melfinatheblue (![[info]](https://www.insanejournal.com/img/userinfo.gif){kind=small} melfinatheblue) wrote in ![[info]](https://www.insanejournal.com/img/community.gif){kind=small} phoenix_flies,@ 2008-03-17 12:39:00 |
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Don't Mess with the Malfoys (Lucius/Narcissa, Lucius/Andromeda, Lucius/Severus, NC-17)
Title:Don't Mess with the Malfoys
Artist:Melfina the Blue
Prompt: 102: When Voldemort makes Narcissa and/or Draco "disappear" in order to compel Lucius's cooperation, the Dark Lord failed to consider the deep bonds of family in pureblood tradition. What will Lucius do when faced with such a loss? To whom will he turn for alliance/comfort/recovery? How much damage can Lucius do to Voldemort's cause should he choose to fight instead of flee? (Up to writer what "disappear" can mean: could be First or Second War, or make it as AU as you like.)
Pairing: Lucius/Narcissa, Lucius/Andromeda, Lucius/Severus implied
Rating:NC-17 for violence and character death
Word Count:4225
Summary:The Dark Lord destroys Lucius's family and then recreates it (in a twisted way).
Warnings: Character death, AU.
Author's Note: Panicking Lucius comes from Coupling (if you've never seen the British version, you should). Big thanks to lilian_cho who pushed me to get this done. Now edited to remove beta remarks! (I suck, I apologize)
It was mandatory for each new child born to a Death Eater to be presented to the Dark Lord. This was the reason, and the only reason, that Lucius Malfoy was now escorting his wife and day-old son into a dark, damp catacomb. The atmosphere simply couldn't be good for the baby or Narcissa. He glanced over at her. She looked so pale and wan. After the third miscarriage, he'd told her it didn't matter, that they could adopt and do a blood-bind, but she had insisted on trying again. And now she held the result, a perfect baby boy.
He felt something wet hit him and looked up. There was something very disgusting, something brown and watery that stank, dripping from the ceiling and the floor was wet and very slippery. Cissa was still recovering, and a fall would not do her or the baby any good.
"Cissa, maybe I'd better take the baby."
She handed the infant over to him without a word, which surprised him. She hadn't let go of him since he was born. He gently cradled his son against his chest. He was so tiny.
"Lucius?"
"Yes?"
"What are we going to name him?"
"I still like Boethius or Cicero."
"Lucius, no. What about Draco?"
"He's not a dragon."
"Neither is he a Roman philosopher. And besides, we can't just keep calling him the baby forever."
"I'd say we've got about two years before calling him the baby becomes a problem."
Narcissa smiled at him.
"He'll grow up to be big and strong and handsome just like his father. He'll grow into Draco."
Lucius's tone was stern, but a smile tugged at the corners of his mouth as he answered, "Flattery will get you nowhere, woman."
Narcissa smirked, then moved closer to him, slipping her hand around his waist. She whispered in his ear.
"It's gotten me everything I want thus far."
He smiled broadly.
"You are a wicked, wicked woman, 'Cissa."
"And you wouldn't have it any other way."
He motioned her to silence as they neared the Dark Lord's lair. It would not do to be perceived as anything less than deferential and respectful. Not that he was worried. His son was perfect in every way, and the Dark Lord was sure to see that. He had exactly what he wanted out of life: a perfect son, a wonderful, loving wife, and a great deal of power.
The lair was lit by torches, some of which looked like they were perilously close to setting the floating cobwebs alight. The Dark Lord reclined on a stone throne, and the large cavern was otherwise empty. There was a wooden door behind the throne, but it was tightly closed. Lucius was a bit surprised. He'd expected the full gathering.
"Ah, Lucius. Come here."
Lucius carefully bowed as he approached the throne. Wouldn't do to drop the baby, after all. He could hear the swish of 'Cissa's dress as she followed. He glanced up at the Dark Lord, who gestured at him to straighten up.
"Is that the boy, Lucius?"
"Yes, my lord."
Lucius extended his arms out, so that the Dark Lord could get a good look.
"Looks like his father. I approve."
"Thank you, my lord."
"It's a pity about the mother, though."
"My lord?"
"Avada Kedavra!"
The green light flashed past Lucius and he turned to see it hit Narcissa. She crumpled and fell. He grabbed the baby close and ran to her. Her mouth was open, and her eyes were lifeless. He sank down beside her.
"It is unfortunate, Lucius, that she could not conceive again. But don't worry, I won't leave your little boy without a mother. And soon, he will have siblings as well. Bella!"
Lucius heard the door open, heard people enter. He didn't bother to look. 'Cissa was dead. Someone screamed, and someone else walked up behind him and put a hand on his shoulder. He looked up then, and saw Severus looking down at him. Regulus was next to him.
"Get up, Lucius. Time to meet your new wife."
He got slowly to his feet.
"Here, give me the baby."
He handed the baby over to Regulus. Severus' hand was still on his shoulder. The entire scene was so unreal.
"Well, Lucius, do you approve of my choice?"
He looked up at the Dark Lord, no, not Lord anymore, not his anyway. The man who had just murdered his wife. Voldemort was no longer his lord, not after this. That murdering bastard was gesturing to a woman, tightly held in Bellatrix's claws. She looked like 'Cissa, but 'Cissa was on the floor. A glamor?
"Andromeda here is now your new wife. I trust you'll do your duty. And see, we even got a priest for the ceremony."
"But Andromeda is married."
"And now she's widowed. And so are you. Now, I expect at least one pureblood metamorphagus from the two of you, do you understand?"
"Yes, my lord."
"Why don't I believe you, Lucius? Oh well. Imperio. You'll do my bidding one way or the other."
