Garo Dark Hollow
ESKK: Well, here we go a new chapter I hope you all will enjoy it and will leave a review for me. Now then let us get this chapter started.
(Start the next Morning)
Harry was in this sitting room with Sirius as Amelia had just left for work earlier. Thankfully the Death Eater's control was not as bad as she had suspected it to be. But that was due to initial views and with a dead Minister this meant the Ministry was compromised. The resulting Power Vacuum was causing them all to be in disarray which Amelia was using to hammer down her department while Sirius worked from the Seat of Black. Currently Kreacher serving the gathered group their meals with a happy pep to his feet as he was doing better after Hermione got all the sample's she needed for someone exposed to a Horcrux for extended periods of time.
Currently Harry was informing Sirius what he found on the Tapestry. Needless, to say Sirius was shocked by the information. "Bloody hell." Sirius gasped as he knew what the implications of this meant for the war.
"I know." Harry said as he didn't expect any being who sought immortality would desire an offspring and/or heir.
"What do you plan to do about her pup?" Sirius asked as he looked to Harry with concern for him.
"I don't know my brain is telling me to just leave her be she's not my problem but my heart on the other hand…" Harry trailed off as Sirius saw what Harry meant on this.
"Look pup if it bothers you that much, I'm sure Amelia and I can take her in or maybe have Tonks or Andromeda take the child in." Sirius said as he knew what Harry was thinking. The girl was just a newborn she didn't deserve the stigma of the Death Eater's taint on her. For heavens sake she was just mere days out of the womb and already fate had given her the middle finger. Sirius heart went out for her as Harry heard his offer to the Golden Knight.
"Assuming this war ends in your favor." Harry said knowing full well things were shit in the Magical World now. Dumbledore was dead, the Ministry taken over, and worst of all Harry was being dragged right back into the thick of this after leaving this world over two years ago.
"I get it pup the adults screwed up big making your generation suffer for it." Sirius said as he knew what Harry was thinking about. Yes, if they had dealt with Voldemort and his lot sooner and properly things would not have gotten so bad. With himself and Amelia in the Ministry of Magic they have managed to blockade as much as the damage as they could. But the damage was still noticeable and thus had to be dealt with.
"Yes, you should have." Harry agreed as he sat across from Sirius.
"So, the child?" Sirius asked as he wondered what would be done about young Ms. Riddle.
"The only thing I can do is find her and get her to safety." Harry trailed off as he knew it was a long shot even by his standards. "Assuming Tom doesn't snuff the babe out first." Harry added as Sirius knew what Harry meant as he doubted the Dark Lord who was obsesses with Immortality would let any possible threats to his rule live for long. "And if we do manage to find her before Tom ends her… I'm not sure." Harry said as he knew Sirius and Amelia had provided him two maybe three options on how to deal with the girl. But then came the fear someone might recognize her and try to tell others. Or worse try to make the young girl into the second coming of Voldemort. Harry had chosen the life of one who protects, and it had chosen him yet being an orphan himself due to his parents enemy Harry did not want to inflict his life on the little girl.
Besides what better way to stick it to Tom then to ensure his daughter becomes a protector of life instead of another Death Eater. That line of thought had actually given Harry a few ideas on what to do about the girl. The Makai have taken in orphans before being the victims of Horrors who had a reason to hunt them or simply those who had the gift and accepted the offer. Delphi if she had the capability would be another orphan taken in to aid in in the orders mission to hunt and slay Horrors.
Assuming she had the gift Delphi could easily become one who protects if she was shown the path. Maybe that was why Harry saw her image maybe his role in her life was to prepare her to become a savior instead of a killer to become a protector. Harry smiled with this thought process as Sirius saw Harry may have just had an Epiphany on the subject.
"Well then pub, what about your Ministry break in. I'm sure Amelia and I could sneak you lot in and." Sirius began but Harry cut him off.
"Sorry Sirius but I wont but you in the fryer like that." Harry said he knew where the pair was needed in this war. "You two need reasonable deniability if it came to light you had helped us then your positions will be in jeopardy and in turn the mundane born will suffer for it." Harry explained and Sirius saw Harry's logic with that.
"Alright then… just be careful." Sirius said and thus Harry nodded to the man.
"I'll try." Harr responded and thus stood up to get some rest. By the end of the month Harry may not be able to get much rest what with the break in and the resulting aftermath.
(Scene Break a Month Later)
As the gang did their part, with the potion was brewed and ready within the month. During this time Harry had taken every chance to hunt Horrors when the need arrived to do so. Harry had not been idle with his duties even if he was busy with this one. During her brewing Hermione had also been hard at work on a side project to the potion and sync it to a device she put together. The Device would give a soft reminder to the user of the potion when the potion was about to run out and when they needed to reapply the substance.
Hermione satisfied with her results nodded as she then pulled out the Madou Tools she had constructed for this mission. "Alright these tools should help us tell us when the potion would wear off when we are in the Ministry." Hermione said while in the room with Lucas and Harry. Hermione passed to each of them a watch which they both put onto their wrists.
"Ok we got the gear, and we got the target so what's the plan?" Alex asked as he looked to his gathered allies wanting to know what their plan was.
"The plan is simple we go in and look for Umbridge." Harry began as he looked to those gathered here.
"That woman next to her in that picture." Hermione began as she cut in. "If I take her form, I can get close to find the locket if it's on her person." Hermione said as that was a good plan but for Hermione it was also a dangerous one. After all, one wrong move would see her killed right there.
"Lucas and I can try searching her office for the Locket assuming she put it there." Harry said but he knew that was not the case. "But if it's like the Diary then I doubt she would part from it." Harry added and thus Lucas nodded in agreement on this. "Plus, there's one last thing I need to look for." Harry said as he looked to both Hermione and Lucas.
"The Prophesy am I right?" Hermione asked as Harry nodded to this.
"Sorry if it seems like a waste of time but… I need to be sure." Harry said because if Dumbledore was to be trusted then that means the old man knew about it for a long time now.
"Harry, I understand." Hermione said with a nod and thus Lucas understood.
"So, while Harry goes looking for the recording of that supposed Prophesy Hermione and I will go looking for a locket, makes sense." Lucas said with a shrug.
