CambAngst,
This was very sweet. I especially liked the way you described her 'feelings'... her skin, her excitement, etc... Very well written, as usual.

I liked that they talked and even though she was prying into things he did not want to talk about, it was his way of understanding how much she truly cared. Her words obviously effected him so much that he finally kissed her, even though he still didn't talk about the war. That sounds very much like something he would do. It was a diversion, but at the same time it was still very much heart-felt. And as an author, I think you expertly timed it just right and kept it innocent and sweet and not rushed.

I can also say that I appreciate McGonnegal's comments to him about things she can respect.

Great job,
Dark Whisper

Author's Response: Hi, there!

I really went out of my way in this one to capture the things that Astoria is feeling physically because she's at least sure about that part. Emotionally, she's having a somewhat harder time being sure.

Draco's having a bit of difficulty because as much as he likes the fact that Astoria cares for him and wants to help him deal with his memories of the war, he's still has a hard time opening up and letting her do it. That's the Malfoy upbringing coming through. In this case, he kisses his way out of the situation. It was very heartfelt, but also a dodge. He's a complicated character.

McGonagall was being true to her responsibility as the head of the school, but I hope it was apparent that she still feels really ambivalent about Draco. I think she *wants* to give him the benefit of the doubt, but the war is still very fresh and painful in her mind. So she might respect the changes he's made, but she's probably not going to ever feel especially warmly toward him.

Thanks so much for reading and taking a minute to review

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Awesome! Wow, Meg you have really impressed me with your imagination today! I was totally transfixed onto your every word. What was going to happen? I was completely glued.

"You were born." Ouch... that stung to the core. Ugh! So terribly heartwrenching for the girl and awful for her to say.

And her feeling that Draco truly only changed sides because he knew Voldemort wasn't going to win... oh, dear, I hope he sets that straight somehow. I don't know how... that would be up to you, but I do hope you put that in your story at some point because my heart can't take that. ;)

I love, love, LOVE then ending! She surprised and impressed him with her little Imperious trick. Excellent!

And to return with a huge surprise of his own? Jaw dropping! Illusions... YES! Perfect. Amazing job in this chapter and storyline as a whole.

Very, very, good. I hope you can continue this suspenseful story. It is creative and very original. Where will you take us next?

Dark Whisper

Author's Response: Dark,

Your reviews are always so nice. I love reading them and getting your thoughts on the whole thing. I'm glad you were transfixed. I don't think I'm a ever good action writer.

Yes, this is Hermione's first undercover operation and it is the hardest. She has to do things and say things that tear her to pieces and make sleep nearly impossible.

Lol, have a little faith. She won't always think that way about Draco as clues to the past come to light. Draco still is acting haughty but that is his cover. :)

I knew they wouldn't trust her until she could prove herself but on the other hand I knew she would never actually torture anyone. Though it doesn't show yet, Draco is impressed with her performance because if he wasn't he woundn't have bothered with telling her the truth. Yes, a double twist.

Thank you, thank you, thank you! You are too kind.

Meg

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Meg,
Oh, you have a lot going on in this chapter.

Bellatrix's portrait? Oh my goodnes, that would bring much hurt and anger at seeing her!

And a room with a warning from the house elf?

And you wrote the shock of seeing two 'dead men walking' very well. Excellent job.

Hermione did so very well with his introduction too... saying that he was the true guest of honor. Wow on that one.

And Rodolphus? Ugh... I do not like him. That was extremely disrespectful to Draco... looking at his girlfriend like that. Terrible.

I like how you included people from different countries and that Blaise and Astoria were there as well.

I'm loving that she is impressing Draco so well. I hope you make him crazy to find out who she really is. He is a smart one to possibly figure it out though.

Great job as usual,
Dark Whisper

Author's Response: Dark,

It makes me so happy that you have taken the time to continue to read this. It was a fairly busy chapter but it my mind it was just a transition. Lol.

I figured since she was technical Draco's Aunt and Rodolphus being in and out of the house that it shouldn't be too out of place for her portrait to be in Draco's house. Plus, it adds to the mystery of the room a bit. :)

Hermione knows how to impress and more importantly stay alive. I don't plan on bring anyone else back from the dead though.

There will be more to come with Draco and Rodolphus. I promise... He will not get away with it so easily. First and foremost, Draco must play a Malfoy. :)

Thank you again for reading and reviewing. It makes me very very happy.

Meg

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CambAngst,

Oh, I do love it when Draco goes to the edge of fury. The entire wand at Flint's throat thing had me squealing with delight. Loved it.

