A/N: Happy New Year.

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While the children were enjoying their shortened train ride, Severus set about preparing his workbench at Malfoy Manor to best optimize the space. Before he started anything he worked through the entire brewing process multiple times until he was comfortable. This potion would be one of the most complex he'd brewed in quite a few years. Given how late in the day it was, Severus knew he would be awake half the night if he started now. He also realized the children under his tutelage could learn quite a bit about what the life of a potion master truly entailed prior to beginning the brewing process. They wouldn't be in the lab when the actually brewing occurred, as he would need complete focus. While they wouldn't observe the brewing, they could watch how deliberate and methodical a potion master had to be in the run up.

For his part, Lucius agreed it would be good learning experience and the potion would wait a couple of days in order for the children to take their final exams. The morning after Hermione's third year Potion exam all four children would spend time in the lab. The pair chuckled at how the boys would react, summer work always started the week after they returned from Hogwarts. The elder wizards were sure the boys would complain about not having a break this summer.

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The third year Transfiguration exam was difficult but not impossible. Hermione was upset during the practical when Professor McGonagall assigned her the Lapifors spell instead of Draconifors. Hermione spent a bit of time perfecting the spell and now could transfigure the target object into a variety of dragons. With a bit of a sad sigh, Hermione transfigured the tea cup into a rabbit and directed it to hop around the room. After having the rabbit return to the table, Hermione returned it to the tea cup. She got extra points since the rabbit hadn't left any waste in the room. Hermione wondered what sort of points she could have gotten if she'd been assigned the other spell and asked what sort of dragon the Professor would prefer. A rabbit is a rabbit.

The boys chuckled at her complaints after knowing she really wasn't that upset. Professor McGonagall took pity and a bit of her time after the test to observe what Hermione could do with Draconifors and commented on just how well she did. That was enough for Hermione who then turned to her final exam the next day. The next day, after lunch, Severus ushered her into the lab and with a bit of pleasure he shut the door in the face of Draco as he attempted to follow the young witch.

"You know Miss Granger, it seems you have a second shadow. I haven't seen him like this since he was trying to get Lucius to buy him his first real broom." Hermione smiled and realized her professor told her the story to break the stress evident in her eyes. "You'll do fine. Just like the boys. Don't tell them, I have their scores and they easily made the necessary grade. I have the same faith in you. Now sit and we will begin with the written portion." Like that Hermione began her final exam and found she was no longer worried.

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Jean expected to wake Hermione the first morning of summer only to find the witch sitting at the breakfast table reading a book. "Morning Sweetheart, what book is that?" Hermione smiled at her mum and marked her place with the bookmark Draco gave her.

"It's one from Cissy, supposedly it's a text from a wizarding finishing school. I wondered how they differed from what muggle finishing schools taught. So far the differences aren't too much. I think this would be a school I'd fail mum. It's just…". Hermione paused to try and think what she wanted to say.

"I understand. I was the same way, just too driven, your aspirations don't match the school's goals. Cissy was telling me her mum tried to force her to attend instead of finishing Hogwarts. Needless to say it didn't go over well." The Granger women laughed at the mere thought Narcissa Malfoy would drop out of school. "She's pretty set on starting a primary school for young witches and wizards. I think I'm going to help out. It feels right." Jean shrugged in a way Hermione recognized.

"You'll both do great mum. Those kids couldn't be luckier than to have the pair of you." Hermione tucked into her breakfast pleased with herself, rarely got to give her mum a pep talk. Jean shook her head and filled her own plate.

"Today you are spending the morning at the Manor in the lab. Severus wants to show the group of you something. Lucius thought it would be a good idea and it's not like you'd reject the chance to listen to a professor speak." Jean smirked at her daughter who shrugged back at her mum. "Good, once you're finished go get ready and I'll meet you by the floo. Oh, your dad went over earlier to meet with Lucius, apparently one of their projects is working splendidly and they are plotting now."

Hermione laughed at her mother's face. "They are plotting to take over the world again aren't they?" Jean could only nod.

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After ushering the children, who acted as if they hadn't seen each other in years not the hours it had been, to the lab, the adults sat around the table and broke into various conversations about the next couple of weeks. The mums were quietly placing bets on how the quartet would react when they were told.

In the lab, the children settled in their seats before Severus spent an hour discussing ingredients and how he determined what specimen to use. He detailed why the perfect leaf may not be the perfect ingredient if the preparation included the stem. By looking ahead and seeing how the item would be used, the brewer can find the best option for the specific potion.

