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darkofthemoonfic · 2 years

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Bite-Size Dramione - Under 5k (Part Two)

These are your bedtime stories, your palate cleansers, your individual serving sizes of serotonin. It’s okay to enjoy these even if you only read slow burn 100k+ fics, I promise. Live a little!

This is a sampling of some amazing favorites, but I’m always reading new things and will add to it regularly. If you find something you love, I know the author would love to hear it, and so would I! Take a deep dive into their catalog to find other gems.

Here's Part One, if you missed it. Part Two below:

Perfect Fit by @grangerdangerfics. E, 3.6k. “What’s the height difference like, when it comes to sex?” Ginny waggled her eyebrows suggestively.

My Name is Ruin by darkrivertempest. E, 3.6k. Tired of pleasing everyone but herself, Hermione meets her ruin in a Muggle club.

Variations on Intimacy by @icepower55. E, 3.6k. Afterwards, you stare at his ceiling, eyes tracing the thin cracks spidering into the center. “Do you ever feel like we’re just play-pretending at intimacy?”

Metals by @my-catal-rhythm. E, 3.6k. After a month of not seeing new piercings appear on his body, Hermione was about to give up and just assumed he stopped getting new ones—until she heard Theo telling everyone that Draco had stopped getting piercings after his fifth one a few weeks ago. She counted. Ear, navel, lip, tongue.

That's only four though?

Sunlight by @sweetestsorrows. T, 3.6k. A one-night stand with Hermione is hardly what Draco expected when he apologised to her at the start of their eighth year.

at the coffee table by @sodamnradd. M, 3.7k. Draco is the only Slytherin to return for eighth-year. Hermione is the only classmate who doesn't avoid him. Studying together in the common room, at the coffee table which becomes exclusively theirs, feelings for one another begin to unthaw.

Cat Daddy by @holygnocchi and hellodarknessdarling. M, 3.7k. While their friend groups have slowly blended over the years, Hermione and Draco have remained resolutely outside of each others' orbit. Until fate in the form of a furry friend takes matters into his own paws.

Wet clothes, warm hearts by sarab3lla. E, 3.8k. It's Hermione's birthday and she's getting ready for her party when Draco surprises her by coming back from work earlier than expected.

Cleanup on Aisle 9 ¾ by @eveningstruggle. M, 3.8k. Draco accidentally proposes to Granger and then goes grocery shopping.

Little Games by quicknotesquim. E, 3.8k. Against her better judgment, Hermione Granger responds to a booty call.

The Vanishing Drawer by sodamnrad. E, 3.8k. She’d deposit the journal in the drawer and wait only a minute before it clunked back inside her desk. In between messages, she’d check the drawer and find it empty, meaning he was physically removing the notebook from his end, then sending it back to her. A vanishing drawer. Ingenious and tricky.

The Slap by @femmeecrivain. T, 3.9k. The slap happens, Draco's eyes are opened. And everything changes from there.

Game, Set, Matched by @charlipetidei, @morticiahavisham. T, 3.9k. “You just said you didn’t care about winning-” Draco started. “I said I didn’t care about getting tickets to the final,” Hermione interrupted, allowing a smug grin to part her lips. “I never said I didn’t want to win.”

Kiska by @senlinyu. M, 4k. In which Hermione has cat ears in 8th year and Draco finds out.

Granny Smiths by @chaoticcrumpets. T, 4k. The worst thing, Draco Malfoy thinks, about being the fallen scion of an ancient and noble house banished to the Muggle world for his various misdeeds, is undoubtedly the grocery shopping. At least it helps him to discover an unexpected talent.

Perfect by @kyonomiko. T, 4k. A very lonely 8th year through the eyes of Draco Malfoy. Everyone else seems to be getting along swimmingly.

Pumpkin Pie by @scullymurphy. E, 4.1k. “Are you comparing me to a pumpkin pie?” She lifted her head and looked at him. “Yes, It’s really very close—” He dove back down. “Let me just see...”

Study Habits by @indreamsink. E, 4.1k. The night before their last NEWT exam, Draco can't focus. Hermione devises an unorthodox method to help him study.

Flying Lessons by cryptaknight. T, 4.1k. Draco is surprised when Hermione turns to him for flying lessons, but then everything is a little bit different upon their return to Hogwarts after the war.

Interfering Mistletoe by @fabularum. E, 4.1k. Pansy Parkinson and her interfering mistletoe just might be the thing that finally brings Hermione Granger and Draco Malfoy together.

About Last Night by @dreamsofdramione, @inadaze22 and @meriyart. E, 4.2k. “Do you remember last night at all?” “Yes.” No.

Mulled Wine and Kisses by @willhavetheirtrinkets. E, 4.3k. She'd only thought before to give him a moment of distraction, but now her thoughts were leading an entirely different direction.

What We Didn't Do by charlipetidei. M, 4.3k. Who? Hermione Granger and Draco Malfoy. Where? The Room of Requirement. Why? Seven Minutes in Heaven, of course. What? Well… who’s to say?

The Hogwarts Express by sam_fic. NR, 4.3k. “Draco Malfoy.” The way she said his name was almost reverent, but they both knew better. “I can leave,” he suggested, without actually meaning it.

Bits of Rock and Dust by @purplesugarquills. T, 4.4k. Draco Malfoy doesn’t even like Hermione Granger. Her winning him over had nothing to do with dinners by candlelight, gifts of priceless heirloom jewelry, or whispered affections. She just kept barreling into his office again and again. If he thought about it—which he had, often—there wasn’t ever a chance he’d fall for anyone else.

Baker's Dozen by @darkofthemoonfic. T, 4.4k. As part of the new and mandatory Muggle Studies curriculum, 8th year students are paired together for a year-long practicum in the culinary arts. If only Draco were interested in either.

Coming Down by @raven-m-3, @nikitajobson. E, 4.4k. Of all the things Hermione thought she'd learn at Hogwarts her eighth year, Draco Malfoy is by far the most unexpected.

Out of Order by worksofstone. T, 4.4k. Hermione's stuck in a broken lift with a tipsy Draco Malfoy. What a way to spend the Friday before Christmas.

