Shattering the Mirror Chapter 28

Disclaimer: I own naught but my own ideas; all the good stuff belongs to those that created the worlds and characters with which I apply my mediocre skill. I make neither money nor any other form of profit from these works.

All publicly recognizable characters, settings, etc. are the property of their respective owners. The original characters and plot are the property of the author. The author is in no way associated with the owners, creators, or producers of any media franchise. No copyright infringement is intended.

Once again thanks to XRaiderV1 for his ongoing Beta work without his help throughout this work you would be reading your way through a mine field of grammatical errors.

I would also like to give a special thank you to imperator27 who helped encourage me when I was stuck on this chapter. I truly appreciate the suggestions and corrections my friend.

HP / Raptor

HA / Flame

LB / Fury

LL / Oracle

Last time:

"We must leave it for now anyway surveillance and all. We don't want to tip our hand on this," offered a DGSE officer from where he was looking over the photos on a computer screen in the French contingents safe house/operational command centre.

"The Japanese have another potential lead in the US. Apparently some specialist equipment was ordered from here to be delivered to the US, expensive equipment."

"Hmm that makes operational sense. We may be looking in the wrong spot. Perhaps we can trace the delivery?"

"I think we need to speak to our special colleagues. They have a way of tracing things. Andre get on to the Director and see what the Japanese have on the actual shipments location."

Chapter 28

Thames House

Deputy Commissioner Edward Streven and Police Commissioner David Coleman both stood as a navy officer entered the room, "If you would follow me gentlemen."

The officer, a commander led them into a meeting room where they were met by Geoffrey Smyth.

Smyth nodded to the two policemen, "Thank you Commander that will be all."

"Sir," the door was pulled shut as the officer left.

"Please gentlemen take a seat," said Smyth as he lowered himself in to a chair at the table.

After sharing a glance Streven and Coleman followed his example.

"Thank you for coming at such short notice. I promised to keep you in the loop. This happened the night before last," Smyth slid two folders toward Streven and Coleman.

The two experienced Policemen took a few minutes to read through their briefing folders. Both winced almost at the same time as they saw the photos taken by an SAS officer.

Coleman was the first to finish reading, "This was a military action?"

Smyth nodded, "Indeed, conducted by the SAS under the Terrorism act of 1978. At our briefing I mentioned that the intelligence community had deep concerns about the magical and meta-human community. This was a raid on an identified death eater safe house. It appears that we have shut down a cell that was aiming at stirring up hatred for mutants. Possibly to shift blame for their own actions on to mutants but regardless they have been shut down."

"The victims being held at the scene?" asked Coleman.

Smyth shook his head sadly, "In a military hospital. We have interviewed them and their stories are supported by the evidence on the scene and the intelligence we acted on."

"How bad was it?" Coleman asked as his glanced down at the photo of the stained, bloody flecked sheets.

"Pretty bad, both have been tortured and sexually assaulted. The only luck they've had is that we got them out before they could be murdered. Still they will live and hopefully be able to move past this." Smyth didn't mention that they would be offered help from a telepath to suppress, permanently suppress the worst of the memories once they had given all the information they could remember.

"Are they linked to the fountain murder?" asked Streven.

"Yes, we managed to get that from the one captured by the team."

"Will he be handed over?" asked Streven.

"Not yet but yes he will be handed to you for the courts to deal with. There are however difficulties," Smyth had explained in the initial briefing that knowledge of the magical world was tightly controlled. "A high profile court case would see a great many secrets under threat of exposure."

Coleman frowned unhappily as he considered Smyth's words, "So...this Voldemort can we expect any reprisals?"

"Sadly yes although I am working to keep his organisation under pressure. Unfortunately we have not yet found a way to pinpoint their main base of operations. Until we do...we are more reactionary than we wish to be."

Coleman looked down at his folder again, "What about the magical's? You mentioned that the majority of that community are not involved. Can we expect any support?"

Streven looked unhappy as he considered the situation, "Surely they have some people that could help defeat whatever voodoo he's using."

"The problem is that the official bodies within the magical community are either ineffective or compromised. Think of the black and tans in Ireland in the 1920's."

Streven frowned as he considered the comparison. The black and tans were civilians and ex-soldiers recruited to act as temporary constables for the Royal Irish Constabulary. Brought in to help both maintain order and fight against the IRA. Despite the best intentions of a few good men many of their efforts descended into violence. It was a black mark that the police in Ireland spent decades recovering from, "That bad?"

"Indeed, the few incorrupt officials are hamstrung by incompetence and bureaucracy. Not a new story in government circles by any means but this eclipses anything we have experienced on our side of the fence."

"What about the team you used?" asked Coleman.

"The team that took out the cell's safe house is a mixed team and several of its members are magical. As for reprisals we have been developing a new initiative. A specialist team has begun being developed. They will be working with both domestic and international agencies to end the threat. The intelligence assets are already in place as are the military members. We already have what is effectively an Interpol contingent but we need an experienced team to head up the UK's investigative contingent."

Coleman raised an eyebrow, "You want investigators?"

Smyth nodded, "That's right; we need people who can keep a secret and who won't baulk at the paramilitary aspects that may be involved."

"Bloody hell….sorry but I mean this is usually something that the RMP would deal with through the SIB."

