All of Hogsmeade was asleep, save for two who were walking along a quiet path just outside of the fence separating the Shrieking Shack from everything else. Lucius, hidden from the world in his Professor Slughorn disguise while the real professor was back at Hogwarts and in a deep sleep, stood beside Adrian, who was wearing a heavy cloak over his weathered Hogwarts uniform and trainers.

"Alison writes me almost daily, telling me that her father favors that Malfoy brat and her brother," Adrian spoke as he held Alison's latest letter, one that was sent a day ago, in his small hands.

Lucius chuckled softly, but made no comment, "Kadir is gathering followers from the Americas who survived or were hidden during the Battle of Hogwarts," he replied in a cruel voice. "You are not yet old enough to be of help to Kadir's plans, but you are doing well. Maintain your friendship with Alison."

"Father, when can we be a family again?" Adrian asked in a soft voice. "I miss spending time with you."

Lucius sighed, "I know," he replied softly. "Unfortunately, Kadir isn't much for family togetherness."

There was a heavy silence and Lucius silently lifted his canteen, which was full of Polyjuice Potion, to his pale lips so that he wouldn't change back into himself before he was hidden again, "I've only got a limited amount of time before I am to go back and you must go back to the castle," he said in a knowing voice as he reached into his robes and pulled out a small book. "This is for you; take good care of it."

Adrian nodded and tucked the book safely in his shoulder bag as soon as Lucius handed it to him, "A word of caution," Lucius spoke in a nervous voice. "Mantassa is becoming more and more enraged about not having access to prey, so don't venture off of school grounds under any circumstance."

"I'm only going to be a second year," Adrian replied. "There's only so many places I can go."

Lucius nodded, "Mantassa won't go near Diagon Alley, Hogwarts, or Hogsmeade because he will be recognized," he hissed in a despairing voice. "Besides, Kadir has locked him up for the time being due to health issues."

Tears came to Adrian's eyes and he hugged Lucius, "Be strong, my son," Lucius whispered reassuringly.

Adrian nodded, "Now, I think it's time that 'Professor Slughorn' walked you back to the school," Lucius spoke in a quiet voice, knowing that he had to return to Kadir soon to avoid trouble. "Come, Adrian."

"Yes, all right," Adrian replied softly as he followed his father back towards Hogwarts castle.

The Leaky Cauldron was silent, Neville silently observed as he sprayed the bar counter and wiped it clean, and so it should be in the wee hours of the morning. Hannah was up in the apartment with Alison, Scorpius, and Frank and they were all asleep and would be until later that day; Neville had elected to stay up the entire night and keep watch in the bar in case any on-duty Aurors happened to come by.

Once the counter was clean, Neville took the bottle of spray and rag to each of the tables in the bar to ensure that everything would be clean for the next day. He could have used magic, but the Ministry had recently advised all witches and wizards of age to not waste magic on menial tasks in the early hours, stating that with Kadir and his soldiers on the loose, even the simplest magic should be used carefully.

Suddenly, the door opened and an exhausted looking Harry and Ron, both of whom were in casual suits that were covered by weathered traveling cloaks, came inside, "Morning, Neville," Ron said in a sleepy voice as he walked over to the bar and sat on a stool. "Do you have anything to eat yet?"

"Just leftovers from last night," Neville replied calmly as he looked at Harry. "Another all night patrol?"

Harry nodded and let out a tired sigh, "Kingsley thinks it's best to do it this way for now," he replied in a tired voice as he slumped into the chair closest to him. "We're off at dawn, but I've got to go by the apocathery to get some Calming Draughts for James; he needs them to get through the night…"

"Speaking of kids, Neville, how are yours doing?" Ron asked in a curious voice as Neville moved behind the bar. "I know that Rose has written Alison a few times, but hasn't heard anything back from her."

Neville sighed as he grabbed one of the full trays of 'tea food' that hadn't been used yesterday and placed it in front of Ron, "Alison's not one to find friends in Gryffindor if she can help it, unfortunately," he replied in a somber voice as he watched Ron eat. "Auror Potter, can I get you a little something?"

"Perhaps a warm tea," Harry replied in a tired voice. "I'm still on duty, so I can't grab a little nap."

Neville nodded and quickly prepared the kettle, "Are you excited about Hugo starting this year, Ron?" he asked in a calm voice as he poured a cup of tea. "He's your youngest, so it must be a bit…"

"Difficult is an understatement," Ron replied in an amused voice. "Hermione's fussing Hugo over like you wouldn't believe since he is our last child going to Hogwarts. How long until Frank goes?"

