Disclaimer: IN SIX DAYS GOD MADE THE HEAVENS AND THE EARTH, AND ON THE
SEVEN DAY HE RESTED. IT'S TAKEN JK HOW MANY YEARS TO WRITE THE FIFTH BOOK.
OBVIOUSLY GOD AND JK AREN"T ON THE SAME TIME SCHEDULE. OH WELL, I DON'T OWN
IT ANYWAY.
Snickers hilariously. Also Prays lightning bolts don't strike my keyboard.
Harry Potter and the Call to War!
Chapter 8: Warriors Cry
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Voldemort's Strike
Day 1
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The Dwarves of Tavin's Hall lived their lives in relative peace. Their mountain stronghold had been placed in one of the most strategically defensible areas of the mountain range. For centuries the Dwarves lived peaceful lives in their mountain kingdom. Still, they always remained ready and alert for those who would seek to bring war to their doorstep. It was a necessary precaution when one possessed a map showing the location of a powerful object thought to be lost for all of time. They had been entrusted with the honor of guarding this map, and it was a duty they took none to lightly.
Tavin's Hall lay nestled in a crescent of the mountains. There was only two ways to reach the field that lay before Tavin's mighty outer walls. One such way was a path that lead well up into the mountains, to the west, behind Tavin's Hall. This path led into the foothills of the mountains, and in the higher areas it flattens out into heavily wooded forest where the dwarves would go to harvest the heavier woods. This overlooking forest gives a beautiful view of Tavin's Hall and it's surrounding territory. To the south of Tavin's Hall, past the field that lay at it's outer wall, is a deep valley that cuts between two mountains. On the other side of the valley is a field similar to the one that lays before Tavin's walls. Only by passing through the valley or coming down from the mountains can one reach Tavin's Hall. To the East of the field is a soft wood forest that is walled in by sheer cliffs, making it impossible to reach the Hall from this direction. The Valley was filled with trees and small canals the dwarves used to bring water into their mountain stronghold.
The majority of Tavins Hall consisted of tunnels mined into the mountain, but there was a small portion above ground. Behind the massive Sixty foot tall and twenty foot thick stone walls the dwarves had built a above ground area. This outer area was centralized around a truly breathtaking sight. The dwarves had fashioned Two ninety foot tall three- headed dragon out of stone. Two of the heads on each dragon were positioned to look onto the path that led from the walls to the door into the underground kingdom. The third heads craned out over the sixty foot walls and overlooked the field. The dwarves had crafted golden and silver plates to act as scales and molded them onto the stone beasts. Rubies larger than a mans head were placed as eyes in the mighty stone creatures heads. All together they presented a sight that would stick with you till your dying day.
So you can see why no one ever attacked Tavin's Hall. Between the mountains and the valley it was in a well fortified position. That is until Voldemort found that they possessed something he desperately wanted. Now, on the other side of the valley, hidden in that sides tree line, was a force of more than three hundred. Two wizards stood at the front of the army of three hundred and prepared to give the order to unleash the initial attack.
Lord Voldemort was not foolishly thinking he would be able to approach the dwarves by surprise. Even if he were attacking by way of the mountains he couldn't reach the massive walls in time to keep them from shutting the gates. No, the beast army would serve to chase them behind their walls. Then, he could move his spell batteries into place and begin taking down the magical and physical shields. The spell batteries would take time to move safely through the valley and he would personally supervise their transport. They were to important to be damaged.
Dwarves generally had little to no magic, but the Dark Lord could feel the strong defensive spells placed by those who had left the dwarves to guard the map. He wondered what kind of defenses had been placed besides the massive walls. The walls had been forged by hand and would be extremely difficult to remove, even with magic.
The Dark Lord nodded to Lucius and the other wizard raised his wand in the air. After a muttered word a symbol of a skull and snake appeared in the air. Cracks and bangs reciprocated the mark as many different colored lights were shot into the air. Division commanders had answered their leaders. In a rush of movement the beasts took off out of the tree line. Like a swarm of locusts they spilled off the flats and down into the valley.
Off in the distance the dwarves were preparing to activate to giant chain works that stretched deep into the mountain to close their doors. After a long day they had begun to call in those who worked in the valley above ground. That is, until they saw movement on the other side of the valley. The dwarves who were posted as centuries on the battlements watched as a plague of beasts swarmed out of the trees. In a instant they acted on what they had trained for.
"Sound the trumpets! Shout the cry and pass the word! We must seal the gates!" The older dwarf on duty knew that those in the valley had no chance of reaching the gates before the invaders caught them. He knew the decision that must be made. Those who did not reach the gates would be forced to fend for themselves.
Trumpets began to sound in a pattern that had not been heard for over two century. The warning cry had been given and any moment the doors would be drawn closed. The outside world would be sealed off, those who were left must fend for themselves.
The dwarves in the field outside of the wall rushed in as the gates gave a mighty lurch. The stone began to grind as giant pulleys tucked beneath the earth drew the two portions of the gate together. Those in the field ducked in just as the gates slammed together and the entrance to the dwarven city was closed. Many returning home arrived in time to see the doors shut. They had only one option, with as much resolve as they could find they began their trek into the mountains in search of shelter. Those still in the valley would not share such a pleasant fate.
The beast army surged like a newly unleashed river and boiled into the valley. Many of the dwarves in the valley knew their fate was sealed, they hefted their work axes to make their last stand. They had no idea that they had no chance. The thirty or so poorly armed dwarves were facing three hundred fully equipped warriors.
The dwarves watched as the beasts surged to them, they gave them no more mind then they would a pebble in the road. The dwarves drew behind trees and waited for the attackers. Unfortunately for them the trees did not hide their presence. Their scent gave them away, and many fell due to beasts that zeroed in on their locations. As dwarves would meet the sword blows the beasts dealt, more beasts would make the kill from behind. They hunted as a pack, taking time to sweep the forest for those who remained behind. Thorough and deadly, they would meet each opponent with overwhelming odds and dispatch them quickly. A blow to the head or slice threw the middle was all it took to finish the job. The meager battle began and the dwarves numbers quickly dwindled due to the overwhelming assault. No sooner would ax clash with sword than the resistance would fall to the rising numbers. The beasts held no sympathy, and the dwarves meager work axes were like toothpicks compared to the heavy war weapons. The unprepared dwarves broke and tried to run, but were hunted down like wounded animals. One dwarf sat huddled next to a tree. His side split open and blood staining his white beard red. He watched as his friends and family slowly died around him. The beasts gave no regard to the critically wounded, they would die soon enough. He died knowing that this would only be the first of his kinsman's blood that would be shed.
Voldemort watched what little could be seen and waited for his army to emerge out of the forested valley and begin their march to the field in front of his objective. He closed his eyes and breathed in the death that faintly lingered in the air. Soon it would be a strong stench that would permeate this field for all of time. He watched as his troop crested out of the forest and began their ascent. It had taken longer than he expected for them to pass through the valley. There must have been more dwarves caught off guard than he expected.
"Lucius, see to the defense pillars, I will see to the moving of the spell batteries." Lucius moved to were the stone pillars were being stored. The large pillars prevented them from moving quickly. The large red stone orbs imbedded in the pillar mustn't be damaged. The pillars could absorb incoming spells and deflect them. He personally saw to the movement of the five foot tall red orb, and the pyramid shaped stand that it would rest on. The giant orb would rest on the point of the pyramid and together the two would control the defense pillars. While Lucius worked with some of the wizards who would move the pillars, Voldemort moved the ten delicate crystal spell batteries.
The dwarves on the other side of the valley sat on the battlements and watched as the first of the beasts crested the top of the valley and began to charge through the large field.
"Prepare to activate the dragons!" While they did not posses much magic of their own, they had often built things for those with magic. In exchange they had certain powerful spells done in there behalf.
"Activate them now!" The dwarf in charge of battlements gave the order to those around him. Dwarves stationed by the dragon heads that leaned out over the battlefield ran to where the necks touched the walls. A ruby rod was inserted into a hole on each dragon and the stone beasts eyes began to glow. A white light shot out from their mouths and arched upwards. The walls began to glow and the same white light shot upwards into the heaven. A pillar of light now extend upwards along where the walls blocked off the outside world from the mountain stronghold. The exterior of the walls glowed the color of the red eyes, as the magic filled the stones and strengthened their defense. The white light that arced out of the dragons mouths now rained down like snowflakes over many miles surrounding the mountain.
"Sir, the strengthening spells as well as the magic shields are fully operational. Word from the caves says the power orbs are drawing the power from the underground volcano's as they were meant to. We can operate this way indefinitely." The older dwarf nodded at his younger officer.
"What of the movement rain?" The younger dwarf nodded and recounted what he was told.
"Those who work the orbs have calculated that the spell has deadened all magical movement for over a surrounding Three kilometers. It easily covers the other side of the valley. They will have to set up special cleansed areas to be able to bring more troops into the area.
"Good, then for now we must hunker down and wait for orders. Triple the watch, I want everyone fully armed. Signal me if anything happens." With that said the older dwarf went below to confer with the rest of the leaders.
It was just as he had expected. They had powerful protection spells placed all over their walls. Voldemort smirked to himself, they had reacted just as he had expected. Now it was time to prepare the ambush for Dumbledore. The old wizard had no way of knowing what he would be facing. Now Voldemort had called his leaders together so that he might set the strategy.
"McNair, you will be responsible for maintaining the defense pillars. The nine pillars are to be spaced out just before the valley. Dumbledore will not be able to use long range attacks as long as those spell batteries remain operative." McNair nodded to his master and then left to take his troops and begin the placement of the pillars.
"Lucius you will be responsible for the overall control of the battle. You are also responsible for the deployment of the troops. I want them in two crescent patterns. One should be facing the wall and the other is to be facing the valley. The crescents will be back to back. Do not worry about the mountain path to the west or the cliff forest to the east. The dwarves had stopped anyone from moving freely behind our lines. Concentrate on the valley, that is where Dumbledore will be forced to travel through. Send twenty or so beast warriors up the mountain path, that should be sufficient protection. Set the command tent, the defense orb, and the Portkey point in the woods to the east. This will prevent Dumbledore from knowing if we bring in reinforcements, as well as securing our retreat." Lucius nodded, but waited for his master to finish the briefing.
"Wormtail, you are to see to the spell batteries. I want two in east and two in the west, they are to be focused on the wall. The other six are to be positioned to fire into the valley. If Dumbledore wants this field he will have to eat spell fire the entire way. I warn you, do not damage my spell batteries." Wormtail nodded and then hurried off to begin
"The rest of you will see that the troops are placed appropriately. Besides the twenty I want on the mountain flats, I want fifty down in the forest. I want three wizards on each spell battery, now go!" The group scurried off to begin their tasks.
Voldemort listened as reports began to fill in to him. The defense pillars were in place and the shield could be called at a moments notice. The spell batteries were in position and could begin the bombardment of the wall at his order. The troops had reached there appointed areas, and the Portkey zone had almost bee cleansed. Once that was opened he could freely travel when necessary. For now he waited in the command tent. Soon he would begin the bombardment, and soon Dumbledore would walk into his trap.
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Harry's Arrival
Day 2, 3:00 P.M.
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It had been almost a full day since they had departed the giant city, and Harry was surprisingly glad to be traveling again. He had found that the hard life of the road agreed with him and he much rather have a long day of walking than to be sitting in some cushy room. Still, the lingering purpose of the journey hung over him like a black cloud.
Torag had rarely seen the boy this serious. Though he seemed to prefer the traveling, he didn't show it. The boy had adapted the face of a leader, strong and firm. When he spoke it was a order, and when he wasn't speaking you could tell he was contemplating the battle ahead. It was hard seeing him this way, almost like he had lost the ability to see the happy part of life.
Harry had truly begun to employ the lessons he had learned. He was always resolute no mater how small the decision. He never showed weakness, and he was constantly considering three steps ahead. After going over the maps he had available to him he decided that his army would come out to the most strategically valuable area. Dumbledore would most likely be forced to approach through the valley, and Harry was sure Voldemort would prepare his defenses accordingly. He expected little resistance in the foothills above Tavin's Hall, still it would not due to allow them to tip off the army to their position. Though Dumbledore would have to come through the valley, Voldemort was not stupid. He would place some force on the mountain path to protect his flank. They would have to wait for the battle to begin and then take out whatever forces were protecting the flank. Harry had decided to try and box them in so they couldn't retreat down the path and warn the main force. Surprise and their position were his most valuable weapons.
Still a part of his mind swirled around what he was becoming. He felt like a boat washed in a raging sea, being tossed about by waves to big to pass over. He was in search of calm waters but his path seemed determined to lead him towards vicious storms. In some ways he acknowledged that he had to change, it was necessary to survive. In others he was disgusted with himself, wouldn't death be better than to have too kill. Or is that just a juvenile ideal, one that you naturally have to let go of over time.
The look on Remus and Hagrid's face had stuck with Harry. He didn't regret what he had done to that giant. He had no choice in the matter, giants had a fierce sense of honor. If he had spared the giant it would have been like spitting in his face. He would be mocking the giant, treating him as if he were only a child. The giant would have had lost honor for his entire family. He had given the giant the death the man deserved, it was the way of their society. Still, the look of shock in his friends eyes had chilled him.
Now was not the time to focus on his feelings. Feelings got you killed, now he had to focus on the enemy and how best to defeat them. Now was the time when he had to concentrate on the now and forget all his other problems.
The soft earth crunched underneath Harry's boots. They had crossed out of the snowy peeks to meet the rich greens of the forests just a few hours ago. Soon he would have to exercise caution, there was no telling where Voldemort had stationed his guards. The commanders of the two companies had informed him that they should get their first look at the dwarven kingdom soon. Most didn't believe that any threat existed, they expected to return to the giant city as soon as they reached the underground city of Tavin's Hall.
"Quite now! We'll take a advance party of three forward and scout what is before us. Once we access the situation we will determine how best to precede." Harry waved three of the giants forward, then he and Torag began to lead them ahead.
Harry let his wand slid into his hand and moved carefully through the trees, then up a path that crested before it descended to the mountain flats above Tavin's Hall. The sight that met Harry's eye was one that he would always remember. A army of the beast warriors had been laid out on the field before massive stone walls. Enormous dragons could be seen down below, and had Harry not known they were fake he might have thought they were alive.
He had been right about his assessment though, Voldemort had the valley well guarded. Harry could see a small contingent of troops on the mountain flats, but they wouldn't pose much threat. His attention was drawn when a flash of light and a loud bang rang through the air. Harry looked to see that four spell batteries glowing brightly against the green ground. The six foot long crystals looked small from where Harry watched, but he knew that they were very powerful. They glowed brighter until it almost made you want to turn away, then a brilliant flash and a large spell blast would fire out the focusing point. The focused spells shot through the air and slammed into the glowing red walls. The red light would then dull a bit, then it would strengthen again. Still it didn't stop the spells from coming in their continuous precession. The loud noise that echoed this high up must be deafening closer, and Harry could almost feel the light tremors that shock the ground below.
Harry could see that six more cannons were facing the valley. Dumbledore would have to face those cannons the entire time. Despite that thought Harry had to smile, Voldemort left the mountain pass with little guarding it. When the time came he could split the crescents in two and drive a wedge directly into Voldemort's forces. Harry could even see the defense station in the trees to the east of the field. If he could reach that he would open Voldemort's forces up to attack from whatever Dumbledore brought with him.
Harry motioned for the giants to return with him, the group rose back over the crest and back into the forest on the other side.
"Commanders, we will have a strategy meeting. I expect the battle to begin tomorrow, we will camp here and prepare." This was definitely important, Harry had pushed hard to get into position before Dumbledore arrived. Now he needed his troops well rested before they attacked. They weren't able to light fires or they'd risk alerting those below them, but they did construct rough shelters for the night.
Harry and his commanders sat before a map of Tavin's Hall and showed them the troop emplacements of the enemy. They both agreed with Harry's strategy and soon they were preparing to settle in for the night.
Now Harry only had to wait, soon Dumbledore would arrive and the battle would begin. Then he would stand and take action himself.
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Dumbledore arrives (Welcome to Hell)
Day 3, 3:00 P.M.
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Dumbledore stood before those who had gathered on the lawns beyond the gates of Hogwarts. In such short notice he had to call in several favors, but now he had 75 fully trained wizards preparing to leave. Soon Arthur would arrive with his promised wizards and supplies. Albus still regretted that he couldn't have already assembled those Sirius had been sent to gather. For now they would have to make due with what they had.
He expected to arrive at Tavin's Hall one full day before Voldemort arrived. Hopefully this would give him enough time to strengthen the dwarves defenses and they could occupy the heavily defensible city. If they could get emplacements on the walls they would easily be able to destroy a attacking army.
The Headmaster had already seen to where Madame Pomfrey was working with a staff from St. Mongo's. He had tipped them off that they would be needed today, and the hospital had trusted his word. Now he had 30 medical witches and wizards prepared to take incoming casualties. St. Mongo's has even sent over equipment to set up a full field hospital and Dumbledore was all the more grateful. The staff had gone out on a limb to trust him, and he was in their debt.
Various requests to friends in foreign ministries had brought him these 75 wizards. Hopefully their opposition wouldn't be as experienced. They would have to hope that their training was better than the enemies.
The Headmaster planed to Apparate in just beyond the tree line on the opposing side of the valley. Then they would send a small party to the dwarves to inform them of the situation. From there they would enter the walls of the city and fight the enemy from the battlements.
Many loud pops sounded the arrival of Arthur and his contingent of forces. The extra wizards would be sorely needed for the battle ahead. Albus smiled when he saw Arthur Weasley approaching him.
"Albus, it seems we have a bit of luck. Not only have I brought 50 wizards, we were able to..commandeer.. four spell batteries as well as five defense pillars." That was definitely something to cheer about, the spell batteries would position well on top of the mighty walls.
"That is indeed good news! With your fifty we are 125 strong. That should be more than enough to defend the city." Dumbledore shock Arthur Weasley's hand. Then the red headed wizard left to gather those he brought. Dumbledore cast the Sonorus charm on himself, then stood to make a announcement.
"Today we go to the defense of a potential ally. Not only do we gain a friend, but we have a chance to stop Voldemort from gaining something that he has been searching for. Today we will fight for the future, and to protect the peace we have enjoyed for the past fifteen years." With that said the wizard ended his charm and turned to where the Port key's were kept.
