Rise of Otherworld

by Herne-of-the-lantern

Magical creatures are tired of being oppressed. With the return of the fae and the birth of Harry Potter, they are ready to fight back. How will this affect muggles and wizards.

2. Chapter 2

Chapter 2

Voldemort stared at Severus Snape without speaking for several moments. It had been a little over a year since Snape had brought him part of the prophecy. His plans had progressed nicely. He just needed a few more people in key positions and the ministry of Magic would fall. He would've preferred this news a little sooner, but St. Mungo's had upped their security since the war had begun in earnest. Voldemort had been forced to go into ST. Mungo's himself to reverse the enchantments on the birthing records. No doubt Dumbledore was behind that. The old man was obviously trying to protect whoever this child was.

Slowly, he raised his hand and ran his fingers through his dark hair. It didn't do the old man any good in the end. Voldemort had what he needed.

"Interesting," he hissed. "So, there are two children that fit the criteria of the prophecy, but which one do I choose?"

"The Longbottom boy is a pureblood," Snape suggested. "He comes from a long pureblood line. His parents are aurors and they have escaped you three times."

Voldemort's blue eyes narrowed. "All of that is true, but the Potter child fits the prophecy as well. He is a half-blood and as much as I hate to admit it, his parents are quite powerful. Don't forget, they have also escaped me three times."

Snape looked away and said nothing. Voldemort continued to stare at him. The other man's shoulders were hunched as if expecting a blow.

"I remember," he said softly. "You were friends with Lily Evans at Hogwarts, weren't you?"

Snape winced. "I was."

"She betrayed you Severus," Voldemort whispered. "She left you for your enemy. How can you still care for her?"

"I love her," Snape said calmly. "Please milord, kill the child if you must, but spare Lily."

"Hmm," Voldemort mused. "You are asking me to spare an enemy Severus. Do you not realize that she would never stop coming for me if I spared her? She would never forgive the murder of her child right in front of her."

"I could convince her. I could make her realize it was for the best."

"Could you? You underestimate Lily Potter. I do not understand this thing called love myself. However, it forces people to do stupid things like try and stand up to someone that is far superior to them. I do not fear a mudblood, but there is a chance, a very small chance, that she could get lucky. Would you see me die to spare the life of a friend you haven't spoken to in years?"

Voldemort smirked inwardly. That was a good line. As if any wizard could defeat him. He'd taken steps to protect himself from death, but Snape didn't need to know that.

"Milord," Snape began. "I have asked you for nothing. Now I beg you, please spare her. I have served you faithfully have I not? I merely ask this one thing of you."

White hot fury Rose inside him. The nerve of the fool trying to make a deal with him. Voldemort gestured lazily. Snape crumpled to the floor, screaming in agony.

"You dare," Voldemort hissed. "You dare to bring up past loyalties to try and force me? What? If I don't do what you want will you turn against me? You are mine Severus Tobias Snape. You took my mark of your own free will. You have no right to demand anything from me."

By this point, foam and blood dripped from Snape's mouth. He writhed his arms and legs flailing uncontrollably. "P…p…please my Lord have mercy on me."

Voldemort lowered his hand. With a click of his fingers, Snape's pain faded, and the blood and foam vanished from his face and clothes.

"Forgive me," Voldemort said holding out a hand. "I lost my temper a bit there."

Snape took Voldemort's hand and was pulled to his feet. Voldemort helped him into a chair and conjured a glass of brandy. Holding it to Snape's lips, he watched as Snape drank deeply. Once he had emptied the glass, Voldemort patted him on the shoulder.

"I do apologize for that, but you must understand, you were out of line. Is your loyalty contingent on you getting what you want? If so, we have reached a parting of the ways. I cannot have anyone in the Death Eaters that will place their own selfish desires ahead of the cause."

"No Milord," Snape rasped. "You have been very clear."

"Good," Voldemort sighed. "Listen, I am not an unreasonable man Severus. I will give her a chance if I go after her. If she refuses, she will die. Is that understood?"

"Yes master," Snape whispered.