I had to laugh with Gamp about Voldemort though... Draco's "sign of spring" comment and Gamp saying he was wondering if a Death Eater would finally admit that. Hahaha! Somehow it reminds of the "reasons why Voldemort is like a teen-age girl." (You can look that up if you don't know and need a good laugh). xD But I'm glad that you remind us through Draco that Gamp truly has nothing on Voldemort. And all kidding aside, that is what really rings true.

It is apparent that Draco thinks his father is involved, but you have not convinced me that this is the benefactor that the group is speaking of. Hmm. A bit of mystery remains to me.

I do love your details, as usual... the glass on the floor, the backstory of the tiara, her getting ill on her first and last rollercoaster ride at the bank. Very nice.

And finally, in this little exchange with Astoria and Narcissa... I LOVE that she mentions that the little bit of doubt Draco instilled in Bellatrix played a major role as well. Draco never gets enough credit for this, so I do thank you for pointing it out. You do justice to him and true fans of Draco's thank you for it.

Great job,
Dark Whisper

Author's Response: Hi, there!

Draco has quite a temper still, and the more stress he's under, the worse it seems to get.

Gamp is one of those completely crazy people who sometimes sees the world in unique ways. Unique for a pure blood sociopath, anyway. I can't remember where I first saw the joke abut Harry beating Voldemort every spring, but it's definitely true.

Draco is pretty convinced by this point that old Lucius is behind this all somehow. It is a mystery, because it's far from certain...

I don't see how *anyone* doesn't get sick on their first trip into the depths of Gringotts. That's a pretty insane ride.

There I go again, letting Narcissa steal a scene. I did it a few times in Marked. It's hard not to, because her story and Draco's are so tightly connected. Draco did play a role in helping defeat Voldemort, whether he wanted to of not.

I'm pleased that you enjoyed it! Thanks for reading and reviewing!

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AccioHPFF,

Wow... that poor cat. And I'm in agreement with the look on Bellatrix face, enjoying dark magic, etc... It is interesting that she witnessed this (and many other bad things) and still felt the deep connection of being her sister, which outweighed the bad.

There is power in grieving and missing someone so much and obviously drove Narcissa to cross the line into 'her sister's magic,' which I loved your words to describe it. Very good.

And I enjoyed your timeline and how it flowed backward. It really added to your story and made it interesting. It begged for questions on how and why and you revealed all to your readers in an interesting way.

Great job on this short story. It had few words, but it didn't need more, as what was said was potent and to the point and packed with plenty of emotions.

Great job,
Dark Whisper

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AccioHPFF,

Well, this is certainly different than anything I've read. Narcissa taking out Molly? Oh, my. I can see it happening though... revenge for her sister.

And you wrote Molly as if she expected it, always uneasy and haunted, really.

It was tragic, but understandable, you know? Very interesting storyline.

I like how you incorporated the Weasley clock. Great detail there.

Very dark,
Dark Whisper

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Hello, AccioHPFF,

I thought I'd check you out on the Archive today. :) And when I saw a completed Narcissa fic, I just had to check it out.

Well, I must say, it seems heartbreaking that she would die in prison, but I'm really glad that it didn't happen on June 5th, because that is Draco's birthday. ;(

I think you did a really good job at describing what she looked like and her thoughts of Lucius and Draco in the end. Very sad, indeed.

Reading on...
Dark Whisper

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HarryPotterBookworm (nikkinike),

Well, first can I just say that I LOVE, LOVE the quote at the very beginning of your story. It is so true about light and is actually inspiring.

There were so many 'awe' moments in this story, I don't even know where to begin. I suppose it will be with the funny hair. :) I love your description of her red with black streaks. And love how you tied it in the middle of the story with her looking like a black and red statue, poor thing. And then of course bringing it back in the end. It was very sweet.

You described that first train ride really well. She was similar to Harry in that she hadn't known about magic or Hogwarts until it was time to leave, poor thing.

Your backstory for her was really amazing and I can see how she would live with pushing all of that hurt to the back and try to live with it somehow. The catalyst to letting it all out was heartbreaking as well... I mean 3 years is a long time. But in the end, it brought about her true feelings with Oliver, which needed to happen.

I liked how you incorporated the quote as seeing Oliver as her light in her darkness. It was so sweet in many ways.

It warms my heart that it was him that found her and I love how he reacted to Roger. Go, Oliver!