Smyth nodded once more, "True and there will be a military police presence on the team including a three man Special Investigation Branch team. However the Adjutant Generals office has limited scope to deal with civilian matters and given the potential scope of our operations," Smyth shrugged.

"I will put together a list of potential candidates," promised Coleman.

"Thank you gentleman, I will keep you informed."

oOoOoOo

Royal Military Police - Roussillon Barracks, Chichester – England

"Alright listen up, HQ are looking for volunteers for a special, multi-national task force that is based here in the UK but may involve international deployment. You all have been recommended and you fit the mission parameters so if you are interested report to Major Roland by 0800 tomorrow."

Sergeant Aaron Black shared a look with the four other NCO's standing in the room, "A multi-national task force Sir?"

Captain James Freemen nodded offering a wry smile, "That's all I know Sergeant. They want non-coms who have combat experience and who have worked CID. You four fit the bill."

"How long is the posting?" asked Sergeant Julie Clarke.

"Indefinite and that people really is all I can say at this juncture, this one is classified."

Three hours later three of the four were sitting outside Major Rolands' office.

The next morning a white van with civilian plates picked up the three NCO's and drove them to London. They had orders to report to a Major Ashley from 'M' Division of the SAS at Thames House.

oOoOoOo

Newton Falls - Trumbull County, Ohio, United States

"The equipment we have is installed and we are setting up the security systems. They should be ready this afternoon. Once the cryogenics equipment is finally delivered, which should be today we are on track to be operational in three days. Two if we don't have any installation hiccups," reported Doctor Francis.

Stryker smiled, "Good work Elaine. Make a start on the cross matching of the next batches so that when we are back up when can get straight to work."

Dr Elaine Frances passed Stryker a folder, "I have the analysis of the genetic samples from subject three six two. It appears that we are seeing a more stable mutation."

Stryker frowned and open the folder to read the executive summary. The unknown adult mutant they had captured at Xavier's facility had proven an anomaly. He lacked the X gene but he most defiantly had some form of mutation that allowed energy manipulation. Initial testing had resulted in the death of two of his men and the destruction of vital equipment. The subject had resisted and in the end he had to resort to using mutant one four three to delve in to the mutants mind.

Shockingly it appeared that mutant inbreeding had led to a stable version of the X gene that was inherited by the mutant offspring. This was exactly what Stryker had feared. Powerful mutants breeding and developing stable mutations, wizards as they had dubbed themselves appeared to even have some form of hidden government. Sadly the toxin seemed ineffective against this particular mutant threat. He had hoped a full genetic comparison might show the point of genetic diversion which would allow the toxin to target them. This might be a problem. Forcing a smile on to his face he thanked Frances.

Dr Elaine Frances nodded and left the office. Once the door was shut his smile faded. The problem of a new mutant strain was one more thing on his list. He needed to get his lab running again if he was to achieve anything.

The equipment delay was a worry although he had no indicators that anything had gone wrong. His people in France had detected nothing untoward and none of his contacts had passed on any warnings. And yet he still had the feeling that something was off. Perhaps he should look again at his relocation plans. After all it wasn't paranoia if people really were out to get you.

Two blocks away an unmarked FBI car parked in the bank car park. Its two occupants took their time getting out and made a show of looking at a map as if looking up directions. Both the male and female agent looked young and dressed in casual clothes. After a few minutes they drove off passing a two story building with a closed and boarded up shop front. Neither looked closely but both spotted the van parked out the front and the two men working on ladders. The building appeared occupied.

The car drove on before turning in to a fast food franchise.

Elizabeth Graham looked over at her colleague and nodded. With a grin Scott Tyson got out and lit a cigarette. His practiced eyes searched for anything out of place but spotted nothing. Still he finished his cigarette.

"All good Liz."

"Right then we need to report in," the two FBI agents drove well clear of town before they pulled over. Scott retrieved the secure radio from the boot and two minutes later they were talking to their command post in Youngstown. Their suspect building was indeed populated and there were electrical tradesmen installing what looked like surveillance equipment.

oOoOoOo

Abandoned Farm, Yorkshire

Voldemort hissed in pain as the silver arm melded to his shoulder. After a few minutes he had recovered enough to start thinking clearly again.

He had managed to retrieve a wand from those held in his current base before apparating to this hovel and healing himself. Somehow he had been bested.

Potter or one of his minions had managed to him get through his shields. If he was to be honest whatever they had hit him with had nearly killed him. Luck had served him and he had only lost an arm.

Sitting on the dirt floor he considered what he needed to do. Potter was becoming a nuisance. Before he had been a minor problem; a figurehead of potential resistance, a reminder of his past failure rather than any sort of threat, "He is growing too strong."

It was time to remind the world why he was feared but first he needed a new wand that was more suited to him than the spare he was carrying. Then it would be time to accelerate his plans against the mutants. Once Potter and his freakish allies were dealt with the muggles would crumble.

It was time for him to take personal control of the situation.

oOoOoOo

British Ministry of magic - London

Minister of Magic Pius Thicknesse nodded to the others in the room absently as he delegated his undersecretary to take charge of the ministerial meeting before retiring to his office.

"I think that's it for today," said Yaxley with a smirk he added "You are dismissed."

"But the Muggle Prime Minister…," Began the Ministers Aide.

"I will deal with the Prime Ministers request," stated Yaxley.

The painting next to the floo blinked as Yaxley glared at it, "Is the Prime Minister in his office?'

