Nasty Surprises

[TartanPhoenix]

Disclaimer: Alas I own them not. Everything in the wonderous Harry Potter universe belongs to J.K.Rowling.

AN: I wrote this one awhile ago but didn't know if I wanted to post or not. It's a little darker than I usually write. On with the story.

It had been a month, one month since they had taken his precious Minerva. Albus Dumbledore was sitting in the Great hall, staring out at the students. The sky above their heads was dark and forbidding due to a late rainstorm, matching the mood of the castles occupants perfectly. The leaving feast was drawing to a close, and the hall had never been more somber. None of the students cheered as Gryffindor won the house cup for the third year in a row; they all just sat and ate in silence as they thought of their missing transfiguration professor, the rain outside pounding against the windows.

It happened on the last Hogsmeade visit before exams were set to begin. Minerva was supervising the students that day, along with Severus, but even she seemed to be enjoying the warm weather, laughing and talking to various students and villagers as she passed, a rare smile gracing her normally stern lips.

It was just after lunch when the unthinkable happened. She was leaving the Three
Broomsticks, after having lunch with Rosemerta, when a group of Death Eaters apparated into the village. Screams echoed in the small streets as women ushered their children into their homes. Minerva immediately pushed the screaming students into the pub and stood guard at the doors as other wizards began to emerge, trying to protect their families. It turned out there was no need. All five Death Eaters turned on Minerva, their wands pointing directly at her chest.

The tallest of the group strode forward, and in a bored tone said, “You have two options. Come quietly or come unconscious; it doesn’t really matter.”

Minerva just raised her wand, a wry smirk on her face. “How about not at all?”

Three red jets fired from their wands and hit Minerva square in the chest before anyone could react. Her body seemed to rise off the ground for a moment and glow, but in the next moment she was tumbling back to the ground, her wand falling from her limp hand. The one who had spoken reached out and grabbed her wand, he threw it toward the shocked onlookers as he held her arm and apparated away. They had what they had come for, and any delay could only result in their own punishment from the dark lord.

It was a few moments before Severus had arrived, and even longer before he could gather the story from several of the terrified students. He collected the students, and Minerva’s wand, and began the trip to the castle, sending an owl ahead with most of the details. Albus and the other house heads met them at the doors, and Albus immediately noticed Minerva’s absence. After all the students were accounted for, Albus led Severus into his office.

Once Albus had taken a seat in his favorite chair, Severus stood in front of him, pulling his hand out of his cloak. Albus recognized the wand in Severus’ hand immediately and began shaking his head in disbelief and horror.

Severus held it out and uttered his only words for the rest of the day. “ I’m sorry Albus; I didn’t know.”

Albus looked at the proffered wand before taking it in his hands, letting the tears slide down his aged face. It was the first time anyone, other than Minerva, had seen him cry, and the sight was enough to break even Severus’ cold heart.

For a month Order members scoured the countryside in search of their friend, but they had no luck. No one had seen or heard anything, at least nothing they would share. Albus had taken over teaching her classes, and his colleagues were worried. Only two members of the staff, Poppy and Severus, were aware of their marriage, but the rest knew of the close friendship they shared. Albus had been running on instinct since that day. He didn’t speak to anyone outside of class, and his eyes had completely lost their spark. He could be seen wandering the corridors in the evening, staring out the window in search of his precious Minerva.

Albus finally took one last look at the empty chair on his right; no one dared to sit in her seat, and started to stand, ready to make his final address of the year. He never got the chance, however, as an owl flew into the hall, landing directly in front of him. The owl was a large, menacing looking bird that only stuck his leg out to have to parcel it carried untied.

When the parcel was removed the bird disappeared out the nearest window leaving a baffled Albus in its wake. “Who would be sending me a post now,” he wondered as the paper fell away. A note and a sickle fell onto the table. As Albus read the note, his eyes began to burn, and a choked cry emanated from his throat, startling those surrounding him.


Hello Dumbledore,
I must say you do have exquisite taste in whores. This one has cried for a month, but she refuses to tell me anything. No matter, I enjoyed her all the same. I can certainly see why you kept her around; does she groan like that for you as well? I decided since I was finished with her, I would send her back. She seems to have lost her spunk over the last few days, and I have tired of her. I should warn you, she is a bit of a mess, my companions were a little rough with her last night. I would have killed her outright, but really, where’s the fun in that? It is a shame I can’t be there to see your face, but some other time perhaps.
Lord Voldemort
P.S. Tell Minerva I said hello; the sickle is for services rendered. Make sure she gets it, won’t you?

