Chapter 203 Homecoming? The specially commissioned edition of the Hogwarts Express rolled majestically into Hogsmeade station.

. The engine was artfully decorated in black bunting and streamers and the passengers were clad in their best mourning clothes. The last carriage was traditionally reserved for VIP passengers and was colorfully decorated with the Gryffindor emblem and colors. Inside the last compartment of the last car, two women sat quietly facing each other, watching as the last views of the countryside gave way to the arrival platform. Hermione Weasley was dressed in a black dress. Her edges of her eyes were puffy, testimony to the hours of tears shed shed. Now, the Ministry had officially declared Ron dead, and had acceded to the request that the memorial service be held at Hogwarts. Rose and Hugo were with Rons parents, which was good, since she didnt think she had the strength to be the bulwark her small children needed as they came to grips with the loss of their father. Seated across from her, also dressed in black, Ginnys face was more composed, but then 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 over the 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 his hand forward and pointed the women towards the exit from the train. Hermione walked steadily and saw the thestral-drawn carriages waiting to take them up the way to Hogwarts. Dawlish ushered the two women into a waiting seat and sat down with them. Percy Weasley joined Dawlish and sat across from his sister. Youre husbands were great men. This is a huge loss for me, both professionally and personally. Dawlish sighed heavily. Hermione pursed her lips together. I cant accept that hes dead, John. Theres been no sign of him, no body. What if he needs help? She reiterated the argument that shed had with the Ministry for the last two weeks. They were wizards and witches, after all, why couldnt they accept the possibility that Ron was still alive? Weve been through this, Hermione. You need to move on. We need to move on. Ron is not coming back. Percy eased forward, trying to be strong for his sister -in-law. After everything theyd been through, Hermione had simply relented. Under normal circumstances, shed have Ginny to help her, but her friend was going through her own trial and was not up to helping Hermione 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, it was a warm, sunny day. They wound their way up the main lawn and to the front entrance to the Entry Hall. They were met by Professor McGonagall who, uncharacteristically, hugged both Hermione 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 room was decorated in a mix of Gryffindor colors and black. McGonagall ushered them to their reserved seating. The Headmaster will see you shortly. He had to return to his office, hell be back soon. Ginny nodded mutely, the enormity of the occasion suddenly breaking through her tough faade. She leaned over and put her head on Hermiones shoulder and the two women clung to each other for support.

*** The void of blackness was replaced by a blinding red light and the sensation of dizziness. Even though only a few seconds actually passed, it seemed like an eternity and with a dazzling flash of light and smoke, Harry and Ron suddenly appeared into reality. Harry lay where hed been onc e holding Ginnys lifeless body and Ron was standing, favoring his uninjured leg. The Time Shifter was 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 a punctured lung. Ron held his wand out. Episkey. Harrys wounds seemed bind themselves, although his arm still hung limp from his side. Harry reached out his left hand and gripped his discarded wand to in his fingers. He waved his wand over Rons injuries and returned the favor. The sharpness of the pain disappeared, but the spell only kept the severity of the injuries under control, but the underlying weakness from the trauma and the residual pain remained. Harry rose from the floor and looked around. Immediately, a sharp pain coursed through his arm and he winced. Ron stepped to him and helped him pull his robes and shirt to the side. The shoulder was blackened and Ron whistled. It looks like a cursed wound, Harry. Well need something stronger for that. Ron looked around the room they were in. So, are we back? Harry was finishing his own survey. It looks like it. This is the Headmasters office. All the portraits 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 it taken 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. Ron had Harry hold his arm up to his waist and then used the binding tape to affix the arm to Harrys body. After a few minutes, Ron stepped back and reviewed his handiwork. That should hold for now. Thanks. Harry walked around the office and stared up at the portrait behind the Headmasters desk. It was empty and that brought a tinge of regret to Harr ys heart. Hed hoped to tell Albus Dumbledores portrait about their adventure, but his former mentors image was nowhere to be seen. 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. Harry agreed. They began to walk towards the door leading out when the sound of the gargoyle spinning on its axis was heard. Harry pulled on Rons shoulder. Maybe thats Horace, he can help 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 figure entered 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 grim expression 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 the specimens wanting. He was dressed in black robes and had ashen, pale skin with a long face and straight, greasy looking hair.

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 in for the ceremony. Gwenog Jones and Oliver Wood filed in and made for the tiers of seats directly behind the women. Oliver leaned over to hugged Hermione. Im sorry about Ron, Hermione. He was the best keeper Puddlemere United ever had. Its strange that he just disappeared like that, right after the Chudley match. Hermione returned the Puddlemere United captains embrace and Oliver sat down. Gwenog Jones stepped leaned in and placed a comforting hand on Ginnys shoulder. Im sorry too. 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 braz en robbery 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. The team will survive without you, at least for now. Ginny offered a brave smile and Gwenog sat down. There was a great furor at the entrance and the crowd murmured as the Minister of Magic walked into the room. He stopped and shook the perfunctory hands from the members of the bureaucracy that were in attendance. While Seamus wasnt widely known, Ron Weasley had been famous in England for his dazzling play on the pitch and the Ginny was famous in her own right. A memorial service touching the families of these people was an occasion of vast political importance. The Minister was pretty much required to attend. He made his way up the rows of seats 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 heinous act 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 justic e. Ginny nodded grimly, barely hiding the hate she had for the man standing nearby. Lucius nodded in 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 running behind and he hoped that the infernal man wouldnt be too much longer. Malfoy had other things to do, today. *** Bolt the door, Horace. Slughorn jumped at Snapes direction and pushed the door shut. Snape turned and looked at the two men in his office. You, gentlemen, are supposed to be dead. Of course, Mr. Weasley, youre demise was much more recent, but you, Mr. Potter, should not be here. Youve been dead for almost twelve years. Harrys shoulders sagged and then he looked up at Snape. Did we win? Did they defeat the Dark Lord, I mean, you survived. Snape shared a quick glance with Slughorn and pursed his lips together. We never really fought the battle, Potter.

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 people simply gave up. Youre body was never found, you simply ceased to exist. As far as the population was concerned, you ran from the fight, so why should they? Snape walked to his desk 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 face looked down at Harry from the portrait. The problem was that with you gone, there was no anchor for the resistance. We try to fight, but without your face on the front of the battle, there was 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 very complicated question, Professor, one that would take a considerable amount of time to get through. 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 of sight. Unfortunately, I have Mr. Weasleys and Mr. Finnegans funeral to preside over. Snape looked right at Harry. Mr. Finnegan was married to Mr. Weasleys sister, who is quite famous, as was 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 you if you talk. Slughorn blanched while Snape turned and faced Harry and Ron. Go to the Grimmauld Place location. You can use the floo. Do not leave the house. Do not try to contact anyone. You will be met by one of our operatives, do exactly what they tell you to do. Do I make myself 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 and found Snapes gaze had never left him. Its good to see you again, sir. Im sorry for the way I treated you as a boy. I was wrong about you. 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 floo and 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 still adorned 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 its spot, but was covered with a large, black sheet. There was light coming from under the door the kitchen and the sound of someone tinkering within came to their ears. Suddenly, the door opened and a boy about the age of eleven walked out and stopped in his tracks. Harry stood dumbfounded, his mouth agape. The boy smiled at Harry and looked in shocked recognition of Ron. Hello. The boys voice was familiar and Harry felt his heart burst in excitement.

Hello yourself. That was all Harry could muster. The boy looked back over his shoulder. Mom! Dad! Professor Snape s ent 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 of thirty seconds as his gaze went from Harry to Ron and back. Teddy looked at Ron with obvious hero worship and his smile indicated that his delight in seeing the tall red head was beyond compare. 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 thought you were dead? No, not yet. Ron smiled uncomfortably. Ron? Harry and Ron looked towards the kitchen door and there stood Remus Lupin and Nymphadora Tonks. Remus was had an apron tied around his waist while Tonks stood warily to the side, her wand in her hand by her leg. Remus had been focused on Ron and then his eyes fixed on Harry. Merlins beard! Harry? Is that you? Remus walked forward and embraced Harry tightly around the 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 Tonks who seemed unsure of who or what she was seeing. Harry nodded and Tonks broke into a smile of her own. Wotcher, Harry. She reached up and gave Harry a tight hug. Remus gestured for the two men to follow him into the kitchen. A large table covered space in the room. The stove was alive with various pots and pans, boiling over, steam rising to the rafters. The aroma was magnificent and Remus immediately went to the active cook top and began to stir some of the pots. Tonks made her way to the table and sat down near a cup of tea. As her elbow rested on the table, a piece of her sleeve found its way into the tea cup, nearly over turning it. Remus laughed. You see why we 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 the pots and joined them at the table. For a long time, he simply stared at the two men and then shared 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, who was 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 face blackened at being sent away. Listen to your mother, young man. Therell time enough to talk to Mr. Weasley, now get upstairs and 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.

Once hed left the room, Tonks turned and stared at Harry and Ron. Weve got two dead men in our kitchen and Id like an explanation. How do I know youre not another one of the Dark Lords tricks? 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. Theres no 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 derisive snort and Harry chuckled, despite himself. Another voice echoed in the room. Standing at the door to the kitchen, Severus Snape stood with his 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 how you 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 pour himself some tea. Try me, Potter. So far, it sounds like youre making excuses for yourself, just like when you were a school boy. Now youre looking down your nose at us, trying to m ake up for some error in judgment while leaving others to suffer. Snapes face was contorted into a sneer and he sat next to Remus, opposite Ron and Harry. Harry ignored Snapes dig and took a deep breath. The simple reason is that Ron and I are not the people you knew. Weve been shifted from our timeline to this one. A memory, specifically belonging to Kingsley Shacklebolt, was disrupted and it changed things. Weve already been to one reality and now, were in this one. That clears everything up. Tonks retort was part disgust and part exasperation. She leaned back in her chair and folded her arms. You want us to believe that you are zipping along from timeline 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 who reached 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 invented by Albert Einstein, a member of the Illuminati Scientia to allow pensive memories to be used to alter the timeline. I dont know this reality. Things are far different in the twelve years since the Battle 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 for supremacy and he lost. Period. Remus and Snape shared a look between them and Tonks snorted contemptuously. Harry shifted uneasily in his seat and Remus smiled apologetically.

You have to understand, Harry. Thats not the life we know. Things have become more complicated than you know. Were dying a slow death here and its mostly because people have given up. Remus looked over at Snape who was mulling over the device in his hand. Tonks stood and started pacing. There is no Order of the Phoenix, Harry, not the way you remember. She stared at the pots on the stove and thought about stirring them, but her wet sleeve seemed to remind her of the danger in that act. But people are fighting the Dark Lord, arent they? Youre still fighting him, arent you? Ron looked 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 continue the fight. The Weasley family dropped out of the resistance. Ironically, that decision was precipitated by you, Mr. Weasley. Snapes voice was dripping with hate and contempt. Ron flinched at the response and Snape continued the conversation. A month or so after Potter disappeared, you found the fight too hard, too taxing. You made a convincing argument to your parents and your siblings that continuing the war would be too much effort in a losing cause. You convinced them all that fighting would simply lead to death for no good reason. You convinced all of 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 same after you disappeared, Harry. Part of her was hoping wed find a body, if only to allay her fears that youd run off, but we never did. Even Severus, with his connections to the Dark Lord and the Deatheaters, could not find much, if any evidence of what had happened to you. Ginny started off believing that youd return, but that simply changed to her believing that youd fled. Well, she stopped 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 anger and hate. Seamus? She got together with Seamus in this timeline too? What was it about Seamus anyway? 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 vestige s of non-purity in society. Eradicating? Voldemort was always keen on maintaining the dominance of the pure bloods, but eradicating seems pretty severe. Ron shrugged his shoulders uneasily. What do you think will happen to your wife and children in this world, Mr. Weasley? Snape asked 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 wife is 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

wrested from her control and sent to a re-education center to be conditioned to serve as servants to 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 muggle born? Remus sighed. Only the older ones, the children are considered usable by society as servants or laborers. I cant believe that so many people would let this happen. Wouldnt there have been an uproar by 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 off doing this. Theyve had over a decade to do this in pieces, bit by bit, eroding liberties and slowly turning the pure-blooded population against their fellow man. Tyranny very rarely is successful in one fell swoop, Harry, it usually takes over incrementally and legally. Remus sat back and studied Harry for a moment. Thats why Dora and I are in hiding. Wed be taken away immediately 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 adult years. Do you think all you have to do is show up and the world will be a better place? Snape eyed Harry closely. Harrys head whipped around to Snape, his green eyes ablaze with anger and hurt. I understand your motivations, Professor, and I am deeply appreciative for your help, in any timeline, but do not presume to transfer your bias for my father to me. We are completely different 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 them with me in a memory. I would have done no such thing, in any timeline, unless Snapes eyes widened and Harry nodded his head. As I said, Professor, I know exactly what your motivations are. Harry carefully removed his glasses 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 way Snape 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 not engaged in the fight? Remus nodded. Yes. Dont get me wrong, there is a resistance. Severus leads it. We do what we can. Weve started the Alliance for Truth and we launch attacks and try to derail the system in place, but we simply are a shell of what the Order was. Without the Weasleys, or Dumbledore or Harry, we lack the strength to effect a real change. England has been at peace for well over a decade, so the people dont want to hear much about things. Harrys head came up. You killed Seamus. His statement was declarative, assertive.

Tonks gave a grim nod. Yes. He found out that Luna Lovegood was part of the Alliance. He was going to turn her in. He lured her to Gringotts and the Aurors were on their way to arrest her. We got there just in time, but Finnegan tried to have the goblins and his human guards stop us. It was self defense. Harry nodded. This world was vastly different from the previous one, and more dangerous. How was this even possible? He looked down at the people in the room. Remus seemed troubled while 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 was bothering him and he rubbed it. Remus smiled. Were having a meeting tonight. We told you about Luna and Neville is still in the fight. Theres a man by the name of Sean Manchester, do you know him? Harry nodded and Remus smiled. The Creevey brothers, Lee Jordan, but the one who is even more dire straights 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 father the Minister of Magic? Harry had a hard time believing that Draco would be part of some resistance movement. Lucius is the Minister, but Lucius is far from the man you remember. The Dark Lord had a falling out with Narcissa Malfoy and murdered her, leaving Lucius just the shell of the man who was Voldemorts 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 and she was murdered. He made a blood oath with me on that day, when he realized that loyalty wasnt 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 went to the stove and began to lower the heat further. Harry looked around. This world doesnt make sense, considering Voldemort is a half -blood himself. 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 a muggle. Harry looked at Snape who had a blank look on his face. Surely Dumbledore told you about 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 dont see 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.

What do you need, Harry? How can we make things different? How do I secure a better future for my son? Tonks voice had quieted down. Harry looked back to Ron, whod remained quiet upon learning of his familys role and of Hermiones potential fate. Ron let out a deep breath and looked at Harry. We cant leave it like this, either Harry. Harry turned to Tonks. In the last timeline we were in, things were chang ed because something happened to Kingsley the day Scrimgour was killed at the Ministry. I need you tell me everything that 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 going to 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 with the 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 was punctuated 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 hill overlooking the town or the strangely insane Gaunt family who occupied a dilapidated shack on the side of a hill on the other side of town. The Riddle house seemed to reflect the uneasiness of the town. Over the years, it had been allowed to fall into decay and after Frank Bryces strange demise, 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 the changes in the Riddle manor home. A new owner suddenly arrived and the upkeep and maintenance of the massive structure was renewed. The grounds were tended meticulously and the house itself was once more restored to its former glory. No one in town had ever seen the new 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, and no one ventured near the area around the Gaunts old homestead, but overall, a sense that the town had turned a corner generally pervaded and the conventional wisdom was that their unknown benefactor lived in the now beautiful manor house at the top of the hill. The old men in the village had taken to doffing their caps to the man in the house every morning in deference to the changes hed wrought, even though no one had ever caught sight of him. They only hoped that 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 the upper 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 the Dark Lords opinion of the muggles, mostly because he felt they were offering allegiance to the Riddles, or people like the Riddles. If they only knew that the prodigal son had returned, theyd hide 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, three piece suit with a black and green striped tie. His affectation for all things Slytherin had found its way into his dressing patterns. He was, after all, the last true heir of Slytherin, wasnt he? He moved around the large mahogany desk and sat down in his chair. His glaring red eyes found the figure standing in the room. It was a short man, who, over the years, had slimmed down and

taken to wearing fine Italian suits. The years had been kind to Peter Pettigrew. Hed grown thinner and his shoulders were more erect. For most of his life, hed been a follower, a sheep herded by the larger, stronger wills of those around him, but his choice to follow the most powerful wizard in the world had offered him a chance to wield power and that was intoxicating to him. True, he was still a follower, but his undeniable loyalty to the Dark Lord had afforded Pettigrew the ability to take his frustrations out on other people. His official title within the Ministry was Adjutant to the Minister of the Magic, but given the relative weakness of the current office holder, he was really aide de camp to the Dark Lord, which suited Pettigrew fine. Power and cruelty could do nothing to change Pettigrews face, however. He still retained the large front teeth and rounded cheeks that gave him the appearance of his animagus form, that of a rat and the Dark Lord continued to refer to him as Wormtail to remind him of his place in the pecking order. 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 the toughened hide of the snake coiled in the corner, near his desk. Who would have t hought these fools would give in so willingly, so timidly? All they really wanted was security, and we have given them 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 this as 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 the parchment that Wormtail had brought him from the Ministry. Voldemorts eyes widened as he read a particular item. Well, well, well, it would seem that we will finally be rid of the Granger woman. Voldemort refused to call Hermione by her pure-blooded husbands name. She was a muggle and did not merit such an honor. Pettigrew nodded. She has been troublesome, but that will all change Master. Mistress Bellatrix is 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 a thorn in my side for far too long. She kept up her quest for my horcruxes and was very nearly successful for longer than Id anticipated. Fortunately, her husband was able to convince her of the folly of continuing the fight. Some would say that she stopped when she found out she was with child, my lord. Peter added and the Dark Lord nodded. With Harry gone, Hermione, with Ron in tow, had attempted to continue the quest. Ron was getting increasingly fatigued with the quest, but remained out of the burgeoning feelings of love he had for Hermione. After a particularly harrowing encounter with Nagini 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. They married the next day and with a few weeks, Hermione discovered that she was pregnant. Ron was beside himself with worry and his fears and exhaustion combined with Hermiones concern for 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. It was difficult, but they acceded. Without the Weasleys at firm up the fight, the Order effectively disbanded and the Dark Lords minions took over with relative ease.

Be that as it may, Wormtail, Im pleased that we will finally be rid of the woman. Voldemort rose. I think I may want to be present when shes led off. When are the Deatheaters due to pick her 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 Scrimgour was 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 robe from 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 Harrys shoulder, and the black, decaying flesh began to immediately clear up. Snape replaced the bottle in 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 in his expression and he pressed the man for an answer. Snape shrugged his shoulders. Id been working on a potion for cursed wounds for a long time. I stumbled on this mixture a year after Albus 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 the table. 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 and Colin Creevey and Sean Manchester were also around the table. Needless to say, all had been shocked at Rons and Harrys sudden reappearance, but they took the news in stride. Now, they were 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 Bills wedding. 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 was confusing, 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 Hermione escaped and we started the quest. The question isnt about what happened at the wedding, but do we need to change to ensure that Kingsley g ets the warning off. Tonks bit her lower lip. You said that in the timeline you just left, all of the Aurors were killed and Kingsley was killed trying to save me, right? Yes.

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 needs to 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 even alive in their world? We already fighting someone who fancies himself a god, Id hate to think that wed want to play God ourselves. Another voice rebounded in the room. Any world without the Dark Lord in it is preferable to this one, 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 normally straightened, slicked back look long ago abandoned to reflect his movement to oppose the Dark Lord. Draco Malfoy had a long scar running down his cheek and he didn t seem the least bit surprised to see Ron and Harry sitting at the table. Lee nodded in greeting to Malfoy who took a seat at the end of the table. Draco barely acknowledged Harry and Ron, instead looking directly at Tonks. We know that Bellatrix murdered Shacklebolt. It would seem to me that her memory is the one we can change to 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 L ord required 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 do it, 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 his wristwatch 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 them on 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 like Potter did. Im acting in the only way I know, so dont even think about stopping me. Dr aco 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 of violence 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 the table.

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 inlaws house at The Burrow. She was tidying up, the owl with her termination letter from the Ministry having arrived earlier this morning. It amazed her at how sudden her isolation from society 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 otherwise married into a pure-blood family like herself, were simply gone from the scene. At first, she convinced herself that it had been voluntary, some sort of mass migration from the subtle oppression that had been occurring, but the questions still lingered. Shed tried to talk to Ron about it, and to Ginny, but they seemed even mor e buried in their denial that she gave up. Arthur and Molly Weasley were sympathetic, but their children and grandchildren had become more important than any type of revolution and they insisted on not making waves, if only to keep the heat of Ministry sc rutiny off of the family. Harrys disappearance had ripped the soul of the resistance out of them. The not knowing had been the worst part, hed simply disappeared. For a while, they continued the fight, but without a talisman that 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 and training. Apparently, they were shuttling her off to some other job and that it was sensitive enough 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 some changes of clothing and her favorite books. The hour was approaching and there was a light tap at her door. She went to the door and opened it. Outside were four men, dressed in similar black suits, with white shirts and black ties. Each had darkened sunglasses on and the lead man smiled generously. Mrs. Weasley? Hermione nodded. My name is Williamson. The Ministry sent us to fetch you for your reassignment. Hermione noticed that the men behind hadnt spoken. She recognized two of them. Although she hadnt seen them since leaving Hogwarts, there was no mistaking Gregory Goyle and Vincent Crabbe, their brutish, thuggish demeanors barely masked by their outerwear. The fourth man was short and rail thin. He had a thoughtful expression on his face and smiled as Williamson 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 the reassuring firmness of her wand in her hand. Suddenly, there was a loud explosion. She turned around to see what had been left of Vincent Crabbe crash through the door and land inside the room. Hermione fell to her knees as more blasts followed. Gregory Goyle had barely drawn his wand when he was struck by a sickly green light that ended his life then and there. Williamson and Gafney dove to the floor at either side of the door. Both drew their wands and studiously ignored her presence as they tried to assess the threat. Williamson rose and lifted his wand and

took a blast to the chest, effectively obliterating his front torso and he fell on the spot. Mortimer glanced out the window and his eyes widened as he recognized the leader of the three figures approaching 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 hovered around the room. Hermione was disoriented and she watched as three men in jeans and teeshirts walked in. Neville and Lee, she recognized immediately, but the third man took her by surprise. Draco? Whats going on? Draco Malfoy studied his handiwork. It was funny, even when he was an acolyte of the Dark Lord, hed never considered Crabbe and Goyle friends. Hed enjoyed killing them. Most of the others would cringe at the wanton death and destruction, but they needed to know that the Dark Lord was a ruthless foe and they had to be likewise in order to survive. Kill or be killed, that was his mantra. In his time with the muggles, he had to say that their greatest contribution had been their cinema. He was an absolute aficionado of their action films. He walked up to Hermione and reached out a hand to her, saying the first thing that came to his mind. It was a line from one of his favorite movies. Come with me, if you want to live. Chapter 206 Attack of Conscience Snapes expression was mute, featureless as he exited the floo into the atrium for the Ministry of Magic. On the surface, very little had been changed to the Ministrys exterior. As Snape walked from the floo, turned and found himself facing the small, wooden desk with the ageless Eric Munch firmly ensconced behind it. Befitting his station as one of the Dark Lords trusted lieutenants, Snape bypassed the security desk and walked into the main atrium area. The statuary in the middle of the fountain had been altered. Long gone were the figures of the nonhuman 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 himself and 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 of men 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 skeletons are buried. Snape shouldered his way through the crowd and saw a small knot of Deatheaters led by Bellatrix 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 and drawn 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 the madness. She laughed in a cackle and smiled as Lucius Malfoy struggled against the hold of two rather 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 noticeably before her.

Lucius stood still and sneered. His contempt for Bellatrix was obvious, as was the hate the radiated from his being. This is preposterous, Bellatrix. Let me go, or I swear, the Dark Lord shall hear of this. The Dark Lord shall hear of what? The voice set Snape on edge. Even though it had been spoken out loud, Snape could almost swear that its raspy, whispery quality echoed inside his own head 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 a respectful distance behind. The Dark Lord took in the sight of the his Minister of Magic being held by 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 heart apace and her white skin saw a tinge of color cascade down her cheeks as the Dark Lord acknowledged her presence. We have a traitor in our midst, my lord. Bellatrix pointed a crooked finger at Lucius. His son killed three of my Deatheaters and assisted the mudblood Granger in escaping her duty to the Ministry. The Dark Lords eyes narrowed to tiny slits, their dark luminescent crimson glow radiating towards 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 clapped her hands together. Mortimer Gafney walked from the crowd of Deatheaters and knelt in front of the 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 lo aded, and Mortimer knew it. Any response 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, so she 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 Ministry was better served by the information of a traitor than by the services of a martyr. I believed that conveying the information was far more important. Mortimer waited in a building silence that resonated through the atrium. The crowd held its collective breath, many wishing for some explosion of rage from the Dark Lord or to see a reflection of more rational responses. The Dark Lord 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. Mortimer took 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 a long time. How can you betray me like this? Lucius immediately recognized the danger he was in. Hed been around the Dark Lord for far too long, he knew the signs of imminent demise. My lord, I am your faithful servant. Let me show you. 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.

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. A man that would abandon and betray his own flesh and blood at the drop of a hat would most likely betray his lord that was not of his own flesh. No, Lucius, Im afraid the long and distinguished name of Malfoy ends with you and your son. Voldemort gave a s light nod and the Deatheaters started leading Lucius Malfoy away. Bellatrix began to follow, licking her lips at the prospect of dealing 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 of Deatheaters and led them off towards the floo network. Snape took the scene in thoughtfully, externally unmoved by the spectacle, but inside, he was seething. The fool Draco had brought a whole new focus of scrutiny down on them. Bellatrix would hound him until she found him and that was not good for the Alliance. Slowly, he turned to head 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 Lord surreptitiously, mindful of Voldemorts mood swings. Ever the diligent educator, eh Severus? Voldemort smiled. It would appear that I have an opening for Minister of Magic. Snape allowed the thought to wash over him for a moment, but given the little power afforded the Minister he demurred. Regretfully, my lord, I am not suited for politics. Running the Ministry deals with handling things for today, as Headmaster, I change young minds for your realm in the future. 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 to serve. Obviously a dismissal, Snape bowed once more and caught a lift just at the doors began to close. Voldemort turned and scanned the crowd. He raised a crooked finger and beckoned a man 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 just tendered his resignation. I believe its time to put a career minded young man in charge of the Ministry. Ive heard good things about you, are you prepared to serve your country, and me, of course? The man swallowed hard. This was, indeed, the opportunity hed always wanted, but the job came with certain obligations to the Dark Lord and certainly came with risks involved. The man nodded to himself. It was his lifes ambition and he knew what his answer would be, even before he 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 and accepted his new job.

*** Snape did, in fact, visit John Dawlish, the man who led the Department of Magical Sport and Competition. The meeting was just preliminary in preparation for re-establishing the Triwizard Tournament. Both Beauxbatons and Durmstrang were now led by rabid Dark Lord supporters, so the competition, needless to say, would be very fierce and very underhanded. After leaving the meeting, 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 Lilys death, even if it meant helping James Potters son. Hed failed in that charge, as Potter had disappeared. 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 to picture her. The best costume was one where you didnt have to pretend. The outward man that was Severus Snape was the same man inside, save for the part of his soul dedicated to Lily Evans. That was the rub. He really did approve, on many levels, of what the Dark Lord was doing, and yet, the idea that something would engender disapproval from a woman long dead was far too much to contemplate. He would help Potter, only because if she was alive, thats what Lily would ask him to do. That was enough for Severus. It had always been more than enough. Snape walked into the archive and made his way down the rows of aisles, with the memories arranged in chronological order. In no time, hed found the memory from the assault on the Ministry. 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. Snape carefully pocketed the memory and began walking out. As he reached the end of a particular aisle, a name on a catalog sign caught his eye. He stopped and walked towards the shelf that contained another series of memories. He reached up and grasped a vial and studied the card attached to the memory. He felt his chest tighten 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 in time based on memories? How remarkable. Lily could still be alive. Snapes mind went through a myriad of options. Slowly, he turned towards the exit and then silently placed the small memory vial 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 floor idly 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 make sure Hermione is okay. Ron cut a path on the wood floors and rubbed his hands together nervously. I know you do, Ron, but we cant. You saw what happened in the last timeline. T he knowledge that you and I were even alive sent shock waves throughout the community. We would be hunted down. Lets just stay calm. Harry saw his best friend was beside himself. Ron was a man of action. He needed to be doing something. After a moment, Ron stopped his pacing and stood still. Youre right, Harry. I just want to be with Hermione. I need to know shes all right.

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 and gripped Ron tightly and then kissed him deeply, their lips meeting with a passion born of loss and love. Yuck, mudblood love. Laughing at his own joke, Draco turned and walked towards the kit chen. Once they parted, Hermione took a deep breath and seemed to realize that Harry was in the room. 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 and looked over at Ron. The shock of seeing him alive had worn off somewhat and her analytical mind began to work. She took a step back from Ron. Theres something different about you. Youre thinner and you face looks different. She said seriously. 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 like youve seen things, bad things. M y Ron was a devil may care, Quidditch star. You seem to be much more serious. Hermione alternated looking between Harry and Ron. A look of doubt crossed 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 in her brain as she contemplated what theyd told her. Tonks and Remus had joined them in midstory, 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 soon before he returns with the correct one? Hermione looked over at Remus who shrugged his shoulders. 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. Harry caught Hermiones arm. I dont know about you, Harry, but I live for those children. She began to walk out of the 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.

