HP Priorities XII

7/30/2019 HP Priorities XII

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Chapter 203 Homecoming?

The specially commissioned edition of the Hogwarts Express rolled majestically into Hogsmeadestation. The engine was artfully decorated in black bunting and streamers and the passengerswere clad in their best mourning clothes. The last carriage was traditionally reserved for VIPpassengers and was colorfully decorated with the Gryffindor emblem and colors. Inside the lastcompartment of the last car, two women sat quietly facing each other, watching as the last viewsof the countryside gave way to the arrival platform. Hermione Weasley was dressed in a blackdress. Her edges of her eyes were puffy, testimony to the hours of tears shed shed. Now, theMinistry had officially declared Ron dead, and had acceded to the request that the memorialservice be held at Hogwarts.

Rose and Hugo were with Rons parents, which was good, since she didnt think she had thestrength to be the bulwark her small children needed as they came to grips with the loss of theirfather. Seated across from her, also dressed in black, Ginnys face was more composed, butthen again, that was Ginny, strong in the face of adversity, sure of herself. Yet Hermione knew,at her core, her friend had a certain brittleness and she didnt know if this would s end Ginny overthe edge. The train came to a stop and the compartment door opened revealing the sober,serious gaze of John Dawlish.

Hermione. Ginny. Ill take you up to the school. The carriages are waiting. Dawlish waved hishand forward and pointed the women towards the exit from the train. Hermione walked steadilyand saw the thestral-drawn carriages waiting to take them up the way to Hogwarts. Dawlishushered the two women into a waiting seat and sat down with them. Percy Weasley joinedDawlish and sat across from his sister.

Youre husbands were great men. This is a huge loss for me, both professionally andpersonally. Dawlish sighed heavily.

Hermione pursed her lips together. I cant accept that hes dead, John. Theres been no sign ofhim, no body. What if he needs help? She reiterated the argument that shed had with theMinistry for the last two weeks. They were wizards and witches, after all, why couldnt theyaccept the possibility that Ron was still alive?

Weve been through this, Hermione. You need to move on. We need to move on. Ron is notcoming back. Percy eased forward, trying to be strong for his sister-in-law. After everythingtheyd been through, Hermione had simply relented. Under normal circumstances,shed haveGinny to help her, but her friend was going through her own trial and was not up to helpingHermione through this. So, they sat together, heading up to Hogwarts, to bury their husbands.

The carriages made their way up the path and through the gates. Despite being early March, itwas a warm, sunny day. They wound their way up the main lawn and to the front entrance to theEntry Hall. They were met by Professor McGonagall who, uncharacteristically, hugged bothHermione and Ginny, a crack appearing in her severe exterior.

Im so sorry for you both. McGonagall guided the women into the Entry Hall and off to the right.

They walked around a corner and in between the large double doors that marked the Great Hall.It had been reconfigured from its dining arrangement to one appropriate for a funeral. The roomwas decorated in a mix of Gryffindor colors and black. McGonagall ushered them to theirreserved seating.

The Headmaster will see you shortly. He had to return to his office, hell be back soon. Ginnynodded mutely, the enormity of the occasion suddenly breaking through her tough faade. Sheleaned over and put her head on Hermiones shoulder and the two women clung to each other forsupport.


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***

The void of blackness was replaced by a blinding red light and the sensation of dizziness. Eventhough only a few seconds actually passed, it seemed like an eternity and with a dazzling flash oflight and smoke, Harry and Ron suddenly appeared into reality. Harry lay where hed been onceholding Ginnys lifeless body and Ron was standing, favoring his uninjured leg. The Time Shifterwas gripped tightly in Rons hand. Ron looked around and placed the Time Shifter in his pocket.With considerable effort, he limped to Harrys side and supported his friends injured form.Harrys arm hung to his side and his breath was raspy from his wounds, the apparent result of apunctured lung. Ron held his wand out.

Episkey. Harrys wounds seemed bind themselves, although his arm still hung limp from hisside. Harry reached out his left hand and gripped his discarded wand to in his fingers. Hewaved his wand over Rons injuries and returned the favor. The sharpness of the paindisappeared, but the spell only kept the severity of the injuries under control, but the underlyingweakness from the trauma and the residual pain remained. Harry rose from the floor and lookedaround. Immediately, a sharp pain coursed through his arm and he winced. Ron stepped to himand helped him pull his robes and shirt to the side. The shoulder was blackened and Ronwhistled.

It looks like a cursed wound, Harry. Well need something stronger for that. Ron looked aroundthe room they were in. So, are we back?

Harry was finishing his own survey. It lookslike it. This is the Headmasters office. All theportraits are there and this is the way I remember Horace keeping it.

Ron nodded and looked back at Harrys arm. We need to immobilize that until we can get ittaken care of, hang on. Ron reached into his bag and pulled out a roll of gray, plastic tape.Harry looked at him curiously and Ron chuckled. Duct tape, my dad swears by the stuff. Ronhad Harry hold his arm up to his waist and then used the binding tape to affix the arm to Harrysbody. After a few minutes, Ron stepped back and reviewed his handiwork. That should hold fornow.

Thanks. Harry walked around the office and stared up at the portrait behind the Headmastersdesk. It was empty and that brought a tinge of regret to Harrys heart. Hed hoped to tell AlbusDumbledores portrait about their adventure, but his former mentors image was nowhere to beseen.

Maybe we should head downstairs and see if we can find Kingsley or McGonagall? Ron asked.

That would make sense. Seeing Kingsley would confirm were in the right timeline. Harryagreed. They began to walk towards the door leading out when the sound of the gargoylespinning on its axis was heard. Harry pulled on Rons shoulder. Maybe thats Horace, he canhelp us find out where and when we are.

The sound of voices trailed up from behind the door and when it swung open, Horace Slughorn

entered, unaware of their presence. Upon seeing them, he stopped in his tracks.

Hello, Horace. Harry said and then immediately clamped his mouth shut as another figureentered the room behind Slughorn. Harry caught his breath and Ron let loose with an expletive.Slughorn turned in shocked silence to the other man in the room who walked in boldly with a grimexpression on his face. Harry and Ron shared a glance; they were not in their original timeline.The man walked forward and gave them an appraising stair, as if judging cattle and finding thespecimens wanting. He was dressed in black robes and had ashen, pale skin with a long faceand straight, greasy looking hair.


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Severus Snape held his chin up and crossed his arms. Well, well, well, Mr. Potter and Mr.Weasley, not so dead as we were led to believe.

Harrys shoulders fell. You too, Professor, you too.

***

The Great Hall was filled to capacity. Behind Ginny and Hermione, old friends and family filed infor the ceremony. Gwenog Jones and Oliver Wood filed in and made for the tiers of seats directlybehind the women. Oliver leaned over to hugged Hermione.

Im sorry about Ron, Hermione. He was the best keeper Puddlemere United ever had. Itsstrange that he just disappeared like that, right after the Chudley match. Hermione returned thePuddlemere United captains embrace and Oliver sat down.

Gwenog Jones stepped leaned in and placed a comforting hand on Ginnys shoulder. Im sorrytoo. Seamus was a great man. I hope the Ministry will catch the murderers.

Seamus had been the head of security at Gringotts bank. Hed been killed during a brazenrobbery attempt at the wizarding bank. The Ministry said terrorists were responsible for the

attack. Gwenog kept a firm grip on her all-star seekers arm. Take all the time you need. Theteam will survive without you, at least for now. Ginny offered a brave smile and Gwenog satdown.

There was a great furor at the entrance and the crowd murmured as the Minister of Magic walkedinto the room. He stopped and shook the perfunctory hands from the members of thebureaucracy that were in attendance. While Seamus wasnt widely known, Ron Weasley hadbeen famous in England for his dazzling play on the pitch and the Ginny was famous in her ownright. A memorial service touching the families of these people was an occasion of vast politicalimportance. The Minister was pretty much required to attend. He made his way up the rows ofseats and finally stopped where the women were seated.

Im so sorry for your loss. Lucius Malfoy bowed at the waist. He looked over at Ginny. The

Department of Magical Law Enforcement is committed to finding the perpetrators of the heinousact that took your husband, Mrs. Finnegan. Just know that we will not rest until we find them.Lord Voldemort himself has expressed his desire to see the terrorists brought to justice.

Ginny nodded grimly, barely hiding the hate she had for the man standing nearby. Lucius noddedin Hermiones general direction. Ron had been famous, but Hermione was a mudblood, after all,and his hypocrisy would only go so far. He turned and made for his reserved seat on the dais.He surreptitiously studied his pocket watch and looked towards the door. Snape was runningbehind and he hoped that the infernal man wouldnt be too much longer. Malfoy had other thingsto do, today.

***

Bolt the door, Horace. Slughorn jumped at Snapes direction and pushed the door shut. Snapeturned and looked at the two men in his office. You, gentlemen, are supposed to be dead. Ofcourse, Mr. Weasley, youre demise was much more recent, but you, Mr. Potter, should not behere. Youve been dead for almost twelve years.

Harrys shoulders sagged and then he looked up at Snape. Did we win? Did they defeat theDark Lord, I mean, you survived.

Snape shared a quick glance with Slughorn and pursed his lips together. We never really foughtthe battle, Potter.


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What do you mean? Harry was puzzled. Are you saying Voldemort is alive?

