Chapter 24
The Hunt
Author's Note: Parts of this chapter are rather disturbing. Reader discretion is advised.
Warning: Minor Character Deaths, Creature Violence
Friday, January 1st, 1993 – Late Morning
At ten minutes to eleven-o-clock, Minerva McGonagall was standing outside the front entrance of Hogwarts Castle, as five Thestral-drawn carriages made their way up the driveway. When the carriages arrived, Minerva strolled over to them. Nearly two dozen Ministry reps – Unspeakables, Aurors, and representatives from the Magical Beasts Division, of the Department for the Regulation and Control of Magical Creatures - stepped out of the carriages.
Madam Amelia Bones walked over to Minerva with five wizards in tow. Minerva recognized Alastor Moody, Kingsley Shacklebolt, Unspeakable Croaker and Head Auror Rufus Scrimgeour, but she didn't recognize the fourth until Amelia introduced him as Walden MacNair, an executioner for the Committee for the Disposal of Dangerous Creatures.
"When Madam Bones announced that there was a colony of Acromantulas that needed takin' care of," MacNair said, when Amelia introduced him, "I couldn't resist takin' charge of the hunt. Just show me where the beasts are, and let me do my job."
"Rubeus Hagrid has agreed to lead the team into the Forbidden Forest," Minerva said.
"As long as he doesn't interfere with what needs to be done," MacNair said, glancing at Hagrid.
"He knows not to interfere," Minerva said.
"MacNair will be leading the team from the Beasts Division," Rufus Scrimgeour said, "Auror Shacklebolt and I will be leading two team of Aurors. Hagrid is welcome to join us."
"Meanwhile," Amelia said, "Auror Moody and I will join Unspeakable Croaker and his team into the Chamber of Secrets. Minerva, are the students aware we are here?"
"Yes," Minerva said, "They simply believe you're continuing your investigation on Albus and Severus. I didn't tell them anything about the Chamber of Secrets or the Acromantulas. If Albus said anything right yesterday, he was correct when he said the student behind the Chamber of Secrets attacks would panic. I realized there is a possibility that the student could be here at the moment."
Amelia grimaced. "A definite possibility. Hopefully whoever is behind this does not decide to interfere today. As much as I'd like to catch 'em today, they might make this much more difficult."
Moody grunted. "If they're here, and they interfere, we'll catch 'em."
"Indeed we will," Amelia said, "Let's get this over with."
She turned to the Ministry representatives, as a whole, and cleared her throat, getting their attention.
"Does everyone know their roles for today?" Amelia announced.
There were nods and murmurs, each signifying that everyone did.
"Both tasks ahead of us are dangerous in their own rights," Amelia said, "Do not underestimate your opponents. If you do, it might be the last thing you ever do. I want everyone to walk away from this unscathed and alive. That would make me very happy. Let's make it happen. Good luck, everyone!"
Amelia signaled to the team leaders, and they started yelling out orders. Soon, Minerva led Amelia, Moody, Croaker and the Unspeakables toward the castle, as Hagrid led the Aurors and Beast Division reps toward the Forbidden Forest.
"Minerva," Amelia said, as she followed the Deputy Headmistress into the castle, "I got a memo early this morning from Minister Fudge. He knew I would be speaking to you, and asked me to pass along the message. You have been invited to meet with the School Governors tomorrow in the Department of Magical Education. There is no specific time yet, but you're expected to be in front of them one hour after Albus Dumbledore's trial concludes. It will be decided then whether or not you'll be named the new Headmistress. I'm sure you'll be pleased to know that you have Minister Fudge's complete support for the role of Headmistress."
"I will certainly send him a letter to thank him if I become Headmistress," Minerva said, "Thank you, Amelia. I'll definitely be there."
"I would wish you luck," Amelia said, "But I have a good feeling you won't need it. The School Governors would be mental not to give you the role."
Minerva merely smiled. She led Amelia, Moody, and the numerous Unspeakables toward the second floor girl's bathroom. When they arrived, Moody and Unspeakable Croaker lifted the enchantments they had placed the previous day, then led the group into the bathroom. Minerva remained near the entrance of the bathroom, as she watched one of the Unspeakables walk over to the sinks. She shivered slightly when the Unspeakable spoke in the Parseltongue language. Then her eyes widened as she watched the sinks descend into the floor they stood on, revealing a large hole, a pipe.
"Excellent work, Unspeakable," Croaker said, then turned to two others, "Xavier, Perry, the two of you will stand guard in this bathroom, just to make sure there are no unwanted visitors."
"Thank you, Minerva," Amelia said, "I'm sure you have other things you need to be doing. I'll find you when we're finished here to update you on what happens."
Minerva nodded. "Good luck, everyone. Remain safe."
