Disclaimer: I own nothing apart from the plot and any characters I invent. Everything else belongs to J.R.R. Tolkien and J.K. Rowling.
A/N: Hello! Here’s the next reworked chapter! I really hope it has been to your liking so far! Please leave me a review and let me know what you think!
A tall Death Eater, his eyes nervous and his hands trembling, edged closer through the circle of dark-clad onlookers. Dread and reluctant hope coloured his wavering voice as he broke the tense silence and asked, ‘Is he dead?’ Casting an anxious glance over his shoulder at his fellow Death Eaters, he sought silent reassurance before he approached Harry Potter’s silent, unmoving form.48Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡietQxSa8na
Draco crouched behind a tangle of brambles and twisted branches, watching the scene play out before him with nightmarish clarity. The eerie, bluish twilight bathed the forest clearing, casting oversized shadows while whispered commands and nervous shuffling echoed through the tense atmosphere. Draco caught his breath as he saw Harry Potter lying motionless on the ground, a faint, silvery mist swirling around him. He struggled to comprehend that Potter had willingly sacrificed himself, displaying a desperate rashness Draco had never fully understood. The moment felt surreal, haunting Draco with memories of a Muggle film he had secretly watched—where the clever, resourceful hero faked his own death to keep both enemies and allies guessing until his dramatic return at a crucial moment.48Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡosdbJr3Q2n
Draco refused to accept that everything was over, even as tension mounted and oppressive silence pressed in on him. His heart hammered in his chest, each beat loaded with cold dread at the thought of loss, yet an irrational hope still flickered within him that Potter might be alive. He thought desperately, Come on, Potter, you can’t be dead, shaking his head in silent denial. Though he would never admit it aloud—and barely even to himself—Draco secretly wished for Potter’s survival. He fiercely clung to the slender hope that this was not the end, trusting that the boy who so often defied the odds would do so once more.48Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡp3dS2QbSWC
Bellatrix moved through the group of Death Eaters with predatory grace, taking each purposeful, slow step as she seemed to relish building the tension. Her dark eyes sparkled feverishly while she approached Potter, the corners of her mouth curling wickedly in anticipation. She stopped above him, letting her robes swirl around her ankles, and looked down at Harry’s motionless form with evident delight. A high-pitched, fragile giggle escaped her, revealing both her thrill and a hint of uncertainty. She paused for a brief moment, savouring the sight of the Boy Who Lived helpless before her, her fingers twitching as she yearned to verify what she saw.48Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡorBDsax30Z
Snape frowned deeply as he moved closer to the clearing, carefully keeping to the shadows. With every step, unease tightened like a cold knot in his chest. He kept his eyes darting between Harry Potter’s still body and the vigilant Death Eaters, assessing risks and considering his options. He immediately thought of Dumbledore. Surely, this isn’t what you envisioned, Albus? The question echoed silently in his mind, heavy with doubt and regret. Possibilities raced through his thoughts—chaos engulfing Hogwarts, the fragile resistance collapsing, hope fading into darkness. The shadows around him seemed to deepen, mirroring his rising dread as he fought to decide on his next move.48Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsXoyREGslK
Bellatrix glided forward, her sharp features twisted in a disgusted sneer. Fixing her predatory gaze on Harry Potter’s pale, still body, she crouched beside him. Curiosity and malice overpowered the brief flicker of hesitation in her eyes as she reached out with a trembling hand. Her fingers hovered for a heartbeat before she touched his icy skin to check for a pulse. The instant her fingertips made contact, Harry vanished in a swirl of silvery mist, as if some invisible force had whisked him away. Bellatrix gasped and recoiled, while the nearby Death Eaters staggered back, their faces etched with disbelief and terror at his sudden disappearance. An unnatural silence settled before murmurs of confusion rippled among the Death Eaters as they tried to make sense of what they had just witnessed.48Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhfO5E62m6B
Draco rose to his feet, disbelief weighing down each movement as he attempted to process the astonishing sight before him. Shock rendered his limbs strange and disconnected, as though he waded through water. He stood rigid and tense, eyes wide and mouth slightly agape, unable to tear his gaze from the spot where Potter had just lain. For a moment, Draco remained rooted, his thoughts spinning with fear, wonder, and a reluctant admiration for Potter’s uncanny knack for surprise.48Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡO7ON92sPi5
Nearby, Snape widened his eyes, his usually composed demeanour giving way to rare surprise. The unexpected events stunned him, and his mind raced as he tried to grasp Potter’s sudden disappearance. He flicked his sharp gaze across the moonlit clearing, observing the swirling mist where Harry had vanished and the confused expressions of those nearby. Snape caught his breath, shallow and uneasy, as he silently considered all possible explanations—none of them making sense. He gripped the edge of his robes with his pale hands, agitation barely contained. His usually precise movements faltered, replaced by tense stillness as he searched for any sign of Potter.48Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡA0yEFlu7xf
Chaos erupted in the clearing as Voldemort, fuelled by rage, shoved aside his followers and fixed his gaze on the empty ground where Harry Potter’s body had just been. Anger contorted his face, and the sinister glow of his crimson eyes blazed brighter as he scrutinised the spot, his nostrils flaring and his lips curling in disgust. He could not suppress his fury; he unleashed a piercing scream that echoed through the trees, chilling enough to make the shadows shudder. ‘Where did he go!?’ he shouted, his voice slicing through the silence with an icy sharpness that sent a shiver through every Death Eater present. The Death Eaters, terrified of his wrath, shrank back and hurried to move out of his line of sight, desperate to avoid provoking him. Terror contorted their faces, their eyes darting nervously as they cowered among twisted branches and moonlit shadows, doing everything in their power not to attract his attention.48Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAlA8WzeAAA
Voldemort’s eyes blazed with a vivid red light, anger radiating from him and filling the clearing with tense silence. He suddenly raised his wand and blasted the nearest tree, instantly reducing it to splinters. The force of the spell exploded the tree with a deafening crack, sending jagged shards of wood and bark flying through the moonlit air and scattering across the forest floor. Raw energy poured from his magic, briefly flooding the twisted branches with light and casting wild shadows across the terrified faces of the Death Eaters. This act of destruction stunned the Death Eaters; they stood motionless, silently hoping to escape his fury.48Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlsaSnFhr6Y
Voldemort paused tensely, then tilted his head and fixed his gaze on the spot where Potter had vanished. Endless silence pressed in around them, broken only by shallow breaths. Suddenly, Voldemort released a low, eerie laugh—sharp and unnatural—that pierced the clearing’s quiet. The laugh began as a faint, sinister whisper, sending chills through the air, but swiftly grew louder and more intense until it erupted into uncontrollable, almost hysterical laughter. His pale, serpentine face stretched into a cruel grin, baring pointed teeth as his lips drew back. His crimson eyes gleamed with wild, unsettling light while he doubled over, his laughter echoing eerily among the ancient trees.48Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgKSQ7EoEdt
The Death Eaters cast worried glances at one another, their Master’s unpredictable reaction clearly unsettling them. Confusion and fear marked their faces as they struggled to make sense of his manic amusement. Some instinctively shrank back, clenching their hands nervously at their sides, while others stood rooted to the spot, their wide eyes betraying uncertainty over whether to join in or remain silent. Harry’s mysterious disappearance had apparently shaken Voldemort’s sanity itself, and he now taunted both his followers and fate with his mocking, mirthless laughter, leaving everyone tense and anxious about what madness might ensue.48Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoprrZFXUB8
Voldemort’s laughter faded away, and he narrowed his eyes with suspicion as he tried to make sense of Potter’s sudden disappearance. The crimson glow in his gaze burned even more fiercely, openly revealing the inner turmoil that roiled beneath his cold exterior. ‘Have I been deceived?’ he murmured venomously, his voice tinged with doubt, each word floating through the tense night air like poisonous vapour. His lips pressed tightly together and were full of menace as he stared at the empty ground. The growing suspicion sent an icy shiver through the circle of Death Eaters; he found it intolerable to think that his enemies might have outmanoeuvred him, which only stoked his anger further. The silence pressed down, broken only by Voldemort’s harsh breathing as he confronted the possibility that his triumph remained incomplete, the threat of betrayal gnawing at his composure.48Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡS1HgD5s1Bx
