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Chapter Text

Then

Minerva hushed her steps, entering his office. “you should inform Miss Granger of her circumstances before they become an issue. Her background will be apparent sooner rather than later during this war. Her parents will be a target, her biological parents would want her told!”

Her stern expression told Albus he wasn’t escaping this discussion again. “You are as usual, correct my dear.”

”soon Albus, it must be soon.” She insisted.

He nodded. 

When she left, he glanced at his phoenix.  “If I reveal her heritage to her, it’s out there. She’ll possibly awaken, and search for her mate. Harry cannot be abandoned now, he needs her support. Perhaps I’ll just wait a bit longer. What harm could it do?”

Chapter Text

Now

Head bowed, filthy.

Was she even human anymore?

Hermione was alone here… the others got away this time. The Order made sure of it. Harry of course a priority as always. She understood, she did.

The multiple lost souls beside her on the ground kneeled in fear. One pissed themselves knowing what might come. They had been tortured already. But, further debasement, death, or worse could be a painful possibility.

The sounds surrounding them were raucous laughter, clanking silverware, and death eaters discussing triumphs. The many acted as if they weren’t kneeling there waiting.

Waiting for fate.

Punishment or release.

The Dark Lord, as his followers called him sat observing, his psychotic sidekick as his feet, as well as that massive snake most avoided.

Hermione scowled beneath her hair which hid her face. She hated them all. Her side… theirs. They all sinned at this point.

They all hurt her.

She had no one…

Her heart was broken.

Empty.

Roaring.

She felt a heat deep within, molten, volcanic…

”Lucius, your son has not been pulling his weight I’ve been informed. He’s hesitated on missions. He’s showing sympathy.” The Dark Lord’s voice creeping into her ears like a vile worm. 

Sickening.

Lucius and Narcissa stepped forward as their son was dragged to the front of a gathering crowd. “ he’s young my Lord, finding his place. He will build confidence and numbness to these creatures I assure you.”

”he is weak!” Bellatrix screamed. “He needs it beaten from his bones!”

She flicked her wand.

Draco was thrown to the floor flat. She began to crucio him. His screams echoed throughout the vast ballroom as the crowd laughed.

His parents held each other terrified to react. Internally desperate and wanting to free him, and run.

A growl erupted from across the room.

”haha! One of the prisoners doesn’t appreciate your treatment nephew!”  Bellatrix bellowed snarking.

“Leave him alone!” Hermione ground out.

”it’s the mudblood! Even more ridiculous!” The witch danced about crucioing Draco again, his screams louder as his back bowing.

Hermione felt fire moving through her veins, like a death warring with her body for control. Her heart pumped fast and faster. Her back ached so much!

She ripped her wrists apart breaking her chains. 

Something erupted from her back.

Her mouth hurt. Blood dripping from multiple places.

Her mind blurred.

She smiled, viciously… she smelled… something so delicious!

”leave him alone!” Hermione growled. Stalking towards the now frozen dark witch.

The crowd was silent.

Chapter Text

Now

“A Veela?” Red eyes narrowed upon Severus. “Did the old man inform you?”

Considering his options he saw no reason to lie. “No, he kept this to himself… I believe from Miss Granger and the Order as well. She appears to be discovering each trait one at a time.”

”you appear to be right, but why this reaction?” The Dark Lord demanded. Only drawing Hermione’s attention.

Hissing, she reared her hands back and threw a large fireball in his direction. It destroyed his thrown. He only escaped by apparating to another place in the ballroom.

Nagini was not so lucky. 

“Draco awakened the Veela within her. His pain, the danger he was in… it appears he’s her mate. She senses him as such. I would not allow Bella to push her further. A mad Veela protecting its mate or taking revenge for its dead mate will stop at nothing.” Severus warned. “Miss Granger will be quite strong, her magic ruthless at the moment. Solely focused on him”

”she had muggle parents?” Bella argued.

Lucius shook his head, “not if they were just adoptive parents. Her biological parents could have hidden her there intending to return, but never were able. If Dumbledore knew, and kept it to himself… he did her a disservice. Put her and others in danger.” 

“the old man wanted her to keep Potter safe, her intelligence continually saved the boy. He would never tell her anything that would push her towards Draco.” Severus stated.  “Searching and sensing her mate eventually would have sent her to Draco, an enemy in Dumbledore’s eyes because of Lucius’s past alliance.”

Hermione listened, vaguely aware. Mostly just contemplating moving forward now that her mate wasn’t screaming.

His breathing was shallow, he was unconscious. 

Shifting slightly, inches…

No one was paying attention, too busy discussing her.

Her mates fear still thick in the air, it tasted disgusting. It was so wrong! He should be happy! Relaxed! They needed a quiet safe place…

”Bella you should probably back away, she’s moving towards him… towards you.” Narcissa warned.

Bellatrix cackled. “She’s still a filthy muddy bitch to me! Mudblood or creature, no bloody difference!”

The witch turned to glare at the approaching Veela. “What’s wrong dear, did I damage your pretty mate? How about I make you match!”

Bellatrix aimed her wand, a crucio on her tongue.

Chapter Text

Now

Harry paced.

He hadn’t slept much, his stomach rotting. Or it seemed so, since she’d been gone. No one discussed it. Ron wouldn’t even let him toss the idea of rescuing her out.

But, it wasn’t just her!

There were so many others captured that needed help!

Why was the Order acting complicit? Hiding, not acting? They kept him locked away! Harry ran a hand through his sweaty hair. He needed a shower bad. 

Ginny was still angry with him for not wanting a relationship. But who wants a relationship during war? He found her priorities skewed. Another reason Ron was acting weird. 

He’d heard Remus and Kingsley whispering before they locked him up, he’d heard Hermione’s name! Harry wanted to know what it was about, had they heard if she was alive? Dead? Imprisoned?

No one visited however, his meals appeared on his table magically. The tray vanished an hour later. He had a bathroom, but no shower. Hopefully a shower would be offered soon. 

