Wishes

by stardancer10

Marie, a witch who doesn't know it, finds herself facing unthinkable odds to save everything she has ever loved. After watching her family slaughtered by masked men, she wishes to go back and change it... people warn you to be careful what you wish for

10. Chapter 10

(Disclaimer: I own or claim none of J.K. Rowling's work or characters, the only character that I claim is Marie.)

Wishes

Chapter10

Marie felt Darius's hand squeeze hers as they pushed through the crowd at an after party celebrating the Arrows latest win. Her sage green cocktail dress danced in the wind as they made their way towards the club. She forced a smile on her face and blinked blindly from the sudden flashes of cameras. The press had descended upon the pair like vultures scenting a fresh kill. The rest of the Arrows team members pushed forward to help the pair through the crowd into Trinity.

Marie watched as Micah and the rest of the club security made a clear path for them to enter. The people waiting in line turned to see which celebrity was entering. Marie kept the smile on her face until she crossed the threshold and was out of the spotlight temporarily. She drew in a deep breath, steeling herself for what she knew would be a long night. Darius squeezed her hand in encouragement and smiled softly at her.

The public appearances were beginning to wear on her. It was exhausting playing such a big role, living a double life such as she was. She couldn't wait for it all to be over. Just a couple more weeks of the stress she promised herself. They just had to keep the rouse up for another two weeks and then she would be able to get back to her plans. Darius had been so very grateful for her help. His father and grandfather had backed off when they saw that the two had been seeing each other.

In the weeks that had followed her recovery she had attended numerous functions with her Guardians as well as Darius. Her network was slowly but steadily expanding. Darius had been right when he said that their 'relationship' would open doors for her. She had been invited to a number of exclusive events that she would have typically barred from previously. Her attendance had solidified her standing with many in the upper circles of society. She knew that there was a chance that their split would damage her work within the groups, but she felt that she had made enough stable contacts that it would all work out in the end. A number of the people that she had brought into her group were now firmly in her corner so she wouldn't be shut out of that circle completely.

After the initial news article printed about Marie and Darius, they were regular features in the gossip column. Darius played the role of the doting beau well, while Marie played the part of the smitten heiress to a tee. They complimented each other well and though their relationship was a farce, their friendship was stronger than ever. They relied on each other to weather the speculation and gossip about each other.

Darius had endured the dark looks from her male friends and Guardians. And Marie had weathered the harsh speculation of the female population. They had fun together despite some of the negativity that was generated about them. Marie had enjoyed a number of Quidditch games and parties with Darius. He had come to some of the functions that she was taking part in. They took society by storm, attending galas and various charity events together. For the time being they were the 'it couple.'

Marie stirred from her thoughts and followed Brett safely inside through the crowd down to the VIP area that had been set aside for them. She nodded tiredly to him and pasted on a smile once more, preparing to face the crowded night club. She and the Arrows were welcomed with rowdy cheers from the party goers. Marie sat at the table while Darius and the others left to get drinks. She took the time to look around the club and observed the people present. Marie thanked God that it wasn't a full moon and that Micah and the members of his pack were present on the security detail tonight. There had been a report that had come in earlier that day that there might be trouble later on. Her combat gear was already stored in the office in the back and her task force was scattered through the crowd.

It had caused a big argument between Marie and Darius earlier when she tried to get him and the others to reschedule or relocate the party, but they refused to back down. Their raised voices had drawn the speculative glances and whispers from some of the press that had been present after the game earlier that afternoon. They hadn't meant or planned to argue or give any indication there was an issue with their relationship, but Marie realized that it would eventually be to their advantage.

Marie gratefully thanked Darius for the glass of wine he brought her, smiling over the rim of the glass coyly at him. The mood was happy and light, but Marie and those that were aware of the possible threat were on high alert. It was a huge victory for the Arrows who were on their way to the off season on a positive note. Though they hadn't made the play-offs, they had come back at the end of the season and gave some serious completion to the other teams.

Marie sipped her wine and willed herself to relax. They had done everything that they could to ensure that there wouldn't be any trouble. Wards had been set up in a two block radius in all directions around the club. There were also security wards around the building. Marie knew that there was nothing that could be done to change things now. All that she could do was watch and wait. Lucius had sent word to her through Narcissa who had dropped by for afternoon tea.

She drained the rest of her wine and placed her glass on the table. The party was in full swing now. A familiar face caught her attention and she grinned. Darius looked at her in question, but she just shook her head and stood. Darius stood and turned to see who it was that she had seen.

"Marie, piccola!" Francis called out over the music. "How are you doing love?"

Marie jumped up and hugged him. "Francis! What are you doing here? Last I heard you were cruising the roads of the continent."

"Well I was, but I stopped in town for a bit of a visit and business," he said looking at her seriously. "I heard there was going to be a bit of party here tonight and decided to come see for myself."

"Francis," she said drawing him closer to talk to him without being over heard. "Please be careful?"

He flashed her an easy grin. "Of course love. Come I think you owe me a dance."

Marie grinned up at him and placed her hand in his to let him lead her out to the dance floor. Looking over her shoulder she smiled at Darius, who she noticed was scowling at Francis. He caught her eye and smiled softly and nodded, though it didn't quite meet his eyes. He looked sad and she felt bad, but he knew that they couldn't be anything more than friends. A couple of his teammates had gone to sit next to him and talk to him.

Francis expertly spun Marie, and gave her a roguish grin. A sassy Latin number was blaring over the speakers of the club. Marie laughed as she recognized the song from one that they had danced to the previous summer. There were a few other couples on the dance floor that knew the dance, the others looked like they were trying to keep up with the dance moves, but they were clearly falling short.

Marie laughed breathlessly as Francis spun and dipped her as the song came to an end. He looped her arm through his and led her back to Darius and the rest of the Arrows that had watched the two of them dance. Her eyes were bright and her skin was flushed from the dance. Her long black hair fell in waves of curls down her back. The ever present medallion glinted in the lights of the club.

Darius watched her carefully as she approached. He knew that he had no right to be jealous, but he couldn't help it. He knew that he only had himself to blame for the situation that they were in now. She had tried to tell him that it would be a bad idea and that she couldn't be involved with anyone seriously. It took everything in him not to deck the smooth suave Italian who had swept in and stole her from his grasp. But one look at her open and friendly smile made him stamp down those feelings. Friends first and always he reminded himself.

"So ah, Marie how do you know your friend?" John Mickelson asked.

"Who, Francis?" Marie asked in confusion. "He's Elena and Franco Zabini's nephew. I have spent the past two summers in Italy and have stayed with their family numerous times."

The team welcomed Francis and introduced themselves. They talked sports, politics and women for quite some time. Marie just sat there shaking her head as she listened to them point out some of the women in the club. Darius flushed when he realized that he had been drawn into the conversation and looked at Marie guiltily. She just grinned at them playfully before standing. The group watched as she stood and made her way to the dance floor. She smiled at them flirtatiously as she started swaying and moving to the music of the song. She closed her eyes and let herself get lost in the song.

When she felt large warm hands run up her sides her eyes flew open. She looked towards the table and saw the scowls on the faces of Darius and Francis she knew that this was not someone that she knew. A broad muscled chest was pressed up against her back and strong arms spun her to face the man. The dark broody man who was now leading her in a dance looked somewhat familiar. When he saw Marie looking at him curiously, he grinned, completely changing his whole appearance.

"Do I know you?" Marie asked him quietly as he pulled her in closer while swaying to the next song.

In a thick Eastern European accent he replied, "We have not formally been introduced. I am Alexei Petrov of the Vratsa Vultures."

"I thought that you looked familiar," Marie remarked. "You seem awfully far from home, what brings you to our neck of the woods?"

He made and obvious gesture to his rolled up sleeves, exposing his clear unblemished skin. "A mutual friend suggested that there was going to be trouble here and asked a few of us to be here," he said nodding to three darker looking men off to the side of the dance floor. Leaning in he murmured next to her ear, "Nikolai Krum is a friend of mine that suggested that we meet little one."

Marie pulled back and nodded at him smiling. He visibly relaxed and finished their dance before leading her over to where his teammates were standing. He made introductions to the two Beaters and one of the Chasers on his team. They were all big men, and looked a bit intimidating, but Marie could see that they genuinely wanted to help.

She turned when she heard her name called over the music. Looking over her shoulder she noticed that Francis was making his way over towards her. As she watched him walking a chill ran down her spine. Her posture changed and she looked around trying to find the threat. The four men noticed the change in her body language and immediately went on high alert.

Marie stepped back and nodded to Miles and Brett who had made their way nearby. Subtle signals were given around the club and an announcement was made that people would need to begin exiting via the floo due to some maintenance issues with the building. There was grumbling but Micah and his team quickly ushered the throngs of people from the club. Upstairs a similar announcement was made, only they were saying that there was a gas leak and the building was being evacuated.

"What is it Marie?" Francis asked when he finally made it to her side.

"I'm not sure, but trouble is on its way," she told him in concern. "I need to change and quickly."

He led her to the office and stood guard at the door. She exited the room in a vastly different outfit than the one that she had been previously wearing. A black leather corset was tied snugly over a dark gray shirt with black combat pants and black knee high boots. Her hair was pulled back in a long braid down her back. Her medallion was tucked down in her shirt and she had a number of daggers and knives on her person as well as her wand in her wrist holster.

The Quidditch players stopped and stared at the petite young woman. Gone was the delicate looking little socialite and in her place was a season fighter. She called out orders to Miles and Brett who left to check the perimeter. Marie turned back towards the rest of the Arrows and Bulgarian players and knew that this was a now or never scenario. Some of them were already aware of the situation. Those that weren't were quickly sworn to secrecy with the promise that they would have full disclosure as soon as the threat was taken care of.

There were shouts from upstairs and Marie made her way up the steps two at a time, while casting a strong glamour spell. Miles and Brett called out to have everyone fall back into the building to take up defensive and offensive positions. Micah and the few of his pack that were outside made their way back in the building quickly. He shouted that there were Inferi and Dementors outside.

Marie shivered and closed her eyes. The Muggles would be helpless against this. It would be a feeding frenzy outside if they didn't do something. A large calloused hand grabbed her hand when she stepped towards the door. Alexei looked at her like she was insane but she just shrugged off his grasp. He swore harshly in his native tongue and followed the small woman out the door. His teammates and some of the others followed. There was no way that they would let her face this alone.

Alexei looked towards his friends and comrades and nodded. Nikolai had warned them. He looked down at the small young woman and marveled at her powerful presence. Here she was barely reaching the middle of his chest, but she certainly packed a punch. He grinned at his friends as they watched her stalk towards the danger head on. Nikolai was right; she was one hell of a young woman.

