Chapter 51—Vitae Perdidit

(Three Months Later)

"The Ministry has made a coalition with the muggles, my Lord, and it will prove highly effective." Blaise Zabini relied on bended knee to Tom-Harry in Avery's ballroom. "The muggles are undoubtedly inferior; their weapons, however, are very sophisticated and they're highly coordinated. With one strike, the devastation they can wreak upon our forces could mean total decimation. Liverpool proved that much, my Lord."

"Stand and sit." Tom-Harry said tersely to Zabini, watching the young Auror sit to his left.

Tom surveyed the darker man coldly, wondering if the man was withholding pertinent information from him. Trust no one, for they devour those who they perceive as needing them.

"According to Rosier, the muggles have aligned with western powers on the Continent with sizable magical communities. Yet I wonder, are there any other countries that I should be made aware of?"

What are you withholding from me, Zabini? Tom thought, looking at the dark-haired man with acute calculation that held viciousness.

"The Germans—muggles and wizards alike—are reluctant to interfere. They believe us contained here, my Lord. Other than France, the other muggle countries on the continent do not have significant military power to threaten you." Zabini finished.

"And there is potential for us in Eastern Europe. An alliance was extended by a few. I will personally secure the others within the month." Tom said vaguely.

Once I prove my power, they will easily acquiesce and join me.

"Now, upon your initiation, you promised me both intelligence from the Ministry and the Malfoys. Doing well on fulfilling one promise does not exempt you from executing the other. I'll give you a month, Zabini. If they are not found and brought to me, it will be the death of you."

Killing Narcissa would certainly boost morale. Tom then waved the Auror away. And the younger Malfoy—Draco—he is weak and malleable. A bout of torture after witnessing his mother's brutal death should convince the brat to open the Malfoy's vast coffers.

Tom picked up the Daily Prophet on the banquet table, seeing the headline, 'Liverpool: A Disaster for Dark forces!' As Tom quickly read the article, his fury drastically increased.

To be defeated so easily by muggle bombs, chemical gassing, guns and, Tom glanced down at the article seeing another weapon named, RPGs. Embarrassing! I will devise a strategy to both discourage their involvement and weaken their military capabilities. It was times like these that made Tom perfectly recall certain Death Eater's usefulness, such as Dolohov's ruthless strategies that filled enemies with terror and Abraxas's vast political connections that quietly advanced their cause.

Tom had not considered how awfully destabilized his forces had become after the Second War. His numbers, though still well over three-hundred men, were extremely inexperienced. Most were either too old or too young. Very few could be counted on to become lieutenants or captains of contingents, each executing their own assignments with coordination and efficiency.

Thanks to Ginevra, my political connections have severely dwindled. There remained only a handful of crafty Wizengamot members who'd escaped the Ministry's hunt to eradicate corruption and they'd barely done so. As a result, Tom found their usefulness limited since their influence on the Court was all but nonexistent. In the past, Tom could rely on the black markets to substantially boost his resources and those of his followers. Now, however, there was no diversity of resources or reliable vendors within the few markets still left. Again, all thanks to Ginevra's very insightful Ministry reports.

They have done well anticipating me. Tom thought, glowering at the article before him. They know how I work, and since time is of the essence, restructuring new methods of attack and creating others to compensate for weaknesses is out of the question. But if I am truly to be the victor, that is required.

Tom summoned Rodolphus, watching him bow stiffly to him.

"I have a mission for you, your brother and those that were a part of your faction." Tom said harshly; his eyes flashing a fluorescent red as a clear threat to show the import of what he'd relay.

"I want you both to quietly infiltrate the Muggle government. Start with the office of the Prime Minister and then branch out to their offices for defense and foreign relations. Employ Polyjuice Potion, Disllusionment Charms, or Invisibility Cloaks—I don't care. There are to be no deaths or disappearances, understood? Find out where their weapons are and concretely identify all their allies."

From there, I will eliminate their strongholds and leaders most important to their defense.

"Yes, my Lord." Rodolphus said, lowering his head in acknowledgement.

"Report back to me in a fortnight." Tom said in dismissal, watching as the man hurriedly apparate away.

Feeling particularly murderous, Tom decided to pay Ginevra an evening visit. The girl infuriated him, as always.

Though she remains unaware of the happenings in our world, she senses my displeasure and frustration with my efforts. She takes joy in it. Robbing Ginevra of her defiance—and her belief that she could hope for my true defeat—at times, that is the only one of my aims that truly seems to enliven me.

Tom stepped into her living quarters, seeing the red-head barely spare him a glance before turning her head to, once again, gaze out of the bedroom window. Such insolence normally would have been punishable by the Cruciatus Curse.