It almost seemed like he was being punished for asking questions, or wanting to leave.

”Voldemort… you worship him like a God, call me creature… muddy… mudblood… you realize he is a halfblood.” The Veela declared teeth exposed.

Her body covered in crimson, she looked vicious.

”you lie!” Bella screamed desperately.

Voldemort tilted his head, “actually, she doesn’t. My muggle father is someone I choose to forget. Rise above as it were. But, he was my blood…”

”nooooo…” Bellatrix sank to her knees. 

Murmuring spread.

”he can be yours Veela, you have earned him. I honor your victory. I’m not Dumbledore, take your mate. Lucius, show your new daughter in law to Draco’s rooms so she may tend to him. I must discuss certain matters with my second. Everyone else leave us.” Voldemort demanded.

Whisps of black shot out.

Only Bellatrix remained on the floor looking lost.

Severus nodded, glanced at Lucius and Narcissa before vanishing as well.

Lucius cautiously neared Draco. “Miss Granger, I’ll carry him. If you’ll follow me, I’ll show you to his rooms.”

The Veela didn’t respond, she simply followed. Sensing no threat from her mate’s father. Once in the rooms, Draco was laid on his voluminous bed. An elf named Trinie was called.

”Trinie please assist in bathing and treating Master Draco for his injuries. He requires potions as well. You know which ones.” Lucius instructed.

He turned and gave Hermione a kind smile. “Thankyou for saving my son, he will be shocked by this news. But, I’m sure not in a negative way, and grateful. He is lucky to have a Veela’s love and protection. We will try to assist in any way we can, it has not been safe for us here… or for him in quite some time.”

She understood.

”feel free to clean up as well, Trinie will fetch anything you need.” He added.

Soon she was alone.

Draco was clean, treated, and resting. Hermione showered, dressed in one of his old shirts and boxers. His scent comforting.

Climbing in the bed beside him, his warmth felt correct. Good. Something inside told her that being close would aide in his healing.

Her magic.

Closing her eyes, she dozed off playing with the edge of his soft hair, humming to him.

Chapter Text

Then

As he arched up, screaming… all he registered was pain. His bones felt close to cracking in half. His muscles burned.

Would she ever stop?

Would this be the time his aunt finally drove him mad or killed him?

He didn’t want mother to see it…

He desperately needed to tell her to leave, but the words were not possible.

His eyes were wet. 

Piss soaked his pants.

He’d be embarrassed if he had the energy to care.

Vaguely other noises around him were there, but somewhat distant. Like it was happening in a far away room.

Was there an animal?

Were they feeding him to something?

Just great…

Probably Greyback.

His spirit felt broken, he should just give up.

His father’s voice?

Severus?

Mother?

What were they… saying?

Draco couldn’t open his eyes, or move. His body just didn’t have the ability. Then nothing…

Now

All he felt was warmth, comfort. He was so relaxed and happy? When had he last been soooo happy?

The last thing he remembered was… pain…?

”father?” Draco’s voice coarse from his earlier screaming.

Someone was holding him, petting his hair. Mother? Brain swirling.

”no… he’s not here. Lucius is tending to your mother. They will be by to check on you in an hour or so. You’ve been asleep most of the night, Severus and Lucius had potions that the elf gave you after your bath.” A female voice stated softly. Warm lips kissed his forehead softly..

He blinked slowly, trying to focus. 

Very carefully, he finally saw above him, her.

Granger… Hermione Granger?

How? 

Why?

She’d been a prisoner… yes, he recalled now. 

Then he absorbed other details.

She looked different. Wings circled them stemming from her back. Lovely white, large wings! He smiled. Interesting. Not a horrible way to wake up…

She wasn’t yelling at him.

She seemed genuinely glad to be cuddled upon his bed like this.

She looked like an angel?

”an angel?” He asked.

She giggled. Nuzzling his palm with her cheek. “No silly, a Veela.”

Oh!

Oooohhhhh!

Draco’s eyes widened. “Veela? Oh… if you are a… does that mean I’m…?”

She smiled warmly. “I hope you don’t hate me still. I protected you. Your Dark Lord let your father and I treat you, bring you up to your rooms. He said I could have you. But, it is really still your choice… I won’t take that from you despite how hard I’m fighting these instincts right now. I’ve kept them at bay all night.”

Draco swallowed. 

He blinked. “ah, ok. You kept my aunt from hurting me more? That makes sense now… I was being punished, I didn’t remember why it stopped or how I survived. I don’t hate you, I guess I never did really. Maybe resented you for beating me so much… confused why you were so good despite being a muggleborn. I spouted my father’s beliefs because it was taught and expected. But, now… I guess you were never a muggleborn were you? Not that it would have mattered… muggles, muggleborns are just like us.”

She shook her head. “It would not have mattered… but either way, I found myself staring at you a lot, never understanding why. I was angry at you yet… I defended you at times to Ron and Harry.”

”I looked at you too, weird. It’s like we didn’t know, but felt something.” Draco replied.

”as my mate I would bite you, make you mine… we would consummate the bond.” She explained. “My heritage was hidden from me by Dumbledore. Severus thought maybe he didn’t want me being drawn away from Harry’s side… distracted by my urges to find my mate… you.”

Draco frowned. “You could have known sooner. We might’ve… connected sooner? I’ve been so miserable for so long, alone.” He looked so sad.

Hermione kissed his forehead. “You are not alone now. We will learn about each other, as we navigate this bond. I don’t agree with Voldemort, but I’m mad at the Order too. They’ve both sinned.”

”I’m sorry Hermione. I’ve not been a good person, that isn’t going change overnight. I heard about your muggle parents… I guess not your true parents, but still. My side did that.” He humbly stated.

She turned his chin up, “my supposed side didn’t protect them, nor me… or so many others. No one is guiltless in this war.”

She slowly leaned down. “I don’t blame you, you are my mate. Just mine.”