"Good," Voldemort said. "You may go now."

Voldemort watched as Snape left the room. He was a good lad, but he would need watching now. Voldemort could not allow anything to stop him from completing his work. Snape may need to be dealt with if he couldn't be brought in line.

It was a shame really. Severus had shown so much promise. "Ah well," Voldemort said. "I can always find more followers."

He had more important things to worry about. Which child was the one mentioned in the prophecy? He could not afford to mess this up. The wrong choice could result in his death and the wizarding world needed him whether they wanted to admit it or not. He had a bit of time to decide, and he intended to use it.

**ROO**

"Why didn't you tell anyone about this prophecy?" James snapped. "Bloody hell Albus, we've trusted you to lead us, and you keep something like this from us? How long have you known about the prophecy?"

Dumbledore stared down into his cup of tea. "First, I didn't know that the Longbottoms and yourselves would have children that fit the criteria of the prophecy. Second, someone has already heard part of the prophecy. We cannot afford for Voldemort to discover the rest of it. Lastly, I've known about the prophecy since November of 1979."

"At least tell the order about the prophecy," Lily said. "They need to know what they are trying to protect."

Dumbledore shook his head. "It's too risky. Voldemort is being cautious. If he learns the complete prophecy, he may attack before we have a plan in place."

"Plan?" Lily said snorting derisively. "I think the best plan is to leave the country."

"Voldemort's influence is growing," Dumbledore said patiently. "Unless you headed to the Americas, Voldemort would find you. Unfortunately, magical America and magical Canada have implemented strict immigration policies. It would take months before you could get into the country and don't think about trying to sneak in. According to my contacts, America's magical president has ordered the wartime wards raised."

"Why would they do that?" James asked. "Don't they realize Voldemort will come for them eventually?"

"They want to protect their own citizens from this war. I can't say I blame them. They are willing to send aid, but they don't want this war effecting their people if they can help it."

"Hell," Lily growled. "I'll go to magical Italy. I don't need to learn the language; That's what translation charms are for."

"Voldemort has followers in magical Italy," Dumbledore said patiently.

Lily slapped the table in frustration. "So, we just sit here and wait to die?"

Dumbledore smiled. "I have a plan. I own a small cottage in Godric's Hallow. I can transfer the deed into your name, and we can ward the cottage so you can take Harry there. It is on a fair-sized plot of land so you will not be stuck inside all the time. We can place the Fidelius charm on the cottage. With the charm in place, Voldemort won't be able to find you."

"Voldemort would be able to break any wards," James said doubtfully.

"Not the Fidelius charm," Dumbledore said. "If I was your secret keeper, you would be safe. You know I'd never betray you."

James and Lily glanced at each other. "I want to talk to my dad," James said. "If we're doing this, I don't want to leave him in danger."

"Very well," Dumbledore said. "I'll contact you in a few days and we can make plans to move you to the cottage."

"No," James said. "We have no proof that Voldemort is coming after us yet. I want to be sure before we make the decision to go into hiding."

**ROO**

Charlos Potter lit his pipe and leaned back in his chair. As he puffed, the smoke formed a halo around his head.

"That's interesting," he said mildly.

"Interesting?" James asked. "That's all you have to say?"

"What do you want me to say?" Charlos said. "My Grandson is the subject of a prophecy that foretells Voldemort's death. I would prefer you leave the country, but…"

"But?" Lily asked.

"If it is a real prophecy, then it will be fulfilled no matter what."

"You think we should trust Dumbledore?"

Charlos shook his head. "Dumbledore means well, but I wouldn't use him as a secret keeper."

"Why?"

"Because I don't see Dumbledore staying out of the fighting. If he dies, anyone who knows the secret can share it."

"What would you suggest?" Lily asked.

"I'd suggest using Sirius. He's a good lad and he would die before he betrayed you.

"That's what I was thinking," James said.

Charlos stood. "I don't want you to end up like the rest of our family. I've already lost your mother. I don't want to lose you to." He hugged James and kissed Lily and Harry good-bye.

"I'll see you soon."