////////////////////////////////////////
October 31, 1981
////////////////////////////////////////
It was like waking from a long, bad dream. He could feel Narcissa next to him, no, Narcissa was dead. He remembered that. And he'd married Andromeda, though it was very hazy. Everything was hazy after 'Cissa's death. He looked over at Andromeda. She was sleeping, curled up against him. Her stomach was big. She was pregnant? When did that happen? How did that happen? He slowly disentangled himself and got out of the bed. She murmured, but didn't wake.
He walked slowly through the hallways of the manor. Someone was whimpering. He followed the sound to a door. There was a sign on the door: Nymphadora's Room. Nymphadora? An image floated up from the depths of his mind, of a small girl with pink hair playing in the garden. He opened the door, and walked in. There was a great deal of pink. More than any room should have, in his opinion. There was a girl lying in the large canopy bed. Her hands were clutching her covers, and she thrashed about as she whimpered. He moved to the edge of the bed, unsure what to do.
"Daddy! Please no! I want my daddy!"
He gently sat on the bed, and patted her hand.
"Shh. Everything's alright. Shh."
Her eyes popped open. She stared at him. He stared right back.
"What are you doing here?"
Lucius pondered the question for a moment. He was confused about that himself. He finally decided to go for the obvious.
"You were whimpering, so I decided to come see if you were alright."
"Oh."
"Did you have a nightmare?"
"Yes."
"Would you like me to get your mother?"
"You're fine."
*************
Dora was confused. Papa Lucius looked different. Rather confused for one. And his eyes weren't spacey anymore. He'd never come into her room at night before, that was her mother's job. She smiled at him, unsure of what was going on.
*************
Lucius had no idea how to deal with this. Did Nymphadora think he was her father? Did she remember Tonks? And what did Andromeda remember?
"Papa?"
Well, that answered that, at least.
"Yes?"
"Can I have a glass of milk?"
"Certainly. Would you like to come with me?"
"Yes."
He scooped Dora up in his arms. This was what one did with an upset child, right? Hold them? He vaguely remembered his mother holding him.
“Papa Lucius?”
“Yes?”
“Why are you carrying me?”
“Because I want to?”
“Okay.”
He carried her through the halls, to the kitchen. It was late, and even the house elves were asleep. Of course that posed a slight problem. He had no idea where the milk was kept. He set her gently down on the floor, and started to look through cabinets.
“Papa?”
“I don't know where the milk is, Dora.”
“Are you okay? You seem strange.”
“What do you mean?”
He looked at the child. She was obviously thinking, hard.
“You don't look like you're asleep anymore.”
He thought for a moment. Asleep. Everything like a dream. Then it hit him. All of it. He put a hand to his mouth and looked around frantically for a basin, something, anything. He saw the sink, rushed towards it, and began vomiting.
“Papa?”
He couldn't seem to stop. The Dark Lord, the man he'd pledged his life to, had used an unforgivable on him, and worse, taken away the love of his life.
“Papa?”
Papa Lucius was obviously sick. Dora decided she should go get a grownup, maybe mama. She patted his hand and wandered out of the kitchen.
\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\
“Lucius? I'm supposed to be the one doing that, not you.”
She sounded so much like 'Cissa, but he knew it wasn't, couldn't be her. It was Andromeda. She gently pulled back his hair and put her hand on his forehead. It was cool, pleasant.
“Lucius, was it dinner? Do you need to go to St. Mungo’s?”
He couldn't answer, couldn't stop. His eyes were full of tears that kept leaking out onto his cheeks, and even though there was nothing left in his stomach, he continued to vomit. It hurt.
“Dora, go wake your uncle. I think your father needs to go to St. Mungo’s.”
“Yes, mama.”
Uncle? What uncle? Nothing made sense. He felt dirty inside. He'd let the Dark Lord control him. He knew how to fight the Imperius, how to beat it, but he hadn't. He'd just let it happen. He was worthless, less than mudbloods, than dirt. He'd failed to protect his mind, his wife, his family. He finally managed to stop heaving, but the world was revolving and he was very dizzy. He turned around and sank down to the ground.
“Lucius?”
This false wife, this false family. She'd had another husband, what had happened to him? Did she even remember him? He had to make sense of this, somehow.
“Andromeda, how long have we been married?”
“Why?”
“Just answer, please.”
“We got married a month after Draco was born.”
“What happened to 'Cissa? And to Tonks? Was that his name?”
“Ted died before Dora was born. And 'Cissa died giving birth to Draco.”
Lucius put his head in his hands. That wasn't right, he knew it. He'd come to blows with Tonks while Narcissa was pregnant.
“Who's the uncle?”
“Regulus lives with us. You know that, Lucius. He's an invalid.”
“No, I don't, Andromeda.”
“What? That's it, I'm taking you to St. Mungos right now! Something's very very wrong.”
She grabbed him, and he resisted the urge to shake her off.
“Romy? Lucius? What's going on?”
Regulus's voice was raspy. Lucius didn't remember it being so raspy. He looked up, and was shocked. Regulus was stick-thin, and as pale as a ghost. What had happened to him?
“Reg. Lucius is sick, and I need to take him to St. Mungo’s. It's like he's been hit with a memory-modification charm or something.”
Regulus walked over and bent down to look into Lucius' eyes.
“Looks like you woke up, Lucius. Guess I win the bet.”
“What?”
“Romy, he's just come out from under the effects of a long-term Imperius. To quote Professor McCoy... 'A long-term Imperius has deleterious effects on both the mind and body. The victim is unlikely to remember what happened under the effects of the curse, and will react extremely violently to its removal. Vomiting, shaking, fever, weakness of the joints, and mental confusion are to be expected.'”