"That's just about the size of it." Harry answered and thus they had their plan for their Ministry Break in. "Now time to get ready." Harry said and thus they all went about grabbing what they would need for this.
(Later that Day)
Lucas and Silva were acting as their spotter as he was the logical choice in this. So as the spotter he would inform them when a Wizarding official would walk by as they had to basically stun them and take their forms.
Hermione was taking hairs from each of their disguise sources as she and the two Makai Knights were each wearing outfits to hide their gear. "Ok remember what we talked about. Don't talk to anyone unless absolutely necessary." Hermione warned them as she passed the now completed potions to everyone. "Just try and act normal do what everyone else is doing." Hermione urged them as the two Knights heard this.
"Ok we do all of this and with a bit of luck we might get inside." Lucas said as he took his vial and held it ready to the others. "Well bottoms up." He said with a small toast and thus downed the potion in one go and once he did gag at the taste.
"This is completely mental." Harry said before downing his own potion as Zaruba then smirked to this finding it funny.
"Completely." Hermione agreed as she knew this was just the tip of the iceberg in their chosen line of work. Hermione also downed her potion and in turn the effects it had on the trio began to take hold.
(Outside)
The group walked out as Harry was dressed as a man in black, Hermione was disguised as the woman from the photo on the prophet, and Lucas was dressed as some random mustached ministry employee. Hermione of course had casted a notice-me-not charm so they may stay out of sight of the mundane eyes. The trio were currently making their way to the Ministry of Magic which had an entrance nearby... at the loo.
(Inside the Stalls)
"I hate this." Lucas said as he stood in line glaring at the entrance in question.
"Shut it if they had a front door, I'm sure we would have used the blasted thing." Harry said as he saw Lucas did not like this.
Eventually their turn came as Harry proceeded to enter the stall with Lucas entering another. As Harry looked at the toilet, he had a bad feeling about it which Zaruba knew why. "You have to put your foot inside the bowl and flush." Zaruba said and thus Harry went wide eyed in horror to this. "Yes, it is a very unsavory entrance method to use." Zaruba said and thus Harry sighed and put his feet into the bowl. Once Harry did so he yanked the chain and in turn the Golden Knight was pulled into the toilet.
(Ministry of Magic)
Harry came out of a Floo Chimney in a burst of green flames as he quickly regained himself from that. Once he was through Harry looked around for Hermione and Lucas hoping to find them so they may begin their task. Opting to regroup at the statues Harry began to walk with the other Ministry Employees trying to blend in with them to appear average.
Once Harry and Hermione arrived at the statue with Lucas they were looked to the Statues and saw the Bigotry that it represented to them. "Are those?" Harry asked as he realized what was at the bottom of the statue.
"Muggles." Hermione answered as she could not look away from the statue. "In their rightful place." Hermione said holding back the gasp of discuss at this once wonderful world being so tainted with black.
"Ok that is all sorts of wrong." Alexander said as he knew about the Magical World but didn't realize that things were this bad in it.
"Who are the young folks?" Harry asked as he saw the several younger faces among the Ministry.
"Snatchers apparently they hunt muggleborn and blood traitors for a price." Lucas said causing eyes to look to him. "What? I read a bit on them you think I just took the job without researching first?" Lucas asked almost offended by the silent accusations from them.
Focusing on the task Hermione looked to her boyfriend and their ally. "Just remember keep a close eye on those watches if they start flashing a different color then we need to get out fast." Hermione quietly reminded them as the watches would remind them when they had to get the Hell out of there.
"Understood." Harry said and thus they began to make their way through the Ministry building.
"Well, I had a few people wishing me good luck, so I suspect my guy is someone in trouble." Lucas said as they were making their way to the Elevator the trio entered and began their Ministry Horcrux Hunt.
"Just go along with it." Harry responded as they pressed the button for the Elevator.
But before the Elevator could close another man stepped up to them stopping the door. "Cattermole!" The man snapped as he glared at Lucas.
When Lucas noticed the man was glaring at him the Makai Knight began to grow worried, he may have taken the image of someone he should not have. After all, if it goes down as he sees it then Lucas had also taken on this copied faces troubles as well. "Um hi?" Lucas greeted as Silva silently sighed and would have face palmed herself if she could and had arms.
"It's still raining in my office. Two days now." The man whom Hermione remembered as Yaxley said as he glared at Lucas.
"Really? Have you tried an Umbrella?" Lucas asked as he sounded like a bit of a smart ass with that.
'We're doomed.' Harry thought as he saw what Lucas just did.
"You realized I'm on my way downstairs, don't you, Cattermole?" Yaxley asked as Lucas looked confused for a moment.
"Downstairs you say?" Lucas asked trying to play along as best he could.
"Yes, to interrogate you wife!" Yaxley snapped as Lucas realized where this was going. "If my wife's blood status were in doubt and the future Head of the Department of Law Enforcement needed a job doing, I think I'd make it a priority." Yaxley said as this was clearly a man trying to usurp Amelia Bones position. "You got one hour." Yaxley said as he then stormed off as Lucas looked confused by this.
"Asshole!" Lucas snapped as he was no doubt holding that one in for a bit.
"You do realize you have to fix that office right, Zero?" Silva asked as Lucas's left eye twitched.
"Don't remind me." Lucas said and thus Harry had to offer.
"Need help?" Harry asked and thus Lucas turned his head.
"No, I'll figure it out and if not, I'll probably just trash it and knock the bloke out." Lucas said and thus Harry was wondering if Ron would have handled it worse than Lucas would have.
Just then the automatic voice of the place spoke up. "Level Two. Department of Magical Law Enforcement, including Wizengamot Administration Services, Auror Headquarters, and Improper use of Magic Department." It spoke with a female voice and thus Lucas rolled his eyes and walked out the newly opened door to his fate.
"Remember if things go south find Tonks, Sirius, or Amelia." Harry urged and thus Lucas waved Harry off and walked off.
"If we don't locate Umbridge within the hour, we go find Lucas and try again another day." Harry said as he looked to Hermione.
"Yes." Hermione said as the door then opened to reveal to their utter shock Umbridge as she was looking over some files next to a long-necked Wizard.
