Post by asouldreams on Oct 5, 2008 8:10:00 GMT -5
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Title: Perspectives
Summary: See a world of perspectives surrounding Minerva being struck in the chest by 4 stunners and how her friends react - this will go through her return to Hogwarts.
Chapter 1 - Severus Snape
Severus cast a Tempus charm, noting the Owls’ this evening were nearing completion. He would need to discreetly scan the halls to prevent another injury to a student, since the corridors had recently become a practical realm for jinxes and hexes to be thrown at one’s less than savory acquaintances. He could tolerate the occasional jinx or hex being cast, but Umbridge’s utter lack of control had crossed over from mild amusement of a prank to downright fury and contempt for the lack of regard for safety…and that coming from a Slytherin. For the past four days, he and Minerva had discreetly placed themselves along the two main corridors on the second and third corridor to assist the first and second years to safely traverse the spell locked corridors between classes.
When Poppy had asked Minerva yesterday, if she was eating properly…he had been thankful he had just swallowed…or he would have choked on the food from laughter at Minerva’s glare to the Medi-witch who was unaware of the jaunts the Deputy Headmistress was traversing between every class, from the seventh to the third floor and back again without being caught…not as though his travels were much less coming from the dungeon to the second floor while avoiding Umbridge.
He had needed to lose a pound or two, but he had to agree with Minerva’s tirade the night before last. Dolores’ ineptness was reaching new heights and if she wasn’t stopped soon, they – both her and Severus, would be a solid two sizes smaller.
With that thought…he pulled the door to his classroom close, thankful another tedious day under the purview of Dolores Umbridge was coming to an end…and he only need to ascend the steps once more for the day.
Tiredly, he grabbed the banister and then dropped his hand as faint words drifted to his ears and he felt his persona quickly slip back into place. His steps quickening, face set in a scowl as he neared the top of the stairs in time to see Minerva burst through the doors in a dead run…
Instantly Severus reacted, his wand already out as he sprinted forward taking two and three steps at a time to reach the top. He could hear Hagrid’s booming voice…and then he stepped around the stone archway as red blasts of light lit up the night and stunners flew toward the Hogwart’s Groundskeeper. Severus barely took one step out the door when Minerva’s words danced across the air, and as if choreographed…all four wizards turned upon Minerva…and Severus watched in horror as the Head of Gryffindor House, the Deputy Headmistress…and the most unusual of titles, his friend, was struck by 4 stunners and her body was thrown backwards across Hogwarts as though she were a string marionette being jerked across the stage.
Without thought, he cast a Patronus charm and sent it to Poppy before his body was flying down the steps, toward Minerva. Merlin don’t be dead…he thought as the dew from the grass soaked his shins.
A lifetime could have been held in the scant seconds he slid to a halt in front of her body, Umbridge heading his…their way. He cast a glance towards the Headmistress, if one could call her that, before kneeling beside McGonagall while casting the counter spells.
“If I were you, Professor Snape, I’d be more concerned about your welfare than Dumbledore’s puppet.” Her squeaky voice ground out.
Snape bit back his anger, ensuring his voice remained the model of tranquility. “I assure you, my welfare is my paramount concern, Headmistress.” At the sight of her dimpled smile, Snape continued on. “However, as Professor McGonagall is one of the premier witches in Britain, it would look…poorly for Hogwarts were she to die upon the property.” Snape didn’t turn, but could hear Poppy’s unusual gait nearing them.
Umbridge nodded, “Right you are.” She placed her stocky fingers upon his shoulder squeezing it. “Quick thinking, Professor.” She moved back, as Poppy came within hearing distance. “Please see to it that the appropriate measures are in place to prevent that.”
“Minerva!” Poppy uttered, although Snape continued to ignore as he quickly worked to remove Umbridge from the situation.
“I shall report back as soon as she has been transferred to St. Mungo’s.”
Umbridge nodded and was already turning back toward Hagrid’s to speak with the other wizards as Poppy began scanning Minerva. Fury lining her voice, “What happened?”
“Four stunners to the chest.” He responded, “The counter spells…”
Poppy waved her wand, “Will do no good. I need to get her to St. Mungo’s.” Her eyes drifting to Umbridge.
“She’s already agreed.” Severus responded to the Medi-witch.
Poppy shook her head, waving her wand to lift Minerva, “I would ask why she agreed so readily, but I fear I would not like the answer.”
Severus eyed the pale woman in emerald robes, “Will she live?”
“I don’t know, Severus.” She stated, making her way toward the main gates…Severus beside her. “She’s a strong witch…” Poppy felt a trail of tears slip down her eyelashes. “But four stunners to the chest…is lethal at the age of 20…let alone over 70.”
No more words were spoken between the two until Severus opened the gates, and Poppy stepped through…passed the wards and into an apparation point. “Please let me know as soon as you have additional news.”
“I take it you will find a way to contact the Headmaster?” Poppy asked, knowing that Albus would wish to be informed as soon as possible regarding his Deputy.
“Not I, but a message shall be delivered.” He replied.
“Then you shall be informed.” Poppy replied…and with a loud crack…both Poppy and the eerily still body of Minerva McGonagall vanished…leaving Severus to ponder her parting words, and the daunting task of informing the Order about Minerva’s grim prognosis…and subsequently…the Headmaster – who was his employer, his colleague, his mentor…his friend that Minerva McGonagall had been gravelly wounded. The same Minerva who was his Deputy, who had been his best friend for decades…whom Albus had entrusted her safety to him…
Snape turned back to Hogwarts…trying to garner a moment of strength from it’s hallowed walls before summoning a piece of parchment. The one that greeted his hand, must have come from Hagrid’s…it was crinkled and smelt of batter and butterbear…but at least he could send the note that was necessary. Sighing, he pulled out his wand and cast a simple spell…the necessary words quickly appearing onto the parchment before it rolled up in his hand, and he sealed the center before he concentrated…and apparated to Grimwald Place and back within a heartbeat…the only missing cargo…the parchment, that now rest upon the kitchen table.
Idly he wondered who would find the note, Sirius or perhaps Lupin…and if fortune favored him, then Alastor would. But, it mattered not who found it…as long as it was sent on to the rest of the Order, including Dumbledore. He shivered at the notion of the Headmaster receiving the ill news regarding McGonagall. Truth be told…he thought as he turned back towards Hogwarts, he was quite glad not to be the messenger in this instance – for he was assured that Albus’ reaction would be less than congenial.
Snape had never understood their relationship and gave up trying years ago, but he had long ago grasped the fundamentals – they were best friends and as close or closer than family, but as for the more part – he doubted it. And so…they existed, together at Hogwarts shaping the minds of the Wizarding world’s future. He the flamboyant Headmaster, she the quiet and down to earth Deputy…his tendencies for the eccentric, hers toward orderliness…her logic to his spontaneity…their lives bringing balance to the other. Their lives so poignantly intertwined, one name often predicated the other – not as a lover or wife, like so many others…but something more and yet less…just as their relationship lived, almost but not quite.
Wearily he stepped through the gates, a stray thought striking a nerve as Severus recalled all the meetings involving the Dark Lord…and though it had never been verbalized, it was known to all of the Death Eaters – Minerva McGonagall was not to be attacked unless in defense or an attack had been authorized upon Hogwarts itself. Otherwise…she was to remain, untouched and unharmed. No Death Eater questioned it, nor spoke of it…leaving Snape to wonder if there was an unspoken rule between Dumbledore and the Dark Lord…or if even the Dark Lord feared the repercussions of hurting Minerva.
With a flick of his hand, the gates closed…and began walking back toward Hogwarts…and for the first time in his life…it felt empty, as though the heart of the great castle had been removed. And the notion scarred him.
Chapter 2 ~ Alastor Moody
Alastor had seen a flash from the living room, and had his wand drawn as he entered the kitchen only to find a crinkled piece of parchment sitting beside the waning candle.
“What in Slytherin’s name…” He reached over, and slit the parchment open. Grumbling at someone’s less than efficient manner…but his thoughts were waylaid as his eyes scanned the 3 lines of text on the hastily scribbled parchment.
‘Hagrid escaped, but MM took 4 stunners in the chest. She was alive and has been taken to St. Mungos. Prognosis grave. Will update as available. Please inform the rest of the Order. SS’
With a tear prickling his blue eye, his fingers were already crunching the paper into a ball wishing ill on the cowards who called themselves wizards, as he conjured his Patronus and sent the message verbatim to the remaining members.