Picking up the teacup, Neville smiled, "Next year, he'll go with Lily," he replied as he carried the teacup over to Harry's table and set it down in front of the tired Auror. "Has there been any word on…"

Swallowing hard, Harry shook his head, "No," he replied, not wanting Draco's name to be mentioned.

A beeping noise suddenly went off, "Motion sensors," Neville replied when Harry quickly stood up.

Nodding, Harry quickly placed a hand on the wand in his robes just as small footsteps came down the stairs, "Daddy?" Frank's voice asked in a quiet tone as Frank came down the stairs. "Are you here?"

Neville gave Frank a confused look, "Frank, you're supposed to be in bed," he commented softly.

"Scorpius had a bad nightmare and woke everyone up," Frank replied worriedly. "Mum put a Silencing Charm on our room and sent me downstairs to get a Calming Draught from you. She said you had…"

Neville nodded, reached under the bar, and pulled out a vial filled with potion, "Here," he said in a calm voice as he walked over to Frank and handed him the vial. "Give that to your mother and go to bed."

"Thanks," Frank replied softly, only giving Harry and Ron a brief glance before hurrying back upstairs.

Ron's eyes narrowed while he swallowed a mouthful of crackers, "You two should really get back on duty," Neville said in a quiet voice as he moved the platter away from Ron. "I've got to prepare the breakfast menu and then try to get a brief nap in before opening if I can. The cook doesn't get in…"

Suddenly, Alison came thundering down the stairs clad in a dressing gown, pink pajamas, and slippers with her blanket in one hand and a pillow in the other. She looked briefly at Harry and Ron before disappearing into the lounge area and settling on the couch in front of the unlit fireplace.

"Neville, if you've got a moment, I'd like to talk to you in private," Harry spoke, suddenly remembering what James had told him about Alison's behavior. "Ron, do you mind waiting for just a minute?"

Ron shrugged and Harry gestured to the doorway, "I need to talk to you about something James told me," Harry whispered as Neville walked over to the doorway. "I think it's something you should know."

Quickly checking to ensure that Alison was asleep, Neville nodded and crossed his arms silently.

The Burrow was still, but a lone figure remained awake and in an armchair in the living room, being perfectly quiet so that he would wake nobody else. Percy shivered and used his only remaining hand to pick up his wand, but held it for only a minute before setting it back on the table. A fire would only wake the other inhabitants of the very magical house and he found himself needing a moment of quiet peace.

A faint cough escaped Percy's lips and he immediately relaxed so that his body wouldn't go into convulsions. It had happened four other nights in the summer and Percy had always woken up in time to seem perfectly composed and rested before his parents and daughters woke up. Snape had warned him that the convulsions could be triggered by any sudden panic or pain, so being calm was essential…

"Percy?"

Percy remained silent as the footsteps, belonging to his father judging by the voice, entered the living room, "Dad, I just need a minute," he said in a quiet voice. "I was having a bit of an issue sleeping."

There was silence and Percy suddenly felt something being draped over his shoulders, "Best to keep as warm as you can at night so that you don't have any more seizures," Arthur said in a calming voice as he sat on the couch beside the armchair. "Your mother and I knew about the other ones, but we didn't want to worry your daughters, so we just made sure that you were breathing well and comfortable."

"Thanks," Percy replied in a faint voice. "I thought about lighting a fire, but it would wake everyone…"

Arthur nodded, withdrew his wand from inside his robes, and waved it at the fireplace, "Your mother won't mind a little extra warmth in the house," he replied as a fire appeared. "So, son, I couldn't help but wonder what your thoughts on LeighAnn are? Your mother and I have noticed that you and her…"

"It's too soon for both of us," Percy spoke in a quiet voice as he stared somberly at the dancing flames.

Arthur was silent for a moment, "Where is she tonight?" he asked, knowing that Percy was lying to him.

Percy sighed, "At Professor Snape's home with Michael," he replied tensely, deeply ashamed of himself for not being ready to think about moving on even a year after Audrey's murder. "Snape is also there."

"I see," Arthur replied in a gentle voice. "Percy, Audrey wouldn't want you to keep grieving like this."

An uneasy sigh escaped Percy's lips, "I just want to be well," he replied in a tired voice. "I'm glad that Lucy's not afraid of me anymore, but I want to be well enough to be a father to my daughters and to…"

"I know," Arthur replied calmly. "You haven't been back to the Phoenix Center for more counseling."

