Fate

by TheTrueSpartan

When Ron discovers that he can see the future, his entire fate is thrown off of its course. A story about adventure, friendship, growing up, and pushing forward through hardships. This story will get darker as it progresses, just like the original Harry Potter novels. It will cover all Seven Years of Hogwarts, but mostly from Ron's perspective. No Mary Sues, no Character bashing.

91. Chapter 91 - The Phoenix's Wrath

AUTHOR'S NOTES: Chapter 91 is done! Only nine more before we hit the One-Hundredth Chapter! Isn't that crazy?!

Please Enjoy!

DISCLAIMER: I do not own Harry Potter, and I do not intend to make any money off of this. Harry Potter is the intellectual property of J. K. Rowling , and I take no credit of it whatsoever.

I was also inspired by Demon Eyes Laharl's: THE RED KNIGHT! and also from Random-Fruitcake04's: CHOICES! I hope you check them out as well because they are genuinely very good stories.

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Fate

Chapter 91 – The Phoenix's Wrath

Ronald Weasley's POV

Saturday 21st November, 1993 (Snape's Office – Early Morning)

"Professor Snape?" Ron called as he stepped into the Office, his eyes darting around the room. He's not in his store then. Odd. He always greets me before I leave for work. "Did he leave to find the speakers already?"

Ron shrugged to himself, and then he made his way over to the fireplace. Wait… Ron stopped mid-step, his eyes fixed on the unlit fireplace. Why isn't that lit? Ron carefully examined the ash and blackened wood, no one had touched this fireplace this morning. Now that is weird. How did Snape leave Hogwarts if he didn't floo away? Ron looked around the Office again, something seemed really off to him. Am I just being paranoid? Probably.

"Marty!" Ron called, and there was a loud crack from behind him.

"Master called Marty?" the Elf bowed, and Ron turned to face him.

"I did," Ron replied, and Marty smiled up at him. "Marty… Can a person leave Hogwarts without flooing away?"

"The Headmaster is the only one who can Apparate in and out of Hogwarts," Marty replied. "Besides us Elves, that is." Maybe he used the Headmaster's fireplace? "One could walk past the Wards to Apparate away, but they'd have to go very far."

"Marty, Apparate me outside the Headmaster's Office," Ron ordered, and Marty nodded before taking Ron's hand. Ron suddenly felt himself being pulled into a crushing vortex, and when he opened his eyes, he was standing in front of the Stone Gargoyle. "Ugh… That wasn't pleasant…"

"At least Master isn't winded this time," Marty said, and Ron shot him a weak smile.

"Thank you for your help, Marty," Ron said. "How is our project going?"

"Progress is slow, Master," Marty replied. "The caves are very unstable, and the damage to the Chamber is significant. However, Chivvy is determined to fix everything."

"He is?"

"Master is paying a very large sum of money, and he shook Chivvy's hand as an equal," Marty smiled a toothy smile. I see.

"Make sure to tell Chivvy, and his crew, that their lives are more important than securing a pillar," Ron said. "If something is beyond repair, just leave it be. No unnecessary risks, alright?"

"Marty will relay the message," Marty bowed, and once Ron walked up to the Stone Gargoyle, the Elf Disapparated.

"Ice Mice," Ron said to the Gargoyle, and it slid aside for him. Ron then made his way up the spiral staircase, and he knocked on the Headmaster's door.

"Come in," came Dumbledore's voice, and Ron swiftly entered the Office. "Ronald? What are you doing here?"

"Professor Snape isn't in his Office," Ron reported as he closed the door, and then he walked further into the Office. Did he just wake up? Or did he not sleep last night?

"He's most likely in Knockturn Alley right now," Dumbledore said, his right hand massaging his eyes. Dumbledore then put on his half-moon spectacles, he was quite exhausted.

"He could be," Ron said slowly. "But here's the thing… His fireplace is burnt out. It looks like no one has touched, or even cleaned up, last night's fire. I'm guessing that he didn't use your fireplace to floo away."

"He did not," Dumbledore said, his brow furrowing a little. "This is… peculiar."

"Maybe he used another Professor's fireplace?" Ron suggested, and Dumbledore just stared at him. "Yeah… Not likely…"

"Why don't you head off to work, Ronald?" Dumbledore suggested. "I'll find our missing friend before I leave for Elphias' funeral." Right, that's today.

"Take care, Headmaster," Ron said in an almost comforting voice, and Dumbledore gave him a weak smile. Ron then walked over to the fireplace, took a pinch of floo powder, and cast it into the fire. "Greengrass Manor." The fire blazed green, and Ron stepped through it.

As Ron came out of the fireplace, he found himself in Greengrass Manor's Greeting Room. Oddly enough, Mary was not there to greet him as usual. Wow… Maybe people are just avoiding me? Ron shook his head clear, he was being stupid. He then made his way towards his Mentor's Study, he still hadn't decided if he wanted to tell Lord Greengrass of his meeting with Fudge, and everything that entailed it. I should, mostly because I work for Lord Greengrass, and now I'm looking for a new job.

"Ron, I was just heading towards the Greeting Room," came Mary's voice, and Ron looked to see her coming down the stairs with Tracey's mum by her side.

"I missed your usual warm greeting," Ron smiled at them. "Truth be told, it's why I even come here somedays."

"Welcome back then," Mary approached him with a smile, and then she pulled him into a tight hug. Ron hugged her back, while internally thanking Merlin for Mary's bust. "You just keep growing, don't you?"

"It's a blessing, and a curse," Ron chuckled, and then he let her go. "It's good to see you again, Mrs. Davis. How are you?"

"I'm quite well, Ron," Susanna replied, she had an odd smile on her face. She looks so much like Tracey. Wait… It's the other way around, isn't it? "I haven't seen you since Tracey's birthday party, and I can't help but agree with Mary. Are all Weasley men like you? I've met your father, and he is quite tall as well." She's met my father? Of course, she's in the Order now. You're welcome, by the way.

"My brothers are all like me as well, except for Charlie," Ron replied. "Though mum thinks that I'll be the tallest Weasley yet."

"And how is school going for you? Are you getting top grades as Tracey always boasts?" Susana asked. Tracey's boasts about me?

"I don't know about top grades, but it's going well," Ron replied. "And Tracey is doing well, Mrs. Davis."

"Didn't I tell you to call me Susana when we met?" Susana laughed.

"Probably," Ron shrugged.

"Don't mind it too much, I had to force him into calling me Mary," Mary told her, and then she pinched Ron's left cheek. Ow! "See? Just do this, and he'll be calling you Susana before long."

"Really?" Susana asked, and then she pinched his other cheek. OW! Child abuse! Ron moved his head away from their claws, while they chuckled in an amused manner.

"I'm running late for work," Ron rubbed his sore cheeks with a pout, but the two witches just laughed to themselves. "Excuse me, Ladies. I'll see you at lunch." With that, Ron maneuvered past them, while also dodging Mary's attempts to pinch him. When he finally reached the study, he knocked on the door rather gently.

"Come in, Ron," came Lord Greengrass' voice, and Ron entered the Study.

"Good morning, my Lord," Ron greeted as he closed the door, and then he took up his usual seat. Lord Greengrass was standing by the fire, as usual, and he looked to be in deep thought.

"Good morning, Ron," Lord Greengrass turned to face him. "Before you get started on your work, I have to tell you something. I've found you a competition to compete in, though it's nothing major. It'll be on the fifth of December." What's the prize for winning?

"Nothing major?" Ron asked.

"Chess isn't exactly Quidditch," Lord Greengrass said, and then he looked back to the fire. "The International League of Wizard's Chess Club tends to save its money for their annual tournaments instead. Winning this particular competition will net you two hundred Galleons, which is nothing to scoff at considering that only eight people will be competing." Only eight? So I only need to win three matches. I'd better start concentrating on upping my game. It's been a while since I competed, and I don't plan to get caught off-guard.

"I won't let you down, my Lord," Ron promised, and Lord Greengrass shot him a smirk.

"Then let's get started," Lord Greengrass said. "I want us to focus on your high risk stratagems today."

---

Albus Dumbledore's POV

Saturday 21st November, 1993 (St. Jerome's Graveyard – Afternoon)

Severus was nowhere to be found, and after searching for him for nearly an hour, Albus had left to attend his old friend's funeral. The service hadn't been anything special, it was certainly less than what Elphias deserved, but Albus still found solace in the fact that Elphias' wishes had been met.

Many Wizengamot members had attended, including Amelia Bones and Augusta Longbottom, but not a single member of the Order had come. Cornelius had arrived late, and so he had lingered in the back for the duration of the service, but as soon as it had ended, Cornelius had started speaking to reporters from the Daily Prophet. The same reporters had tried to speak to Albus, but he chose to ignore them. Instead, he stood by Elphias' grave and mourned for the small boy who had come to Hogwarts with Dragon Pox.

"I'm sorry for your loss," came a man's voice, and Albus noticed that a tall blonde man was standing to his right. I didn't even sense him. Wake up, Albus. "You and he were childhood friends, were you not?"

"We were," Albus replied, his tired old eyes lingering on the man's round shades. "You were sitting in the back row… Did you know Elphias?" He looks… familiar.

"No, but I felt that I should attend," the man replied, and Albus blinked at him. What an odd fellow.

"And why did you feel the need to attend?" Albus asked. "Forgive my forwardness, but you've made me curious."

"I'm the one who killed him," the man replied, and time seemed to freeze. What did he say? Albus just stared at the man, he had sensed truth in those words. He killed Elphias? "If you reach for your wand, or make any moves, I'll kill you as well. At this distance, you don't have a chance at surviving."

"Who are you?" Albus asked, his expression hardening as he used his Occlumency to regain his senses.

"You once knew me as… What was it again? Ah, yes… Deckard," the man smiled to himself, while Albus felt rage fill his chest. "Albus, don't be foolish. Just listen."

"Why are you here? How did you get in?" Albus demanded, his eyes darting towards the other guests. All of them are oblivious of my predicament. This man bided his time before approaching me.

"I simply walked in," the man shrugged, his calm demeanor greatly bothered Albus. "As for why I'm here… I came to meet you."

"You killed my friend, and now you wish to exchange words?" Albus asked, his eyes fixed on the man's shades. Does he not know who I am? No… He definitely does, and yet, here he is.

"I wanted to catch you off-guard," the man told Albus. "You won't blast me into oblivion with all of these people around, not to mention that I'm mere inches away from you right now."

"Who are you?" Albus asked again, and the man tipped his head down in order to reveal his eyes for a moment. Albus immediately recognized them, and he felt his left shoulder blade tingle. He hasn't aged a day…

"How's your shoulder, by the way?" Deckard asked. "Did it heal after I left Godric's Hollow?"

"You…" Albus managed, it wasn't often that he was shocked beyond words. And then, it all clicked. The Ancient Vampire that Nymphadora was looking into… It's him. "Where did Voldemort find you?"

"In Romania," Deckard replied, he felt no need to hide anything. Romania? Wait… Severus mentioned running into a Blood Lord in Romania. Lucius and Cornelius must've told Tom about him. "He was a pupil of yours, wasn't he? I must admit, it's not often that a wizard impresses me."

"So you serve him now?" Albus prodded for more information.

"Serve?" Deckard smirked. "No, I don't serve anyone. I'm merely here to enjoy myself, sort of like a vacation."

"A vacation?" Albus looked ahead. "He will kill your kind after he is done with us."

"He'll be dead soon enough," Deckard countered, much to Albus' confusion. "Trust me, I've seen plenty of 'Dark Lords' in my time, and they've all failed."

"He is different," Albus said. "You have made a grave mistake, Deckard."

"He is just like you and your friend," Deckard smiled a nostalgic smile, while Albus fought the urge to cringe. "You remember, don't you? What evil plans you two were concocting in that pub." I ended up with a broken shoulder blade as I attempted to pull this thing off of Gellert.

"That was a long time ago," Albus said, he would not let this monster get under his skin.

"Indeed," Deckard nodded. "I was quite amazed to hear of your war against your own partner. Why did you two fall apart?"

"Enough of your games," Albus decided to change the subject. "Why are you here?"

"I'm here to give you a warning," Deckard replied. "The next time you set Mad-Eye Moody on me, I'll send you his corpse." Albus looked back to Deckard, who was now staring at Elphias' fresh grave. "You wizards really underestimate us Vampires. I smelled your friends before they even set their eyes on me, and now I know their scents. Nymphadora Tonks, Alastor 'Mad-Eye' Moody, and Mundungus Fletcher." Merlin… He's looked into them. That's three more members of the Order that he knows of.

"How old are you?" Albus asked.

"Over two hundred and fifty years," Deckard replied, and Albus felt his stomach drop.

"And why are you giving me this warning?" Albus asked.

"To make the hunt more entertaining," Deckard replied. "So far, I am not impressed with your Order of the Phoenix. So… I'm here to give you a wakeup call. Give me a challenge, Albus, or I'll litter the streets with corpses."

"You are insane," Albus stated.

"No, I am just bored," Deckard said, and then he turned to leave. "I'm sorry for your loss, but I swear, he felt no pain. I gave him a clean death. The others won't be so lucky." Albus felt his blood boil, but he didn't attack the departing Vampire. I'll never be able to explain it, not to mention the danger I'll put everyone in.

---

Saturday 21st November, 1993 (Grimmauld Place – Very Late Afternoon)

"It's impossible," Alastor frowned deeply. "I made sure to mask our scents, and we were under my Invisibility Cloak. Whoever this man is, he is lying to you." Besides Albus and Alastor, the Living Room was also being occupied by the Weasleys, Lovegoods, Sirius, and Sturgis.

"Then how does he know about you three?" Sirius asked, he didn't like the fact that some murderer knew his cousin's name. Albus simply looked between the current occupants of the room, he had calmed down considerably since meeting Deckard again. 'Deckard'. Is that even his real name?

"He most likely has spies all over Knockturn Alley," Albus said, and then he looked to Alastor. "Where is Mundungus right now?"

"Watching Tonks' back in Knockturn Alley," Alastor replied. "The Ministry has her watching Borgin and Burkes for intel gathering on one Victor Burkes." Victor? He only graduated from Hogwarts recently.

"She can't stay there," Molly spoke up. "If what Dumbledore is saying is true, then none of us should enter that vile place."

"I am in agreement with you, Molly," Albus said. "But if the Ministry has stationed Nymphadora there, then there is very little that we can do without getting her sacked." And her position as an Auror is too valuable.

"We can't just leave her and Mundungus out there," Xeno said. "Not when this Ancient Vampire knows them by name. They could lose their lives at any moment."