Hermione was focused on each ingredient and why it would work for this potion but not another one. Harry and Draco had been through this lecture before but this was a real world application and Severus rarely allowed them to watch. Blaise would admit to being a bit lost; while in the advanced potions track, he hadn't been exposed to the work done beyond second year. After seeing how focused the other three were, he too decided to see what he could pick up for the future.

It was lunch by the time Severus released the small group. Starting this particular potion would be the most crucial step. After ensuring all his equipment was all within his reach, the ingredients lined up and perfectly portioned, Severus took a few calming breaths before picking up the first ingredient. It took an additional four hours before the potion started its simmer. It needed to remain in this state for two days before the next set of ingredients were added. Placing a spell allowing the potion to simmer but never boil, Severus went upstairs for some much deserved relaxation before a private dinner with Aurora.

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The DMLE final sign-off on the mirror occurred the day the students were released from Hogwarts for their summer break. Amelia and Frank discussed when to put the plan into action and dispatch the creature and since school had just ended, they decided to wait a couple of days as Frank wanted some time with his son first. The weekend visits were fine but Frank wanted some real time. Amelia notified all involved the mission would occur on the following Friday. This also allowed the headmistress and professors to be involved as their responsibilities over the children were finished for a few months.

As the targeted Friday morning dawned, those involved met in the DMLE's largest meeting room. In addition to the individuals from the Ministry, Sophie, the Hogwarts professors and a few of the Regents, were listening intently to the plans for the day.

Amelia stood at the front detailing everyone's role, position and backup. "First we will access the school through the Headmistress's floo and remain in the office until we've received the all clear. We have been monitoring the castle since the second entrance was sealed and have reasonable comfort the basilisk is in the chamber. After the signal we will advance to the washroom and those assigned to the room will enter. The rest will remain in the hall outside prepared to advance if needed."

No one acknowledged the slightly uncomfortable feeling on what 'if needed' was and Amelia continued with her instructions. "Once those assigned to the washroom have arrived, the charmed mirror will be positioned and Professor Flitwick has confirmed the other mirrors are reflecting the charmed mirror's image, Gibby will open the original access and call the creature forward. As Gibby opens the chamber, Frank will don the protective goggles and prepare for his assault."

The professors and elf nodded their agreement and turned their attention towards the DMLE Head again. "From the description provided the beast should raise out of the hole as any snake would. Its head will be held high until it has cleared the opening and enough of the body is exposed in order to pull itself out the rest of the way. Frank will move forward while replacing Gibby in front of the entry and watch the charmed mirror. Once the creature is sufficiently exposed, Frank will advance. Should there be any issue, the aurors stationed in the room will take their best shots at the beast. We've learned from the Greeks the last basilisk they encountered was killed with a modified killing curse. There are a few who know this spell and will use it if needed."

The heavy feeling when Amelia said "if needed" pressed more on each person in the room, they hadn't allowed themselves to think too much about the what-if scenarios since it would mean something happened to Frank. "Once the basilisk has been neutralized, Gibby will confirm its death. Our research indicates once a basilisk is dead it is safe to view the body. However, I am leery for anyone to gaze at the beast's head. After discussions with various magical creature experts and potion masters, we've decided for Frank to remove the head and cover the beast's eyes. Once that is done, Severus will begin to prepare the carcass. Due to the rarity of the creature, there are many undocumented uses and it would be a waste to pass this opportunity."

After a few questions and some slight modifications, everyone in the meeting left to prepare. They would meet again at the DMLE floo in four hours.

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Neville sat in his garden trying to think of anything but the fact he could lose his dad again. Aggie didn't really understand, she just knew her daddy had to work today. Frank and Alice sat Neville down after breakfast and explained what would happen later in the day and it took everything in Neville to not break down. Those months between when he'd lost and regained his father had been extremely difficult for him but he survived knowing his dad would be back. After Frank left for the morning, Neville quietly excused himself and remained in the garden all morning.

When Alice stepped out of the house, she pointed toward the garden and waved her hand. Frank saw how broken his boy looked and it killed him. "I'll go talk to him. Hopefully he will understand why this has to be done." Alice sighed knowing how she agreed with Neville but had already allowed Frank to make the ultimate decision. She lifted on her toes and brushed her lips over his cheek. "I'll come find you before I leave. Maybe call Narcissa, see if you and the kids could spend the afternoon there. Lucius will be at the castle."