There is that, too. Draco began collecting his things. H ermione stopped as Ron stepped in front 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 do this my way, Hermione. You need to do exactly what I tell you, understan d? 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 cin ched up his satchel and walked over to Ron. I wont let you down, Ron, but I want to be perfectly clear, Im still committed 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 wh y the oddly built, physically improbable structure that was the Weasley family home was remarkably unchanged over the years. Granted, the children had moved on. Percy worked at the Ministry, Bill and Fleur had 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 for comic relief from their gag shop readily apparent in a world where anxiety and depression were the norm. Ginny was a world class athlete, who lost herself in the game, her dexterity on the Quidditch pitch hiding the pain of the life she led. Still, Molly Weasley found herself in her kitchen, her fortress of normality in the chaotic world. She was busily puttering around the oven and stove, performing the intricate dance of culinary manipulation as a means of hiding away from what shed seen the world become. Her family came first and in maintaining a level of normalcy, 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 normal housewife life came crashing down in the personages of her grand children. Eleven year old Rose sat studiously at the kitchen table while eight year old Hugo was busily playing in his fathers 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 the library shelf. Roses predilection for literature wasnt the only thing shed inherited from Hermione. She had a long tangle of hair that refused control, albeit, the tresses were tinged the bright red tone inherent in the Weasley clan. Her features were so like Hermione, as was her disposition. Rose was constantly inquisitive, always asking why and how things worked. If things werent so chaotic in the world, Molly would feel the warmth of her granddaughters similarity to her daughter-in-law. But Molly was concerned about one other item that Rose had inherited from Hermione, her muggle blood.

Molly wasnt necessarily one to worry about blood status, but the laws of the land, given who controlled 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 classmates through the years. The blood-purity laws were stringent, reflecting a half-status for non-pure blooded citizens. She simply didnt know what lay in store for her grandchildren and that worried Molly. She sighed heavily and turned her attention back to her cooking. She hadnt heard from Hermione in a while, either. Something was amiss, and Molly was determined that no matter what was going on in the world, she would protect her family. Good morning, grandfather. Rose always spoke so correctly, so formal. As Arthur Weasley entered 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 her husband. Arthur gratefully accepted the mug of coffee his wife offered and sat at the table, his Daily Prophet in hand. Their morning ritual was interrupted by a heavy knock at the front door and Arthur and Molly, both looked 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 terribly quiet this morning. Rose gave a pained look, but nodded and headed up the stairs. Molly watched 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 of them, with serious expressions on their faces. Arthur recognized most of them and was distressed 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, but his 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 the children. 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, fully aware 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 been too 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 been such a good boy for such a long time. Dont throw away your life. The children wont be harmed. Arthur stood hesitantly and then reached into his breast pocket and drew his wand. I dont think that Ill agree to your terms.

You always were a mudblood lover, Weasley, thats why we won and you lost. Bellatrix seemed positively giddy about the prospect of eliminating Arthur, her eyes grew wild with excitement. You never could tell the truth, Bella, I bet youre just itching for a fight. Bellatrix turned around at the new voice that echoed across the yard. Inside the apple orchard, she saw a half dozen wizards standing in a loose triangle. At its apex was Draco Malfoy. Bellatrix smiled in a sickly sweet way. Draco, the traitor, I knew you couldnt resist this target, not after helping the mudblood Granger escape. Draco stood at ease, a big smile on his face. Sean, Neville, Luna, Tonks and Remus stood with him, their wands at the ready. Bellatrix let out a cackle. I knew youd show, thats why I brought more friends to the party. She waved her hand and more Deatheaters made their appearance, dotting the landscape until the six of them were surrounded. Bellatrix eyed Draco madly, obviously visions of what she would do to him coursing through her mind. Youre surrounded, Draco, give up now. I sincerely hope that you dont, but make it easier on the rest of your friends and surrender to Auntie Bella. We have you surrounded and theres no one else to help you now. Another voice rang out, this time from the barn where Arthur puttered with his muggle items. The barn doors opened and three figures stood at ease, wands out. Oh, I dont know Bellatrix, these people dont seem too intimidating to me. Bellatrix stopped in her tracks, her eyes widened. She knew that voice, but it was impossible. He could not be here, she knew that for a fact. She turned and faced the source of the voice. Her eyes locked with Harrys in obvious disbelief. No. Youre an imposter. Theres no way you can be here. Bellatrix stumbled backward, her mind racing. She turned to her minions. Kill them, kill them all! Arthur stood in shock as he saw the battle begin. His mind fixated on the figures of Hermione, Ron and Harry standing together, much like theyd been when they were at Hogwarts. Except his son was not the Ron he remembered. This one moved with a fluid grace and lethality that belied experience beyond a Quidditch career. Harry, too, was not the boy hed remembered. Together, they attacked the nearest group of Deatheaters, plowing their way through, carving an opening for Hermione to get to the house. Within seconds, Hermione joined Arthur on the stoop and pushed him inside, slamming the door behind them. Where are Rose and Hugo? Hermione shouted, but Arthur seemed transfixed on the action outside. Hermione grabbed his shoulder bodil y. Where are my children? Arthur returned to reality. Upstairs. What the blazes is going on? He faced Hermione and looked back and saw Molly approaching, her wand drawn. Hermione sighed. Its a long story. Lets just say, its time to pick a side. Molly joined Arthur at the window and watched the spectacle. The sight of her son and Harry fighting for their lives seemed incongruous, yet there they were. The couple stared at the action as Hermione ran upstairs to retrieve her kids. Hermione bounded up the stairs, the sounds of the battle outside tingling in her head. As she turned the corner and entered her formerly deceased husbands old room, she spotted the figures of three children glancing out the window. Step back from there! She turned to the pink-haired boy sitting next to Rose. Teddy, what are you doing here?

My mum and dad didnt have anywhere to put me. They figured Id be all right with Rose and Hugo. Teddy seemed adamant about being included and Hermione noticed that he didnt stray far from her daughters side. Very well. Were leaving, anyway. Grab each others hands. Hermione watched as the children clasped hands and saw how Roses cheeks darkened when Teddy caught her hand in his. Hermione wrapped her arms around the children and concentrated. They stood for a moment, yet nothing happened. Hermione let out an exasperated sigh and took a quick glance out 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. Travers ran 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 the Deatheater. 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 voice indicated 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 she picked up her broom. Before he could say anything, she held up her hand. You will hold them here, 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-apparition spell. *** When the fight started, Draco was a bit put out that Potters sudden appearance seemed to draw the 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 more comfortable with his situation. They were grossly outnumbered, and it seemed more and more Ministry cohorts were popping up out of the woodwork. Bellatrix had been right, they had set a trap 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 sheer ruthlessness of this new Harry Potter. In his time being affiliated with the Alliance, Draco had tried to convince the others that they were engaged in a street brawl and that little regard as to niceties and rules was to be given. Their enemies were the nastiest of the nasty and required a less subtle touch. To accentuate the point, Draco let fly a blast curs e that impacted on Notts chest. 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 his attack. 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. Years of training and experience kicked in and they demonstrated a sheer lethality born of their time together in the field. Ron had watched as Hermione ran inside his boyhood home and he caught a brief glimpse of his father at the door, before it slammed shut. Between parrying curses and sending out counter-spells, Ron saw several Deatheaters attempt to force their way inside the

home, only to be met by sharp spells from the occupants. It seemed that his parents were doing their level best to protect his children. He and Harry didnt speak. Their movements had been long ago choreographed to meet the current challenge. Harry would lunge forward and strike while Ron protected his friends exposed flank and then Harry would return the favor. The Deatheaters had spent years refining their ability to bully and intimidate, but in a straight up fight, seemed to be less creative in their fighting skills. Nonetheless, what they lacked in ability, they made up for in sheer numbers. Plus, Harry and Ron were still separated from the rest of their group. Ron could see flashes of blonde hair as Luna 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 Manchester had formed a loose partnership with Draco and the two formed the apex of the spear that was pressing 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 and sore from his most recent battle to the death. He found reservoirs of energy as he pressed home his attacks, but saw the futility as more and more Deatheaters entered the fray. Apparently, they were apparating into Ottery St. Catchpole just outside the counter-apparition spell range and running into the fray. The children had been bait and the Deatheaters were discovering that theyd 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 this up forever. Ron let fly another bolt. I know, Harry, but right now, weve got to handle what weve got. Ron noticed 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 woman leave. *** Snape appeared at the house and gazed around. He felt immediately apprehensive when he noticed that no one seemed to be about. Even the infernal scampering of that half-blood child of Remus 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 to the basement and walked down the dimly lit stairs. When he reached the bottom, he allowed himself a moment for his eyes to adjust to the darkness and then he strode up to the stooped figure 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 in life, 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 Kreacher too much of his Master Regulas, whom hed failed. So the house-elf continued his quest to find a way to destroy the locket. Snape ignored the house-elfs sniveling and grimaced. Where did they go?

They, master? Snape was in no mood for games and he drew his wand and pointed it at the hapless creatures neck. Tell me where they went. Kreacher cowered in front of Snape, his arms shooting up to protect his head. After a few moments 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 live under her roof and now becoming a headquarters for the impure. Snape glowered at the house-elf and pressed the tip of his wand into his cheek. I wont ask again. Where are they? Kreacher relented. They followed the new mudblood girl that Master Draco rescued and went to retrieve her brats from the Weasley home. Snape took a step back. Granger, Draco must have rescued Granger. Her and Weasleys children 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 in his pocket and fumbling with the two memory vials contained there. His face became inscrutable and then he ran for the front stoop. *** Bellatrix Lestrange was no coward. That was not why she left the fight. She apparated outside the Riddle House and walked boldly in the front door. Ignoring the guards, she ran up the stairs and 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 parchment brought 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 his face. 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. What seems to be the problem? She stammered a bit and then took a deep breath. My lord, we set a trap for the traitor Malfoy at the Burrow, in the thought that the mudblood Granger would come to retrieve her whelps. She hesitated and then continued. It worked, Draco came with whoever is assisting him in his treason. 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?

She shook her head and then fell to her knees. I know its not possible, my lord, but I saw Ronald 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 and Harry 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 of his faculties. Voldemort swung his arm, his open hand landing on Bellatrixs cheek. Then he walked towards the large, Victorian fireplace on the far wall and turned the statue of Merlin on its mantle. Only the 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 heavy iron bars. They ran down the passage and Voldemort threw open the door. Once he glanced inside, 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 walked inside the door, it had been a square, stone room, with a set of iron manacles hanging from the ceiling. 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 Weasleys wedding. 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 and then, had robbed Potter of his sanity and finally of his mind. Recently, the Dark Lord had taken to simply talking to the body suspended in the dungeon, like a teacher to a pupil. Now, when Pettigrew walked into the dungeon cell, all he saw, besides his angry master, was a pair of empty manacles 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 and then ran out the door, in his 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 felt in control when she was soaring around the field on her broom. Ginny was troubled, and not for the reasons she should have been. Seamus had been murdered. She should feel something more 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 shed never had confirmation that hed died. Still, she didnt understand precisely why she lacked a true sensation of loss over Seamus death. There was an explanation, of course, but thinking about the reason why would make her leave her comfort zone. She watched as Seamus went through the process of resisting the changes that the Dark Lord was affecting throughout the country, then the rationalization and finally the acceptance. After all, neither he nor Ginny were directly impacted by the changes, they were pure-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.

What happened to Dean? What about Dennis and Colin Creevey? Why hadnt she asked more questions? Her mind reflected back on the train ride to Hogwarts. She saw the anxiety in Hermiones eyes. Once, theyd been the closest of friends, almost sisters in relationship, if not by marriage, 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 face and she rose started pacing. She cursed Harrys memory, for what it was. He was the reminder of what they should have aimed for in life and a stark contrast to the shallowness that shed become. She didnt want to be the person shed become. She wanted more. Was it too late? That was the question, she thought on it for a moment and then fixated on the children at the heart of the matter, her niece and nephew, Rose and Hugo. They were at her parents house. Maybe she could make it up to them, maybe she could help safeguard them as atonement for her years of indifference. She resolved herself to raise the issue with her parents. Suddenly imbued with a new purpose, she closed 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 the stairs. Her soiled apron seemed out of place and she tore it off and cast it to the ground. She made 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 saw the fierce battle being waged below. The courtyard was littered with bodies, yet the unending tide of Deatheaters seemed to keep renewing their numbers. We cant apparate out, I tried. Hermione said, her mind racing. Is there another way out of here? Molly shook her head, at first and then walked to a small window that looked out over another portion of the roof. It led across to the connecting roof of the barn. Unfortunately, the window was only big enough for the children to fit through. Hermione bit on her lower lip as she weighed the 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 her lip 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 a while, 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 at Teddy. Teddy, this is very important. If it seems like me or your parents cant get to you, I wan t you to crawl out the back of the barn and run into town.

Among the muggles? Teddy said incredulously. Yes, among the muggles. Find a police officer and tell them youre lost. Give them this name and 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 heard Arthur 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 be okay. Teddy climbed out the window and then waited for Hugo and Rose to follow. Hand in hand, they walked across the roof. It seemed like forever, but finally, they made it to the upper floor of the barn and disappeared inside. Hermione turned to Molly, who had tears in her eyes. Molly seemed to snap out of her daze and grabbed her daughter-in-law and hugged her tightly. Im sorry, dear. We werent there for you. We stopped fighting. Molly seemed to sob and Hermione 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 had taken the Dursleys into hiding. Harrys aunt and uncle insisted on changing their identities and their memories, but Dudley wanted to remember everything, apparently the encounter with the Dementer had changed him. Anyway, Dudley is a head constable in a town near Essex. Hermione smiled sheepishly. Hes been helping me ferret half -bloods and muggles out of the country. Hes a good friend. Molly shook her head. All this time, Hermione had been doing something. Even that horrid man, Dudley, had done something. It was time for her to do something too. She opened the door and looked over at Hermione, who nodded. Together, the women ran downstairs to join the fray. *** The battle was getting more frenetic and Harry was desperately trying to get ahead of the tide. He and Ron were succeeding in closing the gap between themselves and the others, but the open space of the orchard and the courtyard simply afforded the Deatheaters too much room to maneuver. This battlefield did not give an edge to the smaller force. Ron was fighting like a man possessed. Both he and Harry had decided to draw swords, to add another element of fatality to the fracas. There was a knot of Deatheaters hiding behind a small knoll near the edge of the property. Harry and Ron ran at a full pace over the top of the hill and leapt amid the circle of thugs. The closed quarters made for very inefficient spell casting, so it was left to the blades. The Deatheaters were caught unawares and despite their desperate attempts to fend off the furious assault, they were not prepared for the keen edges that sliced through their extremities, often dealing killing blows with one fell swoop. Within seconds, the enemy was dead in the immediate vicinity and Harry and Ron stopped to catch their breaths.

Listen. Ron said, his head cocked to the side. Harry tuned into the noise of his surroundings. The caterwaul of sirens could be heard in the distance. Suddenly, there was a loud explosion and the sirens stopped. Harry cursed under his breath, as it was readily apparent that the Deatheaters had dealt with any potential interference from the muggle authorities. Harry looked out from behind the hill and a flash of movement from the rooftop caught his eye. He nodded over to the location with his head. The kids. Ron said, as he watched the children scramble across the roof to the barn. We need to work our way over to the barn, Harry. Harry nodded and he ran out along the perimeter wall, towards the barn. *** Harry wasnt the only person to see the kids travels. Travers spied them from his hiding spot near the back of the property. He smiled to himself. The original intent was to capture the children and use them as leverage. He saw their dash to the barn and beckoned to a pair of Deatheaters nearby and began a stealthy movement towards the barn. *** Draco and Sean were beset by opponents on all sides. Luna and Neville were off near the broom shed and Lupin and Tonks were at the back gate, barely keeping the tide of enemies back. The brunt of the main assault seemed to be bending the pair back, forcing them to a place where movement was restricted, against the wall of the house. Draco was more attuned to the seriousness of their predicament and he remained mute as he tried to focus on each impending threat. There was a grunt from beside him and Manchester was flung to the ground by a spell that drove him into the masonry of the house wall. Momentarily stunned, a follow up blast of green light ended his life. Draco spun and let fly a curse that killed the wizard that flung the offending spell. Doing so exposed Dracos side to the enemies in that quarter and a blast spell sent him flying to the ground. Draco tried to roll and respond to the new threat. He saw three Deatheaters, led by Jugson approaching, wands drawn. Before he could respond, all three were thrown to the side like rag dolls. Standing behind them were Arthur, Molly and Hermione. Hermione ran to Dracos side and helped him to his feet. Draco gave her a slight nod and turned his attention back to the fight. Slowly, it seemed, the tide was turning, unless something worse happened. *** The wind coursed over his head as he made his way from the apparition point to the battle site. His arms were outstretched and he barely noticed the two figures on brooms to either side of him. He looked to the sky, his Dementers, whod hed kept in check while consolidating his power were now filling the once sunlit sky with an ominous gloom. His mind was racing. How had Potter fooled him all this time? Why had he chosen this time to make it known? It was absurd, because no one should have been able to remain whole with the punishment that hed visited on the man. Potter wasnt a man, anymore and yet, according to Bellatrix, he was still alive, and vital. The implications were far reaching. Either Potter had a way that transcended known magic that allowed him to recover, which meant that his own magic was wanting, or someone was manipulating the game, which also implied that his own magic was inferior. Neither possibility was a good thing for him. He was, after all, the most powerf ul wizard that ever lived. Hadnt he defeated Dumbledore? Hadnt he defeated, even, the power of prophecy to defeat Potter? It was far too late to try to hide their presence from the muggles below, but Bellatrix had taken the time to devote Ministry resources to holding the muggles back from the battle. He flew above the small village of Ottery St. Catchpole. His eyes were drawn to the smoke and the bright lights of

spells being cast, in and around the Burrow. His eyes narrowed as he began to take in the scene. His Deatheaters outnumbered their counterparts, yet by the tale of the bodies below, his minions were obviously bearing the brunt of the losses. He hovered in the air and waved an arm. The sky darkened further as the Dementers moved into the battle. *** Teddy led the other two children into the hay loft. The battle was roiling outside and he felt a nervous tension from the danger they were in. He looked over at Rose and gave her a reassuring grin and then pointed her to a large haystack to hide behind. They waited for a few minutes and then they heard the creak of one of the doors below opening. Teddy held a finger to his lips and peered around the bale hed been hiding behind to the floor below. The door was filled with three black-robed figures he did not recognize, although he recognized their intent. Travers called out. Come out children! Dont make me come and find you. The large Deatheater searched around. He looked up and thought he heard something from the loft above. He smiled to himself and raised his wand. Reducto! The wooden floor vanished in a cloud of dust and smoke, dumping the contents of the loft down onto the floor below, including the children. There you are. Come with us, now. Travers started walking towards Rose and Teddy stepped in front of him. Leave them alone. Teddy stood defiantly in front of the Deatheater, his hair a dark red, like fire. Or what? Stand aside, freak, well deal with you in time. Travers moved to push Teddy away, but Teddy stood his ground and closed his eyes tightly. Within seconds, Teddy had transformed into a tiger and he reached out with his paws, driving them into Travers face. The Deatheater fell back, screaming in pain, the weight of Teddys form coming do wn on him. The other two Deatheaters let fly with spells to force the tiger off their leader. Most missed, but some struck home and eventually, the tiger fell to its side and transformed back into the form of the boy who was defending his friends. Rose screamed and one of the remaining Deatheaters pointed his wand in her direction. Confringo! The mans chest exploded and he screamed from the pain. The other turned to face the new threat and found himself impaled on Harrys cutlass. He fell to his knees in a heap. Ron turned towards Rose, who immediately recognized him. Daddy? Rose and Hugo ran into Rons arms and he engulfed them in a tight embrace. Rose broke away and looked at him with a puzzled expression. Youre not my father. Of course, this wasnt his Rose, either. She was older, much different from the small girl he remembered. Ron shook his head slowly. I am and Im not. I know its confusing. I am Ron Weasley and I love you very much, just remember that. Rose stared at him for another second and then came to the conclusion that it didnt matter. Her face grew wide. Teddy! She turned to see Harry kneeling over the still form of the boy. Rose ran to Teddys side and grasped at his hand. Wake up, Teddy! Wake up! Ron saw from Harrys face that Teddy wouldnt be waking up. He reached down and pulled Rose away from the scene. Harry stayed for a moment longer and then stood. He walked to the door

and saw the sky begin to darken. In the distance, he saw three figures hovering in the sky, the one in the middle was one he recognized in any world. The Dark Lord was here. He turned to Ron. Weve got to get out of here, Ron. Weve got to get them to safety. Harry nodded at the children. A small voice rang out to break the silence. Isnt that Aunt Ginny? Hugo pointed out the door and the sound of Ginnys name pulled Harry from his stupor. He looked out and sure enough, Ginny was approaching the far gate, a worried expression on her face. She was looking at the ring of people that included her parents, Hermione, Draco, the Lupins, Neville and Luna. They were being pressed from all sides. None of them seemed to notice the Dark Lords approach. Ginny had her wand out and she was racing to join her family in the fight for their lives. Harry let out a sigh. He couldnt leave anyone behind. He turned and faced Ron. Get them out, Ron. Harry nodded over to Ginny and the rest of them. Im not going to leave them here, like this. Ron stared out as well. His eyes were focused on the determined face of his wife. He looked back at his kids and smiled. He pointed his wand at the ground. Deprimo! A hole opened in the ground, carving a niche almost ten feet deep. Ron dropped down into the hole and pointed his wand to the side. Defodio! A tunnel bore through the earth, carving a passage that went on beyond what they could see. Harry, I need a wand. Harry patted his pockets and drew out two wands. They were his parents wands from the last timeline. He tossed them down to Ron. Hand the kids down to me. Seeing his friends intentions, Harry first dropped Hugo, then Rose down to their father. Ron leaned down and handed each a wand, James to Hugo and Lilys to Rose. Remember, lumos and nox turns the light on and off, and defodio digs more tunnel. Keep going, dont stop. Wait, mommy gave us a place to go. Rose said, but then she hesitated. Teddy had it. Hearing this, Harry went over to Teddys body and pulled out the sl ip of paper. He handed it down the hole. Ron took it and gave it to Rose. Now go on. Ron said, prodding the kids along. Rose stopped. Come with us, Daddy. Ive got to help you mommy and grandpa and grandma, okay? Ill be along shortly. Ron said, but he could see Rose didnt believe it. Did she have the sight here, too? Rose seemed to want to argue, then she grabbed Hugos arm. She turned towards Ron. I love you, daddy. Ron swallowed hard. I love you, too. With that, Rose lit her new wand and led Hugo into the tunnel.

Ron watched them for a moment and then looked up to Harry, reaching his arm up. Harry paused. You sure you dont want to go with them? Ron took a quick look at the receding light. Lets get this over with, okay? This time, its the last time. Harry nodded and pulled his friend up into the barn. *** Snape cursed his luck. Of course, they would have a counter-apparition charm at the Burrow. Hed arrived a little short of his destination, right near the town square. He looked out over the horizon and saw the building gloom and the sounds of battle. All around, the muggles looked nervous and were fleeing into buildings. A flash of movement caught his eye and he saw a stream of Dementers heading towards the battle, but there was something else. In the distance, three figures were hovering near the battle site. He easily recognized Pettigrew and Lestrange, both astride brooms, but in the center was the unmistakable presence of the Dark Lord, hovering above the fray. So it would be here, Snape thought to himself. All this time, his debt and his life would amount to this moment. He reached in his pocket and drew out the memories. One, in a small vial was the one that would restore Potter to his timeline, the other, in a much larger vial would change history, or would it? If Lily lived, what would be the result? Would she recognize his love for her, or would he have to live with the everlasting pain of seeing her with another? He looked at the memories once more and placed them in his pocket. He glanced around. In his time, the Dark Lord had mastered flight and had taught one other wizard the spell. Snape smiled to himself. Despite who he was, despite his commitment to the cause, the Dark Lord never suspected Snape would be susceptible to the most potent force in the universe. Love. Snape was bound by love for Lily Evans. Today, hed get to make his commitment clear. He drew his wand and exhaled. The incantation flowed from him and slowly, steadily, he rose into the air and pointed himself in the direction of the battle and his destiny. *** Ginny ran at a full pace, casting spells on the run, knocking Deatheaters aside as she made her way to her parents side. She hurled herself the last few feet and landed within the small perimeter in the center of the orchard the Alliance members had created. Each had some wound they were tending. Ginny nodded to Hermione and checked over her parents who were bleeding from various wounds, but alive. Lupin and Tonks were keeping up a steady stream of spells and curses, while Luna rested on the ground, trying to mend a broken arm. Neville hovered over her protectively, trying to buy her time to bind her wounds. Dracos presence surprised Ginny most of all. Shed not thought him capable of fighting the Ministry, yet here he was, blasting away. In fact, Lupin and Tonks seemed to defer to his leadership. He smiled at Ginny in a mocking way. Good to see you found the nerve to join us, Weasley. Ginny exhale d angrily. She turned her wand at Draco. You killed Seamus. She frowned at the blonde man and Draco laughed. Yes, I did. He was one of them, Weasley, one of those that killed the woman I love, that killed my mother, that killed my father, so, yes, I killed Finnegan, just like Im killing Deatheaters. So make up your mind, Weasley, kill me, or kill them. He turned his back on Ginny and continued firing. She clenched her wand tightly and fought with the impulse to curse him, but he was right, Seamus had been a traitor, he had accepted things, just like the others did, Cho, Bill, Fleur, Percy, Angelina, Ernie, just like her. Shed accepted things and now it was time to make amends. She swallowed her anger and aimed her wand outward, and cast her lot with them.

Arthur groaned and pointed to the sky. Dementers, lots of them. That was an understatement. A solid wall of the infernal beasts were bearing down on them. Lupin turned and raised his wand and let fly his patronus. The others were busily trying to keep the attacking Deatheaters away, so Remus was the only one who could fend off the Dementers. His life had not been a happy one and the battle had taken his toll. His patronus barely made a dent in the approaching line and Remus shook with the knowledge that theyd be overwhelmed. His realization struck them all, but they fought on grimly, determined to take as many out with them as possible. Ginny watched the approaching tide and wondered if she should try her own patronus. Shed not conjured her mare in quite some time and she frankly didnt think she had the happy memory to match the intensity of the assault. Suddenly, from behind the group, two large, thick streams of white light bounded into the sky, forming themselves into the images of a terrier and a large, majestic stallion. The cloudy images coursed through the atmosphere and struck the oncoming Dementer wave with a tremendous force, driving it asunder, sending the creatures shrieking in all directions. The action stopped momentarily. Ginny watched in wonder. A terrier? That was Rons patronus and who did the other belong to? Ron was dead. She turned and spotted her brother walking from the barn. He looked different, more mature, more self assured, more serious. Her eyes focused on the man next to Ron, who generating the stallion. He was familiar. As he walked towards them, she knew the gait, she saw the glasses, she fixed on the shining viridian eyes. This was not possible, he was dead, yet there he was, older, taller, a striking image of strength amid the ruin of her family home. It was Harry, she was sure of it. Ron and Harry approached the group and drove off the Dementers. Harry smiled at Ginny, his expression at once serious and loving. Her heart leapt from her throat. He shrugged his shoulders in apology and turned the group. The Dementers are the least of our problems. He pointed to the sky and as the Deatheaters renewed their assault, he pointed to the Dark Lord in the distance. Tom Riddle has dec ided to pay us a visit. Harry went back to the battle and a confused and dazed Ginny joined him at his side. Chapter 209 Sacrifice and Decisions Voldemort had been watching the battle unfold, somewhat irritated at the poor showing his forces were making in the face of such overwhelming odds. Theyd spent the past years as intimidators, more a secret police force than an army and their lack of experience was showing. He cast a baleful glance over to Bellatrix. Your Deatheaters are wanting, Bellatrix. I suggest you head them yourself. The criticism stung and Lestrange gave a small yelp and peeled off on her broom towards a small group of Deatheaters headed by her husband. The Dark Lord looked down on the scene, as the small knot of rebels fought off his minions. He gave a small wave of his arm and started his Dementors down towards the Burrow. He looked around the property, not seeing the person hed been told was fighting this battle. For a moment, he allowed himself to feel a small bit of relief. Perhaps the reports had been misleading? Then, a shriek passed through the sky and the Dementors started being forced back as a powerful patronus made itself known. The hideous creatures were wailing and crying out in a horrific way and Voldemort winced from their misery. He tracked the patronus back to its source and saw the tall, dark robed man emerging from the barn. He had dark, wildly growing hair with a pair of thin, octagonal glasses perched firmly on his nose. Even from this distance, it seemed that the mans sparkling green eyes pierced the gloom and radiated to the center of Voldemorts core. A cold sensation invaded his chest, a feeling hed not had for a long, long time. His

memory harkened back to the countless hours hed spent with the husk of a man in the dungeon and he could not reconcile that memory with the reality of the formidable warrior below. It was Harry Potter, and he was far more powerful than Voldemort could ever remember. The Dark Lord winced and then cried out in anger. Hed have to deal with this abomination now, or everything hed worked for would have been for naught. He put his arms out and held his palms upward. Seeming as if he could feel the wind currents and command them, he began a slow descent to the ground and his destiny. *** Harry? What the devil is this about? Where have you been? Ginnys questions hung in the air and Harry took a brief moment to send a Deatheater careening into the a pile of rubble before he answered. Nows not the time, Ginny. The answer is complicated. He pushed his wand out once more and sent a blast that delivered another Deatheater to his final resting place. I dont understand. Ginny stood dumbfounded, her senses overwhelmed by the unreality of the situation. Ron pushed her to the ground, roughly, as a curse passed over her head. Ron dealt with the source of the curse and then looked down at his sister. Snap out of it Ginny! Were in trouble here! Get your head into the battle or get the hell out of the way! She gave her brother a sharp look and then took a moment to look at him as well. Ron was different, self-confident and remarkably capable. He was dealing with the enemy with utter ruthlessness and ability. He was right, there would be time for explanations later, she hoped. *** Bellatrix arrived to a small group of buildings where Rudolphus and Rabastan Lestrange were coordinating the battle. She strode purposefully up to her husband and let fly a tremendous roundhouse slap that buckled his knees. You fool! There are only a few of them! Mass the forces and stomp them down! She threw her hands in the air and collected the Deatheaters nearby around her. Follow me! As one, the mass of dark robed dark wizards trailed behind their lea der and ran back into the battle. *** Draco saw the mass of Deatheaters approaching and his mouth twisted in a full blown smile as he saw Bellatrix in the lead. Looks like weve got their main thrust coming right at us. He turned and saw another gro up of Deatheaters approaching from the other direction, led by a newly arrived Macnair. Potter, I think we need to meet them head on, if we stay here, well die here. Draco pointed out the two groups of Deatheaters. Draco pointed to the larger group, led by Lestrange. I want to deal with my dear Auntie Bella. Harry nodded grimly and motioned to Ron, Ginny and Hermione. Together they ran at the smaller of the two groups of Deatheaters led by Macnair. Draco basically ignored the fact that Remus and Tonks as well as Molly and Arthur followed his headlong charge at Bellatrix and the larger group. Draco smiled to himself and let fly a curse that struck Rudolphus Lestrange in the face, incinerating his features and sending flesh and bone against the wizards behind him.

