering them?"

"Yes, Draco....do tell us," Pansy Parkinson said silkily from her corner of the compartment. "Why exactly is the Golden Trio off limits? Are you going soft, Malfoy?"

It was at that moment that Luna stepped into the compartment. "Hello again, Draco my friend. I've come to see if you fancy a chat."

Draco knitted his eyebrows in confusion. "Since when have we been friends? I don't remember anything about it." He really was being honest. There were so many things he didn't remember while being under the influence of the Calming draught.

"Don't you remember?" Luna asked a little uncertainly. "That day in Flourish and Blotts. I....I thought you said you wanted to be my friend."

Draco sat silently searching his mind for any trace of a memory. He knew there was a chance that he'd spoken those words to her. He also knew that he was in a train compartment full of Slytherins. These were the only friends he could remember, and they were slowly beginning to question his loyalty. Afraid of being abandoned by them, Draco made up his mind.

"Don't do it! This girl is the type of friend you NEED in your life. Don't screw it up! You know all of these buffoons don't really mean anything to you."

Draco quickly pushed the voice out of his mind. "Sorry, but I don't remember saying anything of the sort. Why don't you go back to the people who are your real friends.....if you have any."

The second the words were out of his mouth, Draco wished he could take them back. A strange sensation fluttered in his stomach, as Luna's eyes teared up and she ran from the compartment. Draco knew what the feeling was. Although it was a new feeling for him, Draco recognized it as regret.

"Way to go, Draco!" Pansy shouted with a satisfied smirk. Crabbe and Goyle also voiced their appreciation of Draco's act. It was more than he could take.

"Why don't you all just shut up! I really can't believe I've wasted so much time trying to impress you nobheads!"

"Way to go! Finally you show some sense. Now go find her!" For the first time since he'd begun hearing it, Draco listened to the voice that he now recognized as his conscience. Leaving behind a compartment of goggle-eyed Slytherins, he ran in search of Luna.

A/N: All of the information on the Parkin family and the Wigtown Wanderers came from Quidditch Through the Ages. I hope everyone enjoyed the extra Fred and George bit I put in this chapter, since so many of you requested more :)

A/N: So, obviously I'm not J.K. Rowling, so I don't own her characters. Except for the ones that are mine, and the plot....those are mine. PLEASE HAVE CHELSEA MODERATE THIS AS SHE HAS READ THE REST AND UNDERSTANDS WHAT I'M DOING WITH THE CHARACTERS.

With their meeting finally over, Ron, Hermione, and Ginny decided to rejoin Harry.

"Blimey but there's a lot of new rules this year," Ron observed, shaking his head.

"Of course there is, Ron. Voldemort could attack at any time. We have to do what we can to keep everyone as safe as possi-OOMPH!" Hermione was cut short as someone collided with her and kept running.

"That was Luna," Ginny said, as Ron helped Hermione steady herself. "I wonder what she's upset about."

Ron looked through the window of the compartment Luna had just come from. "I wonder if it has anything to do with the fact that she just came out of a carriage full of Slytherins."

Hermione's eyes grew wide. "What in the world was Luna Lovegood doing with a bunch of Slyther-OOMPH!" Again Hermione was cut short as someone exited the compartment and crashed into her. This time the person didn't make it past her, having instead fallen to the floor. Ron again helped Hermione steady herself as Draco Malfoy got to his feet.

"Which way did she go?" Draco asked urgently.

"Why should we tell you?" Ginny asked icily. "She was obviously upset. Why should I help you find her when it was probably you and your Slytherin friends who upset her in the first place?" Ginny planted her fists on her hips and tapped her right foot angrily.

Draco's face clouded over. "They're not my friends. I don't think they ever really were. Stupidly I just upset the first person who showed an interest in truly being my friend. Please tell me which way she went....I have to make things right."

Ginny's expression softened, but only slightly. "All right, I'll tell you where she went. But know this...Luna is a sensitive and loving person. I won't stand idly by and watch her be hurt. If I find out you've upset her further, I'll hex you up one side and down the other. You know from personal experience that I can do it!"

Yes, Draco could remember the time this little red-headed spitfire had Bat-Bogey hexed him. He wondered if Potter knew what a challenge he faced in the youngest Weasley. Much to the surprise of Ron, Hermione, and Ginny, Draco smiled slightly. It was more just an upturning of one side of his mouth. "Don't worry, that's an experience I wouldn't care to ever repeat. I promise I have no intention of hurting her more. I just want the chance to apologize."

Ginny nodded and pointed down the corridor in the direction Luna had fled.

He found her sitting alone in one of the train's luggage compartments. She was sitting on a trunk staring off into space, tears slowly streaking down her cheeks. She didn't even notice when he came in.

"Luna?" he said softly. Slowly she turned to face him.