"That is a good idea Frank. I'll call her now and will probably be in the sitting room when you are done. Bring Neville in with you. It's still too chilly to be out here without a jacket." Alice squeezed Frank's hand once more before heading into the warm house. Frank remained on the back porch for a few minutes watching his son before making his way to the garden.

"Neville" the boy's head spun at hearing his father's voice. Seeing his dad standing, Neville jumped to his feet and met Frank in the middle of the garden. "I think we should talk a little. I don't believe I gave enough time this morning to give you a chance to think. I didn't do it last night, because I wanted you to get a good night's rest, but at the same time this morning has been rushed. I have time before I need to be back and I wanted to spend them here." Neville blinked quickly trying to repress the tears that threatened to fall.

"I don't want you do it dad. I barely hung on after you were first attacked. If you were gone, I don't know what mum or Aggie would do. I'm not ready to take over for you." Frank sighed quietly and held his boy tightly in his arms.

"It's alright to be afraid Neville. When, and I mean it Neville, when I come home tonight we start our life over. The new department closes next week for two weeks to allow families some time together since Hogwarts has just let out. We mentioned it before but as a reminder the family is going to take a bit of a trip. We're heading down to the west country and I think you'll enjoy it." Frank smiled at his son who was still quite upset.

"But today you're still in the DMLE and plan to do something very dangerous. I'm worried." Neville's comments were quiet and Frank almost didn't hear him. "What happens if something goes wrong?"

"We have multiple layers of plans Nev. I will be wearing protective goggles and in the worst case, I am only petrified again. But Professor Snape made extra reviving potion. IF it were to happen I would be home pretty quickly."

Frank wasn't sure if he'd been able to quell his son's concerns at all but he didn't know what else to say. Instead he motioned toward the main part of the garden and the pair began to walk. "This was where I'd walk with you at night when you were fussy. Your mum was so exhausted. As soon as I'd step outside you'd quiet and by the time we passed through the garden gate, you'd be happily gurgling. It never took long for you to fall asleep. I'd bring you in and you'd be good for the rest of the night. I was never more proud than when I watched you find your love in plants. That's your mum's side, your grandfather loved the outdoors. I think it would be a good idea for us to look through his notes and books over the summer after we return home. I bet there are a number of things in there you'd find interesting."

"Thanks Dad. I'm still worried but I'm going to focus on you coming home and the plans for next week. I think mum was worried about me. Maybe we should go in and let her know I'm ok." Frank wrapped his arm around his son's shoulders and gave him a squeeze. Neville always did calm after a good walk in the garden.

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At the designated time, everyone started to make their way to the DMLE offices. Amelia saw Frank return and went to talk with him, instead Frank didn't acknowledge her and went straight toward Lucius Malfoy. Amelia stood back and watched as her (still) second in command shook his head and said something again to Lucius. All Amelia could see was Lucius Malfoy's resigned look and him say I swear before Lucius and Frank grabbed the other's arm. Amelia, always sensitive to magic, felt the wave when the oath was completed.

Amelia didn't know what Lucius had sworn to do, but as she continued forward Frank stood taller and turned back toward her. "Amelia, I believe it is time to get this started. Sophie will go first and I will follow. I need to prepare for a bit." She could only nod while Frank turned back toward Lucius, "thank you" and made his way to Sophie. With their departure everyone else got in line and started to make their way to the Hogwarts.

When the first two individuals made it to the office Frank picked up the sword and turned toward the headmistress. "Sophie, I think I need a few minutes. I'm going to take the sword and hat; I'll meet you at the washroom in about an hour. It will take almost that long for everyone to get here, Amelia to get the signal, and the whole group to make their way down there." The headmistress smiled sadly and waved her hand to acknowledge the comment. With a new sense of determination, Frank left and reached the staircases quickly. He started the familiar climb until he reached the seventh floor of Gryffindor Tower. "You know hat, you could have just told me." The hat merely shrugged and turned itself toward the wall opposite the portrait of the Fat Lady and murmured something.

The rest of the portraits watched in expectation as the wall seemed to melt away and another set of steps appeared. Frank took each step carefully, it had been quite sometime since a living person walked this path. "Hat, you'll have to make sure I know how to get back in here. Once I leave…" Frank didn't quite know how to finish the statement but the hat seemed to understand.

After few more minutes of walking the steps, Frank reached an opening and walked into the actual room at the top of the tower. Godric's private room was awash in artifacts radiating magic. Frank's breath hitched as he caught sight of the large portraits hanging on the walls. The room, like the rest of the tower, was circular but the portraits seemed to be on the cardinal points with large windows in-between each portrait. It was obvious to Frank who was portrayed. While he'd never seen images of the hallowed quartet, they looked exactly as he thought they would.

