I DON'T OWN HARRY POTTER OR ANY OF ITS ORIGINAL CHARACTERS, ONLY MY OCS AND THE SITUATIONS I PUT THEM IN. WARNING: There will be cussing, lemons, and violence. (Also, someone said I should put please don't steal. Didn't think I needed to, but ok. Please don't steal my stories.)
Some characters may seem OOC at some points at different times in the story, but I hope I explain that in the story when the time comes. Some things happen pretty fast at first (like certain relationships or legal stuff), but again I try to explain it. Some people may go back and forth at times, but I'll explain it! You get the idea. Spelling and grammar errors, I recheck constantly, so sorry if some slip by. Some character bashing in the beginning and for a little while, but that doesn't mean it will last the whole story. I don't hate certain characters though it may seem like that at times. THIS IS A WARNING. Though I will put a warning at the beginning needed. I do not condone all of these things, but my mind can be really fucked up, I apologize now. So, I am mixing both movie and book but I'm mainly following the movie. Though I will try to make a good blend between the two. Big thank you to everyone who followed, and/or favorited. You guys rock! I see them all and I am so glad so many of you are enjoying my story. Also want to thank everyone for their patience, continued enjoyment and coming back no matter how long I take along with the kind words and support. It really means a lot. Enjoy. All of the positive reviews are so appreciated, you don't even know. I save all the emails that show me I got one, though sometimes it doesn't always tell me. Side note, Maleon, I do give a lot of characters green eyes. I try to do other colors, but I do a lot of green. I think it's because when I first started reading fanfiction, I didn't see too many characters with green eyes, not unless it was like a supernatural green that flashed in the sunlight or something. So, I like to do green. It's also my eye color and I'm vain, so here we are. But I promise I also have ocs that have non-green eye colors. Rav3nsRemorse, Thank you for the review. I am back, just everything takes so much time thanks to work and the like. I did have to split this chapter into two parts, but hey, still back. Lockhart and Snape duel in the chapter right after this one, heads up. Enjoy.
Warning: Some violence in this chapter.
Chapter 22: Little Marionettes. (Part 1)
Lord Voldemort had a terrible sinking feeling. It was a feeling of doom. He couldn't place the why though.
'No one knows I'm back. Especially not the old fool' he mentally worried over Albus. He would never admit his fear of the man, but it was true. He feared Albus Dumbledore. 'And blasted Potter' he couldn't forget about the 'chosen one'.
Voldemort was even more loathed to admit that a child, a mere child, had any power to match his. Even though…the boy had done something the night Voldemort had attacked the Potters. Potter and that mudblood mother of his. Voldemort just couldn't figure out what. He had hoped to get a good chance to figure the boy out and either kill him or even recruit him when he had been living off the back of Quirrell's head.
Yet, Quirrell barely went around the boy. Severus was always so suspicious of him. Voldemort had debated revealing the truth to Severus but held back. He wanted to wait until he was back in a body of his own.
The Potter boy had surprised Voldemort last year.
The boy was brave…and foolish. Like his parents. Yet, there was more. More...something. Something in Harry Potter that Voldemort couldn't name and didn't understand. It scared him. It was like nothing Voldemort had ever faced.
'No reason to worry. I am Lord Voldemort' the tiny being assured himself once more.
The feeling of concern grew as the sky darkened. As if the shadows were a threat. Like every shadow had eyes that were boring into his very soul. He felt exposed. Vulnerable.
Voldemort didn't like it!
Nothing he did would shake the feeling.
"My Lord, whatever is the matter" Dolores attempted to fret over the irritable Voldemort. She had finally gotten most of her twitching under control. It was due to necessity. If she didn't, then Voldemort would torture her more and the cycle would continue.
Taking a deep breath Voldemort finally answered, "Something is happening". He longed for the ability to pace. Voldemort wished Nagini was there. However, she was off feeding. She had to make a bit of a journey.
Her usual prey kept away from their hide out. It gave off an unnatural feeling to animals.
"What? What is happening?" Dolores looked around the shack worriedly. She moved the disintegrating excuse of a curtain to further cover the window. As if that would protect them. Dolores did her best to sense whatever Voldemort could.
His words were scaring her so she couldn't properly focus.
"Call Yaxley. Damn his excuses. I require reports now" Voldemort hissed. "Surely something is happening at Hogwarts" he didn't mention the diary. His instructions to Lucius had been pretty vague and even contradicted themselves.
Still, Voldemort knew that something should have been happening. He knew another soul piece should be fighting to return. He should have felt it. Well, he was sure he should have. The book he had found about horcruxes had at least hinted to that.
Honestly, he didn't know.
Yet, hearing nothing coming from any of his 'fail safe' plans made him uneasy. Especially with news of those Death Knights looming.
"Bring Yaxley to me" Voldemort attempted to distract himself.
"Yes, I shall attempt to summon him, my Lord" Dolores went to say.
"Do not try! Do" Voldemort spat at her.
"Right away my-my Lord" Umbridge rushed to trying summoning Yaxley with her dark mark.
"I must move forward" Voldemort said to himself. Umbridge wisely kept silent, urgently trying to reach Yaxley. He wasn't responding. He hadn't in days. The last time he had been over he had excused it as having to be careful around Amelia Bones. Umbridge didn't buy it as she didn't think highly enough of Amelia or the blonde woman's intelligence.
Voldemort really hadn't wanted to move forward with too many of his plans until he had finalized the ritual to rebirth himself. Yet, he couldn't just sit and wait, could he?
He was far too impatient for that.
He wanted to be whole, or as whole as he could be. Then he could break his most loyal out of prison and begin taking the ministry over, preferably from behind the curtains before finally showing that he truly had returned.
Then all could behold him.
However, with his paranoia rising daily and Umbridge as his only human companion, Voldemort knew he had to do something.
If anyone were to help him complete what needed to be done, it was Bellatrix, Rodolphus, and Rabastan. There was a whisper of regret for Barty Crouch Jr's death. Then, the thought was gone.
The Lestranges had always been some of his favorite and most loyal. Right behind Severus.
"He-" Umbridge gulped. "He is not responding my Lord. I have sent it out, yet…he's not here". She tried to keep the quiver out of her voice. She failed.