She walked away from the bathroom, with the destination of her office in mind. She needed to prepare the syllabus for the second term of all of her classes, to make it easier for her successor as Transfiguration Professor. If only so it would take her mind off of what was happening around the castle at that very moment.
Meanwhile Rubeus Hagrid was standing near his hut, at the edge of the Forbidden Forest. He had his trusty crossbow in his hand, and his large boarhound, Fang, was sitting beside him. Nearby, Walden MacNair was speaking softly to a group of representatives from the Magical Beasts Division, of the Department for the Regulation and Control of Magical Creatures. Meanwhile, Rufus Scrimgeour, Head of the Auror Department, was addressing Aurors which were standing at attention in front of him.
"Ladies and gentlemen," Scrimgeour said, "The opponent we're facing today is unlike anything we have ever had to deal with. We're not facing criminals. We're not facing a group of Death Eaters. We're facing a colony of Acromantulas. Rubeus Hagrid here -"
He nodded to Hagrid, who waved at the group of Aurors, blushing brightly.
"- will be leading us to the colony," Scrimgeour continued, "He knows the Forbidden Forest well. He also is friendly with the leader of the colony, an Acromantula named Aragog. Hagrid, would you like to say a few words about this colony before I continue?"
Hagrid cleared his throat and looked at the group of Aurors.
"Even though I don' like this – er – operation much," Hagrid said, "I understand it is necessary, so tha' innocent children don't get harmed. The leader, Aragog, my friend, is a very old creature. 'E is also blind. 'E is very large, but he is not dangerous."
A few of the Aurors muttered and scoffed. Scrimgeour cleared his throat to silence them.
Hagrid sniffled. "Please do not 'arm any members o' the colony who are not aggressive. They're the innocent ones. They won' threaten the castle or the students."
"We'll handle the situation delicately, Hagrid," Scrimgeour said, then looked back at his Aurors, "Won't we, ladies and gentleman? We're not here today to exterminate an entire species. This is a preventative measure only – to stop the aggressors of the colony – as we'll call them for the remainder of the mission – from harming innocents before they can even begin. Now, two Unspeakables visited the colony not twenty-four hours ago. It is very possible that the aggressors are already expecting us. If Mad-Eye Moody were fighting alongside us today, he would tell you to keep constant vigilance. We should prepare for an attack before we get to the colony.
"Auror Shacklebolt has agreed to lead half of the team here today. I will lead the other half. In addition, Walden MacNair and his group from the Beasts Division will be assisting us. That is three teams. When we get close to the colony, we'll attack from three sides. Do not underestimate your foe, ladies and gentlemen. Or it might just be the last thing you ever do."
After splitting the group of Aurors into teams of two, Hagrid led the Aurors, and the reps from the Beast Division into the forest.
He only hoped his good friend, Aragog, would forgive him.
Amelia turned up her nose as she left the pipe that led from Myrtle Warren's bathroom to the sewers deep below the school which supposedly led to the Chamber of Secrets. The ground below her was blanketed in the skeletons of mice, rats and voles. Amelia had been one of the last to enter the pipe, only followed by Alastor Moody.
Before the hunting group had entered the sewer, they had debated on the best approach to enter. Some of the Unspeakables had suggested sliding down the pipe to the other end. Moody had argued against that approach. What if the pipe had been missing in places? What if there was something dangerous waiting on the other end, and they couldn't slow their speed enough to defend themselves? Amelia had immediately sided with Moody, as did Unspeakable Croaker. After Croaker had agreed, the rest of the Unspeakables followed in suit.
It took another five minutes for them to figure out what to do. Everything from using Hover Charms, to "guesswork Apparation", to simply finding another entrance was suggested. These were all shot down. Then there was a suggestion for the Parselmouth Unspeakable to suggest stairs. It turned out the plan had been a good one, because after a precise request from the Parselmouth, a stairwell appeared in the pipe. Unspeakable Croaker had led his team – aside from Unspeakables Xavier and Perry who were guarding the bathroom - down the stairs, and Amelia and Moody had followed at the end.
Instead of having their wands lit using Lumos Charms, the Unspeakables were using the Ignia Orbis Charm, which produced orbs of light that circled around the caster's body, producing a bright light. With a simple wave of their wand, the caster could order the orbs to move anywhere, allowing an area to be lit up. It was only due to these orbs that Amelia could see the Unspeakables in front of her. The area they were in was that dark. Amelia and Moody immediately cast the same Charms, and joined the group.
"Any thing to report at the moment?" Amelia asked.
"Homenum Revelio is detecting a few signs of life ahead," one of the Unspeakables said, "But they're all pretty small. Likely rodents scurrying around the pipes. I'll keep up the charm as we move along."
"There's only one way to go at the moment," Croaker said, "Hopefully that remains the same until we reach the chamber."