"Draco....what are you doing here? I was just trying to find a quiet place to gather my thoughts. It's very important to always keep your thoughts in order, or they can get all mixed up in your head. I-"

"Luna," Draco said, cutting her off. "I wanted to apologize for what I said back there. I've been a terrible person for so long that I guess it will take time to change."

"I never thought you were a terrible person, Draco. I always thought you were fascinating....kind of like the Blue-Crested Willawomps my dad and I looked for over the summer. They're terribly interesting. They're like you; hard to get to, but once you do they're quite something to behold....not at all what people expect them to be," Luna said with a far-off gleam in her eyes. "We spent-"

"Luna," Draco said, cutting her off again. "Please let me talk to you." Draco sat on the trunk facing her. He realized her going on was probably her way of avoiding letting him say anything; anything that could again be hurtful. Patiently Draco explained all that had happened that summer; about his mother's death and his father still looking for him. He explained to her how he wanted a new life. Draco finished off by profusely apologizing for his earlier words.

"Does this mean you would still like to be my friend? It doesn't bother you that everyone thinks I'm loony?"

"Yes it does, and no it doesn't," Draco said, holding out his hand. "Friends?"

Luna grabbed his hand and kissed the back of it, just as he'd done to her at Diagon Alley. "Yes....friends. I think you'll do nicely as a friend, Draco. Won't all of the other girls be jealous?" Luna said wistfully. "One of the most well put together boys in school is my friend. Should we go back to one of the regular compartments?"

"No, let's stay here," Draco said. Suddenly Draco had realized that he felt better than he had in a long time. "Let's have that chat. I want to hear all about your summer amongst the Blue-Crested Willawomps."

A storm was brewing in the bewitched ceiling sky of the Great Hall as students filed in for the feast. Harry, Ron, Hermione, and Ginny were seated in their usual spots at Gryffindor table, waiting for the Sorting Ceremony to begin. The doors to the Great Hall opened, and Professor McGonagall led in the newest batch of timid-looking first years. As it had since the return of Voldemort, the Sorting Hat's song contained a plea for house unity.

Another year is upon us, at our dear Hogwarts. But this year things are different, things are out of sorts. Bad things are in the future, dark times lie ahead. We must band together, to face the approaching dread. I can feel it in my stitches, I can feel it in my brim; if we cannot join forces our future looks most grim. Although I now will sort you, into the separate houses of four; join together and be strong, I beseech you, I implore. Those of you in Ravenclaw, with all your wit and smarts; will be most brilliant warriors, in the fight against the Dark Arts. Those of you in Hufflepuff, with loyalty of deed; your dedication to work will help you to succeed. Those of you in Gryffindor, with your bravery unending; your courage makes you strong, for the battle that is pending. Those of you in Slytherin, with all of your cunning ways; your choice to fight, for right or wrong, will be difficult in coming days. So now the Sorting will begin, just after my song ends. I once again will urge you; join as brothers, join as friends. Join together all four houses, in a bond of unity. Only together will we triumph, over the evil which threatens our eternity.

"Maybe this year the Sorting Hat will get what it asks for," Hermione said, while everyone politely applauded. While the Sorting was going on, Harry noticed that Draco wasn't in his usual place of glory. He sat, quite alone, at the very end of the Slytherin table. It was then he noticed Luna Lovegood. Every few minutes, Luna would wave wildly and beam a smile at Draco. Draco returned each wave with a smile of his own and a nod of his head.

Harry was perplexed. "What exactly is the deal with Luna and Draco?"

Ginny smiled at Harry. "I think they've decided to be friends."

"Luna Lovegood and Draco Malfoy.....friends?" Harry asked with disbelief.

Dumbledore prevented any further conversation, as he called for everyone's attention. "I realize that you are all quite famished. Now that the Sorting is over, we shall eat. Then after, I have some announcements. Everyone tuck in!"

The golden platters on the tables became covered in a variety of delectable foods. Harry again took a glance over at Draco, who merely pushed the food on his plate around with a fork in a dejected manner. The rest of the Slytherins cast hateful glances his way, whispering and pointing.

"Oh, Harry, I feel so sorry for him," Ginny said quietly. She too had been watching what was going on at the Slytherin table. Then all of a sudden, Draco wasn't alone. Luna, seeing her friend's discomfort, had taken her plate and moved over to the Slytherin table to sit by Draco. As she sat down, Draco smiled appreciatively at her. He finally found his appetite and began to eat, as Luna chatted animatedly to him.

"Well," Hermione said, "it's a start. Maybe unity between the houses isn't completely impossible."

Everyone ate the feast in front of them, which was followed by decadent desserts. When everyone had their fill, Dumbledore again addressed the students.