You Make It So Good I Don't Want to Leave by slytheringheights. E, 4.4k. It's late at night on the Tuesday before the big Potions exam and Draco can't find his textbook. When the Head Boy goes to the Head Girl's door to ask if she's seen his book, he hears the most intoxicating sounds from behind her door.

No Death To This by maeshowers. M, 4.4k. The quicksilver of his eyes are piercing my entire being—like he can see everything that’s inside and wants a piece of it anyways. Despite my flaws, despite it all. He can have every part of me for all I care. It was only ever going to be his to begin with.

Leave the Door Open by eveningstruggle. E, 4.5k. Hermione decides to let off some steam but forgets to lock the door.

Correspondence by @olivieblake. T, 4.6k. Every year, Draco insists that Hermione take a picture for their Christmas card. Why? Hell if she knows, but if it will make him happy, so be it.

The Bowtruckles and the Beasts by PurpleSugarQuills. E, 4.6k. Molly Weasley brandished a copy of The Bowtruckles and the Beasts in one hand and a ripe, yellow banana in the other. Hermione could only blink, moments away from receiving The Talk from her ex-boyfriend’s mother.

Damage Control by @smokybaltic. E, 4.6k. Draco Malfoy is behaving like a boorish, petulant shitweasel. Even for him. Hermione definitely won't be letting it slide.

you’re mine; i’m yours by @korabethart. E, 4.6k. “Malfoy hasn’t taken his eyes off you all night,” Harry says beside her, sipping his champagne flute with a knowing grin. Hermione bristles. “I know. I’ve felt his stare since the moment I walked in.” “Can you blame him?” Harry laughs, the sound light and soft. “He’s your husband, after all.”

Somebody To You by @leilahmoon. M, 4.6k. Hermione Granger and Draco Malfoy are idiots. Luckily, their friends are not.

Arithmancy and Quidditch by @grace-lou-freebush. E, 4.7k. Hermione and Draco are partners on an Arithmancy project during their eighth year, but Draco fails to meet up at their agreed upon time. When Hermione finds him down at the Quidditch pitch, she just might change her mind about how upset she is.

A Mutual Interest in Ice Cream by in_dreams. T, 4.7k. The Potter-Parkinson wedding is set to be the event of the season, and when Theo dares him to take Hermione as his date, Draco doesn't have it in him to say no. But she has some ideas of her own.

Lie With Me by @mightbewriting. M, 4.8k. In which a single evening involves fake dating, only one bed, and the idea that sometimes things can be easy.

Strange Encounters by happy_valley. T, 4.8k. Of all the situations Hermione Granger had found herself in throughout the years, this was arguably the strangest.

Standard of Care by @misdemeanor1331. T, 4.9k. St. Mungo’s doesn’t play politics. They expect their Healers to deliver a high standard of care to every patient, regardless of past associations. But when Hermione discovers that Draco is her assigned Healer, she doubts that St. Mungo’s had ever considered a past association as fraught as theirs.

Heart in the Whole by @floorcoaster. G, 4.9k. Draco pulls Hermione's name for a Secret Santa exchange.

Must Be the Whisky by in_dreams. M, 4.9k. Hermione sees Draco twice a year, at her birthday and his. Until that isn't nearly enough.

Exposure by @biscuitsforpotter. E, 4.9k. Hermione has been attracted for her best friend for years. Draco Malfoy, now a famous photographer, is absolutely gorgeous and completely oblivious. Hermione wants to make him realize how she feels about him, but she'll have to step out of her comfort zone to get there.

Strange Birds by @heyjude19-writing. M, 4.9k. She’s right here; solid and real and welcoming. Slipping through his undeserving fingers. Is he allowed a trauma timeline? He has no idea when it’s appropriate for him to reach suffering’s endpoint and move on.

I’m With You by @ohlenalena. T, 4.9k. Hermione Granger and Draco Malfoy start seeing one another behind their friends' backs and this obviously backfires.

A Cat, A Dog, & the Unimaginable by @annaritali. T, 4.9k. There are certain steps in a relationship.

Transparency by mightbewriting. T, 4.9k. In which Draco and Hermione slowly come together in their eighth year, as observed by a ghost.

Much of what I write is also under 5k; here are a few:

Hot and Bothered (T, 2k) “Why don’t you two just kiss, if you’re so invested in who's better? Prove it to each other. You’re the only ones who care.” In the moment, she honestly expected them to laugh it off. But in hindsight, Hermione realized she should have known what would happen.

Strangers (M, 3k) The sexy couples photoshoot that's meant to match them with strangers finds Hermione and Draco paired up with each other.

Ms. Whiskers Makes a Match (T, 3.1k) Hermione Granger doesn't plan to groom pets forever, but it's a good way to put herself through veterinary school. It's an added bonus that weekends are usually quiet enough to sneak in some reading. Until Draco Malfoy shows up with "his mother's" cat, and suddenly her Saturday is a little more interesting.

Let’s Workshop This (M, 3.3k) Hermione gets caught working on her "creative writing" project at the office, and Draco offers his assistance.

The Worst (E, 3.3k) The apple paused halfway to Draco’s mouth. “Stepping out on me with someone else? Quite rude of you to not take the man you love.” “One of us is in love with you,” said Hermione agreeably. “But it’s not me.”

She’s All Yours (E, 3.7k) There was, Ron thought—as he watched his wife in bed with Malfoy—nothing he wouldn’t do for Hermione.

If you missed Part One, take a peek.

Give the authors some love! I also adore hearing if you found a new favorite fic or author.

I’ll be regularly adding to this, so if you’re seeing this as a reblog, feel free to check my Master List of Recommendations for the most current list. Lots of new tumblr users as well, so if you see yourself and you’re not tagged, let me know!

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darkofthemoonfic · 2 years

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Bite-Size Dramione - Under 5k (Part One)

These are your bedtime stories, your palate cleansers, your individual serving sizes of serotonin. It’s okay to enjoy these even if you only read slow burn 100k+ fics, I promise. Live a little!

Part One below:

Only Dancing by @sunflower-swan. NR, 378 words. Hermione is only dancing. No harm in that. Draco can get jealous or go with it.