Alive and in charge, you might say. When you disappeared from the picture, Potter, the peoplesimply gave up. Youre body was never found, you simply ceased to exist. As far as thepopulation was concerned, you ran from the fight, so why should they? Snape walked to hisdesk and sat down. A deep, friendly and familiar voice rang out.

Thats not to say that weve given up the fight entirely, Harry. Albus Dumbledores kind facelooked down at Harry from the portrait. The problem was that with you gone, there was noanchor for the resistance. We try to fight, but without your face on the front of the battle, therewas nothing we could do.

Snape nodded his head. So the question remains, Potter, where have you been all this time?

Harry and Ron looked at each other, then Harry looked back at Snape. Thats a verycomplicated question, Professor, one that would take a considerable amount of time to getthrough.

Snape watched Harry carefully and then noticed the clock on the wall. Well, we dont have time

to go through it right now, Potter. I think it would be best that you and Mr. Weasley stay out ofsight. Unfortunately, I have Mr. Weasleys and Mr. Finnegans funeral to preside over. Snapelooked right at Harry. Mr. Finnegan was married to Mr. Weasleys sister, who is quite famous, aswas Mr. Weasley himself. Everyone in the Lucius Malfoy government is sitting in the Great Hall,so I dont think this is the best place for you two.

Snape rose from his chair and looked at Slughorn. Not a word, Horace, to anyone. I will kill youif you talk. Slughorn blanched while Snape turned and faced Harry and Ron. Go to theGrimmauld Place location. You can use the floo. Do not leave the house. Do not try to contactanyone. You will be met by one of our operatives, do exactly what they tell you to do. Do I makemyself clear, gentlemen?

Harry nodded and walked towards the floo. Ron was somewhat more reluctant, the knowledge

that Hermione was just downstairs tearing at him. Finally he joined Harry. Harry turned andfound Snapes gaze had never left him.

Its good to see you again, sir. Im sorry forthe way I treated you as a boy. I was wrong aboutyou. Harry finally mustered.

Maybe you were and maybe you werent, Potter. Just do what I tell you and dont trust anyone.Snape nodded to Slughorn and the two left for the Great Hall. Harry and Ron accessed the flooand made for Grimmauld Place.

***

They found themselves in the front sitting room of the old Black residence at 12 Grimmauld

Place. The room had not changed from the time Harry was a boy. The old Black family tree stilladorned the back wall and the house seemed dark and dank, smelling of mold and rotted wood.Harry and Ron walked out into the front hall. The large portrait of Sirius mother still hung in itsspot, but was covered with a large, black sheet. There was light coming from under the door thekitchen and the sound of someone tinkering within came to their ears. Suddenly, the dooropened and a boy about the age of eleven walked out and stopped in his tracks. Harry stooddumbfounded, his mouth agape. The boy smiled at Harry and looked in shocked recognition ofRon.

Hello. The boys voice was familiar and Harry felt his heart burst in excitement.


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Hello yourself. That was all Harry could muster.

The boy looked back over his shoulder. Mom! Dad! Professor Snape sent some people to us!Were going to have two more for dinner!

The boy turned back to face the men and walked up to Harry and extended a confident hand.Hi, my name is Teddy. Teddy Lupin.

Chapter 204 Apathy and Angst

Harry and Ron stared at the small boy, whose hair changed colors several times in the space ofthirty seconds as his gaze went from Harry to Ron and back. Teddy looked at Ron with obvioushero worship and his smile indicated that his delight in seeing the tall red head was beyondcompare.

I saw you make twelve saves against the Bulgarian National Team during the last World Cup!You were incredible. Teddy paused and his hair turned a dark shade of black. But I thoughtyou were dead?

No, not yet. Ron smiled uncomfortably.

Ron? Harry and Ron looked towards the kitchen door and there stood Remus Lupin andNymphadora Tonks. Remus was had an apron tied around his waist while Tonks stood warily tothe side, her wand in her hand by her leg. Remus had been focused on Ron and then his eyesfixed on Harry.

Merlins beard! Harry? Is that you? Remus walked forward and embraced Harry tightly aroundthe shoulders. My word, it is you, Harry! Whereve you been?

Its a long story, Remus. Harry and Remus broke their embrace and then Harry smiled at Tonkswho seemed unsure of who or what she was seeing. Harry nodded and Tonks broke into a smileof her own.

Wotcher, Harry. She reached up and gave Harry a tight hug. Remus gestured for the two mento follow him into the kitchen. A large table covered space in the room. The stove was alive withvarious pots and pans, boiling over, steam rising to the rafters. The aroma was magnificent andRemus immediately went to the active cook top and began to stir some of the pots. Tonks madeher way to the table and sat down near a cup of tea. As her elbow rested on the table, a piece ofher sleeve found its way into the tea cup, nearly over turning it. Remus laughed. You see whywe dont let Tonks cook, the catastrophe would be immense.

Harry smiled. Some things just dont change at all. Remus turned down the burner on one of thepots and joined them at the table. For a long time, he simply stared at the two men and thenshared a sidelong glance at Tonks, whose own expression was one of puzzlement and anxiety.

Finally, Tonks broke the silence. What the devil is going on here? She turned to Teddy, whowas standing by the door. Teddy, go upstairs and finish your homework.

But Mom! I want to get Mr. Weasleys autograph! Teddy seemed non-plussed and his faceblackened at being sent away.

Listen to your mother, young man. Therell time enough to talk to Mr. Weasley, now get upstairsand finish your studies. Were having other guests over for dinner, so get you homework done.Remus gave Teddy a serious look and the boy left in a huff, but left nonetheless.


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Once hed left the room, Tonks turned and stared at Harry and Ron. Weve got two dead men inour kitchen and Id like an explanation. How do I know youre not another one of the Dark Lordstricks?

Remus placed his hand gently on Tonks forearm. Easy, Dora. Give them a chance to explain.Remus turned back to Harry. Shes right. By all accounts, you both are dead and gone. Theresno reason for you to be here.

Harry took a deep breath and looked at Ron, who nodded. We are who we seem to be, Remus,but not the people you know.

Oh, that was very enlightening. I cant tell you how that clears things up. Tonks gave a derisivesnort and Harry chuckled, despite himself.

Another voice echoed in the room. Standing at the door to the kitchen, Severus Snape stood withhis arms crossed, an immutable expression on his face. I have to agree with Mrs. Lupin here.Youre explanation leaves something to be desired, Potter. Is that your way of explaining howyou deserted your friends and family in their hour of need?

No, thats not it. Who we are is very difficult to explain, I dont know if youll believe it entirely.

Harry watched as Snape went to the cupboard and withdrew a cup and then proceeded to pourhimself some tea.

Try me, Potter. So far, it sounds like youre making excuses for yourself, just like when you werea school boy. Now youre looking down your nose at us, trying to make up for some error injudgment while leaving others to suffer. Snapes face was contorted into a sneer and he sat nextto Remus, opposite Ron and Harry.

Harry ignored Snapes dig and took a deep breath. The simple reason is that Ron and I are notthe people you knew. Weve been shifted from our timeline to this one. A memory, specificallybelonging to Kingsley Shacklebolt, was disrupted and it changed things. Weve already been toone reality and now, were in this one.

That clears everything up. Tonks retort was part disgust and part exasperation. She leanedback in her chair and folded her arms. You want us to believe that you are zipping along fromtimeline to timeline? That all this, She held out her arms,is not supposed to happen.

Harry nodded his head. Put that way, he didnt believe it either. He looked over at Ron whoreached into his pocket and withdrew the Time Shifter. He held it up and then handed it to Harry.

Harry leaned forwards with the Time Shifter in his hand. This is a Time Shifter. It was inventedby Albert Einstein, a member of the Illuminati Scientia to allow pensive memories to be used toalter the timeline. I dont know this reality. Things are far different in the twelve years since theBattle of Hogwarts. Voldemort is supposed to be dead and gone.

Remus reached forward and held the Time Shifter in his hand. He looked at it carefully and then

handed it to Snape who seemed more curious than upset. Remus looked back at Harry.

The Battle of Hogwarts? What the blazes is that?

Harry let out a sigh. It was the final battle, where the Order of the Phoenix fought Voldemort forsupremacy and he lost. Period.

Remus and Snape shared a look between them and Tonks snorted contemptuously. Harryshifted uneasily in his seat and Remus smiled apologetically.


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You have to understand, Harry. Thats not the life we know. Things have become morecomplicated than you know. Were dying a slow death here and its mostly because people havegiven up. Remus looked over at Snape who was mulling over the device in his hand. Tonksstood and started pacing.

There is no Order of the Phoenix, Harry, not the way you remember. She stared at the pots onthe stove and thought about stirring them, but her wet sleeve seemed to remind her of the dangerin that act.

But people are fighting the Dark Lord, arent they? Youre still fighting him, arent you? Ronlooked at the three people in the room in turn. What do you mean that people have given up?

When your counterpart from this timeline disappeared, Potter, there was no reason to continuethe fight. The Weasley family dropped out of the resistance. Ironically, that decision wasprecipitated by you, Mr. Weasley. Snapes voice was dripping with hate and contempt. Ronflinched at the response and Snape continued the conversation. A month or so after Potterdisappeared, you found the fight too hard, too taxing. You made a convincing argument to yourparents and your siblings that continuing the war would be too much effort in a losing cause. Youconvinced them all that fighting would simply lead to death for no good reason. You convinced allof them that there was no way to win.

Harry choked back his anger. All of them?

All of them.