Thats one! Draco cried out to Bellatrix, who screamed insanely. Ill kill you for that, you little twit! Draco ignored her and cut down another Deatheater nearby, as the rest of his party joined the fray. Soon, they became intertwined among the more numerous Deatheaters, making it difficult for the enemies to get a clean shot. Bellatrix grew decidedly more manic, sending curses out that tended to hit her own people rather than her intended targets. The group of rebels started to become separated, Molly and Arthur forced to the left while Remus and Tonks were pushed the right, but most of the combatants left Draco and Bellatrix to their personal battle in the center. Draco and Bellatrix circled each other, both having decidedly wild looks to their eyes and hammering away at each other with increasing ferocity. It was as if theyd decided to bring this personal battle to a close with no quarter being given. On the other side of the orchard, Harry, Ron, Ginny and Hermione were waging an intense fight with the Macnair group. By natural selection theyd grouped themselves by couple, Hermione firmly attached to Rons side, keeping his unguarded flank clear of enemies while the still confused Ginny did the same for the Harry she did not know, nor recognize. Harry and Ron had their blades out and tore into the advancing Deatheaters with crazed, but controlled abandon, slicing through two or three of the dark wizards at a time, sometimes allowing the close quarters of the combat to cause them to forego spells or charms. Ginny kept her mind on her task, but a part of her marveled how equally steady, yet ruthless this Harry had become. He battled through the ranks of the Deatheaters, while Ron did the same from the other side. Several of the dark wizards had already taken to flight. Harry looked up, just in time, to see a blast rain down. He ducked to the side, his momentum carrying Ginny with him as the Dark Lord made his approach. Before Voldemort could cast another spell, he was hit in the side by a spell from above. He careened off into the distance and landed near the Burrow gate. Dazed, he rousted himself to his feet and turned to face the source of the new attack. Standing there idly was his oldest follower, and possibly, his most trusted confidante, Severus Snape. Severus? What are you doing? Voldemort hissed as he immediately cast a spell in Snapes direction. Snape danced idly to the side and flung a counterspell which destroyed the wooden gate behind the Dark Lord. I am completing my task, my lord. Im paying my debt. Severus sent another blast, which seemed to fly wide. As the Dark Lord snickered, there was a grunt and Voldemort turned to see Snapes blast impact on the flying figure of Peter Pettigrew, who caromed off a wall and fell to the ground. Snape turned his attention to Voldemort and cast another spell. Sectumsempra! The mutilation spell, of his own design, reached out and immediately, a gash appeared on Voldemorts face. The Dark Lord screamed in agony and sent a spell in reflex which destroyed a wall next to Snape, sending the Headmaster off his feet. Snape snapped back up. Why do you choose your doom, Severus? I have made you. You owe me your life! The two danced around each other, looking for openings. Severus sneered, his dark eyes lighting up. All you had to do was show mercy, just once. I asked you for her life, and you took it anyway. Your arrogance took away the only beauty I cared about in this world and I will make you pay. Snape sent a blast, more motivated by rage and pain, then by rational thought. It hammered the Dark Lords personal defense, pushing Voldemort back on his heels. Tom Riddle was a very talented wizard, and as Lord Voldemort, hed developed a size able repertoire of spells. He killed on a whim, no remorse, no pity, but with all bullies, he was astounded when stood up to. This was no different. Voldemort panicked at the fury of Snapes assault and twisted his body and bounded into the air. Snape, unwilling to let go of the chance, leapt up into the sky, trailing behind the Dark Lords form.

The two danced around each other, casting and evading spells and counter spells. For a time, it seemed that the unexpected nature of Snapes assault would best the Dark Lord. The problem for Snape was that while he knew how to use the flying spell, he lacked the experience that the Dark Lord had. Voldemort pushed and prodded Snape, driving him, very subtly to a point that allowed several nearby Dementors to attack. Snape turned, too late, and found himself in the maws of the dreaded beasts. He was able to conjure his patronus, the light doe so different from his real persona, a complete reflection of his unrequited love for Lily Evans, the only love hed ever had. The doe pushed aside the Dementors, but opened him up to a brutal assault from Voldemort. The blasting charm impacted Snapes side and he fell to the ground in a motionless heap. Voldemort contemplated Snapes unconscious form and then turned to finish his task. *** Draco rolled on the ground, narrowly avoiding the killing curse Bellatrix sent his way. Using unforgivable for unforgivable, Draco aimed his wand. Crucio! The pain emanating through her body was beyond description. Shed never felt this in her entire life and she screamed in real fear, real terror. Above the absolute sickening torture, she heard something even more frightening. He was laughing. Draco was laughing uncontrollably as he kept up the pain. What is it, you always say, Aunt Bella? You have to MEAN it? Well, how does it feel? Dont you think I mean it? Draco kept up the pressure, his entire focus, his entire intent on driving Bellatrix beyond her current insanity and into permanent madness. A small portion of his brain reached out and noticed the events going on around him. In his minds eye, he saw Molly go down, and a frightful Arthur scream in horror as he tried to keep the oncoming Deatheaters at bay. He saw Remus go down under the weight of his attackers and a deranged Tonks transforming into a werewolf to protect her man. Something in Draco realized that he hadnt been here alone, that he had a bigger task then just simple revenge against his hated Aunt. He tipped his wand. Diffindo! With a quick flick of his wrist, Bellatrix Lestranges head severed from her body. Acting quickly, Draco sent out a rapid series of blasts that pushed the tide back from his beleaguered colleagues. He stepped forward and helped Arthur to his feet. For a moment, Arthur stood beside the body of his wife, the grief overwhelming him. Draco shook Arthur roughly. He leaned his face to the older mans. Later, grieve for her later, Arthur. For now, Draco sent a blast that incinerated Rabastan Lestrange, who had been trying to sneak up on the embattled Tonks. For now, get your revenge. Arthur nodded, and rejoined the fight. *** Harry saw Snapes fall and he felt an emptiness born of grief and anxiety. Had Snape gotten the memory theyd needed? Was he dead? Harry hadnt a clue, but he did see that Voldemort was returning and he quickly unsnapped his wand from his cutlass and threw the blade to the ground. He turned to Ginny. Youd better go with Ron.

Harry, wait. I want to stay with you. Ive got so m any questions, where have you been? What happened to you? Ginny pleaded with Harry, who turned from the approaching specter of the Dark Lord and smiled at Ginny. So much like his Ginny, and so different, he shook his head. There isnt time, Ginny. Go with Ron, Ill be along shortly. He turned to face Voldemort, wand at the ready. Ginny stood for a moment and then felt the gentle hand of Hermione who drew her back. Ron was nearby, dispatching the last of the Deatheaters. He grabbed his sisters shoulder and led her towards Draco and the rest. As they ran, Ron leaned in. Itll be all right, Ginny. Harry knows what hes doing, hes done it before. Rons reassuring words were hardly successful, but the battle on the other side of the orchard was in full swing and the sight of her mother on the ground dismissed her concerns as she joined Hermione and Ron in the fight. Harry watched the Dark Lord alit on the ground nearby. Mindfully, he noticed that Voldemort wasnt holding the Elder Wand, apparently its recovery hadnt been necessary, once Harry had disappeared. Instead, Voldemort carried his old wand, the one with the phoenix core that Harry had in his own. They circled each other, and Harry laughed, despite himself. This was the fourth such meeting hed had with Voldemort. Once in the graveyard, once at Hogwarts, once in the previous timeline and now; it was as if time was trying to force him to get this right. If anything, he wasnt unsure of himself. The only thing that remained, was to finish the job. Hello, Tom. Nice suit. Harry smiled, which took Voldemort by surprise. The Dark Lord was breathing heavily, blood dripping from the wound that Snape had inflicted. His mind was racing as the improbability of Harrys appearance beg an to weigh on him. How, Potter? How did you escape your prison? Voldemort held out his wand, his voice was high, unstable. I have my ways, Tom. I have to hand it to you, you almost made it, and without much effort, I might add, but you continue to make the same mistake, over and over. Harry, ever so slightly, began to work his way forward. What is that, Potter? Letting you live? Youre right, I should have killed you in the beginning, but toying with your brain had been so much more fulfilling. Voldemort glanced warily about, as if suddenly noticing the quiet around him. No, Tom. You underestimated the power of love. You never really considered that Snape would love someone more than his loyalty to you, did you? Voldemort laughed. Ah, love, for your muggle mother? So that was his debt. How pathetic. In the end, he was pathetic, as are you, boy. Youll find, Tom, that Im far from a boy. In fact, youre about to learn that Im not anything like you remember. Lets see about that. Voldemort flicked his wrist. Avada Kedavara! The eerie green light shot out at Harry, the distance it had to travel far too close than Harry wanted, but instinct kicked in and Harry dove forward, towards the Dark Lord, evading the blast. As he rolled upright, Harry let fly his own charm. Expelliarmus! His signature move, when he was a child. He really didnt anticipate that hed disarm Voldemort. The distance had been closed and the impact alone would send the Dark

Lord flying backward. Voldemort felt the impact on his chest and fell on his back. From his prone position, Voldemort sent a blast of white flame out towards Harry. His shield charm was only half up when the fire struck, protecting his vital areas, but bits of his extremities came alive with pain, and Harry turned to the side as he fought down the injury. Harrys distress allowed Voldemort time to get up and send a blasting charm to the garage structure behind Harry, which brought a large segment of the wall down on him. Harry felt the weight of the brick and mortar on his body. Hed cracked a rib or tow and his shoulders and legs still felt the burn from the fire. A small door had been knocked off its hinges and Harry sent it flying towards the approaching Dark Lord. Duro! In mid-air, the door turned to stone and struck Voldemort in the chest, sending him reeling. Oppugno! Harry pointed his wand at the rocks and debris piled on his chest and turned them into missiles, heading towards Voldemort. Voldemort was gasping for breath, the weight of the door knocking him senseless. Hed barely had time to react as the rocks struck him, knocking to the ground once more. He rasped out curses, trying to push Harry off balance. Reducto! The flagstone path beneath Harrys feet exploded, sending him through what was left of the garage wall into the windshield of the car parked inside. More bones cracked, and the shattered glass pierced his chest and face, cutting him deeply. Harry pulled himself out of the and stood on top of it. Sectumsempra! He flung Snapes own curse at Voldemort and for the second time in as many hours, Voldemort felt the invisible blade cut into his body, ripping horrific cuts in his chest and arms. Expulso! The car Harry was standing on, exploded in a fireball, flinging his battered body in the air, and tossing him some feet away, on the ground near the orchard. Harry felt his strength weakening and he heard Voldemort limping towards him. Voldemort was breathing heavily, the pain riddling his body almost too much to bear. He pointed his wand near Harry. Abyssus! A tear opened up in the ground, the grass opening up into a deep and bottomless chasm, with no end in sight. Harry felt his body being carried downward and reached out with his arms, snagging the jagged end of a water pipe that had been torn open by the ground. Im going to send you to Hell, Harry Potter. Voldemort stood at the lip of the hill, one arm holding his bleeding shoulder. You were nothing more than a bad dream, a nightmare. Im sending you to abyss, where you belong. Harry looked up, his grip on the pipe slowly loosening. He realized, only now, that somewhere in the explosion of the car, hed lost his wand. He tried interlocking his fingers, bu t the pain from his injuries was beating up his senses. He could barely concentrate. Even if he could cast a spell, it would have to be something simple, something childish, something unexpected. He smiled. You know what, Tom? Harry watched as Voldemort stared down in wonder at his impertinence. Bad guys talk too much. Harry pointed an index finger upward. Avis. Out of nowhere, a flock of birds suddenly appeared, converging on Voldemorts head. Glisseo! As the Dark Lord was distracted by the birds, the ground beneath his feet smoothed out into a slide, and he fell down towards the chasm itself. Mindful of Voldemorts ability to fly, Harry sent one last, simple charm. Langlock!

As the Riddle passed by him, Harry noticed that the Dark Lords eyes were wide in horror, terror, hate and fear. His large red tongue was firmly planted on the roof of his mouth, making it impossible for Voldemort to speak. He slid down the makeshift ramp and fell into the abyss. Harry sighed and felt the pain returning to his arms. I guess youll get to Hell before me, Tom. Harry chuckled and then tried to pull himself up, with little success. His arms grew heavier and his body began to pull him downward, after Riddle. Just before he fell, he felt a strong grip grasp his arm. He looked up. Draco Malfoy had him in a vise grip, and pulled him up, assisted by Ron. Nice one, Potter. That had style. Draco said, grudgingly. Harry nodded and looked around at the carnage. Arthur held onto Molly, with Ginny close by his side. Tonks lay on the ground, next to Remus, her body showing massive wounds from her last, desperate battle. Hermione held onto Ron, who had fresh wounds in and about his own body. Harry looked around and then ran to the dark clad figure on the ground nearby. He knelt and turned Snape onto his back. Ennervate. Snapes eyes flickered open, but then he started coughing, grasping at Harrys sleeve as he struggled to breathe. Anapneo. Almost instantly, Snape stopped struggling and he gave a quick nod of thanks. He looked around and asked a question with his eyes. Dead, he fell down the abyss. Snape nodded and then struggled to put his hand in his pocket. He pulled out the two vials and held them tightly. He looked up at Harry and struggled to speak. Im dying, Potter. Snapes voice rasped and Harry held onto his shoulders. The dying wizard pulled at Harrys arm. Look at me! Harry stared into the dark orbs of Snapes eyes and the Headmaster seemed to smile, seeing Li ly in her sons eyes. With a nod, Snape made his choice and handed the Bellatrix memory to Harry, while clasping the Lily memory tightly to his chest. With his last breath, Snape slowly exhaled his final words. Go home, Harry. Make it right. Harry gently placed Snapes body on the ground and stood up. Ron turned and kissed Hermione deeply and then walked over to his friends side. As if noticing that something was up, Ginny walked over. You owe me an explanation Harry. Harry smiled. I promise, Ill tell you everything tonight. Ron looked up in the sky, and shook his head. He then reached into his pocket and pulled out the Time Shifter and handed it to Harry. Draco gave a mock salute. Ill see you around, Potter. You can count on that. Harry nodded and smiled once more at Ginny as Ron waved to Hermione. Harry looked down at the Time Shifter and held the memory in his hands. He turned the dial and the world faded into darkness, once more.

A/N: Before I start the story, I wanted to kind of set up where we are. The story is almost to 170 chapters and every so often, I have to reset the timelines and ages, plus get a feel for where the characters are vis a vis the canon.

We are in the Fall of 2007 into the Spring of 2008. Teddy is 11 going on 12 and in his first year at Hogwarts. The Potters: Harry is the Head of the Office of Aurors and Ginny is the Senior Quidditch Correspondent for the Daily Prophet. James is 5, Albus is 3 and Lily is almost 6 months old. The Ron Weasleys: Ron is an Auror Team leader (Notable members of his team: Mortimer, Silas, Bryan and Betsy) and Hermione is the Director of Legislative Affairs for the Ministry of Magic. Rose is a precocious 3 and Hugo is 3 months old. George/Verity (canon is Angelina Johnson): George is partners with Lee and Dudley in their ever burgeoning business. Verity is also there, adding some stability to the enterprise. Fred is newborn and Roxanne isnt a gleam in her parents eye yet. Bill and Fleur: Bill and Fleur have taken senior positions at Gringotts based on the departure of the goblins. Victoire is 8 and Dominique is due any minute now while little Louis is in the future. Dudley and Beatrice: Happily married and beaming at the arrival of their son, Harry Dursley, age 1 and look for a daughter in the near future named Domina. Lee and Sarah Jordan are doing well. Lee is helping in Georges shop and Sarah is an Auror in Williamsons team. They have a son, George, age 2 and another son to arrive in the near future, another Fred. Dean and Isabella Thomas. (Isabella Ramirez-Thomas) finally got married over the summer, right after the war ended (They eloped to San Juan and had a wonderfully decadent honeymoon in Lajas near La Paguera.). While they have not had any children yet, look for poor Dean to be overwhelmed by two lovely daughters, Alicia and Franchesca, in the near future. Chapter 210 Homecoming, Part II Three weeks. Had it been three weeks? Ginny sat at one of the picnic tables set up in the orchard of her parents home. The family had gathered, for a ceremony no one really wanted to have and Ginny herself, thought was way too premature. The children had carried themselves away from the adults, but even they were more subdued then usual. Teddy was there, granted a special dispensation from Hogwarts to attend. Victoire was close by his side, almost hovering to offer comfort during this trying time. James and Albus were sitting with the two, their heads together as they talked in hushed tones and Rose sat nearby, her face a solid mask of conviction as she listened to the older children. Ginny sighed and stared at the baby carriers and playpens arrayed near the tables. The babies had come in bunches. Dominque, Bill and Fleurs second daughte r was sleeping idly while Fred, George and Veritys son stared up at the blue sky. Hugo and Lily were now crawling and were confined by the playpen walls, but seemed to tolerate each other. Lee and Sarahs son, George was right in the middle of his terrible twos and Ginny didnt envy his parents the tirades he was giving them. Fortunately, Harry, Dudleys son was roughly the same age and had definitely received his fathers genes, and was giving little George Jordan a run for his money. The parents of the children were milling about, mostly making small talk and generally avoiding what they all thought. Harry and Ron had to be dead. They had disappeared three weeks ago and never returned. Ginny and Hermione were firmly convinced that it simply wasn t true. Given the lives they had led, there could be any number of reasons for their disappearance and many had nothing to do with whether they were dead or not. Of course, Ginny had to concede that she

was completely unwilling to contemplate any other result. Harry had to be alive, and that was the end of it. There was a stir among the adults and Ginny noticed John Dawlish and Percy Weasley starting to bring everyone together. She noticed that her father, ostensibly the Minister of Magic, was staying off to the side, standing with her mother. Arthur, either from his own conviction or because he was supporting Ginny and Hermiones point of view, had not been supportive of this memorial service. Ginny noticed that the crowd was roughly split down the middle as to who thought Harry and Ron were still alive and who thought theyd died. Everyone was intensely committed to both men, but the dichotomy seemed to reflect those that had been closer to the pair, having been through the ringer with them both. Consequently, Neville, George, Dudley, Bill and the Aurors were convinced that Harry and Ron were simply on another adventure, but the general public was in the other camp. Ladies and gentlemen. Percy called the memorial service to order. If we can, Id like to start. Percy glanced over to the side, where a tow-headed young woman smiled back at him. Audrey and Percy were engaged to be married and Percy was increasingly looking to her for support. Percy swallowed and then looked around nervously. Weve come here to honor our friends, Harry and Ron. Many believe that they have not left us permanently, but we also must acknowledge that this absence may be permanent. My daddy is not dead. Roses voice echoed through the air. All heads tur ned to face the small girl. She was standing near the other kids, her hands on her hips, her lower lip jutting out in defiance. Percy chuckled nervously. No one is saying that honey, but we need to face reality. The four year old stood older than her years and her gaze seared into Percy. I know that my daddy is not dead. Hes on his way home right now! Hermione watched her daughter stand up to the collective wisdom of the adults and her heart melted. The rest of the Weasley children stood firmly behind little Rose. Their postures indicated they supported their cousin to the fullest. Rose was a precocious child, and as much as Hermione hated to admit it, had shown every indication that she was gifted with some sort of sight. Not that Hermione fully believed in prophecies or fortune telling, yet Rose had been uncanny in her predictions. Her defiance as to her fathers and Harrys fate was more than simple loyalty. One thing Rose seemed to have gotten from Hermione was the absolute conviction behind facts. Rose would not back down if she knew she was right. In this case, her premonitions were things she considered absolute, so she stood her ground. Percy stood awkwardly, the official part of him wanting to carry on with the ceremony while the Weasley part of him was all for tossing the whole thing and hugging his niece tightly. He gave a glance towards Dawlish, who shook his head. Dawlish was obviously in the camp supporting Rose. Percy stared upward, as if hoping some sort of intervention would get him off the spot. As if in answer to his plea, there was a loud crash and an explosion of light and smoke. The area in the center of the orchard seemed to become distorted, where light bent inward and then flashed bright, blinding everyone who was looking. When the light dissipated, there were two familiar figures standing in the center of the orchard. Harry and Ron were holding each other up, obviously battered and wounded and barely able to maintain their postures. The crowd was dumbfounded and for a moment, no one was able to speak.

Suddenly, the silence was broken by a small, singularly strong voice. Rose looked over her shoulder at the crowd of adults, her nose in the air in a haughty gesture of contempt and vindication. I told you my daddy was coming home. The crowd erupted into spontaneous applause. *** Harry and Ron stood warily, studying the collection of people approaching. Ron leaned into Harrys ear. You think this is the right time? Harry attempted to shrug his shoulders, but the pain wracked his body so he spoke instead. I dont know. I hope so. Ron nodded and reached into his pocket. By the way, you dropped this. Harry looked down and saw Ron handing him his wand. Thanks. Harry smiled and the two men looked at each other and broke into hysterical laughter. Harry turned and saw a flash of red hurrying up to him. Ginny looked spectacular. Her hair played out behind her, wild and controlled all at the same time. Her face was a mixture of love, relief, worry and fear. Her lips were in a full smile and he felt a surge of warmth in his heart. He saw no sign of the fragility hed seen in the other Ginnys from the other times and suddenly, he knew he was home. Everything moved in slow motion. He knew it was her. He knew those were his children. He knew he had to hold her. He knew he had to kiss her. He knew that when she got to him, it was going to hurt like the dickens. He was right. It was a photo finish when Hermione and Ginny reached them. Harry felt elation when he was crushed in Ginnys embrace, burying his head in her hair. He heard a painful grunt from Ron as Hermione wrapped her arms around him and for a second, Harry was about to laugh at his friend, until his body was overcome by the overwhelming pain of his injuries. Relieved of the worry, Harrys adrenaline left his body which determined it was high time for it to protest its wounds. His legs buckled and he fell to the ground. He felt himself going black, allowing his body to surrender to the pain. There was a smile on his face as he knew he was back, safe, and he allowed himself to drift into slumber. As he passed out, he heard Ginny taking charge and he felt her love overwhelm his senses. Then he was asleep. *** Light. His first sensation was the light in the room. It was bright. He tried to move and was rewarded by an achy, but less painful twinge in his extremities. He opened his eye and looked around. He was in a bed, a hospital bed. He glanced around the room . He was at St. Mungos. He felt a weight on his chest and looked down to find a clump of fiery red hair attached to an equally fiery woman, whom he loved. Ginny was sleeping, sitting in a chair at his bedside, her face turned towards his. He reached out his hands to her face, lightly moving the loose strands of hair from her eyes. The movement caused her eyelids to flicker open and she smiled at seeing him looking down at her. She raised her head up and smiled and then leaned in and brought her lips to his. They kissed and the soreness disappeared, replaced by the electrical current from the connection between the two. He placed his hand gently in her hair and conveyed his passion and his love for her in fell swoop. He didnt want the moment to end, and it seemed to last forever. Um, Harry, you dont have a private room.

Harry broke the kiss and looked over to his left. Ron was in a nearby bed, with Hermione sitting next to him. They were laughing at the display. Ron, like Harry, was bandaged up and looking much better. There was a commotion and the room became bedlam as the children burst in from the waiting room, their grandparents close behind. Albus and James bounded up to Harrys bed and he did his best to engulf them with his arms. Rose was less subtle with Ron. She ran over and jumped on top of fathers chest and held him tightly. Molly and Arthur were carrying the little ones and Molly brought Lily over to Harry while Arthur brought Hugo to Ron. The two men embraced their families and for the second time since their arrival, knew that they were home. Have you two been behaving? Harry looked at Albus and James, in turn, and neither could face their father quite squarely. Albus pointed to his brother. He starts it! James held up his arms defensively. Im trying to behave. Harry laughed and rustled his sons hair with his bandaged hands. Ron was holding his daughter tightly and Rose was smiling up at him. I knew you were all right, daddy. Rose said smartly. You did? She nodded and watched as Ron reached over to the side table and pulled out a rather frayed piece of pink ribbon. Well, you made sure I was all right. This brought me luck. He held it out to her and for a moment, the prim and proper little girl seemed as if shed recoil from the dirtied little cloth. Then she took it in her small hand and smiled. I knew it would. Ron chuckled and hugged her once more. Sure you did. Arthur watched the reunion and nodded gently, pulling at Mollys arm. Mollys eyes were welling with tears and she seemed hesitant to leave. After one more tug, this one more insistent, she allowed her husband to pull her away, leaving the families to their time alone. *** A couple of days later, Harry and Ron were well enough to go to the Ministry for a debriefing. The tale they wove kept everyones attention. Hermione and Ginny sat in for the story and exchanged looks of shock and dismay as their husbands recounted having to face the Dark Lord again, and again. The stories of horror, misery and pain were clearly corroborated by the trail of scars and injuries on their bodies. At certain points of the story, the Aurors, Arthur and Dawlish would ask clarifying questions and in the middle of the discussion, Dawlish sent someone to fetch Nicola Tesla to add clarity. Towards the end, a small Auror walked in the room and approached Dawlish. Sir, we found the device you requested in the archives, near the memory shelves. It looks like it was dropped there. Ron rustled with something in his pocket and dropped the small Time Shifter on the table. This is the one we stole from the first timeline. Tesla stared in wonder. I never thought Alberts invention would work.

Harry rubbed his injured shoulder and winced. I can tell you that it worked all right. The real question is, what do we do with them? Arthur asked. Keep them under lock and key. Thats powerful magic were dealing with. Dawlish spoke up. Just think, they would provide an insurance policy in case we ever have another Dark Lord. We could correct a mistake. Harry and Ron looked at each other and Ron snorted. Mistake? I dont think so. Wed better destroy them outright. Rons right. Harry leaned forward. The temptation to change things is too overwhelming. Fate is fate, and one lifeline is more than enough for this world. Quite so. Arthur nodded his head. Ah, its a shame, really, that was one extraordinary invention. The scientist, Tesla shook his head. Harry nodded and then brought his fist down on one of the devices, smashing it into a thousand pieces. He looked over at Ron, who followed suit on the other. Dean Thomas, and his very pregnant wife, Isabella were sitting in the corner of the briefing room. Isabella sat up uncomfortably, and Dean had a harried look on his face as he anticipated some new craving request from his rather demanding bride. Instead, she looked over at Harry. Harry? How do you know youre in the right timeline? Should you have destroyed the only chance of correcting things? Until now, that question had hovered out of sight, in the back of Harrys head. Now it was up front and Harry shrugged his shoulders. I dont know, Isabella. Honestly, I really dont know. This just feels right. Harry reached his arm over and placed it around his wife. Whether it is or isnt, Im too tired to keep trying to change it. Im ready to go with things as they are. Ron looked over at his father. Dad? I know Im exhausted and Harry is probably too. If you dont mind, I think Id just like to go home. Of course, of course. Take your time boys, well pick this up later. The meeting was adjourned and they made their way home. *** Later that night, as they were lying together, Harry regaled Ginny with the parts of the story she asked about. Its not like I was kissing another woman. I was kissing you! Harry hoped his explanation would be enough. But it wasnt me, or was it? I mean, it was me, but it wasnt me like I am today, bu t it was me as I would have beenoh, this is so confusing. Ginny tossed her head back in frustration. Tell me about it. Harry said and laid back. Harry? Yes.

