The Legend of the Serpent's Tongue

Legend of the Serpent's Tongue

Chapter 27

Till Death Do Us Part

Dumbledore looked from Tiberius to Harry as he rubbed the young witch's back in an attempt to calm her. She was shaking and crying, clinging to the old man in a desperate attempt to regain some semblance of control. He calmly projected a feeling of tranquility through his hands while she leaned into his embrace.

Meanwhile, Tiberius had steeled himself outwardly but Harry could sense that inside he was in a state of turmoil and fear. Her Occlumency training and Empathic senses made her realize that Tiberius was closing his mind to shut down his emotions. His face became a cool mask of detachment. When he spoke, it was with a voice of complete impassivity.

"Headmaster, we need to send help to Hogsmeade. Something has happened to my niece and nephew. I heard Circe call out to me with her telepathy for help."

"Voldemort...they were...attacked," Harry stuttered.

"Are you certain?" Dumbledore questioned as he activated his Phoenix amulet to summon the Order members.

"Yes!" The two exclaimed in unison.

"Voldemort...he...killed...Hermione's parents," Harry panted anxiously.

"All members of the Order are to apparate to the village of Hogsmeade immediately!" Dumbledore commanded through the medallion glowing around his neck. "This is an emergency!"

Even as he spoke the words, Harry had pulled herself together. Moving to open the window in his office, she transformed, flying out the window with Fawkes behind her. She saw Draco, carrying Ginny, running towards the castle. Fawkes dived down to help the injured girl while Harry flew towards the village. Remus, Sirius, Tiberius and Dumbledore were running to the castle gates to apparate. She landed in the village, transforming by the joke shop, just as they appeared in front of her in the street. A scene of devestation met Harry.

Fred was kneeling in front of his twin brother, rocking him in his arms, crying. Harry ran over to them. 'Please don't let George be dead too,' she thought, stepping past the still form of Charlie Weasley. Crouching down beside the distraught twin, she could see that George was injured but still breathing. She became aware of other members of the Order around her and a group of Aurors. Kingsley Shaklebolt gently eased George from his brother.

"We need to get him to St. Mungo's now!" he ordered.

Two Aurors that Harry didn't know immediately conjured a stretcher and apparated George to the hospital as Arthur and Molly appeared. Harry saw Molly look around and she began to scream, running to her dead son. She picked him up in her arms.

"My baby...oh Charlie...why?" she sobbed.

"He saved us Mum. He...he...took a...fire bolt meant...for me and...George," Fred cried. Arthur gently eased Molly to her feet, a look of pain and resignation marking his face.

Harry knew in that moment that this would have to end. She stood up slowly and faced her surrogate mother. She was aware of the others around her. Sirius was gently covering the still form of his cousin Tonks, placing her body on a stretcher. James and Lily were there with Remus, who placed a comforting hand on Sirius' shoulder. Dumbledore was tending to the bodies of Mr. and Mrs. Granger.

"This is my fault," Harry whispered, "I wasn't here to help them." Harry looked Molly directly in her eyes.

"No, Harry, you are not to blame," Molly replied. "Where are the others?"

"Ginny was hurt Mum, but she and Draco were able to apparate to the castle," Fred explained.

"Fawkes met them at the gates and was healing Ginny's wounds." Dumbledore's quiet voice explained comfortingly.

"He has taken all the others hostage. Voldemort has given me twenty-four hours to come to him or he plans to kill them all. He also knows about Tiberius and Justinian, but I don't know how. He wants me to bring my parents and the two of you with me," Harry said nodding towards Circe's husband and uncle. "He is sending a Portkey."

"How do you know this, Harry?" James asked soberly.

"When I was asleep in Dumbledore's office my mind wasn't occluded. I saw the whole battle through the Dark Lord's eyes. I couldn't get out before he became aware of my presence. He told me." Harry's eyes slid from one face to the other. Dumbledore's blue eyes were filled with anger at the Dark Lord. Molly, Arthur, and Fred's showed grief and worry. Tiberius's face was still masked but his blue eyes were cold with the same fury as the Headmaster's. Justinian looked as if he wanted to kill. Sirius and Remus eyes were wide with disbelief and she could sense they were going to try to argue with her. Harry shook her head at them negatively. Arsinoe was in the background just staring at Harry. Finally, she looked at James and Lily. Her mother's vibrant eyes were wet with unshed tears. Her father's soft hazel eyes had a mixture of pride and love. No words passed between them. None were necessary. It was almost time. Dumbledore quietly flicked his wand and the spell disguising their features was removed. For the first time since their arrival, Harry looked upon her parents in their true forms. No one spoke. Harry finally broke the silence. Straightening her shoulders, she lifted her chin proudly and addressed the group.

"One way or another this war will end by tomorrow but I will promise you all one thing. Whether I see another sunrise or not you can all bet that if I die I will take the son of a bitch out with me." Harry glanced at Arsinoe, sensing what was going through her mind. "I may not be able to do that transformation but I know the spell. It will have to be enough." Arsinoe nodded her understanding. Harry then addressed the Weasley's. "Molly, Arthur, get hold of Bill. I understand he is on assignment right now for the Order but he will want to be with you at St. Mungo's. I will check on Ginny when I get back to the castle. Fred, you go with them. I think George needs his other half right now," she smiled sadly. "I'll see that Ron comes home with Hermione."

"You make sure you get back too," she whispered giving Harry a hug. "I happen to know your parents would rather you stay here with us for now." Harry could see her parents nodding in affirmation.

"What will be, will be," Harry answered philosophically. "Tiberius, Headmaster, we need to plan. I will meet you back at Hogwarts." Harry didn't wait for an answer. She simply raised her wand and apparated.

As soon as she was gone, Dumbledore addressed the group standing around him.

"There will be a meeting in my office in one hour. Molly, I don't expect you to be there," he offered kindly, "but if you could spare Arthur and Bill I would appreciate their presence."

"Albus, I lost two brothers and two sons now to that monster. Another is lying in hospital near death. Anything we can do to be of service will be done," she stated grimly, some of the fire coming back into her eyes.