He smirked.

The kiss was small, light. 

But, her Veela was humming contently. Desperately wanting to claim him.

Chapter Text

Then

Blaise knew his Slytherin brothers suffered silently at home. They did at school as well for other reasons. But, he attempted to encourage them, be there.

Draco hid his pain behind bravado, sniping at everyone. Sneering…

Theo joking his way through life, a facade.

He didn’t miss the little details, Draco watched people. Their fellow Slytherins… because most couldn’t be sure who was spying for their parents. 

The other houses… because they needed to keep tabs on them all.

But Draco watched Hermione Granger a bit more than necessary.

No… Blaise didn’t miss that tiny detail.

Now

”How long have they been hold up in his rooms?” Theo asked him.

Blaise shrugged.

The other three in the room with them remained quiet, still unsure how to interpret what had occurred. 

Greg finally opened his mouth, “mates is like being married right?”

” Think so…” replied a timid Pansy, who as far back as any of the boys could remember… was never timid.

Blaise stood, “He let her accompany Draco, but that doesn’t mean it’s a permanent thing. You know they use weaknesses shown for their own benefit. The Dark Lord will hold Draco over her head… Vice versa. Potter and his crew do not realize the importance of what has just happened. She could destroy them.”

He scowled.

Blaise didn’t want the Dark Lord to win, cruel bastard that he was. Death could be a good motivation, torture too. But, was that a real existence? Living in fear?

No!

Potter needed to win.

If Draco perhaps ended up hidden within to other side?

She would follow.

Or…

If she blamed the Dark Lord for his death? Or almost death? 

Her blind rage could be useful.

Theo chuckled, I see you plotting in that brain of your Zabini. Don’t get us killed in the process.”

Now

Against his temple he noticed soft lips kissing gently. He must have passed out again. The fever induced by the tremors and pain weren’t uncommon for him. But, the rest? He had truly thought was a dream.

The angel that had saved him?

Hermione Granger being that fearsome angel? 

Her touch was so delicate, her eyes saw straight into him. He knew they had a strained history, he wasn’t instantly in love with her. 

She was drawn to him it seemed.

Veela? 

His mind struggled to pull forth the information he knew of them. What he was to her. Her to him.

Intense…

A bit… overwhelming.

The fact they were alive was surprising.

The Dark Lord must think she could serve a purpose, him used a bait to keep her in line? Draco knew not to trust this lifeline. 

He wondered whether his parents were near by.

”I’m here.” Her voice purred. “The potions and my presence, my magic have healed you almost completely. You might be a bit foggy though. It’s been 4 days.”

Draco’s eyes widened.

”four days?” He mumbled. “My parents?”

”ok. They had meetings, your father is away, your mother is with your aunt today.” Hermione replied calmly. 

He nodded, attempting to sit up.

”you didn’t bite me in my sleep?” He asked.

She looked offended. “Of course not. You must consent. We must consummate as well.”

Draco swallowed awkwardly. That was an interesting thought.

He glanced around.

Hermione had made herself at home in his rooms.

”Has anyone been here?” He questioned.

She shook her head. “ only your elf with food or supplies for me. Potions for you. A few messages from your parents. I’m expecting Voldemort to come anytime, he won’t leave us indefinitely.”

She reached up, her fingers tracing along his cheek, jaw, bottom lip.

”you really are quite beautiful Draco… your scent has been driving me crazy, but I’ve been waiting patiently. I can sense how much stronger you are, how much your magic levels have increased. Your magic and mine respond to each other.” She smiled broadly.

Something deep inside him flip flopped.

His heart sped up. 

Along his skin there was almost a buzzing, in a nice way. 

“I think I know what you mean, it’s just a lot to absorb.” He stated. Draco let his own palm find hers. “ what about Potter and the Order? Surely you won’t turn your back on them simply out of anger at Dumbledore? His fuck up isn’t everyone’s… besides, the Dark Lord is worse. I don’t want to live with him here forever. My family… freedom. Your freedom.”

Hermione… her Veela, raged inside. 

Voldemort was not protecting her or her mate. He was the danger!

She snarled.

Pulling Draco back to her, her wings cocooning them. “Mine!”

She growled.

Nuzzling his neck, licking gently the spot she wanted to eventually sink her fangs.

Draco froze in her arms. 

He didn’t want to spook the Veela.

Chapter Text

Now

“You are here for a good reason,” she declared. 

Severus fixed her with a sour glare, “he never told her… you knew?”

Ah…

”Miss Granger? She’s… been awakened?” Minerva asked shakily.

Lucius was the one to answer, “my indelicate sister in law was torturing Draco, it appears he is Miss Granger’s mate. His pain… tore into her. But, you knew that too. Dumbledore kept that information from her as well. What happened to her biological parents? Does anyone know?”

She sighed, “killed, unfortunately. They hid her with the Grangers. I don’t know her true last name. Albus kept that secret. He only informed me her heritage was of Veela blood, and of her mate when it became clear so it could be avoided.”

”he feared she’d abandon the Potter boy?” Lucius questioned. “Because of me… my son was left the his fate alone.”

The elder witch frowned. “I didn’t agree, I voiced that disagreement repeatedly. He refused to listen. No one in the Order knew. He was using the elves here to slip her a potion to prevent her awakening. Dull her response to Draco, keep them hostile towards each other, but it wasn’t fully working. So he told Harry the three of them needed to go on a mission alone, leaving to school. Albus encouraged the Weasley boy to pursue her.”

”they weren’t even remotely evenly matched!” Severus yelled. “He’s a dunderhead.”

She laughed. “A bit.”

“If he wasn’t dead, she would kill Albus.” Severus declared sneering.

Lucius nodded in agreement, turning to Minerva, “at the moment Miss Granger and my son are in his rooms, he is healing thanks to her magic and potions. The Dark Lord made an attempt to seem magnanimous, but we know it was for show. He would use Draco as a pawn to hold over her head… against your Order who left her behind.”