Truly, it was wonderful that he stuck by her while she healed and even wanted her to live with him. There was no reason for her to go 'home' anyway. Which, by the way... I think Cella (love her name) really fit in with Dumbledore's Hogwarts... meaning he always had a soft spot for the less fortunate truly needing a 'home'. (Tom, Harry, Cella, there are others, but I can't think of them at the moment).

Anyway, she fits right in and I can only imagine what happened to her mother who left magic and didn't want her to be a part of it. Perhaps she is a victim of the 1st war and also had post traumatic stress, etc. ;(

Anyway, great storyline, great depth, characters, and of course... Oliver Wood, who just warms my heart, especially after reading your story.

Ah, the beginnings of love... :)
Thank you for sharing your story.
Dark Whisper

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Oh, CambAngst,
I'm so glad I happened upon this story.

This is so funny that I actually laughed several times throughout. So hysterical!

Snape was so perfect in this. I loved what he was scribbling beside their names.

And McGonnagal was so funny and so right. I loved what you did with the Slytherins and the Gryffindors. Brown the romance novelist and Hermione's dead-end job. So funny!

And Pansy... Draco or Lucius version? Yikes! There's just something so wrong about that. Hahaha!

I must say though... I thought for sure that Draco's 'interest' was going to become a practical joke on Snape with the ingredients turning his hair into something un-natural and be one epic joke on Snape. LOL! I wouldn't have put it past that cunning little prat. I appreciated how you made his situation a bit serious... but then Snape wrote "Snake food." XD Hahahaha!

Great humorous storyline.
Thanks for the laughs,
Dark Whisper

Author's Response: Hi, there!

I'm really glad that you happened upon it, then! ;) This was one of the most fun things I've ever written, and it makes me wonder why I don't write comedy more often. Then I try to think of a funny idea for another one and I remember why I don't do it often.

I actually find Snape to be among the easiest characters to write. I just let my inner Alan Rickman run wild. I can always hear his voice in my head whenever I imagine Snape.

Poor Pansy is kind of a basket case. Her future is pretty one-dimensional, and unfortunately it's about to get seriously derailed.

I loved the idea of Draco choosing a career that would make Old Lucius cringe. Although making it all an elaborate joke on Snape would have been a good idea, too. I'll file that one away...

Thanks so much for reading and reviewing!

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There's just something about the thrill of getting a letter. I miss them, actually, as they become more rare these modern days.

So... I had to think about this one... Emery would be Blaise's step-nephew. LOL! Loved Zabini's description of him... haha... little more harsh than Astoria's. And I loved Draco's take on Zabini's mother as well. Wow!

And oh, Draco... don't do it! Don't let your friends drag you down and become cell-mates in Azkaban! Oh, my stars, you've set up this story very well.

And Astoria... I loved her question to her mother. It was very, very good and insightful. And you are right about it being about control. But choosing to go against her parents can be heartbreaking and have life-long consequences. Trust me, I know.

You have a bit of 'forbidden love' going on with these two and I love it.

Excellent storyline,
Dark Whisper

Author's Response: Hi!

I think you have your relationship correct on Blaise and Emery. Suffice it to say that the two of them are not especially close. But Draco seems to believe that Zabini wields just enough influence with the younger Slytherin for him to get what he needs.

Draco is once again walking a very fine line. Unfortunately for him, he winds up doing that quite often in this story.

Astoria knows her mother pretty well, enough to realize that there are aspects of pushing Astoria into an arranged marriage that aren't going to sit especially well with her, either. Let's hope it's enough for her mother to change her mind. I'm sorry if you've had a similar experience. I hope things ended up alright for you.

There's quite a bit of forbidden love here. Much more to come.

Thanks for all the awesome reviews!

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I forgot to say something about that last chapter... I liked how they were able to laugh a bit and I loved how he contemplated leaving everything, but didn't for the lives of his parents. Very good. Sorry that I left that out.

Anyway... For this chapter, I love Snape and his words to her. He is so right about the nearly impossible, but it is what she believes is the most important. Your insight is very wise and your Snape was perfect. :)

Draco is right to be so upset. His emotions are really up and down and I feel so sorry for him right now. His father is really 'losing it' and could really hurt his future. It's so sad to read of a relapse, but is realistic and rings true. Poor Draco.

Great chapter. I love how deep you go. And Astoria is doing so well with her father... still his good little pureblood daughter, but still finding a way to bend the rules in still communicating with him.

And Draco already thinking of marriage? Awe... But then wondering why she would want a mess like him? Awe...

Great job,
Dark Whisper

Author's Response: Hi!

I'm glad you liked the levity between Astoria and Draco. Obviously, there will be points in the story where things aren't quite so rosy and light-hearted.