The group began to touch random items set out on tables and soon they were being whisked away to a forest far away. Little did they know they were being whisked off to a army that had been waiting for them for two full days.
Off on the field in front of the besieged walls stood the Dark Lord they wished to stop so desperately. The wizard watched as multicolored blasts of light shot towards the protected walls and then shattered against the shield. He would have to use all ten cannons to force these magical shields to drop. But for now six would remain pointed into the valley. Any minute now he expected the report that would signal his departure.
A death eater ran to his masters side, he was severely out of breath. When he reached the dark lord he fell on his knees and waited for his master to acknowledge him.
"Proceed" The master waved a hand at the younger death eater, and the wizard rose from his knees.
"Master, McNair reports that the defense pillars registered transportation magic not far from here. He believes it to be Dumbledore." The Dark Lord nodded and motioned for the young death eater to return to his post.
"Lucius, have Wormtail silence those batteries. Alert the six that they must soon fire. The battle is yours Lucius, get me my map!" With that the Dark Lord left for the Portkey zone so that he could leave.
Above the field Harry watched as continuous cannon fire stopped. He knew what this meant, he had expected it any time now. Dumbledore had arrived.
"We'll move to the edge of the tree line, the bulk of us will remain at the top of the valley. Lets move quickly." The wizards began to move through the forest. The batteries and pillars took the rear as they moved as quickly into the forest as they could.
The forests of the mountains were lush this time of year. The birds signing in the trees made a beautiful melody, and the wizards were still in awe of the mighty mountains that rose up in the distance. Many walked through the wooded area wondering who would be willing to destroy such a beautiful area. The birds chittered and chattered to each other in songs that could make angels jealous. Still they walked on to where the forest began to thin down a bit, soon they'd reach the edge of the valley. Soon they'd have to say goodbye to the birds songs. However.. The birds had already stopped singing. Everything had stopped, the birds, the wind, the squirrels in the trees. The whole world just went mute.
That was when Albus sensed it, the scent that permeated the air. The scent of strong magic and old bodies coming from ahead. But it was to late now.
One minute the silence was broken by a magically amplified shoot. Then the scene was shattered by huge blasts ripping through the trees and crashing around the group. It began like rain now, a stream of boulder size spell blasts would rip through trees before exploding around them. Twigs and branches rained down above them from trees that were having their limbs ripped to pieces.
"Gather and cover! Begin shielding charms!" Albus had taken charge just as panic began to set in. This panic was only amplified when several found they could not Apparate out and to safety. Now the groups began to gather into smaller sections of twenty five. They took turns chanting, and small pink bubble began to appear all over the forest. Still the blasts of multicolored light surged through the trees. Bright red blasts slammed into some of the shields. Flames exploded from some of the blasts and licked the trees around the bubble. Debris from the trees continued to fall and slam against the shields that were meant to take only heavy spell blasts. Sizzling white balls of light connected with shields and caused sparks to fly and ignite nearby piles of leaves. Several shields began to flicker under the non magical barrage. But they didn't have time to erect a new shield or a stray blast could hit the entire group. Something had to be done.
"Albus pointed to where a man who looked oddly similar to Sirius Black (Yes this is Sirius) was trying to rally his command." The man seeing that the headmaster wanted him passed his command down to his next in charge. He darted out of his bubble and ran through the burning debris and into the headmasters just as another white blast hit the bubble and discharged all around.
"We must get the defense pillars erected. Have Arthur and his command take care of preparing the defense station. They can drop back farther into the safety of the forest. We will attempt to advance to the edge of the Valley, once we get there. Your and my division will work to raise the pillars while the other divisions stand barricade ahead of us." Sirius Blacks face became solemn.
"Albus, they'll be dead shots out there, I don't know how long they'll last." The headmaster just nodded before beginning to pass the message throughout the commands.
When the Headmaster gave the signal Arthur and his group began to drop back. Two of the groups pressed forward, then Sirius and Albus followed. Spell blasts continued to rock the earth and fell the air with terrible booming crashes as they discharged against the shields. The two groups finally emerged from the forest and got their first look of the army laid out before them. Strange inhuman figures walked amongst their ranks and in shock the group on the front left dropped their defense. Sirius began to shout for them to raise it once more, but it was to late. The enemy had caught them in a moment of weakness and three blasts had been launched in their direction. The group in the front right shifted to met the attack but only succeeded in glancing two of the blasts. The discharge of fire spilled onto some of the unprotected party and they fell to the ground writhing in pain. Those who didn't fall darted into the other bubble just before the third blast struck. Those left out were hit by the force of the white light and several stopped moving.
Those who made it began chanting and expanding the bubble to cover more space. Behind them Sirius and Dumbledore along with 48 others worked to erect the five defense pillars. Spells discharged on the lead bubble and showered the area in the dangerous emissions as they worked to raise the first three pillars. No sooner had they been implanted in the ground then the orbs began to glow, signaling Arthur had activated them. Now the lead bubble dropped behind the pillars and worked with the others to raise the final two pillars farther out and lengthen their line to the full length that was reachable along that face of the valley. Spells continued to fire in their direction, but now brilliant red shields leaped into the air and absorbed the impact. The power of the spell was sent back to the orb where it was converted and used to power the very pillars that absorbed it. Soon the five pillars glowed in their place and the weary wizards could take a moment to take stock.
"Bring the batteries forward. Set them in the tree line behind our shields! Get a damn portkey zone cleansed by the defense orb and get those damn medi-wizards here now!" A flurry of activity began once more. Many went to gather the wounded, others to begin the cleansing spell. More began to move the cannons forward. Albus Dumbledore was left trying to figure out if there was still a way he could save this hell.
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Securing the Mountain Flats
Day 3, 4:00 P.M.
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Now was the time to begin moving. The din of fire that rang through the air before was nothing compared to that which now rocked the mountain side. Harry cringed when he saw the blasts continue to pound against the shields the light forces had struggled to erect. Now was his chance to take control of the mountain flats and position himself for a ambush of his own design.
"Listen, Ten are to circle through the trees and get below the enemy. Do not reveal yourselves to the dark forces below us! You are to destroy any who try to retreat down the path. Non must survive this if we are to remain effective. The rest of you will take position just below the crest on this side. Wait for them to come to you, I will draw them out. Once they have extended themselves we will strike them from all sides." A hustle broke out as the giants began to eagerly expect battle. All signs that they had camped their had been erased and the giants had almost disappeared into the dense foliage. It was amazing that such huge people could hide so well. Harry briefly wondered if the enemy would pick up the giants scent. He hoped that since the scent wasn't human they wouldn't be expecting the attack.
Once he received the signal that everyone was into position Harry began to put his plan into action. He wore a dark green battle robe that blended well with the trees and he began to make his way over the crest of the mountain path. He carried a air of confidence and walked like he belonged there, quickly he descended till he almost came directly on top of the group of twenty beast warriors.
"Good afternoon, I was wondering if you could give me directions. I'm a bit lost you see." Harry smiled at the group of beast warriors that were standing in the forest in front of him. The creatures looked to one another before one of them decided to take the lead and approach the human.
The beast walked closer to Harry and he stood calmly waiting for it. When it was within striking distance, the creature attacked with it's sword. It slashed at the boy's stomach, but he was already prepared. Harry spun around and let the beasts sword strike the blade that was strapped to his back. Harry backed into the creature and let his wand slip into his hand. He shot a force spell strong enough to make a giant falter from underneath his other arm. The spell connected with the beast and it flew backwards and wrapped itself around a tree. The sound of it's back cracking in two drew the rest of the beasts towards the boy.
"Now is that anyway to treat a traveler. A guy could start to think he was unwanted!" Harry took a step away from the advancing mob, then he broke into a run back over the crest. He could hear them coming behind him. A small smile crossed his face as he lead them forward.
Harry spun around to face his pursuers, his blade sliding free from it's sheaf as he turned. The beasts slowed and then stopped to look at him. They could smell something in the air, something they hadn't come across before.
"Come now, we're just starting!" With that giants appeared out of the woods like they'd only been hiding under sheets. A swell of emotion struck Harry, it was something that he had never felt before. Anger, hate, rage, and joy all at once. It was like surging flood waters attempting to burst through some dam. The emotions threatened to sweep him away in his own mind, but he had to remain anchored. Harry took a moment to clear his mind and the world seemed to resume at it's normal pace.
Now he could see the battle was beginning, the beasts were taken off guard by the giants ambush. Harry took the opportunity to slash clean through the chest of one who had let it's guard down to analyze the new threat. In one fast motion he ran forward and resumed the attack. Two of the beasts took focus on him, but his blade gave him the reach and he attacked with the advantage. Harry brought a strong chop downwards and a beast had to take a step back to steady itself from the force. Now he took the opportunity to stab through it's chest while it struggled to keep it's balance. The other attempted to strike him from the side, but Harry shifted to the other side of his sword that was still sticking into the injured beast. The sword acted as a bar and caught the oncoming blow. The force of the downward swing ripped the blade down through the impaled beast and out it's crotch. Now that it was free he swung upwards at the unguarded beast and loped off it's head.
The battle raged on around him as the giants attacked and mutilated the beasts that had followed. Seeing that they were outnumbered they tried to retreat through the trees, only to be met by the blades of the giants who had circled below. Once more Harry felt a wave of emotions as he fought on. This time pain and fear was mixed in and it only intensified the storm.
Harry wiped his wand out and pointed it towards the retreating backs of the remaining beasts. Harry shouted a spell and a blast of light struck a tree near the enemy. The mighty timber fell to the side and crushed two of the beasts trying to make a escape. A third fell to a giants ax and a fourth to a thrown boulder that crushed the beast against a tree.
Spells flew from Harry's lips as he fought to finish off the remainder of the enemy forces. Still he had to be careful not to use anything that could alert those below to their position. Harry pointed his wand towards some of the fallen bodies and banished their weapons. The blades flew through the air and pierced another like a pin cushion. Then he hit the beast with a force spell and it flew into another beast. The sword sticking through it's body ripped into the seconds flesh.
Harry watched as the last of the enemy fell to the ground dead. None had escaped, and none would live to give word of the threat waiting in the mountains. The injury report was minimal and Harry made sure that those with small wounds were tended to. Then they began to move down the mountain. It was slow going because they had to stick to well covered areas.
Now they were in position, for the first time they got their first good look at the field below them. They were tucked in a forest grove on the flats above the field. When they charged they would rip into the enemy's unprotected side.
Whatever had overtaken him in the battle seemed to have past and Harry began to prepare for their next attack. He had a few more surprises to put together so that when they attacked none could stand in their way.
******
Valley of the Beast
Day 3, 4:30 P.M.
******
Sirius approached the command tent with a solemn face. After an hour of constant bombardment and two shield failures they had finally managed to come under some semblance of structure. They had managed to create a bunker running into the side of the valley itself and had positioned the spell batteries at tunneled out windows. Now if the shields faltered under the constant onslaught the those in the foreground would not suffer so severely.
The staff of St. Mungo's had set up a field hospital deep behind the spell batteries range and were working to heal the wounds from the initial onslaught as well as those suffered during shield failures. They were working tirelessly to heal the wounded so that they could reinforce the line, sadly they had suffered several severe casualties who would not be returning.
Sirius was forced to steady himself when a unexpected tremor emanated from close by. They had started to return fire, at least they could do something in this failed mission. Not that it would do much good. The enemy had two shield barriers to every one of their spell batteries, they would easily shrug off the attack. This mission had been a disaster, so much so that he was looking for someone to blame. It had to be that bastard Snape who passed on bad information, or worse, drew them into this hell.
Sirius entered the bunker and walked to were Albus and the group commanders had gathered. Albus, himself, Arthur, and two other ministry Aurors made up the party of command. Each had been responsible for 25 of their troops. Now their numbers had suffered greatly, still they would follow Albus.
"Good, now that Mr. Brown has joined us we can begin." Just who did Albus think he was, like that would fool anyone. Mr. Brown indeed, even with a few physical changes the old man was taking a risk.
"Perhaps we should just wait Albus, it will be very difficult to breech their defenses." One of the Aurors suggested.
"That's not a option, if we are to wait then we might as well go home. Voldemort will wait just as long, and he will break into those walls long before we overcome him if we wait." That made a lot of sense, it's not like they were posing a threat just sitting here and getting shot at. Nor would the shields hold for a indefinite amount of time. They were already being stressed by the number of spells being fired at them.
"What about their apparition zone, have we had any luck cracking the frequency their using to disrupt the field with?" Arthur was definitely a smart one, if they could find the frequency they were using for their apparition zone they could pinpoint the spot and then Apparate in.
"No, it's to far away and their shields and the residual magic from their spell batteries is to much of a disruption to gain any headway. We also have no clue what resonance the dwarves are using to hold the field up. To many variables to randomly sift through." Sirius knew this would be the case, now he wondered what the old wizard had planned.
"We must make a attempt on that field, or at least the valley. We cannot just sit here and allow Voldemort to entrench himself further. It will be tough enough as it is. We will send three companies into the valley to secure the forest. We will set barriers at the edge of their side of the valley. From there we will launch our attack." Sirius almost bite his tongue, the old man was crazy, did he understand what he asked them to do. Thankfully one of the Aurors voiced what he thought.
"Albus, you can't be serious? We'll be eating their spell fire the entire way, not to mention we have no idea what awaits us in the forest below. Surveillance reports that the enemy isn't even human. Sure, there are wizards over there, but the bulk of them are some type of strange creature." Sirius hadn't heard this last part, but he realized that he would get close enough of a look soon.
"It is the only way, once we have the forest we will proceed from there. I have chosen the groups to lead this attack. Mr. Anders, you will take your company and enforce the right flank. Mr. Mackenzie, you will enforce the left flank. Mr. Brown, you will drive the middle. You leave in ten minutes, gather your men together. I have provided a device to communicate with each other as well as here. Good luck and may Merlin be with you."
Sirius left the tent after the briefing to prepare his men, this would not be easy by any stretch of the word. It would be a tough road ahead of them and this would only be the first step. Dumbledore called him over to where the old man was standing.
"Sirius, I thought I should let you know that I sent Fawkes with port keys to retrieve Remus, Hagrid, Madame Maxime ,and Harry. Harry will be returning to Hogwarts, but the rest should be coming here. I'll inform you when they arrive. I have also sent the port key for Rita, she should be here within the hour." Sirius nodded, at least Harry would be well out of danger. That would be one less thing he had to worry about. Now he could focus on the battle ahead.
Now Sirius stood with his men positioned at the edge of the shields. Spell fire still rocked the valley and soon they would be charging through it. Now was the time for their charge to the forest below.
"Maintain formations until you reach the forest. You leave after the next enemy spell volley." Dumbledore's voice cut out of the small ear piece tucked behind Sirius's ear.
The light flashed from the opposite side of the valley and the massive energy spikes slammed into the shields. In a flash the shields absorbed the impact, and just as quickly they had taken off in a charge down the field. Now they were in between both their and enemy spell fire. The ground trembled as they ran at full speed down the face of the valley. Sirius watched as enemy fire arched in towards them, and their own fire was returned to attempt to counter the enemy blasts. Several of the spells met in the air and showers of sparks and fire rained down from above them. Others slammed into the valley and created pocked craters along their side of the field. Dirt flew into the air from where the spells connected creating a cloud of debris, but the forest drew closer and with it came cover from the aerial attack.
Sirius hit the ground once he entered the forest, his wand drawn and already strafing for targets. He was vaguely aware that the rest of his company had followed his example once they had reached the forest. Now he had to take command and lead the group.
"All right, spread out in groups of five. Two on each side, group leaders will guide you forward. We're pushing to the other side of the forest. Loose formation, but stay ready. Move out." Sirius watched as his orders were carried out. The company spread out, but not far enough that they couldn't see the groups to either of their sides.
Sirius listened for the other commanders to signify that they were ready. He waited for their voices to sound above the constant din of fire that slammed into the forest canopy. Burning branches would occasionally rain down from above them, but Sirius paid it no mind.
When everyone was in position they began to make their push into the forest. Random spells would be fired at anything that moved or made noise above the constant pounding that rained in on them. Still they met no resistance.
"Damn!!! They're coming out of no where! What the hell are they! Fall back to defensive positions, reinforce the Left!" Sirius heard the left flank commanders shouting on his ear piece. He quickly shouted out orders to his own group to assume a defensive position. No sooner had the order been given then the enemy attack.
The strange beasts seemed to come at them in small groups. Only a couple at a time, but they didn't charge at them directly. The hit and faded quickly, using the forest to their advantage. Striking like wolves at one's heels.
A small group of three fell before Sirius and his group. They quickly made short work of one of the men, ripping his stomach out and spilling his guts before the rest of the small party.
"Open fire!" The order was unnecessary as the remaining four men had already begun to shout various spells towards the attacking party.
Sirius shot a stunning spell at the one closest to him and the creature seemed to give it little mind. The red light glanced the creature in the shoulder but it continued to run towards them anyway. Now he shot blasts of lightning, no longer attempting to preserve his enemy. The blast struck the creature and left deep scorch marks on it's body. Still it continued to approach, a spell shot a fountain of water to push the enemy back and Sirius took advantage by throwing a freezing charm to deep freeze the enemy. The offending creature was trapped in the icy prison and a force spell shattered it and the ice together.
The other two broke off their attack and darted back into the forest around them. Sirius recognized the enemy's resistance to spells and relayed orders accordingly. They hadn't brought alternative weapons so they would have to make due.
"The enemy is resistant to most spells. Use focus groups, two and three to a target. Combine strength to take them down. Close the ranks and bring groups closer together to assist one another." The company followed Sirius and did as he told. Sirius could hear similar orders being dispatched, as well as Dumbledore asking for their position. He relayed the coordinates and moments later spell fire was raining down in front of their groups.
Amidst the fire the enemy still acted, now in groups of four and five. Sirius picked at target and began shouting fire spells along with other members of his group. Arrows and balls combined to strike targets and slow them down. A second shot brought the creature down, but the others were still attacking them with a furry. Sirius erected a physical barrier to stave off a sword strike and two of his comrades focused a force spell on the creatures leg to hobble it to the ground. A well placed spell blast slammed through the tree tops and incinerated two creatures still coming.