Give and Take by @ambpersand. E, 1k. The softness of her curls brush against his thighs, and Draco has just enough slack to widen his knees to get closer to her. She’s everywhere, and it’s still not enough. He needs her to consume him whole.

Indulge Me by @millennialgrandma. M, 1k. A little eighth year Veritaserum-fueled confession of feelings.

First Kiss(es) and the Path to Forgiveness by millennialgrandma. T, 1.2k. Returning to Hogwarts for an eighth year felt like penance. Kissing Hermione Granger felt like redemption.

You’re Older Now by @simplifiedemotions. T, 1.2k. “I don’t know how to do this,” he says, his breath coming out in harsh gasps. The only time Hermione remembers him being so harried was when she’d first woken up with no recollection of even her own name. She distinctly remembers his blood-shot gaze, the trembling of his limbs, when he asked her if she had remembered him.

Tentative Exporations by @dreamsofdramione. E, 1.2k. What Draco lacks in finesse he makes up for in enthusiasm.

Some things, however by @frumpologist. T, 1.3k. Officer Granger is annoyed with Commander Draco and finds solace in the ship’s library.

A Full and Careful Analysis by @eveningstruggle. M, 1.3k. “Truth or dare.” Hermione traced her fingers over Draco’s chest, trying to match the pattern he was tracing on her back. “Dare. Wait—no. I need a refractory period first. Truth.” “Hmm…what’s the best sex you’ve ever had?” “That's too easy; it was four minutes ago.” or: Draco and Hermione talk about their past romantic history.

This Singular Night by @misdemeanor1331. T, 1.4k. On their last night in Las Vegas, Hermione asks Draco an unexpected question. He gives her an equally surprising answer.

Love of My Life by @mykesprit. T, 1.5k. A surprising revelation at their anniversary party sends Hermione reeling.

Round and Fluffy by @caitybellfics. M, 1.5k. Draco Malfoy and Harry Potter arrive at the DMLE to retrieve their spouses.

Jealous by dreamsofdramione and @inadaze22. E, 1.6k. Draco isn't possessive. In order to be possessive, one has to have some sort of attachment to another person. There is no such ‘attachment’ to Granger. Sure, he knows the precise way to move his tongue inside of her to make her moan, the shape of her hip under his palm when he fucks her so hard they both see stars, and the exact pitch of her voice when she comes, but he’s not attached to her. This is the lie he tells himself.

Write What You Know by @pacific-rimbaud. T, 1.7k. Prompt: Muggle University Student AU: studying Classics or MFA Creative writing

Counting Days by dreamsofdramione. E, 1.7k. Arithmancy was never Draco's strong suit.

What Was Lost, and What Remains by PacificRimbaud. G, 1.8k. My name is Monica Joan Wilkins. I am 57 years old. I live in Sydney, New South Wales. I share a dental practice with my husband. We've been married for thirty-two years.

What To Do by @willhavetheirtrinkets. E, 1.8k. "I can," she said, smirking at him. "I have that authority. Since you're always going at it quick and hurried, without the slightest attention to detail, I've been given the authority to make certain it's done properly."

Draco ground his teeth. "You can't tell me what to do, Granger."

You Owe Me by musyc. M, 1.8k. Hermione has an anniversary plan.

Mutually Assured Destruction… by @grangerdangerfics. T, 1.9k. As Head Girl Hermione Granger and Head Boy Draco Malfoy wage an escalating war of aggressive acts of kindness, will it spell ruin ... or romance?

Upper Body Injury by @provocative-envy. T, 1.9k. Hockey AU! "Careful," he says dryly. "Or I might think you're trying to flirt with me." "Oh, you'd know if I was trying to flirt with you."

"Maybe," he concedes, flicking his hair back with a practiced nod of his head. "But would you?"

Coming in for Landing by @sunlightdaydream. E, 2k. Draco loved flying when Hermione worked. She truly was the best flight attendant he knew. She followed directions to the tee on most days, but even better when she's on her knees before him. Or: It's cockpit porn and he is the pilot.

Inventory of Moments by optimise. T, 2k. Hermione makes a lot of lists. And a list of names just happens to be one of them.

My Brown-Eyed Girl by PacificRimbaud. M, 2.1k. Draco and Hermione have a lazy snuggle in the grass behind the Quidditch pitch.

The Dumbing Down of Love by inadaze22. T, 2.1k. Hermione is an expert at foiling Draco's plans.

Never Have I Ever by @niffizzle. M, 2.1k. With a bottle of firewhisky, a set of enchanted cups, and a game of Never Have I Ever, things turn interesting during one of the final days leading up to graduation. But just how much will be divulged? Maybe some things should stay private.

Two Full Inches Above Regulation Length by granger_danger. E, 2.1k. “Granger.” Malfoy’s voice was an ember in the dark corridor. He grasped her wrist and she almost dropped her jar of bluebell flames. “Your skirt’s not to the bottom of your knees. I may have to take points from Gryffindor.”

A Whole New World by simplifiedemotions. T, 2.2k. Draco takes Hermione out flying.

Passing Notes by @sodamnradd. T, 2.3k. D: Pay you 10 galleons to cover patrol tonight H: STOP throwing notes at me ferret. And no. D: 50 galleons? and so ensues a term of note-passing between Draco Malfoy and Hermione Granger

A Pretty Picture by @wickermayne. E, 2.3k. Draco wakes up with Hermione between his legs. Like a good boyfriend, he helps quench her thirst.

hands to myself by @whimsymanaged. E, 2.4k. Every Friday night, Hermione goes to her favourite bar with her friends. One of the reasons this bar is her favourite is because she inevitably runs into Draco Malfoy. Tonight, all their flirting comes to a head.

Sucker 4 U by whimsymanaged. E, 2.4k. “You can’t just…casually talk about watching porn,” Hermione hissed, glancing around. “Why not?” Draco raised his eyebrows. “I’ve just discovered it, and I want to tell the world. Anyway, I saw a clit sucker in one of the videos, and I got to wondering how on Earth a contraption like that could feel like someone sucking your clit.”

This Time Tomorrow by sodamnrad. M, 2.5k. On the last night of school, Draco's unchecked feelings for Granger spill through the cracks.

