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Chapter XXX

March 1994

All the residents of Potter's Cove sat at one of the tables in the Potter family library. The locket Harry and Danny had found in the Chamber of Secrets rested in the middle between them. For the last couple of days, Lily and Remus had been studying the unique artifact to uncover what caused Danny to react to it the way he did. Harry and Danny helped as much as they could, offering all the details they remembered about what happened. Danny had even tried to summon his magic until his eyes glowed white, but he was unable to reach that point. Whatever had come over him when he sensed the locket was proving hard to replicate.

What they were left with was researching the locket's history and the man to which it had once belonged.

"There've been a number of Founder heirlooms that have been thought as lost, especially Slytherin's," Remus began. "According to history, Slytherin's family ring and a scepter his ancestors earned during the Roman occupation of Great Britain have both been missing for centuries."

"It's not just Slytherin, though," Lily added. "Gryffindor's power gauntlets, Hufflepuff's chalice, Ravenclaw's diadem and, according to you, Harry, a transformation ring."

"But here's the strange thing." Remus reached over, picked up the locket, and opened it. He stared into the faded picture of a young woman with raven hair standing in front of a rundown shack that had a snake pinned to the front door. "We've searched every record we have on the Founders. Whoever this woman is, she's doesn't appear connected to them."

Lily took the locket and started passing it around so everyone could see the picture. "And from my tests, the picture is only about fifty years old."

"So, someone else found Slytherin's old locket and decided to use it themselves," Sirius rationalized as he handled the locket. "I'm going to have to bet it's a relative, too. Maybe their mother or sister."

"Why do you say that?" asked James.

"Because she's not much of a looker, this one," was the somber answer.

Harry was next to take the locket and it was hard to argue with Sirius. Despite the degradation of the photo, it was easy to tell that the young woman was not one to turn heads. Her hair was long and dull. Her eyes pointed in opposite directions, and her face was severely asymmetrical with an elongated lower jaw.

"She's probably from a pureblood family. One that really stuck to their own," stated James.

"Well that hardly narrows down the list of families she could be from," said Remus. It had been and still was common practice for many old pureblood families to marry from within, which led to many offspring showing signs of inbreeding. This woman was clearly among them.

"She's not from mine, I can tell that much," said Sirius.

Realizing they weren't getting anywhere, James decided to move the discussion along. "Were you able to find out anything about what else was inside the locket?"

Danny, who had stayed quiet for most of the evening, sat up straighter. Lily looked at him with a soft frown.

"No. Whatever it was, there's no trace of it left."

The eyes of everyone turned to the youngest Potter, silently asking him to recount what happened.

"I don't know what happened to me. The moment I stepped into the chamber, I started to feel it. Harry did, too. And when we got into the statue, it was like it had gotten inside me." Danny subconsciously rubbed his chest as recalled the pain he felt. "It was like there was something inside me trying to tear itself out. I've never felt pain like that… and when Harry told me he found what was causing it…" Danny paused to find the right words. "…I-I don't know. Everything sort of changed and I just knew what to do."

Everyone exchanged looks, with all of them eventually settling on Remus; the man who knew the most about Danny's magic.

"I think," Lupin started slowly and then stopped. "I think I need more time with Danny." Looking around, he could tell that this wasn't what everyone hoped he would say. "I'm trying, but this is an unprecedented incident involving unfamiliar magic I'm dealing with." He tentatively turned to James.

"Don't ask, Moony," James said evenly, but with a pleading expression.

"I'm reaching the end of my capabilities here. We need fresh eyes and a deeper knowledge of magic," Remus stated for what felt like the hundredth time.

"We've given Dumbledore enough chances," said Lily, shocking everyone. She, after all, had advocated the most to include Dumbledore more. To hear her now side with James truly spoke of how far the Headmaster had fallen in the eyes of the Potters.

Remus let out a frustrated sigh. "I need to wait until after this cycle, then. It's hard for me to concentration this close to the full moon."

Everyone nodded in understanding. None of them knew the struggle a werewolf had to go through three times every month.

"I'll be right back," announced Peter. He got up from his chair and left the library. He returned not long after with a steaming goblet.

"I've got your Wolfsbane ready, Moony," said Peter.

"Thank you, Peter." Remus took the goblet and gave it a slightly hesitant look.

"Don't worry, Lily brewed it." Peter quipped. He and Remus shared a smile with Remus giving him a quick pat on the back. Remus took a sip and grimaced. The potion wasn't appetizing but he had to finish all of it before the sun set. It was worth it, though, to tame the beast within.