She grows more defiant each time I use it on her and that is not my aim. If only I had not agreed to Potter's vow. Then I would not be bound to leave her mind intact. How I desire to strip Ginevra entirely of herself, make her senseless and totally obedient to my every whim. My will, not hers.

"I have a present for you." Tom said, watching her completely stiffen in a way that made him smile. "Elf!"

The house elf whose name he never bothered to learn appeared in the bedroom. Tom didn't even look at it.

"Bring up our guest." Tom said coldly, watching Ginevra flinch. As Tom watched her slowly turn around, he couldn't help but think, Got your attention, at last.

In an instant, Neville Longbottom was apparated into the bedroom. He was beaten, chained and completely delirious. Though Ginevra's face remained stony, her eyes betrayed a hint of concern for the boy.

He is not her family, but he is a close associate.

"What? No greetings to give your work partner. How rude of you, Ginevra." Tom said, walking towards the boy with his wand in hand. "You are aware that I need you alive. I have no such need for him, and yet his life and health rest totally in your hands. I will make sure Augusta Longbottom knows that should her grandson die."

"And why would I care, Tom?" Ginevra asked unaffectedly, looking at the boy like he was already dead. I admire that unaffected ruthlessness.

"I do not want you to consider how this boy's death—essentially, your betrayal of yet another friend—will weigh on your conscience; rather, consider the manner in which he will die. Painfully, with his mind torn to shreds while I take what information I value such as…hmm, the identity of the Order's new secret keeper. Or perhaps information that will lead to the capture of your kin. Now, that I truly find satisfaction in learning."

The red-head slightly blanched, eliciting a smirk from Tom. He walked over to Ginevra, grabbing her left wrist and pulling her towards Longbottom's prone form on the ground. Then, Tom stood directly behind her and whispered into her ear.

"You'll kill him anyway." Ginevra said softly; her eyes never left Longbottom.

Tom wrapped his arms around her waist, pulling her back flush up against his chest as he breathed into her ear.

"I have given my word that he will remain alive and in good health if you would but obey me." Tom said charmingly, taking her left hand into his own.

"But you'll still use him against me." Ginevra said, trying to escape his hold. Tom's right hand fisted in her hair, sharply jerking her head back.

"Agree to my bargain and Longbottom will live. As such, there would be no need to pursue your son, your parents, or your several brothers." Tom said, using a wandless spell to constrict Ginevra's waist so that it would be difficult for her to breathe. "It is only a matter of time. I will find one—and one is all it will take to end your obstinacy, we both know that."

"You lie," Ginevra gasped, beginning to desperately pant for air. "You'll always try…to find them."

"And when I find one, nothing will keep them safe. You will lose your leverage…and perhaps your sanity once I'm through with them."

Ginevra shouted profanities at him that made Tom chuckle. "Bastard! I'll kill you first!"

"That's the spirit." Tom said amusedly, throwing Ginevra forcefully onto the bed and advancing upon Longbottom. With his back to her, Tom continued, "You know, if only you'd fully cooperate, I would vow to spare your family."

Tom took a firm hold of Longbottom, while looking Ginevra straight in the eye.

"You could rest assured that your son would be treated as a prince of every land. I repeat, Ginevra, to this I would vow. But should I capture a member of your family without this bargain already agreed upon, I will slaughter each and every one of them in front of you. Allow your conscience to consider that while I pillage this fool's mind. Tick tock."

Before leaving the room, Tom gave Ginevra a charming smile that revealed just how very eager he was to brutalize her family; he wanted that more than her submission to him. The pallid, sick look on the red-head's lovely face made Tom confident that she would eventually break.

I have her exactly where I want her. Nothing more needs to be said. Then, Tom apparated himself and Longbottom out of the room and to the dungeons to resume torturing the young man to death.


(Later that Night—Zabini's POV)

"Blaise, I didn't think you'd make it." Ginny said, watching the Auror cautiously enter the en suite. "Did he kill Neville?"

"It'll happen soon." Zabini said regretfully, taking a seat on the sofa across from Ginny. "He's gotten quite a bit of information out of him, too. He now knows Lupin is the Order's secret keeper. He's now certain that Hogwarts is our new headquarters. I've seen his plans for infiltration, Ginevra. He's really close to dismantling the school's wards. You must hurry."

"I've told you—I've yet to figure out how to save Harry." Ginny snapped impatiently.

"You might not be able to save Potter." Blaise said reluctantly.

Though he and Potter were far from friends, they'd grown to deeply respect one another. Zabini, like so many others in the Auror division, completely trusted Harry's judgment and his instincts. To lose him would hurt not only their world but their hearts. Potter has a way of making everyone come together. One can't help but to admire him.