"Headmaster, why don't Sirius and I also watch over Nymphadora alongside Mr. Fletcher?" Sturgis suggested. "This Vampire does not know our scent, which could work to our benefit."

"I'm with Sturgis here," Sirius agreed immediately.

"Don't be foolish," Alastor grumbled, and then he looked to Albus. "This could be a trap, Albus. Why would he come to you today if not to set you up? For Merlin's sake, he confessed to murdering Elphias in the middle of his funeral. This Vampire wants you to send more of us into Knockturn Alley… He wants to gather information on his 'prey'."

"So we do nothing?!" Sirius snapped. "My cousin is out-"

"Shut up," Alastor snarled. "The adults are speaking, Black, so do us a favor and get out of the room."

"Alastor, this is his home," Albus said, while Arthur pulled an angered Sirius back down. "Sirius, Alastor is right. This enemy has not survived over two hundred years with blind luck. His cunning cannot be underestimated." I believe that Elphias' murder was just a stepping stone in his plan to 'hunt' us all down. The fact that he attended the funeral is proof that he was trying to lure us out.

"What about Tonks and Fletcher?" Arthur asked, while his wife soothed Sirius in hushed whispers. "No matter what the circumstances are, we can't just leave them out there."

"Nymphadora must ask her superiors for reassignment," Albus started. "Once she is moved away from Knockturn Alley, both Mundungus and she will not return to that place. And neither will you, Alastor. We will need a new informant."

"Who?" Pandora asked. "Other than Mundungus, none of us have any contacts in Knockturn Alley."

"Severus does," Albus said. "He will find someone suitable." If I can find him. Where did he run off to?

"And what's to stop Snivellus from feeding information about us to his 'informants'?" Sirius asked. "He can't be trusted, how many times do I have to say it?"

"I trust Severus with my life," Albus told Sirius, who just rolled his eyes. "For today, Alastor, I want you to join Mundungus. Use your Magical Eye to scan for any potential Vampires, and if you see one, get everyone out of there." Alastor gave a curt nod, and then he limped out of the room. "Arthur, I have a task for you as well. Come, I'd like to disclose it in private." With that, Albus made his way into the Kitchen. Arthur followed after the older wizard, and before long, they were far from the others.

"What can I help you with, Dumbledore?" Arthur asked.

"Christmas is almost upon us," Albus started, and Arthur blinked at him. "I want you to host Harry at the Burrow."

"Harry? At the Burrow?" Arthur asked. "Headmaster… Things with Harry, and my own son, are very complicated…"

"The enemy understands that Harry is living with his Godfather," Albus said. "They are no doubt searching for this place even as we speak. Harry cannot stay here. Invite Sirius if you must, but no one else can know. Not even the Order. Do you understand? Harry's safety is essential."

"I understand," Arthur sighed. "I'll make sure that he spends the Holidays hidden away at the Burrow. Both Bill and Charlie will be there as well. We'll all watch over him."

"Thank you, Arthur," Albus smiled. "I know that things are complicated for you and Molly right now, but the war is bigger than all of us. Harry is the key to saving our World, and we cannot afford to lose him." Without Harry, this World is doomed to repeat Ronald's Cycles.

---

Ronald Weasley's POV

Saturday 21st November, 1993 (Headmaster's Office – Late Evening)

Ron stepped into the Headmaster's Office, his mind was utterly spent due to Lord Greengrass' training regimen. I need to focus on my game around the twenty minute mark. Lord Greengrass is right, I make most of my mistakes during that period.

"Welcome back, Ronald," Dumbledore greeted, and Ron shot the Headmaster a smile. He is probably still hurting from the funeral. I should make sure that he's alright.

"Good evening, Headmaster," Ron greeted back, and then he walked up and took his usual seat. "How are you? How was the funeral?"

"The funeral was… interrupted," Dumbledore replied, something shifting behind his eyes.

"Interrupted?" Ron asked.

"The murderer came to me, Ronald," Dumbledore told him, and Ron was quite taken aback. Is he serious?

"At the funeral?" Ron asked, and Dumbledore gave him a somber nod. "And? What did you do?"

"I could do very little," Dumbledore replied. "He approached me while many of the attendees were close by. He confessed his crime to me, and he then gave me valuable information."

"Wait… What?" Ron blinked, he was now genuinely confused. "Why would he do that?" Who is this moron?

"He is a very different animal from Lord Voldemort," Dumbledore replied. "I met him almost a century ago, when I was still a very young man." WHAT?! "Bear with me, Ronald. Elphias' murderer is an Ancient Vampire, and he is loyal to no one. My brief encounter with him has given me the impression that he is here only to mete out carnage."

"An Ancient Vampire… How Ancient?" Ron asked slowly.

"Over two hundred and fifty years," Dumbledore sighed, while Ron was truly stunned.

"They can get that old?!" Ron asked.

"Worse… The potency of their power, and Curse, is directly aligned with their age," Dumbledore explained. "In other words… The older they are, the more dangerous they are."

"Fuck me dead…" Ron muttered. "And where did the Dark Lord find this thing?"

"In Romania," Dumbledore replied. "Severus has actually met him as well."

"Professor Snape's met him? When?" Ron asked, his eyes darting towards Snape's empty chair. "Where is he, by the way? Did you manage to track him down?"

"I have not," Dumbledore replied, which made something itch in the back of Ron's mind. Something is really wrong, I can feel it. "I searched the entire castle, and then I had the Elves do it. He is not on the premises."

"The other Heads of Houses?"

"They have not seen him either," Dumbledore rubbed his chin. "Ronald, I do not wish to worry you, but I fear that something is terribly amiss."

"What if he's still in Knockturn Alley?" Ron asked. "He wanted to secure some speakers today, remember?"

"Knockturn Alley…" Dumbledore whispered, and then something in his face changed. "Albus, you fool…" What?

"Headmaster? What did you just realize?" Ron asked, while Dumbledore stood up and began pacing. "Headmaster?"

"Nymphadora told us that an Ancient Vampire had taken up residence in Knockturn Alley," Dumbledore said, though it sounded like he was speaking to himself. "The Ministry was curious about this Vampire because he was seen speaking to Lucius and Narcissa Malfoy days before Elphias was found murdered. And after meeting him today, I'm certain that he has spies all over Knockturn Alley. Vampires follow strength, Ronald, and this Vampire is perhaps the strongest of his kind."

"Spies all over Knockturn Alley?" Ron asked, and then he understood why the Headmaster was pacing. "You don't think that he… kidnapped… Professor Snape, do you? I mean, this Vampire would know that Professor Snape is under your employment, right?"

"I don't know what to think," Dumbledore confessed. "Severus does not just disappear. He is meticulous, and he always keeps me informed. For him to just vanish into thin air is unheard of."

"If this Vampire is working for the Dark Lord, then why would he kidnap Professor Snape?" Ron asked, now he too felt the urge to begin pacing. Breathe, Ron. Just breathe, and use your head. "Isn't Professor Snape still a 'Death-Eater'?"

"Perhaps Voldemort does not trust Severus yet," Dumbledore mused. "After all, Severus has worked in Hogwarts ever since the Great War ended." Which is genuinely suspicious.

"Wait… His fireplace was unlit this morning," Ron remembered. "Headmaster, he didn't floo away from his Office. And we both know that he would never use someone else's fireplace."

"Do you believe that he flooed away last night?" Dumbledore asked.

"I… I don't know," Ron rubbed his forehead. "Maybe… Why the fuck wouldn't he tell us before leaving? What was so urgent that he would just leave?"

"Urgent, you say?" Dumbledore stopped pacing, his hand on his chin again. "Something so urgent that Severus broke his habit of keeping me informed." What is he thinking now?

"I'm not a mind reader, so do you mind sharing your thoughts?" Ron frowned, his increasing worry was agitating him.

"Fawkes, come to me," Dumbledore ordered, and Fawkes flew off of his perch and landed on Dumbledore's shoulder. "Ronald, take my arm at once."

"Where are we going?" Ron asked as he quickly made his way over to Dumbledore.

"Fawkes, take us to Severus' Office," Dumbledore said, and both wizards were engulfed in orange flames. The change from Dumbledore's warm Office to Snape's cold one jarred Ron a little, mostly because he was starting to worry about his favorite Professor. "Look around, Ronald. Find anything that may hint at his whereabouts."

"You want me to look through his things?" Ron asked apprehensively. "Headmaster, he'll shove his foot up my arse…" After he Curses my face off.

"I will take the blame if we are worrying over nothing," Dumbledore said, and then he walked over to the fireplace. Ron drew in a deep breath, 'steadied' his mind with his pathetic level of Occlumency, and then he walked over to Snape's desk. Just relax, and stay focused. If Snape is indeed in trouble, then panicking will only hinder us.

Ron went through Snape's drawers, his eyes scanning each document and object. The inside of Snape's desk could only be described as the epitome of being organized. Each document was listed chronologically, and they were even marked with how important they were. After a bit of looking, Ron realized that all of these were school assignments, which only served to annoy him. He's a spy, Ron. Why would he keep actual important information in his fucking desk?

"Headmaster, these are all just assignments," Ron looked up, only to see Dumbledore eyeing the fireplace. "What is it?"

"Someone has Cleaned this fireplace…" Dumbledore said slowly, and Ron blinked at him.

"Cleaned?"

"I cannot determine which network this fireplace has previously tapped into," Dumbledore explained. "Someone has used a powerful Spell to wipe the record clean."

"Is that even possible?" Ron asked as he walked around the table.

"It is, but it must be done after each floo," Dumbledore replied. "Severus would need to cast Obculte on the fireplace on the other side, which would not only clean that fireplace's record, but also this one's because it's connected to the other one."

"What?" Ron blinked. "English, please."

"Wherever he went, he never came back," Dumbledore said, his expression hardening. "Ronald, Severus was not alone when he left. Whoever he went with might have been the one to Clean this fireplace. Severus is indeed missing."

"Oh, fuck…" Ron swallowed thickly.

"He went with someone he trusted, and he never returned," Dumbledore went on. "He didn't inform me because his departure was 'urgent', as you said before… Someone came here, and they convinced him to leave without sending me word. Who would Severus trust enough to do that?" Dumbledore then reignited the fireplace with a flick of his wrist. He then reached forward and grabbed a pinch of floo powder. "Mafloy Manor." With that, he cast the floo powder into the flames. They blazed red, and then died down immediately.

"The floo is closed?" Ron asked, and Dumbledore pinched the bridge of his crooked nose. "That's not… Headmaster, I've seen Narcissa Malfoy in this Office before."

"You have?" Dumbledore asked, something gleaming behind his eyes.

"She was standing right over there," Ron pointed. "She flooed into this fucking Office from her home, I'm certain of it. There is no way in hell that Professor Snape's fireplace isn't connected to Malfoy Manor." That means… "He went with them, and now he's missing. They sealed off their connection to this Office after 'Cleaning' it."

"Lucius and Narcissa are old friends of his," Dumbledore stated. "And Lucius trusts Snape above all others."

"Lucius Malfoy is also the Dark Lord's bitch," Ron countered, and Dumbledore just stared at the fireplace. "Headmaster, you said that the Dark Lord might need convincing to trust Professor Snape again, right? What if Lucius Malfoy, who we know of being in contact with the Dark Lord, took Professor Snape right to him?"

"That is a troubling thought," Dumbledore said, he looked genuinely worried for a moment. Ron drew in a deep breath, and then he walked over to the empty chairs and collected two. He then placed them in front of the fireplace. "Ronald?"

"I am not leaving this fucking room until he comes through that fireplace, and if he doesn't, then I'll find my way into Malfoy Manor," Ron grit out, and then he took his seat. "If they've hurt him… We will end them."

---

Severus Snape's POV

Saturday 21st November, 1993 (Malfoy Manor Dungeons)

The pain was so overwhelming that Snape had no idea where his wounds were. He knew that his right hand was lost, and that his face had been mangled with a sharp blade, but other than these two injuries, Snape truly didn't know how much damage he had taken. After all, he had blacked out several times during the Dark Lord's questioning.

Spying on the Dark Lord was no longer a possibility. His old Master was convinced of his betrayal, and Snape was only being kept alive for one purpose. The Prophecy. The Dark Lord had questioned him about it for almost an hour, and failing that, attempted Legilimency, and then taken to torturing. But Snape refused to give up anything. He would be damned if he betrayed Lily's memory to the monster who had murdered her. He would be damned if he betrayed Albus and Ron. He would be damned if he let Lord Voldemort kill Lily's son.

Snape suddenly heard his cell door open, and he braced himself for death. Let it come… I will never give him what he wants…

"Severus?" came Narcissa's cracked voice, and Snape managed to lift his head up for a moment. "By the Gods…" What is she doing here…?

"Leave…" Snape rasped, and he immediately began coughing. Spurts of blood shot out of his mouth, and he remembered that half of his teeth had been yanked out.

"The Dark… The Dark Lord sent me," Narcissa managed, the fear in her voice turned Snape's stomach. She then walked up to the chair that he was bound to, her eyes fixed on the stump where his right hand used to be.

"Fingers… weren't… enough…" Snape wheezed, and then he vomited into his own lap. His head dropped down, and his vision began to darken. Cold… I wish I had a blanket…

"Severus… Please, give him what he wants," Narcissa pleaded as she kneeled in his mess. "Lucius is trying to convince the Dark Lord even as we speak. Please, for the love of Merlin, do as he says… Severus… He means to kill you…"

"Good…" Snape managed, his mind turning off. "I… deserve it…"

Darkness took him, and the last thing he heard was Narcissa's sob.

---

Lord Voldemort's POV

Saturday 21st November, 1993 (Malfoy Manor – Dinnertime)

"Well?" Lord Voldemort asked, his blazing red eyes fixed on Narcissa Malfoy.

"He said nothing, my Lord," she bowed her head. The Dark Lord looked to Lucius, who had been pleading Snape's case all day.

"What more proof do you need, Lucius?" the Dark Lord hissed, while the Malfoy patriarch looked quite out of sorts. Foolish man. "Severus turned traitor long before I put down his Mud-Blood… I would even dare to say that he set me up that night. He told me only half the Prophecy, and then pleaded that I spare the woman. I gave her three chances for his sake, and when she refused to step aside, it triggered the Protection of Love. Severus was behind my fall." Filthy traitor. Lord Voldemort gave him so much, and this is how he repays his debts?

"What will you do with him, my Lord?" Lucius asked, his Master was clearly insane for thinking of such a conspiracy.