"Alright," Amelia said, "I'm sure I don't need to tell you this, but I'll say it anyway. Keep your eyes and ears open, and your protective eye-wear on at all times."
Moody snorted. "Easy for you to say. My eye can look through this damn protective eye-wear! Don't know how the Basilisk will react to that, do we?"
Amelia smirked in amusement. "I'll try to remember to cast a Blinding Charm on you."
Moody snorted again, this time in amusement. "I'll blind myself, thanks! Let's get a move on before the bloody Basilisk figures out we're down here. Constant Vigilance everyone!"
One-by-one, their wands trained in front of them, their eyes and ears opened, the group started off into the next tunnel.
"More skeletons of rodents," Croaker said, in a low voice everyone could hear, "Watch your step."
Soon they reached a bend of the tunnel, and Croaker raised his hand, stopping everyone.
"There's something rather large ahead of us," he whispered, "Can't make it out yet."
"Detecting no signs of life that big, Croaker," said another Unspeakable. "Whatever is there is either dead, or wasn't living to begin with."
"Let's go find out," Croaker said.
Soon, as they reached the end of the pipe, and stepped into what appeared to be a rocky cave-like tunnel, Amelia saw exactly what Croaker had seen. It was large, curved and laying near the tunnel's opening. She jumped slightly when Moody laughed.
"Relax everyone," Moody said, "It is a snakeskin. Ruddy big one though."
Croaker, and two other Unspeakables cast the floating orbs of light toward the large snakeskin. Amelia's eyes widened as she looked upon it. It was very large and had a poisonous green tinge to it.
"That must be twenty feet long," Amelia breathed.
"Longer," Croaker said, "And this is only a shedding of skin. The beast could be two, three sizes of this."
"Let's make note to collect this before we leave," one of the Unspeakables said, "Could be used for some good armor."
"Careful everyone," Moody grunted, "The ceiling above us doesn't look all too steady. Could collapse on top of us if we hit it."
"Let's not do that then," Amelia muttered.
"Looks like this way is the path," Croaker said, pointing his wand forward across the tunnel, "Let's get going."
Amelia gingerly stepped around the snakeskin as she continued following the group forward.
Meanwhile, Hagrid was leading the group of Aurors and representatives from the Beast Division through the Forbidden Forest. It had been about ten minutes since they had entered the forest, and they had not encountered anything yet.
However, Hagrid should have known their luck would run out sooner or later. He winced when he heard a whooshing sound as an arrow passed right by him and planted itself into a tree. Fang whinged and hid in between Hagrid's legs.
"Ah, hell," Hagrid muttered.
"What the bleeding hell was that?!" an Auror behind him said.
"Silence!" Auror Scrimgeour ordered. "Show yourselves! We mean no harm to you today."
"Yet you bring an army of men with you inside our home," a harsh voice said.
Hagrid winced again. He recognized that voice. A clip-clopping of hooves was heard as three male Centaurs stepped into the narrow clearing in front of them.
"This is Ministry business, Centaur," Walden MacNair snarled, "Leave us."
"Stop it, MacNair," Scrimgeour said, "Everyone, lower your wands. This is a greeting party. However, we're likely surrounded by their kinfolk on all sides."
"Rubbish," MacNair huffed, "I'd have heard them."
Hagrid winced again when an arrow came from behind MacNair and hit the the ground in front of him. MacNair and a couple of the representatives of his division snarled and raised their wands. Kingsley Shacklebolt and two members of his team immediately Disarmed them.
"What the bloody hell was that for, Auror?!" MacNair growled, "We're under attack, and you're attacking me?!"
"We're not under attack," Scrimgeour said, "That was a warning shot."
"Indeed it was human," the Centaur - that Hagrid recognized as Bane – said.
"Bane," Hagrid said, "Firenze, Ronan. Greetings. How're ye this fine day?"
"Hagrid," Firenze said, "What is the meaning of this? Leading an army of men in to our Forest. That is not a wise move, friend."
"They're not here ter interfere in Centaur matters, Firenze," Hagrid said, "I promise ye tha'."
"This is about the Acromantula colony," Firenze said.
"How do you know that?" Scrimgeour asked.
"Our scouts followed two of your kind in and out of the Forest yesterday," Bane said, "They approached the Acromantula nest."
"That is correct," Auror Shacklebolt said, "They were speaking to the Acromantula leader, Aragog, as part of an investigation toward the Chamber of Secrets inside Hogwarts castle. They reported that the colony was in danger of mutiny. A mutiny would be a threat against the students and staff of Hogwarts."
"Exactly," Hagrid said, "They would be 'armin' innocents, Bane!"
"You support this, Hagrid?" Firenze asked, "You support a hunt against the Acromantula colony?"
