Chapter Seventeen

Disclaimer: All characters belong to J.K. Rowling. I own nothing here except the plot. This is for entertainment purposes only. Happy reading!

A big thanks goes to my beta, Charmed Nay, and I'd also like to thank GinnyW for running through this a second time.

---

"Let's see you try, Devon. One large swish and three short jabs. Your rabbit should turn into a book. Remember: elocution must be precise," Hermione said, standing back so that the young boy had room to try his transfiguration. BAM! Several students screamed and bolted to the side of the classroom near Minerva.

A large, menacing tiger was crouched atop Devon's desk hissing furiously for a moment and then emitting a loud roar. Devon backed away but was laughing loudly. It appeared that he'd done this on purpose. Hermione's eyes narrowed. A flick of her wand turned the tiger into a large Augurey. The vulture like bird opened his massive wingspan and began flapping wildly, but it didn't fly. The loud, wail emitted from his beak had Devon screaming in panic. "Fear not, Devon," Hermione said saucily. "It's not foreshadowing death. Only rain." She flicked her wand, and the rabbit once again returned. "Everyone back to your seats." She waited for Devon to sit before eyeing him thoughtfully. "I cannot prove it, but I do believe you did that purposely. Thirty points from Slytherin and detention with your Head of House, Professor Snape, two days next week. He will contact you to let you know which days." She stooped down to say in a low voice. "Ever pull a stunt like that again, child, and you will fail this class. Understood?"

"Yes. Sorry, Instructor Granger," the boy said regretfully.

"Back to work, class. You are not dismissed just yet. You have fifteen minutes to practice." Hermione hoped that she hadn't gone too far by changing the boy's tiger into something that might scare him. An Augurey was quite harmless, except to insects and fairies. She had hoped its wail and appearance would frighten the little twit. She nervously eyed Minerva and saw her scribbling on her parchment. Blast! She'd been doing so well all week. It was just today that Devon had begun trying her patience. She'd be sure to have Severus talk with the boy.

She waited patiently as Minerva made her way to the front of the class after she finally dismissed the students. "Shall we?" Minerva asked, indicating two desks. Hermione nodded and sat silently. "Let's see. Lectures. You are doing well in your lecturing. You move at a precise pace, not too slow or too quick. The students keep up with you easily. Not one student has missed an assignment this week. I daresay, you go over things thoroughly enough in class that they feel confident when they set about doing their homework."

"Thanks."

Minerva nodded curtly. "Your examples are excellent. You explain the wand motions and pronounce the incantations perfectly. I like how you have them practice the spell itself without wands a few times first. Walking amongst them as they are attempting to Transfigure their objects is also something I approve of. It shows you are interested in what they are doing, and it lets them know that you are available should they need help."

"I've learnt that from you," Hermione beamed.

Minerva smiled and nodded. "Control. You've shown control in your class at all times. I am glad that young Mr. Ausbrooks felt the need to show his arse today. It proved to me that, as always, you will keep your cool and take the situation in hand. I think that no one in this class shall ever try something such as that again. Hermione, next week, you will have the first year classes on your own. How do you feel about that?"

Hermione blinked with surprise. "Really?" Minerva nodded proudly. "Oh, yes! I feel confident that I can handle them. I am happy you have faith in me."

"Very well. I will allow you to have them all to yourself going forward. I still expect your presence in all of my other classes, however, and after next week, you will take over my second year classes whilst I sit in the back as I have been doing here. When I feel you are ready, I shall let you have those on your own as well. Have you been able to keep up with the grading?"

"Yes. I do my planning and marking each night. I have them all here, if you'd like to look over them." She picked up a large folder holding a number of assignments that had been turned in for marking the last couple of days.

"I will look over them this weekend to be sure that you aren't too lenient and have not missed anything. Job well done," Minerva said, hugging her slightly. "I am quite proud of you."

"That means a lot to me," Hermione admitted.

"Off you go then. It's Friday afternoon. I'm sure you'd like to relax after the week you've had," Minerva said softly, taking the parchments. "As for me, I'm off to the staff room for a bit of spiked Gillywater. I wonder if Rolanda is about." Hermione shook her head. For the school's sake, she hoped not. Those two were dangerous together when having a friendly drink.

She made her way to Severus' class. To her surprise, Wayne Hopkins and Megan Jones, both of Hufflepuff, were still sitting at their stations while Severus stood in front of them with his arms crossed. "...despicable," he was saying. "I shall tell Madame Sprout everything that I have read on this confiscated parchment, and she will most likely be writing to your parents. Twenty points each and detentions with Filch tonight. Dismissed," he hissed hatefully.

Hermione stepped in and stood against the wall to wait for the pair to leave. Jones was crying openly, and Hopkins appeared afraid. Once they scuttled past her, she closed the door. "What's happened? Are you all right?" She noted that Severus seemed upset.

"I'm fine. Just disgusted," he spat. "Those two lovebirds were playing a game right under my nose, and I nearly didn't catch them!"

"A game?" Well, that didn't sound so bad. He held up a piece of parchment.

"Read it." He shoved it into her hands, and she followed him to his office. They had been playing a form of a dare game. One would scribble a dare, and the other would either do it or owe a sexual favor to the other. The dares included sticking a tongue out at Severus, spitting at a student, groping private parts of the body and even caressing bare skin underneath their robes. They had a whole list of sexual favors owed to each other. It was rather disturbing that they would do that in class.

"How did you catch them?" she asked.

"I was looking over Miss Bones' potion when I noticed Hopkins' hand was under Jones' robe. When I glared at him, he jumped, and the parchment fell onto the floor." He sighed. "I told them both to remain after class so as not to embarrass them further, but I should have. I think I was just shocked. They are acceptable students. I could see Weasley or Draco pulling this, but not those two."

"Would you like a massage, love?" Severus nodded. "Let's go to our rooms. We'll have a quiet night together. Tomorrow will be a big day for us. I know I'll be nervous, and you are worried as well. I don't think Bellatrix will show though."

"For our sake, I should hope not. Come," he said, leading her away.

~~~~~~~~~~~~ SS ~~~~~~~~~~~~~ HG ~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Fudge swallowed uneasily, watching the woman slowly advance on him. "I pr-promise," he said shakily. "It will be done."

"Good boy," Bella purred. "I would hate to have to kill you, Cornelius." She sighed. "I should anyway, you know. I mean, you did disappoint my Lord more than once."

"I made my peace with him," he said quickly. "Sometimes I couldn't act as he would have liked, and he understood that."

"Very well," she relented. "But, only because we need you. It is always nice having a lapdog in the Ministry. My brother-in-law and friend had better be freed tonight as planned. Good day."

Fudge nodded and scrambled away from the Higgs estate to Apparate to safety. What the bloody hell had he gotten himself into? It was too late to get out of it now. He would be killed if he disobeyed. He never actually supported the Dark Lord, but after his go at Dumbledore, he'd found a way to make easy money by doing certain favors. It had gotten carried away, and when he lost his position as Minister, he feared for his life. It was a relief when Potter finally killed the man! To his dismay, there was always someone, such as Higgs or Malfoy, who came around wanting favors. To turn them down was to bring about the death of his person or what was left of his career.

"Weasley," he barked. The eager boy jumped to follow him into his office. "I think you'd better get going. It's time to meet your sister. Be sure to have her out by the Shrieking Shack at our arranged time."

"Sure, but I don't see why I have to trek way out there. I'm sure we could easily talk at an esta..."

"It is the only place that my associate will meet with the girl. Don't fail me, Percy." Fudge noticed long ago that using the boy's given name would ensure that he'd do anything. The poor sod had followed Crouch around loyally in hopes of advancing, and Crouch didn't even take the time to learn his true name or to appreciate the many uses the boy was good for.

"You will not be disappointed, sir." Percy left to venture off to Hogsmeade with hopes of a future raise. Once he was powerful in the Ministry, without his ruddy father's help, he'd go back to his mum with a lot of money and buy her all the things that his father seemed to think unnecessary. It would prove that he, of all their sons, had the most ambition to make something of himself. He may not be famous Harry Potter's sidekick, a curse breaker, a dragon tamer, or the class clown, but he was a wizard that had climbed the ladder to success on his own. She would be proud.