Even Ginny?

Remus held up his hand, arresting whatever Snape was going to say. Ginny wasnt the sameafter you disappeared, Harry. Part of her was hoping wed find a body, if only to allay her fearsthat youd run off, but we never did. Even Severus, with his connections to the Dark Lord and theDeatheaters, could not find much, if any evidence of what had happened to you. Ginny startedoff believing that youd return, but that simply changed to her believing that youd fled. Well, shestopped trying to fight and began to concentrate on her own life.

She had to get together with that fool Finnegan. Tonks growled out, her face a mask of angerand hate.

Seamus? She got together with Seamus in this timeline too? What was it about Seamusanyway? When he got back, hed have to look into this train of thought.

Got together? Sure, but he was one of the first to turn. This world is not a pretty place, Harry.Remus shook his head. The Ministry is the mechanism that is slowly eradicating any vestiges ofnon-purity in society.

Eradicating? Voldemort was always keen on maintaining the dominance of the pure bloods, buteradicating seems pretty severe. Ron shrugged his shoulders uneasily.

What do you think will happen to your wife and children in this world, Mr. Weasley? Snapeasked in a cold, monotone voice.

Hermione? What do you mean?

Snape leaned forward and pressed his elbows to the table. We just buried you. Since your wifeis muggle-born and your children are tainted by that legacy, they will be evicted from their home.Your wife will be sent to one of the camps that dot the countryside and your children will be


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wrested from her control and sent to a re-education center to be conditioned to serve as servantsto the pure-blooded. Your wife will never be heard from again.

Harry took a deep breath. Are you saying that they are killing off the half-bloods and muggleborn?

Remus sighed. Only the older ones, the children are considered usable by society as servantsor laborers.

I cant believe that so many people would let this happen. Wouldnt there have been an uproarby the citizens? Harry stood and joined Tonks in pacing.

Certainly, if this had happened all at once, but the Ministry and the Dark Lord didnt start offdoing this. Theyve had over a decade to do this in pieces, bit by bit, eroding liberties and slowlyturning the pure-blooded population against their fellow man. Tyranny very rarely is successful inone fell swoop, Harry, it usually takes over incrementally and legally. Remus sat back andstudied Harry for a moment. Thats why Dora and I are in hiding. Wed be taken awayimmediately and Teddy would be studied because he is the product of a mudblood and a freak.

This is absurd. Harry snapped.

Why is that, Potter? Because you say so? I see your arrogance has followed you into your adultyears. Do you think all you have to do is show up and the world will be a better place? Snapeeyed Harry closely. Harrys head whipped around to Snape, his green eyes ablaze with angerand hurt.

I understand your motivations, Professor, and I am deeply appreciative for your help, in anytimeline, but do not presume to transfer your bias for my father to me. We are completelydifferent men. Harry placed his good arm on his hip and stared at Snape.

Do not presume to understand my motivations, Potter. You have no idea what drives me.Snapes tone was a warning and he rose.

Harry was unmoved. I know precisely what your motivations are, Professor. You shared themwith me in a memory.

I would have done no such thing, in any timeline, unless Snapes eyes widened and Harrynodded his head.

As I said, Professor, I know exactly what your motivations are. Harry carefully removed hisglasses and stared at Snape, his eyes locking with the older mans ebon orbs. After a moment,Snape turned away and Harry understood that Snape had taken his meaning. The only waySnape would have shared his memory is if he were on his deathbed.

Ron shook his head. I dont get it, you said that the Order didnt exist and my family is notengaged in the fight?

Remus nodded. Yes. Dont get me wrong, there is a resistance. Severus leads it. We do whatwe can. Weve started the Alliance for Truth and we launch attacks and try to derail the system inplace, but we simply are a shell of what the Order was. Without the Weasleys, or Dumbledore orHarry, we lack the strength to effect a real change. England has been at peace for well over adecade, so the people dont want to hear much about things.

Harrys head came up. You killed Seamus. His statement was declarative, assertive.


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Tonks gave a grim nod. Yes. He found out that Luna Lovegood was part of the Alliance. Hewas going to turn her in. He lured her to Gringotts and the Aurors were on their way to arresther. We got there just in time, but Finnegan tried to have the goblins and his human guards stopus. It was self defense.

Harry nodded. This world was vastly different from the previous one, and more dangerous. Howwas this even possible? He looked down at the people in the room. Remus seemed troubledwhile Tonks expression was borderline insane. Snape was unreadable.

So, who is on your side? Who is in this Alliance? Harry sat down. His injured shoulder wasbothering him and he rubbed it.

Remus smiled. Were having a meeting tonight. We told you about Luna and Neville is still inthe fight. Theres a man by the name of Sean Manchester, do you know him? Harry noddedand Remus smiled. The Creevey brothers, Lee Jordan, but the one who is even more direstraights then Severus here is Draco Malfoy. Hes our inside man in the Ministry.

Draco? What would motivate Draco Malfoy to join this type of fight? Isnt his fatherthe Ministerof Magic? Harry had a hard time believing that Draco would be part of some resistancemovement.

Lucius is the Minister, but Lucius is far from the man you remember. The Dark Lord had a fallingout with Narcissa Malfoy and murdered her, leaving Lucius just the shell of the man who wasVoldemorts right hand. Remus shrugged.

That sent Draco on this path, the death of his mother? Harry asked.

Snape cleared his throat. Draco suffered from my affliction. He fell in love with a muggle andshe was murdered. He made a blood oath with me on that day, when he realized that loyaltywasnt enough for the Dark Lord.

Harry shook his head. I cant believe this is happening. The hypocrisy is extraordinary.

What do you mean, Harry? This is the world that the Dark Lord always promised. Remus wentto the stove and began to lower the heat further.

Harry looked around. This world doesnt make sense, considering Voldemort is a half-bloodhimself.

What? Tonks whirled around and stared at Harry in disbelief.

His real name is Tom Riddle, Jr. Hes the product of a witch who used a love potion to seduce amuggle. Harry looked at Snape who had a blank look on his face. Surely Dumbledore told youabout this, about his history.

Despite your perception of our relationship, Professor Dumbledore only told me what I needed to

hear, much to our disadvantage. Snape drummed his fingers on the table. However, I dontsee what this information does for us now.

Remus shook his head. Severus, this means everything. It calls the entire system into question.Dont you remember what they did to Umbridge when they found out her father was a squib?

Remus, truth is told by the victors. Without real corroboration, we cannot prove this information.Snape studied the back of his hand studiously and Remus quieted down.


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What do you need, Harry? How can we make things different? How do I secure a better futurefor my son? Tonks voice had quieted down.

Harry looked back to Ron, whod remained quiet upon learning of his familys role and ofHermiones potential fate. Ron let out a deep breath and looked at Harry. We cant leave it likethis, either Harry.

Harry turned to Tonks. In the last timeline we were in, things were changed because somethinghappened to Kingsley the day Scrimgour was killed at the Ministry. I need you tell me everythingthat happened on that day. Harry looked back at Ron who was still sitting quietly.

I need to know what we need to change. There was no doubt in Harrys mind. They were goingto make things right.

Chapter 205 Rebellion

The small town of Little Hangleton was like any other that dotted the English countryside.Located in a hilly, wooded area, the town was dominated by a small square, a churchyard withthe attendant cemetery and the small pubs that the buildings were concentrated around. For

many years, a feeling of dread and despair took hold in the village. This sensation waspunctuated by the bizarre killings that had occurred in the area over the years. No one was safe,whether it be the fairly well-off Riddle family whose manor home sat atop the highest hilloverlooking the town or the strangely insane Gaunt family who occupied a dilapidated shack onthe side of a hill on the other side of town. The Riddle house seemed to reflect the uneasiness ofthe town. Over the years, it had been allowed to fall into decay and after Frank Bryces strangedemise, it was said the smell of death hovered over the place.

The fortunes of Little Hangleton changed over ten years ago and that change was reflected in thechanges in the Riddle manor home. A new owner suddenly arrived and the upkeep andmaintenance of the massive structure was renewed. The grounds were tended meticulously andthe house itself was once more restored to its former glory. No one in town had ever seen thenew occupant, as he was a recluse, but a steady stream of visitors caused a stir in the town,

creating an enormous uptick in the local economy. The town still had its share of weirdness, andno one ventured near the area around the Gaunts old homestead, but overall, a sense that thetown had turned a corner generally pervaded and the conventional wisdom was that theirunknown benefactor lived in the now beautiful manor house at the top of the hill. The old men inthe village had taken to doffing their caps to the man in the house every morning in deference tothe changes hed wrought, even though no one had ever caught sight of him. They only hopedthat he saw their gestures of respect and appreciated their gratitude.

***

Ingrates. Look at them, Wormtail, theyre ants, nothing more than insects beneath my feet.Lord Voldemort stood at the French doors that led out to one of the many balconies that lined theupper floors of his family home. He saw the muggles of the town going about their morning

routines, some tipping their hats up in his direction. This display of respect did little to sway theDark Lords opinion of the muggles, mostly because he felt they were offering allegiance to theRiddles, or people like the Riddles. If they only knew that the prodigal son had returned, theydhide in fear. That day was yet to come, first he had some unfinished business.