A Different Kind of Magic by @canttouchthis87. T, 2.5k. Draco Malfoy watched Hermione Granger practice her Viola for six years. Returning to Hogwarts after the war, her music offers them both a place of freedom and sanctuary.

Shifting Perspectives by misdemeanor1331. E, 2.5k. Being a woman in a male-dominated profession is hard; being a woman and below average height is even harder.

Passing Notes by @shamione. E, 2.6k. Draco Malfoy has teased Hermione Granger for the last time, tucked away in an alcove with his fingers buried deep inside her.

Lessons in Darkened Rooms by @raven-m-3. E, 2.6k. Draco Malfoy's eighth year at Hogwarts should have been simple, if unpleasant. Instead he finds himself grappling with a Granger-shaped problem.

A Thousand Ways to Say Sorry by @wordswithways. T, 2.6k. Draco Malfoy goes on a gift-giving apology tour. But a crucial person on his list wants nothing to do with it.

How to Break a Curse by whimsymanaged. E, 2.7k. They only had a small window before the curse took effect. “Run me through it.” Granger swallowed. “We have thirty minutes to have sex that ends with you coming inside me.” Draco clenched his jaw so tightly that it cracked. “What are our other options?” She didn’t sugarcoat it. “Death.”

Caught Wet-Handed by millennialgrandma. E, 2.8k. “Did we not agree, sweetheart, that we wouldn’t?” “Yes, Draco, which is why-” “And were you not the one who suggested, no, insisted, we abstain until the wedding night?”

Draco’s Consolation Prize by emilyinwonderland. E, 2.8k. Head Girl Hermione Granger comforts a moody Slytherin Quidditch Captain.

Feeling This by @echoofpromise. E, 2.8k. The one where Hermione elbows Draco in the nose at a rock show and he likes it

Just Desserts by @thelashjedi. M, 2.8k. Why would you talk to me? Draco thought, behind a heavy wall of occlusion as he politely, but rotely declined the Head Girl’s offer to join her in the Great Hall, at the newly mixed tables set up in the wake of the war.

Two Dry Martinis by @darkofthemoonfic. E, 2.9k. “You’re brilliant,” he said, flashing those teeth again. “What did I do before you arrived? And what else might you teach me?” Hermione knew she was blushing so she took another sip of her drink. The gin crisp and just the slightest hint of vermouth — how she liked it. When she flicked her eyes back to the bartender he was watching her. “A fair number of things, I’d expect.”

Pin-Up by whimsymanaged. E, 2.9k. Hermione needs to raise funds for her non-profit. Putting together a calendar of naked Quidditch players seems as good a way as any.

Severn Way by @magicaltraveler3. E, 3k. Hermione didn’t know it but they weren’t going home. They were going to a log cabin far away from anyone that could bother them.

Taste of Affection by dreamsofdramione. E, 3.1k. “You’re doing so well, Pet.”

Savour by @mignon-chignon. E, 3.1k. Draco Malfoy had a dinner to savour, hopefully without any distractions.

Overtime by @scullymurphy. E, 3.2k. Draco and Hermione are working overtime. It's late, they've gotten into the whisky and Hermione's self-control is at an all-time low -- especially once Draco starts rolling his sleeves.

Triple Axel by @batmansymbol. G, 3.2k. “As I’ve said ten thousand times, Malfoy,” she says, unbuckling her helmet, still breathing hard, “you wouldn’t last a second in speed skating.” She tugs the helmet off and her hair springs free. She shakes it back with supreme disdain. “You know what, though? I’m starting to think I’d like to see you try.”

Deal by @its-banannaz. E, 3.3k. It was all a stupid deal, and why she made a deal with Draco Malfoy of all people? She had absolutely no idea. Suffice to say, she lost the game.

Just Like the Ones I Used to Know by @acciomjolnir. T, 3.4k. It's 8th year, post war, and Hermione isn't feeling in the Christmas spirit. She's not the only one who has chosen not to go home for the holidays... and when they get into the eggnog, all kinds of things happen.

Where You Belong by @ecaworks, raven_maiden. E, 3.4k. When Draco Malfoy shows up at the Burrow over the holidays, Hermione learns she has a decision to make.

Third Time’s a Charm by @monsterleadmehome. E, 3.4k. Head Girl Hermione Granger has been hopelessly trying to seduce Head Boy Draco Malfoy all term, but he just won't get the hint.

Long story short (it was a bad time) by @ginnysocks. E, 3.4k. Were she and Draco currently shagging like rabbits every chance they got? Yes. Did they still utterly loathe each other? Also yes.

Flat(Mates) by WhimsyManaged. E, 3.4k. Hermione and Draco have been living together as platonic flatmates for years now. Neither have presented, so Hermione’s pretty sure they’re both betas. (Spoiler: they're not betas.)

Respite by canttouchthis. T, 3.5k. Hermione Granger is fine. Or at least there’s no reason for her not to be. But still, she finds respite under the stars, drawn to the night sky.

Mutually Assured Destruction by witchsoup. M, 3.5k. Hermione and Theo find ways to break it to each other gently... it's time to break up.

Continued in Part Two!

Give the authors some love! I also adore hearing if you found a new favorite fic or author.

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darkofthemoonfic · 2 years

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Do you have a secret method for being able to write so much/often? I'm a little jealous XD

I’ve debated how to answer this over the last few days. I know it’s being asked tongue-in-cheek, but it’s something I struggle with continually, so I wanted to give a bit of a more serious answer.

I wish I could offer a killer secret strategy, some kind of perfect formula, that unleashes our creativity and unlocks our motivation to write. But the truth is nothing like that. So here are the things I have learned in many years of practicing this particular art:

1. It gets easier. The more you do it, the easier words come. It’s better to lure the muse in with your work than wait for her to decide to show up.

2. But every day, the battle starts again. I can write every evening for a month straight and it’s no guarantee that I’ll be able to make myself write tomorrow.

3. See also: habit is a lie. I am psychologically incapable of habit. All there is a fresh start, every time.

4. You will fail in this goal a thousand times. And you will have to pick yourself up and try again a thousand times. Then you’ll fail once more. If you can’t find a way to stop guilting and shaming yourself for it, you’ll waste 90% of your energy fighting the negativity you’ve associated with sitting down to write, and you need that energy to motivate and encourage yourself, because…

5. There will always be ten million reasons not to do it. Choosing to write anyway is a decision you have to make more than once.