Percy bit his lip, "I might go tomorrow if I can get through tonight without a seizure," he replied. "I…"

"No," Arthur said in a firm voice as he stood up and zipped up his jacket. "Let's go there tonight."

Seeing that Percy looked hesitant to do anything that required moving, Arthur offered his hand and smiled encouragingly, "We'll take the Floo," he said, sighing as Percy took his hand and stood up.

"Molly and Lucy," Percy whispered anxiously. "They'll…they'll wonder where I've gone…"

Arthur sighed, "Your mother will explain things," he replied in a reassuring voice. "Now, let's go."

"My Lord Kadir, allow me to kill that meddling Weasley," Gilderoy said in an anxious voice as he knelt before Kadir, who was shrouded in a hooded cloak and sitting in front of an unlit fireplace.

Kadir laughed, "Gilderoy, do you think I care about a weak minded Weasley with Severus Snape and his magical spawn running loose?" he asked in a crisp voice. "Your magic is unstable; where is Lucius?"

"Lucius is in disguise and visiting Adrian at Hogsmeade Village," Gilderoy replied nervously. "I could…"

Kadir sighed and flicked his wand at the fire, igniting it, "There is a wizarding facility called The Phoenix Center that is not far from Diagon Alley," he said in a commanding voice. "I know for a fact that Kaysar runs the place and I want you to go there and get him. It's time my son and I had a little talk."

"As you wish, My Lord," Gilderoy replied in an anxious voice. "What if others are there with him?"

Kadir hissed, "If Snape's brats are with Kaysar, leave him and bring the spawn to me," he snapped.

Gilderoy bowed and quickly scurried out of the room, too scared to stay near Kadir for very long.

"You don't sleep anymore, do you?"

Kaysar sighed as he stood in front of his office fireplace with his arms crossed, the long cloak he was wearing over his suit not providing much warmth, "No," he replied tonelessly. "I can't sleep at all."

"Everyone's worried about you, Kaysar," Amythest said in a concerned voice as she came into the room wearing an emerald dress and a dark robe while her hair sat in a loose bun. "Even Adeleina is worried about you and I left her with Father and Michael just so I could come to make sure you were all right."

Kaysar nodded and closed his eyes as Amythest gently touched his hair, "Now that I know my father is alive, I can feel his anger," he replied in a quiet voice. "He wants me to come to him so we can talk."

Amythest was silent for a moment and sighed patiently as Kaysar held his hands out in front of the fire and exhaled sharply when the sound of retching reached his ears, "Stay in this office," Kaysar whispered as he quickly withdrew his wand from a special pocket inside his cloak. "If anyone has come for me…"

There were footsteps and then a knock at the door, "Kaysar?" Arthur's voice spoke in a nervous tone.

Kaysar breathed a sigh of relief, "Arthur, come in," he replied in a calm voice. "I was just a bit…"

"Nervous?" Arthur replied as he pushed open the door, revealing a trembling Percy leaning on his shoulder with his gaze directed at the floor. "I know it's late, but Percy's been having problems…"

Kaysar nodded, "Amythest, can you prepare the couch?" he asked in a soft voice as he gently put his hand under Percy's chin and gently moved it upward to look into his eyes. "Percy, please relax."

Percy, however, was looking past Kaysar to the couch that Amythest had just put a pillow and blanket on, "Kaysar, it might be best to just get Percy on to the couch," she spoke up in a concerned voice.

Swallowing hard, Kaysar nodded and helped Arthur walk Percy over to the couch and ensured that there were no problems in helping Percy lie down, "Sorry about the mess," Percy whispered tiredly. "I…"

"Don't worry about it," Kaysar replied reassuringly as he hurried over to a small cabinet in the far corner of the office where he kept emergency potions. "How long has it been since your last seizure, Percy?"

Percy sighed, "A week ago and I've been tired ever since," he replied softly, flinching as Amythest gently tucked his handless arm under the blanket along with his complete arm. "I'm s-sorry; I don't mean to…"

"Shush," Amythest replied gently as she moved away from the couch. "You need to save your strength."

Kaysar quickly came over to the couch with a small vial filled with potion in one hand and a warm compress in the other hand. Percy hissed as he felt the compress being pressed against his socks.

A large clatter echoed throughout the center and hysterical laughter quickly followed, "Lockhart," Amythest said in an anxious voice, recognizing the manic laughter. "We need to get out of here."