"I will give him until tomorrow to confess his crimes, and to give me the complete Prophecy," the Dark Lord replied. "If he does so, then his end will be swift and merciful. But if he persists on being silent, then I have other plans in mind. Lucius, you will call the loyal ones here tomorrow night for dinner. Once we have dined, I will string Severus up for their entertainment." And it will be a much needed lesson. No one betrays Lord Voldemort.

"Master… Mistress…" came the voice of a timid Elf, and they looked to see a tiny Elf hovering by the door.

"What is it?" Lucius spat out, making the Elf flinch. "Didn't I tell you slaves that we were not to be disturbed?"

"Let it speak," the Dark Lord ordered.

"There are men and women at the gates… They are being led by a man with cat-eyes," the Elf reported. Gaspard. He finally makes his reappearance.

"Let them in," the Dark Lord ordered, and the Elf Disapparated. "Perhaps the Blood Lord knows how to loosen a man's tongue."

Within ten minutes, Gaspard and two other Vampires with cat-like eyes stepped into the room. The young woman was a beautiful foreigner with long black hair, while the young man was as rugged as Gaspard was fair.

"Gaspard," the Dark Lord greeted with a lipless smile. "Welcome to Malfoy Manor."

"Voldemort," Gaspard greeted back, and both Lucius and Narcissa went slightly wide-eyed at his casual greeting. Lord Voldemort, on the other hand, reined in his anger. I need him for now, so I'll put up with his insolent behavior.

"This woman smells disgusting," the other male Vampire said.

"Take care with how you speak to my wife, beast," Lucius hissed.

"Beast?" the younger Vampire snarled.

"Michael, we are guests here," Gaspard said, and the other Vampire stopped snarling immediately. "Forgive my Progeny's lack of manners, he is still very young."

"I believe that introductions are in order," the Dark Lord said, his eyes fixed on the Vampires. If they are anything like their 'father', then they will both need to be dealt with eventually.

"This is Natalia, my eldest daughter," Gaspard introduced. "And this is Michael, my youngest son. They will be aiding me during the war." No, they will be aiding me. "Natalia and Michael, this is Lord Voldemort."

"You dare speak his name?" Lucius glared at the Vampire.

"Lucius," Lord Voldemort raised his hand, while Lucius sneered at the Vampires. "We are all friends here, are we not? Let us discuss the war instead of bickering, and in doing so, learn more about each other. Please, take a seat." Gaspard smiled at the Dark Lord, and then the Vampires made themselves comfortable.

"I will change out of my sullied clothes," Narcissa said, and the Dark Lord gave her a nod. She left the room rather quickly, while Lucius and Michael just stared at each other.

"Gaspard, well done on ending Elphias Doge's life," the Dark Lord broke the silence. "That old man was a hindrance that needed to be removed, and you have done fine work."

"Your man Lucius provided me with the information that I needed," Gaspard said, and the Dark Lord looked to Lucius. Well, at least he's still useful for something. "I've also learned the identities of three more Order members. Alastor 'Mad-Eye' Moody, Nymphadora Tonks, and Mundungus Fletcher."

"Tonks?" the Dark Lord asked. "Daughter of Andromeda and Edward Tonks?" Bellatrix' wayward sister.

"Yes," Natalia replied. "After we determined her scent, Michael and I trailed her to the Ministry. She's an Auror in training."

"You have outdone my expectations of you, Gaspard," the Dark Lord commended. "If only my other followers were as capable as you."

"Follower?" Gaspard laughed, much to the Dark Lord's annoyance. "I'm sorry, but I don't follow anyone. I'm here because I really have nothing better to do. Let's not pretend to play this game, Voldemort. Our paths may have intertwined, but that does not make us friends. It just makes us… partners in crime. Is that the saying, Nat?"

"Yes, father," Natalia replied, her amusement rather evident. I'll kill you three, I swear it.

"Very well," Lord Voldemort said, his voice terribly calm. "We were told that you did not come alone."

"We have brought thirty Vampires with us," Michael said boastfully. "These thirty are friends of mine, and you could not ask for better killers. They're keen to start the bloodshed."

"Then they'll have to wait," Lord Voldemort said. Michael is clearly the foolish one. "Bloodshed will draw too much attention on us. We need to bolster our forces before we cry for war." Michael's jaw clenched, but he didn't argue. "For now, they can stay in Malfoy Manor, but only if they follow orders. If Lucius and Narcissa want them to do something, they will do so without question."

"I've brought fighters, not slaves," Michael hissed.

"Mind your tone," Lucius whispered dangerously. "It's your 'father' who we're dealing with, not you."

"Armies need commanders," Lord Voldemort said coldly. "Your father is a commander. Lucius is a commander. You may one day be a commander. But these 'friends' of yours… They are foot soldiers. If they don't like that, then I'll kill them all in the next five minutes."

"Michael understands," Natalia spoke up. "He's just very loyal to his friends, and they've traveled far to answer his call."

"Lucius will find them suitable accommodations," Gaspard said. "Natalia, why don't you go with him? Make sure that Michael's friends know their place."

"Their place?" Michael glared at his father.

"The oldest Vampire amongst your friends is twenty two years old…" Gaspard sighed. "They are not worthy of even being foot soldiers as far as I'm concerned. Now, do as I say."

"Lucius," the Dark Lord said, and the Malfoy patriarch stood up.

"Take me to them," Lucius said to Natalia, and they both left the room.

"Perhaps Michael should join them," Lord Voldemort suggested, he wished to speak with Gaspard alone. "Just to ease things over."

"Trust me, none of them have the courage to defy Natalia," Gaspard said, and then he looked to his son. "I want to speak with the Dark Lord in private. Go find yourself a room." Michael stood up and left, his anger evident in his march. Once they were alone, Gaspard relaxed in his chair. "Children… They can do your head in."

"Your son is a liability," the Dark Lord stated.

"He is violent, but that will come in handy," Gaspard shrugged. "Natalia knows how to ease his mind, so don't worry about him eating your 'commanders'."

"You don't know my commanders," the Dark Lord's eyes blazed red. "Bellatrix would turn your son inside out."

"Too bad she's eating some Dementor's cock as we speak," Gaspard said dismissively, and the Dark Lord's face twitched for a moment. I hate this creature. "The smell of blood is on you, Voldemort. Care to explain that?"

"I have captured a traitor," Lord Voldemort replied. "He has secrets that I need in order to win the war, but his spirit has yet to break. Perhaps you can loosen his tongue?"

"I don't torture," Gaspard refused.

"And why is that?"

"There is no honor in wounding an enemy who can't wound you back," Gaspard replied. "And I find the act… perverse."

"A shame," the Dark Lord said. I'll do it myself then. Severus will surrender to Lord Voldemort's will, or he will die. "What are your plans then?"

"Michael and Natalia will leave for Rome tonight," Gaspard replied. "I have powerful friends in the Vatican, and they will send us aid."

"Aid?

"Money, soldiers, information," Gaspard listed. "I will stay here for the night, and then return to Knockturn Alley tomorrow. I have become the Den Master of Britain, which will help me recruit eager Vampires to your cause. Oh, and I've sent out a party to collect your dog."

"Fenrir…" Lord Voldemort sneered. "Foolish wretch… Is there any word on the force that dismantled Fenrir's army?"

"None," Gaspard replied. "Whoever they are, they're good. They left no trace behind, none of them have boasted of their victory in taverns, and not even the Hungarian Ministry knows what to think. The only thing that I'm certain of is that whoever hired them is quite wealthy, and that they have contacts in the darker corners of the Wizarding World."

"We will find them, and they will pay for their crimes," Lord Voldemort said. "They will all pay."

---

Severus Snape's POV

"Get me another bottle, boy!" You've had enough…

"Do as he says, Severus." He'll just beat us again. Is that what you want?

"Magic… Fucking freaks… That's what you both are!"

Images of his mother's bruised face bombarded his mind, why had she never defended herself against Tobias? Why hadn't she defended her own son against his father's fists? She was weak, and she never changed. She died as she lived… A faceless nobody. His mind distorted the images in his mind, and Snape found himself sitting by a tiny Lily Evans near a lake.

"I'm a witch?" Yes, and one day, you'll change the World. "And you're a wizard?"

"I am." Look where that got me. "Here, look at this."

"Wow! How did you do that?! You're amazing!" It's just some floating grass, but that was the only good first impression that I ever made.

"You're both freaks!" Petunia… Bitter little brat… "Look at his mismatched clothes, Lily! Stay away from him! He probably hasn't washed in months!" Weeks…

"Leave him alone, Petunia! Why are you so nasty to other people?!"

"I'm telling mother about this! Stay away from her, you little freak!"

Lily had chased after her sister, leaving him alone to berate himself as he stared at his own reflection in the water. Why was his life so miserable? Why didn't he have a single memory worth remembering? It's what you deserve. How much pain and suffering have you caused others? The World broke apart, and he found himself staring at the Hogwarts Express in awe. He was finally free of his Family. At least for a while.

"Sev! There you are! I've been looking everywhere for you! We were supposed to meet outside, remember?" She had dragged him into an empty compartment, and then began questioning him about Hogwarts. Merlin, he had talked for hours on end. My throat hurt, but I couldn't stop… But then they had shown up.

"Gryffindor, where dwell the brave of heart! Just like my dad!" So arrogant. He didn't even look at me for the entire conversation. "What? You got a problem with that?" So now I exist?

"No. If you'd rather be brawny instead of brainy-" I should've stayed quiet.

"Where are you hoping to go, seeing as you're neither?" Black… Damn you for being born.

"I don't think that's funny at all. You barge in here, and you insult my friend? Sod off!" Friend? I don't have friends, just people who tolerate me.

The compartment transformed into the Great Hall, and Snape watched as Lily was sorted into Gryffindor. He put on a fake smile and waved at her, while James sniggered from behind him.

"Slytherin!" As expected… I was never brave, nor loyal.

"Your robes are rather… old, aren't they?" They're my mother's… We couldn't afford new ones, nor were we allowed to leave for Diagon Alley. 'Too many freaks in one place'.

"Why are you wearing Muggle pants?" Would you rather see me in a skirt?

"Leave him alone, or I'll string you up right here and now! What's your name, little one?"

"Severus…"

"I'm Lucius Malfoy, and I'm your Prefect. If you work hard and prove yourself, your clothes won't make much difference. We Slytherins value excellence, and fraternity." Fraternity? Where was this fraternity when my classmates were beating me?

The Great Hall became the Library, and Snape found himself studied side by side with Lily. She was a slow learner at first, but she worked harder than anyone else. Hiding away from the World in a Library never suited her.

"They're staring at us…" So what? Why are you so self-conscious?

"Sev, just ignore them."

"But they're your House-mates… I don't want to get you into trouble…"

"Do I look afraid?" Never. "I get it, you just don't want to teach me your secrets in Potions."

"What?! No! I'll teach you!" So pathetic… A friendless fool dragging down the closest person to him.

"I was joking, Sev, there's no need to yell. Madam Pince will throw us both out if she hears you."

Once again, his memories led him away to another place. He found himself surrounded by his fellow Slytherins, with Avery pinning him against a wall.

"Severus, friend of Mud-Bloods."

"Fucking traitor."

"Belt him again, Avery." Just another day in Slytherin… I should've stood up for myself.

"I'm not her friend… I promise…" Spineless.

"We've seen you two together a hundred times, you liar!"

"Tell you what, 'Sev'… You do our homework, and teach us some of your Curses, and we'll be your friends. You don't need that fucking Muggle."

"What is the meaning of this?!" Narcissa… She was too good to me. "Get off of him, or I'll make you a permanent resident of the Hospital Wing!"

Darkness took him, and he realized which memory this was. They took my sight away, and trapped me the girls' bathroom.

"There you are, Snape. Lucius has been searching the entire school for you, and here you are… No doubt being a creep." Greengrass was always cold. There is no pity in that man, just like me.

"I… I can't see…" Stop sobbing. Why didn't you block the Curse?

"Let me see your eyes… Merlin… Who did this to you?"

"Potter…"

"I see. Stop crying, you're already irritating me. Come on, I'll lead you to Pomfrey." Three days in intensive care, and Potter didn't even lose a single House Point.

Snape found himself trying to steal his notebook back from Lucius, who laughed loudly as he used to whenever he teased Snape. Some Prefect…

"Merlin, Severus… There's at least fifty Curses in here! You know all of these?"

"Why else would they be in there? Now give it back, or I'll show you what I know!"

"Fine… Fine… Here, take back your 'Forbidden Tome'. You know what, Severus? You should spend time with me and my friends. Narcissa already adores you, and after I tell the others about this book of yours, they will welcome you as well." Say no… This is where it all went wrong.

"I'm a first year…"

"So what? You've got talent, and I can work with that. Plus, it'll get Avery's mob off of you."

"I… Alright…" Foolish boy.

"One day, Severus, we'll be working side by side. I just know it."

The common room warped into the Black Lake, and Snape found himself walking by Lily's side. The school year was coming to a close, and Snape felt utter dread at the prospect of going home again.

"You can stay with us, if you want…" If only…

"Mother needs me at Spinner's End."

"Sev… Please don't go back home…"

"Not this again, Lily."

"I saw the bruise on your lower back after Christmas! Don't go back there! I'll convince mum and dad to let you stay with us!"

"I can defend myself now… It'll be different." It won't be, and no amount of Curses will change that.

"If it isn't Snivellus!" Black… Just like a bloodhound, he'd always find me at my weakest.

"Curse anyone recently, you creep?"

"Leave him alone, Potter! What's your problem?!"

"James, let's just leave it…" Ugh… Filthy Werewolf…

"Evans, stop taking pity on this weirdo. You're just ruining your own reputation by spending time with him." Why did that hurt so much at the time? Potter was right, I was turning her into an outcast.

Once again, Snape found himself covering his head as his father tossed an empty bottle at him. Albus had learned of Snape's plan to Curse his own father, and so the old man had forbidden him from doing so under the threat of expulsion. Every single day, I wanted nothing more than to be rid of him.

His father's yelling faded into nothing, and Snape found himself in Slytherin again. He was in third year now, and both Lucius and Narcissa had left Hogwarts. He had no one… No one but Lily, who had become extremely popular due to her success in her studies. Snape was proud of her, but a part of him hated the fact that it was his mind that had given her the means to distance herself from him. She always had a pack of Gryffindors around her, and I could never fit in. I couldn't stand them, and they couldn't stand me.

"Get this done by tonight, Snape, and I might not smother you in your sleep." Why did I become their slave? I should've used my knowledge as a bargaining chip.