Who else did you see? Who else was there? Ginny rested her head on her hand and l ooked up at him. There were lots of people. It was interesting to see Fred again, like he would be now. Harry had a sad look in his eyes and then looked over at his wife. Who else do you want to know about? What about Seamus? What? Harry stared at his wife. Ginny gave a faraway look. Seamus is just dreamy Harry raised himself up and gave a hurt look at his wife, who started laughing hysterically. Got you! She could barely control her laughter. Ron told me about how jealous you were. Youre cute when your jealous. Her next retort never came out as the pillow he threw landed on her face. *** Hermione and Ron sat together on the sofa, looking out the large picture window towards the night sky. It was unreal, mione. Fred told us to get going, even though he knew about his fate in this world. He said that we both got the chance to say goodbye, which was a gift, really. Hermiones head was on his chest and she could feel his tears building. He was right. That was all she said and he grasped her tightly. I couldnt bear to be without you, Hermione. I need you and the kids, but I needed you especially. I would have crossed time forever to get back to you. She looked up and brought her lips to his. They kissed lightly and she smiled. One thing has changed since you left. She said, rising from the couch. Whats that? Ron asked, accepting her hand up. The baby is sleeping in his own room, not ours. Rons eyebrows went up and he looked at her meaningfully. She nodded her head and smiled. I just bought this new Barry White CD. She joked. Ron laughed as she led him from the living room into the back part of the house. *** The place was as he remembered it. Harry walked through the gate into the ruins that had been his parents home, the place where he made his name by surviving Voldemorts first attempt to kill him. He walked quickly, ignoring the charred remains and made his way to where the entrance to the basement was. He walked down into the basement and made for the small rat-sized hole in the wall that he remembered from his adventure. He reached inside and pulled out the box. There was no diary,

obviously because Peter Pettigrew hadnt had a decade to compile his remorseful story, but the re was the cloth wrapped wands. Carefully, he unwrapped them and held them up to the fading light. He gripped them tightly and then placed them in his coat pocket. Their weight was reassuring. One day, hed pass them on, but for now, he had a connectio n to his parents he hadnt thought possible. Now he had their wands. *** Ron and Harry sat on the porch outside the Potter home. Their kids were playing in the front yard and the men whiled away the time enjoying the unseasonably warm day, taking in the sight. Hermione and Ginny had gone into town shopping and Kreacher was acting the mother hen, not letting any of the children out of reach, while keeping a watchful eye on the two recovering men. Over the past week, the house-elf had gone out of his way to ensure Harrys comfort, to the point where Harry had to ask him to back off. Kreacher was less overt, but no less concerned for Harrys comfort and today was the first time Harry and Ron had been able to sit alone and reflect on their experience. Im sure this is the right timeline. Everything is spot on. Ron said, sipping on his glass of lemonade, again provided by Kreacher. I agree. I was almost fooled by the second one. Harry drank from his glass. Ron chortled. Until Professor Snape showed up, you mean. There is that. Harry and Ron shared a laugh and then held their faces to the bright sun. You know, Im in the mood for a drive, you? You know it! We havent been out in the GTO in a few months. Ron hesitated and then looke d at Harry. Let me start it up, Harry. Ive been practicing, and I dont have to drive, let me go bring it out of the barn. I dont know, Ron. Theres a lot of things that can happen between here and there. Harry looked at his driving-challenged friend. Ron had a pleading look on his face and Harry finally relented. He reached into his pocket and tossed his keys to Ron. No spin outs. Just start it and bring it up to the house. Ron ran off to the barn, like a small boy at Christmas. Harry rose and walked over to where the children were playing. When he reached Kreacher, Harry nodded. Ron and I are going for a drive. Is Master Harry certain that he wishes to operate heavy machinery in his current condition? By the tone in his voice, the house-elf wasnt quite convinced. Im fine, Kreacher. Besides, a drive will help me feel better. Im off as soon as Ron brings the car around. Harry tried to keep a straight face as Kreacher gave him a doubtful look. It had been a few minutes and Harry wondered what was keeping Ron. He probably doesnt know where the key goes. Harry nodded to Kreacher and walked off towards the barn. As he approached, he saw the double doors open and Ron standing just outside, staring into the shadows. Whats the problem, Ron? Cant figure out how to open the door? Its a convertible, just leap in.

Rons voice was low and stressed. Um, Harry? What is it? Did you scratch my car? Ron turned and looked at Harry. Wasnt your car red? Of course my car is red. Harry walked up and looked inside the barn. There was a 1967 custom GTO parked there, in its original showroom finish, colored a bright green. Harry and Ron looked at each other and then looked around the property and then back at the car. Why dont we just go and sit on the porch? Harry asked. Ron nodded silently and the two carefully shut the door and walked back to the house, a slight bit anxious. *** The coffee shop was crowded, so Ginny and Hermione had to lean their heads together to talk. I hope Harry likes his present. Ginny said between sips of her latte. I dont know, Ginny, Im not sure I would have gotten him that. Hermione was more in tune with muggles and their affinity for their things. Come on, Hermione. That red was ghastly. The green is much better, its the original factory color and it matches Harrys eyes. Ginny was convinced that she was right in repainting Harrys car. You should never mess with a mans car, Ginny. They take it pretty seriously. Hermione shook her head. Oh, Harry would never notice anyway. What harm could it be? Ginny squared her shoulders, the topic closed. Anyway, I saw Seamus and Padma the other day. I dont know if theyre a good couple. Hes too cute for her? You think Seamus is cute? Ugh Oh, theres something about him, thats for sure. The two women shared a laugh and dove back into their gossip. Chapter 211 The Three Stooges Three men sat on the park bench, blank expressions on their faces. They were a complete study in differences. One was tall and thin with long thin, stringy hair that was a bright shade of red as the spring time sun shone down. Another was a large man with kind eyes and dark bags under his eyes from an obvious lack of sleep. The last was a well built black man with a flowing mane of dark dreadlocks with an almost sleepy expression on his face. Together, they were the brain trust behind Weasley Wizard Wheezes, Incorporated, a mighty force in the wizarding world that delivered fun and frivolity as well as well ordered and ingenious spells and devices that were used by the Ministry of Magic for defensive purposes. The business was an incredible success, driven by the passion and utter manic ideations of its three, rather unique owners. All three, apart, could be dismissed as simple charlatans or as eccentric individuals, but together, they were mighty friends, terrible foes and heroes to the cause.

They were a powerful force and yet they sat on the bench, their bodies unmoving, their eyes unseeing and no words passing between them. Their catatonic state was easy to understand, their tormenters laying no more than five feet away, cackling maniacally at them. Three innocentlooking toddlers dressed in the latest fashions, their mothers nearby giggling at the mens torment. Fred Weasley, a day older than eleven months old, allowed some drool to trickle down his chin as he pointedly made fun of his playmates, fourteen month old Harry Dursley and two year old George Jordan. Their mothers were standing nearby, looking over at their husbands and then tittering to each other as they saw the faraway looks in their eyes. Dudley seemed to blink his eyes, as if coming out of a stupor and he shook his head to clear the cobwebs. He looked to either side of him and noticed that George and Lee were still in their relative states of shock. The large man leaned his elbows out, striking the sides of his friends, attempting to waken them. Oi! Whats become of us? Dudley asked, his large frame expanding as he took a deep breath. Were like zombies, or something. It took a few seconds for his words to be processed by the other two men. George was the quickest on the uptake, he sat upright and a brilliant gleam manifested itself in his eye. Youre right! Were cosmopolitan men! We run a successful business, weve faced down the darkest of enemies. Theres no way that a couple of munchkins in diapers should be handling us like this. George rose and began pacing, a smile on his face. Besides, Curly, were not idiots! A few years back, before kids, even before marriage, Dudley had introduced the Three Stooges to the group. Theyd taken to calling themselves by the monikers of the comedy troupe. George was Moe, Lee was Larry and Dudley, for obvious reasons, was Curly. For a while, theyd even begun to mimic their physical comedy antics, an eye poke here, a face slap there. At parties, Dudley would lie on the ground and run around in circles on his shoulder, yelling Nyuck, nyuck, nyuck. Theyd even introduced a line of wizard gags based on the trio. For the first time in almost a year, George had brought them back. Lee nodded eagerly. I cant believe how out of it, weve been! He swiped his hand on his shoulder, trying to remove a crust of dried baby formula that had been deposited there. George nodded. Its not that I dont like being a father, its wonderful, but guys, think about it, were becoming a lot like George seemed to searching for an example, until he struck upon it. Were getting to be like Ron and Harry. Bite your tongue, Moe. Lee seemed positively shocked at the comparison. Were not dead, you know. I dont think its all that bad. Dudley offered a shudder. Harry and Ron have lives, dont they? Really? When was the last time you saw them play poker with us? George asked pointedly. Dudley shook his head. Shoot, when was the last time we played poker with us? See, youve made my point. George whistled. Were Weasleys Wheezes! We havent come up with one good idea in months! George was getting more and more animated. George, out of the blue, extended his fingers in a vee towards Dudleys face, while Dudley met him with the flat of his hand. Missed me!

Oh yeah? George landed a quick face slap. Snap out of it Curly, we need to get our mojo back. Lee and Dudley stood up and clapped each other on the back. Were back! This feels so good guys! Well get back to it. Poker nights, sporting events and pub crawls, all the things we did to get our creative juices flowing. George was almost back to his old self. What about the women? Wont they object? Dudley peered over towards their wives. George was not swayed. They wont be a problem. Theyre understanding and besides, were the men, what could they say? The testosterone levels jumped noticeably and the three stooges put their heads together as they reveled in their new found freedom. Just as they were planning their first get together, a confident voice broke their reverie. Boys? Sarah had walked up with Verity and Beatrice. They looked over, expressions of guilt on their faces, as if theyd been caught with their hands in the proverbial cookie jar. Lee spoke up for the three. What is it, honey? Sarah offered a knowing smile and nodded over to her friends. We saw a small shopping district a couple of blocks over. The ladies and I are going for a look. Would you mind watching the kids while we take a look? Lee shared a snicker with his friends. Of course, dear. Wed be happy to. You girls run along and enjoy your shopping. Watching their sons was a manly thing to do, anyway. Sarah offered a wicked grin. Thanks. They started walking away and then stopped. The women turned around and approached their spouses and took their hand bags from their shoulders. They reached inside and withdrew their wallets and then rested their purses on their husbands shoulders. You wont mind holding our purses while were gone, will you? Dudley and Lee glanced over at George. They were men, surely their leader would stand up to the indignity. George exhaled heavily and nodded his head slightly. Grasping Veritys Coach Signature Collection bag to his chest, George Weasley sat down and stared straight ahead. Lee and Dudley saw his surrender and joined him on the bench as the wives giggled to each other and walked away. They sat for a moment, watching their kids, unable to look at each other. George finally broke the silence. Well show them. His words rang hollow as he gripped the leather straps of his wifes purse. Next week. The other two men nodded, still not looking at each other. Dudley sighed. Next week. *** Harry strolled down Diagon Alley and took the turn towards Knockturn Alley. His and Rons journey into alternate timelines had seriously depleted their supply of Auror materials so he was on a restocking expedition. Truthfully, he could draw his basic kit from the Auror stores, but there were some items he liked to collect himself. Some of those items could only be found in the stores that inhabited the darker portions of Knockturn Alley. He whistled a tune to himself, happy to be back where he belonged. The episode with his car had been jarring, even more so when he realized that Ginny had made the change. How the woman thought changing a perfectly good car color was a good gift was beyond him. Green! She painted his car green! What was more,

she had good intentions, but he still couldnt believe that shed done that. Nonetheless, everything else was good, so in the grand scheme of things, he thought he could deal with the issue of automotive interference. He raised his arm over his shoulder, trying to work out the soreness that still lingered. His adventure had left him battered, and no amount of healing draught could make up for the time it took for his body to recover from his various injuries. Emotionally, the trip had taken a great deal out of him. In the space of a few weeks, hed fought the Dark Lord, twice. Hed seen loved ones die, sometimes twice. Hed seen lost friends return and hed gone through the pain of gaining and losing them over and over. There was a tinge of doubt in his mind, was he in the right place? Everything seemed correct, but one could never really tell. He turned into a potions shop, located near Borgin and Burkes. The place was dark, with rows and rows of musty shelves of murky vials and ground powders. He made his way to the counter. Ah, Mr. Potter, welcome back. A stooped over old woman materialized from the back stock room. Can I help you? Harry smiled and bowed his head slightly. Hello, Mrs. Rosemond, Im needing some boomslang parts. Ah, been using some polyjuice potion, eh? She smiled conspiratorially. Boomslang parts were a vital ingredient in polyjuice potion, most of his stock had been depleted during the adventure in cross time. While not necessarily illegal, boomslang parts were not carried by most apothecaries. This one had no problem carrying it. Just restocking, Mrs. Rosemond. We can accommodate you, Mr. Potter and weve gotten a shipment of ghost sweat and asphodel root that make for a potent stun draught that will give you an advantage in a fight. She cackled happily as she collected the boomslang together. Harry laughed. Too much asphodel and theyre stunned for life. Asphodel, also known as the Hades plant was reputed to be from the underworld. When mixed with ghost sweat, it was a strong narcotic, but as Harry knew, one grain over the required amount and it would kill the hapless target. He shook his head. Just the boomslang, please. She nodded and handed over the bag while Harry paid out. He waved to her and walked out into the alley. Well, well, well, a little off the beaten path, arent you Potter? Harry turned around at the familiar voice. Standing there was Draco Malfoy, resplendent in his businessmans attire, a sardonic grin on his face. Sometimes you have to go to where the best ingredients can be found, Draco. How are you? Harrys mind reflected on his interactions with the alternate time Draco. What hed understood about the different time frames was that core of who a person was could be revealed by the circumstances. Draco had shown himself to be fundamentally resilient, loyal and ruthless, not unlike Harry himself. This Draco had not been placed in the position of the others, so his response was typically, Malfoy. I see you and Weasley cant shun the limelight. Disappearing and then making a dramatic reappearance. You two are peas in a pod, Potter, always craving attention. Draco gave a sneer, his eyes blazing.

Believe what you will, Draco, the events Ron and I experienced have left me a positive impression of you. Theres not much you can say to change my opinion. Can this be? The great Harry Potter has a positive impression of lowly little Draco Malfoy? Be still my beating heart. Draco leaned forward and spoke in a whisper. Domina told me what happened to you and dont think, for a moment, that my actions in another time, in another place reflect what I think of you, Potter. The senior leadership of the Ministry, including Domina Malfoy, had been briefed on Harry and Rons cross time adventure. Harry stared at Draco. What had he thought would result? Would he and Draco be civil to each other? Friendly? As if reading his thoughts, Draco laughed with contempt. You know my actions in the other timelines were dictated by the events, just like I am dictated by events in this timeline. I wont forget what youve done to my family, Potter. Keeping them alive, letting them see each other, that only softens the blow, but it doesnt take it away. My father and mother sit in Azkeban because of you. Harry felt heat building in his face and he spoke with his teeth clenched. Your father and mother are alive at my suggestion, Draco. They brought their own fates on themselves in the lives they took and the treason they tried to create. I dont care if you like me or not, Draco, but understand that you parents made their own bed, now they can lie in it. The words seemed to sting Draco and he recoiled, the truth staring him square in the face. He knew the truth, but almost a lifetime of hating Harry had given him an outlet to ignore the facts and a release from his own inadequacies. Whatever, Potter, but remember, were not friends nor will we ever be. Ive got a business to run and as long as you dont interfere with that, well be fine. Stay out of my way. Draco pushed past Harry, shouldering though and disappearing into the mist that shrouded Knockturn Alley. *** Whatd you expect? Drinks? A handshake? Hes right, the history of this timeline preclude you from being anything but what you are. Ginny sat on the porch swing and watched her husband nod silently. Its not just that, Ginny. Everything hes done. Saving me from his father, helping us with the war, stopping the Black Widows, hes stepped up on numerous occasions, and mostly to h elp me directly. I thought if he saw how he was in other circumstances, hed be different here. Ginny stood up and wrapped her arms around his waist. Outside, the kids were playing under the watchful eyes of Kreacher. I know, Harry, but the one str ong characteristic of the Malfoys is there dedication to family. Even when Narcissa knew you were alive after the Dark Lords strike, her concern was for her son. You cant erase that legacy. Youre right, Ginny, I just dont like having that type of hate out there. It could manifest into something more. What if Draco Malfoy decides that he wants to get even, with me, with the Ministry? Hes very capable and has the benefit of learning from the mistakes of the past, he could be quite an enemy. Ginny squeezed her husband tightly. Youve become a bit paranoid, Harry. Draco doesnt seem to be stewing about his lot in life nor does he seem to be craving power. Sometimes, you just have to have faith that things will turn out all right.

Harry laughed and turned and kissed his wife. I would, but I was also pretty confident that my cars original paint scheme was fire engine red, and look where that got me. Let it go, Harry. Ginny laughed with him. Her eyes were taken in by the sight of a larg e, grayish white owl that seemed to be circling the property. It spotted Harry and swooped down, landing on the railing of the porch. Its Phasma, Teddys owl. Harry said. He reached over and pulled parchment from the leather case strapped to the owls leg. Do you have a treat for her, Ginny? What, a whole cow? That owl is huge! Harry laughed while Ginny tossed Phasma a couple of meat treats. He unrolled the scroll and read through it. It says that theyve decided to rebuild the Marauders. A group of Teddys friends figured it would fun to have a practical jokes club. Merlin help us all. Harry tittered and read through. As he finished the last page, a small piece of hastily written scrawl fell to the floor. Harry leaned down and read through the paper. His face turned dark and he ran his fingers through his hair. What is it, Harry? Ginny had seen his change in expression and grew worried. Ive got to go to Hogwarts. There may be a problem. Harry rushed into the house and p icked up his satchel. Ill have to go the Ministry and take a team with me. Ginny grabbed her husband by the lapel and stopped him. Tell me what it is! Harry sighed heavily. Werewolves, Ginny, from the looks of things, and theres only one werewolf I know that would want to go after Teddy. I thought he was dead or something. You dont mean Ginny held her hands to her face. Harry nodded grimly, Fenrir Greyback. With that, Harry rushed out the door and was gone. *** It was a hot day in Giza, the Great Pyramids dominated the skyline, a gentle breeze off the Nile sweeping the top layer of sand and dust over the mans Bedouin robes. He wiped his sweaty palm over his face to drive the film of grit and dust from his eyeglasses as he walked to the base of the Sphinx. He walked down and waved to the guard standing nearby and carefully avoided the tourists that were being conducted through the structure. He turned off to the side and entered a hidden entrance to the lower catacombs. The way was well lit and he finally came to a large open area with tables filled with excavations and scrolls and a score of people walking through the room. Hallo, Steve! Rough out there? The man nodded and removed his head dress and spit out the dirt that had somehow made it into his mouth. He was a slightly built man, and after hed wiped his glasses down, and put them on, seemed completely out of place with the native attire hed adorned. He was bald, save for the peach-like shadow of hair over his ears. It had once been blonde and barely covered his pate from the searing sun of the desert. He had a narrow chin and his skin was a bright red. Thirteen years in the desert should have toughened his skin to the elements, but he was part Welch and that part simply refused to do anything but burn. He drew a monogrammed handkerchief and blew his nose then turned to the young man whod greeted him. Well, Im here, so what do you have? Steven Hoyte smiled brightly as the man brought a small cloth over.

What do you make of this? Inside the cloth was a large key, cast entirely of iron, with a large dogs head in the eyehole. Steve stared at it and lost his breath. He hoped his companion hadnt noticed his response and he tried to keep his wits about him. Whered you find this? He asked, trying not to comport the importance of the find. At the Ramses II dig site. The man said. Why, is it important? Steve recovered. No, not really. Its probably the key to a bedchamber or outhouse, really. Have you shown it to anyone else? The man nodded. Sure, we catalogued it and put it on the database. Hoyte gasped inaudibly. The find would be out there, and now the race would begin. He needed help, to be sure. He turned the key over in his hand. I dont think its anything, but why dont I take it with me and check with a colleague of mine in London. He turned the key over in his hand and looked around. If its nothing, why take it all the way to London? Its no bother, Im heading home on holiday, anyway. Itll give my friend a rush to see a new find and he might be able to identify the owner. The assistant nodded and walked away, leaving Hoyte with the key. Hed have to look up his old mentor. Many years ago, hed come to this country as a curse breaking wizard for Gringotts Bank. Hed met a young wizard in apprenticeship with the bank in Egypt. Hopefully, he would have the knowledge to help him stop the search. He mulled over the key. One here, which left six more keys to find and if they were found by the wrong sort, the world would be plunged into darkness. Hoyte mopped his brow and pulled his diary from his pocket. He searched through and found the name of the wizard he was seeking. Hed leave tonight for London. He hoped that Bill Weasley would be able to help him, because otherwise, hed be on his own. Chapter 212 An Old Friend Comes a Calling Shell Cottage sat atop a windswept hill overlooking Bristol Channel. The white caps of the water highlighted the deep blue of the bay, the willow trees in the yard leaning to the side as the powerful wind buffeted them. The house itself was small, almost an afterthought. There was a small stone and picket fence around the perimeter and a well kept vegetable garden out back. Off to the side, there was a tiny stone marker, with roughly hewn lettering. Here Lies Dobby, A Free Elf Hoyte pondered the meaning of the inscription. He never thought that that Bill Weasley was one to actually own a house-elf. In their conversations, hed thought that Bill despised the notion of one creature actually owning another. The headstone had said free elf, so maybe it was a friend of Bills. Hoyte took in the scenery. Bills home was modest, yet beautiful. Hed heard that Bill had married and had children and rumor had it that Bill had married a Veela. That brought a chuckle out Steven. For someone so bright, Bill had managed to fall for a Veela. With a sigh, Steven walked through the small gate and up to the front door. He grasped the iron knocker and banged in as polite a way as he could on the front door. There was a rustle of movement and the door opened to reveal a stunningly beautiful little girl, eight, maybe nine years old. She had long, flowing platinum hair and piercing blue eyes. Despite himself, Steven smiled broadly. Hello, young miss. Im looking for Bill Weasley, is he about? Steven made an exaggerated bow and the dainty girl smiled and flushed a bit.

That would be my father. My name is Victoire, and you are? Victoire offered a slight curtsy and Steven smiled. Oh heavens, where are my manners? My name is Professor Steven Hoyte. I am an old acquaintance of your fathers from Egypt. He removed his bowler and tipped it towards Victoire. Ever one for protocol and niceties, Victoire bowed and extended her hand. You dont look like an evil doer, so I suppose that Ill have to get my father for you. I really cant let you in, so if dont mind, would you wait here? Of course, miss. It would be my pleasure. Steven smiled once more and watched as the door closed. He could imagine the small girl walking slowly to find her father. She did not strike him as one who hurries. After a few moments, there was a commotion and the door was flung wide open. Steve, Merlins Beard, its great to see you! Come in! Come in! Hoyte was taken aback by Bills appearance. Granted, he still had the ponytail and ear ring, but he also had a hideous series of scars along his face and neck. Im sorry to bother you, Bill. I just got into to town. Hoyte walked into a comfortable living room and took the proffered seat. Not at all, old boy. Are you still with the Banks antiquities division? Bill took the seat across from Hoyte. Hoyte nodded. Yes, thats part of why Im here. Bill, are you all right? Hoyte pointed to Bills scars. For a moment, Bills face grew dark and Steve instantly regretted asking, but Bill recovered quickly. Oh this? Got it years ago, fighting the Dark Lord. This is my souvenir from Fenrir Greyback. Bill chortled. The werewolf? Bill held up his hand. He wasnt transformed at the time, but it was a near thing. It was funny, actually, the incident convinced my family to like my wife. Bill? A decidedly fem inine voice came from the entrance to the living room, pronouncing the name BEEL in a lovely accent. Fleur Weasley walked in, an infant on her hip. Little Dominique, as testament to her Veela heritage was sleeping contentedly. Steven rose from his seat and allowed her beauty to wash over him. Bill laughed and Hoyte could see how taken he was with his bride. Bill introduced Fleur. Fleur, this is my old friend, Steven Hoyte. We worked together for the bank, in Egypt. Eet ees a pleasure to meet you, Monsieur Hoyte. Fleur gave her most dazzling smile and Hoyte stammered on his words. Please, call me Steve. Steve, it is. Would you like some tea, Steve? Hoyte nodded and Fleur flashed her smile and left the room. Amazing, Bill. You are a very lucky man.

Thanks, Steve, you dont know the half of it. Once they were ensconced back in their seats, Bill looked at his old friend. So, what brings you out here? Well, I was due a vacation. I havent been back to England in almos t fifteen years, so I decided to take a holiday. Steven seemed to look down and study his bowler. Thats not what I mean, Steven. Somethings bothering you, so what is it? Bill was a brilliant wizard, one of the few to achieve all twelve owls. His talents ran a wide range of magical specialties, but it didnt take a seer or second sight to know his friend was troubled by something. All right, Bill. Hoyte reached into his pocket and pulled out the rag covered key from his pocket and set it on the table. We found this last week in a dig in Ramses II tomb. Bill picked up the cloth and unwrapped its contents. He let out a low whistle. Is this what I think it is? Hoyte nodded. Who else knows about this? The juniors put it on the database, so anyone who knows what it is, knows about the find. Hoytes face was grim. Id begun to think that it was a myth. Bill said thoughtfully, holding the iron key in his hand. I suppose were going to have to find, if only to keep it out of the wrong hands. Thats what I was thinking, Bill. If the people we know in this business get their hands on this, we could be in a lot of trouble. Hoyte shuddered at the thought. Thats a lot of dark magic to have floating around, thats for sure. Bi ll sat back and pondered. Were going to need some help. No one official, Bill. This is too big for the Ministry to be involved. Hoyte held up his hand to silence Bills objections. Hear me out. This isnt a dig at your father, Im just saying t he last thing we need is for the Confederation to get a whiff of this. Bill nodded. Im still going to get some help. Do you have somewhere to stay? I was going to board up at the Leaky Cauldron. Hoyte said. Too public. Stay with us. Ill round up some help and then well see what we can do about this. Bill held up the key and shook his head. The Book of Thoth, who would have imagined. There would have been awe in Bills voice, if the circumstances werent so dire. *** Hoyte escorted Victoire on a walk along the rocky beach. As they were returning, a large, grayish white owl alit nearby and for the first time since hed met her, Victoire lost a part of composure and ran up to the bird. She took the missive from the owls foot and sent her on up to the house. A note from a friend? Victoire blushed at the question and nodded silently. Would you like to go back up to the house and read it? Victoire smiled. Yes please. I want to send a response with Phasma before it gets too late. Steven nodded and the pair walked back up the path. When they entered the cottage, Steven noticed several people seated around the living room table. Most looked very much like Bill and he was taken aback. How many Weasleys were there, anyway? Bill stood up and brought Steven into the middle of the room.

Everyone, this is Steven Hoyte. There was general acclimation around the table. Steven, this is our team. This is my brother, Ron, hes an Auror, but dont let that fool you. Ron wave d and Bill continued around. This is my brother George, his partners, Dudley and Lee. Again there were waves and handshakes. This is Dean Thomas and his wife, Isabella. This is Raimundo Barreto and his wife Adelina. The tall, tanned woman stood wearing tight black riding pants and high leather boots. She had a loose-fitting white blouse and a red sash around her waist. Tucked into the sash was a large sword and a wicked dagger. Her arms were draped around the smallish man who looked like a banker, which is what he was. You work for Gringotts dont you Mr. Barreto? Call me Raimundo, and yes. Ive heard of you, too, Professor Hoyte. They shook hands and Bill escorted Hoyte into the room. I would have had Harry here, but hes out on an assignment. Bill said. Harry? Hoyte didnt think Bill had a brother named Harry. Harry Potter, hes head of the Aurors. Bill said. Hoyte thought he was being played with. You know Harry Potter? Of course, hes my brother -in-law. Steven was taken aback. Going to Bill had been the right call. Ron cleared his throat. Right, so why are we here, anyway? Steven looked around. I dont know what Bills told you, but about a week ago a certain artifact was found. He held up the key. This artifact, which set into motion a series of events which could prove dangerous to the world we know. Whats so special about this key? George intoned. Its one of seven keys that open seven containers that lead to the Book of Thoth. Aside from Bill, the rest of the people in the room had blank expressions on their faces. Bill stood up. The Book of Thoth is the Egyptian Book of Dark Magic. Whoever possesses it is supposed to be the most powerful wizard on the planet Great, another lets save the world moment. Ron murmured. Come on, Ron. Bill grunted, but Ron stood up. I mean it, Bill. Why does every item have to be about saving the world? Why cant this book thingee just be dangerous and were trying to stop a mild annoyance and not some earth shattering catastrophe? Thats a lot of pressure to put on us. Ron was smiling, but there was a certain amount of truth behind his words. Okay, maybe I spoke with a little hyperbole. Hoyte responded. The book is powerful and in the wrong hands, it would mean a whole lot of suffering, across the globe. Thats more like it. The fate of the world isnt on our shoulders. Ron said and sat back down. Hoyte waited for any more interruptions and then continued. Anyway, the exist ence of the find was leaked, so it will bring every bounty hunter and thief into Egypt to find the book. We need to find it first.