Marie stopped ten yards from the building when she felt the first line of their wards being tested. Looking around she sighed in frustration when she realized that most everything was paved over in this area. She made her way near where there was a tree in the sidewalk and crouched in it. She placed her hands in the soil and pushed her Elemental power to add an additional layer of protection. Making a mental note to help pay for the damages she essentially set a booby trap for the Inferi that would keep them contained.

Pulling back she looked around to the skies. Despite the fact that it was night, it was unnaturally dark out because of the presence of the Dementors. Her hands began to glow as she drew her powers to her and the winds around them began to pick up. Lightning arced in the skies and thunder rumbled in the distance. There was an unholy shriek nearby and the smell of burning cloth and something horrid. Another bolt of lightning shot down from the sky, and the answer scream in the night chilled them all to their very bones.

Marie started to get tired and sway. Alexei steadied her as she withdrew her powers. The Dementors were still there, but they were cautious now. The Bulgarians looked to the petite witch with wide eyes. They were now fully beginning to understand Nikolai's insistence that she be protected. If the Dark side were to get its hands on her, there is no telling what would happen. Even in their own country there were whispers of a rising darkness among their people. More and more people were disappearing daily, even on the continent. Entire families and lines were being wiped out. Dark times were present and darker times were coming.

Marie leaned into the taller muscled frame of the man beside her. She briefly allowed herself to relax and let Alexei hold her up as she felt the trap she had set draw on her powers. There was a loud groan and a resounding rumble felt deep within the earth. The screams in the distance were silenced as a large plume of dust and smoke filled the streets near Trinity. Marie sagged against Alexei as she felt the backlash of the spell and release on her magic.

The Earth Element had responded to her plea and a large sink hole had formed in the street. It was away from the underground transportation system and far away enough from the surrounding buildings. There were shouts from the Death Eaters, while most had avoided the explosion, some were less fortunate and had fallen down in with the Inferi. They were never seen again.

The rest of the Death Eaters marched on heading right for Trinity and the waiting crowd Marie had assembled. They had somehow disassembled the first layer of wards and made it through the initial barriers. Marie felt the cold chill of dread wash over her as they neared. The Muggles in the surrounding buildings and neighborhood were coming out to see what was happening. The first to exit their buildings were the first to fall. Marie shouted for someone to send a floo call to alert the Aurors. Miles replied that they had already been contacted and that reinforcements were on their way.

Alphard stepped from the doors of Trinity with a grim look on his face. This was not an isolated attack. There were four other attacks taking place simultaneously around the U.K. Trinity was being targeted because it was a known establishment that let people in indiscriminately, including Muggles. A couple of key members of the government were being targeted for opposing the Pureblood dogma. The final location was a Muggle shopping center.

Marie drew herself up and quickly reinforced the glamour charm to disguise her identity from the Death Eaters. She nodded to Alphard and Nikolai, who she realized, had just arrived. Looking around she realized that others had come as well, people who could have easily been within the club enjoying the evening because it was pretty exclusive for upper circles of society, both Muggle and Magical to be there on any given evening.

Out of the corner of her eye she saw Darius step forward but waved him off. Alphard stepped forward to intercept the younger man. She sighed in frustration, knowing that he would probably not listen and only cause more trouble in the end. Swallowing back her anger towards him she murmured silently under her breath, setting an invisible barrier in front of him to keep him out of the way.

Marie stepped forward and drew on the powers in the environment around her. Whispering under her breath she began chanting in the ancient Druid tongue of her ancestors. Her hands flared a bright white light as the Death Eaters advanced towards them. The wind picked up around her and her hair danced, crackling and sparking with the excess magic she was displaying. Lightning arced in the sky slamming down in front of the Death Eaters, scaring many. A significant number of them turned and fled. The remainder continued their forward progress.

Alphard and the others were shouting to her over the din, but she showed no sign of hearing them. Closing her eyes she sought the Earth once more and drew her hands up sharply, causing spear-like pikes of Earth to erupt from the ground, halting the progress of the Death Eaters. An angry shriek sounded from the ranks of the Death Eaters. Marie closed her eyes in sorrow, realizing that Bellatrix had indeed joined the Dark Lord. It made her heart sick to know that there were people her age if not younger that joined the Dark Lord, seduced by the false promises and temptations of power.

She felt her wards quiver from the assault that the Dark forces were putting against them. Angrily she threw her hands out, reinforcing them and thrusting more power into them. Four Death Eaters were thrown back from the force behind her magic. There was a shout from the Death Eater ranks and they stepped away from the barrier.

Marie felt a change in the air, a tainted dark smudge of magic that suddenly appeared. The oily, inky black poisonous magic seemed to smother her senses. This was indeed the Dark Lord. Someone from the other side had summoned him. In the background Marie heard the others shouting and adding their own power to the wards surrounding them.

In the distance there were pops of apparition, signaling the arrival of the reinforcements and help. Marie turned and faced down the Dark Lord with a sneer on her face. He stepped forward and met her wards. He reached out to try to dismantle them, but recoiled from the shock. Lightning arced in the sky and shattered the ground near where he stood. He had only moved just barely in time. He turned towards where Marie was and his eyes flared red. Marie took a cheeky bow towards him and laughed tauntingly.

He shouted something towards her, but she couldn't hear him over the wind that had picked up and answered her call. The gale for winds began blowing the Dementors away completely. The fury of the Dark Lord was now becoming palpable. He called for his forces to simultaneously attack the wards. Marie knew that they wouldn't hold, but they had served their purpose to get as many of the civilians away as possible.

She gasped when she felt the wards beginning to crumble and shatter. Thrusting her hands out, she sent the shockwaves and backlash from it back at the Dark forces, knocking many of them clear off their feet. The Dark Lord, though he didn't fall had sustained a number of lacerations from the debris flying around. Marie had drawn first blood, and if his facial expression was any indication he was livid.

"You foolish girl, do you know who I am?" Lord Voldemort asked.

"But of course, you're the Dark tosser who sends others to do his dirty work," Marie taunted back coldly.

The snake-like figure that once had been a man let an animalistic shout and sent a chain of Dark spells towards Marie. She batted them away with a wave of her wand and grinned coldly at him. So the bastard wanted to play, she was game. She watched and listened as both sides began engaging in the fight. Praying silently, she hoped that her friends and allies would make it through whatever happened this night.

"I'll not be spoken to in such a manner, you will bow before me broken before the night is through," he screamed.

"I bow before no one," Marie stated coldly. "You'll find that this will not be an easy fight."

Marie rolled to the side avoiding the spells that he sent her way and she returned fire. Her first two missed, but the third struck him in his left arm, leaving it bent at an odd angle. The sight had her swallowing bile that had risen in her throat. She shook herself from her thoughts and the distraction and fought on. Dodging left, she spun and struck out again, just as aggressively and drew her Elements to her.

The Dark Lord watched with wide eyes as the petite young woman wielded powers he only dreamed of having for himself. Here was a foe that he would be hard pressed to defeat. He quickly moved as Lightning slammed where he had been standing missing him by a hairsbreadth. It was abundantly clear that he had underestimated this young woman. He would not make the same mistake again. It was with that realization that he decided to try a different tactic.

"Come now, surely we can join forces," he tried to persuade her. "With your power and mine we could rule them all."

"Not bloody likely you psychotic tosspot!" Marie shouted back while sending another series of spells that had him reeling back.

Her victory was short lived. She had become momentarily distracted by Darius throwing himself against the barrier she had erected and was struck by a Bludgeoning Hex to the side. Marie fought the pain, even as she tasted the blood now pooling in her mouth. She had felt the crippling pain of her ribs shattering. Anger bubbled within her as she sent another series of spells as well as Lightning and Earth simultaneously at the Dark Lord.

The Dark forces realizing that they were outnumbered and losing sounded the retreat and those that were still left standing apparated. There were a number of injured and incapacitated that were left behind to fend for themselves. Marie watched as the Aurors rounded them up and carted them off.

She felt lightheaded and was having difficult time breathing. Alexei reached her side first, just as she was falling forward to her knees. Darius finally broke past the barrier and angrily made his way towards her. She turned and sent him a look that stopped him in his tracks.

"What the Hell do you think you're doing you fool?" she asked him coldly. "You were given specific instructions to help the others evacuate and then get out of here. Are you hard of hearing?"

"Now wait a minute," he gritted out, "I'm not about to be sent away like a scared child while you stay behind and fight."

"You'll do exactly as you're told Darius, or you can stay the Hell away from me and mine before you get someone killed," she gasped out. "Do you think that this is some fucking game? Do you think that this is fun? If you want to be an idiot do it on your own time, enough is enough. You follow orders or you're out am I clear?"

"Marie," he said stepping forward.

She yanked her arm away from him, gasping in pain. Alexei gently lifted her up in his arms and cradled her against his broad chest. He stared down the younger, wiry built Quidditch player and sneered at him. Barking something out in Bulgarian, his teammates flanked him as they made their way back to the club. Alphard fell into step as did Nikolai. Once they made it into the club they assessed the damage. A make-shift hospital and triage center had been set up. Marie however, was beyond that, she needed more help fast.

Alphard adjusted the emergency portkey around Marie's neck and stretched it to include Alexei. The others awaited the next portkey and watched as the sickly pale Marie was whisked away from the club. Collectively they turned towards Darius with thunderous looks on their faces. They immediately began to lay into him as they waited for their portkeys to activate. He looked mutinous until Francis tapped him on the shoulder and clocked him. The Italian young man grabbed him by his shirt and got in his face and told him in a deadly calm voice that if he ever pulled a stunt like that again, he wouldn't live long enough to regret it. When he went to protest Francis shook him violently and told him that it was his presence and actions that nearly got Marie killed. Darius still seemed angry, but the reality of the situation and the truth behind their words, Francis's in particular was beginning to make him feel ill.

Their portkey activated and they quickly made their way through the halls towards the infirmary. As they made their way through the halls of Dorcha Gaol they were greeted by the sound of chaos. There were people running around lending aid where they could to the injured that had been portkeyed and floo'd in. They were stopped at the doors of the infirmary and told that they would have to wait. Marie was in bad shape and had lost a lot of blood.

Alexei and his three teammates were sitting on a bed outside of the doors waiting. Alexei had a dark smudge of Marie's blood on his shirt and her blood was on his hands. He looked up when he saw the group coming and immediately took a step towards Darius. Nikolai stopped him and the two men argued in Bulgarian for a while before Nikolai led him and his other countrymen to the set of rooms that were typically set aside for his family. Meanwhile the rest of the group looked towards Darius in frustration and anger.