Voldemort, consumed by fury, erupted in violent rage. He let out a guttural yell that echoed menacingly through the twisted trees. Without hesitation, he swung his wand through the night and unleashed a fierce, glowing blast. The spell struck the ground where Harry Potter had recently lain, exploding with a loud bang that sent dirt, shards of bark, and stones flying in all directions. The earth trembled, and the explosion carved a large, smoking crater into the forest floor, with dark magic lingering like a sharp fog. Debris and dust rained down on the stunned and intimidated Death Eaters. The Death Eaters instinctively flinched, their faces pale in the shifting light and their hearts pounding with fear at their master’s unpredictable wrath.48Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqCPOdDlawk
A faint, nearly inaudible voice whispered directly into Voldemort’s ear, ‘Leave… now…’ The sound, so subtle, could easily pass for a gust of wind weaving through the twisted branches above. Yet Voldemort recognised it instantly—a ghostly murmur curling around his thoughts, laden with warning and urgency. He paused for a moment, letting the mysterious command resound clearly in his mind. As the words reverberated within, Voldemort noticeably altered his expression: he allowed the fierce anger twisting his face to fade, replacing it with a cold, calculating calm. He pressed his thin lips together, and he lowered the scarlet glow in his eyes to an icy, threatening stare. He straightened his posture, regaining his composure. At last, he gave a brief, sharp nod—silently acknowledging the strange power that had forced him to hesitate, if only for a moment, in the midst of the chaos.48Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZeZ0b8Iown
Voldemort faced his frightened followers and spoke. ‘My friends, for now, we will leave. I will exterminate Harry Potter and every one of those wretched blood-traitors, but it can wait… for now,’ he said quietly, the underlying threat unmistakable. The Death Eaters stared at him in shock, their confusion evident as they witnessed the sudden transformation in their master—his wild rage had vanished, replaced by cold, calculated malice and chilling confidence that made his threat even more terrifying. At that moment, even the bravest among them felt a renewed fear, understanding that the night’s terror had merely been postponed, not ended.48Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcljzpmFiBd
Snape studied them intently, his dark eyes reflecting caution and intrigue as Voldemort’s anger continued to hang in the air. He scrutinised the smoking crater Voldemort had blasted into the earth, with its blackened edges still faintly aglow with lingering magic. Ash and splinters drifted around him in the cold night, swirling through his flowing robes while he drew closer, the scent of burnt earth mingling with dark magic. He traced the jagged outline of the crater with his eyes, searching for clues amid the devastation, his mind whirring with ideas and suspicions. What is going on, Albus? he wondered anxiously, desperation and uncertainty gnawing at him, acutely aware that his mentor could offer no reply. Even so, he yearned for guidance, haunted by how utterly alone he felt in the midst of the chaos.48Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkwggoTSsLS
Voldemort strode purposefully towards the trees, his long, shadowy figure slicing through the moonlit darkness with chilling intent. As he left behind the devastation he had wrought, the heavy silence in the clearing deepened. Overhead, twisted branches swayed gently in the cold night wind, as though they shrank away from him, fearing to draw his attention. He halted abruptly, his robes billowing around him like a shroud of darkness. With a sharp turn, he glanced back over his shoulder, his eerie crimson eyes cutting through the gloom to fix on Hagrid. A cruel sneer twisted his lips as he muttered, ‘Ah, I almost forgot…’ The venom in his words and the barely contained fury radiated outward, growing stronger as he focused on the grief-stricken half-giant.48Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfLqRr2yVzG
‘‘arry,’ the half-giant cried despairingly, his voice breaking from heartbreak. Grief overwhelmed Hagrid and shattered him utterly as he sank to his knees at the spot where Harry disappeared, his broad shoulders trembling uncontrollably. Tears streamed freely down his weathered face, shining in the ghostly moonlight and tracing pale, wet streaks through the dirt and grime of the fight. Each sob escaped him like a wounded animal’s cry, painfully audible in the silent clearing despite the vastness of the night. He reached out with trembling hands, grasping uselessly at the empty air as if he could pull Harry back into his arms.48Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFVAYgMCeLv
Voldemort did not hesitate. He raised his wand, its pale wood shining ominously in the moonlight, and declared the deadly spell in a cold, steady voice: ‘Avada Kedavra!’ A bright green light shot from the wand’s tip, piercing the night and striking Hagrid directly in the chest. The curse froze the half-giant in place, making his heavy frame shudder briefly under the force. With a final, heartbreaking act, Hagrid’s enormous body collapsed to the ground, sending tremors through the earth and raising dust from the forest floor.48Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNKAtLDAy1W
Silent shock seized the Death Eaters; their faces turned pale and their eyes widened as they fully grasped their master’s ruthlessness. No one moved or spoke, and the heavy silence highlighted Voldemort’s cruelty, making his intentions unmistakable with cold precision. The moonlight illuminated Hagrid’s motionless body, throwing into sharp relief the contrast between his gentle nature and the violence inflicted upon him. Voldemort kept his face cold, his red eyes gleaming with malice as he surveyed the destruction he had wrought.48Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2SBh0tGd4F
Snape looked away, sorrow briefly breaking through his usual mask of indifference. He had always maintained his distance from Hagrid and had never offered warmth to the half-giant, but witnessing Hagrid’s brutal death unexpectedly pained him. He could not wish such a fate on a man as loyal and kind-hearted as Hagrid. 48Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡT9W8PO7OtU
Snape quietly waited in the aftermath as the last of the Death Eaters disappeared into the darkness and their faint laughter echoed among the trees. Once he confirmed he was alone, he cautiously approached Hagrid’s still form, burdened by the events that had unfolded. Snape knelt beside Hagrid’s massive form and, with his trembling fingers, carefully brushed away a few splinters. He chose a large, ragged leaf fluttering in the night breeze and silently waved his wand to transform it into a soft, thick blanket. Snape adjusted the blanket thoughtfully around the fallen half-giant, moving with deliberate gentleness to preserve his dignity and honour the kindness Hagrid had always shown, even to those who did not deserve it. Snape leaned forward and pressed his gloved hand briefly to Hagrid’s arm, silently showing respect and regret. ‘I’ll be back, Rubeus,’ he whispered, his voice tight with suppressed emotion. As his words faded into the night, he fiercely narrowed his eyes and shot a final, deadly glare at the patch of forest where the Death Eaters had gone.48Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhl50mlK7ub
Snape crept after the departing Death Eaters, moving quietly and deliberately. The patchy moonlight caught his form as he wove between gnarled tree trunks. The thick scent of damp leaves and scorched earth hung in the air, but Snape breathed shallowly, remaining alert for any sign that someone might spot him. He pressed his back to the rough bark of a tall oak and blended into its shadow while the group ahead pushed through the underbrush, their boots crunching on twigs and kicking up clouds of faintly glittering ash in the bluish light.48Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡR9lngKAKs3
Snape kept a deliberate distance, letting his black cloak flow silently behind him and ensuring he made no sound that might betray his position. The Death Eaters moved purposefully, their figures flickering between the trees as they approached the edge of the Forbidden Forest. He watched closely as several shot anxious glances over their shoulders, wary of their master and each other.48Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNlFtgMoRJo
Snape reached the forest’s edge and pressed deeper into the underbrush, sinking his boots into the soft ground. He crouched low and held his breath, hardly daring to move as the Death Eaters paused beside a tangle of brambles. Thick shadows shielded him while he listened intently, his muscles taut with anticipation. Hidden, he caught Voldemort’s cold, commanding voice drifting through the trees as he issued orders to his inner circle. Bellatrix stood rigid and alert, her wild eyes shining with fanatical loyalty. Lucius’s smooth exterior betrayed a flicker of worry on his pale face. Voldemort instructed them to remain behind and sternly, ruthlessly ordered them: ‘to kill anyone trying to escape the castle.’48Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡliMnPQZtJU
Snape committed these instructions to memory. The threat now loomed ten times larger; Hogwarts and its grounds trapped anyone within, as Bellatrix and Lucius guarded the key exits, making every attempt to escape extremely dangerous. This stark reality pressed on Snape, pushing him to consider more desperate tactics to help those still inside Hogwarts.48Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2CSctbTl0H