'Yes, shall I notify him?" asked the portrait.

"No, I'll handle it," replied Yaxley.

Once the ministry officials had left the office Yaxley turned to the fireplace and pulled out his wand before grabbing a handful of Floo powder, "Prime Minister's office."

Yaxley stepped out in to the Prime Minister's office at number 10 Downing Street and raised his wand pointing it at the man at the desk before slumping to the floor.

The Prime Minister stood looking at the figure on his floor, "What the devil?"

In the corner of his office two people shimmered in to view, "Sorry Sir but we feared that you were about to be attacked," said the older of the two as his younger companion sheathed his wand and drew a pistol.

"Well…it's quite alright I appreciate the protection. What now?"

"Now sir we contact the MOD and get some answers from our friend here."

The Prime Minister frowned at the motionless man on the floor now being secured with plastic cable ties. "What if he's innocent of any ill intent?"

"Then he'll be free to go Sir but he did come unannounced with a drawn weapon."

Ten minutes later an unmarked van driven by a SAS Sergeant in civilian clothes. In the back eight SAS soldiers, five of whom were wizards guarded Yaxley who had yet to regain consciousness.

oOoOoOo

Regent's Park – Military Barracks

Yaxley was naked save for a pair of white overalls and tied securely in to a heavy chair.

When the filthy muggle soldiers entered he cursed and threatened but the two men did nothing but watch him with an unnerving amount of attention. When a young woman entered with another soldier he began to rant again. The rant turned into a groan when one of the muggles slapped him across the back of the head.

"Language," warned the soldier.

Yaxley found himself held tightly in place while the woman laid a gentle hand on his forehead.

A short while later the woman left and her muggle companion followed her out,

"He was going to take control of the Government through some sort of mind control of the PM. His orders were to subtly bring us under control of someone he refers to as the Dark Lord, the image fits for the one known as Voldemort. Unfortunately the location isn't known to him. He left and arrived magically," reported Elizabeth Trent. "His Portkey was the ring on his left hand."

"Well now that's quite interesting, I think Mister Weasley will enjoy some tinkering. Thank you Elizabeth."

oOoOoOo

Whitehall, London

"It is not an unexpected escalation which is why we had the Prime Minister defended as he was," said Geoffrey Smyth.

"It was a risk Geoffrey," said Sir Richard Moss the current Chief of Defense Staff.

"I know Sir but if you will forgive a history lesson, given the circumstances we needed to act with discretion if we were not to show our own intelligence. Right now the British Wizarding world is ruled by bigoted elitists who view us as some kind of second class form of human. Internationally the prevalent political force amongst the wizards have advocated and enforced separation of their society but with a more benign view of the non-magical world.

We knew that the British ministry was on the verge of collapse and we began working on a strategy to deal with it. Add to this scenario the issues we face with renegade mutants and our planning became critical. An outright attack against the Wizarding world would be a disaster and could start another world war but doing nothing was equally unacceptable. So we be began building forces capable of fighting a hidden war."

"And what has come out of this strategy?" asked Air Vice-Marshal Kemp.

"We've managed to take out one of the major players and have successfully target key players among the enemy but we've recently seen a series of escalations."

'The fountain murders?" asked Kemp.

"Yes Sir, although a special projects team from the SAS has taken out the extremists responsible their leadership remains free."

"What are you after Geoff?" asked Sir Moss.

"A free hand to send my people in after these terrorists; things are coming to a head and we need to end the threat," replied Geoffrey.

The two senior military officers shared a look before apparently reaching some sort of silent agreement. Sir Moss nodded locking eyes with Geoffrey.

"It can't be bloody Geoffrey; his Highness was bloody clear about that. Issue orders to your operatives. Important assets must be protected and your people are given a free hand to do so."

'Thank you Sir," said Geoffrey with a great deal of relief. He now had official permission to quietly go after those on the list. As he said his farewells to the two military officers he wondered if Voldemort would understand what he had started.

oOoOoOo

North Queensland

Harry grimaced as the magically sealed coffin was lowered in to the ground. Next to him Hannah gave his hand a squeeze and Rose put her arm around his shoulders.

Harry didn't listen as the speakers gave their speeches about better places and love. His attention was focused on Bridget as the young woman stood stoically watching her brother's coffin. Hermione and Susan were standing by her offering unspoken support. As the bearers moved off Bridget looked up and met his gaze. He could see the pain and loss and the anger after a long moment she nodded and turned her attention to Susan who was whispering in her ear.

"We'll make them pay," said Hannah, her voice cold and hard.

"Fury nearly got him….it was so close," said Harry quietly. "We need to pick up our swords and wade back in. Voldemort can't be given time to get comfortable."

"Then we do it. We've got the training, we have a plan. We need to finish this," Hannah's expression was fierce as she spoke.

"I know," said Harry. ''Seeing the future, a possible future helped but I still want blood."

"Then we take tonight, have a few drinks and then you can screw my brains out. Tomorrow we can kill some more death eaters."

oOoOoOo

Lavender finished her drink as she watched Harry and Hannah talking to Bill Weasley. She was about to wander over and join them when someone said her name. Turning she found a tall brunette leaning against the bar.

"Sorry?"

"You're Lavender aren't you?" she asked her accent was rather odd, maybe from Norway or Scandinavia.