The pink wearing toad then saw the duo and then went on to greet them. "Ah Mathelda Trevor sent you? Good." Umbridge said as she then proceeded to enter the Elevator with them. "We'll go straight down then." She said and then noticed Albert was acting out of sorts right now. "Albert, aren't you getting off?" Umbridge asked and thus Harry nodded mutely and made his way out of the elevator lift. Once he was out Harry was on his own after watching Hermione descend the lift accompanied by their intended target.
Once he was alone Harry began roaming around the halls trying to look natural. But that was when he heard what sounded like books being printed. Eventually Harry arrived at a magical equivalent to the printers and as he looked around, he realized the books were about how to handle Muggles. Reigning control of himself he kept his mouth quiet and continued his mission to locate his target.
It wasn't long until Harry saw a group pass by as he looked and saw a door with a plague on it belonging to Umbridge. Of course, the plaque had her not only labeled as Senior Undersecretary to the Minister of Magic but also as Head of the Muggle-born registration committee. Knowing he could not sneak in undetected Harry had an idea as he in turn opened his hand behind his back releasing a Madou Tool. Once it hit the ground it began to scurry about multiplying itself as it went.
They seemed to be like a gear-based item as they ran about before they each stopped at a random location. It wasn't long until the chaos hit as soon the items went off one by one releasing smoke and small bangs. As this happened the items even chased a few people honking at them as Harry could clearly see where Hermione got the inspiration for this Madou Tool from. During the chaos Harry took the chance to sneak into the room to begin his search for information there. Even though Hermione was with Umbridge he wouldn't put it past the toad bitch to have information hidden away somewhere.
(Inside the office)
Harry walked in noticing the room was dark as he saw that her Ministry Office was identical to her former Hogwarts Office. As Harry walked around, he noticed a spot of tea and snacks prepared as well as a table. No doubt it was set up for any guests that may ever come to this office which Harry suspected never happened unless they were summoned.
"Now that we are alone, we need to talk." Zaruba suddenly spoke as he got Harry's attention.
"What is it, Zaruba?" Harry asked to the Madou Ring wondering what he had to say.
"On the Elevator I had sensed a Horror and the only suspect I had was Umbridge." Zaruba reported making Harry go wide eye to this.
"Does Hermione know?" Harry asked as Zaruba had the answer.
"Her tools went off when Umbridge was close, I suspect she already knows." Zaruba said and thus Harry knew they had to start moving to find Hermione. "More so I had detected the Horcrux on her person." Zaruba said and thus Harry knew what this meant for them.
"Should we change the plan?" Harry asked and thus Zaruba thought on it.
"No just go down and find the Prophesy and memorize it, once you are done head up to meet with the others." Zaruba said and thus Harry nodded to his partners strategy. "We best hurry before we look suspicious." Zaruba warned and thus with a nod Harry got moving once more.
(Back outside)
Harry walked outside as everything had calmed down had begun to make his way through the ministry again after being called the name of the face's owner. Knowing they were short on time Harry continued with his task and made himself look natural in the sea of work that was the Ministry of Magic.
(Meanwhile with Lucas)
"Take that!" Lucas called out as he was soaked a bit as he kicked a random desk with his boot. "And this!" He repeated the action as it was clear Lucas lost his temper. He then took out his Madou Lighter and proceeded to burn the contents of a box he found and let it do so. "Yes, burn baby burn!" Lucas laughed maniacally as he let it turn to ash.
"Never have I thought I'd let you lose your cool until I saw the contents of that box… how anyone can be so." Silva paused for a moment to regain herself before continuing. "Disturbed is beyond me." Silva said as she allowed this to happen.
"Now then we need to move on to plan B." Lucas said knowing full well they were short on time.
"Yes, head out and locate the others and continue to search for the Locket." Silva said and thus the duo then continued with their mission.
"Right." Lucas said as he took his leave to find the damn Horcrux so they could destroy the cursed item.
(Scene Break back with Harry)
Harry arrived at the Department of Mysteries from the lift and saw the place clearly had this aura that gave it its name. As Harry walked through, he made sure to stay out of sight as he saw hooded folks walking about no doubt the Unspeakables. As Harry walked, he focused on the directory and thus began looking for the Hall of Prophesies or wherever they keep anything prophesy related.
Harry had a nasty feeling about this place knowing full well that this was basically the Ministry of Magics research division. Here they study everything, and anything pertaining to magic and pushes the boundaries of it when given the chance. For Harry it was not a place he wanted to be because, for lack of better terms, it gave him the creeps. Eventually Harry heard a whispering sound and thus began to make his way to the source of it.
Quiet and careful Harry arrived at a large room with shelves of orbs that reached the ceiling if one existed. "I've been here before." Harry said as he looked around the Hall of Prophesies. "It was a dream back during my Hogwarts days." Harry said as Zaruba had a feeling that was the case here.
"Be wary Harry if my memory is correct, you may only touch the Prophesy if it was made about you in some way." Zaruba warned as he knew Harry was in a difficult spot here.
"Right." Harry said as he looked for the Prophesy that Dumbledore spoke of.
Just then a new voice caught Harry's attention. "If your here about your prophesy." Came the voice and thus Harry turned around ready to draw the Garoken. He in turn saw a man there smiling at Harry almost like he was expected. "Then you need only ask for directions." He said and thus Harry was suspicious here.
"Who are you?" Harry asked giving the new arrival a suspicious glare.
"Saul Croaker I'm an Unspeakable Mr. Potter." Saul introduced as Harry was then wide eyed by this. "Or should I call you Golden Knight Garo?" Saul added and thus Harry glared at the man showing he was ready to fight if need be. "Fear not Mr. Potter be glad it was me who saw through your disguise and not one of the Unspeakables associated with the Death Eaters." Saul said and then got to the big question. "If it's the Prophesy you seek then I can guide you save time and what not." Saul said as he looked to Harry who was on edge.
"How do you know I'm here for the Prophesy?" Harry asked and thus Saul made a tired sigh.
"As much as you may not like to hear it, I know because of Dumbledore he and I were associated you see." Saul said and thus saw Harry glare at him showing he was still not on friendly terms with Dumbledore right now. "Worry not I know of your animosity from him but honestly I would prefer you had the Prophesy as opposed to the Death Eaters they have been trying to acquire it for some time you see." Saul said and thus Harry figured he was trying to secure the prophesy by ensuring that it reaches Harry.