**ROO**

That night, Lily tossed and turned in bed. She and James had discussed it and agreed that Sirius would be the best choice for their secret keeper. She didn't like placing all their trust in one charm. Climbing out of bed, Lily made her way down the hall to Harry's nursery. Stepping inside, she stared down at her sleeping son. Determination swelled inside her. Taking a deep breath, she spoke.

"Arawn, can you hear me?"

Only silence answered her. Sighing, she tried again.

"Arawn, I know our last conversation didn't end well, but please, I need your help. It's about Harry."

The shadows in the room seemed to writhe like coiling serpents. Arawn stepped out of the corner of the room as if he'd been waiting there all along.

"Lily," he said inclining his head. "I'm surprised you would call me so soon after our last discussion. I was under the impression you wanted me to have nothing to do with our son." There was a hint of anger in his tone, but his expression was mild.

"Did you know about the prophecy?" Lily asked.

Arawn shrugged. "The one that mentions your little Dark Lord being slain by an infant. I know of it and I'm also aware that it could be referring to our son."

"Can you help us?"

"Perhaps," Arawn said glancing down at Harry. "I could bring you in to Otherworld if you like. You'd be safe from Voldemort then."

Lily shook her head. "If Otherworld and earth slipped out of sync with each other, it could be hundreds of years before we could return."

Arawn shrugged. "I'm sure we could train young Harry up to stop your Dark Lord by then. That is assuming Tom Riddle was still alive."

"You just want him in Otherworld."

"I won't deny that is part of it, but I am telling the truth. You would be safe in Otherworld."

"No," Lily said. "We stay here."

Arawn scowled. "I cannot interfere as much as I'd like if you stay in this world. Only the fact that Harry is my son gives me any leeway at all. It is sheer stupidity for you to choose to stay here, but since I can't take Harry to safety…" He gestured, threads of light flowing from his fingertips and wrapped around Harry, sinking into his skin.

"I know that was something to do with probability," Lily said, "but what was it?"

"It was a subtle piece of magic," Arawn explained. "Any who attempt to harm Harry will have misfortune." He stared into Lily's eyes. "Be sure you only invite those you absolutely trust into your home otherwise the magic protecting Harry won't do any good."

"That's all you can do?"

"I cannot risk anyone sensing my magic. They may ask questions and I will not endanger the life of my son anymore than it already is. Also, if the Unseelie court senses my magic they may decide to aid Voldemort."

"Thank you," Lily said quietly. She hesitated before asking, "There is a charm called the Fidelius charm. We need a secret Keeper for the spell to work. Would you be willing to take that position? With you in Otherworld, I can think of no way Voldemort could breach the charm."

Arawn nodded. "I told you I'd do whatever it took to keep Harry safe. I can wear a glamour while the charm is cast. You just need to convince your husband."

Lily winced. "That's not going to be easy."

Arawn stared off into space. "I'd ordinarily not ask that you hide things from your husband, but in this case, I think it'd be for the best. He doesn't need to know I was here."

Lily frowned but nodded. "Fine." Arawn glanced back at Harry. "If you have need of me, just call." With that, the shadows rose from the floor and ingulfed him.

**ROO**

The next morning, Lily and James sat at the breakfast table. The news of the prophecy had them both feeling subdued. Even Harry seemed out of sorts, fussy and wanting to be held. Lily decided it was as good a time as any to bring up the subject of the Secret Keeper.

"James," she said tentatively.

James looked up at her. "Yes love?"

"I was thinking about the secret keeper for the Fidelius charm."

"And?"

"And I think we should at least consider Arawn for the roll."

James stiffened. "Absolutely not," he said firmly.

"Why?"

"Because he is fae and they can't be trusted. You know the stories."

"I know the muggle stories," Lily said. "And according to them Arawn was one of the more honorable fae. From what little we know about him, he stayed with another man's wife, in that man's form, for a year and was never unfaithful to his own wife."

"Didn't stop him from impregnating mine," James growled.