~~~~~~~~~~~~ SS ~~~~~~~~~~~~~ HG ~~~~~~~~~~~~~

"Nervous, beautiful?" Draco asked smartly. Someone, likely Severus, cleared his throat. Good grief! Can't even compliment the girl without the man going mental. Hell, he wasn't that thick. If he wanted to really seek out Hermione's affections, he wouldn't do it while her man was hidden under an Invisibility Cloak and only a few feet away. His father was about as well. Draco felt safe. Nothing could possibly happen today.

"A little," Hermione said, looking around uneasily. "I'm scared she'll just Apparate in front of us suddenly, and then just Avada us before anyone can react."

They heard Lucius chuckle. "That is not Bella's style. She wants you to know what she is doing. Hell, she'll even draw a diagram if need be. She's proud of the havoc she wreaks."

"Look, there is Harry and the others," Draco said, pointing ahead. "Let's go see what they've bought."

Ron was grinning evilly. "Look! Lemon flavored Hiccup Sweets! I bet Dumbledore would have a field day with this."

Luna grinned. "I tried one, and it only worked for a minute."

"All right there, Ginny?" Hermione asked, noting the girl's forlorn expression.

"Yes. I just don't want to have to hear all of the bad stuff he'll surely be saying about Harry and our family." She noticed Ginny's hands were firmly held in Harry's.

"Er... Harry? Are you all right?" she asked.

"No," he said bluntly. "Something isn't right."

"It'll be fine, mate. Percy is just a prat. She'll live," Ron said with a chuckle. "Very well can't bore her to death, can he?"

"It's something else." Harry let go of one hand and pulled her forward. They all watched as he shook his head. "Sssykasheethsss." A faint bit of smoke flowed from his hand to hers, encircling them. "This will last for a few hours. Your feelings will be mixed with mine. If you are afraid or worried, I shall know it. I will come for you."

"Good Lord," Lucius' voice said. "Bloody Parselmouth!"

"Shush," they heard Severus say.

Ginny kissed his lips softly. "I think it's sexy. Thank you, Harry. I feel better. I'm sure you'll be feeling how bored I am today."

"It's time," Luna said, pulling her wand from behind her ear. "Orchideous," she whispered. A beautiful bouquet of flowers popped into view at her wand's tip. She gave them to Ron. "Love you, Ronald." Grinning madly, she pulled Ginny away towards the Three Broomsticks.

"Well, what now?" Draco asked. "Should we follow at a distance or something?"

"No. If I know Percy, he won't like to feel as if we are spying on him. It would just mess things up." Ron minimized his flowers and shoved them into his pocket. "Let's go back to Zonko's."

~~~~~~~~~~~~ SS ~~~~~~~~~~~~~ HG ~~~~~~~~~~~~~

"Well? Did you see them?" Terence asked impatiently.

Warrington nodded. "Yeah. Potter, Weasley, Granger, and Draco just went into Zonko's. The other Weasley and Lovegood are just now meeting with Percy Weasley outside of Rosmerta's place. They'll be coming this way shortly."

"Oooh!" Bella squealed. "Two wittle girls to play with! They are mine."

Warrington nodded. "Can I have one to play with when you are done?"

Bella smirked. "I don't know how much time we'll have, but I'm sure we could work something out. Let's get into our positions. Remember we made arrangements to Obliviate Percy Weasley only. Don't get wand happy."

Terence scoffed. She was one to talk about getting wand happy. The woman was a maniac at times. Well, he would finally be proving his worth to her and to his father today. He hoped that this would show him that he could have been a true follower of the Dark Lord.

~~~~~~~~~~~~ SS ~~~~~~~~~~~~~ HG ~~~~~~~~~~~~~

"Hello, Percy," Ginny said, hugging him. "It's been a while."

"Who is this?" He nodded to Luna.

"This will be your sister-in-law one day. Luna Lovegood. Her father owns The Quibbler. Ron's girlfriend," Ginny said brightly. "This is Percy."

"Nice to meet you, Percy," Luna said warmly.

Percy grinned. So, Ronald had found someone then? Well, that was good news. He was glad to hear it. She seemed nice enough. She was wearing some odd necklace that appeared to be made of Butterbeer caps, and her wand was tucked behind her ear. "You also." He supposed it would be fine if she came along. Fudge didn't say nobody could come. He just wanted his friend to meet with Ginny privately to ask a few questions about Harry. "Come for a walk, you two. How is everyone?"

They made their way towards the Shrieking Shack slowly. He listened as Ginny told him about everyone. The twins' shop was a success. They were making many Galleons on their own, and they were putting some of it away. Unfortunately, it seemed that Potter had a share in their venture. He'd given them the Galleons to start it off. "You should stop by to see them one day, Percy," Ginny urged. "It'd be nice to have you at Sunday dinner once in a while as well."

"I've thought about it," he admitted. He missed his mum most of all, but he had things to prove to them all before he went back. "I'm working on a raise right now according to Fudge," he said importantly, puffing out his chest. "I imagine I will get a promotion soon as well. Madame Edgecombe has taken a liking to me as of late. I think she's been talking to some of the elders about my work habits and dedication to the job."

They neared the Shack. "Oh, I wonder if the ghouls are in today," Luna said with a laugh. Ron had told her all about the Shack, but she still hoped there was really some phantom within. It was nice to pretend in any event. She couldn't wait until the summer holidays to meet the ghoul in the Weasley family's attic.

"Hmmm," Percy said, looking confused. "The fellow was supposed to meet us here."

"What fellow?" Ginny asked, feeling uneasy for the first time.

"Oh, Fudge has a friend that would like to talk to you. I imagine it's a top secret Auror who is investigating Harry," Percy said pompously. "Wouldn't trust anyone but me to see that you talked to him either."

"Oh, my! Luna, I don't like this," Ginny said, easing closer to her friend.

"Nor do I," Luna admitted, grasping Ginny's hand.