His mind quickly conjuring how the members of the Order would take the news; Molly would be horrified that Minerva had been so severely injured at Hogwarts where her children went, Arthur would be concerned as to her welfare, Lupin would feel as he had – wondering how the devil Minerva had been caught so unawares, Sirius would want answers…and seek revenge upon those who would so blatantly ignore the rules of combat – especially against his esteemed Head of House, Albus…his thoughts screeched to a halt at that name and his reaction.
For the relationship between Albus Dumbledore, the Headmaster of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry and Minerva McGonagall, the Deputy Headmistress of Hogwarts was something between sister, brother, best friend, colleague, friend, employee/employer…and dare he utter the word lover.
As a student Alastor had watched their unique interaction as one that encompassed the meaning of professional – and yet they were warmly comfortable with each other. Both had been his Head of House, Dumbledore his first three years before becoming Headmaster – McGonagall his last four. Both had excelled at the task, in every way…they embodied the meaning of Gryffindor. They had pushed their students to see magic and life in a new light, and filled with possibilities. Dumbledore’s words still echoing through his head, ‘You are only limited by your imagination.’ Quickly followed by McGonagall’s, ‘Your life is not contingent upon your magic, but your magic is contingent upon your life.’ And yet, they both seemed to push the other…forcing each to view the world through different lenses and creating a new perspective.
Beginning his apprenticeship at the Ministry and working as a liaison to Hogwarts, Alastor began to see their relationship in a very different light than the one he believed he had understood as a student. One that caused him to redefine his very core belief of the man known as Albus Dumbledore. For wherever Dumbledore walked, Minerva seemed to be there, lighting the way for him. And he began to wonder if Albus’ greatness was truly his alone, or was it in fact based upon the witch who remained steadfast lighting his way though she herself lingered in the shadows – seeking no glory or fame. It was as if those attributes were the very antithesis to her being.
Now, decades later, and through very jaded eyes he had looked upon both Albus and Minerva. Despite the passage of time, he was surprised that both names were still the embodiment of hope. Though neither seemed to exist without the other, one name instantly conjuring the other. And he found himself wondering if throughout the years, the pain…the heartache…how they had managed to remain so true…and brimming with hope. They carried with them enough hope to fill a world.
It was as though they were diametrically equal and opposite. Two halves of a whole…at that thought he shook his head. Surely, if they had been lovers…he would have seen something other than her arm draped through his after knowing them for 40 years. Especially with his magical eye…and yet…for a one moment – he, wanted to believe in the fantastical. But…it mattered not…he thought as his eye focused upon the ball of parchment, his heart clenching…for if he wished to believe, then he had just sent word to half of the whole, that the other half – may have been mortally wounded, and a shadow may have befallen the light that had so steadfastly lit his way for decades – bringing darkness to all.
Chapter 3 ~ Molly & Arthur Weasley
Molly pushed her chair back, fingers wrapping around the edge of the plate when she felt the family wards shift – her eyes darting to her husband who was already pulling his wand out when Alastor’s Patronus darted through the door, and instantly transforming into a ghostly message.
“Oh dear.” Molly uttered as she realized the meaning of the Patronus, “The children.”
“I’m sure Severus is seeing to them, dear.” Arthur said reaching out to wrap his fingers around his wife’s hand.
Molly turned to him, “What would make Umbride attack both Hagrid and Minerva?”
“I doubt it is as colorful as the Prophet will make it in the morning.” Arthur shook his head, “And I do hope she pulls through the night.”
“As do I…” Her voice breaking, “I shudder to think what Dumbledore will do if something happens to Minerva.”
“I’m sure he would be one of many wizards and witches expressing their dismay at how the esteemed witch was treated, she has after all been at Hogwarts for a very long time.”
“Dear, I think you underestimate the care with which he feels for her.”
Arthur did a double take, “Surely not.” His eyes as large as saucers, “You must be mistaken, Molly.”
She shook her head, “Have you not seen the way he stares after her once she has left the room?”
“He stares after her no more than any other person, witch or wizard.” He countered.
“Tell me then,” She pulled her hand back, crossing her arms, “When was the last time one was without the other? They are like two peas and a pod.”
“But that would come about by merely working with another person for decades, dear. You are reading far too much into their friendship.” Arthur paused as he thought back through his life and the encounters with McGonagall and Dumbledore. “Through our years at Hogwarts, do you recall any event where they were anything but professional?”
Molly opened her mouth to rebut his question, and found herself stopping. His question had merit and as she recounted her life at school, she could think of naught one instance…and then she remembered… “I recall just one instance.” She stated, causing his brow to arch. “It was at our Yule Ball during our fifth year.” Arthur found himself thinking back to that evening, frowning at the overall event. It had not been a tremendously successful evening as far as he was concerned, Molly had after all gone with Richard to the Ball.
“I don’t remember …”
“Men…” She mumbled, “Of course you don’t, and I daresay most students hadn’t noticed, but…” Molly found herself smiling at the memory. “I remember towards the end of the evening, the two danced…and…I happened to be getting some punch when I looked up and found myself just staring, Arthur. I have never seen another couple dance as they did that night, it was magical.” As he opened his mouth to say something, she snapped, “And don’t patronize me saying they are just both good dancers, Arthur.”
He held up his hand, “Even if you are correct dear, he’s never showed any outward signs nor uttered a word.”
“Nor has she.” Molly whispered as she gazed at her husband lovingly. Wondering how in Merlin she could live a life where she never showed an ounce of emotion outside of the realm of friendship to the man she loved.
“We will be there for him nonetheless.” He stated, leaning across the table to gently kiss her lips.
As his lips touched hers, she was thankful she would never have to know that feeling. And then she leaned back, a smile touching the corners of her eyes, “Perhaps I should go to St. Mungos to stay with her until tomorrow.” She started to back up, but was stopped by her husband’s grip upon her hands.
“Go in the morning, love. If you are correct, then I believe Dumbledore would be there tonight and she could use the company in the morning.”
“And how in Merlin’s beard will he be getting into St. Mungo’s?”
Arthur shrugged, “The man is sharper than the whole of the Ministry.”
Molly felt a warm smile begin to overshadow her worry at the thought, and the possible motivation for him to go…but then she felt a pang of doubt. “You know Arthur…I could be all wrong…”
Chapter 4 ~ Nymphadora Tonks
Tonks flipped the file onto her desk, “Bloody worthless.” She grumbled, her raspberry hair turning lime green as she shot Kingsley a knowing look.
Oliuvette glared at the young witch over his octaganol glasses. “I expect your report on my desk before the end of the day.”
She shrugged, “Of course.” Her voice barely reaching Kingsley’s ears as she sauntered by. “Sending an Auror to Knockturn Alley because of a tip from Lucius.”
What was the Ministry coming to? She thought as the door to the elevator opened and she nodded to canary yellow robed wizard – Michael Masters, who worked in the Department of Magical Law Enforcement.
“The Ministry has you running ragged.” The elder gentleman stated, his graying hair edging out from beneath his matching hat.
“Your department has been pulling just as many long days as we have…” Tonks frowned, feeling a swell of magic around her leg as she finished. “I don’t know the percentage of your calls, but over half of ours are unvalidated.”
She never heard his response as a whisp of smoke swirled about her legs in the elevator and as she glanced down, faint words fluttered across her eyes – causing her to gasp slightly.
“Everything alright Tonks?” Masters asked looking concerned as he watched the bright lime color virtually melt away…leaving a pale face with short russet hair.
She tried to cast him an easy smile. “Quite. Just a cramp in my leg.”
He nodded easing back silently wondering if he was looking at her natural hair color… “You need to eat a healthier diet, it’ll prevent all types of disorders –“ His eye darted to her leg and then back to her peculiar hazel eyes, she was beautiful. “Including cramps.”
Tonks was spared a response as the door opened to the Atrium, her exit. She muttered a thanks and was through the door like a bolt, her mind working equally as fast.