“Imperius? Why was he under an Imperius?”
“The better question might be, ‘Why is he no longer under one?’ Any ideas, Lucius?”
“I didn't fight. I know I didn't fight. I didn't fight for her or Draco or me. Why didn't I fight?”
“Because you couldn't. Because he would have squished you like a bug. Better to acquiesce and survive than fight and die. It might be a good idea to take him to St Mungo’s, just so they can confirm the diagnosis, and to give him a solid alibi.”
“Why would he need an alibi?”
“Because, dear cousin, if Lucius didn't fight off the Imperius, something else must have happened. Better to be prepared for the worst. Now, I'll stay with Dora and Draco, you two go ahead.”
Regulus helped Lucius to his feet, and he walked to the floo with Andromeda. There were so many questions in his mind, but he could wait for answers. The only thing he knew for certain was that he would make the Dark Lord, that bastard who'd killed his wife, pay and pay dearly. He'd make a deal with the devil himself for that.
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Part 2
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The room was dark, small, and gloomy. A sickly young man sat in a chair, looking across the table at a man in chains with long blond hair, and a tired expression. The man in chains slowly smiled, and the sickly man began to speak.
"How are things?"
"Fine. I'm locked in a cell with Bella, the example of why eating paint is bad, and I haven't had decent food, sleep, or a bath in about a week. So, not bad."
"They're mixing the sexes?"
"Apparently with all the orgies we have, none of us have any modesty left to lose. Obviously, I really missed out. Why did you never tell me about the orgies?"
"Glad to see you can still crack a joke. Have they told you when your trial is?"
"Tomorrow. Any news?"
"Well, Rumpole thinks he can get you off, easy. Between the long-term Imperius symptoms, the loss of your first wife, the fact that Andromeda's memories have been tampered with, and your family, it's apparently a piece of piss."
"Ah, yes, good old Rumpole. How very reassuring."
"The man may be a bit uncouth, but he's the best."
"True, true. And how are Andromeda and Draco?"
"Andromeda can't wait to have the baby, and Draco has no idea what's going on. He's a year old, remember?"
"I know how old he is. He's my son, I worry."
"How sweet. She's pondering divorce."
"If she wants one, I'll give it to her. With a fair settlement. Neither of us wanted this, and I won't hold her in a relationship she doesn't want."
"How very chivalric."
"I am the very soul of chivalry, Regulus."
Lucius bowed as far as his chains would allow. Regulus smirked.
"And just so you know, both Severus and I got off. Dumbledore even testified for Severus."
"Wonder what Severus gave him for that?"
"There are some things I don't want to contemplate. That would be one."
"True. Will Andromeda be coming to the trial?"
"Yes, and she's bringing Dora."
"Is that wise?"
"Dora's been more than a little upset by everything. Romy thinks that watching one of the trials will help her understand what's happening."
Lucius shrugged.
A loud banging on the door made them both jump.
"Time's up!"
A guard barged into the room, and grabbed Lucius by the chains on his wrists.
"You go back to your cell now, filthy death eater!"
"Ow!"
The guard hit Lucius across the back of the head.
"Shut it!"
He undid the chains and dragged Lucius roughly out of the interview room. Regulus winced at the rough treatment, but said nothing. Lucius would soon recover, and the bruises might help his case. Help seal in the pity vote, if nothing else. The important thing was tomorrow. He needed Lucius's help to wipe the Dark Lord from existence. Without Lucius, he had almost no hope of success.
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"Lucius Malfoy acquitted of all charges! Read it here first! Daily Prophet! Get your Daily Prophet here!"
The shouts of the newspaper vendor echoed through the Ministry antechamber. Lucius smiled. A heavily-pregnant Andromeda walked slowly beside him, holding Nymphadora's hand. Regulus followed behind, leaning heavily on a cane.
"They certainly got the edition out quickly," said Andromeda, pausing to look at the papers. Regulus stopped besides her, also looking at the papers.
"Probably had two ready, one for each possible verdict."
"Your cynicism is showing."
"You mean my realism."
"Whatever you call it, it's still the same thing. You think the worst."
"Which means I am pleasantly surprised when the worst doesn't occur."
"Justify it any way you want. Doesn’t matter, still cynical."
They both started as Lucius came up behind them and interrupted them.
"Has anyone ever told you that you two snipe like siblings?"
"Well, we are cousins who grew up in the same house. It is to be expected."
"Do you think the baby and Draco will snipe like that, Romy?"
"Probably. And the baby will follow Draco around just like Reg used to follow Sirius around. Drove Sirius crazy."
"Romy, I grew out of it."
"No, not really. You just found other people to follow." Awww…
"And I learned an important lesson from following the wrong person, didn't I? Now, we're supposed to be celebrating Lucius' freedom. Where do you think we should go, Dora?"
Dora thought hard for a minute, then looked at Lucius.
"Where do you want to go, Papa Lucius?"
Lucius picked her up and swung her onto his back. She shrieked in laughter.
"I think we should go home and have tea. How does that sound, Dora?"
"Can I have a biscuit?"
"Of course. Maybe even two."
"You're going to spoil her, Lucius."
"Probably. It's just nice to have the chance."
Andromeda put her hand in his. He squeezed it.
"There are things we need to talk about."
"Tea first, serious discussion later."
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Lucius's private study was comfortable, but not particularly impressive. Compared to the library or the dining room, it was almost tiny. Lucius sat on a green leather couch, and Andromeda was next to him. A tea service sat on an end table in front of them. They were deep in discussion.
"So, what do you want to do?"
Andromeda put her head in her hands.