"That means that either he is ignoring me, his lord, or you are totally incompetent, doesn't it" Voldemort's ire grew. His voice became deadly calm. "Of course, there is the possibility that he was caught but that is such a merciful viewpoint, don't you think" he went on to hiss. He was seething.
"I swear it was not my fault my Lord" Dolores was totally happy with throwing Corbin under the bus. In her opinion, he had it coming.
"Perhaps he ran, afraid of those pathetic Death Knights" she inched closer. She knew she would be taking a risk, and not just due to Voldemort or the fools at the Ministry. Even so, Umbridge had to shoot her shot. "If you'd permit me my Lord, I can find Yaxley and any new news that may be of use to you. To us. If it is the case that he dares ignore you, then I can remind him of your glory. I can…subdue him then bring him to you" she eagerly offered.
Voldemort eyed Umbridge for a moment. "Do you no longer fear the dementors Dolores" he asked in a somewhat taunting manner.
The evil woman flinched but pushed on. "Not if it means that I may be able to spread your wrath, my Lord" came the insistence.
Voldemort narrowed his gaze with a cutting expression. Those red eyes were eerie as they racked over her face.
Finally, he huffed, waving a few tiny fingers in dismissal. "Do not take long" came the order.
Dolores smiled with a bow before taking off. She had her hood and face covering in place.
Dolores was in fact still terrified of running into the dementors. However, she had to cover her tracks before Voldemort managed to finish the ritual he constantly went on about. She had to track down her brother.
Besides, this also gave her the chance to see what was going on with the Ministry.
Had her name been cleared? She was sure that people would come to their senses and see that she had really done nothing wrong. That she was some of the few that were better than most. Some of the few that could and should exert power over those beneath them when the time called for it.
Defending her honor against Gilderoy Lockhart had definitely called for it. That she was sure of.
With a deep breath and wand in hand, Umbridge took off for her brother's farm. After all, family came before business.
Voldemort watched her go. Then, he sent out a powerful, painful jolt resonating from his soul out to Yaxley's dark mark.
Once more Voldemort was attempting to distract himself.
He was alone.
No Dolores, no Nagini, nobody.
The feeling of unease persisted.
The room was quiet and dark with only a single candle attempting to battle the shadows.
The dark had always been where Tom Riddle felt the safest. Felt as though he thrived and could do anything. That only grew as he fully became Lord Voldemort.
Right now though… Right now the dark brought unease.
Wind tapped at the shack's single window.
"Tom" seemed to be whispered. Narrowing his eyes, Voldemort did his best to look around the small room.
"Tom Riddle" came another whisper. It could almost be passed off as the wind. Almost. Like the wind was speaking to him while attempting to enter his protected little abode.
"I hate that accursed name. It haunts me even now" he raged in a mutter to himself. "Tom Riddle is dead and buried, both Senior and Junior" Voldemort sneered. "Only Voldemort remains. Lord Voldemort" he proudly stated the name. "Only the old fool and the boy know the truth. Yaxley is right, no one believed the Potter boy" he assured himself, remembering the stories that had been spread through the Prophet.
He'd deal with the newspaper later.
He was sure that none of the Death Eaters wanted to believe that he was anything but a pureblood.
Perhaps a few knew the truth if their parents ever dared to tell them. Some like Lucius. The name on the diary was a big clue. Yet, he knew that Lucius would never say anything. Not just due to fear or Lucius' ego, but also because to him, Voldemort was the perfect way to purify the world.
Voldemort had essentially made himself a pureblood.
Neither Yaxley nor Umbridge had had the nerve to bring the subject up with him. Of course, Fudge had been quick to order the Daily Prophet to stop any more stories concerning Voldemort or Tom Riddle.
Fudge was still afraid of the 'dead' man.
"Tom Riddle" was called again, pulling Voldemort out of his thoughts.
This time it sounded like an actual whisper.
Voldemort shifted in his transfigured chair. He couldn't really manipulate his tiny body the way he wanted to. He could really just curse when given a wand and pet Nagini. Everything else took extreme effort.
It was times like this that he really missed having some of his most trusted. Or at least his whipping boy Pettigrew.
Voldemort sighed in disappointment before that blasted whisper once more forced his attention. "Tom Riddle, I am coming for you". Voldemort froze with muscles tense and ice in his veins.
"It's a trick! No one knows that name, let alone would dare threaten the greatest wizard to ever live!" he felt the need to raise his voice.
"I dare" the whisper seemed to pick up ever so slightly, as if growing agitated. "I dare Tom. You are far from the greatest. Or the most powerful" came the taunt.
"Show yourself!" Voldemort shouted. "Show yourself and say such rubbish to my face" he was full out yelling now. His tiny hands were clutched in fury. That was the most he could currently do.
Any fear over someone finding his cloaked location was shoved off in place of the anger coursing through his veins.
"Oh, I will. I am on my way Riddle" the voice continued to taunt. The sound floated through the air like a breeze.
"Who are you!?" Voldemort raged.
"Death" came the easy reply.
That brought the fear back. Cold dread spiked through his black heart as once more his tiny body seized. He was frozen as the word rang through his head.
"Death, Tom Riddle" the voice was a little clearer now. It couldn't be dismissed as a hallucination or the like. Someone, somehow, was speaking to him. "And I am coming to reap your soul".
It was said matter-of-factly before the voice faded out.
Minutes ticked by with only his frightened, harsh breathing filling the silence. Quickly, he went about checking his wards with the wand left behind. They were still in place. 'It couldn't have been my imagination, could it?' he internally debated. 'If not…then what?' was the question.
He worried as he wasn't currently able to do a full magical sweep. To his utter loathing, he was very limited in his present condition.
'Yes, yes. More followers must surround me. Something is happening. Either someone is attempting to curse me or I am finally losing my mind' came the mental back and forth. 'No, it must be a trick. Someone is attempting to sabotage me. Most likely the old fool. He somehow found out. Though, how?' Voldemort had to know.
He was positive he wasn't going insane. He would never allow such a thing to happen. He was too brilliant and too important to simply lose his grip on reality.
No, that wasn't it. Someone had to be out to get him. He had to figure out if it was Dumbledore using new tactics or a hidden foe. Voldemort also had to figure out how they got through the wards.
Concerning, to say the least, but Voldemort was sure that with some concentration he'd be able to begin to put the pieces in place. Then…he could retaliate.