”Harry wanted to rescue Miss Granger and others that have been captured, there’s distance between members… infighting. No one can agree what to do. They have Harry locked away. Mr. Weasley won’t let him out, Remus and Kingsley have done nothing but argue for weeks.” Minerva explained, the sadness in her voice telling. 

The Slytherin men understood.

”They can’t stay in Malfoy Manor, perhaps Mr. Potter needs to be released from the Order’s care for a time as well…” Lucius suggested.

They knew Voldemort would be dealt with. Alliances made.

For the sake of those they loved.

The sake of survival.

Chapter Text

Now

”I have a meeting at the Order safe house this evening, I will have to slip Potter the portkey carefully. Mr. Weasley has been his gatekeeper while kept isolated.” Severus pointed out, as he escorted Lucius into Malfoy Manor.

No one met them as they made their way down multiple corridors. 

“eerily empty tonight it seems… I don’t know whether to be relieved or suspicious.” Lucius smirked as he walked, observing.

Severus chose not to respond. 

They needed to alert Narcissa of their decision, if anything went wrong…

And… Severus could be discovered while he attempted to free Potter from his own people.

Now

Draco wore slacks and dark button up. His hair loose. His Veela was content, she’d been watching him closely all day. 

Trinie brought them breakfast and lunch, now it was nearly dinner.

His mate was patient.

They discussed many things over the day. She wasn’t sure what she wanted besides being at his side. Her instincts overwhelming, Hermione definitely captured his attention.

He could feel their pull.

Her closeness, warmth.

A part of him wanted her to just take charge, bite him… throw him down, and take what she wanted.

His Veela wanted him to choose it.

Choice.

He hasn’t had much of one.

That gesture made his chest tighten.

She growled every time another death eater stepped near his door, even the same wing of his rooms. So protective his mate.

He smiled to himself.

They had so much more in common than they didn’t, he knew that though.  She was strong, brilliant, and fearless. Magic saw the possibilities even if society couldn’t.

His father seemed oddly calm about it all.

His mother relieved?

He stood at the window glancing out, he wondered how the war would progress. “Will you go to the Order or take me somewhere else?”

Hermione slid her arms around his middle from behind. He could feel her wings, her heartbeat. “I wouldn’t take you anywhere you would not be safe or treated well. I can’t guarantee I wouldn’t kill anyone who acted wrong towards you.”

Her nose ran along the back of his neck. 

She inhaled his scent deeply.

“I hunger to sink my fangs into you… I want to mark you so the world can see. You are mine…” Hermione groaned. “ it’s so hard waiting, you smell so delicious. It’s so strange… the pull just keeps getting stronger.”

His turned around, her pupils were blown wide.

Solid black.

Golden rimmed. 

He reached his hand out, gripped her head. “I am yours.” 

He licked his lips before taking her mouth with his own.

Fireworks.

Fireworks exploded throughout his body, and the taste of apples… vanilla… expanded into his mouth, …she smelled like happiness, like home.

His mate.

Hermione, his Granger. She was his home, wherever they ended up. 

Moaning, she ground herself against him closer. It only encouraged him. Soon, both of them lost track of their hands and mouths. Lost in happy lust and bliss. Hermione dragged Draco to his bed, yanking at his already rumpled outfit.

”more… please, more…” she begged.

Chapter Text

Now

Chaos…

Utter fucking chaos.

How Severus thought he’d simply slip Mr.Potter the port key unnoticed… he’d been unrealistic.

Young Mr.Weasley had, for once, been paying attention.

Luckily, pitting the Order members against one another in an argument worked wonders for a distraction.

He sent Remus on a wild goose chase with a false lead about a supply storage facility.

As planned, Minerva had been absent. Busy at Hogwarts.

Ron stalked.

Still, the older wizard had managed to break the wards down on the door, get the port key into Mr.Potter’s hand, and vanish with him before his pursuer made it to them.

The spitting image of James Potter stared at him now bewildered.

”I know you have questions, they will have to wait. There are clothes in that dresser… this is your room. This is a safe place. Others will come soon.” Severus turned to leave, you will find food in the kitchen. You cannot leave the premises.”

Harry assumed he couldn’t. 

“ok…, thanks.” Harry was confused why Snape extracted him from the Order safe House. It appeared to be without Kingsley’s permission, Ron looked rather pissed. 

He wondered who else was coming.

He did strangely feel free here though compared to before? Odd…

Didn’t Snape hate him?

He’d killed Dumbledore for Malfoy when he hesitated?

Harry had many questions.

Did Snape have information about the captives? Hermione?

Now

”I’m sorry the first time was so clumsy, that it hurt.” Draco offered, running his palm gently down her back. Kissing a path down her spine after. 

Hermione giggled, lying on her stomach. “I knew it might be, but we figured everything out. The second time was really fun!” She nudged his foot with hers.

”I felt bad when I came too quick, and you hadn’t yet though… I kind of assumed you just would with me because of the Veela hormones.” His cheeks turned redder. “When you bit into me the second time we made love, I felt like we became one person. I could sense you everywhere!”

She grinned.

Rolling over, leaning up… Hermione licked along the wound she’d made marking him. He shivered. It was already healing magically. He was hers. They could feel each other. Draco knew the mate bond was intact. 

He wasn’t in love, but he could some day.

“we can continue to explore our bodies, it will be fun. I’m glad you will give me all my firsts, my mate.” She kissed him deeply.

He moaned into her mouth, enjoying the sensation of her soft lips.

How did she feel?

Was it all physical?

She could hear his brain whirring in a thousand directions, she was not going to bring any of it up now.

Hermione didn’t want to stay in the Manor. She planned to speak to Draco’s father or Severus, slip away somehow.

Her mate was not safe here.

Chapter Text

Now

”it’s done then?” Lucius inquired.

His long time friend and ally smirked. “Not without difficulty, but yes. I cannot return to the Order, Ron Weasley knows I  took him.”