Sirius made a motion and the group began to push onward. The trees rained fiery debris from above them as them moved forward in the fading sunlight. Several creatures darted out from behind trees and attacked his group striking down another man before they could throw up shields. The remaining two clustered closer to Sirius and focused on the offender. Three cutting charms slashed into the stomach of the beast and the creature fell to it's knees. Still more attempted to push at them from the sides. They were being overwhelmed, and before they could fall adjust the creatures were gone back into the forest.
"Break divisions, move to secondary groups." The remainder of the five original groups began to meld together to form three groups. Hopefully with more men they could focus easier and be able to defend their sides.
Creatures seemed to pop up in the middle of their groups and attack them from within. Sirius spun around and shot a blinding spell that struck the creature in the eyes. The creature shrieked in pain and got hit in the back with several strong force spells. The creature bent over, but before they could pick another target the creatures had attacked another and escaped into the forest.
The sun fell behind the horizon and what little light that reached through the trees disappeared. Now only the flashes from the spell blasts above, and the falling burning debris offered any illumination. If there was any question that the creatures had the advantage before, now they clearly were superior. The continued to attack like it was brightly lit out.
The appeared to the left and Sirius dispensed his group accordingly. Some attempted to raise physical shields while others struck back at the enemy with various spells. In the dark they managed to slip around the defenses and took down three more. Something had to be done or they would suffer significant loses.
"Dumbledore, we need to pull back! We can't fight in the dark, they've pressed us to hard!" Sirius waited for a response. Similar reports were given out by the other commanders. He vaguely noted that the voice of the right flank commander had changed. He had heard that they got struck extra hard and the commander was hurt badly. Perhaps he had not survived or wasn't able to lead any longer.
The enemy continued to attack out of the darkness and then retreat as they waited. Sirius dove onto his back and shot a spray of red light at a enemy the was sneaking up behind him. The light was blistering hot and boiled the creatures skin where it made contact. Two more wizards shot spells at the creature and it fell to the ground.
"Very well, withdraw! We'll attempt to provide light and cover." A spell blast shot up into the air and exploded above them. It left a strange blue light glowing above the field. Then spell fire began to pummel their retreat. The trees broke out in flames as their position was rained in on by fire from both sides.
Quickly they pulled back to the edge of the forest and then began to move up the valley face. The glowing light dissipated and plunged the area into darkness once more, luckily this provided cover from the enemy fire that attempted to pick them off as they struggled to return behind their lines.
The red glowing defense pillars provided a sense of relief to Sirius, they signified temporary safety. Soon even that safety would be challenged.
***
Harry watched as the battered forces fled the forest to return to their encampment. Funny how he couldn't bring himself to feel lose over those who did not return. They had known what it could mean if they rushed forwards. Why bother shed wasted tears for those who had taken a known risk.
It wasn't like any of them were an innocent. They wielded their weapons to kill just as he did. Truthfully they all deserved whatever fate awaited them. No one was truly innocent, they were all sullied by blood.
Still some part of him longed to not spare another second. To charge into battle in a blaze of fire and fight till the last man. He had to realize that this impulse was some vestige of his Gryffindor self. Now was the time for shrewd tactics. He had to wait for the enemy to expose themselves or it would all be for naught. Till then they would have to fend for themselves.
It was times like these that made him question himself. What was he becoming that he could sit by as his friends and brothers in the cause were fighting for their lives.
Still some part of him knew the answer. Somewhere deep down his spirit had fallen asleep. He had become somehow numb and cold. There was no one who could call him back from the edge now, but when he leapt he would bring the world with him. ***
Sirius limped into the bunker, spell blasts still echoing against the shields above them. Men passed him as they hurried to add protections to the lines, while others delivered reports or orders to those who made decisions.
However, it wasn't these men that caught his attention. It was the one standing next to Dumbledore. A man with graying hair who he hadn't seen for so long. Sirius sidled up behind the man without letting him know he was there.
"He left a few days before Fawkes came, took two companies with him. Albus, things did not go as we planned. Things have changed, he has changed. Whatever happens we can't tell Sirius, if he knew Harry was somewhere out there." That was all Sirius needed to figure out what they were talking about. The details didn't make sense, but one thing was certain. Harry wasn't where he was supposed to be.
"What are you talking about! Harry is supposed to be back at Hogwarts! What happened!" Remus spun around, his expression changing when he saw the man behind him. Even disguised Remus could identify his old friend. He weighed his options, then after a glance towards Dumbledore for approval he continued.
"Things went better than we planned, the giants choose to join us in a alliance. This was mainly thanks to Harry and his actions along the way. In turn, they choose him as their ambassador." Remus went on to describe their journey through the mountains. How they fought along the way, and how they joined the half giants. He told them of the ambush and of the trial. He told them of the giants decision and what Harry had said to bring about the change. Then he told them of Harry's last day at the city and how he left with a army, bound for the battlefield.
"What was he thinking!" Sirius shook his head and pounded his fist against the maps laid out on the table. Albus only stared at the maps more intently. A strange expression on his face, not his normal knowing smile or twinkling eyes. He looked uncertain, the truth be told he had expected the giants to join with Voldemort. It hadn't even been a thought that Harry might sway the course he had plotted. The boy was a catalyst in the truest sense of the word. Where ever he went change followed. As long as he was around their were infinite outcomes that could follow him. If he had left when Remus had said he should have arrived well before them. He voiced the questions that kept rolling through his head to no one in particular.
"Where are you Harry, and what are you playing at?"
******
Arrival of the Unnamed Warriors
Day 4, 1:00 A.M.
******
"Sir! Dumbledore's forces have been driven back. Also we have received word from the master." Lucius turned to face the younger man standing at his side. A slight inclination of his head was all the man received to indicate he should report.
"The master's plans run smoothly and he has sent 100 beast warriors as reinforcements. He says that with the reinforcement's you best not fail him." Lucius smiled and then turned back to watch the small forms of the retreating enemy.
"Have the reinforcements join them in the valley, once there they should attack the opposite side. I want them crushed." The younger death eater nodded and then took off to dispatch the orders. Lucius smiled, it would be much longer now.
***
Faces were solemn on the opposite side of the valley. The constant bombardment was beginning to take a toll upon their already frayed nerves. Now they were attempting to find a way to launch another attack against the opposite side of the valley.
They were debating whether it would be best to bring forces from further down the mountain and guide them through the forest in the valley farther away from the enemy lines. That's when it began, or rather that's when it stopped.
A moment of silence fell over the mountain side as the bombardment stopped. The dread silence wove itself through each of their bodies and disheartened even the bravest of them. Something was definitely up and chance are they wouldn't like it.
"Division commanders to your posts, stretch the line and prepare for a attack." Dumbledore broke the spell of silence and a flurry of activity began as unit leaders rushed back to their groups.
"I want everyone who can hold a wand to be prepared, we'll hold them off as the come to the top. The bunkers will provide us cover, and the spell batteries will rip the apart. Remus, join Mr. Brown's unit." Sirius looked to his friend and the two left the bunker to prepare.
Soon they were all prepared for the attack. Orders buzzed in Sirius's ear as other commanders dispatched their men. He debated with himself whether he should just take out the ear piece
Their own batteries flared to life once more, this time sending balls if light out. The light exploded and illuminated the mountains. The sight it revealed chilled Sirius to the bone. No less than One hundred and twenty five of the beasts were making their way out of the forest. This force was larger than all the men they brought with them. They could only pray to hold out using their superior position.
The first wave of the enemy crested the valley at a full run. Hideous features were illuminated by the blue light that hovered high in the air. The batteries flared to life once more, and deadly spell blast ripped at the still charging enemy.
"Ready, FIRE!!!" No sooner had Sirius given his order than spells began to flash all down the line. At least here the enemy couldn't duck into the trees after they struck, and their defense allowed them to target the enemies more efficently.
Blasts of fire struck the front of the enemy forces, the smell of charred flesh filled the air like rotten meat left out in the sun. Still they came, like some mindless machine.
"NOW!" Sirius waved to men who were standing behind him and they to rushed up onto the mound to add their strength to the weakening men. Those who were originally fighting dropped back to recharge before they must strike again. If the enemy kept up this relentless pace they wouldn't be able to hold them off much longer.
Again they switched lines, but still the enemy came at they with feral intensity. It wouldn't be long now until they were force to fall back or fight them face to face.
Sirius turned behind him to see a sight that made ice form in his veins. Some how a army of at least 90 had gotten behind him, wizards cloaked in red were coming out of the tree line. In a split decision Sirius put Remus in charge and turned to contact Dumbledore. It was already to late, the old wizard had already reached the front of the line. He crackled with power that would intimidate even this army.
"What do you want here?" His wand sparked in his hands as he prepared to face this new threat.
"Only to help, you looked like you were in need." Dumbledore didn't speak, nor did he let his gave shift away from them.
"Look, there is no way either of us could stop the enemy and free the dwarfs alone. Perhaps if we joined together we might stand some chance." Sirius had reached Dumbledore's side.
"Who would we be joining with?" That was definitely a valid question.
"Just some people who have a vested interest in protecting these dwarfs. The only thing you should be concerned with is your falling line. The sooner you make your decision the sooner we can join you and perhaps stave off this attack." Dumbledore looked at the man carefully, his features were well hidden beneath his cloak.
"Fine!" With that decided new orders began to circulate. Dumbledore's forces shifted to the left and this new group took up the right. Now they were able to more than double their attack power. The enemy began falling back under this new resurgence. Still it was difficult due to their resistance to magic.
When they had fallen back into the valley Dumbledore was forced to make a decision. He would not get another chance like this. Still, he'd have to do something he hated to be effective at all. He spoke to all the leaders.
"Now will be our best chance, if not out only chance. We will pursue them back into the valley." Now came the tough command, the one he hated to make.
"Due to the enemies resistance to magic I am authorizing the use of the killing curse. Use it only when you have a sure shot at hitting the enemy. I don't want any accidents." There, it had been done. Silence greeted the command, then the unit leaders began to issue commands once more.
Sirius and Remus lead the division on the charge. Soon men straight down the line had leapt forward and gave chase. Green light illuminated the enemy as they began to fall. The killing curse began to do it's job, it killed. The batteries struck out at the forest and other side of the valley with a vengeance. They were striking with everything they had now.
Some turned to fight back, but they were down hill and the killing curse was flying at them from all directions. Blood and sweat dripped off those who chased the beasts. They struck at them for their fallen comrades. Stepping over the bodies of fallen enemy and ally as they moved closer to the forest.
Here in the darkened forest the enemy attempted to make a stand, they relied on their former methods. But the light's numbers as well as the killing curse made their attacks less effective. They would fall before they got a chance to get to close. Some ran and through their swords to impale the enemy before they were struck with the green death light. The attacked with no hope for survival, but they attacked non the less.
Soon they had passed through the forest and stepped out onto the hill of the opposite side of the valley. The pushed onward, and up towards the other side of the valley. They could not have been prepared for what they were meet with. Only now did they get their first glimpse of the true size of the enemy. Even with the added strength of the unnamed army they couldn't compete with the mass of beasts and wizards they were now met with.
Lucius smiled when the first of them reached the field. He nodded to a death eater by his side and the batteries resumed their attack.
The spell blasts slammed into them as they attempted to perform some defense. Spears filled the air as the a army of beast threw them at the approaching wizards. Sirius watched as a spear ripped through a mans head and imbedded him into the ground. They couldn't fight this.
There spells slammed into the enemy's shied wall and were absorbed. Only the killing curse could penetrate, but the onslaught was just to much to stand up against. Lights hope was dimming.
***
Harry watched as the Light army rushed after the enemy. He had been worried when he saw the reinforcements, but now that was in the past. Still, they had no chance at breaking the siege with their numbers.
A trill drew his attention away from the flashing light of the battle field bellow, he looked up to see Fawkes swirling in from above. A note was attached and Harry removed it from the bird.
Dear Harry,
Hope your summer went well. Here is a port key set to take you back to Hogwarts, I'm afraid I won't be there to meet you. Some trouble has come up and I will be a bit busy. Remus and Hagrid will be coming to were I am, but a Professor will be there to meet you.
Albus Dumbeldore
"Well, I'll say he's gotten himself into a bit of trouble. What do you think Fawkes." Fawkes trilled and looked down upon the battle bellow.
"Don't worry Fawkes, Everything will be OK. Though I think you tracked me down for nothing. I don't think I'll be returning to Hogwarts just yet." The bird gave another trill and squeezed his shoulder a bit. Harry was a bit worried about Dumbledore and all those he knew. They soon would be running into the full force of the enemy. Unfortunately this was something he had been hoping for. If Lucius reacted as he expected they would play right into his hands. Still, Perhaps there was something more he could do.
"Fawkes would you mind carrying a letter for me." Fawkes seemed to agree so Harry grabbed a quill and paper from his pack. He scratched out a note, and for some reason he got the impression that Fawkes was reading it as well. As he signed his name Fawkes grabbed the paper and flew off towards the red shield surrounding the dwarves kingdom.
Harry thought Fawkes was going to crash, but the wall seemed to simply open and let the bird through.
***
A sentry was standing duty when the Fire bird soared in and landed atop the battlements. No sooner did it land than twenty dwarves had reached it prepared to fight. When they saw what had arrived a hurried message was passed through until the commander of the dwarvish army arrived to remove the note.
It had been stressful for the dwarves, especially because they had recently found that the generator for their shield was over loading do to the constant bombardment. It wouldn't last another full day.
The commander took the note and read it to himself. His gaze stiffened, then he looked towards the mountain path. It took him only a moment to make his decision, this would be their last chance.
"Assemble all the forces, we are going to battle."
***
Harry watched as a humongus signal fire illuminated the inside courtyard of the dwarven city. They had agreed, now it was up to him to begin the attack. When he did he would come down with the full force of the giant and dwarvish army.
******
Attack of the Blood Angel
Day 4, 4:00 A.M. Dawn
******
"Kill them All!" Lucius spoke calmly as he watched the retreating light warriors. They hadn't been prepared to fight this many and they had paid for it, now they were in full retreat.
"Sir, if we chase we will not have enough men to hold both the field and the valley. It will take significant forces to finish them off." Lucius turned towards the quivering death eater.
"It doesn't matter, who do we have to fear? The Dwarves? Once we defeat Dumbledore then it is only a matter of time. Stretch the lines and chase them."
"Yes sir." The death eaters scurried to pass the orders along. Soon a full one hundred and fifty were being stretched out after the retreating light.
***
Harry watched with a smile on his face. Lucius had played into his hands. Now when he attacked he could drive a wedge right through the two lines. They even stood a shoot at reaching the defense orb. If they destroyed that it would be all over for them. The spell batteries could eat their entire army. Yes, Finally the time for action had come. It was finally time to pay them back for the lives they had taken.
"Now is the time, First division prepare. It will be our job to drive the wedge. Second division will follow on my signal they will attack and push towards the dwarven front. Then once we have joined we will drive the remaining enemy into the valley. We begin in fifteen minutes." Harry left to prepare himself. He put on a pair white battle robes. They were his last clean pair so he was lucky that they would get to attack today. Soon they wouldn't be white anymore, just like his soul they would be stained.
Harry approached the edge of the forest. Twenty five giants standing at his side. The rest positioned behind them with a surprise he had prepared. He amplified his voice to speak before he attacked.
"Today we stand not as individuals but as brothers in arms. We stand not as soldiers, but as on mighty weapon. We are not single powers, but a tidal wave of force. Remember that! Remember our strength together. Below us are perversions against nature, things that were never intended to walk the earth. Let us be a cleansing fire and wiped them from the face of these mountains. Spare them no quarter as they do not deserve any. It is time we fall on them like fire and burn them to the ground." Harry turned back towards the enemy, he gave a nod to Torag who was with the second division and then hardened his gaze.
Like before he could feel a surge of emotions. A strange feeling that he couldn't quite put his finger on it.
"CHARGE!!!!!" Harry leaped out of the trees and began down the slope. The earth began to shake as the division followed him. The sounds of battle bellow them seemed to dim as this new strange sound echoed through the mountains. Like prey realizing they are in the path of a lion, they knew. They knew that the world was crashing down around them.
Harry's blood began to boil as the emotions began to press into him. Now he knew what was happening, these weren't his feelings. This was the combination of all those around him. There lust for blood and battle was driving him on. Their rage was building his own to levels beyond his control. There will for battle had pushed him to take the lead, he was the catalyst of everything they wanted.
By end of the day the battle would be a blur for him, but tales would be told of how he fought. Song would be sung of his ferocity. He would have taken both the first and the last blood of the day. Like he was a demon raised up from the depths of hell, they would say.
Some say a berserker was a person who had so little care for those around them, that they were mindless killing machines, but now Harry had a different idea. Perhaps they were just so in tuned with those around them that they felt to much. Perhaps in battle the emotions of the enemy and allies would drive them into a frenzy, for that is what was happening to him.
Harry's sword was in his hands before he could realize he had drawn it. He ran with speed he never before had, driving him ahead of the giants. Then a scream from his throat triggered action.
From above boulders were launched high above the attackers. The massive rocks slammed into the still unprepared lines below and bowled through them. Bodies were crushed under the attack. Many dove to get out of the way but most were crushed under the rocks weight.
The beasts attempted to form some sort of a line, but it was no use. The ground roared underneath them as the division approached. Time ran out and the giants had already reached there ranks. Harry's massive blade crashed into a beasts. The beasts blade shattered and Harry carried through it. Blood splashed into the air, but before it landed he had already ran a second through the gut. Harry had left his mind, and now what was left was simply death. Like a plague he began to sweep through the enemy ranks. They fell to his sword and wand alike. Shards of rock lifted off the ground and under his direction rained onto those in front of him. The beast attempted to shield themselves, but that only left the open to Harry's blade. He cleaved through two at once and then proceeded to eviscerate a third. The giants followed Harry, and encouraged by his acts swept into the enemy as well. They crushed the unprepared beasts underfoot and ripped them in two with their weapons. Still, non took more then Harry.
Harry pressed into the mass of moving bodies. Ripping head from body and cutting limbs free as he went. Non could stop or slow him, a path of dead was all he left in his wake. Till soon he had reached the very center where the two lines touched. He turned back and waved his sword in the air. Like thunder the earth shook once more, only now it wasn't just the second division. The great doors of the dwarven kingdom had opened and the shield had been dropped. Now hundreds of dwarves poured out of the city and engaged the enemy that had turned to face the giants. Harry let out a howl that would have sent shivers down the devils back before continuing with the battle. He had by now pushed his way across the lines to the forest with a handful of giants at his side.