Closing his eyes, Kaysar turned towards the door and silently waved his wand in an elaborate fashion that looked so intense that Percy had to close his eyes, "This room is now protected," he said in a quiet voice as he turned back to Arthur, Amythest, and Percy. "Lockhart's got unstable magic, but…"

"Your father will eventually get you, Kaysar Linnis," Gilderoy's voice hissed. "Remember who you are."

Kaysar paled, but said nothing as Gilderoy came to the edge of the ward and gazed at him only briefly before walking off to another part of the centre. Amythest quickly got some Floo Powder out of a jar on the mantle and threw it into the fire, turning the dancing flames green. Percy's eyes popped open.

"Take Percy to Severus until morning," Kaysar instructed as he gazed at Amythest. "I'll stay here and…"

Amythest quickly helped Percy, blanket and all, off of the couch and into the fireplace, "Snape Mansion!" Amythest said in a clear, but quiet voice, holding tight to Percy as they vanished.

Before Kaysar could speak, he felt a hand grip his arm, "I'm not leaving you here to certain death," Arthur said in a gentle, but very firm voice as he looked at Kaysar's tired eyes. "There are other ways."

As Kaysar felt himself being Apprated out of the office, he heard the unmistakable sounds of glass shattering and walls exploding; it was unmistakable that Lockhart was trying to kill him by destroying the Phoenix Centre with unstable magic, but it was only a building. Buildings could be easily replaced.

A soft wooshing sound prompted LeighAnn to look up from the small crib at her feet where Michael was sleeping while she sat on the living room couch with a cup of tea in nothing but pajamas and a robe.

There was silence and then the door opened, but Michael did not wake. Frowning, LeighAnn got up, set her cup on the living room table and turned just in time to see Percy pass out cold on the carpet at Amythest's feet, "Lockhart attacked the Phoenix Center looking for Kaysar," Amythest explained softly.

Relieved that Michael didn't wake, LeighAnn knelt down beside Percy and gently stroked his pale face with her warm hand, "Arthur and Kaysar Apprated," Amythest explained in an anxious voice as she moved out into the foyer. "How come you're up so late with Michael? Where's Father at?"

"Father's upstairs resting," LeighAnn replied calmly. "Michael was hungry and Adeleina is fine."

Amythest nodded and LeighAnn silently leaned in and gently kissed Percy's cold lips several times as if her love would help him. Almost immediately, Percy's eyes fluttered open and he smiled weakly.

"Your kisses are warm," Percy commented in a faint voice. "They make me feel strong again…"

LeighAnn nodded and gently stroked his face again, "Mister Weasley, most of your strength has come from within," a deep, yet very calming voice suddenly spoke. "Courage to endure is strength."

Recognizing the voice of her father, LeighAnn turned and saw her father standing beside Amythest in his black attire with a cloak around his shoulders, "Professor Snape?" Percy asked in a faint voice. "I…"

"I know," Severus replied in a toneless, knowing voice. "How did you get to my home?"

Amythest sighed, "Gilderoy Lockhart attacked the Phoenix Center and Arthur Weasley Apprated with Kaysar while I took Percy through the fireplace," she explained in a concerned voice. "Kaysar is…"

The door was suddenly thrown open, "...I assure you, I'm all right," a faint voice spoke. "Just go slow…"

Severus turned and saw Arthur helping Kaysar, who had burns and cuts on his face and burn marks on his suit, into the house, "Apprating from the office didn't work, so we had to run outside and Apprate," Arthur explained in a concerned voice. "Gilderoy chased us and blasted spells at us, but they missed."

"I'm a little dizzy and tired, but no lasting damage was done," Kaysar replied in a hoarse voice, frowning as Amythest came out into the foyer and stared at him. "Amythest, it looks worse than it is."

Amythest sighed as she walked over to Kaysar, "You need treatment and then a rest," she said in a gentle, but very firm voice as she gently took his hands in her own. "Your hands are freezing!"

"The attack was a warning," Kaysar said in a hoarse voice as he closed his eyes. "He's coming for me."

Amythest scowled and Kaysar suddenly winced, "Arthur, thank you for saving my life," Kaysar said in a tired voice as he released his wife's hands. "Where's Percy at, Amythest? Did you two get here okay?"

"We got here safely," a faint voice spoke, causing Arthur's eyes to widen. "I'm just a little tired."