"Does this mean we're out of the Order now?" asked Peter, as he retook his seat.

All eyes, once more, turned to James. The Potter Head of House fisted his hands together. "Whether we like it or not, when that prophecy was made, Danny, and in turn all of us, became much bigger players in this war. And until Dumbledore decides that we need to be treated as equals, and worthy of complete disclosure on all matters that could affect us, we have to make our own way."

"We can't break from them completely, their network of information is much more expansive than ours," interjected Remus.

"I can try to reach out to some members of the Circle," Sirius offered as an alternative.

"Don't we still have a favor to ask of Lord Delacour?" asked Harry.

Sirius nodded. "He'll be the first I speak to."

"When's the next time they meet?" asked James.

"This Friday evening." It was Wednesday. "It's Malfoy's day of reckoning," Sirius said with a satisfied grin.

"I wish I could be there to see it," said James. A sentiment that was shared by all.

"I'll give you the highlights," Sirius shared a smile with his friend.

"What about my memories?" Peter then asked. "Dumbledore was supposed to help me."

"Of course, you can still see him," Lily reassured. "We just mean to keep our other efforts to ourselves, just like he does."

"At least, until Dumbledore is willing to come to the table," Remus stated, seeking clarification. He met eyes with James, who after a long pause, nodded.

"Until then."

The next evening found Harry and Danny outside. They had spent the day in training with Sirius running through some aerial drills. Remus, despite coming off his first night of transformation, worked with Danny on replicating the state he had reached inside the Chamber, but with little success.

Harry thought spending some time alone together could help Danny take his mind off his failure. They sat in the small gazebo overlooking the cove and watched the waves crash against the cliffs.

"Harry, what's going to happen next year, I mean, with the tournament and all?"

"We'll do what we always do; stick together," Harry gave him a playful nudge. "And maybe show the Bulgarians and French a little Marauder hospitality."

Danny smirked. "What do you have in mind?" He was excited to finally start living up to their family legacy.

Harry shrugged with a hint of mystery. "I'm sure we and the twins will have a few ideas." Fred and George always had something cooking.

"Not if Hermione has anything to say about it." Danny leaned back with a bigger smile. "I think she's made it her mission to reform them."

"That's a lost cause, if I've ever heard one."

"I think she just wants to save people from testing any more of their Skiving Snackboxes."

"They paid them," Harry defended. He, after all, had provided the funds to do so. "And I think it's about time that we got her to loosen up." Harry could just imagine what kind of things that brain of hers could cook up if it allowed for a little mischief.

"I happen to like her just the way she is, thank you very much," Danny retorted. "And good luck convincing her to do anything that might hurt her chances at making prefect."

Harry rolled his eyes. "Like there's any doubt about that."

"She's worried it'll turn into a popularity contest, with someone like Brown swooping in and taking it."

"You honestly think that McGonagall," Harry really emphasized her name. "Is going to pick someone based on popularity?"

"Hermione thinks there's a chance," Danny argued sincerely.

"Well, she can't always be brilliant."

They sat in silence, as they watched the sun begin to set. Harry leaned back with Danny and placed an arm around his shoulder.

"Speaking of Hermione…" Harry purposively left it open ended.

"I don't know," Danny started. "With everything that's happened, I don't know if it's the right time."

"You like her, right?"

"I don't have to pretend with her. I can just be myself and it never frightens her. She always just sees me." Danny looked down. "And when I see other people be mean to her for just wanting everyone to be their best, I want to protect her. I don't want her to ever lose that."

Harry nodded knowingly. "Then don't let her."

Danny turned to him questioningly.

"I'm not saying just go up to her and profess all your feelings to her," Harry clarified. "But don't be afraid to have that conversation."

"It worked for you."

"Yeah, it worked. For a time. And look where it got me," Harry said solemnly.

"Did the two of you break up?" Danny had to ask because he wasn't entirely sure. Harry hadn't really spoken about it ever since they had come home. But the downtrodden mood Harry had been in hinted that something must have happened.

"Not in so many words, but I think I really hurt her when I chose going after Grey over her." A decision Harry now regretted.

"And you admitted that it wasn't a good idea. I'm sure if you explain it to her…" Danny gave a playful nudge. "Maybe say you're sorry for a change."

Harry smiled, but it quickly faded. "I don't think it'll be that easy."

Now it was Danny's turn to offer a pep talk. "Listen Harry, we'll go back, the two of you get into one of your little rows, like you always do." Harry couldn't stop his smile from reforming. "And before you know it, you and she will be sneaking off, like you usually do, and everything will be alright again."