"Would you like to remain here when I leave or go back to the headmistress's office?" Frank was so taken by the room, he hadn't noticed the eyes of the portraits shifting from the sword in his hand to the piece of felt on the lone table. When the hat didn't respond, Frank turned and saw it seemed to smile. "If you are going to leave us now, I would like to know how to come back. There is something I need here, but I don't have time." The hat blinked a few times before the eyes shut and the hat began to slowly fade into nothing.

"Be not concerned, you and yours will always be able to enter since you are aware. Tell your family of the story, of your history, we knew all our stories would be lost and it was sad when it occurred. Family only need to step to the wall and the path shall be revealed." Frank looked to the portrait of the man who was garbed in the outfit of a warrior of the highest rank. The now familiar face gazed back and nodded at the wizard who carried his sword. Frank dropped his head and nodded at Godric Gryffindor, before leaving to return to his mission. Godric ran his hand over the hilt of the sword at his side. It was good to see the real thing again.

The portrait's eyes gazed to a smaller painting positioned over the fireplace, it had been a still-life life for nearly a thousand years. For the first time in all those years, something moved and the founders smiled. "Welcome home friend, you have done all that was asked and now you've returned to us." The old, battered felt hat stretched to its full height and blinked brightly at the others.

"It's good to be home."

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Amelia was surprised to find Frank missing when she entered the office. As she was the last to arrive, everyone else was present and Amelia slipped into her role as leader. It took another ten minutes before she received the all clear signal and began to dismiss the group toward their assigned locations. Sophie and Amelia found Frank waiting for them at the steps empty handed. Sophie looked to the auror who only smiled at the witch and nodded to his boss. "Where's the…?" Sophie's question was cut off when Frank smiled and mouthed washroom and continued to walk casually toward the second floor.

On entering the small room, Sophie noticed the sword leaning against the far wall while Frank moved quickly and stood in front of the artifact until Amelia received an oath from everyone to not reveal how the creature was destroyed. Those unaware of the gilded sword assumed the oath related to the alternate variation of the killing curse, but they were shocked when Frank pulled out the sword. "One moment, I would like to make sure no one is too close."

Frank looked at the individuals who may be in the range of his swing. "You all know where you are supposed to be, this is where I will stand and will not have the benefit of seeing what is around me before I swing. Watch your position and if it is in the path of this, I recommend we make some alterations. Yeah?" Frank stood at the mirror as Gibby explained how the opening was described in the family papers. Nodding, Frank stepped forward and leveled the sword. He took a few practice swings before making the moves he planned to use on the beast. After he finished two of his fellow aurors noted their assigned positions were in the direct path of the sword. Moving each back a few steps was the only change needed.

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"I think we are ready. Let's get the mirrors charmed and hand out those goggles. I would like to have dinner with my family this evening." As Frank leaned against the wall, the others in the room noted his normal optimism but he'd never been so jovial before. It was an interesting new side to the man. Most knew of Frank leaving the DMLE and figured the new attitude was because of that.

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The Longbottom family arrived at Malfoy Manor and were immediately greeted by Narcissa. "Neville, the boys are getting ready to fly. I hope you remembered your broom." The boy blushed and pulled it from behind his back. "Well, off you go. They are waiting on the back patio. I think you'll enjoy where they are going." Neville was quickly ushered out of the room and toward the back of the house. "Now Miss Aggie, I believe last time you were here, you met Hermione's cat Crookshanks." The younger witch jumped up and down a bit, while her brother loved plants, she loved animals. "Yes, Hermione and Crooks are in the library why don't you head in there for a bit while your mum and I have some tea." Without having to be asked twice, Aggie was on her way.

"Thanks, I think if we stayed at home, they would focus too much on Frank. I'm having a difficult enough time as it, let alone if I was trying to downplay my worries for the kids." Narcissa and Alice hugged before making their way to the solarium.

"Your family is always welcome here. And I think having them with other children will be good for them. Plus I'm interested in hearing what Neville says about the pitch." Alice laughed, very few of the parents were aware the new school was on Malfoy property. It was another security measure. Frank was made aware since he was a Regent and he naturally told Alice in confidence. The pair of witches enjoyed a quieter than normal tea and were surprised when the clock began to toll they counted the chimes. When the seventh chime rang through the halls both of the witches were surprised at how late it was. "I hadn't realized the time. Let's get the boys and find the girls. They can at least get cleaned up for dinner. You're welcome to stay, until we hear something." With a nervous nod, Alice agreed, she and the children needed to be with friends regardless of what happened.