"I'm not sure. I know I didn't like who you were, but I don't know how much of that is due to the Imperius. And I want both Dora and the new baby to have a stable family and a father. "
"We could try, well, I believe it's called an open marriage."
"You mean, both of us sleep with other people."
"Yes. Provided it's kept quiet, I have no objections."
Lucius steepled his fingers in front of him.
"We were both thrown into this marriage against our wills. We both had spouses we loved dearly. But there are children to consider, and I don't want Draco to grow up without a mother any more than you want Dora to grow up without a father. I don't love you, Andromeda, and as far as I know, you don't love me. So why should we both sacrifice ourselves for outmoded ideals?"
"And who would you like to enjoy this open marriage with?"
"I have no prospects at the moment, but I'm sure someone will come along."
"And if someone were to come along who is interested, would you tell me?"
"Do you want me to?"
"Do you want me to tell you when I find someone?"
"It would be nice, but not necessary unless you plan on making it long-term. Then I would wish to know."
"Same goes for you, then."
"Now that we are in agreement about that, would you like your own suite of rooms?"
"Yes."
"Is there anything else we need to talk about right now?"
Andromeda winced.
"Perhaps we should discuss going to St. Mungo’s?"
Lucius looked at her, confused.
"Is something wrong?"
"My water just broke, and I'm having contractions. This little one wants to come out, now."
"Oh. OH!"
Lucius stood up. He turned around in a circle, apparently not sure what to do. He waved his hands frantically. Andromeda looked very relaxed by comparison.
"Lucius, help me up, and then we'll let Reg know what's going on and go to St Mungo’s."
"Good, good, right, we have a plan…"
Lucius was panicking. Andromeda smiled.
"Lucius, did you panick this much when Draco was born?"
"Yes, probably."
"But you've done this before and so have I. So relax."
Lucius looked at her, wild-eyed and puzzled.
"But you're having a baby!"
She broke out laughing and Lucius got even more confused.
"Hysterics later, St Mungo’s now. Hysterics later, St Mungo’s now."
He kept repeating this as he helped Andromeda to her feet, and rushed out of the room. Then he realized he'd forgotten her, and came back and got her.
///////////////////////
The hallway was not a particularly impressive one. It was long, rather dark, and painted a lovely shade of what has often been referred to as 'puke green'. In fact, the only thing that might strike someone about this hallway was the large glass window in one of its walls. This window was the opening to a brightly-lit room full of wondrous hope and promise. It was this window that an exhausted-looking Lucius was looking through. Regulus stood next to him, apparently transfixed by what he saw in that bright room.
"Do they generally look like that?"
"Like what?"
"All red and splotchy."
"Well, they've just spent a great deal of time passing through an extremely tight tunnel. They get a bit squished."
"Oh. What are the two of you going to do about names?"
"Well, we'd only been planning for one, not two. Hadn't really discussed it."
"Didn't you have both names picked out? With one of each, you could just use both."
"Well, there's a theme issue."
"Arcas and Callisto. There, theme satisfied."
"Who were they? Callisto sounds familiar, but not Arcas."
"Callisto was a nymph Zeus seduced, and Arcas was her son."
"A bit too incestuous for me. Got anything else?"
"Well, Arcturus is the star Zeus created to guard Arcas and Callisto once he stuck them in the sky."
"Arcturus. Could work. Plus, isn't he an ancestor of yours?"
"Yes."
"Arcturus and Callisto Malfoy. Arcturus Theodore Black and Callisto Narcissa Malfoy. Those sound like good names."
"And what's Draco's middle name? I've never heard it mentioned.
"Cicero."
"Cicero?"
"Yes. Draco Cicero Malfoy. Narcissa and I were debating between Cicero and Draco and Boethius."
"Boethius?"
"A respected philosopher."
"Ah, yes, the old name-your-child-after-someone-famous trick. And who were you named for?"
"Pick a Lucius, any Lucius. There's been three popes, a dictator, several random Romans, a saint, and a legendary king of Britain. Father never could decide which one."
"Abraxas never struck me as the indecisive type."
"Not indecisive. He made his mind quite easily, just had trouble sticking to it."
"Oh."
"Now, you've been hinting at something important you wanted to discuss?"
Regulus looked down at his hands and started fiddling with his fingers. Now that it came to it, he was unsure how Lucius would react.
"Well, how do you feel about the Dark Lord?"
"I have been trying to come up with a shorter name than 'bloody disgusting hypocritical murderer, destroyer of families.' That answer your question?"
"More or less. So you'd help me destroy every trace of him? Every artifact he's left behind?"
Lucius looked back through the window for a moment.
"I take it we're talking about a special kind of artifact?"
"Possibly. All I know is that the one I found is proving damn hard to destroy. And is incredibly evil."
"How did you find it?"
"He wanted to borrow our house elf. And after he returned him, I asked Kreacher about what had happened. You should know, getting that artifact back is what destroyed my health and nearly killed me."
"So he trapped it?"
"Pretty thoroughly."
"And you want me to help find more of these things?"
"Yes."
"How many more are there?"
"I don't know. I have leads on two more. I think if we figure out what these things are, then we might be able to come up with a number."
"Would this be why you have been scouring my library?"
"I found nothing there."
"Just because there's nothing in the books you can access…"
"Ah, clever. So,are you with me in this?"
"Yes. Hurting that bastard from beyond the grave sounds like fun."
"Anyone ever tell you that you have a weird definition of fun, Lucius?"
"Severus, frequently."
"And his idea of fun is what?"
"Nothing a gentleman discusses."
Regulus smiled. He looked better when he smiled, less sickly.
"So he's your bit on the side, is he?"
"Reg, is that any of your business?"
"Not really, but doesn't stop me from asking, now does it?"