McGonagall had been attacked?!?! How in Hogwarts had she let that happened? Of course, she knew that wizards and witches slowed down a bit as they aged…but for the Professor to have slowed down to Umbridge’s speed, it just wasn’t bloody likely. Her eyes darted towards the floo network, I wonder…were they Ministry Aurors who attacked on Umbridge’s commands thereby surprising McGonagall…
A flash green from the floo networks brought her to the present, and the realization that went with it. If the Ministry authorized an attack on Minerva McGonagall…there would an uprising…Tonks shook her head knowing full well the Ministry would disavow any and all knowledge. They had too. It was one thing to attack Albus Dumbledore…he was eccentric…often times bordering on crazy…but Minerva McGonagall? It was uncouth. You would no more have called the Queen a bloody Yank versus McGonagall being called anything other than a patriot…who had schooled over half of Britania.
She began walking toward the designated apparation points. She had an assignment to complete…and then….
Tonks drew herself up…
She’d head to Grimmauld Place to find out who had attacked the Professor and wait in the undoubtedly long line wanting retribution.
Retribution...or revenge? Her consciousness asked, causing her to hold the image of Knockturn Alley for a moment longer as she processed the question.
For who in the Order would want either? They were there to draw the line against the dark wizards…against He Who Must Not Be Named, not join them in their cause. But…who wouldn’t want a moment of satisfaction, even Dumbledore…her brain stopped at the mere thought. No, she shook her head as if to pry free the mere notion, he would never seek revenge…not even for McGonagall.
Or would he? She was his best friend…had been known him for half a century…was like…she paused searching for the right word only to find another analogy that was apropos. A wand to a wizard…who had seemed to be the heart while she attended Hogwarts…or perhaps Minerva had become the heart that beat within the man who was the soul of Hogwarts.
The very notion of the great Albus Dumbledore infuriated…and seeking revenge, caused a shiver to shoot down her spine – not because of what he could be capable of. No, she thought, her heart hammering in her chest…it was that for the first time since she had known the revered Headmaster – she feared his unwavering control might slip and he would act before thought. And that scared her…far more than anything else had in her life, even the threat of the He Who Must Not Be Named.
Merlin, she thought, please don’t let it be the Ministry behind her attack…or may God have mercy upon all of us…because she truly didn’t know if Dumbledore would.
Chapter 5 ~ Albus Percival Wulfric Brian Dumbledore
Chuckling, Albus scanned Minerva’s letter again. “I’m surprised she hasn’t hexed Dolores, my friend, after the latest incident involving Harry.” He stated as he cast a warm gaze at Fawkes who trilled quietly in response. “I daresay, it is only a matter of time or another handful of Ministry Decrees before even her reserve cracks.” Despite the long day, he felt his smile spreading as he pictured Minerva’s temper being unleashed against Dolores. The poor witch obviously didn’t know the fire she was toying with. Even he wouldn’t deliberately provoke Minerva.
There was no denying it…he thought, as he reached up and brushed Fawkes coat, he missed Hogwarts – more importantly his best friend. For even on the bleakest of days, she had the ability to irrevocably lighten his mood, even today through a simple note. He’d find a way to make it up to her, for not only watching over Hogwarts, but helping him to stay grounded these past two months. “Perhaps a few dinners away from the Castle.” Fawkes cocked his head, causing another chuckle to slip out from the blue-eyed wizard. “You’re right of course, it’ll take more and should require more than a few hours of my time to let Minerva know how much I appreciate…”
The rest of his sentence went unsaid as Albus felt the wards room shift, his wand already out before a Patronus in the shape of a Beaver swirled through the door…and into a mystic message, that left him breathless as his previously high spirited mood evaporated with the vaporous message. Tears were stinging against his eyes as the words reverberated through his brain. Hagrid on the run. MM’s at St. Mungos. 4 stunners to the chest. Prognosis grim.
4 stunners to the chest…he shook his head, trying to focus. 4 stunners…a tear slipped off his lashes, dripping onto her forgotten letter.
“…Mi..nerva…” His raw voice whispered as time seemed to draw to a standstill, the wizard peering off into the distance at seeming nothingness, his mind recreating the horrid scene. First one flash, then two…the forth striking before her body was flying across Hogwarts grounds, her emerald robes fluttering unknowingly against the breeze and he felt his stomach drop as he imagined her body’s hard impact against the earth.
He tried to pull an image of her smiling over at him while seated at dinner in the Great Hall…or perhaps her brilliant smile as she turned to him knowingly upon the Quidditch pitch as her beloved Gryffindor’s won the game…or sitting across from her as the fire crackled in his study while sipping tea – her jade eyes staring intently upon the chess board as the corner of her mouth twitched in concentration; but no image save for the one he had just created would come to him.
The image of his beloved friend being catapulted across the grounds of his home…for what reason? Her face staring blankly up at the stars, her mind screaming for relief as her broken body remained immobilized in pain.
My dear…4 stunners…he felt a tear run down his weathered cheek. Why didn’t you defend yourself? He almost choked from the anguish settling upon his soul. Dear Merlin, Minerva…you…could have died…
Relief swept through him and then died within the same heartbeat as his brain corrected its last phrase.
You could…still die…
Then as if a whirlwind came through, bringing both clarity and focus – the wizard snapped back to the present, blue eyes seeing the world before him as he stood, calling his cloak to him and his wand before his long strides carried him through the door. If she were going to live or die…then he would be there. The world be damned…The frame shaking from the force as the wizard flicked the door close, his mind already on his destination and not upon the world around him.
Chapter 6 ~ The Maraurders
“Bishop to…” Sirius stopped as Alastor’s words drifted up through the board…his eyes reading the ethereal message anger boiling up from deep within as he glanced towards Mooney whose usually pale face had turned ashen. “I bet Snape planned this…” He ground out.
Sirius’ voice pulled Remus from the pain wallowing up within, the world snapping back into focus. “No, Sirius.” He shook his head as he recalled their interactions he had witnessed two years ago. “They are far better friends than one would believe.”
Agast at the implied notion, his voice rose in pitch. “Surely they aren’t…”
Remus held up his hand, “Calm yourself, they are only friends.” He watched his friend breath a sigh of relief before continuing. “Good friends, though. I don’t know the hows or whys, but there is a trust between them that can only stem from friendship.”
“And you’re sure that there is nothing…” He asked disbelieving, but want to disbelieve all the same. He could not imagine Minerva McGonagall loving Severus Snape…a Gryffindor and Slytherin who were the epitome of their houses. He’d always quietly harbored the hope that perhaps she and the Headmaster would become more or were more than just ‘best’ friends.
Despite the gut wrenching news that was still reverberating through his body, Lupin found a laugh bubbling up from his chest and before he could stop it, he was chuckling at Sirius’ obvious disdain for the his momentary belief. “I am quite certain, my friend.” He said between gasps, relief flooding Black’s face causing Lupin’s laughter to double – tears falling from his eyes. “Only friends…as,” He straightened up, the joy from the moment dissipating as he finished his thought aloud and the gravity of the news again weighing heavily upon his soul. “Their level of friendship will never be equivalent to that which she has with Dumbledore.”
“I’ve always wondered if they were more than friends, myself.” Sirius stated, fingers idylly drumming the oak table. “That’s why I couldn’t imagine Snape and…” His voice trailing off as he watched Remus who seemed to be pondering his own statement.
“You know…” He sat up just a bit straighter, enabling him to lean closer. His voice barely that of a whisper, “There was an instance when we were in school that caused me to believe that for a long time, but I have never seen another…not even while teaching at Hogwarts.”
“What happened, and why didn’t you ever tell...”
“You must promise not to speak a word of this.” Black furrowed his brow, but Lupin pressed him. “Your word.”
His curiosity instantly had him seek compliance, “You have it. Now what happened?”
“It was an evening after a full moon…I had been in the Hospital wing recovering when I decided to leave.” He arched his eyebrow, and Sirius instantly understood without further explanation – Remus had been bored and had opted to stretch his legs so to speak. “I was heading toward Gryffindor Tower, between the fifth and sixth floor staircase when all of the staircases...stopped moving and as if order, instantly realigned and Dumbledore stepped out of the wall between the sixth and seventh floor and was sprinting up the handful of stairs two at a time – past the Gryffindor Tower entrance…to McGonagall’s door and without hesitation he opened it…and before I could really see anything it was closing, however, I did hear his greeting when he walked in… ‘My dear…I just heard, why didn’t…’ and then the door snapped close.”