Trying to ignore the still present feeling of unease, he began going through possible hexes as he waited for Nagini and Umbridge's return.
####SCENE BREAK####
Harry was close. He could feel it.
He was glad he could tap into the soul piece in his head that he had all but consumed. Using it as a sort of GPS to find Voldemort was proving to be pretty handy.
Not a full proof plan, but it seemed to be working which meant Harry couldn't complain.
He had been searching for almost an hour now. He knew that Alex would call him back any minute. However, he was certain that he had at least found the right direction. That put him one step closer to finding Voldemort.
Using some energy, Harry sent out a mental message to Voldemort through their strained, weak link that he had allowed to remain since he had control of it this time. He was hoping to get Voldemort to panic and slip up, drawing attention to his location.
Just as he once more muted the connection, Harry felt his consciousness being pulled back to his body. Opening his eyes, Harry's green eyes swept up seeing the worried faces of his family.
Everyone was leaning over him and checking him out. The group was obviously worried.
"How many times have I had to wake up with someone staring at me? Too many" Harry managed to joke. "I'm fine, promise" he assured as Sirius helped him sit up.
Ron sat at Harry's feet as Hermione went to his side. Everyone tried to calm down as Harry seemed alright. Harry explained what had happened.
"I don't like you pushing yourself" Hermione huffed, trying to hide just how worried she had been. "But at least we know we have a possible way to find him" she shot him the stink eye when Harry beamed.
"Hey, I don't like it either" Ron said making Harry hold his hands up in surrender.
"Yeah, not alone in that" Vivian voiced the obvious shared thoughts of the group.
"I think that that is enough for-" Remus went to say before suddenly an excitable Dobby appeared.
"Mr. Harry, the alarms be going off!" the loyal elf rushed, having to repeat himself.
Everyone knew what Dobby meant.
The alarms were for the safe houses they made. So far, they had only delivered one safe house packet. Richard Umbridge was being attacked.
With swift movements from all, the group shifted their appearances to their usual Death Knight attire. They took off with shadow travel.
Dobby had already evacuated Richard and his family.
Arriving at their destination, Remus and Neville were quick to put up anti-apparition and portkeys wards.
Harry landed with the others though continued to float and hover. The sizable group followed the screams.
What a sight they found.
Umbridge had activated Hermione's trap.
The woman was bleeding heavily as her left wrist along with her right ankle were caught in sharp bear traps. Bone was showing on her ankle, but her wrist was the true beauty. The bear trap was caught vertically, from palm to elbow.
The blood soon bled into the dingy pink of her dress. Her torn robe was hanging around her waist, now in two pieces.
Umbridge was pale and clammy already as blood pooled out of her as if from an endless river. She already looked a bit roughened up due to her recent living conditions, yet now she looked simply ghastly.
Harry didn't think there was much of a change from her usual appearance besides maybe a bit more soot.
"What a lovely surprise" Death praised. "My Queen, you do so spoil me with the most thoughtful gifts" he told Mistress in a drawn-out fashion.
"Always my love" Mistress replied in almost breathy undertones with a hidden smirk.
Those glowing brown eyes were bright with delight.
Umbridge shook like a leaf as wet, labored pants of fear left her. She looked close to passing out. None of the Knights knew if it was from terror or blood loss. Nor did any of them care.
"Oh Merlin, help me. Oh no" Umbridge continued trying to get the blasted muggle device off. Attempting to blast it off had backfired on her in a major way, hence the trap's placement on her wrist. Brute force, what she could muster at least, definitely hadn't worked.
"We've been searching for you Dolores" Cobra Lily spoke up in a deeper feminine tone. "How nice of you to deliver yourself to the Master" she chuckled.
"Bow" Sirius shot off wandless magic which forced Dolores to comply. He was still testing out his new code name of Thestral. Now he just had to remember to respond to it and call Remus his new name of Chimera. Not to mention Alex's of Horntail.
Still, it was better than using the beloved nicknames from their youth.
Dolores' body was forced to move like a wooden doll. "Please" she begged, sweating from her stiff bowed position. Once Thestral released the spell, Umbridge stayed still, still bowing. She was trying to figure out how to turn this towards her favor.
She had no real loyalty to Voldemort passed the desire for power and support of his cause. Yet…after seeing the admittedly smaller version of Voldemort…
Well, if following the Master of Death and his band of Knights brought Dolores power, then she'd happily swap leaders.
"But I don't want you Dolores" Master spoke out loud, responding to her thoughts.
Umbridge paled further with beady dark eyes growing wide.
"I-I would gladly serve you" she sniffled, not mentioning his ability to read minds.
"I don't want you" Death repeated. "Not as a follower at least. To take to the other side, that I can do. Any other capacity, I'm afraid not" he tsked. "I have no room for someone like you within my ranks".
"I can be very powerful" Dolores' pride attempted to overpower her terror and blood loss. "I am a pureblood" came the lie. "Many fear me due to my power" she insisted.
"Attacking from behind and blood quills aren't exactly what I would call power" Acromantula spoke up with a gruff rasp.
Swallowing, Dolores replied "I-I have never-" came the denial.
All the Knights chuckled in dark humor.
"Let us have her my Lord" Horntail requested of Death. "I can get you the information we seek. By the time I'm done with her, there won't be a detail left that she hasn't confessed to" was promised eagerly.
"I'll answer any questions" Umbridge rushed to offer. "But please" she held out her hurt wrist looking pitiful. The similarities between her and Pettigrew the night that Cedric died made Harry's stomach turn in revulsion. "Have mercy and stop this" she went on with her wrist out like a wounded animal.
All were silent for a moment as Umbridge let off little sniffles as tears still went over her rounded cheeks.
"Mercy" Death finally spoke, repeated the word as if he didn't know it. As if he had to taste it out, feel it on his tongue. "Why is it" he wondered, "That it is always the most sadistic that cry for mercy?" was mused. "Not always, but usually" he allowed a long boney finger to tap the chin that was hidden by his hood.
"We may never know" Chimera sounded regretful at not having a solid answer. His timber had managed to shut Umbridge up before she could once more attempt to deny any wrongdoing.
"Evil will never see itself at fault. It can only see itself as the victim. They have a better view of the world because they're looking out, away from themselves and having to face their own visual" Chimera went on.
"Here, here" Thestral agreed.