"Maybe it should."
Lucius turned back to the window, signaling that the discussion was at an end. He wondered briefly what he'd just gotten himself into, what the future held. Whatever it held, he would keep his family safe, no matter what the cost.
Title:Don't Mess with the Malfoys
Artist:Melfina the Blue
Prompt: 102: When Voldemort makes Narcissa and/or Draco "disappear" in order to compel Lucius's cooperation, the Dark Lord failed to consider the deep bonds of family in pureblood tradition. What will Lucius do when faced with such a loss? To whom will he turn for alliance/comfort/recovery? How much damage can Lucius do to Voldemort's cause should he choose to fight instead of flee? (Up to writer what "disappear" can mean: could be First or Second War, or make it as AU as you like.)
Pairing: Lucius/Narcissa, Lucius/Andromeda, Lucius/Severus implied
Rating:NC-17 for violence and character death
Word Count:4225
Summary:The Dark Lord destroys Lucius's family and then recreates it (in a twisted way).
Warnings: Character death, AU.
Author's Note: Panicking Lucius comes from Coupling (if you've never seen the British version, you should). Big thanks to lilian_cho who pushed me to get this done. Now edited to remove beta remarks! (I suck, I apologize)
It was mandatory for each new child born to a Death Eater to be presented to the Dark Lord. This was the reason, and the only reason, that Lucius Malfoy was now escorting his wife and day-old son into a dark, damp catacomb. The atmosphere simply couldn't be good for the baby or Narcissa. He glanced over at her. She looked so pale and wan. After the third miscarriage, he'd told her it didn't matter, that they could adopt and do a blood-bind, but she had insisted on trying again. And now she held the result, a perfect baby boy.
He felt something wet hit him and looked up. There was something very disgusting, something brown and watery that stank, dripping from the ceiling and the floor was wet and very slippery. Cissa was still recovering, and a fall would not do her or the baby any good.
"Cissa, maybe I'd better take the baby."
She handed the infant over to him without a word, which surprised him. She hadn't let go of him since he was born. He gently cradled his son against his chest. He was so tiny.
"Lucius?"
"Yes?"
"What are we going to name him?"
"I still like Boethius or Cicero."
"Lucius, no. What about Draco?"
"He's not a dragon."
"Neither is he a Roman philosopher. And besides, we can't just keep calling him the baby forever."
"I'd say we've got about two years before calling him the baby becomes a problem."
Narcissa smiled at him.
"He'll grow up to be big and strong and handsome just like his father. He'll grow into Draco."
Lucius's tone was stern, but a smile tugged at the corners of his mouth as he answered, "Flattery will get you nowhere, woman."
Narcissa smirked, then moved closer to him, slipping her hand around his waist. She whispered in his ear.
"It's gotten me everything I want thus far."
He smiled broadly.
"You are a wicked, wicked woman, 'Cissa."
"And you wouldn't have it any other way."
He motioned her to silence as they neared the Dark Lord's lair. It would not do to be perceived as anything less than deferential and respectful. Not that he was worried. His son was perfect in every way, and the Dark Lord was sure to see that. He had exactly what he wanted out of life: a perfect son, a wonderful, loving wife, and a great deal of power.
The lair was lit by torches, some of which looked like they were perilously close to setting the floating cobwebs alight. The Dark Lord reclined on a stone throne, and the large cavern was otherwise empty. There was a wooden door behind the throne, but it was tightly closed. Lucius was a bit surprised. He'd expected the full gathering.
"Ah, Lucius. Come here."
Lucius carefully bowed as he approached the throne. Wouldn't do to drop the baby, after all. He could hear the swish of 'Cissa's dress as she followed. He glanced up at the Dark Lord, who gestured at him to straighten up.
"Is that the boy, Lucius?"
"Yes, my lord."
Lucius extended his arms out, so that the Dark Lord could get a good look.
"Looks like his father. I approve."
"Thank you, my lord."
"It's a pity about the mother, though."
"My lord?"
"Avada Kedavra!"
The green light flashed past Lucius and he turned to see it hit Narcissa. She crumpled and fell. He grabbed the baby close and ran to her. Her mouth was open, and her eyes were lifeless. He sank down beside her.
"It is unfortunate, Lucius, that she could not conceive again. But don't worry, I won't leave your little boy without a mother. And soon, he will have siblings as well. Bella!"
Lucius heard the door open, heard people enter. He didn't bother to look. 'Cissa was dead. Someone screamed, and someone else walked up behind him and put a hand on his shoulder. He looked up then, and saw Severus looking down at him. Regulus was next to him.
"Get up, Lucius. Time to meet your new wife."
He got slowly to his feet.
"Here, give me the baby."
He handed the baby over to Regulus. Severus' hand was still on his shoulder. The entire scene was so unreal.
"Well, Lucius, do you approve of my choice?"
He looked up at the Dark Lord, no, not Lord anymore, not his anyway. The man who had just murdered his wife. Voldemort was no longer his lord, not after this. That murdering bastard was gesturing to a woman, tightly held in Bellatrix's claws. She looked like 'Cissa, but 'Cissa was on the floor. A glamor?
"Andromeda here is now your new wife. I trust you'll do your duty. And see, we even got a priest for the ceremony."
"But Andromeda is married."
"And now she's widowed. And so are you. Now, I expect at least one pureblood metamorphagus from the two of you, do you understand?"
"Yes, my lord."
"Why don't I believe you, Lucius? Oh well. Imperio. You'll do my bidding one way or the other."