"Oh, and get my Potions essay done as well. I fucking hate Slughorn so much." Slughorn… He was so busy 'collecting' brilliant students of note that he never once cared about a 'creep' like me. Even when I was a part of his Slug Club, I was just in the background. He was right though, I never amounted to anything.

Snape found himself having a heated debate with Lily, this was their first fight.

"Stop spending time with Avery's group, Sev! They're not good people!" I know, but I just wanted safety. Why couldn't you see that? Why didn't I just tell you?

"They're my friends!" No, they're not. You're just too proud to admit that you're scared of them. She isn't being impressed with your false bravado, it's turning her against you.

"Avery sent Black into the Hospital Wing last night! Why would you be friends with someone like that?!"

"He was defending me against your precious Gryffindors! LOOK AT THIS!" Don't show her the Spell Burn… Don't blame her for this. "At least Avery is loyal to his friends… Unlike some…" Petty.

"What?! I'm not loyal to you?! You have no idea what I had to go through in first year because I was friends with you!"

"Boohoo! I haven't had it easy either, but do I complain? No!" You're complaining right now…

"Fine! Be friends with Avery then!"

The sound of a door slamming shattered the World, and Snape found himself lecturing the Slytherins in the Library. They came to respect my knowledge, and even began learning from me. I knew why, of course, but I didn't care. I was just glad that I was no longer their target. He could see Lily and her friends in the corner, and when their eyes met, she stood up and left the Library. Her friends sneered at him, and he sneered back out of petty revenge. They didn't steal her, I gave her away.

"So… Hogsmeade is coming up… Do you want to go together? We promised in first year that we would…" Yes, I want nothing more.

"No. Go with your 'friends'… And I'll go with mine."

"Sev… I really…"

"No."

"Alright… Is… Is it because of my Blood-Status?" Yes. My 'friends' would have turned on me, like I turned on you.

"What? Of course not…"

"I've heard that you've been targeting the other Muggle-Borns… You and Mulciber both…"

"Who told you that?"

"Potter." He was right.

"He's a liar, Lily! You know that, don't you?! He's always had it out for me!"

"Alright, I believe you… Just don't become like them, please?"

"Like them? Let me guess, you think all of us Slytherins are evil as well…"

"I meant Potter and Black…" I became worse.

"Oh…"

Snape found himself in a Muggle restaurant, he had saved up enough money from selling answers to buy his mother a luxury meal for Christmas at the restaurant that she always had her eyes on. I managed to ruin even this, didn't I?

"Severus, how can you afford this?"

"I've been saving up." Boasting… Why was I so proud of myself in this moment? "Mum… I'm turning fourteen in January, and there's this program…"

"Program?"

"Professor Slughorn told me about it… I'd basically Apprentice under a Potions Master, and make a small amount of money on the side. I was thinking that I could help you move."

"Move?" Just let her enjoy the one good meal she's had all year. Why can't you stop yourself?

"Away from him. I could get you a small apartment in Diagon Alley…"

"Severus… What's brought this about?"

"Mum… He's getting worse… I saw the bruise on your wrist…"

"I don't want to talk about this right now."

"Please, just listen to me. I'll be at Hogwarts, so I won't need the money. I can give it to you, and you can be free of him."

"Free of him? I love him, Severus." Love… That word turns my stomach.

"Are… Are you serious? I'm trying to help you here…"

"I don't need help, now stop it. You're ruining our day…" Here it comes.

"I'm ruining your day? I'm trying to help you, but if you want to spend the rest of your life being beaten around, then go right ahead. When he finally puts you in the dirt, I won't even bother showing my face at your funeral."

His mother's wounded expression was the last thing he saw before he found himself in the Forbidden Forest. He was dead certain that he had seen Black collecting ingredients for a Potion, which had made him quite curious. Admit it, Severus, it wasn't curiosity that led you down there. It was a need to hurt them like they hurt you. Have the courage in death that you didn't have in life…

"Following me, Snivellus? I spotted you ten minutes ago." To think that I would eventually become a spy…

"What are you up to, Black?"

"Me? I'm enjoying the cool breeze."

"Save it, I'll be telling the Headmaster about this."

"Will you now? And how will you explain your own presence here?" Azkaban dulled his wit, that's for certain. "Yeah… Go right ahead, snake. Fucking tosser."

Dark trees were replaced with by cold stone, and Snape found himself writing in his Advanced Potions book. People passed him by, most of them ignoring his presence. He was used to it, of course, but it still got to him sometimes. Creep. Freak. Death-Eater. Potter and his friends wasted no time in turning me into a pariah.

"What are you up to, Sev?"

"Nothing." Creating my signature Spell.

"Really, then why did you hide that book so quickly?"

"Please stop…"

"Hmmm, no."

"You're being awfully mean to me lately, Lily."

"Am I? I guess I should make up for that. How about we go to Hogsmeade together this weekend? Maybe we can get you some sunlight."

"Sunlight?"

"Yes, sunlight. Now forget about your book, we haven't talked in ages!"

"Lily, our exams are coming up. I need to get top marks in Potions, or I'll lose my apprenticeship."

"But we barely spend time together…"

"How about we get together in the Holidays? I'm free from my Apprenticeship, and we can avoid our parents."

"Fine, but you better not pull out of this one, Sev." Fate had other plans.

Snape found himself standing over his mother's fresh grave, she had 'fallen down' the stairs. No one had attended her funeral except for the Evans, not even his father, who was no doubt drinking away his 'sorrow'. A terrible darkness had taken hold in his heart that day, and Snape had shut himself away from a World that caused him nothing but pain. I wish I hadn't made her cry during our last meeting… The Half-Blood Prince… Taking her last name didn't honor her, I tainted her memory to feed my own ego.

The World was changing, and Snape gave into his darker nature, despite Lily beseeching him not to. He would never be powerless again. I thought that she'd be impressed by my determination, but it only drove her further away. What was I thinking? I openly praised the Muggle killings, all the while hoping that my father would die in one of those raids. I didn't even think about how that would make her feel.

"Kill any pets lately, Snivellus? I swear, you get creepier every year."

"I haven't killed any pets, Black. Now go away, I don't want to deal-"

"Could've fooled me! James, look at this cunt! Just writing away in his little black book… Probably writing his fantasies over joining You-Know-Who." I was making plans… Black had no idea how right he was.

"You really are pathetic, Snivellus. Wait… Are those new clothes that you're wearing?! Remus! Peter! Come have a look at this! Snape stole himself some new clothes from Madam Malkin's!" I earned those… I worked my fingers to the bone for those… What would you know about hard work, Potter? You were given everything in life, while I had nothing.

Snape found himself rushing out of the Great Hall, his O. W. Ls were finally finished, and he could now concentrate on his Apprenticeship. I wanted to save enough money to rent out a small room in Diagon Alley. I couldn't bear the thought of going home, not with mother gone. If I saw her murderer, I knew that I'd kill him.

"There you go… You're lucky that Evans was here, Snivellus-" No… Not this…

"I don't need help from filthy little Mud-Bloods like her!"

Snape zoned out the rest of the memory, he couldn't bear to think about it. This was the day that he lost everything, and Potter only received one detention. Lily never spoke to him again, despite his many apologies. She had reached her limit with him, and he couldn't even blame her. After all, he was mostly a burden on her at this point. His fellow Slytherins mocked him at every turn, most of them reminding him of how Potter had removed his trousers in front of the whole school. Snape had nothing left.

Now that he thought about it, he was the one who had given up. These were his final moments, and so finally, he understood what Albus had always preached. I gave up everything for power… And this is where it's led me. I'll die as I lived… Alone in the dark.

Images of sharp claws and fangs rushed into his mind, and the visage of a Stag saving his life turned his heart cold. This had been the final straw.

"You will never speak a word of this."

"Albus, they nearly killed him!"

"Minerva, please…"

"No! They deserve to be expelled! Potter may have intervened, but Black set this whole thing up!"

"And Remus? Does he deserve expulsion as well? Does he deserve to lose everything over someone else's actions?"

"I… No…"

"Severus won't say a word, you have my word, Albus."

"Thank you, Horace. Severus, do I have yours?"

"Yes…" Once again, I gave up. If I had pressed a little harder, I might have achieved something. I might have avoided this Fate.

Snape found himself roaming Knockturn Alley, he was collecting ingredients for his Master. This was his last year at Hogwarts, and his final year of Apprenticeship. From here, he could've become anything that he wanted. His entire life was ahead of him, but the past seldom stays buried.

"Severus?"

"Lucius?"

"It is you! Look at you!" He really used to laugh a lot back then. Or maybe he only did that with me. "My word, you've grown quite tall, haven't you?"

"I… Yes, I have."

"You didn't come to my wedding… I sent you an invitation. Narcissa was quite bothered by your absence."

"My mother passed away… I was putting her to rest…"

"Oh… I'm really sorry, Severus. Are you returning to Hogwarts soon?"

"I have the day off."

"Come then, I'll buy you a drink." I should've run in the opposite direction, but I knew about Lucius' allegiance to the Dark Lord. I chose the wrong side…

He had told Lucius everything about his murderous, Muggle father. Even though he had vowed never to speak of the man again, the moment he was offered a shoulder to cry on, Snape had spilled his guts. For one day that entire year, Snape had a friend. For just that one day, he wasn't completely alone.

"And what about that Evans girl that you used to chase after?"

"She's with Potter now…"

"With Potter? Your tormenter? Aren't you two friends?"

"No, we're not friends. She means nothing to me whatsoever. If she wants to be with an arrogant prick like Potter, then she can go right ahead."

"It's in their Blood to betray their betters, Severus. Forget her… Tell me, what do you think of Muggles?"

"Muggles? I don't care about them. My father is a Muggle, and he's given me a perfect picture of what they're all like." And what about the Evans Family? Who held you while you cried for your mother? Who let you spend the Summer in their home? Who took you to Diagon Alley so you could buy your new clothes?

"When you graduate, Severus, come find me. I want to introduce you to someone."

---

Saturday 21st November, 1993 (Malfoy Manor)

"Crucio!"

Snape jerked back to reality as thousands of hot blades sliced his skin off, and he immediately began thrashing about in his chair. The Dark Lord severed the Curse, leaving Snape to whimper and shake like a newborn. So cold…

"You cannot hide from me, Severus," the Dark Lord hissed, his eyes resembled two burning coals in the darkness. "Tell me what I want to know, and I will ease your passing." Snape hung his head in response, his stroll through his memories was over. At least I managed to secure them… He won't get anything from me…

"Look at yourself," the Dark Lord spat out. "I gave you power. I gave you purpose. You could've ruled Britain in my name." Snape remained silent. "What has Dumbledore given you? A death sentence… Was it worth it, Severus? Betraying your Lord and Master for an old fool?"

Snape felt the urge to laugh at the Dark Lord, he genuinely wished that he had betrayed this madman sooner. Or better yet, never sided with him… Albus doesn't treat me like a slave… He's… He's my friend… And there it was, Snape did have some good memories. His nightly games of Chess with Albus. The first time he had held Draco. His growing fondness for a sharp-tongued redhead. His rivalry with Minerva. Pomona bringing him food in his lab whenever he missed a meal. Filius often forgetting that Snape was no longer a student. The respect and admiration of his Slytherins. Once again, you realize the truth too late… It wasn't all bad…

"Answer me, wretch!" the Dark Lord bellowed, and Snape felt something dig into his right leg. He bit the inside of his cheeks, he would not scream for this monster. "Damn you, Severus…"

"This one won't break," came a voice from behind him.

"He will," the Dark Lord hissed.

"No, he really won't," the voice said, and then orange eyes moved in front of Snape. You… "Look at him. You've torn him to pieces, but he won't even acknowledge you. He'll never break. You could spend days doing this, but he'll die before he talks." The Dark Lord attempted Legilimency once again, but Snape managed to redirect the assault into the empty recesses of his mind. You'll see nothing…

"Very well," the Dark Lord whispered too calmly. "I'll leave him to the mercy of his former friends." So that's his plan? He'll have them murder me? Fear… That's all he understands. I finally understand you, Albus. I finally figured it out…

"You'll… lose…" Snape rasped, and the Dark Lord just stared at him. Snape looked up with a fierce look, his eye digging into the Dark Lord's. "I'll see you… in hell… Tom…"

"CRUCIO!"

---

Albus Dumbledore's POV

Sunday 22nd November, 1993 (Snape's Office – Just Past Midnight)

He knew that he had to be strong right now, but he was beginning to weaken in his resolve. Severus still hadn't returned, which could only mean two things. Either he was dead, or he was being tortured for information. Surviving two wars had taught Albus that when soldiers went missing, it was usually because their time had come to an end. No. Not yet… Severus cannot die before me. I can't bury another friend, especially one as young as Severus.

"Enough of this!" Ronald snapped, and then he shot out of his chair. "We're just sitting here doing nothing! For all we know, Professor Snape is already rotting in a shallow grave!"

"Ronald, please remain calm," Albus sighed out, he hadn't slept for nearly two days now. What's gotten into him all of a sudden? He hasn't uttered a word for the last two hours.

"Tell us to remain calm again, and we'll fill our belly with your soul!" 'Ronald' barked, his face distorting horribly. Albus just stared at him, his mind was too filled with worry to fear the monster inside Ronald. "They've taken him from us…" Ronald suddenly began pacing, his crimson toad-like eyes darting around the Office. "They've taken our friend… They will burn…" Friend? Is this really the Entity speaking?

Albus found himself following Ronald's every move, his hand already moving closer to his wand. And then, Ronald suddenly stopped moving. His eyes returned to the color of the sky, and he looked to Albus with a look of revelation.

"Ronald?" Albus said calmly.

"Kreacher… He's been to Malfoy Manor, hasn't he?" Ronald asked, and Albus blinked at him. "Remember what Professor Snape said about Regulus Black? He didn't have the stomach to torture his enemies… He had Kreacher do it for him." Is he suggesting that we use Kreacher to invade Malfoy Manor?

"Go on, my boy," Albus stood up, he too was done waiting.

"How often did Regulus take Kreacher to Malfoy Manor? I mean, it was a base of operations for the Dark Lord, right?" Ronald asked.

"It was."

"So Kreacher knows that place inside out!" Ronald exclaimed, something akin to hope sparking in his eyes. "Headmaster, let's please do something! I can't sit around while he's missing… I truly believe that he needs our help." I feel it too, Ronald.

"Follow me," Albus ordered, and they both walked over to Severus' desk. Albus called forth some parchment with a flick of his hand, and he began drawing up a large oval. "Let's just say that this is the entire Malfoy property. Where would you start?"