The boys came in a bit cold and more than a bit muddy. After ushering them to get cleaned, Narcissa called Rich and Jean and invited them over as well. Alice appreciated how Narcissa was acting completely unruffled, but when you looked in her eyes Alice could see the nervousness. When the Grangers arrived, they went to get Hermione and Aggie from the library, while Narcissa led Alice to the sitting room opposite of the dining room.

Shortly after the now-clean boys trooped into the room, the floo sounded and Lucius stepped through the fireplace with a shocked look on his face.

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Lucius and Severus were stationed with the rest of the professors and extra aurors in the hallway outside of the bathroom. Lucius had been pushed toward the back since his role was more of an observer and Severus found himself pulled with Lucius. Aurora, taking matters into her own hands, ensured Severus was well and truly away from the washroom door. The action made the blond wizard shake his head in amazement at how easily she directed the Potion Master. "Honestly Severus, I cannot brew the waking the potion and I don't trust anyone to brew for you. You'll stay back here with me." With a little blush Severus nodded and placed his hand on Aurora's back.

The hallway was quieter than either wizard expected when Lucius mentioned his thought to Severus one of the other aurors looked up. "Amelia silenced the room, we have our theories but we don't question. Robards is just on the other side of the door and if things start to go south he's been instructed to open the door and prepare us. Hopefully he does that before trying to take out the creature himself. I'd like a little warning before the thing comes flying out here."

Lucius agreed, if he had to face the creature, he'd like a little warning as well. As the minutes ticked by no one knew how the mission was going or if it had even started yet. Most of the people in hallway remained tense and ready to react at a moment's notice. Lucius wasn't sure how long they'd been waiting but he'd resisted the urge to check his watch. When he finally broken down and looked, he realized they'd been standing still for almost three hours.

As he was about to say something to Severus, the door slowly opened and everyone braced in preparation to fight. An incredibly pale, shaking from her experience and covered what many assumed was blood, Amelia Bones exited. The only questions remaining were whose blood and what had happened in the small room.

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Frank took a backwards step from the sink and leaned against the wall while Filius worked on the mirrors. The unspeakables stepped forward and began their job with the charmed mirror. It took almost forty-five minutes before Filius confirmed the mirrors in the bathroom were now focused on the charmed mirror's image. Minerva stepped forward and took another twenty-five minutes transfiguring everything in the bathroom into something softer. Looking to each of the individuals in the room, she had taught each of them after all, she stated if people went flying there was no need for them to land and for whatever they hit to do more damage than they already had. A nervous chuckle floated through the room.

Gibby wasn't nervous about this, it was something that had to be done. The family had always known if the beast were released it would mean the end of Hogwarts. None wanted the legacy of Slytherin to be tarnished anymore than it already had been. His elf family had served the Slytherin family since the time before Hogwarts. When the name died out, the daughters still carried the blood, the elves continued their service to the children of the daughters and many believed the line would end with Merope's son. However, Gibby left many books in the Malfoy library in case something were to happen to him. When the time came and they were needed, Kitmu would ensure they were found, the Salazar Slytherin's final secret would be revealed.

The wizard and elf looked to each other and some sort of understanding passed between the pair. The elf reached and touched the hilt of the sword. A bit of magic was shared, no one but Frank noticed. He nodded to the elf who continued to keep one finger on the hilt until it was time. Generations of knowledge flowed easily. As the family knowledge passed, Gibby was pleased to know the vow taken was still being honored.

After Minerva stepped to the side, Amelia began to test everything. It took her over an hour before she could think of nothing else and had to step aside. Frank, who looked extremely relaxed, stood from the wall and dropped to meet Gibby's eyes. In a whisper, Gibby answered Frank's unspoken question, "It's all been seen, it's all been written, it's all been planned, it's all been fought. We are merely following the visions from a millennia ago, it's time". Before Frank could ask a question, Gibby spun, faced the sink and Frank hopped to his feet. The sword was sheathed in a scabbard no one had noticed, and Frank pulled the goggles over his eyes. He almost felt better if he shut his eyes, but he needed to look at least until he got into position.

With one hand on the hilt and the other on the wall, the wizard waited until he heard the elf's hissing. Without the benefit of watching others, Frank felt like it was forever until he heard something from below. He took his two measured steps and felt the back of the elf on his legs before closing his eyes. The elf continued to speak while setting his hand on the legs of the wizard. Slowly the noise increased in volume and the responses to the elf's commands were heard.