Alphard turned his cold gray eyes towards the younger man. "This could have all been avoided had you listened," he told him harshly.

"I just wanted to help," Darius told him plaintively. "I know now that it was wrong, I never meant for anyone to get hurt."

"You should have listened," Alphard told him quietly. "You were given a direct order. The next one given to you, you will listen to immediately. Am I understood? This is no game that we're playing and you're actions today could have brought the whole organization down. Put aside your ego and pride and man up! You want to act like the Quidditch playboy, do it on your own time. While my charge is in the equation you will behave according!"

"Yes sir," Darius mumbled looking down and swallowing thickly.

"With that said," Alphard began, "you're going to end this silly little ruse that you have going sooner rather than later. You've done enough as far as I'm concerned and the girl has too much to deal with without having to worry about you pulling another stunt like this. As soon as she is well enough, you will end your public little relationship. Am I clear? I said am I clear?"

Darius looked up at the acting Lord Black and nodded mutely. He could see the dark promises in the eyes of the man before him. He knew that he had made a mistake and it had caused Marie to become hurt, but he was only trying to help. Part of him just wanted to be at her side and make sure that she was fine during the fighting. He knew now that it was a ridiculous thought because she outclassed him in every sense of the word. She could do things that he couldn't even imagine.

"I understand sir," Darius told him quietly and sat down thoroughly chastised.

The members of his group that had accompanied him looked around uncomfortably. They had joined and been quietly recruited by Marie over the passing weeks and months since they had been hanging out with and meeting up with the petite witch at various social events. They had stayed behind during the confrontation to help many of them had broken off into groups evacuating people, helping with the injured, and there was a small group that had joined Darius when he had followed the others outside. They too felt guilt and blame over what had happened to Marie. Now having seen first-hand what it was that she really did and was up against many of them were finally beginning to understand the harsh reality of fighting and war. It was no game. It wasn't the glorified experience that history made it out to be.

Alexei, Nikolai and the other Bulgarians returned a while later. Alexei was wearing a fresh shirt and looked as though he had freshened up. He had a large angry cut on his forearm where a stray spell had struck him. A passing healer all but dragged the burly Bulgarian into the infirmary to have his wound treated. He was quickly treated and sent on his way. On his way out of the infirmary he asked of Marie and the Healer gave him a grim look and said that they were doing all that they could.

Alexei exited the infirmary with a black look on his face. His forearm scarred, but that was not what was bothering him. The petite little witch in the infirmary was firmly on his mind. She had wielded power that many of them couldn't even begin to conceive of having with little trouble or struggle. Nikolai had been right when he told them that this girl could and would turn the tides. Each of them had been subtly courted by the Dark and none of them wanted to go that route. They deflected the murmurs and kept their heads down focusing on Quidditch and their families. Marie was giving them a chance at something more. They had seen first-hand the empty promises of the Dark Lord and what they had done to their comrades.

The group waited anxiously for news that Marie would be alright. In the time that the Healers were working on her, Nikolai and Alphard had contacted the others. Minister Blishwick had been contacted and the frazzled man arrived looking pale. When he had heard Marie had faced off the Dark Lord, he feared the worst. Marie's Guardians and friends had showed up in a flurry of activity.

Lucius stepped through the floo with his muscles twitching. The Dark Lord had expressed his displeasure at the failure of their mission and took it out on his followers. The Cruciatus Curse frayed and burned the nerves and caused the muscles to twitch and seize. Many of the Dark Lord's followers were no longer disillusioned to the truth of what it meant to serve the evil wizard. Many were coming to regret their decision, but wisely said nothing.

He shook himself from his thoughts and dusted off the floo powder. Stepping into the waiting area he spotted Darius and snapped. In three strides he reached the Quidditch player. Drawing his fist back he let it fly. The resounding crunch let him know that he had broken the other man's nose.

"Listen to me carefully you fool," Lucius hissed out. "If she doesn't make it there will be nowhere in this Earth for you to hide. Next time there's a plan or an order you follow. If not I'll kill you myself and save the rest of us the worry and heart ache."

Darius bit down his anger and nodded. He was angry at them, but now the anger and guilt was beginning to be directed towards himself. He mentally berated himself for not listening and dreaded facing Marie again. She would be livid and rightly so, but he feared that this would ruin their friendship and he only had himself to blame for it.

A passing Healer sighed in exasperation and healed Darius's nose, though now it was slightly crooked. The group sat and waited. Gideon and Fabian paced the hall impatiently. They had been away training with Madam Raglan when the news came. The Elemental Elders sent the two young men on their way and told them that they would come to check on their young charge in a few days. Rabastan and Regulus sent word that they had felt that something was wrong through Lucius and asked him to keep them posted. Antonio stood by his cousin Francis and Lucius, glaring darkly at Darius.

Caius had entered Dorcha Gaol limping much in the way that Lucius had earlier that morning. He sat down gingerly and asked how Marie was doing. Still no conclusive word had come to them even as the sun was beginning to climb the sky. It was mid-morning when the Marauders had been ushered in with Dorea. Lady Potter looked pale and worried. Charlus had been coming in and out of the floo giving messages and updates throughout the early morning hours. The young men had all been home when the frantic floo call had come through around midnight. Charlus launched into action and gave the young men a stern warning and made them promise to stay put and protect Dorea. It was a scared and somber group of teens that nodded firmly to Lord Potter and watched him whisk away in the floo.

Dorea and the teens stayed awake in the front parlor near the floo waiting for news. When Charlus stepped through the floo looking pale after the confrontation he sat down heavily in a chair and put his head in his hands. He explained to Dorea what had happened and the Marauders listened in horror. Marie had faced the Dark Lord and she was gravely injured from the confrontation. When they heard that Darius was somehow involved in it they were confused and upset.

The Marauders who were fairly subdued went to stand next to Gideon and Fabian. The older Gryffindor alumni greeted the younger teens warmly. They were glad for their company and distraction. It had been a long morning so far and looked like it would only get longer.

Dowager Lady Prewett and Lady Longbottom had stepped through the floo around noon. Behind them came Gideon and Fabian's parents as well as Arthur and Molly Weasley with their growing brood. Molly looked around the cold black stone walls of the Dorcha Gaol and shivered. She had been apprehensive about bringing her children to such a place but her grandmother had pulled rank and demanded that their family be present in support of Marie.

Molly reigned in her protested and kept her silence. She felt her Family Magic at work demanding her compliance. She feared for her family with the girl being so closely linked to them. Her presence put them all in danger. Dumbledore had contacted her and Arthur to recruit them for his new group. The Order of Phoenix was assembling to fight against the Dark. Molly would be taking a less active role in their activities but she would support her husband and the group. She felt the sharp sting of her Family Magic protesting as she swore an oath to Dumbledore and his order. There was a niggling drain on her magic at times letting her know that she was going against the Prewett Family Magic and the oath and vow of protection and safety for Marie.

Arthur had only agreed to join the Order of Phoenix because he wanted to take a more active role in fighting the spreading Dark. He knew that young Marie was in the process of forming her own group to fight. He also knew that she hadn't approached himself or Molly because of Molly's behavior in the past. He loved his wife, but she often jumped to conclusions and was far too trusting of people in power, such as Dumbledore. He knew that she meant well and that she was protective of her family, particularly her younger brothers, but her behavior towards Marie had turned the younger woman away from them. She was ever polite to them and cordial, but he knew that it was more out of respect for Lady Prewett and the twins than anything. She did not like or particularly respect Molly, but she was always kind to their young children, which in his opinion spoke volumes of her character.

It was just around two in the afternoon when one of the weary Healers came out of the infirmary. He turned to the group and warned them that while she had stabilized, she still wasn't out of danger yet. They had to remove many of her ribs on her left side and now her body was re-growing them. She had been forced to drink a significant number of Blood Replenishing Potions and they had to repair significant internal bleeding. He told them that had she not made it there fifteen minutes later, she would have bled out. They had sent her into a medical and magical coma so that her body could heal.

Gideon and Fabian nodded to Lucius and Antonio. The four young men stood and made their way to the doors of the infirmary. The others watched as the young men made their way into the infirmary and made their way to Marie's bedside. Antonio took Marie's hand and Gideon took her other. The four young men surrounded her bedside and sat at her side.

A little while later Miles and Brett pulled up chairs at her bedside. They looked worse for wear with bandages on their arms. It was apparent that they had suffered some injuries from the battle. There were a few others lingering in the infirmary resting from their injuries. There were others present from the other attacks as well that had been rescued or injured. The Dark Lord and his minions had apparently had been very busy that night. A significant number of people had been killed, both Muggle and Magical alike. Many more were injured.

Marie remained unconscious for almost ten days. In that time the Elemental Elders had stopped in to aid in her healing, but they left her to rest and heal naturally. Her Guardians and friends came and went over the passing days. Darius owled and stopped in when he could, but he needed to keep up the appearance that nothing was wrong. When asked about where his little lady was, he shrugged ruefully and told them that Marie had gone to visit some friends on the continent. When the press began pushing for further information, speculating that there was trouble in paradise, he didn't deny it nor did he confirm it. It left the gossip circles buzzing.

Marie slowly came to consciousness at the end of the first week in August. She gasped painfully, as she drew a full deep breath. Her ribs and lungs were very sore and tender. Taking a full breath seemed to pain her a great deal. The Healers rushed forward and poured potions down her throat to help with the pain. She swallowed instinctively and sighed in relief as she felt her chest ease and the pain lesson.

Laying back she cracked her eyes open to see that she was in the infirmary of Dorcha Gaol. It was becoming an annoying habit she decided as she looked around the room. She was relieved to see that there was no one else hurt seriously enough to be in the infirmary with her.

There was a bit of a commotion in the hallway and Marie turned her gaze towards the door. Dorea, Elena and the other ladies that were her Guardians made their way to her side in a flurry of silken dresses, perfectly coifed hair, and soft perfumes. The women closed in rank around their young charge and fretted over the girl. Lady Prewett spoke with the Healer in charge while the others made sure that she was comfortable. Dorea and Elena each held one of her hands and tearfully told her that they were glad that she was alright.

They filled her in on what had happened in the ten days since she had been hospitalized. She listened intently to the reactions everyone had towards Darius and snorted in derision. She cared for Darius a great deal but he was an idiot. He should have listened. She was upset with herself for becoming so distracted that she had left herself open to the direct hit from the Dark Lord's spell.

Her side throbbed and ached with each breath. She knew that the damage had been repaired for the most part, but her body was still tender from her recovery. Marie laid back and listened to the women in her life chatter on about everything that had been happening since she had been injured.