"Come now," Percy said. "I'm sure he is a nice fellow. It won't take long." A twig cracked. "Here comes someone now."

~~~~~~~~~~~~ SS ~~~~~~~~~~~~~ HG ~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Harry Potter felt a shiver of anxiety wave through his body. Poor Ginny. He looked out toward the Three Broomsticks. They'd been finished for a few minutes and had stepped back out onto the street. Percy was probably trying to talk her into ending things. "Ginny feels uneasy. Wonder what that berk is playing at," Harry commented. Suddenly, he felt a wave of sheer terror tremor through his body. "Fucking hell! Something is wrong." He didn't know how he knew, but he felt the need to head to the Shrieking Shack. He didn't care if the others were following or not. He heard the pounding of feet behind him, but he dared not pause for a look. He had to get to her. Why didn't she Portkey to him?

As he passed the last building in town, he saw Tonks running to his side. She didn't say a word. She merely ran with him. He heard Hermione scream, and that's when he noticed it. The Dark Mark was shining brightly in all its green glory over a patch of trees near where the Shrieking Shack was located.

"Oof!" Harry said as Ginny, half cradling Luna, Portkeyed into him.

"Harry!" Ginny was shaking. "It's horrible! Help Percy, Harry! They ambushed us. Bellatrix is there!" Harry Disapparated without a word.

~~~~~~~~~~~~ SS ~~~~~~~~~~~~~ HG ~~~~~~~~~~~~~

~~Previously~~

"Come now," Percy said. "I'm sure he is a nice fellow. It won't take long." A twig cracked. "Here comes someone now." A jet of purple light hit Luna Lovegood before they had a chance to see who had come. The girl flew back and landed in a heap near Percy's feet. "What the hell?"

Ginny screamed. "Bellatrix Lestrange!" She wanted to Portkey to Harry, but she had to get to Luna first. She couldn't leave her. God! Was Luna still alive?

"What?" Percy couldn't believe it. "What are you doing here?" The evil woman had escaped Azkaban, and she was completely cured. He moved to step in front of his sister.

"That's not your concern. Stand aside," the woman said, her dark eyes flashing imperiously. "You are not meant to be harmed, boy. Stand aside."

"But, Fudge said someone had to question Ginny about Harry," Percy still couldn't believe it. Two young wizards came into view. One was leering at Luna while the other smirked hatefully. Terence Higgs! Carlton Warrington! "What is going on here?"

"What did you do to Luna?" Ginny asked, peeking from behind her brother.

"Not that I need to explain anything to you," Bella began, "but I feel the irony is just too sweet to pass up. I've created my own little curse. It is similar to the one Potter put on me. There is no easy fix for this one though. She'll be in an indefinite Bewitched Sleep, slowly dying as her worst nightmares replay over and over in her mind. That and a bit of a Blasting Curse. She should have a nice wound."

"You bitch!" Ginny wanted to tear her eyes out; instead, she pulled her wand. She'd blast the psychotic witch!

"Expelliarmus," Warrington bellowed. Ginny lost her wand just as Percy lost his. "Stupefy." Ginny cried out as Percy slumped down in front of her.

"Leave him alone!" She began inching back towards Luna. She would try to touch both of them, and Portkey to Harry.

"Warrington! You will not throw any hexes unless they are approved by me," Bella said scathingly. "Higgs bring Weasley back. I want him to see the horror that I am going to bestow upon his sister before he is Obliviated. I always love to watch someone as they see a loved one being tortured."

Higgs moved forward. "Ennervate." Percy sat up, shaking his head slightly. Higgs quickly moved his body to the side and restrained him to make him watch Bella at her best.

"You may play with that one," Bella said, nodding towards Luna. "Diffindo!" A large gash appeared in Ginny's face. Both Percy and Ginny screamed. One in pain, one in terror. "Awww, does that hurt?" Bella cackled. "I just love this! Long live my master!" She pointed her wand to the sky. "Morsmordre!"

Warrington gave a cheer, seeing Voldemort's sign proudly displayed in the sky. "May the Dark Lord live on!" He reached down to pull Lovegood's legs apart when Ginny Weasley kicked him viciously.

"Harry James Potter," she screamed. All present looked about wildly, wondering where Potter was lurking.

"What are you talking about?" Bella asked, kicking the girl in the side.

Ginny touched Luna. "I'll send Harry back for you, Percy." Her Portkey activated, and she felt the slight pull behind her navel. In less than a second, she slammed into Harry. She told him as quickly as she could that Percy needed him, and he was gone.

"Potter!" Tonks screamed. "Are you all right, Ginny, Luna?"

Ginny began wailing loudly. This wasn't supposed to be happening. She felt solid arms hold her tightly. Ron. Oh, no! "Ron! Luna... she's dying. I'm sorry, Ron. I'm so sorry!"

Hermione looked into Luna's vacant eyes and knew that the girl would never be the same again. There was a big spot of blood on her side. Someone had done a number on her. "Who did this?"

"Lestrange. Two others. Percy tried to stop them."

~~~~~~~~~~~~ SS ~~~~~~~~~~~~~ HG ~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Harry Apparated right in front of Warrington. With a quick flick of his wand, the lug's arm broke, and his wand fell. The anguished screams brought the other three heads to face them.

"Shit!" Higgs screamed, fumbling with his wand. He aimed at Harry, but Bella hit his arm. His hex flew astray and blasted Percy in the chest.

"He's mine!" Bella could taste the excitement.

"Syysssethssykaasssss," Harry said, directing his gaze to the snow at his feet. Immediately, two snakelike creatures rose from the snow. "Reducto!" He remembered the way Severus had tried to blast them apart. It only created more. Now there were four. Two headed towards Warrington while two made way for Higgs.

"What is this magic?" Bellatrix asked uneasily.

"Expelliarmus," he bellowed.

"Prot..." She screamed as her wand flew out of her hand. She had been caught off guard. "You are nothing, Potter! Nothing! Higgs! Stun him." Higgs wasn't paying attention, as he was trying to get away from the snow snakes. Each time he cursed them, more would appear. It would have been funny if Harry had time to watch. Warrington was tied up with his set already. They were sliding him near Percy. Bella felt a chill grip her spine as Potter began chanting something in Parseltongue. A wild breeze began blowing, nearly knocking her down.

Harry looked at the Dark Mark floating above while chanting. The mark exploded in a crimson flash as the song of a Phoenix was heard throughout the forest. The Mark of a Phoenix now replaced Voldemort's mark. The Mark of Harry. He narrowed his eyes and let his rage build. She would die. She deserved to die. "Serpensortia!" A snake flew from the tip of his wand. "Engorgio!" The snake grew into a size that rivaled Nagini. As he began directing it to kill her in Parseltongue, the witch fell to her knees.

"Master! I didn't know it was you. I can see you now. I am sorry, Master. Forgive me," she was pleading, crawling forward. Harry couldn't believe it.

"Rise, Bella," Harry said, cackling wickedly, quite amused. "Your time here is done. How could you dare touch what is mine?"

To his amazement, the woman stood, bowing her head in acceptance of her fate. Harry's viper moved forward, seeing its dinner standing in wait. Higgs plowed into Bellatrix in an attempt to get away from his chasers. CRACK! They were both gone. He'd Disapparated them. At that moment, the others reached the clearing.

Severus, Lucius, and Tonks moved to him while checking that the area was secure. Harry closed his eyes, letting the Phoenix song calm him. The forceful wind died down, and Harry opened his eyes. "I almost had her."

Lucius fell to his knees. "I... the Mark..." He clutched at his arm. Severus did the same, falling to his knees as well. "What have you done, Potter?"

Severus rolled up his sleeve. Instead of the faded Mark of his old master, he saw a bright new Mark. The colorful head of a Phoenix surrounded by two intertwining snakes had taken the place of the old Mark. It was the same glittering Mark that now shined brightly above them.

"I didn't do this!" Harry ran his fingers through his hair! "I just wanted to get rid of Voldemort's Dark Mark once and for all! I didn't realize this would happen!"

Severus and Lucius exchanged glances, but neither said a word. Harry had manipulated a most powerful magic that no others had been able to change. Not even Dumbledore. "Percy!" Harry had just noticed the boy was bleeding.

He ran to him and kneeled down. "You showed them, didn't you?" Percy's voice was weak, and some blood was trickling out of his mouth.

"Just rest, Percy. We'll get you to St. Mungo's," Harry soothed.

"Tell my mum I never stopped loving them, Harry. I have papers... in my flat that will explain everything," he said weakly. "Is my sister all right?"

"Yes. I had given her a Portkey to find me should she ever need it," Harry said.

"Brilliant. I was..." cough, "wrong about you. Take care of her."

"I always will," Harry said firmly. Percy's chest stilled, and one last breath escaped the boy's mouth. His eyes dulled immediately. Percy Weasley was dead. Harry bowed his head and began crying silently. When would it stop? He was in this position when Hermione and Draco bounded upon the scene. Both immediately sank to hold him.

"Help," a voice called. Warrington.

Harry's viper had rounded on the bloke when his prey had vanished. Tonks hated to help that arse, but she knew he would go to prison for his deeds today. Perhaps they would get some information from him. "Vipera Evanesco!"