"We chose to use the charm," Lily said calmly. "No one forced us. If we hadn't, we wouldn't have Harry. Also, may I remind you that I am fae. Are you saying I can't be trusted?"

James was silent. "For someone to be a secret keeper, you need to trust them. I don't trust Arawn. If he really wanted to help us, he could've left a fertility charm with your family, not something that would help him have a kid. As for you being fae, you are different. You were raised by humans."

Lily sighed. James wasn't going to listen to sense. She glared down at her plate of bacon and eggs, no longer hungry. It bothered her that James didn't trust Arawn because he was fae. Would he distrust her that much in the future? As much as she wanted to argue, it wouldn't do any good.

"Fine," she snapped, "but I still think he'd be the best choice."

"I'd rather someone I trusted," James muttered. "That's why we're using Sirius if Dumbledore isn't going to stay out of the fighting. Dad thinks that'd be best and so do I."

Lily said nothing, but she couldn't shake the feeling they were making a huge mistake.

**ROO**

"Have you made a decision," Dumbledore asked.

"We'll use the Fidelius charm," James said, "but do you intend to stay out of the fighting?"

Dumbledore nodded slowly. "So long as I am not needed. If a conflict is going poorly, I cannot sit on the sidelines."

"I see," James said. "In that case, I believe we'll need a new secret keeper. Our secret keeper must stay out of the fighting to keep Harry and ourselves safe."

"I understand," Dumbledore said. "I would suggest young Peter Pettigrew."

James blinked. "Wormtail?"

"Yes, he would be the most likely not to get involved in any of the fighting."

James frowned. "It could work."

Lily shook her head. "Peter is alright, but could he stand up to torture?"

James winced. "I hate thinking of my friends like this, but Lily has a point. Peter can be brave, but he's no fighter. I'd rather Sirius."

"Mr. Black is very obvious," Dumbledore said mildly. "I really think someone else would be better."

"But your opinion isn't the one that matters," Lily said a bit sharply. "If Sirius agrees, then he will be our secret keeper."

"As you wish," Dumbledore said. "Let me know when you are ready."

**ROO**

"No," Sirius said firmly.

James looked at his friend. Sirius Black had always been the most handsome of the four of them. His dark hair and grey eyes always attracted the ladies. Now, however, those grey eyes appeared haunted and sad.

"Sirius?" James asked. "What happened?"

"My brother let Voldemort borrow that fowl house elf we have that's what," Sirius spat.

"Kreacher," James asked. "Why is that a bad thing?"

"Because House elves can find any member of their family no matter what wards protect them."

"But you were cast out," Lily said.

"I thought I was but turns out I was wrong. My Father never officially disowned me."

"So that means…" James broke off eyes widening in horror.

"That Voldemort can find me wherever I am which makes me a terrible choice for secret keeper."

James looked at Lily. "Remus?"

"Is a werewolf and cannot stay inside during the full moon."

James sighed. "Peter it is then."

"I am sorry," Sirius said.

"No worries, mate," James said. "This isn't your fault."

**ROO**

Voldemort stood in front of his Death Eaters arms open wide. "My friends," he said his deep voice ringing through the room. "I am preparing to make the final push for control of our world. Soon, my friends, soon all will know what it means to defy Lord Voldemort and his Death Eaters."

He paused as his followers cheered, stamping their feet, and shooting sparks from their wands. Once the ruckus had died down, Voldemort continued.

"One thing stands in the way of my rule. One thing, that I must take care of. I only ask that you be patient a little longer. Have faith my friends, have faith in me and in our cause."

As his followers cheered again, Voldemort smiled. These fools were so easy to manipulate. Soon, he would rule, and he would reward those that stayed loyal to him, but they would always have to remember that they answered to him. His eyes fell on a dark-haired woman at the front of the crowd of witches and wizards.

"Bellatrix," he called.

The woman came forward and bowed. "Milord," she said reverently. "How can I serve you?"

Voldemort leaned forward. "That is yet to be seen. I still need to decide which one to go after."

"Which one?" Bellatrix asked looking confused. "What do you mean Milord?"