"It is necessary, Firenze," Hagrid said, "Protectin' innocent students and staff. You understand tha', don'tcha?"
"You could come along and aide us if you wish," Scrimgeour said.
"Aide you?" Bane sneered.
"Bane, is it?" Scrimgeour asked, "Bane, you seem to have a wise and powerful military force of your own. Such assistance would go a long way in our mission. We would show our gratitude."
"Gratitude?" Bane asked, "You sound like one of those humans from the Ministry."
"I am Rufus Scrimgeour," Scrimgeour said, "Head of the Auror Division at the British Ministry of Magic."
"The same type who has tried to ordered our kind how and where to live," Bane said.
"Bane," Firenze said, "Be kind to our guests."
"Guests?!" Bane growled, "They're intruders!"
"They're here for a good reason," Ronan said. "Haven't we been debating for many moons what to do with Aragog and his colony? If there is a danger of mutiny, it means Aragog is becoming weak. Our lands inside these wood may be overrun with Acromantulas before the harvest moon wanes."
Bane snorted. "Magorian -"
"- is not here to decide, Bane," Firenze said. "You're outmatched here."
"Fine!" Bane grunted, then turned to Hagrid and Scrimgeour, "But we're not participating in this hunt of yours, humans. If any of your business in here today harms our people at all, the Acromantula colony will be the least of your worries."
He made a loud growling sound and there was a thunderous sound as clip-clopping noises surrounding them began moving away. Bane turned and galloped away.
"Good luck, friend Hagrid," Firenze said, "I will speak to the stars and pray for the protection of you and your party as you continue your endeavor. Good day to you."
"Good day to you, Firenze, Ronan," Hagrid said.
Ronan, then Firenze, nodded once and turned then galloped away.
"We should've taken 'em all out," MacNair grunted, "Threatening us like that! Filthy beasts!"
"Do you see that arrow in front of you, MacNair?" Shacklebolt asked, "That could very well be lodged in your skull, and many more of its buddies inside the rest of our skulls. Be grateful they decided to leave peacefully and let us continue."
"Grateful," MacNair sneered, "My arse. Give me back my wand, Auror!"
Shacklebolt looked at Scrimgeour, who nodded. The Auror and his men returned the wands back to their owners.
"Take my wand away again and you'll regret it," MacNair growled.
"Enough!" Scrimgeour grunted, "We keep moving. Keep your eyes and ears open. We should have heard those Centaurs coming, and we didn't. Don't let that happen again. Lead on, Hagrid."
Hagrid patted a shivering Fang, and started off deeper into the forest, keeping his crossbow in front of him, and his eyes and ears open.
Meanwhile, Amelia, Moody and the Unspeakables had reached what appeared to be a large metal door, which had two entwined serpents carved into it, their eyes set with great, glinting emeralds.
"Well," Croaker said, "I do believe we have discovered the true entrance of the Chamber of Secrets. We do not know what lies beyond this door. Any suggestions on how to make the next move?"
"Can you look through the door, Alastor?" Amelia asked.
"And possibly find myself staring at the Basilisk itself?" Moody asked, "You're madder than me, Bones!"
Amelia smirked. "Probably a good point."
"I would assume the Chamber is pretty big," one of the Unspeakables said. "I'd say we open this door, unleash the roosters, then make them crow loud and long. Their crows would echo and that would slay the beast."
"A fine suggestion," Amelia said, "Is everyone in agreement?"
"The beast could be on the other side of the door waiting for us," Moody said.
"So let the cocks crow as soon as the door opens," Amelia said.
Moody grunted, but did not argue. The Unspeakables readied the cages of roosters they had brought with them. When they were prepared, the Parselmouth Unspeakable focused on the door, and hissed in Parseltongue. The door opened almost immediately, revealing a short sewer pipe, leading into a room that seemed spacious, though no details could be seen from there.
As everyone backed away from the door, a few of the Unspeakables cast charms near the roosters to frighten them. Then the roosters began crowing, the noises echoing throughout the sewers.
The group listened nervously for any signs of results. Suddenly, there was a massive roar which sounded like pain, followed a few moments later by a enormous thud that made the ground quake around them.
"I think we got the bastard!" one of the Unspeakables cheered, once the quaking ended.
Croaker raised his hands, quelling his co-workers. "No celebrating yet. We need to make sure."
"Aye," Moody said, "Keep vigilant. There could be more than one of the bastards, and they might still be alive."
"Merlin, I hope not," Amelia muttered.
She waited as the Unspeakables entered the sewer. Then she followed Moody inside. As she reached the end of the pipe, her eyes widened at the sight.
The Chamber of Secrets was as enormous as it was magnificent, and just as frightening. Amelia was standing at the end of a very long, dimly lit chamber. Towering stone pillars entwined with more carved serpents rose to support a ceiling lost in darkness, casting long, black shadows through the odd, greenish gloom that filled the place. In the center of the chamber, there was what appeared to be a walkway with dirty pools of water on either side.