”unfortunate, he probably thinks you did it for the death eaters however. That works in our favor… they won’t know your true intentions.” Lucius declared matter of factly. “Miss Granger informed me of her own intention to leave with Draco. She knows he isn’t safe here… we already are aware of that. I told her we were very aware. That we’ve been working on that plan. She knows you were working on getting Potter out.”

”the safe house is ready then for all of them?” Narcissa entered the study. “I just want my son safe and happy, I don’t care what happens to me anymore.”

Lucius smiled warmly at his wife, “it is my dear, Severus prepared it himself. No one knows of its location. I don’t either. He will give Miss Granger and our son a port key, and they will join Mr. Potter there. The other prisoners will appear at the Order’s main safe house with news that he gives them to say.”

She understood.

Severus couldn’t return, but he hoped the returning prisoners would aide in his appearance as an ally. 

They would tell the Order of his assistance in Hermione Granger’s escape, even if it wasn’t to them. But, she couldn’t be given to them. Her Veela form was an asset they didn’t need control of… they would possibly hurt Draco just like the Dark Lord.

Two edges, same sword. 

One war.

Both sides had an evil in them.

Severus understood her anger, as did Narcissa and Lucius. All three would do anything to protect Draco. It seems, Mr. Potter was benefiting from that. 

Now

”I feel you in my veins… hear your thoughts. It’s like music to me, soothing.” She murmured against his chest. “I don’t think I’ve ever been so at peace.”

Draco is wowed by such statements.

“Severus is arranging our escape, I talked to him when you were in the shower.” She ran her nails down his abdomen slowly, making him take a deep inhale.

Draco closed his eyes, everywhere she touched always felt like fire in the best way. “When… when do we go?” He was breathless as she started kissing gently across his chest.

”early tomorrow morning, before dawn.” She answered. Licking slowly across his right, then left nipples. 

Delicious torture.

That’s what she’d been inflicting.

Chapter Text

Now

A simple stunner would not be enough to take her down, they knew that. Not with how profound her protective instincts were. 

Pansy had coaxed one Malfoy elf to slip a tasteless, scentless sleeping draught into their food and beverages. They wouldn’t realize anything was wrong until it was too late. Falling asleep like normal.

Blaise explained they would collect Draco through one of the secret passages. 

Greg was responsible for riling up the werewolves about Hermione’s presence, Greyback voiced more than once to Bellatrix that he wanted her. That he would take care of her mudblood problem. 

They just needed the others to think he had tried to act on it. 

The whole performance would require careful planning and pizazz. Meticulous teamwork. Vince was to notify Lucius of a ruckus in Draco’s rooms…

No one would know what was happening.

Not the truth.

Blaise sat, smoking his cigar. Smirking cruelly at the redhead across from him. “You’ll do… “

The wizard was now, mute and practically spitting, fighting to get free of his binds. He had already been imperioed to write a parchment to a lower werewolf under Fenir. 

A plot to look like the Order would trade Hermione to get Harry Potter back. Blaise was well aware Severus put Potter in protective custody. But, this lovely plot would go wrong… he chuckled, Bellatrix hated Hermione. 

Of course she would interfere.

Of course Draco would be hurt…

And then?

There would be one extremely pissed off Veela. 

At the Order.

At the death eaters.

Blaise was quite pleased with himself. He stunned the redhead. Obliviated him. Then, implanted him his new orders. The wizard was about to say and do a lot he didn’t want to do. Die in the process.

Bellatrix would arrive at Draco’s rooms too late, die at Hermione’s hands. And that was just the start…

Blaise twisted his wand between his fingers as he left his companion, headed in the opposite direction from him. Mentally wishing the Gryffindor luck. 

A message glowed on his ring, Theo was ready. All the pieces were in place. 

Time to get Draco.

Chapter Text

Now

The Order’s main safe house was buzzing with activity. A series of port keys dropped multiple groups of prisoners at their doorstep. 

Kingsley and Remus were trying to sort their arrival out, sending them with various healers when George’s patronus came to each of them. He hadn’t known they’d be together.

”what is going on? It’s the middle of the night, well very wee hours of morning…” muttered Kingsley. “Who sent them all?”

One timid girl came toward them, a nurse had been herding her away. “It was our old professor… Snape. He saved us. Said to tell you Harry is safe. Not is all it seems.”

She returned to the nurse, leaving to get her wounds dealt with.

”he took Harry from us? How is he helping us by doing that?” Seamus furiously demanded. 

Kingsley was silent.

Remus glanced at Alistair, “Severus always plays both sides, no one ever knew exactly what his game plan truly was.”

”Moody, do you think he’s on our side? Or, is it a ploy… that Harry is already dead?” Kingsley inquired.

Gruffing a bit, Moody nodded. “Snape did as Dumbledore tasked. He is still doing so I believe. We may not understand his motives entirely, but end goals… I think they match ours. If he says Potter is safe, he is. Now, why did Ron run off on some hair brained scheme to rescue him if he doesn’t need it with no one’s approval?”

They sent word to everyone who needed to be updated. Remus apparated to the burrow to speak to George and the other Weasleys.

They would need to tread carefully. 

There were unknowns at play.

Now

Blaise levitated Draco’s unconscious body through the secret passageways.

Everything had gone precisely as he’d hoped. It could all burn as far as he was concerned. He healed Draco’s cut before they’d left his rooms. The blood necessitated for the scene.

The unconscious werewolf left in Draco’s place set a perfect questionable setup, with Ron as his opponent. The two with injuries, both unconscious now. Draco’s blood on the bed next to Hermione. Her knocked out. 

Suspicious.

He grinned.

The fierce Veela would blame certain parties instantly. Because if Ron did his job, Bella got an unfortunate influx of direction as well as she was stunned in her sleep. 

Greg made sure Ron found her. If she’d overpowered the boy, he was to assist. Apparently he hadn’t needed to. 

Theo kept distance, made sure Narcissa was out of harm’s way.