"Please" Umbridge's pitch went up in panic. "I've never done anything to you" was stressed.
"Oh, how wrong you are" Billywig spoke up from beside Thunderbird. She clicked her tongue as if speaking down to a naughty child.
Death waved his hand with blueish fingers extended and palm down. Umbridge flinched before sighing in some relief when then traps fell. She assumed she was to be spared.
No one stopped the bleeding.
"Now…where is Tom Riddle" Master demanded in a hard, commanding tone.
"He, uh, he is hiding in a shack Yaxley found for us. He said soon we'd move back to his father's mansion, though I'm not sure if he was telling the truth" Dolores willingly gave up the information.
"Do you know when he may move?" Thunderbird pressed.
Dolores shook her head, still having to take deep gulps of air before swallowing. She was getting colder now. Cold and a little sleepy, though she tried to fight it. "He hasn't decided, just keeps going on about how it'll happen soon" she ratted.
A cold sweat overtook her which a breeze caught as she began to relax believing she was close to freedom.
"Besides Yaxley, who else has Voldemort contacted?" Mistress questioned.
"No one. Pettigrew couldn't come and Crouch Junior is dead" Dolores didn't need to point out that the Knights were the reason for that. "I think he may be worried over how he looks. He is quite pitiful looking now, actually" Umbridge admitted feeling dizzy.
"And where is this shack?" Cobra Lily spoke up.
Excitement began to pulsate around the group. Especially around Harry.
Gathering her courage, Dolores replied "A trade" she hyped herself up to brave onward. "I give you Voldemort and you spare me" she declared. Right now, she had something they wanted. They needed her. That meant that the Master of Death had to play by her rules.
"Your offer has been officially submitted to this council" Master replied with humor evident in his voice. "Let us vote. Accept or deny?" he playfully posed to the group.
"Denied" eight voices rang out with no hesitation.
Dolores bulked, wobbling a bit though she attempted to stand straight and proud. "You-you can't do that!" she declared. She was holding her injured arm close to her sullied blouse with the cloak discarded around her feet. "Without me you'll never be able to find him" her words came out faster and faster.
Master shot forward, looming before her making Umbridge fall down and cower.
"I do not need you to speak in order to get any information Dolores" he hissed. With that, Death began reading her thoughts, keeping her trapped to the spot as he plowed through her mind with no care or caution.
Dolores' eyes watered terribly as one of her eyelids dropped and continuously twitched. It felt as though someone was tossing around chunks of her brain like a puzzle with pieces they were smashing together even if they didn't properly fit.
That's exactly what was happening.
Dolores' nose began to bleed as the others watched on and waited.
Finally, Death found what he was looking for.
"Yes!" he called out, pulling back as Umbridge sagged like a bag of potatoes. she was crumbled on the ground.
She was still breathing, thought it was much more labored now. She lost any color in her cheeks, the gash on her arm slowly killing her.
"I found it" Master told Mistress with excitement. "We can go right now. I can't give him a chance to move" he insisted.
"You need to rest" Mistress worried. "Let us handle this" she tried to ease him.
Acromantula had gone over to step on Dolores' chest, further cutting off her air supply.
"Finish her, she's of no more use and can't be allowed a chance to heal" Death gave the go ahead.
"I have importance" Umbridge coughed out. It ended in an especially sloppy sounding cough.
"Now, now Dolores" Death taunted primly. "One must not tell lies".
With that, he floated slightly away with Thestral and Mistress.
Umbridge didn't even get another chance to speak as Acromantula held her in place as Cobra Lily snapped her neck.
It was done.
Having a wonderfully wicked idea, Billywig whispered to the others before wrapping the body carefully. She used cheerful wrapping papers of bright red and greens. She was going to give a present.
"You can come" Hermione said now in her normal voice. She didn't sound too pleased but compromised with her anxious husband. "But leave everything to us. You aren't indestructible yet" she added.
"I know" Harry appeased her and the less than thrilled Sirius. "I just can't stand the idea of you seeing him without me" he took her hands in his as he looked between the two.
"Oh Harry, we'd be in a group. You know you can trust us. I'm not totally helpless" Hermione pointed out.
"I do have a few tricks up my sleeve Prongslet" Sirius reminded.
"I know" Harry sighed, looking down then back up. "I don't want him around any of you" he confessed. "I know I've done this before" Harry shook his head unhappily. "But" he had to pause to compose himself. Sirius, Hermione and the listening others held back allowing Harry to express his concerns.
"But" he went on. "The idea of Voldemort around any of you, even as he is now… It makes me sick" he admitted. "Anytime I've ever had anything good in my life, anyone I loved and who loved me, he's tried to rip them away" he became a bit more emotional. "He succeeded on many fronts" he went on.
Harry didn't know how to properly express what he was feeling.
"I can't lose any of you" Harry said not for the first time. Still, it was the truth. "I can't" he shook his head before allowing Sirius to cup his cheek lovingly. "I'm not at full strength. I wouldn't be able to bring you back, you'd be gone forever" a tear slipped before Sirius brushed it away with his thumb before slowly dropping his hand.
"I'm not upset Harry" Hermione assured. "Worried, but not mad. I have learned to control Scary Granger on more things than just quiz preparation" Hermione made a small effort to calm him.
His posture did ease some. "Hey, I happen to like that Granger" he replied with a small half grin.
"Just don't go without us mate" Ron said, coming up to Harry's other side. "You know you can't get rid of Viv and me that easily. None of us would get far without Mione" he said seriously. "Luna would be there before we even knew where we were meant to be, Neville might get petrified by Hermione again" he teased some more.
"One time" Neville cut in, but Ron went on. Luna smiled from her boyfriend's side.
"Then we'd regret not taking him because we'd definitely have some sort of run in with some avenging plant that only he can tame. I don't even want to think on what Remus, Sirius and Alex might do if we left them out".
"No, you don't" Remus agreed as Alex took Sirius' hand.
"I'm just glad Ron knows that trying to ditch us wouldn't end well" Alex added.
"We're all here for you Harry. We're a family. That means if one goes, we all go" Sirius told him. "Even if it's a bad idea. Sometimes those are the best ideas" he couldn't help joke before Hermione shot him a look. "Though not usually wise" was added.
It was working, everyone was clearly chipping in to try and make Harry feel better.
He gave them a small but genuine smile.