No sooner had Albus finished reading the note a bright green flash came from the sickle and a form fell onto the table, knocking away most of the food and silverware, hitting the table with a sickening thud. It was a woman and she was covered in blood, and one could see the large gashes that crisscrossed her body. Large bruises and broken bones were quite evident on her naked form.

Albus looked down, and recognition flickered immediately across his mind as he saw the small mole on the woman’s left shoulder; he always thought it looked like a shamrock. Albus quickly covered her with his outer robes, not even remembering getting them off. It was only a moment before the shock wore off amongst the students and the rest of the staff, all of whom began screaming and scrambling around, trying to get a better look at the scene unfolding before them.

Albus looked up as Poppy Pomfrey approached him at a run. He couldn’t keep the fear out of his voice as he spoke, “Poppy it’s her. She needs help.”

[Sensiblyquirky]

Oh this is so sad! Please let Minerva be alright.

Christy

[griseldalafey]

Ow *shudders* That's really dad

[TabbyForever]

Nooooooo poor min!!!!
Oh My God, thats the saddest thing ever!!!!
I hope she'll be ok!!!!
Tabs

[Isabelle]

Oh, I do hope Minerva will be all right. That was so sad.
Hope fully she will get better.

Liz

[TartanPhoenix]

Part 2

Poppy’s wand was out before she ever reached his side. She quickly started muttering examination spells under her breath as different lights were emitted from her wand. She looked into Albus’ eyes, fear flashing on her face as she spoke. “Hospital wing. Now.”

Albus had his wife in his arms and half way out the door before she had ever finished speaking. Minerva was becoming slick in his arms as her blood seeped through his robes, threatening to tumble at any moment. Albus could hear the booming voice of Severus as he made his way out the staff entrance and into the dim corridor, but the younger man’s words didn’t register in his mind.

Pulling her body closer to his own, Albus began running through the corridor toward the Hospital Wing, the click of Poppy’s heels not far behind him. “Faster..Faster,” was all that ran through Albus’ mind as he entered the Wing and carefully deposited Minerva on the first available bed. He couldn’t dare remove the robe from her as he waited for Poppy to catch up, afraid of what he could find. Somehow he managed to lose her along the second floor. This was his first opportunity to glimpse his darling Minerva, and the sight of her sickened him.

Her normally beautiful features were contorted in unimaginable pain and fear. They had hacked away her flowing hair so it hung limply around her face, and several cuts adorned her cheeks. Just as he was about to reach out and touch her, Poppy came running through the doors and rushed to Minerva’s side.

“I know you’re worried Albus, but you need to wait while I try to help her. Go wait in my office, it will be quiet there.” She was quickly pushing him out of the way as the screens appeared around Minerva’s bed. Poppy saw the look of anguish in Albus’ eyes. “Please Albus, go. She doesn’t have much time, and you don’t want to see this. I’ll come as soon as I can.”

With that Poppy’s head disappeared behind the screen, and Albus was left standing alone in the wing, staring into the blank screens, searching for answers that wouldn’t come.

He slowly made his way into Poppy’s office and took the seat behind her desk. He couldn’t stand to sit in the waiting chairs; they always seemed to bring bad news. Albus stared into space as the events during dinner played across his mind. He had his Minerva back, but now it looked like he may lose her again, and there was nothing he could do to stop it. He felt useless and it ate away at him. Albus had seen many horrors in his time, but the sight of her arrival at dinner would be seared into his memory forever.

Eight hours later Albus was absentmindedly playing with his wedding ring as Poppy entered his office, looking more tired than he had ever seen her. She was shaking as she took a seat across from him, her trembling hand coming to rest over his. Albus looked toward their old friend and noticed she couldn’t look him in the eye.

Hers were focused on their hands as she struggled to find the words. “I have her stable for now Albus, but it was bad. She has lost so much blood, I’m having a hard time keeping her pressure up. Her injuries were quite extensive. There were several broken ribs, severe internal bleeding, a punctured lung,” Poppy paused for a moment, anger flashing in her eyes, “ and several instances of... assault. There were also several cuts and scrapes that needed to be healed. I believe, if she can make it through the night, she will recover, but I don’t know how much of the old Min is left Albus. I just don’t know.”

Albus looked at her and noticed several tears streaming down her cheeks as she stared at their intertwined hands. Albus only just realized how hard this was on her. Poppy had known Minerva for as long as he had, and through their schooling you didn’t see one without the other. Albus opened his arms and Poppy dropped into them, burying her face in his chest as her body was wracked with sobs. Poppy could feel Albus’ tears streaming down her neck as they dropped, and she heard him whisper softly, “I’m scared Poppy,” as he pulled her tighter.