"Fuck the property, start in the Manor," Ronald said, and Albus waited for him to go on. "Malfoy Manor probably employs an army of Elves, which means that the Manor might not be secure against their Apparition Magic. I mean, Elves can get into places that people can't, right? And the Elves of Malfoy Manor probably run errands all day."

"What if Lord Voldemort has sealed the Manor away?" Albus asked. "He is nothing if not prepared, Ronald."

"He left Kreacher in that cave," Ronald countered. "Kreacher told me so himself. He literally left Kreacher to die, and Kreacher simply Apparated back home. The Dark Lord is prepared against people, not Elves. He doesn't understand that they're actually stronger than most wizards."

"He cannot even fathom such a thing… His arrogance won't let him," Albus nodded slowly. "Are you sure about Kreacher's tale?"

"I'm certain of it," Ronald nodded firmly. "We start at the lowest level, far away from any bedrooms. We search as we go up, he's bound to be in there somewhere."

"The lowest levels… The Dungeons," Albus remembered, Severus had often described the Malfoy holding cells. This could work. If Severus is indeed in danger, that's where he'll be.

"They have Dungeons?" Ronald asked. "Of course they fucking do…"

"Dungeons that have Silencing Charms on them," Albus remembered. "No voice can travel out of these Dungeons, and so even Elves can't be summoned."

"Well, he might be in there," Ronald said quickly. "Let's just get in there, save him, and run away!"

"Ronald, I will go alone," Albus said firmly.

"What?"

"You are a child, and I cannot put you in such danger," Albus replied, while Ronald looked genuinely offended. "If the Dark Lord is present, I will be forced to prioritize your safety. Ronald… Even I cannot hold him at bay and protect you at the same time."

"I… I see…" Ronald swallowed thickly, and then he shook his head clear. "No, you're right… I'd just get in the way. Sorry… I just assumed…" he trailed off, something darkening behind his bright eyes.

"Your time will come, my boy," Albus patted Ronald's cheek. "But for now, let me take care of this."

"I'll get in your way, but the Order won't," Ronald looked into his eyes. "Headmaster, you went to Albania alone, and look how that turned out. Don't go alone this time… Take the Order with you."

"That is easier said than done, Ronald," Albus sighed. None of them will risk their lives for Severus, but I can't tell him that.

"Why? Because they don't like Professor Snape?" Ronald asked, and Albus didn't even bother replying. He's certainly become more observant. "Fine, they don't like Professor Snape… But you know what? Fuck their opinions of the man. He's out there right now, probably dead or dying, while they sit around and wait for his Intel." Ronald then drew in a deep breath, and then another, and then another. "Just… Give me a second…"

"Right," Ronald restarted, his anger clearly stored away for later. "The Order is meant to help the helpless, right?"

"Yes."

"Then it's past time that they put their money where their mouth is," Ronald stood up straighter. "Go to them, and tell them of our worries. Give them the chance to do the right thing. If they still won't volunteer for such a mission, then you can go alone, but something tells me that they won't let you down. I mean, they stood by you during the last war, didn't' they? Give them a chance to prove their valor." Albus stared at the young man before him, and he felt something shift in his mind. A chance…

"Let us work on our plan for now, while Fawkes collects all the members of the Order currently in Britain," Albus looked back to the parchment. Tonight, the Order will move against its enemies.

"You hear that, Fawkes?" Ronald looked to the Phoenix, who was simply perched up on one of Severus' shelves. "Go and get them."

Fawkes let out a loud shrill, and then he burst into a vortex of orange flames.

---

Sunday 22nd November, 1993 (Grimmauld Place – Past Midnight)

A vortex of orange flame revealed Hestia, who quickly looked around the Living Room. That's everyone. Fawkes flew over and perched himself on Albus' right shoulder, his eyes scanning the room. Hestia slowly sat down near the Greengrass and Davis Families, her eyes fixed on Dumbledore.

"That's everyone, now we can talk," Albus said.

"What about Emmeline and Dedalus?" Aberforth asked.

"They're in Albania, and I can't afford to alert the Ministry of what we're about to do tonight," Albus replied, while his brother exchanged a look with Alastor.

"And what are we about to do, Headmaster?" Sturgis asked, his left hand rubbing his eyes.

"Yeah, why are we awake at this ungodly hour?" Sirius asked. There is no time to mince words. Ronald and I have devised a good plan, one that will work if we're united.

"Severus is missing," Albus told them, and a deafening silence followed his words.

"Missing?" Minerva asked suddenly. "Is that why he wasn't at Hogwarts today?"

"I hope nothing terrible has happened," Pomona said, her eyes immediately showed her worry.

"Missing? Or run off to join his Master?" Sirius asked. "This is why you woke us up?"

"Sirius, be quiet," Remus ordered, and then he looked to the Headmaster. "How long has he been missing for?"

"Sometime on Friday night, he was taken by Lucius Malfoy," Albus started. "I have spent the day investigating this trail… I hoped that Severus would return, or at least send word, but neither has happened. This is not like him at all. I fear that our spy no longer has his cover."

"Then he's dead," Alastor said roughly. "The Dark Lord doesn't just let people leave his service, Albus."

"Dead, or being tortured," Kingsley spoke up. "After all, a spy's main job is to have secrets, right?"

"Severus has many," Albus said. "Though he would never reveal them to the Dark Lord. He is better than that."

"Are you sure about this, Headmaster?" Filius asked, he really didn't want this to be true. Despite Snape's coldness, he was rather fond of the young Potions Master. "What if he's not really missing?"

"Then we will capture Lucius and Narcissa Malfoy, effectively cutting off Lord Voldemort's source of wealth," Albus replied, and the whole room gaped at him. At least for the time being.

"Capture?" Nymphadora said, her eyes darting towards the others.

"You mean kidnap two powerful Pure-Bloods," Sebastian scoffed. "We'll all end up in Azkaban by the end of the night."

"Listen to me, and listen well," Albus said firmly, his expression hardening. I won't lose another friend today. "The war is here. There is no more time for debate, or to fight amongst ourselves. Elphias was murdered in the streets, not twenty feet away from his house. And now, Severus is missing. He's… He's most likely dead…" Albus then looked to his comrades, all of whom looked a little shaken. "We have grown weak because of the peace that we helped secure, but our enemy has only become more dangerous. Now we can either fall divided, or we can stand together against this terrible foe. Either way, he'll come for us."

"Tonight… I will infiltrate Malfoy Manor," Albus went on, his voice was the only sound in the room. "If Severus is still alive, then I will bring him back. And if he isn't, then I will make his murderers pay for their crimes. I know that many of you look upon him with contempt, but he has proven his bravery to me a dozen times over. Will I be going alone?"

Silence… People exchanged looks, but no one spoke. Albus understood their hesitation, he had summoned them all in the middle of the night to conduct a raid on Malfoy Manor of all places. Many of them feared the Dark Lord's powers, while the others weren't on board with kidnapping two wealthy aristocrats.

"I'll go with yeh, Headmaster," Hagrid stood up, and Albus smiled at him. "Professor Snape… He saved Fang's life not long ago… Dumb dog ate some poison mushrooms. I'll honor my debt."

"We're with you as well," Minerva said, while Pomona and Filius gave him firm nods.

"For Elphias Doge," Sturgis said, and then he drew in a deep breath. "And for Severus Snape, if he has passed."

"I'll go too," Nymphadora stood up.

"Tonks… Sit back down…" Sirius urged.

"No, cousin," Tonks refused, her eyes traveling to Kingsley of all people. "We Aurors don't leave our own behind, right?"

"Better to die with your comrade than to abandon him," Kingsley nodded slowly. "I'll go as well."

"I volunteer as well," Remus said, and Sirius pinched the bridge of his nose.

"Shite…" Sirius muttered. "I'm in too then, someone has to keep this idiot alive."

"And I'll keep you alive," Arthur smiled at Sirius, and then he looked to Albus. "I will help as well." Ronald was right. Their valor was hidden just beneath the surface. Perhaps I've spent too much time hiding behind my plans.

"Are we really going to volunteer one by one?" Alastor snapped. "We're all going, and that's that. Can't leave a man behind, even if it's just his corpse." Albus felt his heart swell, and he held back his smile. Look at them… If only Severus and Ronald were here. Albus looked to the Davis and Greengrass Families.

"I know their Dungeons quite well," James stood up, and his wife quickly followed suit. "Sebastian?"

"The Manor has four levels," Sebastian sighed. "Not counting the Dungeons, which are underground."

"Does that mean that you're coming as well?" Albus asked. This is quite the surprise, even for me.

"Only if my wife stays here," Sebastian said. "Mary is adept with Healing Magic, and I imagine that many of us are going to need help in that department very soon."

"I will go to our Manor and bring back as many supplies as I can carry," Mary said.

"We'll help," Pandora volunteered for the job. "Molly and I, that is."

"You should concentrate on the child's health and safety," Susana said. "I will join Molly and Mary."

"Fawkes, go and find Poppy," Albus ordered, and Fawkes vanished in a gust of flames. "Mundungus, I will not ask you to come with us. I know that your debt to me only involved information."

"Much obliged," Mundungus gave a weak grin.

"He can go to my mother's house," Nymphadora said. "Both of my parents know the Healing Arts."

"Mundungus?" Albus looked to the man, and he gave a shaky nod.

"This is all very touching, but how do we even get in?" Aberforth asked. "If the Dark Lord is there, then we won't even be able to see that place."

"We will Apparate in," Albus said, much to everyone's shock. "We will turn his arrogance against him, and in doing so, show him that we will not abandon our way of life without a fight. Tonight, Lord Voldemort will bleed."

---

Thirty Minutes Later

The plan had been shared, and everything was in place. The only problem now was Sirius' mistrust of his own House-Elf, something that both Albus and Ronald had foreseen. Luckily for the Order, Kreacher owed Ronald a great favor. Amidst the planning, Albus had secretly slipped the old House-Elf a note from Ronald himself, and Kreacher had changed his tune immediately, which only furthered Sirius' suspicions. It hardly matters now, not even Tom could stop Kreacher from aiding us in our endeavor.

"Everyone clear on the plan?" Alastor paced the room. "Tonks, repeat the plan."

"Why me?" Nymphadora flushed a little, her hair turning a sickly pink.

"Because I caught you and Jones chatting away!" Alastor snapped, and the two witches exchanged sorry looks.

"We are to move in teams of four, with each Order member having a partner," Nymphadora started. "You and Professor McGonagall will aid Kingsley and myself in securing the first floor. Professors Flitwick and Sprout will secure the Ballroom, while Mr. Weasley and Mr. Lovegood will find their way outside and Ward the Manor so that no one can escape. Sirius and Sturgis will work with Remus and Hestia to secure the second floor. Mr. Davis and Mr. Greengrass will partner up with Hagrid and Aberforth to secure the third floor. And lastly, Headmaster Dumbledore will secure the fourth floor."

"Where the Dark Lord is most likely to be," Hestia added, and Nymphadora nodded quickly.

"And you?" Alastor looked to Kreacher.

"Kreacher will assist anyone who calls him," Kreacher bowed. "Kreacher will also make sure to capture Lord and Lady Malfoy, and then confine them in the attic."

"And we'll be here to heal anyone who is brought back by Kreacher," Poppy said, she was still wearing her sleeping gown. I will face her wrath tomorrow. I should have brought her in long before this. Andromeda, Edward, Molly, Pandora, Susana, Mary, and Mundungus were currently stacking all manners of Potions on the Conjured tables.

"Then this is it," Albus said. "Say your farewells, we leave in five minutes."

Albus then moved to the fireplace, while the others said their goodbyes to their loved ones. Alastor limped to his side, his Magical Eye swirling in its socket.

"Last chance to rethink this madness," Alastor said. "A raid, Albus? This isn't exactly your style."

"I buried my oldest friend only a few hours ago," Albus replied. "All those men and women in St. Mungo's… So much death has happened, Alastor. I will not stand by any longer. Inaction is worse than failing." To think that a child showed me the error of my ways… Fate is certainly behind all of this.

"Good," Alastor smirked. "About time, you old bird." Albus shot Alastor a weak smile.

"I am putting you all in danger for one man," Albus whispered.

"Piss off with that," Alastor frowned. "We're not here because you've forced us. We're here because we know just what that evil bastard is capable of. As for Snape… I'm not fighting to save him. I'm fighting because that's what I do when I see a Dark Wizard. It's in my blood, Albus. Saving Snape, if he's still alive, is just a bonus."

"Then let's raise wands together once again, Alastor," Albus patted his back. "Try not to lose a limb this time." Alastor barked out a laugh, which also served as the signal to the others.

"Albus, we're ready," Minerva said, and Albus turned to face his Order.

"Stay together, and stay strong," Albus said, his eyes scanning the room. "Our enemy will not show you any mercy, so act accordingly. But remember, no Unforgivables. The Ministry has Traces on your wands, and they'll hunt you down if you cross that line."

"And for Merlin's sake, don't break ranks if one of us is killed," Alastor added.

"Kreacher, come," Albus stepped forward, and the old House-Elf quickly stepped forward.

"No tricks, Kreacher," Sirius warned.

"Kreacher will do his duty," Kreacher bowed to Sirius, who just exchanged a look with Remus. Albus drew in a deep breath, and then he offered the Elf his left hand.

"Take me to the Malfoy Dungeons," Albus said, and Kreacher took his hand.

The World twisted in on itself, and Albus found himself standing in a dark, damp room. It worked. Ronald, you brilliant boy!

"Bring the others," Albus looked to Kreacher, who Disapparated immediately. "Lumos." Darkness gave way to light, and Albus peered into each Dungeon Cell with the eyes of a hawk. And then, he saw Severus. For a moment, Albus feared for his own heart, but that moment was short lived as Kreacher brought in the first team. Albus moved into the Cell, his eyes scanning Severus' unconscious form. My dear boy… What have they done to you?

Albus had survived two wars, faced two of the most powerful Dark Lords in recent memory, and endured other horrors his entire life. But this moment… It brought tears to his eyes. There was hardly anything left of his friend. His right hand was gone, blood caked his torn robes, his hair had been shaved off, his face was badly carved up, and there was a black blade sticking out of his right leg. Albus heard footsteps behind him, and then a gasp.

"Severus…" Pomona whispered, and then she ran up and kneeled in front of him. "Look at what they've done to him…"

"Gods…" Filius looked away, while Minerva stood by Albus' side.

"Monsters…" Minerva whispered, her body already shaking from rage.