"Thank you, Molly."

Molly nodded in acceptance.

"Albus, I'm going to escort Molly and Fred to St. Mungo's. I will meet you shortly at Hogwarts."

"Of course, Arthur, and may I offer my sincere condolences? Charlie was a fine young man and an asset to our world. He will be sorely missed by us all." Dumbledore's blue eyes reflected his sadness.

"Thank you, Albus. Now, if you will excuse us we need to get to the hospital. I will return within the hour." Arthur Weasley gathered his wife and son, and disapparated...

As soon as Harry arrived back at Hogwarts, she headed directly to the infirmary to check on Ginny. Draco met her at the door and Harry could see Madam Pomfrey still working on her friend.

"How is she?"

"Madam Pomfrey says she'll pull through, Potter. She told us if it weren't for the Headmaster's phoenix Ginny would have bled to death before we reached the infirmary." The young wizard was clearly upset. "How about her brothers, she keeps asking if they have gotten back yet."

"Charlie was killed and George was seriously injured. His parents have taken him to St. Mungo's," Harry whispered.

"What about the Weasel? He is my partner, you know," Draco demanded but he was unable to disguise his concern.

"Draco," Harry began slowly," Ron and Hermione were taken captive. So were Severus and his family."

"Shit!" Draco swore under his breath to keep Ginny from hearing. "Do you have any idea what the Dark Lord will do to them?" Dismayed, Draco ran his fingers through his long blond hair. Harry could see the horror reflected in his gray eyes. "He took Phaedra, too?"

"All three, but I don't believe he will harm them just yet. He is holding them for ransom."

"He wants you, doesn't he Potter?" Draco guessed shrewdly.

"Among others; he is sending a portkey in twenty-four hours. If I don't come with my parents, Tiberius, and Circe's husband, Justinian, they will all be killed."

"How do you know he hasn't killed them already, especially Granger?"

"He wants me to suffer, that's why. It would please him to make me watch while he tortures them to death," Harry spat, anger twisting her stomach, the taste of bile in her mouth.

"So what are you going to do? As members of the Order they knew the risks and were prepared to face them."

"Phaedra is not a member of the Order and you know what he will do with her!"

"He'll use her in one of his Revels and make my godfather and his sister watch," Draco stated glumly. He was clearly sickened at the thought.

"Exactly, I have to get them out of there! I just wish I knew where he's holding them."

"It could be any number of places." Draco frowned. "He usually only lets his inner circle know where to go when he calls and even then they are not always aware of his hiding places until after they have arrived at his summons."

"I know," Harry answered soberly.

Any further conversation was cut short as Madam Pomfrey stepped in their direction.

"Mr. Malfoy, Miss Potter, you may speak with Miss Weasley now. She keeps asking if there is any information about her brothers." The nurse could tell from their expressions that the news was not good and nodded her understanding.

Harry and Draco moved quietly over to the bed where Ginny was resting. She was pale and her abdomen was swathed in bandages, evidenced by a bulky mound beneath the blankets. She appeared tired and anxious.

"Harry, how are my brothers," she asked nervously. "Are they all right?"

"Ginny," Harry began slowly, taking the younger girl's hand. "Ron and Mione have been taken captive along with the Snapes."

"What about the twins and Charlie?" she gasped.

"Fred's fine but George has been taken to St. Mungo's," Harry told her softly a lump forming in her throat. Ginny swallowed hard looking from Harry to Draco.

"Charlie...he...he didn't...make it, did he?"

"I'm sorry, Gin, no. He was killed trying to protect the twins." A lone tear escaped from Harry's eye, sliding down her cheek.

Ginny sobbed softly reaching out for Draco. He wrapped his arms around her shoulders as she wept softly into his shoulder. He stroked her red hair allowing her time to adjust to her grief. Harry stood by feeling helpless and guilty. When her tears had finally been spent, Ginny looked up at Harry from the comfort of her boyfriend's arms.

"It's not your fault, Harry. Please don't feel guilty," Ginny squeezed Harry's hand in understanding. Harry hadn't realized she had still been holding it.

"I can't help it, Gin, if I had been there..."

"If you had been there, Potter, you probably would have been taken captive also," Draco interrupted before Harry could berate herself further. "Has Dumbledore got any idea of what he is going to do?"

"There will be an emergency meeting of the Order within the hour in his office. Ginny your dad and Bill will be here too and I'm sure they will want to speak with you when they get here. Fred and your mum are staying at St. Mungo's with George."

"I don't suppose there is any chance of me..."

"No, you can't come to the meeting. You know the rules. You're still in school and can't join the Order until you've finished," Harry admonished with the trace of a smile. "I promise to tell you whatever I can though. I think you have a right to know some of it at least."

"Thanks, Harry," Ginny replied laying back into the pillow and closing her eyes. Despite her bravado, Harry and Draco could tell she was in physical pain as well as attempting to deal with the loss of her brother.

"Miss Weasley needs to get some rest now," Madam Pomfrey stated approaching the bedside with a small vial of blue potion. Harry recognized it from her training as a potent painkiller. "You can both come back later on. She's had a terrible emotional shock in addition to the seriousness of her injury."

"I would prefer to stay for awhile," Draco remarked cockily. "I promise not to excite her," he added under the matron's glare.

"Very well, you may sit with her until her family arrives, Mr. Malfoy, but I expect you to let her rest. She's had more than enough for one day."

"Yes, Ma'am," Draco said giving the nurse his most charming smile.

"I will see you later, Gin," Harry told her. Leaning over she gave her friend a quick peck on the cheek. "For what it's worth you did good today."

"Thanks, Harry, but it wasn't good enough."

Harry knew that she was not referring to her injury. Ginny was thinking about her brothers. Harry left the infirmary with a heavy heart, brow creased into a thoughtful frown. She needed to plan. Like it or not she would be facing Voldemort again within a few hours and she needed to be prepared...