Amelia flipped on a recording device and slid a pair of modified glasses over her eyes. The rest of the team did the same and while the glasses didn't cover as much as the goggles, it would be enough to do what was necessary in the worst case scenario.

Gibby listened to what the beast wanted and did not answer, he only called for the beast to appear. Gibby and the beast had spoken before, the witches and wizards didn't know it, but the answers Gibby sought were only known by the beast. After learning the beast's secrets and it explaining what the other wizard said, Gibby promised the beast it would get its ultimate wish.

As the beast began to lift, Gibby's voice began to soften, the hisses almost seemed comforting in some way. The harshness everyone heard was replaced with a soothing sound making the beast move more quickly. When Frank felt the presence of something else, he remained still. The elf hadn't yet given him the sign. Until then he would remain still knowing the beast would be focused on the small elf standing at the edge of the opening. After a few extra seconds, Frank opened his eyes and found the enchanted mirror directly in front of him.

Gibby gave a slight tap to the wizard's leg and slowly Frank unsheathed the sword from its scabbard. With a move quicker than anyone expected, the sword was thrust upward and met with resistance almost immediately. Frank continued to battle, continued to push the sword up until he felt his hand hit the skin of the beast.

With adrenaline pumping through Frank's body, he couldn't sense anything until Gibby's hissing increased in volume but in the same soothing manner. Slowly the rest Frank's hearing returned, as did his ability to smell, finally he felt the sword pulled from his hand and a rush of air.

No one moved after the thud was heard, the rest couldn't tell if it was Frank, the beast or someone else who'd looked accidentally. It felt like forever until Gibby's voice was heard saying it was finished. The elf reached for Frank's hands and guided them to the hilt of the sword. "Remove the sword and I will turn the beast." Frank yanked back and stumbled when the sword finally broke free. It was silent until Gibby told Frank to do what needed to be done.

The elf had given the beast what it wanted and now all that remained was the clean up. Gazing around the room, Gibby was glad to not be a Hogwarts elf at the moment. After giving Frank the signal, the wizard looked down and saw the beast's belly and motioned for Gibby to step away. It took much less effort to cleave the head free than it did to kill it.

"Someone get Severus so he can do what he needs and the rest of the team can search the chamber." Frank summoned a large blanket and placed it over the faced down head and removed the goggles. It was only then he saw just what had occurred. "On second thought, maybe everyone else should keep their glasses on for a moment. Amelia, I'll come to you." Frank gingerly made his way across the room to where Amelia stood, it almost appeared she was in shock. "Go ahead Amelia, I'm in front of you. Take off your glasses."

Amelia Bones had seen plenty of muck and gore over her career, sometimes the people they caught were vile and other times they refused to be apprehended. But nothing in her past prepared her for when she removed her glasses. Frank Longbottom was covered in something, his hair was matted to his head, his skin and clothes were soaking and the sword was reflecting the light in the room while also covered. "Are you ok Frank?"

The man released a deep laugh. "Yes Amelia I'm fine. This is all from the beast and completely unexpected, it didn't seem to put up a fight at all. That said, it seems the place is a bit of a mess right now but we should probably move forward with the plan. I, for one, will need a bath." Amelia looked around the room and noticed how the walls, ceiling, mirrors, and everyone in the room was also covered. She waved her wand and the liquid dripping from the ceiling stopped while the substance on the walls continued to run and puddle on the ground. Luckily the drains had been covered to ensure nothing escaped the room.

"Everyone, the mission was a success. Be prepared as you remove your glasses, we are all covered and probably look worse than we are. I'll get Professor Snape and the exploratory team." Amelia carefully walked across the room on shaky legs and opened the door.

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Severus Snape had never seen a room look like Myrtle's old haunt currently did. The fluids on the ceiling seemed to be frozen so the drips wouldn't hit anyone. The walls were covered as well and it ran without impediment towards the floor. Severus didn't even what to think about the floor and what he was standing in. Luckily Lucius had taken his robes when Amelia said they weren't sure if any of their clothes could be salvaged.

When Severus looked across the room, he saw the calm figure of Frank Longbottom leaning against the wall holding a sword and the body of the beast on the floor in front of him. "Come on Severus let's get this done. Alice and the kids are at the Malfoys and I think we will both need shower before we are welcomed at the table." Severus completely agreed and made his way toward the dead animal.