I debated long and hard about whether to include Snape's moment. To me, it felt a little cliched. But I also wanted Astoria to get that little bit of clarity from somewhere, and he seemed like the best choice at the time. He's also blunt to a fault, as opposed to Dumbledore, who probably would have had something flowery and metaphorical to say.

Draco's father is being an idiot. No doubt about that. Part of what I wanted to show is that Draco does still have serious issues controlling his temper. It's something you see fairly often in PTSD victims. In the end, it drags him back a couple of steps.

One thing I love about Astoria is that she *is* a Slytherin. So I can blend a measure of equivocation and deviousness into her character and it doesn't feel out of place at all. Above all else, she's very practical.

Thanks so much for all of your awesome reviews!

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Confessions... hmm. Well I'm glad that he is truthful with her, which is an important base for any relationship to last. I think you handled the Mark issue quite well. I loved what Draco said about it being an "elaborate chain." So true.

The story of the burning house was really tragic. Very sad, indeed and so senseless. I can see how this would haunt Draco.

It was sweet of her to kiss him on the cheek when they parted. I like her character and how she confessed to McGonnagal. It was very Slytherin of her to use her reputation for the cause.

And of course, I love Hermione in this as well. She's so good, right? I love the 'girl thing' and how she needs to fix him. Lol. I find that quite amusing.

I liked the depth of this chapter and how he is opening up to Astoria. Who doesn't love a man who is willing to open up a bit? It's all good... :)

Dark Whisper

Author's Response: Hello, again.

Draco opens up to her in a way that he's never opened up to anyone about the war. Certainly not his drinking buddies, and probably not even his mother, since I think she implicitly understands most of what he's feeling anyway. That's how I thought of the Dark Mark. It was just a symbol of a person's enslavement to Voldemort.

By the time they part company behind Honeyduke's, Astoria has decided that he's worth pursuing a relationship with. Worth the effort that it's going to take to try to keep him in school and change her father's mind. And she thinks of everything in capitalistic sort of terms. That is the Slytherin in her.

I thought about having Hermione just sort of let the whole thing go, but that didn't feel very much like her. She has this burning sense of right and wrong and a real need to be fair and just. It's the best thing about her.

You are really making my day (week?) with the feedback and kind words. Thanks for reading and reviewing!

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CambAngst,

Oh, I do love it when Ron and Draco fight. Fight! Fight! Fight! LOL! Your descriptions of it were excellent and so vivid.

I enjoyed reading of Ginny's one track mind having the world melt away in the snow. :)

And as far as your words... can I say that I loved how you gave hatred a color... as in "black hatred." I loved that and can understand how much he hated Ron at that moment because of your description of it.

"You'll beg me to end your life. I swear it." Oh, my how I love Draco and his threats.

You've left quite the cliff hanger for your readers. Excellent pull to the next chapter and I'm so glad that it is already written so that I don't have to wait. :D

Great job,
Dark Whisper

Author's Response: Ugh! I have fallen so far behind on responding to your reviews. It's shameful. Sorry about that.

I'm glad you liked the little sparring match between Ron and Draco. I felt like there would be lots of lingering animosity between the two of them left over from the war and all the years that led up to it. Now the tables have been turned and Ron doesn't hesitate to take advantage. I didn't feel *good* necessarily about writing Ron in this way, but it's sort of important to the things that follow.

I like to think that once the war was over and they got over all of the lingering hurt and mistrust from Harry's decision to break up with her that Ginny and Harry fell deeply in love. And she's not one to hold back very much. ;)

Hatred always feels black to me for some reason. If you let it fester and grow, it eats away at you from the inside, like decay.

Draco still has a flair for the dramatic, doesn't he? He's quite serious in this case, though.

I'm so pleased that you enjoyed the chapter. The next one is slower-paced, but much deeper emotionally. Can't wait to see what you think. Thanks for reading and reviewing!

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CambAngst,

You are really good at painting pictures for your readers. I loved your descriptions of Hogwarts and his feelings at seeing it once again.

The rules are understandably strict while being realistic. Reactions from the students were really done well also.

Poor Luna. You give us a glimpse of what happened to her while at Malfoy Manor and it is tragic, indeed. You've written her so true to her peculiar mannerisms. She doesn't think like the masses... case in point with the stew he basically threw at her. It was cruel of him, but she so was hungry, she didn't care and thought of it as an act of kindness. Wow on that storyline. Regrets, indeed.