Voldemort was sitting on his high back chair smiling down at his followers. Potter had decimated their ranks but now he finally held the upper hand. The tide had turned in his favor.

"Today marks the beginning of our victory over Dumbledore and his Order. In a few hours, Potter will be destroyed and we shall begin cleansing our race of those who would pollute our blood and seek to destroy us. The Muggles will become our slaves to amuse us at our pleasure!" He waved his hands amid cheers from the gathering. "We must prepare now to fully insure our final victory." Voldemort's burning eyes slid over the group in front of him. "You have been given your orders. Those of you who are not of the inner circle are to go now and await my final order to attack both the Ministry of Magic and the Muggle Parliament. Once Potter is dead we shall enforce our will upon those who have for so long contaminated this earth with their vile existence." The two hundred or so Deatheaters filed from the room without a word. The few who remained waited patiently for their leader to speak. "Lucius, have our guests been made comfortable for the evening?"

"Yes, My Lord. They have been secured in the cells you had me install in the basement. Their wands have been confiscated."

"Good. I shall enjoy watching Potter bargain fruitlessly for their lives."

"What of Dumbledore, My Lord?" Lucius asked brazenly.

"Dumbledore is an old fool! He grows weak with age and will not be able to withstand my assault for long. He can no longer protect Potter. It will be my pleasure to duel with him one final time to bring him to his knees."

"Is that wise, My Lord?" Nott asked from where he knelt within the circle.

"I was not aware I had spoken to you?"

My Lord, forgive me, but I am merely your servant. I did not mean to question your judgment," Nott gulped nervously.

"See that you never do so. It is unwise to interrupt me, Nott. Crucio!" Voldemort pointed his wand so fast the Deatheater didn't see it coming. He held the curse for a full two minutes while the man screamed in agony on the floor. "That should be a reminder to you all!" The Dark Lord glared at his minions. "Lucius, stay here. The rest of you go and secure the wards around the building." Voldemort waited until he was alone with Lucius. "Did you revive all the prisoners?"

"No, My Lord, I thought you would prefer to revive Severus yourself. The others are awake."

"Excellent," his thin lips twisted in a grimace of pleasure. "I shall enjoy playing with Severus and watching the Weasley boy while I torture his little Mudblood to secure the information I require."

"My Lord, may I make a request?"

"A request, Lucius? You intrigue me. I see a hint of desire in your mind."

"I would like to see to Draco's punishment."

"Hmm...Draco...yes. I did not include him in my little list to Potter. Perhaps that should be rectified. I see that you would dearly love a bit of sport with the youth," Voldemort remarked probing Lucius mind. "Are you certain there is no way he would be willing to join us?"

"No, My Lord, he fancy's the Weasley girl. He is nothing more than a weakling. He finds us revolting. I no longer consider Draco my son. He is as much a blood traitor as Severus."

"I shall send a message with the Portkey. He will be your reward for your faithful service to me and a warning to the others as well."

"Thank you, My Lord. The boy has been such a disappointment to me. At least I can enjoy killing him." Lucius laughed maliciously, gray eyes flashing with anticipation at the pain he planned to inflict on his son.

"Come, Lucius, let us go and see to our guests. I really ought to welcome them personally." Voldemort rose from his chair, red eyes gleaming. He swept from the room with Lucius following in his wake...

Harry went to her room to freshen up and think before the meeting of the Order. She needed to prepare for her confrontation with Voldemort. She was not afraid for herself. She was worried for her friends and Protectors. The next few days should have been happy ones; instead, they were turning into a nightmare of deaths and funerals. She prayed in her heart that there would be no more. Unfortunately, she knew this would not be the case. When she entered her sitting room, she was surprised to see a package with a note attached sitting unopened on her desk. Moody's words immediately came to mind, 'Constant Vigilance!' Harry heeded his advice. Drawing her wand, she approached the package, muttering a few spells. Satisfied that there were no traps, she walked over and immediately recognized Hermione's handwriting on the envelope. Tearing it open, she read the brief missive.

Dear Harry,

I will be out for the morning with Ron but want you to know that I miss you and have a surprise for when I return this afternoon. In the meantime, here are the books on Wizarding Law that you requested. I had them delivered to me since no one would be suspicious as I am always reading something anyway. I took the liberty of having Dobby put them up in your room along with this note before I left. See you later.

Love,

Hermione

"Oh, Mione," she whispered sadly to herself, "if only you had spoken to me before you left about the wedding. You might be safe at Hogwarts right now and your parents would still be alive. It's all my fault for being such a prat these last few weeks."

Shaking her head, Harry refused to give in to the depression that was threatening to overtake her. She would do everything in her power to get the captives back safely. Now was not the time to break down. She picked up the package tearing the wrapping from the two books. Giving up on the idea of a shower, she sat down to read the laws regarding the Protectorship. It didn't take her long to find what she had been looking for.

"Why that conniving old stinker," Harry mused aloud, "now I know why he was always asking me those questions about how I felt. It's no wonder Sirius gave him a hard time about this. I can't wait to see Hermione's face," Harry snorted. "She will certainly have something to say about this! I wonder if Ron knows. Better yet, what in the hell am I going to do? I should have been told everything from the very beginning. It's just like Dumbledore to withhold a critical piece of information. No wonder this had to be approved by the Board of Governors."

Slamming the books shut, Harry glanced at her watch. It was almost time for the meeting of the Order. Quickly changing her robes, Harry headed up the hall towards the Headmaster's office. Her mood kept fluctuating between annoyance with Dumbledore, amusement over what Hermione would think, and dread for the safety of her loved ones...

Ginny Weasley had been resting quietly, eyes half shut, following the visit from her father and brother. Draco had excused himself when they had arrived in order to give her some quiet time with her family and get ready for the meeting of the Order. Her father and brother had been glad of the time to be alone with her. While their stay had not been long, both men had in turn reassured her that George was indeed alive, but in serious condition. She then told them what had happened in the village, recounting how they had been taken completely by surprise in the middle of the afternoon. No one seemed to know how Voldemort knew the group would be there. Tonks and Draco had just finished a second sweep of the village when the Deatheaters arrived. Her brother Bill explained that the Order was investigating and it was possible one of the shopkeepers had been an informant but no one was sure at the moment. Before they left, her father and brother promised to come back after the meeting. They would let her know if there was any further news about George.