Pansy had done her deed, she was gone preparing Draco’s new destination.

A commotion was already underway, Blaise heard the roaring and yelling. The crashing. Bellatrix was headed to Draco’s rooms. 

Now

”Lucius! You have to come now!” Vincent Crabbe burst into his study disturbing him. He had fallen asleep in front of his fireplace.

Lucius stood quickly, “what’s going on?” Rubbing his sleep addled eyes.

”Someone slipped in with the help of one of Greyback’s wolves! Bella’s gone after them, but they were headed toward Draco’s rooms!” Vince yelled frantically, laying it on thick. He kept his mental shields up like Blaise taught him. 

Lucius took off, knowing Hermione was with Draco. That no good could come of Bellatrix facing off intruders within Draco’s rooms. The Veela would appear and defend as well, possibly see all present as her enemy.

When he arrived at his son’s rooms, it truly looked like a war zone.

He glanced around.

The Veela crouched in one corner, wings out, covered in blood. Fangs out… claws still holding Bella’s head.

He gasped.

On the floor was an unknown deceased werewolf it seemed, and Ron Weasley… ripped to shreds. 

He glanced further… he didn’t see Draco, anywhere. But, the bed had blood. The blood was where Draco usually lay.

”Draco?” He asked quietly.

She growled.

Gone then…

”was he gone when you awakened?” He tried softly, remaining still as to not startle her.

She eyed him.

She dropped the head, letting it roll. “Yes… They hurt him. Wouldn’t tell me where he is…” she growled again. 

Lucius noticed a parchment on the ground near Weasley. Slowly, he retrieved it.

It seemed the Order wanted to trade Hermione for Potter. They tried to arrange it with the werewolves. Greyback wanted her… he never was good at following the Dark Lord’s orders. Bellatrix had promised her to him before, he wanted her to keep it. Apparently it all went wrong. So who had Draco? He had been hurt.

“They must have realized Potter wasn’t here.” Lucius murmured out loud. He paled. 

Hermione narrowed her stare, she had heard him.

Chapter Text

Now

He snooped around a bit once he was able to fully move. Draco realized where he was.

Blaise.

Why was he here?

Why would he take him from her? His mate? Blaise had to know, most of the death eaters had been made aware. The Dark Lord told them she was not to be touched, she wasn’t a threat to Draco.

His parents accepted her, their situation… well it seemed like they did.

Was Draco wrong?

”up and ready to eat I see.” Blaise greeted.

Draco turned to him. “Is she ok?”

”we didn’t do it because of anything to do with her, just got you out. You weren’t safe. The Dark Lord, the Order… both would use you as a way to control her. So I just took you out of the picture. They can’t use what isn’t there.” Blaise stated. Food appeared with an elf. “Eat up, you need your strength. The others are dealing with the consequences of your disappearance. Keeping an eye out. But, I suspect your Veela is rather pissed off.”

His eyes widened. “Mother… father… Severus?”

”all fine, apparently she trusts them. Bellatrix has quite literally lost her head.” Blaise laughed cruelly. “And Greg says last he saw she was rampaging through Greyback’s pack.”

”don’t worry, she’ll head to the Order next, she thinks they took you.” He smirked. “Or hurt you trying to take you, she’s quite confused. The Dark Lord is very perturbed at the moment as well… it’s all very entertaining. Either way, this war will end soon.”

Draco gaped at his school friend as he bragged.

His Veela’s emotions were in turmoil. She had to feel he was still alive at least. Maybe she could locate him?

”she can’t trace you here… I made sure, sorry to disappoint.” Blaise wagged his finger at Draco chuckling. “I have no wish to be torn to shreds.”

They sat to eat. 

Uncomfortable silence followed. Draco didn’t understand why Blaise had destroyed Severus and his father’s escape plan. Unless it was just to wreak havoc at the Dark Lord’s and Order’s main bases. 

But even then, how could he have known for sure how it would play out? And where was Potter? He was still a wild unplayed card. Severus had already separated him.

When Draco was left alone again, he used the shower Blaise pointed out, and changed clothes. He knew his wand was either still at the manor or Blaise had it. 

He tried to speak to her in his mind.

Maybe he was too far.

He curled on the floor beside the large bed, he missed her warmth. Her heartbeat.

Just Her.

His Veela.

She would find him though…

Despite what Blaise said.

Draco knew.

Chapter Text

Now

Harry was bored at the safe house Severus left him at, but oddly felt less trapped then he did with Order. 

It was actually a cozy place, and unlike before, he could go outside. 

He cooked for himself, read. He walked the grounds, exercised. Exploring the safe house itself was not especially eventful, but he realized it had been a Malfoy property. A retreat perhaps. So they were helping?

Turncoats ?

As horribly as Voldemort treated them Harry wouldn’t be surprised.

He wondered how much longer before Severus brought Hermione. His last communication said once the prisoners got delivered to the Order, she would arrive to be safe with him. He hoped nothing went wrong.

Now

His heart raced.

He could hear her screaming in his head. She was livid. It made his temples throb. Their bond ached for him to go to her and vice versa. 

Draco wasn’t sure if Blaise realized they had completed the bond.

He’d heard Theo, Greg, Vince, Pansy… they came in and out, talking to Blaise. He assumed touching base. Updating him on what was happening at the manor. Draco shook his head, they were idiots for interfering. Severus and his father had a good plan to slip them out… 

That got ruined.

Now his Veela was in agony.

She was unstable, pissed off, and rather powerful. Not a good combo. Why was Blaise aiming her at both the Order and the death eaters?

Just to cause chaos?

Draco rubbed his chin. 

She was upset, and feeling urgent again. Angry. She would not sit idle long. Her rage had spiraled earlier. It was like a raging inferno.

“Find me…” Draco whispered.

Now

”she’s gone! I believe Hermione’s left to seek out the Order. She’s searching for Draco.” Lucius told Severus.