Poppy let her hand rub his shoulder as she pulled away, looking him for the first time in the eye. The spark that had been missing had moved into full retreat, and the eyes usually so full of life were hollow and dead, making him seem so much older.

She pulled Albus to his feet and turned him, facing the door. “Go sit by your wife Albus; she shouldn’t wake up before the morning, but your presence certainly couldn’t hurt. Go; I’ll make sure you two are alone.”

Albus slowly nodded, making his way to his wife’s bedside in the dim candlelight. She looked like a ghost. Her skin was transparent except where Poppy had placed bandages to cover her wounds. It appeared Poppy had also taken the time to trim Minerva’s hair, which now fell just past her jaw against the pillow. Albus took a seat in the ridged chair Poppy had placed by her side and moved to take her frail hand, but even in sleep, Minerva couldn’t help but flinch at the contact, making Albus’ hand jerk away in response. The pain that shot through his heart was indescribable. He contented himself with watching her sleep, fitful as it was.

Only one thought ran through his mind as he watched her. “I am so sorry Tabby. I should have been there for you.” Albus watched her sleep until his own eyelids began to droop in exhaustion, and he finally succumb to sleep, dreaming of better times with the woman he loved.

He never saw Poppy re enter the wing to check on her friend. “Get well soon Minerva,” she said placing a blanket over Albus, “he needs you more than even he realizes."

[griseldalafey]

Ow, that's very sad. I'm still shivering a little. But the Albus/Poppy bonding was very good.
Can't wait until the next chapter.

[TabbyForever]

Oh my god thats soooooo sad!!!!
Much as i hate angsty stories......plese hurry up and post!!!!!
I hope she gets better soon!!!!
Tabs

[Jestana]

Oh. My. Goodness. *faints; revives* That's so angsty, but I must read more. *whimper* Please, Min, be all right. Albus can't lose you. *sniffle* Good job!

[Catwoman99]

This is a wonderful story, Brenna. Sad, but well written. Don't leave us hanging!

-April :-)

[TartanPhoenix]

here's the next part to the strory. Alas, as always, I own nothing but the socks on my feet. It all belongs to the mighty J.K.Rowling. All hail the Rowling.

Nasty Surprises ch.2

The next morning dawned bright and warm against the castle. It was still early and everyone was asleep when Minerva began to stir. She had learned not to make a sound when she awoke not long after she had been taken, it gave her more time before the questions.

Slowly Minerva’s senses fought against the drowsiness, and she realized something was wrong. The perpetual pain she had been in for sometime was one. Her ankle no longer throbbed and her side didn’t ache. It was only then that she realized she wasn’t lying on her stone floor.

She was warm and ensconced in something soft. “No, don’t let him do this to you again. Nothing has changed, he’s just playing with your mind again Minerva,” she thought as she screwed her eyes closed tightly.

This had happened before. Tom conjured feelings and images in her mind to fool her, but it hadn’t worked then either. She knew they were watching her, they always watched. Perhaps, if she stayed still, they would leave her alone to enjoy the delusion for awhile before taking it away as they always did. Minerva let her head lull to the side, enjoying the softness beneath it. She knew it wouldn’t last long.

Soon, he would vanish all of it and the questions would begin, always the same questions. “Where is Order headquarters? Where does Dumbledore meet? What are his plans? What does he know?”

He always wanted answers, but she could never tell. Albus meant too much to her. He was the reason she resisted and pushed on. In her slumber the sight of his two blue eyes and inviting smile kept her sane when every other reason left her. The remembrance of his warm touch kept her through the cold nights. As always the thought of Albus brought longing to Minerva as she attempted to stifle her tears. They would only punish her for them later.

She lay there for what seemed like forever, enjoying the warmth of this illusion, until the sound of breathing beside her started her senses into acute awareness. She listened carefully and the regular breathing became louder. She knew it was too good to last.

He was waiting, “well,” she thought “might as well get this over with.”

She allowed her eyes to open slowly, but shut them again as the light blasted its way into her mind. Now she knew something was wrong. She hadn’t seen the light since she had been taken, in what seemed a lifetime ago. Her cell was always kept in complete darkness. No sound met her actions and, cautiously, Minerva lifted her hand to screen out the light.

She opened her eyes again, slower this time, and began to look about her surroundings. As the pain behind her eyes began to fade Minerva couldn’t help the tears that began to fall.

She knew this room well, and she took the moment to look out the window, down toward the lake. The view of the castle was too much for Minerva and she just wanted to be back in her hole; this torture was too cruel for her to endure.

She took a deep breath and waited for the pain that was sure to follow. “Alright Tom, enough,” she yelled, “just stop and show your sorry face. This won’t help you.”