"Never mind," Voldemort said. "The point is that I will soon have a mission for you."

Bellatrix preened. "Of course, milord," she simpered.

"I shall let you know when the time is right," Voldemort said.

**ROO**

Severus Snape bowed before Voldemort. "You called Milord?"

"Yes, Severus I did," Voldemort said calmly. "I have decided which child the prophecy must refer to."

"Milord?" Snape asked.

"I have decided that I can leave nothing to chance. For that reason, both children shall die on Halloween."

"Both?" Snape's eyes widened.

"Yes, both children shall die. I will not risk choosing the wrong one. However, since I have no access to the ministry's resources, I will need to send followers that I trust to take care of one target."

"Why tell me this?" Snape said.

Voldemort's eyes gleamed. "Because you are going to spy on Dumbledore for me. You have your potions mastery; I want you to approach him and ask for a position at Hogwarts."

Snape's eyes widened. "Milord," he murmured.

"Yes Severus, you shall be my spy in Dumbledore's camp. Tell him that you have had a change of heart."

Snape bowed. "It shall be done Milord."

As he watched Snape leave the room, Voldemort smirked. Now he would know if Snape was truly loyal to him. If there was a bunch of Dumbledore's lackies waiting for him or his followers at one of the homes, he would know that Snape had betrayed him.

If that happened, Snape would need to be dealt with. He would show his followers what happened when they turned their backs on him.

"Pity," Voldemort murmured. "He showed so much promise."

**ROO**

Severus Snape paced back and forth on the hill overlooking Hogwarts. He hated being here, hated asking the old man for help, but if it was to protect Lily, he would do whatever he had to. Suddenly, his wand flew out of his hand.

Turning, he saw Albus Dumbledore standing right behind him, wand drawn.

"Please don't kill me," Snape said.

"You know I never kill," Dumbledore said mildly. "I got your message. Why so much secrecy."

Snape swallowed. "The Dark Lord has decided to go after the Potters."

"Indeed," Dumbledore said. "Why tell me this?"

"Because he's going to kill Lily."

"I see," Dumbledore said. "Why not ask him to spare her?"

"I tried. He refused. I even told him that I would convince her that the death of her husband and child was for the best, but he wouldn't listen."

"You disgust me," Dumbledore spat. "I will try to save the Potters, but I will save all three of them." He turned to leave.

"Wait," Snape said.

Dumbledore glanced over his shoulder. "I…I'll work for you. I'll do whatever you want, just please protect Lily.

Dumbledore shook his head. "Fine," he said shortly. "Come with me."

**ROO**

Ariana sat on the other side of Dumbledore's desk a disapproving scowl on her pretty face.

"You can't trust him."

"I don't see that I have a choice. We need information and Severus can give us that information."

"What if he leaves something out that costs people their lives?"

"Then I'll deal with him," Dumbledore said sternly.

Ariana stood up. "You're making a big mistake Albus. He's hiding something."

"Perhaps," Dumbledore said, "but he has chosen to spy for us to save someone. If he can love, he can be redeemed."

Ariana strode towards the door. With her hand on the handle, she glanced over her shoulder. "Something to think about Albus, is it love or obsession?"

Dumbledore watched the door swing closed behind his sister. "He deserves a chance Ariana," Dumbledore said quietly.

**ROO**

"Are you almost done?" James asked as he stood in front of the small cottage. "Dumbledore will be here soon."

Lily made one last gesture and a dome of light descended over the cottage. She lowered her hand and wiped sweat from her forehead.

"I've done the best I can. Have you put up defenses?"

James nodded. "There are some transfiguration traps and some tricks Padfoot helped me come up with around the property. It should slow him down."

Dumbledore came striding up the path to the cottage. "Is everything to your liking?"

"It'll do," James said.

A plump man with mousy brown hair and watery eyes stepped up beside Dumbledore.

"I w-w-won't let you d-d-down," he stuttered.

"Thanks Peter," James said quietly.

"Let's begin," Dumbledore said drawing his wand.