////////////////////////////////////////
October 31, 1981
////////////////////////////////////////
It was like waking from a long, bad dream. He could feel Narcissa next to him, no, Narcissa was dead. He remembered that. And he'd married Andromeda, though it was very hazy. Everything was hazy after 'Cissa's death. He looked over at Andromeda. She was sleeping, curled up against him. Her stomach was big. She was pregnant? When did that happen? How did that happen? He slowly disentangled himself and got out of the bed. She murmured, but didn't wake.
He walked slowly through the hallways of the manor. Someone was whimpering. He followed the sound to a door. There was a sign on the door: Nymphadora's Room. Nymphadora? An image floated up from the depths of his mind, of a small girl with pink hair playing in the garden. He opened the door, and walked in. There was a great deal of pink. More than any room should have, in his opinion. There was a girl lying in the large canopy bed. Her hands were clutching her covers, and she thrashed about as she whimpered. He moved to the edge of the bed, unsure what to do.
"Daddy! Please no! I want my daddy!"
He gently sat on the bed, and patted her hand.
"Shh. Everything's alright. Shh."
Her eyes popped open. She stared at him. He stared right back.
"What are you doing here?"
Lucius pondered the question for a moment. He was confused about that himself. He finally decided to go for the obvious.
"You were whimpering, so I decided to come see if you were alright."
"Oh."
"Did you have a nightmare?"
"Yes."
"Would you like me to get your mother?"
"You're fine."
*************
Dora was confused. Papa Lucius looked different. Rather confused for one. And his eyes weren't spacey anymore. He'd never come into her room at night before, that was her mother's job. She smiled at him, unsure of what was going on.
*************
Lucius had no idea how to deal with this. Did Nymphadora think he was her father? Did she remember Tonks? And what did Andromeda remember?
"Papa?"
Well, that answered that, at least.
"Yes?"
"Can I have a glass of milk?"
"Certainly. Would you like to come with me?"
"Yes."
He scooped Dora up in his arms. This was what one did with an upset child, right? Hold them? He vaguely remembered his mother holding him.
“Papa Lucius?”
“Yes?”
“Why are you carrying me?”
“Because I want to?”
“Okay.”
He carried her through the halls, to the kitchen. It was late, and even the house elves were asleep. Of course that posed a slight problem. He had no idea where the milk was kept. He set her gently down on the floor, and started to look through cabinets.
“Papa?”
“I don't know where the milk is, Dora.”
“Are you okay? You seem strange.”
“What do you mean?”
He looked at the child. She was obviously thinking, hard.
“You don't look like you're asleep anymore.”
He thought for a moment. Asleep. Everything like a dream. Then it hit him. All of it. He put a hand to his mouth and looked around frantically for a basin, something, anything. He saw the sink, rushed towards it, and began vomiting.
“Papa?”
He couldn't seem to stop. The Dark Lord, the man he'd pledged his life to, had used an unforgivable on him, and worse, taken away the love of his life.
“Papa?”
Papa Lucius was obviously sick. Dora decided she should go get a grownup, maybe mama. She patted his hand and wandered out of the kitchen.
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“Lucius? I'm supposed to be the one doing that, not you.”
She sounded so much like 'Cissa, but he knew it wasn't, couldn't be her. It was Andromeda. She gently pulled back his hair and put her hand on his forehead. It was cool, pleasant.
“Lucius, was it dinner? Do you need to go to St. Mungo’s?”
He couldn't answer, couldn't stop. His eyes were full of tears that kept leaking out onto his cheeks, and even though there was nothing left in his stomach, he continued to vomit. It hurt.
“Dora, go wake your uncle. I think your father needs to go to St. Mungo’s.”
“Yes, mama.”
Uncle? What uncle? Nothing made sense. He felt dirty inside. He'd let the Dark Lord control him. He knew how to fight the Imperius, how to beat it, but he hadn't. He'd just let it happen. He was worthless, less than mudbloods, than dirt. He'd failed to protect his mind, his wife, his family. He finally managed to stop heaving, but the world was revolving and he was very dizzy. He turned around and sank down to the ground.
“Lucius?”
This false wife, this false family. She'd had another husband, what had happened to him? Did she even remember him? He had to make sense of this, somehow.
“Andromeda, how long have we been married?”
“Why?”
“Just answer, please.”
“We got married a month after Draco was born.”
“What happened to 'Cissa? And to Tonks? Was that his name?”
“Ted died before Dora was born. And 'Cissa died giving birth to Draco.”
Lucius put his head in his hands. That wasn't right, he knew it. He'd come to blows with Tonks while Narcissa was pregnant.
“Who's the uncle?”
“Regulus lives with us. You know that, Lucius. He's an invalid.”
“No, I don't, Andromeda.”
“What? That's it, I'm taking you to St. Mungos right now! Something's very very wrong.”
She grabbed him, and he resisted the urge to shake her off.
“Romy? Lucius? What's going on?”
Regulus's voice was raspy. Lucius didn't remember it being so raspy. He looked up, and was shocked. Regulus was stick-thin, and as pale as a ghost. What had happened to him?
“Reg. Lucius is sick, and I need to take him to St. Mungo’s. It's like he's been hit with a memory-modification charm or something.”
Regulus walked over and bent down to look into Lucius' eyes.
“Looks like you woke up, Lucius. Guess I win the bet.”
“What?”
“Romy, he's just come out from under the effects of a long-term Imperius. To quote Professor McCoy... 'A long-term Imperius has deleterious effects on both the mind and body. The victim is unlikely to remember what happened under the effects of the curse, and will react extremely violently to its removal. Vomiting, shaking, fever, weakness of the joints, and mental confusion are to be expected.'”
“Imperius? Why was he under an Imperius?”
“The better question might be, ‘Why is he no longer under one?’ Any ideas, Lucius?”