Voldemort turned on his heel and walked back into his office. He wore a gray worsted wool, threepiece suit with a black and green striped tie. His affectation for all things Slytherin had found itsway into his dressing patterns. He was, after all, the last true heir of Slytherin, wasnt he? Hemoved around the large mahogany desk and sat down in his chair. His glaring red eyes foundthe figure standing in the room. It was a short man, who, over the years, had slimmed down and


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taken to wearing fine Italian suits. The years had been kind to Peter Pettigrew. Hed grownthinner and his shoulders were more erect. For most of his life, hed been a follower, a sheepherded by the larger, stronger wills of those around him, but his choice to follow the mostpowerful wizard in the world had offered him a chance to wield power and that was intoxicating tohim. True, he was still a follower, but his undeniable loyalty to the Dark Lord had affordedPettigrew the ability to take his frustrations out on other people. His official title within the Ministrywas Adjutant to the Minister of the Magic, but given the relative weakness of the current officeholder, he was really aide de camp to the Dark Lord, which suited Pettigrew fine. Power andcruelty could do nothing to change Pettigrews face, however. He still retained the large frontteeth and rounded cheeks that gave him the appearance of his animagus form, that of a rat andthe Dark Lord continued to refer to him as Wormtail to remind him of his place in the peckingorder.

Time, Wormtail, the time is almost near and everything we have worked for will be achieved.There was a note of satisfaction in Voldemorts voice and he reached a hand down to caress thetoughened hide of the snake coiled in the corner, near his desk. Who would have thought thesefools would give in so willingly, so timidly? All they really wanted was security, and we have giventhem that, for the most part.

Pettigrew was a worrying sort, by nature and his natural instinct was to seek out what could go

wrong. Master, the rebels struck a massive blow in killing Finnegan. Perhaps they will see thisas an opportunity to gain ground?

Where, Wormtail? There act of desperate violence only serves to turn the people against us.How delicious that for all these years, I sought a violent means to accomplish our world order,and all it really took was patience and politics. Voldemort smiled to himself and reviewed theparchment that Wormtail had brought him from the Ministry. Voldemorts eyes widened as heread a particular item. Well, well, well, it would seem that we will finally be rid of the Grangerwoman. Voldemort refused to call Hermione by her pure-blooded husbands name. She was amuggle and did not merit such an honor.

Pettigrew nodded. She has been troublesome, but that will all change Master. Mistress Bellatrixis looking forward to taking her into custody. It amazes me that after all this time, the truth of our

reeducation centers is not really known.

Would it matter, Wormtail? These people have food in their bellies and a roof over their heads.The lot of a mudblood doesnt matter to them. Voldemort smiled. Still, Granger has been athorn in my side for far too long. She kept up her quest for my horcruxes and was very nearlysuccessful for longer than Id anticipated. Fortunately, her husband was able to convince her ofthe folly of continuing the fight.

Some would say that she stopped when she found out she was with child, my lord. Peter addedand the Dark Lord nodded. With Harry gone, Hermione, with Ron in tow, had attempted tocontinue the quest. Ron was getting increasingly fatigued with the quest, but remained out of theburgeoning feelings of love he had for Hermione. After a particularly harrowing encounter withNagini at Bathilda Bagshots home in Godrics Hollow, the couple had become close, confessing

their love for each other on a cold, Christmas night, out in the snow covered woods. Theymarried the next day and with a few weeks, Hermione discovered that she was pregnant. Ronwas beside himself with worry and his fears and exhaustion combined with Hermiones concernfor her unborn child caused the pair to stop their quest to defeat Voldemort. Not soon after that,Ron convinced his parents and the rest of his family of the futility of continuing on the struggle. Itwas difficult, but they acceded. Without the Weasleys at firm up the fight, the Order effectivelydisbanded and the Dark Lords minions took over with relative ease.


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Be that as it may, Wormtail, Im pleased that we will finally be rid of the woman. Voldemortrose. I think I may want to be present when shes led off. When are the Deatheaters due to pickher up?

Noon, my lord.

She has no inkling as to why they are coming?

Shes been told that we are settling her husbands estate, that this is a legal matter, my lord.Voldemort nodded smugly.

Good, let me know when she is in custody. I would enjoy a chat with Ms. Granger, myself.

As you wish, my lord. Wormtail bowed at the waist and walked out of the room.

***

Here are the facts, the points of divergence. Kingsley was killed at the Ministry when Scrimgourwas killed. Tonks and the rest of the Aurors survived. Harry worked his way through the puzzle.His injured arm was aching and he made a face.

Let me see your arm. Snapes tone would brook no disagreement and Harry removed his robefrom the shattered, cursed shoulder. Snape pursed his lips and reached into his nearby satchel.He pulled out a dusty bottle of an obscure, milky white potion. He dabbed three drops on Harrysshoulder, and the black, decaying flesh began to immediately clear up. Snape replaced the bottlein his bag. Youll be sore for quite a while, but you wont die on me.

Thank you, Professor.

Whatever. Snapes surliness was actually comforting, but Harry noticed a slight wistfulness inhis expression and he pressed the man for an answer. Snape shrugged his shoulders. Id beenworking on a potion for cursed wounds for a long time. I stumbled on this mixture a year afterAlbus died. I was a year too late, it would seem.

Harry nodded and watched as the old Severus Snape returned. Harry returned his gaze to thetable. Theyd been joined by some of the others in the rebellion. Neville and Luna sat together,arms locked as the two had been a couple since Harrys disappearance. Lee Jordan, Dennis andColin Creevey and Sean Manchester were also around the table. Needless to say, all had beenshocked at Rons and Harrys sudden reappearance, but they took the news in stride. Now, theywere trying to piece together the elements that would help them change the world.

Harry continued the analysis. So, Kingsley never was able to get a warning out to us at Billswedding. So far, thats consistent with the error in the timeline.

Luna raised her voice, still the sing song quality that Harry knew. The attack at the wedding wasconfusing, Harry. You simply disappeared from there. No one heard from you and after a time,

we assumed youd been killed.

Harry nodded. In my time, we got a warning and had time to get out. Myself, Ron and Hermioneescaped and we started the quest. The question isnt about what happened at the wedding, butdo we need to change to ensure that Kingsley gets the warning off.

Tonks bit her lower lip. You said that in the timeline you just left, all of the Aurors were killed andKingsley was killed trying to save me, right?

Yes.


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Well, I didnt trip and I didnt die. Kingsley was killed defending Scrimgour, up in his office.Tonks said.

Snape looked around. It seems to me that it isnt Shacklebolts memory of the event that needsto change, its his death. We need a memory that reflects his death and we need to change that.

Lee Jordan grunted out loud. Who says we need to change anything? Look, things are bad,but whos to say that where they come from is any better? How do we know any of us are evenalive in their world? We already fighting someone who fancies himself a god, Id hate to think thatwed want to play God ourselves.

Another voice rebounded in the room. Any world without the Dark Lord in it is preferable to thisone, Lee.

Harry and Ron whirled their heads around to the source of the voice. In the doorway stood a tall,thin, platinum haired man with pale skin. His hair was curly, wild and free, its normallystraightened, slicked back look long ago abandoned to reflect his movement to oppose the DarkLord. Draco Malfoy had a long scar running down his cheek and he didnt seem the least bitsurprised to see Ron and Harry sitting at the table. Lee nodded in greeting to Malfoy who took aseat at the end of the table.

Draco barely acknowledged Harry and Ron, instead looking directly at Tonks. We know thatBellatrix murdered Shacklebolt. It would seem to me that her memory is the one we can changeto alter things.

Did she contribute a memory to the archive? Harry asked.

Draco looked back at Harry, a slight hint of disgust in his gaze. Yes, we all did. The Dark Lordrequired us to contribute all of our memories to keep the record of his rise for posterity.

Snape nodded. Well, then, I suppose well have to get our hands on that memory. Can you doit, Draco?

Malfoy chuckled. No, I cant. I think my status as a double agent is about to be compromised.

Why is that? Snape asked, immediately wondering about his own status in the Ministry.

Draco rose and nodded over to Lee and Neville, beckoning them to follow. He glanced at hiswristwatch and then started to leave. Because, Im about to be revealed in a very open way.

Snape shook his head. Dont do anything drastic, Draco. Were not strong enough to take themon directly and were already suffering a poor reputation because of your excessive violen ce.Murdering Finnegan didnt make you any friends among the populace.

Draco sneered. What do I care what they think, Severus? Theyve abandoned us, just likePotter did. Im acting in the only way I know, so dont even think about stopping me. Draco left

the room, Neville and Lee close behind.

Ron shrugged his shoulders. Is he always like this? Wheres he going, anyway?

Tonks sighed. Draco is a strong wizard with an impetuous streak. He brings a certain level ofviolence to our cause. Where ever hes going, its going to be bloody.

Cant you stop him? Harry looked over at Snape who was tapping his fingers absently on thetable.


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Snape locked his eyes with Harrys. Why would I want to, Potter?

***

Hermione gazed around the living room of her home. Ron was gone, the kids were at her in-laws house at The Burrow. She was tidying up, the owl with her termination letter from theMinistry having arrived earlier this morning. It amazed her at how sudden her isolation fromsociety had occurred. With the kids, it had been easy to ignore the changes that had happened.Friends were disappearing and people of mixed-blood orientation, those that were not otherwisemarried into a pure-blood family like herself, were simply gone from the scene. At first, sheconvinced herself that it had been voluntary, some sort of mass migration from the subtleoppression that had been occurring, but the questions still lingered.