Harry did not trust the man as he glared at him ready for anything thrown at him. "I suggest you go with him." Zaruba said much to Harry's surprise.
"Zaruba?!" Harry gasped looking to the Madou Ring on this subject.
"The Polyjuice has a limited use time so if we do not hurry then it will wear off before we acquire our goals." Zaruba reasoned to his partner and thus Harry knew that the more experienced Madou Ring was correct on the matter.
"Alright." Harry sighed as he admitted defeat to the ring. "Lead the way Mr. Croaker." Harry said with a tone suggesting if Saul tried something on behalf of Dumbledore, he would regret it.
"Of course." Saul said and thus he gestured with his arm for Harry to follow him. "Please come this way." He added and thus the two began to make their way through the Hall of Prophesies.
(Later)
Eventually the duo (trio counting Zaruba) arrived at one set of shelves. Harry then looked to the shelves trying to find the one with his Prophesy on it. "It's this one." Saul said gesturing to one shelf which Harry noted had his initials on it, H.J.P.
As Harry looked to the shelf, he saw a glowing orb which seemed to beacon Harry to grab. Exercising absolute care and caution Harry reached out to the orb almost as if he expected it to be a trap set up for him. Eventually Harry took the orb off the shelf and thus tensed up as if in expectation of an activated trap. When nothing happened, Harry saw he was safe for the time being. He then focused his attention on to the orb that apparently had the prophesy in it.
Just then the orb began to speak and did so with a scratch voice. "The one with the power to vanquish the Dark Lord Approaches. Born to those who thrice defied him. Born as the Seventh Month dies The Dark Lord shall mark him as his equal, but he will wield a power he knows not… For neither can live while the other survives." It said as Harry heard every word it had just spoken to him.
"Zaruba did you catch that?" Harry asked as he looked down to his Madou Ring.
"Yes, I did mainly due to the nature of our contract, Harry." Zaruba responded and thus nodded to the Madou.
Just then movement was heard and the two looked and had a bad feeling about it. "You must go." Croaker said as he looked to Harry with a sense of urgency. "There should be a lift a bit passed the Chamber of Death leading to the Department of Magical Law Enforcement go there if you desire to complete your task." Croaker said and thus with a nod Harry go moving.
But just then Harry stopped and looked to the man with a look of concern. "What about you?" Harry asked and thus Croaker sighed to the Boy-Who-Lived turned Golden Knight.
"I will try to mislead them and cover your escape now go." Saul said and thus with a now Harry had one last thing to say to the Unspeakable.
"Thank you." Harry said and thus he proceeded to take his leave of the man providing him cover.
(Later with Harry)
Harry began to make his way down to the Chamber of Death as he knew the name was not one for gumdrops and rainbows. But apparently it had a direct path to the Department of Magical Law Enforcement and thus meant it may be an execution room of some sort.
So, it came as no surprised when Harry found the Chamber of Death that Saul had mentioned to the boy. But as Harry began to make his way through the chamber, he took note of an archway that had an ominous aura about it. Looking at it gave Harry the creeps as he could even hear voices whispering from it. Harry stood there for a moment before looking at Zaruba as he wanted answers.
"Zaruba what is that?" Harry asked as being near it made his hairs stand on end.
"The Archway of Death an ancient artifact of unknown origins." Zaruba explained as he looked to his partner. "Story would have it that those who pass through the Archway would in turn die and their bodies vanish through it instead of appearing on the other side." Zaruba spoke as Harry felt this information was intriguing. "Others believe it is a gateway to another world but whatever it truly is I do know that some secrets are best left hidden away." Zaruba said and thus Harry understood the Madou Rings warning.
With a nod Harry began to walk on through opting to ignore the whispers of the Archway and proceed with his mission. He had to get to where Hermione was and locate Lucas so they can take the Locket and get out of the Ministry. They also needed to deal with Umbridge if she truly was a Horror then it was their job to find her and cut her down.
But as Harry passed by the archway a hand suddenly reached out from it outside of either Harry or Zaruba's notice. It then grabbed Harry catching him by surprise before dragging him inside the archway.
(Later in an unknown location)
Harry stumbled a bit as he found himself in a white space with oden black kanji rising upward before fading. Just then he felt a powerful presence looming over him causing Harry to fearfully look to the source. When he saw it even Zaruba was scared as to who stood before them.
"Gajari!?" Zaruba gasped and in turn Harry knew who Zaruba spoke of. Gajari was an ancient being who holds a high rank within the Order. The problem was for him its never a case of they will find him but its more of he will find you especially if he summons you.
Harry had this drilled into his head because his predecessor and his teacher all told him the same thing. If he was to ever be met with Gajari that Harry was to show absolute respect to him. His powers were limited as the form of an orb like specter but even if that was the case he could blink, and you'd be gone in an instant. In response Harry kneeled to the being before him as he could feel the pressure on him seeing as a 17-year-old newly minted Makai Knight has NEVER been summoned by Gajari of all beings, EVER.
Harry in turn placed the Garoken on the ground and saw how it seemingly was absorbed into the ground. He then saw as an aura covered Zaruba suggesting Gajari's doing in this situation. "Golden Knight Garo." Gajari greeted as he looked upon Harry with his many eyes that morphed constantly within his form.
"Yes." Harry responded keeping his voice even before this near divine being.
"Where are you right now?" Gajari asked as he looked down upon the young Knight.
"The… Department of Mystery's Chamber of Death." Harry responded as he kept his cool as best, he could.
"Is there light there?" Gajari asked as Harry gulped a bit and in turn responded.
"Yes, but forces of darkness are attempting to snuff it out." Harry responded and thus Gajari was silent for a moment.
Just then Gajari's eyes, the ones that took form of two soulless holes, flashed and in turn Harry felt his scar start to sting with pain. "Does it hurt?" Gajari asked as he looked down on Harry seeing only a bug before him.
"Y-yes." Harry croaked out as this felt 10 times worse then the Crucio Voldemort put him through back during Harry's 4th year.