But it was not the décor Amelia was now looking at. In the very center of the spacious room lay what appeared to be the body of a gigantic serpent. It must have been more than fifty feet long, possibly sixty feet if not more. It looked very still, but Amelia looked away from it, in case it wasn't dead.
She descended down a ladder, but remained near the entrance, watching the group of Unspeakables. Three of the Unspeakables, including Croaker, were carefully approaching the serpent. After nearly a minute of study, Croaker spoke up.
"The beast is dead," he said.
Everyone gave a sigh of relief.
"This doesn't look like the beast's nest," Timmons, "What is it doing out here?"
"Who knows?" Moody grunted, "Perhaps it was preparing itself for its next attack. Perhaps it heard us and was preparing to defend itself. Perhaps we were just lucky."
"Are we sure this is the beast who was Petrifying students?" Amelia asked. "I don't want to leave, and then hear about more attacks."
"I am quite sure this is the beast," Croaker said, "But I believe we should search the Chamber thoroughly. We need to find that nest, and make sure this beast had no family."
"What about the Basilisk?" Unspeakable Bode asked, "A beast this large, its parts could be quite useful. That meat would gain a pretty Galleon from the Goblins. They like Basilisk meat."
"What say you, Amelia?" Croaker asked, "You're in charge here."
"Let's search the whole Chamber," Amelia said, "Then your team can dissect the Basilisk. However, the funds gained from sales of any of the Basilisk parts are to be divvied up. Department of Mysteries, DMLE, Auror Division, and Hogwarts."
"And Myrtle Warren's remaining family gets a bit," Moody said, "If they're still around. In her memory."
"Agreed," Croaker said. "Looks like we're going to be down here a while. Let's get started!"
Nearly half-an-hour after their encounter with the Centaurs, Hagrid and the Aurors and Beast Division representatives had arrived at the perimeter of the Acromantula colony's nest.
"Er – I was thinkin'," Hagrid said, "I figure I should go inside firs' n' meet with Aragog. Maybe we can work this out, a – what do ya call it – peace treaty?"
Several of Aurors and representatives of the Beast Division were muttering their disagreements. Auror Scrimgeour raised his hand to stop them.
"Hagrid," Scrimgeour said, "If you wish to speak to the leader, you're free to do so. But this has to happen. All intelligence that we know tells us that Aragog is old and his children and the rest of the colony knows it. He cannot control them. However, perhaps you can convince Aragog and the less threatening members of his colony not to interfere with what must happen."
Hagrid sighed, and sniffled. He knew what Auror Scrimgeour was saying was true. He nodded.
"Alright," he said.
"Very well," Scrimgeour said, "Shacklebolt, MacNair. Prepare your teams. Spread out and find the best approach of attack, offensively and defensively."
As the team leaders barked out orders, Hagrid and Fang headed into the Acromantula nest. There were two entrances into the nest. One was a tunnel, but it was too small and narrow for Hagrid to get through. The other was through brambles, bushes, and cobwebs. But due to Hagrid's large size, he had no troubles getting through that entrance. He barely felt the thorns of the brambles as they scratched his skin.
Soon, he had arrived at the nest. Around him, he could see smaller Acromantulas in tree branches, or hanging by cobwebs, all staring at him. They all made clicking and chatting noises, but Hagrid wasn't threatened by this. Of those he could see were, aside from mothers, most were younglings, only a few years old, or less. It troubled Hagrid that there were no older males in sight, and only a few older females. They were usually there when he arrived. Suddenly, the mothers started calling for Aragog. It didn't take long for Aragog to arrive from his underground home.
"Hagrid?" Aragog asked, "Is that you?"
"It is me, Aragog," Hagrid said, "And Fang is here too."
Fang barked lightly in greeting.
"I expected you to be here more recently than now," Aragog said. "Two strangers entered our nest yesterday."
"Unspeakables," Hagrid said, "They work fer the Ministry o' Magic, in London."
"Yes," Aragog said, "That is what they said. They said they were investigating the Chamber of Secrets."
"They wanted ter speak ter you ter clear my name," Hagrid said.
"They said nothing of the sort," Aragog said, "And my children told me they didn't leave all too kindly either. There were... whispers. Whispers and plotting."
"Plottin'?" Hagrid asked, nervously.
"I know why you are here Hagrid," Aragog said, "And I cannot let you leave. It is for your own safety."
"What are ya sayin', Aragog?" Hagrid asked.
"You brought men to my nest, Hagrid," Aragog said, "Many men. Armed men. Men who are here with a mission. Exterminators."