The pain from the man beside her never came, and cautiously Minerva began to turn her head. Curiously the softness surrounding her, nor the image of the castle had faded as she expected, they remained as sharp as ever.

Her eyes turned an fell on the man sitting beside her, and she let out a small whimper. There, wrapped in a blue blanket, was Albus Dumbledore, staring at her with pained eyes and a hopeful expression. She couldn’t believe it. This was too good to be true; Tom was playing with her. Albus looked at her and Minerva couldn’t tear her gaze away.

She had missed those eyes so much it had become a dull ache that filled her soul. On the edges of her mind, Minerva began to realize this was no dream or fantasy. The events of the last beating flitted across her mind, and she instinctively burrowed deeper into the sheets. “How had she arrived here? How did she get home,” were the questions flying through her mind as the reality of her situation dawned.

It was really Albus beside her, and the thought terrified her. “What must he think of me?” she wondered looking back to the man she adored.

Albus’ soft voice broke through her questions. “Minerva..Minerva it’s alright now, you’re safe my love.”

Those few words were enough to crack the shell she had surrounded herself in over the last month. A choked sob escaped her lips as she uttered her first coherent words in a week. “Albus..I’m so sorry!”

She started crying and Albus couldn’t resist the impulse. He was out of his chair and pulling her into his arms before either realized what happened. He felt her immediately stiffen at his touch, but only pulled her closer to his body, gently rubbing his hands along her back, whispering soothing words in her ear. “You have nothing to be sorry for Tabby. Nothing. You’re home now, and that’s all that matters.”

She had relaxed slightly in his embrace, soothed by the familiar smell of him and the steady beating of his heart. Minerva continued to sob into his chest and neither of them noticed Poppy enter the wing. Poppy made her way slowly toward the couple, trying to give them some time. She reached Minerva’s bedside and softly called her name.

Minerva’s head shot up as she heard Poppy’s voice. Poppy had only just sat on the edge of her bed when Minerva flung herself into her friends waiting arms. “Oh Minerva, you’re home,” Poppy cried, holding her friend close.

The three didn’t move for what seemed like forever, until Poppy’s sense of duty kicked in. She pulled away slightly, holding her friends shoulders gently. “Albus, I know you’d like to stay, but could you wait in my office for a moment while I examine Min. I want to see how
everything is healing.” She sent him an odd look as she took in his appearance.

Casting another glance at Minerva, Albus only nodded mutely and made his way out of the wing. It was only once Albus had arrived and saw himself in her mirror that he blanched, suddenly understanding the look on Poppy’s face. He was still wearing the robes from last
evening, and he could make out Minerva’s bloody form dried against his chest. His hair was in mats and his eyes were bloodshot. He couldn’t let Minerva see him like this.

Poppy returned for him twenty minutes later and noticed with satisfaction his change in appearance. The last thing Minerva needed right then was a scare like that. “You can go back in now Albus; I’ve finished. She’s healing well, but I want her to stay here for at least a week. She’s severely underweight and needs time to recover. I thought I would let you tell her. She
still may try to hex me,” Poppy smiled slightly.

Albus couldn’t help the cautious optimism that crept into his voice. “How does she seem Poppy? How is she feeling?”

A dark look crossed her face at his questions. “She’s different Albus. I don’t know the extent, but it will be awhile before she’s anywhere near the woman we know again. Whatever they did, it changed her.”

Albus nodded solemnly and made his way back onto the ward, hesitant for the first time in his life to approach his wife. She looked up as his steps echoed in the ward and when he looked into her eyes his heart stopped. Instead of the fiery confidence that had always radiated
from her eyes, there now was a guarded fear and pain that filled her emerald gaze.

He cautiously sat in his vacant chair once more and placed his hands in his lap. He saw her track the movement of his hands until they came to rest, and only then did her eyes leave them.

She was sitting straight backed in bed but her eyes were downcast, looking at something along the floor. “I didn’t tell him anything Albus.” His heart broke when he realized she thought he would be angry.

“Of course you didn’t sweetheart,” he saw her flinch slightly at the endearment, “but that doesn’t matter now. What matters is that you get well. Poppy wants you to stay here for another week and then you can come home.”

Albus had been hoping for her usual adamant refusal that would have normally met his statement, but instead she only nodded slightly, still refusing to meet his eyes. Albus didn’t quite know what to say in this situation so he sat quietly, waiting for Minerva to make the next move. Minerva sat in silence for some time, folding and unfolding her hands. She couldn’t stand the silence any longer.

She said the first thing that came to mind. “I missed you Albus.” It had come out so quietly that he had almost missed it.