"Good. You're still quite alive." Gajari said as Harry then felt the pain stop. "Garo. Golden Knight. Do not let the light go out." Gajari spoke as Harry heard his words. "Fate has deemed you the one to end this 'Lord Voldemort,' using his hands as its instrument." Gajari said as Harry saw the Prophesy orb float out from his person and hovered between himself and Gajari. "As long as there is a ray of light, it is possible to even light up the darkness of space." Gajari said and thus his time with Harry came to an end.
(Later back at the Chamber of Death)
Harry shot out of the Archway once more grasping his head after the pain Gajari put him through. "Harry, I don't EVER want to do something like that again." Zaruba said as Harry looked to the Madou Ring seeing the fear in his tone. "It felt like I was suffocating!" Zaruba said as Harry looked to the Madou Ring.
"Zaruba can Gajari possibly remove the Horcrux inside me if all else fails?" Harry asked as he looked to the Madou Ring.
"Harry do not think of Gajari as an ally." Zaruba warned as he knew how Gajari worked. "To Gajari, Horrors and humans are the same. It doesn't matter if you are a Knight or a Priest." Zaruba warned and thus Harry knew he had to tread carefully with Gajari.
"Ok understood." Harry responded as he realized Gajari was a wild card they should not put all their money on. In turn Harry continued his way as he was not certain how much time he had wasted with his truly odd conversation with Gajari.
(Later)
Just as Saul told Harry the lift was right where he said it was. Taking the lift Harry stood there as he would have it take him up to the Department of Magical Law Enforcement. As he rode, Harry knew for a fact that Hermione was down in the courtrooms with a Horror. They had to find Lucas and get the heck out once they cut down Umbridge and take the locket from her person.
But it seems fate was on Harry's side today as the Elevator door opened and from the elevator Lucas walked in still in his Polyjuice disguise. "Lucas." Harry began as it got his attention there. "It's me." Harry finished as he looked to the Makai Knight.
Lucas gave Harry a once over and saw he had Zaruba on his left middle finger. "Well, it is you, mate." Lucas said as he stood there waiting for their floor to come up. "Did you find what you were looking for?" Lucas asked as he looked to the door.
"Yes, I did now we just need to find Hermione and take care of Umbridge." Harry said as Lucas nodded in agreement with Harry.
"Way ahead of you on that." Lucas said as they continued to ride the Elevator down.
Soon the door opened again as soon doors opened again the duo of Makai Knights fled out and began making their way to the Wizengamot. As they did so they passed by a man who was clearly juiced up with truth serum as Aurors hauled him away. "Well... that's not disturbing." Lucas said as he saw the man was clearly in for a bad time.
"Why do you think I left this world?" Harry asked as they continued their path focused on their current mission.
Soon enough as the group made it the court room where they hear the familiar voice that put everyone on edge as they enter the courtroom. They saw Umbridge was there in the Judge chair and Hermione, still in disguise, typing on a typewriter as well, but looks very worried about something. Looking around Harry took note of something else with this current venue. He sees a Patronus animal of a cat out sending up puff of light up to the celling as the gain look up and saw many Dementors being held back if barely.
Harry was a bit worried about this as one or two is easy to handle, but hundreds of them in one place, now that just seem suicide. Thankfully he was able to produce a corporeal Patronus which would send them back but that also included holding the Dementors off.
Just then Harry hissed a bit as he could feel it. The Horcrux it was in the room with them. "You sense it?" Lucas asked as he looked to Harry.
"Yes, I do." Harry said as he suspected even Zaruba sensed the Horcrux as well.
"What's the plan then?" Lucas asked knowing they needed a plan to get out alive.
Just then a woman's voice was heard as Lucas was drawn to it. "Reg." The female voice spoke and in turn Lucas looked over to the source of it. Below the Balustrade sat a frail woman who Lucas suspected was the guy who he was impersonating wife. She was alone with her hands chained to the podium as Lucas looked ready to cut her loose if he could.
Playing along Lucas walked over to the center of the room as he knew he had to get out of this and get the tag along out as well. Just then Umbridge was heard as Lucas honestly wanted to sock her in her ugly ass face. "Mary Elizabeth Cattermole." Umbridge began to which Elizabeth nodded to this.
"Yes." Elizabeth responded as she looked to the woman who would no doubt do all in her power to see her in Azkaban.
"Mother to Maisie, Ellie and Alfred? Wife to Reginald?" Umbridge listed off to which she looked to Lucas who nodded reassuringly to her. Lucas saw the fear in her eyes and knew this woman, if she was a Horror as Harry warned, would no doubt consume Elizabeth when this farse was over.
"Yes." Elizabeth responded again as she looked to her judge.
During this entire exchange Harry was carefully moving to Umbridge as thankfully Hermione's charm was doing its job. Harry heard the humming of the Horcrux trying to draw him closer to it no doubt sensing another fragment of itself nearby. Zaruba also helped to block it out as Harry kept out of sight as best, he could in this situation.
Umbridge of course continued to speak as Harry wanted to cut her down and end the reign of the toad once and for all. "A wand was taken from you upon your arrival at the Ministry today, Mrs. Cattermole. Is this that wand?" Umbridge asked as she was clearly preparing to just put the guilty verdict on Elizabeth so she can sate her hunger again. As Umbridge displayed a cherrywood wand Elizabeth nodded in response to her wand. "Would you please tell the court from which witch or wizard you took this wand." Umbridge requested as it sounded more like a subtle accusation clearly showing she had every intention as did everyone here to stamp Elizabeth as the guilty party.
Lucas glared at the bitch as he really wanted to tear her a new one, but they needed to wait for the golden opportunity first. "But I didn't take it. I got it in Diagon Alley, at Ollivander's, when I was eleven. It chose me." Elizabeth said as she was being truthful in this regard.
Clearly either Umbridge didn't believe her or simply didn't care as she leaned forward, teeth glittering as the cat slinks by and briefly illuminates her face. "No, no, I don't think so, Mrs. Cattermole. Wands only choose witches. And you are not a witch." Umbridge said unaware that Harry was right on top of her now.
Elizabeth looked panicked by this as she quickly defended herself on this. "But I am! Tell them, Reg! Tell them what I am!" Elizabeth said as Lucas decided to put on a show here.