The group crashed through the trees to find that the defense station had been abandoned. A quick look around told Harry all he needed to know, they had decided to put all available forces into breaking through the dwarven line. Harry dispatched orders and one of the giants raised a mighty club to crush the floating orb. Magical energy dissipated into the air and the defense pillars exploded leaving the enemy unprotected. Now Harry motioned towards the dwarven line and the first division turned their attention to pushing into the dwarven city.
They crashed back into battle, and fought with renewed strength. Harry pushed ahead of his division, striking out at anything that got close. He could feel where the enemy stood, and for the first time he was aware of this perception.
He spun around and brought his sword through a death eaters head. The man had tried to sneak up on him, now he had split him from the head to the navel. Somewhere in Harry's mind he recognized this as one of the men from the night last year, but nothing more than that. A blast from his wand knock down several standing in front of him and he took the opportunity to kill them before they rose. Harry pushed inside the massive stone building and ended up facing the magnificent sight of the dragons. Only now the inner dragons heads glowed red and moved. They cast balls of molten lava down on the enemy. Harry closed into the center of the courtyard where a larger beast warrior just finished killing a group who had approached him. The beast stood with dead bodies encircling him and a twisted grin on it's face.
Harry locked eyes with the beast and the two began to approach each other. Some watched as the two face off. Their swords met and rebounded off each other as they traded blows. Harry cast a banishing spell and the creature was launched into the air. He gave chase and caught it while it was getting up. His blade arched through the air as he made to cleave it in two, but the beast countered and through Harry back. Harry smiled and launched into the attach once more. It stroke out at his shoulder and he blocked it, but not before it bit into his skin. A reverse strike struck his leg and he rolled to regain balance. The blades stroke again and forced the two to separate. Harry dove forward and sprang from his knees driving his blade through the beasts head from beneath the chin. A cheer went up, but Harry had already proceeded on into the mountain hall.
He ran over the dead and struck out at those who stood in his way. Till he reached the center of a vast chamber. He heard voices a head of him and saw death eaters standing over a group of dwarves.
"Have you secured the map?" Harry recognized the voice of Lucius Malfoy.
"Yes sir, it has been secured." He had no idea what they were talking about, but some strange force was driving him forward to fight them. To get this map back. Not that he wouldn't have done it anyway, but now he seemed to have no choice.
"Then, escape to the Portkey point and leave." Harry ran his shoulder into the last beast that was obstructing his path and dove between the unarmed dwarves and the death eaters.
"Stop right there Lucius!!" Malfoy looked at the blood soaked figure in front of him. Harry was so coated in blood that Lucius could not recognize him. After a short pause it came to him who was standing before him.
"Ah, Potter! I didn't expect to see you here. I suppose it's you we have to thank for this intrusion. No matter, we've gotten what we've come for." Harry's eyes grew darker as he watched Malfoy senior.
"You may have gotten it, but you won't be leaving with it." Malfoy just laughed, he was about to tell his fellow death eaters to attack when he had a better idea.
"Oh I think you'll be to busy for that Potter." Lucius picked a hunk of rubble off the ground and withdrew a small crystal from his pocket. Harry watched as he slid the glowing crystal into the rock, then he threw the rock on the ground.
The rock seemed to shift and grow in size exponentially till a giant rock gollem the size of a large giant stood in the hall. The death eaters turned and ran from the hall.
A battle raged inside him about what to do. Something was trying to force him to forget the unarmed dwarves and go after the death eaters, but he knew he wanted to protect them. After a moment, something relented and he focused of the rock creature.
The beast slammed a rock fist into the floor and Harry dove out of the way. His wand flashed as he shot fire spells that seemed to deflect from the rock. Nothing worked as he began to lead the rock away from the dwarves and back out into the courtyard. Both ally and enemy gave him a wide birth as he dodged the creatures attacks. He could tell his magic was weakening, his force spells did less damage and chipped away less rock.
Harry dove between the creatures legs a swung at it's left one. The sword crushed through the rock and shattered it, but it seemed to grow back together before the creature fell. Harry blocked the creatures arm, but the force through him backwards and into a statue. He struggled to his feet and attacked again. He was getting no where, the creature wasn't really alive, how could he kill it?
Still for some reason it did feel alive. Perhaps it wasn't the rock that was alive, but the crystal. Harry dove out of the way of it's fist, but it struck a glancing blow that was sure to dislocate his shoulder. With all his strength Harry focused on his wand and released a massive reducto curse. The spell struck the giant rock beast and it's chest exploded outwards. Shards of rock cut into Harry and ripped his skin so that his own blood joined that which was already covering his body.
There, imbedded in the center of the rock beasts chest, was the crystal. Harry lunged in towards the rock beast and his sword shattered the crystal. The creature seemed to loose cohesion and the rocks slid off one another.
Harry rose from the ground to and found that most of the enemy had been driven back. However there was no longer any sign of the death eaters. He had no doubt that they had escaped along with whatever map they were after.
He rejoined his division still fighting outside the gates and they worked to corner the rest of the beasts. No quarter was given, all were cleansed.
***
4:00 A.M. Other perspective
***
"This is it, we must stand here!" Dumbledore shouted once they had reached their lines once more. But the battle for them would never come.
The ground began to shake and a battle cry went up from across the valley. The earth shook as giants stormed out of the mountain pass. The beasts had stopped their pursuit to watch the army seemingly flying down the hill.
It was a sight that would strike fear into the hearts of any who saw it, yes the giants were fierce. In the lead of the charge was a boy, no a man, dressed in white. He drove the giants into a frenzy and seemingly fly down the hill. A massive sword was clutched in his hand, yet he wielded it like it were light.
In a instant Dumbledore as well as everyone else who knew him, knew who this boy was. He came with power and struck the enemy with speed that was almost in human. Nothing usually surprises Albus Dumbledore, but to see the boy charge into battle like a demon was something that took even him back.
Sirius shook when he saw the boy charging down the hill, be it with fear or pride, he would never tell. Remus just shook his head with a sad expression on his face. He truly knew the innocence that had been lost for the boy that now struck out into battle.
"That's Harry Potter!" A cry went up from some disbelieving wizard who had taken out a pair of omnioculars.
Dumbledore rushed to where he saw Rita snapping pictures. He stood in her way in a attempt to stop her from continuing.
"What would you prefer me to print? Pictures of your lines being turned? Pictures of the enemy charging back to kill those who fought for the light? Or, Pictures of the Wizarding worlds savior, driving a army of giants and crushing the darkness underfoot? Which do you think will gather you more support?" Dumbledore looked at her for a moment, then he stepped to the side to allow her to continue. He knew this would only mean more pain for the boy, but it was something the Wizarding world definitely needed.
The beasts turned in their pursuit to return and help with the battle now raging on the other side.
"Give chase! We will stop them here!" Now Dumbledore knew what Harry had planned, it was a brilliant move. Now the enemy would be crushed from either side. Later he would look back on this battle and see the pure beauty of Harry's attack.
With that the light turned once more, and under the knowledge that the savior of the Wizarding world had come to aid the battle the fought with renewed strength.
******
Aftermath
Day 4, 12:00 P.M.
******
It was mid morning when Harry struck down the last of the enemy. He stood there on a mound of the dead. His mind cleared a bit now that the battle was over, and pain seemed to spill back into him from wherever it had hid.
A cheer rose around him as giant, dwarf, and the occasional wizard screamed in victory. But Harry was sick to his stomach, he didn't feel much like celebrating. He stumbled to the wall and sat down next to it, his sword leaned up against the wall forming a triangle for him to sit under. A misty rain began to fall and Harry looked down at his once white robes. Now they were stained black and red. They would never return to their original color. Just like him in a way, he would never return to his original color.
A dwarf walked up to him carrying something in his hands. Harry recognized the crest of the commander of the dwarven army.
"You'll be want in this laddy." The dwarf through his a small necklace, the gold medallion featured a sword through the center of a skull.
"What's this for?" Harry didn't really want this, it was stained in blood and he didn't really want a reminder of the battle.
"It's yours by battle. It's the medallion of the enemy commander. Oh sure, he wasn't a wizard, but you could tell who the beasts really got their orders from. They may have listened to the wizards, but they looked to that one before acting. You killed him in the courtyard, though I suppose that doesn't give you much. You killed a lot out there today. Don't believe I've ever seen someone fight like you. You've got the fires of the war god's forge in your veins. You protected the clan elders I hear as well. They'll be want in to talk to you. That can wait though. They'll be very busy. Some of your kind is look in for you." Harry got up and hoisted his sword once more.
Harry wasn't sure he wanted to see anyone right now, truth be told he just wanted to sleep. Still he had duties that had to be handled before he could leave. He nodded to the dwarf and then left to rejoin the giants.
When he reached them they gave him a new look. They looked at him with respect, and in some cases they reconsidered his words at the council. Many came to the conclusion that they wouldn't want to be on the opposite side of the field as him. Harry took Torag to the side.
"Hell of a fight." Torag spoke plainly, but his words said so much.
"I'm trusting you to lead them back to the city, I have things that I've got to do back at Hogwarts." Torag looked at Harry carefully before speaking.
"No one ever said being a man would be easy Oxgor. Most of the time it means you have to make the tough choices. That is what separates a man from a child really. Knowing the consequences and making the choices because they have to be made. Make the right choices Oxgor, because as you said, your choices will affect those who can't make them yet. Build a brighter world now." Torag turned and walked back to the giants. Many of them gave him a salute, then they slipped off the battlefield as quickly as they had come.
Harry moved through the fallen soldiers till he came across someone he didn't expect to see.
"Hello Hagrid. Glad to see your all right." The half giant turned and then enveloped Harry in a hug. Harry nearly lost his sword by the force of the giant.
"'Arry, I was worried about yeh." Harry just nodded, it was a mutual concern that didn't need to be expressed in words.
"Are we headed back to Hogwarts?" The half giant face turned sad.
"Actually arry I don't plan ter go back ter Hogwarts. I'm going ter return ter the giant city. I need to speak with me mum Harry. It's something I gotta do." Harry nodded, he understood to well. If he had a chance to meet his mum he would take it.
"Than you best hurry then. The giants have already stated towards the mountain path. I'll see you soon though. I'll have to Apparate up there once and a while. Now that I know how to." Hagrid nodded and gave Harry one last hug before heading towards the path.
Harry headed through the battlefield to search for his friends. Dead faces looked at him from the ground, but it was the figure ahead that really got his attention.
"Remus, I see you didn't stay out of this after all." The werewolf turned to look at his young friend. He saw a man covered in blood, scared by battle. He saw eyes that had seen the enemy, this was what he wanted to prevent.
"I'm glad you survived Harry, you know it's being said that it was your attack that swung the battle. They toast your name back at the camp." Harry grimaced, this was the last thing he wanted.
"Then they'd toast the name of a murderer? They'd toast the name of someone who has orphaned children just as was done to him?" Harry knew full well that he had killed wizards as well as the beast warriors.
"No, they toast a conquering champion. One who offered hope when they could only see night." Harry laughed, it was a dry laugh at best.
"Then I guess a person can be both, for that is what I am." Remus sighed, there was no use arguing with Harry when he was in a mood like this. His morals were to staunch sometimes.
"Sirius and Dumbledore are looking for you." This was another meeting Harry didn't want to face, but he would do it none the less.
Together they made they're way back behind their lines. No one recognized the blood soaked young man as the white warrior who charged down the mountain. His green eyes were the only thing that wasn't red on him.
"Remus, have you found him?" It hurt that Sirius wouldn't even recognize him. He easily saw through Sirius's disguise. Did he really look that different.
"If I'm who your talking about, than I suppose he has." Sirius turned his gaze to the young man who stood next to him. He suppressed a shudder at his appearance and then hugged him like he hadn't seen him in years.
"Harry, what were you thinking?" Harry grimaced a bit, a combination of the wounds that Sirius aggravated and the fact that he would treat him like a child.
"I was thinking how best to defeat the enemy. What were you thinking?" Sirius caught Harry's innuendo.
"Not just wait one moment, you have no right to interfere. Your to young to be fighting." Harry grimaced once more, and he noticed that Remus was trying to change the subject.
"Yes, those who stood in my way probably thought the same way. Won't make that mistake again will they?" It was Sirius turn to grimace. They would have continued if it hadn't been for Dumbledore and Rita.
"It is good to see you well Mr. Potter. I was just telling Rita about your being named the ambassador to the giant's." Dumbledore didn't seem to react to Harry's dress, but Rita did end up taking a picture. Whether it was suitable for newspaper would be a question the Daily Prophet would have to answer.
"I'd love to talk, but I'm worn out and I need to stop be the med tent. Perhaps we could do this back at Hogwarts." Dumbledore smiled and then took Rita away. Before Sirius could speak again Harry interrupted him.
"I meant you to. Not all this blood is my enemies you know." Harry turned and left his two friends behind.
"I want to have some words with you Remus." Sirius spoke with a deadly voice and the two walked off in the opposite direction.
Harry was treated to a shower and a fresh set of robes while he was given medical attention. The water ran red with a mixture of his and the enemies blood as he rinsed himself clean. He prayed this would be the last time he had to soak out blood from his hair. But deep down inside he knew that it wouldn't.
***
Two figures sat along the wall of the dwarven city. One the leader of those who arrived to fight with the light side. The other the chief elder of the dwarves.
"I fear what will happen now that the map is in his hands. If he were to find.." The dwarf trailed off.
"Yes, but there is hope. One of the brothers has already worked it's way into the Dark Lords path. If you ask me it chose wisely. Once it's brother joins it, nothing will stop them." The leader looked towards the lines of the celebrating wizards. Those who he brought with him had already disappeared. Now it was only Dumbledore's forces on the other side of the valley.
"And if worse comes to worse?"
"As I said, It chose wisely. I believe he will do what must be done. If it happens, we will be there. It has always been our duty."
******
A/N: Damn that was long, I can't believe how long this one is. Remember, reviews make the writer happy. I hope you all appreciate the battle. It was all grandious and such.
Chaser: Hope you liked the chapter!
DaBear: Yes, Voldie has to die. Either die, or go through some type of psychiatric counseling. Probably both.
Bob33 : Thanks for the review : )
sew2100: Thank you muchly!
Wquad: Thanks for reviewing!
LIEDRAL: Thanks, Glad you liked the update
Rachel A. Prongs: I hope the war doesn't destroy Harry either. But when you think about it, how can war not destroy a person?
Mel-chan: Thanks for the compliments, thats really high praise! I really pride myself on my character development and the battles. Thanks for noticing!
Otaku freak : Thanks for the review, glad you like the story!
MYSIA: Thanks for the review! I'll try to update more often.
Angelis: Glad you liked it and sorry about the wait. I don't get to use the Internet much, that's why I like to make the chapters longer. Hope you enjoy this one as well.
Rogue1615: Yeah, I haven't found to many serious war fics. And sometimes when I do they start filling it with mary sues. I find that war fics can be some of the most powerful, because there is nothing more powerful than war. War forces change and restructures life through violence. You can use war to portray powerful emotions.
Maxennce: I really wanted to get away from the little boy stuck in the closet. I think Harry has seen those simpler days torn apart, and he is searching for some control. We all try to structure the world according to our wills, I think it's time Harry started putting his two cents in.
Naomi SilverWolf: Thanks for the Review, Hope you like the chapter.
ShadowHunter: Yeah something that really bothers me is when Authors just go hazy on things that we know are going to be happening. I really like to be thorough when I cover things.
Lynlyn: Yeah cannibalistic, Voldemort is scary! But he's already gone all snake like so I figure it's just the next step. The sword was something that I sorta had planned. I wanted Harry to receive it from the giants, but It wouldn't make sense for giants to be giving out human size swords. I think that if they did have swords they would be ..well.giant swords. So no it didn't really come from anything, but what I would consider logic.
Namwolf: Yeah I like this kind of Harry to, but how could he not change. He found that from just a small decision like sharing the cup got cedric killed. I think he's realizzed the significance of little things as well as life.
Anja: Thanks for the review and the complement! I appreciate it!
jorge: Nope, this is a full year story, not just summer time. I am a firm believer that in our perfect world, adventures come to a close before the train leaves in the summer. As for relationships, I have some unique things planned, but they definitely aren't the normal. Though he may be with a couple of the normal pairings at different points. Still, I can't imagine Harry liking a clingy girl. So I don't write clingy girlfriends. i.e. "Oh Harry you can't do that alone. I'm going with you." "But it's to dangerous." "I don't care, we'll face it together." GRRR.. How pathetic is that!!!
Kathleen: Glad you like it! Giant culture was something that I really thought out before I started righting it. And I'm glad you got the middle earth vibe. Tolkien is one of my biggest influences. There are others like Hagrid out there, but I picture them as sporadic wanders. We may see others like him and Madame Maxime, but I think the majority try to stay away from public. ---Yeah, That's going to be a big thing for Hagrid. But it may take a while. Hagrids going to have a tough time approaching her. She's the mother who never had anything to do with him, but they're still family. Not to mention she's in a position a authority. I get the impression from the books that Hagrid remained with his father and never got to know his mother. Hagrid has a gentle heart and this will be a tough thing for him.
VampireLover: Thanks for the review!
J: Yeah Harry and Albus have a bit of conflict coming up. But I don't picture Albus as a bad guy. I think he just wants to protect Harry, but Harry's struggling to come into his own, and protect himself. Dumbledore will have to reevaluate how to treat Harry now that Harry has shown himself a man. You don't treat a adult and a child the same way. A new balance will be struck out between the two.
Darvio: Sorry for the wait, I don't get to use the internet much. So I at least make the chapters extra long.
Kaelli Karali : Thanks, I try to make my chapters cliff hangers, without really stopping in the middle of something important. I prefer people to wonder what happens next.
ender2000: Hoped you liked the chapter! Thanks a lot for the review!
Alia West : Just to let you know, you reviewed just as I was gettin ready to put this up! Yeah, Harry is a bit Cold hearted, but there is more involved with that then we know right now. There is a bit of a tinge of that in this chapter. Especially at the end of this chapter. Do you think I'm pushing a higher rating? I try not to be to specific. Ok, so maybe I get carried away sometime. It's tastefully done though. Artistic violence really. I think I'm making excuses, now I can't stop typing to myself. OH MY!!!