“And I missed you Minerva. Very much.”

Minerva finally turned her head slowly and looked at him. “What happened Albus? How did I get here?”

Minerva could see the reluctance in his eyes at her question. Minerva had begun to assume that the Order had finally found her and brought her home, but the look on his face told her a very different story. Now it was his eyes that refused to make contact as he cleared his throat.

“We were at dinner last night when an owl arrived. It contained a note and a portkey. When I had finished reading, you appeared and landed on the staff table. Poppy and I immediately brought you here. You gave us quite a scare for awhile Minerva. I thought I had
lost you.”

Minerva could tell there was something he was leaving out, but what he had said was ringing through her mind. “Dinner, appearing,” a thought clicked. “Did the students see me Albus?”

I promise it will get better as time goes on. Really. *goes to go hide*

[Sensiblyquirky]

Excellent update, of course it brought tears to my eyes but i assume my tears will be justified or vindicated later...dramatic sigh!!

Can't wait for the next update

Christy

[ginger newts]

Oh my, if I was a crier, I'd be sobbing by now. I hope she recovers soon and they can get back to the way they used to be. Please update soon, as tragic as this is, it's very well written.

[griseldalafey]

Oh poor Minerva *shudder* She has a major trauma on her hands now. I hope she will tell Albus soon what happened.
Wonderful story.

[Jestana]

Oh, my. That was absolutely heart-breaking. *sniffle* I don't know who to feel sorry for: Albus or Minerva.

[TabbyForever]

Oh....that was soooooo sad!!!!
I feel sorry for them both!!!
Poor Min...i hope she's able to put that behind her some day...but a part of me...the realist in me thinks she'll never be able to!!!!

Please hurry up and post the next chapter soon....i hope that B*****D gets whats coming to him!!!!and that min get to hand out a major punishement!!!
Well Done
Tabs

[TartanPhoenix]

Well, here's the next section. I'm soooooo sorry about the delay. School and work have been insane, and it wasn't until I was reading another story that I realized how long it had been.

He slowly nodded his head, knowing her pension for privacy. Minerva’s shoulders slowly slumped. It was bad enough that Albus had to find her that way, but for the students to see as well. How was she ever supposed to show her face again? Minerva shut her eyes tightly against the emotions threatening to overwhelm her. She needed to be alone.

“Albus would you mind getting Poppy. I’m rather tired; I think I need to get some
sleep.”

Albus could hear the dismissal in her voice, but chose to ignore it for the time being. She was embarrassed and he could respect that. He soon arrived with Poppy, who was carrying a foul smelling potion in her hands.

“It’s a dreamless sleep Min. It will let you rest.”

Minerva again shocked her companions by taking the potion without argument. Minerva absolutely loathed sleeping potions. She was asleep before her head came to rest on the pillow, her features relaxing for the first time that morning.

“Albus the students are gone, go home and get some proper sleep. She will be out until dinnertime. She’s going to need you in the days to come.”

“You’re right Poppy, but I can’t stand to have her out of my sight,” he sighed, looking at his sleeping wife.

She nodded understandingly. “I know, but she’ll be here when you wake up. I promise.”

The week passed slowly for everyone involved. Severus had been busy spying and trying
to gather information on just what happened to Minerva, but much to his infinite frustration, no
one was talking. Every night since her return Minerva had woken up screaming in her sleep.

Even the potion couldn’t keep the memories of her captivity from plaguing her dreams, and it took everything Poppy had to calm the woman down. She would become so wrapped up in her dreams that the first time Poppy touched her, Minerva started whimpering and waving her arms in front of her to ward off the imagined attack. Poppy never mentioned these dreams to Albus, whose presence, she imagined, would only exasperate the situation.

As time went on Minerva became more and more withdrawn from those around her, refusing to speak to anyone. She didn’t know how to fit back into this world. So much had changed within her, and all she knew was she was frightened of everyone she held most dear.

She couldn’t even stand to be touched, and that made it impossible to be around Albus. All she longed to do was have his arms wrap around her and be with him, but with every touch she flinched from him, hurting them both.

It was on the sixth day that Albus arrived after lunch to check on his wife, who was sitting by the window, staring out onto the lake. Poppy was at her desk doing paperwork, and covertly watching her friend from over her quill. As Albus entered, Minerva spun to see who had arrived, and he could see the walls go up behind her eyes.

Poppy stood and met him half way across the floor. “Hello Albus.”

“Hello Poppy,” he replied, “how is everything today?” he asked, casting a quizzical glance toward Minerva.

“It’s better Albus. She can leave whenever she wants. I informed her this morning, but she hadn’t moved from that window since.”