**ROO**

Peter Pettigrew bowed before Voldemort. "Milord," he said kissing the hem of Voldemort's robes. "I have news for you."

"Do you?" Voldemort looked down at the small man. His robes were wrinkled and stained. He refused to look at Voldemort, but kept his eyes focused on the floor in front of him.

"Peter," Voldemort said in his most reasonable tone. "You did say you had something to tell me."

"I know where the Potters are," he said quickly.

"Excellent," Voldemort said. "Where are they?"

**ROO**

A few hours later, Bellatrix Lestrange knelt before Voldemort. "You called me?"

"Yes," Voldemort said. "I have found the information I required."

"So, you know which Mudblood, or Blood Traitor I need to dispose of?"

Voldemort nodded. "I shall go after the Potter family. I need you to take care of the Longbottom family."

"Milord," Bellatrix looked confused. "Why not send me after the Potter family? James Potter is a blood traitor, and his wife is a mudblood. Why sully your hands with their deaths?"

Voldemort handed her a slip of paper. Bellatrix looked at the address written on it and grinned maliciously. "So that is where the Potters hide?"

"Yes," Voldemort said. "Now listen to me, I am sending you because the house where the Longbottoms are staying will be an easy target. The Longbottom home is heavily warded, but nothing you can't handle. This is what I want you to understand.

First, give them a chance. They are both from a pureblood family and I would hate to see them wiped out. If one refuses, kill the other and give the same offer to the other parent.

Second, do not torture them. Give them the offer if they refuse, kill them, and then kill their child. Do not waste time. Do not play around. Do you understand?"

Bellatrix nodded. "It shall be done Milord."

"Good, we shall attack on Halloween. If they send for help, the aid they receive will be split in half. Take a small contingent of Death Eaters with you. Make sure they abide by the rules I have set. If I find that the Longbottoms have been tortured before their deaths, I shall be most displeased."

"It shall be done Milord," Bellatrix said. She hesitated before asking in a rush. "Why do you not want them tortured Milord?"

"Because this mission is too important. Torture is to gain information or punishment, not for pleasure. I shall explain all after we are done."

"Of course, Milord," Bellatrix said.

"You may go," Voldemort said.

As he watched his most loyal Death Eater leave the room, he smiled. Soon, the only obstacles to his complete takeover of the wizarding world would be gone. It was a shame about the children, but sacrifices had to be made for the good of the wizarding world. And what was good for him, was good for the wizarding world.

**ROO**

Lily paced the den of the cottage scowling fiercely.

"Calm down," James said looking up from his book. "Pacing isn't helping anything."

"We've been here for months," Lily said.

"If Voldemort hasn't found us now then he's not going to."

Lily sat down on the sofa beside him. "It's Halloween," she said. "Couldn't you imagine taking Harry to the celebrations?"

James slipped an arm around her shoulders. "There will be time for that when this war is over."

Lily stared into the corner of the room not speaking. Suddenly, both their heads came up.

"Someone is attacking the wards," James said.

"I noticed," Lily said drily. "We have to get out of here."

**ROO**

Voldemort lowered his hand as he felt the anti-apparition ward go up. Now they would not be able to escape him. Closing his eyes, he concentrated on his magic. Opening his eyes, he stared at the air right in front of him.

A wall of interlocking runes pulsed with multi-colored light just in front of him. He frowned. As good as he was without his wand, he needed it for delicate work like this. Pulling it from his black robes, he began moving it in intricate patterns. Runes began to unravel from the wards, like thread pulled from a quilt. He had to move quickly. The Potters no doubt new that he was here.

**ROO**

Lily winced as she felt Voldemort chipping away at the wards. "He's put up an anti-apparition ward," she informed James calmly.

"Great," James said as he lowered his wand. "Listen, go to protect Harry. I'll prepare to face him in here. Unless…" he looked at the door. "Can you do anything to lower those wards?"

Lily shook her head. "I've only had training to use magic without a wand and how to sense magic. I don't know any secret skills."

"Alright," James said. "Go to Harry."

"I love you," Lily said.

James drew her into his arms and kissed her fiercely. "I love you to."