Shed tried to talk to Ron about it, and to Ginny, but they seemed even more buried in their denialthat she gave up. Arthur and Molly Weasley were sympathetic, but their children andgrandchildren had become more important than any type of revolution and they insisted on notmaking waves, if only to keep the heat of Ministry sc rutiny off of the family. Harrysdisappearance had ripped the soul of the resistance out of them. The not knowing had been theworst part, hed simply disappeared. For a while, they continued the fight, but without a talismanthat demonstrated ultimate hope, they allowed the weariness of their depression to wear them

down. In the end, shed simply not been a suitable substitute for The Boy Who Lived.

A second owl had arrived from the Ministry, requesting her presence for reassignment andtraining. Apparently, they were shuttling her off to some other job and that it was sensitiveenough for her to require an escort, which would be arriving shortly. The owl said to pack lightly,for no more than a couple of days and shed collected her beaded bag to gether with somechanges of clothing and her favorite books. The hour was approaching and there was a light tapat her door.

She went to the door and opened it. Outside were four men, dressed in similar black suits, withwhite shirts and black ties. Each had darkened sunglasses on and the lead man smiledgenerously.

Mrs. Weasley? Hermione nodded. My name is Williamson. The Ministry sent us to fetch youfor your reassignment.

Hermione noticed that the men behind hadnt spoken. She recognized two of them. Althoughshe hadnt seen them since leaving Hogwarts, there was no mistaking Gregory Goyle andVincent Crabbe, their brutish, thuggish demeanors barely masked by their outerwear. The fourthman was short and rail thin. He had a thoughtful expression on his face and smiled asWilliamson introduced them. These are my associates. I believe you know Mr. Goyle and Mr.Crabbe and this is Mr. Gafney.

Mortimer nodded and spoke up. Are you ready to go?

The circumstances seemed surreal. Why would she need four men to guide her? Long dormant

alarms began to ring in the back of her head, and she suddenly felt the urge to delay leaving.She smiled coyly. Im sorry, gentlemen, Im almost done, wont you come in?

She turned and walked into the house and went to the mantle. Deftly, out of sight, she felt thereassuring firmness of her wand in her hand. Suddenly, there was a loud explosion. She turnedaround to see what had been left of Vincent Crabbe crash through the door and land inside theroom. Hermione fell to her knees as more blasts followed. Gregory Goyle had barely drawn hiswand when he was struck by a sickly green light that ended his life then and there. Williamsonand Gafney dove to the floor at either side of the door. Both drew their wands and studiouslyignored her presence as they tried to assess the threat. Williamson rose and lifted his wand and


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took a blast to the chest, effectively obliterating his front torso and he fell on the spot. Mortimerglanced out the window and his eyes widened as he recognized the leader of the three figuresapproaching from the front yard. He pulled out a small capsule and tossed it to the ground,shrouding him in darkness as he made for a side window and ran out the door.

The effects of the blackness powder dissipated, but smoke and the smell of death hoveredaround the room. Hermione was disoriented and she watched as three men in jeans and tee-shirts walked in. Neville and Lee, she recognized immediately, but the third man took her bysurprise.

Draco? Whats going on?

Draco Malfoy studied his handiwork. It was funny, even when he was an acolyte of the DarkLord, hed never considered Crabbe and Goyle friends. Hed enjoyed killing them. Most of theothers would cringe at the wanton death and destruction, but they needed to know that the DarkLord was a ruthless foe and they had to be likewise in order to survive. Kill or be killed, that washis mantra. In his time with the muggles, he had to say that their greatest contribution had beentheir cinema. He was an absolute aficionado of their action films. He walked up to Hermione andreached out a hand to her, saying the first thing that came to his mind. It was a line from one ofhis favorite movies.

Come with me, if youwant to live.

Chapter 206 Attack of Conscience

Snapes expression was mute, featureless as he exited the floo into the atrium for the Ministry ofMagic. On the surface, very little had been changed to the Ministrys exterior. As Snape walkedfrom the floo, turned and found himself facing the small, wooden desk with the ageless EricMunch firmly ensconced behind it. Befitting his station as one of the Dark Lords trustedlieutenants, Snape bypassed the security desk and walked into the main atrium area. Thestatuary in the middle of the fountain had been altered. Long gone were the figures of the non-human magical creatures. Instead, the fountain was highlighted by the vision of a tall, handsome

wizard who bore the unmistakable likeness of a younger Tom Riddle. Snape snorted to himselfand continued making his way towards the lift area.

There was a bustle of excitement near the lift bank. A crowd had gathered around a group ofmen and a familiar voice carried to Snapes ears as he approached .

Unhand me! Dont try to play your mind games with me, Bellatrix, I know where the skeletonsare buried.

Snape shouldered his way through the crowd and saw a small knot of Deatheaters led byBellatrix Lestrange. Bellatrix had changed very little over the years. She still favored shabby,torn robes, testament to her years of incarceration at Azkaban. Her skin was ashen, wan anddrawn tight against her bones. Her hair was a hardscrabble affair, much like its owner, wild and

frenzied with streaks of black and white melding together in a tangle to get away from themadness. She laughed in a cackle and smiled as Lucius Malfoy struggled against the hold of tworather large Deatheaters, Silas Hornsby and Thorfinn Rowle.

Id say youre in a tight pickle, Lucius. I knew your family was scum, but now I have proof.Lestrange broke into hysterical laughter and even her closest Deatheaters fell back noticeablybefore her.


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Lucius stood still and sneered. His contempt for Bellatrix was obvious, as was the hate theradiated from his being. This is preposterous, Bellatrix. Let me go, or I swear, the Dark Lordshall hear of this.

The Dark Lord shall hear of what? The voice set Snape on edge. Even though it had beenspoken out loud, Snape could almost swear that its raspy, whispery quality echoed inside his ownhead and subconsciously, he found himself bowing his head in deference to the Dark Lord.

The crowd parted and Lord Voldemort walked forward, the ever present Pettigrew trailing arespectful distance behind. The Dark Lord took in the sight of the his Minister of Magic being heldby his Deatheaters and he cast a casual glance at Bellatrix.

What is the meaning of this, Bellatrix, my dear? The term of endearment set Bellatrixs heartapace and her white skin saw a tinge of color cascade down her cheeks as the Dark Lordacknowledged her presence.

We have a traitor in our midst, my lord. Bellatrix pointed a crooked finger at Lucius. His sonkilled three of my Deatheaters and assisted the mudblood Granger in escaping her duty to theMinistry.

The Dark Lords eyes narrowed to tiny slits, their dark luminescent crimson glow radiatingtowards Lucius. This is a very serious charge, Bellatrix. I trust you have proof of this?

Bellatrix Lestrange allowed her smile to grow wider. She bowed ceremoniously and then clappedher hands together. Mortimer Gafney walked from the crowd of Deatheaters and knelt in front ofthe Dark Lord.

It is true, my lord. I was part of the team that went to retrieve Ms. Granger. Draco Malfoy,Neville Longbottom and Sean Manchester ambushed us and killed the rest of my team.Mortimer kept his head down, unused to being in such rarified company.

How is it you came to survive, my boy? The question was loaded, and Mortimer knew it. Anyresponse would draw the ire of either the Dark Lord or Bellatrix Lestrange. The Dark Lord was

ruthless, everyone had seen that, but Bellatrix had been the executioner for both of her sisters, soshe obviously did not possess a single iota of compassion. Mortimer swallowed and answered.

I was in a position to fight on, my lord, but when I saw who the perpetrator was, I felt the Ministrywas better served by the information of a traitor than by the services of a martyr. I believed thatconveying the information was far more important. Mortimer waited in a building silence thatresonated through the atrium. The crowd held its collective breath, many wishing for someexplosion of rage from the Dark Lord or to see a reflection of more rational responses. The DarkLord stared at Mortimer and then put a thin, long hand on the mans head.

Youve done well. The information is, indeed, more vital than the fight. Excellent. Mortimertook his cue and retreated backward as the Dark Lord turned to face Lucius.

Youre family have served me well these long years, Lucius. You have been my right hand for along time. How can you betray me like this?

Lucius immediately recognized the danger he was in. Hed been around the Dark Lord for far toolong, he knew the signs of imminent demise. My lord, I am your faithful servant. Let me showyou. Let me bring my son to justice. I will deal with him myself.

You would betray your son, for me? The Dark Lord asked, somewhat surprised.


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I serve you, my lord, above all else. The arms holding him let go at a wave from Voldemort.Lucius knelt and kept his head down in supplication.

The Dark Lord paused and seemed to consider things. After a moment, he shook his head. Aman that would abandon and betray his own flesh and blood at the drop of a hat would most likelybetray his lord that was not of his own flesh. No, Lucius, Im afraid the long and distinguishedname of Malfoy ends with you and your son. Voldemort gave a slight nod and the Deatheatersstarted leading Lucius Malfoy away. Bellatrix began to follow, licking her lips at the prospect ofdealing with Lucius Malfoy. She was stopped in her tracks by a call from Voldemort.

No, Bellatrix. Leave Lucius to Macnair. Lestrange turned and stared curiously at the Dark Lord.Find Draco, Bellatrix. You may have him. Somewhat mollified, Bellatrix waved at a group ofDeatheaters and led them off towards the floo network.

Snape took the scene in thoughtfully, externally unmoved by the spectacle, but inside, he wasseething. The fool Draco had brought a whole new focus of scrutiny down on them. Bellatrixwould hound him until she found him and that was not good for the Alliance. Slowly, he turned tohead for the lift.

