Fic: In the Beginning, Part 1
Nov. 14th, 2009 03:43 pm![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png){kind=small}
nursedarryYup, guilty - this one is mine. I'm astounded and just plain chuffed with all of the wonderful comments this fic has received. As well as being a huge ego boost, it's propelled me into thinking I can do this again!
Title: In The Beginning, Part 1
Pairing: H/D
Rating: NC-17
Summary: With this you get a lion who speaks Parseltongue, Voldesnake in a twisted Tree of Knowledge and if you squint, you might recall "The Blue Lagoon".
Disclaimer: The characters, such as they are, sadly are not mine. They are based upon characters created by JK Rowling, the rights to which are hers and WB's. No money, no harm, no foul.
Warnings: Complete and utter finger-down-your-throat AU fluff.
Word Count: 11,355 (It reads fast, though; honestly, you don't have to think:)
Author's Notes: Written for the 2009![[livejournal.com profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/external/lj-community.gif)
bottom_draco fest. The prompt was Inspired By: Genesis (Garden of Eden scene), AU, Harry and Draco find themselves naked in a garden with a talking snake. She specifically asked for Parseltongue. Who was I to refuse? I had SO much fun writing this! I've never used my Torah as a reference when writing fanfic before:) I could not have done this without the unfailing love and support from ![[livejournal.com profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/external/lj-userinfo.gif)
delphipsmith and cassie_black12.
~~~*~~~
Their tongue shall be their downfall;
all who see them shall recoil in horror;
all men shall stand in awe;
they shall proclaim the work of God
and His deed which they perceived.
-Psalm 64:9
~~~*~~~
Harry loved bath time; it always felt so good.
His mother held him in place with a large velvet paw over his hind quarters as her big tongue swept along his back in rough strokes. Harry longed to tell her she needn’t have bothered holding him down; he wasn’t going anywhere. Roaring softly (or rather, practicing his roar) was the way he told her how he adored the contact, this feeling of belonging, solely because communicating that sentiment by any other means was impossible.
"There, little one," his mother growled affectionately at him. "I think you’re all done. Feel better?"
Harry nuzzled her face with his, but didn’t respond. He’d long ago learned that speaking to his parents only seemed to upset them. And as far as his non-verbal methods of communication went, this was one of his favourites.
His mother nuzzled him back and gave him a playful swat on his rear, pushing him out from under the shade of the tree and toward the warm savannah. Harry spent the afternoon chasing the birds from the tall grass and sneaking up behind the great herd of buffalo until he got too far upwind and they scattered.
~~~*~~~
Later in the day, Harry encountered an animal he’d not seen before. Still a cat, it was smaller than he, but built the same way, with yellow fur and lots of dark spots. Harry was jealous — all of his spots had disappeared a little while ago and he thought they had looked very nice. He became quite excited. Perhaps this animal would be able to talk with him.
The animal carefully approached and gave Harry a sniff. "Who are you?" it asked. It was a girl animal, whatever it was.
Harry said, //My name’s Harry. What’s yours?//
The little animal instantly backed away with narrowing eyes and a growl in her throat.
Harry tried to roar, but it was too late.
"What are you?" the spotty animal asked suspiciously.
//I’m a lion!// Harry said desperately. But he knew that’s not what the other heard. He knew the only thing she had heard was what every other animal heard. She’d heard hissing — sibilant consonants, which he understood perfectly, but which frightened everyone else.
He shook his head and put it down on his forepaws in supplication.
~~~*~~~
He knew he didn't have a choice. Even if he spoke perfect Lion, it was time for him to leave. He'd had a lonely childhood, but he had been well-fed and well-loved.
Harry's destiny, like that of most male lions, was to leave his family and wander, to explore and finally to establish his own pride.
But Harry had other ideas. He was going to find himself; he was going to discover just what he was and who could understand him. He was born a lion, but he was not a lion. He'd never felt at home in his skin. Not for him the search for a harem of females and a life of protective laziness.
~~~*~~~
Harry’s back and belly itched. He’d walked through the dense forest for what felt like a very long time and early on had brushed against a plant that had tickled his hide and caused him to twitch. He spotted a tree with rough bark at its base and hurried over to it. Rubbing his tawny fur against the tree’s trunk he looked up at its branches only to find himself staring into the pale eyes of a creature not one foot away.
Harry leapt back, making a surprised squeak and quickly crouched down in pounce position. The creature didn’t move, just regarded him in a cool fashion, flicking out its very odd tongue in Harry’s direction. The animal was long and slender and didn't look to have any legs or paws. Instead, it was wrapped several times around the branch. Harry wondered how it had got up into the tree.
Once Harry had caught his breath and realised the creature didn’t seem to be an immediate threat, he paced slowly forward until he was within speaking distance.
//Who are you?// the creature asked, coiling back defensively.
//I’m Harry. I’m a lion,// Harry said, eyes downcast, anticipating the usual brusque — or terrified — response.
//Indeed.//
//Huh?// Harry was dumfounded.
//Indeed, you are a lion. What are you doing here? Lions live on the savannah,// the animal said, matter-of-factly.
//What? You can understand me?// Harry’s eyes were as round as saucers and he jumped back and forth in front of the tree in excitement.
The creature hissed in reply, lazily uncoiling itself, //Of course I can understand you; I wouldn’t have answered if I couldn’t.//
//I don’t believe it! No one I have ever met has known what I’m saying! I didn’t even know what language I was speaking!//
//How did you understand anyone else, then?// the other animal asked with an air of exasperation, slithering forward cautiously, //if all you can speak is Snake.//
//I…uh…I dunno?// Harry stopped dancing around in order to think about what the creature had said. He’d never had any difficulty understanding other animals. They had just never been able to understand him.
Until now.
//Is that what you are? A snake?// Harry asked.
The snake bobbed its head in affirmation.
Harry was incredibly excited. He had so much to say and he didn’t know where to start. //Wait!// he called as the snake started slithering down the tree trunk, away from Harry.
It slowly turned and stared at Harry with keen eyes. //What is it?//
//You can’t just leave! I’ve just found you!// Harry walked quickly toward the snake.
//You didn’t just find me,// it hissed back. //I’ve been here all day.//
//Well, I mean, I just met you and now you’re leaving. Where are you going?//
//I have to go home,// the snake bobbed its head a few times, looking impatient.