One by one, the Order piled into the Dungeons. And one by one, they happened upon Severus. No one said a word, and so Pomona's silent weeping echoed throughout the room. As for Albus, he just stood there as if he were made of stone.

"Kreacher, take him back to Grimmauld Place," Alastor ordered, and the Elf quickly stepped up to Severus, who suddenly awoke with a jerk. Albus moved to his side without even thinking, while the Potions Master whimpered and looked around.

"Easy, Severus," Albus managed, the lump in his throat was beginning to ache.

"You… think… this… illusion will… work?" Severus wheezed, and everyone went dead silent. "You'll get… nothing… Tom… Nothing… Rot, you filth… I'll… see you… in hell…" Pomona let out a sob, while the others could do little but stare. My brave friend.

"This is no illusion, Severus," Albus whispered, he was too afraid to touch him. "We have come for you." Severus stared up at Albus, though his left eye wasn't moving. And then, his head dropped forward.

"Kreacher, take him back now," Remus suddenly spoke up, while Sirius looked to be in a trance.

"Go," Albus said as he took a step back, and the Elf Disapparated away with Severus. Silence once again reigned in the dark Dungeons, with only the sound of Pomona forcing herself to regain her composure filling the void.

"Let's go hunt some fucking Death-Eaters," Alastor snarled, and one by one, they all moved towards the exit. Albus just stared at the bloody chair where Severus had been, and an old flame ignited in his chest. He had felt this rage before. Albania, St. Mungo's, Elphias, Severus, the countless others… Albus slowly stepped out of the Cell, there would be no mercy tonight. No quarter given. Albus moved past the Order members until he was at the head of the pack, his eyes fixed on the large metallic door.

"There's at least forty people in this Manor," Alastor said, his Magical Eye moving about frantically. "Most of them are awake and roaming the Manor."

"Good, let's go fuck them up," James grit out.

"The Wards have probably alarmed the Dark Lord," Sebastian said.

"Then we hit them before they can rally their troops," Kingsley said, his eyes fixed on Albus' back.

"Stay in formation, and kill if necessary," Albus ordered. "Tonight, we avenge those who have suffered at his hands. Tonight… We show him that he's not beyond our reach."

---

Arthur Weasley's POV

Sunday 22nd November, 1993 (The Battle of Malfoy Manor)

He was afraid, he would not deny it. Arthur had so much to live for, and as a result, so much to fight for. His only regret tonight was that he might depart this World without bidding his children farewell. If I am to die, then I'll die protecting my Family. One day, they might live in a World free of this darkness. As Dumbledore unlocked the large metallic door, Arthur drew in a deep breath and braced himself. Fabian… Gideon… This is for you.

"Move quickly, but be vigilant," Moody ordered, and they all followed Albus out.

"Who-" a man started, but Dumbledore yanked him towards the Order with a flick of his left hand.

"Incarcerous," Moody chanted, and thick black ropes bound and gagged the pale man. Moody then studied the man, while the other got into their squads. "Albus… This one's a Blood-Sucker."

"Deckard is here," Dumbledore said. "No one is to approach him alone, understood?" Everyone nodded, and Dumbledore looked to Sebastian. "Directions?"

"The Ballroom is to the right, while the stairs up are to the left," Sebastian replied. "There is a back door in the Ballroom that leads outside, it's impossible to miss."

"Filius will lead the way to the Ballroom," Dumbledore ordered. "The others will follow my lead."

"Let's go," Filius said, and his squad followed after him. Pomona stayed right behind Filius to provide support, while Arthur and Xeno protected the rear. "Homenum Revelio."

"Well?" Xeno asked.

"Four men around the corner… Damn, they're moving towards us," Filius prepared himself. "Get ready."

"Who goes there?" came a voice, and all four of them rushed around the corner.

"Stupefy!" Arthur chanted, while the others unleashed their own Spells. His target took the stunner to the chest, but it didn't even knock the man down. More Vampires? Shields quickly went up, and the ambush turned into a proper fight.

"Use Severing Charms!" Filius ordered. "Diffindo!"

"Avada Ke-" a Vampire began, but his left arm was swiftly cut off by Filius. Arthur felt jarred at the sight, and he knew that Xeno was just as shocked by the Charms Master's ruthlessness. The sounds of battle suddenly engulfed the Manor's every corridor, and Arthur broke out of his daze with a Severing Charm of his own.

"Incendio!"

"Diffindo!"

"Protego!"

"Avada Kedavra!"

"Crucio!"

Spells after Spell went out, until finally, only one Vampire remained. Pomona sent the poor bastard flying across the Hallway, while Filius smashed a Reductor Curse into his chest. Only a bloody smear was left behind, one that Arthur quickly looked away from.

"Move!" Filius ordered, and they began running for the Ballroom. Arthur ignored a screaming Vampire who was trying to reach for his wand, while Xeno shot a stunner into his head. They rounded the corner and raced forward, only to run into two more Vampires.

"Incendio Diabolica!" Filius chanted, and a jet of bright blue flames engulfed everything in sight. Arthur and Xeno covered their eyes, and when the screaming stopped, they found only charred remains behind. By the Gods… This man teaches my children?!

"Protego!" Pomona suddenly chanted, and a purple Curse shattered right behind Arthur. Arthur and Xeno quickly turned around and began firing their own Curses, and they easily overpowered the Vampire that Xeno had just stunned with several Severing Charms. "No more stunners! These are Vampires, they will get right back up!" No stunners… No stunners… Arthur drew in a deep breath, while Xeno looked to be in quite a panic himself.

Arthur, of course, understood that he and Xeno weren't like most Order members. The others, including Sirius, were war veterans who had survived multiple large battles during the last war. They know that it's kill, or be killed. C'mon, Arthur. This is not the time to second guess yourself. If you want to see your Family again, then fight!

"There's a stray not far from here," Filius told them. "We can't let any of them escape, they'll call for reinforcements!" All four of them broke into a sprint, and after smashing through a large door, they entered the Ballroom.

"Bombarda!" the Vampire in the Ballroom bellowed, her Spell was aimed at the ceiling right above them. Pomona immediately stopped the falling debris, while Filius began Dueling against their attacker. With a loud grunt, Pomona sent the debris flying at the Vampire, who had a second to shriek before she was crushed under wood and stone.

"That's the exit," Arthur looked to the giant glass door. "Xeno, you're with me!"

"We'll secure this room," Filius said as both men ran for the door. "Pomona, seal off all the entryways except for the one we just came from. The others might need our aid."

Arthur burst through the door, his breathing frantic and his heart beating in his ears. I really miss my desk.

"I'll start sealing the Manor, while you take down the Ward keeping Fawkes out," Arthur said, his wand already moving in complex movements. Once Fawkes can freely flash in and out of this Manor, we'll win!

---

Sirius Black's POV

Sunday 22nd November, 1993 (The Battle of Malfoy Manor)

"What the fuck?!" Sirius yelled, and a Killing Curse barely missed him. "There's fucking Vampires everywhere!" He could hear the fighting happening all over the Manor, and he hoped the others were having better luck than Sirius' squad.

"Diffindo!" Sturgis yelled from his right, while Sirius fired bursts of flames Non-verbally. "Remus, use the side rooms!"

"We'll cover you!" Sirius yelled as he increased his assault. Hestia and Remus ran into the room on their right, several Curses barely missing them. "I'll work offence, Sturgis. You take defense!"

"Protego Maxima!" Sturgis summoned a massive shield.

"Confringo!" Sirius bellowed, and an orange light burst out of his wand. Block that, you fucks! The Blasting Curse exploded right above the six Vampires, bringing down the ceiling on them. At that, both Remus and Hestia flanked the Vampires. "Go, Sturgis!"

Both men began throwing every Curse in their minds at the Vampires, but they made sure to stay by the stairs. Whoever controlled the stairs controlled the battlefield, especially due to the need to secure all the floors.

"Expelliarmus!" Sturgis chanted, snatching the last Vampire's wand from his hand.

"Reducto!" Sirius followed up, and the Vampire's brains were splattered all over his fallen comrades.

"Kreacher!" came Remus' voice, and both Sturgis and Sirius froze. Hestia? There was a loud crack on the other side of the Hallway, but neither men could see due to the smoke and embers. Another loud crack swiftly followed, and Remus ran through the smoke to rejoin Sirius and Sturgis.

"Hestia?" Sturgis asked immediately.

"Took a stunner to the chest," Remus told them. "She also hit her head on the way down, so she's out of this fight."

"A stunner… Alright…" Sturgis nodded.

"She'll be fine, mate," Sirius said, and then he looked to Remus. "Is the floor secure?" Remus smelled the air, and then he frowned. Sturgis blinked at them, but he didn't say anything.

"Too much Magic… Too much smoke…" Remus shook his head. Fuck, I can't smell anything either. There was a sudden yell from above them, and Sebastian burst through the ceiling and crumpled in front of them. Seb?! Sirius managed to see two orange eyes staring down at them, but they vanished just as quickly as he saw them. What the fuck was that?!

"Sebastian?!" Remus kneeled by his side, but Seb didn't even move a muscle. Sirius' heart stopped, this man had daughters. "He's barely breathing… Kreacher!" There was a loud crack, and a bloodied House-Elf appeared. What the fuck happened to you?

"Take him back," Sirius ordered, and Kreacher immediately Disapparated away with Sebastian. Sirius then looked back up at the hole, and then back to Remus and Sturgis. "There's something up there! I saw… eyes…"

"Lord Greengrass was a part of Aberforth's squad," Sturgis panted. "If he's out, then maybe they're in trouble."

"I'll go join Aberforth's squad," Remus said, and Sirius gave him a nod. "Keep the damn stairs under our control, or we'll be cut off from the middle!"

With that, Remus ran up the stairs. Sirius and Sturgis both kept their eyes peeled, but the lack of something to do began eating away at Sirius immediately. We're just standing here… He could hear the fighting upstairs, and when he heard Remus' screams, all sense went out of the window.

"Remus?!" Sirius yelled, and then he burst into a sprint.

"Sirius!" Sturgis called out, and then he ran after the man.

"Remus!" Sirius yelled again as he reached the third floor, only to find Aberforth lying unconscious by the stairs. The old man had a dazed look on his face, and his right leg was twisted in a disgusting angle.

"Aberforth?" Sturgis kneeled by the old man's side, while Sirius looked around the Hallways. What he saw genuinely jarred him, and he found himself standing around like an idiot. Hagrid was currently slamming a blonde man from wall to wall, a frenzied expression on his face.

"Sirius! Sturgis! Run!" Hagrid managed to yell, and then, much to Sirius' shock and horror, the tiny blonde man sent the gigantic Hagrid flying through a wall. What the FUCK?!

"Sturgis, there's a fucking demon up here!" Sirius yelled, while the blonde man grinned in their direction. His orange cat-like eyes gleamed in the dark, and Sirius immediately fired a Blasting Curse in his direction. In a terrifying maneuver, the blonde man began crawling on the walls and ceiling, his finger tearing chunks of wood as he crawled in their direction. Sweet Circe's cunt! What the fuck is that?!

"Immobulus!" Sturgis chanted, but the blonde 'man' shot off of the ceiling and landed on all fours.

"Petrificus Totalus!" Sirius followed up, but once again, the blonde man dodged with inhuman speed. He doesn't have a wand? Sturgis and Sirius fired Curse after Curse, but nothing hit their target, who seemed to be dancing as he dodged their Spells. And then, the Vampire threw a silver dagger out of his coat. Sirius ducked immediately, but that gave the Vampire the opening he needed to rush them.

"Protego Maxima!" Sturgis bellowed, and a massive blue shield appeared between the Vampire and them. But it did not matter. The Vampire slammed right through the shield with terrifying strength, and a swift backhand sent Sturgis rolling down the stairs.

"Flipen-" Sirius started, but the Vampire grabbed his right wrist and broke it with extreme ease. A scream tore its way out of Sirius' throat, and he suddenly felt white hot pain shoot up his left arm. The Vampire hauled Sirius against a wall, his dagger had dug deep into Sirius' left shoulder. My wand… Fuck…

"Sirius Black," the Vampire laughed. "The Godfather of the Boy-Who-Lived…"

"FUCK!" Sirius bellowed as the Vampire twisted his blade.

"I'll take good care of your boy," the Vampire whispered. "After I eat you, I'll turn him into my own."

"Harry…" Sirius grit out, the pain was unbearable. Fucking… Stay away from my kid! Sirius grabbed the Vampire's wrist with his left hand, and he partially morphed into Padfoot. The surprised Vampire tried to back away, but Padfoot's fangs tore right into the Vampire's neck. With a swift motion, Sirius tore out the Vampire's throat. Blood splattered all over the place, and Sirius found himself falling onto his side. Don't just lie there, get your wand.

As his head began to morph back, Sirius crawled to his wand, the pain making his vision blurry. His right hand was now useless, and his left one was burning with pain. Gurgling laughter echoed from behind him, and Sirius looked to see the Vampire standing up slowly. Motherfucker… Sirius crawled faster, and just as the Vampire grabbed his ankle, Sirius grabbed his wand and aimed it at the Vampire.

"Expulso!" Sirius bellowed, and a bright blue light exploded in the Vampire's gut. The monster was sent flying back, a good chunk of his side missing. "Turn that, you monster…"

Sirius lost all strength in his body, and he just lay there. The fighting still echoed throughout the Manor, but it was now distorted and distant. Darkness began to take him, but a loud crack brought him back.

"Master!" Kreacher ran to his side, and Sirius looked to his Elf with a bewildered look. He came back for me?

"Sturgis… The others… Remus… Find them…"

"That actually hurt!" came a laugh, and Sirius' blood froze. This thing… What in the fuck…? Sirius heard hurried footsteps coming his way, but Kreacher removed the floor with a snap of his fingers. The Vampire fell to the lower floors with an angry roar, while Kreacher grabbed Sirius and Disapparated.

And suddenly, the noise was so much closer.

"Master was wounded!" Kreacher announced, and Mary was immediately by his side. Her dress was bloodied, but her expression was steady.

"Merlin… Another stabbing?" Mary looked to Kreacher.

"Cunt Vampire…" Sirius coughed out, while Kreacher simply Disapparated again. "Remus?"

"He's here," Mary told him, and then she shot him a weak smile. "This will hurt Sirius, I'm sorry." And just like that, she swiftly pulled the knife out.

"You fucking bitch!" Sirius howled, while she quickly began to heal the wound. "Oh… fuck…"

Kreacher suddenly Apparated into the room, an unconscious Sturgis in his grasp.

"Broken jaw!" Kreacher announced, and then he Disapparated.