”we knew that might happen.” Severus replied, “ Potter is safe somewhere else.”

”there’s no alternative? No changing her path?” The blonde honestly hoped to avoid further bloodshed.

Severus shook his head, “not in relation to an attack on her mate… not until she finds him, unharmed.”

Now

As the smoke cleared, she held Kingsley by his throat. His mangled right arm hung limp. “Where is he?!” She demanded with a snarl. “Ron made a deal with Fenir’s wolves, I saw the parchment! He was gone! Where is Draco?!”

The bodies around her were not even cold yet. The Order safe house flattened. George escaped with the children, along with Ginny. She had carved through their wards like butter. 

“he has never been… here…” he choked out. “If Weasley did something… we were… not aware…”

She smiled cruelly.

Fangs sharp,  blood dripping. “I don’t believe any one anymore!” She growled.

Hermione dove forward, ripping his neck out.

She threw his body to the side to join the others. Glancing around, she sighed. Draco wasn’t here, his scent wasn’t here either. Disappointing.

A flicker caught her attention.

Along her bond, Draco was begging her to come. His Veela cried out in anguish and exquisite fury. 

Closing her eyes, she concentrated on him.

Their bond.

Her wings stretched wide.

She took off.

Chapter Text

Now

Harry sat in front of the fireplace wondering when Severus would be back or if he was bringing the other two soon. It seemed like it was taking much longer than he thought it should. 

He had been waiting forever. 

It wasn’t so bad here no, but he was lonely now. 

Glad to be away from the previous hostilities… still, he was meant to be out being useful!

CRACK!

BOOM!

House shuddered. Shook. He knew at that moment something or someone was trying to breach the wards that Severus and Lucius put in place.

Who?

Order?

Voldemort?

“Harry…?” Her voice was slight. But, Harry recognize it. The gravelly tone different than before she’d been a prisoner.

He ran to her.

”oh Hermione!” Harry engulfed her. Hugging her hard. Crying tears of joy. He’d been trying to leave the Order for so long to come to her, Ron wouldn’t let him. Then Severus and Lucius promised to help Draco and Hermione escape soon.

She hugged him back. “You are safe. Severus promised you were. He was planning to get us to you, but something went wrong… someone took Draco. The Order… Ron and the werewolves under Greyback, betrayed Voldemort. I killed Bellatrix… others… the pack… the Order…”

Harry stood back dumbfounded.

” Feel him in here.” She pointed at her chest, then head. “ we’re mates Harry. “I am a Veela. They left me to rot… Voldemort was going to use me against you, would have used Draco against me to do it. It’s why Severus was trying to get us out. Ron and the others were treating you so badly, he promised to free you for me too. He did.”

”but other’s interfered!” She snarled. 

Harry frowned. “I’m sorry Hermione, we’ll find him.”

”we will. He is ok. I sense it. They haven’t hurt him. But, there is more. We need to destroy Voldemort… his keys, his pieces… those horcruxes he thinks make him invincible.” Hermione stated darkly.

He agreed, “I’d thought about that… but, I only figured out one other. I think one is the Hufflepuff cup.”

”you are right, in Bellatrix’s mind I saw it before she died. It’s in her vault. The diadem is at Hogwarts for Ravenclaw, in the room of hidden things… Voldemort gave that one away himself without realizing it. I shredded and burnt Nagini, his snake by accident when I lost it defending Draco at the manor. Severus had to stop the fire I’d made. I didn’t even know I could do that. So the ring is dead, the diary, Nagini is dead, -we need to get the cup, the diadem, and if you remember… That foul pink toad wore an interesting piece of jewelry we need to snag, she’s at the ministry working. Her locket she’s wearing is one. Dumbledore and you found the fake one. You unfortunately have one in your head, your scar, he gave it to you when he tried to kill you.” She declared, motioning to his forehead.

He looked away, saddened. “Fine. So what, just fly in and grab things?!”

She grinned wide, fangs bright.

”oh no… you can’t be serious right now.” He mumbled.

Harry was certain he needed to be wary of his friend, she wasn’t thinking with all her previous cylinders anymore.

Now

”Lucius!” Severus boomed.

Lucius startled.

”have you seen the prophet?!” The potion master prodded. “Have you heard?!”

”no… what are you rambling about?” The Malfoy patriarch replied.

Tossing it front of his best friend and colleague. Severus waited for him to absorb. 

“he is not going to be amused…” Lucius stated flatly.

Severus smirked. “Not amused is putting it lightly. Potter was taken from the safe house after the Order was decimated. Now not only was there a brazen attack at the ministry… a break in at Gringotts… and an invasion at Hogwarts! In a matter of a day or so. It happened so quickly no one knew how to respond. No one could communicate fast enough. They didn’t realize where the culprit was headed next. They didn’t apparently want the gold or anyone in particular. It’s chaos..”

The two poured their tea, even as their arms began to burn. 

He was summoning them.

They knew why.

Something had to have been at those locations.

She was up to something.

Now

”your girl has really gone above and beyond Malfoy. I figured she’d blindly rage and kill everyone then come for you. Figured we’d have to portkey out. But, she is taking care of business!” Blaise roiled up.

Draco glared from his bed.

”Don’t look so sad. I’m sure she’s on her way soon. She’s actually killed a lot though. You’d be shocked to know how many. Her Veela is vicious and bloodthirsty. Word is Potter is with her now helping secure the keys to destroy Moldy Voldy. Can’t say I’m sad to see him go.” His former friend cheered, raising his glass of wine. “She’s going to find you in perfect condition. She’ll be grateful.”

”she loves me… she’s going to devour you and spit out your heart.” Draco swore.

Chapter Text

Now

”he does not prefer to be kept waiting Lucius.” The statement lingered, yet neither man budged even as their arms continued to burn.

Severus winced slightly.

After another ten minutes passed, Lucius sighed deeply. “I have no intention of kissing the floor tonight, that’s what waits for us. He is less than pleased, aiming for someone to blame and punish. I refuse to be a target.”