//Oh,// said Harry, despondently. Then he brightened. //Can I come with you?//
The snake hissed in exasperation. //No! My parents wouldn’t like that.//
//Why not?// asked Harry. How could they not like him? He could speak their language and everything.
//Because,// said the snake, as if that should be enough. When Harry kept keenly peering at him waiting for an explanation, he elaborated. //Because you’re… not a snake.//
//But I can speak Snake,// said Harry. //I won’t get in the way, I won’t bother anyone. Please?// He roared, knowing his family enjoyed the sound, but the snake just retreated further.
//Stop!// the snake cried as he cowered back. //What are you doing?//
//I'm a lion; I roar. It means I’m happy. Well, it can mean lots of things, but I mostly do it when I'm happy,// Harry said, genuinely surprised at the snake’s reaction.
//Well, it’s making my head hurt,// the snake said archly.
As he sadly watched the snake moving away Harry called out, //Will you come back tomorrow?// He so hoped he wouldn’t lose the companionship of the only animal he’d ever met whom he could actually talk to.
The snake moved further along the forest floor, and just as he was almost out of sight, Harry heard a resigned sigh. //I suppose so,// it said.
~~~*~~~
Harry slept underneath the tree where he’d met the snake. He was reluctant to venture far from the area lest he forget where he’d met his new friend. He’d thought about marking the tree, but then decided at the last minute that the snake might not appreciate that. His father had once told him that although lions used wee to recognise and claim territory, not every animal was aware of the smell and many found it offensive. Not the best way to get a new friendship off to a good start, Harry thought.
In the morning, Harry wandered a few yards away to a large stream and drank some water, but didn't go hunting for fear of getting lost. He found that identifying landmarks was very difficult in a forest packed with strange-looking trees, flowers of every size and animals of strange design, none of whom could understand him as the snake had.
He resettled under the tree and waited.
~~~*~~~
Some time later, he heard a slithering rustling sound on the ground and saw the low plants under the tree disturbed by the passage of something. The next moment, the snake appeared as it began its ascent of the tree’s trunk. It stopped at a low branch, close to Harry’s eye level, coiled itself up and sat there, lazily flicking its tongue in Harry’s direction.
//Why do you do that?// Harry asked.
//Do what?// asked the snake.
//Stick your tongue out at me. My mother told me not to do that.//
//It’s how I smell things. You, for instance, smell particularly bad,// the snake said.
Harry realised he’d not had a proper bath in weeks. His mother usually gave him one and he’d not thought about doing it himself while on his odd quest. He’d had more important things to do.
//Sorry,//he said, embarrassed but glad he’d not wee'd all over the tree the previous evening. He flopped down at the base of the trunk and started licking his front paws. //I miss my mother,// he added. //Does your mother give you baths?//
//I should think not,// the snake said disdainfully. //I swim in the water and shed my skin to keep clean. I do not…lick it.//
Harry stopped licking. He didn’t think he’d want to swim or shed his skin, but this felt too good to give up. He started his bath again and decided to change the subject. //What’s your name?//
//Draco,// the snake replied haughtily.
//Draco…// Harry repeated. //I like it.//
//I’m so glad,// Draco said in a condescending manner that was completely lost on Harry.
//Do you live near here?//
//Yes,// Draco said. //I live past the river in the centre of the Garden.//
//I don’t even know where I am,// Harry said. //I left the savannah and came through the desert. And then I was here.//
//This place is called ‘Eden’,// Draco said. //That’s what the Great One says.//
//Who’s the Great One?// Harry walked around the tree.
//He’s our Master. The one who rules us. He’s very smart. What are you doing?// Draco uncoiled and recoiled himself as he followed Harry’s progress around the trunk of the tree.
//I’m just looking to see how long you are,// Harry said.
//Oh,// said Draco, and he slithered down out of the tree and onto the ground. //Don’t step on me,// he warned and stretched. Harry walked from Draco’s head to his tail, around, and back up again.
//I’d say you were about twice my length,// Harry surmised. //Not including my tail, of course.// He gave it a swish in Draco’s direction.
//Do all lions have green eyes?// Draco asked him.
Harry turned around and looked at Draco. //Huh?//
//Your eyes. They’re the same colour as me.//
//As you?// Harry said.
//Yes. The same as me. You see what colour am I, don't you?// Draco asked.
Harry didn't want to answer Draco’s question incorrectly. //I don’t understand.//
//Hm… Perhaps you don’t see in colour,// Draco mused. //Many snakes can’t either, but I, of course, can see all of them.//
//I’m sorry,// Harry said sadly. //What's colour?//
Draco had tried to explain colour to another snake once. He was not going to be drawn into that conversation again. It had made his head hurt almost as much as Harry's roar had. //A pity you don't know,// Draco said. //Especially since you seem to have something in common with us.//
//Can I meet your family?// Harry said abruptly. // I’d love to meet more snakes since they understand me.//
Draco slithered underneath Harry and wrapped himself around the tree once again but made no answer.
//Please?// Harry wheedled.
Draco looked bored with the topic. //Maybe later,// he said. //Are you going to live here now?//
//I think so.// Harry flopped down again and starting to lick his belly. Then he looked back up at Draco wistfully. //I do miss my family but it was my time to leave the pride and I couldn’t wait to explore. I had hoped to find someone who could speak with me. And now I have. It’s nice to have a friend,// Harry said and gnawed at a particularly stubborn burr he’d picked up on his travels.
//Charming,// Draco said with an aristocratic sniff. //And what makes you think I’m your friend? I’ve just met you. I’m not even sure I like you.//
Harry didn’t answer, but looked up with an amused twinkle in his eye. Draco sniffed again and settled himself on a branch.
~~~*~~~
Many days passed. Harry and Draco spent them together, dozing in the sunshine, exploring the Garden, spying on the other animals, hunting and becoming friends. Harry never met another snake of Draco's age and suspected Draco might also have been lonely until Harry had come along.
Draco never said anything about his upbringing and never let the noble façade drop. Perhaps, thought Harry, he was royalty. Harry, who'd grown up with the label King of the Jungle forever being repeated by his pride-mates, had to smile whenever Draco got his upper-class scales in a twist.
Over the next few weeks, Draco stayed out later and later with Harry at their tree. They looked up at the stars, they watched the nocturnal creatures go about their lives and they talked about their childhoods.