Snape muttered a curse, recognising just how dire their situation had become. He doubted that Hermione and Ron would manage to reach the Forbidden Forest without being seen. The Death Eaters split into pairs, dispersing across the grounds in various directions. Their dark robes fluttered in the moonlight as they stalked forward with predatory intent, boots crunching on dry twigs and leaves, sending unease in their wake. Some advanced towards the looming silhouette of the castle, wands raised and eyes alert for any movement. Others made their way to the lake, their torchlight dancing in fractured patterns across the water. Two figures, faces hidden beneath shadowed hoods, doubled back into the forest, rustling the undergrowth as they vanished among the gnarled trees. By spreading out in this way, the Death Eaters kept every escape route under observation, turning the grounds into a labyrinth of watchful eyes and ready spells, which made a stealthy escape seem almost impossible.48Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡz9l0b0Mtyb
Snape shrank and twisted in a silent, rapid motion, transforming seamlessly into a bat as leathery wings unfurled from his shoulders. He launched himself into the night sky, gliding gracefully through tendrils of mist that wound between the trees. The moonlight caught the edges of his wings, casting a silvery glow as he swooped over tangled roots and brambles, moving with an unsettling, predatory quiet. From above, he swept the moonlit grounds with his keen, inhuman eyes, instantly spotting Ron and Hermione as they hurried towards the wreckage of the fallen bridge. He let out a slight hiss of irritation, muttering a curse—a sound that emerged as little more than a squeak in this form. Adjusting his trajectory mid-flight, he tucked his wings and swooped in a tight curve, swiftly descending to intercept them before their frantic rush could attract deadly attention from the scattered Death Eaters.48Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcxo3MjegKy
Snape landed and immediately shifted back into his human form, shadows swirling around him as his long black robes billowed before settling quietly. He suddenly appeared in front of Ron and Hermione, stepping out of the darkness so abruptly that they froze, their hearts pounding. Snape extended his arm, holding out his gloved hand in silent command, signalling them not to proceed. The deliberate, commanding gesture allowed no room for refusal. Gasping from their quick dash across the grounds, Hermione and Ron instinctively obeyed the warning, their legs trembling as adrenaline surged through them. Their eyes darted nervously between each other and Snape’s stern, inscrutable face, searching for reassurance in the forbidding set of his jaw and the narrow gleam of his gaze.48Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXRf2h5Rftl
‘Snape! What the hell—’48Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVLgcLGxA9R
‘Shut up, Weasley!’ Snape snapped, his patience fraying as he cut through the tense silence with his words. He pointed firmly at Hagrid’s Hut and shifted to a quiet, urgent whisper, ‘Look.’ 48Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXfw6zQJIk4
Ron and Hermione, eyes wide and trembling, obeyed his gesture and peered into the night’s gloom. Down the sloping lawns, the shadows shrouded Hagrid’s Hut, but flickering wand-light from a nearby group made it unmistakable. Outside the cabin, a cluster of Death Eaters in black robes with twisted, gleeful faces gathered, their laughter riding on the cold breeze—each cackle and jeer sounding more menacing than the last.48Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡakqVm62Zuq
A Death Eater suddenly strode forward and raised a wand against the starless sky. An orange flash shot from the wand, bursting with volatile magic as a jet of fire raced towards the hut. The spell struck the roof with a guttural roar, setting the thatched roof alight in an instant. Flames quickly devoured the beams, climbing the sides of the small building and throwing wild shadows across the lawn. The glow shone in the Death Eaters’ eyes, while the acrid stench of burning wood filled the air. Their dark silhouettes twisted grotesquely in the blaze’s glow as the attackers cheered. Within moments, flames consumed Hagrid’s home—once a sanctuary—and reduced it to rubble, while the Death Eaters stepped back and revelled in their destruction.48Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7MoLYdQiCl
Ron and Hermione watched helplessly, tears shining on their cheeks, as orange flames devoured Hagrid’s cherished hut. Fire raced through the wooden structure, sending flickering shadows dancing across the lawn. The heat distorted and warped the familiar outline of the hut, and the window glass cracked sharply as flames pressed inside. Wood splintered, hissing and curling, while the door—once welcoming—blazed wide open, a gaping inferno. The garden’s large pumpkins and tangled vines glowed with a hellish light as embers rose into the night. From the edge of the clearing, Snape kept a grim, discomforted watch. He remained silent about the destruction, but his eyes never strayed from the nearby Death Eaters, whose twisted laughter filled the chaos.48Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtx9kKyLO3f
After a few moments, the Death Eaters scattered from the area, their shadowy figures dissolving into the shifting darkness. This movement allowed Snape to clearly survey the terrain stretching between their current position and the edge of the Forbidden Forest. Ghostly moonlight bathed the lawns, transforming them into a dangerous sea littered with tangled brambles and the warped forms of ancient trees. The air still carried traces of the evening’s chaos: sharp smoke, faint embers rising from the smouldering ruins of Hagrid’s Hut, and the distant, guttural laughter of patrolling Death Eaters. Snape’s keen eyes traced a potential route—he weighed leading Ron and Hermione away from their exposed spot toward the cover of Hagrid’s Hut. The giant pumpkin patch, its orange rinds glowing in the firelight, offered a promising hiding place, and the nearby trees could easily conceal them from any prying eyes.48Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpvY46seZuH
As Snape weighed this plan, he saw the dangers looming clearly. The Death Eaters had now scattered across the grass in chaotic patterns, creating an unpredictable watch. Their black robes flashed between shadow and light as they hunted with predatory intent through the darkness. Some lingered near the burning hut, their faces aglow from the flames, while others prowled the perimeter with wands raised and senses sharpened for any sign of movement. The familiar grounds that lay between Snape and the edge of the Forbidden Forest had become a perilous gauntlet, with enemies lurking behind every bush and tree. If Snape led Ron and Hermione into open terrain, a single mistake could turn fatal; the risk was too significant. Only extraordinary stealth or sheer luck could allow them to cross unnoticed, as the Death Eaters’ vigilance offered no safe passage, making the forest’s shelter seem painfully out of reach.48Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6QiPEhY2kx
Snape drew in a sharp, tense breath that immediately caught Hermione and Ron’s worried attention. He narrowed his cold, calculating eyes into a steely warning as he spoke. ‘We need to stay vigilant,’ he muttered with apparent irritation at Mad-Eye Moody’s constant warnings. He pointed towards the distant greenhouses and continued in a low, clipped tone, ‘Proceed carefully towards the greenhouses and find cover.’ 48Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgbtEbMfbTp
Ron and Hermione nodded, their faces pale but determined, their will to survive tempering their fear. Instinctively, they moved into the gloom, exchanging nervous glances as they prepared to cross the dangerous, moonlit grounds, risking being seen with every step. 48Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡv8hot2Iyt6
Snape softly but firmly said, ‘I’ll join you there.’ For a brief moment, all three stood tense, the heavy silence broken only by the distant crackle of flames and the occasional shouts of patrolling Death Eaters, until Hermione and Ron slipped into the shadows, their figures blending with the darkness as Snape kept watch over them.48Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡY5wMTYuWEd
Ron anxiously watched the Death Eaters as they patrolled, their shadows casting ominous flickers across the moonlit grass. He tightened his grip on his wand, his knuckles whitening with tension. ‘And you?’ he asked Snape, concern etched across his face, his brows furrowed in worry.48Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBtrzFvAy84
Snape nodded briefly, his eyes narrowing with determination. ‘I’ll clear a path,’ he whispered, his voice barely audible over the distant crackle of flames. He wasted no time; he transformed into a bat, the change quick and eerily smooth as his bones shifted and his robes folded into sleek wings. In an instant, his small, dark form soared into the cool night sky in a silent flurry. His leathery wings caught the moonlight, sending fleeting shadows skimming across the dew-covered grass while he banked sharply and hugged the ground. Snape expertly avoided the drifting smoke, weaving through misty patches along the ground. Flying low across the tangled lawn, he skilfully dodged the prowling Death Eaters, his bat senses hyperaware of every sound and movement. With each precise, silent wingbeat, he navigated steadily towards the distant greenhouses, his sharp, inhuman eyes continually scanning for threats, determined to guide Ron and Hermione safely through the dangerous grounds without being seen.48Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxsVJOTHk5J
Ron and Hermione watched Snape, concern etched across their faces alongside glimmers of determination. Hermione gave Ron’s hand a gentle squeeze for reassurance, then leaned in close and whispered, ‘We’ll just have to do as he says,’ calmly yet urgently, encouraging Ron to focus on their task instead of their fear. Her determined tone bolstered his courage, and together they prepared to proceed.48Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXwFJnfAfO9