"People are dying. The muggles' aid, while helpful, can only go so far against a man like him. You know what He's capable of better than anyone. Soon, he'll figure out how to get around their defenses. When he does, we're all finished. And you say Harry's still there somewhere, but He's growing stronger than Harry. The Death Eaters sense it. He doesn't hesitate half as much now when he's casting the Cruciatus Curse on his enemies, and he's punishing the Death Eaters less with each day. You're running out of time!"

(Ginny's POV)

"I know a Runic spell that would work in tandem with the potion, allowing us to separate Tom's essence from Harry's; but, more importantly, I haven't found a way to protect Harry's magical core should Tom fight the extraction. I can't go through with this without protecting both Harry's mind and his magic. Tom could really kill him, Blaise."

Or worse, imprison Harry within the far recesses of his own mind where no one (not even Severus or I) can reach him…forever, with or without Tom possessing Harry.

"Potter could die despite your best efforts to save him, and then not only would he be gone, but our chances of defeating the Dark Lord with minimal loss of life vanishes also. Severus said to accept that we might not be able to save all of Potter, and I think Potter would understand that decision."

Harry didn't give up on me. I'm not giving up on him. Ginny didn't voice her thoughts to Zabini. Severus sent him here to persuade me otherwise.

Instead, Ginny asked him, "What did Severus say about the potion?"

"He said he'll give you three more days, but after then, you're to take Riddle out no matter what. You know how Severus gets, Ginevra. He isn't into an open discussion, not about this."

I wonder, is that because Harry's a Potter or is it because he's thinking about the greater good? Ginny knew Severus had made a lot of personal sacrifices to protect Harry, but that still didn't mean that the man's bitterness didn't sometimes get the best of him. It happens to us all, but I can't let his grudge destroy Harry. He doesn't deserve that.

"Fine," Ginny said, but her mind was already made up. "Did Severus have any other orders to dish out to me?"

Zabini smirked, shaking his head. "No, that's quite it. I'll see you in three days."

The moment he left the room, Ginny groaned to herself and then sighed. She needed to find a solution to this major problem and fast.

"Twinky," Ginny said aloud, hearing the house elf apparate into her room. Upon greeting the house elf with a hug, Ginny asked, "How's Connor doing?"

"He is good and happy, Mistress. I took little master to the Manor."

Ginny paled. "Azkaban was broken into. The prisoners were let out. Is he with Nott Sr.?"

Twinky nodded somewhat timidly. "Elder wouldn't hurt young master. He is keeping baby safe."

Ginny didn't know how to feel about that. Nott Senior had never hurt Theodore. He was mostly absent, a negligent parent who left the rearing to the Greengrasses and Narcissa Malfoy. Yet, he was a Death Eater who did nothing to protect his own son (and wife) against Voldemort and his followers.

Will he put blood before gaining favor with Tom? Has he changed? Ginny wondered. It's a risk that I'm not willing to take with my son.

"Twinky, I don't trust him."

"I know, Miss. Ginny, but he wouldn't hurt little master. Never!"

Ginny closed her eyes, feeling a headache coming on. Once again, she sighed.

"Fine. See that it stays that way. I called because I have yet another favor to ask of you. It's dangerous."

"Anything, Mistress. Twinky will do anything you ask."

"I'm not going to command you to do anything. You can tell me no, understood?"

Ginny watched the elf nod. "I have a friend who's being held in the dungeons here. He's in very bad shape, and I think they plan on killing him. I think he may be heavily guarded, but despite that, I really think there's a chance for him to escape. Would you help him?"

"Yes, Miss. Ginny. Twinky is happy to help your friend."

Again, Ginny hugged the little elf. Afterward, she clutched her shoulder and stared straight into Twinky's dark grey eyes.

"It's important that you aren't seen. Be careful, Twinky. Don't go through with it, if they get suspicious. Whenever you sense that I'm alone, let me know if you're all right, okay?"

Twinky nodded. "Yes, Mistress. Twinky will go now."

The elf apparated out of the room, leaving Ginny a nervous wreck on her behalf. Ginny had never placed Twinky into direct danger. She'd always been careful to make sure the risk was over before asking Twinky to go into any situation. Though Ginny was confident that the elf could defend herself, it just didn't feel right to risk someone who Ginny always knew she could count on more than anyone else.

It reminded Ginny of Theodore and how she'd so easily (and quickly) lost him.

I can only hope that history doesn't repeat itself, but that doesn't feel good enough.