Amythest, Severus, and Kaysar turned to see a tired looking Percy standing in the doorway, being supported by a calm looking LeighAnn, "Percy, you're looking better," Kaysar commented gently.

"LeighAnn helped," Percy replied in a quiet voice as he exhaled gently. "I feel a little stronger."

Severus smirked, but said nothing as he moved back to the staircase, "You should get back to the Burrow so that your family won't worry," LeighAnn commented gently. "Can you walk to your dad?"

"You are family if you want to be," Percy replied in a nervous voice. "Can I ask you a question?"

Before anyone could speak, Percy slowly got down on one knee and took LeighAnn's left hand with his one good hand, "LeighAnn, I've fallen in love with you and I was wondering if you would please allow me to take you as my wife and can you take me as your husband?" he asked in a reverent voice, his eyes filling with tears as he looked up at LeighAnn. "Can we become a family with Molly, Lucy, and Michael?"

Arthur gasped silently, as did Amythest. Severus crossed his arms and looked almost amused.

"Yes, Percy, I'll be your wife and take you as my husband," LeighAnn replied softly. "I love you."

Percy smiled, rose, and quickly kissed LeighAnn, "I don't have a ring now, but I can get one soon," he said in a gentle voice as he pulled away. "I know I should have asked Professor Snape first, but…"

Severus, however, was not in the foyer; he had seen Percy's proposal and had silently went into the living room upon hearing LeighAnn's acceptance of it. He had gently scooped Michael out of the bassinette, sat down in the chair closest to the roaring fire, and silently held his sleeping grandson.

"Even in bad times, Michael, happiness is possible," Severus whispered. "This you will learn."

Michael, however, remained asleep and Severus found himself remembering happier times, not that they would matter at present. For the moment, all that mattered was that there was joy in the moment.

"I hunger, Lord Kadir," Mantassa's voice growled from behind the locked door of the prison cell where he had been put for the duration of the full moon cycle. "Please, allow me to bite someone."

It wasn't, however, Kadir standing outside the door. Kadir was up in his private chambers working on a plan to break people out of Azkaban to assist them and Lucius had come down to the prisoner area to ensure that Draco hadn't died on him. Narcissa was being kept in a separate part of Kadir's manor so she couldn't assist Draco in any way. Charlie was silently sitting on a pile of hay in the corner while Draco sat in the other corner, not able to bear looking at the man whom he once called 'Father.'

"Do you want to bite someone?" Lucius asked in a soft voice as he pointed his wand at the cell door.

Mantassa growled, "I'm sure you could take a bite out of this pathetic Weasley," Lucius hissed.

Dread filled Charlie's heart and he was so busy mentally preparing to die that he didn't notice that Draco had moved around the room and was now sitting beside him. While Lucius's back was turned, Draco silently reached into his pocket and pulled out a small compass, which he handed to Charlie.

Mentally and physically exhausted from all the torture and beatings he had suffered during his time as a prisoner, Charlie gave Draco a confused look, but Draco motioned for him to be quiet as he silently snapped his fingers. Almost immediately, Lucius's wand flew out of his hand and into Draco's.

Lucius whirled around just in time to see Draco tap the compass with the wand, "YOU LITTLE TRAITOR!" Lucius roared as he marched over to Draco, grabbed the wand, and kicked Draco in the shins hard.

"Alohamora!" Lucius roared, ignoring Draco's groan as he turned back to Mantassa's cell door.

The door burst open as Charlie suddenly vanished with the watch in hand. Not wanting to be subjected to the hungry Mantassa's wrath, Lucius Apprated out of the dingy cell, leaving Draco defenceless and alone as Mantassa came out of the cell in a fury, baring his teeth and eager to bite someone.

"How long til the sun comes up, Harry?" Ron said in a tired voice as he walked in-step with Harry back down the path from Gringotts where they had just run a security check. "I'm starting to get tired."

Harry sighed as he quickly checked his wrist watch, "About an hour or so," he replied in a tired voice as he gazed around the silent shops to ensure that all was well. "It's been a surprisingly quiet shift."

Suddenly, there was a loud bang and a groan from the direction of Weasley Wizard Wheezes, "Hello?" Ron called out, frowning as he pulled out his wand. "Harry, do you think there's been an attack?"

"I don't know," Harry replied in a nervous voice as he heard footsteps approach. "Lumos!"

Light flooded the area and Ron's eyes suddenly widened as he saw a very thin, badly beaten, redheaded man in ragged clothes leaning on a water barrel for support with one hand while clutching a compass in the other, "Charlie?!" he called out, immediately recognizing the face. "Charlie, it's me; it's Ron."