6. Falling in love with the sound of your own writing helps. A lot. Nobody can love your babies like you.

7. But being read by other people is an out-of-this-world high, and it’s ok to let that power you, as long as you don’t let it own you.

8. Practical advice: It’s easier to write today if I wrote yesterday. And it’s easier to write today if I wrote two days ago than if I last wrote a week ago. When the not-writing gets to be around a month, it’s very hard and requires a proper plan to ease back in.

9. Writing doesn’t have to be writing writing. Just touching the document, editing, outlining, taking some kind of tangible action to advance the work, can reset that timer and get you to another day. Likewise you don’t need to write two thousand words; even ten can work just fine.

10. Sometimes the writing has to come before the laundry. If you don’t make the things that feed your soul at least an occasional priority over the things that take care of the rest of you, they start to shrivel up.

Lastly: If writing is something you need to do with your life, you know it. And if it is, it’s worth it.

#writing advice #NaNoWriMo advice

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darkofthemoonfic · 2 years

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A Tolerable Topiary

Rated T | 4497 words, Oneshot | No major archive warnings apply

When Hermione Granger is tasked with planning a charity event, she approaches the task with the care and dedication she gives all things. When the event in question involves quidditch, she is less prepared than usual. Add in a certain co-event planner and it’s a recipe for animosity.

Read on AO3

Sneak peek below!

It had to be a mistake.

A gala for visiting diplomats she understood. Hosting the President of MACUSA or the Australian minister was easy enough, and the majority of the work Hermione could split with the assistant, secretary, or whatever other title was bestowed upon her foreign counterpart’s staff.

“You’d like me to plan a gala for quidditch players?” She asked, hoping that she’d misheard. Though no other word in English, French, or the small bit of Mermish she knew sounded anything like the dreaded sport.

“Not entirely,” Kingsley replied. He sipped from a glass mug full of steaming jasmine green tea. The smell was soothing, though the conversation set her stress levels to high. “This event will hold two functions. The first, of course, to offer a bit of merriment.”

“Yes, of course.” Hermione agreed. It was an election year, after all, and nothing encouraged voters like morale.

“The second, we want to bring attention and funds to a new program for players with disabilities.”

“That sounds lovely. I wasn’t aware of such a program.” It would have gone through her desk, surely.

“It’s in its infancy — only became known to me in the last month. They’re calling it Yearn to Fly. This is a chance to get some of our wealthier donors in the same room as famous players and encourage them to open a few pockets. Perhaps get volunteers for a match in the spring,” Kingsley said.

“I can talk with Millicent about reserving the Ministry Ballroom that weekend. And I believe we still have a contact who can help book the Weird Sisters,” Hermione replied, scratching down notes quickly. She’d need to send a dozen memos when she got back to her desk.

“I’d like to do something unexpected and perhaps more grand. Different from our usual. The organization’s founder was adamant it be unique.”

Hermione’s stomach dropped. She always relied on the events staff at the Ministry to help her with these things. Millicent was always planning parties and knew all the best vendors. It took a lot off of her own to-do list.

Kingsley continued. “The Tutshill Tornados have offered the use of their pitch, and because it’s the off-season, the owner of the team has assured me that some of their staff will be made available to assist you with the preparations.”

It was a relief to know there would be someone there to help her. Planning a party was one thing, but planning a quidditch party, on quidditch turf, was another. She’d need someone who knew the lay of the land.

“Excellent. Shall I make a trip there next week?”

Kingsley pulled a billiards ball from his desk — number 7 — and handed it to her. “You’ll meet with them in twenty minutes to discuss and divide the work.”

Zero time to prepare, how wonderful. She took the portkey and returned to her desk, getting a head start on the things she could handle internally, like the catering and formal invitations. Then she slipped into the lavatory to check her appearance. Curls tamed and framing her face, blush a little faded but a quick retouch fixed that, and she’d already removed the coffee stain from her jumper that morning. With her wool coat on and a scarf around her neck, she was as ready as she could be.

#my works: tolerable topiary #dramione #dramione fanfiction #dramione fan fic #draco x hermione #dramione fic

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darkofthemoonfic · 2 years

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Balefire Bright

Written for the Double the Trouble Fest

Rated M | 2344 words, Oneshot | No major archive warnings apply

In a nearby town the muggles lit bonfires and danced in colorful costumes to celebrate May Day while Hermione Granger settled in a small clearing for Beltane. It was an ancient festival, one that was celebrated around the world in many ways and under many names. But here, in her circle of ancient rowan trees, she would not create a May pole. Nor would she wear a white dress and flower crown. Beltane, she learned, was a time for power.

Read on AO3

Sneak peek below!

White petals drifted around her, their sweet floral scent dancing across her face while she prepared for the ritual. Bunches of hawthorn, rowan, and primrose were tied with twine and nestled into her basket. Coarse salt, harvested by hand from the coldest waters, tucked into an amber jar beside the flowers. An antler from the forest. Acorns from the ground. All gathered and saved for tonight. She rose before dawn to collect dew from the lush grass in a nearby meadow, leaving it in the sunlight for the day before filtering it into a glass vial.

She spent years learning as much as she could. First, at school, fascinated by every aspect of the magical world and her newfound place in it. Always striving to prove herself. To prove that the Muggleborn witch could best them. And she was the best and brightest, academically speaking, of her age. When she finished her education at Hogwarts the offers flowed — assistant to the Minister for Magic, a position at any department in the Ministry she wished, space in mastery programs for healers and potion makers. Instead, she chose a self-directed study of the history of magic. Traveling the world to be mentored by the best and brightest witches and wizards of years past. Learning. Growing. Discovering the source of her power and that of others. The histories, the magical roots, the rivers of power.

The sun crept closer to the earth, filtering through the trees in warm, orange rays. Smoke rose in towers in the distance, a sign that bonfires had been lit. She separated the flowers, draping them across the entrance to her copse of trees. Two torches flanked the makeshift doorway, and she lit them using flint and steel. The salt came next, forming an unbroken circle at the center. Her cauldron sat in the middle atop branches of yew, holly, ash, hawthorn, and cedar. Wand woods for the ritual.