"Molly, tend to him!" Pomfrey ordered, and Sirius heard loud footsteps.

"Remus…" Sirius looked up at Mary, he was losing consciousness.

"His back was slashed open with a blade," Mary told him.

"Seb…" Sirius managed, and Mary sniffled.

"Broken bones… But he'll live…" Mary said, and then she shook her head clear.

"Good… I feel like I'm finally starting to get to him…" Sirius managed a drowsy grin, and then it all faded to black.

---

Alastor Moody's POV

Sunday 22nd November, 1993 (The Battle of Malfoy Manor)

"Tonks… Kingsley… Go and get Pomona and Filius," Alastor ordered, his Magical Eye was following a monster being right above them.

"What about this floor? You need-" Tonks started, there was a Spell Burn on her forehead.

"Do as I fucking say!" Alastor snapped, and both Order members ran off towards the Ballroom.

"Alastor… What do you see? Is it the Dark Lord?" Minerva asked, she had a massive cut on the right side of her face.

"No… It's something else," Alastor replied, his Magical Eye moving towards the stair. "This one fucker has taken down two squads almost singlehandedly." It's the Ancient Vampire, isn't it?

"Taken down?" Minerva asked. "Are they dead?"

"Kreacher pulled them out, thank Merlin," Alastor said, and then he began limping towards the stairs.

"Alastor?"

"This floor is secure," Alastor told her. "I see no one else down here. We need to set up an ambush by the stairs. Don't hold back on this thing, Minerva, or it'll kill us both." They made their way to the stair, while Alastor kept his Eye on the Vampire. "It's coming… Get ready."

And then, the Vampire burst through the ceiling and landed right in the middle of the two.

"FUCK!" Alastor managed before a kick sent him reeling into a wall. The air in his lungs evaporated, and Alastor found himself wheezing for more. He… knew? Fuck… He was luring us into a trap. Alastor coughed out a bit of blood, and then he looked back to where he had been. "Minerva…"

"An old woman?" the Vampire grinned, he had Minerva by the back of her throat. "That's who Albus brought to face me?"

"Unhand me… monster…" Minerva grit out, and the Vampire sent her flying through a wall with such force that even Alastor went wide-eyed. No!

"You bastard…" Alastor got to his feet, and he summoned his Staff with Wandless Magic.

"Alastor Moody," the Vampire grinned, his orange eyes gleaming with malice. "Did you like how I used your Magical Eye against you?"

"You've done your research on me," Alastor bought time.

"I know your scent," the Vampire said as he pulled out two shiny daggers from his coat. Goblin forged. That's not good. "You like?"

"Who did you steal those from?" Alastor snarled, his left hand hovering near his wand as he aimed the Staff at the Vampire.

"Steal? They were forged specifically for me," the Vampire replied. "Now… Enough talk. I have been waiting for this. The greatest Auror in British History against the most powerful Vampire on this continent."

"Come on then, filth," Alastor snarled. Those blades were made to cut through Spells. Damn, I need to keep him away from me at all costs. One hit, and I'm done for.

The Vampire suddenly moved forward, but Alastor was faster. With one fluid motion, Alastor had his wand out as well, which he used to begin Chaining Spells with his Magical Staff. Even the 'Blood Lord' was taken aback by the unnatural speed of Alastor's barrage, and the battle was immediately turned in Alastor's favor. A majority of Alastor's Spells were cut in half by the Vampire's daggers, but the former Auror didn't lose heart. All it takes is one mistake, and I'll have you.

"Confringo! Expulso!" Alastor chanted back to back, and as the Vampire dodged both Exploding Curses, Alastor used his Staff to smash a table into the Vampire's side. Don't stop yet. "Relashio! Oppugno! Orbis!"

The Vampire managed to dodge the Revulsion Jinx aimed at his daggers, and even the debris sent his way, but when the Orbis Jinx transfigured the hardwood floor into quicksand, Alastor saw his chance. With both wand and Staff, Alastor seized the slipping Vampire's body, and slammed him into the ceiling. And then the floor. And then the ceiling again. And then the walls. And then through several pieces of furniture.

"Die already!" Alastor bellowed as he sent the Vampire flying through the corridor with ten times the force that he had used on Minerva. Minerva! "Kreacher!"

The Elf Apparated to Alastor's side, his clothes slick with blood and a chunk of his right ear missing.

"Master Moody?" Kreacher croaked.

"Minerva was sent through that wall," Alastor grit out, the pain in his ribs was catching up to him. "Take her back to Grimmauld Place now." Kreacher Disapparated immediately, while Alastor used his Eye to scan for the Vampire. He's getting back up already? Bloody hell, where did he find this thing? Alastor began limping towards the Vampire, he had no intention of waiting for reinforcements now.

"Ugh…" the Vampire groaned, his form mangled and bloody. As Alastor neared him, the Vampire suddenly shot up in his direction. Alastor slammed his Staff into the ground, and a shockwave of raw energy sent the Vampire crumpling into the wall behind him.

"Flagellum Inferos!" Alastor chanted as he flicked his wand like a whip, and a fiery tendril wrapped itself around the Vampire's neck. The beast howled in agony, while Alastor flicked his wand upwards, effectively latching the fiery tendril onto the ceiling. With sheer will and mind, Alastor shortened the fiery noose until the Vampire was strung up and flailing wildly. "Incendio Diabolica!"

Two jets of blinding blue flames fired out of Alastor's wand and Staff, and Alastor didn't even blink as the strung up Vampire's flesh was melted off of his bones. What remained behind was nothing more than a charred, dangling corpse.

"Come back from that," Alastor spat, and then he turned around and left. As he neared the stairs again, he saw Tonks and Kingsley limp in his direction. They were far more injured than they had been before they left for reinforcements, which only served to confuse Alastor.

"What happened?" Alastor asked.

"The Ballroom…" Tonks wheezed as she leaned against a wall, there was a nasty gash on her side. "The Malfoy Elves… They've taken the Ballroom…"

"Filius' squad is pinned down outside… They need help," Kingsley grit out. "We couldn't get past the Elves. Hagrid is trying to break through, but even he can't take too many hits now." Hagrid? He came down?

"Kreacher," Alastor called, and the Elf appeared immediately. "Get these two back to Grimmauld Place, and then rejoin me immediately."

"Come," Kreacher hobbled to them, and then he took them away. Alastor began making his way towards the Ballroom, his Magical Eye scanning for the Elves. Kreacher suddenly reappeared by his side, Alastor had never seen such a weary Elf before.

"Status?" Alastor asked.

"The Manor has been conquered," Kreacher croaked. "Most of the enemy's forces have destroyed or routed…"

"And us?" Alastor asked.

"Master's squad, and Aberforth's squad, have been evacuated… Too many injuries, Sir," Kreacher replied. "The giant man refused to leave, and Kreacher could not convince him." Hagrid, he'll be the last to leave.

"Malfoys?" Alastor asked, and Kreacher grinned at him.

"Kreacher managed to take Mistress Narcissa back to Grimmauld Place," Kreacher reported. "Kreacher has sealed her in the attic."

"Well done," Alastor nodded firmly. "And her husband?"

"He injured Kreacher as Kreacher took away Mistress Narcissa," Kreacher replied. "When Kreacher returned for him, Kreacher could not stop his escape."

"Escape?"

"Elves, Sir," Kreacher replied. "Lucius Malfoy has abandoned his Manor." Good, that'll teach him.

"And where is Albus?" Alastor asked.

"Kreacher has not seen him since he engaged the Dark Lord," Kreacher replied. Albus… Where did you go? Why can't I see you?

---

Lord Voldemort's POV

Sunday 22nd November, 1993 (The Battle of Malfoy Manor)

"Damn old fool!" the Dark Lord spat out, and a Golden Beam of light was his response. The Dark Lord summoned an equally powerful shield of shadow, and the Golden Beam was redirected into the wall to the Dark Lord's left, leaving nothing but destruction in its wake.

"Aveda Kedavra!" Lord Voldemort hissed, and Dumbledore raised debris in the way. "Crucio!" Dumbledore merely stepped aside and fired another Golden Beam at him, which the Dark Lord absorbed with his very own Silver Shield. As the Dark Lord sent the Golden Beam back, Dumbledore twirled his wand and attempted to crush Lord Voldemort with the surrounding debris. Shadows engulfed the Dark Lord mere moments before the surrounding debris crashed into him, and as a result, he did not see Dumbledore get grazed with his own Spell. He'll crush me at this rate!

"Agh!" the Dark Lord bellowed as he fired his shadows outwards, and the entire Hallway was leveled. Windows shattered, walls were torn apart, and the entire Manor shook. Dumbledore blocked the shockwave and flying debris with a powerful shield, which quickly became a raging inferno. With a murderous glare, Dumbledore sent the inferno forward, but the Dark Lord extinguished the flames with a wave of his wand.

"This is bold, even for you…" the Dark Lord said, but once again, Dumbledore didn't even acknowledge his words. Something is different. This is the Albus of old. "Tell me, is your pet the reason for this invasion?"

Dumbledore suddenly slammed his wand into the ground, and the entire Hallway began to collapse in on itself. Mass deconstruction?! The Dark Lord became shadow and mist as he flew towards the old man, but it did not matter. Within a second, the walls and debris crashed into his sides, and the ceiling collapsed on top of him.

The Dark Lord found himself falling down onto the third floor, dust and embers everywhere. Silence followed his fall, and while the Dark Lord pushed the debris off of himself with Wandless Magic, Dumbledore looked down at him from the fourth floor. The Dark Lord had a second to put up a shield, which was immediately bombarded with a powerful concussive blast that sent the Dark Lord crashing through yet another floor.

If he was a mere mortal, his death would have been guaranteed. He could feel that his bones were broken, and that his vessel was beginning to wear thin. At this rate, I'll lose this vessel. Damn him, and damn his Order. How did they even get in? The Dark Lord put these thoughts aside, he had to escape. Even he understood that this battle was lost before it even began. Thirty blood-fueled Vampires are no match for Dumbledore's ilk. I need my own soldiers.

The Dark Lord managed to stand back up, and then he flew across the second floor. The Manor was utterly destroyed, and oddly enough, quite barren. The Dark Lord, of course, spotted dead Vampires everywhere, but not a single Order member. A common tactic of theirs… Guerilla Warfare. They attack in the night, and then they flee once their job is done.

As the Dark Lord neared an open window, a Golden Pillar of light suddenly crashed down on top of him. The Dark Lord wasn't even able to make a sound as he crashed all the way down into the Ballroom, the debris crashing down on top of the Malfoy Elves. Screams and moans emanated from around him, and as the Dark Lord slowly stood back up, he heard a battle cry from outside.

Filius Flitwick, Pomona Sprout, Arthur Weasley, and Xenophilius Lovegood rushed back inside, all of them supporting minor injuries. Their battle cries died on their lips when the Dark Lord looked in their direction, these fools had walked into their own tomb.

"Geminio!" Sprout chanted quickly, doubling the debris around the Dark Lord. Flitwick immediately used the Oppugno Jinx to send the multiplied debris in the Dark Lord's direction.

"Arthur! Xeno! Run!" Flitwick ordered, while the Dark Lord stopped the debris with nothing but his free hand. With a loud grunt, he sent the debris back at the Professors, who both raised a large barrier to protect their allies. Mistake. With relative ease, the Dark Lord transfigured the lower half of his body into that of a massive serpents.

His victims went wide-eyed at his terrifying speed as he slithered in their direction, his right hand throwing out Curses while his left hand helped him navigate. As he drew closer to them, a Blasting Curse exploded to his right. The Dark Lord was sent rolling through the debris and dead Elves, and when he looked up, he saw Alastor Moody, an Elf, and Hagrid storm the Ballroom. Mad-Eye.

"Kreacher, get the injured!" Moody barked out as he limped towards Flitwick and Sprout. The Dark Lord slithered back up, his serpentine body towering over the Order members. He could sense their fear, which served to bolster his shaken confidence. Without Dumbledore here, I'll make short work of them.

"Tom!" came Dumbledore's booming voice, and the Dark Lord hissed in his direction. Dumbledore stepped into the Ballroom, his bright blue eyes almost glowing with murderous wrath. Even his Order members went dead silent as he moved further into the room.

"Look upon your leader…" the Dark Lord grinned, and the battered members of the Order did just that. "Look at the death that he has wrought…"

"You dare speak of death?" Dumbledore questioned. "All the people I've murdered… by letting you live!"

The Dark Lord let out a loud laugh, even he could not deny the rush of such combat.

"Lord Voldemort's will is to dominate," the Dark Lord smiled a lipless smile. "You cannot kill me, Dumbledore. I am immortal!"

"You are craven!" Sprout yelled, and the Dark Lord glared at her. "What you did to Severus… I'll kill you myself!"

"Severus?" the Dark Lord suddenly smiled once again. "Ah… You are fond of that traitor, aren't you? Is that why you've come here? To rescue him?" The Dark Lord then looked to the collapsed archway. "That is where I took his hand! That is where I shattered his right knee! He didn't even put up a fight! He begged me for mercy like a dog!"

"Enough of your games," Dumbledore ordered, and the windows exploded as his Magic poured out him with ravenous hunger. "You hide behind poisonous words… You always were a coward." A coward?! Me?! "From the moment I saw you in that orphanage, I knew that you would amount to nothing."

"Lies!" the Dark Lord bellowed, his own Magic pouring out of him. The room's gravity increased exponentially, and everyone but Dumbledore was pinned to the ground almost immediately. "I AM A GOD!"

The Dark Lord sent forth a wave of shadows while Dumbledore sent forth Golden Light, and their Magic was locked in a battle for supremacy. Lightning and gusts of wind engulfed the Ballroom, and the Dark Lord threw caution to the wind. He would not be spoken down upon by a dying old man.

"DIE, ALBUS!" the Dark Lord laughed maniacally, his eyes blazing brighter than ever. For a moment, he began to overpower the Headmaster of Hogwarts, but his body's limitations quickly became apparent as Dumbledore regained his footing with a roar. Light began to devour the shadows, and the Dark Lord witnessed his right arm begin to rot. No! NOOO!

That's when they heard it… An ear-piercing shriek that made even the Dark Lord wince. The wall behind Dumbledore and the Order exploded, and a massive Bat-like Demon flew into the room. What is that?! Claws and fangs came for Dumbledore, but Alastor Moody threw himself in the way without hesitation. The Demon's claws ripped into Moody's flesh, and it sent the screaming ex-Auror flying into Dumbledore.