Albus cast as worried glance toward his wife and moved in her direction. He cleared his throat lightly as not to scare her with his presence, but she jumped slightly anyway.

“Minerva are you ready to go home? Poppy says you’re well enough to leave. Our chambers are still as you left them; I didn’t have the heart to move anything.”

A flash Albus had never seen before crossed her face. She kept her eyes facing the lake even as she addressed the man behind her. “I’m sorry Albus; I can’t. It won’t be permeant, but for now, I need to be alone. I’ll have some of my clothes and personal affects moved into another set of chambers. It’s nothing you’ve done Albus,” she sighed, “ but I need to think about things.”

As she had been speaking Albus’ shoulders had dropped. “Of course Minerva,” he said, his heart shattering, “I’ll pack a few of your things for the house elves to bring you.”

He quickly turned around and walked out of the Hospital Wing, Poppy’s eyes following him. Neither one saw the single tear the coursed down Minerva’s cheek. “I love you Albus,” she said, absentmindedly rubbing the area where her wedding band used to sit.

[TabbyForever]

Aww...please don't make me cry, i don't need to add crying into the equation!!!

That was so sad!!!
Noooo Poor Min, poor Albus

[Jestana]

Aw! Poor Albus! Poor Min! Poor everybody!

I hope things get better soon for everyone involved!

[angharad]

If anyone can get her through this, Albus can! Here's hoping she lets him...

[Sensiblyquirky]

oh this is soooooo sad. Please let it get better soon.

Written very well,

Christy

[bookwmnjan]

How sad. Poor Albus! Poor Minerva, too!

What happened to the wedding ring? Did she take it off or did Tom confiscate it?

[ginger newts]

That may just be the saddest thing I have ever read. Please, please, please let everything be okay soon.

[KayleeTonksLupin]

Where's the wedding ring? Oh, don't tell me. Jestana already solved it in her humor fic "The Missing Ring". Joking...anyway I want to see more story, where is the ring really?

[griseldalafey]

Oh... That's sad... I hope he can get her to talk about what happened. Beautifully writen though.

[TartanPhoenix]

Only one more post after this everybody.

The next month passed slowly for all those involved. Minerva had moved back into her old chambers adjoining the transfiguration classroom, and she still couldn’t stand to be around people for a long period of time. The thought of people made her heart pound, even as her mind raved against it. No one was any closer to discovering the nature of her capture, and Albus had spent the month trying to reacquaint himself with his wife.

This morning, like every one before it, Albus slowly made his way to his wife’s chambers. They would sit and talk about trivial matters, but never anything that had to do with her abduction, or, more importantly to Albus, them. Albus had arranged to change the portrait guarding her door to allow better security, and there was no one he trusted more than Joan of Arc.

Albus approached and Joan rode to meet him. “Good day headmaster. Here for another
visit?”

He smiled lightly, “I am indeed. Could you excuse me dear lady; I know how you dislike the knocking.”

He reached out and tapped against the frame, requesting entrance. A soft “Come in,” met his ears and the portrait swung forward.

Albus found Minerva sitting in her favorite chair facing the grounds. The light was playing off her loose hair again and it drove him to distraction as her beauty enveloped him. She turned to look at him, and for a moment she was his Minerva again, before the walls returned.

“Hello Albus,” she said, rising to meet him.

“Good morning Minerva,” he replied, taking a step toward her, “I was wondering if you would like to take a walk with me?”

She seemed to stare into his soul before she looked back toward the grounds. In a moment of
boldness Minerva nodded her head. “That would be lovely Albus, thank you.”

Minerva then did something that shocked, and pleased them both. She reached out her small hand for his. It was the first time since her return that Albus touched his wife. The familiar bolt of electricity shot through them as their fingers connected, and Albus couldn’t help but gently squeeze her hand, causing Minerva to blush and look away. Never letting go of her hand Albus led them through the deserted castle, neither willing to break the silence that had fallen over them. The only other person who had stayed over the summer holidays was Poppy, claiming she wanted to watch over Minerva.

As they stepped out into the light of the morning, Albus felt Minerva tense slightly next to him and he squeezed her hand in reassurance. They wandered the grounds for sometime, talking about test results and quidditch matches. Silence had fallen over the pair as they passed the lake, and Minerva let her mind wander to the man next to her.

He still seemed to care for her, if the look in his eye meant anything. She had surprised herself when she reached for his hand; it was just a reaction to his presence. His touch no longer made her flinch, and his voice once again soothed her tormented thoughts. She had missed him so much over the past month, but there was so much she needed to work out before sharing it with anyone.