Lavender looked blankly at the other woman, "Yes, do I er….know you?"

The brunette smiled, "No, sorry I should introduce myself. Renee Ragnar, although people know me as Lovitar."

"Um...so the maiden of pain?"

'Lovitar' laughed, "Wow, know your mythology then hey. It's nothing...kinky. It has to do with my mutant ability. My boss at the ICW nicknamed me Lovitar and it kind of stuck."

'You're a witch?" asked Lavender.

"And like you a mutant, I'm a hit witch with the ICW, part of the team working with Ernest."

"Oh okay what can I do for you?"

Lovitar smiled, "Let me buy you a drink."

"What?"

"A drink, you look like you could use one and frankly I could too. I hate fucking funerals. They remind me of those I've lost…so a drink?"

Lavender was about to beg off when she realised that Harry and Hannah were walking out of the door hand in hand. Probably looking to be seeking some private time, "Why not?" One drink wouldn't hurt.

"Great what do you want?"

oOoOoOo

Luna sat with Ginny and the Weasley twins at a table opposite the long bar listening as Fred and George explained the experiments. Ginny raised an eyebrow at the smirk on her old friends face, "Luna?"

"Sorry what was that?"

oOoOoOo

Harry managed to kick the door closed as Hannah launched herself at him.

Harry easily lifted her as she passionately kissed him, wrapping her legs around his waist, her hands pulling at his shirt as he lowered her on to the bed.

Harry grasped his wand and cast a silencing spell before dropping his wand on the floor and focusing his attention on Hannah.

oOoOoOo

Rose moaned in pleasure as Charlie's hands massaged her stiff shoulders.

"Nice?"

"Hmmm….great my shoulders have been stiff since yesterday."

Charlie grinned, "Well you wanted to get back in to training. What was it Edgar said, no pain, no gain?"

"Ha I don't know who is worse. Wolverine threw me across the training mats for an hour."

Charlie laughed and kissed Rose on the neck, "Hey guys dig chicks with scars."

Rose threw her elbow back hitting Charlie in the stomach.

"Ow," complained Charlie before pulling Rose backwards so that she lay on the bed. With another grin he leaned down and kissed her. 'You don't have to do this Rosie."

Rose frowned up at Charlie, "Because I'm a woman? You think that will stop Voldemort?"

Charlie's face grew serious as he shook his head, "Merlin no, you are a powerful witch, more powerful than me. No I'm saying that you have a choice not to fight. You don't have to be on the front lines."

"Sounds like you're saying that I've got a womb so it's time to darn bloody socks?"

Charlie stroked Rose's face tenderly, "I think…Rose I love you. I care what happens to you. You are a beautiful, brave and intelligent woman, who has already made huge personal sacrifices. Don't confuse that me thinking you are weak and helpless."

"Harry has sacrificed more than me," whispered Rose.

"It's not a competition do you think Harry is honestly thinking like that?"

"No….no it's just..."

"You are so like him. Rose if you want to fight then I'll stand by your side. "

Rose studies Charlie's face for a long moment before nodding, "I want to fight."

"Then we both need to step up our training."

"In the morning," whispered Rose.

oOoOoOo

Severus Snape was enjoying the cooler night air as he leaned against the railing and took another sip of his beer. Today had been difficult and although he had reputation for being cold hearted but the reality was that he was as affected as the others he was simply better at hiding it.

"Severus?"

Turning, he spotted Deathstryke dressed in shorts and a t-shirt looking oddly...normal.

"Am I needed?"

Deathstryke shook her head, "No, I saw you leave and I thought I'd join you."

When Severus didn't reply she joined him at the railing.

"I'm fine, just tired."

"It's been a long day and frankly I'm not that big on funerals."

Severus studied Deathstryke's face before answering, "You obviously wanted something,"

"I don't want to be alone," replied Deathstryke.

"Sorry?"

"I said that I don't want to be alone."

Severus how to move past the contextual impasse he found himself in. "I'm sure that the others..."

"You really are useless with women aren't you Severus?"

"I...what?"

Deathstryke grinned her eyes alight with dark humour at the flummoxed expression on Snape's face, "I, for some unknown possibly masochistic reason find myself attracted to you. We've been dancing around the issue and I want it sorted out. So listen carefully I, Yuriko Oyama do not want to be alone tonight."

Severus opened his mouth and closed it again. Before trying again, "I see. Oyama I am not sure you would be saying this if you knew my past."

Deathstryke shrugged, "Your past has shaped who you are. I'm no misty eyed virgin Severus. Nor am I an innocent. Stryker saw to that. I like you and more importantly I trust you. We make a good team you and I."

"Are you sure...I mean you are beautiful you could do better than me."

Deathstryke smiled this time without her usual fierceness, "Maybe but I suspect you'll do Severus. Now take me to bed I've waited long enough for you to get your shit together."

oOoOoOo

Wolverine watched in amusement as Deathstryke took Snape by the hand and practically dragged him toward the accommodation block. The female mutant had apparently decided to take things into her own hands. It looked like there were quite a few couples going to bed early tonight. Funerals had that effect on people sometimes. Perhaps it was the uncertain future ahead. Shaking his head to dismiss his philosophical musings he took another sip of his whiskey.

oOoOoOo

Kelly's Bar – Belfast Ireland

"Things are coming to a head it seems," said Black Tom Cassidy as he took another sip of his Guinness.