There were a number of attacks that had taken place in the time since the Dark Lord had fought Marie. He had taken his displeasure out on the people that he had attacked in the days since. The casualties and fatalities were brutal and numerous. Marie's Guardians had assured her that there was nothing that she could have done. Her task force teams and the Ministry had done everything in their power to respond to the attacks.

There were rapid heavier footsteps making their way down the hall towards the infirmary. The doors swung open and banged against the wall, startling the Healers in their offices. Marie rolled her eyes as the male counterparts of her Guardians, while Alphard strolled in behind at a more sedate pace. Franco looked around frantically and made his way to his wife's side. Charlus was right in step with him as he made his way to Dorea's side. Nikolai arrived carrying little Viktor as he entered the room.

They explained that they were in a meeting when the message had been sent. Many of them were at the Ministry when they received a message that "Marie had sent word from the continent about possibly extending her stay, but she was hoping to set up a meeting with them to discuss her plans." The men took their leave and discreetly made their way to the floo systems to floo to their respective homes before they activated their portkeys to Dorcha Gaol. Times were darker now, and they did not trust the floo system to keep their activities secret any longer. Lucius had tipped them off that there was now an inside person for the Dark Lord monitoring things in the Ministry. He had sent word to the Minister of this, but nothing as of yet was done. It was far safer to keep the mole in place where they could monitor and watch their every move.

Marie's friends on the inside of the Dark Lord's ranks were walking a precarious tight rope. They had been secretly stopping into Gringott's Bank in rotation. They were passing along information every chance that they could get under the guise of making investments and banking transactions. The Goblins kept their presence and true nature of their visits secret per their agreement and alliance with Marie and the Ministry. Thus far it was proving lucrative for the Goblins who had been recovering some of the Goblin wrought items from the accounts of the captured Death Eaters being held at Dorcha Gaol.

Marie listened as the males filled her in on the happenings. She asked them to have word sent to Darius asking him to come to Dorcha Gaol and requested that Alphard escort him. The agreed to her requests, but insisted that it wait for another day of her resting before she faced the young man. Ruefully, she agreed to this as she yawned wearily. A healer came bustling with a tray of potions to help with her pain and to allow her some more rest. Her Guardians left as soon as they were sure that she was sleeping soundly.

Marie's recovery was slow. She retreated at first to Stone Manor before traveling to stay with the Zabinis for a time. From there she went to Bulgaria. She took society by storm, networking and stepping out very publicly with the who's who of the upper circles in the Wizarding world and Muggle world . Her life blended and blurred the lines between the two parallel worlds. Her friends were supportive and remained at her side through a lot of the speculation over the abrupt end to her "relationship" with Darius. They were still cordial and polite to each other when they saw one another, but it was abundantly clear that their interaction with one another had changed. There was a shift in their dynamic, a tension and subtle coldness that hadn't been there before.

For his part Darius looked pained any time that she was mentioned and clearly regretted his actions, but he kept quiet about what had happened, letting the press draw their own conclusions. Her brief appearance on the Quidditch field had teams vying for her placement on their squads, but she coyly told them that she would be unable to play until she at least reached her majority which was still another few months away.

Summer passed rather slowly while her body recovered from the injuries sustained in her confrontation with the Dark Lord. Francis and the others had become extremely protective of her and often at least one of them would accompany her to whatever events she attended. Her Guardians too were protective of their young charge. The fight at the club was a sobering experience for all of them. Many were now working tirelessly and endlessly to secure their Ancestral homes behind ironclad, indestructible wards, as well as making their properties as self-sufficient as possible.

Marie and her Guardians were exasperated as to how Albus Dumbledore became aware of her involvement, but the man was certainly persistent. He had been trying to meet with her and recruit her for his own group. Her Guardians and Marie herself sent his messages back with polite, but firm answers of thanks but no thanks. He was relentless in his attempts to meet with her and talk to her. Her Guardians ran interference and rebuffed the man. Marie was thankful that her plans to go to the continent out her out of his meddling reach.

Marie for her part slowed down a bit. While she was still planning and networking, she took time to enjoy life. She went to various functions as was required by her status and station in the Magical world. She also took the time to go to concerts and catch up on enjoying her youth. Her latest series of injuries was eye opening for her and she realized that she was very much mortal.

Francis and Marie were close friends, but during this time they became closer. Francis became like an older brother to her and would often watch out for her, which led to speculations over their relationship. Spending time with him cause an ache and sadness, but also helped to heal the lingering pain of the loss of her siblings. They laughed off the speculation as it was strictly platonic, but only seemed to fuel the fire. The fact that they got into a bit of trouble together and tested the boundaries of propriety in the somewhat archaic Magical society in Britain didn't help.

The pair roared into Magical London on the back of a sleek and shiny new motorcycle, shocking the old biddies and gossips in the streets. Marie laughed and took Francis's hand as he stepped off and gave an exaggerated bow before assisting her off the bike. She grinned and waved at some of the ladies that she recognized before the two strolled away heading to meet up with Gideon and Fabian for lunch.

On another visit Marie drove them in a very nice, very conspicuous American made sports car. The rumble of the engine startled the normally quiet neighborhood. Francis sat in the front seat of the car looking just as excited as she did. Marie grinned at having purchased her dream car. She saw the gaping looks that she was receiving from some of the people present but shrugged it off.

It was much later in the summer that pictures of Marie surfaced driving a bike of her own. The Gossip columns ate up anything that they could get on her and often speculated about her recreational choices. It was clear to them that although she was very much a little lady; she also had a more mischievous side. Some articles written were disparaging, clearly stating that she appeared to have a preference towards Muggle transportation, to which she responded with a sassy smirk and agreed. She did concede that Quidditch and racing brooms were her sports preference, which seemed to placate some people.

Her friends found it all amusing and were a bit envious of the toys that she was acquiring. Sirius especially wanted to test drive her bike, which she told him not until he himself was of age. She did however take them out for rides when they all had time to hang out together. She made sure to make trips to visit the Potters, Prewetts and Longbottoms when she could.

During her time on the continent she spent time at summer parties near the beach and pool. Heavy glamour charms were applied to her, concealing the still healing curse marks on her body. It didn't bother her too much that she now bore the marks of her battles. She was just relieved that they didn't damage her tattoos.

A few of the weeks in the summer she spent going back and forth from her villa to the Zabini estate. The properties were fairly close to one another, so it made little difference, but she liked to retreat to the quiet of her villa. She'd often walk down the path to her private beach in the cove and relax with a book. She spent a lot of time centering herself and finding a balance to her magic once more. The battle with the Dark Lord had drained her reserves and left her magic a bit unbalanced. She took her recovery seriously and her Elemental and Druid Mentors checked in with her frequently to check her progress and help her through it.

It was in the second week in September that Marie was attending a pool party at the home of a friend of the Zabinis that she received an urgent missive. She excused herself from the others and went to read the message. She had just passed off her drink to Francis who accompanied her when she grasped the scroll she let out a startled cry as she felt the familiar tug behind her navel.

Marie watched the world around her blur and spin as she was whisked off to where she didn't know. Her stomach churned and rebelled, it was clearly an international portkey. She landed on a cold stone floor with an ungraceful thud. Her hair had fallen out of its bindings and into her face. The sarong that she wore was tangled around her legs, but she was grateful that her bathing suit had stayed in place.

Brushing the hair from her eyes she looked around and found that she was in the middle of the Great Hall, ironically enough during dinner. She felt the eyes of those present on her and she flushed in anger and embarrassment. Standing up she brushed herself off and faced the headmaster who was sitting in his chair gawking at her. Her hair danced and crackled as her magic built and swirled around her.

"My dear," he began in a cheerful voice, "you don't appear to be dressed for the present company."

"Shut it you!" she shouted pointing a finger at him. "Do you have any idea what you've just done you meddling old wanker?! You've just kidnapped the Head of two Ancient and Noble Houses! Not just that, you did so from foreign territory and now you've got yourself an international situation on your hands."

"My dear," he stated, "I simply wanted to speak to you."

"Speak to me?!" she cried incredulously. "You kidnapped an underage former student to speak with you? Do you have any idea how creepy that sounds? No means no sir, my Guardians and I have been quite clear that I neither wanted nor needed to speak to you."

By now the children of her Guardians present had stepped to her side. James shrugged off his cloak and wrapped it around her shoulders and glared at the males in the room gawking at his sister in all but blood. Sirius was also glaring at people and Marie was fairly certain that she heard Remus growl. Marco Zabini had walked from the Slytherin table and stood shoulder to shoulder with the Gryffindors. It was abundantly clear to those present that the headmaster was going to have a bit of a situation on his hands.

Professor McGonagall turned and proceeded to berate the bearded man, her brogue getting thicker with each word. Mid rant the doors to the Great Hall were thrown open slamming into the walls, startling the occupants of the Hall. Francis looked around and spotted Marie before quickly making his way to her side. Her Guardians were present in full force as was a representative of the Ministry and Board of Governors. They advanced on the Headmaster who seemed to shrink in on himself. It was clear that he had miscalculated the situation and reaction of Marie and her Guardians.

Marie's limbs trembled with her rage. Her eyes flew open as she felt the castle groan in response. The very foundation seemed to match the maelstrom that was wracking within her. Francis and the others closed ranks around their friend as they felt Marie's magic getting out of hand.

Marie looked around like a caged animal before turning towards the door. She caught the eyes of Rabastan and Regulus before handing James's cloak back to him despite the protests of her companions. She walked quickly towards the door ignoring the calls of the headmaster. Her world focused to the main door towards the Black Lake, once she was out of the Great Hall she fled down the steps with the silky sarong billowing and dancing around her legs. Her hair crackled with the magic that was building. She raced across the grounds towards the lake with her friends trailing behind her. She was seemingly unaware of the cool Scottish autumn air around her.

Dropping to her knees, Marie buried her hands deep into the rich soil and let go of the tight hold she had on her magic. Wave after wave she fed her magic back into these lands, into the very earth. She knew that the castle was on one of the Ley lines, thus it fed off of the ambient magic in the area, but she was pumping more into the system.

The air around her swirled and sparked, while the ground trembled. Lightning arced through the sky striking around the perimeter of the grounds. She cleared her mind and focused, feeding her magic and layering it into the protections on the castle and grounds.

Regulus and Rabastan had reach her side and pushed past the others despite their protests. They shared a look and plunged their own hands into the soil and sought out with their magic, joining Marie. Gideon and Fabian had arrived shortly after and ran towards Marie and the others. Marie and her friends formed a rough circle, forming the beginning of her Gray Coven. They collectively pushed their magic, urging it to protect and guard. The castle seemed to pulse with the force of it.