Isabella raised her hand. How do we find it, you only have the one key? Good question. Well have to start where this was found. Usually, a clue to the next key is found at the site of the key that is found, so we should be able to follow the trail. Looks like were going to Egypt, people. Bill rose and looked around. Are we agreed? There were no objections and Ron leaned over and whispered something to Bill. Bill nodded. Thats a good idea, can you do it? Ron nodded. Bill gazed around the room. Thanks everyone. It really is important. Dean chuckled. Im sure it is, but honestly, I just wanted to go on a trip with my wife without the baby. Um, we are getting separate bedrooms, right? The pain from his wifes elbow seemed to linger longer than it should have. *** Doctor Smith, Doctor Smith!!! The small man in a white lab coat scurried up the stairs of the abandoned psychiatric hospital tower. He paused to catch his breath and continued his trek to the top. The room at the top was open, sparsely furnished with a couch and a battered cloth chair. Seated in the chair was thin, old man, wearing beaten chinos, a tan collared shirt and rumpled leather jacket. Atop his bald head was a wide brimmed fedora. He looked the model of the rugged serial characters from the adventure reels of the forties. His attire was only mired by the pink, bunny eared slippers on his feet. What is it, Redkin? The little man ran up to his slippered boss. Theyve found it, Doctor Smith! The man in the chair stood up and took the sheet of paper in his assistants hands. Well Ill be. The Book of Thoth is within our grasp. Were going after it, Doctor Smith? The man known as Doctor Smith simply nodded and kicked off his slippers. He pushed his feet into a pair of worn leather brogans and then walked over to the wall and pulled a coiled bullwhip from the peg. Smith had been a great wizard and researcher. In his travels, hed taken the persona of the movie character hed seen. A rugged archeologist, who always went to the ends of the earth to retrieve priceless artifacts. Now, he had a chance to make the fictional hero disappear. Yep, Redkin. Get the boys together. The man adjusted the brim of his fedora. Tell them that Montana Smith is back in business. He unwrapped his whip and cracked it in the air. Chapter 213 The Sands of Antiquity Why does it have to be so hot here? Ron wiped his brow for the umpteenth time as he leaned along the railing of the Discooperire. The ships sails were furled and bound and was being propelled at a gentle clip along the Nile by a motivation spell watched over closely by Lockley and Muireall Innes. Sitting in a lounge chair, her face buried in a book of Ancient Egyptian Hieroglyphics, Hermione sighed audibly. I thought youd been here before? Didnt you know it was a desert climate? She asked befor e planting herself back in her book.

Of course, but I dont remember it being this hot. There isnt even a decent breeze. Part of me wants to dive right into this river. Ron gazed wantonly at the cool blue water below. Do you know some sort of anti-crocodile charm we dont know about? George walked up and clapped his brother on the back. What do you mean? Ron looked around and followed Georges pointed arm to the river bank where hundreds of the reptilian predators basked in the midday sun. Oh. Hoyte laughed at the banter and took a deep breath. He reveled as the warm air came into his lungs and shook his head slightly. He was English, of that there was no doubt, but Egypt was his home. Hed had every kind of opportunity to return home over the years, but he always found a reason to stay behind. He liked this country. He stood on the quarterdeck, near the large wooden wheel that guided the ship. Bill and Captain Baretto were busily conferring over the map table nearby so Steve wandered over. Baretto nodded and placed a delicate finger on the map. I figure another hour or so before we get to Thebes. The Valley of the Kings is across the river from there? Thats right. You can dock at Thebes and well take the ferry over. Hoyte looked over at Bill. We might want to keep the group size limited. Too many people may draw too much attention. Bill nodded and looked down at the main deck. Well take Raimundo and Ron. Bill thought for another minute. Well also need Hermione, for sure and Dudley. Why Dudley? Isnt he a muggle? Hoytes question wasnt harsh or judgmental, simply curious. Bill smiled. Dudley has shown very good insight on things. He sees resolutions to problems from a distinctly different perspective. Hoyte nodded and smiled. That was typical of Bill, always trying to see things from multiple points of view. Thats what had made Bill an extraordinary curse breaker, he thought outside the box, even for a wizard. What do you think well find? Bill asked. Im not sure. I havent been to the excavation in a few years, not since you were here. Id thought the curses you fixed were for the tomb in general, but now, Im not so sure. Hoyte said candidly. If Ramses hid the keys, he knew their importance. This wont be easy. Bill smiled and ran his fingers through his hair. Hed pulled out his ponytail to allow his hair to flow freely. Hed bind it back, the heat would force him to, but for now he luxuriated in the feeling of freedom. He looked around the deck of the ketch and saw his companions in various states of repose, Rons complaining notwithstanding. Dean and Isabella were nestled together in a lounger, enjoying the sun on the surface, but probably enjoying their first time away from their baby. George, Dudley and Lee were performing some sort of stage show for the crew, calling themselves Larry, Moe and Curly. Raimundo Baretto stood on the fore deck, his head covered by the tan umbrella he was holding, reading a book of poetry. Bill chuckled, because for all of his outward foppery, Raimundo had a spine of cold, hard steel. One only had to look at his wife to understand, there was more to the man than brains. The Discooperire made a turn around a bend and there was a flurry of activity from the crew as they began to take stations for mooring. Captain Baretto pointed off to the left and the busy wharf highlighting the port of Thebes hove into view. Bill made his way to the main deck, mostly to get out of the way of the crew as they prepared the ship for docking. The rest of his friends met him near the side rail, watching the busy port come into view.

There were many small boats and ships docked already. Tourism was big business, and tour boats made up the majority of vessels. The pier was teeming with hundreds of people, from all over the world. As they came up, Bill got the team together and outlined his plan, especially for who he wanted to go. There was little argument, his reasoning sound. By the time the ship had been tied to the dock, his expedition was ready to go. Hoyte led them down the rickety gang plank and they walked down the pier to the ferry berth. Bill marveled at how they changed, not that they were on the job. Rons eyes were darting back and forth, checking for anything out of sorts, ready to spring to action. Hermione stayed close to her husband, watching his back, and he knew it. Dudley and Raimundo walked together, also scanning the crowd. No one was sight seeing on this trip, everyone was business. They made their way through the crowd and boarded the waiting ferry. The trip across the Nile was uneventful and short. Soon they were walking down a dusty path that led to the Valley of Kings. The Valley of the Kings was a valley on the west side of the Nile where for 500 years, tombs were constructed for the kings and powerful nobles of the New Kingdom (kings from the Eighteenth through Twentieth Dynasties of Ancient Egypt). Ramses II reigned during the Nineteenth Dynasty. The path led them into the valley where various entrances to multiple tombs could be found. The tombs were numbered KV1, KV2, etc. Ramses II tomb was KV5. Over the centuries, thieves and fortune hunters had made the riches-laden tombs their prime targets and countless treasures had disappeared. The more well-known pharaohs, like Ramses, knew enough to have commissioned secret chambers and thats where the key had been found. The temperature cooled as they entered KV5. Hoyte walked confidently into the main chamber and then veered off down a small side tunnel, leading them deeper into the valley wall. The passage continued its downward slope until it flattened and emptied into a large, well-lit antechamber. There were several people, wizards from the looks of them all around as well as a good number of goblins. Professor Hoyte! The team turned to see a young, thin Egyptian walking up to the group. He was wearing khaki shorts, dusty work boots and blue shirt. He smiled broadly and greeted Steven with a healthy handshake. Hoyte turned to his companions. Everyone, this is my research assistant, Mustapha Kabbir. Hes been a great help to me over the years. Kabbir greeted everyone, in turn, and then turned to Hoyte. Ive isolated where the, er, item was found. Weve got to go deeper. Its in a new part of the dig site. Hoyte nodded. Good. Can we see it without too much intrusion? This is important. Yes, Professor. This way. He led them to one of the alabaster pillars supporting the room and tapped on the navel of the womans figure carved on it. A seam opened on the pillar, revealing another passage, darker than the ones theyd been in before. The youth led them inside and waited until they were all in before beckoning for the entrance to close. With the exception of Dudley, they pulled out their wands and illuminated the passage. They continued down, deeper and deeper. Hermione shuddered unconsciously in the cool air. Its freezing. She said and gratefully accepted Rons robe around h er shoulders. Yes, it is. Mustapha said. We are well below the Niles water level. The catacombs are chilled by the river.

The floor slowly leveled off and came to an end at a small room, with a dark well in its center. The walls were covered with hieroglyphs. Mustapha waited until everyone was in the room and then pointed to the well. It was an accident, really. We found this chamber, and one of the assistants was checking the water level of the pool. He put his hand in and found a small alcove on the well wall, and the key was inside. Did it fall there by accident? Bill asked. No, we dont think so. It was hanging on a peg. Mustapha replied. As they looked around the room, Bill noticed Hermione studying a small portion of the wall. Find something, Hermione? Maybe. She mumbled, her thoughts concentrated on the wall in front of her. She placed her fingers on the relief and followed along. This is the symbol for Nefertari, his queen, and these represent almost 100 children. Oi, from one wife? Ron exclaimed. No, silly. He had many wives, but Nefertari was his queen. She continued following the script. Theres a story here, but it keeps referring to a messenger or arbiter. Here is something about The Keeper of the Word. They are all one person. Hoyte said. What do you mean? Bill asked. Thoth was the messenger of the gods. Often he was called upon to arbitrate and mediate disputes and was the god of writing. The book we seek, his book, isnt necessarily evil. He simply translated the magic of the gods into one place. That has to be the right message. Hoyte nodded to Hermione, who continued following the story. It talks about the seven containers, but it doesnt say key, specifically. Of course not, that would be too easy. Why on earth anyone would simply say, the keys are here, here and here is beyond me. Ron said, slapping his hand to his forehead. Shush, Ron. Hermione said. They might have, if youll give me a minute to read this. She followed along the wall and stopped. The secret of the word is found in the goddess. Through her love, you may find the way into knowledge. Great, that helps a lot. Ron started pacing around the room. Raimundo looked in over Hermiones shoulder. The secret is the goddess. He says the way in is through the goddess. But which one? There are so many and Ramses ruled for sixty years. He built monuments to all the goddesses. It could be any of them. Hoyte mused and walk ed around the room. In the corner, Dudley looked a portion of the wall that seemed to be dedicated to Nefertari. At least her symbology was all over the place. His brow creased and then he turned and looked over at Ron and Hermione. Hermione had stood and she was rubbing her shoulder from having to bend over. Ron walked up behind her and began to massage her aching muscles and she smiled in thanks, giving him a quick kiss. Dudleys eyes widened.

I know what goddess hes talking about. Whats that? What do you mean, Dudley? Bill approached the large man, who still had a thoughtful look on his face. Dudley pointed to the hieroglyphs on the wall. He was talking about Nefertari. Hermione, you said he had many wives, but Nefertari was his queen. She was special and he talked about love. He had to be talking about Nefertari. Hoyte snapped his fingers. You know, Dudleys right. Everywhere there is a monument to Ramses, he built a monument or temple to Nefertari. Aside from Nefertiti and Cleopatra, she was the only queen to be deified and only because Ramses made it so. Ill bet that if we go to the places he built for her, we will find the other keys. Raimundo seemed giddy. They had a lead. Wait a minute. Hermione said, finishing her reading. It says the secrets are well guarded, by mystical creatures. Wouldnt that mean that this place is well guarded? Ron asked, looking around. Relax, Ron. I spent a good nine months breaking curses at this site. Im sure I got them all. Bill said. I think we should head back to the ship. Mustapha, we need maps of Egypt and a good history of Ramses and Nefertari. While the young man nodded, Ron leapt and drew his wand. What was that? What was what? Bill said. I thought I heard something, a scratching sound. Ron looked around the room. The party grew silent and the soundless chamber seemed deafening. Theres nothing there, Ron. Come on, lets go. Bill led them back to the path. Ron was the last to leave, carefully scanning the room, before leaving. As their lights dimmed, the farther they got, back in the room, a scratching noise could be heard. In the fading light, a small scarab scampered from beneath a pile of loose rubble and followed them up the ramp. *** A few miles from the Valley of the Kings, the scarab skittered along the desert floor until it neared a small campsite. The large beetle hurried to the largest tent and paused before a strangely dressed man writing in a torn leather covered journal. In a flash the beetle transformed into a repugnant looking man, who bowed. Merlins beard, Redkin. Cant you transmorph outside. You scared the dickens out of me! Im sorry, Dr. Smith. I have some news. Redkin outlined what hed overheard in t he chamber. Well, it looks like we have some competition. So much the better, well let them do all the work and then swoop in and get the prize. Good job, Redkin. Tell me about the group. Montana Smith smiled. How much trouble could two academics, a frizzy-haired woman, a fat muggle, a pony-tailed eccentric, and a scared scarecrow give him? Not when he came prepared. He walked to the entrance to his tent and pulled open the flap. Outside, forty some odd men, each wearing light blousing pants tucked into black boots with pointed toes that curled up were preparing the evening meal. Each man had tattoos across his body and wore large, razor sharp

scimitars tucked into their sashes. Smith nodded to one man, who appeared to be the leader. He walked over and nodded his head. You wanted to see me, Dr. Smith? The mans face was round with long black eyelashes and a long scar extending from the top of his left eye down to the right side of his chin. Yes, Ali Baba. I have a job for you and your forty thieves. Smith smiled evilly and called the Ali Baba inside. Chapter 214 The Trail of Nefertari The Discooperire pulled away from the dock as soon as the party boarded. Hoyte bounded up to the quarterdeck and whispered a hurried destination to Captain Baretto, who directed her first mate to bring the ship about. Bill came up immediately behind Hoyte and gave a questioning glance. We need to get back to Cairo. The banks library has more resources and scholars we can leverage. Hoyte scanned the horizon. I have the feeling were being watched. I havent seen anyone, but this is too big of a find for someone to ignore. Bill nodded in agreement. Hed felt that tingle on the back of his neck, as if unseen watchers were observing his movements. Captain Baretto overheard this exchange and took a careful glance at the teeming throng of people on the dock. Mistress at arms! Lockley walked up the ladder and stopped near her captain. Her one blue eye blazed in the fading sun. Not content with just her cutlass, she sported a brace of throwing knives in a leather jerkin affixed to her shoulders. The eyepatch over her lost eye completed the look of menace. She snapped to attention upon reaching the captain. I want to double the watch and keep a shore party with our guests at all times. Barettos gaze landed on her husband, who was looking over a large tome with Hermione. Expecting trouble, Captain? Lockleys voice was almost eager, she seemed excited about the prospect of going into battle. I dont know. Lets just say a few people are feeling some eyeballs. Lockley smiled and turned to carry out her captains orders. *** The trip up the Nile was uneventful. They joined the mass of river traffic, allowing their anachronistic vessel to blend nicely with the dhows and barges that traversed the mighty waterway. Within a couple of days, the massive city of Cairo hove into view. With Hoytes assistance, Captain Baretto guided her ship to a berth along the grand pier. She chose a place more isolated, farther away from the general traffic to allow her better views of the pier and the city proper. She looked at Muireall Innes and nodded. Within minutes, twenty of the Discooperires complement was on deck. Their weapons were hidden. It wouldnt do to be completely obvious, but they were, indeed, armed. Bill assembled his team on the quarter deck. Gringotts branch in Cairo is fairly large. The compound has sleeping quarters and a library. Ive arranged for us to stay there tonight. Captain Baretto, Bill waved his hand at the captain, has graciously provided us an escort. Do not go anywhere alone. Well go in two groups, I dont want

to be seen traipsing through the city with a bunch of wizards. Ill take the first group an d Steven will take the second. Remember, Gringotts is goblin bank. Dont touch anything! For some reason, he looked at Ron meaningfully. Bill walked off the gangplank with Ron, Hermione, Lee, Dudley, George and half the escort. After a few more minutes, Steven led Captain Baretto, her husband, Dean and Isabella onto shore. The city was choked with pedestrians and tourists. They walked through the narrow alleys, lined with shops and merchants peddling their wares. Bill led his party into the heart of the market district and meandered through the shops and stands until he reached an unmarked, battered green door near a melon stand. He opened the door. Inside, there was a hot, empty room with a couple of lanterns for light. Three of the walls were made of adobe, consistent with the architecture of the area. The far wall was made of red brick, a complete anathema to the location. Bill walked up to the wall and counted out a row of bricks and tapped on one. A portal opened up, revealing a bazaar-like throughway with hundreds of people and magical creatures walking about. This is amazing! Look at all this stuff! Georges eyes were wide. There were flying carpet merchants and stands with dozens of banged up and battered brass lamps. Here and there, exotic spices and potion ingredients were being hawked by sellers and wizards of every stripe were perusing the inventory. Stay with us, George. Bill cautioned. The Bazaar was much like he remembered. It was one of the reasons he so enjoyed working in Egypt. He led them deeper into the place, weaving between the patrons until he reached a building that was remarkably similar to the edifice in Diagon Alley. Youd think they would have some variety. Ron said. It was a white structure with columns. Bill laughed and led them past the goblins standing guard. Inside, the bank was very much like its brother in London, long rows of teller stations and dozens of wizards waiting in line. Bill turned to his right and walked through a revolving door. The door led to an open courtyard with a large fountain in the middle, rows and rows of date trees lining the atrium. Bill turned to Hermione. The library is through those doors. Well go there in a second. Lets get settled in the hostel. He walked along the path that lined the courtyard and stopped at an open window. Inside a nice looking man with a long mustachio smiled, revealing a row of yellow teeth. Yes sir? May I help you? The man looked down the row of people behind Bill. Yes, Im Bill Weasley. I owled about some rooms. Yes sir, Mr. Weasley. We were expecting a bigger party. The man turned a large ledger around for Bill to sign. The rest will along shortly. Bill signed in and took hold of the keys, handing them out . He looked at Hermione. Ill take you to the library. The rest of you should stay close. Do not leave the Bazaar and dont go anywhere alone. George, Lee, Dudley and Ron nodded serenely. George shared a look with his companions. They really wanted to be let loose on the Bazaar. Bill shook his head and looked at the wizard that was leading their escort. Theyre not to be left alone. Yes sir. Those are our orders. The woman had a sharp eye and she stared down the four men like a school principal. Theyll be watched carefully. Bill laughed and then led Hermione to the library. ***

George, Lee, Ron and Dudley walked out into the Bazaar, followed closely by four of the Discooperires crew. They drifted among the different stalls and shops, taking in the items for sale. Theyd been able to draw on their accounts from home and had pockets full of galleons to spend. They made sure they bought souvenirs for their families back home and George found a gag cobra that was animated by playing a tiny wooden flute. If the music stopped, the toy snake would spit water at anyone nearby. We have got to see if we can market this! Itll sell like gangbusters at Christmas. His partners agreed and they spent the better part of the afternoon haggling a resale agreement with the inventor. Eventually they came to an accommodation and George found an owlery to send the prototype to Verity for production. Pleased with their find, the men made their way to an open caf and enjoyed some cold drinks. They spent most of the time trading insults amongst each other. George was trying to find a word that rhymed with idiot to toss back at Lee when he noticed a strange expression on Dudleys face. Something bothering you, Duds? George asked. Dudley stared off in the distance but spoke in a low whisper. Theres a man, over by the papyrus dealer, whos been there the entire time weve been there. I think Ive been seeing him everywhere weve been. I think he might be following us. Ron eyes suddenly became alert. Without making rapid movements, he slowly scanned the area and saw the man Dudley meant. The man was short and portly. He wore a royal blue robe that was covered in the dust that was ever present in the area. Ive got to go to the bathroom. Ron voice was loud and he rose and wandered into the back of the restaurant. Wheres he going? One of the guards began to rise, to follow Ron, but Lee grabbed his arm quickly. Dont, just relax. Hes going to check out our new friend. Lee had an edge of command in his voice and the guard sat back down. George caught a flicker of movement off to side, and saw his brother weaving through the crowd, edging towards the man theyd seen. Ron moved with practiced ease, his Auror skills on full display. Hed made it out of the restaurant and made his way to the corner of the building where hed seen the man. With a quick movement, Ron rounded the corner and stopped. The man was no longer there. Ron took a quick scan of the area, but saw no sign of the man. He shrugged his shoulders and returned to the table. Whoever he is, hes gone now. Ron took another drink from his glass. Wed better get back. Something tells me that he wasnt alone. George said soberly. The friends nodded in agreement and began the trek back to the bank. *** Ron walked along the courtyard and stopped at the door that Bill had indicated held the library. He walked inside and was immediately struck by the difference of this room from the rest of the world outside. The room was cavernous, with rows and rows of bookcases and shelves, filled to the brim with large, dusty tomes, rolled parchment and innumerable artifacts. Hermione must be having kittens in here, Ron thought. He walked along one of the aisles until he reached the center of the room. There he saw a couple long wooden tables and seated at the end of one were Bill, Raimundo, Hermione and Steven. They were pouring over several bits of parchment and tablets. Hermione was writing furiously on piece of parchment.

She looked up as he approached and smiled in greeting. Ron returned the smile and upped the ante by leaning down and kissing her on the lips. She flushed slightly and he reached into his pocket and handed her a small package, wrapped in brown paper. I got you something. He said. She placed down her quill and unwrapped the gift. Out came a brand new leather journal. She looked up at him and grinned. He pointed down at the journal. I figured that youd be taking a lot of notes. You probably want to keep it all in once place and add it to your memoirs or something. She stood and threw her arms around her husband, planting treasure of kisses on his cheek. That was so thoughtful of you. I love it! It was Rons turn to blush and h e looked at his brother, who was snickering. So, any luck? Ron asked, trying to divert attention away from his embarrassment. Bill nodded. I think were almost there. I was about to send for everyone. As if on cue, the rest of the team arrived and Bill turned the floor over to Steven. Weve got six keys left. Based on the Nefertari theory, we think weve found six place they could be. He pulled out a map. Weve narrowed it down to Pi-Ramses, the capital city Ramses ruled from; Abu Simbel, where Ramses erected a temple to Nefertari; Beit el-Wali where he built a Nubian temple on his wifes request; the tomb of Nefertari in the Valley of the Queens; the statue of Ramses at Mit Rahina, which Nefertari commissioned; and the city of Abydos, where Nefertari and Ramses oldest son held court. They are the most obvious locations. Ron stared at the map. These are spread out all over the place. Itll take us forever to get to all of them. We should split up, theres enough of us to go around. George said. Bill scratched his head. I dont know. Were missing something here. I dont like spreading us out so thin. We dont have much of a choice. Were definitely being followed. We need to get the keys as soon as we can. Ron interjected. Look, well take minders with us. The Discooperire will be our platform. We sail her here. Ron pointed to a spot on the map, a place on the Nile that was roughly equidistant from all the places. Were starting to run out of time. Steven looked at Bill and nodded. I agree with Ron. We need to move fast. Bill finally relented. All right. He looked at the group and assessed who should be with whom. Steven, you and Mustapha take Pi-Ramses. Ron, you and Hermione will have Abu Simbel. Dean and Isabella will have Beit el-Wali. Captain, you and Raimundo can take the Tomb of Nefertari. You three, He pointed at George, Lee and Dudley. can take the Statue. That leaves Abydos to me. Signor Bill, if you think Im sending you alone, you underestimate me. Barettos voice was light, with an underlying edge. Bill began to protest, but Baretto cut him short. You will take Lockley with you, Signor Bill, or you will not go at all. See here, captain, Ill go where I want. Bill fought the urge to tell her that he didnt need help. Raimundo cleared his throat and drew Bills attention. I find it very helpful to not argue with Adelina in these matters, Bill. It makes for a less painful result.

Bill looked over at Captain Baretto who had a deadly, but not unpleasant grin on her beautiful face. He glanced over at Ron and George for support, but both had suddenly found the grain of the tables very interesting. Bills shoulders sagged as he accepted defeat. All right, you win. Its a little late now. You dont want to be wandering the streets of Cairo at night. Well leave in the morning. A small goblin walked up to the group. Are you done with the materials, sir? Bill nodded and the goblin began winking the books and scrolls back to their places. Bill chuckled to himself. The goblin reminded him of the others hed worked with. He was gruff and rankled, yet he seemed out of place with the fez perched atop his head. Okay, everyone, get some sleep. Weve got a long day ahead of us. Bill watched as they left. He was missing something, he just couldnt wrap his head around it. Maybe a good nights sleep would help. *** Montana Smith sat in the same caf that Ron and the rest had been in. He sipped a strong Turkish coffee and watched the crowd walk by. The short, rotund man whod been spotted by Dudley sat with him. They had the distinct appearance of men waiting for someone. They did not have to wait long. Around the corner, a small goblin with a fez walked up, the tassel jingling in the air. The goblin ignored the people around him and walked up to the table where they sat. Smith nodded slightly. Well? They are on the move. Theyll be splitting up, trying to find the keys more rapidly. The goblins professional eye appraised the brass tea pot on the table. With a sneer, he decided it wasnt of goblin manufacture. Good. Well wait until they recover the keys and then take them once they are unaware. He turned to Ali Baba, sitting next to him. Do you think you can avoid being seen this time? The chagrined thief simply nodded. Good, and Ali? Smith sipped his tea. No witnesses. We cant leave anything to chance. The thief and now, assassin smiled with an evil grin and nodded. Chapter 215 Pi-Ramses and Mit Rahina The Discooperire left the dock at first light, heading down the Nile back towards Luxor and Thebes. Lockley spent most of the time reading her small strike teams that would accompany the wizards on their journeys. Almost half a day into the journey, they were ready and Bill collected the groups on the main deck to review their plan. Weve got to make sure we secure the keys. Remember what weve gone over. Each of the keys should be guarded by some magical curse, even a creature or two. Some of the artifacts are in muggle hands, so be mindful of using magic. Bill looked around and scanned the group. They were all itching to go. Steven raised his hand. I cant emphasize enough that we are probably not the only on es looking for these keys. Find them, but watch your backs. You never know who youll run into. Trust no one. Steven nodded back to Bill. Is everyone ready? They nodded. We didnt want to risk being seen flying about on brooms. He began to distribute strands of rope, of varying colors, with knots fastened in various places. Each of you has a pair of rope pieces, one with a single knot, and another with two knots. They

are port keys. The single knot will bring you to a known area near your location, the double knotted ropes return you here. Dont take any chances. If you run into trouble, come back to the ship. He took one last look around. Okay, everyone, lets go. They collected together in their teams, each with a trio of armed sailors tagging along. They dispersed to several points along the rail of the ship and looked back at Bill, who had Lockley in tow behind him. Muireall Innes drifted near the ships wheel and checked the ships clock. My orders are simple. It is now noon. I will be sending out teams to check on you in twelve hours. She looked over at her Captain, who nodded slightly. Good hunting, everyone. Along the ship, six explosions of smoke and light ignited as the teams went off on their quest. Muireall pushed a strand of red hair from her face and rested a hand on the hilt of her rapier. She let out a sigh and wished a silent round of good luck, then turned back to keeping the ship running. Helm, prepare to come about. *** Dudley, George and Lee plus their trio of escorts exited the whirlwind of light and sound and found themselves in a small room, a public restroom. They looked at each other and carefully exited the washroom. They were in the lobby of a very open and crowded museum. What the heck are we doing here? George asked. Dudley walked over to a display sign, standing near the information desk. It says here that they moved the statue of Ramses here. Dudley responded. George held his hand to his head. But where is here? He took a step to the side to avoid being over run by a mass of school children. Lee took a look at a brochure and smiled. The Grand Egyptian Museum , thats what it says here. George took a quick look around. The noontime hour was especially popular for the museum. The entrance was teeming with hundreds of visitors. He shook his head slowly. Well, lets get going. I suppose taking a tour wouldnt hurt. Maybe we can get a look at this statue. His friends nodded and then Lee and George stared over at Dudley, who took several seconds to understand their request. Right, Ill get the tickets. Dudley turned towards the ticket kiosk, mumbling something under his breath about idiot wizards. *** They latched onto a tour group with took them through the cavernous national museum. It was difficult to stay focused on their task as they were confronted with fascinating images and artifacts from Egyptian history. Soon, however, they were ushered into a large room, in the center there was a three meter pedestal supporting a massive eleven meter statue of Ramses II. The tour guide droned on: weighing over eighty three tons, the Mit Rahina is one of the largest free -standing statues of Ramses. They looked around the room, taking in the exhibits from Ramses reign. The statue dominated the room and George and Lee stood mesmerized by its sheer presence. Dudley took a long walk around the sculpture. The three allowed their tour group to proceed as they studied the room.

Once they got back together, they decided to sit on a stone bench, facing the statue. So, where the blazes do you think they hid a key? George asked. The answer was lacking to them all. They sat confounded until Dudley stared at a corner of the exhibit hall. We keep thinking of this as a quest around Ramses, but its more about Nefertari. I think we need to look for things about her. The friends agreed. George stood, followed by Lee and Dudley. Spread out, see if theres something about the queen around this room. They maneuvered around the room, seeking some item, some emblem that was dedicated to Ramses queen. They walked in and out of a myriad of objects and tourist groups. There were headstones, tablets and golden items from the sixty years of Ramses reign, but no hint of Nefertari. Dudley walked along the border of the room and stopped in front a large vat, cast of bronze and inlaid with alabaster and onyx. He read the description in front of the large urn and made a quick head gesture to his companions. What have you got? George approached and stopped at the exhibit. What is it? It looks like a cauldron. Lee said, coming from the other direction. Maybe she made potions in it? Dudley chuckled. Its a bath tub. What? George asked. You guys see things from a wizards point of view. I know you dont like bathing, George, but its a bath tub. Dudley pointed to the object description posted nearby. What makes you think its the item were looking for? George asked, clearly put off that theyd come all this way to find a bath tub. Dudley shrugged his shoulders. Well, the description says it was Nefertaris, and well, theres this. One of the intricately carved reliefs on the side of the tub depicted the god they knew as Thoth, holding a key. Dudley smiled broadly. Sometimes, its the obvious clues that we need to look for. He looked around, the crowd had thinned, but there were still prying eyes in the room. So, how do we do this? George thought for a moment and spied a maintenance door nearby. Come on. He led them to the door and with a quick flick of his wand, it opened, allowing them inside. They were in a small corridor, lined with steam pipes and electrical conduit. He reached inside his satchel and withdrew an invisibility cloak. Well wait here until closing and then head out and see if we can figure out how to extract the key. The others followed his lead, with Dudley ducking under Lees cloak. Now, all they had to do was wait. *** Ramses II had decided to create a new capital city during the twentieth year of his reign. For centuries, Egyptian kings and ruled from Memphis, far south on the Nile, but Ramses had an ongoing military struggle with the Philistines and Syrians on his northeastern border and had built Pi Ramses in order to maintain a constant military presence closer to the Sinai. Pi Ramses was nothing more than a collection of administrative buildings and barracks with a large palace constructed in the center of the compound. Unlike the other dig sites, this one, a newer find, was less trafficked, no tourists, and mostly academics. There was no one to witness when Steven and Mustapha and their coterie winked into existence at the foot of the city gates.