Patrick Kelly studied the mutant for a long moment before sliding an envelope across the table, "I think you should read the contents Tom."

Cassidy opened the unsealed envelope and removed the contents. Glancing at the first page he started reading. After a few silent moments the now pale mutant looked up.

"I've nothing to do with this Patrick."

"I didn't expect you willing participated Tom but that's water under the bridge now."

"Is this Stryker fucking insane, he'd go this far?"

"I trust the sources ability to predict possible events. Stryker from what I understand hates mutant kind with a passion and when you add Voldemort in to the mix."

Cassidy sat back considering Kelly, "What do you want Patrick?"

"I want you to stay out of the picture Tom; do that and I make sure those asking about you find nothing linking you to Voldemort."

Cassidy wasn't going to push it, "We'll stay clear….Tell me though can he do it?"

"Stryker?"

"No Potter," corrected Cassidy.

"I suspect he'll end Voldemort."

"Good he's a nut job. My lads were scared of him and given some of the people we've worked with, well that's saying something."

"We're almost certain that the fountain murders were all Voldemort. Something to think about Tom, as you go. All those killed were mutants."

After Cassidy left Siobhan and Paddy took seats on either side of Patrick. As she sat Siobhan gestured with her wand and the bar noise muted as her privacy spell activated.

"Think he'll heed the warning?" asked Paddy.

"Yes I suspect so, Black Tom isn't an idiot. Any word from Brendan?"

"He's been in contact with Molly and passed on your message," replied Paddy.

"What next?" asked Siobhan.

"We wait and see," replied Patrick before gesturing toward where the small band was setting up. "Fancy a twirl?"

Paddy cancelled the muting spell and waved to the barmaid for a drink. Siobhan was a big girl and she was safe with Kelly. The barmaid took his order and began pulling his beer. Paddy smiled at the girl who grinned back at him with a raised eyebrow. Maybe Siobhan wasn't the only one who would be entertaining tonight.

oOoOoOo

Voldemort studied the young mutant chained to the stone wall before casting the torture curse again. Another round of screams followed as the woman convulsed. Releasing the spell he slapped her across the face with his metallic hand.

"Tell me what I wish to know freak and the pain will end."

"D-don't know...don't...know," whispered the woman as blood ran down her chin.

Voldemort had to concede that she probably didn't know. She was obviously broken and her odd mental defenses seemed to be biological rather than something he could get through. He made a slashing gesture with his wand and the now headless body slumped held up only by her wrists.

Walking to the cage that held the two other dirty and terrified prisoners he magically levitated the male in to position and the chains moved to bind him in place.

"I wish to know where the mutant stronghold in America is located. Tell me this and I shall end your pain. Please me and I might even let you live. Lie or otherwise displease me and I will have my men use you as they did your unfortunate predecessor. Do you understand?"

"I...I don't know for sure. I was told it was in Massachusetts."

The young fool was trying to keep his composure in the face of his fear. Quite the little Gryffindor, "Tell me what else you know about Charles Xavier."

oOoOoOo

"Master?"

"Gather my lieutenants I have new instructions for you," Voldemort wiped his bloody hands on a wet, scented cloth before tossing it on to the floor for the house elf to retrieve. 'I have new orders for my loyal followers."

"Yes my Lord," replied the first Death Eater as her hurried off.

"Dispose of the prisoners," he ordered a second Death Eater as he paced past them toward his 'throne room'.

He needed to move quickly if he was to shore up the support of the European Pure Bloods whose numbers he needed to enact the second part of his plan. For now though he had enough men to strike at his enemies. Once they were whipped into a chaotic panic he would make his move. First the Ministry and then once he ruled he could expand his empire.

His first act would be to finish driving the wedge between his enemies who worked against him.

By the time he reached his throne room his inner circle had gathered. Once again minus Yaxley, that was twice now that the man had failed to answer a summons.

"The time has come to strike out against our enemies and to begin to take control of our homeland. Tonight we prepare to strike against our enemies. We shall pit the freakish mutants against the filthy muggle animals and as they tear at each other we shall be consolidating our control of the magical world."

The death eaters made enthusiastic noises not that Voldemort cared for their approval. He turned his attention to one of the newest members in the room. A Russian who was the only one not in robes. Instead he was dressed in dragon hide armour and far more strangely wore a muggle gun strapped to his hip along with a several knives.

"Ivan are you ready to undertake your mission?"

"Da, my lord."

"Good I have the location...gather your men and make sure that you complete the job. The freaks must think the muggles have turned against them."

"And if Potter and his people arrive?" asked Ivan.

"Then contact me, Potter has been an annoyance for far too long."

oOoOoOo

Newton Falls - Trumbull County, Ohio, United States

"It's him alright," confirmed Special Agent Aiden Cole as he looked up from the photo. "Normally I'd say let's establish some patterns but the bastards pretty slippery. The boss wants' this dealt with ASAP." The "boss" was the head of the FBI.

"Hard to believe he's a monster when you see his picture," said one of the junior agents.

"They can't all look like Hitler or perhaps in this case Mengele. Okay people I want a meeting in an hour. I want a full briefing on Stryker's organization and who his backers are. This is one of our most high profile fugitives; one who has successfully eluded law enforcement on numerous occasions. That is not going to happen here people. We have a multi-national team out our beck and call; we are taking Colonel Stryker down and with him every one of his unseen supporters."

oOoOoOo

Hay-on-Wye – Wales – United Kingdom

Alastor Moody was less than happy with the current situation.