Snickers hilariously. Also Prays lightning bolts don't strike my keyboard.
Harry Potter and the Call to War!
Chapter 8: Warriors Cry
******
Voldemort's Strike
Day 1
******
The Dwarves of Tavin's Hall lived their lives in relative peace. Their mountain stronghold had been placed in one of the most strategically defensible areas of the mountain range. For centuries the Dwarves lived peaceful lives in their mountain kingdom. Still, they always remained ready and alert for those who would seek to bring war to their doorstep. It was a necessary precaution when one possessed a map showing the location of a powerful object thought to be lost for all of time. They had been entrusted with the honor of guarding this map, and it was a duty they took none to lightly.
Tavin's Hall lay nestled in a crescent of the mountains. There was only two ways to reach the field that lay before Tavin's mighty outer walls. One such way was a path that lead well up into the mountains, to the west, behind Tavin's Hall. This path led into the foothills of the mountains, and in the higher areas it flattens out into heavily wooded forest where the dwarves would go to harvest the heavier woods. This overlooking forest gives a beautiful view of Tavin's Hall and it's surrounding territory. To the south of Tavin's Hall, past the field that lay at it's outer wall, is a deep valley that cuts between two mountains. On the other side of the valley is a field similar to the one that lays before Tavin's walls. Only by passing through the valley or coming down from the mountains can one reach Tavin's Hall. To the East of the field is a soft wood forest that is walled in by sheer cliffs, making it impossible to reach the Hall from this direction. The Valley was filled with trees and small canals the dwarves used to bring water into their mountain stronghold.
The majority of Tavins Hall consisted of tunnels mined into the mountain, but there was a small portion above ground. Behind the massive Sixty foot tall and twenty foot thick stone walls the dwarves had built a above ground area. This outer area was centralized around a truly breathtaking sight. The dwarves had fashioned Two ninety foot tall three- headed dragon out of stone. Two of the heads on each dragon were positioned to look onto the path that led from the walls to the door into the underground kingdom. The third heads craned out over the sixty foot walls and overlooked the field. The dwarves had crafted golden and silver plates to act as scales and molded them onto the stone beasts. Rubies larger than a mans head were placed as eyes in the mighty stone creatures heads. All together they presented a sight that would stick with you till your dying day.
So you can see why no one ever attacked Tavin's Hall. Between the mountains and the valley it was in a well fortified position. That is until Voldemort found that they possessed something he desperately wanted. Now, on the other side of the valley, hidden in that sides tree line, was a force of more than three hundred. Two wizards stood at the front of the army of three hundred and prepared to give the order to unleash the initial attack.
Lord Voldemort was not foolishly thinking he would be able to approach the dwarves by surprise. Even if he were attacking by way of the mountains he couldn't reach the massive walls in time to keep them from shutting the gates. No, the beast army would serve to chase them behind their walls. Then, he could move his spell batteries into place and begin taking down the magical and physical shields. The spell batteries would take time to move safely through the valley and he would personally supervise their transport. They were to important to be damaged.
Dwarves generally had little to no magic, but the Dark Lord could feel the strong defensive spells placed by those who had left the dwarves to guard the map. He wondered what kind of defenses had been placed besides the massive walls. The walls had been forged by hand and would be extremely difficult to remove, even with magic.
The Dark Lord nodded to Lucius and the other wizard raised his wand in the air. After a muttered word a symbol of a skull and snake appeared in the air. Cracks and bangs reciprocated the mark as many different colored lights were shot into the air. Division commanders had answered their leaders. In a rush of movement the beasts took off out of the tree line. Like a swarm of locusts they spilled off the flats and down into the valley.
Off in the distance the dwarves were preparing to activate to giant chain works that stretched deep into the mountain to close their doors. After a long day they had begun to call in those who worked in the valley above ground. That is, until they saw movement on the other side of the valley. The dwarves who were posted as centuries on the battlements watched as a plague of beasts swarmed out of the trees. In a instant they acted on what they had trained for.
"Sound the trumpets! Shout the cry and pass the word! We must seal the gates!" The older dwarf on duty knew that those in the valley had no chance of reaching the gates before the invaders caught them. He knew the decision that must be made. Those who did not reach the gates would be forced to fend for themselves.
Trumpets began to sound in a pattern that had not been heard for over two century. The warning cry had been given and any moment the doors would be drawn closed. The outside world would be sealed off, those who were left must fend for themselves.
The dwarves in the field outside of the wall rushed in as the gates gave a mighty lurch. The stone began to grind as giant pulleys tucked beneath the earth drew the two portions of the gate together. Those in the field ducked in just as the gates slammed together and the entrance to the dwarven city was closed. Many returning home arrived in time to see the doors shut. They had only one option, with as much resolve as they could find they began their trek into the mountains in search of shelter. Those still in the valley would not share such a pleasant fate.
The beast army surged like a newly unleashed river and boiled into the valley. Many of the dwarves in the valley knew their fate was sealed, they hefted their work axes to make their last stand. They had no idea that they had no chance. The thirty or so poorly armed dwarves were facing three hundred fully equipped warriors.
The dwarves watched as the beasts surged to them, they gave them no more mind then they would a pebble in the road. The dwarves drew behind trees and waited for the attackers. Unfortunately for them the trees did not hide their presence. Their scent gave them away, and many fell due to beasts that zeroed in on their locations. As dwarves would meet the sword blows the beasts dealt, more beasts would make the kill from behind. They hunted as a pack, taking time to sweep the forest for those who remained behind. Thorough and deadly, they would meet each opponent with overwhelming odds and dispatch them quickly. A blow to the head or slice threw the middle was all it took to finish the job. The meager battle began and the dwarves numbers quickly dwindled due to the overwhelming assault. No sooner would ax clash with sword than the resistance would fall to the rising numbers. The beasts held no sympathy, and the dwarves meager work axes were like toothpicks compared to the heavy war weapons. The unprepared dwarves broke and tried to run, but were hunted down like wounded animals. One dwarf sat huddled next to a tree. His side split open and blood staining his white beard red. He watched as his friends and family slowly died around him. The beasts gave no regard to the critically wounded, they would die soon enough. He died knowing that this would only be the first of his kinsman's blood that would be shed.
Voldemort watched what little could be seen and waited for his army to emerge out of the forested valley and begin their march to the field in front of his objective. He closed his eyes and breathed in the death that faintly lingered in the air. Soon it would be a strong stench that would permeate this field for all of time. He watched as his troop crested out of the forest and began their ascent. It had taken longer than he expected for them to pass through the valley. There must have been more dwarves caught off guard than he expected.
"Lucius, see to the defense pillars, I will see to the moving of the spell batteries." Lucius moved to were the stone pillars were being stored. The large pillars prevented them from moving quickly. The large red stone orbs imbedded in the pillar mustn't be damaged. The pillars could absorb incoming spells and deflect them. He personally saw to the movement of the five foot tall red orb, and the pyramid shaped stand that it would rest on. The giant orb would rest on the point of the pyramid and together the two would control the defense pillars. While Lucius worked with some of the wizards who would move the pillars, Voldemort moved the ten delicate crystal spell batteries.
The dwarves on the other side of the valley sat on the battlements and watched as the first of the beasts crested the top of the valley and began to charge through the large field.
"Prepare to activate the dragons!" While they did not posses much magic of their own, they had often built things for those with magic. In exchange they had certain powerful spells done in there behalf.
"Activate them now!" The dwarf in charge of battlements gave the order to those around him. Dwarves stationed by the dragon heads that leaned out over the battlefield ran to where the necks touched the walls. A ruby rod was inserted into a hole on each dragon and the stone beasts eyes began to glow. A white light shot out from their mouths and arched upwards. The walls began to glow and the same white light shot upwards into the heaven. A pillar of light now extend upwards along where the walls blocked off the outside world from the mountain stronghold. The exterior of the walls glowed the color of the red eyes, as the magic filled the stones and strengthened their defense. The white light that arced out of the dragons mouths now rained down like snowflakes over many miles surrounding the mountain.
"Sir, the strengthening spells as well as the magic shields are fully operational. Word from the caves says the power orbs are drawing the power from the underground volcano's as they were meant to. We can operate this way indefinitely." The older dwarf nodded at his younger officer.
"What of the movement rain?" The younger dwarf nodded and recounted what he was told.
"Those who work the orbs have calculated that the spell has deadened all magical movement for over a surrounding Three kilometers. It easily covers the other side of the valley. They will have to set up special cleansed areas to be able to bring more troops into the area.
"Good, then for now we must hunker down and wait for orders. Triple the watch, I want everyone fully armed. Signal me if anything happens." With that said the older dwarf went below to confer with the rest of the leaders.
It was just as he had expected. They had powerful protection spells placed all over their walls. Voldemort smirked to himself, they had reacted just as he had expected. Now it was time to prepare the ambush for Dumbledore. The old wizard had no way of knowing what he would be facing. Now Voldemort had called his leaders together so that he might set the strategy.
"McNair, you will be responsible for maintaining the defense pillars. The nine pillars are to be spaced out just before the valley. Dumbledore will not be able to use long range attacks as long as those spell batteries remain operative." McNair nodded to his master and then left to take his troops and begin the placement of the pillars.
"Lucius you will be responsible for the overall control of the battle. You are also responsible for the deployment of the troops. I want them in two crescent patterns. One should be facing the wall and the other is to be facing the valley. The crescents will be back to back. Do not worry about the mountain path to the west or the cliff forest to the east. The dwarves had stopped anyone from moving freely behind our lines. Concentrate on the valley, that is where Dumbledore will be forced to travel through. Send twenty or so beast warriors up the mountain path, that should be sufficient protection. Set the command tent, the defense orb, and the Portkey point in the woods to the east. This will prevent Dumbledore from knowing if we bring in reinforcements, as well as securing our retreat." Lucius nodded, but waited for his master to finish the briefing.
"Wormtail, you are to see to the spell batteries. I want two in east and two in the west, they are to be focused on the wall. The other six are to be positioned to fire into the valley. If Dumbledore wants this field he will have to eat spell fire the entire way. I warn you, do not damage my spell batteries." Wormtail nodded and then hurried off to begin
"The rest of you will see that the troops are placed appropriately. Besides the twenty I want on the mountain flats, I want fifty down in the forest. I want three wizards on each spell battery, now go!" The group scurried off to begin their tasks.
Voldemort listened as reports began to fill in to him. The defense pillars were in place and the shield could be called at a moments notice. The spell batteries were in position and could begin the bombardment of the wall at his order. The troops had reached there appointed areas, and the Portkey zone had almost bee cleansed. Once that was opened he could freely travel when necessary. For now he waited in the command tent. Soon he would begin the bombardment, and soon Dumbledore would walk into his trap.
******
Harry's Arrival
Day 2, 3:00 P.M.
******
It had been almost a full day since they had departed the giant city, and Harry was surprisingly glad to be traveling again. He had found that the hard life of the road agreed with him and he much rather have a long day of walking than to be sitting in some cushy room. Still, the lingering purpose of the journey hung over him like a black cloud.
Torag had rarely seen the boy this serious. Though he seemed to prefer the traveling, he didn't show it. The boy had adapted the face of a leader, strong and firm. When he spoke it was a order, and when he wasn't speaking you could tell he was contemplating the battle ahead. It was hard seeing him this way, almost like he had lost the ability to see the happy part of life.
Harry had truly begun to employ the lessons he had learned. He was always resolute no mater how small the decision. He never showed weakness, and he was constantly considering three steps ahead. After going over the maps he had available to him he decided that his army would come out to the most strategically valuable area. Dumbledore would most likely be forced to approach through the valley, and Harry was sure Voldemort would prepare his defenses accordingly. He expected little resistance in the foothills above Tavin's Hall, still it would not due to allow them to tip off the army to their position. Though Dumbledore would have to come through the valley, Voldemort was not stupid. He would place some force on the mountain path to protect his flank. They would have to wait for the battle to begin and then take out whatever forces were protecting the flank. Harry had decided to try and box them in so they couldn't retreat down the path and warn the main force. Surprise and their position were his most valuable weapons.
Still a part of his mind swirled around what he was becoming. He felt like a boat washed in a raging sea, being tossed about by waves to big to pass over. He was in search of calm waters but his path seemed determined to lead him towards vicious storms. In some ways he acknowledged that he had to change, it was necessary to survive. In others he was disgusted with himself, wouldn't death be better than to have too kill. Or is that just a juvenile ideal, one that you naturally have to let go of over time.
The look on Remus and Hagrid's face had stuck with Harry. He didn't regret what he had done to that giant. He had no choice in the matter, giants had a fierce sense of honor. If he had spared the giant it would have been like spitting in his face. He would be mocking the giant, treating him as if he were only a child. The giant would have had lost honor for his entire family. He had given the giant the death the man deserved, it was the way of their society. Still, the look of shock in his friends eyes had chilled him.
Now was not the time to focus on his feelings. Feelings got you killed, now he had to focus on the enemy and how best to defeat them. Now was the time when he had to concentrate on the now and forget all his other problems.
The soft earth crunched underneath Harry's boots. They had crossed out of the snowy peeks to meet the rich greens of the forests just a few hours ago. Soon he would have to exercise caution, there was no telling where Voldemort had stationed his guards. The commanders of the two companies had informed him that they should get their first look at the dwarven kingdom soon. Most didn't believe that any threat existed, they expected to return to the giant city as soon as they reached the underground city of Tavin's Hall.
"Quite now! We'll take a advance party of three forward and scout what is before us. Once we access the situation we will determine how best to precede." Harry waved three of the giants forward, then he and Torag began to lead them ahead.
Harry let his wand slid into his hand and moved carefully through the trees, then up a path that crested before it descended to the mountain flats above Tavin's Hall. The sight that met Harry's eye was one that he would always remember. A army of the beast warriors had been laid out on the field before massive stone walls. Enormous dragons could be seen down below, and had Harry not known they were fake he might have thought they were alive.
He had been right about his assessment though, Voldemort had the valley well guarded. Harry could see a small contingent of troops on the mountain flats, but they wouldn't pose much threat. His attention was drawn when a flash of light and a loud bang rang through the air. Harry looked to see that four spell batteries glowing brightly against the green ground. The six foot long crystals looked small from where Harry watched, but he knew that they were very powerful. They glowed brighter until it almost made you want to turn away, then a brilliant flash and a large spell blast would fire out the focusing point. The focused spells shot through the air and slammed into the glowing red walls. The red light would then dull a bit, then it would strengthen again. Still it didn't stop the spells from coming in their continuous precession. The loud noise that echoed this high up must be deafening closer, and Harry could almost feel the light tremors that shock the ground below.
Harry could see that six more cannons were facing the valley. Dumbledore would have to face those cannons the entire time. Despite that thought Harry had to smile, Voldemort left the mountain pass with little guarding it. When the time came he could split the crescents in two and drive a wedge directly into Voldemort's forces. Harry could even see the defense station in the trees to the east of the field. If he could reach that he would open Voldemort's forces up to attack from whatever Dumbledore brought with him.
Harry motioned for the giants to return with him, the group rose back over the crest and back into the forest on the other side.
"Commanders, we will have a strategy meeting. I expect the battle to begin tomorrow, we will camp here and prepare." This was definitely important, Harry had pushed hard to get into position before Dumbledore arrived. Now he needed his troops well rested before they attacked. They weren't able to light fires or they'd risk alerting those below them, but they did construct rough shelters for the night.
Harry and his commanders sat before a map of Tavin's Hall and showed them the troop emplacements of the enemy. They both agreed with Harry's strategy and soon they were preparing to settle in for the night.
Now Harry only had to wait, soon Dumbledore would arrive and the battle would begin. Then he would stand and take action himself.
******
Dumbledore arrives (Welcome to Hell)
Day 3, 3:00 P.M.
******
Dumbledore stood before those who had gathered on the lawns beyond the gates of Hogwarts. In such short notice he had to call in several favors, but now he had 75 fully trained wizards preparing to leave. Soon Arthur would arrive with his promised wizards and supplies. Albus still regretted that he couldn't have already assembled those Sirius had been sent to gather. For now they would have to make due with what they had.
He expected to arrive at Tavin's Hall one full day before Voldemort arrived. Hopefully this would give him enough time to strengthen the dwarves defenses and they could occupy the heavily defensible city. If they could get emplacements on the walls they would easily be able to destroy a attacking army.
The Headmaster had already seen to where Madame Pomfrey was working with a staff from St. Mongo's. He had tipped them off that they would be needed today, and the hospital had trusted his word. Now he had 30 medical witches and wizards prepared to take incoming casualties. St. Mongo's has even sent over equipment to set up a full field hospital and Dumbledore was all the more grateful. The staff had gone out on a limb to trust him, and he was in their debt.
Various requests to friends in foreign ministries had brought him these 75 wizards. Hopefully their opposition wouldn't be as experienced. They would have to hope that their training was better than the enemies.
The Headmaster planed to Apparate in just beyond the tree line on the opposing side of the valley. Then they would send a small party to the dwarves to inform them of the situation. From there they would enter the walls of the city and fight the enemy from the battlements.
Many loud pops sounded the arrival of Arthur and his contingent of forces. The extra wizards would be sorely needed for the battle ahead. Albus smiled when he saw Arthur Weasley approaching him.
"Albus, it seems we have a bit of luck. Not only have I brought 50 wizards, we were able to..commandeer.. four spell batteries as well as five defense pillars." That was definitely something to cheer about, the spell batteries would position well on top of the mighty walls.
"That is indeed good news! With your fifty we are 125 strong. That should be more than enough to defend the city." Dumbledore shock Arthur Weasley's hand. Then the red headed wizard left to gather those he brought. Dumbledore cast the Sonorus charm on himself, then stood to make a announcement.
"Today we go to the defense of a potential ally. Not only do we gain a friend, but we have a chance to stop Voldemort from gaining something that he has been searching for. Today we will fight for the future, and to protect the peace we have enjoyed for the past fifteen years." With that said the wizard ended his charm and turned to where the Port key's were kept.
The group began to touch random items set out on tables and soon they were being whisked away to a forest far away. Little did they know they were being whisked off to a army that had been waiting for them for two full days.