(Early next morning)

Ginny woke up to a hand running up from her left thigh to her neck, where she was then tightly grasped in a choke-hold. Her eyes bulged as she struggled to breathe and fight off Tom-Harry, who now had both hands wrapped around her throat.

"How did you help him escape? Tell me!"

After a couple of wild swings that didn't budge him, at last she was able to grab some of Harry's hair on the left side of his head. She pulled on it hard, hearing Tom swear before hastily releasing her. Next, he used one hand to grasp both of Ginny's wrists and pinned them directly above her head.

"I don't have to hold you to choke you to death." Tom said, glowering down at her coldly as he loomed directly on top of Ginny.

"You're not going to kill me." Ginny said confidently, seeing his eyes harden. "What are you talking about, Tom? Let go!"

"Don't play dumb. I know you set Longbottom free. How, damn you?"

"Your wards stop me from leaving this room, remember?"

"And yet that didn't stop your son from disappearing."

"Fine, Tom, I helped Neville escape. I didn't tell you how Connor got out, so what makes you think I'm going to talk about Neville."

Tom's eyes narrowed, as he gazed away from Ginny, looking off into the space of the room. His gaze became completely vicious. Realization lit in his red-lidded eyes, as his grip on both her wrists tightened. When he looked back down at Ginny again, she nearly flinched due to the look he gave her. It promised violence and pain.

"The binding bracelets." He hissed down at Ginny, while fisting his left hand in mid-air. "Who removed them?"

Ginny knew better than to antagonize him now. "I did, after attacking Lestrange." She quickly lied, seeing Tom's eyes flash dangerously.

Ginny continued, "He came in one morning. I caught him unawares, disarmed him, knocked him out, and then I took his wand and banished the bracelets. I Obliviated him, and it was like nothing at all happened."

For a while, Tom-Harry stared down at her calculatingly. He's trying to find wholes in what I just said. Ginny knew eye contact was crucial to maintain, even though he couldn't access her mind.

Tom would be breaking his vow if he Legilimized her, but ever since he'd began to possess Harry, Ginny's mind felt completely secure and rather indescribably whole. Ginny hadn't noticed before, but whatever Tom had done to her over the years had made Ginny feel as if her mind had been splintered into bits of itself that were kept both hidden and almost entirely isolated from each other and Ginny herself. Now, however, Ginny was confident that Riddle's magic could no longer damage her psyche.

"You are replaceable, Ginevra. There are other powerful witches—more worthy than you—who would gladly do my bidding. I will kill you if you continue to defy me." Tom seethed, using his left hand to wrap around her neck. "I could squeeze the life out of you right this instant and make your son motherless. There is nothing to stop me…"

He began to outright choke her then. Ginny concentrated on the feel of his hand wrapped around her neck, channeling her magic to that part of her body to sear his hand. Tom swore, instantly releasing Ginny and looking down at his scorched hand. He raised his right hand to slap her, but Ginny anticipated that and conjured a shield that Tom coldly laughed at. In the blink of an eye, he'd healed his hand and overpowered Ginny's shield.

He's a teenage Voldemort but he's still the Lord Voldemort. Ginny thought self-deprecatingly. I should've expected that. This time when Tom reached to choke her, he did so with both hands glowing a searing red color.

"I'm sorry." Ginny said hastily with fear, hating herself for ever apologizing to him.

Yet it got the desired effect: Tom paused. "I'm sorry. I'll change, my Lord. Please."

Once again, Tom considered her. A minute later, his hand color returned to normal before he slowly lowered them.

He actually would've done it and Harry wouldn't have been able to stop him. Harry, are you still in there? Please still be in there…somewhere, somehow.

"How was Longbottom and your son removed?" He asked; his voice made it clear that he wouldn't ask again.

Ginny knew better than to hesitate before answering Tom. "I got an Unbreakable Vow out of Avery." Ginny lied.

The ferocity of Tom's gaze made Ginny stare down at her lap. "He found me after you left. He agreed to do anything I may need to kill you, and in return, I vowed to stop the Ministry from either sentencing him to death or life imprisonment."

"And why would he do that?" Tom said, looking at her like she was scum.

"Avery said he and the others saw Harry fighting you. That you were unable to kill or torture your enemies. He said you were weak."

Ginny watched Tom-Harry become completely rigid. He can't stand for people to think that about him.

Silence.

It was a silence that Ginny didn't dare to interrupt. Tom began to tremble in rage. Ginny could feel the magic exuding off of him, filling the room and nearly making her cringe. That's how powerful this man is—and I think I (of all people) can stop him. Suddenly, Tom reached for Ginny's left arm. He aimed his wand down at her Dark Mark, and instantly, she knew he was summoning Avery.