The potion master pulled a small box from his pocket and resized it. With a second flick of his wrist, the box transformed into a large table with various tools and multiple bottles. "Frank, if you are going to remain, maybe you could help a wizard out with the sword. It will be much faster than what I brought." Frank had a smile on his face as he lifted the sword once more.

"Just point to where you want to slice and I'll take care of it."

Gibby watched the dower man as he began to bottle the various parts of the beast. Indeed there were many secrets to be revealed.

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Narcissa immediately raced to Lucius when he appeared. When no one else followed him through the floo some gasped and a strangled sob or two were heard. That brought Lucius out of his haze. "It's fine, it's fine, the beast is dead." When he paused again, Narcissa pulled on his arm until he looked and saw raw fear in her eyes. Looking around he saw six children. The four he expected were holding the other two tightly. All silently watching the elder Malfoy waiting for him to speak again.

Alice Longbottom was held by Jean Granger before standing tall. "Lucius…" She didn't continued, she couldn't, her courage suddenly drained and she knew she'd not be able to face life without Frank. Her eyes shifted to her children. Both were pale and Neville looked to be ready to fall over. Her eyes quickly returned to Lucius.

"Alice, kids, I apologize for the delay. Frank is fine." He couldn't continue as those in the room broke into tears of happiness as the weight of the unknown finally dropped. "He will be here soon. Right now he is helping Severus and according to Amelia, both will need a shower before I'll allow them in the house. If they look half like Amelia, you'd understand my stance." Lucius pulled Narcissa into his arms. "Let's just sit for a bit. I don't know much more than that, but Neville and Aggie, your dad will be here soon. You will all go home again, as a family."

*MoT*MoT*MoT*

While Severus and Frank broke down the beast into easier to handle pieces, a team of unspeakables entered the chamber. Gibby, unknown to Amelia and the team, followed them until they reached the first obstacle. The elf watched with a bit of amusement but more impatience until Amelia called for him. At his arrival, the witch asked if the family documents discussed how to access the rest of the chamber. The elf again wanted to roll his eyes at the witch.

He nodded and began to hiss at the opening. In reality, the command was same as the sink. He added some nonsense hissing just to make those standing around think it was more difficult. "I will go first." Without waiting for agreements or arguments, the elf hopped through the still opening portal and looked at the chamber seeing a number of tunnels going off in every direction. Gibby knew which tunnel he needed to search and he also knew he needed to be alone. When the aurors arrived, they found the elf looking toward the end of the chamber. "The lake and opening are that way." When group neared what they hoped was the end, they realized the remainder of the tunnel was submerged in water and the second access would be impossible to reach.

Amelia thought about options and had an idea. "All, if we have the merpeople remove one stone from the opening and we push the water back, do you think we'd be able to get the water out?" The humans began to speak quickly as the elf made his way down the path farthest from the water. "Gibby?"

The old elf turned. "Going to ensure tunnels are clear. I let you know if there's anything." Again, the elf didn't wait and quickly moved into the needed tunnel. Amelia, who couldn't waste time chasing an elf, sent her patronus to Oliver who was waiting on the shores of Black Lake.

*MoT*MoT*MoT*

Oliver watched as Amelia's patronus came barreling at him. For such a petite woman, the bull headed his way really seemed to represent her. When it was required, the woman resembled the proverbial bull in a china shop. He listened to her instructions and shook his head. "I can't believe I didn't think about that." He stepped into the Lake and place the bubble head charm just before he dropped under water.

He reached the sentry guard quickly and requested a meeting with Clyte. When the merman appeared he seemed giddy with excitement. Oliver didn't believe it had anything to do with what his teammates had achieved. "Good day Clyte, you seem quite happy."

The merman laughed and pulled the unspeakable into a hug. "I would say so Wizard Oliver. Avalon has just informed me my grandchildren will be arriving soon. Adamaris is quite nervous, I remember that feeling. This is a day I thought would never come."

Oliver was incredibly happy for the merman. "Well, today seems to be a day of celebration in both our worlds. We have destroyed the beast but encountered a bit of a problem when entering the tunnel. The opening allowed water to access the chamber and now the area of the opening is covered deeply with water." The elder merman nodded in understanding.

"I had wondered if that would have occurred. We can take care of it quickly and I apologize for not doing it before hand. Come along." Clyte called for one sentry to follow as they made their way to the opening. "Ondine, remove the final stone, the small one and remain near the opening. I will signal when you should replace it." The merman removed one stone and Clyte began to twirl his trident in an anti-clockwise direction. After a few minutes, Clyte signaled the other merman who replaced the stone. Finally, Clyte sent his reinforcement spell once more. "It's done, the water should now be gone. I'll have Ondine get you to the surface quickly and he will remain close. If you need anything else, just get in the water and he will assist you."