~~~~~~~~~~~~ SS ~~~~~~~~~~~~~ HG ~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Hermione paced the corridor, waiting for the mediwitch to come out with news. All of the others sat there glumly, hoping for news as well. Luna had been swept away. Her father had been Flooed, and he was the only one allowed to follow. Molly was holding Ron to her chest like a lifeline, crying all the while. Arthur and the twins were trying to get Ginny to keep still. She kept trying to break free to get to Harry. A mediwitch finally brought a phial and forced her to drink it. She drifted off into a deep sleep. The rest of their family had been notified, but they hadn't made it in yet.

Draco sat in shock next to Tonks. He still had some of Percy's blood on his cloak. The day had gone far worse than they had planned. Nobody had thought much of Percy's meeting with Ginny. They figured all would be well since Luna was with the pair. Harry was the only one that had been suspicious, and even then, he hadn't been able to save Percy in time. Hermione hoped he would be fine. For the first time in a long time, he just went numb. He made not a sound, but he cried. Hermione knew it was high time that it happened. Harry was bound to have locked away some emotions. Ginny didn't understand why he wouldn't talk to her, and she had worked herself up into a fit.

Dumbledore, Lucius, and Severus had ushered a stunned Harry and a Healer into a room as soon as they had brought Luna and poor Percy here.

A tall man with thinning hair and a sad smile made his way to the Weasleys. "I'm sorry for your loss. The curse that hit him caused severe damage to his organs. Had he been here sooner, maybe we could have saved him. He just lost too much blood, too quickly."

Minerva pulled Ron into her arms as Arthur took Molly into his. They knew Percy was dead before they brought him here, but they had needed to know exactly what had killed him. They had their answer now.

Hermione breathed a sigh of relief when Harry and the others made their way back into the room. She ran to him, flinging her arms about him tightly. He held her closely. "Oh, Harry! I am glad to see you back. I was worried."

"I just got caught up in the moment," Harry said, sounding drained. "Where's Mrs. Weasley? Never mind." Hermione released him and watched as he approached the only family that had accepted him into their home without caring about his fame. Severus' arms came around Hermione as they watched silently. Lucius went to sit with Draco and Tonks while Dumbledore walked behind Harry.

"Mrs. Weasley," Harry began. "I talked to him before he passed. He said that he never stopped loving any of you. He said there are papers in his flat that will explain everything to you. For what it's worth, I am sorry. I should have Disapparated him away as soon as I saw that he was hurt. The truth is, I didn't realize it until it was too late. I'm sorry."

Molly walked forward and pulled Harry to her. "You did what you could. You saved my little girl, Harry, and you held my boy as he died. I love you as I would one of my own. There is nothing to forgive here. Don't you be sorry, Harry. It's not your fault. It's that ruddy lot of Voldemort followers!" Mr. Weasley embraced Harry as well. The twins came forward to thank Harry.

After he finished talking to them, Harry made his way to Ron. "Mate?"

"Percy is dead, Harry," Ron said brokenly. Harry nodded. "Luna... Something is wrong with her. I've lost her as well, mate. Ginny? Where is she?"

"She's sleeping," his mother said. "I think you could do with a bit of a draught as well. Arthur, see to it."

"We'll get through this, Ron," Harry said firmly. "Dumbledore said they'd give us some time. School is going to be out a few days while an investigation takes place." Ron just nodded, finding his mother's arms again.

A couple of Healers came out to talk to them. "There is nothing that we can do for her. We've never seen anything like it. From what Ginevra was able to tell us, the witch created it on her own. Her body will live. We have patched up her wound, but there is no response mentally. We don't even detect magic in her."

Ron collapsed. Luna's father came out to talk to the Weasleys. Hermione turned to Severus. "I think we should leave. We have to regroup. Tell Lucius to meet us tonight." He nodded, releasing his hold on her.

~~~~~~~~~~~~ SS ~~~~~~~~~~~~~ HG ~~~~~~~~~~~~~

"Why did you Disapparate us?" Bella screeched. "Our Lord was there. He lives within Potter now. Didn't you see him?"

"Father! Talk to her," Terence said. His father moved forward.

"What are you talking about, Bella?"

"The Dark Lord lives within Potter. He is the only one that could have changed the Dark Mark. When Potter stood before me and spoke in Parseltongue, it changed. My arm burned as he punished me. He had a snake like Nagini. No one held a fondness for vipers like our Lord. It was his way of alerting me," Bella said. "He was going to punish me for trying to destroy what was his. I suppose he meant the Weasley girl. We have to get our master back!"

The old man looked to his son. "Did you see the Dark Lord's symbol change?"

"Yes, and she's right. Potter had fucking snakes crawling out of the snow coming after us. A group of the buggers got Warrington, some tried to take me, and a big bloke was after Bella when I saved her. Potter had obviously commanded it to kill her," Terence said quickly, the awe showing in his eyes. "He completely changed our Lord's symbol. The head of a Phoenix surrounded by snakes now takes its place." He pulled his wand. "Look. Morsmordre!"

Sure enough, Potter's sign shot from the wand onto the ceiling. The old man turned to Bella. "What do you mean he punished you through your Mark?"

She lifted the sleeve to her shirt. The same symbol was scarred into her skin where her previous Lord's mark was. "Only our master could have instructed him on how to change it. Our master lives within Potter."

The old man nodded. He had wondered about that as well. The first time the Lord had tried to dispose of the boy when he was a babe, there had been a power transfer. It was possible that it could have happened again. The Dark Lord was good at living inside of people. Perhaps it was only a matter of time before he could find a way to surface. "We still move on with our plans. If anything can get Potter here, along with the traitors, it'll be to keep that Mudblood and Malfoy as prisoners. Tonight, however, two of our brethren shall be returned to us. We must make haste in preparation." The old man signaled to his son. "You and Bella will have to hide below at all times. Our dungeons are undetectable. They will not know that you are here. I am sure some Aurors may come nosing about."

"Agreed," Terence said. "I wonder if Warrington will open his mouth."

"He will be silenced," the old man answered. He turned to look at Bella. The witch had an oddly happy expression on her face. Hell, she was even humming! He shook his head. "Go with Terence, Bella. I will let you know when it's time." She nodded and skipped down to the dungeons.