Draco certainly has a degree of Post Traumatic Stress from what he went through. I feel it is very fitting and although tragic, it is something that I enjoy reading... great depth and potential in his character.

Great job,
Dark Whisper

Author's Response: Hi, there!

For starters, you can just call me Dan if you prefer. My penname is kind of a mouthful.

I'm glad you liked the descriptions of the castle. I played with those a lot before I was happy with them.

Luna seemed like a really good person to extend a small olive branch to Draco while making him think about his past choices at the same time. She's awesome like that. I wish I could put her in every story I write.

I don't think there's any doubt that Draco is suffering from PTSD. Anyone in his situation probably would be. The psychological impact of the war on the canon characters is ignored far too often in post-war fics, I think.

I'm really glad that you're enjoying the story. Thanks for reading and reviewing!

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CambAngst,

Wow, the "grotesque chandelier?" Incredibly dark and terrifying... and quite worrisome.

I liked the fatherly advice, but "that boy is a Black and a Malfoy..." bit... Ouch. The truth hurts. But she saw something that has her thinking otherwise... smart girl. :)

And this whole conversation with Blaise... I love the threat, which quite honestly establishes a hierarchy between them (or at least reiterates and seals what was already there while still in school).

He is honest with Blaise about his abilities, which I find interesting. And it must be difficult and a bit sad to realize that his roommate and Slytherin brother for so long will not be with him on this change of his.

You've set up a very intriguing potential for conflict and I must say that it is really, really good.

And also, he is amazingly cunning and smart with this entire scene at the restaurant... what he says, what he does, and how he does it is truly spot on his character. I loved his patience until the precise moment.

And I must say that I love your details, like the coin rolling to a stop. You're a master.

Excellent chapter,
Dark Whisper

Author's Response: Hello, again!

So I had this really clear image in my head of what the hanging bodies looked like when I was writing this and I'm never completely sure of whether that came across clearly. I didn't want to go overboard with the detail because this is meant to be a nightmare, so I think it should have a very spartan feel to it. Anyway, I'm glad that you thought the imagery was good.

Mr. Greengrass is not going to easily forgive or forget the consequences of the two wars, and he blames both of them on the old Death Eater families that supported Voldemort. He's a bit naive about it, really. He wasn't one of the Dark Lord's followers, so he doesn't realize how powerful Voldemort truly was. He thinks that without support from wealthy families like the Blacks and Malfoys, Voldemort never would have amounted to anything.

Draco definitely has no problems putting Zabini in his place. Since Voldemort was so obsessed with status and pecking order among the Death Eaters, I imagine that Draco learned to function in a dog pack. But he's also become a realist. He knows that Zabini and the others are going to wind up in Azkaban if they don't change, but there also isn't much he can do about it. He's chosen his path and they've chosen theirs.

When I read, I always find that small details go a long way toward selling a story. They add gravity and realism, I think. Thanks for noticing!

I am really, really glad that you found this story and that you seem to like it. I appreciate the feedback!

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CambAngst,
Wow, well I haven't been that wasted in a long while and it reminds me of why I stopped. Your description was so good I felt that infamous taste in my mouth of too much mixing of things... oh my spinning stars. Surely in order to write such a thing, you must have experienced it yourself, you poor dear and poor Draco.

Your insight into his mind after the war is exceptional and I especially appreciated how he took the time to notice how people looked at him. It was really an amazing piece of storyline and characterization. I loved how you wrote of the realization that he was poison. Very good.

I loved your description of the moonlight reflecting off the fountains. It was a very well-described phenomenon that fits right in to his aristocratic surroundings.

I like your Astoria so far. Perhaps it is her youthfulness that allowed her to look past his filth. I don't know, but she certainly left an impression on him.

Great first chapter. Thank you for the vivid descriptions. I think I'll go eat some bread now. ;)

Dark Whisper

Author's Response: As the saying goes, never get drunk unless you're prepared to pay for it! I'm glad it all came off sounding genuine to you. As far as me personally, well, let's just say I know enough about what I'm writing that I wasn't too worried. ;)

This is the third story I've written where Draco is either the main character or a major supporting character, so I've put a lot of thought into what his life after the war must have been like. I really don't like fics that make him one-dimensional, either as a redemption story or a villain. And I definitely don't like stories that make it seem like he went right back to his old life once the war was over. I'm sure his life was very complicated both during and after the war.

I felt like I was walking a thin line with Astoria in this chapter. We're seeing her through Draco's eyes when he's at a very low point in his life, drunk and miserable. So I think she comes off as being sort of angelic. Obviously, that's not completely realistic, but she does take pity on him at a time when he doesn't really have any other friends in the world.