She had spent her time alone pulling memories of her capture and placing them in a pensive. There were so many gaps, she needed to remember. She hadn’t gone through the entire event yet, she needed him with her for that. One thread followed throughout as she had placed the memories. Albus was her strength. Whenever she thought it was over, his voice played in her mind and gave her courage. She knew now, the same man could help her again.

The distance between them was too great now, she needed to be closer. Taking a chance, Minerva removed her hand from his, and before he could pull away completely, slid it around his waist, resting her head along his shoulder. Albus stopped walking, surprised. He looked down at Minerva as she snuggled closer to him. Albus was sure his chest would explode at the sensations flowing through him. Her warmth next to him made his heart skip as her scent
surrounded him. His arm cautiously found its way around her slim waist, coming to rest protectively against her stomach.

They stood in silence, just staring out over the grounds, taking comfort in the nearness of the other. Neither of them saw the witch looking at the scene from her window, a tear sliding down her cheek. It was going dark before they made their way back into the castle. Never letting her out of his grasp Albus escorted her back to her chambers. Stopping at the portrait, Albus was about to say goodnight when Minerva spoke up.

“Would you care to stay for dinner Albus? I don’t want to eat alone tonight.” Albus tried not to let the hope welling inside of his take over, but it was a losing battle.

“That would be lovely Minerva.” They made their way into the livingroom, and, after Albus ordered dinner from the house elves, seated themselves on the couch. Minerva looked over at him and saw the love and tenderness present in his eyes. I can’t keep hiding,” she thought, “I can’t let Tom win. I won’t let him control me again.” Minerva decided it was time
to break the silence, Albus needed to know. Minerva took a deep breath and leaned away from Albus to face him. He could feel her shift away again and thought she was withdrawing once again, but the look in her eye told him something was about to change.

“Since I’ve been back, I’ve been putting memories into a pensive. I knew when it came time I would have trouble explaining what happened.” Her eyes dropped from his as he realized exactly what memories she had referred to. “I want to show you Albus. You need to know as much as I need to show you.”

Albus couldn’t believe what he was hearing. She wanted him to see it all. He didn’t know how he would react, but she needed this from him, and Albus never could deny her anything. “Please come with me Albus.” He only nodded as she rose from her seat. “I’ll be back,” was all she said as she disappeared into the bedroom.

She returned shortly carrying the pensive, setting it down in front of them. She slowly met his eyes, and Albus saw the fear had returned. Something else was tempered with it though; trust seemed to flow through her eyes as she gazed at him. Reaching for her hand, Albus hesitated. “Are you sure? We don’t have to do this now.”

“Yes, we do,” was the last thing he heard as they were pulled into her memories.

Albus found them standing in a dark windowless cell. The only light available came from a torch in the wall. He immediately felt Minerva tense and begun shaking in his arms. He carefully wrapped his arms around her waist, pulling her against him. “I’m here; you’re not alone anymore.”

The walls of the cell were dingy from dirt and human waste. A single formidable looking door dominated the room. A soft groan filled the space and Albus’ head shot up in response. In the back corner a small movement could be seen. Slowly he could see her.

Minerva was carefully lifting herself off the ground, leaning against the dirty wall for support. She still looked fairly healthy, so Albus assumed it was when she was first taken He could plainly read the fear and confusion in her eyes as she looked around.

“Hello? Where am I? What do you want?”

She began moving around the small area, the cell couldn’t have been bigger than six square feet, feeling for a way out. She never found one and soon sat down, watching the door intently. A blankness filled the pensive, leaving the two observes alone for a moment. It didn’t surprise Albus; this was a common occurrence when pensives dealt with large time spans. The next memory appeared, and even Albus wasn’t prepared for what he was about to see.

Minerva was sleeping on the ground when the door opened loudly, crashing against the wall behind it. She shot up with a start as a man walked through. His face was obscured by shadows, but, when he spoke, all in attendance knew who he was.

[TartanPhoenix]

Alright, her is the final part to this little horror fest. This one is going to be a little more disturbing than the others, so be warned. It's nothing horribly graphic, just somewhat disturbing. Thanks everybody for your responses.

“Hello professor. It’s so nice to see you again. It’s been far too long.”

Albus tightened his grip on Minerva who was pushing back, trying to put distance between herself and the man in her memory.

“What..what do you want?” Voldemort stepped out of the shadows a sinister grin fixed on his waxen face.

“I have what I want Minerva; you. The only question you should ask is what am I going to do now?”

A look of fear crept its way onto Minerva’s face as she backed herself against the wall.
Voldemort’s wand finally came into view as his smile grew. “My thoughts exactly,” he sneered as chains flew out of his wand, chaining Minerva to the wall. “Now, you are going to tell me what I want to know, and in return, I will promise your death will be a reasonably painless one.”