~~~~~~~~~~~~ SS ~~~~~~~~~~~~~ HG ~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Dumbledore stood sadly before the entire school in the Great Hall. "It saddens me to have to bear this bad news unto you." He paused to look at the student body. Minerva and Pomona were comforting a grief stricken Filius. "One of our own, from the House of Ravenclaw, has met a horrible fate today. Escaped Death Eater, Bellatrix Lestrange, attacked Luna Lovegood, known affectionately to some of us as Loony. I am afraid that she will not likely ever regain her mental capabilities or any of her magical abilities. She was the girlfriend to Ronald Weasley of Gryffindor, and a true friend to anyone in any House here at Hogwarts. Her father owns and edits The Quibbler. Any condolences may be sent to him there. Her mother died when she was only nine. There is no other close family."

He paused again as most students began sobbing and talking amongst themselves. Most of the Slytherins also seemed subdued. The staff was very solemn. One person in particular caught his attention. Marietta Edgecombe. She was standing near the back of the hall with an expression of horror on her face. She was only two years older than Luna, and she had been in the same House. Hopefully, this news would scare her into a confession.

"On another sad note, Percy Weasley was killed today as well. He was Head Boy here and a faithful prefect. Percy was employed at the Ministry of Magic. His siblings, Ronald and Ginevra, are still students here. Any condolences or donations can be owled to his father at the Ministry or their family home. Classes will not resume until next Thursday. Please use this time as a time of reflection and attempt to catch up on your studies. Any students wishing to attend the Weasley funeral will need permission slips from their parents. See your Head of House for more information." Dumbledore sat down, feeling older than he'd felt in years. Two young, brilliant minds had been lost this afternoon. More damage had been done to those close to them. It was a pitiful sight indeed.

~~~~~~~~~~~~ SS ~~~~~~~~~~~~~ HG ~~~~~~~~~~~~~

"Talk to me, Severus. What is it?" Hermione asked softly. She began massaging his tense shoulders. "I mean, I know we've had a horrible day, but there is something else, isn't there?"

He put his hands over hers to still her movements. "Lucius and I... We could have split up. One of us should have gone with the girls. We were both blinded by the need to protect our loved ones that we didn't worry on the others. Now, Miss Lovegood is as good as dead, and Percy Weasley is gone. Both acts were senseless."

"Ginny said that Luna never knew what hit her," Hermione said sadly. "They heard someone coming, and a stream of light knocked Luna off her feet. Bellatrix says she came up with it on her own."

Severus shook his head. "Bitch. She's always been off her broomstick, and to think that at one time, I actually... I was one of those people, Hermione. What are you doing with me?" He stood up to move away from her. She followed him and pulled him into an embrace.

"Not this again?" she teased. "I don't want to talk about that unless you need to talk about that. I've told you how I feel about it, and I thought you understood that I love you. Always. Past. Present. Future."

"You are my spring," he murmured.

"What?" she asked, creasing her brow.

"Nothing. Just something I thought about one day. Lucius will be here at any moment. Do you mind if we have a few minutes alone once he arrives?"

"I don't mind, but what are you hiding from me?" She could only imagine what the pair would cook up if left to their own devices. "I want to be involved in anything you decide to do, Severus. I don't want you going off to get hurt."

"Get hurt? Do you realize to whom you are speaking?" he asked indignantly.

"Yes. That's the problem. You just rush right in and don't care about the consequences." She hugged him tighter. This was her life, right here. Hogwarts and Severus.

"Rushing right in is more of the Golden Trio's style," Severus said cheekily. "Speaking of which, I know that Weasley isn't here tonight, but, perhaps, Harry would like to come down. He can't stay cooped up with Albus all night. You can do that once Lucius gets here. Bring Draco along as well."

Feeling dismissed, Hermione pouted a little. "What are you and Lucius planning, Severus? I have a right to know."

"I just want to be able to speak openly with Lucius. Where as you know my business, I don't think he will feel comfortable speaking freely about his in front of you. Understand now?"

Hermione nodded. It did make sense. "You're right. I'll go to try to fetch Harry and Draco then." She kissed his shoulder. "Be back later."

"Come here," he whispered, pulling her back to him. He kissed her long and hard before pulling away. "You don't have to go now. Lucius is not here yet." She smiled and allowed him to pull her down to the floor. "I need to hold you." Severus had the overpowering desire to suddenly show her how he felt. The need to protect her. To possess her. His hands cupped a breast through her blouse while his mouth claimed hers again.

"Severus, I'm ready to come throu... Good Lord, man!" Lucius' head had appeared in the fire. "I didn't expect to find you sprawled about on your floor."

Severus didn't rush his final kiss, slowly moving aside to let her up. "Hurry back," he said softly. She nodded and hurried out of the room before Lucius could come in from the grate. "Come on. Impeccable timing as always."

"Yes," the man said with a smirk after he entered. "Pity I didn't wait a little longer. I may have been able to get an eyeful."

"I would have blinded and Obliviated you," Severus said quietly. "Want a drink?"

"No, I am already well into my cups. After I leave tonight, I am going to seal my Floo back. I suggest you do the same, friend. We don't want Bella showing up whilst we are sleeping." Lucius smirked. "What do you think? Will the Aurors find anything at the Higgs Manor?"

Severus shook his head. "Highly unlikely. That is why it wouldn't be prudent for us to storm in. Not yet."

"Draco wants to go to the Weasley home tomorrow with Potter and Granger. I don't want to allow it, but how can I deny him? He seems to not care for his own safety," Lucius spat. "He should have been sorted into Hufflepuff!"

"Now, Lucius," Severus chided. "Draco is one of my best Slytherin students. Trust me. He's one of us by nature, not accident. If Hermione is to go to the Burrow, then I shall accompany her."

"That place is called the Burrow?" Lucius grinned evilly. "I had forgotten that."

"No snide remarks at a time like this, Lucius. Don't be petty. What do you want to do? Are you going to sit back for a while?" Severus had to ask. The man was likely going to try to sneak into Higgs' home.

"I say it's time to put my Invisibility Cloak to better use." He raised an eyebrow. "At the Ministry, in Fudge's office. He knows something. Percy Weasley was his right hand. There is sure to be some talk. I would say that they will be there tomorrow, what with the employee death and the intense search for Bella taking place."

"They are likely to have Dark Detectors up, Lucius. I wouldn't go there under that Invisibility Cloak. They might try to say that you were there because of Bella or Warrington," Severus urged. "Don't put yourself at risk. Kingsley, Tonks, and the others will let us know what is going on. What of your personal spy? Nothing?"

"Illness. Has missed two days of work, and he may well be on his way to St. Mungo's," Lucius admitted grudgingly. "I think someone was suspicious and tried to oust him."

Severus nodded. "It is possible. We will need to speak about security for the Weasley funeral. I'm sure it will be full, but I think we should be prepared, just in case."

"Yes, it would be like Bella to send a parting gift, the whore." Lucius sneered. "When I sat at St. Mungo's today, I looked at everyone. I really saw how hard people's families and friends are hit when something goes wrong. Severus, I did this to countless families. How can I now walk around like nothing is wrong?"

"That is what people see on the outside, Lucius, but if you are anything like me, and I know you are, well, then the inside is what wars with the guilt. It never stops lingering in your mind, but it does get easier," Severus said, thinking of Hermione's words.

"We're back," Hermione said, walking in with Harry and Draco. All three seemed to have been crying over the events that had happened. Severus sensed something else.

"What is it?" he asked Hermione. She shook her head sadly and nodded to Harry. "Harry? Care to enlighten me?"

"I've got a plan," the boy said, green eyes gleaming. "Remember your dream?"

"Yes," Severus said, feeling uncomfortable. Surely Harry wouldn't talk about that in front of the Malfoys.

"Today, like I mentioned before, Bellatrix thought I was her master. To test a theory, I cackled the way Voldemort used to. I told her she needed to be punished for daring to try to harm what was mine. She accepted that fate. Stood there waiting for my viper to attack." Harry smirked. "I say we use this to our advantage."

"How so?" Lucius asked, incredulously polished.

"I say the three of us go to Higgs Manor, and I demand to be obeyed," Harry said calmly. "You two can be my first two... associates."

"Absolutely not," Severus roared.

"Now hold on, Severus," Lucius said, moving to stand by Potter. He lifted the sleeve of his tailored shirt to eye the new mark. With a raised eyebrow, he looked to Severus. "It's crazy enough to work."

"Hang on! The three of you? Make that four," Draco said hotly.

"You have to stay here with Mione," Harry replied immediately.

"Well, I think Mione should come, too," Draco pushed.

"No," Harry roared. "Enough people that I love have been harmed today. You and Mione will stay behind."

"I don't want you to come either, son," Lucius said seriously. "I'm sure Severus would appreciate it if you stayed with his betrothed."

"Indeed," Severus said. "I still don't like this plan."

Harry smirked, looking years older than his seventeen years. "It will work. You didn't see her, and if she is running around with a bumbling idiot like Terence Higgs or that stupid Carlton Warrington, then she isn't as bright as we have given her credit for. They will be easy to manipulate."

"What do you suggest?" Severus asked, giving in.

"Well, it's about time you listen to reason," Lucius commented dryly.

"We are not children, you know," Hermione interjected hotly.

Severus shook his head firmly. "The discussion is closed. You have no Dark Mark, neither of you. We have to deal with our own kind."

"Right then," Harry said, interrupting the pending argument. "I say that tomorrow, we go to the Burrow. All of us. Only us three leave after a while. If anyone is spying or hears anything, they will believe us to be there. We get Albus to put Aurors about for protection. Meanwhile, we go to Higgs Manor. We search until we find what we are looking for. The old man will crack. We won't leave until we have something. No matter what."

"Jolly good," Lucius said. "Some action. Finally."

"Blood thirsty, are we?" Severus asked sourly.

"After today, I would see retaliation; debts are to be paid in full. It will stop all future reprisals, and it may help to clear our consciences." Lucius sat down and smiled cheekily. "Should we bow down before you, Potter?"

"Of course not," Harry said. "There is something you should know. I overheard two Aurors talking below. They have already searched the Higgs Manor. Only the old man and servants there. Nobody knew anything. They said that Higgs Senior put on a show of not believing his son was involved."

Severus shook his head in disgust. "And, that's it? They should have workers waiting to ambush them at first sight. They can't get away with this. Harry is right. The old man will know. We'll force him to talk."

"As I remember, Severus, you were a grand interrogator once. Were you not?" Lucius asked wryly.

"Undeniably."

"So," Harry continued, "I say tomorrow night we do it. Just go show, and do the job that the fucking Ministry should be doing for us. We can only depend on ourselves."

"Let's meet tomorrow. Here. Just after the noon meal?" Severus asked, looking between the two. Both nodded.