"They're here ter protect the students and staff of Hogwarts," Hagrid said, "Yer getting old, Aragog, I'm very sorry ter tell ya that. Do ya know what will happen when you pass on? Your children will hurt innocents!"
The Acromantulas around Hagrid started hissing and growling. Aragog hissed louder than the others, and the Acromantulas went silent.
"Surely you believe me," Hagrid said, "I'm yer friend, Aragog."
"You are, indeed, my friend," Aragog said, "Indeed. Which is why you will stay here until I say you can leave."
"When will that be?" Hagrid asked.
"When the battle between my kin and the attackers is over," Aragog said.
"And if the Ministry folk win?" Hagrid asked, "What then?"
"Then you will never see me and the remains of my colony ever again," Aragog said. "We will move deeper into these wood. Deeper than you have ever gone."
"Oh, Aragog," Hagrid said.
"This is a betrayal, friend Hagrid!" Aragog growled, "It does not matter what would happen after I am dead. What matters is what happens while I am still here. You will be to blame if the rest of my days are spent with the bare remnants of my family, days of regret and mourning."
"And if your kin wins?" Hagrid asked, nervously.
"Those who fight will mourn the loss of their perished kin," Aragog said, "And they will seek their revenge on those you call innocent."
Hagrid shivered. Fang whined and shivered too.
"And so we wait," Aragog said, "And see what the fates have in mind..."
Hagrid frowned. What had he done?
Walden MacNair was perched in a tree, looking around for any sign of the Acromantulas. His wand was in his hand, and his trusty executioner's axe strapped to his back. He would have preferred to use the axe, because it gave him the most pleasure. But it was too heavy to fight multiple foes at the same time. He would use his wand, and still get enough pleasure cursing and killing the eight-legged beasts.
Before he had climbed the tree, he had given orders to his comrades to get into position. Strangely enough, none of the men wanted to climb a tree. He couldn't understand why. When they refused, he simply told them to go about the attack their own way. If they wanted to get themselves killed whilst on the ground, so be it.
As he waited, his mind went back to the earlier confrontation with the Centaurs. Curse Rufus Scrimgeour for not choosing to show those damned beasts why they shouldn't mess with those far superior. He let it go for the time being. He knew that once the Dark Lord came back into power – for he would indeed come back, this MacNair knew – his Master would give him open permission to take out the beasts who dared to label themselves as better than wizards. He was in the middle of fantasizing about what he would do to some of the younger Centaurs, when he heard a noise below.
He grinned toothily when he spotted three Acromantulas approaching him from the ground. They would never see him coming from the trees. He trained his wand on one of the spiders, ready to curse them. Then, suddenly, he heard a low hissing sound above him. He looked up and saw a large Acromantula lowering itself toward him on a web. He growled out a curse, and the angry red beam hit the Acromantula, sending it flying through the air, and smashing into a nearby tree. He looked back down on the ground, searching for the Acromantulas, but could only see two of them. Where was the third.
He didn't hear, nor see the spider crawling up the tree behind him until it was already too late. When he did hear it, he turned around and saw the Acromantula's many eyes staring at him.
"Clever girl," MacNair muttered.
Before MacNair could raise his wand, he was hit with a wad of web. The impact of the web made him tumble backward, off the branch, and he plummeted toward the ground. It was unlucky that he didn't hit any branches on the way down, for they would break his fall. Unfortunately, when he landed, it was directly on his back, breaking it in two places. Then there was the fact that the side of his trusty executioner's axe had hit him in the back of the head, making him dazed. He couldn't move, and could barely see.
That was probably fortunate. He couldn't see the several Acromantulas coming at him from the ground, and from the air.
But he could most certainly feel them. Their rough bodies crawling all over him. Their webbing as it surrounded him, suffocating him. And their fangs, sinking into his flesh in various parts of his body.
At least he had the small mercy of going unconscious. It would be hours before his death, and his colleagues and the Aurors would never find him.
Over half-an-hour later, Hagrid was sitting on the earthy floor of the Acromantula's nest, with Fang laying beside him, as they waited for whatever was about to come.
"Friend Hagrid," Aragog finally said. "You are free to leave. Never search for me or my kin again. I cannot ensure your survival if you do."
Before Hagrid could say anything, Aragog retreated back into his hole. The Acromantula around him, mothers and young all retreated away into their homes amongst the trees and earth. Hagrid stood up and left the nest with Fang. He wasn't sure what had happened. Who had won? The Acromantulas or the Aurors?
Soon he got his answer. He found the group of Aurors and reps from the Beast Division in a clearing near the nest. Some were sitting or laying on the ground, as their wounds were being treated. At least one person was not moving at all, and was likely dead.
Then Hagrid saw something he almost couldn't believe. Firenze, Ronan, and six Centaur, all armored in their own way, and armed with crossbows or spears, were grouped together near the humans.