I'm really glad that you liked it. Thanks so much for reading and reviewing!

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Meg,
Oh, my... poor Ginny (and all the others, really).

Your descriptions were excellent. You did an awesome job with her heightened senses. Her dress, especially. I could really feel that... and smell the stones. Amazing job.

It saddens me that Draco is one of them. You know how much of a fan I am. LOL!

I truly hope that Ginny can resist and that she can remember the story. I hope there will be a remedy for them!

Great first chapter. And you expertly left a bit of a cliff hanger for us. "Ginny, don't do it!" I yell at my computer. :)

Great job,
Dark Whisper

Author's Response: Hey Dark,

Thank you for taking time to review this chapter. I'm frustrated with this story because there is so much I want to do with this story and I think it could be good but I'm not sure if I'm at the point to start a new story because what started as a simple plot line has grown so much that I can't get back to the original thought. Anyway...

I'm glad that the senses shown through in this chapter. I wanted that to be one of the first clues to what had happened to Ginny. It's not a bad thing that Draco is a part of this and his story comes through later on.

That is one of the things I'm battling; to make a way that they become normal again or leave them be. I haven't yet described the bond between the members because there is a lot more going on..

LOL. See what I mean... Grr...

I'm glad you liked the ending in the best possible way you could.

Thank you again!!

Meg

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Athene,

Wow, this is a beautifully written Founders story.

I love your use of "the Raven." This is a very... shall I describe it as a "grown up" story.

I love the period voice that you have used consistantly throughout the chapter as well as the use of social classes of the day. It seems well researched, which makes it believable. It is truly a lovely beginning to a story that I'd like to continue reading.

The scene was very serious, then very happy. I love the patronus that was cast and could really see it as something beautiful.

I'm really loving your Raven character... his fierce reputation as well as his softer side. And I appreciate your take on the relationship of the four founders and how the young Baron knows them.

I love the imagery you have created. This really was a wonderful, impressive, beautiful read.

Dark Whisper

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Gabriella,

Wow, what a sad look at George, the poor dear. The war and the death of his brother has changed him so much.

I love that he still associates with his friends from school and that they are very concerned and worried for one of their own.

I like that you call her 'Angie' instead of her formal name.

I wonder if Angie even noticed his girlfriend in the room as she throws herself at George. :) Awkward.

I love how in-tuned you are with his thoughts. Your readers know what he is feeling with just her name being mentioned... the sound of her voice... and then actually seeing her. It is wonderful that his focus is on her completely, even with others present and that it had always been that way.

Ah, love... I love reading of smitten men.

Oh, and one last thing... I love how you described the kiss to his girlfriend. "No fireworks. No cherubs." LOL! Perfect. It is quite clear to us that the kiss had nothing behind it and we now know what that feels like.

Great job once more.
Dark Whisper

Author's Response: Hello!

Hey again, Dark Whisper, thanks for stopping by! You have stumbled upon one of my most depressing one-shots! D':
Thank you! :)
George has changed so much since the War and losing Fred, I'm glad that I was able to put that in there all right. My poor, redheaded guy. I love George, he's my favorite Weasley you know and I'm a big Georgelina shipper!
I'm not sure why some fanfics have it like the group just split up after the War. I mean, honestly, they've known each other for years, almost died together and suddenly don't speak? Like, what?! So of course Oliver and the rest are going to be there for him. :D
Yep, "Angie" is just the nickname and she of course calls him, "Georgie" sometimes along with the others. They're good enough friends for that to happen you know. :D
Ah, thank you for liking George's crazy emotions, I tried so hard. He's very difficult to write but I'm glad that you were able to see how much he cared about Angie.
Angie wasn't thinking when she kissed George, she just reacted. Its all in "This is Angelina", which this one-shot is coming from! :D
Hahahahaha! I like writing smitten men, but I mostly write angst so things never work out!
Most of the time.
Bwhaha, to George, kissing another girl is more like a duty adn I'm glad that you enjoyed his view on that kiss! :D
Thank you so much for your reviews!
Much love,
Gabbie

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Gabriella,

Wow... powerful scene you have here. I'll admit to being a Draco fan, but this is something very different that makes me dislike him very much.

You did really well on her background, giving her secrets of her own and being brought up to hate Purebloods. Very interesting, as I don't think I've read this 'opposite' hatred. It is always Purebloods hating, not the other way around.

Very good, dear. And that hit to the face... well deserved. It was described so well, I felt it. Ouch!