He had been following Byron Armstrong a member of the MLE legal team and according to the list of names he had a junior Death Eater. More importantly he owned a large manor house just out of town that seen a large increase in activity.

Armstrong had somehow given him the slip for a few, long minutes until Moody had re-spotted him walking along the road leading several people. As he closed with Armstrong he noticed that the people with him were all expressionless. Most likely magically controlled, moving quickly he closed on Armstrong from behind.

He was still several steps away when his target turned and spotted him.

Armstrong raised his wand but that was all he managed before falling to the ground stunned. The group walking with Armstrong blinked and several began looking around in confusion.

Moody ignored them and grabbed Armstrong dragging him in to a lane way before activating his portkey.

Three hours later a note appeared on the Canadian Minister for Magic's desk. It was a list of seven names.

oOoOoOo

Magneto gestured and Mystique fell silent as she turned to see a Luna standing in the doorway.

"Luna my dear girl has something occurred?"

"No I just wanted to talk through something with you," replied Luna.

"I'll go and see what food is available," said Mystique as she stood and left.

Luna sat and considered Magneto for a few moments before sighing, "Eric you are perhaps the one person who isn't one of our immediate team who understands why we do what we do. You are one of our most valuable allies."

"I sense a but," said Magneto.

A faint smile briefly appeared on Luna's face before it returned to uncharacteristic seriousness, "But I want to talk to you about your plans for us."

Magneto smiled in apparent genuine amusement, "Ah Luna you are truly a treasure. I hope Harry appreciates you."

"Harry does and he appreciates you. What I want to be clear on is how you feel about him."

Luna didn't look away from the older mutant who slowly nodded, "A fair question. Harry is a leader for the next generation of mutants. He is one of the rare few who can see the coming conflict and one of the very few not afraid to act. He's taken teenagers and turned you into an efficient and highly effective fighting force. I see Harry and indeed your entire teams' potential and I freely admit that I've tried to coax you toward working with my people."

"And if we don't choose to do so?"

Magneto raised an eyebrow, "Nothing. Your choices are your own of course. I do not wish for new enemies."

"And if we choose Charles Xavier?"

"I have my disagreements with Charles but I do not wish him ill even when we find ourselves on...shall we say working at cross purposes."

"We are approaching a nexus or perhaps tipping point is more accurate; Victory or loss, light or dark...so many things changing. Will you support us Eric?"

Magneto sensed the larger, more important question behind Luna's query, "I am protecting my people. This is but a battle in the larger war my dear. As long as you work for us all then I will have no reason to stand against you."

Luna silently considered Magneto for nearly a full minute before nodding, "Harry doesn't quite realise it yet but he is fighting for far more than revenge."

Magneto smiled but there was no humour in it, "I can understand his motivation."

Luna nodded, "I know."

oOoOoOo

Xavier Institute - Massachusetts

The first sign that anything was wrong was when Charles Xavier awoke to a jarringly loud alarm. Even a strong telepath needed a few moments to fully wake up, after a few seconds of disorientation he realised what it was, 'What was...wait the security wards!'

Within moments he was sending a telepathic summons for the X-men and in his wheelchair heading out of his room.

"Professor the wards," warned Jean Grey in the telepathic version of a shout.

Pausing Xavier closed his eyes and searched out his former student, "'I'm awake Jean; we need to see to the student's safety."

"Scott…wait there are wizards arriving and what sounds like gun fire," reported Jean.

"Professor Xavier?"

Xavier's eyes opened to see three individuals in robes standing in the hall, "I am Xavier."

"Yukio Ozaki," The speaker bowed deeply revealing a sword strapped to his back, "We are from the ICW." The speaker said in English with a very slight Japanese accent.

"The wards?" asked Xavier.

The wizard nodded, "Indeed, once the alarm sounded we dispatched our duty team."

"Professor there are quite a few wizards here from the ICW asking if we wish to evacuate the students." Jean sounded unsure of the offer.

Xavier turned his attention back to the wizard, "One of my staff has informed me that your people are offering to excavate the students, where would you be moving them to?"

Yukio Ozaki gave a half bow, "The Emperor has offered our magical ambassadors estate in Washington. To guarantee their safety we have in place twenty of the imperial guard as well as a mundane security detachment. Your students will be quite safe Professor."

A flash of light was followed by the sound of an explosion somewhere on the grounds.

"That sounded like a grenade," said one of the other wizards. "It appears that our uninvited guests have a wider arsenal than we had anticipated. I had better see what's happening." Twisting on the spot he disappeared with a soft crack.

"Professor Scott and I have begun to gather the students in the cafeteria. Storm is helping keep an eye on the perimeter," reported Jean.

Xavier considered his options; the ICW had promised aid and had delivered. The problem was that he didn't fully trust their intentions, nor could he simply read their mind as the wizard may well construe such as an attack. "Very well let us get the students to safety."

The spokesman nodded to his companion who turned sharply and disappeared.

"Do you wish to oversee the evacuation of the students?"

At Xavier's nod the wizard took a firm of his shoulder and there was a strange sensation, almost like being compressed as he involuntarily blinked before finding himself in the cafeteria.