Marie let them each know when to pull back and one by one the five pulled their hands from the soil and sat back on their heels. Marie opened her eyes and watched as the magic flashed around the perimeter of the grounds, arcing and forming a dome over. It crackled and sparked with power before being absorbed and layering over the existing wards.

Marie felt drained and saw that her friends looked exhausted as well. Her side ached and her joints hurt. The curse marks from the Dark Lord throbbed with the exertion on her magic.

Francis knelt down and cast cleaning charms on their hands, before turning to check on Marie. The others were helped to stand, but Francis scooped Marie up and wrapped his cloak tightly around her. He turned to the group and made his way back towards the castle. He walked past the Headmaster and towards the hospital wing where Madam Pomfrey was waiting. The matron ushered the youths and Marie's Guardians in, and shut the door in the Headmaster's face. He was left in the hallway facing the representatives from the Ministry and the Board of Governors who were both glaring at the man.

The Headmaster was given strict orders not to go near or contact Marie in any capacity. She was no longer a student and had already passed her NEWTs. He was informed that he had no business contacting her and certainly shouldn't be giving unsuspecting people portkeys. He was informed that though he was a national hero and well thought of, he was on thin ice. As it was he'd have a black mark in his records from the ordeal and was to follow the no contact order, lest he be ousted from his positions. He grudgingly complied, leading the two men towards his office.

Meanwhile in the infirmary Marie and her friends were recovering. Pepper-Up potions were given as well as other restoratives. The nurse tutted over Marie's condition and told her that she had half a mind to keep her there. Marie protested and told her that she would be returning home and resting. The Zabinis told her that she could stay with them so that someone would be there to keep an eye on her. Marie however told them that for the next few days she'd need to be in Britain to deal with the fall-out of the incident. The Potters told her that she would simply have to stay with them.

Dorea firmly told her that there were no arguments. James and Sirius snorted at Marie's put but quickly sobered when Dorea turned her gaze towards them. Marie grinned tiredly and thanked them for coming to her aid.

Alphard was standing back with the older males. He kept averting his eyes from her which confused Marie. Glancing down she realized that what she was wearing would certainly scandalize Wizarding Britain. She laughed merrily causing everyone to look at her in question. Once more she noticed the older males avert their eyes. The group looked on in concern as she tried to compose herself.

"Oh my," she gasped out. "I do believe that I'll be hitting the front page of the gossip columns again."

"Whatever for dear?" Elena asked in confusion.

Marie glanced down pointedly to her rather revealing two piece bathing suit and sarong. "I don't think Wizarding Britain quite knows what to do with so much skin showing," she said cheekily.

The younger males of the group flushed and looked away. The older males shifted uncomfortably and all the while the ladies snorted and laughed in quite an unladylike fashion.

"Marie!" Alphard said rather tightly. "What in the name of Merlin are you wearing?"

Marie looked at him in shock. "This is a swim suit, a bathing suit," she explained. "I assure you that this is quite acceptable and rather tame and conservative, might I add."

"Conservative?" Charlus bolstered. "Child you're exposed!"

Marie snorted and laughed. "I assure you that the necessary bits are covered sir. You'd be surprised what people consider acceptable to swim in. Just be thankful that I was still at the party and hadn't retire to my own villa," she state saucily with a wink.

Francis looked at her in question and then flushed when it dawned on him. "You mean?" his went up an octave.

"Do you see tan lines?" she asked pointedly.

He looked like he swallowed his tongue and the rest of the young men didn't look much better. Francis shook his head no and then proceeded to shake his head as if to clear his thoughts.

"You can't do that Marie!" he told her. "You can't just say something like that!"

"Why ever not?" she asked slightly confused, but highly amused at the situation.

"We're males love," he told her as if it explained everything.

Marie just shrugged and stood from the bed. She untied the sarong from her hips and then wrapped it around her bust, tying it off into a short dress. Looking down she smoothed out the material, satisfied with the results and sat back on the edge of the bed and folded her hands in her lap.

"Is that better?" she asked in amusement.

She laughed and shook her head at the boys. They were teenagers after all so she couldn't really hold it against them. Sighing she turned to her Guardians and saw that the males were distinctly uncomfortable. She rolled her eyes and looked towards Elena and Dorea who both looked amused.

When Madam Pomfrey gave her the all clear Marie allowed herself to be escorted through the floo to Stone Manor. Charlus and Dorea stayed behind to say good bye to their boys, while Elena and Franco did the same with their youngest. Alphard bid his nephews good bye and stepped through the floo first. Francis and the Prewett twins were speaking quietly with Marie who had called for Tidbit to bring refreshments for everyone. Once all of her Guardians made it through she activated the wards on the floo that would only allow someone who knew the correct password and had permission to enter the property. She excused herself to go changed and quickly made her way to her rooms.

Marie swiftly tugged off the sarong and pulled on a pair of cut off jean shorts and a shear blouse. She brushed her hair and braided it in a long plait down her back. Idly she held her medallion in her hand before letting it fall on her shirt. Once done with her task she made her way back down to the front drawing room.

Her feet padded quietly down the stairs back towards the front Parlor. She listened to the quiet murmur of her Guardians and friends before taking a breath and making her way back into the room. She knew that her outfit wasn't completely acceptable by Pureblood standards, but she was a teen after all and she was entitled to wear whatever she was comfortable in while residing in her own home.

The group talked quietly discussing their plans for the next few weeks. Marie was lost in her own thoughts. Francis got her attention nudging her shoulder with his own. She looked around and realized they were waiting on her.

"Sorry I was just thinking of my family," she said quietly. "Is there a way that they can be checked on from time to time?"

"How do you mean?" Alphard asked.

"I don't mean staking out guards or anything like that, but perhaps some sort of trigger ward," Marie said. "I'm thinking just in case so that when the time comes, hopefully, help can get there in time."

The group shared looks and nodded. They were increasing the securities and wards on their own properties. With the increasing attacks and disappearances, it only made sense to protect their families as best they could. Francis shared a look with the Prewett twins and nodded. Sometime in the coming weeks they would be traveling to the States with Alphard if his posture was any indication to go by.

Marie breathed a sigh of relief and prayed that it would be enough. Her throat clogged and tears welled in her eyes as she realized that she didn't have much time left. In just a few short months it would come to a head and she would either cease to exist or she would be sent back to where she was meant to be. She was terrified, but knew that she had no choice but to push forward and prepare as best that she could.

Accounts were set up at the bank for her friends and allies. Contracts and oaths sworn by the Ministry to ensure their protection, Marie felt comfort in knowing her friends would be safe and taken care of. Information was passing on a regular basis and they were saving many lives, but it still seemed like it wasn't enough. Her friends on the inside looked haggard and haunted with each passing day. The raids were taking their toll on them.

Marie's wards jolted and her head came up. She stood and quickly made her way to the window. On the perimeter of the wards there were a number of owls that were being turned away at the moment. The wards were specifically designed to turn away harmful intended mail and intruders. She turned to her Guardians and told them to get through the floo immediately. They tried to protest but she told them to get to their own homes and lock down their wards except for those specifically keyed in. They went quickly to their own estates.

Marie kept her floo open and active to them should they need to fall back. She went down stairs to the lower basement where the main ward stone was located. Thinking as to what she could do, she called Tidbit and summoned a ceremonial dagger. Without a second thought she sliced open her hand and placed it on the ward stone, feeding more protections and power into it. She added more layers of protection on her home, weaving and interlocking them as tightly as she could.

Pulling back she cleaned the stone and dagger and went back up the stairs. Looking out the window she saw that a few more owls were being redirected. She walked to the floo and checked in with the others, going to each of their Ancestral home and repeating the action of strengthening their wards. She stepped back through the floo to Stone Manor and checked that everything was secure.

Once she was sure that everything was fine she activated her portkey to her other homes and began checking them one by one. It was late in the night when she stumbled into the courtyard of Dorcha Gaol. She was helped into the infirmary and thoroughly scolded for over expending her energy. The Healers present insisted that she stay in the infirmary and rest for at least the night. Marie, being so tired, didn't protest and promptly fell asleep.

Early next morning, Marie went to her set of rooms and showered and changed. Dressed in a black pair of trousers and a silk blouse, she made her way down the stairs. She passed the holding cells of the prisoners. Their mumbling and whimpering sent chills down her spine. She took out the dagger and cut her palms, reinforcing the enchantments and wards on the cells before heading further down, deeper into the bowels of the Gaol.

The torches flared to life as she approached. Deeper and deeper still she walked until she was down in the very heart of the Gaol. In the center of a dimly lit room was a large crudely cut stone. Stepping into the protective circle she made her way to the stone and placed her hands on it. The building seemed to answer her and the air around it seemed to weave tighter, more secure. She layered on more protections before pulling back her hands and healing them silently.

Looking over her shoulder she saw that Brett and Miles were at the door waiting for her to finish. She cleaned the stone and dagger and made her way towards them. The building seemed to pulse with the additional power in the wards.

The two men protectively escorted her back up the many steps to the main level of the Gaol. They were silent in their journey, but looked down at the petite witch in concern. They had heard about her kidnapping, and then her actions immediately following. Marie entered what was referred to as "main headquarters" and looked around to see that not only were her Guardians present, but also some of her friends.

Lucius and Theo stood to one side watching with carefully blank masks. Caius leaned against the wall observing the little witch that was turning their world on its head. There were two dozen others who had chosen to keep their integrity and honor despite the fact that they were not really given a choice in joining the madman in which they served.

The Prewett twins, Franco and Silvano Zabini and numerous other young men from the neutral and "Light" factions watched and waited. Marie's former roommates were present, as were other young ladies from various families and background. Narcissa Black stood speaking quietly with the de Luca twins.

The room magically expanded to fit everyone. There were dignitaries, international Quidditch players and business partners. There were werewolf factions and other "creatures" who had sent representatives. Marie's tactical teams were present as well, standing in the shadows watching and waiting. It was one of the biggest meetings they had to date and all of the key players were there.

Marie stepped into the room with Brett and Miles flanking her. The room expanded once more and chairs appeared in an auditorium like set up. She waited until everyone was seated before she locked the room down, startling everyone present. They felt the magic flare around them and seal them in the room. No one would get in or out until the meeting was done.

"You all know why you're here," she began in a strong and clear voice. "You've taken oaths and proven yourselves. I can see many of you are startled to see people across "enemy" lines present, but you shouldn't be. If that evil idiot takes over he will eradicate any and all he sees as a threat. He's already started it. Pureblood families, some of the Oldest and purest Houses are being hunted because they refuse to bow to a mad man and accept his ways."