"We'll catch him Harry" Remus promised. "And we'll do it together. I know about decent sized groups that can move as one. I think you've perfected it" he gave that kind smile.
"I know. It's one of my talents" Harry added his own tease. "Come on. I promise I'll just be the mouthpiece. The rest of you are muscle" he lightly pushed Neville's shoulder with his.
With that, the group took off following Harry's mental directions.
It took an hour, but they managed to find the outskirts of the property sheltering Tom Riddle.
Neville, Sirius and Alex began removing the protection wards. Remus and Vivian made sure that anyone in-tuned with the wards would have a less likely chance of figuring out what was happening. Luna and Hermione put up anti-apparition and portkey wards.
Ron put up a barrier similar to the one used when they were hunting horcruxes for the first time. Learning from the past-future, he made sure that their scents were also hidden from any passersby.
"After we take him, we'll have to finish the decoy to leave for Yaxley" Harry float paced back and forth.
"If he even comes back before we put the doll in place. If not, then we'll just let old Tommy boy give an at home visit" he went on.
Harry made sure to keep track of time. Just in case, he called Dobby and Winky to make sure that the children's golems were in place.
They weren't planning on staying here till morning. However, this couldn't be rushed. Harry was so close; he was going to do his best not to let Riddle slip through his fingers.
He knew trying to trap him if needed was another option. Harry wasn't sure if the blasted snake woman was a horcrux yet or not.
"We'll have to eventually make golems for the adults" he continued muttering to keep himself busy. He settled in for a long wait as everyone efficiently stripped-down Riddle's defenses.
####SCENE BREAK####
Rita Skeeter was still at work. She made sure that there were still other humans in the building.
She was still afraid of another dementor swarm.
Rita had received a few letters from her different anonymous tips. Some were juicier than others.
There was even one that began helping her crack the Death Knights' encrypted messages.
Rita wanted to solve if before any of the Unspeakables.
She was still bitter over Berry her editor making her share the stories with the Clearwater chit.
Still Skeeter was still the star. She made do. She was trying to set up an interview with Sirius Black. She'd also kill for another chance to speak to Harry and Rectus. Rita made a mental note to also speak to the Lupins, Remus and his daughter who was also apparently adopted as both the Lupin and Black heir along with Potter.
She wanted to speak to anyone close, and she meant close, with Black and Potter. That would also give her the chance to figure out what happened to the dashing Rectus.
There was still so much about Potter and his crew that needed to be explored, Rita was more than happy to put the work in.
Rectus hadn't returned any of her letters. He had gone very quiet, which made her think that he was planning something else. After all, she was sure he was a key player in freeing Black. If the Lord was planning something, then Rita wanted front row seats.
A flying letter landed on her desk. It was Clearwater's changes to the next article. They were trying to find ways to cover the Death Knights without having Fudge stop them.
The whole paper knew that the Death Knights were where a big story.
Rita wanted to be the one to break it.
The blonde hissed at the marked-up paper. Clearwater had a bad habit of wanting sources and doubting any quotes or the like that Rita added.
The article rough draft had more red markings than black at this point.
Taking a deep breath, Rita consoled herself with the knowledge that she was the only one getting help figuring out the Death Knights. Maybe some day she'd even learn who was the man behind the name Master of Death.
Considering the option that there was no man, just death itself was an idea that refused to leave Rita.
Shaking herself, she went about re-doing the article.
She didn't see an owl deliver an unnamed letter to Stephanie Clearwater.
####SCENE BREAK####
Fred, George, and Lee were still up. They were brainstorming in the Room of Requirement that Ron had told them about.
Vivian had made them a list of all the products they had sold in their store. They were trying to create them now and see if they could even evolve some products.
Sirius and Remus had told Fred and George that after Hogwarts, they would help the twins open their shop.
Lee had had to catch both boys who had seemed to almost faint from excitement.
Right now, they were working on products to sale and distribute around the school. Not just for a laugh, but there was another purpose that would tie into them trying to help the Death Knights.
They were trying to work on ways to be able to identify students and staff that had the dark mark. Apparently simply requesting everyone expose their arm wasn't an option. Most would claim force while others found discreet ways to hide or disguise the mark.
So, they had to find a way to expose the dark mark. Eventually they'd like something specifically for those who had willingly joined, yet right now it was all about baby steps.
"It has to be something that a person would touch, regardless of age" Lee said as the boys muddled with small squishy balls that Hermione called 'stress balls'.
"Right" George sighed from his spot sprawled out on the carpeted floor. They knew they had quidditch practice in the morning but wanted to at least make some headway with this. "But compulsive charms don't always last forever. Plus, what is someone checks for spells before touching things? I doubt some of those bastards aren't paranoid" he added.
"Well, let's crack in. Don't want the girls upset with us tomorrow" Fred mentioned Angelina and the other chasers on the quidditch team.
"Not to mention Wood" George shot back.
"Oh, I think Oliver's a bit preoccupied" Lee said with a knowing smirk.
"What does that mean?" the twins demanded, wanting details.
"Well, I saw him with Marcus Flint" Lee shrugged, playing up the attention to mess with them.
"So, he's always arguing with Flint" George couldn't understand.
"Oh, there was a battle all right" Lee chuckled. "They were trying to fight with their tongues" he revealed. At their gob smacked looks, he went on. "I heard that Vivian 'accidentally' locked them both in a broom closet and they couldn't get out for a bit" he went on. "When the door did open, they were snogging. They've been meeting up late at night since" he showed them the marauders map.
"Woah" the twins breathed as they saw Flint and Wood's names were very, very close in a broom closet.
"That doesn't mean he won't be on one during practice. If anything, this might rile him up more" George joked to the others.
"We'll leave them to it" Fred announced. "Now, what do you think about jinxing a toilet roll" he offered.
"I'm listening" now it was Lee and George's turn to speak as one.
####SCENE BREAK####
Narcissa happily went about making lists. Vivian and Draco's birthdays were still a little away, but she had so much to plan to make sure things went off without a hitch for both parties.
Narcissa knew that Vivian didn't want to expose her heritage. Though, Narcissa hoped that that might change some day.
Still, for now she respected Vivian's wishes. She was going to set up a party with Remus for Vivian the day before her actual birthday. Then she'd have Draco's party out somewhere in case Vivian wanted to stop by.