One night, as Draco was leaving, he turned about and rested his head on Harry's paw. The lion lowered his broad head and looked at Draco questioningly. //You'll need to be on your best behaviour. I don't know how they'll take to meeting you, but manners are very important.//
//I understand,// Harry said, hoping he truly did.
~~~*~~~
//Mother, Father,// Draco said, sliding past Harry and bobbing his head in greeting. //This is Harry.//
Harry looked up at the two large snakes in the branches above him. They regarded him with patrician stares. Both were coiled around branches as Draco had been, but it was obvious that these snakes were bigger.
//Draco, why have you brought a lion here?// asked the larger of the two big snakes. //He won’t even be able to understand us.//
//Draco,// the other said, ignoring its mate’s outburst, //how do you know his name is Harry?//
//I told him,// Harry said. //I can speak Snake.// Both snakes gaped at the lion and rose up together in shock.
//But how can this be?// the snake Harry assumed was Draco’s father spluttered. //How can you know our language? That’s impossible!//
//It’s obviously not impossible, Lucius,// Draco’s mother said. She resettled herself on the branch, trying to hide her discomfiture. //It's very nice to meet you, Harry. My name is Narcissa.//
//Thank you,// Harry said politely. //I'm very happy that Draco brought me to meet you. I never knew I was speaking Snake until I met Draco, and I am very excited about meeting and speaking to new friends.// Harry missed the embarrassed shrug Draco made at this announcement.
//I'm not sure if we can be your friends, Harry,// Draco's father said. //The Great One tells us that no animal is a friend to snakes. We are supreme in our species and to have dealings with others would taint not only our reputation in the Garden, but in the cursed lands beyond it.
//I don't understand,// Harry said, saddened and confused. //How can I be a threat to you? I just want to live here and grow up and talk with any who can teach me and understand me.//
//But that is not our way, Harry. You would never be accepted as part of this clan. You are not one of us, despite being a friend to my son. He has told us how much you enjoy each others' company, but that isn't enough. Not according to our laws. You are not one of us, therefore you will be shunned. //
//It is not a life we enjoy, Lion,// Lucius elaborated. //We have been taught that we are superior to all animals, although simple observation tells us this may not be true.// He looked around carefully. What he was speaking could be considered blasphemy. //But the Great One was here at the Beginning — he knows more about our heritage than any of us — and he assures us our position within Creation is exalted. He fiercely defends his stance and when challenged, he has killed any who have spoken against him. I cannot see my son come to harm through this association.//
Draco looked at his parents and back at Harry. Harry knew his friend would have to side with them. Draco relied upon them for his well-being, just as Harry had relied upon his pride. Harry knew that Draco might never give up this cosseted position — it had been the only way he knew how to live.
//Can I talk to your Great One?// Harry asked. Lucius and Narcissa looked askance at him. They would be risking their reputation should their Master ever learn that their son had befriended a lion, let along bringing one before him to plead his case to remain among them.
But looking at the gloomy but resolute expression on Draco's face, it was clear that they were torn between their desire to nurture their son and preserve the long-held traditions of their species.
//For the love of my child, I will ask,// Lucius said, not completely at ease with his decision.
~~~*~~~
Several mornings later Harry was dreaming of holding a body against his, his legs and paws moving across the other body slowly. He had no idea what it meant or who the other creature was.
Through these addled images, he felt something move across him and then move away. Then, whatever it was returned and lingered, lying across him in several places. Harry slowly opened his eyes and found himself staring into Draco's eyes. It was Draco who was draped across him.
//Wha— what are you doing?// Harry asked.
//You're much warmer than that tree branch, and I think it is about to rain,// Draco replied. He rested his head against the back of Harry's head now, just behind the lion's ear. //That was a very brave thing to do, asking my father to speak to the Great One.// Draco hissed slowly. //I hope you can help us. I do not want to lose this…//
//You won't, Draco. I am home now.// Harry let his eyes fall shut and began a gentle roar from the back of his throat.
//Harry…// Draco warned.
Harry chuckled. Both creatures dozed the rest of the morning away protected by a huge leaf while the heavens opened.
~~~*~~~
Harry woke later with Draco still wrapped around him. He felt protected, warm, and an emotion he'd never felt before.
Draco was his friend but what Harry felt went beyond this friendship. He wanted to free Draco from his preordained life of obedience, just as he'd been freed from his lonely and silent world upon discovering Draco. Harry wanted to share his future with Draco, to wake up like this always. He suspected Draco wanted the same. And he was prepared to do whatever it took to give Draco that.
~~~*~~~
//You must bow your head, Harry,// Draco instructed, whispering urgently. Draco would not offend the Great One with his friend's lack of respect.
Harry tipped his head down, but remained on his guard. Draco's father had told him that this snake, more than any other, felt contempt for all other creatures, and particularly those who walked upon the ground.
The large black snake glared down at Harry with bright eyes. //I understand you can speak our hallowed tongue. So I know you will understand when I question your intent among us, Lion. What business do you have here?// His voice was hollow and menacing.
Harry bowed his head slightly but did not avert his eyes. This snake was dangerous, of that he was sure. He held his kind in thrall and left them cold comfort in return for their adoration. From what Harry could tell from the time he had shared with Draco and his family before this most formal meeting, he did not protect them, he did not cherish them, he did nothing a patriarch should. Instead, he engendered fear and prejudice — two feelings Harry had had quite enough of. He'd found a bountiful home, a friend and a family whom he could communicate with and live among. Not for him was a pride or offspring, but still he'd found more than he'd ever hoped for.
He would not lose it all because one animal did not approve of his birthright. After all, had they not all been created by the same Being? How could one creature feel superior to another through design? Surely there was a purpose, even for the punished.
//My name is Harry,// he said. //I want to live here with you. I can't speak Snake and I like it here. //
//You have no place here. I am the wisest creature, and none will deign to put themselves before me,// the snake warned.
//I have no designs upon your authority. I only wish to be with my friend.// Harry said.
//None here are your friend, lion,// the serpent said harshly.
Harry's eyes found Draco's. His friend looked frightened and sad. He must not have thought Harry's presence would be such a threat.
//Do not think I cannot banish you from this Paradise, lion,// the snake said. //I have done it before, when He tried to usurp my rightful place with his final malformed creations. I drove them from here and their kind will never know this place again.//
//Malformed creations?// Harry asked, intrigued despite himself.