~~~~~~~~~~~~ SS ~~~~~~~~~~~~~ HG ~~~~~~~~~~~~~

"The Aurors have left. There is no trace of them anywhere near the property," the old man wheezed. "They are a stupid lot, I say. No idea that I have these dungeons, nor did they try to poke about too much."

"Good," Bella purred. "What of Fudge?"

"It's nearly time. Are you two ready?"

"Yes," Terence answered nervously.

"Always," Bella hissed. "We must get our master's followers back. It is a pity that only two more will join us this night. He will still be pleased."

"And, by tomorrow, we will have the Mudblood and young Malfoy. The traitors will try to save them, and we will hand them over to our Lord," Higgs Senior said with a fanatical smile.

"What if... what if Potter doesn't want them hurt. They are his friends," Terence said. What he had witnessed earlier had been replaying over and over in his mind.

"It's not Potter that we really care about. It's the greatest wizard of all time that lives within. He will not let Potter harm us. If anything, this will prove to him our allegiance," Bella said firmly. "He may allow me to live for my misguided attempt to end the Weasley girl's life."

"I did not misguide you," the old man defended.

"You know our Lord had a bond with her years ago. The diary. It seems he has allowed Potter to keep this attachment. We will not interfere or harm our master's own," Bella said fervently.

"We just need to get the others. Terence, you will need to owl your girl, and you be sure she is ready."

"Not a problem, father," the boy agreed. He led Bella towards the secret exit in the rear room of the dungeon. From there, they Apparated to the shadows of Azkaban prison. He felt the woman next to him shiver. "We'll be in and out." She nodded. They waited for the signal. A blue light flickered. Bella and Terence sprinted forward to meet Fudge and Umbridge.

"What is wrong with her?" Terence asked, eyeing the woman with Fudge.

"Imperius. If we get caught, it will be Dolores that takes the fall. It's her pass that we are using to get access," Fudge said. "Come on."

They slipped into a backdoor. The lights had already been dimmed. There were only a few flickering candles now. Bellatrix was glad that the days of the dementors were gone. They would have made this much more difficult. "Here," the other woman mumbled, placing her wand against the lock on the door. In a series of taps and one palm verification later, the door opened.

"Rabastan?" Bella called. "Are you here, my husband's brother?"

"Here," a weak voice called. "Is that you, Bella?"

"Yes, no time to talk for now. Terence, get him." The boy moved forward to get the man while they followed Umbridge and Fudge to the next door. The same thing happened this time.

Antonin was not as weak as his mate. He walked out on his own steam. "What took so long?" he asked with a wicked smirk.

"Later. We must go," Bella said. The group began making a hasty retreat back through the door they had come in.

Fudge seemed near panic suddenly. "Where is Dolores' clearance pass? We must search for it."

"Find it on your own," Bella said scornfully. "We have to get out of here. Terence?"

"Ready," the boy said, holding onto Rabastan. Bella held Antonin. The four Disapparated away, leaving Fudge and Umbridge behind.