Severus! Is that you, old friend? The Dark Lords call froze Snape in his tracks. He turned and

bowed to the Dark Lord, who smiled. What brings you out this way, Severus?

School business, my lord. I must consult with Mr. Dawlish about a new Triwizard Tournament,my lord and I must visit the archives for Professor Binns. Snape eyed the Dark Lordsurreptitiously, mindful of Voldemorts mood swings.

Ever the diligent educator, eh Severus? Voldemort smiled. It would appear that I have anopening for Minister of Magic.

Snape allowed the thought to wash over him for a moment, but given the little power afforded theMinister he demurred. Regretfully, my lord, I am not suited for politics. Running the Ministrydeals with handling things for today, as Headmaster, I change young minds for your realm in thefuture. As it was in the past, I am most useful to you serving at Hogwarts.

Of course, Severus, you never were an ambitious man. That is good, that is why I allow you toserve. Obviously a dismissal, Snape bowed once more and caught a lift just at the doors beganto close. Voldemort turned and scanned the crowd. He raised a crooked finger and beckoned aman standing near the perimeter over. The man hesitated and then strode forward.

Yes, my lord.

Voldemort contemplated the man and the smiled once more. Minister of Magic Malfoy has justtendered his resignation. I believe its time to put a career minded young man in charge of theMinistry. Ive heard good things about you, are you prepared to serve your country, and me, ofcourse?

The man swallowed hard. This was, indeed, the opportunity hed always wanted, but the jobcame with certain obligations to the Dark Lord and certainly came with risks involved. The mannodded to himself. It was his lifes ambition and he knew what his answer would be, even beforehe came to the conclusion.

I would be honored, my lord, to serve you and the Ministry.

Excellent. Rise, Mr. Minister. Percy Weasley, the new Minister of Magic, rose to his feet andaccepted his new job.


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***

Snape did, in fact, visit John Dawlish, the man who led the Department of Magical Sport andCompetition. The meeting was just preliminary in preparation for re-establishing the TriwizardTournament. Both Beauxbatons and Durmstrang were now led by rabid Dark Lord supporters, sothe competition, needless to say, would be very fierce and very underhanded. After leaving themeeting, Snape ventured down to the archive to retrieve the memory that Potter talked about.

Snape didnt know what to make of the situation. His commitiment had been to atone for Lilysdeath, even if it meant helping James Potters son. Hed failed in that charge, as Potter haddisappeared. Now, he was back, yet a different Potter altogether. The question remained,should he help change things? Is this what Lily would want? He sighed out loud and tried topicture her. The best costume was one where you didnt have to pretend. The outward man thatwas Severus Snape was the same man inside, save for the part of his soul dedicated to LilyEvans. That was the rub. He really did approve, on many levels, of what the Dark Lord wasdoing, and yet, the idea that something would engender disapproval from a woman long deadwas far too much to contemplate. He would help Potter, only because if she was alive, thatswhat Lily would ask him to do. That was enough for Severus. It had always been more thanenough.

Snape walked into the archive and made his way down the rows of aisles, with the memoriesarranged in chronological order. In no time, hed found the memory from the assault on theMinistry. He looked at the chronicled list of names and found Bellatrix Lestranges memory vial.Even in ethereal form, the memory was roiling and dark, much like Bellatrix herself. Snapecarefully pocketed the memory and began walking out. As he reached the end of a particularaisle, a name on a catalog sign caught his eye. He stopped and walked towards the shelf thatcontained another series of memories.

He reached up and grasped a vial and studied the card attached to the memory. He felt his chesttighten and he forgot how to breath for a few moments.

The Deaths of James and Lily Potter as Remembered by Peter Pettigrew

He held the memory tightly in his hands. Hadnt Potter said the Time Shifter altered events intime based on memories? How remarkable. Lily could still be alive. Snapes mind went througha myriad of options. Slowly, he turned towards the exit and then silently placed the small memoryvial in his pocket and walked out the door.

***

Snape said to stay here and out of sight. Harry was clearly agitated and Ron paced the flooridly as his friend went on. Weve just got to trust him, Ron.

I dont trust anyone, Harry, except you and my family. This world is creepy. Ive got to makesure Hermione is okay. Ron cut a path on the wood floors and rubbed his hands togethernervously.

I know you do, Ron, but we cant. You saw what happened in the last timeline. The knowledgethat you and I were even alive sent shock waves throughout the community. We would behunted down. Lets just stay calm. Harry saw his best friend was beside himself. Ron was aman of action. He needed to be doing something. After a moment, Ron stopped his pacing andstood still.

Youre right, Harry. I just want to be with Hermione. I need to know shes all right.


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Ron? The voice stopped Ron and Harry in their tracks. Both men looked over to the door.Standing there was Hermione, none the worse for the wear. She ran across the room andgripped Ron tightly and then kissed him deeply, their lips meeting with a passion born of loss andlove.

Yuck, mudblood love. Laughing at his own joke, Draco turned and walked towards the kitchen.

Once they parted, Hermione took a deep breath and seemed to realize that Harry was in theroom. Harry? Is that really you?

How are you, Hermione? Harry stood and Hermione surveyed him cautiously.

But how? I mean, whats going on? Whereve you been all this time? Hermione turned andlooked over at Ron. The shock of seeing him alive had worn off somewhat and her analyticalmind began to work. She took a step back from Ron.

Theres something different about you. Youre thinner and you face looks different. She saidseriously.

Its me, Mione. Im Ron. Ron stood there, his arms out, palms up.

I can see that, but youre not him, either. Youre different. You have age lines and you look likeyouve seen things, bad things. My Ron was a devil may care, Quidditch star. You seem to bemuch more serious. Hermione alternated looking between Harry and Ron. A look of doubtcrossed her face. What exactly is going on here?

Harry sighed heavily. Sit down, Hermione. This is going to take a while.

***

When the story was complete, Hermione seemed to stare off into space, the facts rebounding inher brain as she contemplated what theyd told her. Tonks and Remus had joined them inmidstory, as did Neville and Sean. Draco hovered somewhere in the background as Harry

finished the tale.

It would seem that Professor Snape is correct. You altered the wrong memory. How soonbefore he returns with the correct one? Hermione looked over at Remus who shrugged hisshoulders.

He should be back any time.

Suddenly, Hermione stood straight up. The children!

What is it? Ron asked nervously.

Hermione looked over at Ron, her face a picture of panic and concern. I left the kids with your

parents. One of the Deatheaters got away. Ive got to go get the children.

Hold on, Hermione, we cant just go traipsing off. We should stay and wait for Snape. Harrycaught Hermiones arm.

I dont know about you, Harry, but I live for those children. She began to walk out ofthe room.

Dont be such a bore, Potter. Im always for saving the children. Draco chuckled.

Remus shook his head slowly. No, Draco, you just see another opportunity to kill Deatheaters.


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There is that, too. Draco began collecting his things. Hermione stopped as Ron stepped infront of her.

She eyed him carefully. Well?

Ron looked at his wife and then felt the tug of his love for her and his kids. Ron nodded. We dothis my way, Hermione. You need to do exactly what I tell you, understand?

She nodded and then kissed him gently on the cheek. He blushed. What was that for?

My Ron wouldnt have done this. My Ron was a good man, but hed lost his way somewhere.Im glad to see that you havent. She walked out the door, followed closely by Tonks, Remus,Neville and Sean. Ron turned and looked at Harry, who had an exasperated look on his face.

Come on, Harry. Its Rose and Hugo. Ron said quietly.

I know, Ron. Ive got a bad feeling about this. Harry said. Still, Harry cinched up his satcheland walked over to Ron. I wont let you down, Ron, but I want to be perfectly clear, Im stillcommitted to getting things set right. Are you?

Ron nodded. I am. When the time comes, Ill do the right thing.

Harry nodded and clapped his friends back. Well, I guess were off to the Burrow.

Ron laughed. Come on, Harry, visiting the in-laws isnt all that bad.

Chapter 207 The Battle of the Burrow

The more things change in life, the more things stay the same. Thats why the oddly built,physically improbable structure that was the Weasley family home was remarkably unchangedover the years. Granted, the children had moved on. Percy worked at the Ministry, Bill and Fleurhad moved to China with their jobs at Gringotts and Charlie was still gallivanting across Eastern

Europe, keeping the dragons in check. Fred and Georges business was bustling, the need forcomic relief from their gag shop readily apparent in a world where anxiety and depression werethe norm. Ginny was a world class athlete, who lost herself in the game, her dexterity on theQuidditch pitch hiding the pain of the life she led. Still, Molly Weasley found herself in herkitchen, her fortress of normality in the chaotic world. She was busily puttering around the ovenand stove, performing the intricate dance of culinary manipulation as a means of hiding awayfrom what shed seen the world become. Her family came first and in maintaining a level ofnormalcy, she was able to studiously ignore the events occurring around her.

At least until Ron had died. With the death of her second to youngest child, the faade of normalhousewife life came crashing down in the personages of her grand children. Eleven year oldRose sat studiously at the kitchen table while eight year old Hugo was busily playing in hisfathers old room. Molly took a second to wipe her brow and look over at Rose, whose head,

much like her mother, was buried in the pages of some obsequious tome shed found on thelibrary shelf. Roses predilection for literature wasnt the only thing shed inherited fromHermione. She had a long tangle of hair that refused control, albeit, the tresses were tinged thebright red tone inherent in the Weasley clan. Her features were so like Hermione, as was herdisposition. Rose was constantly inquisitive, always asking why and how things worked. If thingswerent so chaotic in the world, Molly would feel the warmth of her granddaughters similarity toher daughter-in-law. But Molly was concerned about one other item that Rose had inherited fromHermione, her muggle blood.