Now that she was alone, Ginny was forming a plan in her mind. She would not just sit here while her friends and family were in danger. She knew what she had to do and it started with being present at the Meeting of the Order of the Phoenix. Madam Pomfrey had just given her a sleeping draught, but had been distracted when a second year came in complaining of stomach pains. She didn't see when Ginny quickly poured the vile out beneath her pillow and pretended to fall asleep. As soon as the nurse had finished with the student, she checked on Ginny, and left the infirmary to go to the Headmaster's office. Ginny smiled triumphantly. Ignoring the twinge of pain in her side, she slipped out of bed, took her wand form the night table securing it in her pajamas and padded to the door...

Voldemort entered the basement prison of his headquarters, Lucius Malfoy following on his heels. The Dark Lord kept to the shadows as he slid his snake like eyes over the group of people within the cells.

The Weasley boy was sitting on the floor with his arms encircling the Mudblood. Her head was resting on his shoulder, eyes staring vacantly, as tears slid down her cheeks. She was obviously in shock over the death of her Muggle parents. Voldemort smirked with pleasure.

Circe Snape was in the next cell with her young daughter. Both appeared to be aware of the Dark Lord's presence, glaring into the shadows, which concealed him. The child snuggled closer to her mother, yet she bore a look of defiance on her features, which would have made her uncles proud. Voldemort was amused by her attitude despite the unmistakable look of fear in her eyes.

Severus was in the next cell. Unlike the others, he had been chained to the wall. The silent black robed figures directed their attention towards this cell. The eyes of the other prisoners followed their every movement. Voldemort studied the unconscious man before addressing his sister.

"Tell me, Circe, what form of punishment do you feel your brother deserves?" He cast a cold hard stare in her direction.

"You are the one who will be punished, Lord Voldemort," Circe answered coldly.

"I think not. In a few hours, the war will be over and you and all your family will be dead along with the Potters. First though I want to make sure Severus is punished slowly before I kill him."

"YOU LEAVE MY UNCLE SEV ALONE!" Phaedra screamed looking up from her mother's arms.

"Ha Ha Ha," Voldemort cackled. "The child has spirit." He turned to study Phaedra closely. His red eyes ran the length of her body, drinking in every feature. Phaedra squirmed under his intense stare. He made her feel unclean. Voldemort gave her another twisted smile. "The insolence of the Snapes is one of the things that has always annoyed me, rather like a mosquito buzzing incessantly in one's ear. You know it is there, yet you must allow it to exist until the right time."

"My Lord, would you like me to teach this obnoxious child a lesson in manners?" Lucius asked.

"Later, Lucius, I rather admire her foolish bravery and her loyalty is to be commended. If she weren't a half-blood I might even have considered keeping her with us and training her in the Dark Arts."

"You're sick, you filthy snake," Ron commented from his cell.

"Ah...the Gryffindor has finally found the courage to speak." Voldemort glared in his direction. "I would mind my manners, boy. I do not take lightly to being interrupted." Voldemort's eyes fell on Hermione. He set his thin lips into a line and pointed his wand. "Crucio!" Hermione screamed in agony.

"Let her go!" Ron bellowed, holding onto her tightly. "What has she ever done to you?"

"Oh...she failed to deliver Potter and attempted to resist my Imperius curse. It wasn't a wise move on her part. Of course I would have killed her anyway," Voldemort replied with another flick of his wand canceling the curse. "She is also an aberration of nature, Muggles producing magical children..."

"Too bad you weren't born a Squib," Ron snapped, ears red with anger, as he tried to comfort Hermione.

"You will pay dearly for that remark, young Weasley," Voldemort hissed, placing the Cruciatus curse on him. Ron screamed in torment as the Dark Lord increased the intensity of the pain. He was clearly enjoying the scene. He kept up the pain for two minutes, and Ron was barely conscious when he released him. "Come Lucius, I believe the young man has learned his lesson for the moment. Let us revive Severus..."

Ginny carefully made her way towards the staff wing using some of the secret tunnels her friends and brothers had shown her through the years. She had one narrow escape when she heard Mr. Filch talking with Mrs. Norris and had to duck into an unused classroom. Fortunately, he headed in the opposite direction. When Ginny reached the floor with the staff quarters, she quickly located Harry's room. Securing herself behind a stone gargoyle, she was just in time to see her friend charming her door with her new password. As soon as Harry disappeared up the hall, Ginny slipped from her hiding place.

"Aenigma's Adversaius," she muttered softly, lips twitching with amusement. 'Riddle's adversary, good one Harry,' she thought slipping into her friend's room. Ginny headed directly over to Harry's trunk. She knew from long experience that Harry kept her invisibility cloak there and hoped she hadn't lent it to Ron. Luck was with her. The cloak was folded neatly in the bottom. Quickly throwing it over her head, she slipped out of the room and headed towards Dumbledore's office. Now all she had to do was figure out the Headmaster's password. Nearing the stone gargoyles guarding his office she was elated to see Professor McGonagall just getting ready to mount the moving stairs. She slipped in behind her just as the gargoyle slid shut. Once upstairs, Ginny quickly found an empty corner near the rear of the room. Making sure the cloak was securely wrapped around her she sat down on the floor to wait...

Severus Snape immediately became aware of the pain in his wrists where the shackles secured him to the wall of his cell. He remembered being hit with a stunning curse by the Dark Lord. Instinctively he prepared himself to face the person he knew would be standing before him. As he slowly opened his dark eyes, they locked with the vehement red pair of his former master.

"Severusss," Voldemort hissed, "defiant to the end I see."

"You may kill me but at least I will have the satisfaction of knowing Potter will still bring you down," Severus replied coldly.

"Then you are a bigger fool than I thought. In a few hours the Potter girl will be mine to do with as I please and those who would seek to help her will die at my hands along with her."