Lupin was shaking his head, “I was going to tell everyone the next morning, figuring there was something going on between the two and see what you or James could find out.” He paused as he recalled Dumbledore’s haunted expression as he had entered the Hospital wing, “After seeing them, I bolted back down to the Hospital wing, and remained through the night. The next morning, very early, Dumbledore came in and asked Poppy to watch Gryffindor Tower for the day and a sleeping draught. When she asked why, he was reluctant to answer and then quietly stated that Minerva’s two brothers – the last of her family had been killed by Death Eaters the night before.” Lupin met his friend’s penetrating gaze with his own, “I remember leaving there, expecting her classes to be cancelled for the day – only to find her there, teaching as though nothing had happened. After class, I told you that I’d catch up in a minute, and once everyone left – I approached her. I had no idea what I was going to say, but I wanted to say something. She glanced up from her desk, a shadow in her eyes that she covered with a light smile and asked if there was something I needed…
“Actually, Professor, I just wanted to say…” Remus paused as he drummed up the courage, but then footsteps could be heard entering and then pausing at the door’s threshold. “Thank you for all you’ve done for me. It means a lot.”
Minerva smiled at the young wizard, “You are quite welcome, Mr. Lupin. Now…get moving or you’ll be late to Charms.”
He nodded, silently wishing he had said how much she meant to him…and that he would be there for here, even if she didn’t have family…he’d be her family as she had been for him. He took one step backwards, before nodding to her, and turning on his heel and drawing up short at seeing the Headmaster standing just inside the frame smiling at him, eyes twinkling.
Remus gave a curt nod as he stated, “Headmaster.” Walking past him. He was quite surprised when Dumbledore fell in step beside him.
“Mr. Lupin, I take it you were not asleep this morning when I visited the Hospital.”
Remus’ steps faltered, breathing catching in his throat as he tried to meet the piercing blue gaze of the Headmaster. “No, Sir.”
Dumbledore dropped his head just enough, enabling him to look over the rim of his half moon glasses. “Then, I trust that you shall not repeat any aspect of that conversation, even with your friends.”
He felt himself nodding as a question tumbled from his lips without thought, “Sir, how’d they die?”
“As any Gryffindor does, Mr. Lupin, bravely.” He reached into one of his pockets, pulling out a small inlaid pocket watch. “Now off to class, Mr. Lupin.”
“Yes, Sir.” He replied and had taken three steps before Dumbledore’s voice reached his ears, “And I believe she’d be honored to be included as part of the family Mr. Lupin.”
Remus’ head turned back to look over his shoulder, “She’s done so much for me…and others. I hope she realizes how much she means to people, Sir.” Remus never heard the faint response uttered by the Headmaster as he headed towards his charms class.
“For the next few days, he seemed to be every where McGonagall went, but it was nothing overt. Just there, supporting her. If I hadn’t been sensitive about the situation, I would never had known nor realized that something was amiss. I use to wonder if they were more than good friends, too.” He shook his head, a sad smile crossing his face. “And on occasion I even wished for it…they are far closer than most married couples I’ve known. There must be a reason or something that has prevented them, I don’t know.” Lupin shrugged, “But I do know that Albus will be devastated if she dies.”
“And you won’t be?” Black asked, “She’s been like a mother to you, to me…to any one who can call themselves a Gryffindor.”
“Yes, but…” He paused, searching for the words. “It’s different, Sirius. I can’t describe it, and there is no outward proof other than the very occasional lingering glance by one or the other…”
“Or the dark circles that remains forever present when the opposite is on guard duty for an evening.”
“Or how one seems to finish the others sentences…”
“Merlin, Remus…devastated isn’t the word.” Sirius leaned back, eyes straying to his own memories of McGonagall and Dumbledore throughout the years. The added bounce in his step when she was near, the smile in her eyes that only he seemed able to bring out… How does someone feel after their entire world has been taken away from them, and they had never known it – until it was too late? “That’ll be how we feel.”
Chapter 7 ~ Tom Riddle ~ Lord Voldemort ~ He Who Must Not Be Named
Voldemort turned away from Wormtail, his eyes instantly noticing the blue light emanating from around the worn book upon the table. “I am in need of food,” He turned his piercing gaze to the sniveling man.
Wormtail gobbled some air as he shook his head and vacated the room before Voldemort had reached the table. His long fingers gracefully caressing the top of the book before turning the milky parchment over.
He watched as Snape’s familiar script blanketed the page…the content causing the snake wound tightly around his heart to ease for a moment as a faint mist covered his red eyes.
‘McGonagall struck by 4 stunners to the chest, she survived the initial attack but is at St. Mungos. Her injuries were grievous. Was an attack authorized against Hogwarts? Or is Umbridge, Wilks, Devonshire, Berksin or Forsyeth under the Impervious Curse and ordered to attack McGonogall? Please advise regarding current orders and affiliations.’
Without turning, he snapped the door close before allowing his head to drop, hands braced on either side of the book his shoulders slumping as anguish beat in harmony with his pulse, coursing through him. 4 stunners would have killed a lesor witch or wizard without doubt, but Minerva McGonagall was no mere witch. He pulled his head up, fingers curling into a fist as his head dropped back enough to look toward the ceiling…her lips ghostly brushing his cheek and her warm smile lifting the burdening weight within his heart spawning a lone tear to fall and remain forever unknown upon his silk robes. She was the bravest witch he had ever met, and the only one who treated each person equitably – without prejudice.
Slowly the anguish was turning into anger…
She had been kind to him at a point in his life where she could easily have treated him as others had…and for a moment during his brief recovery under her care, he had imagined a life where she had taken the last name of Riddle…and born a child…but…the fire he wished to temper would never bend to power.
He slammed his fists down upon the table, banishing his moment of weakness. It did not do to dwell upon flights of fancy. Picking up his wand, he sent Severus a response…
‘The Ministry’s toad Umbridge remains the sole architect of the attack.’
He closed the book, the tips of his fingers feeling the slight imperfections upon the worn skin as thought of the men from the Ministry.
“Those fools.” He hissed, “They do not realize…”
He thought back to the ancient text penned in Salazar’s hand… ‘For there shall be two connected to Hogwarts – the hearts which beat. One may be taken, but not two…’
It had taken him a quarter of a century and less than savory methods, but he had discovered the meaning riddled within Salazar’s cryptic hand. There were always two connected to Hogwarts; presently one was Dumbledore…the other McGonagall…
Even he would not risk the destruction of Hogwarts…and being as it was Minerva’s life he could spare – then all the better.
For she may not willing succumb to his charms…but even now, her allure was captivating and he wanted very much to taste the woman, Minerva McGonagall.
A growl of fury wound its way from his throat as Wormtail entered the chamber with a food laden pattern balanced in his hand.
“Master…” His sentence went unfinished as Voldemort spun around to face him, fire dancing in his red eyes.
“I am leaving.” His gangly fingers already wrapping around his wand as he glided toward the door.
Wormtail grabbed a piece of cheese as he set the plate down, dutifully following. “I thought…you said…” He jammed the aged Swiss into his mouth. “We were going to wait…”
Voldemort grabbed the cloak flying towards him, “We are…” His eyes slid from Wormtail to Nagini and back, “I will return, shortly.” Deftly, he swung the coat over his shoulders and head before he vanished leaving a befuddled follower and faithful servant as he went to take care of the Ministry’s blunder.
Chapter 8 ~ Minerva McGonagall
Blackness swirled through her consciousness as she forced her leaden eyes to open, to no avail. Instead, she forced her mind to remain awake, staving off the blanket that threatened to swarm, focusing on her surroundings and the faint noises that permeated through the fog.
Minutes or perhaps hours, or dread she believe, days passed and still it became no easier. Her thoughts drifted in and out as she vaguely wondered why her mind remained alert but not truly conscious. How could a simple stunner have done this to her? She mused. She had been stunned before, ample times, but this…and then she remembered, it was not merely one stunner. It was four.
She had taken four stunners to the chest when she had run down to save Hagrid. Despite the knowledge and the worry pertaining to both herself and her friend, she found her mind migrating to a time where pain did not beat in rhythm with her pulse and her spirit was once again free.
Twinkling blue eyes stared over his wire frames at the board…
“You’re brooding.” She said chuckling.
His eyes flicked up to hers, “No, I’m strategizing.”
“You’ve lost…” The smile seemingly affixed to her lips, “I’ll take your knight in two moves and your king in six.”
He dropped his eyes, once again to the board. “I believe I can drag it out a few more moves, perhaps…” He reached across the board and moved his remaining pawn. “Even take the game.”