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Molly wasnt necessarily one to worry about blood status, but the laws of the land, given whocontrolled the government, promised her grandchildren a status below that of any other person.With Ron gone, Molly was sure that both Hugos and Roses futures were less than certain.There were rumors, of course. Ron had not heard from his half blood and muggle classmatesthrough the years. The blood-purity laws were stringent, reflecting a half-status for non-pureblooded citizens. She simply didnt know what lay in store for her grandchildren and that worriedMolly. She sighed heavily and turned her attention back to her cooking. She hadnt heard fromHermione in a while, either. Something was amiss, and Molly was determined that no matterwhat was going on in the world, she would protect her family.

Good morning, grandfather. Rose always spoke so correctly, so formal. As Arthur Weasleyentered the kitchen, he suppressed a chuckle and patted Rose on the top of her head.

Good morning, Lady Rose. Arthur leaned over and placed a soft kiss on his wifes cheek.Husband and wife shared a knowing glance, reflecting that Mollys anxiety was shared by herhusband. Arthur gratefully accepted the mug of coffee his wife offered and sat at the table, hisDaily Prophet in hand.

Their morning ritual was interrupted by a heavy knock at the front door and Arthur and Molly, bothlooked up in fear. Arthur carefully folded his newspaper and gave a quick glance in Roses

direction. Molly, taking the signal, smiled sweetly at the precocious girl.

Rose, dear, would you mind going upstairs and checking on your brother? Hes been terriblyquiet this morning. Rose gave a pained look, but nodded and headed up the stairs. Mollywatched her husbands back as he walked to the front door.

Carefully, he opened the door. Outside a group of officious men and women stood, almost ten ofthem, with serious expressions on their faces. Arthur recognized most of them and wasdistressed to see Bellatrix Lestrange standing behind the group, a sinister sneer on her face.Jugson stood at the front door, and nodded his head.

Hello, Arthur. Weve been sent to retrieve your grandchildren. Jugsons voice was polite, buthis demeanor was menacing, and Arthur felt a wariness permeate his body.

What on earth for? Their perfectly fine with us. Arthur took a step back and eyed the group,catching flashes of movement beyond, telling him that a sizeable force had been gathered.

As Jugson searched for the right words in the game he was playing, Bellatrix interceded,obviously tired of the charade.

Move aside, Weasley. Your sons decision to marry a mudblood has consequences.Unfortunately, your mudblood daughter-in-law chose to defy the Ministry. Now, hand over thechildren. Bellatrix moved forward, forcing Arthur to take a step back.

I will not, Bellatrix. They will stay with me. Arthur allowed his hands to fall to his side, fullyaware of how much the odds were stacked against him. He hoped that hed been loud enough

for Molly to hear him. He hoped she was using the time to spirit the children away. Hed beentoo silent for too long, and now, at this time, when the lives of his grandchildren were at stake,hed decided to take a stand.

Bellatrix fumed and desperately tried to rein in her anger. Be reasonable, Arthur, youve beensuch a good boy for such a long time. Dont throw away your life. The children wont beharmed.

Arthurstood hesitantly and then reached into his breast pocket and drew his wand. I dont thinkthat Ill agree to your terms.


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My mum and dad didnt have anywhere to put me. They figured Id be all right with Rose andHugo. Teddy seemed adamant about being included and Hermione noticed that he didnt strayfar from her daughters side.

Very well. Were leaving, anyway. Grab each others hands. Hermione watched as thechildren clasped hands and saw how Roses cheeks darkened when Teddy caught her hand inhis. Hermione wrapped her arms around the children and concentrated. They stood for amoment, yet nothing happened. Hermione let out an exasperated sigh and took a quick glanceout the window.

Come on. She led the string of children further up the stairs.

***

Bellatrix found herself with her back against the wall of the house. The battle was raging fiercely,yet she could not take her eyes off Harry as he fought towards the center of the orchard. Traversran up to her side and watched her intently as she seemed somewhere else, fixated on the battle.After a few minutes, she seemed to snap back to reality and affixed her blazing eyes on theDeatheater.

Are the counter-apparition spells in place? Travers nodded curtly. What about the floos?

Shut down at the Ministry. No one is getting out of here, unless they walk. His gruff voiceindicated that no one was going to be taking a stroll any time soon.

Good. See that no one escapes. Ill be back, shortly. She ignored his incredulous stare as shepicked up her broom. Before he could say anything, she held up her hand. You will hold themhere, or die. I will find you if you disobey, do you understand?

He nodded and she flit away, heading for a place outside the range of the counter-apparitionspell.

***

When the fight started, Draco was a bit put out that Potters sudden appearance seemed to drawthe attention away from him. He gave a slight nod to Neville and Luna and dove into the fight.His first blast sent Dolohov reeling backward and once the curses began flying, Draco felt morecomfortable with his situation. They were grossly outnumbered, and it seemed more and moreMinistry cohorts were popping up out of the woodwork. Bellatrix had been right, they had set atrap for him. They had not accounted for Potters presence and despite his own misgivings,Potter seemed to be holding his own. In fact, a small part of Dracos mind admired the sheerruthlessness of this new Harry Potter. In his time being affiliated with the Alliance, Draco hadtried to convince the others that they were engaged in a street brawl and that little regard as toniceties and rules was to be given. Their enemies were the nastiest of the nasty and required aless subtle touch. To accentuate the point, Draco let fly a blast curse that impacted on Nottschest. The resultant explosion of blood and flesh cascaded back on a pair of Deatheaters

standing immediately behind the unfortunate man. Draco smiled madly and pressed home hisattack. When it came down to brass tacks, this was something he was meant for.

***

Harry and Ron stayed close together, but loose enough to cover each others blind spots. Yearsof training and experience kicked in and they demonstrated a sheer lethality born of their timetogether in the field. Ron had watched as Hermione ran inside his boyhood home and he caughta brief glimpse of his father at the door, before it slammed shut. Between parrying curses andsending out counter-spells, Ron saw several Deatheaters attempt to force their way inside the


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home, only to be met by sharp spells from the occupants. It seemed that his parents were doingtheir level best to protect his children.

He and Harry didnt speak. Their movements had been long ago choreographed to meet thecurrent challenge. Harry would lunge forward and strike while Ron protected his friends exposedflank and then Harry would return the favor. The Deatheaters had spent years refining theirability to bully and intimidate, but in a straight up fight, seemed to be less creative in their fightingskills. Nonetheless, what they lacked in ability, they made up for in sheer numbers. Plus, Harryand Ron were still separated from the rest of their group. Ron could see flashes of blonde hair asLuna kept up the fight, with Neville close by her side. Tonks and Remus made up another pair,defiantly keeping the tide of Deatheaters from overtaking the rest from behind. Sean Manchesterhad formed a loose partnership with Draco and the two formed the apex of the spear that waspressing the Deatheaters in front of the house, taking nor expecting any quarter.

Harry was breathing heavily. Even though Snape had cared for his wounds, he still felt weak andsore from his most recent battle to the death. He found reservoirs of energy as he pressed homehis attacks, but saw the futility as more and more Deatheaters entered the fray. Apparently, theywere apparating into Ottery St. Catchpole just outside the counter-apparition spell range andrunning into the fray. The children had been bait and the Deatheaters were discovering thattheyd lured bigger game then theyd expected.

Too much time, were taking too much time. Harry shouted as he felled another Deatheater.Ron nodded. Weve got to get the kids out of the house and away from here. We cant keep thisup forever.

Ron let fly another bolt. I know, Harry, but right now, weve got to handle what weve got. Ronnoticed that Harry seemed perplexed about something, even as he fought on.

What is it?

Wheres Bellatrix? Ron shrugged his shoulders. In the excitement, hed not seen the womanleave.

***

Snape appeared at the house and gazed around. He felt immediately apprehensive when henoticed that no one seemed to be about. Even the infernal scampering of that half-blood child ofRemus was nowhere to be seen. He walked into the kitchen and was stunned by the silence.Something had happened and hed no idea what. Murmuring to himself, he opened the door tothe basement and walked down the dimly lit stairs. When he reached the bottom, he allowedhimself a moment for his eyes to adjust to the darkness and then he strode up to the stoopedfigure of a house-elf cowering in the corner on a bed of rags and hay.

You. Snape turned his nose upward, disgusted with having to even address the small gnome.

Kreacher had been carefully handling a small locket, weighing it in his hand. He seemed startled

by Snapes presence and immediately pulled the locket behind his back. Yes, master?

Kreachers voice was raspy and weak. Without a master for the house and without a purpose inlife, hed taken to hiding away in the basement, away from the gaze of the people who lived there.Only the small one, Teddy, had made an attempt to talk to him, but the boy reminded Kreachertoo much ofhis Master Regulas, whom hed failed. So the house-elf continued his quest to find away to destroy the locket.

Snape ignored the house-elfs sniveling and grimaced. Where did they go?


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They, master?

Snape was in no mood for games and he drew his wand and pointed it at the hapless creaturesneck. Tell me where they went.