There were murmurs in response. A list of Family names appeared, and there were a significant number of them that were blackened or faded. They all caught on to the significance of it. The tension in the room had risen and they were all now listening. She had their attention and she intended to keep it.

"For too long he has been allowed to run around causing chaos and threatening our way of life," she said sternly. "The mindless sheep of society believe whatever they're told. I have half a mind to lock down our family homes and wards and leave the masses to their own destruction. However, I won't. What they don't realize is that we outnumber the other side one hundred to one, easily. Yet they cower behind their walls and fear a name. On that same token the other side is poking a hornet's nest. They don't realize that Muggles outnumber us tens of thousands to one."

The people present goggled at that thought. Surely there couldn't be that many Muggles? Were they really in so much danger?

"Easy now," she assured them. "If we leave them alone, they'll remain unaware and ignorant of us. However, they truly could wipe us off the face of the earth if they felt threatened enough. The Dark Idiot needs to be stopped before he brings ruin to us all. He won't rule over them, there are none that can. We need to set aside our differences and stand together, if not all will fail and we will see the fall of our kind."

Maps and diagrams were conjured, chalkboards enchanted and the meeting really began. Everyone was given their own individual briefings. Packets of information were passed out were to be read before leaving the room and would burn upon completion. They were taking no chances.

Marie flicked her wrist and a timeline appeared on the board. It was a casual wandless and wordless action that startled many who didn't know her very well. She was still learning and recovering, but she had a better grasp of magic than some of the ancients left in the world. The group watched the subtle movements of her hands and the graceful motions that she made.

The timeline stopped in December and there was a significant jump. Many of them looked at the board in confusion. Many of them were talking over one another in confusion. Only those closest to her truly knew what that time jump meant. There were startled cries in the crowd, particularly her friends when they realized that December was fast approaching. All of their information about what was to come led up to December, her birthday and then jumped twenty years forward. There was no mention of what was to come after that, which didn't sit well with the people present.

"Contingency plans have been set in place," Marie interrupted the discussions. "None of us have any way of knowing what this December will bring. My assets will be frozen save for the allotted amounts indicated to the Goblins as well as the investment instructions that I have left with my account manager. My homes will be able to be used as safe houses, however I must tell you now there may be no coming back from this for me. I don't know if I will be coming back. My assets will be held for twenty five years, after which they will be dispersed per my will."

Marie looked out over the group and saw that many of them were fully realizing the task that was solely on her shoulders. Her friends looked pained and angry, but said nothing. She didn't want them to grieve, not when there was a chance.

"We need to stay together and remain true to our tasks," she told them. "Keep your loyalties and honor in fulfilling what we've set out to do. He must not win! Follow the plan. Keep yourselves and your families safe. For those of you who daily risk your lives living a double life, you have my eternal gratitude, without you we would not have gotten as far as we have to date. It is your work that has truly helped us to gain the upper hand and for that we all owe you."

"You owe us nothing Marie," Lucius said, drawing attention to himself and the others who many had thought to be Dark. "You gave us something to hope for and hold onto. You allowed us to remain true and honorable, despite our families' inclinations. You gave us a chance when others had already turned their backs on us. It is we who owe you."

Marie looked at him and nodded. "Then we'll call it even," she said. "You should have never been left on your own. Blue, red, green, purple, yellow, pink, orange, black or white, the color of your damn tie should not define you as a person. What the Hell does a crusty old hat know about who a person will be seven, ten, fifty or one hundred years later. Each of us has the characteristics that defined all of the Houses while in school. Rather than keep us all together by year, we're divided by traits and characteristics that can and do change with growth."

Many people were looking around the room nodding and taking in what she was saying. Not many people had thought about the House sorting quite that way before. Many people clung to the ideals and traditions of years long past. In Marie's mind there was nothing wrong with honoring traditions and learning from history, but clinging to the past for the sake of tradition would not allow them to grow as a people.

"Read your packets and the tasks I'm requesting that you do, I won't order you or force you," she told them thickly. "In the end the actions that you take will be of your own choice and free will. I know that if we stand and work together we can succeed. Come what may, whether I live or die, I will know that I've done all that I can to make this right and to make a difference. Thank you all for coming and helping in this. Your aid has given hope to many and saved many lives. Take all the time that you need and read carefully. If you need me, you know how to contact me."

Marie stepped down and waved her hand, unlocked and unwarding the room. She swiftly left the room and walked down the halls purposefully head towards the front doors. She felt like she was suffocating and needed to get some air. Entering the courtyard she looked out over the Irish Sea and breathed in deeply the ocean air. There was a bite in the air, a cold snap that reached bone deep.

Closing her eyes Marie let herself drift and feel out with her magic to the area surrounding her. She sensed the people in the meeting room, further out she sensed the prisoners and past the walls of the Gaol the villagers nearby. The Gaol itself was on one of the Ley Lines, Marie could feel the ambient magic pulsing. It was like static zinging along her skin. Further out she felt the latent powers in the land and sea. On the far side of the island was a forest settlement where the werewolves had set up their own sanctuary with Marie's permission and blessing. She helped ward the area to keep them in the wooded area when the full moon over took them.

Deep in her mind's eye she felt something stir, something latent and that had been dormant. In it she could feel the air around her and every blade of grass beneath her feet. She caught a scent and lifted her head looking around. She was deep within a forest, and she could smell pray. Following the scent trail she moved quietly and gracefully through the vegetation. She heard other animals call out in the night.

Marie had no concept of her size, or time. Her instincts drew her further into the forest, deeper into the night. She walked forward cautiously, quietly. Deep within she felt the pang of loneliness and the ache for her kin. She stalked forward into a clearing and gazed into the liquid silver of a small pond. Marie was startled to see that her body was covered in a deep gray fur. Her green eye gazed sharply at the reflection in the pool, but staring back at her was a gray wolf.

Suddenly the vision ended and Marie came back to consciousness on her knees in the courtyard. Francis was crouched next to her, smoothing her hair away from her face in obvious concern. She drew a deep cleansing breath and let it out. The hair on the back of her neck stood and she looked sharply to the left, sensing another predator.

Micah stood nearby and tilted his head curiously. Nearby others in the pack that had formed on the island came to attention and observed Marie cautiously. Micah watched her and his eyes flashed amber briefly when he realized what the scent meant. He flashed her a toothy grin and let out a rough, laugh. His pack mates looked to him in question and he nodded to Marie.

"Girlie," Micah said crouching next to Marie, "since when are you a wolf?"

Gasps around the courtyard rang out as they all looked to Marie in question. She looked at Micah and tilted her head to the side curiously. Her senses were assaulted by the strong deep woodsy scent, but also a scent that was uniquely Micah. Intertwined with that was something more basic, masculine and predatory. She looked sharply up at him and saw him smirk in response.

Marie looked around and didn't know what to think. The pack members had crept cautiously forward. She nodded to them and looked back to her Guardians looking on in concern. Francis clung to her, she could feel his body tremble and smell his fear, but there was also determination and strength there as well. He wouldn't leave her side despite what he perceived as danger closing in.

Marie watched them carefully as they all crept close and crouched near her side. She realized that they were all checking her scent. It was a bit odd at first to have people sniffing the air like that, but she realized that was part of who and what they were. She looked around the courtyard and saw the fearful looks of the others that were present. Her Guardians looked at her in concern. Brett and Miles stood at ready, waiting to intervene should the need arise.

Marie cleared her throat and addressed Micah and the other Weres present. "I may have unintentionally and inadvertently figured out that I'm an Animagus and that my form is a gray wolf," she explained loud enough for the others present in the courtyard to hear.

"An Animagus?" Francis asked. "Wait, what do you mean unintentionally? How is that even possible?"

Marie snorted. "I was centering myself and delved a bit deeper only to find myself in the middle of a forest stalking prey," she explained. "Though I must admit it was a bit lonely. The stark and sharp pain of the loss of my family was more acute."

"Aye, it would be lass," Micah explained kindly. "Wolves are pack animals. To be alone and lose your pack would be painful."

Marie swallowed thickly and nodded. "I miss them," she said hoarsely. "I've built some amazing relationships and friendships while I've been here, but I miss my family."

Micah seemed to be struggling with his own emotions. "Aye girlie," he told her gently. "That pain and sense of loss will always be there, but it does get easier with time. Just know that you're never alone. We're all here for you."

Marie smiled at him shakily. "Thank you," she said.

Francis and Micah stood and each held out a hand to help Marie stand. She stood and brushed off her clothing. Looking around she smiled shakily to the others present.

Dorea stepped to her side and took one of her hands. "Well it would seem that we need to find you an instructor on Animagus transformations," she said to the young woman with a smirk. "You don't do things in halves my dear, that's for certain."

Marie laughed softly and the group began dispersing. She had an appointment with the Minister later that day and needed to get ready for it. Her portkey was set to leave in an hour. Her Guardians would be meeting her at Stone Manor. Brett and Miles insisted that they be present. Her kidnapping, as innocent as though it was, had shaken them all. They were taking no chances with her safety. Her Guardians agreed and they would be making public statements explaining that they now felt Marie would need security nearby as they girl was clearly being targeted.

Marie thought this a bit extreme, but they assured her that it would now explain the presence of others at her side. That they could be there with her when her Guardians could not. She relented when they told her that it would put them at ease. Francis had tried to insist on going as well, but Marie told him that she would meet him and the Prewetts for lunch in the Alley after the meeting.

By the end of the week she would be stopping in Paris for a short time, before making her way to her estate in Bulgaria. She would spend a few weeks there visiting Nikolai and his family. Alexei had also insisted that he show her around and introduce her to the rest of his team when she was there. Marie in turn told them that she would be spending a bit of time at Onyx, her club in Sofia.

Marie sighed wearily, there was so much to do and so little time to do it all in. She had to get to each of her estates and properties and check to make sure that the wards were strong enough and that each of the properties would be self-sufficient enough to withstand a prolonged siege. Greenhouses were constructed and now growing potions ingredients and food. Livestock was brought in and the land was now being used in a productive manner. Out buildings were constructed for staff and to house anyone seeking sanctuary or shelter.

She had left specific instructions to purchase properties adjoining hers and setting up werewolf and creature sanctuaries. The Goblins seemed surprised by this, but Marie said that she intended to save any that she could regardless of race. Her Guardians began following similar outlines. Their properties were nigh impenetrable.

It was all going according to plan, for now anyways. Marie walked back into the Gaol and gathered her things. She packed just a few essentials in her bag. Securing her wand in a wrist holster, she made sure that her daggers were concealed. Looking up she saw that it was almost time to go and made her way back to the courtyard.