Off on the field in front of the besieged walls stood the Dark Lord they wished to stop so desperately. The wizard watched as multicolored blasts of light shot towards the protected walls and then shattered against the shield. He would have to use all ten cannons to force these magical shields to drop. But for now six would remain pointed into the valley. Any minute now he expected the report that would signal his departure.
A death eater ran to his masters side, he was severely out of breath. When he reached the dark lord he fell on his knees and waited for his master to acknowledge him.
"Proceed" The master waved a hand at the younger death eater, and the wizard rose from his knees.
"Master, McNair reports that the defense pillars registered transportation magic not far from here. He believes it to be Dumbledore." The Dark Lord nodded and motioned for the young death eater to return to his post.
"Lucius, have Wormtail silence those batteries. Alert the six that they must soon fire. The battle is yours Lucius, get me my map!" With that the Dark Lord left for the Portkey zone so that he could leave.
Above the field Harry watched as continuous cannon fire stopped. He knew what this meant, he had expected it any time now. Dumbledore had arrived.
"We'll move to the edge of the tree line, the bulk of us will remain at the top of the valley. Lets move quickly." The wizards began to move through the forest. The batteries and pillars took the rear as they moved as quickly into the forest as they could.
The forests of the mountains were lush this time of year. The birds signing in the trees made a beautiful melody, and the wizards were still in awe of the mighty mountains that rose up in the distance. Many walked through the wooded area wondering who would be willing to destroy such a beautiful area. The birds chittered and chattered to each other in songs that could make angels jealous. Still they walked on to where the forest began to thin down a bit, soon they'd reach the edge of the valley. Soon they'd have to say goodbye to the birds songs. However.. The birds had already stopped singing. Everything had stopped, the birds, the wind, the squirrels in the trees. The whole world just went mute.
That was when Albus sensed it, the scent that permeated the air. The scent of strong magic and old bodies coming from ahead. But it was to late now.
One minute the silence was broken by a magically amplified shoot. Then the scene was shattered by huge blasts ripping through the trees and crashing around the group. It began like rain now, a stream of boulder size spell blasts would rip through trees before exploding around them. Twigs and branches rained down above them from trees that were having their limbs ripped to pieces.
"Gather and cover! Begin shielding charms!" Albus had taken charge just as panic began to set in. This panic was only amplified when several found they could not Apparate out and to safety. Now the groups began to gather into smaller sections of twenty five. They took turns chanting, and small pink bubble began to appear all over the forest. Still the blasts of multicolored light surged through the trees. Bright red blasts slammed into some of the shields. Flames exploded from some of the blasts and licked the trees around the bubble. Debris from the trees continued to fall and slam against the shields that were meant to take only heavy spell blasts. Sizzling white balls of light connected with shields and caused sparks to fly and ignite nearby piles of leaves. Several shields began to flicker under the non magical barrage. But they didn't have time to erect a new shield or a stray blast could hit the entire group. Something had to be done.
"Albus pointed to where a man who looked oddly similar to Sirius Black (Yes this is Sirius) was trying to rally his command." The man seeing that the headmaster wanted him passed his command down to his next in charge. He darted out of his bubble and ran through the burning debris and into the headmasters just as another white blast hit the bubble and discharged all around.
"We must get the defense pillars erected. Have Arthur and his command take care of preparing the defense station. They can drop back farther into the safety of the forest. We will attempt to advance to the edge of the Valley, once we get there. Your and my division will work to raise the pillars while the other divisions stand barricade ahead of us." Sirius Blacks face became solemn.
"Albus, they'll be dead shots out there, I don't know how long they'll last." The headmaster just nodded before beginning to pass the message throughout the commands.
When the Headmaster gave the signal Arthur and his group began to drop back. Two of the groups pressed forward, then Sirius and Albus followed. Spell blasts continued to rock the earth and fell the air with terrible booming crashes as they discharged against the shields. The two groups finally emerged from the forest and got their first look of the army laid out before them. Strange inhuman figures walked amongst their ranks and in shock the group on the front left dropped their defense. Sirius began to shout for them to raise it once more, but it was to late. The enemy had caught them in a moment of weakness and three blasts had been launched in their direction. The group in the front right shifted to met the attack but only succeeded in glancing two of the blasts. The discharge of fire spilled onto some of the unprotected party and they fell to the ground writhing in pain. Those who didn't fall darted into the other bubble just before the third blast struck. Those left out were hit by the force of the white light and several stopped moving.
Those who made it began chanting and expanding the bubble to cover more space. Behind them Sirius and Dumbledore along with 48 others worked to erect the five defense pillars. Spells discharged on the lead bubble and showered the area in the dangerous emissions as they worked to raise the first three pillars. No sooner had they been implanted in the ground then the orbs began to glow, signaling Arthur had activated them. Now the lead bubble dropped behind the pillars and worked with the others to raise the final two pillars farther out and lengthen their line to the full length that was reachable along that face of the valley. Spells continued to fire in their direction, but now brilliant red shields leaped into the air and absorbed the impact. The power of the spell was sent back to the orb where it was converted and used to power the very pillars that absorbed it. Soon the five pillars glowed in their place and the weary wizards could take a moment to take stock.
"Bring the batteries forward. Set them in the tree line behind our shields! Get a damn portkey zone cleansed by the defense orb and get those damn medi-wizards here now!" A flurry of activity began once more. Many went to gather the wounded, others to begin the cleansing spell. More began to move the cannons forward. Albus Dumbledore was left trying to figure out if there was still a way he could save this hell.
******
Securing the Mountain Flats
Day 3, 4:00 P.M.
******
Now was the time to begin moving. The din of fire that rang through the air before was nothing compared to that which now rocked the mountain side. Harry cringed when he saw the blasts continue to pound against the shields the light forces had struggled to erect. Now was his chance to take control of the mountain flats and position himself for a ambush of his own design.
"Listen, Ten are to circle through the trees and get below the enemy. Do not reveal yourselves to the dark forces below us! You are to destroy any who try to retreat down the path. Non must survive this if we are to remain effective. The rest of you will take position just below the crest on this side. Wait for them to come to you, I will draw them out. Once they have extended themselves we will strike them from all sides." A hustle broke out as the giants began to eagerly expect battle. All signs that they had camped their had been erased and the giants had almost disappeared into the dense foliage. It was amazing that such huge people could hide so well. Harry briefly wondered if the enemy would pick up the giants scent. He hoped that since the scent wasn't human they wouldn't be expecting the attack.
Once he received the signal that everyone was into position Harry began to put his plan into action. He wore a dark green battle robe that blended well with the trees and he began to make his way over the crest of the mountain path. He carried a air of confidence and walked like he belonged there, quickly he descended till he almost came directly on top of the group of twenty beast warriors.
"Good afternoon, I was wondering if you could give me directions. I'm a bit lost you see." Harry smiled at the group of beast warriors that were standing in the forest in front of him. The creatures looked to one another before one of them decided to take the lead and approach the human.
The beast walked closer to Harry and he stood calmly waiting for it. When it was within striking distance, the creature attacked with it's sword. It slashed at the boy's stomach, but he was already prepared. Harry spun around and let the beasts sword strike the blade that was strapped to his back. Harry backed into the creature and let his wand slip into his hand. He shot a force spell strong enough to make a giant falter from underneath his other arm. The spell connected with the beast and it flew backwards and wrapped itself around a tree. The sound of it's back cracking in two drew the rest of the beasts towards the boy.
"Now is that anyway to treat a traveler. A guy could start to think he was unwanted!" Harry took a step away from the advancing mob, then he broke into a run back over the crest. He could hear them coming behind him. A small smile crossed his face as he lead them forward.
Harry spun around to face his pursuers, his blade sliding free from it's sheaf as he turned. The beasts slowed and then stopped to look at him. They could smell something in the air, something they hadn't come across before.
"Come now, we're just starting!" With that giants appeared out of the woods like they'd only been hiding under sheets. A swell of emotion struck Harry, it was something that he had never felt before. Anger, hate, rage, and joy all at once. It was like surging flood waters attempting to burst through some dam. The emotions threatened to sweep him away in his own mind, but he had to remain anchored. Harry took a moment to clear his mind and the world seemed to resume at it's normal pace.
Now he could see the battle was beginning, the beasts were taken off guard by the giants ambush. Harry took the opportunity to slash clean through the chest of one who had let it's guard down to analyze the new threat. In one fast motion he ran forward and resumed the attack. Two of the beasts took focus on him, but his blade gave him the reach and he attacked with the advantage. Harry brought a strong chop downwards and a beast had to take a step back to steady itself from the force. Now he took the opportunity to stab through it's chest while it struggled to keep it's balance. The other attempted to strike him from the side, but Harry shifted to the other side of his sword that was still sticking into the injured beast. The sword acted as a bar and caught the oncoming blow. The force of the downward swing ripped the blade down through the impaled beast and out it's crotch. Now that it was free he swung upwards at the unguarded beast and loped off it's head.
The battle raged on around him as the giants attacked and mutilated the beasts that had followed. Seeing that they were outnumbered they tried to retreat through the trees, only to be met by the blades of the giants who had circled below. Once more Harry felt a wave of emotions as he fought on. This time pain and fear was mixed in and it only intensified the storm.
Harry wiped his wand out and pointed it towards the retreating backs of the remaining beasts. Harry shouted a spell and a blast of light struck a tree near the enemy. The mighty timber fell to the side and crushed two of the beasts trying to make a escape. A third fell to a giants ax and a fourth to a thrown boulder that crushed the beast against a tree.
Spells flew from Harry's lips as he fought to finish off the remainder of the enemy forces. Still he had to be careful not to use anything that could alert those below to their position. Harry pointed his wand towards some of the fallen bodies and banished their weapons. The blades flew through the air and pierced another like a pin cushion. Then he hit the beast with a force spell and it flew into another beast. The sword sticking through it's body ripped into the seconds flesh.
Harry watched as the last of the enemy fell to the ground dead. None had escaped, and none would live to give word of the threat waiting in the mountains. The injury report was minimal and Harry made sure that those with small wounds were tended to. Then they began to move down the mountain. It was slow going because they had to stick to well covered areas.
Now they were in position, for the first time they got their first good look at the field below them. They were tucked in a forest grove on the flats above the field. When they charged they would rip into the enemy's unprotected side.
Whatever had overtaken him in the battle seemed to have past and Harry began to prepare for their next attack. He had a few more surprises to put together so that when they attacked none could stand in their way.
******
Valley of the Beast
Day 3, 4:30 P.M.
******
Sirius approached the command tent with a solemn face. After an hour of constant bombardment and two shield failures they had finally managed to come under some semblance of structure. They had managed to create a bunker running into the side of the valley itself and had positioned the spell batteries at tunneled out windows. Now if the shields faltered under the constant onslaught the those in the foreground would not suffer so severely.
The staff of St. Mungo's had set up a field hospital deep behind the spell batteries range and were working to heal the wounds from the initial onslaught as well as those suffered during shield failures. They were working tirelessly to heal the wounded so that they could reinforce the line, sadly they had suffered several severe casualties who would not be returning.
Sirius was forced to steady himself when a unexpected tremor emanated from close by. They had started to return fire, at least they could do something in this failed mission. Not that it would do much good. The enemy had two shield barriers to every one of their spell batteries, they would easily shrug off the attack. This mission had been a disaster, so much so that he was looking for someone to blame. It had to be that bastard Snape who passed on bad information, or worse, drew them into this hell.
Sirius entered the bunker and walked to were Albus and the group commanders had gathered. Albus, himself, Arthur, and two other ministry Aurors made up the party of command. Each had been responsible for 25 of their troops. Now their numbers had suffered greatly, still they would follow Albus.
"Good, now that Mr. Brown has joined us we can begin." Just who did Albus think he was, like that would fool anyone. Mr. Brown indeed, even with a few physical changes the old man was taking a risk.
"Perhaps we should just wait Albus, it will be very difficult to breech their defenses." One of the Aurors suggested.
"That's not a option, if we are to wait then we might as well go home. Voldemort will wait just as long, and he will break into those walls long before we overcome him if we wait." That made a lot of sense, it's not like they were posing a threat just sitting here and getting shot at. Nor would the shields hold for a indefinite amount of time. They were already being stressed by the number of spells being fired at them.
"What about their apparition zone, have we had any luck cracking the frequency their using to disrupt the field with?" Arthur was definitely a smart one, if they could find the frequency they were using for their apparition zone they could pinpoint the spot and then Apparate in.
"No, it's to far away and their shields and the residual magic from their spell batteries is to much of a disruption to gain any headway. We also have no clue what resonance the dwarves are using to hold the field up. To many variables to randomly sift through." Sirius knew this would be the case, now he wondered what the old wizard had planned.
"We must make a attempt on that field, or at least the valley. We cannot just sit here and allow Voldemort to entrench himself further. It will be tough enough as it is. We will send three companies into the valley to secure the forest. We will set barriers at the edge of their side of the valley. From there we will launch our attack." Sirius almost bite his tongue, the old man was crazy, did he understand what he asked them to do. Thankfully one of the Aurors voiced what he thought.
"Albus, you can't be serious? We'll be eating their spell fire the entire way, not to mention we have no idea what awaits us in the forest below. Surveillance reports that the enemy isn't even human. Sure, there are wizards over there, but the bulk of them are some type of strange creature." Sirius hadn't heard this last part, but he realized that he would get close enough of a look soon.
"It is the only way, once we have the forest we will proceed from there. I have chosen the groups to lead this attack. Mr. Anders, you will take your company and enforce the right flank. Mr. Mackenzie, you will enforce the left flank. Mr. Brown, you will drive the middle. You leave in ten minutes, gather your men together. I have provided a device to communicate with each other as well as here. Good luck and may Merlin be with you."
Sirius left the tent after the briefing to prepare his men, this would not be easy by any stretch of the word. It would be a tough road ahead of them and this would only be the first step. Dumbledore called him over to where the old man was standing.
"Sirius, I thought I should let you know that I sent Fawkes with port keys to retrieve Remus, Hagrid, Madame Maxime ,and Harry. Harry will be returning to Hogwarts, but the rest should be coming here. I'll inform you when they arrive. I have also sent the port key for Rita, she should be here within the hour." Sirius nodded, at least Harry would be well out of danger. That would be one less thing he had to worry about. Now he could focus on the battle ahead.
Now Sirius stood with his men positioned at the edge of the shields. Spell fire still rocked the valley and soon they would be charging through it. Now was the time for their charge to the forest below.
"Maintain formations until you reach the forest. You leave after the next enemy spell volley." Dumbledore's voice cut out of the small ear piece tucked behind Sirius's ear.
The light flashed from the opposite side of the valley and the massive energy spikes slammed into the shields. In a flash the shields absorbed the impact, and just as quickly they had taken off in a charge down the field. Now they were in between both their and enemy spell fire. The ground trembled as they ran at full speed down the face of the valley. Sirius watched as enemy fire arched in towards them, and their own fire was returned to attempt to counter the enemy blasts. Several of the spells met in the air and showers of sparks and fire rained down from above them. Others slammed into the valley and created pocked craters along their side of the field. Dirt flew into the air from where the spells connected creating a cloud of debris, but the forest drew closer and with it came cover from the aerial attack.
Sirius hit the ground once he entered the forest, his wand drawn and already strafing for targets. He was vaguely aware that the rest of his company had followed his example once they had reached the forest. Now he had to take command and lead the group.
"All right, spread out in groups of five. Two on each side, group leaders will guide you forward. We're pushing to the other side of the forest. Loose formation, but stay ready. Move out." Sirius watched as his orders were carried out. The company spread out, but not far enough that they couldn't see the groups to either of their sides.
Sirius listened for the other commanders to signify that they were ready. He waited for their voices to sound above the constant din of fire that slammed into the forest canopy. Burning branches would occasionally rain down from above them, but Sirius paid it no mind.
When everyone was in position they began to make their push into the forest. Random spells would be fired at anything that moved or made noise above the constant pounding that rained in on them. Still they met no resistance.
"Damn!!! They're coming out of no where! What the hell are they! Fall back to defensive positions, reinforce the Left!" Sirius heard the left flank commanders shouting on his ear piece. He quickly shouted out orders to his own group to assume a defensive position. No sooner had the order been given then the enemy attack.
The strange beasts seemed to come at them in small groups. Only a couple at a time, but they didn't charge at them directly. The hit and faded quickly, using the forest to their advantage. Striking like wolves at one's heels.
A small group of three fell before Sirius and his group. They quickly made short work of one of the men, ripping his stomach out and spilling his guts before the rest of the small party.
"Open fire!" The order was unnecessary as the remaining four men had already begun to shout various spells towards the attacking party.
Sirius shot a stunning spell at the one closest to him and the creature seemed to give it little mind. The red light glanced the creature in the shoulder but it continued to run towards them anyway. Now he shot blasts of lightning, no longer attempting to preserve his enemy. The blast struck the creature and left deep scorch marks on it's body. Still it continued to approach, a spell shot a fountain of water to push the enemy back and Sirius took advantage by throwing a freezing charm to deep freeze the enemy. The offending creature was trapped in the icy prison and a force spell shattered it and the ice together.
The other two broke off their attack and darted back into the forest around them. Sirius recognized the enemy's resistance to spells and relayed orders accordingly. They hadn't brought alternative weapons so they would have to make due.
"The enemy is resistant to most spells. Use focus groups, two and three to a target. Combine strength to take them down. Close the ranks and bring groups closer together to assist one another." The company followed Sirius and did as he told. Sirius could hear similar orders being dispatched, as well as Dumbledore asking for their position. He relayed the coordinates and moments later spell fire was raining down in front of their groups.
Amidst the fire the enemy still acted, now in groups of four and five. Sirius picked at target and began shouting fire spells along with other members of his group. Arrows and balls combined to strike targets and slow them down. A second shot brought the creature down, but the others were still attacking them with a furry. Sirius erected a physical barrier to stave off a sword strike and two of his comrades focused a force spell on the creatures leg to hobble it to the ground. A well placed spell blast slammed through the tree tops and incinerated two creatures still coming.
Sirius made a motion and the group began to push onward. The trees rained fiery debris from above them as them moved forward in the fading sunlight. Several creatures darted out from behind trees and attacked his group striking down another man before they could throw up shields. The remaining two clustered closer to Sirius and focused on the offender. Three cutting charms slashed into the stomach of the beast and the creature fell to it's knees. Still more attempted to push at them from the sides. They were being overwhelmed, and before they could fall adjust the creatures were gone back into the forest.