They kept low as they crept from their hiding place, making each step deliberate and silent on the dew-soaked grass. Ron led the way, his wand trembling slightly in his grip, while Hermione followed close, her heartbeat pounding in her ears. They navigated carefully down the dark slope. Smoke drifted across the sky, obscuring the moon and casting a shifting pattern of silver and shadow over the hillside. Their path brought them to a rugged cluster of large boulders near the charred remains of the old bridge. They pressed their hands against the cold, rough stones, using them for cover. The weathered rocks, shaped by years of wind and rain, rose above them, providing a brief but welcome shield from prying eyes.48Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡumGsFeG5zB
Ron and Hermione crouched in the shadows, surveying the path to the greenhouses. It appeared deceptively simple—a quick dash across the lawn. As their eyes adjusted, they recognised the actual danger: perilous ground, where cloaked Death Eaters openly patrolled. The enemies moved in and out of darkness, wands drawn, their faces flickering with the dull glow from the burning hut. The sight of these foes sent chills through Ron and Hermione, and every movement felt fraught with risk; they realised escaping quickly was impossible, with real hazards lurking in every shadow. Every sound—the distant laughter of the Death Eaters, the soft crackle of embers, even their own heavy breathing—grew louder in the tense silence, intensifying the risk of their next steps.48Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgwLx0vd2OK
Ron tightened his grip on his wand, his knuckles growing white with tension, as he steadied his breath and cautiously leaned forward to peer around the old, weathered boulder. He tensed every muscle, his heart thumping loudly in his chest. Hermione copied his movements, pressing herself against the rough stone. Just a few metres away, illuminated by the orange glow of the burning hut, two Death Eaters stood with their backs to them. The faint light glinted off their wands as they murmured in low voices, utterly unaware of the young Gryffindors hiding in the shadows, every sense sharpened by the danger so near.48Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0Jd82G0tTK
Ron met Hermione’s resolute look, drew a deep breath, and nodded, signalling his readiness. They exchanged a quiet understanding that steadied their nerves as they faced the serious task ahead. Without a word, they slipped apart and circled the boulder from opposite sides, moving in perfect synchrony. The damp grass and the shadows cloaking the hillside muffled their steps.48Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlT9rKO0Rs0
As they approached, Ron tightened his grip on his wand until his knuckles turned white with strain, while Hermione held her breath, staying calm and focused as she mentally rehearsed every spell she might need at a moment’s notice. The Death Eaters continued their quiet conversation, oblivious to the pair. Ron and Hermione took a few steps forward and exchanged one last glance for courage. Moving together, they steadied their arms despite the rush of adrenaline and raised their wands. In perfect unison, they whispered, ‘Stupefy.’ The spell’s sound barely disturbed the night’s quiet. Still, the effect was immediate—twin streams of bright red light shot from their wands, cutting through the darkness and striking the Death Eaters squarely in the back. The cloaked figures collapsed with a muffled thud, falling unconscious before they could cry out or raise the alarm. Ron and Hermione pressed themselves flat against the ground and listened closely for any sign that someone had noticed their attack.48Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGl08WUJetl
Ron and Hermione hid in the shadows and watched bright flashes of light erupt ahead—rapid bursts of spells that pierced the darkness with streaks of crimson and gold. Each spell illuminated the tangled undergrowth and threw jagged shadows across the battered greenhouse walls, causing the scene to shimmer with an eerie, otherworldly glow. Though they could not see the caster, they witnessed the effects clearly; Death Eaters nearby suddenly dropped to the ground, struck by an invisible force. The caster’s relentless skill ensured each spell hit its mark. For a fleeting moment, the chaos halted, and the threat to Ron and Hermione eased. Watching their enemies fall swiftly and silently, Ron and Hermione exchanged a relieved glance—eyes wide with gratitude and disbelief—realising just how fortunate they were to have Snape watching over them in such peril. Their hearts pounded, but for the first time since their escape, hope glimmered in the darkness, bolstered by the silent support of their ex-Potions Professor.48Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHNZC6kYBJ8
They scanned their surroundings swiftly to confirm the path was clear before pressing ahead, their eyes darting through the dim, shifting gloom in search of lurking enemies. Keeping low, they made their way along the winding trail towards the greenhouses, letting the undergrowth brush their ankles and snag their cloaks as they advanced. Every bush and twisted tree trunk became a fleeting refuge; crouched low, they slipped from one shadow to the next, moving slowly and cautiously. After every few steps, they paused to check for any sign of Death Eaters—Ron drew short, ragged breaths, and Hermione clutched her wand tightly.48Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeM8xeCI47Q
Ron and Hermione reached the greenhouses and pressed themselves against the back wall, where the old glass panes shimmered with faint reflections of the firelight. Shadows from tangled ivy and dense foliage shrouded them, making it hard for them to breathe. The breeze whispered through the leaves above, while every distant shout or crackle of magic surged fear through them. They kept silent, bodies stiff and eyes vigilant, as they watched for Snape, remaining hidden until he arrived.48Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqEdKhbn7rB
From his hidden perch high in the branches of an ancient oak, Snape watched Ron and Hermione, a calculating smirk playing across his face. He shifted into a bat, compressing his body silently, and glided smoothly to their side, his wings making no sound. As he landed, he resumed his human form. Noticing their startled reaction to his sudden arrival, he allowed himself a subtle, amused curl of his lips. ‘We’re nearly there,’ Snape whispered urgently, his voice low but steady. Ron and Hermione nodded nervously, their faces pale but determined.48Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡj8fu1hF0t2
Snape kept his body pressed against the greenhouse’s edge, his silhouette faintly outlined by fractured moonlight streaming through dirty glass. He tensed every muscle and moved silently, scanning the shifting shadows outside. He narrowed his eyes, spotting the faintest movement among the outlines of scorched shrubs—a group of blurred figures steadily approaching, their black robes blending with the darkness but occasionally catching bursts of orange firelight. Concern flickered across Snape’s face as his expression tightened with grim determination. ‘They’re coming this way,’ he whispered urgently, his tone sharp and barely audible. He motioned with his hand in a quick, practised gesture, signalling for Ron and Hermione to follow him. The three darted inside the greenhouse, letting thick foliage and the soft crunch of dew-covered grass muffle their movements. The familiar alarm confirmed the guards had been discovered. Snape pressed his lips together even tighter, his eyes darkening with worry as the noise swelled. ‘That could be problematic,’ he muttered grimly, knowing this uproar would likely draw more Death Eaters and make their situation even more perilous.48Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKscuMOTKjs
Hermione crouched between a large plant pot and the worktop, her face pale and tense in the faint half-light. She pressed her body against the cold stone, drew her knees to her chest, and felt sweat-damp strands of hair cling to her forehead. Her hands shook as she gripped her wand, her knuckles stark white in the darkness. The earthy smell of damp soil, mingled with the sharp scent of chemicals from the greenhouse, overwhelmed her senses and intensified her anxiety. Hermione drew a shaky breath, her chest rising and falling unevenly, and fixed Ron with wide, fearful eyes. ‘What now?’ she whispered, her voice trembling, barely above a whisper.48Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpaNeurzb5s
Snape whispered, ‘I’ll take a look,’ his words barely cutting through the tense silence as he fixed Ron and Hermione with a steady, reassuring look. Determination glimmered in his dark eyes, unwavering and fearless. He slipped from their cramped hiding spot with the grace of a seasoned spy, his robes gliding soundlessly over the damp stone floor. He moved with intent, merging seamlessly into the flickering gloom and shafts of moonlight filtering through the broken glass above. Drawing a steady breath, he crept towards the door at the far end of the greenhouse, alert for any trace of movement or signs of danger beyond the fragile walls. At the threshold, he hugged the rough wooden frame and, with delicate precision, eased the sagging plastic sheet aside just enough to peer through. The sheeting crackled softly beneath his fingers, threatening to betray his presence, but his careful touch kept him concealed. He made sure his shadow remained hidden outside, quickly scanning the darkness for movement, muscles coiled and ready to act at a moment’s notice, remaining invisible to any threat lurking beyond.48Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡd9ny8Lf0hh