It took a full ten minutes for the Death Eater to arrive. Ginny could tell by the pain in her mark that Tom had targeted Avery's mark through hers, sending him ample pain to hasten his arrival.

Ginny and Tom waited in silence. He'd pulled Ginny off the bed and dragged her into the en suite's sitting room by her hair. Then, he shoved her down onto a couch. Tom remained standing, looking at the door with a cold anticipation that was deadly. His eyes gleamed, promising cruelty.

Harry's eyes. Those eyes that just aren't Harry.

Ginny was beginning to struggle separating Tom from Harry. There was nothing at all familiar about Harry in Tom now, except for the physical body. Has Tom consumed you, Harry?

Ginny didn't know what to expect upon Avery's arrival to the room. If he finds out the truth, he'll kill me this time. Ginny wasn't afraid to die, but the thought of dying without saving Connor and Harry from Tom nearly sickened Ginny. If Tom killed Ginny tonight, she somehow knew her afterlife wouldn't be filled with peace.

I can't rest until I know He's dead.

Then the room door opened, revealing Avery in Death Eater robes without his mask. The dark-haired man shut the door behind him. He approached Tom with slight trepidation, bowing to him with his head humbly lowered.

"I have learned much today, Avery," Tom began; his tone precise, calculated, and unforgiving. "Much concerning you. I have but one question. Look upon me and answer this: Did you make an Unbreakable Vow with this blood traitor to spare your existence at my expense?"

Avery gaped up at Tom before quickly looking at Ginny with loathing and betrayal. He looked back up at Riddle, shaking so badly it was a wonder he still remained bowed on his knees.

"My lord, I-I did not. I would never…"

"You DARE look me in my eyes and LIE. I am Lord Voldemort! I SEE the deceit in your mind. Inferno!"

Ginny didn't even react when Avery's whole body went up into flames. She didn't even look at him when his screams filled the room. Her gaze remained riveted on the coffee table in front of her. Only when the screams, sounds of flailing, and the smell of burnt flesh disappeared did Ginny look at where Avery once kneeled.

Just ash. Ginny hurriedly stood and ran into the nearest Loo. She vomited into the toilette, struggling to both breathe and stop her body from shaking. When it subsided, Ginny was still filled with panic. She ran the sink water, rinsing her mouth out with it to be rid of the acidic taste.

She hesitated before leaving the room. Please be gone. Please go away. Yet, the moment she left the powder room, she saw Tom standing just outside the door waiting for her. Ginny and his gaze had barely locked for a second before he backhanded her straight to the floor.

At least I'm used to pain. Ginny thought, recalling Severus's lessons.

This time, Ginny remained on the floor with her gaze lowered. This time, Ginny had loss.

I want him dead. Gone so he can't hurt anyone ever again. In the back of her mind, Ginny thought, it may be too late for that. Either way, she didn't dare to challenge Tom anymore tonight.

Upon hearing him leave the room, Ginny closed her eyes and exhaled in relief. Her heart beat returned to normal, but all the while, she couldn't help but think that there was no helping Harry.

Because, no matter what, Harry would've never allowed Him to do that.


(A day later)

"It's going to be hard to give her the potion," Blaise told Severus, but the Potions Master and him weren't the only ones present in Spinner's End brewing chamber. Ronald Weasley and Draco Malfoy were also here.

Blaise continued, "Something happened last night. Avery was found out and burned to a crisp. Rabastan's been strung up in the dungeons ever since, and Ginevra's quarters are completely off limits to everyone but the monster himself. No one knows if she's alive."

Zabini looked at Ron almost apologetically, watching the red-head stiffen before knocking the entire contents off of Severus's coffee table. For once, Severus and the red-head shared a look of unspoken understanding. This time, Zabini noticed their looks filled with dread for Ginevra.

"It would be pointless to kill her now, wouldn't it?" Draco asked without sarcasm.

"We never understood exactly why he needs—needed—Ginevra." Snape told them and the frustration in his voice at being unable to understand the Dark Lord's rationale was evident to them all. "He could do anything to her and we'd never truly understand why."

"Then send the elf." Draco said, receiving a cold glare from Ron.

"It's wrong to keep putting Twinky in danger. And she's the only person, other than Ginny, who knows exactly where Connor is." said Ron.

"We will find Connor." Draco said confidently. "But the elf is our only viable option. We need to know that Weasley's still alive, and she needs that potion to destroy Him."

"Is it ready?" Blaise asked Severus, watching the man spell the cauldron to begin simmering.

"In six hours, yes, it will be." Snape said, leaving his potions lab at Spinner's End for his study upstairs. "I have designed it specifically to extract Riddle's essence from Potter. Riddle's arrogance led him to reveal too much. Therefore, we can be certain that this time we will completely destroy him."