"Break divisions, move to secondary groups." The remainder of the five original groups began to meld together to form three groups. Hopefully with more men they could focus easier and be able to defend their sides.
Creatures seemed to pop up in the middle of their groups and attack them from within. Sirius spun around and shot a blinding spell that struck the creature in the eyes. The creature shrieked in pain and got hit in the back with several strong force spells. The creature bent over, but before they could pick another target the creatures had attacked another and escaped into the forest.
The sun fell behind the horizon and what little light that reached through the trees disappeared. Now only the flashes from the spell blasts above, and the falling burning debris offered any illumination. If there was any question that the creatures had the advantage before, now they clearly were superior. The continued to attack like it was brightly lit out.
The appeared to the left and Sirius dispensed his group accordingly. Some attempted to raise physical shields while others struck back at the enemy with various spells. In the dark they managed to slip around the defenses and took down three more. Something had to be done or they would suffer significant loses.
"Dumbledore, we need to pull back! We can't fight in the dark, they've pressed us to hard!" Sirius waited for a response. Similar reports were given out by the other commanders. He vaguely noted that the voice of the right flank commander had changed. He had heard that they got struck extra hard and the commander was hurt badly. Perhaps he had not survived or wasn't able to lead any longer.
The enemy continued to attack out of the darkness and then retreat as they waited. Sirius dove onto his back and shot a spray of red light at a enemy the was sneaking up behind him. The light was blistering hot and boiled the creatures skin where it made contact. Two more wizards shot spells at the creature and it fell to the ground.
"Very well, withdraw! We'll attempt to provide light and cover." A spell blast shot up into the air and exploded above them. It left a strange blue light glowing above the field. Then spell fire began to pummel their retreat. The trees broke out in flames as their position was rained in on by fire from both sides.
Quickly they pulled back to the edge of the forest and then began to move up the valley face. The glowing light dissipated and plunged the area into darkness once more, luckily this provided cover from the enemy fire that attempted to pick them off as they struggled to return behind their lines.
The red glowing defense pillars provided a sense of relief to Sirius, they signified temporary safety. Soon even that safety would be challenged.
***
Harry watched as the battered forces fled the forest to return to their encampment. Funny how he couldn't bring himself to feel lose over those who did not return. They had known what it could mean if they rushed forwards. Why bother shed wasted tears for those who had taken a known risk.
It wasn't like any of them were an innocent. They wielded their weapons to kill just as he did. Truthfully they all deserved whatever fate awaited them. No one was truly innocent, they were all sullied by blood.
Still some part of him longed to not spare another second. To charge into battle in a blaze of fire and fight till the last man. He had to realize that this impulse was some vestige of his Gryffindor self. Now was the time for shrewd tactics. He had to wait for the enemy to expose themselves or it would all be for naught. Till then they would have to fend for themselves.
It was times like these that made him question himself. What was he becoming that he could sit by as his friends and brothers in the cause were fighting for their lives.
Still some part of him knew the answer. Somewhere deep down his spirit had fallen asleep. He had become somehow numb and cold. There was no one who could call him back from the edge now, but when he leapt he would bring the world with him. ***
Sirius limped into the bunker, spell blasts still echoing against the shields above them. Men passed him as they hurried to add protections to the lines, while others delivered reports or orders to those who made decisions.
However, it wasn't these men that caught his attention. It was the one standing next to Dumbledore. A man with graying hair who he hadn't seen for so long. Sirius sidled up behind the man without letting him know he was there.
"He left a few days before Fawkes came, took two companies with him. Albus, things did not go as we planned. Things have changed, he has changed. Whatever happens we can't tell Sirius, if he knew Harry was somewhere out there." That was all Sirius needed to figure out what they were talking about. The details didn't make sense, but one thing was certain. Harry wasn't where he was supposed to be.
"What are you talking about! Harry is supposed to be back at Hogwarts! What happened!" Remus spun around, his expression changing when he saw the man behind him. Even disguised Remus could identify his old friend. He weighed his options, then after a glance towards Dumbledore for approval he continued.
"Things went better than we planned, the giants choose to join us in a alliance. This was mainly thanks to Harry and his actions along the way. In turn, they choose him as their ambassador." Remus went on to describe their journey through the mountains. How they fought along the way, and how they joined the half giants. He told them of the ambush and of the trial. He told them of the giants decision and what Harry had said to bring about the change. Then he told them of Harry's last day at the city and how he left with a army, bound for the battlefield.
"What was he thinking!" Sirius shook his head and pounded his fist against the maps laid out on the table. Albus only stared at the maps more intently. A strange expression on his face, not his normal knowing smile or twinkling eyes. He looked uncertain, the truth be told he had expected the giants to join with Voldemort. It hadn't even been a thought that Harry might sway the course he had plotted. The boy was a catalyst in the truest sense of the word. Where ever he went change followed. As long as he was around their were infinite outcomes that could follow him. If he had left when Remus had said he should have arrived well before them. He voiced the questions that kept rolling through his head to no one in particular.
"Where are you Harry, and what are you playing at?"
******
Arrival of the Unnamed Warriors
Day 4, 1:00 A.M.
******
"Sir! Dumbledore's forces have been driven back. Also we have received word from the master." Lucius turned to face the younger man standing at his side. A slight inclination of his head was all the man received to indicate he should report.
"The master's plans run smoothly and he has sent 100 beast warriors as reinforcements. He says that with the reinforcement's you best not fail him." Lucius smiled and then turned back to watch the small forms of the retreating enemy.
"Have the reinforcements join them in the valley, once there they should attack the opposite side. I want them crushed." The younger death eater nodded and then took off to dispatch the orders. Lucius smiled, it would be much longer now.
***
Faces were solemn on the opposite side of the valley. The constant bombardment was beginning to take a toll upon their already frayed nerves. Now they were attempting to find a way to launch another attack against the opposite side of the valley.
They were debating whether it would be best to bring forces from further down the mountain and guide them through the forest in the valley farther away from the enemy lines. That's when it began, or rather that's when it stopped.
A moment of silence fell over the mountain side as the bombardment stopped. The dread silence wove itself through each of their bodies and disheartened even the bravest of them. Something was definitely up and chance are they wouldn't like it.
"Division commanders to your posts, stretch the line and prepare for a attack." Dumbledore broke the spell of silence and a flurry of activity began as unit leaders rushed back to their groups.
"I want everyone who can hold a wand to be prepared, we'll hold them off as the come to the top. The bunkers will provide us cover, and the spell batteries will rip the apart. Remus, join Mr. Brown's unit." Sirius looked to his friend and the two left the bunker to prepare.
Soon they were all prepared for the attack. Orders buzzed in Sirius's ear as other commanders dispatched their men. He debated with himself whether he should just take out the ear piece
Their own batteries flared to life once more, this time sending balls if light out. The light exploded and illuminated the mountains. The sight it revealed chilled Sirius to the bone. No less than One hundred and twenty five of the beasts were making their way out of the forest. This force was larger than all the men they brought with them. They could only pray to hold out using their superior position.
The first wave of the enemy crested the valley at a full run. Hideous features were illuminated by the blue light that hovered high in the air. The batteries flared to life once more, and deadly spell blast ripped at the still charging enemy.
"Ready, FIRE!!!" No sooner had Sirius given his order than spells began to flash all down the line. At least here the enemy couldn't duck into the trees after they struck, and their defense allowed them to target the enemies more efficently.
Blasts of fire struck the front of the enemy forces, the smell of charred flesh filled the air like rotten meat left out in the sun. Still they came, like some mindless machine.
"NOW!" Sirius waved to men who were standing behind him and they to rushed up onto the mound to add their strength to the weakening men. Those who were originally fighting dropped back to recharge before they must strike again. If the enemy kept up this relentless pace they wouldn't be able to hold them off much longer.
Again they switched lines, but still the enemy came at they with feral intensity. It wouldn't be long now until they were force to fall back or fight them face to face.
Sirius turned behind him to see a sight that made ice form in his veins. Some how a army of at least 90 had gotten behind him, wizards cloaked in red were coming out of the tree line. In a split decision Sirius put Remus in charge and turned to contact Dumbledore. It was already to late, the old wizard had already reached the front of the line. He crackled with power that would intimidate even this army.
"What do you want here?" His wand sparked in his hands as he prepared to face this new threat.
"Only to help, you looked like you were in need." Dumbledore didn't speak, nor did he let his gave shift away from them.
"Look, there is no way either of us could stop the enemy and free the dwarfs alone. Perhaps if we joined together we might stand some chance." Sirius had reached Dumbledore's side.
"Who would we be joining with?" That was definitely a valid question.
"Just some people who have a vested interest in protecting these dwarfs. The only thing you should be concerned with is your falling line. The sooner you make your decision the sooner we can join you and perhaps stave off this attack." Dumbledore looked at the man carefully, his features were well hidden beneath his cloak.
"Fine!" With that decided new orders began to circulate. Dumbledore's forces shifted to the left and this new group took up the right. Now they were able to more than double their attack power. The enemy began falling back under this new resurgence. Still it was difficult due to their resistance to magic.
When they had fallen back into the valley Dumbledore was forced to make a decision. He would not get another chance like this. Still, he'd have to do something he hated to be effective at all. He spoke to all the leaders.
"Now will be our best chance, if not out only chance. We will pursue them back into the valley." Now came the tough command, the one he hated to make.
"Due to the enemies resistance to magic I am authorizing the use of the killing curse. Use it only when you have a sure shot at hitting the enemy. I don't want any accidents." There, it had been done. Silence greeted the command, then the unit leaders began to issue commands once more.
Sirius and Remus lead the division on the charge. Soon men straight down the line had leapt forward and gave chase. Green light illuminated the enemy as they began to fall. The killing curse began to do it's job, it killed. The batteries struck out at the forest and other side of the valley with a vengeance. They were striking with everything they had now.
Some turned to fight back, but they were down hill and the killing curse was flying at them from all directions. Blood and sweat dripped off those who chased the beasts. They struck at them for their fallen comrades. Stepping over the bodies of fallen enemy and ally as they moved closer to the forest.
Here in the darkened forest the enemy attempted to make a stand, they relied on their former methods. But the light's numbers as well as the killing curse made their attacks less effective. They would fall before they got a chance to get to close. Some ran and through their swords to impale the enemy before they were struck with the green death light. The attacked with no hope for survival, but they attacked non the less.
Soon they had passed through the forest and stepped out onto the hill of the opposite side of the valley. The pushed onward, and up towards the other side of the valley. They could not have been prepared for what they were meet with. Only now did they get their first glimpse of the true size of the enemy. Even with the added strength of the unnamed army they couldn't compete with the mass of beasts and wizards they were now met with.
Lucius smiled when the first of them reached the field. He nodded to a death eater by his side and the batteries resumed their attack.
The spell blasts slammed into them as they attempted to perform some defense. Spears filled the air as the a army of beast threw them at the approaching wizards. Sirius watched as a spear ripped through a mans head and imbedded him into the ground. They couldn't fight this.
There spells slammed into the enemy's shied wall and were absorbed. Only the killing curse could penetrate, but the onslaught was just to much to stand up against. Lights hope was dimming.
***
Harry watched as the Light army rushed after the enemy. He had been worried when he saw the reinforcements, but now that was in the past. Still, they had no chance at breaking the siege with their numbers.
A trill drew his attention away from the flashing light of the battle field bellow, he looked up to see Fawkes swirling in from above. A note was attached and Harry removed it from the bird.
Dear Harry,
Hope your summer went well. Here is a port key set to take you back to Hogwarts, I'm afraid I won't be there to meet you. Some trouble has come up and I will be a bit busy. Remus and Hagrid will be coming to were I am, but a Professor will be there to meet you.
Albus Dumbeldore
"Well, I'll say he's gotten himself into a bit of trouble. What do you think Fawkes." Fawkes trilled and looked down upon the battle bellow.
"Don't worry Fawkes, Everything will be OK. Though I think you tracked me down for nothing. I don't think I'll be returning to Hogwarts just yet." The bird gave another trill and squeezed his shoulder a bit. Harry was a bit worried about Dumbledore and all those he knew. They soon would be running into the full force of the enemy. Unfortunately this was something he had been hoping for. If Lucius reacted as he expected they would play right into his hands. Still, Perhaps there was something more he could do.
"Fawkes would you mind carrying a letter for me." Fawkes seemed to agree so Harry grabbed a quill and paper from his pack. He scratched out a note, and for some reason he got the impression that Fawkes was reading it as well. As he signed his name Fawkes grabbed the paper and flew off towards the red shield surrounding the dwarves kingdom.
Harry thought Fawkes was going to crash, but the wall seemed to simply open and let the bird through.
***
A sentry was standing duty when the Fire bird soared in and landed atop the battlements. No sooner did it land than twenty dwarves had reached it prepared to fight. When they saw what had arrived a hurried message was passed through until the commander of the dwarvish army arrived to remove the note.
It had been stressful for the dwarves, especially because they had recently found that the generator for their shield was over loading do to the constant bombardment. It wouldn't last another full day.
The commander took the note and read it to himself. His gaze stiffened, then he looked towards the mountain path. It took him only a moment to make his decision, this would be their last chance.
"Assemble all the forces, we are going to battle."
***
Harry watched as a humongus signal fire illuminated the inside courtyard of the dwarven city. They had agreed, now it was up to him to begin the attack. When he did he would come down with the full force of the giant and dwarvish army.
******
Attack of the Blood Angel
Day 4, 4:00 A.M. Dawn
******
"Kill them All!" Lucius spoke calmly as he watched the retreating light warriors. They hadn't been prepared to fight this many and they had paid for it, now they were in full retreat.
"Sir, if we chase we will not have enough men to hold both the field and the valley. It will take significant forces to finish them off." Lucius turned towards the quivering death eater.
"It doesn't matter, who do we have to fear? The Dwarves? Once we defeat Dumbledore then it is only a matter of time. Stretch the lines and chase them."
"Yes sir." The death eaters scurried to pass the orders along. Soon a full one hundred and fifty were being stretched out after the retreating light.
***
Harry watched with a smile on his face. Lucius had played into his hands. Now when he attacked he could drive a wedge right through the two lines. They even stood a shoot at reaching the defense orb. If they destroyed that it would be all over for them. The spell batteries could eat their entire army. Yes, Finally the time for action had come. It was finally time to pay them back for the lives they had taken.
"Now is the time, First division prepare. It will be our job to drive the wedge. Second division will follow on my signal they will attack and push towards the dwarven front. Then once we have joined we will drive the remaining enemy into the valley. We begin in fifteen minutes." Harry left to prepare himself. He put on a pair white battle robes. They were his last clean pair so he was lucky that they would get to attack today. Soon they wouldn't be white anymore, just like his soul they would be stained.
Harry approached the edge of the forest. Twenty five giants standing at his side. The rest positioned behind them with a surprise he had prepared. He amplified his voice to speak before he attacked.
"Today we stand not as individuals but as brothers in arms. We stand not as soldiers, but as on mighty weapon. We are not single powers, but a tidal wave of force. Remember that! Remember our strength together. Below us are perversions against nature, things that were never intended to walk the earth. Let us be a cleansing fire and wiped them from the face of these mountains. Spare them no quarter as they do not deserve any. It is time we fall on them like fire and burn them to the ground." Harry turned back towards the enemy, he gave a nod to Torag who was with the second division and then hardened his gaze.
Like before he could feel a surge of emotions. A strange feeling that he couldn't quite put his finger on it.
"CHARGE!!!!!" Harry leaped out of the trees and began down the slope. The earth began to shake as the division followed him. The sounds of battle bellow them seemed to dim as this new strange sound echoed through the mountains. Like prey realizing they are in the path of a lion, they knew. They knew that the world was crashing down around them.
Harry's blood began to boil as the emotions began to press into him. Now he knew what was happening, these weren't his feelings. This was the combination of all those around him. There lust for blood and battle was driving him on. Their rage was building his own to levels beyond his control. There will for battle had pushed him to take the lead, he was the catalyst of everything they wanted.
By end of the day the battle would be a blur for him, but tales would be told of how he fought. Song would be sung of his ferocity. He would have taken both the first and the last blood of the day. Like he was a demon raised up from the depths of hell, they would say.
Some say a berserker was a person who had so little care for those around them, that they were mindless killing machines, but now Harry had a different idea. Perhaps they were just so in tuned with those around them that they felt to much. Perhaps in battle the emotions of the enemy and allies would drive them into a frenzy, for that is what was happening to him.
Harry's sword was in his hands before he could realize he had drawn it. He ran with speed he never before had, driving him ahead of the giants. Then a scream from his throat triggered action.
From above boulders were launched high above the attackers. The massive rocks slammed into the still unprepared lines below and bowled through them. Bodies were crushed under the attack. Many dove to get out of the way but most were crushed under the rocks weight.
The beasts attempted to form some sort of a line, but it was no use. The ground roared underneath them as the division approached. Time ran out and the giants had already reached there ranks. Harry's massive blade crashed into a beasts. The beasts blade shattered and Harry carried through it. Blood splashed into the air, but before it landed he had already ran a second through the gut. Harry had left his mind, and now what was left was simply death. Like a plague he began to sweep through the enemy ranks. They fell to his sword and wand alike. Shards of rock lifted off the ground and under his direction rained onto those in front of him. The beast attempted to shield themselves, but that only left the open to Harry's blade. He cleaved through two at once and then proceeded to eviscerate a third. The giants followed Harry, and encouraged by his acts swept into the enemy as well. They crushed the unprepared beasts underfoot and ripped them in two with their weapons. Still, non took more then Harry.
Harry pressed into the mass of moving bodies. Ripping head from body and cutting limbs free as he went. Non could stop or slow him, a path of dead was all he left in his wake. Till soon he had reached the very center where the two lines touched. He turned back and waved his sword in the air. Like thunder the earth shook once more, only now it wasn't just the second division. The great doors of the dwarven kingdom had opened and the shield had been dropped. Now hundreds of dwarves poured out of the city and engaged the enemy that had turned to face the giants. Harry let out a howl that would have sent shivers down the devils back before continuing with the battle. He had by now pushed his way across the lines to the forest with a handful of giants at his side.