** Please let me know if you would like any more posted, thanks & hope you have enjoyed so far.**
Title: Perspectives
Summary: See a world of perspectives surrounding Minerva being struck in the chest by 4 stunners and how her friends react - this will go through her return to Hogwarts.
Chapter 1 - Severus Snape
Severus cast a Tempus charm, noting the Owls’ this evening were nearing completion. He would need to discreetly scan the halls to prevent another injury to a student, since the corridors had recently become a practical realm for jinxes and hexes to be thrown at one’s less than savory acquaintances. He could tolerate the occasional jinx or hex being cast, but Umbridge’s utter lack of control had crossed over from mild amusement of a prank to downright fury and contempt for the lack of regard for safety…and that coming from a Slytherin. For the past four days, he and Minerva had discreetly placed themselves along the two main corridors on the second and third corridor to assist the first and second years to safely traverse the spell locked corridors between classes.
When Poppy had asked Minerva yesterday, if she was eating properly…he had been thankful he had just swallowed…or he would have choked on the food from laughter at Minerva’s glare to the Medi-witch who was unaware of the jaunts the Deputy Headmistress was traversing between every class, from the seventh to the third floor and back again without being caught…not as though his travels were much less coming from the dungeon to the second floor while avoiding Umbridge.
He had needed to lose a pound or two, but he had to agree with Minerva’s tirade the night before last. Dolores’ ineptness was reaching new heights and if she wasn’t stopped soon, they – both her and Severus, would be a solid two sizes smaller.
With that thought…he pulled the door to his classroom close, thankful another tedious day under the purview of Dolores Umbridge was coming to an end…and he only need to ascend the steps once more for the day.
Tiredly, he grabbed the banister and then dropped his hand as faint words drifted to his ears and he felt his persona quickly slip back into place. His steps quickening, face set in a scowl as he neared the top of the stairs in time to see Minerva burst through the doors in a dead run…
Instantly Severus reacted, his wand already out as he sprinted forward taking two and three steps at a time to reach the top. He could hear Hagrid’s booming voice…and then he stepped around the stone archway as red blasts of light lit up the night and stunners flew toward the Hogwart’s Groundskeeper. Severus barely took one step out the door when Minerva’s words danced across the air, and as if choreographed…all four wizards turned upon Minerva…and Severus watched in horror as the Head of Gryffindor House, the Deputy Headmistress…and the most unusual of titles, his friend, was struck by 4 stunners and her body was thrown backwards across Hogwarts as though she were a string marionette being jerked across the stage.
Without thought, he cast a Patronus charm and sent it to Poppy before his body was flying down the steps, toward Minerva. Merlin don’t be dead…he thought as the dew from the grass soaked his shins.
A lifetime could have been held in the scant seconds he slid to a halt in front of her body, Umbridge heading his…their way. He cast a glance towards the Headmistress, if one could call her that, before kneeling beside McGonagall while casting the counter spells.
“If I were you, Professor Snape, I’d be more concerned about your welfare than Dumbledore’s puppet.” Her squeaky voice ground out.
Snape bit back his anger, ensuring his voice remained the model of tranquility. “I assure you, my welfare is my paramount concern, Headmistress.” At the sight of her dimpled smile, Snape continued on. “However, as Professor McGonagall is one of the premier witches in Britain, it would look…poorly for Hogwarts were she to die upon the property.” Snape didn’t turn, but could hear Poppy’s unusual gait nearing them.
Umbridge nodded, “Right you are.” She placed her stocky fingers upon his shoulder squeezing it. “Quick thinking, Professor.” She moved back, as Poppy came within hearing distance. “Please see to it that the appropriate measures are in place to prevent that.”
“Minerva!” Poppy uttered, although Snape continued to ignore as he quickly worked to remove Umbridge from the situation.
“I shall report back as soon as she has been transferred to St. Mungo’s.”
Umbridge nodded and was already turning back toward Hagrid’s to speak with the other wizards as Poppy began scanning Minerva. Fury lining her voice, “What happened?”
“Four stunners to the chest.” He responded, “The counter spells…”
Poppy waved her wand, “Will do no good. I need to get her to St. Mungo’s.” Her eyes drifting to Umbridge.
“She’s already agreed.” Severus responded to the Medi-witch.
Poppy shook her head, waving her wand to lift Minerva, “I would ask why she agreed so readily, but I fear I would not like the answer.”
Severus eyed the pale woman in emerald robes, “Will she live?”
“I don’t know, Severus.” She stated, making her way toward the main gates…Severus beside her. “She’s a strong witch…” Poppy felt a trail of tears slip down her eyelashes. “But four stunners to the chest…is lethal at the age of 20…let alone over 70.”
No more words were spoken between the two until Severus opened the gates, and Poppy stepped through…passed the wards and into an apparation point. “Please let me know as soon as you have additional news.”
“I take it you will find a way to contact the Headmaster?” Poppy asked, knowing that Albus would wish to be informed as soon as possible regarding his Deputy.
“Not I, but a message shall be delivered.” He replied.
“Then you shall be informed.” Poppy replied…and with a loud crack…both Poppy and the eerily still body of Minerva McGonagall vanished…leaving Severus to ponder her parting words, and the daunting task of informing the Order about Minerva’s grim prognosis…and subsequently…the Headmaster – who was his employer, his colleague, his mentor…his friend that Minerva McGonagall had been gravelly wounded. The same Minerva who was his Deputy, who had been his best friend for decades…whom Albus had entrusted her safety to him…
Snape turned back to Hogwarts…trying to garner a moment of strength from it’s hallowed walls before summoning a piece of parchment. The one that greeted his hand, must have come from Hagrid’s…it was crinkled and smelt of batter and butterbear…but at least he could send the note that was necessary. Sighing, he pulled out his wand and cast a simple spell…the necessary words quickly appearing onto the parchment before it rolled up in his hand, and he sealed the center before he concentrated…and apparated to Grimwald Place and back within a heartbeat…the only missing cargo…the parchment, that now rest upon the kitchen table.
Idly he wondered who would find the note, Sirius or perhaps Lupin…and if fortune favored him, then Alastor would. But, it mattered not who found it…as long as it was sent on to the rest of the Order, including Dumbledore. He shivered at the notion of the Headmaster receiving the ill news regarding McGonagall. Truth be told…he thought as he turned back towards Hogwarts, he was quite glad not to be the messenger in this instance – for he was assured that Albus’ reaction would be less than congenial.
Snape had never understood their relationship and gave up trying years ago, but he had long ago grasped the fundamentals – they were best friends and as close or closer than family, but as for the more part – he doubted it. And so…they existed, together at Hogwarts shaping the minds of the Wizarding world’s future. He the flamboyant Headmaster, she the quiet and down to earth Deputy…his tendencies for the eccentric, hers toward orderliness…her logic to his spontaneity…their lives bringing balance to the other. Their lives so poignantly intertwined, one name often predicated the other – not as a lover or wife, like so many others…but something more and yet less…just as their relationship lived, almost but not quite.
Wearily he stepped through the gates, a stray thought striking a nerve as Severus recalled all the meetings involving the Dark Lord…and though it had never been verbalized, it was known to all of the Death Eaters – Minerva McGonagall was not to be attacked unless in defense or an attack had been authorized upon Hogwarts itself. Otherwise…she was to remain, untouched and unharmed. No Death Eater questioned it, nor spoke of it…leaving Snape to wonder if there was an unspoken rule between Dumbledore and the Dark Lord…or if even the Dark Lord feared the repercussions of hurting Minerva.
With a flick of his hand, the gates closed…and began walking back toward Hogwarts…and for the first time in his life…it felt empty, as though the heart of the great castle had been removed. And the notion scarred him.
Chapter 2 ~ Alastor Moody
Alastor had seen a flash from the living room, and had his wand drawn as he entered the kitchen only to find a crinkled piece of parchment sitting beside the waning candle.
“What in Slytherin’s name…” He reached over, and slit the parchment open. Grumbling at someone’s less than efficient manner…but his thoughts were waylaid as his eyes scanned the 3 lines of text on the hastily scribbled parchment.
‘Hagrid escaped, but MM took 4 stunners in the chest. She was alive and has been taken to St. Mungos. Prognosis grave. Will update as available. Please inform the rest of the Order. SS’
With a tear prickling his blue eye, his fingers were already crunching the paper into a ball wishing ill on the cowards who called themselves wizards, as he conjured his Patronus and sent the message verbatim to the remaining members.