“I didn't fight. I know I didn't fight. I didn't fight for her or Draco or me. Why didn't I fight?”
“Because you couldn't. Because he would have squished you like a bug. Better to acquiesce and survive than fight and die. It might be a good idea to take him to St Mungo’s, just so they can confirm the diagnosis, and to give him a solid alibi.”
“Why would he need an alibi?”
“Because, dear cousin, if Lucius didn't fight off the Imperius, something else must have happened. Better to be prepared for the worst. Now, I'll stay with Dora and Draco, you two go ahead.”
Regulus helped Lucius to his feet, and he walked to the floo with Andromeda. There were so many questions in his mind, but he could wait for answers. The only thing he knew for certain was that he would make the Dark Lord, that bastard who'd killed his wife, pay and pay dearly. He'd make a deal with the devil himself for that.
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Part 2
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The room was dark, small, and gloomy. A sickly young man sat in a chair, looking across the table at a man in chains with long blond hair, and a tired expression. The man in chains slowly smiled, and the sickly man began to speak.
"How are things?"
"Fine. I'm locked in a cell with Bella, the example of why eating paint is bad, and I haven't had decent food, sleep, or a bath in about a week. So, not bad."
"They're mixing the sexes?"
"Apparently with all the orgies we have, none of us have any modesty left to lose. Obviously, I really missed out. Why did you never tell me about the orgies?"
"Glad to see you can still crack a joke. Have they told you when your trial is?"
"Tomorrow. Any news?"
"Well, Rumpole thinks he can get you off, easy. Between the long-term Imperius symptoms, the loss of your first wife, the fact that Andromeda's memories have been tampered with, and your family, it's apparently a piece of piss."
"Ah, yes, good old Rumpole. How very reassuring."
"The man may be a bit uncouth, but he's the best."
"True, true. And how are Andromeda and Draco?"
"Andromeda can't wait to have the baby, and Draco has no idea what's going on. He's a year old, remember?"
"I know how old he is. He's my son, I worry."
"How sweet. She's pondering divorce."
"If she wants one, I'll give it to her. With a fair settlement. Neither of us wanted this, and I won't hold her in a relationship she doesn't want."
"How very chivalric."
"I am the very soul of chivalry, Regulus."
Lucius bowed as far as his chains would allow. Regulus smirked.
"And just so you know, both Severus and I got off. Dumbledore even testified for Severus."
"Wonder what Severus gave him for that?"
"There are some things I don't want to contemplate. That would be one."
"True. Will Andromeda be coming to the trial?"
"Yes, and she's bringing Dora."
"Is that wise?"
"Dora's been more than a little upset by everything. Romy thinks that watching one of the trials will help her understand what's happening."
Lucius shrugged.
A loud banging on the door made them both jump.
"Time's up!"
A guard barged into the room, and grabbed Lucius by the chains on his wrists.
"You go back to your cell now, filthy death eater!"
"Ow!"
The guard hit Lucius across the back of the head.
"Shut it!"
He undid the chains and dragged Lucius roughly out of the interview room. Regulus winced at the rough treatment, but said nothing. Lucius would soon recover, and the bruises might help his case. Help seal in the pity vote, if nothing else. The important thing was tomorrow. He needed Lucius's help to wipe the Dark Lord from existence. Without Lucius, he had almost no hope of success.
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"Lucius Malfoy acquitted of all charges! Read it here first! Daily Prophet! Get your Daily Prophet here!"
The shouts of the newspaper vendor echoed through the Ministry antechamber. Lucius smiled. A heavily-pregnant Andromeda walked slowly beside him, holding Nymphadora's hand. Regulus followed behind, leaning heavily on a cane.
"They certainly got the edition out quickly," said Andromeda, pausing to look at the papers. Regulus stopped besides her, also looking at the papers.
"Probably had two ready, one for each possible verdict."
"Your cynicism is showing."
"You mean my realism."
"Whatever you call it, it's still the same thing. You think the worst."
"Which means I am pleasantly surprised when the worst doesn't occur."
"Justify it any way you want. Doesn’t matter, still cynical."
They both started as Lucius came up behind them and interrupted them.
"Has anyone ever told you that you two snipe like siblings?"
"Well, we are cousins who grew up in the same house. It is to be expected."
"Do you think the baby and Draco will snipe like that, Romy?"
"Probably. And the baby will follow Draco around just like Reg used to follow Sirius around. Drove Sirius crazy."
"Romy, I grew out of it."
"No, not really. You just found other people to follow." Awww…
"And I learned an important lesson from following the wrong person, didn't I? Now, we're supposed to be celebrating Lucius' freedom. Where do you think we should go, Dora?"
Dora thought hard for a minute, then looked at Lucius.
"Where do you want to go, Papa Lucius?"
Lucius picked her up and swung her onto his back. She shrieked in laughter.
"I think we should go home and have tea. How does that sound, Dora?"
"Can I have a biscuit?"
"Of course. Maybe even two."
"You're going to spoil her, Lucius."
"Probably. It's just nice to have the chance."
Andromeda put her hand in his. He squeezed it.
"There are things we need to talk about."
"Tea first, serious discussion later."
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Lucius's private study was comfortable, but not particularly impressive. Compared to the library or the dining room, it was almost tiny. Lucius sat on a green leather couch, and Andromeda was next to him. A tea service sat on an end table in front of them. They were deep in discussion.
"So, what do you want to do?"
Andromeda put her head in her hands.
"I'm not sure. I know I didn't like who you were, but I don't know how much of that is due to the Imperius. And I want both Dora and the new baby to have a stable family and a father. "
"We could try, well, I believe it's called an open marriage."
"You mean, both of us sleep with other people."
"Yes. Provided it's kept quiet, I have no objections."