"I don't know about that. She's pretty stubborn."

"So are you," said Danny while laughing.

"I'm much better than her," Harry defended himself, which only caused more laughter that Harry couldn't help but join in.

After they settled down, Danny decided to change the subject. "Have you thought about entering the Triwizard Tournament?"

"Absolutely not," Harry answered quickly and definitively.

"Why not? I'd figure you see it as a chance to test yourself."

"It would be," Harry had to agree. "But, I think I've been through enough after five years. I just want a single quiet year for a change." Harry leaned back in his seat. "Besides, I wouldn't want to ruin Fred or George's chances."

"They're entering?"

"One thousand galleons in prize money." Harry didn't need to say another word. That kind of money could easily fund all the twins' projects and, eventually, their dream of owning a joke shop.

"What if I wanted to enter?" Danny asked cautiously. The Triwizard Tournament didn't flat out deny fourth years and below from entering, but strongly encouraged that only students that have reached OWL level to compete.

"Do you want to?"

"I don't know, I mean, I've thought about it." Danny turned his hands over and stared into his palms. "I know I'd have to do it without revealing my magic, but don't you think people will expect me to enter?"

"We've made it this far without worrying about expectations." Harry easily noticed that this upset Danny and so he asked. "Unless it has bothered you?"

"I'm just wondering when it's time not to hide anymore. I can just about do anything now. That is, except for the really weird stuff, but I'm not going to try that stuff anyway."

"You know it's not just about that." Harry reminded him. There was still a strategic benefit to hiding the true nature and extent of Danny's magic. As Sirius would say, 'Better your enemy see you as a sheep, instead of a wolf.'

"I'll still be using the wand and I'll be careful," Danny reasoned.

Harry took a breath. He could hear Danny's resolve (something he was starting to hear more and more from his little brother) and didn't have the heart to deny him. "We'll ask Mum and Dad."

That caused Danny to smile, not because he thought they would say he could compete, but because Harry approved of him trying.

"Boys! Come in for supper!" Lily called from the house.

They stood together, with Harry keeping an arm around Danny's shoulder. When they walked back into the manor, they saw everyone except Moony gathered around the dining table. There was a plate of lightly cooked meat in Moony's usual spot. A few minutes later, the tired looking man shuffled in, looking completely ragged with a blanket wrapped around him, and grabbed his plate.

"You've had your Wolfsbane?" asked James.

"Yes," Moony replied agitated, a byproduct of his upcoming transformation. He quickly realized there was no reason for such harshness and spoke more calmly. "Yes, Peter brought it to me an hour ago." Moony picked a slap of meat and ripped off a piece of it with his mouth as he turned to leave.

"I'll be up in a bit to keep you company, Moony," said Peter. It was customary for one of the Maruaders to stay with Remus in their animagus form during the night.

Moony just nodded and disappeared into the hallway. Everyone gave each other a sympathetic look for the plight of their friend before they settled into their seats for supper.

Harry and Danny were hanging out in Harry's room after dinner. Danny was slouching in Harry's armchair, half-heartedly flipping through a Quidditch magazine about the upcoming World Cup match. The discussion of whether Danny could compete in the Triwizard had not gone well. James and Lily explained that Danny's secret was too much at risk to be exposed at the tournament. Danny had tried to argue his case, but their will was adamant. Danny would not enter the Triwizard Tournament.

Harry peeked over his book at his brother. Danny's dejection was evident. Harry knew it would take some time before his brother could move on and accept their parent's decision, just as it would be if their roles were reversed.

His attention suddenly shifted to the sound of a loud howl and crashing furniture. Harry turned to lock eyes with Danny, a look of concern on both their faces.

"What's happening?" Danny asked as they both moved to Harry's door.

Harry opened it only a little, just enough to peek outside. He didn't see anything, so he closed the door and turned to Danny.

"It's probably nothing. Moony likely just knocked over something by accident."

Danny nodded, but froze when they heard another howl and a repetitive thumping sound. Fear started creeping up Harry's spine. He flicked his wand into his hand.

"Stay here, Danny."

"No way! I'm going with you."

Harry nodded and walked out first. Moony's transformation room was on the other side of the manor. Harry knew better than to head towards a potentially loose werewolf. He instead wanted to find their parents and make sure they were safe. They first checked their bedroom, but it was empty.

"I bet they're still downstairs," whispered Danny.