Severus understood.

They had both played that roll many times. 

The Dark Lord was a cruel being, equally to his loyal as to his enemies. It really discouraged speed in arrival. “Miss Granger and Potter are trying to kill him.”

”yes… I won’t be unhappy if they succeed.” Severus added. “I believe it is why Draco was taken, to push her to act.”

Lucius nodded.

”Narcissa has the elves trying to find him. If they do, they are to notify her… observe and only act if he is in direct danger.” Lucius explained. “We don’t want him within the manor while the Dark Lord has visions of a future involving Draco and his Veela. It is unsafe, for either of them… nor Mr. Potter.”

Now

Draco lay awake.

Missing her, wishing he’d said more while he had been able. He could kick himself for being such a coward for so long.

For not acting sooner.

Not telling her she was interesting.

Smart.

Brave.

Powerful.

Wicked scary as a Veela, but beautiful.

He smiled to himself. Eyes closing, Draco recalled her warmth and scent. Blaise made offhanded comments because she’d chosen him. But, Draco tried not to react. 

As he drifted off yet another evening, he swore he heard her voice.

Chapter Text

Now

Hermione held her hand out to Harry, “come on! We have to hurry! It’s going to collapse!”

As she raised him up the hidden tunnel from the depths, they could feel the weakening rock work surrounding them. 

Beneath.

The water was rushing, making everything collapse in on itself. 

As Harry fell into the floor breathing heavy, he glanced down. “That was close. But, I’m glad it’s done.” 

She smiled weakly at her best friend.

Their idea had worked. The fangs were there, they worked exactly as needed.

They stabbed the cup, the locket, and the diadem. All of which fought back hard, causing horrendous visions. But the worst… was his scar.

Harry was pale and sweaty, Hermione thought for a solid 5 minutes he was dead. But, only Voldemort’s soul piece died within the scar Harry had, thankfully. He still didn’t look too well, wasn’t very strong. She contemplated giving him some of her blood, supposedly there were healing factors.

He did have a nifty new different looking scar now. Hermione hoped it could be healed with the right treatments.

She decided to try to find Severus first, make sure.

Their enemy was mortal now.

Definitely pissed off.

Unstable.

Dangerous.

Now she needed to get to Draco, Harry seemed weak, but stable. He could wait a little longer to get help from Severus. She had to get to Draco ! Draco had waited long enough.

If she waited any longer, it left Voldemort the opportunity to gain access to him again.

Now

”Draco, your Veela has everyone up in a tizzy. It’s actually entertaining.” Blaise smirked.

The food tray was sat on the nightstand.

Draco didn’t answer, he just reached for his dinner. He had been attempting to not react to Blaise’s barbs.

”ignoring me, I see.” Blaise shrugged. “That’s fine… your Veela is in route as we speak. She caused a huge stir at Hogwarts with the savior, and they should show up anytime now. Unfortunately, so should the Dark Lord.” 

Draco had eaten half his pasta. He looked up, his eyes losing focus. His plate fell with a loud crash.

”Don’t worry about the mess my friend,” with a wave of his wand, Blaise vanished the broken plate and food. “Sorry, I don’t know which will arrive first. I need to appear to be the last to show up after them. Not before. Which means you can’t be conscious or remember…”

Draco’s lids slid closed as his memories were taken away. 

Now

Voldemort  apparated into a large estate. Unknown ownership, possibly it had been long term abandoned. Rowle received a tip to search the location. 

He had felt multiple losses within himself, he couldn’t leave anything to chance. He needed leverage. The Veela girl could very well destroy all he’d worked for!

So much for the Potter child and his prophecy! There had been nothing about her!

“search the entire estate!” He directed. “Kill anyone except Draco Malfoy. I want the Malfoy heir alive if he is here and still breathing. If the Veela is here, subdue her if possible… if not, kill her.”

Chapter Text

Now

Severus and Lucius expected word from the teens at some point during their rampage, it seemed the young Veela was zoned to find her mate.

Potter would simply be dragged along for the ride.

”they are here, the Dark Lord’s eyes and who remains, there aren’t many.” Lucius stated. Glancing at his long time comrade. 

Nodding, Severus moved slightly forward to check the fallen wards of the old estate. It was in severe disrepair, he wasn’t sure who it had belonged to. “She will arrive with fire and brimstone I’m certain. He will use Draco as a shield or a bartering tool if he can.”

”that will be his downfall.” His son was no tool to be used against the Veela Lucius was cocksure. 

Now

”where…?” His voice hoarse. 

He couldn’t remember how he’d gotten there, who brought him. Draco vaguely thought Ron had been in their room at some point for some reason? His aunt? They were arguing? Hermione had been gone somewhere…?

His head hurt, he winced.

He attempted to sit up from the ground.

”awake finally it seems.” He knew that voice, so he wasn’t wrong. He grimaced.

”my Lord?” Draco said lowering his eyes. Unsure of what else to do.

Voldemort grinned manically. His skin looked almost clear it was so pale. His bones poked out.  Draco wondered if it was from Harry or Hermione pulling something? Or the Order?

”You were taken by those trying to cause war within my own circle! Your Veela has ripped through my people and the Order in an effort to find you! So, you will tell her I’ve saved you, you will tell her to give loyalty to me!” Voldemort ordered him.

Draco cowered as the wand stabbed into his neck hard.

He understood now. 

The Order had not taken him, neither had the Death Eaters, but Hermione did not know who had. Truthfully, no one knew who had… including himself.

The question was, now what?

Follow orders?

Try to stop him when she came?

How many had she actually killed?!

That bothered him slightly. But, really not that much, not as much as it should have. She was his mate after all. The ministry had protections in place for mates. 

She would not be taken from him!

Obviously she would not allow him to be taken from her. He smiled to himself secretly.

His Veela. 

“of course my Lord… as you wish.” Draco replied, keeping his eyes downcast.