The Dark Side (Unedited)

Chapter 32

When their feet hit the solid ground of a grimy London alleyway, Ginny groaned and clutched at her swollen belly.

"Ginny, what's wrong?" Hermione voice was uneven, if Ginny was not feeling well it would be a major concern. She would have to be taken to St Mungo's which would consume precious time Hermione had left to save Draco, Harry and Ron.

"Nothing. It's just queasiness from the apparating, I promise." Hermione knew the feeling, even her stomach was feeling a little unstable. She nodded, already making her way out onto the street, looking for the entrance to the Leaky Cauldron.

She wondered how Lucius would be able to visit the old pub without being noticed, but as she stepped into the dusty tavern the reason was obvious. The Leaky Cauldron was no longer a friendly spot for wizards to hang about, it had been overthrown by dark magic.

The bartender was unfamiliar, but there was no doubting that he had been on Voldemort's side. He was dressed in a black robe that covered his eyes, and had a predatory stance. His gaze locked on theirs, and Hermione stood frozen in fear.

Two wizards also dressed in black crept up on either side of them, wands outstretched. They were so close that Hermione could hear their raspy breathing. They were all too similar to Dementors.

"And who might you be, sweetness?" The bartender had spoken, the hissing voice infiltrating Hermione's mind, making her feel afraid.

"We'd love to stay and chat, but we have more pressing issues so if you wouldn't mind could you tell us where we could find Lucius Malfoy?" Ginny's voice never trembled, but her hand was quivering violently against Hermione's back.

"Well, well, well. We have a feisty one, aye boss?" The two wizards preventing their entry glanced over to the bartender, who was obviously in charge.

"You are looking for Mister Malfoy, you say. Might I guess that you are also looking for Master Malfoy?" The man at the bar spoke again. Hermione tried to stand tall and searched her brain for a plan.

"Yes, we are actually. We have been sent by Narcissa to give them something." There was a slight tremor in her voice, but Hermione remained composed.

"You stupid girl!" The bartender slammed his fists onto the bar, causing glasses to fall and smash onto the floor. "Do you think we don't know who you are? You are Hermione Granger, of the Golden Trio. You are everywhere! You can't take one step into Diagon Alley without seeing your face on a poster or a Daily Prophet article."

He began to move out from the bar, making his way towards them.

"And I know exactly why you are here." His hood rose a little and revealed his sadistic eyes, making Hermione quiver under his intense stare. He kept coming until he was right in front of her. "Lucius told me that we should expect you."

One lanky finger lifted up to her face and caressed her jawline. His mouth creased into a horrifying smile, and he ran his hand through her hair.

"Lock them up."