It was nearing twilight, and he was never late. Hermione sighed and twisted the gold rings on her fingers. Smoothing her hands down her silk robe to make sure it wasn’t wrinkled from her preparations.

A crack echoed through the trees, too loud and too familiar to be the snapping of a twig. She watched a cloud of smoke dissipate and his pale blonde hair emerged first, followed by the rest of his form.

“Evening, Granger,” he said, hands in his pockets as he slowly sauntered through the entryway. Passing through the two flames. They’d talked only briefly about the requirements for the ritual. It was the first thing he needed to do to fulfill his role — walk between the fires.

#my works: Balefire Bright #dramione #dramione fanfiction #dramione fan fic #dramione fic #draco x hermione

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darkofthemoonfic · 2 years

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Dramione Eighth Year Recommendations - Part Two

Eighth year is one of my most favorite tropes. I just love the idea of these characters in a familiar setting post-battle. I’ve shared many of my favorite eighth-year recommendations in three posts. I hope you find some favorites!

Part Two includes 35+ fics between 5 - 10k words.

I’m Never Lonely When I’m With You by @pacific-rimbaud. M, 5k. "I won’t take the room." She shakes her head emphatically. "Living with you is totally out of the question."

"Obviously."

“But if I did—"

His brow furrows. "Would you?"

First-Name Basis by Santhe. M, 5k. “I’m not trying to get rid of you,” she whispers, folding in further. His pacing hesitates, halfway between her and the fire.

He has his old, icy voice back, but there’s a new tremor to it now. “Then what are you doing?”

With her hands pressed to her chest, she can feel what he felt—pulse hammering well over two hundred beats per minute. Chest stuttering, muscles shaking, voice broken when she quietly admits, “I’m so lonely, Draco; aren’t you?”

Lesson Learnt by @whimsymanaged. E, 5k. The Slytherin boys spend all their time talking about wanking, and Hermione's exasperated.

Red or Green by @senlinyu. T, 5k. When Hermione returns to Hogwarts for Eighth Year, she is there in search for a sense of the familiar. Instead she ends up resorted and placed in Slytherin, the last place she will ever belong.

a lovely vintage '99 by @faeorabel, @megamegaturtle. M, 5.5k. It's Valentine's Day and Hermione wants to spend it with her boyfriend. But...Draco Malfoy might not know he's her boyfriend.

That Can Be Arranged by @darkofthemoonfic. E, 5.6k. Secret doors, hidden halls, and moving staircases are commonplace at Hogwarts. So why does it feel like the castle is forcing him into locked rooms with Hermione Granger?

Kissing Booth by @floorcoaster. T, 5.6k. At an end of the year festival at Hogwarts, Draco is stuck manning the worst booth at the event. Well, with the possible exception of Granger's assignment.

Between Pages by DarkoftheMoon. E, 5.7k. First Year Hermione Granger couldn't wait to send her beloved fairytale collection to her anonymous book exchange partner, complete with a lovingly written note. In return she's given a very rare potions journal and a note written on expensive stationery: I like this book because potions are interesting. Don’t feel too bad if I’m top of our class.

Touch by @indreamsink. E, 5.7k. Looking only satisfies the tension between them for so long before she wants to touch.

Out of Uniform by @aetherioswrites. E, 5.9k. Draco Malfoy never seemed to be in full uniform. Hermione tries to remedy the fact and ends up achieving the exact opposite. She wouldn’t call the mission an exact failure, per se.

Rumor Has It by @mrsren. M, 6k. It starts as a rumor, and begins the unraveling of Draco Malfoy's sanity. It takes seven words, and suddenly, he can't get Granger out of his head no matter how hard he tries.

i'm not a bad girl (but i do bad things with you) by sarab3lla and @va13lentina. E, 6.4k. It’s Draco and Hermione’s three months anniversary, but he’s been busy and they’ve barely seen each other all day.

Too bad she had a gift for him.

Some would say such a gift is not appropriate for a good Gryffindor girl like her.

Well, let the Head Boy be the judge of that.

The Patrol Schedule by @wish123dramione. T, 6.6k. After a slight shake of his head, he turned back to her. “Granger, I’m not looking to get into it with you this year. If there’s any barrier to us working collaboratively, I can tell you right now that it’s going to be you.”

black lines and little white lies by @adxmparriish. E, 6.8k. Draco has a new tattoo and Hermione has made it her mission to find out what it is

Keep Your Eyes on Me by @nuclearnik. E, 6.9k. In the midst of planning an end-of-year ball, Hermione finds an intriguing way to de-stress.

Common Ground by @kyonomiko. T, 6.9k. There are fewer things more delightful than finding out how much you have in common with someone that surprises you. How much could Draco Malfoy possibly have in common with Hermione Granger?

Game On by @biscuitsforpotter. M, 7k. As co-Head Boy and Girl, Draco Malfoy and Hermione Granger just can't seem to get along. Hermione won't let Draco have a say and Draco refuses to listen. In an effort to force them to work it out, Professor McGonagall sets up a series of non-traditional detentions to get them to work together and communicate better. Her chosen method: board games. What could go wrong?

Say You Want Me / Kiss Me Quick by Kyonomiko. T, 7k. Hermione Granger is at a sort of crossroads. 8th year is ending and her life is laid out in front of her, white picket fences and a high school sweetheart waiting in the wings. But she would be reckless, could turn her back on all of it, if he only asked.

The Lucky Ones by @acciomjolnir. E, 7k. What happens when your soulmate is off saving the world in a world where you develop a soul mark upon your intended reaching their 18th birthday? And what happens when your 18th birthday rolls around and she doesn't reach out to you?

still got you all over me by @hawthornewhisperer. M, 7.5k. “Earl Grey,” a deep voice said, and it was like walking straight through a ghost. Her stomach plunged, her veins turned icy cold, and she made herself count to three before turning around.

Seven Minutes series by @echoesofmyfootsteps. E, 7.9k. Hogwarts has inaugurated a fully integrated 8th year class, regardless of previous house or Death Eater status. On the surface, it appears like a bold experiment in harmony. In practice, they’re still just young adults doing young adult things.