"Charlie?" Harry asked as Charlie turned his head, revealing a battered face. "Charlie, how…?"

A faint cough escaped Charlie's lips and he began to collapse, but Harry and Ron were quicker; they hurried over to him and each put an arm around their shoulders and helped Charlie stay standing.

"What's all the racket out here?" a tired voice suddenly asked. "Harry, Ron, what are you…?"

George's eyes widened as he saw Charlie being supported by them, "Let's get him up to the Leaky Cauldron," George said in an anxious voice, quickly regaining his composure. "Come on."

Gritting his teeth, Charlie forced himself to stay silent as Harry, Ron, and George escorted him through the Alley and into the Leaky Cauldron. Neville had just come downstairs from helping Hannah get Scorpius, Frank, and a reluctant Alison settled back into their beds and he nearly fainted at seeing Charlie being supported and escorted by Harry, Ron, and George, but quickly calmed himself.

"Bring him to the couch in front of the fire," Neville said in an anxious voice as he hurried into the common area and made a bed with the blanket and pillow Alison had left. "I'll contact St. Mungo's."

It didn't take long for Harry, Ron, and George to get Charlie settled on the couch with a pillow under his back and one underneath his leg while the blanket covered his thin frame, "It might be faster to contact Professor Snape and Healer Linnis," Ron commented in a concerned voice. "It might be safer too."

"You're right, Ron," Neville replied calmly as he quickly waved his wand, sending his Patronus off.

Charlie whimpered and closed his eyes, breathing heavily, "Charlie, did you see Draco?" Harry asked.

"It will be quicker if we just take him to Professor Snape, I think," Ron spoke up nervously as he knelt beside Charlie and took his hands. "Charlie, come on; we'll take you to where you can get some help."

Charlie cringed, but allowed Ron to help him up, "Home," Charlie replied in a trembling voice.

"Just hold still, Charlie," Ron said in a calming voice, wincing at how badly Charlie was trembling.

Teddy's eyes widened in shock as he Apprated in front of the decimated Phoenix Center and saw that most of the structure was surprisingly still intact, but gutted by fire. His trainer, Dennis Creevey, a tall man who had joined the Aurors in honor of his brother, Colin, who had died at the Battle of Hogwarts, lingered nearby in silence; Teddy knew that he was being evaluated for how well he did the job.

"Any sign of Gilderoy Lockhart since he escaped?" Teddy asked in a concerned voice.

Colin sighed patiently, "None," he replied gently just as two more Aurors Apprated into the gutted building and immediately brandished their wands. "Ah, Parker and Weasley, welcome."

Teddy turned around just in time to see Victoire, who was dressed in smart pants, a sweater vest, and a dark jumper, look at a woman who was dressed in a pant suit and had a curly mop of black hair, "'Ello Teddy," Victoire said, smiling at her former boyfriend. "Zees ees my trainer, Anastasia Parker."

"Stacey, please," the woman, who had burn marks on her face, replied. "I'm an Auror from America."

Teddy nodded, a mystified expression on his face, "So Kingsley dipped into the American Auror pool again, did he?" Dennis asked in an amused voice. "I didn't think any more Americans would come…"

"Garrett's sacrifice served as an example," Stacey replied in a gruff voice. "Are you Teddy Lupin?"

Teddy nodded, "I've heard stories about both of your parents," Stacey replied gently.

"We should probably get back to investigating," Teddy said softly. "I'm being evaluated."

Stacey's eyes widened slightly and she nodded, "After you," she replied in an amused voice.

Swallowing hard, Kaysar cringed as he applied burn paste to the burns on his neck and nearly threw up as waves of pain shot through his tense body. Severus was tending Michael and Amythest was discussing wedding plans with LeighAnn in the large kitchen while Percy rested in the lab.

"Here, give me that," a deep voice suddenly spoke behind him. "Have a seat before you fall."

Kaysar turned to see Arthur standing there holding a small bag, "I'm not as good is Molly is at fixing injuries, but I know my fair share of treatments and healing spells," Arthur stated gently. "Sit."

"I think I might have also inhaled some smoke," Kaysar spoke in a pained voice, coughing as he sat in front of the small mirror in the bedroom that he and Amythest shared and gazed in the mirror at his tanned, battered face and rumpled hair. "I suppose I should be grateful just to have survived."