"Of course, she's a witch, Madam Umbridge." Lucas said as he began to get to work. "I mean I'm damn well sure everyone here is a Wizard or Witch… well save for the gruesome ones up above." Lucas said gesturing to the Dementors above them near the end. "But come now sure blood purity should be proven for all parties I mean I don't believe I ever heard of a Pureblood house by the name of Umbridge has anyone?" Lucas asked as he then raised his hand as Elizabeth saw her husband was acting out of sort. "Show of hands how many of you here have legitimately heard of a Pureblood house of Umbridge?" Lucas asked as he Umbridge began to get angry.
"But let's move on a bit, we all know how Madam Umbridge has been most vocal on removing any human rights from dark creatures and beings of near human intelligence such as Centaurs and Werewolves." Lucas went on as he then made a faux shocked gasp of realization. "Some would say she's almost zealous about it as if she's trying desperately to hide something of herself something she kept hidden from unsavory eyes and ears who would use it against her." Lucas went on and thus saw Harry was in position was Hermione was going for her Madou Brush.
"Are you accusing me of something?" Umbridge asked as she glared at Lucas unaware of the trap, she was setting herself up for.
Lucas smirked as he drew a vile of the counter agent to Polyjuice knowing it would be useless to them now. "Of course, not… wait no that's a lie yes, I am accusing you of lying, being a half or mudblood passing herself off as a pureblood, and being a 'creature of near human intelligence,' as you so elegantly put it in your decrees." Lucas said as Umbridge looked ready to lash out before he drank the vial. "But Witches and Wizards of the court there is ONE way we have that can prove to us if Madam Umbridge is in fact human or not." Lucas said and thus snapped his finger to Harry. "Do the honors, Harry!" Lucas called out and thus Umbridge found a green flame lit before her eyes. The flame caused her eyes to turn green as Makai Markings formed inside them
"My word her eyes!" Hermione gasped as her role while pulling out her own vial. The Witches and Wizards all looked and saw Umbridge's eyes were not human eyes.
"You!?" Umbridge snarled as she saw Harry and thus swung her wand out only to have wires wrapped around her arm stopping her spell.
"Harry the Dementors!" Hermione called out and thus Harry drew his wand out for his magic.
"Right, Zaruba!" Harry called out and this pointing Zaruba upward Harry lined the Madou Ring up with his wand. "EXPECTO PATRONUM!" Harry invoked and thus fired off the Patronus charm which was followed by Zaruba breathing fire out of his maw. The Madou Flames and the Patronus melded together and in turn formed into a pack of wolves and thus many saw the magical Wolves attacked the Dementors and burned them all turning them to ash. The ash rained down upon them as the fire focused only on the Dementors and no other being here.
Hermione jumped away as Umbridge tried to attack while downing the vial she had pulled out. Once it was ingested Harry, Hermione, and Lucas all stood together reverted to their true forms. Following it up with a flick of their arms they trio shed the stolen outfits and revealed themselves in their Madou Robes again.
"Hermione!" Harry called out and thus Hermione acted and sent forth a mind-altering spell. A ball of energy flew around the room and in turn the Witches and Wizards eyes went dull before they all began to vacate from the court room. Umbridge snarled as she jumped down and went on the attack only for Lucas to pull out his twin short swords and stopped Umbridge's attack on the group.
"Get, Elizabeth out of here. I'll deal with the toad woman!" Lucas said as Harry and Hermione were surprised by this.
"Are you sure?" Hermione asked and thus Lucas smirked to the duo with him.
"Of course, after all Harry Potter can't stay away forever." Lucas said showing that the Wizarding World will soon know that Harry Potter has returned.
"DIE!" Umbridge roared out in fury as she then opened her mouth and lashed out with her tongue. Lucas in response slashed the tongue away and began to charge in on Umbridge. The toad turned Horror snarled and continued her attack with her tongue like whip, but her Makai Knight foe had it covered. After a few slashes against her whip cracks Zero got close and kicked her away. The kick caused the Locket to fly out from her blouse and in response Lucas grabbed the locket. The chain however stayed attacked for a moment as Umbridge was left hanging by it snickering at Lucas. Lucas rolled his eyes and slashed the chain breaking it before he proceeded to perform a spin kick against Umbridge.
"Give that back mudblood its mine!" Umbridge snarled as she glared at Lucas who put the locket away in one of his belts many pouches.
"If you want it, Horror." Lucas began before dropping into a battle stance. "Come and take it." Lucas said and thus Umbridge roared and began to attack Lucas.
Lucas never understood how Horrors seem to have a sense of martial arts when they take a human form. It was even more so if the human form in question never trained in martial arts before becoming a Horror. Lucas suspected it was some biological component or muscle memory from one of the Horrors previous hosts, but he digressed. Lucas slashed at the Horror with his swords held in a reverse grip as part of his style.
Jumping back Umbridge responded with a lash of her long tongue which Lucas deflected every time it lashed out at him. Clearly Lucas was showing why he was a Makai Knight and how far he came with his harsh training. Lucas then sidestepped to avoid the tongue going straight for his head and then followed it up by stabbing the tongue to the ground and pinning it there. Umbridge was wide eyed by this as she was unable to free herself from Lucas's sword. The Soul Metal of the blade burned her tongue causing her a great deal of agony from the rare metal. Lucas smirked and jumped onto Umbridge tongue before running down it much to Umbridge utter shock.
When Lucas got close to her, Lucas kicked her in the face so hard she ended up freed from his sword as it flew upward to the air. Umbridge roared in pain as now the tip of her tongue had a split in it from where it was freed thanks to Lucas' sword. As the sword span in the air Lucas caught it in his hand and held the weapon at the ready clearly showing he was ready for more.
Umbridge was catching her breath as she glared at Lucas her eyes piercing red with the desire to kill the Makai Knight standing before her. "Damn you…" Umbridge hissed out as she said it in the demonic voice of the Horror that she was. "DAMN YOU MAKAI KNIGHT!" Umbridge roared in fury as Lucas smirked in response to said fury.
"You man?" Lucas taunted as this caused Umbridge to reach her breaking point with Lucas.
Umbridge roared in pure demonic fury as her body then began to bloat up in a grotesque manner. Lucas saw what was happening and got ready just as Umbridge's body exploded. But as the smoke covered the area Lucas was then surprised when Umbridge charged out at him and bashed into the Makai Knight before crashing through the wall and thus through the Ministry Building.