"What ingredients did you use?" Draco asked curiously.

"Riddle let on that it was a darker branch of alchemy. Therefore, dragon's blood and phoenix's tears were absolutely necessary in the reversal potion, as well as a bone from Riddle's father and flesh from his deceased, maternal uncle. That night, Potter had already given me an entire vial of his blood, just in case more was needed. Luckily, I kept it."

"The original ingredients." Ron said, watching Snape give an abrupt nod.

Severus continued. "Yes, but to counteract the bond and expel the essence, I had to reverse every step of the original potion. That includes the order in which the ingredients were added. This time, however, I made basilisk venom the potion's base."

"Basilisk venom?" Draco asked incredulously.

"You said an essence isn't the same as a soul, so why would you use Basilisk venom?" Ron asked.

"The venom's magical properties is the world's best agent to eroding all Dark magic, despite Basilisks being falsely labeled as Dark creatures. Essences are Dark in nature, for they do not require consent to possess another." Severus explained.

"Then how is that any different than a horcrux?" Blaise asked.

It was the exact same question Arthur and Molly Weasley had asked Severus three months ago. Snape wasn't eager to explain this yet again.

"The difference is that an essence is entirely without the ability to function on its own and is a parasitic entity that is entirely magical. A horcrux is a bit of soul that can function alone—even if it knows that siphoning off the magic of others will make it stronger. Essences, however, are completely parasitic and are entirely dependent on hosts and magic. Though less securer than horcruxes, the Dark Lord chose to create an essence because he was desperate and essences are slightly more versatile than horcruxes." Severus reasoned, before continuing.

"I believe Riddle siphoned off just a fraction of the magic that he used to infuse the Diary with a bit of his soul…he transfigured or diluted…part of his soul fragment in the Diary down to an essence. Riddle will not voluntarily leave Potter, unless the boy's shell is somehow mortally wounded. This potion should both eject Riddle from Potter and destroy his essence, once and for all."

"I don't like this, Snape." Ron grumbled. "If Riddle doesn't kill Harry, your potion definitely will."

There was an uncomfortable silence in the room, until Severus ended it.

"The elf will take the potion to Ginevra, along with a bezoar to counteract the poison that will be in Potter's bloodstream. The elf will have to stress to Ginevra that the bezoar cannot be ingested before the essence has extracted itself."

"Despite the bezoar, Potter's internal organs will still be extremely damaged. No one can survive that." Blaise said with a regrettable tone.

After that remark, Ron stood up and left Spinner's End. Severus truly felt for the boy and the other Weasleys. Ginevra could already be dead, and now he will lose Potter as well.

"First, we need to be sure that Ginevra is alive to carry this all out." Draco said. "When will you send the elf?"

"I'm not sure, but perhaps the elf can sense whether or not Ginevra's still alive. If she is, we will commence as planned. If not, we must find another way."

It was understood without saying that nothing more on the subject could (and would) be said. Draco and Blaise stood, leaving Severus to brood over whether or not this was the right course of action for them all.


(The next morning)

Ginny's head sunk just below the bath water. Her entire body was completely immersed in the bath tub.

It's quiet, peaceful even. Seconds, perhaps minutes, ticked by but she just didn't want to come up for air. This would be so much easier; it would be a kinder, more merciful way to go. And it would be on my own terms, not His.

Despite her eyes being tightly shut, Ginny could vividly see chocolate-colored eyes. The first thing she thought of was Connor, but as she sat up in the tub and took a deep breath, she realized that there'd been an intelligent, mischievous gleam to those eyes.

Theo. Ginny leant her back up against the tub wall, extending her feet all the way to the opposite end. She soaked in the water, though her mind was far from focused on the bath.

Ginny didn't feel alone, which was odd because she was mostly by herself in this room. Ginny couldn't explain it, but in this moment, there was a comforting presence near her. This time, when Ginny closed her eyes, she could see Theodore so vividly. It was like he was standing right in front of her.

He's here.

For the first time in over a year, Ginny felt like she could once again feel Theo the way she used to. It brought Ginny to tears; it was a reminder of their unique bond of enduring love and strength. There's never been anyone I can count on more than you, Theo. How am I supposed to do this without you?

The sound of a baby's cry made Ginny think of Connor. It startled Ginny to hear it so clearly that she stood upright in the bath, hurriedly grabbing her towel to wrap around her before leaving the tub. After a couple of glimpses around the room, Ginny realized that no one (other than herself) was here. Ginny sighed in relief, knowing that no child was in this place; yet she was disturbed by what she was certain she'd heard.