With two quick strokes of his tail, Clyte was gone. "Thank you Ondine, I appreciate the assistance." The merman nodded once and held the wizard as the pair shot toward the surface. When Oliver exited the water he found his boss's patronus waiting. After hearing the water was gone and they were securing the opening, Oliver hopped into the water and informed the sentry. Ondine smiled and waved as he faded into the depths of the lake.

*MoT*MoT*MoT*

Amelia and the other unspeakables couldn't explain what happened, but suddenly the water began to recede, like water in a sink after the plug had been removed. Once it was dry, the second opening was obvious and the team began to secure the stones and cover in concrete. It seemed the muggles had a way to replicate the strength of stone with just some powder and water. As the mixture was made the wizards imbued it with strengthening spells and charms making it impossible to crack.

While the opening was being secured, Gibby found himself nearing the end of the tunnel he was searching. In his conversations with the beast, Gibby had been told of things being stored by the wizard who claimed to be the sole heir of Slytherin. Whatever had been placed there was dark and the basilisk never went near it. Gibby knew the tunnel in question was used by Salazar, considered his secret room and the end of the tunnel was exactly how the family papers described it.

Gibby, knowing what should be there, noticed a few missing items before sighing. The darkness was easily located and the elf was surprised at how many dark objects sat on the ancient shelves. There were six objects, each imbued with darkness. Four of the objects the elf immediately recognized while the remaining two were unknown. Knowing he needed to understand what the other two were before informing the wizards of these items, Gibby came to a conclusion.

Waving his hand the elf floated the dark objects from their hidden shelf into a wooden box that appeared from the thin air. The box, packed with the objects, disappeared as it appeared, quickly with no evidence it had ever existed. Gibby pondered what to do with the rest of the items, they were deeply historical but the witch in charge would only see them as banned. There was no way she'd not fight to destroy them. In the end the elf constructed a fake wall to make the tunnel appear to end.

With his work complete, the old elf exited and found the witches and wizards still occupied. He continued to explore each of the tunnels looking for anything else the heir or Slytherin may have left. While he didn't find any items, he did find something more worrisome. While the opening into Black Lake had been one access point, it seemed another unplanned opening had been created. The elf returned to the main area and waited for the others to return.

Amelia looked to the elf who did not look happy. "Gibby?" The elf waved his hand to the group and walked toward one of the tunnels. At the end of the tunnel, or what had obviously once been the end of the tunnel, Amelia gasped. "Another opening? Are there any others." Th elf shook his head and stepped to the side. "Gibby, please wait here, we will see if this opening does access the outside. We will return shortly."

The elf waved the group away and found himself quite concerned on a number of levels. The beast hadn't mentioned this opening, so did it not know. Was someone trying to access the chamber without others knowing. The elf believed it was the case but didn't know if this was decades, centuries old or much more recent. There were at least two individuals who would be keen to access this chamber without having to deal with getting into the school or the lake.

The question was just who it was and why they'd done it. As the elf contemplated this unexpected discovery, the group returned. "Gibby, the opening wasn't created from the chamber out, someone started to tunnel toward the chamber and chipped through the wall. On our way back we've collapsed the tunnel and just need to secure the tunnel end." The elf assisted and suspected he knew who was trying to access the chamber and probably why. He was glad the most dangerous items no longer resided in the not-so-secret chamber.

*MoT*MoT*MoT*

Amelia Bones was pleased to close the file on Slytherin's Creature. This would allow Hogwarts Castle to reopen in the fall. Now Amelia's attention was focused to review some reports another unspeakables had finished. Reading the witch set her head on the desk. It seemed her summer might not be as quiet as she had hoped. Maybe she could get Frank to do some consulting work for her. She would definitely need his perspective on this.

*MoT*MoT*MoT*

Eventually Frank and Severus arrived at the Manor to the overwhelming excitement of their family. Aurora arrived at Severus' side and snuggled a little deeper into his arms. She felt almost complete, she wondered what was missing, she'd figure it out eventually.

A/N2: This concludes Year 2 and I want to thank everyone for reading. Year three is in the works but it's a bit away from me even thinking about starting to post. As with year 1, I'll add a chapter here to inform those who have favorited/followed when the story posts. Make sure to fav or follow the story or me to get the notification.

I have a few one shots that I'll post to my collection piece in the coming months so keep a look out for that. Until next time, see ya later.