"Then it seems you are a bigger fool than I am," Snape taunted, "since she will stop at nothing to bring you down even if it means her own death."

"Ah...but there you are wrong. She would never willingly sacrifice her friends and I not only have two of them in my possession but I also have this dear little child whom she adores. Do you really believe she would sit back and allow your niece to die?" Voldemort laughed coldly.

"Potter will rescue my niece and make sure she sends you back to whatever hell you managed to crawl out of," Snape replied without breaking eye contact. Without warning, he spit into Voldemort's face.

"You will pay for that, Severus. Let this be a lesson to you not to try that ever again." Voldemort flicked his wand in Phaedra's direction as Snape fought angrily at the chains that bound him. "Crucio!" Circe screamed in agony as her body blocked the curse meant for her daughter.

"Muuummmmyyyy..." Phaedra screamed in terror as she watched her mother thrashing on the floor of the cell in agony. "You...leave...my mum...alone!" Phaedra gasped pulling off one of her shoes and throwing it towards the Dark Lord. He laughed as it hit the bars of their prison and he lowered his wand.

"Ah...such spirit, Severus!" Voldemort gloated in pleasure. "Tell me Little Miss Snape, would you like to play with my snake later on?" Phaedra looked at him in confusion as her uncle pulled unsuccessfully at his bonds, dark eyes livid with anger. "Don't worry, Severus, I was referring to Nagini," Voldemort pursed his lips in a twisted smile, "although now that I think of it..."

"Don't you dare lay your filthy hands on Phaedra or you won't have to worry about Harry Potter...Arrrggghhh..." Severus screamed in agony as the Dark Lord cut off his angry tirade with another Cruciatus curse.

"Enough games! Lucius, bring the Weasley boy. We have work to do!"

"Yes, My Lord." Lucius Malfoy pointed his wand at Ron, stunning him. He then kicked Hermione in the ribs and pushed her out of the way before deliberately dragging the young man from the cell scraping his back along the stone floor...

Harry glanced around Dumbledore's office as the last of the Order's members took their seats. All were present with the exception of Molly and Fred who were still at St. Mungo's with George. The mood was somber and quiet. Harry let her eyes wander among the sea of faces. Remus was worried and tired. Sirius was staring off into space, his eyes sad and lost. The remaining Weasley's were anxious. Mundungus Fletcher was unusually quiet. Old Mr. Chang's dark eyes were angry and his jaw was set. Professor McGonagall was quietly passing out tea and biscuits, her face set into its familiar stern appearance. Harry noted that her eyes were rimmed with red and suspected she had been crying. Kingsley was sitting rigidly at attention. Draco had on his perpetual scowl but his lips would occasionally twitch nervously. Mad Eye seemed to be staring over at the corner, his magical eye focused on something that no one could see. Harry's parents were sitting together, their arms around one another. Her mother's green eyes were studying her daughter sadly and her father looked at Harry with a half smile and a nod as if to say everything would be all right. Harry could not help the stab of pain in her heart. She knew it was almost time to say good-bye. Arsinoe Darkmoon was studying Harry intently, a look of concern etched into her exotic features. Justinian and Tiberius both wore mask like expressions. The rest of the group shifted nervously in their seats. Dumbledore looked at his young protégé and smiled sadly. His lines of age seemed more pronounced than ever but his blue eyes were still sharp. He rose eloquently to address the group.

"Good evening everyone and thank you all for coming on such short notice. We are faced with a grave crisis. As you all know some of our numbers were killed this afternoon and others have been taken captive by Voldemort. We are assuming that they are still alive. Harry witnessed the scene in one of her visions and we are expecting a message shortly from the Dark Lord himself. He will be sending a Portkey in order to secure the Potter family and the remainder of the Snapes."

"Surely you will not allow them to go, Albus!"

"That is what we are here to discuss, Minerva."

"Dumbledore, we're not even sure the others are still alive," Mundungus added, "it is purely conjecture on your part."

"I am considering all of the possibilities. At this point I have no concrete reason to assume that they have been killed." Dumbledore directed a fierce gaze at his fellow wizards. "We need to formulate a plan to get them back. I believe the battle is at hand..."

Harry was only half listening allowing the arguments to fade into the background of her mind. She knew what she needed to do. The pain in her scar was searing hot and growing worse as the meeting progressed. Closing her eyes, she allowed herself to slip silently into the Dark Lord's mind...

"Enervate," Harry smiled directing her wand at the still red headed man lying on the floor.

Ron moaned and opened his eyes. His head was throbbing painfully and his whole body felt as if it were on fire. His back and arms were stinging. Gazing around his eyes focused on black robes in front of him. He started in horror as he shook the confusion from his mind, trying to stand. He made it as far as his knees when he felt a set of strong hands on his shoulders holding him down.

"You do not stand in the presence of the Master," Lucius Malfoys sharp voice dictated from behind, his sharp nails digging into Ron's raw back, forcing him to remain in place.

"Voldemort," he whispered looking up. As frightened as Ron was he knew he shouldn't show any sign of weakness as he glared up into the Dark Lord's cold red eyes.

"You won't get away with this. I can't wait to see Harry kick your bloody ass!"

"Unfortunately for you that is not going to happen," the Dark Lord chuckled, "in more ways than one."

"You may kill me but that won't change the fact the Harry will stop you! When she does I hope you rot in Hell you bloody son of a bitch!" Ron yelled boldly.

Crack! The Dark Lord moved so swiftly he was like a swirling black blur, smacking Ron so hard he fell backwards into Lucius almost toppling him to the floor. Reaching down, his long white fingers picked Ron up by the throat in a vise like grip. Lifting him into the air with unnatural strength he flung the young wizard against the wall. Ron collapsed into a heap.

"Now my belligerent young Gryffindor you will know what it is like to feel the power of Lord Voldemort," the Dark Lord sneered. "You are going to aid me in the downfall of Harry Potter." Without moving, Voldemort called out sharply, "Axelrod, bring me the Mudblood!"