"Now that we are all sufficiently stuffed, I will get to those announcements. As it is every year, and especially now, the Forbidden Forest is off limits to all students. Mr. Filch has again posted a list of all contraband items, and would like to remind you all that spellcasting in the corridors is forbidden. The DA will again be meeting this year, under the supervision of Mr. Potter. Meeting times and dates will be at his discretion, and I am told there will be a sign-up sheet posted for anyone interested in joining. As you can see, there are no new teachers currently sitting at the staff table. Our new Defense Against the Dark Arts professor is traveling a great distance to get here, and should arrive any moment. Our Head Boy and Head Girl are Ronald Weasley and Hermione Granger. I would ask them to please report to my office after dismissal. Prefects....if you would please escort students to the dormitories. Good night, everyone!"

Ron and Hermione hurried off to meet Dumbledore in his office. When they got there, Harry and Ginny were also waiting to get in. Ron gave Harry a questioning look.

"Don't look at me, mate. I don't know why we're here. McGonagall came to get us after the feast and said that Dumbledore wanted a word with us as well."

"I believe I can clear that up for you," Dumbledore said, appearing behind them. "Follow me."

Ron, Harry, Hermione, and Ginny followed him up the staircase to his office, where he asked them to have a seat. After they were seated, he continued.

"I just wanted to speak to you four about the situation with Draco Malfoy. The experience he has been through is liable to bring about a change in him."

"That's an understatement," Harry said, remembering the scene in the Great Hall.

Dumbledore smiled. "Ahhh...you must be thinking of his new friend. A splendid way to start house unity, don't you agree? I know I can count on you four to help him make the transition. Now I did have another reason for bringing you all here. Harry, you must be wondering why I chose young Ronald here for Head Boy AND Quidditch captain."

"Well, maybe a little. Nothing against Ron, I'm happy for him. But it is a lot of resposibility for one person." Ron smiled understandingly at his best friend.

"Well, Harry, you too will have much responsibility this year. The Ministry of Magic has decreed that the DA is to be made into an official Order; kind of like a junior Order of the Phoenix. You, Harry, are to be the leader of this new Order, which includes coming up with an Order name. Being the leader of this new Order is a hefty responsibility in itself, but I have no doubt whatsoever about your ability to handle it." Harry was speechless, as Ron, Hermione, and Ginny congratulated him excitedly.

Dumbledore continued. "Also, for their help in the Ministry of Magic skermish the year before last, Ron, Hermione, Ginny, Luna, and Neville are to be awarded the Order of Merlin, third class. Mr. Longbottom and Miss Lovegood have already been informed." Harry congratulated his three friends, but at the same time felt a little hurt. He'd been there as well, why was he being left out?

"Before you get upset, Harry, let me finish," Dumbledore said smiling. "Because of your involvement at the Ministry of Magic, AND because of the role you played in saving the lives of your friends from Bellatrix Lestrange, you will be awarded the Order of Merlin, second class. There will be a ceremony to officially bestow these honors on you all at the Halloween feast." By this time, Harry, Ron, Hermione, and Ginny were all quite speechless. Dumbledore continued with a gleam in his eyes.

"Now that I have successfully left you all at a loss for words, I will let you get to bed. Harry and Ginny, you already know the way. Ron and Hermione, I will personally escort you to your quarters."

Harry and Ginny wished Ron and Hermione a good night and left. Ron and Hermione followed Dumbledore out of his office and down the corridor. Dumbledore explained the situation with the Heads' quarters as they walked.

"We've decided to try something new this year," he said, stopping by a statue of a Peruvian Vipertooth. "Head Boy and Head Girl will have their own quarters this year." As Ron and Hermione exchanged surprised looks, Dumbledore tapped the dragon statue with his wand and said, "Dragon's blood."

With a loud rumbling noise, the statue descended through a trapdoor in the floor, revealing a passage beyond. Ron and Hermione followed Dumbledore into their quarters. As the stone passage opened up into their rooms, Ron and Hermione stood in awe. "I will leave you two to get acquainted with your new living space," Dumbledore said with a smile, as he went back down the passage.

"Bloody Hell!" Ron exclaimed.

"I agree," Hermione whispered, as they took in their surroundings.

A large, open area carpeted in scarlet surrounded them. Right in front of them was a large fountain. A statue of the Gryffindor lion was in the center, water streaming out of it's mouth into the large, circular basin beneath. Paintings of various magical creatures adorned the walls. On either side of the room was a spiral staircase, each leading up to a small balcony with a door. On the ground floor under each balcony, was another door. The back wall boasted an ornate, stone fireplace, with large book-covered shelves off to either side. In front of the fireplace was a plush, crimson sofa and armchairs, and a hammered copper table.

Ron broke out of his stupor and hurried up the staircase to the left. Opening the door and surveying the inside of the room, he yelled, "Hey, 'Mione, I think this one's yours!" Hermione joined Ron up the left staircase.