There was suddenly a noise downstairs, followed by footsteps and commotion. A few minutes later, Amythest and LeighAnn came up the stairs with Michael in their arms looking rather anxious.

"Ron, Harry, and George just brought Charlie into the house through the fireplace," Amythest said in an anxious voice, frowning at how badly off Kaysar looked as LeighAnn left the room with Michael.

Arthur's eyes widened in shock, "Charlie's alive?" he asked in a shocked voice. "I didn't know…"

"Arthur, go take care of Charlie," Kaysar said in an anxious voice. "I can manage on my own."

Amythest sighed, "Father's taking care of Charlie in the lab and he said that he'll manage fine enough with Harry's help," she explained softly. "LeighAnn went to check on Percy and put Michael to bed."

"Where's Ron?" Arthur asked in a concerned voice as he placed a gentle hand on Kaysar's uninjured shoulder to keep the injured man from moving. "Amythest, could you send a message to Molly?"

Kaysar sighed, "Best wait til sun up," he spoke in a tired voice, struggling to stay awake as he sat there.

"Right, lie down on the bed and I'll patch your wounds the best I can while you sleep," Arthur said in a gentle, but very firm voice, holding to Kaysar's arm as he stood up. "Lie on your uninjured side."

Too tired to argue, Kaysar did as he was told and immediately fell asleep, "Amythest, why don't you check on your Adeleina and then get some rest?" Arthur suggested gently. "Kaysar will be fine here."

Amythest nodded and silently left the room, still very angry about what had happened that evening and that Gilderoy Lockhart had tried to kill Kaysar on Kadir's orders. Would this war never truly be over?

"Mum!"

Clad only in a nightdress and dressing gown, Ginny hurried down the hallway of their comfortable home and into James's bedroom, where Albus was sitting on the bed, silently holding his big brother as he cried, "James was talking in his sleep and I heard him through the wall," Albus explained softly.

"James, honey, another nightmare?" Ginny asked gently as she walked over to the bed and sat down.

James nodded and immediately flung himself into Ginny's arms, "I shouldn't still be thinking about it," he whispered in an ashamed voice. "It was a long time ago and the scars have all healed by now."

Ginny gently held James for a moment and sighed as he pulled away, lifting up his sleeve to reveal a slightly faded cut that read Mudblood Lover, "I got this when I was a prisoner with Fred," James whispered, his fingers running over the scars. "I had a nightmare about when Lucius gave it to me."

Immediately, Ginny's mind went to the scar she had seen on Percy's arm and she sighed as she gently stroked James's back, "You're safe," she whispered softly. "Everything's all right now; it was just a nightmare and it's passed. Soon, you and Albus will be back at Hogwarts where it's even safer."

Before James could reply, a shadowy Jack Russell Terrier appeared in the middle of the room, "Charlie's been found alive and is being taken care of," Ron's voice spoke. "I'll get back to you very soon."

Ginny's eyes widened as the Patronus faded, "Uncle Charlie's alive?" Albus asked in a shocked voice.

"What does that mean, Mum?" James asked in a concerned voice. "How did Uncle Charlie get out?"

Ginny sighed, "I don't know, James," she replied in a quiet voice. "I hope things will get better now."

Adeleina slept peacefully enough in the bed that was not her own, Amythest observed silently, trying earnestly to ignore the anger in her heart as she walked over to the bedroom window and looked out.

"You have black hair and an anger equal to that of your father's, raven haired beauty," Voldemort hissed softly as he paced back and forth in front of her younger self as she stood there in an emerald green dress with her hair curled and pinned up, fresh out of time in Azkaban. "How was your stay, child?"

It was then that Bellatrix then entered the room and Voldemort dismissed Amythest with harsh words and a slap to remind her of what had been. From that night, everything had become a blur.

Not wanting to wake Adeleina, Amythest silently hugged herself and left the warded bedroom so to be alone with her thoughts. She walked down the hallway and saw that LeighAnn was settling Michael in a crib in the far corner of the same room where Percy was sound asleep in a large, four poster bed.

"You'll love having Percy as your dad, my Michael," LeighAnn said gently as she gently stroked his face and watched her baby work to sleep. "You'll also have big sisters to show you how to grow up well."

Michael cooed and Amythest continued down the hallway just in time to hear LeighAnn chuckle and she nearly ran into Arthur, who was coming out from another bedroom, "I patched Kaysar up as best I could and he's resting, but I'm sure he would sleep better if you were next to him for a little while."