Hoyte took a quick look around and focused on the large building at the center of the city. I think we should start at the palace. Mustapha nodded and the group began the quick trek to the opulent living quarters of the pharaoh. Shaped much like a pyramid, the palace lacked the sloping rock sides of its bigger brethren, instead the triangular capstone was held in place by an array of pillars, each depicting a battle scene from Ramses life. They walked inside and were immediately met by a smallish, pug nosed man. Im sorry sir, but the palace is not open for public visits. The man spoke with a heavy accent and his voice, while nasally, had the inflection of a man used to being obeyed. Hoyte stepped forward, drawing out his business card. Im Professor Hoyte, of the British Museum. The man took Hoytes card and nodded. Ah, Professor Hoyte, you are welcome of course. We werent told to expect you. Unfortunately, we are carbon dating the throne room and Ramses quarters. We are unable to allow anyone in. My name is Professor Abu ibn Assad, from the Department of Antiquities. Thats quite all right, Professor. Actually, my young colleague here is doing his dissertation on Queen Nefertari. We were actually hoping to visit her quarters. Hoyte tried to be as dry as he could, reverting to his persona of a boring academic. Assad thought for a moment. Queen Nefertaris suite is on the outer northeastern corner of the palace proper. You wouldnt be interfering with the instrumentation. That shouldnt be a problem, Professor. Hoyte nodded his thanks and started the group towards the northeastern corridor. They walked for meters, along the entire eastern wall of the palace until they came to a less grandiose entrance. Walking inside, it was like being transported back in time. Sheer curtains, reminiscent of the original silk barriers of old were strung out along the perimeter of the ancient chamber. In the center of the largest partition, a giant wooden four poster bed stood. Each foot was at least two feet in diameter and each pedestal was carved in the form of an Egyptian god. Hoyte let out a low whistle. Mustapha studied the edge of the room. The walls were bare, no images or hieroglyphics to be found. The young man looked over to the bed and then over to Steven. Pr ofessor, the bed is the only item in the room. Steven nodded. In addition to the wooden posts, the beds foundation was carved from a pale white stone. Mustapha continued to study the room. Perhaps theres a hidden entrance somewhere? Steven met his assistants question with silence. He walked around the bed and then snapped his fingers. What is this wood? Mustapha looked at the grain and then passed his nose over the wood. Sycamore, I think. Mustaphas eyes widened. One of the boxes that the book is in is made of sycamore. Steven smiled, like a happy teacher watching on of his pupils score a good deal of points. Excellent, Mustapha, now tell me, where is the key? Mustapha walked around the bed and studied its features. The key, it seemed, were the posts. Three of the them were flat at the top, like shelves, while the fourth had a rounded obelisk. Mustapha studied the flat portions of the three pedestals. Somethings missing here. He felt along the top of the flat ridge. There was a round groove, like a slot for something. Steven nodded and pointed to the stone bed frame. There were creases along the edge of the bed.

Mustapha reached down and pressed lightly on the side of the bed. A panel pivoted, revealing a hidden chamber. Inside, there were three, obelisk-shaped jars. Canopic jars. Steven said in a matter-of-fact manner. Limestone, Calicite and Alabaster. Canopic jars held the vital organs of mummified priests. Mustapha handed the jars up to Steven who held one up near one of the posts. The rounded jar fit perfectly into the slot. Hoyte nodded over to Mustapha, who placed another of the jars onto its fitted platform on the other side of the bed. Hoyte then took the last jar and placed it on the last post. For a moment, nothing happened, then the one post that had not had a jar split open, revealing a key with a wooden inlay in its ring. Steven reached out and picked up the key. A loud jarring sound rumbled from the walls, as two hidden panels opened and revealed two creatures. They had quadraped bodies with the head of an asp. Steven drew his wand. Its the guardian of the key. Its a Sta! The creatures hissed and bolted from their hiding places. Steven raised his arm and let fly a spell, his guards joining in the fray. The first of the creatures was upon one of the hapless guards in an instant, biting into his arm. He screamed in pain and fell to the ground. One of the other guards let fly a curse that bounced off the tough hide of the animals body. The last guard eschewed his wand and drew his cutlass, bringing it down on the other creatures head, severing it from its body. The body fell to the ground, motionless. The guard drew a couple of daggers from his waist and tossed them end over end to Steven and Mustapha. The remaining creature raised its serpentine head and made for Mustapha, who froze in fright, his dagger held in front of him. Steven ran forward and brought his own dagger down. The blade bit into the scaled neck of the creature, not quite severing it. The sta hissed again and sent a strike that struck Mustapha on the leg. The hapless boy screamed and fell to the ground, dead. Steven struck with an upstroke, finishing his cut. The creature fell dead on the ground. Steven rose from the ground and felt for a pulse on his young aides neck. There was none. He gripped the key tightly in his hand and motioned for his remaining two companions to join him. The silence in the room was abruptly disturbed by a sinister voice. Give us the key, and well kill you quickly. Steven looked to the corner of the room. Six sinister men stood, with evil-looking scimitars in their hands. Dont make a big issue of this, Professor Hoyte, you never had a chance. The leader of the ne w arrivals raised his sword and launched himself at Hoyte. *** Night fell at the museum, and George pulled the cloak off himself, signaling the rest to follow suit. There had been a couple of maintenance people who walked by, but theyd remained undetec ted. George pulled out his wand and began murmuring some charms. What are you doing? Lee asked. Im putting some anti-muggle charms out. We dont want any cameras or security systems to detect us. George said. He finished and opened the door. The statue room was quiet. The team walked over to the bath tub and looked around. He motioned to the guards. Keep an eye out for patrols while we figure this out. Lee and Dudley joined him by the tub. They surveyed the surface, looking for some indication of how to get the key out of it, if it existed. Lee scratched his head. So what do we do now? Dudley had been flipping through the pages of a small book that Hoyte had given him. He closed the book in exasperation and looked at the tub. Suddenly, he got a look on his face, like something snapped. What? George asked, noticing the look.

Its a tub, right? Dudley looked expectantly at his friends. Its a bath tub. Why dont we fill it up? You guys have some sort of water spell, dont you? George smiled and pointed his wand at the tub. Aguamenti! A solid stream of water struck the bottom of the vat, filling it. There was a line near the three quarters mark and when the water hit it, the tub began to swirl and light up. A plume of water went up from the middle of the bath and in its center was a bronze key. George reached up and pulled the key out. There was an explosion of light from the massive statue in the center of the room. Pieces rock fell from both legs, revealing hollow chambers within. Two creatures issued forth from the legs, looking part camel and part leopard. Their feral teeth glistened and frothed with foam. Standing near one of the creatures, one of the guards had his neck snapped in two by the jaws of one of the creatures. Run! George said. Head for the maintenance tunnel! The three friends bolted from the side of the bath tub. One of the remaining guards drew his sword and jabbed into the flank of a nearby cameleopard. The creature roared in pain and kicked one of its hind legs into the chest of the sailor attacking it. There was an audible snap of bone as the man huffed from the pain. George, Lee and Dudley met the last sailor at the door. George looked back, as if to help the man engaged with the creature. The mans body was still and the creature issued a coup d grace by snapping his neck. George shook his head and pulled the iron door closed behind him. He snapped the bolt into place just as the creatures outside began knocking their heads against it. Lets get out of here. George said. I dont think youre going anywhere, just yet. George turned and found six rather evil looking men filling the hallway. Give us the key, Mr. Weasley. Youve got nowhere else to go. The men drew their scimitars and raised them over their heads. Youve reached the end of the line. Chapter 216 Partycrashers Who are you people? George tried to ignore the incessant banging on the metal door as the cameleopards tried to follow them from the main chamber. The leader of the new arrivals simply smiled. Thats not important. Youve got something we want and were going to take it. Now be a good boy and hand over the key. Lee and George shared a quick look and unlimbered the swords that were hanging on their backs. They were veterans, whod fought in battles under far harsher circumstances. They stood shoulder to shoulder, with their one remaining body guard and stared down the band of thieves before them. Knowing hed be in the way, Dudley nonetheless drew his own sword and readied himself behind the wall that his friends made. The brigand leader smiled, showing gaps in the white row of teeth. So much the better, I like it when they struggle. He said to his companions. He raised his scimitar high in the air and ran at George, bringing his razor sharp blade down towards Georges head. George moved like lightning, bringing his own blade up in a sharp parry. The air rang with the clash of steel in the confined space. The battle was on. George, Lee and the last remaining sailor, named Daltry, fought viciously, the first two attackers were quickly felled by the swoop of their blades. The main difference between the antagonists was that even though they all had magical abilities, experience and innovation made the Discooperire veterans better fighters. Their wands were imbedded in the hilts of their swords, allowing them the freedom to use both blade and magic. George made a quick parry with his sword and then thrust the point of cutlass forward.

Stupefy! An invisible finger of magical power emanated from the tip of his blade, propelling another attacker backwards, down the tunnel. Lee knifed his way through the onslaught, his blade moving quickly, the point jabbing forward, drawing blood with each stroke. At one point, Lee found himself overextended, the leader of the enemy tried an overhand swipe at Lees exposed flank. Before the scimitar could make contact, Dudley leaned in and parried the blow with his own sword, allowing Daltry the opportunity to move in and blast the man with a curse. Soon, there was only one enemy left standing. George moved in and slammed a sword blow that quickly disarmed him. Instinct had taken over George and he moved forward to deliver one last, killing thrust. Wait! Dudleys voice echoed in the room, stopping George. Freeze him or something. We need to know who were up against. We should take one back for questioning. George was breathing heavily, the point of his sword rested on his opponents chest. He nodded and sent a paralyzing spell down his blade and into the man. For a moment, they stood, recovering from the intense, but brief fight. The sound of cracking, as the door jamb began to give way, alerted them to the presence of the cameleopards. Lets get out of here. Lee shouted. George nodded and drew out his piece of rope that would take them back to the ship. He grasped their prisoner by the neck, while the rest took hold of the rope. In an instant, they were gone. *** By some miracle of chance, Hoyte fell back to the floor and held his borrowed dagger up in front of him. Its interference blocked what should have been a killing blow from the assault leader. The pair of Discooperire sailors leapt forward, interposing themselves between the hapless academic and the enemy. The two sailors were used to fighting against long odds, and they managed to fight through the initial assault, causing the thieves to fall back to assess their qualities. One of the enemy lie dead at their feet, while another clutched a savage gash on his shoulder; both parties stood for a moment, looking for an opening. Steven rose to his feet, grasping the fallen mans scimitar on his way up. He stood with his defenders, the captured blade held forward, shaking in his grasp. One of the sailors looked over at the Professor. Well buy you time, Professor. Take the key and get back to the ship. She was a small woman, looking entirely capable and deadly. What about you two? Hoyte was still reeling from the earlier losses. Our mission is to see you safely back. We cant do that if youre here. She smiled softly at Steven. Now run along now, well be along shortly. Steven stayed still. Whats your name? Bethany. When we get back to the ship, Ill introduce myself properly. Now go. She nodded to her colleague who began moving towards the enemy. Steven nodded briefly and then drew the rope strand from his pocket. Holding the key and the rope in the same hand, he winked out of sight. Bethany looked back at the five remaining foes. Now, which one of you pretty boys wants to die first? ***

Dean and Isabella, with their escorts flashed into existence outside a lush oasis in the middle of the desert. Their objective was the temple at Beit Al Wali. The oasis had been the center of Ramses Nubian holdings thousands of years ago and hed built the temple in dedication both to his queen and to the messenger of the gods, Thoth. The place was more a library than a place of worship, in keeping with Thoths role as keeper of the word. Thoth was a communicator, and over the years, the Beit Al Wali sites repository of scrolls and etchings was unrivaled until the great library at Alexandria. Time and neglect had eaten away at the temple, its treasure trove of knowledge was picked clean by the desert and scavengers. Dean gripped the hilt of his sword with one hand and grasped his wifes hand with the other, and started walking into the middle of the oasis. Isabella pulled her hand away. Dean looked at her questioningly and she leaned in and whispered. Not in front of everyone, amor, I dont want these people to think Im afraid. Dean shook his head. After all this time, Izzie, I doubt very seriously that they d think that. Besides, maybe Im the one thats afraid. Then get over it. Come on, lets do what we came here to do. She walked ahead, leading through the date trees and palms. Dean smiled and followed suit, motioning for their escort to follow. They followed the path deeper into the oasis until they came to a clearing near a large, motionless pool. In the center of the pool was a rectangular building, with an array of ionic columns in the shape of palm trees in the center. A broad, black granite bridge went from the lake shore out to the building and Isabella boldly walked to the bridge and began to cross it. What are we looking for, anyway? Dean asked as he quickened his stride to keep up with his wife. She shrugged her shoulders. I dont know. Why dont we look for icons that refer to Nefertari and then go from there? Dean nodded. They crossed the bridge and climbed the dozen or so steps that led into the temple. Inside, they saw rows and rows of stone, with alcoves cut into them, like book shelves. This must have been the main document repository. Isabella waved to the rest of them. Spread out. Look for the Nefertari hieroglyphs. The team dispersed throughout the room. The center of the room had a round, stone pool filled with jet black water. They studied the shelving and looked for signs of the ancient queen. Dean decided to look at the perimeter of the pool, holding a battered leather journal provided to him by Hoyte. I think I found something here. Dean pointed to some hieroglyphs on the stones that marked the edge of the pool. The markings bore the signature of Nefertari and described a story in pictures that was hard to follow. Dean consulted his book and tried to follow the story. I think this marking means wish or desire and this one is for Thoth. He walked around the edge of the pool, picking out symbols he could match out of the book. Whats that one? Isabella pointed to a darker image. Dean ran through the reference ledger and back to the picture. It says here that its an Ammut. See? It has the head of a crocodile, the body of a lion and the rear of a hippopotamus. They were called the eater of the dead. His eyes grew wider. They told their prey to tell the truth or die. Its a lot like you, amor, when you ask me where Ive been.

Isabella tossed an angry glance at Dean and then turned her attention back to the pool. So, now what? She looked closer at the description of the pool. If its a wishing well, maybe were supposed to make a wish? Dean studied her face and then looked back at the pool and shrugged his shoulders. He reached into his pocket and drew a pair of galleons out, their glittering golden auras mirroring off the light of the sun. He rubbed them together and closed his eyes. With a quiet wish, he tossed the galleons into the center of the pool. He watched as the coins dropped down into the depths of the water and he saw them finally disappear from view. Slowly, the surface of the water began to bubble, then the agitation grew more violent, more frenzied. A high plume of water fountained out of the center of the pool, splashing down on the flagstones below. There was the high pitched, metallic clank on the rocks. Dean looked down by his feet. Lying on the ground, water dripping off its edges was key, with a carved piece of ebony in the eye. He reached down and picked it up, holding it in the air. I got what I wished for. Correction, you got what we wished for! Six men were standing near the entranc e to the room, scimitars drawn. Isabella had been standing nearby, and the closest man reached his arm across her chest, his other hand holding the edge of his scimitar to her throat. Give us the key, Mr. Thomas, and well let your muggle wife go. De an shared a gaze with Isabella and for some reason, began to smile. I really dont think you want to do that. Dean said quietly. If you let her go, you may walk away from this. The man holding Isabella laughed derisively. Youd threaten me? This muggle is going to hurt me? You must be delusional. Dean felt his hand close on the hilt of his sword. My wife is no muggle and she isnt a witch. Shes much more dangerous. Really? What is she? Before he could finish speaking, he began to shr iek in excruciating pain. He looked down and saw a gaping gash in his arm, which caused his sword to fall to the floor. His eyes were drawn to Isabella, who was holding a long bladed knife made from sharpened sea shells, a Taino weapon from her native Puerto Rico. He didnt speak Spanish, but the slew of rapid fire curses that Isabella was sending his way made him blush. Before he could respond, the knife jumped forward, its keen edge slicing through his throat, ending his life. Dean shook his head slowly. Shes Puerto Rican. Deans sword leapt from its scabbard and he and the sailors jumped to the attack, catching their opponents off guard. They fought them back, the thieves on the defensive. They fell back to the black stone bridge and the fight paused in the center of the bridge, almost a stalemate. Dean and the sailors pressed their attack, and the thieves fought back. Dean felt the fine edge of one of the scimitars graze his arm, opening a nasty wound, from the top of this shoulder to his elbow. Isabella reached forward and pulled Dean back, while the remainder of their party closed ranks to protect him. Suddenly, a large plume of water gushed forth from the lake. There was a tremendous thump and a low hiss and the fighting stopped as everyone gazed down at the end of the bridge, along the oasis shore. A menacing growl came from the creature that had deposited on the bridge. It had the low, flat head of a crocodile, only bigger than Dean had ever seen. It had the soft, sinewy pelt of a lions body and the coarse hindquarters of a hippo. I guess thats an Ammut. Isabella helped Dean to his feet and the pair tugged at the sleeves of their protectors, drawing them back towards the temple. The five remaining thieves turned their weapons towards the approaching beast, which leaned forward on its haunches, ready to strike. A voice echoed in each of their heads, a question to everyone present.

Why are you here? Dean remembered the inscription in the temple and shouted to his compa nions. Think about the truth, were here for the key, think the truth! Dean concentrated. Im here for the key, Im here for the key. The leader of the thieves spoke for his companions. Were trying to stop them from taking the key of Thoth. The beast bellowed in anger and jumped with a quickness that the naked eye could not see. In an instant it was among the thieves, its jaws snapping, its talons raking their unprotected bodies. Dean handed the key to Isabella and pulled out the rope port key with his good arm. He called his team together and looked sorrowfully at the mayhem of their erstwhile hijackers. Truth or die. Dean shook his head and then activated the port key, and the entire team disappeared, leaving only the snarls of the Ammut and the screams of the soon to be dead. Chapter 217 Curse of the Mummy The Barettos found themselves at the bottom of large valley, marked by high, sloping walls and a myriad of cave openings. Each cave had a bare, simple sign over the entrance, where researchers and scientists had labeled the occupant of the tomb. The Valley of Queens was less ostentatious then the Valley of the Kings, the vale was narrower, less lush and smaller in scale. Captain Baretto paused in front of the small sign highlighting the entrance to Nefertaris tomb. Raimundo walked ahead, his copy of Steven Hoytes crib notes in his hand. They entered the narrow, claustrophobic opening and were immediately struck by a cool breeze that emanated from the depths of the tomb. The passage spiraled downward, narrowing in places and the widened into a circular chamber, marked with deep carvings denoting the life history of the queen. A large stone sarcophagus was situated in the center of the room, consisting of a heavy cap stone and a broad limestone body. The walls were smooth, almost marble in quality and despite being yards inside the mountain, a steady stream of light cascaded into the place, highlighting the sarcophagus itself. Raimundo took a brief walk around the last resting place of Ramses queen and laid a careful hand on its top. Unlike the walls, the sarcophagus was rough. The lid looked like it had been hit by a blunt instrument like a pick or a hammer. The seal around the lid and the main base was solid, unblemished. Captain Baretto nodded to the two sailors that had accompanied her and her husband, pointing them to the entrance, detailing them to keep watch at the entrance. So, amor, where do you think this key is? In the tomb? Baretto leaned up again st a corner of the wall, her eyes dancing merrily at her husband. Raimundo smiled back. It would seem that many thought so. He pointed to the gouges on the crypts surface. Look at all these tool marks, graverobbers or key seekers did that. He stu died the walls around the crypt. I dont think Ramses would be so obvious. He took a slow stroll around the wall area, carefully scanning the smoothed out hieroglyphics on the wall. Nothing seemed to leap out at him. Adelina tried to follow suit, but the meticulous nature of the search soon bored her. She walked back to the sarcophagus and leaned up against its side. She watched her husband start a second circuit of the wall and marveled at his patience. While she was impetuous and bold, he was steady and exacting. Thats what made him the perfect banker. He never missed a single detail, the slightest imperfection. This time, he wasnt looking at the writings, but at the wall itself. He lost himself in its smoothness, not a single flaw or

crack. It seemed like one big piece of stone, even, unblemished, except He stopped and studied a small groove. Hed missed it in his first pass across the wall. There was a perfectly square cut in the stone, hidden by its location on a stone hieroglyph. He mused at the one flaw in the entire wall. He stole a brief glance at his wife and shrugged his shoulders. Wiping the sweat off his fingers, he reached up and pressed on the square. The stone slid easily, moving almost a full four inches into the wall. A distant rumbling was heard and a heavy slab of stone slid over the entrance, locking them in and separating them from their escort. Adelina was up on her feet in an instant, her rapier singed as she drew from its scabbard. The room began to shudder and the sarcophagus began to rise from the floor, the dais beneath it rumbling as it climbed into the air. As soon as it started, the rumbling stopped. Quiet filled the room and Adelinas keen eyes searched every inch, looking for some portent of danger. Raimundo walked over to the raised sarcophagus and smiled. Waving a hand at his wife, he pointed to the base portion of the raised dais. There was an opening that led to a small, spiral stone staircase which descended into darkness. Without hesitating, Raimundo lit his wand and began a fast walk down the stairs. Adelina rolled her eyes, sometimes her husband could be impetuous as well. She let the point of her rapier and followed him down. The staircase bottomed out into a vast, cavern. Various stalactites hung down and seemed to emanate with their own phosphorescent glow, casting the room in a surprisingly bright light. The walls of the chamber were filled with vast mounds of gold coins and bejeweled objects, a veritable fortune from ages long gone. Adelina watched as Raimundos trained bankers eye made a swift appraisal of the treasure and then seemingly disregarded it in one fell swoop. The gold and the jewels werent what they were looking for. The walked through the room and stopped at a lo ng, open portion near the opposite end. Bah! Someone is playing us for a fool! Captain Baretto said, disgustedly. Its a set up! What do you mean? Raimundo asked. Look at this! Adelina pointed to a straight, smooth stone path that seemed to go for about 20 meters, or so, ending in a square opening, much like the opening to a fire place. Underneath the opening were nine thin, pyramid shaped pegs standing in a triangular formation. In a stone rack next to their end of the path were several perfectly round stone balls, each with three finger-sized holes in them. Captain Baretto slapped her head. Its a bowling alley! Bowling wasnt around in ancient Egypt. Actually, mi amor, in the 1930s a British archeologist named Sir Flinders Petrie discovered that the ancient Egyptians bowled when he uncovered some bowling equipment in a tomb he was excavating. You cant be serious. She looked at him and could see that he was. She shook her head and reached down and picked up one of the balls, which was, surprisingly, light in weight. So what do we do? Bowl to find the key? He gave her one of his shoulder shrugs and she followed suit. She aimed the ball down the alley and swung it with all of her might. The stone ball crashed on the lane and hurtled down, right into the gutter. She smiled sheepishly and Raimundo teased her. Its not all about brute strength, Adelina. Raimundo picked up a ball and rose on the tips of his toes. He tip toed down the front of the lane and carefully rolled the ball downward. The pace was mind numbingly slow and he had time to stand and glance up at his wife. Whered you learn that technique? She asked, crossing her arms. Flintstones reruns. He giggled and watched his ball make its slow progress down the lane. It never deviated from its course and it reached a point between the front pin and the pin on the

right, starting a domino effect which knocked down all nine pins. Raimundo raised his arms in triumph and was rewarded by a long, lingering kiss from his wife. A low rumbling interrupted their celebration as the square hole that housed the pins began to move up the alley, stone wheels following along the cut grooves along the alley surface, along the gutters. The fireplace-looking alcove made its way to their position and stopped a few feet from where they were standing. There was clatter of movement and a triangular piece of stone lifted itself up from the ground. It had a small opening and a track distended from its center. A solid white, ivory bowling ball shot out of the hole and rolled down the track, coming to rest right near their feet. Raimundo picked up the ball, which was surprisingly light. He inserted his fingers into the holes in the ball and with a loud snap, the ball split open, revealing a key with an ivory eye hole. The room darkened a bit and soft earthen floor shook, like an earthquake. Suddenly, in spots all along the floor in the room, dozens of emaciated and bony hands began to pull themselves up through the ground. Mummies! Reflexively, Adelina drew her rapier and pulled Raimundo behind her protectively. She stared out towards where the slab of stone covered their exit. Between them were almost two dozen wrapped figures, some holding weapons, some not, and all were looking in their direction, their arms out and moving towards them. *** Montana Smith walked around the table inside the tent he was using as his command headquarters. His thieves had managed to place charmed items on five of the members of the Ministry teams that were searching out the keys. The items allowed his thieves to follow the teams wherever they may be. Unfortunately, hed not heard back from three of his teams. Two more were in position and he shook his head. The captain of the ship had managed to get away unseen. Still, all he really needed, in the end, was the Book of Thoth, itself. He fingered the rawhide surface of his whip. Maybe the ship was the answer. Hed made a tactical error in relying on individual teams to recapture the keys. He reached into a beaten leather backpack laying on top of the map table. Inside, he pulled out a small crystal ball and tapped it gently on top. He was going to recall the rest of his teams in wait. What he really needed was a ship, a vessel that he could track Hoytes people with and then he would swoop in and take the Book. That was the ticket. He began to look around for Ali Baba, maybe the thief master knew where he could find a ship. *** Raimundo dropped the key in one of his pockets and drew a cutlass from its scabbard on his back. He seemed a bit out of place, holding the deadly weapon while still dressed in penny loafers, chinos and a golf shirt. The slight man reacted suddenly to the thrust of one of the armed mummies off to the side. In a blur of motion, he sidestepped the attacking figure and swiped off its head in one smooth motion. The body continued wandering aimlessly, while Raimundo tore into a small knot of its brethren to the side. Adelinas blade danced wickedly among the rows of undead guardians. Shed tried a couple of spells, but they seemed to rebound harmlessly off of their attackers. Pointed thrusts of her blade seemed to pass straight through, only cutting blows seemed to have an effect, and then only served to incapacitate the mindless bodies. Here and there, dismembered arms and heads still moved with a purpose, all seemingly towards the key in Raimundos pocket. Lets go for the exit! Adelina carved a path through the thinnest portion of the advancing enemy, Raimundo following in her wake, keeping the mummies from attacking them from the rear. Within moments, theyd reached the place where theyd entered the room. The solid slab was still locked in place. Raimundo tried a curse, which simply rebounded on the smooth stone.

Were still trapped. The stone is charmed! Raimundo glanced around. The mummies had regrouped and now they had the two of them trapped against the wall. He looked up and saw one of the stalactites on the ceiling was a different color than the rest, a cool, almost translucent blue against the reds and oranges of the rest. Below it was a small spring, emanating from a hole in the wall and leading down a small channel that ran through the rest of the room. He held up his wand and aimed it at the dangling rock. He snapped a blasting charm at the base of the rock and its pointed mass fell down, hitting the channel with the stream. The rock pierced the wall, creating a rush of water down the channel. Raimundo smiled. This way! He grabbed Adelina by the wrist and led her to where the once placid rivulet was a rushing torrent, following a much broader channel deep into the mountain side. Come on! Raimundo carefully removed his glasses and placed them into a case. Then he crossed his arms and held his nose with his fingers and jumped feet first into the channel, his wife close behind. The water acted like a flume, jerking them in multiple directions as they picked up speed. Up ahead, there was a finger of light and they were hurtling towards it at rapid pace. The light grew bigger and Raimundo casually remarked at how natural the light looked, as if it were an extension of the sun outside. They cascaded towards a rapidly growing opening and Raimundo breathed a sigh of relief. It was the sun! The water seemed to be depositing them in the river that ran through the valley of the Queens. He remarked to himself how hed seen a waterfall at the end of the valley. Suddenly, he reminded himself that the water fall had been pretty high. Where exactly would this run deposit them? As he was ejected from the tunnel, he realized, almost detachedly, that he and Adelina were being deposited at the worst possible place, at the very top of the water fall. He hung for a second, suspended in the air and then he fell down, amid the torrent and violence of the receiving pool below. *** She was buffeted by the current and felt her breath knocked out of her as she impacted the pool. Somehow, shed managed to hold onto her rapier, but the pull of the water and the violence of the landing had stunned her, and she felt blackness overtaking her. Part of her wanted to chuckle, the veteran sea captain would succumb to a fall into a pool of water. Her mind raced to her son and to her family and finally to Raimundo. Hopefully, hed make it through. She felt consciousness waning and began to surrender to the peace of the depths when she felt a strong tug on her blouse. She was pulled through the water and up onto the shore, coughing and sputtering. She opened her eyes and saw Raimundo sitting over her, his face serene, a small smile on his face. What? She finally said and sat up. The entrance to the cave was nearby, and her crewmen had spotted them. Raimundo was barely keeping from breaking into laughter. What is it? Mi amor, He said soberly, with a twinkle in his eye. A white cotton blouse is probably not a good choice for swimwear. She looked at him curiously and he nodded with his head. Water tends to make cotton see through, amorita! Her bronze skin flushed a bright red and she crossed her arms in front of her chest as he finally gave in and broke into laughter. Their moment was interrupted by the sound of moaning coming from the cave entrance. Wed better go. Raimundo helped his wife up and pulled out small knot of rope hed been entrusted with. He felt the reassuring presence of the key in his pocket. Theyd succeeded. As he pulled his wife close and felt the hands of the crewmen on his back, he saw more of the mummies coming out into the light and racing towards them. They werent lumbering or shuffling, they were running at full speed. He swallowed and concentrated on their port key, and within seconds, they were gone.