A cozy, plush, sand-colored carpet covered the floor and a large, queen-sized loft bed ran along the back wall. The bed was covered in plump pillows and a dark, golden-colored down comforter. Crimson curtains hanging from the bottom of the bed, were drawn back to reveal a study area underneath. There was a large, carved wooden desk and chair, along with more bookshelves. A painting of the Gryffindor lion covered the entire left-hand wall, and there was a small sitting area off to the right.

"It's so beautiful!" Hermione breathed.

"I'm going to check out my room," Ron said, running down the left staircase, and up the right. Hermione followed him.

There was a more masculine feel to the other room. Everything was done in rich shades of burghandy. Ron also had a small sitting area, and his right-hand wall boasted a wall-to-wall painting of a Hebridean Black. Ron's bed was a large, platform, four-poster bed. The coverings on his bed were done in the rich burghandy, and looked as soft as a cloud. Unlike Hermione's room, the floor was done in hard wood, with a large Oriental rug in the center.

"This is great!" Ron exclaimed, flopping down on his bed. "Care to join me?"

"No, I don't think so, Ronald. There are still two rooms downstairs. I'm going to have a look." Since she obviously wasn't going to join him, Ron decided to follow along.

The door under Ron's room led to a large bathroom. The floor was done in dark red and gold square tiles. There were two pedestal sinks with a large oval mirror in between them on the back wall. And set into the middle of the floor was a huge, circle-shaped tub.

"Care to join me here?" Ron asked suggestively.

Hermione sighed loudly and rolled her eyes. "Ron, please control yourself. We have one more door left." Ron, again defeated, followed Hermione to inspect the last room.

This room turned out to be a small kitchen. Inside were all of the things you needed to make a meal; refridgerator, sink, stove, and lots of counter space. Off in the corner was a small breakfast table with two chairs. Crookshanks was currently curled up in one of the chairs, sleeping. What was odd, was that the table was spread with food. There were platters of sausage and potatoes, freshly baked bread, a pot of hot tea, and a pan of sticky buns.

"Who do you suppose cooked all of this?" Ron asked, grabbing a sausage and stuffing it into his mouth.

Hermione's face took on an unbelieving look, as the tumblers in her brain clicked into place. "It couldn't be, could it?"

As if on cue, a door leading to a small pantry opened, and Zeppie walked out. "Oh! Missy Hermy and Mr. Wheezy! Zeppie was not expecting you so soon! Zeppie made you a snack."

Hermione placed her hands on her hips. "Zeppie, what are you doing here? You said you would stay with Mr. and Mrs. Weasley."

Zeppie picked at the edge of his vibrant orange jumper. "Zeppie is thinking a lot about what Missy Hermy said. Zeppie decided to go where Zeppie wanted to. Zeppie wanted to come where Missy Hermy was."

Hermione's expression softened. "Well, I guess I really can't be mad at you, since it was a choice you made on your own. It's a good sign that maybe you're finally getting some independance. After all, I'm not your master, and I can't tell you what to do. Maybe you can even meet some of the other house-elves while you are here. I'm sure Dobby would love to meet you."

"Hey, 'Mione, let's take some of this food and go sit in front of the fire," Ron suggested, grabbing the sausages and potatoes.

"Okay, Ron, this time I WILL join you." Hermione gathered up the sticky buns, the pot of tea, and two mugs, and followed Ron out of the kitchen and over to the fire.

No sooner had they started their fireplace picnic, when the door to their room opened and Dumbledore walked in. "I am sorry to bother you two. I know the hour is late, and it looks like you are enjoying a wonderful snack. I have two orders of business. First off, do you like your new rooms? Do you find them lacking in any accomodations?"

"Oh no, Professor," Hermione was quick to answer. "Everything is simply wonderful."

"Yeah, it's brilliant!" Ron assured him.

"Splendid....splendid, I'm glad you find it to your liking. Now the other matter I am here about is the new Defense Against the Dark Arts professor."

"Has he safely arrived?" Hermione asked.

"Yes, Miss Granger, he has. He has requested to have a word with the both of you. Might I invite him in?"

"Oh yes, please do," Hermione said, as Ron shoved a whole sticky bun in his mouth. "We've been wondering all summer who it could be."

Dumbledore nodded and exited down the corridor to invite the new professor in. When Dumbledore returned, he had someone very familiar with him.

Ron choked down the rest of the bun he'd been eating. "You?" he asked in surprise. "You're the new Defense Against the Dark Arts professor?"

A/n: Well, does anyone have any guesses as to who it could be? I'm interested to see who everyone has in mind and see if anyone guesses it right. Of course, I won't tell you if you do. You'll just have to wait for chapter 7 :)