I'm going mad. Ginny thought, looking at her pale reflection in one of the bathroom mirrors. Each day, Ginny began with the same routine. Other than eating, bathing, reading a few books repeatedly, exercising, and lounging about either in the room or on the patio, there was nothing for Ginny to do here. It's getting harder to carry on like this.

But today is different, because of the potion. Severus had asked Twinky to deliver it to Ginny, who he was relieved to find still alive. If by some miracle I was able to get this into Him, it'll cost Harry his life.

Ginny kept the potion vial well-hidden within plain sight on the dresser top behind a stack of books. Ginny wasn't sure if she'd live long enough to get the chance to use it on Tom. If I fail to get that potion in Him, we're all dead anyway. Why can't this nightmare be over with? Why can't someone else do it?

Ginny left the bathroom, walked into her bedroom, and completely froze upon seeing Tom-Harry sitting on the very end of her bed.

He's made up his mind about what He'll do to me now.

Ginny wasn't sure what to do. She didn't want to live, especially if that meant bowing to Riddle and obeying him. For Connor's sake, get over it. Tom-Harry's eyes locked onto Ginny, who clung to the towel wrapped around her thin figure. Ginny immediately lowered her gaze, but she'd still seen the hungry way his eyes raked over her wet body.

Find clothes. Now. Ginny maintained the silence, quickly walking over to the dresser and pulling out a light, pale blue gown that she could easily pull over her head. That's exactly what Ginny did while the towel was still wrapped around her.

Though her back was to Tom, she heard the exact moment he stood up from the bed and walked towards Ginny. Tom's silence deeply unsettled her, because she knew he used his words to exert his control and power over everyone. Ginny turned around and made sure to keep her head and gaze lowered.

I'm acknowledging that I'm not your equal, but don't fool yourself into thinking that you have my respect or loyalty, you son of a bitch.

Ginny knew Tom would see through her display of feigned obedience. But the fact that she bothered with the act proved to him just how fearful of him she was.

Ginny felt his fingers on the bottom of her chin, pulling upwards until their eyes locked onto each others once again. Those aren't Harry's eyes. Those are the eyes of a monster.

He gently cupped Ginny's face, telling her, "You can relax, Ginevra. Today, I find you too delicious to kill."

Ginny eyes widened at his forwardness.

He leant forward and whispered in her ear, "Instead, I will ravish you."

Before Ginny could respond, the hand he'd used to cup her face suddenly went to her neck. The act itself and the pressure he applied on Ginny's neck caught her off guard. With his hand still wrapped around her throat, Tom easily lifted Ginny up off her feet. In no time, his magic had blasted her forcefully against the side of the bedroom dresser.

Damn, it hurts. Ginny knew her whole back would be purple after a collision like that.

Ginny also knew better than to beg. It would only spur Tom on with this sick scheme of his. Instead, when Tom walked over to her crumpled form and lifted Ginny off the floor, she hastily drove the palm of her hand up into his nose. Tom's head snapped back; he backed up about three paces away from Ginny, who had just enough time to grab at the potion vial on the dresser top. She fisted her hand around it, hoping that Tom wouldn't notice it.

Tom began laughing that high cold laughter of his. "I love a good fight, Ginevra. All of ours end with you screaming. I assure you, this one won't end differently."

"Leave me alone!"

Once again, Tom laughed, relishing Ginny's look of dread and fear. Ginny conjured a wandless shield, knowing that he'd rush her. Sure enough, Tom advanced on Ginny. The first attempt threw him back about six feet away from her. The murderous look he gave Ginny as he rose off the floor spurred her to run for the nearest bedroom that was barely two feet from her.

I can barricade myself in.

Ginny quickly entered the room, but she couldn't close the door because Tom used all his body weight to ram into it. The sheer force behind the magic he used to enter the room knocked Ginny backward across the room by over four feet. The pain upon landing that hard on the floor made Ginny cry out. In no time, Tom stood just above her. He bent down, and once again, lifted Ginny up off the floor by her neck.

"Harry, please!"

There was a feral gleam to Tom's eyes, as he threw Ginny down onto the bed and straddled her. He used his magic to keep her practically glued to the mattress.

"Your hero is weak. I have devoured all but his most vital life source. He can't and won't save you now." Tom said, giving Ginny a cold ruthless look.

Suddenly he smiled, making Ginny feel sick to see that sadistic glee on Harry's face in this situation.

"You should be pleased, Ginevra. This is, after all, why you stayed, hmm?" Tom said cruelly. Afterwards, he swiped his hand above her, vanishing the gown she'd wore.

"Now at last, Boy Wonder is actually going to fuck you. You will thank me. Such a dream come true for you."