Harry nodded. His head shot up when he heard a loud crash that sounded like a busted door. Remus must have gotten out. Harry and Danny looked at each other and knew that they had to hurry. They picked up the pace to the staircase and ran into Sirius.

"Sirius—" Harry started.

"I know." He interrupted. "Your Mum and Dad are in the study. Get there and lock yourselves in. Go!" Sirius pushed them along and started down the hallway with his wand at the ready.

Harry grabbed Danny by the shoulder to lead him down the stairs and head to their father's study. When they reached it, they knocked urgently.

"Mum! Dad! It's us!" Harry called out.

The door quickly swung open to reveal Lily. She pulled them in and immediately slammed the door shut. She recast the protection spells before she turned and brought both of her sons into her arms.

"Are you two okay?" she asked while placing a hand to both of their cheeks.

"We're fine." Harry turned to their father, who had his wand pointed at the door.

"What is going on?" asked Danny. "What happened to Moony?"

Lily nervously bit her lip. "I don't know. I mean, the Wolfsbane Potion is a relatively recent discovery. It might be possible to build a tolerance." She didn't sound overly sure, however.

"Did you see Sirius or Peter?" asked James, his eyes still keen of the door behind them.

"Just Sirius on the stairs," Danny informed him.

"He was heading for Remus's transformation room," Harry added.

James nodded at the news. "The wolf always responded best to Sirius."

It made sense to Harry. A wolf and a dog would probably get along well.

"What about Peter?" Danny asked worriedly.

"He's small enough that he should be able to stay clear." James was, of course, referring to Peter's rat form. "Plus, he is pretty clever in his own way. He'll be fine."

As soon as James said it, there was another loud crash and a long howl. Lily wrapped her arms around her sons. There was no telling what was going on. They could only hope that Sirius and Peter could handle Remus.

Lily moved the boys over to James. They waited nervously watching the door, hoping for Sirius to walk through with good news. The minutes ticked by without any clue as to what was happening. All they could hear were distant rumblings along with the howls and barks of a wolf and dog. Soon, things then went quiet for a long time. Long enough that they started to believe that it was over.

Harry started for the door, despite his mother trying to hold him back. He pressed his ear to it to try and hear the faintest sound, but there was nothing.

He then turned back to his father who gave a small nod. Harry grabbed the doorknob and slowly turned it. He had his wand ready as he opened the door only a crack. The hallway was empty. Harry opened the door further, so he could stick his head out. He thought he heard footsteps coming from down the hall. He took a step out to get a better look. He turned left towards where he thought the sound had come from, when…

GGGGGRRRRRR!

Harry immediately turned around to the other side of the hallway. The werewolf was at the end of the hall. Its silver eyes were glistening in the dark, staring directly at him.

Harry jumped back into the study and slammed the door shut. He and Lily frantically started recasting protection spells. Before they could finish, the door shook from the werewolf trying to get in.

Harry and Lily backed away. With their already considerable protection spells, it wouldn't stop the wolf from getting in.

"Spread out," James instructed, as the door began to give way. "Go for the legs and head. Don't hold back, it won't."

They did as James said, going to the four corners of the room. Not soon after, the door was smashed off its hinges. The werewolf slowly trotted into the room. Its head moved to stare at each of them in turn, assessing which it should attack first. When its eyes landed on James in his wheelchair, it growled.

"Now!" the man commanded in turn.

The room erupted in spell-fire, all of which, though, just seemed to bounce off the wolf's skin as it stalked closer to James. Harry and Lily sent binding spells at the wolf's feet. It did cause the wolf to trip and fall, but that only served to anger the beast. It wasn't long before it broke through the bindings and was back on its feet.

It was then that a large black dog with a rat clinging to its back came running into the room. The wolf turned to them and growled. Wormtail jumped off Padfoot and moved towards Danny before he transformed back to human. The wolf paid him no mind, it's attention was focused entirely on Padfoot.

The two canines circled each other, giving time for Peter to gather Lily and Danny. Peter carefully moved them over to James.

"We need to get out of here," Peter said urgently.

"Not without Harry," James retorted.

But Harry could not move. He was on the wrong side of the standoff between Padfoot and the wolf.

The wolf and Padfoot bared their teeth at one another, both trying to establish dominance. They continued to circle each other, until Padfoot stopped himself between Harry and the wolf. The wolf took a step forward and Padfoot responded immediately with a loud bark, barring his teeth more. The wolf slowed its step but didn't back off. Padfoot barked again and took a step forward as well. The wolf responded to Padfoot's step with barking of its own. The wolf took another slow step forward and, this time, Padfoot crouched down, ready to pounce.