Fudge had already had a horrible day, losing Weasley for nothing. Then, having to use an Imperius on Dolores had been horrible. She'd wanted no part in tonight's breakouts. He had had to Obliviate her first. She'd been so eager to help with Bella's release, but he knew that was only because she'd thought the woman would be killed. "Fuck it," he muttered, hearing voices being raised inside. He Apparated them back to his flat where they could begin a night of passion. They would each have an alibi. Dolores would think they'd been at his home the entire time, and she would swear to it even under Veritaserum.

~~~~~~~~~~~~ SS ~~~~~~~~~~~~~ HG ~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Stuart may be a Muggles Studies Professor, but that didn't mean that he hadn't any tricks up his sleeve. He was very good with Disillusionment Charms. His enchantments could last for an hour without fading or needing renewal. He and Rolanda had made a decision to keep an eye on Marietta. So far, the tart had remained in her quarters since Dumbledore's announcement about the Weasley death and the Lovegood tragedy. For some reason, she seemed troubled by it.

He understood that she had been in the same House with the young girl, but she should have thought about something like that before she became involved with a wizard like Higgs. Stuart had been appalled to find out everything that had been going on. He'd sent his apologies to Hermione through her brooding lover, but he only hoped that one day she could forgive him. He'd thought he was helping her. Honestly.

Sighing, he flexed the fingers that had gone numb. A small owl fluttered by before squawking at Marietta's door. The door was nearly immediately flung open. Stuart realized that she must have been waiting for news from her lover. Whore. It appeared that she had many lovers. Him. Higgs. Nearly the younger Malfoy. No telling what other wizards. He watched as the girl read the note before gasping.

"I'll do it," she told the owl. "Go on." The last thing Stuart saw before her door closed was the parchment being tossed into the fire. Damn! He'd not be able to sneak in a read now. He simply slid down the wall to wait for Rolanda to come and relieve him.

~~~~~~~~~~~~ SS ~~~~~~~~~~~~~ HG ~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Severus looked at the sleeping woman beside him. He loved her. He knew that. He would die before allowing harm to come to her. For this reason, he'd stayed up most of the night after she'd fallen asleep, finally. They'd had a slight row. She felt that he didn't have faith in her abilities to stand and fight with them by leaving her behind with Draco and the others. He explained that he had confidence in her, but all the same, he wanted to know she was safe at Hogwarts. She had finally relented, realizing that if he had to worry about her on top of the others he might endanger himself.

He had three parchments that he'd written on while she slept. One was a letter to her, one was a letter to Harry, and the last had been a letter to Albus, holding instructions on what to do with his possessions. Most of everything would go to Hermione while a few things would go to Harry and Draco. Hopefully, those parchments would never have to see the light of day again for a long time. It wasn't that he feared to be killed in some duel with Bella or one of the Higgs men, but something just didn't feel right. Severus hated that she had fallen asleep upset.

Rolling her sleeping form onto her back tenderly, he allowed his hand to glide down her nearly naked body. Just in case things didn't work out for the best, he wanted to have her one last time. His wand soundlessly removed all of her clothing, and Severus positioned himself between her parted legs. He decided to kiss her awake. Parting the flesh between her thighs gently with his fingers, his tongue tasted her tentatively. The scent and taste of Hermione would always be embedded in his soul. No other would be so right for him. Inserting one finger to work her feminine juices, he moved his tongue to her nub and began to lap slowly. He felt her shift beneath him, so he reached up one hand to help hold her down while lazily toying with an exposed nipple.

It hardened instantly under his touch. So responsive. Even in a dead sleep. Her head moved to the side as a small whimper escaped her partially parted lips. The finger exploring her body was now silken with bodily moisture. He added a second finger, and his tongue flicked harder and faster against her. Hermione's legs tensed, and her eyes finally opened. "Oh," she gasped, realizing what was happening. "Severus..." She moaned, bringing her hands to his hair. A few moments later, she was panting excitedly. "Please, don't stop."

Her orgasm hit, and she moved wildly beneath him, grinding herself into his fingers and face. After she began slowing down, he moved to plunge into her. With one loud groan, he was completely sheathed within her. Her legs came up around him, and her arms wrapped around him tightly. He set his own rapid, jabbing pace to bring him to his climax. Surprisingly, she had brought her own hand between them to allow herself to more easily join him in his ecstasy. Slowing his pumps to a near stop, he pressed his sweat-drenched brow to hers. Their eyes locked. "I'll never stop," he whispered. He kissed her deeply before moving to Scourgify their bodies and the sheet.

Snuggling closer to him, she asked, "And what did I do to deserve such a sweet awakening?" Hermione placed a small kiss on his bare chest.

"I had the need. You seemed so... beautiful. The feeling just overcame me. I felt as if I had to have you," he admitted.