Looking by @dreamsofdramione. E, 8.1k. Hermione didn't want to see Draco shagging a witch on the couch in their shared Head Dorm, truly she didn't, but she couldn't seem to look away.

Baby, It’s Hot In Here! By @charlipetidei. E, 8.1k. “Wait... You’re the one I’ve been singing to?” Hermione asked, dismayed.

“Sweet Merlin, Granger!” He bent to grab at the fallen shower curtain, one hand straying from its important task of concealing an erection that, in Hermione’s opinion, seemed rather keen on remaining visible. “Can't we do this another time?!”

Your Hands Are Cold by macxboyle. M, 8.1k. In hindsight, it was cripplingly clear to Draco Malfoy where he went wrong in crafting his perfect proposal to Hermione Granger: he had asked Theodore Nott for help.

Blood Bubbles Sex Magik by kyonomiko. M, 8.4k. Lock a couple of teenagers in a posh bath with no way out but a little sex ritual and see what happens. No mystery here, just a means to an end. Maybe to a beginning if they're lucky.

Good Luck Kisses by @willhavetheirtrinkets. T, 8.4k. A good luck kiss for a Quidditch captain - it's ridiculous. It can't actually work. But it does. Every time.

Nothing Good Happens After 2AM by @lovesbitca8, @nikitajobson. E, 8.5k. And in the heartbeat that he didn't return the kiss, Hermione saw the rest of her school year flash before her eyes. The embarrassment, the teasing. Her chest constricted at this terribly awful thing she just did — kissing Draco Malfoy.

Cigarettes and Sweaters by @barnettdidit. G, 8.6k. Hermione is overwhelmed: Living with Draco, taking her NEWT's and caring for Hogwart's students as Head Girl was shaping up to be more difficult than she thought. She takes up a rather unhealthy vice, and surprisingly, Draco seems to share it. A friendship buds.

The Leavers' Ball and the Runaway Heads by @arabellawrites and @lunap999. M, 8.6k. They only have one more night before Eighth Year is over and they all go their separate ways. But maybe one night is enough to change the course of their lives.

The Legacy of Fred Weasley by kyonomiko. T, 9k. Fred loved a good party. And Christmas. And suprises. George intends to see his brother's last Weasley product realized...

it has to be you by @thelashjedi. E, 9.2k. “You just told me that you made an Unbreakable Vow in bloody fourth year — something that Tweedle Dee and Tweedle Dumbass over here helped you with — that you would have sex with me before you graduated from Hogwarts. And now if you don’t shag me in the next few days, you will die. Not just sex with someone, full stop, mind you. It has to be sex with me. Muggle-born, notorious swot and insufferable know-it-all Hermione Jean Granger. Me.”

Draco swallowed. “Yes. It has to be you.”

Favorite Secrets by StrongSweetTea. T, 9.3k. When Draco Malfoy catches Hermione Granger spying on him, he assumes she suspects him of some evil plot -- which, to be fair, has been true in the past. But when she starts trying to give him candy and harassing him about what he likes best, he doesn't know what to think.

Not-so-Secret Admirer by @potionchemist. T, 9.8k. Draco has fancied Hermione for years. When she and Ron Weasley break up, the Slytherins encourage him to take his shot.

Some nights kept me awake (I thought that I was stronger) by mollygeorgia. M, 9.9k. Hireath (noun): (1) A homesickness for a home to which you cannot return, a home which maybe never was. (2) A longing to be where your spirit lives. (3) A deep and irrational bond felt with a time, era, place, or person.'

For Draco Malfoy and Hermione Granger, how can one word end up meaning so much?

And a few more of my own:

Chaperones M, 5.5k. "I'm going to court Granger," Draco said around a mouthful of toothpaste. He spat into their sink and rinsed his mouth, leaning against the doorframe with a casual air that belied the enormity of such a statement. "We need you to be our chaperone."

Theo closed his astronomy textbook, using a thumb to hold his place. "I'm sorry, what?"

Draco nodded, as though he'd expected disbelief. "Courting Granger. That's something I'm doing now."

The Acceptance of a Sincere Apology T, 7.3k. Draco thinks his expectations for eighth year are well-managed: they can't be any lower. But his assigned study partner (and roommate) turns out to be Hermione Granger, and she's a surprise he doesn't see coming.

Really Sell It E, 7.6k. Draco's having a rough eighth year, and Hermione's going to make it better for him.

"Well, it’s clear what needs to happen.” She gripped his chin, tilting his head to make sure she hadn’t missed any injuries, before looking straight into his eyes. “You’re my boyfriend now.”

Pop on over to Part One or Three (and feel free to check the Master List of Recommendations if you’re seeing this as a reblog, because I’ll keep my lists updated there as I have new recs to add).

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darkofthemoonfic · 2 years

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Dramione Eighth Year Recommendations - Part One

Part One includes 40+ fics under 5k words—and in this case, good things come in small packages.

Indulge Me by @millennialgrandma. M, 1k. A little eighth year Veritaserum-fueled confession of feelings.

Tentative Exporations by @dreamsofdramione. E, 1.2k. What Draco lacks in finesse he makes up for in enthusiasm.

First Kiss(es) and the Path to Forgiveness by ak1494_millennialgrandma. T, 1.2k. Returning to Hogwarts for an eighth year felt like penance. Kissing Hermione Granger felt like redemption.

Draco ground his teeth. "You can't tell me what to do, Granger."

My Brown-Eyed Girl by @pacific-rimbaud. M, 2.1k. Draco and Hermione have a lazy snuggle in the grass behind the Quidditch pitch.

Hermione rolled her eyes, though she doubted the Head Boy could see it. What nerve he had. As though he hadn’t hoarsely begged her to hem her skirt while he was still inside of her just last week.

A Whole New World by @simplifiedemotions. T, 2.2k. “Malfoy,” pleaded Granger, and oh, she was good. That pout was doing something ruinous to his insides, but he denied her.

“Come on, up-up, Granger—”

Or: Draco takes Hermione out flying.