And of course, wanting something that he can't have only fuels the fire. I love your last line about making 'the Devil hungry for revenge.' Oh my stars.

Great job,
Dark Whisper

P.S. I read that you are off to join the Navy soon and thought I'd give you a good send off by giving you some reviews. Don't worry about responding to them. Congratulations and best wishes on your new adventure and journey.

Author's Response: Hello!

Why, hello there, Dark Whisper! This is a very nice surprise! :)
I think alot of people might have been Draco fans when they read this one-shot but by the end, I bet they were cringing on the inside. He's not a very likeable character and I was never his biggest fan in the books but there's just something so great about making him even nastier. :D
Malfoy men are just so much fun to write.
I'm glad that you liked that I hinted at Astoria's background and gave her a bit of secrets. The biggest one of course is why she hates purebloods, which I do go into in the actual story.
That's A Force of Wills if you want to check that out too. Shameless promotion...
I think its really realistic to assume that half-bloods and Muggle-borns would hate purebloods. I mean, hate has no color or status you know. :D
Bwhahah! You have no idea how much I laughed when Astoria smacked that git in the face! Its actually my favorite part and its mentioned more than once. HAHAHA.
Thank you so much!
Oh, you're just being too sweet! I actually don't leave for basic until the 11th, so I'll be around for a while. That was so thoughtful and sweet of you, I'll have to return the favor before I leave! *Smooches*
Much love,
Gabbie

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slayground,

Well, I was looking at the Dramione story recommendations on the forums and happened upon this one.

I must say, that I do love a great sad story. It is what I love to write and read.

You wrote this very well. I love it that he is sick of his double life and being a Malfoy. You took us from that first glance to the last in a brilliant look into Draco's mind. You really did an excellent job taking your readers through the many years. He changed along the way, which you depicted quite well.

It is truly heartbreaking with so many things left unsaid between them. So sad that he will not break in his insistence that their conversations not go any further.

And then to die by her hand... that was painful to read. ;(

I can certainly see why someone would recommend your story.

Job well done...
Dark Whisper

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Meg,
I'm so happy to see that you have continued this story and that you have planned it out. Yeah!

This chapter is absolutely beautiful. She finally knows what she wants and he wants the same. Your scene was amazingly romantic. I love how she has let loose and initiated a bit of fun with the grapes.

I love it that he asks if she is SURE.

I love how you describe the scene with her straddling him and how she unbuttoned his shirt. You have wow'd me and have scored high points in the romance category. :)

It was beautiful in every way. I appreciate how you wrote that he waited for her and had planned this encounter. He is TRYING... you know? It is truly wonderful to read.

Your description of the beach was perfect, especially "the white soft sand covered the sound of her footsteps." Wow... written like a pro. Fantastic! It might not seem like an important detail, but its these tiny details that make it real. You inspire me. I need to do a better job of this in my own writing.

"His eyes asking permission...?" Wow. *melts*

You have given Dramione fans a scene that will linger with us for days... :)

So romantic! Excellent, Meg...
Dark Whisper

Author's Response: Dark,

I think my heart just grew ten sizes because it is so full of happiness from your review. I'm a big pile of goo at the moment.

I have never really written a romantic scene before and I was almost embarrassed to post because it can be hard to write. It's kinda putting yourself out there a little more that usual, you know??

Yes, Draco has decided what he wants and is willing to try and I knew I was ready for Hermione to open up a bit to Draco.

My heart is glowing. Thank you for amazingly kind words and lovely review!

Meg

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Arithmancy Wiz,

Well, here we are... the end of a brilliantly written novel.

Hermione and Krum... well I can't say that I didn't wish for more of these two... something said of their past. There was only a hint and bit of a smile at the memory of "being young once." *sigh*

You wrote this so well, that I honestly didn't know if Rose was alive or dead. I didn't know what kind of story he told that Hermione knew was a lie and I thought Albus was going to kill him for Rose's death, especially when Krum said he didn't think he had it in him.

You left me full of questions and answered each of them at the very end. The thought actually crossed my mind that Viktor just might jump off that cliff... thank God that was not the case. It was heartbreaking that he did everything to protect her so that she might live without the same dark clouds that loomed over him for years. I'm thankful to you that you allowed them to have an ending that kept them together. You gave them a chance in life... with plenty of money. He could've refused and ended their relationship for her own good, but I'm glad he didn't. He needs her.