**ROO**

Voldemort sighed in relief as a hole appeared in the wards just big enough for him to slip through. Stepping into the wards, a force knocked him back, slamming his head against the wards. He cried out as a magical surge went through his body causing his limbs to spasm. His wand slipped from his fingers and rolled across the path towards the cottage.

A massive set of jaws clamped down on his wand hand breaking bones and shredding flesh. Looking down, he saw a massive wolf shaking his hand as if it were a rat.

"Bloody animal," Voldemort snarled, waving his free hand at the wolf. The wolf exploded into a puddle of gore before turning back into wooden fragments.

"Transfiguration," Voldemort snarled as a winged creature descended from the roof of the cottage and tore a chunk out of his scalp. Voldemort shrieked again as blood flowed down his face.

With another gesture, he blasted the giant bat out of the sky and watched as more wood fell to the ground. Reaching out with his left hand, Voldemort summoned his wand. He tapped his ruined right hand and screamed as the healing magic took hold.

Looking down at his hand, he sighed in relief. There was no sign of his injuries. Flexing his fingers, he felt only a slight ache. He could deal with the pain until this job was done. He ran his wand along his scalp and winced as he felt the wound heal. Tucking his wand away, he took a step forward and swore as his feet sank into the ground. The earth clamped around his lower half squeezing the breath out of him.

"Enough," he roared as he waved a hand at the earth trapping his lower half turning it to ice. With a flick of his fingers, the icy earth shattered.

Looking up, Voldemort saw he was only a few feet away from the cottage door. Deciding not to take any more chances, he concentrated. He slowly rose into the air and floated to the door of the cottage.

"Finally," he murmured pointing a finger at the door. A small ball of light struck the door and exploded.

Voldemort grunted as he was thrown back down the path and slammed into the wards, he'd cut through to gain access to the cottage. Again, a magical surge coursed through his body. Looking up, Voldemort screamed as bats, wolves, stags, and cats fell upon him.

For several moments the air was filled with shrieks, cursing and flashes of light. When it was all over, Voldemort stood, blood streaming from several small cuts all over his face. Every time he drew breath, a stabbing pain went through his ribs.

Straightening up with difficulty, He drew on all his magic. He focused on his rage for those that dared stand against him. He thought of his hatred for the muggles. Once all that emotion was brought to the surface, he released his magic, aiming for the wards around him.

There was a blinding flash as all the wards fell. Wooden bats fell from the trees as the magic that had transfigured them was torn away. The ward surrounding the cottage shattered in a cascade of rainbow light.

When it was all over, Voldemort swayed on his feet panting heavily. "I'm done playing games," he growled striding towards the cottage.

**ROO**

James looked down at the pool of vomit on the carpet. Whatever Voldemort had just done, James felt as if he could barely stand. "We should've had portkeys ready," he muttered. Behind him, the door to the cottage exploded inward.

"Honey I'm home," Voldemort yelled.

"Damn," James moaned straightening up with an effort. Turning, he stared into Voldemort's blue eyes. Raising his wand, he waved it through the air.

The furniture around him began to change, but Voldemort waved a hand, stopping the transfiguration.

"I don't think so," he said quietly. "I think I've had enough of your tricks today."

"Fine," James said as a chain of spells flew from his wand.

A silver shield sprang into being between Voldemort and the spells.

James screamed as both his legs shattered. He crumpled face first to the ground and lay there, writhing in agony.

Looking up, he saw Voldemort leaning over him. He cried out again as Voldemort used a foot to roll him over onto his back.

"I'll not kill a worthy adversary while he's face down on the ground." He raised one hand, his index finger glowing green. "Do you have any last words? You could still join me. It's not too late."

In answer, James raised his wand. White hot agony flowed down his arm. James's wand fell from nerveless fingers. Looking down, James saw his arm had been cut open from palm to elbow. He gagged as he saw the muscles in his arms twitching spasmodically.

"Damn," Voldemort said mildly. "That was supposed to cut your hand off. Ah well, good-bye James Potter. Know that your wife and son will be joining you soon."