Passing Notes by @sodamnradd. T, 2.3k. D: Pay you 10 galleons to cover patrol tonight

H: STOP throwing notes at me ferret. And no.

D: 50 galleons?

and so ensues a term of note-passing between Draco Malfoy and Hermione Granger

This Time Tomorrow by sodamnrad. M, 2.5k. On the last night of school, Draco's unchecked feelings for Granger spill through the cracks.

A Thousand Ways to Say Sorry by @wordswithways. T, 2.6k. Draco Malfoy goes on a gift-giving apology tour.

Lessons in Darkened Rooms by @raven-m-3. E, 2.6k. Draco Malfoy's eighth year at Hogwarts should have been simple, if unpleasant. Instead he finds himself grappling with a Granger-shaped problem.

Passing Notes by @shamione. E, 2.6k. Draco Malfoy has teased Hermione Granger for the last time, tucked away in an alcove with his fingers buried deep inside her. But her attempt to get back at him in Transfiguration is interrupted by none other than Professor McGonagall. Everything that happens after could easily be considered the most embarrassing moment of Hermione's life.

Uneven Equations by @icepower55. M, 2.8k. Draco struggles to elucidate his feelings. Hermione has suspicions.

Draco’s Consolation Prize by emilyinwonderland. E, 2.8k. Head Girl Hermione Granger comforts a moody Slytherin Quidditch Captain.

Deal by @its-banannaz. E, 3.3k It was all a stupid deal, and why she made a deal with Draco Malfoy of all people? She had absolutely no idea. Suffice to say, she lost the game.

Where You Belong by @ecaworks, raven_maiden. E, 3.4k. When Draco Malfoy shows up at the Burrow over the holidays, Hermione learns she has a decision to make.

Third Time’s a Charm by @monsterleadmehome. E, 3.4k. Head Girl Hermione Granger has been hopelessly trying to seduce Head Boy Draco Malfoy all term, but he just won't get the hint. Frustrated with her efforts, she tries one last resort—ordering lingerie from a Muggle catalog.

Respite by canttouchthis. T, 3.5k. Hermione Granger is fine. Or at least there’s no reason for her not to be. But still, she finds respite under the stars, drawn to the night sky.

Mutually Assured Destruction by witchsoup. M, 3.5k. Hermione and Theo find ways to break it to each other gently... it's time to break up.

Metals by @mycatalrhythm. E, 3.6k. After a month of not seeing new piercings appear on his body, Hermione was about to give up and just assumed he stopped getting new ones—until she heard Theo telling everyone that Draco has stopped getting piercings after his fifth one a few weeks ago.

She counted. Ear, navel, lip, tongue.

That's only four though?

at the coffee table by sodamnrad. M, 3.7k. Draco is the only Slytherin to return for eighth-year. Hermione is the only classmate who doesn't avoid him. Studying together in the common room, at the coffee table which becomes exclusively theirs, feelings for one another begin to unthaw.

Kiska by @senlinyu. M, 4k. In which Hermione has cat ears in 8th Year and Draco finds out.

Perfect by @kyonomiko. M, 4k. A very lonely 8th year through the eyes of Draco Malfoy. Everyone else seems to be getting along swimmingly.

Flying Lessons by cryptaknight. T, 4.1k Draco is surprised when Hermione turns to him for flying lessons, but then everything is a little bit different upon their return to Hogwarts after the war.

Study Habits by @indreamsink. E, 4.1k. The night before their last NEWT exam, Draco can't focus. Hermione devises an unorthodox method to help him study.

What We Didn't Do by @charlipetidei. M, 4.3k. Who? Hermione Granger and Draco Malfoy. Where? The Room of Requirement. Why? Seven Minutes in Heaven, of course. What? Well… who’s to say?

The Hogwarts Express by sam_fic. NR, 4.3k. “Draco Malfoy.” The way she said his name was almost reverent, but they both knew better.

“I can leave,” he suggested, without actually meaning it.

Her reluctance to interact with idolizers likely paled in comparison to his fear of being avada-ed by overzealous second-years.

But Hermione wasn’t one to make things easy for other people.

“Then, leave,” she replied, raising an eyebrow.

Coming Down by raven_maiden, @nikitajobson. E, 4.4k. Of all the things Hermione thought she'd learn at Hogwarts her eighth year, Draco Malfoy is by far the most unexpected.

“Oh yes, please. Yes, right there, Draco…”

The Bowtruckles and the Beasts by @purplesugarquills. E, 4.6k. Molly Weasley brandished a copy of The Bowtruckles and the Beasts in one hand and a ripe, yellow banana in the other. Hermione could only blink, moments away from receiving The Talk from her ex-boyfriend’s mother.

This was, as so many things tended to be, all Ginny Weasley’s fault.

Somebody To You by @leilahmoon. M, 4.6k. Hermione Granger and Draco Malfoy are idiots. Luckily, their friends are not.

Baker’s Dozen by @darkofthemoonfic, Maria81. T, 4.8k. As part of the new and mandatory Muggle Studies curriculum, 8th year students are paired together for a year-long practicum in the culinary arts. If only Draco were interested in either.

Strange Birds by @heyjude19-writing. M, 4.9k. Her gaze is encouraging, and Draco can do nothing but linger on the precipice of terrible want with remarkable self-restraint.

She’s right here; solid and real and welcoming. Slipping through his undeserving fingers. Is he allowed a trauma timeline? He has no idea when it’s appropriate for him to reach suffering’s endpoint and move on.

He’s a thestral with a beating wounded wing, still desperate to fly for her, to her.

Transparency by @mightbewriting. T, 4.9k. In which Draco and Hermione slowly come together in their eighth year, as observed by a ghost.

And a few of my own:

From Spark to Flame G, 500 words. Head Boy/Head Girl, Egg (Baby) Project

Fair’s Fair E, 1k. Draco brings one of Hermione's fantasies to life.

A Quiet Christmas Eve E, 2.5k. It's Christmas Eve, and a handful of eighth-year students are having a sleepover in the common room. Draco wakes Hermione up, but she'll need to be quiet for what he has in mind.

Pop on over to Part Two or Three (and feel free to check the Master List of Recommendations if you’re seeing this as a reblog, because I’ll keep my lists updated there as I have new recs to add).

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