Remus promised to talk to Vivian about her accepting her title of Lady Malfoy on her seventeenth birthday. She was the eldest child after all. Vivian was technically the heir.
Narcissa wanted Vivian to have her birthright and all the power and protection that came with that. She didn't really care about any rumors that may start over how Remus Lupin came to adopt the Malfoy heir.
Though Narcissa was attempting to work on a cover story. She didn't want the truth coming back to be used against Vivian. If someone recognized her from that damn circus she had been left at or questioned her scars as Narcissa knew happened to Remus.
Remus, with Sirius' help, had exposed his own curse to Narcissa. Also from Greyback. Like Vivian, Remus had avoided the registry.
That had inspired Narcissa to share a story from her childhood she had thought she would have taken to the grave.
Right after graduating from Hogwarts, while out shopping, she had spotted a very shabby looking woman. Premature gray hair, shabby clothes though she was pretty, her face waw littered in scarves. The woman had been playing the violin.
It had been the most beautiful music Narcissa had ever heard.
It had truly moved her.
Then some men had shown up and tried to hassle the woman, accusing her of being a werewolf.
She hadn't been on the registry, and they were trying to force her to sign.
She was obviously scared, not confirming their claims but claiming she never hurt anyone.
Narcissa had stepped in and claimed that she had heard the woman playing the violin the night before. The night of a full moon. The beautiful pureblood had then given the woman a huge amount of galleons.
The men had believed her, why wouldn't they. She was a Black going to be married to a Malfoy. Why would she defend someone who was actually a werewolf?
Once they left, Narcissa spoke before the woman could. "You shouldn't come back. They'll only try harder. If you charm your violin at night, then people will hear it, even when the moon is out" then swiftly turned and strode away.
But not before she heard the woman whisper "Blesses on you".
Narcissa always blamed the music for her stepping in that day. The sound that had touched a part of her that she had long buried. The part of her that made her long for Andromeda and Sirius and wish for how Bellatrix used to be. That thought of the times when Lucius managed to show her that what he felt for her was genuine. How he had fallen for the woman, not just the name of obligation.
Narcissa didn't know why she did it, but she felt light and like there were butterflies in her belly.
It was a heady feeling.
Walking away, a smile, a real one, slowly spread over her face.
"That's the feeling of doing something good" Sirius had teased after her story. "I've felt it once or twice" he smiled.
Narcissa made sure to order the proper decorations and presents. She had to make a guest list. She'd also have to warn Lucius that should he somehow attend, then he was not to cause any trouble. Especially since the Weasley's and Potter would be there. Not to mention the Granger girl and her parents.
Narcissa made a note to find some muggle party foods and the like in order to make sure all her guests were attended too. Narcissa couldn't be accused of being a bad hostess.
Narcissa sent another letter to Remus and a woman he introduced her to, Alexandra. Though the woman insisted on being called Alex. A half vampire, which actually fascinated Narcissa.
Narcissa wanted Remus' input on all of the party decisions. The more she saw him around Vivian, the more she realized what kind of a man and father Lupin was. Loving. He was warm and comforting. He was like drinking a warm cup of hot chocolate in front of a fire during a snowstorm.
A storm Narcissa felt like she had been born into.
It was a nice change.
Narcissa had no way of knowing about Vivian and Harry apologizing and forgiving Remus for the fight they all had when he panicked over Tonks' pregnancy. They wouldn't name Tonks still though.
He promised should he meet this mystery woman then he would try, he stressed try, not to panic. That was all that could be asked of him. Sirius promised to keep Remus' head straight, for his own good.
Despite that memory, Harry and Vivian both believed that Remus was born to be a father. Thankfully, Remus didn't have firsthand memory of that. He had easily, naturally fallen into the role of father for Vivian. It had clicked as if it had always meant to be.
Something that Narcissa was finding out to be true. She had the privilege to see the loving home her little girl was now a part of. Following Alex's suggestion, Narcissa took a big jump. She invited Andromeda and her family to Vivian and Draco's parties.
Exhaling, Narcissa went back to her lists.
Narcissa picked up the necklace Sirius sent to be wrapped. She recognized it from their childhood. To see Vivian with an heirloom from the Black line filled Narcissa's heart with pride.
Narcissa truly was appreciative of Sirius, Remus and Alex.
And…she was grateful for the youngest Weasley boy.
It was true that she hadn't been too pleased when Vivian had dropped the bomb that Ronald was her intended. However, Narcissa dared not speak up about the union. She had just gotten Vivian back. The idea of losing her again terrified Narcissa. So, she would rather Vivian marry the Weasley boy than push the girl away for good.
Then Narcissa had paid close attention to how Vivian spoke of Ronald. She wrote about him in letters. When they'd have their weekly get togethers, Vivian's beautiful face lit up whenever the boy was around or mentioned.
Narcissa was lucky enough to know love, true love. She had seen it plenty of times. Like with Andromeda and Ted Tonks. James Potter and Lily Evans, even when the girl denied the feeling. And though he was flawed, Narcissa was in love with Lucius.
The way that Weasley looked at Vivian even when she didn't notice…that was love.
'After the birthday I will have to start planning the wedding announcements. I'll leave the date unwritten so it may be filled out when a date is officially stated' she made a side note.
She responded to another letter from Sirius. He had written to her about a professor who had an unhealthy fixation with Vivian. He assured her that Remus was handling it and would let her know if she needed to step in with the others.
Narcissa knew it was Lockhart. Sirius had also kept her up to date about all the rumors, gossiping as they used to at family reunions. Vivian's friend Luna Lovegood and Hermione Granger also wrote Narcissa with news and the like.
Narcissa didn't even hide the letters from Granger from Lucius. He hadn't been happy yet had been wise enough not to speak up on his wife's communication with a muggleborn.
Narcissa had never trusted Lockhart. Back in school, she had thought he was a vain and stupid boy. A pretty face meant nothing to her if there was nothing behind it.
Narcissa also knew the danger of being blinded by a pretty face. Voldemort had been very attractive before dark magic began affecting his looks.
"Cissy, dearest, what are you doing?" Lucius managed to sidestep a floating studded pony that was the size of an actual pony.
"Birthday preparations my love" Narcissa answered easily while doing some impressive charm work. "Just because Vivian won't be celebrating here does not mean I am not celebrating the birth of my first born. They might be twins but Vivian did come first" was commented.
