𝐃𝐞𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐨𝐫 𝐃𝐞𝐥𝐮𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥? 〚𝚍𝚛𝚊𝚌𝚘 𝚖𝚊𝚕𝚏𝚘𝚢 〛

Chapter 36

We walked through the halls, not exactly certain where to go. It was hard to lead a group of uncertain purebloods when your legs felt like blocks of cement. 

I was grateful for Draco's silent support. He caught me when I stumbled, but kept enough distance between us so I would not appear weak in front of the others. 

I was tense, I think we all were, as I did not know what to expect. 

Should we perhaps meet with a teacher? Could we even trust them? 

Focused on too many things at once, we all jumped when running into another group of students, each of them pulling out their wands in a sharp gesture. 

Wandless, I did the next best thing and positioned myself in a fighting stance. 

Only then did I recognize the red headed girl leading them.

"What are you doing here?" Ginny asked with a frown.

I relaxed my posture, but very few lowered their wands.

"Potter told you, didn't he?" I guessed.

Her grip loosened on her wand and she glanced towards Luna, who had already stowed hers away. "Yeah... he did."

Ron pushed his sister behind him, as if trying to protect her.

"Why would he tell you?" he said, jutting out his chin.

"Maybe because he trusts me," I growled. "Maybe because you need all the help you can get."

"Don't make the same mistake as last time, Ron," softly reminded Luna.

The red headed boy looked away, mumbling something under his breath.

"Listen, Weasley," said Draco. "We had our differences in the past. We persecuted you, you hate us. It's a war fought by both sides, it's time we smarten up and discuss this at a proper time."

"I hate to say this," intervened Hermione. "But he's right. We have Hogwarts to defend."

A murmur of agreement passed through the students behind us.

"Alright," I said, loud enough to be heard by all and firmly enough for no one to contest my decision. "We must split up into groups to cover more ground. Are there any adults involved?"

"A few members of the Order are here," hesitantly admitted Ron.

"His brother Charlie is a riot," smiled Luna.

I nodded. "Very well, if a group meets with an adult, stick with them. Pair up with whoever you will not murder." 

I hesitated, then modified my last words. "Actually, those who have death eater parents, try to stay with at least one person who has no connection to the dark side."

Blaise immediately straightened. "Afraid we'll betray you, Collins?"

I glared at him. "Do not be ridiculous, Zabini. I do not want you to be forced to hurt your family."

Draco smirked, but I could see the strain on his features. "Don't worry about us, love. Do you know how pleased I'd be to aim a good curse at my dear aunt Bellatrix?"

I sighed. "Apologies then. Let's move."

I watched as reluctant Slytherins divided into groups, keeping at least one of their friends close by. 

I nervously glanced towards Luna and Ginny, who stayed together, than towards Charles, who seemed quite determined to stay by my side. 

I squeezed Luna's shoulder. "Be careful, would you?" 

She smiled dreamily. "Harry made us taste liquid luck, I have a feeling nothing is going to happen to me tonight. You, on the other hand, watch yourself, m'kay?"

I nodded distractedly, feeling Draco approach from behind me.

"I'll watch over her for you."

I turned around, tilting my head to the side. "You can't come with me, darling. It's easier to hide when I'm alone. Besides, you're powerful, and much more useful than I am."

He rolled his eyes. "To hell with that. I'm not leaving you, end of discussion."

I opened my mouth to protest but he gave me a pointed stare. I wasn't going to win this argument. I started to realize that my arguments were pretty ridiculous. It was much safer if someone that can control their magic accompanies me. 

Urquhart tapped Draco on the shoulder. "Sorry to interrupt, but you are not leaving me behind."

Draco rolled his eyes, his lips twitching, but he did not protest. 

The groups separated, each taking a corridor. 

My group was the last to leave, as if my body was revolting against the fact that I may have led them all into a trap. 

Setting my face into a frown, I got rid of whatever doubts I had, my eyes gaining the calculative glint I often got in serious situations.

"I am not much use with magic, but I will not let them enter easily. I know certain corridors that would be perfect for traps," I smiled wickedly.

The silver haired boy smirked appreciatively, glancing towards Charles as if not wanting to kiss me in front of him. "As clever as the devil and twice and pretty. I cannot wait to see the results."

I bit my lip, fighting a smile. "Here goes nothing." 

A/N Sorry for the short chapter, people. I swear the next ones will be better.

- Aella