(Meanwhile with Harry and Hermione)
After the couple left with Elizabeth in tow, they had opted to cut through the Department of Magical Law Enforcement. Particularly they were in the prison cells no doubt since no one would suspect them to go through this place. As Harry and Hermione made their way through, they made sure to be fast about it and to stay out of sight as best they could. But when they heard the booming sound coming from afar, they suspected this was Lucas' doing while he was fighting the Horror. But as they ran, they soon crashed into Nymphadora who also heard the boom and went to investigate it. But she clearly did not see Harry and Hermione coming in and thus the pair bashed into the Metamorphamagus. Tonks began to regain herself as she stood back up on shaking legs when she saw Harry and Hermione there.
"Wotcher Harry Hermione what are you doing here?!" Tonks asked when she saw the couple here.
"Right now, trying to escape the Ministry." Harry said as he looked to Tonks. "It's a long story but we just got out of a court ran by Umbridge trying to convict this Witch because she's not a pureblood." Harry said omitting the Horror bit.
Tonks knew what Harry was talking about and thus understood and looked around. "Our only way out is through the main entrance area if we're fast then we can go undetected." Tonks said and thus with a nod from the pair they began to follow The Auror to get out of the Ministry.
But as they ran Harry looked to the cells and saw a familiar sight in one of them before stopping. Noticing this while a bit ahead with Tonks Hermione looked over to the Knight. "Harry what is it?" Hermione asked with concern for Harry.
"Remus." Harry said and thus in the cell before Harry was none other then Remus Lupin still inside after the fiasco trying to abduct Harry after he had already said no.
Remus looked up from the bed he was laying on when he heard the explosion in the distance. Due to his heightened hearing Remus heard it and was startled by it. So thus, he was awake when Harry came in much to Remus joy.
"Harry?" Remus asked as he saw Harry stand there.
"I suppose you heard what happened to Dumbledore?" Harry asked as he looked to the old werewolf.
"I… I did." Remus said as he overheard the guards talking about the sudden death. "But what he said still matters, Harry, he suspected you were going dark and." Remus began trying to reason with Harry only for Harry to slam his hand to the bars causing them to shake.
"Don't be stupid, you're smarter than Dumbledore's lies!" Harry snapped as he was tired of Dumbledore trying to control him. The man was dead and now his damned followers are trying to manipulate his life.
"Dumbledore didn't lie!" Remus snapped back and then reeled back when he yelled at Harry.
"Remus I'm tired of being this world's punching bag. If I wanted to be a bloody punching bag, I'd have stayed with the Dursley's!" Harry growled as he glared at Remus in contempt. "He told you I was taken care of and loved right?" Harry asked and thus Remus nodded almost fearful of Harry now. "Well, the bastard lied I was beaten and starved for 9 years of my life given only my cousins skin shedding's of cloths because my 'family,' didn't want to waste money on new cloths for the freak!" Harry snapped as he glared at Remus.
"Why? Dumbledore is hero, he's a champion of the light, why would he do that?!" Remus demanded as he looked to Harry in shock.
"Because he needed me for a blooming Prophesy which I have right here." Harry said taking the orb out from one of his pouches with his tools. "He may not have been a Dark Lord, but the bastard was just one death away from being one." Harry said as he was tired of all the manipulations on his life and was letting it out on Remus. "If something doesn't fit into his grand plan then he'll manipulate and bully anyone he must, to get his way." Harry said and thus hoped Remus would see reason. Taking a moment to calm himself Harry tried one last attempt to reason with Remus. "Sirius always said you were the smartest person in the Marauders, you must see that this is true." Harry said almost begging Remus to see reason because other then Sirius Remus was his last link to knowing both his father and mother.
But alas it seems this would not be the case as Remus made his response known. "The only manipulation I see is what Granger and this group you had both joined, they made you believe Albus is evil, Harry please try to see reason he had a have had a good reason to send you to live with the Dursley's if what you said about them is true. He would have only done it with the best of intentions." Remus said trying to make Harry see his way, but Harry then sighed saddened with defeat.
Just then his look of defeat turned to one of rage which frightened the werewolf. "There is no fucking good reason for that man to put ANY child in an abusive home!" Harry snapped which made Remus jump in shock and fear of Harry's rage. "My uncle abused me Remus for the sin of having magic! He tortured me for ten years and if I had my way, he'd be in the cell next to you!" Harry snarled as it was clear Remus had just irrevocably ruined any chance of forgiveness between himself and Harry.
Once Harry calmed down again, he glared at Remus making his distaste for the man known. I'm done with you Remus; you've proven once and for all you'll never be saved." Harry said and thus got to the end of his rant against Remus Lupin. "I'm glad that dad isn't around for once. Just so he doesn't have to see how far you've fallen, Remus." Harry said as he got ready to draw the Garoken. "But as a final act in my father's name…" He trailed off and thus drew the Garoken and cut the lock freeing Remus. Remus saw this and then looked to Harry who was now giving him a cold scalding glare.
"Never come near me again I don't want anything else to do with you, you tried to abduct me betrayed your friends to put me in an abusive home, and not once even tried to fight it even for their sake." Harry said and thus turned around and met with the surprised Tonks and Hermione. With a silent nod the trio ran for it as Remus sat there in pure shock over what had happened. Both girls agreed to hold their tongue on this but inside they both knew Harry was hurting after that episode.
(Later The Ministry Main Auditorium)
Once the group of four made it to the main building they kept a low profile as best they could while making their way to the Floo to get away. At least that was the plan until the ground broke apart and from it, Lucas and his Horror foe were seen fighting against each other. The two parted as soon everyone got a good look at the sort of Horror Umbridge had just transformed into.
The Horror had taken the form of a large demonic toad with spikes on its body it roared out showing its tongue that had bone spikes at the tip like a mace as it was clearly carrying some feline aspects, but those aspects were overshadowed by the clear toad like aspects as well. The Horror roared out as Lucas smirked at his massive ugly foe.
"Well, what do you know she really was a toad this whole time!" Lucas taunted as the Horror glared at Lucas with pure demonic hatred. The Horror acted and sent forth her spiked tongue at Lucas who dodged the attack with a well-timed backflip. "Jeez just talking truth here lady!" Lucas taunted as it seems his entire combat method was based around taunts and insults.