The Death Eaters stood outside, their presence lining the hillside. Firelight flickered over their black robes, which rippled in the night breeze. Snape watched closely, his sharp eyes picking out Bellatrix Lestrange at the centre of the group. She strode up the slope, her wild, tangled hair framing a manic gleam in her eyes, and her bone-white hand gripped her wand tightly. Lucius Malfoy walked beside her, his platinum hair glowing in the moonlight. He carried himself with an elegant stance that concealed the tension in his clenched jaw. Both moved with purpose, their silent footsteps radiating threatening intent. The masked and hooded figures, their faces partly hidden with only glimpses of pale skin visible, converged on that spot and focused all their attention on the chaos near the unconscious guards. Some raised their wands defensively, gesturing and whispering sharply, while others crouched among the scorched brambles, ready to strike at the slightest movement.48Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIoCPUvMVls
As chaos erupted and distracted the group, Snape seized the chance to assess their perilous situation. He scrutinised every detail with the precision of a chess master. The Death Eaters, now focused elsewhere, temporarily left the path behind the greenhouses unguarded. This lapse gave them a fleeting but vital hope amid the dangerous night. Recognising that confusion and fear had broken their enemies’ concentration, Snape realised this was their moment to slip away, unseen, into the shadows and swirling smoke.48Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0WThPM8lRE
Snape returned swiftly to Ron and Hermione, his movements almost silent. He paused in the half-light and glanced at the door, making sure no one could see them. Bending low, he leaned close to the students, projecting authority yet providing unexpected reassurance. In an urgent whisper, he said, ‘This is our chance,’ ensuring only they could hear him. With nerves taut and eyes wide with worry, Ron and Hermione instinctively leaned closer, knowing every second counted and that Snape’s guidance was their only hope of avoiding detection.48Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8v4cRr2zW0
Snape led them back towards the greenhouse’s original entrance, scanning the area for any nearby presence. He took each step with deliberate silence, barely letting his boots disturb the damp ground and shards of broken glass. He moved with feline precision, pausing from time to time to listen for faint sounds—soft footfalls, the whispering wind, or distant voices. With his hand hovering near his wand and fingers tense, Snape guided Ron and Hermione along the overgrown path. He kept his keen gaze fixed on their surroundings, watching for any movement.48Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEgRFr3lNPf
Snape reached the entrance and paused, focusing intently with every muscle tensed. He pressed his back against the rough doorframe, taking care not to disturb the dew-covered ivy winding around it. He scanned the shadowy grounds with sharp eyes, searching for any movement or the glint of a wand that might reveal nearby Death Eaters. Satisfied for now that no immediate danger threatened them, Snape lifted a gloved hand and, with a quick, deliberate gesture, silently signalled Ron and Hermione to approach.48Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfXZmih9Pyg
Ron and Hermione paused briefly, fear and doubt clear on their faces as they glanced at the dark corners of the greenhouse. They tensed, but placed their trust in Snape’s quiet authority and moved closer to him, clutching their wands. Snape noticed their anxiety and softened his expression slightly—just enough to offer a hint of reassurance—before he smoothly drew his wand. With a gentle, precise tap on each of their heads, he sent an icy wave washing over Ron and Hermione, raising goosebumps and making them shiver. The cold crept under their clothes, crawling over their limbs and distorting the air as though wrapping them in an invisible veil. Snape quickly repeated the action on himself; his outline shimmered and faded into the background, rendering him nearly invisible except for faint movement in the shadows. The Disillusionment Charm cloaked the trio, allowing them to blend seamlessly into their dark surroundings, hidden even from the sharpest eyes outside the greenhouse.48Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvW3Mv13SL0
Snape whispered, ‘That should buy us some time,’ then glanced around the corner to check their path ahead. The overgrown trail stretched before them under the fractured moonlight, tangled with brambles and dotted with silvery dew. He carefully scanned the uneven flagstones, pausing on each shadow and listening intently for even the faintest rustle in the bushes. Smoke and tension thickened the air, and every distant crack or shifting shape suggested unseen threats. Satisfied that no black robes flickered or pale masks lurked in the shadows, he turned to Ron and Hermione, his face set with serious resolve.48Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXkO9kAdTbi
Snape found nothing at his first vantage point, so he quickly moved to the other end of the greenhouse. He pressed into the shadows and cautiously peeked around the corner. His nerves tightened at the sight before him: the Death Eaters spread out across the grounds, weaving purposefully between broken planters and tangled undergrowth. They probed the darkness with their wands, sending silvery beams flickering over the stone paths. The urgency in their movements was apparent—heads held high, eyes sharply alert for any sign of movement. Bellatrix’s wild silhouette barked orders, her wand flicking in agitation. Lucius Malfoy moved smoothly among them, his face tight with barely restrained anger. Snape realised that even with the Disillusionment Charm, they wouldn’t remain hidden for long under such intense scrutiny. Every rustle in the foliage, every creak of a shifting windowpane, threatened their cover, and Snape’s heartbeat quickened as he realised their margin for error was nearly gone.48Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡY7MEZuYiWo
Snape gave a firm, determined nod, making it clear it was time to move. Anticipation tightened every muscle in his body. He swiftly raised his gloved hand and, with one fluid motion, silently signalled Ron and Hermione to advance. With the Disillusionment Charm cloaking them, Ron and Hermione stepped forward quietly but with purpose, senses sharpened by fear and adrenaline. The cool, damp air closed in around them, saturated with the scent of earth and crushed leaves, as they slipped through the tangled shadows. Snape led the way, each careful step taking them closer to uncertain safety, their shapes almost vanishing into the darkness that shielded their path.48Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZtz2Ru2Va5
‘We need to make a run for it. Stay alert, and follow my lead,’ Snape said softly and urgently, his voice low and commanding. Without waiting for a response, he moved swiftly, blending almost perfectly with the shadows as he rushed down the hill. Snape advanced with quick, deliberate actions, demonstrating the finesse of a seasoned spy in every step. He glided across the slippery, dew-covered slope in a smooth, controlled motion—keeping his body low, shoulders hunched, and boots barely disturbing the mossy ground. Every precise movement reflected his years spent evading enemies and slipping unseen through hostile areas, his quick reflexes enabling him to react instantly to even the faintest sound or flicker of light.48Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmGLZTLA1GP
Ron and Hermione, their hearts pounding, hurried after Snape, staying low and sticking close to one another. They took every step carefully, barely making a sound on the dew-soaked ground, and gripped their wands so tightly that their knuckles ached. Together, they moved forward, tense and alert, flinching at distant shouts and the crackle of burning branches behind them. Darkness enveloped them, turning every rustle and startled bird into a potential threat. Yet, they relied on Snape’s steady, deliberate movements, following close behind and mimicking his silent, hunched posture as he slipped from shadow to shadow. Their fear and urgency were evident; every sense strained as they desperately tried to remain unseen while rushing to safety.48Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡG6NGbDHruz
They pushed through the tangled bushes, and Hermione’s foot caught suddenly on a twisted root hidden beneath a layer of leaves. The sharp, unseen obstacle twisted her ankle, sending a jolt of pain that made her stumble and scream, shattering the quiet. Her urgent, raw cry rang out as she fell onto the cold, uneven ground. Hearing her distress just a few steps ahead, Ron immediately turned around. In the dim light, worry etched his face as he saw Hermione on the ground, clutching her ankle. ‘Hermione,’ he called softly, his voice anxious. Without delay, he rushed back through the thick undergrowth, his heart pounding as he hurried to her side.48Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEk5U1iu0V2
Hermione whimpered, ‘My ankle,’ as tears ran down her pale cheeks. Suddenly, overwhelming pain stabbed through her leg, making it difficult for her to breathe. She desperately clutched her injured ankle, her fingers trembling as she pressed against the swollen joint, flinching with every touch. Her sobs broke free, raw and uncontrollable, and shattered the fragile night’s silence. Each gasp and choked cry sounded painfully loud in the gloomy darkness, carrying farther than she intended. Her distress echoed her fear and helplessness, gripping her as tightly as the throbbing pain in her ankle.48Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYgKussgGaW
Alerted by the distressed voices, Snape moved silently through the shadows towards Ron and Hermione. He kept low and pressed himself into a patch of brambles, the hem of his robes brushing the damp ground. When he reached them, he knelt carefully beside them, the faint smell of cold earth surrounding him. In a whisper, tense and urgent but barely audible, he asked, ‘What happened?’ He darted quick, careful glances between them, searching for injuries or threats and keeping his wand at the ready. He tensed every muscle and sharpened his senses as he took in the situation, determined not to reveal their hiding spot.48Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6BhQEAFMfo