Amythest was silent and Arthur sighed, "Don't go looking for trouble just to protect those you love, Amythest," he said in a soft, but firm voice. "There are other ways to defend that which is good."

Swallowing hard, Amythest moved inside the bedroom and sat on the edge of the bed where Kaysar, now wearing light pajamas, was sleeping. She gently stroked his hand and let out a heavy sigh.

"Minister Shacklebolt, the Phoenix Center is mere ruins," Dennis reported as he entered the Minister of Magic's office and saw Kingsley sitting at his desk with papers in front of him. "Gilderoy Lockhart's…"

Kingsley sighed as Teddy, Victore, and Stacey entered the office, "There are Aurors tracking Lockhart and you four have done what I asked," he said in a somber voice. "Parker, Weasley, your next assignment is to talk to Kaysar Linnis about how the center was destroyed and why. Creevey and Lupin, you two need to go to the Burrow in a few days and talk to Charlie Weasley about his time at…"

"Charlie Weasley?" Dennis asked in a confused voice. "Wasn't he being held prisoner at Malfoy Manor?"

Kingsley nodded, "Just wait a few days and then go ask him how he got out because we really need to know and also see if he knows where Draco might be," he replied firmly. "You have a few days' rest."

"What about Scorpius Malfoy?" Teddy spoke up softly. "He's been wanting to know about his father."

Kingsley gazed at Teddy, as did Victoire and Stacey, "I will visit the Leaky Cauldron in the morning and see to the state of things there myself," he said in a somber voice as he stood up. "This meeting is…"

"What about the rumor about Severus Snape being alive?" Stacey asked softly. "Is it just a rumor?"

Kingsley raised an eyebrow, "This meeting is over, Parker," he replied. "Get on with your work."

Understanding themselves to be dismissed, Stacey, Dennis, and Victoire all left the room, but Teddy silently lingered, "Sir, may I speak?" he asked in a quiet voice. "May I share my thoughts with you?"

"By all means, Lupin," Kingsley replied in a calm voice, smiling at the persistence of the Auror trainee.

Teddy nodded, "We should find out if Draco is dead as soon as possible and give Scorpius ample opportunity to make peace with the death of his father," he said in a quiet voice. "He needs…"

"Have you made peace with the death of your parents?" Kingsley asked softly. "Truthfully?"

Teddy paused for a moment, "With that, yes," he replied softly. "I'm working on the other things."

"Very well," Kingsley replied in a calming voice. "Keep doing what you are doing, all right?"

Teddy nodded and silently holstered his wand before he left the Minister's office in silence.

It did not take long for the Weasleys to gather once word about Charlie's escape had spread and they had all agreed to stay where they were until Ron gave them more news, but George had quickly taken Angelina, Fred, and Roxanne to Ginny's where they would be safer instead of staying in Diagon Alley.

Now, while Roxanne and Lily slept in Lily's bedroom, Ginny sat awake in the upstairs sitting room in an armchair close to the lit fireplace with James asleep in her lap while Albus and Fred slept on either end of the couch with a blanket covering them. Angelina slept in a chair while George stood by the hearth.

"Did you tell Harry about what Alison told James?" George asked in a concerned, tired voice.

Ginny sighed, "Harry said he mentioned it to Neville," she replied, gently stroking James's messy hair as he slept so to keep him from waking in a nightmare again. "I can't believe Neville's own daughter…"

"Children don't always turn out to be like their parents, you know," George replied calmly, turning to look at Ginny with a knowing expression on his face. "And they don't always want to be as expected."

Ginny nodded, "Like Scorpius Malfoy," she replied in a quiet voice. "He's very different than Draco."

"I'm sure even Draco's changed since he was at Hogwarts," George replied softly. "I mean, he didn't make trouble when Albus and Molly befriended Scorpius. Granted, Albus is in Slytherin; but still…"

Angelina scoffed tiredly, but didn't open her eyes, "We Weasleys have got to stop judging people by what house they're in," she said in a tired voice. "It's not good to turn our back on our allies anymore."

James suddenly tensed up and shivered, but Ginny gently stroked him enough that he immediately relaxed and continued to sleep, "I'll feel better when James, Albus, and the rest of all of our children are back at Hogwarts where it's much safer than here," she replied softly. "I'm suddenly feeling uneasy."

"Well, Gin, everyone's probably feeling uneasy now," George replied in a somber voice. "I mean, how did Charlie get away so easily? I have a bad feeling that this is only the beginning of more trouble."

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