The Horror went on the frontal assault as Lucas responded by deflecting the first several attacks from it. Once he did so he jumped up and landed upon the statue they first saw when they had entered the Ministry building. "You know I think we've had just about enough of fun and games." Lucas said as the Horror growled on him waiting to see what Lucas planned to do next.
The Horror then roared out before Lucas raised his two short swords upward and crossed them over each other. Surprisingly they were held in their proper grip instead of the reverse grip Lucas was known for which only meant one thing to those who knew him. "Prepare yourself Horror for now you face the Silver Fanged Knight, Zero!" Silva announced and in turn Lucas used the swords to cut open a portal above himself. The two rings melded to form said portal as once they merged it opened. Lucas then jumped through the portal and soon his body was encased in a silver light to which the Horror roared and attacked the transforming Makai Knight.
When the two clashed mid-air Lucas roared and sent a few attacks before using the momentum to send the Horror at the statue. The Statue in question was destroyed turned to ruble due to the Horrors immense size. The Horror began to get back up and glared at the Makai Knight who landed facing away from her. As the Knight stood up Lucas revealed his armor was silver as his two short swords had become twin scimitar like weapons. Spinning his swords about the Makai Knight then dropped into a battle stance revealing himself to his foe as the Silver Fanged Knight, Zero!
"Incredible." Hermione said as even Harry was impressed with what he saw.
"A Makai Knight." Harry said as he saw his ally and his armor in action.
The Horror was back on her feet as she glared at Zero who was ready for her. "Your Inga… I will cut it away!" Zero announced as he glared at his foe ready for battle. Lashing out her tongue once more the Horror attacked only for Zero to react and slash it away with one of his swords.
Zero then smirked as he made a bring it on gesture with one of his swords. In response the Horror charged in and began swinging her arms at Zero trying to smash him or slash him with her claws. After a few failed swings Zero jumped up and kicked the Horror in the face. In retaliation the Horror began to puff up and croak much like a toad and then from its mouth fired what seemed to be water bullets at Zero. Zero dodged them and thus they hit the glass areas above them shattering it and raining glass shards down upon them.
Acting fast Hermione used her magic to gather the shards. She then forced them through a gate of sort where they in turn became akin to pixie dust. The sparkling dust rained down and seemingly enhanced Zero as he continued to fight the Horror. The Horror meanwhile was firing more water bullets at Zero who noted how it hit stone and melted through it opting Zero to exercise caution. Glaring at his foe Zero got ready as the Horror then charged at him again with her right claws at the ready for attack. Zero in turn responded by dodging the attack and then using his swords to cut off the arm.
The arm flew off as the Horror then grabbed its stump roaring in pain from Zero removing it. Eventually the Horror got its bearings and tried to hop away and put distance between herself and Zero unaware Zero had expected it to happen. The Horror then lashed out her tongue at Zero once more who then dodged it's with a backflip before throwing his swords at it. Once sword stabbed into the tongue pinning it down while the other slashed in and stabbed in as well. Zero then grabbed one of them before he sliced the tongue in two and following it up by slicing the tongue off. The Horror reeled back what was left of its tongue and grabbed its mouth in pain experiencing true agony now.
Zero then opted to finish this battle once and for all and thus charged straight at the Horror before him. Once Zero got close enough he slashed at her chest with his swords before jumping over her. The Horror turned around only to be slashed again by Zero who then jumped up and spun about where he then decapitated the Horror. The Horror fell over letting out a death roar where it then hit the ground limp. Facing away from his foe Zero snarled just before the Horror exploded due to all the demonic energy it had built up. The explosion rocked the building and in turn many Ministry Employees lost their footing for it.
Zero then disengaged his armor and once he was back as Lucas he nodded over to Hermione. Seeing this Hermione sprang into action and took out her Madou Brush. She produced a crest of sorts and next thing Tonks saw a wave of magic began to sweep through the place. "We need to go now!" Hermione urged and thus Tonks knew what they meant.
In turn the trio ran to the Floo as Lucas was right behind them. As they ran for it, Harry and Hermione kept the door open for Lucas as he came after them. Hey wait for me!" Lucas called out and thus one by one the trio ran into the Floo. When they were all through the path all anyone would remember was Umbridge going spare and Death Eaters attacking the Ministry. But in the end of it one thing was for certain Harry Potter was back.
(Later with the Trio)
Harry, Hermione, and Lucas all landed in the middle of the forest with a soft thud. No doubt something went wrong for them or should have but thankfully it was well away from their foes that they got a pass. "The fuck how did we end up out here?" Lucas asked as he looked around the forest.
"It's the Forest of Dean." Hermione corrected as she recognized this place from her youth.
"Great so we're somewhere familiar." Lucas said and thus Harry rolled his eyes.
"Lucas the locket!" Harry called out and thus Lucas smirked and pulled it out spinning it by its chain.
"Come on Harry what you take me for?" Lucas asked with a smirk on his face. "We got everything we needed, the locket, the prophesy, and the Horror. I say despite the bumps everything went splendidly." Lucas said as he then tossed the locket over to Harry who easily caught it.
"Alright then we best prepare to destroy it." Hermione said and thus Lucas yawned a bit while stretching. "Great so we set up camp, destroy the locket, and then what?" Lucas asked as he was ready to head on to their next destination wherever it led.
"We find the other Horcrux's." Harry said as with this one that meant at most there were still 5 left, they needed to deal with to take out Voldemort. They were all in agreement on the task yet there was no telling what was going on with their enemies. But one thing was certain they will continue to fight as ones who protect no matter the cost.
(Scene Break Location unknown)
Deep in the darkness the mysterious figure smirked as he observed all that had happened at the Ministry via a crystal ball. As he saw the battle he smirked and saw a Horcrux was about to be removed from the board. "Well one victory for my enemies in exchange for my victory." The young man said as nearby the Death Stick and the Resurrection Stone hovered within a containment unit silent and waiting. Resting his head on his fist the mysterious mastermind grinned as he could not wait to see what happens next in this delightful game.
(TBC)
ESKK: Well, here we are the end of Chapter 7. I hope you all enjoyed it and will continue to support this fic with reviews. Now then be sure to leave behind a review on the way out as I once more say here ja-ne.