Lucius and Theo approached her from the opposite direction. They both hugged her and told her that they would be in touch. Marie nodded to them and told them to stay strong. They were whisked away by their own portkeys. Marie stood staring at the spot that they had just been standing in. Internally she struggled with the guilt of expecting so much from those fighting from the inside.

Shaking herself from her thoughts she turned back to her portkey. Miles and Brett stood shoulder to shoulder with her and each had packs slung over their shoulders. They protectively wrapped an arm around Marie just as the portkey was activating and they were whisked off to Stone Manor.

Marie led them to the rooms that they and their wives would be staying in for as long as they chose. She went down the hall to her own suite of rooms and freshened up. She dug in her closet and chose a conservative tea length burgundy dress with a black cardigan. She tossed her travel cloak over her arm and slipped on a pair of black pumps. Her hair was swept back in a formal chignon and her make up conservative. When she was satisfied with her look, she exited her room and met Brett and Miles down in the main Parlor.

Her Guardians showed up a short while later and the group set off to meet with the Minister. Marie slipped the cloak over her shoulders and squared her shoulders. Brett and Miles flanked her and her Guardians surrounded her as they made their way into the ministry.

Minister Blishwick ushered them into the conference room and greeting them wearily. It had been an exhausting last few weeks trying to fight the Dark forces. There were many that were unhappy with how he was handling things and demanding his replacement. He was doing all that he could, but it still didn't seem to be enough. Rumors were going around that there would be an emergency vote to get him out of office and elect someone that they thought would do a better job.

Marie sat gently in the chair that was held out for her and crossed her legs, while folding her hands in her lap. Looking through her lashes around the room, she realized that everyone else was sitting and now waiting. There were members of the press and Wizengamot present. She kept her features carefully schooled and waited to be addressed.

"Lady Stone," Minister Blishwick greeted her warmly, "thank you for coming on such short notice. It has come to the attention of we at the Ministry that you're eligible to take up your two family seats on the Wizengamot."

"My family seats?" Marie asked, her eyes having gone hard as she gazed at the Minister. "I'm not yet of age and my Guardians are holding the seats in proxy for me at this time."

"Lady Stone," he began before changing his tone, "I once agreed to assist and align myself with you. I'm now asking, no beseeching you to return the favor. There is much more work left to be done, there will be a vote to out me from this office and I fear when that happens all will be lost."

Marie looked around the room and saw the press hanging on every word. She glanced at her Guardians, who nodded to her slightly. Drawing a deep breath she turned back to the Minister.

"Minister Blishwick, I cannot imagine that any would be trying to vote you out of office," she stated calmly. "To do so would be a death sentence I fear. You've done all that you can to try to fight the rising Dark. Where are those that are speaking out against you when you've stood on the front lines fight? Where are they when the Death Eaters are wreaking havoc? I think they've all taken leave of their senses and decided to play the blame game, the mindless sheep and cowards that they are!"

The Minister's eyes grew wide with each sentence that she spoke. He had called this meeting as a press opp and a chance to make some political moves. He hadn't expected Marie to draw the line in the sand and so vocally defend him. Then again he probably should have. The girl was fighting alongside him and the Ministry. Any who sought to toss him out, were essentially pointing the blame at her as well, though they didn't know it.

"It's easy enough for people to point the finger of blame while they hide behind the Aurors who fight," she said coldly. "It's easy enough to seek to lay the blame at the feet of others while they hide with their heads in the sand. Aye, Minister, I'll take up my family seats and I'll stand with you. Let them come, cowards that they are."

Minister Blishwick sat stunned. The only sound was that of the quills of the press members writing frantically. He looked and saw the resigned looks on the faces of her Guardians. The members of the Wizengamot eyed the girl critically and speculatively. Yes this girl was a mover and a shaker. The British Wizarding world was not ready for her quite yet.

"You do realize that you've just declared yourself young lady?" one of the Wizengamot members asked.

"Declared myself?" Marie scoffed. "I'm Gray, but I'll tell you right now that I'll bow to no one. I refuse to be one of the mindless sheep or someone clinging to the coat tails of a madman. Aye I'll do my part, the Dark is going to expose us and destroy our world."

Marie turned to the press, "You can quote me on that. Magic is magic, it is the intent that you use it with. I refuse to pick a side Light or Dark, both side are so entrenched and think they're right. I'm Gray, to see the world in black and white is to miss out on all the different shades of gray in between."

There were grumbles in the room. Marie silenced them with a look. She turned back to the Minister and looked at the Wizengamot members standing near him.

"You sir have chosen to stand and fight, for that you should be commended. I would be honored to take up my ancestral seats and place within the Wizengamot to stand with you. There's too much at stake not to," she told him.

Lord Potter slid a packet of parchment towards the Minister. It was a copy of the paperwork declaring Marie Emancipated. They held the papers for years as their trump cards to play when the time was right. Now apparently was the right time. Her Guardians looked at her with looks of respect, concern, and affection. They had helped to mold and guide her to the young woman that she was. And though she was technically an adult, they would still stand by and support her, come what may.

The meeting was adjourned and the group made their way out of the ministry. Marie's hair was crackling and dancing as she was beginning to lose her temper. People were scurrying out of her way as she approached. The power she was barely holding control over pulsed out around her. The lights in the Atrium flickered as she stalked forward not stopping to speak with anyone. The dark look on her face was enough to send people stepping back.

Across the Atrium Lucius and Theo observed their friend and were surprised to see her showing her emotions. For her to so visibly be displaying her power, something must have upset her greatly. They watched as she and her group made it towards the exit and took the floo to the public floo in Diagon Alley.

Stepping out of the floo, Marie cleaned the soot off of her and made her way towards Gringotts. Her hair dance and sparked with the magic that she was struggling to hold control over. Brett and Miles quickly made their way to her side and led her through the crowd to the bank.

Marie glided up the steps and through the doors, nodding to the Goblins standing guard. As she crossed the threshold to the bank she walked forward towards the nearest available teller. There was a hush in the bank.

"Pardon me for the disruption Master Goblin," Marie said in a deadly calm voice. "I humbly request the use of a private conference room and to please have word sent to my Account Managers."

The Goblin regarded her carefully before nodding and scurrying away. A short while later he came back and escorted Marie and her group down the maze of hallways to an available conference room. He told her that her Account Managers would be with her shortly.

Marie nodded her head to the Goblin and thanked him before collapsing in the nearest seat. She closed her eyes and focused on her breathing. Deep, calm, and cleansing breaths were taken in hopes to calm herself down. The power she held in a tight grip sparked and sizzled along her skin. Her Guardians watched on in concern as she struggled to get a better grasp on her emotions and temper.

The door creaked open and Ripfang and the Director entered the room. They paused seeing Marie trying to reign in the magic that was visibly sparking in the air around her. The Director murmured to Ripfang who left and shut the door. The Director sat at the head of the table and waited for Marie to calm.

The door opened once more and Ripfang entered carrying a steaming mug of Calming Draught. He placed the mug on the table in front of Marie and went to sit by the Director.

Marie caught scent of the potion and blindly reached for it. Brett closed her hand around the mug and directed it towards her mouth. She downed the potion in one go and set the mug down. Drawing a few more deep calming breaths she finally gained full control over her magic once more.

"I beg your pardon Director and Ripfang," Marie said softly. "I fear that I nearly lost control and came to the first place that I thought could help me with it. In repayment I offer my services to help add additional protections and wards on the premises with your permission."

"Why would you offer such a thing? Ripfang asked curiously.

"Your people have sworn to stay out of the affairs of Wizards, but that doesn't mean that your people won't be dragged into this," she said truthfully. "I offer because you have aided me so much and because I would like to think that I could rest easier knowing that I did what I could to aid in protecting your people in repayment."

The room was silent. The two Goblins present looked at the girl carefully before turning to one another speaking in their native tongue rapidly. Marie and her party sat quietly waiting to be included in the conversation. They stayed respectfully silent.

"What you offer is not something that we take lightly, Lady Stone," the Director addressed her respectfully. "You offer to protect us, even when we say that we will not take a side in the coming war."

"Your people have suffered enough at the hands of wizards," she stated respectfully. "I cannot ask or expect you to risk further destruction. I offer only to add what I can to the wards on this building. If it can slow those down that would seek to harm you, if it can give enough time to evacuate safely, then it is worth it."

"And you seek nothing in return?" Ripfang asked.

"No," Marie said, "it is my gift of thanks to you."

The Goblins sat still in their chairs once more. They inclined their heads respectfully to Marie and began making plans to have her work with them to improve the protections on the bank. Marie may not have known it, but she had just ensured that if it came down to it, the Goblins would not take up arms against her in the coming war, or ever for that matter. Regardless of the outcome, she had earned their respect, which was a difficult feat. She was a shrewd business partner and a profitable one. She was a fierce warrior and a loyal friend, all things that they Goblin Nation valued.

Marie concluded her business with the Goblins with a promise to return over the course of the next few weeks to add additional layers of protections. She and her party left the bank through the private floo network used for only dignitaries and their oldest and most respected clients. They floo'd Stone Manor.

Marie excused herself and went up the stairs to her rooms. She stripped out of the dress and tugged on her tactical gear. Angrily and jerkily, she laced up her boots. With stilted and controlled movements she braided her hair back. She began strapping on weapons and laced up her leather corset vest. With practiced motions she began tracing runes on her skin with her wand. When she was done she tucked her wand in her holster and made her way back down the stairs.

When she entered the Main Parlor the occupants fell silent. Gone was the carefully coiffed and powdered lady and in her place was a battle hardened warrior. Her eyes seemed to spark green as she looked around the room. Brett and Miles stood and excused themselves to go and get ready. Marie apparently wanted to go hunting tonight.

Marie sat on the arm of the couch that Dorea was perched on. The older woman rubbed her back comfortingly. Elena stood at her side and mirrored Lady Potter's actions. Their young charge was a maelstrom of emotions and anger. The poor girl had worked tirelessly over the two years that she had been with them, fighting to ensure the safety of the masses. She hid behind carefully crafted glamour charms, never revealing her true identity to the enemy.

This afternoon, and the truth about the Minister's shaky tenure was like a slap in the face to Marie and those that stood with her. She was going to head to Dorcha Gaol and pick up one of the many intel packets. Her intent was to strike hard and fast and to bring in as many of the enemy as possible.

Brett and Miles returned looking around the room grimly. Their wives would be staying at Stone Manor and keeping vigil there. Marie's Guardians departed to their own homes. Marie promised to send word of her return, though she knew that many of them would stay up waiting anyways.

She and her two lieutenants grabbed the portkey to the Gaol and made their way to the briefing room. In the room the occupants stilled and went silent. Some of the international Quidditch players were present including Darius and Alexei. Marie nodded to them grimly and took the folder of information from Brett. One the exterior of the file she read the name Bones and felt a cold pooling of dread in her belly.