"Immediately, My Lord," a timid voice responded from behind the door.

"Lucius bring this foul mouthed traitor over to my desk," Voldemort commanded. "It is time we put him to our use."

"It will be my pleasure, Lord."

Lucius grabbed hold of Ron and pulled him to his feet forcing him over towards a large desk over near the hearth. Ron's eyes opened wide as he became aware of the giant snake warming itself in front of the fire. Even worse, he saw the goblet sitting atop the desk opposite the Dark Lord. Voldemort had conjured two hard chairs and Lucius forced Ron to sit, binding him securely with magical ropes. A moment later the door opened and a young Deatheater, whom Ron assumed to be Axelrod, was forcing Hermione into the room. He tossed her roughly into the chair beside Ron where Lucius bound her. The other wizard then retreated from the room.

"You are aware that you will not get away with this?" Hermione questioned looking at the Dark Lord.

"Silencio Mudblood," Voldemort hissed with a flick of his wand. "I do not wish to hear your platitudes nor listen to your ridiculous arguments. You will not utter another sound unless I decree it." He then turned his hot red eyes on Ron. "Now my young Mr. Weasley you will do as I tell you or she will suffer for your refusal," he told Ron as he waved his hand over the goblet. It immediately flamed. "You will look into this fire and tell me what Potter is up to."

Hermione looked at Ron shaking her head negatively as she mouthed the word NO!

"I will not betray, Harry. Nor will Hermione."

"Then watch while she is made to suffer for your arrogance." Voldemort pointed his wand at Hermione casting the Cruciatus curse. She writhed in pain while Ron struggled at his bonds angrily. Voldemort merely smiled in amusement enjoying the scene. "Perhaps you will be more amenable to my suggestion if you can hear her screams?" he sneered removing the silencing charm.

Hermione's high-pitched screams wrenched at Ron's heart. 'Oh, Harry, please forgive me. I can't let her suffer like this," he thought painfully. "Stop...stop it now!" He screamed aloud. "I'll do what you ask just leave her alone."

"Ah...I see you are now willing to cooperate. See what a little encouragement can do?"

"Ron...don't...do it," Hermione panted. "It's not...worth it. He'll..." Voldemort cut her off with a wave of his hand silencing her once more.

"Hermione...I can't let you suffer like that again," Ron replied looking into her tear filled brown eyes. She shook her head angrily, her face drenched with sweat, silently yelling at him not to do it. "She's right; you're only going to kill us anyway. If you want to know what Harry is doing so badly you will have to find out some other way. Why not just get into her head?" He questioned bravely. "Oh, I forgot, you can't do that anymore now can you? She's too strong for you now," Ron mocked him.

"Lucius, I will count to three. If he fails to cooperate you are to break the Mudblood's left leg."

"With pleasure, My Lord," Lucius smiled. He pointed his wand at Hermione's leg in anticipation.

"One...two...three."

"Frango," Lucius said waving his wand over Hermione's left knee. There was an audible cracking noise as she let out a silent scream. Lucius face lips twisted into a half smile of satisfaction.

"Have you been convinced yet, Weasley? I am sure my loyal servant would love to continue." Voldemort's red eyes bored into Ron while Hermione continued to shake her head no. Silent tears were streaming down her face.

Ron studied Hermione for a moment, unmistakable agony on his features. 'What would Harry do?' he considered anxiously. 'It would kill her to see Hermione in so much pain.' Ron had no idea that even now his best friend was watching the scenario play out behind the eyes of the Dark Lord all the while fighting to keep him from becoming aware of her presence. As much as it pained him, Ron mustered his courage and stared up at Lord Voldemort. His expression resolute as growled up at the powerful wizard in front of him. "I will not betray my friends you filthy piece of scum."

"Enough! You were warned Weasley. Your deaths will not come easily I assure you."

"Didn't ever think they would," Ron quipped maliciously. "If my dying will help to stop you then it will be worth it. Some things are worth dying for."

"You're arrogant display of bravado will do you no good. I promise you that you will beg me to kill you. You may not tell me willingly what I need to know but that is no matter." Voldemort smiled evilly. "I will just have to retrieve my information in another manner. Imperio!" Voldemort cast the Imperious curse so swiftly that Ron had been unprepared. He fought the curse as hard as he could but was unable to break free. The Dark Lord's will was too strong. "Now look into the flames and tell me what I need to know," Voldemort demanded. Ron looked into the flames...

"Harry! Harry!" A woman's voice shrieked from a long way off. "Wake up!" Strong arms were shaking her.

Harry slowly opened her eyes, to see her mother's frightened face and her father's hands gripping her shoulders. She could fell tears running down her cheeks and saw the blood dripping onto her robes. Dumbledore looked grave.

"What has happened, Harry? I assume you were in the Dark Lord's mind," the Headmaster inquired softly.

"Yes, Sir. I had to find them. I had to see what was happening."

"Are they still alive, Potter?" Mad Eye's gravelly voice questioned from across the room. His blue eye was still focused on the corner. Harry and Dumbledore followed his gaze and looked at one another. Dumbledore nodded in Harry's direction.

"Miss Weasley due come out from under the cloak," Dumbledore directed firmly.

"Ginny!" Arthur and Bill gasped at the same time

"What are you doing here young lady?" Arthur demanded angrily. "You should be resting in the infirmary and are too young to be at this meeting."

"I am not a baby, Dad. Charlie died today and George is hurt. I have every right to try and find out what is going on," Ginny shrieked back, sounding very much like Molly.

"Arthur, calm down. Ginny has been here since the meeting started. Alastor and Harry were both aware of her presence as was I."

"Albus, why on earth did you allow her to stay?" Bill asked dumbfounded.

"She has every right to be here. She may be your little sister, Bill, but she is of age and has been more than a friend to me. Ginny is a very powerful witch in her own right," Harry stated calmly. "In any case she would have joined the Order in four months anyway."

"Potter is right. If any of us had thought otherwise we would have thrown her out immediately," Alastor Moody commented.