Chapter 218 The Sands of Abydos The Saharan Plain is marked by rocky wadis and wide open dunes. Bill Weasley apparated in the center of a sea of sand, the sun shining high in the mid day sky. He glanced over at Lockley and nodded. The Mistress at Arms constituted his escort, her thin, wiry frame was coiled, ready to meet any threat. He looked around at the miles and miles of dunes and sighed to himself. Somewhere out here, he thought, hed find the entrance to the city of Abydos. He jerked up his bag around his shoulder and withdrew a long, brass telescope. He opened it with a pop and scanned the horizon for some sign of his destination. His eye roved the tops of the farthest dune, the unbroken line of sky and sand creating an unending picture of futility. It seemed like it was the hottest day of the year and he felt beads of perspiration running down his face. A light flashed in the distance and he pulled the telescope down to get a view with his naked eye. The light flashed again and he smiled and pointed it out to Lockley. Do you see that? She nodded, not speaking. Bill collapsed the telescope and returned it to his pocket. I guess well head over in that direction. Satisfied they had a destination, they began the trek across the desert towards the source of the light. They walked for the better part of the afternoon. Distances in the desert are hard to read. While the flashing light seemed relatively close, the intervening swales of dunes opened the chasm of space between where they arrived and where they were going. The sun dipped slowly below the horizon and the searing heat of the desert day surrendered to the cool meekness of the Bedouin evening. Despite the suns departure, the light flashed insistently, calling to them. With silent agreement, the two continued their journey, the light becoming larger as they neared. Sometime around midnight, they finally stopped, their goal another few dunes in the distance. They made a meager camp and unrolled their sleeping bags on the hard, cooling surface of the desert floor. They eschewed lighting a fire and nibbled feebly on camp rations theyd brought with them. Exhausted from their journey, they both fell into an deep slumber, although a deep sleep for Lockley meant that her sword was in her hand and her one good eye was on the perimeter. They woke before dawn and quickly packed up the camp. Bill cinched his bag tightly and started the walk towards the unfading light. They were half way to their destination when the sun rose, immediately casting away the brisk coolness of the night and starting the oppressive cycle of the high desert. Finally, they reached the bottom of a large valley and saw the beacon sitting atop a high dune. They clambered up the side of the dune and reached its summit. The lights source was a bright crystal sitting atop a rather ordinary cairn of stones. They stood and stared at the crystal for a moment and then walked around the pile of rocks. Now what? Lockley asked. She glanced around the area, the pile of rocks, the only break from the monotony of the desert surface. Bill shrugged his shoulders and glanced down at the crystal. It was large, with several facets and seemed to glow on its own, rather than reflect the glare of the sun. Inside its translucent surface, he saw the dark impression of an eye. He jumped back and then looked again. The eye was etched, carved inside the crystal. He reached a hand out to the crystal. I wouldnt touch that. Lockley said in a low voice. Bill laughed nervously and placed a finge r on the front of the crystal. Suddenly the sands beneath their feet began to shift, cascading downward into the valley theyd just clambered up from. They waved their arms as their legs sank into the sand, up to their thighs. Lockley swore loudly. I told you not to touch that thing!

They continued sinking into the sand, up to their waists and then their stomachs. Bill reached out, clawing at the loose sand, trying to gain some sort of purchase. They sank to their chests and battled mightily, but the sands engulfed them. It reached their shoulders and then their chins, until finally, their heads disappeared beneath the vast yellow sea of dust and sand. Soon, the cairn stood by itself, the crystal beaming its welcoming light, no sign of Lockley or Bill to be seen. *** His eyes opened slowly and he groaned. As he looked around, he was lying on his back, in a large, open cavern. He turned to the side, his attention pulled by a moan nearby. Lockley was slowly rising from the stone floor, shaking the loose tendrils of sand from her head. He raised himself up at the waist. They werent dead. He stood and joined Lockley in looking around. They were in a large domed area, with a small town laid out before them. The dome had a pale, pink glow, the lighting generated by some unseen power. The town consisted of a large, marble building in the center, with streets radiating outward, like spokes on a wheel. The area was still, no sound, not even a breeze and looked more like a photograph than an actual place. This must be Abydos. Bill muttered. Abydos was a city occupied by the predynastic rulers of Egypt. Ramses II came well after Abydos had fallen into disuse, but the city still held an aura of mystery for the pharaohs because of its mystical location and mysterious treasures. The origin of its power was unknown. I guess we should start in the large building. Bill began walking down the main promenade that led to the central structure. Their footsteps echoed loudly in the silence of the dead city. Here and there, signs of its former inhabitants lie all around. There were clay pots and earthen dishes lying all about. Laundry still hung from clothes lines and tills were still full of money and items for sale. It was if the residents of Abydos had simply disappeared in the middle of living their day to day lives. Bill shuddered and wondered what would make thousands of people simply disappear. The reached the central building. It was rectangular, reaching upward, almost to the domed ceiling. It had a pointed top and was fronted by a wide, high reaching stair case. The pair of adventurers began the slow, methodical climb up the steps and finally reached a landing at the top. The entrance was flanked by dozens of alabaster columns, free standing, each supporting a statue. Every other column had the sculpture of a person, while the other held the figure of a bull. Bill took a brief look around and then proceeded inside the structure. The interior room was vastly different from the rooms hed seen in countless other archeological dig sites. Instead of stone, the walls seemed to be made of metal, a shiny, smooth silver surface, almost like platinum. In the center of the room was a throne, but not ornate, like the seat of a ruler or tyrant, but functional with simple arms and a high, cushioned back. Bill became aware of a constant hum in the room, like machinery and he felt an unsettling sensation in the back of his neck. Abydos was rumored to be the entry point for extraterrestrials and that story was fed by the room itself. The hieroglyphs on the wall depicted saucer-shaped ships landing on the top of this building and the chair looked more like a boardroom chair, than a device of office. This is very weird. Lockley grumbled. I dont believe in aliens and that other tripe. Wait, youre a witch, arent you? You believe and use magic and talismans, but you dont believe in aliens? Werent you on the expedition that found Atlantis? Bill chortled. Lockley rolled her eyes. Theres hard, scientific proof about magic, Billy-boy, this alien crap is for the conspiracy theorists. Bill laughed out loud and then turned his attention to the chair itself, the only real feature in the room. I suppose, if this is some sort of control device, that all I really have to do is sit in the seat.

I told you not to touch that crystal and look what happened. Lockley warned. Right, we ended up entering the city. Convinced, Bill approached the chair and carefully sat down. The back fell back, reclining, pointing his eyes upward to the ceiling. The roof was a dark bluish-black with pinpricks of light representing the stars. It was as if he were looking at the night sky. Suddenly, the chair began to rotate, whirling Bill around at a dizzying pace. He grasped the arms of the chair, his forearms bulging from the grip. Lockley muttered belatedly and tried to reach out and pull him from the chair, but a bolt of lightning crackled in the room, tossing her against one of the hard, metal walls. A white mist began to form around the chair and the humming became deafening. Bills eyes rolled back in his skull, the gravitic forces pushing him into the seat. A shimmering point of light came from one of the starry points on the ceiling and formed a beam on the floor. The sound was roaring all around. There was another loud crack and then the chair began to slow down, coming to a stop, finally. Lockley pulled herself up and staggered to where Bill sat. He seemed to be in a daze and she pulled him roughly out of the chair by his shirt. He stood unsteadily, a hand against his head. As his eyes came into focus, he looked at the beam of light resting on the floor nearby. In the center of the cone of light was key, with silver inlaid in the eye lid. Steam rose from the metal. Bill edged his way to the key and pushed his hand into the cone of light, grasping the key. Heat radiated from its center and he momentarily dropped it, his hand singed by its white hot temperature. He pulled his shirt sleeve down over his hand and grasped the key once more and held it up. Well, this is what we came for. As soon as he pulled the key from the light, there was another loud hum and a shimmering light near the entrance of the room. They tried to block the intense brightness of the light and another loud crack of thunder echoed in their ears. In a frenzied cloud of smoke and dust, a figure appeared in the light. It was tall, almost eight feet and had the hard, toned body of a man, a warrior. At its neck, all resemblance to humanity ended, because what stood before them had the head of a bull. Its a minotaur. Lockley said, drawing her sword. Bill cleared his throat. Technically, since this is Egypt, its an Apis, much more deadly than a minotaur. Great, thats makes it so much better. A loud voice resounded in the cavern. Return what you have taken. Bill looked around and then back at the creature. It wore a bright silver breastplate over a hard leather jerkin and sandals that bound up around its calves. It carried a long staff that was tipped at both ends with sharp, axe blades and it snorted and huffed out tendrils of steam from its nose. Return the key. Well, we could just listen to him. Bill quipped. I dont think so. Lockley snorted. Ive got sand in places I dont want to even think about. Ive invested too much time in getting the darn thing. I say we just kick its butt. The creature raised its staff above its head and with a bovine roar, attacked with a quickness and speed that belied its bulk. Lockley deftly shoved Bill to the side and side stepped the charge, the double bladed staff barely missing her head. As the creature roared by, she swiped its open flank with a vicious cut, tearing open a small piece of skin, eliciting another roar of anger from the beast.

Well, it bleeds. I guess we can kill it. Lockley said lightly. She raised her arm and sent a blasting charm out at the minotaur. The spell impacted squarely on its silver breast plate and dissipated in a disappointing absence of effect. Bill launched his own attack, thrusting the point of his blade at the creatures back, but the point deflected off the hard armor that covered its rear. The minotaur swiped his staff backward, knocking Bills blade out of his hand and dropping the wizard to the ground. It held its staff in two hands and raised it above its head and brought it down towards Bill. Lockley interjected her heavier cutlass blade between Bills head and the creatures staff, parrying the blow. Not waiting for a follow up strike, Lockley slide the blade of her cutlass up the creatures staff and swiped at the exposed arm along the shaft, drawing blood once again. Bill rolled out of reach and ran to where his sword was, picking it up as the clang and clatter of Lockleys combat rang through the room. Lockleys expression hadnt changed, her single, deep blue eye and her placid, deadly smile not giving away the danger she was in. Her muscles on her arms and shoulders told a different story. Each parry, each counter thrust was taking its toll, the creature was simply too powerful for her. Still, she didnt relent, seemingly energized by the challenge. Bill ran forward and struck with his blade, hoping to distract the creature from his partner. The next melee was wickedly intense, blades flying to and fro and all three opponents managed to draw blood. Bill and Lockley found themselves circling the minotaur. Bill bled from multiple wounds around his arms and chest, while Lockleys breathing was raspy from the contusion showing on her upper shoulder. The beast was foaming at the mouth, countless wounds along its unarmored sides and neck. Still, it kept pressing the attack and Bill knew that he and Lockley were outmatched. The minotaur launched a savage assault, feinting towards Bill and then switching his attack at Lockley, who was taken unaware. Bill saw her predicament and raced forward, throwing his body between Lockley and the savage blade careening towards her head. The blade caught him in the chest, imbedding one of the axe heads in the chest wall, forcing Bill to fall, blood flowing from the injury. The blade had snapped from the staff, unwilling to leave Bills chest. The wound was deep and Lockley was unsure whether it was fatal or not, but Bills intercession provided her an opening. She leapt into the air and executed a flawless somersault over the creatures head. She swung her razor sharp blade through the air, severing the creatures bull head from i ts torso. The point of one his horns grazed her back, sending pain coursing through her body. Nonetheless, body and head slumped to the ground, the Apis was defeated. Lockley stood unsteadily and walked over to where Bill lay. His face was an ashen gray and his eyes fluttered as blood flowed from the wound. She dragged him by the arms out onto the main staircase of the building, ignoring the daggers of pain that rippled through her back and shoulders. Once outside the building, she dug into Bills poc ket and pulled out a small length of purple rope, the port key. She held tightly onto Bills arm and then activated the port key. Within seconds, they were on the deck of the Discooperire. I need some help over here! Get the healer! She yelled. There was a flurry of movement as sailors raced to relieve her of Bills wounded form. Lockley stared at the activity as they carried Bill below. Muireall Innes walked up beside her friend. Its all right, Lockley, Im sure hell make it, those Weasleys are tough. Lockley looked over at the first mate, smiled and nodded, and then collapsed in a heap on the deck as the poison from the minotaurs horn took hold. Chapter 219 The Adventures of Mr. and Mrs. Weasley

The cool waters of Lake Nasser brought a welcome rush of cool air to their faces in the middle of the hot summer day. Hermione watched with amused interest as Ron held his head out of the taxi window as they passed over the top of the mighty Aswan Dam. The paved roadway was crowded and the traffic, although bumper to bumper, was flowing along smoothly. Their escort from the Discooperire was in a similarly laden coach right behind them. Theyd landed on the far side of the artificial lake formed by the construction of the dam. Once across the dam proper, they rode along into the main square of the massive city of Aswan. The central square they found themselves in was teeming with vendors and shoppers, a veritable cross section of humanity collecting at the breadbasket of the cradle of civilization. Aswan had been a small trading town until the late 1890s when the British decided to build a dam along the Nile to prevent the mighty river from its normal summer floods. Over the years, the initial dam was found wanting as the river decided that it would flow over the top of the dam. So, in the late 1950s, the Egyptian government built a second dam, the great dam that created the large body of water known as Lake Nasser. The dam provided hydroelectric power to millions of customers and the lower Nile valley was preserved from the summer floods of the mighty river. There was one major consequence to the creation of the lake and that was the requirement that the temple complex of Abu Simbel needed to be removed from its place, block by block to a new section. The cab drivers frenetic pace forced Hermione to grab the door edge with all of her might, while Rons reveled in the madcap trek through the densely packed city streets. They exited the cab and paid the fare and found themselves among the crowds of the square. They joined a large line of tourists on the first bus heading out to the location of Abu Simbel. The bus was crowded and hot, the heat of the people and the day pressed in on Hermione as she sat next to Ron on the short ride to the temple site. Ramses II had built two large temple complexes at the original site. One massive temple, replete with statuary dedicated to his image, built to house his complete devotion to the gods, but to also highlight the impression that he was on a level par with their divinity. The second, smaller, temple was devoted to his wife, Nefertari, the only such monument from a pharaoh to his spouse. The bus arrived at the main receiving area and the tourists filed out, relieved at being freed from the smoky, diesel smelling iron coffins. Ron and Hermione fell back from the main crowd and waited for their escort to join them. The tourists were mainly comprised of idle westerners enamored with the allure of hidden treasure and myths around ancient Egypt. One group was dressed nattily in white dinner coats and black ties, humming along in a singular guitar riff. I wonder what thats all about? Hermione asked, watching the considerably overdressed fashion mavens wander about stealthily among the columns and statues. Ron chuckled. Isnt it obvious? Ron looked at her. Remember how Dudley used to take Teddy to the movies? Remember the James Bond movies? She nodded. Part of the Spy Who Loved Me was filmed here. Thats obviously some sort of fan club. The crowd started down the mark path towards the Ramses temple. Being the larger, more ornate of the sites, everyone of the tourists meandered towards the Ramses temple. Hermione and Rons group hung back and took the lesser marked path towards the Nefertari temple. Less ostentatious, the Nefertari temple consisted of row upon row of marble and sandstone columns marked by etched reliefs and statues with detailed hieroglyphs. They entered an antechamber and found a row of glyphs and stories depicting Nefertaris devotion to the gods. Hermione pulled out her study ledger and began perusing the walls and altars along the floor. See here, this whole section is devoted to Thoth. Thats his symbol. She pointed to the figures of the god with the wolf head holding a tablet. Every story shows Thoth talking to Nefertari. Im sorry, but it looks like hes fondling her. The markings showed Thoths hands in a very compromising place on the queens chest.

You need to get your mind out of the gutter, Ron. Hes just holding his hands up in greeting. Anyway, that key has to be around here, in this place. There are too many indications on the walls. Hermione looked around the room. Ron followed her gaze and then wandered around the room. One of the main support columns was carved in the queens image, her shoulders thrown back, her chest jutting out. Ron stared simply at the brazen image of the queen and back at the Thoth images on the wall. He noticed the outline of straightened cracks along the rear portion of the column and one that followed down the front of the queens image. Hermione watched her husband with curious reflection. Rons gaze shifted from the images on the wall and back to the statue, and then back to the images on the wall. Ron had a look on his face that she was very familiar with, one that revealed the remarkable intellect that she knew existed behind the faade he threw out to the world. Most of the time, he reserved this side of him for the display only when he was performing his tasks as an auror. She watched. He had figured something out. She watched as her husband continued his inspection of the statue and the hieroglyphs and then he focused all of his attention on the statue. He looked at the image of the queen and then lifted his hands to queens chest. Ron! What do you think youre doing? Hermione yelled out. For all of his intellect and instincts, he could be a cad sometimes, as well. Hermione, wait a second, will you? Im not being perverted. Look at the drawings! He turned back to the statue and pushed on the queens chest, pushing the stone apart, revealing a opening inside the statue. There was a rectangular piece of papyrus with a stylus hanging from a chain of gold. Ron stared at the papyrus and stroked his chin. After a few minutes, he shrugged his shoulders. Okay, I got nothing. Hermione walked up to the recently revealed crevasse and stared at the writing instrument and its attendant pad. There seemed to be questions and blanks that needed to be answered. Most of them referred to the data compiled in the hieroglyphs on the walls. She matched the questions with the answers she found. There was a series of twenty questions, which she scratched out a response to for every line. When her stylus etched out the final response, the room lit up in an orange glow that temporarily blinded them. The source of the glow was a large globe of light that appeared in the center of the room. It expanded and took up the entire upper half of the room, reaching out. The light felt warm and Hermione and Ron reacted defensively and retreated towards the exit. The ball of light reached its apex and then exploded in a shower of sparks and smoke accompanied by a loud bang. Blinded momentarily, Hermione waited for the spots to leave her eyes and then glanced at the open space in the center of the room. Sitting there, in a small shaft of light, was a golden key, smoke pouring from its ends. Ron walked up to the key and placed a finger on its surface. It was hot to the touch and he recoiled in response. Then, he reached down once again and lifted the key into his hand. He looked around, as if expecting something or someone to react to his possession of the key. Thats it? He seemed almost disappointed, but he shrugged his shoulders and dropped the key into his pocket. I dont know, I thought that this thing would have a guardian, or something. I thought so too, but theres nothing here, but nothing seems right about this. I dont know. This is the gold key, shouldnt we see the boxes that hold the book around here? Hermione looked around and walked up to Ron. Maybe we should head back and see how the others did? Ron said and nodded over to their escort. He reached into his pocket and pulled out their port key. The five of the them gathered together and Ron activated the port key.

*** The Discooperire sat idly at anchor outside the city of Alexandria. There was a loud flash and Hermiones group appeared on the main deck. Hoyte and the rest with the exception of Bill, were standing around a table erected on the main deck. Hermione and Ron walked up and tossed their key on the table, along with the others theyd collected. The rest of them seemed muted, depressed, even though it was obvious theyd accomplished their tasks. Ron noticed their expressions and shared a concerned look with his wife. What is it? Ron asked, his stare immediately rested on Dudley. The large man smiled wanly and delivered the update. The keys had guardians and it seems like were not the only ones looking for them. Things have gotten very serious, Ron. Mustapha is dead. So is Lockley. Dudleys expression was one of complete seriousness. Lockley? What do you mean? What could kill Lockley? What about Bill? Ron asked. She was killed protecting Bill. Hes hurt bad, but hell be all right. They ran into a cursed minotaur, or something like that. Lee interjected. Ron shook his head. We didnt run into anything. We got the key and came back, no guardians and no thieves. That isnt possible. You found the gold key, its the last key. You should have seen the books crypt. Hoyte said. We didnt see anything at the temple, just the statues and the key. Hermione said, but her brow was furrowed in thought. What is it? Ron asked. Something weve missed. Hermione mused and then she looked over at Hoyte. Professor, do you think the book is tied to a location? What do you mean, Hermione? Hoyte stared back curiously. The Abu Simbel temple complex was moved, block by block. The original location was flooded when they created Lake Nasser. Hermione walked to another table with array of charts. She pointed to the center of Lake Nasser. What if the book is in the center of the lake, where the original temple was? That would make sense. Hoyte mumbled. His concentration was broken by the sight of Bills bandaged figure limping onto the deck. Bill held up his hand. Im fine. He turned to Captain Baretto. Can you get us down there? No problem. The captain seemed withdrawn, depressed. The loss of her formidable mistress at arms struck her, and her crew hard. She offered a glance over to Muireall Innes, who began getting the ship ready to get underway. Bill limped up to her. Im sorry about Lockley, Captain. She saved my life. I wasnt good enough. His head fell and the depth of guilt he felt radiated from his being. Barettos eyes flashed in anger. You do not honor her memory with this guilt, Signor Bill. The old Baretto was back, bold, courageous. She did her duty and now we must do ours.

Behind her, the crew of the Discooperire unfurled the sails and the noble ship was underway. *** Theyre moving. Ali Baba snarled, his booted feet echoing on the teak deck of their ship. Montana Smith smiled. They must have all the keys. Where are they going? He stared down at his charts. The deck swayed gently under his feet, the blue waters of the Mediterranean casting a calm glow on his face. He mused for a moment and then a smile crossed his face. He snapped his fingers and a tall, dark skinned woman dressed in light, cotton trousers and blouse with a dark purple sash hove into view. Ah, Captain Ngabe. If you would, please set your course for Lake Nasser. Smith watched as the captains face broke into a toothy smile. She will be there? The captain seemed anxious and excited, all at once. Of course, Captain. Both Captain Baretto and the Di scooperire will be there. Are you ready to take them on? Smith knew the answer, but waited for the woman to respond. Ive been ready for this for a decade, Professor. The tall captain turned and began directing her crew. They were on a trireme, an ancient ship hallmarked by high sides and three banks of oars on either side. It had one mast with a large rectangular sail in the middle. Captain Ngabe ran out and looked over the rail at a large, muscular man standing in front of a large, kettle drum. Full speed, Mr. Gafney. Dont spare the rowers. The large man was shirtless with dark leather pants and a long, multi-headed whip. He growled and snapped his whip. The center of the ship was marked by over a dozen tiers of benches on either side. On each bench sat a mixed array of goblins, humans and house elves chained to their seats. When the whip cracked, the rowers/slaves grasped their oars and began pulling. Ngabe smiled and fingered the sword in her sash. It was a rapier, identical to the one Captain Baretto wore. In her minds eye, she pictured herself thrusting the sword into the Discooperires mistress. Soon, Adelina. Soon, I will have justice, and you will be dead. She looked out at the rowers. Faster! I dont care how many you kill, get us going! Ngabe looked up at the deck where Smith and his remaining thieves stood. She didnt care about their mission. All she wanted was one more crack at Baretto, and she was going to get it. Chapter 220 The Book of Thoth The Discooperire slid along the smooth surface of Lake Nasser, sails rustling plaintively as the dusk wind died. The ships wind generator, a smallish weather wizard, waved his wand and the rigging creaked as the artificial wind filled the sails. The sun was setting over the western horizon, and already, a blood red three quarters moon was midway on its course to the evening sky. Baretto checked her bearings against a chart on the table near the wheel. A senior helmsman was making minor adjustments to their heading, but Captain Baretto felt a twinge of regret. Under normal circumstances, Lockley would be at the wheel, ensuring their location was accurate to within a foot, but Lockley was dead and gone, buried in a quiet ceremony while they were underway. The tell tale tapping of toes on the hard teak deck told her someone was coming up the stairs to join her. She looked out of the corner of her eye and saw Bill, looking more refreshed, but limping just the same come out to meet her. Someones going to have to tell Sean. Bill said after a wordless greeting. Baretto nodded. Sean Manchester and Lockley had been married a few years back, during the war. They were

peas in a pod. In all the time shed known her mistress at arms, shed never known Lockley to fall so hard for a man, yet Manchester had been able to breach her defenses, to get inside her soul. Baretto looked out across the horizon towards the disappearing sun. The sky was a mixture of reds and pinks colliding in a miasma of color and light. Thats my job, signor Bill. It is my responsibility. Bill looked away from the voluptuous captain, his eyes misting from the memory of Lockleys last moments. Im responsible, Adelina. I got her killed. If only Id reacted faster, she wouldnt hav e had to sacrifice herself for me. Bill shuddered and a wave of guilt and sadness overcame his senses. Nonsense! You will stop this now! Baretto grabbed the front of Bills shirt and pulled his face close to hers. You have no idea about who she was if you think that you were responsible for her death. She knew her job and she knew what she was doing. I sent her out there with you, but she chose her own path. You insult her memory by crying over something you cant change. Baretto released him and he fell back, the shock of her reaction plain on his face. She turned back to the chart table and looked out towards their eventual destination. Bill fixed his shirt front and then walked over to where she was standing. Im sorry. I didnt mean to insult her. He said quietly. Stop saying youre sorry, Signor Weasley. This is a dangerous business weve chosen. Ive been doing this for well over twenty years. Every time you apologize, you weaken yourself and your friends. If you cant take the consequences, then go back to your job at the bank. Her voice was curt and sharp. Bill nodded quietly. As if to demonstrate her desire to return to business and close the discussion she pointed out to a spot on the lake. Were almost there. I suggest you get everyone together. She watched silently as he shook his head and then headed below. *** Captain Ngabe, why cant we see them yet? Montana Smith walked up to the high quarterdeck, passing by the grim-faced man who was keeping time on his drum. He beat a steady rhythm, backed by a quick crack of his whip against the backs of the slave oarsmen. He strode up the ladder and approached the captain, who stood passively, surveying the drooping sky. Mr. Smith, the Dimma Mattur is my vessel, is she not? There was a look of menace in her black eyes and her mouth was twisted into a sneer. Her hand calmly rested on the pommel of her rapier and her expression was deadly. Smith stuttered a bit and then fell back. Of course, Captain. I was only asking because weve seemed to slow down. I thought you wanted to catch the Discooperire? For the first time during the conversation, Ngabe smiled, a sickly sweet, but deadly smile, her mouth twisting into a mysterious faade of mirth. I do and I wi ll capture the Discooperire and the Book of Thoth. Considering the mystical guardians of the keys, Id thought it would be better to allow our targets to secure the book and then hit them right after. They will do the heavy lifting in getting the book and will be weakened by whatever they find. Then, we will be ready to attack. She seemed to hesitate and Smith waited patiently for Ngabe to continue, but she didnt. He sighed heavily and looked at Ali Baba standing in the corner. That makes sense, of course, Captain, although, it would have been helpful if youd consulted me first. Of course, Professor, my mistake. Her eyes twinkled and Smith felt an uncomfortable sensation run up his spine.

No harm done, Captain. He tried to put on a brave front, but something had changed in their relationship. Ali Babas face was inscrutable, unhelpful in his current quandary. Captain Ngabe chuckled to herself and bowed her head slightly. Then she turned and walked into her cabin. *** Ngabes cabin was sparse, with very little decoration or adornment. The only thing that stood out was a wrought iron stove sitting in the corner of the room. She unhitched her sword and tossed it onto her bunk. She approached the stove and opened the front latch carefully. There was a brilliant green flame burning in the center of the stove. She cast a furtive glance over to the door, visually checking its security and then looked back into the center of the flame. The fire crackled intensely and slowly, the image of a mans face appeared in the flames, and his image caused the erstwhile independent captain to bow her head in deference to him. What is your status? The voice was pleasant, almost conversational. He seemed professorial in tone, with a hardened edge. Ngabe fell to a knee and stared into the flame. The Discooperire is in the center of the lake. I believe they will attempt to retrieve the book in the next few hours or so. We will be in a position to retrieve the book once they return to the surface. She shifted slightly and then addressed her mysterious patron. How much longer must I deal with this Smith character? The disembodied head laughed. Hes annoying, isnt he? I am sending you some assistance. Your goal is the book. It is a part of the overall plan. Remember, we want the passengers to survive, no fatalities, Captain. Even Baretto? She could not hide the disappointment in her voice. Even Baretto. You will have your chance at Captain Baretto, soon enough, but we have a lar ger plan at work, Captain. Do not cross us. Youre help will be there in an hour or so. The voice grew softer as he talked about tactics. What help? What is the nature of this assistance? I dont need help, sir. Youre getting it, regardless. You will be in command, obviously, but when they arrive, you will know not to irritate them too much. You visitor will be angry as it is, given that Ive taken him away from a very important personal mission. The voice of the man grew taut. Do not m ake any mistakes, Captain. Restrain your personal vendetta against Captain Baretto. This is the first step in a bigger plan and if you wish to be part of the bigger picture, you will obey. Yes sir, it will be done as you have instructed. Ngabe grit her teeth and wiped away the disappointment she felt. Good, Captain. My suggestion is to allow your new visitors to deal with Mr. Smith. The good professor has outlived his usefulness and your new additions will be in the right mood to deal with your little problem. Ngabe nodded and watched absently as the flame winked out of existence. After about an hour, there was whooshing sound and the lookouts reported the approach of seven distinct figures mounted on brooms in the night sky. Ngabe straightened the ties on her black leather jerkin and waited patiently as the figures alit on the back deck. The leader strode purposefully up to her and greeted her in a gruff, pained manner. She nodded to her first mate, who escorted the new arrivals below deck s. Ngabe whispered in the leaders ear and he nodded and followed his escort to his quarters. Ngabe watched as they disappeared down the hatch. They were out of sight when Montana Smith climbed up from the deck.