The Dark Lord's body nearly collapsed due to the strain of Magic being removed, but the Demon had other plans. It shrieked wildly as it dodged Curses, and within moments, it had the Dark Lord in its grip. That's when the Dark Lord realized that this monster had bloody sacs where its eyes were supposed to be, and that it was actually skinless. With another loud shriek, the Demon flew out of the Manor with the Dark Lord in its grip.

Curses followed after them, but the Demon's speed easily outmaneuvered them. Lord Voldemort simply hung in its grip, his consciousness fading. My vessel… It's finished… The Dark Lord managed to look up at the Demon's fanged face again, and he knew who this was. Gaspard…

Malfoy Manor had been conquered, and the Dark Lord's final thoughts were of his devastating defeat.

---

Albus Dumbledore's POV

Sunday 22nd November, 1993 (Grimmauld Place – In the Dead of Night)

"Poppy, help us!" Albus called as soon as Kreacher brought them all back, and with Poppy and Susana's help, he set a bloodied Alastor on a Conjured bed. They expanded the room.

"What happened to him?" Poppy went wide-eyed at the sight of Alastor's right side, which was almost shredded open.

"A Demon from hell…" Xenophilius mumbled, and Poppy blinked at them. Albus could only shake his head in disbelief, he himself had no idea what that thing was. Whatever it was, it was loyal to Tom. As Poppy began tending to Alastor with Susana's help, Albus looked around the room. Minerva? Albus quickly moved around the beds and reached hers, his eyes scanning her pale features. Gods, no…

"She's still alive," Remus groaned from his bed. "But she's in critical condition…" Where is Fawkes?

"Fawkes?" Albus called, and his Phoenix flew into the room. "Stay by her side, my friend. Heal her if you can." Fawkes landed by her bedside, his tears falling on her face. While Minerva's skin absorbed the tears, Albus walked over to Arthur, who was already helping his wife with reattaching Pomona's middle finger. "The Wards, Arthur? What happened?"

"The Elves caught us off-guard," Arthur replied, while Pomona nodded tiredly. "They could Apparate, while we couldn't. Not to mention that they outnumbered us three to one…"

"I understand," Albus said as he began looking around again. "Molly, do we have any dead?"

"None, but some are quite close," Molly replied with an almost sorrowful voice. "Snape… Poor man… Poppy isn't sure that he'll survive the night."

"Where is he?" Albus asked, his eyes flashing for a moment.

"Hestia and Kingsley helped us move him into Sirius' brother's room," Molly replied. "Pandora is with him, but she can't do much. That blade in his leg was poisoned… He might lose his leg as well." Not if Fawkes and I can help it.

"Molly, once you're done here, tend to Kreacher," Albus said, and she gave him a quick nod. Albus moved back towards Fawkes, and he spotted Kreacher hiding himself in a corner. After I help Severus, I need to thank him. Judging by his injuries, he did more than what we expected of him.

"Fawkes, to me," Albus said, he could already see Minerva's color returning. "Flash me into Regulus Black's room." Fawkes let out a shrill, and Albus vanished in bright orange flames.

"Headmaster?" Pandora gasped, the Headmaster's fiery entry had spooked her.

"Severus?" Albus asked immediately, and then he saw his friend on Regulus' bed. Some of the blood had been cleaned off of him, the cuts on his face were now just faint scars, and he was covered in bloody bandages that smelled rather foul. But there was one bandage that jarred even Albus. "His left eye…"

"Poppy had to remove it," Pandora all but whispered. "There was so much rot in it… Some Dark Spell…" Albus' heart twisted, but he didn't show any emotion.

"Show me his leg," Albus said, and Pandora pulled the blanket back with a flick of her wand. Albus grimaced at the sight of his infected leg, while Pandora looked away. Severus' right leg was already turning black, and the smell was so pungent that even Fawkes began to shriek. "Fawkes, help him."

The Phoenix flew down to Severus' leg, and he cried the last of his tears into Severus' wound. There was a sizzling sound, and an even more horrid stench filled the room. I hope that will be enough… Forgive me, dear boy. I led you into such peril.

"Pandora, you-"

"He's my charge, and I'm not leaving," Pandora cut him off, her eyes suddenly piercing through him.

"Very well," Albus sighed, and then he clutched his own ribs.

"Headmaster?" Pandora asked. "Please, sit down. You're clearly hurt."

"It is nothing," Albus shook his head. "Do anything you can to help him, I beg you." Pandora stared at him for a few moments, and then she gave him an understanding nod.

"I think you should go to the attic," Pandora said, and Albus waited for her to go on. "Narcissa Malfoy is locked up there, and Sirius is standing guard."

"And Lucius?"

"He apparently escaped with one of his Elves," Pandora replied.

Albus shot Severus one last look, and then he left the room before his heart broke any further. The attic was only a few short steps away from Regulus' room, and as Albus turned the corner, he found Sirius sitting against a wall.

"Dumbledore," Sirius greeted tiredly, his right arm was in a sling while his left shoulder was bandaged up.

"Sirius, my boy," Albus approached him. "Your injuries?"

"They are nothing," Sirius shook his head, he sounded extremely distant. "If you want to talk to the Queen Bitch, be my guest…"

"That is why I'm here," Albus replied, he felt no need to correct Sirius. She and her husband… They lured Severus into that Dungeon. Albus quickly climbed up the steps, and he entered the room without knocking.

"YOU?!" Narcissa shrieked, she was still in her night gown. "YOU WILL-"

"Keep your fork tongue behind your teeth," Albus ordered, and the dusty vase to her left exploded. The Malfoy matriarch quickly sealed her mouth, her expression could only be described as pure fear. Don't go down that road, Albus. Don't become him. "Sit down."

"You will all go to Azkaban for this…" Narcissa warned, but she did as she was told.

"Will we?" Albus stepped further into the room. "And why is that?"

"You have destroyed my home… Kidnapped me…"

"Your home full of murderous Vampires?" Albus asked. "The home where you hosted the Dark Lord? Tell me, girl… Who would send us to Azkaban? When the Wizengamot asks for proof, who will they truly sentence?" Narcissa Malfoy remained silent, and Albus knew that he had her. "This is what comes of war, Narcissa. Broken Families and death."

"My husband-"

"He will not do a thing," Albus promised her. "The Dark Lord requires secrecy above all else, and so he'll keep your husband on a leash. Like a dog." Narcissa glared at him. "Tell me, Narcissa, what will happen to your son now?"

"What?"

"What will happen to your son now?" Albus asked again, and something changed in her expression. "Where will he go? You know, don't you? He will go to your husband, and by extension, the Dark Lord." Ronald, this better work. We have taken a huge risk by bringing her here. It's a true shame that her husband escaped.

"No!" Narcissa stood back up, and then she went wide-eyed at her own outburst.

"Yes," Albus said, he felt no pity for this woman right now. "He will follow in his father's footsteps, and one day, he will come across me."

"No… You… You don't do this…" Narcissa stammered, her eyes welling up.

"People like you have driven me to this savagery," Albus told her. "You want death and destruction? Then I will oblige you. Your home was only the beginning. This time… In this war… We will not sit idly by as your Master burns the World to ash."

"Draco is just a boy…"

"As was the Dark Lord once," Albus replied as coldly as he could. "Your beliefs created him, and even you must understand that one day, Draco wishes to join his father's side. He wishes to join Voldemort." Narcissa flinched at the name, and then she fell back on her seat. "But there is an alternative…"

"Alternative?" Narcissa looked up with teary eyes.

"I will allow you to keep your son," Albus said, and Narcissa just stared at him in disbelief. "You can choose, Narcissa. Do you want him to be just like his father? Or do you want him to live?" With that, Albus turned around and left the room. Let her ponder that for a few days.

"Well?" Sirius asked as Albus came down the steps. "Are we handing her over to the Ministry?"

"I fear that with her wealth and influence, she will rejoin her Master's side before long," Albus replied. "We will keep her here."

"In a fucking attic?" Sirius asked slowly. "Dumbledore… I hate her, I won't deny that, but this is very… odd. You don't operate this way, not even in the last war."

"We won the last war due to luck," Albus said bluntly, much to Sirius' shock. "James and Lily… They bought us time with their sacrifice, but we did nothing. The Dark Lord was winning, my boy, even you must understand that. We can't make the same mistakes again. Not in this war." Not in this Cycle.

"I… I understand…" Sirius said, his eyes becoming distant again.

"Speak your mind, Sirius," Albus said, and oddly enough, it felt like Sirius was trying to hide his gaze. "Sirius? What has happened?"

"It's been a long night…" Sirius exhaled. "I… I just need time to think…"

"Think about what?" Albus asked.

"Snive… Snape…" Sirius swallowed thickly. "Kreacher… I…" he trailed off. He has seen their bravery tonight, a trait that he never expected to see in them.

"I understand," Albus gave him a soft smile. "Take your time, Sirius. These thoughts require a delicate approach."

---

Thirty Minutes Later

"Well?" Albus asked as Poppy approached him, and she gave him a sorry look.

"The infection has been purged, but the damage is too great," Poppy whispered. "He'll need a walking cane for his right leg… But with his right hand gone…" Albus lowered his head, a tired breath escaping his mouth. I'm so tired. "Nymphadora mentioned prosthetics, and if you want, I can start finding one for his right hand."

"I will leave that up to him… I've made enough decisions for him," Albus said, and Poppy rested her hand on his right shoulder.

"When was the last time you slept?" Poppy asked.

"My insomnia hasn't returned," Albus whispered.

"I didn't ask you that, Albus."

"It's been two days," Albus replied.

"Give your speech, and then find a bed," Poppy instructed, and then she left to rejoin the others. The expanded Living Room was filled with wounded Order members, while the truly injured had been moved to different rooms for silent recovery. Severus, Sebastian, Alastor, Minerva, and Aberforth… I will check on them tomorrow.

"Gather around!" Albus said as he stood up, and the chatter died immediately. "Tonight, we dealt a heavy blow to the Dark Lord. And yes, I know that he escaped… But his vessel has been damaged beyond repair. Tonight, we have brought ourselves time." Albus then looked around, his eyes lingering on each member. "Many of us were injured, and some are circling death's door, but make no mistake, we achieved victory tonight."

"What about Narcissa Malfoy?" Mary asked, she was spoon feeding Sturgis, who had suffered a broken jaw, some soup.

"She will be used to keep Lucius Malfoy in check," Albus replied.

"A hostage, you mean," James said, and Albus gave him a nod. "And what happens when Lucius Malfoy talks to the Ministry?"

"He won't do that," Sirius replied for Albus. "What is he going to tell them? 'Oh, the Order stole my wife because I was helping the Dark Lord'?"

"Sirius is correct," Albus added. "His Master will force him to keep his silence."

"We should take Professor Snape to the Minister," Nymphadora spoke up. "His memories could truly turn the tide, and no one could argue them because of his injuries."

"I will not be taking him to Cornelius," Albus told them. "Instead, I will take him to Madam Bones."

"Amelia?" Kingsley asked, his head wrapped in a bloody bandage.

"Who are the Aurors truly loyal to?" Albus asked. Plus, we plan to put her in power. We need a Minister who understands the Dark Arts, and who isn't a coward.

"But the Minister could-" Hestia started, but Remus interrupted her.

"Fudge only cares about his image, Hestia," Remus told her. "Think about it… What happens to him when the people find out that the Dark Lord returned during his watch? What happens when people question this country's current state due to his choices? Fudge is no fool… He'll find a way to lock us all away."

"Which is why I will go to Amelia," Albus said. "She is an honorable woman, and she holds much sway within the Ministry. With her by our side, we'll gain a stronger foothold in this war." Albus then drew in a deep breath. "Eat, rest, and celebrate. You have all done exceedingly well tonight."

"What about you?" Pomona asked.

"I must return to Hogwarts," Albus replied. "Severus' condition will be explained as a Potioneering accident."

"Will the Slytherins buy that?" Filius asked.

"They have very little choice, I'm afraid," Albus sighed. "The truth of his injuries would only serve to frighten them, or worse, give them ideas."

---

Ronald Weasley's POV

Sunday 22nd November, 1993 (Snape's Office – Crack of Dawn)

As the Headmaster finished his tale, Ron found himself just sitting there. He hadn't said a word through any of it, mostly because he didn't know what to say. His exhaustion, mixed in with his hurt over Snape and Lord Greengrass' severe injuries, had turned him numb. So, he just sat there and listened. Dumbledore was obliviously struggling as well, but Ron couldn't bring himself to comfort the old man.

"Will…" Ron finally broke his silence, but his voice cracked immediately. "Ahem… Will Professor Snape be returning to Hogwarts?"

"Not for a while, my boy," Dumbledore replied, and Ron swallowed thickly.

"May I see him soon?" Ron asked.

"We will figure it out later," Dumbledore promised. "For now, I suggest that you get some rest. You look quite sickly."

"And you?"

"I will sleep after the announcement," Dumbledore replied, though he knew that he wouldn't.

"Alright," Ron said blandly, and then he finally began to leave the Office.

"Ronald," Dumbledore called, and Ron turned to face him. "Your idea of using Kreacher… Well done, my boy. I will not forget who the architect of our victory was tonight." Oddly enough, Ron didn't feel proud of Dumbledore's words. Instead, he felt something very different.

"I'm just really glad that you all made it out alive," Ron admitted, and then he left the Office. I did nothing at all. Ron drew in a deep breath, and he shut every single thought away. His mind traveled to Stoatshead Hill for a few moments, and Ron felt peace wash over him. And then, he knew what to do.

"Marty," Ron called, and his Elf appeared immediately.

"Master called Marty?" Marty bowed deeply.

"Go to Greengrass Manor at nine 'o'clock, and find Madam Roberts," Ron started. "Tell her that my conditions are taking a toll on me, and that I will not be attending my lesson today." In my current state, I'd just be wasting both of our times.

"Marty understands," Marty replied, and then he Disapparated. I'll rest, and prepare myself for my evening plans with the Minister. Snape wouldn't want me wallowing in grief when there is work to be done.

Ron began making his way towards the Slytherin common room, but as he neared the entrance, he stopped. Slytherin without Snape… It just doesn't feel right. Ron released a shaky breath, and then he turned back around. He needed a place to think. He needed Sanctuary.

---

AUTHOR'S NOTES: And there it is! The first Battle has taken place! (The massacres don't count, I reckon)

Anyway, I hope you guys enjoyed that! The Order finally kicked some arse, which was so much fun to write. I honestly see the Order as this massive dysfunctional Family, which is made up of all types of people, united under Father Albus Dumbledore. They may fight and bicker, but when the going gets tough, they're the ones who rise up to fight.

See you guys on Thursday!