//Yes. You have surely seen the humans who inhabit the region east of the Garden?// The snake turned its great head and pointed in the direction of the river. //The Garden is vast, encompassing savannah, desert and forest, but it is not infinite. Beyond the River Tigris lies a land that will neither provide nor sustain without toil and sweat. That is now where His prized creatures live. They thought to seize my dominance, but I saw through Him and in the end He had no choice but to expel them from the Paradise he had built for us.//
//Perhaps this Paradise was built for all of us,// Harry suggested. //And we are a part of their home as much as they are a part of ours.//
//You dare to suggest that any animal is equal to me?// The snake shot its head toward Harry's, its forked tongue inches away, venom spitting from its mouth.
Harry did not cower in the face of the Great One's wrath. //Why did they have to leave? How did you know they wanted to dominate your kind?//
//They were cherished above all others. They were made in His image. And they were kind and trusting and nurturing, all qualities which He treasured. Which made them even easier to beguile. For why should these mere humans be His favourites? I tricked them into believing He did not love and trust them. That He believed them children and He their master. But it was I who was master of them as I am master of all.//
//What happened?// Harry asked.
//He was displeased with His children; they had betrayed him. But rather than slay them, which surely He should have, He banished them from the Garden and cursed my kind. And we are now destined to live our lives on our bellies and fear the humans, for they would strike at our heads as surely as we would strike at their heels.//
So snake-kind had been castigated because of this so-called Great One. Did this snake now feel his vengeance best served by denigrating all others when his kind had been cursed? Harry saw little love of this father towards his children.
//You were to blame as surely as they, then,// Harry observed.
//YOU DARE!!!// hissed the serpent in fury. He lunged forward, his poisoned tongue and fangs striking Harry's head.
//Nooo!// cried Draco, flinging himself between them.
//Draco!// shouted his mother. //My son!//
The other assembled snakes could not move; they were angered yet terrified. They had lived in the fear of this hard-hearted master for so long, they no longer thought for themselves. They had supported the Great One with their numbers, but in his battle with this new predator, they would not interfere. They counted on their Master overcoming his foe with cunning and guile — and he had the power and poison with which to kill.
//You corrupt our young as you yourself are corrupted. We do not want you among us,// the angered evil serpent hissed, rearing back to strike again.
Harry leapt over Draco and seized the huge snake's throat in his jaws. Time and time again it tried to strike at Harry, but could get no purchase. Abandoning that tactic, it wrapped its heavy body around Harry and began to squeeze as surely as Harry was choking the breath from its body.
Draco struck at them, biting the other snake repeatedly while trying desperately to keep his fangs away from Harry.
It seemed to take a lifetime. Finally Harry felt the serpent's coils loosen from around his body. He slowly released his jaws from the snake's limp body. He was oblivious to the pain in his head from the earlier strike and indeed hadn't even felt the wound until he tried to focus his eyes upon the body of his opponent, reassuring himself that it was dead.
Draco's parents slithered over to their son as fast as they could. The other snakes held back, perhaps fearing that Harry would take out his anger at being attacked upon them. Harry was sure the concept of tolerance had not been part of their law.
//Draco, are you all right?// Narcissa curled herself around her son as he lowered his head onto her jade scales, exhausted.
Lucius coiled around the two of them and regarded Harry with new eyes. //We're free of him,// he said simply.
Harry looked down at the blood dripping from his nose and raised a paw to his tongue, licking it and cleaning the red ooze from his brow. Lucius hissed and Draco, though exhausted, looked up at his friend.
//Your head,// he said quietly, still short of breath from the strain of his earlier attack. //He has marked you.//
Harry loped off to the stream which ran through this lush part of the Garden and peered at his reflection. A gash, shaped like the forked image of lightning or a snake's tongue was etched into his hide. It was still bleeding and Harry swiped at it again, trying to stem the flow.
Slowly Draco slithered up behind him — Harry could hear him through the underbrush. He turned and looked at Draco, who looked tired and weak, though still imposing.
//Thank you, Draco. He would have killed me if you had not helped me,// Harry said to the snake, dropping his head to his paws in a deep bow.
//Nonsense,// Draco spat. //You killed him, Harry. I just hastened the act.//
//That's not true,// Harry said. //You did more than that. You showed your family and the others that this serpent meant them no good will and never had their best interests at heart. I know the responsibilities demanded of a leader of a pride — I was brought up with that destiny and that expectation. Although I couldn't communicate with my father, he conveyed to me what it means to lead and to lead well. You have known that your leader was failing you in this all this time and just needed a push to act.//
Draco raised the front third of his body and slowly rubbed his head against Harry's as he knew Harry did as a sign of affection. Draco's family once again coiled around their son as he coiled around Harry.
Cautiously, the other snakes approached them. One came closer to the huddled snakes and lion. He appeared almost as big as Lucius and he weaved back and forth, looking anxious.
//We…we are ….free…// the snake said.
//We are leaderless,// said another.
//You are not,// said Harry and all eyes turned to him. //You are free, you are cunning, you are survivors, and you may already have a leader who is capable of seeing you for what you are: part of a great pattern with a purpose to be yourselves.// Harry recalled the words of wisdom from his pride-mates and hoped they would offer some solace now to this pride.
//Father,// Draco said slowly. //You know us better than any other. You know what we must do to survive, to thrive, to multiply, to live. We were doing none of that. We were busy isolating ourselves from our habitat, but Harry has shown us that there is more to this Garden than just our small part of it.//
//There is another life for us, one without fear and struggle. And I intend to live it,// Harry said.
//I will serve my kind as they should be served,// Lucius declared to the other snakes. //With respect and care. Do you not feel that we would do better to celebrate our Garden rather than let divisiveness extinguish our species?//
The other snakes looked around at each other, some agreeing, some silent, but all accepting of the need for a new and outward-looking attitude.
~~~*~~~
//I'm glad you decided to remain with us,// Draco said. //I like being a celebrity, even if for a different reason than before.// He lounged against Harry's body, weaving his head back and forth in front of Harry's face.
//Do you think your father is ready to be the leader he needs to be for your kind?// Harry asked, playfully batting at Draco's tail as it twitched.
//I think he will have to learn. But I do know this: he is not above seeing his failings and asking for help.//
//Yet he never asked me for help,// Harry said.
//He never asked for it, no, but he took it when it was offered and that is already an improvement upon our last leader,// Draco said.
//I'm glad I could help you, Draco,// Harry said and Draco stroked his face against the scar just above Harry's green eyes. //Meeting you has meant so much to me.//
Draco coiled himself around Harry and rested his head against the lion's warm fur. Wrapped around each other once again, they drifted toward sleep.