Hagrid approached Scrimgeour, who smiled softly when he saw the half-giant.
"Hagrid," Scrimgeour said, "It is good to see you safe."
"Aragog and 'is kin didn't 'arm me," Hagrid said, "The wait was the hardest part. Aragog kept me at the nest until it all was over. So what 'appened?"
"We won," Scrimgeour said, "But it was not without losses on our side. And it was a narrow victory. At one point, we were exhausted and surrounded by what was left of the opposition, when Firenze and his group came to the rescue."
"Losses?" Hagrid asked.
"Aye," Scrimgeour sighed, heavily. "Walden MacNair is missing, and I fear we may never find him, alive or dead. Three other members of the Beast Division are dead, as well as four Aurors. We were lucky to be able to find all of them except for MacNair."
"I'm sorry," Hagrid murmured.
"They fought bravely," Scrimgeour said, "John Dawlish, one of those killed, actually saved my life in the process. He will be commended for that, as will everyone who fought here today. We beat every last one of those who would threaten innocent children. We're about to move out. We were waiting for you. We need to get the injured and dead to St. Mungo's. Unfortunately the forest is too thick for safe Apparation."
"Aye," Hagrid said, "Let me say my peace ter Firenze, n' then I'll take ya back."
Scrimgeour nodded. Hagrid walked toward Firenze, who met him in the middle.
"Friend Hagrid," Firenze said, "It is good to see you safe and alive."
"I was never in harm's way," Hagrid said, "But those who fought and died."
"It is the fate of all on Earth to perish," Firenze said, "Those who die doing what they love, or how they choose is a blessing. It is a tragedy to perish by violent means or unexpected ways."
Hagrid huffed. "If yer sayin' these Acromantula -"
"I am saying nothing of the sort, friend Hagrid," Firenze said. "They died doing their job, defending their nest and colony. They fought bravely."
"Yeah, well," Hagrid grunted, "Maybe so. Thank you and your kin for helpin' us. Real kind of you."
"Those who fought alongside me today," Firenze said, "Fought for the same believe these humans did, and as I did. Aragog's death would have meant terrible news for many innocents. We could not allow that to happen."
"Aragog and 'is colony are movin' deeper into the forest," Hagrid said, "He never wants me ter see 'im again. Or his colony."
"Losing one's friend," Firenze said, "A terrible burden to bear for an innocent soul doing something right."
Hagrid sniffled. "Thank you, Firenze. You and your kin. How will Bane and Magorian take this?"
"We will deal with the repercussions," Firenze said. "We knew what we were doing when we volunteered to help you and your friends. We must go now. Good luck, friend Hagrid."
"You too, Firenze," Hagrid said.
Firenze nodded, turned around and headed back to his kin. Hagrid smiled and waved at the Centaurs, who nodded, then turned and cantered off into the darkness of the forest. Hagrid turned and headed back to the Ministry reps, frowning as he looked at the dead and injured.
A terrible burden indeed.
(Half-an-hour later)
After finishing up a late lunch in the Great Hall, Minerva walked in between the tables, greeting the students who had remained at Hogwarts for Christmas Break. The four Weasleys who had remained at Hogwarts – Percy, Fred, George and Ginny – were all sitting together eating lunch, talking and laughing. Minerva was happy to see Ginny Weasley looking so lively. She had seemed to have a rough time during her first term at Hogwarts. Minerva simply decided the youngest Weasley must be home sick. It was odd that she hadn't gone home instead of choosing to stay at Hogwarts. But Minerva had shrugged it off, deciding perhaps Ginny simply wanted to be around her brothers. She did certainly look happy with them.
Minerva happily greeted the Weasleys, then headed out into the Entrance Hall. She was mildly surprised to find that the group of Unspeakables, Auror Moody and Amelia Bones were there.
"Madam Bones," Minerva greeted, "Is everything alright?"
"The mission into the Chamber of Secrets went very well," Amelia said, as she walked over to Minerva. "The Basilisk is dead."
"Are you sure?" Minerva asked.
"Very sure," Amelia said, smiling, "Most of it is harvested and chopped up into manageable pieces. Basilisk parts can get a hefty Galleon."
"Harvesting?" Minerva said, "Well, I never expected that!"
"Couldn't let a good thing go to waste, now could we?" Amelia said, grinning. "A portion of the sales will go to Hogwarts, of course, as the Basilisk was found here."
"Oh, excellent!" Minerva said, "That will go a long way."
Like purchasing new brooms for the Quidditch players, for example, Minerva thought privately. The Slytherins won't be the only team with fancy brooms!
"So then the threat is over," Minerva said, with a relieved sigh.
"Nay," Amelia said, "Don't tell me you've forgotten the human component in all of this."