His mind quickly conjuring how the members of the Order would take the news; Molly would be horrified that Minerva had been so severely injured at Hogwarts where her children went, Arthur would be concerned as to her welfare, Lupin would feel as he had – wondering how the devil Minerva had been caught so unawares, Sirius would want answers…and seek revenge upon those who would so blatantly ignore the rules of combat – especially against his esteemed Head of House, Albus…his thoughts screeched to a halt at that name and his reaction.
For the relationship between Albus Dumbledore, the Headmaster of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry and Minerva McGonagall, the Deputy Headmistress of Hogwarts was something between sister, brother, best friend, colleague, friend, employee/employer…and dare he utter the word lover.
As a student Alastor had watched their unique interaction as one that encompassed the meaning of professional – and yet they were warmly comfortable with each other. Both had been his Head of House, Dumbledore his first three years before becoming Headmaster – McGonagall his last four. Both had excelled at the task, in every way…they embodied the meaning of Gryffindor. They had pushed their students to see magic and life in a new light, and filled with possibilities. Dumbledore’s words still echoing through his head, ‘You are only limited by your imagination.’ Quickly followed by McGonagall’s, ‘Your life is not contingent upon your magic, but your magic is contingent upon your life.’ And yet, they both seemed to push the other…forcing each to view the world through different lenses and creating a new perspective.
Beginning his apprenticeship at the Ministry and working as a liaison to Hogwarts, Alastor began to see their relationship in a very different light than the one he believed he had understood as a student. One that caused him to redefine his very core belief of the man known as Albus Dumbledore. For wherever Dumbledore walked, Minerva seemed to be there, lighting the way for him. And he began to wonder if Albus’ greatness was truly his alone, or was it in fact based upon the witch who remained steadfast lighting his way though she herself lingered in the shadows – seeking no glory or fame. It was as if those attributes were the very antithesis to her being.
Now, decades later, and through very jaded eyes he had looked upon both Albus and Minerva. Despite the passage of time, he was surprised that both names were still the embodiment of hope. Though neither seemed to exist without the other, one name instantly conjuring the other. And he found himself wondering if throughout the years, the pain…the heartache…how they had managed to remain so true…and brimming with hope. They carried with them enough hope to fill a world.
It was as though they were diametrically equal and opposite. Two halves of a whole…at that thought he shook his head. Surely, if they had been lovers…he would have seen something other than her arm draped through his after knowing them for 40 years. Especially with his magical eye…and yet…for a one moment – he, wanted to believe in the fantastical. But…it mattered not…he thought as his eye focused upon the ball of parchment, his heart clenching…for if he wished to believe, then he had just sent word to half of the whole, that the other half – may have been mortally wounded, and a shadow may have befallen the light that had so steadfastly lit his way for decades – bringing darkness to all.
Chapter 3 ~ Molly & Arthur Weasley
Molly pushed her chair back, fingers wrapping around the edge of the plate when she felt the family wards shift – her eyes darting to her husband who was already pulling his wand out when Alastor’s Patronus darted through the door, and instantly transforming into a ghostly message.
“Oh dear.” Molly uttered as she realized the meaning of the Patronus, “The children.”
“I’m sure Severus is seeing to them, dear.” Arthur said reaching out to wrap his fingers around his wife’s hand.
Molly turned to him, “What would make Umbride attack both Hagrid and Minerva?”
“I doubt it is as colorful as the Prophet will make it in the morning.” Arthur shook his head, “And I do hope she pulls through the night.”
“As do I…” Her voice breaking, “I shudder to think what Dumbledore will do if something happens to Minerva.”
“I’m sure he would be one of many wizards and witches expressing their dismay at how the esteemed witch was treated, she has after all been at Hogwarts for a very long time.”
“Dear, I think you underestimate the care with which he feels for her.”
Arthur did a double take, “Surely not.” His eyes as large as saucers, “You must be mistaken, Molly.”
She shook her head, “Have you not seen the way he stares after her once she has left the room?”
“He stares after her no more than any other person, witch or wizard.” He countered.
“Tell me then,” She pulled her hand back, crossing her arms, “When was the last time one was without the other? They are like two peas and a pod.”
“But that would come about by merely working with another person for decades, dear. You are reading far too much into their friendship.” Arthur paused as he thought back through his life and the encounters with McGonagall and Dumbledore. “Through our years at Hogwarts, do you recall any event where they were anything but professional?”
Molly opened her mouth to rebut his question, and found herself stopping. His question had merit and as she recounted her life at school, she could think of naught one instance…and then she remembered… “I recall just one instance.” She stated, causing his brow to arch. “It was at our Yule Ball during our fifth year.” Arthur found himself thinking back to that evening, frowning at the overall event. It had not been a tremendously successful evening as far as he was concerned, Molly had after all gone with Richard to the Ball.
“I don’t remember …”
“Men…” She mumbled, “Of course you don’t, and I daresay most students hadn’t noticed, but…” Molly found herself smiling at the memory. “I remember towards the end of the evening, the two danced…and…I happened to be getting some punch when I looked up and found myself just staring, Arthur. I have never seen another couple dance as they did that night, it was magical.” As he opened his mouth to say something, she snapped, “And don’t patronize me saying they are just both good dancers, Arthur.”
He held up his hand, “Even if you are correct dear, he’s never showed any outward signs nor uttered a word.”
“Nor has she.” Molly whispered as she gazed at her husband lovingly. Wondering how in Merlin she could live a life where she never showed an ounce of emotion outside of the realm of friendship to the man she loved.
“We will be there for him nonetheless.” He stated, leaning across the table to gently kiss her lips.
As his lips touched hers, she was thankful she would never have to know that feeling. And then she leaned back, a smile touching the corners of her eyes, “Perhaps I should go to St. Mungos to stay with her until tomorrow.” She started to back up, but was stopped by her husband’s grip upon her hands.
“Go in the morning, love. If you are correct, then I believe Dumbledore would be there tonight and she could use the company in the morning.”
“And how in Merlin’s beard will he be getting into St. Mungo’s?”
Arthur shrugged, “The man is sharper than the whole of the Ministry.”
Molly felt a warm smile begin to overshadow her worry at the thought, and the possible motivation for him to go…but then she felt a pang of doubt. “You know Arthur…I could be all wrong…”
Chapter 4 ~ Nymphadora Tonks
Tonks flipped the file onto her desk, “Bloody worthless.” She grumbled, her raspberry hair turning lime green as she shot Kingsley a knowing look.
Oliuvette glared at the young witch over his octaganol glasses. “I expect your report on my desk before the end of the day.”
She shrugged, “Of course.” Her voice barely reaching Kingsley’s ears as she sauntered by. “Sending an Auror to Knockturn Alley because of a tip from Lucius.”
What was the Ministry coming to? She thought as the door to the elevator opened and she nodded to canary yellow robed wizard – Michael Masters, who worked in the Department of Magical Law Enforcement.
“The Ministry has you running ragged.” The elder gentleman stated, his graying hair edging out from beneath his matching hat.
“Your department has been pulling just as many long days as we have…” Tonks frowned, feeling a swell of magic around her leg as she finished. “I don’t know the percentage of your calls, but over half of ours are unvalidated.”
She never heard his response as a whisp of smoke swirled about her legs in the elevator and as she glanced down, faint words fluttered across her eyes – causing her to gasp slightly.
“Everything alright Tonks?” Masters asked looking concerned as he watched the bright lime color virtually melt away…leaving a pale face with short russet hair.
She tried to cast him an easy smile. “Quite. Just a cramp in my leg.”
He nodded easing back silently wondering if he was looking at her natural hair color… “You need to eat a healthier diet, it’ll prevent all types of disorders –“ His eye darted to her leg and then back to her peculiar hazel eyes, she was beautiful. “Including cramps.”
Tonks was spared a response as the door opened to the Atrium, her exit. She muttered a thanks and was through the door like a bolt, her mind working equally as fast.