Lucius steepled his fingers in front of him.
"We were both thrown into this marriage against our wills. We both had spouses we loved dearly. But there are children to consider, and I don't want Draco to grow up without a mother any more than you want Dora to grow up without a father. I don't love you, Andromeda, and as far as I know, you don't love me. So why should we both sacrifice ourselves for outmoded ideals?"
"And who would you like to enjoy this open marriage with?"
"I have no prospects at the moment, but I'm sure someone will come along."
"And if someone were to come along who is interested, would you tell me?"
"Do you want me to?"
"Do you want me to tell you when I find someone?"
"It would be nice, but not necessary unless you plan on making it long-term. Then I would wish to know."
"Same goes for you, then."
"Now that we are in agreement about that, would you like your own suite of rooms?"
"Yes."
"Is there anything else we need to talk about right now?"
Andromeda winced.
"Perhaps we should discuss going to St. Mungo’s?"
Lucius looked at her, confused.
"Is something wrong?"
"My water just broke, and I'm having contractions. This little one wants to come out, now."
"Oh. OH!"
Lucius stood up. He turned around in a circle, apparently not sure what to do. He waved his hands frantically. Andromeda looked very relaxed by comparison.
"Lucius, help me up, and then we'll let Reg know what's going on and go to St Mungo’s."
"Good, good, right, we have a plan…"
Lucius was panicking. Andromeda smiled.
"Lucius, did you panick this much when Draco was born?"
"Yes, probably."
"But you've done this before and so have I. So relax."
Lucius looked at her, wild-eyed and puzzled.
"But you're having a baby!"
She broke out laughing and Lucius got even more confused.
"Hysterics later, St Mungo’s now. Hysterics later, St Mungo’s now."
He kept repeating this as he helped Andromeda to her feet, and rushed out of the room. Then he realized he'd forgotten her, and came back and got her.
///////////////////////
The hallway was not a particularly impressive one. It was long, rather dark, and painted a lovely shade of what has often been referred to as 'puke green'. In fact, the only thing that might strike someone about this hallway was the large glass window in one of its walls. This window was the opening to a brightly-lit room full of wondrous hope and promise. It was this window that an exhausted-looking Lucius was looking through. Regulus stood next to him, apparently transfixed by what he saw in that bright room.
"Do they generally look like that?"
"Like what?"
"All red and splotchy."
"Well, they've just spent a great deal of time passing through an extremely tight tunnel. They get a bit squished."
"Oh. What are the two of you going to do about names?"
"Well, we'd only been planning for one, not two. Hadn't really discussed it."
"Didn't you have both names picked out? With one of each, you could just use both."
"Well, there's a theme issue."
"Arcas and Callisto. There, theme satisfied."
"Who were they? Callisto sounds familiar, but not Arcas."
"Callisto was a nymph Zeus seduced, and Arcas was her son."
"A bit too incestuous for me. Got anything else?"
"Well, Arcturus is the star Zeus created to guard Arcas and Callisto once he stuck them in the sky."
"Arcturus. Could work. Plus, isn't he an ancestor of yours?"
"Yes."
"Arcturus and Callisto Malfoy. Arcturus Theodore Black and Callisto Narcissa Malfoy. Those sound like good names."
"And what's Draco's middle name? I've never heard it mentioned.
"Cicero."
"Cicero?"
"Yes. Draco Cicero Malfoy. Narcissa and I were debating between Cicero and Draco and Boethius."
"Boethius?"
"A respected philosopher."
"Ah, yes, the old name-your-child-after-someone-famous trick. And who were you named for?"
"Pick a Lucius, any Lucius. There's been three popes, a dictator, several random Romans, a saint, and a legendary king of Britain. Father never could decide which one."
"Abraxas never struck me as the indecisive type."
"Not indecisive. He made his mind quite easily, just had trouble sticking to it."
"Oh."
"Now, you've been hinting at something important you wanted to discuss?"
Regulus looked down at his hands and started fiddling with his fingers. Now that it came to it, he was unsure how Lucius would react.
"Well, how do you feel about the Dark Lord?"
"I have been trying to come up with a shorter name than 'bloody disgusting hypocritical murderer, destroyer of families.' That answer your question?"
"More or less. So you'd help me destroy every trace of him? Every artifact he's left behind?"
Lucius looked back through the window for a moment.
"I take it we're talking about a special kind of artifact?"
"Possibly. All I know is that the one I found is proving damn hard to destroy. And is incredibly evil."
"How did you find it?"
"He wanted to borrow our house elf. And after he returned him, I asked Kreacher about what had happened. You should know, getting that artifact back is what destroyed my health and nearly killed me."
"So he trapped it?"
"Pretty thoroughly."
"And you want me to help find more of these things?"
"Yes."
"How many more are there?"
"I don't know. I have leads on two more. I think if we figure out what these things are, then we might be able to come up with a number."
"Would this be why you have been scouring my library?"
"I found nothing there."
"Just because there's nothing in the books you can access…"
"Ah, clever. So,are you with me in this?"
"Yes. Hurting that bastard from beyond the grave sounds like fun."
"Anyone ever tell you that you have a weird definition of fun, Lucius?"
"Severus, frequently."
"And his idea of fun is what?"
"Nothing a gentleman discusses."
Regulus smiled. He looked better when he smiled, less sickly.
"So he's your bit on the side, is he?"
"Reg, is that any of your business?"
"Not really, but doesn't stop me from asking, now does it?"
"Maybe it should."
Lucius turned back to the window, signaling that the discussion was at an end. He wondered briefly what he'd just gotten himself into, what the future held. Whatever it held, he would keep his family safe, no matter what the cost.