//I love you, Draco,// Harry said when he assumed the snake had fallen asleep. Harry closed his eyes and his breathing evened out. He didn't hear the sleepy response.
//I love you, too,// Draco hissed.
TBC...
~~~*~~~
Now slither over to Part Two
Title: In The Beginning, Part 1
Pairing: H/D
Rating: NC-17
Summary: With this you get a lion who speaks Parseltongue, Voldesnake in a twisted Tree of Knowledge and if you squint, you might recall "The Blue Lagoon".
Disclaimer: The characters, such as they are, sadly are not mine. They are based upon characters created by JK Rowling, the rights to which are hers and WB's. No money, no harm, no foul.
Warnings: Complete and utter finger-down-your-throat AU fluff.
Word Count: 11,355 (It reads fast, though; honestly, you don't have to think:)
Author's Notes: Written for the 2009
bottom_draco fest. The prompt was Inspired By: Genesis (Garden of Eden scene), AU, Harry and Draco find themselves naked in a garden with a talking snake. She specifically asked for Parseltongue. Who was I to refuse? I had SO much fun writing this! I've never used my Torah as a reference when writing fanfic before:) I could not have done this without the unfailing love and support from delphipsmith and cassie_black12.all who see them shall recoil in horror;
all men shall stand in awe;
they shall proclaim the work of God
and His deed which they perceived.
-Psalm 64:9
Harry loved bath time; it always felt so good.
His mother held him in place with a large velvet paw over his hind quarters as her big tongue swept along his back in rough strokes. Harry longed to tell her she needn’t have bothered holding him down; he wasn’t going anywhere. Roaring softly (or rather, practicing his roar) was the way he told her how he adored the contact, this feeling of belonging, solely because communicating that sentiment by any other means was impossible.
"There, little one," his mother growled affectionately at him. "I think you’re all done. Feel better?"
Harry nuzzled her face with his, but didn’t respond. He’d long ago learned that speaking to his parents only seemed to upset them. And as far as his non-verbal methods of communication went, this was one of his favourites.
His mother nuzzled him back and gave him a playful swat on his rear, pushing him out from under the shade of the tree and toward the warm savannah. Harry spent the afternoon chasing the birds from the tall grass and sneaking up behind the great herd of buffalo until he got too far upwind and they scattered.
Later in the day, Harry encountered an animal he’d not seen before. Still a cat, it was smaller than he, but built the same way, with yellow fur and lots of dark spots. Harry was jealous — all of his spots had disappeared a little while ago and he thought they had looked very nice. He became quite excited. Perhaps this animal would be able to talk with him.
The animal carefully approached and gave Harry a sniff. "Who are you?" it asked. It was a girl animal, whatever it was.
Harry said, //My name’s Harry. What’s yours?//
The little animal instantly backed away with narrowing eyes and a growl in her throat.
Harry tried to roar, but it was too late.
"What are you?" the spotty animal asked suspiciously.
//I’m a lion!// Harry said desperately. But he knew that’s not what the other heard. He knew the only thing she had heard was what every other animal heard. She’d heard hissing — sibilant consonants, which he understood perfectly, but which frightened everyone else.
He shook his head and put it down on his forepaws in supplication.
He knew he didn't have a choice. Even if he spoke perfect Lion, it was time for him to leave. He'd had a lonely childhood, but he had been well-fed and well-loved.
Harry's destiny, like that of most male lions, was to leave his family and wander, to explore and finally to establish his own pride.
But Harry had other ideas. He was going to find himself; he was going to discover just what he was and who could understand him. He was born a lion, but he was not a lion. He'd never felt at home in his skin. Not for him the search for a harem of females and a life of protective laziness.
Harry’s back and belly itched. He’d walked through the dense forest for what felt like a very long time and early on had brushed against a plant that had tickled his hide and caused him to twitch. He spotted a tree with rough bark at its base and hurried over to it. Rubbing his tawny fur against the tree’s trunk he looked up at its branches only to find himself staring into the pale eyes of a creature not one foot away.
Harry leapt back, making a surprised squeak and quickly crouched down in pounce position. The creature didn’t move, just regarded him in a cool fashion, flicking out its very odd tongue in Harry’s direction. The animal was long and slender and didn't look to have any legs or paws. Instead, it was wrapped several times around the branch. Harry wondered how it had got up into the tree.
Once Harry had caught his breath and realised the creature didn’t seem to be an immediate threat, he paced slowly forward until he was within speaking distance.
//Who are you?// the creature asked, coiling back defensively.
//I’m Harry. I’m a lion,// Harry said, eyes downcast, anticipating the usual brusque — or terrified — response.
//Indeed.//
//Huh?// Harry was dumfounded.
//Indeed, you are a lion. What are you doing here? Lions live on the savannah,// the animal said, matter-of-factly.
//What? You can understand me?// Harry’s eyes were as round as saucers and he jumped back and forth in front of the tree in excitement.
The creature hissed in reply, lazily uncoiling itself, //Of course I can understand you; I wouldn’t have answered if I couldn’t.//
//I don’t believe it! No one I have ever met has known what I’m saying! I didn’t even know what language I was speaking!//
//How did you understand anyone else, then?// the other animal asked with an air of exasperation, slithering forward cautiously, //if all you can speak is Snake.//
//I…uh…I dunno?// Harry stopped dancing around in order to think about what the creature had said. He’d never had any difficulty understanding other animals. They had just never been able to understand him.
Until now.
//Is that what you are? A snake?// Harry asked.
The snake bobbed its head in affirmation.
Harry was incredibly excited. He had so much to say and he didn’t know where to start. //Wait!// he called as the snake started slithering down the tree trunk, away from Harry.
It slowly turned and stared at Harry with keen eyes. //What is it?//
//You can’t just leave! I’ve just found you!// Harry walked quickly toward the snake.
//You didn’t just find me,// it hissed back. //I’ve been here all day.//
//Well, I mean, I just met you and now you’re leaving. Where are you going?//
//I have to go home,// the snake bobbed its head a few times, looking impatient.
//Oh,// said Harry, despondently. Then he brightened. //Can I come with you?//
The snake hissed in exasperation. //No! My parents wouldn’t like that.//
//Why not?// asked Harry. How could they not like him? He could speak their language and everything.