‘She tripped,’ Ron whispered, his voice thick with anxiety and concern. He reached out instinctively, his fingers searching blindly for Hermione’s outline, still hidden beneath the Disillusionment Charm. The invisible barrier made him hesitate, and his touch fumbled until he finally found her. He carefully gripped her shoulders, steadying Hermione as she composed herself, her breath shallow and ragged, her trembling limbs betraying the shock and pain from her fall.48Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfZduMmW40w
Snape scouted the area, swiftly and precisely, resembling a predator as he barely disturbed the tangled undergrowth with his movement. He darted his eyes from side to side, scrutinising each twisted bramble and shifting shadow for the slightest hint of movement. He placed each step with care, leaving only the faintest marks in the damp earth, and maintained constant vigilance for hidden dangers—a skill he had honed through years of perilous work.48Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRmrWWdQiF6
Snape kept his wand raised until he confirmed the area was free of hidden dangers or onlookers, before moving back over Ron and Hermione. With a deliberate, almost ritualistic motion, he tapped each of them on the head. The air around them rippled and recoiled under the force of the magic. Instantly, the shimmering veil of the Disillusionment Charm began to fade; the icy, glassy sensation vanished, and the magical distortion cloaking their bodies melted away. Their figures sharpened as light surged back over them, brightening colours and outlining shapes with clarity. Ron and Hermione blinked, momentarily stunned when the invisibility spell faded. The trio was fully exposed, painfully aware that any movement or sound could alert the nearby Death Eaters to their position, now that their concealment was lost.48Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡt7rQzuepg3
Snape bent down beside Hermione and examined her injured ankle with careful attention. He aimed his wand at her swollen joint and whispered a spell. A soft red glow emerged from the tip, casting a gentle light over Hermione’s foot. The magic shimmered faintly, enveloping the injury as Snape narrowed his eyes to assess the damage. The red aura throbbed and reacted to the fracture below, deepening the crease in Snape’s brow as his spell confirmed his suspicion. A flash of frustration crossed his face, briefly breaking through his usual reserve. He let out a quiet sigh, a sound that barely rose above Hermione’s whimpers, as he recognised the harsh reality of her injury.48Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡS0jK1cE2gx
Snape spoke to Ron and Hermione in a hushed voice, making each word sharp and urgent. ‘Her ankle is broken,’ he said, concern evident in his usually firm voice. He carefully scanned the darkened clearing with his eyes, ensuring no one was listening. ‘A full healing spell isn’t safe to cast here,’ he added, frustration and regret in his words as he recognised that trying to fix her ankle in this exposed spot would risk drawing unwanted attention.48Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHvmz9CREzq
Ron knelt beside Hermione, worry etched across his pale face. He gently wiped a tear from her cheek and whispered comforting words. He kept his hand protectively on her shoulder, his thumb softly tracing circles over her cloak as he tried to calm her. ‘I’ll carry her,’ he declared, his voice calm yet firm, even though worry flickered in his eyes. He knelt carefully beside her and shifted aside the tangled branches so he wouldn’t worsen her injury. He gently slid his arms beneath Hermione, placing one hand under her back and the other beneath her knees, taking care to avoid her swollen ankle. As Ron lifted her, Hermione winced but gripped his shoulders tightly, her trembling fingers clutching his cloak. Despite the shock from her fall, Hermione drew comfort from Ron’s protective embrace and the strength with which he supported her. Ron barely let his arms waver as he stood and adjusted his stance to keep her secure, his every movement quiet and deliberate. Only Ron’s heavy breaths and Hermione’s muffled sighs disturbed the night’s fragile silence as they prepared to follow Snape.48Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6Eoy4un3Oj
Snape scanned the surroundings with his dark eyes, thoroughly checking for any signs of danger. He fixed his gaze on the distant shadows, his jaw tense as he watched for movement among the trees. Though he felt somewhat reassured, he remained cautious and straightened up. In a quiet, firm voice, he said, ‘Good, let’s go!’ Snape hurried ahead and skilfully wove through the underbrush, reaching the brink of the Forbidden Forest. 48Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkD1HMlLkqH
Ron moved with deliberate care, taking each step slowly to avoid the hidden roots and uneven terrain beneath the tangled undergrowth. He held Hermione firmly, adjusting her position to take pressure off her injured ankle, while his eyes darted nervously towards the shifting shadows at the edges of his vision. When they passed beyond the thick bushes and came into clearer view, Ron’s senses sharpened—he scanned the towering shapes of ancient trees to the brambles rustling in the breeze. Each gust of wind or snap of a distant twig made Ron tense, always alert for any sign of pursuit.48Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZdb9wehU7M
Hermione looked up at Ron, her voice soft and tinged with pain and exhaustion, and gently asked, ‘Are you alright, Ron?’ Her concern clearly showed in her expression. As she observed him, she noticed the stark contrast between his pale skin and the familiar freckles scattered across his face.48Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzHGq0Pq1UE
Ron looked at Hermione and mustered a faint, wavering smile, making an effort to reassure her even though fear and exhaustion showed plainly on his face. He met her gaze with shadowed, red-rimmed eyes that briefly revealed a glimmer of warmth, standing in stark contrast to the anxiety churning inside him. ‘Yeah, I just have to keep going,’ he said, his voice trembling and cracking, laying bare his doubts and the heavy responsibility resting on his shoulders. He tightened his hold on Hermione, wrapping his arms protectively around her as if he could keep her safe by sheer force of will. Without speaking, he silently promised not to let her down, no matter how difficult or perilous their journey became.48Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoPKh6bfnWA
Hermione shifted slightly in Ron’s arms, her forehead creased with worry while she struggled to focus despite the pain in her ankle. She caught her breath and clenched the fabric of Ron’s cloak, her knuckles turning white as she fought to suppress a gasp. Hermione swallowed hard and summoned her courage to ask the question that had haunted her since their escape. ‘Do you think Snape helped Harry too?’ she asked, her voice trembling while a sudden, sharp pain made her wince.48Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwHzIBGiD9h
Ron drew a shaky breath, his chest rising and falling as he fought to remain calm. ‘Merlin, I hope so,’ he whispered, his voice barely more than a breath—fragile and uncertain, as if speaking might shatter the delicate hope he clung to. He desperately wished for Harry’s survival, but cold doubt gnawed at him, whispering that the odds stood cruelly against them.48Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0yNHr77sut
Worry etched itself across Hermione’s features; her brow furrowed, and her wide, searching eyes mirrored the same fear and hope Ron carried within. Ron mustered a comforting smile for her, but his lips quivered in a brief, uncertain gesture, revealing his inner turmoil. The smile nearly became a grimace, yet he held her gaze, determined to remain a steady presence amid the uncertainty.48Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQvXWWngDoG
Ron gathered his strength, steadied his voice, and conveyed conviction, even though his hands trembled around Hermione. ‘We’ll soon see,’ he said, a phrase loaded with promise and apprehension. He hardened his eyes with determination and clenched his jaw, silently vowing to stay composed no matter what lay ahead. In that moment, Ron committed himself to holding together—not only for his own sake but out of fierce loyalty to Hermione, whose pain and fear called forth all his courage.48Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHwbZXy2gPq
Hermione closed her eyes and rested her head on Ron’s shoulder, exhaustion and pain washing over her. Each time they bounced on the uneven ground, fresh pain shot through her injured ankle. Ron, determined to protect her, gritted his teeth and cautiously navigated the dense underbrush, braving the cold and avoiding tangled roots that threatened to trip him. The scent of damp earth and crushed leaves filled the air, while the distant hoot of an owl mingled with Hermione’s quiet breathing, heightening their sense of isolation as they pressed further into the darkness. Despite the ache in his muscles, Ron never entertained the thought of stopping—he focused only on Hermione’s safety. After what felt like an eternity, his legs aching and his heart pounding, Ron pushed through the last tangled branches and emerged at the edge of the Forbidden Forest. 48Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡf9bPDIbZU8
Snape waited for them, standing stiffly with narrowed eyes as he scanned the darkness for movement. His cloak wrapped tightly around him and his wand at the ready, Snape stood alert and prepared to protect them from any lurking danger. He led the way into the dense forest, then stopped and faced Ron and Hermione, speaking in a calm, steady voice. ‘We only need to make one more stop before reaching safety,’ he said, his tone carrying a quiet urgency. He hesitated and then softly said, ‘There’s something I… we need to take care of.’ The sorrow in his voice unsettled Hermione and Ron. 48Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡV0Pim3vUi7