Kreacher cowered in front of Snape, his arms shooting up to protect his head. After a fewmoments of pleading, he finally relented.

They followed the mudblood, master.

What do you mean?

Kreacher shuddered. My mistress would be so disappointed. First letting a mudblood family liveunder her roof and now becoming a headquarters for the impure.

Snape glowered at the house-elf and pressed the tip of his wand into hi s cheek. I wont askagain. Where are they?

Kreacher relented. They followed the new mudblood girl that Master Draco rescued and went toretrieve her brats from the Weasley home.

Snape took a step back. Granger, Draco must have rescued Granger. Her and Weasleyschildren were at the Burrow. It was an obvious trap. The fools.

He turned and ran up the stairs. When he reached the top, he found himself placing his hand inhis pocket and fumbling with the two memory vials contained there. His face became inscrutableand then he ran for the front stoop.

***

Bellatrix Lestrange was no coward. That was not why she left the fight. She apparated outsidethe Riddle House and walked boldly in the front door. Ignoring the guards, she ran up the stairsand knocked respectfully on the study door. Hearing a muffled voice, she entered and gazed

around the room. Voldemort and Pettigrew were near the desk, reviewing some parchmentbrought over from the Ministry. Bellatrix glanced at the guards in the room and barked.

Leave us, now. The guards glanced at Voldemort, who had a somewhat bemused look on hisface. He nodded and they scurried out of the room.

You seem a bit agitated, Bellatrix. The Dark Lord sat in his seat and leaned back. Whatseems to be the problem?

She stammered a bit and then took a deep breath. My lord, we set a trap for the traitor Malfoy atthe Burrow, in the thought that the mudblood Granger would come to retrieve her whelps. Shehesitated and then continued. It worked, Draco came with whoever is assisting him in histreason.

That is good, Bellatrix. If I recall, I left Dracos fate to you. Has he been dispatched?Voldemorts tone held a slight menace. He didnt like simple kowtowing.

Thats not it, my lord. Draco wasnt alone. I saw Lupin and Tonks and that idiot Longbottom.She seemed to be holding back and Voldemort rose, getting considerably agitated.

You left in the middle of the operation to tell me this?


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She shook her head and then fell to her knees. I know its not possible, my lord, but I sawRonald Weasley and, and Her voice fell off, terrified of speaking.

Voldemort bounded from his place and put his fiery red eyes to hers. Speak woman!

I saw Potter, my lord. Ronald Weasley andHarry Potter were part of their numbers.

Voldemort leapt back, as if hed touched a hot stove. Impossible.

I know, my lord, but he was there, bold as day and, she hesitated once more, in full control ofhis faculties.

Voldemort swung his arm, his open hand landing on Bellatrixs cheek. Then he walked towardsthe large, Victorian fireplace on the far wall and turned the statue of Merlin on its mantle. Onlythe three of them, Bellatrix, Pettigrew and Voldemort, knew of the passage behind the fireplace.The passage led down into the depths of the house and ended at a single, oak door with heavyiron bars. They ran down the passage and Voldemort threw open the door. Once he glancedinside, he screamed in anger.

Peter Pettigrew had followed his master down the stairs. Four days ago, hed come down these

stairs with the Dark Lord to engage in his masters favorite past time. The last time hed walkedinside the door, it had been a square, stone room, with a set of iron manacles hanging from theceiling. Suspended from the manacles had been a man, the Dark Lords prize possession.Bellatrix had captured Harry Potter in the immediate aftermath of the attack at Bill Weasleyswedding. Shed brought him immediately to the Dark Lord, who built this cell just for his prisoner.

Potter had resisted, naturally, but in the end, years of torture first had him begging for death andthen, had robbed Potter of his sanity and finally of his mind. Recently, the Dark Lord had taken tosimply talking to the body suspended in the dungeon, like a teacher to a pupil. Now, whenPettigrew walked into the dungeon cell, all he saw, besides his angry master, was a pair of emptymanacles hanging from the ceiling. Harry Potter was gone.

As he stared at the place where the prisoner had once been, Pettigrew felt a rush of wind and

then the hardness of the floor as the Dark Lord pushed his way out.

Come, Wormtail. We have some unfinished business. Pettigrew stared at the empty cell andthen ran out the door, in h is masters wake.

Chapter 208 State of Denial

The locker room was empty, the last of her teammates having left after another days practice.She didnt know why shed returned to the pitch, so soon after Seamus death, but at least she feltin control when she was soaring around the field on her broom. Ginny was troubled, and not forthe reasons she should have been. Seamus had been murdered. She should feel somethingmore than she did right now, and yet, the loss of her husband had none of the same feelings that

losing She stopped that train of thought. Harry had disappeared over ten years ago, and shednever had confirmation that hed died. Still, she didnt understand precisely why she lacked a truesensation of loss over Seamus death.

There was an explanation, of course, but thinking about the reason why would make her leaveher comfort zone. She watched as Seamus went through the process of resisting the changesthat the Dark Lord was affecting throughout the country, then the rationalization and finally theacceptance. After all, neither he nor Ginny were directly impacted by the changes, they werepure-bloods. It had been easy for her to bury herself in the game, to be the championship player,solely dedicated to the sport. Her play allowed her to forget about the things that troubled her.


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What happened to Dean? What about Dennis and Colin Creevey? Why hadnt she asked morequestions? Her mind reflected back on the train ride to Hogwarts. She saw the anxiety inHermiones eyes. Once, theyd been the closest of friends, almost sisters in relationship, if not bymarriage, but in her state of denial, shed allowed herself to sever that bond with Hermione. Now,with her brother gone, what would become of Hermione and her kids? Ginnys jaw set in her faceand she rose started pacing.

She cursed Harrys memory, for what it was. He was the reminder of what they should haveaimed for in life and a stark contrast to the shallowness that shed become. She didnt want to bethe person shed become. She wanted more. Was it too late? That was the question, shethought on it for a moment and then fixated on the children at the heart of the matter, her nieceand nephew, Rose and Hugo. They were at her parents house. Maybe she could make it up tothem, maybe she could help safeguard them as atonement for her years of indifference. Sheresolved herself to raise the issue with her parents. Suddenly imbued with a new purpose, sheclosed her duffel and walked out the door.

***

They were coming in the back and the front door, forcing Arthur and Molly to retreat up the stairs.At the first landing, Arthur stood watch, casting spells down the risers at every Deatheater that

showed his or her face. He looked over at his wife.

See where the children are, were going to run out of room. Molly nodded and walked up thestairs. Her soiled apron seemed out of place and she tore it off and cast it to the ground. Shemade her way to the highest room, the attic room and found Hugo and Rose, along with,surprisingly, Teddy Lupin, huddled in a corner, Hermione standing guard.

Theyve forced their way in to the first floor. Molly took a look out one of the windows and sawthe fierce battle being waged below. The courtyard was littered with bodies, yet the unending tideof Deatheaters seemed to keep renewing their numbers.

We cant apparate out, I tried. Hermione said, her mind racing. Is there another way out ofhere?

Molly shook her head, at first and then walked to a small window that looked out over anotherportion of the roof. It led across to the connecting roof of the barn. Unfortunately, the windowwas only big enough for the children to fit through. Hermione bit on her lower lip as she weighedthe odds. She shared a look with Molly and slowly nodded her head.

Rose.

Yes, mommy? The girl seemed calm, collected, but Hermione could see the slight tremor in herlip and the shaking of her hands.

I want you and Hugo and Teddy to crawl out this window and go to the barn. Stay there for awhile, okay? Mommy will try to come get you or Ill send someone to go get you. Hermione

watched the terror go through her daughters mind.

I dont want to go, Mommy, I want to stay with you.

I know, honey, but I really need you to go over there. Were in a lot of trouble. Please?Hermione tore a piece of paper out of a book and scribbled on it. She turned and looked atTeddy.

Teddy, this is very important. If it seems like me or your parents cant get to you, I want you tocrawl out the back of the barn and run into town.


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Among the muggles? Teddy said incredulously.

Yes, among the muggles. Find a police officer and tell them youre lost. Give them this nameand address. Do you understand? She passed the note over to Teddy who read it briefly.

Whos Wendell Rosencrantz?

Hes an old friend. Youll be safe. There was a loud explosion from below and Hermione heardArthur shout in pain or in anger, she couldnt tell. Now hurry.

She opened the small window and Teddy looked at Rose and smiled. Come on Rosey, itll beokay.

Teddy climbed out the window and then waited for Hugo and Rose to follow. Hand in hand, theywalked across the roof. It seemed like forever, but finally, they made it to the upper floor of thebarn and disappeared inside.

Hermione turned to Molly, who had tears in her eyes. Molly seemed to snap out of her daze andgrabbed her daughter-in-law and hugged her tightly.

Im sorry, dear. We werent there for you. We stoppedfighting. Molly seemed to sob andHermione pat her on the back.

Its all right. We all did, but Harry and Ron are back, and Im not afraid to fight anymore.Hermione held her wand out and started walking for the door. Molly stopped her for a moment.

Who is Wendell Rosencrantz, anyway?

Hermione laughed. You remember Harrys cousin, Dudley? Molly nodded. Well, Hestia hadtaken the Dursleys into hiding. Harrys aunt and uncle insisted on changing their identities andtheir memories, but Dudley wanted to remember everything, apparently the encounter with theDementer had changed him. Anyway, Dudley is a head constable in a town near Essex.

HP Priorities XII

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