Who was that? Smith asked. New crew members. I wanted to make sure we were ready for the Discooperire. Who are they? Good men. In fact, Ive worked with them before. The leader would love to meet you, of course. Theyll be the strike team and they need to know what theyre looking for. Ngabe waved to the open hatch. Smith nodded. Of course. He turned down towards the hatch and entered it. He walked down the dimly lit passageway and stopped at the dark guest quarters door. He tapped on the door and opened it slowly. Hello, my name is Montana Smith. Im the sponsor of this little trip, and you are? Smith entered the darkened room. Six of the men were huddled around their leader who turned and faced Smith. He walked into the glow of the cabin light and smiled wickedly. Smith blanched when he saw who it was. He tried to run, but his legs refused to move. The leader started walking slowly towards the frightened academic. Ngabe turned her head slightly when she heard the screams. She looked over at Ali Baba and smiled sympathetically. It would appear that you need a new employer. Would you like a job? The ancient thief allowed his eyes to narrow slightly and then he smiled and nodded his head. *** Make ready to dive! Baretto nodded over to Muireall Innes who was standing next to three wizards in the main hold of the ship. The wizards held out their wands and encased the ship in a bubble of energy and light. Baretto raised up her own wand. Dive! The Discooperire slowly sank below the surface of the lake, its protective bubble providing a cushion of breathable air inside the confines of the ship. Lumos Maximus! Barettos voice thundered around them. The bowsprit and the tips of the masts flared with bright, white light, illuminating the darkening waters around them. The ship slid through the currents, following the directions of the captain, who took the wheel herself. The survivors of the key quest stood nearby. Hoyte, Bill, Lee, George, Dudley, Hermione, Raimundo, Dean, Isabella and Ron each clung to the railing, their eyes wide from the scene around them. The ship continued its easy glide until it was just above the bottom of the lake. Decades before, this had been dry land and the surface of the floor was identical to anything theyd find on land. They were actually following an old dirt road, still carved onto the lake floor. They followed the road until it ended at a valley. The valley seemed house a large village complex, which had a large hole in the middle of its square. That looks like where they took the temple apart. Hermione said, pointing to the central square. Baretto waved her wand and the ship came to a stop, hovering at a point about a hundred yards from the square. She turned and gestured for the group to follow her. They walked down into the main hold and over to a door that led to the bottom of the ship. They entered a small room with a square cut out of the floor. The square was a rippling pool of dark water. Ron looked down and saw a flicker of movement pass through the surface of the water. He pointed uncertainly down at the pool. Whats in there?

Baretto chuckled. You dont expect to swim down there, do you? Those are our mounts. With that, she leapt into the water, followed by the rest of the team. Only Ron stood, unsure of what was going on. He saw his friends heads bobbing about the pool. Oh come on, Ron. They dont bite. Hermione chastised. What doesnt bite? Ron asked. With no answer, he shrugged his shoulders and jumpe d feet first into the water. He tread water lightly and felt the bump of a scaly hide pass by his leg. He jerked from the motion. This drew a round of laughs from George and Lee. Just get on, you ninny! George huffed and then his head disappeared beneath the surface of the water. One by one, they sank beneath the waves until it was only Hermione and Ron left in the pool. Ron felt a small bump as something brushed past him again and saw a saddle floating on top of a curved back. He gripped the pommel of the saddle and swung his leg, mounting its curvature. He felt a warm glow as a field of light covered his body, drying his clothes and letting him breath. He felt himself pulled beneath the waves as the creature dove into the water. He saw the rest of them waiting for him ahead. Each, like himself, astride a giant seahorse which moved along through the water. Baretto was in the lead, guiding her mount towards the place where the Abu Simbel temple once stood. They swam into the huge square hole where the temples were removed and followed its depth until they reached a small, manmade tunnel at the bottom. They followed the tunnel along. Ron was amazed at how he could breath, despite being underwater. It must have been some sort of bubble charm that enveloped them. He hadnt seen anyone cast the charm, so it must be part of the saddle. Up ahead, they saw a stream of light coming from an opening in the ceiling. As one, the group floated up into the light and their heads broke the surface of a small antechamber. Quickly, they dismounted their steeds and pulled themselves up into the room. That was fun. Ron quipped, to be followed by another round of giggles from his brother and Lee. You big sissy, whatd you think they were, sea monsters? George snickered. I knew what they were. Ron said defensively. He noticed that Hoyte was standing near a large rectangular stone box. He pushed on the lid, but it didnt move. I need some help. Hoyte nodded thankfully as Dudley, Lee, Dean and Ron helped push the stone lid off of the box. Inside, there was a large iron box contained within, with a keyhole. Hoyte reached into his pocket and pulled out the original iron key. This looks like the place. He placed the key in the hole and turned it. The box flared in a blue light and disappeared, leaving a large, bronze box. Dudley stepped forward and held up the bronze key that he, Lee and George had retrieved. He placed the key in the slot and turned it. A bright, orange light flared up and the bronze box disappeared, leaving a wooden box. Hoyte pulled out the sycamore key hed recovered. He felt a pang of regret, the loss of Mustapha and his escorts weighing him down. He sighed and placed the key inside the box and turned it. A brilliant purple light erupted, eating away the wooden box, leaving an ebony box. Isabella walked forward and inserted the ebony key shed found and turned it. A dark blue light emitted forth, causing the box to disappear, leaving an ivory box. Raimundo Baretto stepped forward with his key and inserted it quickly. As before, a white light shone and the ivory disappeared, leaving the gleaming brilliance of a silver box. Now it was Bills turn. He fumbled with the key that Lockley died for and then gripped it tightly and inserted it in the silver box. A red light emitted from the lock, leaving a small, gold box. Well, this is it. I think we should all be ready for anything. Hoyte said. Everyone who had magical abilities pulled out their wands. Hermione stepped forward with her golden key. She

gingerly placed the key inside and turned it. A golden light emitted, followed by a loud explosion and a puff of smoke. The gold box disappeared and in its place was a large, rolled papyrus scroll, banded together by strands of gold and silver. Hoyte felt his breath leave him and he reached down and picked up the scroll. As soon as his hands touched scroll, a beam of light struck the center of the room. The light spun in a circle and formed the image of a man in Egyptian clothing. At least it was a mans body, but the head was that of an Ibis, a bird. He held a sheaf of papyrus in his hand. He looked over at Hoyte and the book. I am Thoth. The voice was deep and incongruous with the bird head. Who holds the book? I do. Steven Hoyte, my lord. Why do you want the book? The voice said. The figure didnt leave the stream of light and the image was translucent, like a video projection. We seek the book for knowledge and heritage. It will be used for good, my lord. Steven held the scroll forward, towards the shimmering image. That is wise. The Book of Thoth is not what mortals thought it was. I was a mediator, a peacemaker. True power is in communication and knowledge. He who possesses the book will be able to communicate with anyone. Its not a book of spells? Rons voice spoke in hushed tones. The image let out a cackling laugh. Of course not, why would I write about spells? Still, there is power in the book, because communication and knowledge is power. Use it wisely. The long bill of the Ibis head dipped low and the image blinked out of sight. Well, that was anticlimactic. Ron looked around. There was no guardian, no test, no dangers. He turned and offered a questioning glance at Hoyte, who was perplexed. Hoyte shrugged his shoulders. Isabella snorted. The guardians were put there by Ramses, not by Thoth. What do you mean? Hermione asked. He said knowledge is power, but ignorance can be a weapon, too. Ram ses perpetuated the idea that book was something else and he built up that perception by the way he hid the keys. Isabella smiled warmly. The book is powerful, if you cherish information, but to the ignorant, its a talisman, a symbol. Hoyte nodded his head. I understand, so this wasnt a wasted trip. No, not at all. One mans idea of power is not the same as anothers. Isabella said. Well, we should head back. Theres still a lot to understand. At least the book is going somewhere safe. Baretto interjected. The rest nodded and they left the room, bound for their mounts and their ship. *** Dawn had broken when the Discooperire broke the surface of the lake. Theyd had an uneventful journey back to the ship and now they were ready for the long trek home. The Book of Thoth lay secure in the Captains safe and the friends lined the rails and watched the sun rise in all its glory.

Ron stood behind Hermione, his arms around her, holding her tight. He stared out towards the where the sun was and saw a blackened shape in the distance. I wonder what that is? As if in answer to his question, one of the lookouts shouted to the Captain. Sail ho! Shes coming out of the sun! Baretto leaned over the rail and held a telescope to her eye. Innes joined her, also surveying the ship. What do you make of her, Captain? Trireme, to be sure, Number One, and shes coming fast. Baretto drew the telescope from her eye and chewed on the information. Its not a muggle ship, there havent be en triremes around since the fifteenth century. I wonder who she is? Innes snapped back from the rail and shouted out to the crew. Beat to quarters! Sound the general alarm! What are you doing, Number One? Baretto watched incredulously as Muirea ll Innes strapped her cutlass onto her sash. Captain, look at the ensign shes flying. Baretto placed the telescope on her eye. A breeze took hold of the pennant flying from the strangers topmost mast. It was a bright red flag with a white skull framed with a rapier and a wand. Damn. Baretto muttered beneath her breath. Ngabe. Innes nodded grimly and set about preparing the ship for battle. Bill and Ron raced to the quarterdeck. Ron watched as the crew prepared for battle and started brac ing himself for action. What is it, Captain? Who are they? Baretto stared over at her husband, longingly and then focused in on Ron. Deaths coming, Signor Ron. Deaths coming and shes bringing Hell with her. Baretto shuddered and Ron felt himself tremble. Anything that could frighten Adelina Baretto, was something to fear indeed. He looked out on the horizon at the approaching ship. The sound of a constant drumbeat could be heard across the waves. It was deep and resonant. It sounded, to his ears, like the tone of a dirge. Looking at the Captains frantic preparations, Ron couldnt help but think, maybe thats what it was. Chapter 221 Who is Captain Ngabe? Who is this Ngabe, Captain? Ron felt unsettled as he watched the ship with t he darkened hull approach in the distance. Its a long story, Signor Ron. Baretto glanced over at Muireall who was finalizing preparations for battle. Why dont you give me the short version? Ron asked. Hed drawn his own blade and snapped his wand into place in the hilt. Baretto let out a long breath, her eyes never leaving the approaching ship. *** The long, abandoned quay located at the end of the main wharf in Portsmouth seemed deserted. There was a decaying storehouse at the center of the long pier with rotting timbers and aged boards. Three men walked down the side of the pier, heading towards the three masted ketch that was moored at the end of the dock. The men were polar opposites of each other. One was

dressed shabbily, wearing worn tweed coat with patches on its elbows and visible tears in the fabric. His face was ashen and scratched. The second man was dressed in an unimpressive suit of wool with a tie and worn shoes. The third man wore a set of purple robes adorned with garish stars and moons and he had a long flowing white beard and a full head of hair. The men were talking amongst themselves in an animated fashion, hands flying as they approached the ship. Captain, I think were about to have visitors. Ngabe nodded her head towards the approaching strangers. Captain Baretto strolled from her place on the quarterdeck and joined her first mate at the side rail. Ngabe chortled heartily. They dont look very dangerous. Baretto chuckled out loud. No, they dont, do they? These must be the prospective customers Ive been waiting on. The mistress of the Discooperire studied the new arrivals. I suppose I should get ready to receive them. Customers? Were going to get a booking? Ngabes tone was incredulous. These were hard times. The rampant fear started by the rumors of the Dark Lords return had put a damper on commerce. Pure blooded merchants, like Lucious Malfoy were doing well, but independent shippers were finding bookings few and far between. It looks that way. An old friend of mine, Rubeus Hagrid, recommended these gentlemen to me. Baretto said. I guess it wouldnt hurt to hear them out. I guess not, Captain. Ngabes hand fell to the pommel of the rapier hitched to her hip. Thanks for the gift, by the way. I love it. Well, you saved all of us when those wayward sea serpents hit us in the North Sea. It was the least I could do. Baretto watched with amusement as the ebon skinned warrior drew the sleek blade. Its identical to yours. Ngabe waved the blade around, feeling its balance. You said you liked my rapier. I do. I really love it. There was a gleam in Ngabes eye as drew imaginary Ss in the air with the tip. Its not what you wanted, Ngabe. I know you want a ship of your own and one day the Discooperire will be yours. Its just that in these times, I prefer to keep a close eye on things. Baretto had intended to step down as Captain and just be an owner. Shed met the most amazing man. He was a curse breaker at Gringotts and she was planning on leaving the seafaring life and moving on. The downturn in the economy made her postpone those plans, at least until business picked up. I understand, Captain. Really, I do. There was an awkward silence and t hen Ngabe pointed her sword towards the dock. Youd better get ready to receive our guests. Baretto nodded and walked down the gangway towards her cabin. She didnt see the stare from her first mate that was boring a hole in her back. Ngabe gave the sword a final twirl and returned it to its scabbard. She turned towards the main deck. Lockley! The beautiful mistress at arms walked smartly towards her, two bright, blue eyes shining up at the first mate. Yes maam? Lockleys voice barely contained a hint of something, regret? Anger? Hatred? For some reason, the first mate and the mistress at arms did not get along. Ngabe ignored Lockleys tone.

The Captain has a few guests arriving. Theyre coming up the quay now. Please show them to her in-port cabin. Ngabe watched as Lockley saluted and walked towards the entrance. As Lockley reached the gangway, the three men walked onto the deck of the ship. After a brief conversation, Lockley escorted the men towards the hatch where Ngabe stood. Lockley waved her hand at the guests. Ms. Ngabe, maam, this is Albus Dumbledore, Arthur Weasley and Remus Lupin. They have an appointment with the captain. Gentlemen, this is our first mate, Ms. Ngabe. Ngabe felt a brief intake of breath and then stretched out her hand to the men. Welcome aboard the Discooperire, gentlemen. The Captain is expecting you. With a nod towards Lockley, she stepped to the side, allowing the men to pass into the superstructure of the ship. Ngabe gazed at the men, her eyes resting on the tall, older man whod been introduced as Dumbledore. When theyd disappeared below, she walked up to a pretty red-headed woman with bright porcelain skin and brilliant green eyes. Ms. Innes. Muireall Innes, the second mate, turn ed from where she was supervising service on one of the Discooperires cannon and snapped to attention as the first mate approached. Yes maam? Ive got to go off ship for a little while. The captain is meeting with some prospective customers below. Take over up here, will you? Ngabe didnt offer an explanation, as was her custom. Innes snapped a salute and nodded. Ngabe turned on her heel and disembarked from the ship, walking at a rapid clip. *** What a piece of junk! Remus muttered under his breath as he was escorted into the Captains cabin. She may not look like much, but shes fast. You must be Albus Dumbledore. Baretto stepped forward and extended her hand to them. Dumbledore smiled pleasantly and kissed the top of her hand. Youll have to forgive my friend. Weve been under a bit of stress lately. Were pressed for time and we need to get somewhere fast. Youve come to the right place. The Discooperire is the fastest ship in the Atlantic. Barettos voice had a discernible amount of pride. Remus looked around the room. There was chipped paint and faded curtains on the windows. Im sorry, the Discooperwhat? Youve never heard of the Discooperire? Baretto asked incredulously. Should I have? Albus smile never left his face. She made the Buenos Aires run in five days. Shes fast enough for you, old man. Whats the cargo? Baretto sat down behind her desk and leaned back, folding her legs on top of the desk. Just passengers, myself and Remus here and no questions asked. Dumbledores eyes locked with Baretto who smiled. You guys in some sort of trouble? Baretto leaned forward on the desk.

Lets just say wed like to avoid any Ministry of Magic entanglements. Albus took the seat in front of Barettos desk and smiled knowingly. Baretto stood and leaned on the table. Thats the catch, isnt it? Its going to cost you, ten thousand galleons. Thats ridiculous! We could buy our own ship for that! Remus started pacing around the room and missed the seething look of anger from Baretto. Whod sail it? You? Youre damn right. Come on, Albus, we dont need to take this. Remus made for the door, but stopped as Dumbledore raised his hand to stop him. Its all right, Remus. Dumbledore looked over at Baretto, as if taking her measure. After a few minutes she flinched and sat down. Dumbledore reached into the folds of his robe and pulled out a small, burlap sack and tossed it on the table. We can give you four thousand now and eigh t thousand when we return. Twelve thousand galleons? Youve got yourself a ship, Mr. Dumbledore. Where are we going? Iceland. Iceland? All right, high tide is at eleven oclock tonight. Well shove off then, deal? That will be fine. Baretto watched as he stood and made for the door. Just before he reached the exit, she cleared her throat. I suggest you try to be on board at least an hour before we leave. Theres no moon tonight, so itll be pretty dark out there. Captain Baretto, Albus looked over at Remus quickly. Suffice to say that we are extremely happy about there not being a moon tonight, believe me. Until tonight. The three men left her cabin, leaving her to calculate how long twelve thousand galleons would keep her in business. *** At the far end of the Portsmouth Harbor, there was a collection of warehouses. Teams of longshoremen brought heavy pallets of items in and out of the area. There was a small office on the second floor of the largest warehouse. It was basically a glass cubicle with one sided windows, allowing the occupant to see out to the warehouse floor, but kept prying eyes from see inside. If one of the workers had been able to see inside the office, they would have noticed a starkly beautiful woman with dark skin and black eyes pacing furiously in front of the desk of the man who owned the warehouse. It was Albus Dumbledore, thats the name he introduced himself with. Ngabe stopped her pacing and stared at the man on the other side of the desk. To be sure, I believe you. The others are known to us, as well. Lucious Malfoy leaned back in his leather chair and steepled his fingers in thought. Did they say where they wanted to go? No, I didnt hear them. They met alone with the Captain. The last word came out in a sneer, like an epithet. My dear Ngabe, temper yourself. The Dark Lord appreciates loyalty among all other things. You will simply have to travel along with Professor Dumbledore and ensure that whatever mission he

is on will fail. Can you do that? Malfoy watched her, his neon blue eyes studying her mannerisms. A third of the crew is comprised of my Nubians. They are loyal to me. Why dont I just kill them when they come on board? Her hand rested on the pommel of her s word. Because Albus Dumbledore does not die unless the Dark Lord commands it. Malfoys words came out as a distinct warning. Ngabe shuddered, in spite of her own courage. There is a bigger plan at work here, Ngabe. You will determine what Dumbledore is up to and disrupt his plans. Only then may you take action against him. Of course, at that time, you will have the opportunity to take over your precious ship. How does that sound, CAPTAIN Ngabe? Ngabe forgot her impatience and flushed at his calling her captain. She nodded and turned to leave. Malfoy stopped her halfway out the door. Rem ember, Ngabe, the Dark Lord appreciates loyalty, I wont bother to tell you what he does to those who disappoint him. *** Albus, are you sure you want to do this? Arthur stood with Dumbledore and Lupin at the entrance to the pier. It was close to ten oclock and with no moon, they were shrouded in darkness which was enhanced by the low fog that had rolled in from the sea. Arthur, weve got to secure allies against Voldemort. Ive got to make this trip now. Dumbledore tugged at the straps of his satchel and pulled it taut against his chest. Lupin cast a furtive glance around them. Albus, what about Harry? Youve left him alone, isolated most of the summer. Sirius is very irritated at how youre handling the boy. Why don t you just let the Order take him to the new headquarters and be done with it? Voldemort has some sort of connection with Harry, Remus. We need to keep him isolated for his own good. Dumbledore turned to Arthur. I want you and Kingsley to set up a watch on the Department of Mysteries. The Dark Lord will most likely want to have a go at the prophecy. Keep an eye on Sirius. His impetuousness may cause more harm than good. Arthur nodded. Remus was still unconvinced and Dumbledore placed a reassuring hand on his shoulder. Remus, I care about Harry. Hes not completely alone. Mundungus and Mrs. Figg are keeping an eye on him. Bah, Fletcher, I dont know why you keep giving him second chances, Albus, hes bound to let you down. Remus threw up his hands in disgust. Perhaps, Remus, but you of all people should know that we cant judge a book by its cover. Properly chastened, Remus hung his head. Well be back in a few days and then well revisit our Harrys situation then, okay? There was nothing more to say. Remus and Dumbledore walked into the darkness towards the black shape of the ship at the end of the pier. Arthur stood and watched for a few more minutes and then turned to leave. Bill had already taken a job with Gringotts and Charlie was due in later on this evening. Both were committed to joining the Order and Arthur wanted to be there when they did. He pulled his robe up against the misting fog and turned to leave into the night. *** True to her word, the Discooperire was a fast ship. She seemed to glide across the wave tops at a high rate of speed. Within a day and a half, the craggy, volcanic rock of the shores of Iceland appeared on the horizon. Dumbledore strode the deck next to Baretto, content that his mission

was close at hand. Remus, on the other hand, was happy for a completely different reason. Sea travel did not agree with him. His pale face had taken on a decidedly green complexion and he was ecstatic to see the shoreline ahead, for it meant that he could get off the boat. Remus staggered to where the Captain and Dumbledore stood, his most recent bout with nausea subsiding. So, Albus, care to tell us what were doing here? Yes, by all means, Signor Dumbledore, it would be helpful to know where you want me to bring my ship. Baretto smiled at Remus, the warmth of her gesture causing him to flush and forget, at least for the moment, his queasiness. Make for Odinfjord Harbor, Captain. Thats where were expected. Alb us pointed a thin finger at a spot on the chart. Odinfjord? The ogres? Baretto gave a cautious glance up at Dumbledore. Icelandic Ogres, to be precise. We are in negotiations to secure them as allie s against the Dark Lords return. Dumbledore smiled warmly and Baretto nodded and waved her hand at Lockley, who spun the wheel. After an hour or so, they entered a narrow, craggy inlet with high cliff faces and rapid currents. They maneuvered through the small port and pulled up along a thin, rocky dock which jutted out into the black waters of the harbor. Working expertly and efficiently, the crew tied the ship up to the pier. Now what? Remus asked, looking down the pier. Do we go to them? No, we call them out. Dumbledore walked to the side of the ship and with surprising agility, leapt over the rail and landed on the pier. He walked down the finger of rock to where the pier met the shore. Mounted on a frame constructed of human bones was a large dragon horn. Dumbledore grasped the horn and placed the end to his lips. He blew into it, causing a blaring, deep sound to emit from it, which echoed in the hills, reverberating throughout the area. Remus watched as Dumbledore stood thoughtfully, his hands clasped in front of him as he waited. Soon, there was a rumble of stone as the cliff face near Dumbledore moved to the side, revealing a large, open cavern. A jumble of distorted, twisted figures limped out of the cavern, grotesque in all ways. Leading them was the most hideous of the creatures, standing well over eight feet tall with an iron ring on his head. His skin was dark green, with a wet sheen, like slime exuding over his body. When it spoke, its voice came out in low, grating grunt, its fat jowls shaking as it spoke with Dumbledore. Dumbledore responded in kind. The figure held up its hand and then followed Dumbledore towards the ship. They boarded gingerly and proceeded to the center of the main deck. Dumbledore turned to Captain Baretto and Lupin and waved a hand towards his guest. May I present Rjordckckk, presiding regent of the Icelandic Ogre Clan. He has just agreed to provide assistance against the Dark Lord. The large ogre guffawed out loud and slapped a wet, slimy hand down on Remus shoulder. Dumbledore smiled warmly and spoke to the regent in its own harsh tongue. Another series of bellowing laughs emitted from its sizeable stomach and he turned to face his people at the end of the pier. Dumbledore leaned his head towards Baretto and Lupin. Hes going to announce the alliance to his people. This is quite extraordinary. If we can get the giants on our side, we might stand a chance against Voldemort.

Rjordckckk raised his arms up and began a rhythmic chant in his deep voice. Suddenly, he stopped and his arms fell to his side. Dumbledore stepped forward and looked at the regents face, which bore an expression of pain and shock. A bright, gleaming piece of metal was protruding from his stomach, a sword. Someone had run the ogre straight through, in full view of his people. Ngabe, what are you doing? Barettos voice came out in a shout. Standing behind the ogre was her first mate, her rapier buried to the hilt in the ogres back. Ngabe drew out her sword and hazarded a quick glance at the shore, where the ogres were stampeding their way down the pier, eager to avenge their leaders murder. Ngabe ignored her captains plea. Instead, she pulled out a small whistle and blew into it. From below, dozens of her Nubian countrymen sprang from the hold and began to attack the rest of the Discooperires crew. Ngabes sword flew down towards Baretto, who was caught unaware. Just before the blade could land on Barettos head, there was the clash of steel on steel as Lockleys blade intercepted Ngabes blade. Lockley flashed a deadly grin and with a quick swipe, severed the head of a nearby Nubian and then began a dance of death with the mutinous first mate. Their blades swung back and forth, neither woman giving ground. Both landed blows that drew blood, but Ngabe was the better swordswoman, her blade moved in a blur. Baretto launched herself towards the combatants, just in time to see the tip of Ngabes blade swipe across Lockleys left eye, drawing another spasm of blood from the damaged orb. Lockley staggered, momentarily blinded by the pain and the blood pouring from her eye. Before Ngabe could deliver a killing blow, Baretto repaid Lockleys sacrifice and interceded her blade between Lockley an d Ngabe. There was a clash of steel and the twin rapiers danced in the fray. Muireall Innes directed the overall battle for the loyal sailors of the Discooperire against the mutineers. She had two jobs. First, she had to hold off the tide of maniacal warriors that were attacking from within, and second, she had to get the ship away from the dock, and away from the enraged ogres without. She brought her cutlass down on the last rope securing the ship to the pier as the hordes of ogres advanced to attack the ship and avenge their regent. Slowly the ship began to move away from the pier, but the movement was too slow. The ogres would be able to board. A shaft of purplish light suddenly blocked their path. Innes looked over and saw Dumbeldore and Lupin, wands out, holding back the advancing tide of ogres, giving the ship time to escape. Thankful for the reprieve, Muireall turned her attention to the deadly task of saving her ship. Ngabe and Baretto parried and thrust with dazzling speed. Where Lockley had been a street fighter, a brawler, Baretto was a technician, an assassin. Unfortunately, Ngabe was the best part of both types. Despite her ability, Baretto soon found herself on the defensive. She fought hard and valiantly, but the dizzying speed of her opponents blade was difficult to keep up with. One lunge by the Captain stretched her past her balance point, and Ngabe was quick to exploit the opening, driving her blade into the shoulder of Barettos sword arm. The captain fell back, and collapsed on the deck, her rapier on the ground, dropped by her useless arm. Ngabe smiled viciously and ran forward to deliver the killing blow, a blood lust in her eyes. That will be quite enough. Ngabe froze in her tracks. Baretto looked over and saw the sad, weary eyes of Albus Dumbledore standing nearby. Lupin had also joined the fray, his wand work sending members of the mutineers to and fro, turning the tide. With their leader immobilized, the Nubians quickly lost their focus and were soon routed. When the dust settled, the Discooperire was well out to sea and the ship was solidly in the loyal crews hands. Once the course had been set, there were roughly twenty Nubians, including Ngabe left standing. Fifty or so of the Discooperires crew had been killed. Lockley stood by her captain, her eye bandaged, her healthy eye shining with venom.

The law of the sea is clear. Mutiny is punishable by death. Lockley muttered and Muireall Innes, now the new first mate, nodded in agreement. They were getting no argument from Baretto, but the kindly old man stood tall against the heat of their inflamed passions. I sense Lord Voldemort at work here. Killing them would feed right into his hands, Captain. Dumbledores voice was steady, calm. His gaze fixed the Captains stare and smiled gently. You have a good heart, Captain. Be better than the Dark Lord, be merciful. Bah, weak! You are all weak! The Dark Lord is on the rise, and I will be there when he wins! Ngabe screamed at the top of her lungs. Baretto rolled her blade in her hands, the thought of running Ngabe through crossing her mind. After a moment, it passed. She looked over at Lockley and Innes and nodded slowly. Break out the long boat. Within minutes, the small boat was launched over the side. Dumbledore opened his mouth in protest, but Baretto held up her hand, squelching his words. I wont execute them, Professor. They will be set adrift. If the sea wishes to grant them mercy, so be it. That is the law of the sea. Dumbledore dropped his complaint and watched as the Nubians were put into the boat. The sun was setting and darkness was covering the whole of the area. Baretto turned to Lockley, who refused to leave the helm. Set a course for Portsmouth, best speed. As the Discooperire plowed through the ocean, the long boat began to recede in the distance. Over the sound of the wind and surf, Ngabes voice could be heard plainly. Youll pay, Baretto! Ill make you pay! Your ship and your crew are doomed to fall to me, I SWEAR IT! It was several leagues before her voice died away and several years before Baretto stopped hearing it in her dreams. *** When the Discooperire returned to Portsmouth, Mrs. Figg was waiting for them at the dock. She looked tired and agitated all at the same time. Lupin looked down and shook his head. That cant be good news, wasnt she watching Harry? Dumbledore nodded. Quite so. Albus looked at the Captain of the Discooperire and took her hand. Thank you for the journey. Im of the opinion that your loss was much worse than mine. Baretto nodded numbly and then smiled. It would appear that fate has placed us on the same side, Professor. My crew and I are at your disposal in the fight ahead. No one can remain neutral in the coming struggle, and the Discooperire has chosen a side. Good luck to you Captain. Well meet again, Im sure. Albus kissed her hand, just as Mrs. Figg walked up the gangplank. Oh Professor, come quick! Dementers, Professor. They attack ed Harry! He had to use magic and theyve expelled him from school. Mundungus was supposed to be watching him, but they got past him. The Ministry is calling Harry to trial. Its set for tomorrow! Harry needs you. Fletcher, that boor, he probably went for pint, useless boob. Lupin sneered. Now, now, Remus, well go set things right. Theres still much to do. I guess I have an appointment at the Ministry tomorrow. Dumbledore bowed to the Captain and her crew. Good day. Then he followed Mrs. Figg and Remus down the gangplank and into the night. ***

The trireme continued its course, closing the gap to the Discooperire. They were hemmed in by the shoreline. The crew was ready for action. Baretto sighed heavily. She had been no match for Ngabe last time and the last time she checked, there was no Albus Dumbledore to intercede here. She simply didnt know how they were going to survive. A lot of good people were going to die today and there was nothing she could do to stop it.