The Bones family was a prominent Ancient and Noble House that was staunchly Light. They opening defied the dark tosser and publicly decried his reign of terror. Edgar and his new wife Olivia were the targets. Amelia Bones was still a student at Hogwarts. The elder Bones' had retired to dowager properties, but still supported the tendencies of Edgar. Tonight the family would be gathering for a celebration with friends and family.

Marie knew Amelia from class and liked her well enough. She was a nice girl who spoke her mind and had a strong sense of right and wrong. She had heard of Edgar who had graduated the year before Marie had shown up. His late father had died in one of the first attack of the Death Eaters.

Marie nodded to Brett and Miles and told them to assemble the team. She turned to the others and checked the files that they were going through and listened to their plan of action as well. She gave them a few suggestions and turned to address her own team. The group began the process of drawing runes on their skin and getting ready. The others present watched as the group became quiet and focused.

Marie stretched and tried to loosen her limbs in preparation. She caught the eye of Darius and nodded to him grimly before averting her eyes and continuing her routine. Alexei approached the petite witch. He was a good foot taller than the young woman, many of those present were. He watched her carefully as she moved with a grace and fluidity of a seasoned fighter. It was this observation that churned his stomach in realizing that she'd done this many times before.

"Marie," he addressed her warmly, "you're looking well my friend."

Marie grinned up at the large dark haired man. "I'm feeling well. How have you been?" she asked.

"Well little one, very well indeed," he said with a snort when she glared at him. "What? You are little no? Such a tiny witch to take on those who would seek to harm others. You will be careful, yes?"

Marie smiled up at him and nodded. "I will be careful. Are you ready for my company next month?" she asked with a teasing voice.

His deep laugh rumbled in his chest. "I do not think my country and comrades are ready for one such as you," he replied. "You are trouble little witch."

Marie gasped indignantly, "I am not trouble! Trouble just follows me!"

"Of that I have no doubt Marie," Alexei replied. "Be safe and come back in one piece. I will see you in Bulgaria next month."

He bowed over her hand and went back to his teammates who watched the exchange with grins of amusement. Marie turned to Brett and Miles who watched the interaction as protective older brothers would and she just rolled her eyes at them.

Marie and her group cast glamour charms and watched as the other teams in the room did the same. They huddled around their portkeys and Marie counted down. Counting back from ten, when she hit one the tug at her navel spun them all away to their synchronized destinations. They landed and rolled away into the shadows. In the distance there were already screams of terror ringing out in the night. Marie could see the spell fire and took off running. She heard her team members flanking her as they rushed towards the entrance hall of the manor.

Marie dodged the spell sent her way and returned fire. The shout and thud in response was morbidly satisfying. Across the hall she watched as Olivia was being pinned against the wall by a Death Eater. Marie gritted her teeth and pulled back and launched an over powered Stunner at the Death Eater. Their intel said that there were friendlies present and she wasn't sure who was behind the masks.

Olivia looked at Marie in shock but nodded and ran to help her relatives. Spell fire was exchanged and the battle waged for a good thirty minutes before the Death Eaters started retreating. Marie caught the silver eyes behind one of the masks and watched the subtle nod as the Death Eaters fled. Marie's team had captured three. There were two fatalities and a number of casualties sustained at Bones Manor.

Marie felt her medallion warm and looked around in alarm. She turned toward Brett and Miles and called out to them. They rushed to her side, sending orders to secure the manor and then return to base when reinforcements arrived. As Marie was preparing to apparate to the next location, Aurors and Ministry personnel were arriving.

She whisked them away via her medallion and touched down in the middle of a blood bath. There were screams of terror in the dark. They had landed at Muggle neighborhood. Miles sent off a patronus message while Marie grabbed her medallion and sent out a summons for additional aid.

The three gave each other cover as they made their way through the yards, helping those that they could. Marie saw a number of her own operatives down, severely injured. She activated their emergency portkeys as she passed them and made her way towards the Death Eaters marching boldly down the street. Brett and Miles were a short distance away from her, mirroring her actions.

Behind them, Marie heard others coming to her and Miles' call for aid. She heard the furious growl of Micah as he and a half dozen of the Gaol pack members caught up with them. He had seen some of the casualties of the attack, a number of them were women and children that were severely injured. Weres valued and cherished children, to see them so callously and heinously injured was something that they would not tolerate.

Micah and his group shadowed Marie as they closed in on the enemy. More of their comrades could be seen taking cover and trying to hold them back, but they were vastly outnumbered. Marie watched as Alexei and his team mates sustained watch could be life threatening injuries as they pulled one of the injured tactical team members behind a barrier as well as a Muggle that didn't look like he was going to make it.

Fury boiled through her veins and spilled over and she sheathed her wand. Closing her eyes she drew upon the power and magic around her. The sky darkened and thunder rumbled in the distance. Magic danced across her skin as she pulled more in from the surrounding area. With a furious motion, bolts of lightning erupted from the sky, slamming in the middle of the Death Eaters, causing them to scatter and cry out in fear.

Marie ignored the calls of the others as she advanced on the Death Eaters, unleashing the full power of her fury on them. With a flick of her wrist a group of them were knocked back like bowling pins, bound and disarmed. The others turned to face her with fear in their eyes. They knew that they were in trouble.

She noticed one of them touching his wand to his Dark Mark and knew that they would be receiving company soon. After Disillusioning herself, she sent out another more urgent call for more aid on her medallion, before becoming visible once more and launching lightning at the Death Eaters to disperse the group again.

Behind her there were shouts from the new arrivals. Hitwizards and Aurors had answered the call and made good time. There were squads of Obliviators assessing the damage and making their way from house to house. Marie indicated for a group of her team to evacuate the houses in the surrounding area.

The sky darkened ominously and there were loud cracks of apparition in front of her. The Dark Lord had arrived. There were frightened shouts and cries for her to fall back but she ignored them. Standing with her feet planted shoulder width apart, she faced the Dark Lord. Beside him was the snarling visage of Fernir Greyback and apparently he wanted to settle the score with Marie.

The answering snarls of her pack echoed in the night. Deep within, her own wolf snarled. Marie glared at them and with a flick of her wrist sent the whole group flipping back, landing with sickening thuds on the ground. The Dark Lord stood, looking at her with a stunned expression, before the fury on his face made her blood stop cold.

He jabbed his wand and sent a chain of spells at her to which she shielded and deflected. His fury built as each spell was pushed aside or missed her. With each chain he threw, the spells got darker and more sinister. Marie brushed them aside as if they were gnats. She watched him breathing heavily, his chest heaving with the exertion. Then she unleashed her own series of spells. He and his followers dodged and weaved, some of them fell in agony. She called the Elements and pulled on Nature to answer her call for aid.

She prayed that it would be enough of a distraction to get the innocents out in time. Marie's team and the Ministry had surrounded the Dark Lord and his followers and were engaging them in full on assault. They sustained heavy fire, but the odds were now even.

Marie listened as more reinforcements arrived for both sides. Her numbers started to swell as the Death Eaters on the other raids abandoned their mission to join their master. Marie's teams followed with reinforcements. The neighborhood was unrecognizable as the battle waged on. Both sides were tiring when there was a great disturbance and a pop of apparition behind Marie.

It was with grudging relief that Marie acknowledge Albus Dumbledore had joined the fray. The Dark Lord faced off against the old man while sounding the retreat. Marie sagged with relief as the Dark Lord and his minions fled. She hissed as the cuts and injuries to her person became prominent.

Dumbledore nodded to her before turning to assist the Ministry officials. Marie and her group left with their captives. She felt sick seeing the devastation and destruction. Her portkey activated and she made her way to the infirmary. There were many more injured than she first anticipated, so she set out to head to her rooms to shower and treat herself the good old fashioned way.

Letting the hot water beat over her skin she washed away the grim and blood. Hissing in pain when the soap hit a particularly sensitive area, she gently cleaned up before stepping out and grabbing a towel. Once dry she slipped into a robe and went into her room. Upon entering she found Elena and Dorea both waiting for her. They gently led her to the bed and helped to heal and wrap her injuries. They helped her into a fresh set of clothes and tried to make her go to bed but Marie refused.

Sliding on a pair of flats, Marie made her way down to the infirmary. She was wearing a long sleeved shirt and a pair of lounge pants to keep warm as the Gaol was chilly. Her footsteps echoed in the stone halls as she made her way to the pained cries and groans of her friends and allies. Taking a deep breath, Marie pushed open the doors and went to help where she could.

Hours passed before they had all finally been seen. Marie sat quietly next to Alexei's bed. His comrade and teammate was in the bed nearby. They were injured but recovering. Marie had sent work to Nikolai when she was sure that he was stable. She had her legs curled up under her in the chair and she was covered by a light blanket dozing tiredly.

Marie's Guardians stopped in from time to time to lend their aid. Her friends on both sides checked in and let her know that they were alright. They too lent what aid they could given the circumstances. It had been a long night for everyone.

Micah and some of his pack members were sleeping in the beds nearby. They had taken on Greyback and his pack members. When Greyback had turned to go after Marie, Micah broke free and tackled Greyback, engaging him in a confrontation that was brutal. Neither could be declared the victor, though Micah liked to think he won because he kept Marie safe.

Marie stirred awake later that day to the sound of Alexei's deep voice rumbling in his native tongue to someone else. She blinked tiredly and sat up in the chair. The conversation around her stopped and she looked around to find Nikolai speaking with Alexei and his comrades. Upon further inspection she noticed that the rest of the team was now present as well as the coach and team manager.

Sitting up further in her chair the blanket fell away and she greeted them. Alexei looked at her fondly and thanked her for her aid in the fight the previous night. Some of his teammates looked skeptical, not fully believe that the petite young woman was really the one that was behind it all. She just shrugged and snapped her fingers, a bright blue flame hovered over her hand in response. She grinned at them and blew it out. Yawning widely, Marie stood and stretched. The burly Quidditch players grinned down at her and Marie saw Alexei smirk.

"What?" she asked in confusion.

"Nothing little witch," he said in amusement.

She raised an eyebrow and him and crossed her arms. Looking at the others who seemed to be trying to smother their amusement, she shrugged and bid them good afternoon. She headed towards the door before she paused and looked over her shoulder back towards them.

"You boys won't be laughing when I fly circles around you in a few weeks," she said with a playful smirk of her own as she left the infirmary.

There were hoots and hollering as she casually strolled out of the infirmary back to her rooms. She nodded at those that she passed and they gathered their things. The had survived the latest battle, but in was only the beginning.