McGonagall had been attacked?!?! How in Hogwarts had she let that happened? Of course, she knew that wizards and witches slowed down a bit as they aged…but for the Professor to have slowed down to Umbridge’s speed, it just wasn’t bloody likely. Her eyes darted towards the floo network, I wonder…were they Ministry Aurors who attacked on Umbridge’s commands thereby surprising McGonagall…
A flash green from the floo networks brought her to the present, and the realization that went with it. If the Ministry authorized an attack on Minerva McGonagall…there would an uprising…Tonks shook her head knowing full well the Ministry would disavow any and all knowledge. They had too. It was one thing to attack Albus Dumbledore…he was eccentric…often times bordering on crazy…but Minerva McGonagall? It was uncouth. You would no more have called the Queen a bloody Yank versus McGonagall being called anything other than a patriot…who had schooled over half of Britania.
She began walking toward the designated apparation points. She had an assignment to complete…and then….
Tonks drew herself up…
She’d head to Grimmauld Place to find out who had attacked the Professor and wait in the undoubtedly long line wanting retribution.
Retribution...or revenge? Her consciousness asked, causing her to hold the image of Knockturn Alley for a moment longer as she processed the question.
For who in the Order would want either? They were there to draw the line against the dark wizards…against He Who Must Not Be Named, not join them in their cause. But…who wouldn’t want a moment of satisfaction, even Dumbledore…her brain stopped at the mere thought. No, she shook her head as if to pry free the mere notion, he would never seek revenge…not even for McGonagall.
Or would he? She was his best friend…had been known him for half a century…was like…she paused searching for the right word only to find another analogy that was apropos. A wand to a wizard…who had seemed to be the heart while she attended Hogwarts…or perhaps Minerva had become the heart that beat within the man who was the soul of Hogwarts.
The very notion of the great Albus Dumbledore infuriated…and seeking revenge, caused a shiver to shoot down her spine – not because of what he could be capable of. No, she thought, her heart hammering in her chest…it was that for the first time since she had known the revered Headmaster – she feared his unwavering control might slip and he would act before thought. And that scared her…far more than anything else had in her life, even the threat of the He Who Must Not Be Named.
Merlin, she thought, please don’t let it be the Ministry behind her attack…or may God have mercy upon all of us…because she truly didn’t know if Dumbledore would.
Chapter 5 ~ Albus Percival Wulfric Brian Dumbledore
Chuckling, Albus scanned Minerva’s letter again. “I’m surprised she hasn’t hexed Dolores, my friend, after the latest incident involving Harry.” He stated as he cast a warm gaze at Fawkes who trilled quietly in response. “I daresay, it is only a matter of time or another handful of Ministry Decrees before even her reserve cracks.” Despite the long day, he felt his smile spreading as he pictured Minerva’s temper being unleashed against Dolores. The poor witch obviously didn’t know the fire she was toying with. Even he wouldn’t deliberately provoke Minerva.
There was no denying it…he thought, as he reached up and brushed Fawkes coat, he missed Hogwarts – more importantly his best friend. For even on the bleakest of days, she had the ability to irrevocably lighten his mood, even today through a simple note. He’d find a way to make it up to her, for not only watching over Hogwarts, but helping him to stay grounded these past two months. “Perhaps a few dinners away from the Castle.” Fawkes cocked his head, causing another chuckle to slip out from the blue-eyed wizard. “You’re right of course, it’ll take more and should require more than a few hours of my time to let Minerva know how much I appreciate…”
The rest of his sentence went unsaid as Albus felt the wards room shift, his wand already out before a Patronus in the shape of a Beaver swirled through the door…and into a mystic message, that left him breathless as his previously high spirited mood evaporated with the vaporous message. Tears were stinging against his eyes as the words reverberated through his brain. Hagrid on the run. MM’s at St. Mungos. 4 stunners to the chest. Prognosis grim.
4 stunners to the chest…he shook his head, trying to focus. 4 stunners…a tear slipped off his lashes, dripping onto her forgotten letter.
“…Mi..nerva…” His raw voice whispered as time seemed to draw to a standstill, the wizard peering off into the distance at seeming nothingness, his mind recreating the horrid scene. First one flash, then two…the forth striking before her body was flying across Hogwarts grounds, her emerald robes fluttering unknowingly against the breeze and he felt his stomach drop as he imagined her body’s hard impact against the earth.
He tried to pull an image of her smiling over at him while seated at dinner in the Great Hall…or perhaps her brilliant smile as she turned to him knowingly upon the Quidditch pitch as her beloved Gryffindor’s won the game…or sitting across from her as the fire crackled in his study while sipping tea – her jade eyes staring intently upon the chess board as the corner of her mouth twitched in concentration; but no image save for the one he had just created would come to him.
The image of his beloved friend being catapulted across the grounds of his home…for what reason? Her face staring blankly up at the stars, her mind screaming for relief as her broken body remained immobilized in pain.
My dear…4 stunners…he felt a tear run down his weathered cheek. Why didn’t you defend yourself? He almost choked from the anguish settling upon his soul. Dear Merlin, Minerva…you…could have died…
Relief swept through him and then died within the same heartbeat as his brain corrected its last phrase.
You could…still die…
Then as if a whirlwind came through, bringing both clarity and focus – the wizard snapped back to the present, blue eyes seeing the world before him as he stood, calling his cloak to him and his wand before his long strides carried him through the door. If she were going to live or die…then he would be there. The world be damned…The frame shaking from the force as the wizard flicked the door close, his mind already on his destination and not upon the world around him.
Chapter 6 ~ The Maraurders
“Bishop to…” Sirius stopped as Alastor’s words drifted up through the board…his eyes reading the ethereal message anger boiling up from deep within as he glanced towards Mooney whose usually pale face had turned ashen. “I bet Snape planned this…” He ground out.
Sirius’ voice pulled Remus from the pain wallowing up within, the world snapping back into focus. “No, Sirius.” He shook his head as he recalled their interactions he had witnessed two years ago. “They are far better friends than one would believe.”
Agast at the implied notion, his voice rose in pitch. “Surely they aren’t…”
Remus held up his hand, “Calm yourself, they are only friends.” He watched his friend breath a sigh of relief before continuing. “Good friends, though. I don’t know the hows or whys, but there is a trust between them that can only stem from friendship.”
“And you’re sure that there is nothing…” He asked disbelieving, but want to disbelieve all the same. He could not imagine Minerva McGonagall loving Severus Snape…a Gryffindor and Slytherin who were the epitome of their houses. He’d always quietly harbored the hope that perhaps she and the Headmaster would become more or were more than just ‘best’ friends.
Despite the gut wrenching news that was still reverberating through his body, Lupin found a laugh bubbling up from his chest and before he could stop it, he was chuckling at Sirius’ obvious disdain for the his momentary belief. “I am quite certain, my friend.” He said between gasps, relief flooding Black’s face causing Lupin’s laughter to double – tears falling from his eyes. “Only friends…as,” He straightened up, the joy from the moment dissipating as he finished his thought aloud and the gravity of the news again weighing heavily upon his soul. “Their level of friendship will never be equivalent to that which she has with Dumbledore.”
“I’ve always wondered if they were more than friends, myself.” Sirius stated, fingers idylly drumming the oak table. “That’s why I couldn’t imagine Snape and…” His voice trailing off as he watched Remus who seemed to be pondering his own statement.
“You know…” He sat up just a bit straighter, enabling him to lean closer. His voice barely that of a whisper, “There was an instance when we were in school that caused me to believe that for a long time, but I have never seen another…not even while teaching at Hogwarts.”
“What happened, and why didn’t you ever tell...”
“You must promise not to speak a word of this.” Black furrowed his brow, but Lupin pressed him. “Your word.”
His curiosity instantly had him seek compliance, “You have it. Now what happened?”
“It was an evening after a full moon…I had been in the Hospital wing recovering when I decided to leave.” He arched his eyebrow, and Sirius instantly understood without further explanation – Remus had been bored and had opted to stretch his legs so to speak. “I was heading toward Gryffindor Tower, between the fifth and sixth floor staircase when all of the staircases...stopped moving and as if order, instantly realigned and Dumbledore stepped out of the wall between the sixth and seventh floor and was sprinting up the handful of stairs two at a time – past the Gryffindor Tower entrance…to McGonagall’s door and without hesitation he opened it…and before I could really see anything it was closing, however, I did hear his greeting when he walked in… ‘My dear…I just heard, why didn’t…’ and then the door snapped close.”