In an eyeblink, the wolf and Padfoot were at each other's throat. The wolf had a much longer snout and Padfoot just narrowly avoided being bitten. Padfoot used the wolf's attack to duck down and sink his teeth into the wolf's front left leg. He didn't hang on for long, though, but it was enough to elicit a howl from the feral creature. Padfoot backed off to look for another opening to try and disable the wolf.

Meanwhile, the wolf quickly checked on its wounded leg, before it turned to Padfoot with a deadly growl. It appeared that the two canines were ready to attack again, but when Padfoot jumped forward, the wolf used its unnaturally long legs to kick Padfoot hard across the face. The strike sent Padfoot straight into the ground and left him completely open. The wolf stood over Padfoot, ready to go in for the kill, but was distracted by a sudden spell to the head cast by James.

The distraction was long enough for Padfoot to recover and lunge to bite down on the wolf's neck. The wolf let another howl of pain as, this time, Padfoot held on. He dug in deeper, trying to get the wolf to submit, but despite his advantageous position, the wolf was still a great deal larger and stronger than him. The wolf used their difference in weight to body slam Padfoot to the ground. The impact caused Padfoot to let go, and now, was on his back.

James, along with Harry this time, sent spells to distract the wolf again, but they did not have the desired effect. The wolf's long claws swiped across Padfoot's stomach, sending blood into the air. Padfoot howled in agony as another deep cut pierced through its vulnerable underbelly.

"Sirius!" James cried. He cast a more offensive spell that managed to cut through the wolf's tough hide. The wound caused the wolf to stagger mid-strike and gave Padfoot time to muster enough strength to reach up and ensnare the wolf's failing leg in its mouth. The wolf howled as it ripped his leg from Padfoot's grasp. In anger, the wolf kicked Padfoot and sent him crashing against the wall near Harry.

The wolf then turned its attention back on James and moved closer. Harry started casting spell after spell, trying to get the wolf's attention off his family.

The wolf didn't seem to care about Harry's spells, not with its desired prey so close. Danny jumped forward and raised his hands. A bright blue shield appeared over them.

'That won't work Danny, werewolves are immune to shield magic,' Harry thought despairingly.

The wolf raised a paw to swipe Danny away, but the shield, surprisingly, blocked it. The wolf snarled and began striking against Danny's shield. Each impact caused Danny to wince, but he was holding strong, for now.

Harry stood in amazement at what his brother was doing. The amount of power it must be taking to stop a werewolf with a shield, made what Danny did in the Chamber of Secrets almost look like nothing. He had to brush the shock away quickly, though, to take this opportunity to check on Sirius. He didn't know much about healing spells, but he did what he could to close the wound.

"Sirius," he whispered.

The dog whimpered and then transformed back into Sirius. In this form, it was easier to tell that he had sustained a head injury, as well. There was blood coming out of his ears and swelling forming around his temple.

"Harry," Sirius struggled to speak. "G-Get out. Get out now."

But Harry would not leave him. He cast a Levitation spell to make it easier to move his godfather out of the room.

"Harry, watch out!" James called out.

The wolf had grown tired of trying to break through Danny's shield in favor of a more readily available prey.

Harry was facing an impossible choice. He could either run and try to save himself but leave Sirius, or stay and face death with his godfather.

As the wolf stalked closer, Harry raised his wand for a futile last stand.

"NO!" Danny cried. He extended a hand towards Harry and Sirius and a blue shield surrounded them.

The wolf released an angry snarl at being stopped again. It attacked their defense but was unable to penetrate it. Its attention turned back to Danny, recognizing him as the source of his impediment. It attacked Danny's shield with renewed ferocity. Danny was forced to one knee at the weight of each impact. He dropped the shield around Harry to strengthen his own, but the wolf sensed it. It stopped its attack and turned back to Harry and Sirius. Danny raised a barrier around the two again which in turn only caused the wolf to continue its attack on him.

"I don't think I can keep both of these up for very long," Danny grunted.

"Can you keep it around us if we move?" asked Peter.

"I think—"

"No," James interceded. "Danny, can you trap it inside its own shield?"

"I don't know. I don't think I could do a third one. I'm already getting tired."

"Drop ours," said Harry.

James nodded. "And then drop ours after it goes for them. You can then concentrate on just that one."

"Okay," Danny grunted as he absorbed another impact.