"Professor?"

"Professor, what's going on…"

"Why are they attacking us…."

"What's…."

Xavier held up a hand calling for quiet, "The alarm you heard was a warning about the attack. The International confederation of wizard's has responded and is offering to evacuate you all to a safe location. Scott, Jean I want you to accompany the students and see to their safety. "

Scott looked like he might argue for a moment before nodding.

"Professor…" began Jean.

"Ororo and I will follow once the situation is clear."

oOoOoOo

At the edge of the wards Igor Prokofiev glared at the four curse breakers working to bring down the wards. The wizard who had constructed the warding scheme was a genius. It was normal for a good warder to have overlaid the protection but the wards they were facing were incredibly complex, not unbeatable but time consuming.

"How long?" he demanded loudly.

"At least half an hour," replied the lead curse breaker.

"Not good enough, you have to do better. Will continued contact weaken the wards?"

The curse breaker considered the question as he thought through the ward schemes layout. "Yes...yes it should weaken the wards."

Igor gestured for the man to return to work as he waved for his raiders to gather around before ordering them to concentrate fire on a section of the wards. As his men moved to obey he drew his own pistol. The wards must come down so that his new master's mission could be undertaken. Given the Dark Lord's most common punishment for failure was death, not completing his mission here was not an option.

The Dark Lord had ordered that the filthy mutants to be culled and it had to look like muggles had done it. The cursed wards changed SO that if he didn't do something soon all the mutants would escape. Reaching in to the pouch on his belt he pulled out a handful of enchanted crystals. He had hoped to avoid using them GIVEN that each one represented hours of work and cost a significant amount of money.

Two of his own men were given several each they began moving in opposite directions pausing every so often to crush a crystal on the ground. Each created a link in a magical net that was in effect a blanket disrupter of magical transport leaving the area. Warders called it the lobster trap, you could get in but you couldn't leave.

oOoOoOo

Luna sat bold upright in her bed and looked around wildly.

"It's just me," explained another Luna. "It's an emergency."

Luna swung her legs out of bed and gestured summoning her robe and pulling it on as she stood. "What's happening?"

"Xavier's is under attack by wizards using firearms," explained Luna. "I think they're Riddle's lot but I didn't hang around to find out. The ICW wizards who arrived to help are being pushed back."

"Right I'll let the others know, how long?"

The newly arrived Luna looked at her own watch before grabbing Luna's from the bedside table. "You have half an hour before the wards go down."

Luna was moving out the door as her dimensional counterpart finished speaking.

oOoOoOo

Xavier didn't need to be a telepath to sense that there was a problem.

"Professor, magical travel has been disrupted," explained one of the ICW wizards.

Xavier turned back to look in to the cafeteria to reassure himself that the children had already gone.

Yukio Ozaki looked somewhat relieved, "They are safe. However, we may soon be under attack." A loud screeching noise sounded, growing louder and louder before suddenly cutting off. "That's it. The wards are down. We should prepare for an attack" The Japanese wizard unsheathed his sword in one fluid movement.

A loud explosion was the precursor to a hail of bullets. The Japanese wizard said something in his native tongue as he made a sweeping gesture with his sword. In the swords wake a glowing wall appeared stopping the bullets.

A second later there was a white flash and a huge crack of thunder. The wind picked up and Storm drifted to the ground with her cape billowing around her.

Storm landed before closing to stand with Xavier, "Professor, we have a group of perhaps thirty men gathered in the woods and they appear quite heavily armed."

"Soldiers?" asked Xavier.

"They are not wearing uniforms," replied Storm.

"Some among them must be wizards if they have taken down the wards," warned Yukio Ozaki. "There are too many for us to safely deal with I suggest we find a secure location until more ICW support gets here."

"Can we risk being trapped in the building?" asked Storm doubtfully.

Xavier reached out with his mind seeking the minds of those out on the grounds. He sought to understand their intentions, the goal that they wanted to achieve. Normally he would avoid forcing his way into people's minds but given the circumstances he simply forced his way in. Within moments he was sifting through the images…as he pulled out he had to fight the urge to strike out at his unwitting targets mind.

Vasily Medvedev was a killer. A violent mercenary hardened by Afghanistan and then the Russian underground he was a very clearly suffering from some form of antisocial personality disorder. He only obeyed orders because he feared his leader.

Xavier skipped to another mind…Alexy Filpov.

By the time he pulled out he was sick to his stomach. Filpov was a wizard and he was…tainted. His twisted mind was focused on murder and worse things, he wanted to feel his victim's terror as he raped and killed. Xavier forced himself to find what he needed….His orders were to kill every one and then make sure that the authorities would deduce that non-magical's had been responsible.

Opening his eyes Xavier turned to Storm, "They are here to kill everyone."

oOoOoOo

"What the hell is it about schools?" demanded Hannah as she pulled on her tactical vest.

"Part of Voldemort's agenda is to spread fear; targeting children achieves that," replied Severus.

"Why guns though?" asked Lavender. "What does that achieve? Does he want to shift the blame to the non-magical?"

Harry shrugged. "You may be right but we've got no time to find out, are we ready?"

Harry got a round of nods before turning to Severus. "Notify Hayes to get his people moving and get everyone else moving as well. We have no idea what the situation is."