Hermione furrowed her brow and clung to Ron’s arm as pain throbbed in her injured ankle. Ron shifted uncomfortably, tightened his grip protectively, and exchanged anxious glances with Hermione. Their wide eyes and knitted brows showed their silent questioning, wondering what could elicit such emotion from the usually stern Potions Master.48Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzfKxU5lVS2
Ron finally asked the question that had been weighing on him. He forced the heavy, fragile words past the tightness in his throat. ‘Sir, what happened to Harry?’ he asked, almost inaudible, his tone filled with dread and uncertainty. He anxiously flicked his wide, tired-looking eyes between Snape’s unreadable expression and the encroaching shadows. Ron tensed every muscle, squeezing Hermione’s hand for comfort as he braced himself for the answer.48Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFO3AHDEg1g
Snape urged, ‘I’ll tell you everything soon, but we must first escape danger.’ He spoke in a low, urgent tone and quickened his pace among the tangled trees. His cloak billowed out behind him and snagged on stray branches as he navigated the uneven forest floor. He moved with purpose, flicking his eyes between the shadows and scanning for threats.48Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrWV7F5Au5y
Hermione nervously asked, her voice shaking as she barely managed, ‘Is he… dead?’ Her lips trembled and her breath faltered, showing the depth of her fear. She gripped Ron’s arm tightly, her knuckles pale, drawing strength from him to face the answer she dreaded.48Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWKS7U9pNo6
Snape paused abruptly, and though he usually projected a tall and commanding presence, he now sagged beneath the weight of fatigue and concern. For a moment, he seemed almost diminished—his clenched jaw betraying his internal struggle to maintain composure in front of Ron and Hermione. He swallowed hard and softly admitted, ‘I don’t know.’ The words slipped from him with a nervous shrug, sounding less certain than the confident Potions Master they knew. His authoritative mask slipped for a fleeting moment, exposing a man as unsure as the students before him. Without speaking further, Snape turned and walked deeper into the tangled forest, his cloak billowing behind him, each step carrying greater weight than the one before.48Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡut3db2YqBp
Snape led them swiftly and silently among the trees to the clearing where Voldemort and the Death Eaters had recently assembled. Dense branches and thorns parted as they moved, revealing an eerily empty and desolate space bathed in silvery moonlight. The undergrowth gave way, exposing the open ground, and a hauntingly bleak, ravaged view unfolded before them. Ron suddenly stopped, his breath catching as he stared at the devastation ahead.48Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡm6n8eG5dqY
A vast, jagged hole gaped in the earth, its raw, scorched edges revealing torn soil and shattered roots strewn around the uneven border. The crater, immense and violently shaped, showed how a reckless, brutal power had ripped through the clearing, its blackened depths wiping out every trace of life. A blanket covered a body next to the menacing crater, its shape faintly visible through the fabric. The shroud, hastily placed, revealed the recognisable outline—the broad shoulders and wild, unruly hair at the edges.48Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡz2iKN4dKzo
Ron hesitated with each step forward, the devastation weighing heavily on him with every uncertain breath. His hands shook at his sides, and cold sweat formed at the back of his neck as the sight before him threatened to silence him. He moved his lips, but the question stuck in his throat, emerging only as a faint whisper. ‘Who…?’ he tried to ask, but the words slipped away, lost in the silence and the pounding of his heart. He flicked his wide, tear-glazed eyes between the covered figure and Snape, desperately seeking an answer yet dreading what he might hear.48Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCaZ4nqioXO
Snape drew a deep breath, the cold air turning his exhale to mist, and stepped closer to the covered body. His hands trembled as he carefully pulled back the blanket, exposing Hagrid’s unmistakable features. Moonlight lit up Hagrid’s broad, gentle face, which now appeared eerily still and devoid of its usual warmth. Dirt tangled in his wild beard, and his massive hands rested limply at his sides; one gripped the ground, as if he still tried to protect even in death. 48Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgUk10ww1QK
Hermione couldn’t contain her tears; she sobbed and broke the silence, her shoulders shaking as she pressed a fist to her mouth and squeezed her eyes shut at the sight of their beloved friend. Meanwhile, Ron stared in numb disbelief, his face pale and his lips parted, as if he struggled to process what he saw. Shock and anger collided within him—he clenched his fists at his sides until his knuckles turned white. Tears welled in his eyes and nearly spilled over as he looked helplessly between Snape and Hagrid’s shrouded form.48Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0x7TQujeqx
Snape nodded softly and gently covered Hagrid again, handling him with reverence as if he wanted to preserve what dignity remained for his fallen ally. He paused his gloved hands on the edge of the shroud and smoothed it with a tenderness rarely seen in the stern Potions Master. In a soft, regretful voice, he said, ‘The Dark Lord murdered him before they left the clearing.’ His words escaped in a hoarse whisper. He paused and gazed at the two devastated Gryffindors with a mournful expression. ‘I did not want to abandon him here,’ he quietly admitted, his voice breaking as he looked at their grief-stricken faces.48Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcw4GpC8p71
Concern darkened Ron’s face as he nodded and knelt carefully. He supported Hermione with gentle caution, his hands trembling slightly as if she might break. The cold forest floor pressed unkindly beneath her, and when her injured foot touched the ground, she suddenly let out a sharp cry that cut through the quiet. Pain showed in her eyes—her face contorted, and she gripped Ron’s arm tightly, her teeth clenched and breath hissing out. The sound made Ron flinch, a flicker of guilt and helplessness crossing his pale face. He swallowed hard and whispered shakily, ‘Sorry, Hermione.’ He looked anxiously over at Snape, silently asking the Potions Master for help while staying protectively close to Hermione.48Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhYyhFeWqQH
With a serious look, Snape moved over to them and knelt by Hermione’s hurt ankle and flicked his wand, saying, ‘Ferula.’ 48Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9aPyY1sK78
Sharp, twisting pain shot through Hermione’s leg; she gasped, tears forming as she gripped Ron’s arm for support, and her fractured bones snapped back with a sickening click. A neat splint formed around her ankle, and bandages wound themselves tightly, providing fragile stability. Hermione’s cry of pain echoed in the cold night air, raw and involuntary, while Snape kept his eyes dark with concern, acting quickly and efficiently. 48Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJThJupboMm
Snape cast another, gentler incantation, speaking in a softer, more hesitant voice. His wand emitted a warm glow that eased some of the pain, though a dull ache still lingered beneath the magical restraint. Snape pressed his lips into a thin line, and regret flickered across his pale face. ‘I’m not very skilled at healing spells,’ he confessed, his tone unusually subdued and self-critical. Without waiting for a response, he stood up and walked towards Hagrid’s unconscious body with heavy, deliberate steps, burdened by duty and sorrow.48Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡokCxcKJUj4
Ron steadied Hermione as she rose, taking care not to jostle her injured ankle. He supported her with a firm but gentle grip, his protective touch helping her endure the pain in her leg as she bit her lip. The splint Snape conjured hugged her ankle tightly, giving her a fragile sense of stability while also reminding her with each step just how vulnerable it remained. Hermione concentrated intensely as she shifted her weight, her brow knitted, and her breath shallow and uneven. She gripped Ron’s arm, holding on for balance.48Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLdpakyTwKz
Hermione whispered, ‘I think I’ll be okay,’ her voice trembling with uncertainty as she carefully tested her foot. She winced, unable to completely hide her discomfort, but determination sparkled in her eyes as she straightened. After a moment, she let go of Ron and, with careful effort, stood on her own. Despite her pain and the fear that remained, Hermione drew a shaky breath, squared her shoulders, and readied herself to move forward.48Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXHlLfftaYe
Ron gave her a nod, then walked over to Snape, who stared at the large hole in the ground. Despite her pain, Hermione limped towards them with determination, each step jarring her injured ankle. She breathed shallowly, fogging the cold night air, and held her side for balance.48Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBmtzoOm0lT
‘What happened?’ Ron asked softly, pointing to the crater that marked the aftermath of the recent chaos. Jagged edges of earth clawed upward, as though anger itself had torn open the ground. Charred roots jutted from the blackened soil, and the acrid smell of smoke hung in the cold air, curling in ghostly shapes around the ruined clearing. Burned patches of grass and smouldering leaves quietly bore witness to the power of the spells unleashed here, their once bright colours reduced to ash and shadow. Broken wood and stone littered the crater’s centre, remnants from before the explosion.48Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRL3VRNB5v2