"Molly will have all our hides for this," Arthur remarked helping Ginny up from the floor.

She sat down next to Bill who had the forethought to transform her pajamas into a set of robes. Mad as he was at his baby sister, he winked playfully.

"Thanks, Bill," she flushed, lowering her eyes momentarily before looking over at Harry. "Harry...your tears...they're bloody. Ron...did he..."

"Yes, Gin, but he didn't do so willingly. Voldemort had to use the Imperius on him."

"Ron's alive?" Arthur asked his face filling with hope.

"Yes, so is Hermione but he has been torturing them with the Cruciatus. I didn't see Severus or the others though but I got the impression that they are alive too," Harry explained.

"Harry, why were your tears filled with blood?" Lily asked waving her wand to clean the blood from her daughter's face and robes.

"Mr. Weasley used the Goblet," Ollivander's raspy voice stated from the back of the room. His silver eyes rested on Harry's face for confirmation.

"Not willingly. He was under the Imperious," Harry answered. "Ron is now blind." Everyone gasped. She then proceeded to tell everything she had seen through the Dark Lord's eyes. The room was silent for a few minutes as they all digested the information.

"So what do we do now? Are you sure you don't know where they are?" Kingsley questioned frowning.

"I think they were in a farmhouse but I don't know where. I only saw the one room."

"How many Deatheaters did you see?"

"Only Lucius and one I didn't know. I think his name was Axelrod. He couldn't have been much older than I am."

"Well there's our answer to how the Dark Lord attacked. Stan Axelrod owns the dress shop in Hogsmeade. His son has always been a bit of a hothead and in trouble with the law."

"Yes, young Gregory was always getting into trouble in school. His father finally pulled him out and sent him to Durmstrang," Dumbledore remarked.

"I will have my team of Aurors look into this as soon as the meeting is over," Kingsley assured them.

"Headmaster, how come I don't know of him?"

"He was a number of years ahead of you, Harry. I believe he was in his seventh year when you started."

"I suppose he was in Slytherin," Ginny commented with a sneer.

"No Miss Weasley, he was not. He was a Hufflepuff."

"Just shows you should never take anything at face value," Neville snorted. "He is obviously loyal."

"We need to make some plans. I am open to suggestions." Dumbledore dismissed the subject and looked about the room.

"I have an idea but it is very dangerous," Harry stated flatly. "It will also involve Ginny."

"Absolutely Not!" Bill exclaimed.

"Shut up, Bill. You seem to forget that I am of age and capable of making up my mind."

"I agree with your brother, Ginny. You should not be involved. What the hell are you thinking, Potter?" Draco demanded furiously.

"I am thinking that I need a strong witch who can back me up. I think this should be Ginny's choice along with the Headmaster's approval."

"I think as her father I should be allowed to have some say in this situation."

"I agree, Arthur," Dumbledore stated over ruling Harry. "First though I wish to hear this plan."

As Dumbledore finished speaking, a large black raven was tapping at the window. He nodded to Bill to let the bird in. Arthur attempted to grab the bird but it flew up to the ceiling and dropped a letter on Dumbledore's desk before disappearing back the way he came. Waving his wand over the letter to satisfy everyone that there was no present danger Dumbledore opened the missive. He scanned if first, frowning, then read it aloud.

Dumbledore,

I have some people in my possession of whom you are well aware. I assure you that they are presently alive but should you fail to follow my instructions they will be killed. You are to have the Potters, Justinian and Tiberius Snape, along with Draco Malfoy sent to me by noon tomorrow. Should you fail to do so my guests will be killed and other reprisals will occur. This letter will act as a Portkey at precisely noon and will bring them to my location. I warn you that should you try to defy me the consequences will not be pleasant.

Voldemort

"I knew my father wouldn't forget about me," Draco remarked grimly.

"It is a rather new development," Dumbledore agreed. "What is your feeling about this Draco?"

"He wants to kill me himself," the former Slytherin remarked arching his brow cockily, "Too bad for him that I plan on getting to him first."

"I must remind you Draco that in his present form he cannot be killed in the usual manner."

"I can disable him for Potter though, can't I?"

"Then you are willing to face what may come?"

"Without a doubt, Headmaster, Lucius murdered my mother and took out his sadistic delights on me since I could walk. He is almost as bad as his master," Draco snarled, clenching his fists. "I may believe in the separation of our worlds but not at the expense of the lives of others. They're no longer human and I am quite sure that Voldemort himself is long beyond sanity."

"Why, Draco, there's hope for you yet. Now all you have to do is get past the blood purity thing," Harry sneered back at him.

"Not gonna happen, Potter."

"I might remind you that if you marry Ginny your sister in law will be a Muggle born and I myself am a half-blood."

"And I have no need to remind you that the Dark Lord is a half-blood. It doesn't seem justified that either of you has more power than those of us who were born wizards for generations."

"Maybe that is the problem, Draco. Maybe you are actually losing your magic slowly because it is being cancelled out genetically. You may all be killing your own race without even knowing it. The gene pool is growing too small."

"That will be quite enough!" Dumbledore's angry voice interrupted their philosophical argument. "Such talk is entirely debatable. We have more urgent needs at the moment!"

"I apologize, Albus," Harry stated cowed while Draco nodded in confirmation.

"I for one wish to hear Harry's plan," Arsinoe spoke softly.

"Yeah, Harry, what do you have in mind?" Neville questioned. "You know I will be right with you whatever it is."

"Thanks, Neville but you will be with the rest of the Order on this one." Harry took a deep breath and looked around. "The plan is simple, although it will now include Draco, which will actually be a benefit with Ginny there."

"I still don't believe Miss Weasley should become involved in this," Professor McGonagall stated, lips drawn into a thin line.

"Neither do I." Molly Weasley had come in unobserved by Harry and had been listening quietly from the door.

"Mum! I want to help."

"Ginny dear, you're too young. Everyone should have known better than to let you in to this meeting!" Molly's eyes reflected her anger.