"Be ready to move Sirius, Harry," said Lily.

Harry recast a Levitation and Feather-Light spell on his now unconscious godfather. Harry nodded to his father who then placed a hand on Danny's shoulder.

"Get ready, Danny."

Harry prepared to move and Lily and Peter went behind James's wheelchair.

"Head for the lounge, we'll floo out of here," James instructed. It was the best plan they had. Potter Cove was isolated so the wolf wouldn't have anyone to attack before morning came and Remus would return.

"Now Danny!"

The barrier around Harry dropped which, once again, drew the wolf's attention. As soon as it turned its back on Danny, he dropped his own protection and threw his hands towards the wolf. A bubble formed around the wolf that stopped it in its tracks.

"Go now!" James yelled.

Harry didn't hesitate. He grabbed Sirius and pulled him out of the room. He was nearly to the lounge when he noticed that the others were not behind him. He turned around and saw nothing but an empty hallway. He quickly lowered Sirius to the ground, making sure to keep his head stable, before he raced back to the study.

Danny watched his brother leave with Sirius. He wanted to feel relief but couldn't break his concentration. The wolf was not accepting being trapped and attacked its barrier with absolute abandon. Unlike before, where the wolf was only attacking one spot on the shield, Danny had to now contend with an assault on multiple fronts. It presented a much more difficult challenge to maintain the entrapment, and Danny could feel himself tiring rapidly.

Lily and Peter helped push James past the shield bubble with Danny keeping himself between them and the wolf. Just as they were passing, the wolf reared back for one vicious attack to its blue prison. The force of the impact took Danny off his feet and finally broke his concentration.

"Danny!" Lily cried as her eyes followed her son's fall. They soon came back around to face the now freed werewolf. The beast shook its body like a wet dog before it rose over them.

Danny was quickly back on his feet and produced a shield just before the wolf could come down on them. The shield disappeared, however, as soon as it repelled the strike. Danny shook his head. Being knocked off his feet had disoriented him and it was harder to concentrate.

The wolf sensed weakness and reared back for another bite. Again, Danny only managed to raise a defense to stop the attack but couldn't keep it up. Over and over, the exchange went on.

James, Lily, and Peter could see that it was becoming harder and harder for Danny to raise a shield. They could have used the opportunity to run, to safe themselves, but none of them would leave Danny behind.

Finally, the strain became too much and Danny couldn't muster the strength to repel the creature. The wolf sensed as much and stood up on its hind legs before it finally finished its prey.

Lily reached out to her son, wanting to hold him before the end. Peter shook from fear, but tried to get between his friends and the werewolf. James raised his wand, prepared to make the fatal choice. The werewolf opened its mouth, ready to bite down on Danny's face. But just before it could finally taste meat for the first time that evening, it was stopped with a loud thud.

A three-inch blade was speared through its throat.

The wolf dropped to the ground and transformed back into its human form. Blood spilled all across the hardwood floor as the last heartbeats of Remus Lupin were spent.

James, Lily, Peter, and Danny turned to the direction the blade had come from.

Harry stood in the doorway with his wand raised with shaking fingers. The wand dropped from his hand and clanked on the floor. Harry fell to his knees, unable to take his eyes off the lifeless body before him.*

Friday

The crowded room was starting to grow restless. The members of the Circle were not accustomed to waiting. After all, punctuality was one of the most important attributes any respectable wizard had to display. Tonight, however, the Circle had to contend with one of the more shameful characteristics of wizarding kind; greed. Now, that wasn't to say that avarice was unknown with the Circle, but never at the expense of the Circle itself. That was strictly forbidden.

Finally, it was time for the evening's proceedings to commence. The torches of the room darkened leaving only a circle of light in the middle of the room. The doors of the banquet hall then opened and in walked Lord Lucius Malfoy. He strode confidently into the center of the room and stood at attention.

"This Circle has brought Lord Lucius Malfoy, Head of the Ancient and Most Noble House of Malfoy, to answer for his actions," stated a disembodied voice. "Lord Malfoy has attempted to gain controlling power over this Circle, an actionable offense, warranting permanent expulsion. What does Lord Malfoy have to say to this Circle?"

Lord Malfoy kept his gaze aimed directly in front of him. "I, Lord Lucius Malfoy, Head of the Ancient and Most Noble House of Malfoy, have nothing to say to these accusations."

"You deny them?" the voice asked.

"I do not." Lord Malfoy's terse response surprised some members of the Circle. They had expected him to mount more of a defense or at least deny the accusation.