"Well, trust me. I loved it. Any time you want to wake me up that way, you will be most welcome," she said softly. Severus pulled her close and finally drifted off into a restful sleep.

~~~~~~~~~~~~ SS ~~~~~~~~~~~~~ HG ~~~~~~~~~~~~~

"Most of the castle is still asleep, Ron. We'll be able to talk in private. It's just Draco here with me. Mione is down below in Severus' rooms," Harry said, trying to coax his friend to visit.

"All right, mate," Ron said glumly, stepping through the grate. Dumbledore had opened up Hermione's Floo to the Weasleys' Floo. Ron went to sit in his chair. Harry and Draco sat at his feet, not talking. "It's my fault, you know," Ron said finally.

"How so, mate?" Draco asked softly.

"I asked her to go with Ginny to meet with Percy. I never really thought Percy and Ginny would have trouble, I just felt better for Luna to be with her," Ron said, wiping a tear away. "I sent her to her... fate."

Harry shook his head. "No, Ron. Luna loved Ginny like a sister-in-law. She wanted to go. Be glad that you had the time with her that you've had. I'll try to talk to Bella. I'll find out what she did. There may be a cure."

"Going to bring Percy back as well, Harry? You that powerful yet?" Ron asked acidly.

"I wish I could, Ron. That's my fault. If I had noticed the severity of his wound, maybe I would have thought to Apparate him in time," Harry said.

"Bollocks!" Draco said. "This is not your fault, Harry. Nor yours, Ron. It's life, I'm afraid, and the ones that are truly responsible, will pay." Ron nodded, wiping more tears away.

"I love her." His voice was broken. "She didn't care that I was poor, so long as I didn't care that she was weird," Ron said with a sad smile. He pulled her necklace from his pocket. "Lost one butterbeer cap back in Hogsmeade."

"She... didn't suffer," Harry offered.

"I know, mate. I just had plans. We loved each other. She was my first lover, and she should have been my last," Ron said sadly. "I would have worked really hard to give her a home that we could have been proud of."

Draco moved to sit on the arm of Ron's chair, clapping him on the back. "You can still have those things, Ron. I'll donate money in a fund for research if Harry can't find out anything. Smart people like Granger and Snape can work on it. Things will be fine."

Ron nodded. "Sure, but what of her magic? They say she is nothing more than a Squib as it is right now. Would she want to come back to that?"

"Would you take her back like that?" Harry asked.

"Damn right," he said fiercely.

"Then, she would want to come back," Harry said. "We'll do what we can."

"If... if nothing can be done, I will never be with another girl again. That was the one." Ron nodded and leaned back to cry silently. Harry shrugged at Draco's lost expression. Draco leaned back and hugged Ron awkwardly.

"Er... We're here for you, Ron. I know that doesn't mean a whole lot right now, but it's true," he said.

"Family, Harry, Mione, and you... all I've got now. I appreciate it," Ron said through dry sobs. "One day at a time my Mum said. First, we deal with Percy. Then, we try to support Luna. We'll get counseling for Ginny and me. Whatever it takes."

The fireplace roared to life. Hermione came through. "Oh, thank the Lord! Have you seen the paper?"

"No," the three boys said in unison.

"There has been a break out from Azkaban. The two remaining Death Eaters: Lestrange and Dolohov! They're gone!" Hermione's voice was a shrill screech. "And, worst, Warrington was being checked at St. Mungo's overnight. They were to question him today, but he smothered in his sleep last night. Murder is suspected."

"Bloody hell," Ron said. "Those blokes are out. Something is being planned. Someone didn't want that Warrington bastard to talk. I wish that they had let me at him."

"I wonder who killed him?" Draco asked. "We need to talk to my father!"

"Severus just got an owl from him. Instead of waiting for lunch, he wants Severus to go over now. He feels that other plans should be made since they'vewith their escaped. He is leaving in a moment," Hermione said uneasily. "Something is going on. I don't like it."

"I think I'm going to be sick," Ron said, looking green.

"We'll take you home," Harry offered. "I want to see Ginny anyway. Just for a moment."

"We can't," Hermione complained. "I promised Severus that we'd not leave the grounds. We're to wait here for his return."

"Damn," Draco said scornfully.

"Well, I'll go and be back before anyone notices," Harry said. "Dumbledore won't mind if I'm helping Ron anyway. You two go down to breakfast. If you're not still there when I am finished, I'll come to find you here. All right?"

"Fair enough," Hermione said, moving to hug Ron. "Ron, I am here for you if you need me. Please, don't forget that."

"Thanks, Mione. We'll talk more later. You are coming tonight, right?" he asked hopefully. She nodded and kissed his cheek. "Good."

After both Ron and Harry disappeared through the Floo, she turned to Draco. "Want to go have a spot of breakfast?"

"I'm not exactly hungry. It's a bit early still," he said sourly. "I hate this waiting around."

"We still need to try. I know. Why don't we just grab a stack of toast then? We can go out by the lake to eat and talk. Severus won't mind if we go there. It's not leaving the grounds, after all," she said.

"Always witty, aren't you?" he asked cheekily. "Come on." He pulled her out towards the Great Hall. The pair each took a stack of toast and a goblet of juice. They ate their breakfast in companionable silence out near the lake. Suddenly, Draco's brow furrowed.

"You hear something, Mione?" he asked cautiously. She looked around.

"No," she said. "What is it?"

"It seems like we should move into the forest. Just there," he said, pointing to the nearby tree line. "Bloody hell. I'm under the Imperius. Do you see Marietta? Try not to look around too much."

"There is nobody out here, Draco. She must be hiding," Hermione said, uneasily. "We can't just go into the forest either. Severus isn't here. Neither is Harry. There is no way to warn anyone. What should we do?"

"Let's act like I am trying to pull you to the forest, and you don't want to go. Let's stage a fight," he said. "Starting now. Bloody hell."

"What?" Hermione was completely alarmed now.

"It's hard to fight. There are two voices. Someone else is here, calling me closer. Calling us closer," he said softly. "Come on. Let's stage it quickly."

"All right," she said softly. Then, loudly, "I don't want to go for a walk in the ruddy forest, Draco. It's too cold, and I haven't my boots!"

"Oh, come on! You don't need boots! We won't be long," he said, pulling her towards the forest. She struggled convincingly before he allowed her to slip away from his grasp. He staged a fall as he ran after her.

"Wait, Mione!"

Just as Hermione took a few steps, a jolt of red light made its way towards her. She plopped down with a yelp. "Someone is trying to hex us!" Marietta came into view, brandishing her wand.

They watched her walk up. "Forgot my gift, Draco?" she asked saucily.

"Of course not," he said. "We're supposed to meet after lunch."

"Plans have changed. Let's all have a walk. Just there," she said angrily. "Get up, Mudblood."

"Oh, shove off, you dirty sneak!" Hermione squealed, pushing herself up.

"Stupefy," Marietta said suddenly. Hermione fell into the snow.

"What are you doing, Marietta," Draco asked nervously. "She'll tell Snape!"

"She won't," the other girl said. "Nor will you." She hovered Hermione above the ground. "Come along quietly. Someone would like a word." He watched as she took Hermione's wand. He slowly eased his from his pocket. Just as he was about to hex the girl, someone disarmed him. Someone hiding just in the brush of the forest. Marietta laughed.

Suddenly, Professor Steward materialized in front of them. He disarmed Marietta and revived Hermione. Draco yelled, "There are others. Look out."

Four shapes were quickly emerging from the forest. Draco's insides went cold. His father's old associates and Terence Higgs. This was it. They had come for him. No plan that they'd made included this.

"Run," Steward yelled, trying to put himself between them and those after them. Flurries of curses were chanted. Marietta fell down, then Steward, and finally, Draco and Hermione.

~~~~~~~~~~~~ SS ~~~~~~~~~~~~~ HG ~~~~~~~~~~~~~

"Calm down, Harry," Dumbledore said. "I have to owl Severus. Lucius' Floo has been disconnected from the Network. Madame Edgecombe's doing, over at the Ministry, no doubt."

"I can find them. Just give me leave to go," Harry said. He ran his hands through his hair angrily. "Fuck, Headmaster! I was only gone for ten bloody minutes! Ten!"

The candles in the office began to flicker, and Albus said, "Harry! Calm yourself." Fawkes burst into a Phoenix song. Harry simply nodded, looking dejected.

Rolanda burst in, closely followed by Minerva. "Stuart and Marietta both live. The Aurors are back. They want to talk to us now. I told them we would go to them in the Infirmary."

Minerva pulled Harry to her for a hug. "Harry, I am so sorry. We realized at the last moment that they had gone out."

"I will meet you at the Infirmary," Harry said suddenly. He saw Dumbledore scrutinizing his defiant expression. "I want to send Hedwig to Ron. I need to clear my mind."

"Very well," Minerva said, pulling Albus towards the door.

"Harry," the headmaster began, "you need to wait for Severus and Lucius."

"Don't worry. I won't go anyplace they can't come to," Harry said honestly. He wouldn't explain what he meant, and he was thankful that the women were trying to get the headmaster to meet with the Aurors.

Harry knew how to find Hermione, thanks to his brilliant foresight. He hadn't the time to wait for Severus or Lucius. Someone had tampered with his Floo at Malfoy Manor personally. Someone had arranged for Severus to be away. Harry knew how to call them to him... after he found his friends. "So it begins," Harry said furiously as he made his way for his dormitory.

---

Southern's Notes: Who else besides Harry would just charge off without waiting for others? Bella and company are just nuts, I say! The berks! Hope you enjoyed. Character deaths are always hard for me to write. I always hate to disappoint the readers! Ah, well... it needed to be done.

Also, if any of you have live journal, I've just started messing with mine. Add me if you'd like.

http://www.livejournal.com/users/southernwitch69/