Well, what else can I say, except that it has been a true privilege reading and reviewing your story. You gave us this amazing depth of your characters, true believable characters, each of them with their own personalities, mannerisms, and backstories that intertwined impeccably well. From Heart's foul mouth to Brooks and Hugo's unfailing professional support to Albus's amazingly deep display of faith and friendship. You showed us the love of Ex-1 and the hate of Ex-2, even suit-man ended up having a name and his own loss of a brother. Rose was adorably sweet and smart with her youthful naivity and most certainly her 'not knowing what is good for her' mentality.

And lastly, you expertly penned Viktor Krum. Your characterization of Krum was perfection... flawless. And I do not use these words lightly and I do mean what I say. It was precisely how I see him and everything that I wanted to read. He is a lover and a fighter, secure and insecure. He is a womanizer and a gentleman. He is an addict, but in recovery. He has hurt people and has been hurt. He is guilty and regretful. He has made mistakes, but pays for them as well as takes the blame for things that are not exactly his fault. He has been rich and poor. He has experienced extreme highs and extreme lows. He was a boy who left home to take on world fame only to return as a man who has had enough of it. He tells the truth, but is a liar. He was hot in his youth and is still hot at 53. And finally, Viktor Krum is... after all that has happened... still a good man.

What more could a fan of Viktor Krum's possibly want or ask for?

Congratulations on finishing this, your first novel. You have talent and it is no wonder that you are so involved in this wonderful HPFF writing community. Your story had a great plot, followed a logical track, and you successfully pulled your readers along with smart chapter endings. You did everything right and then some.

Bravo! I throw long-stemmed fragrant red roses at your feet for your outstanding romance novel that you expertly injected with mystery and tragedy. Can you hear the applause? Take a bow. I don't give out my roses to just anyone. :)

It was truly my pleasure to read your story.

Happy Valentine's Day,
Dark Whisper

Perfect 10/10

Author's Response: Hermione was a last minute add to this chapter. I probably could/should have done more with her, but I afraid it might feel like I was shoving too much in at the last minute. I'm glad the opening was a bit confusing. I wanted it to seem like Rose had died and Hermione and Albus were there to settle the score. One last little bit to tie in with the opening chapter...

The very end was one of the few things I decided before I started writing. It didn't seem right to have them go through all this and then waltz off into the sunset. It would be too easy. They'd been through too much for a perfectly happy ever after. But I wanted to leave them with at least a fighting chance.

I'm so glad you enjoyed all the characters, but especially Krum. Everything you said is just...gah! More than I could have hoped for. It's Rose's story, but he really is the one with the most dimension, I think. My first attempt at a Byronic hero-esk character, one of my favorite literary staples.

Thank you so much for all the lovely reviews you left for me. It was such a treat to log in and see so many new reviews, and posted so quickly. I'm beyond thrilled that you enjoyed the story. I had a lot of fun writing it, and it means so very much to me that other people might enjoy it too, in any small way. Thank you again!

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NO! I knew I hated her... that Lucius-like witch with her false pity. It's horrible!

At least we know a bit more of Krum's story and who creepy suit-man is. Gigi is the one who is absolutely derranged.

And poor Rose is the one to die? Awful and they both know he would blame himself. Whaa!

He really is a good man. Boo hoo!

Hurry, Viktor!

And here we are... only one more chapter. Oh, my goodness... I'm sprinting to the end, but I don't really want it to be end.

Excellent climactic chapter...
Dark Whisper

Author's Response: As terrible as she was, Gigi was super fun to write. I'm glad you, erm...hated her :P Not something I usually go for in a character, but in this case, I think it's a probably a good thing! And hopefully the backstory on the man in the suit wasn't too much.

Only one more to go! Thank you so, so much for all the wonderful reviews.

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Ah, and Rose rightly deserves that hang-over of hers. And how awesome of you to write Krum, "Are you really going to question my expertise in this area?" LOL! Love that line. He would be an expert by now, wouldn't he? He would have much experience and would know the best remedies. I'm so glad that he was there for her.

I knew Heart wanted scandal to sell his books. Yikes.

Now that the book is coming to an end... Viktor seems worried about their relationship. Awe... he is so 'vonderful'. :) I can't help but worry too.

And oh my... someone is pointing a wand at her? Who? Why? Is it creepy suit-guy?

Wonderful!
Dark Whisper

Author's Response: Hehehe, I suppose Rose had this one coming. At least she has someone around who's been there before...quite a few times, actually. And Heart...well, he just can't help himself :P

Awww, vonderful! Too cute. I thought they needed one sweet moment before all hell brakes loose.

Thank you as always for the review!

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