Severus nodded and was moving before the Marauders Portkeyed away.

oOoOoOo

Xavier Institute

The Marauders appeared and immediately started taking fire.

Harry returned fire toward the tree line as Hannah gestured sending a ball of fire toward the muzzle flashes.

Lavender and Luna cast shield spells to protect the team as the weapons fire picked up in tempo.

"We need to get under cover, Oracle get us into the building," ordered Harry.

A moment later all four marauders were standing in the main corridor.

"Right we need to find a way to neutralize the attackers otherwise any reinforcements are going to get cut down," said Harry.

"Where is everyone?" asked Lavender.

"Hopefully well clear of this shit," said Hannah as she carefully looked out the window toward the grounds. "What's the plan, Raptor?"

"The roof. We can get a good line on where the shooters are," said Harry.

"Hold on," warned Luna as they all made sure they were touching before Luna transported them to the roof.

"Okay, hold your fire," ordered Harry as he scanned the tree line and the continuing fire. All the weapons fire seemed to be directed toward the lower floor. "The cafeteria. They must be holed up in the cafeteria. Oracle can you check?"

"I'll go with," said Lavender as she moved closer to Luna.

"Be careful! We don't know what's happening down there and be bloody careful returning. I'm on channel three radio checks," ordered Harry.

Luna nodded and Lavender said, "I'm good. I'll switch on as soon as we've transported. Give me a five count."

Their radios still suffered when they travelled magically so by necessity they remained switched off until needed.

Luna and Lavender disappeared and Harry began slowly counting to five, "Okay we're good." Harry and Hannah switched their radios on and inserted the ear pieces.

"Raptor this is Fury."

"Go, Fury," replied Harry as he raised his assault rifle to study the grounds below through its magnified sights.

"Professor Xavier, Storm and six ICW wizards are here in the cafeteria. We have one dead friendly outside. Apparently outgoing Portkey's and apparition have been disabled within the grounds," reported Lavender.

Harry spotted movement below as over twenty people began moving toward the front of the main building. "Flame check out the other side."

Hannah quickly made her way to the other side of the building, "Shit, I have a large group making their way to the rear of the building…..Fuck! Make that two groups of…..ten each."

"Fury, Oracle. We have armed groups approximately forty approaching from front, rear and side. Can Oracle get people out?"

"Raptor, one group has a rocket launcher. Shit!" Hannah sent a ball of fire toward the group at the rear of the building only to see a streak leap from the launcher a half second before her fireball hit.

An explosion sounded and both Hannah and Harry felt the building shudder.

"Fury, Oracle," Harry called in to his mike as he opened fire on the group below.

"Still here Raptor, Oracle is about to evac, we'll be back in a second."

The enemy had obviously realized that they were on the roof as there was a great deal of fire coming from the ground below.

"Acknowledged," said Harry as fire a short burst at a figure leading the charge toward the building. His weapons fire was echoed by Hannah's on the opposite side of the building. "Flame what's happening?"

"They're trying to keep me pinned down as they advance," Hannah paused to fire a long burst toward a target, "Guess they think everyone's trapped in the building."

"Guess they're in for a rude shock then," replied Harry as he ducked below the parapet to reload.

By the time he had reloaded and fire another short burst Luna and Lavender reappeared.

"Help's on the way," said Luna. "Michael and the others were just preparing. One of the other Luna's will transport them to the woods."

Harry considered the tactical situation. Support was coming and if they played it right they would be able to catch the attackers in the crossfire. "Right once the others arrive let's see if we can bait a trap."

"Who's the bait?" asked Hannah.

oOoOoOo

Ivan cursed under his breath in Russian as his men entered the cafeteria. It was empty! Where were they? It wasn't as if they had given them time to evacuate.

"We are still under fire so there must still be people here," said Vasily Medvedev. "At least the cursed black woman has gone."

"Get some people up there," ordered Ivan. "Start sweeping the building as well."

Medvedev nodded and left taking four men with him.

A flash drew his attention to the shattered window; Ivan frowned and pulled his radio from his belt. "Two this is One report."

No reply, "Two this is one, report."

"Team three check team one, we may have enemies in the tree line."

Ivan lowered the radio and turned to the men in the cafeteria, "Brodin, take your men and help search the building, we might not have long before more of the filthy mutants allies arrive. Kill everything here, no prisoners."

Ivan ignored Brodin as he yelled his orders. The mutant's had likely escaped, well save the ones on the roof and Medvedev would take care of those. Of more concern were the possible reinforcements, he had an escape plan of course but it could be difficult to maintain the charade that they were muggles if his outnumbered men were forced to use magic. If the Dark Lord had thought attacking the school might draw out Potter…wait. Potter's people were using guns.

"One this is five the roof is clear, repeat, they've cleared out."

Ivan lifted his radio again, "All teams this is One. Potter may be here. Let me know immediately if he is spotted."

"We have enemies deploying in the tree…"

"One we have enemies near the pond. They are returning fire and using magic."

Potter! It must be him! "All teams converge on the pond area!" Ivan ordered. Pulling a blackened silver necklace from his pocket he snapped the chain and threw it on the ground and stepped back.

There was a hissing noise and then the silver began to melt before disappearing with a flash of red tinted light.

With a thunderous crack, Lord Voldemort appeared.

oOoOoOo

Okay so 2 chapters to go! I hope you enjoyed it even with a cliffhanger ending!