"Of course I didn't forget!" Minerva said, "I merely meant the Basilisk. The 'human component' can't do much without the Basilisk."
"Oh, they probably can," Amelia said, "Which is why we'll do our best to catch them on Sunday evening. As for that, we'll speak more about that when we return before the feast begins."
"Of course," Minerva said, "What will you do now?"
"Well, for starters," Amelia said, "We need to meet up with the Auror and Beast Division team. Hopefully they'll soon be back from the forest expedition. Then we'll head back to the Ministry. I have to prepare for the trials tomorrow."
"Of course," Minerva said, "I will be there for Albus' trial, of course. You have my word. And I'll speak against the man."
"I look forward to it," Amelia said, "Would you care to join us outside and see us off?"
"It would be my pleasure," Minerva said.
Minerva and Amelia followed the Unspeakables and Moody as they headed out onto the Grounds. As they arrived on the grounds, they found Aurors Scrimgeour and Shacklebolt heading toward them. Hagrid and Fang were following behind them. Minerva felt a sense of forbidding when she didn't see the rest of the large team that had accompanied them. Amelia seemed to share that feeling.
"Report Rufus," Amelia said, as they met, "What happened?"
"The Acromantula colony are no longer a threat," Scrimgeour said, "Those whom would have threatened the students and staff in Hogwarts have been defeated and have perished. The remainder of the colony is retreating deeper into the forest."
"Oh, Hagrid," Minerva said, looking at the half-giant, "Including your pet?"
"Aye," Hagrid said, sniffling and looking emotional, "Fer the best. He needs to be with the remainder of his kin until it is time for him to move on."
"Unfortunately the victory did not come without loss," Scrimgeour said.
Minerva and Amelia were both horrified to hear of the losses and injuries sustained. Even more horrified to hear that Walden MacNair was never found, and was likely dead or dying in a cocoon somewhere.
"We'll have a memorial for the fallen at the Ministry," Amelia said, "And their names will be in the Daily Prophet, along with respectful obituaries."
"Aye," Scrimgeour agreed. "How did it go on your end?"
"The Basilisk is dead," Amelia said, "There's no longer any creature threat when it comes to the Chamber of Secrets. The human component is still a factor, but we hope that will be solved on Sunday evening."
"Congratulations," Scrimgeour said.
"Congratulations, all of you," Minerva said. "A job well done. . You have the gratitude of Hogwarts, its staff and students."
"I wish you best of luck toward gaining the title of Headmistress, Minerva," Rufus said, "You have my support. You'll be a wonderful leader here."
Minerva went pink at the compliment. "Thank you, Rufus."
Rufus nodded. "We best be off. We have much to do at the Ministry."
"Should I prepare the Thestrals?" Hagrid asked.
"Nay," Scrimgeour said, "We'll walk from here. You've done your part today, Hagrid. Thank you."
Hagrid blushed and smiled. He and Minerva said farewell to the Ministry reps, who started off toward the gates.
"Come, Hagrid," Minerva said, "We'll have a spot of tea at your place, and you can entertain me with the story of your adventure into the forest."
Hagrid smiled. "I'd like that very much, Minerva."
Minerva smiled and the fellow staff members, along with Fang, started on their way to Hagrid's hut.
This chapter was an absolute pain to write! I had less than a quarter of this chapter done up until a couple days before publishing it. I almost gave it up, and decided it would be a deleted scene later. But I trudged through it. Only two things had me going until I completed this chapter. First was the fact that the Basilisk storyline was a big part in this portion of the story. The second was the MacNair scene. I truly enjoyed writing that scene. I had the "Clever girl" line in my head ever since I started the chapter (Yes, it is a Jurassic Park reference!), and wanted to see how it played out. Of course it seemed better in my head, but I hope you liked it anyway.
The reason that the Walden MacNair scene was the only "battle" scene in the chapter was because I SUCK at battle scenes. I hate writing them. I like dialogue scenes better! Sorry for those who wanted to see more of the battle.
I'm sure some of you are wondering about Ginny and Tom's diary, and how this chapter's events affected them. I nearly put a scene in the chapter in Ginny's PoV simply hanging out with her brothers, and having fun. And Tom Riddle's memory thingy in the diary having a bad feeling that something was wrong. But I decided against it. The only thing I did was that small cameo of Ginny having fun during lunch. So that's where that came from. Don't worry, though. Ginny and the diary will get there scenes soon. Perhaps not how some may want it, however.
So Walden MacNair, and John Dawlish are dead, along with a few "red-shirts" – also known as nameless extras! I chose those two deaths for a particular reason. Walden, because he's an evil jerk, and John Dawlish, because I didn't want his name to come up later in the will he/won't he be an evil jerk like some authors like to do. Also Aragog and the remainder of his colony are going away. We'll likely never see them again.