The group crashed through the trees to find that the defense station had been abandoned. A quick look around told Harry all he needed to know, they had decided to put all available forces into breaking through the dwarven line. Harry dispatched orders and one of the giants raised a mighty club to crush the floating orb. Magical energy dissipated into the air and the defense pillars exploded leaving the enemy unprotected. Now Harry motioned towards the dwarven line and the first division turned their attention to pushing into the dwarven city.
They crashed back into battle, and fought with renewed strength. Harry pushed ahead of his division, striking out at anything that got close. He could feel where the enemy stood, and for the first time he was aware of this perception.
He spun around and brought his sword through a death eaters head. The man had tried to sneak up on him, now he had split him from the head to the navel. Somewhere in Harry's mind he recognized this as one of the men from the night last year, but nothing more than that. A blast from his wand knock down several standing in front of him and he took the opportunity to kill them before they rose. Harry pushed inside the massive stone building and ended up facing the magnificent sight of the dragons. Only now the inner dragons heads glowed red and moved. They cast balls of molten lava down on the enemy. Harry closed into the center of the courtyard where a larger beast warrior just finished killing a group who had approached him. The beast stood with dead bodies encircling him and a twisted grin on it's face.
Harry locked eyes with the beast and the two began to approach each other. Some watched as the two face off. Their swords met and rebounded off each other as they traded blows. Harry cast a banishing spell and the creature was launched into the air. He gave chase and caught it while it was getting up. His blade arched through the air as he made to cleave it in two, but the beast countered and through Harry back. Harry smiled and launched into the attach once more. It stroke out at his shoulder and he blocked it, but not before it bit into his skin. A reverse strike struck his leg and he rolled to regain balance. The blades stroke again and forced the two to separate. Harry dove forward and sprang from his knees driving his blade through the beasts head from beneath the chin. A cheer went up, but Harry had already proceeded on into the mountain hall.
He ran over the dead and struck out at those who stood in his way. Till he reached the center of a vast chamber. He heard voices a head of him and saw death eaters standing over a group of dwarves.
"Have you secured the map?" Harry recognized the voice of Lucius Malfoy.
"Yes sir, it has been secured." He had no idea what they were talking about, but some strange force was driving him forward to fight them. To get this map back. Not that he wouldn't have done it anyway, but now he seemed to have no choice.
"Then, escape to the Portkey point and leave." Harry ran his shoulder into the last beast that was obstructing his path and dove between the unarmed dwarves and the death eaters.
"Stop right there Lucius!!" Malfoy looked at the blood soaked figure in front of him. Harry was so coated in blood that Lucius could not recognize him. After a short pause it came to him who was standing before him.
"Ah, Potter! I didn't expect to see you here. I suppose it's you we have to thank for this intrusion. No matter, we've gotten what we've come for." Harry's eyes grew darker as he watched Malfoy senior.
"You may have gotten it, but you won't be leaving with it." Malfoy just laughed, he was about to tell his fellow death eaters to attack when he had a better idea.
"Oh I think you'll be to busy for that Potter." Lucius picked a hunk of rubble off the ground and withdrew a small crystal from his pocket. Harry watched as he slid the glowing crystal into the rock, then he threw the rock on the ground.
The rock seemed to shift and grow in size exponentially till a giant rock gollem the size of a large giant stood in the hall. The death eaters turned and ran from the hall.
A battle raged inside him about what to do. Something was trying to force him to forget the unarmed dwarves and go after the death eaters, but he knew he wanted to protect them. After a moment, something relented and he focused of the rock creature.
The beast slammed a rock fist into the floor and Harry dove out of the way. His wand flashed as he shot fire spells that seemed to deflect from the rock. Nothing worked as he began to lead the rock away from the dwarves and back out into the courtyard. Both ally and enemy gave him a wide birth as he dodged the creatures attacks. He could tell his magic was weakening, his force spells did less damage and chipped away less rock.
Harry dove between the creatures legs a swung at it's left one. The sword crushed through the rock and shattered it, but it seemed to grow back together before the creature fell. Harry blocked the creatures arm, but the force through him backwards and into a statue. He struggled to his feet and attacked again. He was getting no where, the creature wasn't really alive, how could he kill it?
Still for some reason it did feel alive. Perhaps it wasn't the rock that was alive, but the crystal. Harry dove out of the way of it's fist, but it struck a glancing blow that was sure to dislocate his shoulder. With all his strength Harry focused on his wand and released a massive reducto curse. The spell struck the giant rock beast and it's chest exploded outwards. Shards of rock cut into Harry and ripped his skin so that his own blood joined that which was already covering his body.
There, imbedded in the center of the rock beasts chest, was the crystal. Harry lunged in towards the rock beast and his sword shattered the crystal. The creature seemed to loose cohesion and the rocks slid off one another.
Harry rose from the ground to and found that most of the enemy had been driven back. However there was no longer any sign of the death eaters. He had no doubt that they had escaped along with whatever map they were after.
He rejoined his division still fighting outside the gates and they worked to corner the rest of the beasts. No quarter was given, all were cleansed.
***
4:00 A.M. Other perspective
***
"This is it, we must stand here!" Dumbledore shouted once they had reached their lines once more. But the battle for them would never come.
The ground began to shake and a battle cry went up from across the valley. The earth shook as giants stormed out of the mountain pass. The beasts had stopped their pursuit to watch the army seemingly flying down the hill.
It was a sight that would strike fear into the hearts of any who saw it, yes the giants were fierce. In the lead of the charge was a boy, no a man, dressed in white. He drove the giants into a frenzy and seemingly fly down the hill. A massive sword was clutched in his hand, yet he wielded it like it were light.
In a instant Dumbledore as well as everyone else who knew him, knew who this boy was. He came with power and struck the enemy with speed that was almost in human. Nothing usually surprises Albus Dumbledore, but to see the boy charge into battle like a demon was something that took even him back.
Sirius shook when he saw the boy charging down the hill, be it with fear or pride, he would never tell. Remus just shook his head with a sad expression on his face. He truly knew the innocence that had been lost for the boy that now struck out into battle.
"That's Harry Potter!" A cry went up from some disbelieving wizard who had taken out a pair of omnioculars.
Dumbledore rushed to where he saw Rita snapping pictures. He stood in her way in a attempt to stop her from continuing.
"What would you prefer me to print? Pictures of your lines being turned? Pictures of the enemy charging back to kill those who fought for the light? Or, Pictures of the Wizarding worlds savior, driving a army of giants and crushing the darkness underfoot? Which do you think will gather you more support?" Dumbledore looked at her for a moment, then he stepped to the side to allow her to continue. He knew this would only mean more pain for the boy, but it was something the Wizarding world definitely needed.
The beasts turned in their pursuit to return and help with the battle now raging on the other side.
"Give chase! We will stop them here!" Now Dumbledore knew what Harry had planned, it was a brilliant move. Now the enemy would be crushed from either side. Later he would look back on this battle and see the pure beauty of Harry's attack.
With that the light turned once more, and under the knowledge that the savior of the Wizarding world had come to aid the battle the fought with renewed strength.
******
Aftermath
Day 4, 12:00 P.M.
******
It was mid morning when Harry struck down the last of the enemy. He stood there on a mound of the dead. His mind cleared a bit now that the battle was over, and pain seemed to spill back into him from wherever it had hid.
A cheer rose around him as giant, dwarf, and the occasional wizard screamed in victory. But Harry was sick to his stomach, he didn't feel much like celebrating. He stumbled to the wall and sat down next to it, his sword leaned up against the wall forming a triangle for him to sit under. A misty rain began to fall and Harry looked down at his once white robes. Now they were stained black and red. They would never return to their original color. Just like him in a way, he would never return to his original color.
A dwarf walked up to him carrying something in his hands. Harry recognized the crest of the commander of the dwarven army.
"You'll be want in this laddy." The dwarf through his a small necklace, the gold medallion featured a sword through the center of a skull.
"What's this for?" Harry didn't really want this, it was stained in blood and he didn't really want a reminder of the battle.
"It's yours by battle. It's the medallion of the enemy commander. Oh sure, he wasn't a wizard, but you could tell who the beasts really got their orders from. They may have listened to the wizards, but they looked to that one before acting. You killed him in the courtyard, though I suppose that doesn't give you much. You killed a lot out there today. Don't believe I've ever seen someone fight like you. You've got the fires of the war god's forge in your veins. You protected the clan elders I hear as well. They'll be want in to talk to you. That can wait though. They'll be very busy. Some of your kind is look in for you." Harry got up and hoisted his sword once more.
Harry wasn't sure he wanted to see anyone right now, truth be told he just wanted to sleep. Still he had duties that had to be handled before he could leave. He nodded to the dwarf and then left to rejoin the giants.
When he reached them they gave him a new look. They looked at him with respect, and in some cases they reconsidered his words at the council. Many came to the conclusion that they wouldn't want to be on the opposite side of the field as him. Harry took Torag to the side.
"Hell of a fight." Torag spoke plainly, but his words said so much.
"I'm trusting you to lead them back to the city, I have things that I've got to do back at Hogwarts." Torag looked at Harry carefully before speaking.
"No one ever said being a man would be easy Oxgor. Most of the time it means you have to make the tough choices. That is what separates a man from a child really. Knowing the consequences and making the choices because they have to be made. Make the right choices Oxgor, because as you said, your choices will affect those who can't make them yet. Build a brighter world now." Torag turned and walked back to the giants. Many of them gave him a salute, then they slipped off the battlefield as quickly as they had come.
Harry moved through the fallen soldiers till he came across someone he didn't expect to see.
"Hello Hagrid. Glad to see your all right." The half giant turned and then enveloped Harry in a hug. Harry nearly lost his sword by the force of the giant.
"'Arry, I was worried about yeh." Harry just nodded, it was a mutual concern that didn't need to be expressed in words.
"Are we headed back to Hogwarts?" The half giant face turned sad.
"Actually arry I don't plan ter go back ter Hogwarts. I'm going ter return ter the giant city. I need to speak with me mum Harry. It's something I gotta do." Harry nodded, he understood to well. If he had a chance to meet his mum he would take it.
"Than you best hurry then. The giants have already stated towards the mountain path. I'll see you soon though. I'll have to Apparate up there once and a while. Now that I know how to." Hagrid nodded and gave Harry one last hug before heading towards the path.
Harry headed through the battlefield to search for his friends. Dead faces looked at him from the ground, but it was the figure ahead that really got his attention.
"Remus, I see you didn't stay out of this after all." The werewolf turned to look at his young friend. He saw a man covered in blood, scared by battle. He saw eyes that had seen the enemy, this was what he wanted to prevent.
"I'm glad you survived Harry, you know it's being said that it was your attack that swung the battle. They toast your name back at the camp." Harry grimaced, this was the last thing he wanted.
"Then they'd toast the name of a murderer? They'd toast the name of someone who has orphaned children just as was done to him?" Harry knew full well that he had killed wizards as well as the beast warriors.
"No, they toast a conquering champion. One who offered hope when they could only see night." Harry laughed, it was a dry laugh at best.
"Then I guess a person can be both, for that is what I am." Remus sighed, there was no use arguing with Harry when he was in a mood like this. His morals were to staunch sometimes.
"Sirius and Dumbledore are looking for you." This was another meeting Harry didn't want to face, but he would do it none the less.
Together they made they're way back behind their lines. No one recognized the blood soaked young man as the white warrior who charged down the mountain. His green eyes were the only thing that wasn't red on him.
"Remus, have you found him?" It hurt that Sirius wouldn't even recognize him. He easily saw through Sirius's disguise. Did he really look that different.
"If I'm who your talking about, than I suppose he has." Sirius turned his gaze to the young man who stood next to him. He suppressed a shudder at his appearance and then hugged him like he hadn't seen him in years.
"Harry, what were you thinking?" Harry grimaced a bit, a combination of the wounds that Sirius aggravated and the fact that he would treat him like a child.
"I was thinking how best to defeat the enemy. What were you thinking?" Sirius caught Harry's innuendo.
"Not just wait one moment, you have no right to interfere. Your to young to be fighting." Harry grimaced once more, and he noticed that Remus was trying to change the subject.
"Yes, those who stood in my way probably thought the same way. Won't make that mistake again will they?" It was Sirius turn to grimace. They would have continued if it hadn't been for Dumbledore and Rita.
"It is good to see you well Mr. Potter. I was just telling Rita about your being named the ambassador to the giant's." Dumbledore didn't seem to react to Harry's dress, but Rita did end up taking a picture. Whether it was suitable for newspaper would be a question the Daily Prophet would have to answer.
"I'd love to talk, but I'm worn out and I need to stop be the med tent. Perhaps we could do this back at Hogwarts." Dumbledore smiled and then took Rita away. Before Sirius could speak again Harry interrupted him.
"I meant you to. Not all this blood is my enemies you know." Harry turned and left his two friends behind.
"I want to have some words with you Remus." Sirius spoke with a deadly voice and the two walked off in the opposite direction.
Harry was treated to a shower and a fresh set of robes while he was given medical attention. The water ran red with a mixture of his and the enemies blood as he rinsed himself clean. He prayed this would be the last time he had to soak out blood from his hair. But deep down inside he knew that it wouldn't.
***
Two figures sat along the wall of the dwarven city. One the leader of those who arrived to fight with the light side. The other the chief elder of the dwarves.
"I fear what will happen now that the map is in his hands. If he were to find.." The dwarf trailed off.
"Yes, but there is hope. One of the brothers has already worked it's way into the Dark Lords path. If you ask me it chose wisely. Once it's brother joins it, nothing will stop them." The leader looked towards the lines of the celebrating wizards. Those who he brought with him had already disappeared. Now it was only Dumbledore's forces on the other side of the valley.
"And if worse comes to worse?"
"As I said, It chose wisely. I believe he will do what must be done. If it happens, we will be there. It has always been our duty."
******
A/N: Damn that was long, I can't believe how long this one is. Remember, reviews make the writer happy. I hope you all appreciate the battle. It was all grandious and such.
Chaser: Hope you liked the chapter!
DaBear: Yes, Voldie has to die. Either die, or go through some type of psychiatric counseling. Probably both.
Bob33 : Thanks for the review : )
sew2100: Thank you muchly!
Wquad: Thanks for reviewing!
LIEDRAL: Thanks, Glad you liked the update
Rachel A. Prongs: I hope the war doesn't destroy Harry either. But when you think about it, how can war not destroy a person?
Mel-chan: Thanks for the compliments, thats really high praise! I really pride myself on my character development and the battles. Thanks for noticing!
Otaku freak : Thanks for the review, glad you like the story!
MYSIA: Thanks for the review! I'll try to update more often.
Angelis: Glad you liked it and sorry about the wait. I don't get to use the Internet much, that's why I like to make the chapters longer. Hope you enjoy this one as well.
Rogue1615: Yeah, I haven't found to many serious war fics. And sometimes when I do they start filling it with mary sues. I find that war fics can be some of the most powerful, because there is nothing more powerful than war. War forces change and restructures life through violence. You can use war to portray powerful emotions.
Maxennce: I really wanted to get away from the little boy stuck in the closet. I think Harry has seen those simpler days torn apart, and he is searching for some control. We all try to structure the world according to our wills, I think it's time Harry started putting his two cents in.
Naomi SilverWolf: Thanks for the Review, Hope you like the chapter.
ShadowHunter: Yeah something that really bothers me is when Authors just go hazy on things that we know are going to be happening. I really like to be thorough when I cover things.
Lynlyn: Yeah cannibalistic, Voldemort is scary! But he's already gone all snake like so I figure it's just the next step. The sword was something that I sorta had planned. I wanted Harry to receive it from the giants, but It wouldn't make sense for giants to be giving out human size swords. I think that if they did have swords they would be ..well.giant swords. So no it didn't really come from anything, but what I would consider logic.
Namwolf: Yeah I like this kind of Harry to, but how could he not change. He found that from just a small decision like sharing the cup got cedric killed. I think he's realizzed the significance of little things as well as life.
Anja: Thanks for the review and the complement! I appreciate it!
jorge: Nope, this is a full year story, not just summer time. I am a firm believer that in our perfect world, adventures come to a close before the train leaves in the summer. As for relationships, I have some unique things planned, but they definitely aren't the normal. Though he may be with a couple of the normal pairings at different points. Still, I can't imagine Harry liking a clingy girl. So I don't write clingy girlfriends. i.e. "Oh Harry you can't do that alone. I'm going with you." "But it's to dangerous." "I don't care, we'll face it together." GRRR.. How pathetic is that!!!
Kathleen: Glad you like it! Giant culture was something that I really thought out before I started righting it. And I'm glad you got the middle earth vibe. Tolkien is one of my biggest influences. There are others like Hagrid out there, but I picture them as sporadic wanders. We may see others like him and Madame Maxime, but I think the majority try to stay away from public. ---Yeah, That's going to be a big thing for Hagrid. But it may take a while. Hagrids going to have a tough time approaching her. She's the mother who never had anything to do with him, but they're still family. Not to mention she's in a position a authority. I get the impression from the books that Hagrid remained with his father and never got to know his mother. Hagrid has a gentle heart and this will be a tough thing for him.
VampireLover: Thanks for the review!
J: Yeah Harry and Albus have a bit of conflict coming up. But I don't picture Albus as a bad guy. I think he just wants to protect Harry, but Harry's struggling to come into his own, and protect himself. Dumbledore will have to reevaluate how to treat Harry now that Harry has shown himself a man. You don't treat a adult and a child the same way. A new balance will be struck out between the two.
Darvio: Sorry for the wait, I don't get to use the internet much. So I at least make the chapters extra long.
Kaelli Karali : Thanks, I try to make my chapters cliff hangers, without really stopping in the middle of something important. I prefer people to wonder what happens next.
ender2000: Hoped you liked the chapter! Thanks a lot for the review!
Alia West : Just to let you know, you reviewed just as I was gettin ready to put this up! Yeah, Harry is a bit Cold hearted, but there is more involved with that then we know right now. There is a bit of a tinge of that in this chapter. Especially at the end of this chapter. Do you think I'm pushing a higher rating? I try not to be to specific. Ok, so maybe I get carried away sometime. It's tastefully done though. Artistic violence really. I think I'm making excuses, now I can't stop typing to myself. OH MY!!!