"You are prepared to accept your expulsion from this Circle?"

"I am not." Once again, people were surprised by his answer. This was not the Lord Malfoy they were accustomed to.

"You wish, then, to challenge this Circle's decision?"

"I challenge this Circle's authority."

"This Circle's authority is absolute. You will adhere to it," the voice replied aggressively. It was the first time that the voice had shown any sort of emotion.

"No," Lord Malfoy answered defiantly. "There is only one to whom I bow."

The doors of the hall opened again. A hooded figure, in billowing black robes, stood in the archway. His appearance caused the room to stir, but none broke the silence. The hooded figure glided into the center and stood along the edge of the light.

"This Circle does not tolerate interruption. You will remove yourself from this premise at once."

"I remember as a child watching the eagle owls arrive with their black letters," the man spoke as if he had not heard the voice's order. "They went to each and every member of my House… all but me." The man raised his arms and the room was filled with light, revealing the Lords and Ladies of the Circle.

"I was not deemed worthy to stand among you." When the man brought his hands down, he took his hood with him. The room gasped at the sight. The man's head was hairless and his skin was as white as snow. His eyes were blood red and just around his neckline, there were signs of black markings.

Lord Malfoy immediately knelt before his master, Lord Voldemort. Other Lords and Ladies, most notably Bellatrix Lestrange, rose from their seats and joined Malfoy in the center of the room.

Two uniformed wizards marched into the room.

"Remove this intruder," the voice demanded.

Lucius and Bellatrix reacted immediately. They pulled their wands and two Killing Curses later, the two guards were dead. Lucius and Bellatrix sheathed the wands and stood guard in front of their master in the event of another attack.

"I request this Circle reconsider my worthiness."

A throne appeared behind Voldemort and he took his seat. Lucius and Bellatrix returned to their knees, along with the rest of the Dark Lord's followers and they would remain there until their master commanded them to rise.

The room was dead silent. Never in all the years of the Circle had something like this happened. None of them knew what to do. A few of the older members looked between each other and then nodded.

"What do you offer this Circle?" the voice asked.

A smile spread across Voldemort's face. "I'm glad you asked." He rose from his throne and began pacing. He looked over the crowd of the most pureblooded families in the magical world. Some avoided his gaze, others stared back defiantly.

Voldemort raised his arms. "I offer you salvation."

"This Circle does not require salvation," the voice replied dismissively.

"Doesn't it?" Voldemort responded. "When you look at this world, do you not see it? Do you not see the blight that has been allowed to spread?" Voldemort looked at the confused faces in the crowd.

"Since the beginning of time, it is man that has ruled this planet. But mankind was not created equal. For there was a force in every molecule of this world that elevated one over the other. Magic. It is the source of life and we, as wizards, are part of it. We rule it. With nothing but a flick of our wrist, we can either create life." Voldemort illustrated his point by conjuring a beautiful flower in his hand. "Or destroy it." The flower crumbled to ash. Voldemort grimaced as cracks and exposed veins appeared all over his skin. A pulse glowed from underneath his robes and the black marks around his neck. The pulse washed over his head and the cracks and veins disappeared.

Voldemort took a deep breath before he spoke again. "We are the chosen ones, and yet, we've allowed a species to drive us into hiding while they bask in the full beauty of this world. And look what they've done with it."

A few members of the Circle were starting to listen with more interest.

"They habitually find reasons to kill each other in needless wars. A simple disease can decimate their population. Their greed has sapped this planet of irreplaceable resources. Their negligent breeding has driven countless species to extinction. And if we are not careful, we will become one of them."

Voldemort moved so that he stood among his kneeling followers and raised his arms.

"What conflict can threaten us?"

"Magic protects us," Voldemort's followers responded.

"What disease can harm us?"

"Magic heals us," his followers responded again.

"What need do to we have for want?"

"Magic provides for us."

"And what's to stop us from living in harmony with our animal brothers?"

"Magic is with all of us."

Voldemort then offered his arms to the crowd.

"The path to salvation is before us, my children. It is time that we follow the light that will show us the way." Voldemort reached for his robes and ripped them from his body. He stood completely nude, revealing the extensive set of runes etched into his very skin. Voldemort's face scrunched in concentration. Soon, his entire body began to glow.

"I am the light!"

Lord Augustin Delacour shielded his eyes as the room was encompassed in a blinding light. It was as if someone had ignited the sun inside the banquet hall. Protected by his arm, Augustin witnessed fissures of light appear all over Voldemort's chest. He watched as the Dark Lord's body looked as if it threatened to be ripped apart by its own magic. But just before it looked like Voldemort would be completely undone, he balled his fist and flexed his arms as he strained at the effort to reel in his magic.

