(Second Week of July – Year One (Same Day))

Four – Useful News

"That spell you told us to use on the Muggles finally worked in full effect," The servant spoke reverently, head bowed. "Not even the Ministry could figure out your dark magic, Master."

"Flattery will get you nowhere, young Avery. You tell me what I already know. Unless you have any other news that might even be remotely useful to me, I suggest you go off. I am in no mood for the bothersome."

"Oh, yes, my Lord." Avery quivered. "I meant no disrespect. There is other news, though."

He paused, waiting for his Master to address him. Lord Voldemort only appeared annoyed at his lack of punctuality.

"Well, what are you waiting for? Do you or do you not have news? Your father would be displeased to hear of your incompetence."

He stammered, "Yes, forgive me, Master. As I was saying, large sums of owls were sp-spotted flying from Albus Dumbledore's place of residence. We were n-not able to intercept any- for fear that he had put sort of charm over them. W-we believe that he is trying to-to build up an army of some sort, to try to track you and your work, my Lord."

Lord Voldemort's eyes narrowed, but a small smile appeared on his mouth. "I should have thought Albus would go to measures such as this. He can't face me himself, so he must surround himself with those he trusts to bring me down. Ha! What a fool- now he not only endangers his own being, but those of which he cares!"

"Forgive me for speaking, sir, but… Won't this be a setback for us? Having a group of unknown witches and wizards running around trying to hunt us down? I thought Albus Dumbledore was a wizard to be reckoned wi- AHHH!" Avery was stopped by a blinding pain which seemed to stretch over the surface of his entire body. Voldemort had seized him by the collar, as he twinged in pain.

"We are not to worry about Albus Dumbledore or any of his incapable fools! We are to start forging more of our own alliances! We are to put together a team to figure out just who he's recruiting! We are to find out what his weak plans are, and then one by one we shall eliminate them!" The Dark Lord's raspy yell resonated throughout the chamber. With the wave of his master's wand, Avery felt the pain slowly drain off of his skin.

Avery could do nothing but watch this inhuman power in awe and fear as he was tossed to the floor. Pacing in thought, Voldemort finally turned to speak. "You are to deliver a message to your father. Tell him exactly what I told you we are to do. And also tell him…" He trailed off.

"Yes, my Lord?" Avery prompted, summoning his courage.

Voldemort's snake-like eyes snapped towards the young man. "And also tell him to get the Wolves involved. Tell him to send someone for the Wolves…"