The last thing James Potter saw was a blinding flash of green light.

**ROO**

Lily's pulse quickened as she heard footsteps approaching the door. She waited, her breath coming in short gasps as Voldemort approached. As the door swung open, Lily unleashed a volley of offensive magic.

Voldemort stumbled back under the assault of spells, summoning a shield to protect him. Wincing, he found himself unable to take a single step forward. The girl was strong, far stronger than her husband. He waited patiently until the rain of arcane energy ceased.

Slowly, Voldemort lowered his shaking arm. His head pounded and a trickle of blood flowed from his right nostril. "You did well," he said breathing heavily. "It feels like my legs are made of jelly."

Lily didn't answer. Blue flames crackled around her closed fists.

Voldemort didn't move, merely stared at her. "Your husband is dead," he said casually.

"I know," Lily said.

"You don't have to join him. Step aside, let me kill the boy, and you can live."

"That's not going to happen," Lily said. "I'll die before I let you harm my son."

Voldemort shrugged. "It doesn't have to end this way. Just step to the left or to the right. One step, that's all I need."

"No," Lily said.

"You could be great you know," Voldemort said. "Join me, there will always be a place for someone such as you."

"Someone who stepped aside and let their child die?"

"Someone who placed the good of the Wizarding world above their own desires. Someone with the courage to do the hard thing."

"No," Lily said.

"Very well," Voldemort said. "I did try." A bolt of green light flew towards Lily. Just before it struck, unnoticed by either, the light changed from green to red.

Lily crumpled to the floor, unmoving.

Voldemort stepped over the body of the woman and approached the child. "I am sorry. I do not want to do this, but it is for the greater good of all."

Another flash of green light lit the room. Voldemort began to scream.

**ROO**

Arawn appeared in the room. Looking around, he saw a pair of black robes and a pile of ash.

Kneeling beside Lily, he checked for a pulse. "She's alive," he murmured. "I have to get her out of here."

Lifting her into his arms, he made to grab Harry, but found himself unable.

"Bloody oath," he swore. With one last look at Harry, he vanished in a swirl of shadow.

**ROO**

A few hours later, Dumbledore stared down at the sleeping Harry.

"This is a bad idea," Ariana said stepping up beside him.

"They are his family," Dumbledore said.

"Doesn't mean they will love him," Ariana said. "Besides, Charlos is his family. Why not leave him with his grandfather?"

"His aunt and uncle have a son that's about Harry's age. It would be good if he grew up with someone to play with."

"I've been watching them since you told me of this daft idea of yours. There child is a spoiled brat to put it mildly. If they treat Harry the same way, Merlin knows what he'll be like when he comes to Hogwarts."

Dumbledore gently placed the child on the steps of the house in front of them. "I'll set someone up to watch the home."

"If anything happens to him…" Ariana broke off.

"Nothing will happen to him," Dumbledore said.

The two of them turned and made their way down the street. Before they disappeared, Dumbledore glanced back. "Good luck Harry," he whispered.

**ROO**

Lily groaned as she slowly came back to consciousness.

"Lily," Arawn said gently. "Are you alright?"

"Fine," Lily said sitting up and rubbing her temples. "What happened?"

"Our son is more powerful than we thought. He altered a killing curse aimed at you. It merely knocked you out instead of killing you."

"Harry," Lily sat up in the bed. "Where is he?"

"Dumbledore has taken him to the Dursley family."

"And you let him?" Lily shrieked. "My sister hates magic."

"I couldn't take him from the mortal realm without your permission remember. I told you this would come back to bite us. To make matters worse, Otherworld has slipped out of sync with earth. Until the timestreams realign, we can't get to him."

"Damn it," Lily shoved the blankets off. "So, what do you suggest we do until then?"

"I'm going to train you," Arawn said. "You need to know more about your fae magic and since you are stuck here, we might as well use this time wisely."

"And you're not worried about Harry?"

"Of course, I am, but I can't get to him, so I am doing what I can which is training you. Now, since you are awake, let us begin."