Lupin was shaking his head, “I was going to tell everyone the next morning, figuring there was something going on between the two and see what you or James could find out.” He paused as he recalled Dumbledore’s haunted expression as he had entered the Hospital wing, “After seeing them, I bolted back down to the Hospital wing, and remained through the night. The next morning, very early, Dumbledore came in and asked Poppy to watch Gryffindor Tower for the day and a sleeping draught. When she asked why, he was reluctant to answer and then quietly stated that Minerva’s two brothers – the last of her family had been killed by Death Eaters the night before.” Lupin met his friend’s penetrating gaze with his own, “I remember leaving there, expecting her classes to be cancelled for the day – only to find her there, teaching as though nothing had happened. After class, I told you that I’d catch up in a minute, and once everyone left – I approached her. I had no idea what I was going to say, but I wanted to say something. She glanced up from her desk, a shadow in her eyes that she covered with a light smile and asked if there was something I needed…
“Actually, Professor, I just wanted to say…” Remus paused as he drummed up the courage, but then footsteps could be heard entering and then pausing at the door’s threshold. “Thank you for all you’ve done for me. It means a lot.”
Minerva smiled at the young wizard, “You are quite welcome, Mr. Lupin. Now…get moving or you’ll be late to Charms.”
He nodded, silently wishing he had said how much she meant to him…and that he would be there for here, even if she didn’t have family…he’d be her family as she had been for him. He took one step backwards, before nodding to her, and turning on his heel and drawing up short at seeing the Headmaster standing just inside the frame smiling at him, eyes twinkling.
Remus gave a curt nod as he stated, “Headmaster.” Walking past him. He was quite surprised when Dumbledore fell in step beside him.
“Mr. Lupin, I take it you were not asleep this morning when I visited the Hospital.”
Remus’ steps faltered, breathing catching in his throat as he tried to meet the piercing blue gaze of the Headmaster. “No, Sir.”
Dumbledore dropped his head just enough, enabling him to look over the rim of his half moon glasses. “Then, I trust that you shall not repeat any aspect of that conversation, even with your friends.”
He felt himself nodding as a question tumbled from his lips without thought, “Sir, how’d they die?”
“As any Gryffindor does, Mr. Lupin, bravely.” He reached into one of his pockets, pulling out a small inlaid pocket watch. “Now off to class, Mr. Lupin.”
“Yes, Sir.” He replied and had taken three steps before Dumbledore’s voice reached his ears, “And I believe she’d be honored to be included as part of the family Mr. Lupin.”
Remus’ head turned back to look over his shoulder, “She’s done so much for me…and others. I hope she realizes how much she means to people, Sir.” Remus never heard the faint response uttered by the Headmaster as he headed towards his charms class.
“For the next few days, he seemed to be every where McGonagall went, but it was nothing overt. Just there, supporting her. If I hadn’t been sensitive about the situation, I would never had known nor realized that something was amiss. I use to wonder if they were more than good friends, too.” He shook his head, a sad smile crossing his face. “And on occasion I even wished for it…they are far closer than most married couples I’ve known. There must be a reason or something that has prevented them, I don’t know.” Lupin shrugged, “But I do know that Albus will be devastated if she dies.”
“And you won’t be?” Black asked, “She’s been like a mother to you, to me…to any one who can call themselves a Gryffindor.”
“Yes, but…” He paused, searching for the words. “It’s different, Sirius. I can’t describe it, and there is no outward proof other than the very occasional lingering glance by one or the other…”
“Or the dark circles that remains forever present when the opposite is on guard duty for an evening.”
“Or how one seems to finish the others sentences…”
“Merlin, Remus…devastated isn’t the word.” Sirius leaned back, eyes straying to his own memories of McGonagall and Dumbledore throughout the years. The added bounce in his step when she was near, the smile in her eyes that only he seemed able to bring out… How does someone feel after their entire world has been taken away from them, and they had never known it – until it was too late? “That’ll be how we feel.”
Chapter 7 ~ Tom Riddle ~ Lord Voldemort ~ He Who Must Not Be Named
Voldemort turned away from Wormtail, his eyes instantly noticing the blue light emanating from around the worn book upon the table. “I am in need of food,” He turned his piercing gaze to the sniveling man.
Wormtail gobbled some air as he shook his head and vacated the room before Voldemort had reached the table. His long fingers gracefully caressing the top of the book before turning the milky parchment over.
He watched as Snape’s familiar script blanketed the page…the content causing the snake wound tightly around his heart to ease for a moment as a faint mist covered his red eyes.
‘McGonagall struck by 4 stunners to the chest, she survived the initial attack but is at St. Mungos. Her injuries were grievous. Was an attack authorized against Hogwarts? Or is Umbridge, Wilks, Devonshire, Berksin or Forsyeth under the Impervious Curse and ordered to attack McGonogall? Please advise regarding current orders and affiliations.’
Without turning, he snapped the door close before allowing his head to drop, hands braced on either side of the book his shoulders slumping as anguish beat in harmony with his pulse, coursing through him. 4 stunners would have killed a lesor witch or wizard without doubt, but Minerva McGonagall was no mere witch. He pulled his head up, fingers curling into a fist as his head dropped back enough to look toward the ceiling…her lips ghostly brushing his cheek and her warm smile lifting the burdening weight within his heart spawning a lone tear to fall and remain forever unknown upon his silk robes. She was the bravest witch he had ever met, and the only one who treated each person equitably – without prejudice.
Slowly the anguish was turning into anger…
She had been kind to him at a point in his life where she could easily have treated him as others had…and for a moment during his brief recovery under her care, he had imagined a life where she had taken the last name of Riddle…and born a child…but…the fire he wished to temper would never bend to power.
He slammed his fists down upon the table, banishing his moment of weakness. It did not do to dwell upon flights of fancy. Picking up his wand, he sent Severus a response…
‘The Ministry’s toad Umbridge remains the sole architect of the attack.’
He closed the book, the tips of his fingers feeling the slight imperfections upon the worn skin as thought of the men from the Ministry.
“Those fools.” He hissed, “They do not realize…”
He thought back to the ancient text penned in Salazar’s hand… ‘For there shall be two connected to Hogwarts – the hearts which beat. One may be taken, but not two…’
It had taken him a quarter of a century and less than savory methods, but he had discovered the meaning riddled within Salazar’s cryptic hand. There were always two connected to Hogwarts; presently one was Dumbledore…the other McGonagall…
Even he would not risk the destruction of Hogwarts…and being as it was Minerva’s life he could spare – then all the better.
For she may not willing succumb to his charms…but even now, her allure was captivating and he wanted very much to taste the woman, Minerva McGonagall.
A growl of fury wound its way from his throat as Wormtail entered the chamber with a food laden pattern balanced in his hand.
“Master…” His sentence went unfinished as Voldemort spun around to face him, fire dancing in his red eyes.
“I am leaving.” His gangly fingers already wrapping around his wand as he glided toward the door.
Wormtail grabbed a piece of cheese as he set the plate down, dutifully following. “I thought…you said…” He jammed the aged Swiss into his mouth. “We were going to wait…”
Voldemort grabbed the cloak flying towards him, “We are…” His eyes slid from Wormtail to Nagini and back, “I will return, shortly.” Deftly, he swung the coat over his shoulders and head before he vanished leaving a befuddled follower and faithful servant as he went to take care of the Ministry’s blunder.
Chapter 8 ~ Minerva McGonagall
Blackness swirled through her consciousness as she forced her leaden eyes to open, to no avail. Instead, she forced her mind to remain awake, staving off the blanket that threatened to swarm, focusing on her surroundings and the faint noises that permeated through the fog.
Minutes or perhaps hours, or dread she believe, days passed and still it became no easier. Her thoughts drifted in and out as she vaguely wondered why her mind remained alert but not truly conscious. How could a simple stunner have done this to her? She mused. She had been stunned before, ample times, but this…and then she remembered, it was not merely one stunner. It was four.
She had taken four stunners to the chest when she had run down to save Hagrid. Despite the knowledge and the worry pertaining to both herself and her friend, she found her mind migrating to a time where pain did not beat in rhythm with her pulse and her spirit was once again free.
Twinkling blue eyes stared over his wire frames at the board…
“You’re brooding.” She said chuckling.
His eyes flicked up to hers, “No, I’m strategizing.”
“You’ve lost…” The smile seemingly affixed to her lips, “I’ll take your knight in two moves and your king in six.”
He dropped his eyes, once again to the board. “I believe I can drag it out a few more moves, perhaps…” He reached across the board and moved his remaining pawn. “Even take the game.”
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