Snape steadied his breath and shook his head slightly, struggling to piece together what had happened to Potter. ‘The Dark Lord...’ he began, his voice loaded with doubt and lingering disbelief, ‘he killed Potter. Or at least, he thought he did.’ He shook his head, recalling what happened. ‘But when the Death Eaters went to confirm Potter’s death, he simply disappeared without a trace, as if he had never been there.’ Disbelief cracked Snape’s voice. The silence deepened, broken only by Snape’s laboured breathing while he struggled to comprehend the mysterious vanishing that defied all reason.48Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJn7rHwGUNi
Hermione could no longer contain herself; tears streamed down her face uncontrollably. She gasped for air, her chest heaving with sobs. ‘So, he’s…’ she stammered, her lips quivering as her words faded under the weight of grief—her mind refusing to finish the painful thought. Overcome by emotion, she leaned against Ron and grabbed his sleeve as if it were her only anchor to reality. She hid her face in his shoulder, her whole body trembling with sorrow, and her shoulders shook violently as she surrendered to her grief.48Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDs2f7XNPnn
Ron, equally overwhelmed by grief, hugged Hermione and held her tightly. His shoulders shook as he buried his face in her hair, his eyes filling with tears. His trembling hands gently but firmly supported her back, and he offered what comfort he could amid their anguish.48Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1Q6GWg1CfY
Snape shook his head, a troubled expression shadowing his face as he looked down at the crater. ‘I’m not quite sure what happened,’ he murmured, his voice tinged with doubt and a faint hint of fear. He drew a slow breath. ‘The Dark Lord now believes the situation was some trick or deception. He seems convinced he was duped—his anger was real.’ Snape briefly hesitated and shifted his gaze between Ron and Hermione, who, though their tears still fell, clung to a faint hope. ‘He has left for now,’ Snape said quietly and evenly, as if he were cautious of the forest overhearing. He added, ‘He likely plans to gather his forces—to regroup and strategise before continuing the hunt for Potter.’48Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZbGRZURUDT
Ron nodded and then fixed his gaze on Hagrid’s motionless form. He focused on the half-giant’s broad shoulders and wild hair—features he knew well, yet they appeared small and vulnerable now. ‘Maybe we could use this hole to bury—’ he began, but grief choked his words, making them falter. He blinked away tears and turned his eyes aside as the weight of the task pressed down on him. The sight of Hagrid, usually so lively and full of laughter, lying silent and still amid the destruction, proved almost unbearable.48Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwelgIj6av8
Snape gave a nod of agreement and then faced the half-giant. He steadied himself, lifted his wand, and carefully levitated Hagrid—still wrapped in the blanket—down into the crater. The body glided gently, the blanket’s edges fluttering in the cool breeze as it settled into the hollow. With a deft flick, Snape turned three nearby sticks into sturdy spades, their handles smooth and their blades dull but gleaming in the cold light. The trio shared sombre glances, exhaustion and sorrow etched onto their faces, and then they walked to the edge of the grave.48Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvotk3LJ5hD
They began the solemn and challenging task of covering Hagrid’s body with earth. Their shovels struck the ground with soft thuds, scattering dirt across the blanket and sending faint dust clouds swirling into the lingering smoke. Hermione, moving slowly and with difficulty, pressed on despite her injured ankle trembling with each step, her jaw set in determination. Ron gripped the spade with shaking hands, his jaw clenched tightly as he fought back tears, each heavy movement filled with grief as he scooped and poured soil. Snape worked in silence, his expression distant and focused, yet he handled the task with care and respect.48Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡym6PG5oeWD
With each shovelful of dirt, they honoured their loss, feeling the cold, damp earth beneath their hands. They gradually covered Hagrid’s figure, until a gentle mound of soil marked his resting place. When they finished, only the fresh earth remained—a silent tribute to the giant who had given so much and asked for so little.48Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgFEiS33AuZ
Hermione leaned on her spade, gripping it so tightly her knuckles turned white. Overcome by emotion, she felt utterly drained. ‘I’ll miss him,’ she whispered, her voice thick with sorrow and longing for the friend they had lost. She trembled with anguish, her shoulders slumping and her posture sagging beneath the burden of her grief, as if saying goodbye was almost more than she could endure. She stood there for a long time, her quiet sobs breaking the silence.48Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOL3Uq3aEjj
Ron wiped away his tears and forced himself to compose his emotions. Despite his determined efforts, his hands trembled slightly, and he blinked hard, refusing to let his grief overtake him. ‘So will I,’ he said softly, his voice steadier than Hermione’s. As he gazed at the freshly turned earth, memories of Hagrid’s laughter and gentle strength flickered through his mind.48Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVT2vaDKaNr
Snape stood silently, profound sadness etched on his face as he gazed at the makeshift grave. He finally broke the heavy silence after a long pause, his low, firm voice piercing the air with restrained emotion. He said softly, ‘We should leave,’ disrupting the fragile calm that had settled over the clearing. He cast one last look at the mound of earth, his eyes filled with unspoken regret, then turned away. ‘There’s a small camp not far from here,’ he added, his voice carrying a gentle urgency that urged them forward. Snape didn’t wait for a response; he purposefully led the way beneath the thick canopy of trees, his boots crunching softly over the leaves.48Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡg7nksfdVnh
Hermione and Ron lingered by the grave, their hearts heavy with sorrow. Hermione stood silent, tightly gripping her spade until her knuckles turned white, steadying her breath with effort. Profound silence enveloped them, broken only by the soft, hiccupping sobs that escaped from Hermione and the distant rustling of leaves. Ron stayed close, bowing his shoulders beneath the weight of his grief, his eyes glistening with unshed tears. After a moment, he hesitated before softly saying, his voice trembling, ‘Farewell, Hagrid,’ pouring all his gratitude into the words he could not fully express.48Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzpnXYdLf1H
Hermione knelt beside him and gently picked up a fallen branch. She drew a steady breath and, with trembling fingers, lightly waved her wand, whispering the spell with lips barely moving. The branch shimmered and transformed before their eyes, its petals unfurling into a bouquet of soft pink, white, and yellow roses. Exhausted and emotional, Hermione carefully placed the bouquet on the freshly dug ground above Hagrid’s grave, her hands trembling. Overcome by grief, Hermione let tears well up and flow silently down her cheeks as she knelt beside the resting place. She bowed her head, her shoulders shaking as she quietly mourned.48Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsyltv3nqZW
Ron took Hermione by the shoulders and gently led her away from the grave, making sure his movements remained careful and steady as they approached Snape, who waited patiently. He wrapped a supportive arm around Hermione, noticing the way she trembled and how her steps faltered. Though emotion threatened to choke him, Ron kept his words soft, whispering comfort to Hermione as he steered her away from their friend’s resting place.48Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaEgOmSGqqx
Snape stood quietly amid the shadowy woods, cloaked in darkness, lowering his eyes and wearing a grim expression. Ron felt surprised and grateful that Snape refrained from making any harsh comments about their grief, which increased Ron’s respect for him. At that moment, Snape’s silence communicated his deep understanding—he subdued his usual sharpness, creating a calm mood as they prepared to depart.48Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTckRSjc1lF
Ron supported Hermione as she climbed the gentle slope away from Hagrid’s grave, her limp evident with every uncertain step. They trod over soft, uneven ground, where loose soil and roots from the recent disturbance caught at their feet. Hermione leaned heavily on Ron, her breath coming in shaky bursts while she glanced back at the grave, where her conjured bouquet of roses added a faint touch of colour to the darkness. Together, they trailed after Snape, who led them deeper into the forest beneath the trees’ protective canopy.
A/N: Firstly, I am really sorry for the wait in getting this chapter up. My computer broke a couple of years ago and I've only just managed to get a new one.
Secondly, I’m so sorry! Please don’t hate me! I cried so much when writing this chapter! I love Hagrid and the thought of him dying is so wrong, but it wouldn’t have made sense for them to keep him captive. As far as Voldemort would know, the Order betrayed the truce and thinks a trick has been played on him. Naturally, he would kill the first Order member he came across for revenge!
I hope you enjoyed it in any case, and please leave me a review to let me know how I’m doing with this rewrite. Any suggestions for what you might want to see is greatly welcome as well. I may not use them, but it may inspire me with other extra scenes!
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