It was almost said in a proud brag. "I have not only been invited to her party, but Remus and Sirius have entrusted and allowed me to plan it. Vivian said she wanted me to be the one to do it" now that was absolutely a brag.
Lucius tried to keep his expression void of any emotion. "I take it that your meetings are going well then" he feigned disinterest.
Facing away from him, Narcissa briefly smirked. Reading a Malfoy was too easy when one knew how.
"Oh, yes" she felt her heart swell.
Lucius sent her a hidden huff after a moment when he realized that she wasn't going to divulge any more information.
She purposely withheld details. If Lucius wanted any information, then he would have to explicitly ask for it. She wanted him to swallow his pride and reach out to Vivian with an apology in hand and no expectation of a deserved apology.
"Won't Draco have questions?" Lucius found himself challenged.
"Perhaps" Narcissa seemed beyond unbothered. "Vivian and I have discussed how someday we may break the news to him. Though I think he should still take a vow not to expose her. Just to be cautious" she went on.
She was now picking flowers.
Seeing some jewelry on a table and recognizing it, he asked "You want to reinstate Vivian as the heir" he pointed out.
"She has always been the heir Lucius" Narcissa's tone turned frosty. "Even if you and the others" she almost spat the words. She was obviously speaking on Bellatrix and the Lestranges. "Deny such, that does not take away from the truth".
Lucius flinched, squeezing the snake head of his cane briefly. He wanted to defend himself. To point out that Narcissa was not the only one to have lost a child! She may have semi-openly grieved but that didn't mean that Lucius wasn't in pain!
As if he never questioned or cursed himself and his in-laws.
Lucius had done just that many nights when sleep refused to come, and guilt took its place.
Lucius had done plenty of bad things in his life, even evil things. Yet, giving up Vivian…
That gnawed at his insides. At his soul. No amount of denial would ease the feeling.
"She is my-our daughter" Narcissa spoke again. "Mine, Remus', Sirius'" she said ignoring the hurt that flashed over Lucius' silver gaze.
His little girl had found a father, possibly even two. Fathers that Lucius feared were better at the job than he ever could be. Sirius Black and Remus Lupin working together to raise Lucius' daughter… Lucius tried to take a deep breath.
"…And yours" Narcisa said in a quite tone after a moment.
Lucius went to speak before pausing to compose himself. Clearing his throat, he asked "Is she being properly cared for? I mean, given her condition" he had to know.
Lucius wasn't aware of Remus' affliction and Narcissa had no plan on enlightening him.
"Yes, and you are not to report her. She will not be on that hideous registry" Narcissa firmly stated.
"I wasn't going to" Lucius countered as if offended.
Narcissa raised a single sculpted brow in disbelief.
"I swear it" Lucius insisted.
He knew that legally he was supposed to. Yet, Lucius had always been able to decide which laws to follow. This would simply be one he didn't follow.
Narcissa gave a light sniff before going back to her planning.
Lucius refrained from asking if he himself was invited to Vivian's party. He could already surmise the answer given Narcissa's earlier crisp words.
"Would you deny her, her birthright Lucius?" Narcissa asked, not looking at him.
"I never said that" Lucius countered cooly.
"Actions, Lucius" Narcissa refused to give him much wiggle room. "Actions always speak louder than words. Some muggle phrases hold true" she took him slightly aback before primly walking over to a long table to finish invitations.
Lucius stared at the spot his wife had previously been as his mind ran over her words.
With that, he slowly left Narcissa to her work as he went on with his. Right after a trip to the family vault.
####SCENE BREAK####
Firenze smiled up at the night sky.
The stars shined of change.
He wasn't fully back with his tribe; however, some had come to visit. No one was attempting to stomp him to death any longer, nor were they punishing any who came to see him.
Bane was still being a horse's ass but that wasn't exactly a change.
Magorian had greatly surprised Firenze. The leader had come by to speak to Firenze. He was much calmer, more welcoming than Firenze had seen from him since the blonde Firenze had helped Harry Potter in the woods last year.
Of course, Firenze's dear friend Ronan had been there. Firenze had to wonder how much Ronan must have bothered Magorian, risking his own well-being on Firenze's behalf.
However, Magorian revealed it was actually outsiders that had him thinking of reinstating Firenze. That had been a major shock.
Apparently, two students, a human and a werewolf, had reached out with gifts and talk of equality. When Magorian turned them away, they simply always returned, always trying. They left an impression on the centaurs.
Magorian had brought some of the gifts of food and drink to share with Firenze and an eager Ronan.
Bane had been upset, insisting that all ties be severed with Firenze for letting the human on his back. He tried to rally others around him. Then Magorian asked if Bane was questioning his ability as a leader, if Bane was challenging Magorian for the title.
Bane had backed down with sour words and harsh expressions. Even so, he didn't challenge Magorian.
Firenze felt that this was all a step for them moving forward. A small step, but step none the less.
These children gave off an aurora of power. They showed respect and courage. They offered protection. What they asked for was not control but a neutral alignment. Neither girl came right out with their plans nor demands. However, the way they spoke…it was clear to see that something was happening.
The girls were offering the centaurs the chance to either be with change or be a part of the change. They didn't threaten them or the like, but it was clear that with what they were offering, it was best for those who didn't fight change.
Nothing had been finalized yet, but the girls continued to visit. And…the centaurs continued to allow it.
Some in the tribe were anxious while others were excited. Everyone was a bit weary, but that was simply part of being a centaur. Anyone out of the herd was to be dealt with caution, if not contempt.
For now, Magorian would continue to allow the girls to visit. He knew they'd eventually reveal their whole plan along with their powerful and almost unnatural feeling.
There was a reason Magorian was leader after all.
Ronan had a soft spot for Firenze and Magorian had a soft spot for Ronan. It was one reason why Hagrid had been able to stop the others from killing Firenze.
And though he'd never admit it, Magorian sort of had a soft spot for Firenze as well.
The blonde was such a kind soul and a deep thinker.
Magorian had allowed Hagrid and Ronan to stop them all from attacking Firenze any further than they already had.
Bane still tried to twist Firenze's actions along with the actions of the two girls. Yet, Firenze stayed true to himself, and the girls continued to be polite and diplomatic.