//Because,// said the snake, as if that should be enough. When Harry kept keenly peering at him waiting for an explanation, he elaborated. //Because you’re… not a snake.//
//But I can speak Snake,// said Harry. //I won’t get in the way, I won’t bother anyone. Please?// He roared, knowing his family enjoyed the sound, but the snake just retreated further.
//Stop!// the snake cried as he cowered back. //What are you doing?//
//I'm a lion; I roar. It means I’m happy. Well, it can mean lots of things, but I mostly do it when I'm happy,// Harry said, genuinely surprised at the snake’s reaction.
//Well, it’s making my head hurt,// the snake said archly.
As he sadly watched the snake moving away Harry called out, //Will you come back tomorrow?// He so hoped he wouldn’t lose the companionship of the only animal he’d ever met whom he could actually talk to.
The snake moved further along the forest floor, and just as he was almost out of sight, Harry heard a resigned sigh. //I suppose so,// it said.
Harry slept underneath the tree where he’d met the snake. He was reluctant to venture far from the area lest he forget where he’d met his new friend. He’d thought about marking the tree, but then decided at the last minute that the snake might not appreciate that. His father had once told him that although lions used wee to recognise and claim territory, not every animal was aware of the smell and many found it offensive. Not the best way to get a new friendship off to a good start, Harry thought.
In the morning, Harry wandered a few yards away to a large stream and drank some water, but didn't go hunting for fear of getting lost. He found that identifying landmarks was very difficult in a forest packed with strange-looking trees, flowers of every size and animals of strange design, none of whom could understand him as the snake had.
He resettled under the tree and waited.
Some time later, he heard a slithering rustling sound on the ground and saw the low plants under the tree disturbed by the passage of something. The next moment, the snake appeared as it began its ascent of the tree’s trunk. It stopped at a low branch, close to Harry’s eye level, coiled itself up and sat there, lazily flicking its tongue in Harry’s direction.
//Why do you do that?// Harry asked.
//Do what?// asked the snake.
//Stick your tongue out at me. My mother told me not to do that.//
//It’s how I smell things. You, for instance, smell particularly bad,// the snake said.
Harry realised he’d not had a proper bath in weeks. His mother usually gave him one and he’d not thought about doing it himself while on his odd quest. He’d had more important things to do.
//Sorry,//he said, embarrassed but glad he’d not wee'd all over the tree the previous evening. He flopped down at the base of the trunk and started licking his front paws. //I miss my mother,// he added. //Does your mother give you baths?//
//I should think not,// the snake said disdainfully. //I swim in the water and shed my skin to keep clean. I do not…lick it.//
Harry stopped licking. He didn’t think he’d want to swim or shed his skin, but this felt too good to give up. He started his bath again and decided to change the subject. //What’s your name?//
//Draco,// the snake replied haughtily.
//Draco…// Harry repeated. //I like it.//
//I’m so glad,// Draco said in a condescending manner that was completely lost on Harry.
//Do you live near here?//
//Yes,// Draco said. //I live past the river in the centre of the Garden.//
//I don’t even know where I am,// Harry said. //I left the savannah and came through the desert. And then I was here.//
//This place is called ‘Eden’,// Draco said. //That’s what the Great One says.//
//Who’s the Great One?// Harry walked around the tree.
//He’s our Master. The one who rules us. He’s very smart. What are you doing?// Draco uncoiled and recoiled himself as he followed Harry’s progress around the trunk of the tree.
//I’m just looking to see how long you are,// Harry said.
//Oh,// said Draco, and he slithered down out of the tree and onto the ground. //Don’t step on me,// he warned and stretched. Harry walked from Draco’s head to his tail, around, and back up again.
//I’d say you were about twice my length,// Harry surmised. //Not including my tail, of course.// He gave it a swish in Draco’s direction.
//Do all lions have green eyes?// Draco asked him.
Harry turned around and looked at Draco. //Huh?//
//Your eyes. They’re the same colour as me.//
//As you?// Harry said.
//Yes. The same as me. You see what colour am I, don't you?// Draco asked.
Harry didn't want to answer Draco’s question incorrectly. //I don’t understand.//
//Hm… Perhaps you don’t see in colour,// Draco mused. //Many snakes can’t either, but I, of course, can see all of them.//
//I’m sorry,// Harry said sadly. //What's colour?//
Draco had tried to explain colour to another snake once. He was not going to be drawn into that conversation again. It had made his head hurt almost as much as Harry's roar had. //A pity you don't know,// Draco said. //Especially since you seem to have something in common with us.//
//Can I meet your family?// Harry said abruptly. // I’d love to meet more snakes since they understand me.//
Draco slithered underneath Harry and wrapped himself around the tree once again but made no answer.
//Please?// Harry wheedled.
Draco looked bored with the topic. //Maybe later,// he said. //Are you going to live here now?//
//I think so.// Harry flopped down again and starting to lick his belly. Then he looked back up at Draco wistfully. //I do miss my family but it was my time to leave the pride and I couldn’t wait to explore. I had hoped to find someone who could speak with me. And now I have. It’s nice to have a friend,// Harry said and gnawed at a particularly stubborn burr he’d picked up on his travels.
//Charming,// Draco said with an aristocratic sniff. //And what makes you think I’m your friend? I’ve just met you. I’m not even sure I like you.//
Harry didn’t answer, but looked up with an amused twinkle in his eye. Draco sniffed again and settled himself on a branch.
Many days passed. Harry and Draco spent them together, dozing in the sunshine, exploring the Garden, spying on the other animals, hunting and becoming friends. Harry never met another snake of Draco's age and suspected Draco might also have been lonely until Harry had come along.
Draco never said anything about his upbringing and never let the noble façade drop. Perhaps, thought Harry, he was royalty. Harry, who'd grown up with the label King of the Jungle forever being repeated by his pride-mates, had to smile whenever Draco got his upper-class scales in a twist.
Over the next few weeks, Draco stayed out later and later with Harry at their tree. They looked up at the stars, they watched the nocturnal creatures go about their lives and they talked about their childhoods.
One night, as Draco was leaving, he turned about and rested his head on Harry's paw. The lion lowered his broad head and looked at Draco questioningly. //You'll need to be on your best behaviour. I don't know how they'll take to meeting you, but manners are very important.//
//I understand,// Harry said, hoping he truly did.