"AAAAAAAHHHHHHHHH!" He was forced to scream before the last fissure closed itself. Voldemort breathed heavily as the room recovered from the sight they just witnessed.

Augustin lowered his arm, his mind trying to make sense of what he just witnessed. No wizard was capable of what he had just seen. No one could hold so much power, not even Merlin himself. He looked back at the Dark Lord and his brow rose at a curious sight. The dark runes that covered Voldemort's body appeared to be what was healing it after each magic display. But they were incomplete. Augustin did not recognize the language of the runes but there were a number of patterns that were obviously unfinished to a trained eye.

He did not have a chance for further study as Bellatrix rose and covered her master in a new robe. The Dark Lord was still breathing heavily, as he retook his seat.

"What says this Circle?" Voldemort asked smugly.

Augustin looked around and he was not pleased to see the amount of willing faces he saw. It was no secret that many members of the Circle were displeased with the Statute of Secrecy and their respective Ministries intolerance for any who threatened it. There were still some remnants of Grindelwald sympathizers within the Circle. Augustin had no doubt that they would see this as yet another opportunity to expand their power and influence on the world.

'It does not matter if it's fear or agreement, we cannot give in to this madman.'

Augustin rose from his chair. "I will speak for this Circle, whether it wishes me to or not."

"Of course, Lord Delacour." Voldemort responded pleasantly. "It will be an honor to hear you speak."

"You have shown this Circle that you hold great power." A smile crept onto Voldemort's face. "We've seen many powerful wizards and witches come before us. And we've seen them use their power in different ways. Some more laudable than others."

Augustin squared himself. "You, Lord Voldemort, represent lunacy."

Voldemort's smile faltered but it did not disappear. He rose from his seat and took a few steps towards Lord Delacour. "I see that it falls upon me to earn your faith." He turned to address the entire room. "To earn all of your faith."

Augustin had to admit to himself that he was surprised by the Dark Lord. Tales of his cruelty and intolerance to opposition was renowned, even in France. Even still, the Lord of the Ancient and Most Noble House of Delacour would not be wooed by a silver tongue. "And if you fail to, what then?"

"I will not fail, my Lord. For my message is unity under the faith of magic itself. And I must reveal to you all, how the true beauty of magic is beyond your wildest imaginations. Follow me, and I will show you."

Voldemort stood among his followers, still on their knees, and raised his arms. "You see before you now already those who've seen the light."

"Are we to bow as well?"

Voldemort smiled and dropped his arms. "They do so by their own volition. They wish to pay respect to the power of my message."

Augustin allowed for silence, as he thought carefully on what he meant to say next.

"You speak to this room of noble Lords and Ladies about salvation, but what you propose is genocide and chaos." Augustin turned slightly to the rest of the room. "This Circle has evolved much through the centuries, as has its purpose. It has become more guarded and more selfish. It has sought power and supported its own agenda." Augustin turned back to Voldemort.

"But I have not forgotten its real purpose." He drew his wand from his robes and pointed it at the Dark Lord. "It's to protect the world from men like you."

"Lord Delacour," Voldemort chuckled, not even batting an eye at Augustin's wand. "There are no men like me."

"There are always men like you."

Voldemort was quiet, but it was visible that he was growing impatient with Augustin's resistance.

"What you seem to not understand, Lord Delacour, is that I am no longer a man." The Dark Lord serene expression turned more menacing.

"I beg your pardon."

"I have ascended beyond this existence," Voldemort's voice grew louder with each word. "And I offer to you all the opportunity to join me. Those that choose to will be a part of a new dynasty of magic. Those that do not, well…" Voldemort let his words linger, as he looked over his followers. Slowly, each of them began to rise. "…History has never looked too kindly on infidels." His eyes then landed on Augustin and his disciples' attention followed him.

Lord Delacour was helpless as a sea of wands were raised in his direction. He closed his eyes and envisioned his family, as a wave of death consumed him.

*There is very little in HP canon that describe a werewolf's resistance to magic. What I've done for this story is say that a werewolf is resistant to most spells but can be killed with a blunt instrument where enough force is applied. There are probably some spells that could kill a werewolf, but Harry and co. would have avoided using them to refrain from killing Remus. In that moment, though, Harry is left without a choice. And yes, James was about to do the same, but Harry acted first.