It did help ease many of the centaurs over whom Firenze had helped. They still didn't like that Harry Potter had ridden Firenze's back in an effort to get away from the being hosting Lord Voldemort. However, the centaurs knew just how young Harry Potter had helped the whole world, but also, he was a child. Firenze had saved a child.
Hagrid was right. He was a hero, not a traitor.
Magorian would be lying if he said he didn't want Firenze back in the herd. It would also be a lie that these little humans, even if the wolf didn't consider herself a full one, intrigued him.
Magorian played the waiting game, leaving Firenze to his thoughts with an eager Ronan at his side. He ignored Bane's disgruntled grunts.
Firenze smiled up at the night sky. Tomorrow he'd visit Hagrid over tea. Though he'd prefer to not have some of the rock cakes. They were just a bit too tough, even for the dashing centaur.
Then Firenze had another meeting with Ronan and Magorian.
With that happy thought in mind, Firenze settled into sleep.
####SCENE BREAK####
Albus' eyes scanned the hallways as he roamed the sleeping school late at night.
Albus couldn't sleep. 'Perhaps I am looking for something' he thought. He knew he was looking for something. He just didn't know what he was looking for.
He sighed wearily.
Peeves had said no more about the Chamber of Secrets being opened. He refused to mention it. Even threat of the Bloody Baron wouldn't loosen his tongue.
Albus knew something was afoot. He just had to find out and hopefully before it was too late. Before there was another situation like last year.
This year was already beyond stressful. Albus hoped the upcoming break would bring relief and recharge to all.
Himself included.
And Severus, he worried for the potions master. Severus refused to say anything was wrong, but Albus had a sneaky suspicion. The man was paler than usual, gaunter too. This said a lot. It looked like he was having issues sleeping.
Yet, despite his more worn appearances, Severus now also had an odd sense of calm to him.
He spaced out more yet there was no anger or pain in his eyes. Bitterness was overshadowed by thoughtfulness and something that Albus couldn't name.
He had never seen the younger man more at ease except perhaps in his own youth. If that.
Minerva was acting distant now. Albus never wanted to pry, yet he had seen her receive post from an owl he had never seen around her before. When he made a casual remark about it, Minerva had refused to even make small talk on the matter.
Though…Albus had a suspicion that she told Severus.
If he was being totally honest, it hurt Albus' feelings that the two people he considered his dearest friends were keeping secrets from him and possibly not from one another. Even if it was something mundane, he didn't want to be left out.
Some time he caught Minerva staring at him.
However, it wasn't a friendly or fond look nor was it the disapproving one she sometimes aimed at him for various reasons. It was thoughtful, almost calculating in nature. As if she were sizing him up.
Seeing him for the first time almost.
It confused and even concerned Albus.
If he couldn't depend on Minerva, then what hope did he have for anything?! Yes, he relied heavily on Severus, but Minerva was the only real reason he got quite a lot of things done. Of course, she wasn't always privy to his plans, but she helped keep Hogwarts and Albus himself moving.
Without her he'd be lost and Albus was not blind to this knowledge.
Turning another corner, Albus' focus shifted. He still hadn't managed to convince Remus and Sirius to rejoin the Order of the Pheonix.
He had hoped that once they had time to cool off then they'd come to their senses and come back to his organization and the cause. He had also hoped that they'd bring the woman who had defended Sirius in court.
Albus could all the powerful allies and workers available.
The men had not answered any of his letters. Not even the ones concerning Harry's placement over the summer.
True, Sirius was free now, but Albus was still sure that staying with Petunia's family was the best plan given the blood wards. It seemed to escape Albus' logic that a house elf could get past the wards if they so desired. Not to mention the fact that Harry didn't consider the place home and he spent most of his time trying to get away from it.
It was a miracle he hadn't been tracked at the park or a hideout and then snatched long before now.
Albus sighed, taking another turn. He passed the empty Great Hall. Even the ghosts were resting at this hour.
"Speak to me" Albus all but pleaded in a low tone.
He had long ago heard the rumor of Hogwarts more or less being connected to the headmasters. When he was a boy there were even stories of Hogwarts actually speaking to the Headmaster. However, no one could prove that. The Founders had refused to speak about it.
If it was true, then that meant Albus could have extreme insight into what went on inside the walls. Even more than he had now.
The problem was that Albus had no way to confirm this. He thought perhaps that was what happened with Peeves, yet the poltergeist refused to answer. The little jester had been here longer than the Founders.
Albus wished he knew even half the secrets that Peeves did.
'Perhaps this break I shall stay at the castle' he thought. An empty Hogwarts during Christmas was beautiful, he knew. This way Albus could relax but not be too far away in case he managed to find the thing he was looking for. He continued up what seemed endless floors of the school.
Besides…he had to figure out just what the hell happened to his candy. He couldn't prove it as of yet, but Albus was sure someone had tainted his beloved sweets.
He still wasn't able to identify the potion used, if one was used. He also wasn't able to contradict the effects.
So, now whenever he said certain phrases, he had incontinence issues.
At least he had figured out the phrases before too many accidents.
Now he ignored the students talking about it. And the teachers. And the ghosts and paintings. He was even sure he had heard Fawkes speaking to someone before in his own language though Albus summed that up to embarrassed paranoia.
"Nothing more? Nothing more" a voice asked up ahead. It was said first as a question and then later in a sort of tone of acceptance.
Albus knew that voice! It was Peeves.
Quietly, Albus tried to round the corner in order to see who Peeves was having this one-sided conversation with.
Just as Albus managed to spot the poltergeist, Peeves floated off. The hallway seemed deserted. Albus couldn't see Peeves being able to speak to anyone. Though…there were a set of doors that Albus couldn't remember ever seeing before.
As he strode over, the doors disappeared. They simply vanished as if they had never been there in the first place!
Now this…this was something!
A/N: Hope you liked it. I'll try to be faster with part two, but can't make any promises due to work and so on. Most likely won't do another separate AN, just telling you here. If it takes a while, forgive me, I am always working on it. As always, I'll come back repeatedly to check for spelling issues. So just bear with me. Voldemort in the next chapter! I know not everyone likes when I do just lil dots on everyone, but I like to touch on things I talked about in previous chapters that don't always directly pertain to the main plot and the like. Next chapter has some main plot juiciness, promise. Until then, have a good one!