//Mother, Father,// Draco said, sliding past Harry and bobbing his head in greeting. //This is Harry.//
Harry looked up at the two large snakes in the branches above him. They regarded him with patrician stares. Both were coiled around branches as Draco had been, but it was obvious that these snakes were bigger.
//Draco, why have you brought a lion here?// asked the larger of the two big snakes. //He won’t even be able to understand us.//
//Draco,// the other said, ignoring its mate’s outburst, //how do you know his name is Harry?//
//I told him,// Harry said. //I can speak Snake.// Both snakes gaped at the lion and rose up together in shock.
//But how can this be?// the snake Harry assumed was Draco’s father spluttered. //How can you know our language? That’s impossible!//
//It’s obviously not impossible, Lucius,// Draco’s mother said. She resettled herself on the branch, trying to hide her discomfiture. //It's very nice to meet you, Harry. My name is Narcissa.//
//Thank you,// Harry said politely. //I'm very happy that Draco brought me to meet you. I never knew I was speaking Snake until I met Draco, and I am very excited about meeting and speaking to new friends.// Harry missed the embarrassed shrug Draco made at this announcement.
//I'm not sure if we can be your friends, Harry,// Draco's father said. //The Great One tells us that no animal is a friend to snakes. We are supreme in our species and to have dealings with others would taint not only our reputation in the Garden, but in the cursed lands beyond it.
//I don't understand,// Harry said, saddened and confused. //How can I be a threat to you? I just want to live here and grow up and talk with any who can teach me and understand me.//
//But that is not our way, Harry. You would never be accepted as part of this clan. You are not one of us, despite being a friend to my son. He has told us how much you enjoy each others' company, but that isn't enough. Not according to our laws. You are not one of us, therefore you will be shunned. //
//It is not a life we enjoy, Lion,// Lucius elaborated. //We have been taught that we are superior to all animals, although simple observation tells us this may not be true.// He looked around carefully. What he was speaking could be considered blasphemy. //But the Great One was here at the Beginning — he knows more about our heritage than any of us — and he assures us our position within Creation is exalted. He fiercely defends his stance and when challenged, he has killed any who have spoken against him. I cannot see my son come to harm through this association.//
Draco looked at his parents and back at Harry. Harry knew his friend would have to side with them. Draco relied upon them for his well-being, just as Harry had relied upon his pride. Harry knew that Draco might never give up this cosseted position — it had been the only way he knew how to live.
//Can I talk to your Great One?// Harry asked. Lucius and Narcissa looked askance at him. They would be risking their reputation should their Master ever learn that their son had befriended a lion, let along bringing one before him to plead his case to remain among them.
But looking at the gloomy but resolute expression on Draco's face, it was clear that they were torn between their desire to nurture their son and preserve the long-held traditions of their species.
//For the love of my child, I will ask,// Lucius said, not completely at ease with his decision.
Several mornings later Harry was dreaming of holding a body against his, his legs and paws moving across the other body slowly. He had no idea what it meant or who the other creature was.
Through these addled images, he felt something move across him and then move away. Then, whatever it was returned and lingered, lying across him in several places. Harry slowly opened his eyes and found himself staring into Draco's eyes. It was Draco who was draped across him.
//Wha— what are you doing?// Harry asked.
//You're much warmer than that tree branch, and I think it is about to rain,// Draco replied. He rested his head against the back of Harry's head now, just behind the lion's ear. //That was a very brave thing to do, asking my father to speak to the Great One.// Draco hissed slowly. //I hope you can help us. I do not want to lose this…//
//You won't, Draco. I am home now.// Harry let his eyes fall shut and began a gentle roar from the back of his throat.
//Harry…// Draco warned.
Harry chuckled. Both creatures dozed the rest of the morning away protected by a huge leaf while the heavens opened.
Harry woke later with Draco still wrapped around him. He felt protected, warm, and an emotion he'd never felt before.
Draco was his friend but what Harry felt went beyond this friendship. He wanted to free Draco from his preordained life of obedience, just as he'd been freed from his lonely and silent world upon discovering Draco. Harry wanted to share his future with Draco, to wake up like this always. He suspected Draco wanted the same. And he was prepared to do whatever it took to give Draco that.
//You must bow your head, Harry,// Draco instructed, whispering urgently. Draco would not offend the Great One with his friend's lack of respect.
Harry tipped his head down, but remained on his guard. Draco's father had told him that this snake, more than any other, felt contempt for all other creatures, and particularly those who walked upon the ground.
The large black snake glared down at Harry with bright eyes. //I understand you can speak our hallowed tongue. So I know you will understand when I question your intent among us, Lion. What business do you have here?// His voice was hollow and menacing.
Harry bowed his head slightly but did not avert his eyes. This snake was dangerous, of that he was sure. He held his kind in thrall and left them cold comfort in return for their adoration. From what Harry could tell from the time he had shared with Draco and his family before this most formal meeting, he did not protect them, he did not cherish them, he did nothing a patriarch should. Instead, he engendered fear and prejudice — two feelings Harry had had quite enough of. He'd found a bountiful home, a friend and a family whom he could communicate with and live among. Not for him was a pride or offspring, but still he'd found more than he'd ever hoped for.
He would not lose it all because one animal did not approve of his birthright. After all, had they not all been created by the same Being? How could one creature feel superior to another through design? Surely there was a purpose, even for the punished.
//My name is Harry,// he said. //I want to live here with you. I can't speak Snake and I like it here. //
//You have no place here. I am the wisest creature, and none will deign to put themselves before me,// the snake warned.
//I have no designs upon your authority. I only wish to be with my friend.// Harry said.
//None here are your friend, lion,// the serpent said harshly.
Harry's eyes found Draco's. His friend looked frightened and sad. He must not have thought Harry's presence would be such a threat.
//Do not think I cannot banish you from this Paradise, lion,// the snake said. //I have done it before, when He tried to usurp my rightful place with his final malformed creations. I drove them from here and their kind will never know this place again.//
//Malformed creations?// Harry asked, intrigued despite himself.
//Yes. You have surely seen the humans who inhabit the region east of the Garden?// The snake turned its great head and pointed in the direction of the river. //The Garden is vast, encompassing savannah, desert and forest, but it is not infinite. Beyond the River Tigris lies a land that will neither provide nor sustain without toil and sweat. That is now where His prized creatures live. They thought to seize my dominance, but I saw through Him and in the end He had no choice but to expel them from the Paradise he had built for us.//
//Perhaps this Paradise was built for all of us,// Harry suggested. //And we are a part of their home as much as they are a part of ours.//
//You dare to suggest that any animal is equal to me?// The snake shot its head toward Harry's, its forked tongue inches away, venom spitting from its mouth.