Even in her compromised position Albus could see the determination suffuse her frame.

“I’m sorry to disappoint you Tom, but I’m not going to tell you anything.” His red eyes flashed at the use of his muggle name, and Voldemort’s wand pointed at her chest.

“We’ll see. Let the games begin.” Without a word of warning Albus heard the word he dreaded. “Crucio.”

Chained to the wall, Minerva screamed like never before. The pain was all encompassing. Voldemort soon seemed to grow bored, letting the curse end.

“Let’s try this again, shall we? What is the location of the Order headquarters?”

Panting, Minerva looked him in the eye, “It’s just around the bend, like you.”

Another scream filled the room as the curse was applied again. With every question she refused to answer, causing more pain to sear through her body.

By the third question Minerva had turned herself in Albus’ arms, tunneling her face into his chest. Albus stood transfixed as Voldemort put his wand back into his robes.

“I must admit, Dumbledore does choose his concubines well. Not only loyal and stupid, as all Gryffindor’s are, but beautiful as well.” A dangerous glint filled his eyes. “Perhaps I ought to test the waters hmm? Maybe I could find what I’ve been missing all these years.”

A single grey finger trailed along her flushed cheek, wiping the bead of sweat that had been forming, away. Minerva jerked her head away, a single tear making its way down her bruised cheek. A small whimper escaped her throat as his finger trailed downward.

“Please, don’t,” she whispered.

“I do believe I shall.” With that he ripped her robes, exposing her to the cold air.

Albus stood by in shock as he watched his worst enemy ravage his wife, all the while listening to her pleas for him to stop. She finally fell silent, only tears of humiliation to stand testament to her feelings. Voldemort finally released the chains, watching as she fell to the floor, curling into a ball.

“Thank you professor; that was quite refreshing. We’ll have to do this again.” He walked to the door but turned before leaving. “Think what you will Minerva, I will break you before we’re finished, you may count on that.”

He walked out, leaving Minerva alone. She looked out over her tattered robes before succumbing to her sobs. Albus could only make out one word in her hysterical rumblings, and it tore away his heart. It was his name.

For the next several hours the two of them watched as memories flashed before them. Beatings and questions flying past, tinged with days of solitude. The final night of her captivity finally arrived. They had dragged Minerva out into some sort of crypt, surrounding her. There was something different about this Minerva. In her eyes there was a desperate acceptance of her situation.

Voldemort stood, raising his arms over his head for silence. “My friends, tonight we send our toy away. She is no longer any fun to play with, but for all your loyal service, I give her to you for a turn; enjoy.”

It all started again, and after they had all had their turn, Minerva was laying completely still, almost unrecognizable. The memory of her return flashed in Albus’ mind as Minerva stared on. Albus could just see her eyes as they began to close, a look of wry perseverance existed there. His Minerva was holding on. The memory around them faded out and Albus
pulled them back into the present.

As her chambers came back into focus Minerva slowly turned to face Albus. “Now you know. I’m sorry I wasn’t stronger, and I wouldn’t blame you if you want nothing to do with me.” A single tear slid down her cheek, forcing her to turn in an effort to conceal it.

All was quiet in the room and Minerva waited for the sound of his footsteps going out the door. They never came, instead, a gentle hand came to rest on her shoulder, turning her slowly. When Minerva looked into his face, she was surprised to see the tears trailing down his lined face. She hadn’t been expecting the look of sheer agony that captured his face.

“I’m sorry. I am so sorry Minerva. I love you so much. Please don’t push me away.”

There was nothing she could do. Minerva launched herself into his arms and cried. She cried all the tears she thought were already dried. She cried all the tears that Tom denied her in that hell. All the while Albus held her. He rocked her as her sobs wracked their bodies, rubbing her back and whispering words of love and devotion in her ear. They sat together long into the night, and he never let her go.

[ginger newts]

Wow, that story just wrung me out emotionally. How horrible that she had to live through that and then they both had to watch, but I'm so glad they're together again and she's accepting his love again. Really well written and you kept me hanging on to the end, but how about something a little less traumatic next time? (I'm beginning to agree with Max that Minerva might need some therapy after everything we all put her through.)

[Sensiblyquirky]

Very nice update. This story is written so well, but it is definately a more emotionally taxing one. I do hope we do not have to wait long for the rest, and I hope Minerva can move on with Albus' help. Keep up the great job,

Christy

[TabbyForever]

Oh My God...that was really really bad!!!
Ok so they were together at the end...but you just can't imagin something like that!!!!
Well done you covered this story so well
Jem