Ginny spat in the bastard's face, watching him still above her as his jaw clenched. Riddle wiped at his face and then sneered down at her.

"You will regret that, cunt."

The slur, as well as seeing him begin to undo his pants, spurred Ginny to fight like hell. In no time, his pants were gone and his erection made it clear that he'd do the deed.

Over and over again, Ginny's magic slammed up against the shield Tom was using to keep her pinned to the bed. He straddled Ginny again, spread her legs with a flick of his wrist, and the moment when she felt it on the inside of her inner thigh, Ginny's magic surged out of desperation. It crumpled his shield and blasted Tom over seven feet away from her. Ginny instantly sat upright, hearing the thud of him hitting the opposite wall.

Ginny scrambled off the bed, making a run for the Loo where she could lock herself in. She was just about to close the door, when the sight of Tom curled into a ball on the floor stopped Ginny. He was violently trembling and clutching at his head.

He's faking. Yet, she still didn't shut the door. What if he isn't?

Ginny ran over to Tom, knowing that even if he was faking, she was in a better position to quickly take him out if he attacked her again. Despite his tremors, she easily pushed him onto his back. His eyes were wide and filled with pain. Just when Ginny thought he couldn't see her, his gaze locked onto hers.

All green. "Ginny."

"Harry, oh thank goodness." Ginny sighed in relief, hastily magicking his mouth open and pouring the potion into it. Quickly, Ginny placed her hand over his mouth while pinching at his nose.

It's actually him. Ginny thought, hating doing this to Harry. "Harry, swallow it, please. Swallow now!"

Harry's pain-filled eyes gleamed with understanding, but fear racked Ginny as she saw a shadow stir in his irises.

"Stay with me, Harry. Swallow!"

Harry's strength (despite the situation and his struggle) allowed him to somewhat limply lift his neck and slightly arch his body upwards. It frightened Ginny all the more, who could see the growing shadow darkening his emerald eyes. But she watched his Adam's apple move and was completely confident that he'd just swallowed the potion.

"Harry, keep fighting Him. I'm going to help you fight him with Legilimency, but you can't give up. Harry, please don't give up, no matter what, okay!"

Ginny's eyes locked onto his, seeing understanding and indescribable agony.

Is the basilisk venom already taking effect? Ginny thought she'd have a bit more time.

Ginny's desperation gave her all the power she needed to enter Harry's mind. She didn't have long to search at all. Thankfully, Harry had found the strength to emerge from the deepest recesses of his own mind to fight Tom at the very forefront of his conscious.

Ginny could see the dark violet essence expanding, blighting out the subdued tendrils of gold magic trying to defend Harry's severely battered mental shields. Ginny could see the potion was beginning to take effect. The essence was contracting, eroding away bit by bit. Yet, the damage left in its wake as it shrunk made Ginny fear for the state of Harry's mind after this confrontation.

That's if he lives.

Ginny had never erected Occlumency shields in someone else's mind, but she was well-versed on the theory and her magic sensed her urgency and therefore cooperated. Yet she was expending a lot of magic trying to minimalize the damage Tom's essence was doing to Harry's mind while remaining inside it. The instant Tom's essence completely corroded away, Ginny withdrew from Harry's mind.

She felt as if she'd pass out any moment, but Ginny screamed Twinky's name. She was grateful when the elf forgoed formalities. Harry was rigid, pale, and limp in Ginny's arms.

Is he breathing?

"Summon the bezoar you gave me." Ginny ordered rather hastily, watching Twinky nod and comply. It felt like it took minutes (but was only seconds) for the item to arrive. Ginny snatched the bezoar from the elf's hand, forcing open Harry's mouth once again and using her fingers and magic to push the bezoar down his throat.

"Take him to St. Mungos. Make sure they help him immediately. Go!"

Twinky rushed forward, taking a hold of Harry before apparating away. Tears blurred Ginny's vision and fell down her face.

He's dead. Harry's dead. He wasn't moving. Was he breathing? He's dead.

Ginny sobbed, feeling guilt, despair and ineptness overwhelm her at once. She lost track of time as she wept and mourned Harry. If a Death Eater came into the room right now to finish her off, Ginny wouldn't have the energy to stop whoever it was. In her state, she was more likely to allow them to at last end her misery.

A/N: As for Basilisks being classified as Dark creatures by J.K. Rowling, I'm not sure if she did or didn't. That's just something I've changed for this story. I haven't read Fantastical Beasts and Where to Find Them (IDK if Basilisks are in that book) but I just wanted you all to know that. Hope you all enjoyed the chapter!

Vitae Perdidit: Life destroyed