Harry did not cower in the face of the Great One's wrath. //Why did they have to leave? How did you know they wanted to dominate your kind?//
//They were cherished above all others. They were made in His image. And they were kind and trusting and nurturing, all qualities which He treasured. Which made them even easier to beguile. For why should these mere humans be His favourites? I tricked them into believing He did not love and trust them. That He believed them children and He their master. But it was I who was master of them as I am master of all.//
//What happened?// Harry asked.
//He was displeased with His children; they had betrayed him. But rather than slay them, which surely He should have, He banished them from the Garden and cursed my kind. And we are now destined to live our lives on our bellies and fear the humans, for they would strike at our heads as surely as we would strike at their heels.//
So snake-kind had been castigated because of this so-called Great One. Did this snake now feel his vengeance best served by denigrating all others when his kind had been cursed? Harry saw little love of this father towards his children.
//You were to blame as surely as they, then,// Harry observed.
//YOU DARE!!!// hissed the serpent in fury. He lunged forward, his poisoned tongue and fangs striking Harry's head.
//Nooo!// cried Draco, flinging himself between them.
//Draco!// shouted his mother. //My son!//
The other assembled snakes could not move; they were angered yet terrified. They had lived in the fear of this hard-hearted master for so long, they no longer thought for themselves. They had supported the Great One with their numbers, but in his battle with this new predator, they would not interfere. They counted on their Master overcoming his foe with cunning and guile — and he had the power and poison with which to kill.
//You corrupt our young as you yourself are corrupted. We do not want you among us,// the angered evil serpent hissed, rearing back to strike again.
Harry leapt over Draco and seized the huge snake's throat in his jaws. Time and time again it tried to strike at Harry, but could get no purchase. Abandoning that tactic, it wrapped its heavy body around Harry and began to squeeze as surely as Harry was choking the breath from its body.
Draco struck at them, biting the other snake repeatedly while trying desperately to keep his fangs away from Harry.
It seemed to take a lifetime. Finally Harry felt the serpent's coils loosen from around his body. He slowly released his jaws from the snake's limp body. He was oblivious to the pain in his head from the earlier strike and indeed hadn't even felt the wound until he tried to focus his eyes upon the body of his opponent, reassuring himself that it was dead.
Draco's parents slithered over to their son as fast as they could. The other snakes held back, perhaps fearing that Harry would take out his anger at being attacked upon them. Harry was sure the concept of tolerance had not been part of their law.
//Draco, are you all right?// Narcissa curled herself around her son as he lowered his head onto her jade scales, exhausted.
Lucius coiled around the two of them and regarded Harry with new eyes. //We're free of him,// he said simply.
Harry looked down at the blood dripping from his nose and raised a paw to his tongue, licking it and cleaning the red ooze from his brow. Lucius hissed and Draco, though exhausted, looked up at his friend.
//Your head,// he said quietly, still short of breath from the strain of his earlier attack. //He has marked you.//
Harry loped off to the stream which ran through this lush part of the Garden and peered at his reflection. A gash, shaped like the forked image of lightning or a snake's tongue was etched into his hide. It was still bleeding and Harry swiped at it again, trying to stem the flow.
Slowly Draco slithered up behind him — Harry could hear him through the underbrush. He turned and looked at Draco, who looked tired and weak, though still imposing.
//Thank you, Draco. He would have killed me if you had not helped me,// Harry said to the snake, dropping his head to his paws in a deep bow.
//Nonsense,// Draco spat. //You killed him, Harry. I just hastened the act.//
//That's not true,// Harry said. //You did more than that. You showed your family and the others that this serpent meant them no good will and never had their best interests at heart. I know the responsibilities demanded of a leader of a pride — I was brought up with that destiny and that expectation. Although I couldn't communicate with my father, he conveyed to me what it means to lead and to lead well. You have known that your leader was failing you in this all this time and just needed a push to act.//
Draco raised the front third of his body and slowly rubbed his head against Harry's as he knew Harry did as a sign of affection. Draco's family once again coiled around their son as he coiled around Harry.
Cautiously, the other snakes approached them. One came closer to the huddled snakes and lion. He appeared almost as big as Lucius and he weaved back and forth, looking anxious.
//We…we are ….free…// the snake said.
//We are leaderless,// said another.
//You are not,// said Harry and all eyes turned to him. //You are free, you are cunning, you are survivors, and you may already have a leader who is capable of seeing you for what you are: part of a great pattern with a purpose to be yourselves.// Harry recalled the words of wisdom from his pride-mates and hoped they would offer some solace now to this pride.
//Father,// Draco said slowly. //You know us better than any other. You know what we must do to survive, to thrive, to multiply, to live. We were doing none of that. We were busy isolating ourselves from our habitat, but Harry has shown us that there is more to this Garden than just our small part of it.//
//There is another life for us, one without fear and struggle. And I intend to live it,// Harry said.
//I will serve my kind as they should be served,// Lucius declared to the other snakes. //With respect and care. Do you not feel that we would do better to celebrate our Garden rather than let divisiveness extinguish our species?//
The other snakes looked around at each other, some agreeing, some silent, but all accepting of the need for a new and outward-looking attitude.
//I'm glad you decided to remain with us,// Draco said. //I like being a celebrity, even if for a different reason than before.// He lounged against Harry's body, weaving his head back and forth in front of Harry's face.
//Do you think your father is ready to be the leader he needs to be for your kind?// Harry asked, playfully batting at Draco's tail as it twitched.
//I think he will have to learn. But I do know this: he is not above seeing his failings and asking for help.//
//Yet he never asked me for help,// Harry said.
//He never asked for it, no, but he took it when it was offered and that is already an improvement upon our last leader,// Draco said.
//I'm glad I could help you, Draco,// Harry said and Draco stroked his face against the scar just above Harry's green eyes. //Meeting you has meant so much to me.//
Draco coiled himself around Harry and rested his head against the lion's warm fur. Wrapped around each other once again, they drifted toward sleep.
//I love you, Draco,// Harry said when he assumed the snake had fallen asleep. Harry closed his eyes and his breathing evened out. He didn't hear the sleepy response.
//I love you, too,// Draco hissed.
TBC...