"Well I'm here and I am going to stay!" Ginny stood up, placing her hands on her hips, chin raised in defiance.

"Molly...please...let me tell everyone my idea. I won't deny that it is dangerous but it may be the only hope for Ron and the others," Harry pleaded.

"All right, Harry dear, but I can guarantee I will not be happy."

"Okay. First of all those of us that Voldemort has specifically targeted will need to go in as a team. He will probably disarm us immediately but we can also carry extra wands hidden in our robes. We will also need emergency Portkeys."

"What about the wards? You really don't believe that his headquarters is unprotected," Justinian asked.

"Humph...we should be so lucky," Draco snipped.

"That will be Tiberius' job. He may not know the exact location but can I safely assume you know most of the wards he has in place?" Harry looked inquiringly at the wizard.

"I do. It will not be easy to bring them down. We may also find ourselves in a situation where we will be unable to do so."

"I have taken that into consideration. Headmaster, do you have any kind of magical tracking device which may give the Order of at least a general idea of where we are?"

"Hmm...There is one but it will not function through the wards."

"Would it be able to track us once the Portkey has activated?"

"Yes to a certain extent but once you are inside the wards it will be useless."

"What kind of radius will you have before you lose contact?"

"Ten miles in all directions," Dumbledore replied. His expression was unreadable.

"Kingsley, do we have enough Aurors to form a grid and work in from all directions once contact is lost?" Harry questioned.

"We're pressed pretty thin right now but if it means we are able to get to Voldemort I can pull some off other assignments."

"Then do it," Moody interjected. "I think I know what the girl is leading up to."

"Thanks, Mad-Eye, but let me finish. Ginny you are the only other person in this room other them me who has been possessed by Voldemort. Do you think you would be able to stand up to him for a little while disguised as me?"

"So long as he doesn't use Legilimency we should be fine."

"Tiberius do we have any Polyjuice?"

"Yes. I believe you will need it for Miss Weasley?"

"No! No! No!" Molly yelled angrily. You can't send my little girl in there Harry. It is too dangerous."

"Molly, I will be there too as will Draco and the rest. I know this is not a good situation but it is the best I can come up with. At least this way the others have a chance. If we fail to use that Portkey they will be killed without question."

"Harry, where will you be?" Ginny queried.

"Ginny, you know I'm an animagus."

"Yes, but a Phoenix will be noticed immediately."

"Gin, what you and most of the Order don't know is that I am a Multiplico. I have another form, courtesy of the Dark Lord. Arsinoe thinks that I may also have a third if I can combine the two. I will let her explain later but for now..." Harry transformed into her green serpent and slithered over to Tiberius amid gasps of amazement.

"Nice one, Potter," Draco drawled. "There may be hope for you yet too," he said as she turned back to herself.

"So how will you get in though?" James looked at his daughter with interest.

"I'll just wrap myself around one of your waists and hang on tight. I can remain hidden beneath someone's robes until the coast is clear. The snake will have the advantage of moving through narrow places and being able to hide near the floor as well as climb. If need be I can use the Phoenix form too once we're inside. I have the feeling if Fawkes is close enough he may be able to find me too." As if to confirm her suspicions, the beautiful red bird flew onto her shoulder and began to make pleasant trilling sounds.

"You're quite right, Harry. He may just be able to sense you in Phoenix form and lead us to all of you even faster."

"What happens once we're inside?" James questioned.

"That's the hardest part. I will have to try to free everyone. It might be best if I carry all the extra wands too. They will transform along with me so it shouldn't be a problem."

"Harry," Sirius spoke for the first time, "Moony and I don't like this. As your Protectors we I should be with you."

"No, Sirius. I understand that you feel you should come along but I will need you to help in the search. You can scent any people who may be nearby in your animagus form and Moony has his heightened werewolf senses and speed even if it isn't a full moon. Besides, he's really good with dark charms and will be needed to help Dumbledore and Bill bring down the rest of the wards. Severus is on the inside and I have no doubt that unless he is totally incapacitated he will follow his duties to the limit."

"I still don't like it," Sirius pouted, Remus nodding in agreement.

"Neither do I," Molly agreed. "It is entirely too dangerous."

"Mum, we have no other choice. Ron and Mione will be killed," Ginny pleaded.

"You might too. Arthur...Bill...try and talk some sense into her!"

"Gin, I don't want to lose either of them either and I know Mum and Dad don't too but this is a really dangerous idea. Unfortunately, it happens to be a good one." Bill looked between his sister and parents. He was torn between his family and his duty to the Order.

"I suggest we vote on the matter," Dumbledore stated calmly. "All those in favor?" The hands rose slowly and Dumbledore counted them silently. All those opposed?" Several hands went up, including Molly and Arthur. Bill abstained. "It seems we have a tie. Bill you are the deciding vote." Bill Weasley shifted uncomfortably in his chair before looking at Dumbledore.

"Will my sister have an emergency Portkey to get out of there?"

"They all will Bill, but I cannot confirm that they will work inside of Voldemort's wards."

"I see." He frowned rubbing his face. "Ginny you aren't a member of the Order so you couldn't vote and you're as stubborn as Mum." He smiled at his little sister. "We always think of you as a little girl even though you aren't any more. Do you want to do this thing? You could be killed."

"I know that, Bill, but if it will save other lives than it would be worth it. I can't leave Ron and the others in the hands of that madman. I remember what it was like all those years ago. He's evil, Bill, and he has to be stopped."

"All right then," Bill Weasley looked at his parents, straightening his shoulders, "I vote in favor."

"The motion is passed," Dumbledore announced.

The room immediately erupted into a sea of voices. Molly Weasley started to cry unabashedly and Harry saw her mother go over and put her arms around the distraught woman. Harry just sat there, face set, knowing she had made one of those decisions which would affect all their lives. Dumbledore had told her that it would never be easy and it wasn't. She looked up to see him studying her along with Mr. Chang. The old Chinese gentleman nodded and Harry could see the pain in Dumbledore's eyes. She knew this was the only way. She also knew that it was unlikely they would all come out of this alive...

19